Discovering Ireland Vacations

09/01/2025

🌌 Northern Lights Over Ireland! ☘️ ❄️

Ireland is putting on a breathtaking show this week with the Northern Lights illuminating our frosty landscapes, turning them into a true winter wonderland. ❄️✨ But here’s the thing—Ireland is a wonderland all year round!

Why wait? Beat those January blues (and embrace the pinks and purples) by booking your dream Irish vacation today.

🎁 Special January Offers:
➡️ Secure your trip with just a €25pp deposit on Rail, Self-Drive, and Chauffeur packages.
➡️ 15% OFF all Self-Drive packages!

📞 Call us for free to start planning your adventure, or explore our brand-new website for inspiration!
Your Irish getaway is just a few clicks away. 💚

06/01/2025

🎄✨ Happy Nollaig na mBan! ✨🎄

Today in Ireland, we celebrate Nollaig na mBan, or Women’s Christmas, a cherished tradition on January 6th. 🌟 This special day is all about men recognising the incredible women in their lives, giving them a well-earned break after the busy festive season. 🧡

Historically, it was a day when women would gather together, enjoy a meal, share stories, and leave the household duties to the men for a change. 🍰☕ From heartfelt celebrations in local pubs to cosy tea parties at home, the tradition lives on in many parts of Ireland.

Let’s raise a glass 🍷 to the women who inspire, support, and brighten our lives every day. 💪💚

Have you ever experienced Nollaig na mBan in Ireland? Let us know how you’re celebrating!

04/01/2025

Warm Up This Winter in Ireland's Cosiest Pubs! ☘️🔥
January has brought snow and chilly weather to Ireland this weekend, so there's no better time to find warmth and cheer in a traditional Irish pub! 🥃☕
We asked our travel experts to name their favourite ‘hot’ spots to cosy up with warm fires and warm hospitality for the perfect escape from the cold! ❄️ These are the favourite spots of our team to enjoy a hot whiskey or Irish Coffee as the snow falls! ❄️

🔥 D O’Shea’s, Sneem, Co. Kerry – Nestled in the charming village of Sneem, this pub is famous for its warm hospitality and inviting fire, perfect for warding off the winter chill. It’s also one of the most photographed pubs in Ireland!
🔥 The Long Dock, Carrigaholt, Co. Clare– An award winning coastal gem offering hearty food, a snug atmosphere, and a cosy fire that’s ideal after a brisk seaside walk.
🔥 The Spaniard Inn, Kinsale, Co. Cork – A historic pub perched above Kinsale, combining stunning views with the comfort of a crackling fire and a perfectly made Irish Coffee.
🔥 Glasheens Old Abbey Inn, Thurles, Co. Tipperary– A hidden treasure in the countryside, where old-world charm and a roaring hearth create a magical winter escape.
🔥 Foley’s, Reens Pike, Co. Limerick– This Limerick spot is known for its traditional charm, hearty welcome, and the perfect place to enjoy a warming hot whiskey.
🔥 John B. Keane, Listowel, Co. Kerry – Pull a chair up by the fire in this iconic pub, once home to the famed playwright and lose yourself in its rich tapestry of stories and literary charm.
🔥 Dick Mac’s, Di**le – Part pub, part leather shop, this quirky spot is a Di**le institution with a roaring fire and unique character to match. No room by the fire? Snuggle up in the Snug!
🔥 Hannigans, Killarney – Located in the heart of Killarney, Hannigans offers a mix of charm, delicious drinks, and a warm fire to defrost after exploring the nearby national park.
🔥 Durty Nelly’s, Bunratty – Set beside Bunratty Castle, this iconic pub combines centuries of history with nooks and crannies to cosy up in and a warming wood burning stove to keep the cold out.
🔥 The Brazen Head, Dublin – Dublin’s oldest pub is always a winner with its timeless charm, storytelling, and a firelit atmosphere perfect for winter evenings.

Where will you be warming up this winter? Let us know which pub you would visit first! ☘️❄️

02/01/2025

🌟 New Year, New Adventures! 🌟
As we step into 2025, it’s time to set some exciting goals—and what better way to start the year than planning your dream trip to Ireland? Whether you’re craving breathtaking landscapes, rich history, or unforgettable cultural experiences, the Emerald Isle has it all.

To inspire your journey, we’ve put together the Top 5 New Year’s Resolutions to make for an amazing trip to Ireland. Let this be the year you explore, indulge, and fall in love with the magic of Ireland. 🇮🇪💚

Which one will you check off first? 👇

Top 5 New Year’s Resolutions for Your Dream Trip to Ireland 🇮🇪

🎉 1: Explore Ireland’s Iconic Landscapes
Take in the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, the wild beauty of the Ring of Kerry, or the otherworldly Giant’s Causeway. Nature here feels like a Fairytale brought to life. 🌊🌳

🎭 2: Dive into Irish Culture and History
Wander through ancient castles, visit the historic sites of Dublin, and experience a lively trad music session in a charming, authentic pub. Ireland’s rich culture awaits! 🎻🏰

☘️ 3: Connect with Local Traditions
Meet the friendly locals, learn to pour the perfect pint of Guinness, or try your hand at some Irish dancing. The heart of Ireland is in its people. 💃🍺

🚗 4: Take the Road Less Travelled
Venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems, quaint and colourful villages and scenic drives like the Wild Atlantic Way or Ireland’s Ancient East. 🛤️🌄

🍽️ 5: Savour Every Bite
From hearty Irish stews to fresh seafood and world-class whiskey, make 2025 the year you taste your way through Ireland’s culinary delights! 🥃🍴

Oh – and our resolutions? We’re giving you a 15% self-drive discount, holding our prices, and if you book by 31 January, you only need to pay a €25pp deposit on any self-drive, rail, or chauffeur package! Give us a call—we can’t wait to help you start your Irish adventure! ☘️📞

Make your New Year’s travel dreams come true with an unforgettable journey to Ireland. ✈️💚 What’s on your Irish bucket list?

31/12/2024

🎉 Happy New Year from Discoveringireland.com! 🎉

Here’s to a fantastic new year —and a big milestone for us in 2025 as we celebrate 25 years of creating authentic Irish vacations! ☘️To kick things off, let’s dive into our Top 5 Irish New Year Traditions:

1️⃣ Opening Doors for the New Year 🚪
In true Irish fashion, we open the front door to welcome in the New Year’s blessings and the back door to let out the old. A fresh start for all!

2️⃣ First Footing 🚶‍♂️
The first person to cross your threshold after midnight brings the luck for the year. Extra good fortune if they arrive with coal, whiskey, or a warm smile!

3️⃣ Clean Sweep 🧹
Out with the old! Many Irish homes get a tidy-up before midnight to clear the way for new beginnings and good fortune.

4️⃣ Mistletoe Magic 💚
Looking for love? Sleep with mistletoe under your pillow on New Year’s Eve and dream of your true love. Who knows what 2024 could bring?

5️⃣ Wishing on the Waves 🌊
If you’re near the coast, toss your wishes into the sea. It’s an age-old Irish tradition for bringing good luck and fresh adventures.

Which tradition will you try? Let us know below—and don’t forget to celebrate with us in 2025 as we mark 25 years of incredible Irish adventures. Sláinte! 🥂 ☘️

30/12/2024

🏰 Top 5 Heritage Sites to Visit in Ireland in 2025 discoveringireland.com 🌟

Explore the timeless charm of Ireland’s history with these heritage gems, handpicked for your discoveringireland.com vacation package in 2025. ☘️

1️⃣ Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
This ancient monastic site, nestled in the Wicklow Mountains, offers breathtaking lakes, forest trails, and a sense of tranquility that takes you back to Ireland’s early Christian roots.

2️⃣ Newgrange, Co. Meath
A marvel of prehistoric engineering, this 5,000-year-old passage tomb is older than the pyramids and lights up magically during the winter solstice.

3️⃣ The Hill of Tara, Co. Meath
Once the seat of Ireland’s High Kings, this mystical site brims with ancient monuments and legends. Walk where kings were crowned and feel the spirit of Ireland’s past.

4️⃣ Rock of Cashel, Co. Tipperary
This hilltop fortress is a masterpiece of medieval architecture, showcasing Celtic crosses, cathedrals, and sweeping views of the Golden Vale.

5️⃣ Clonmacnoise, Co. Offaly
A stunning monastic site by the River Shannon, featuring iconic round towers, high crosses, and a rich history of faith and scholarship.

✨ Book your 2025 Irish adventure with discoveringireland.com and step into a world of history and wonder.

26/12/2024

✨Adare, with its charming thatched cottages and rich history, truly comes alive during the holiday season. 🎄There’s nothing quite like this beautiful historic village dressed in its holiday best! Have a peek and let us know which memory or moment of Adare brings you the most joy. ❤️☘️

25/12/2024

🎄✨ Season's Greetings from Discovering Ireland Vacations! ✨🎄

Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a joyful holiday season filled with warmth, happiness, and a little Irish magic. 🍀🎅

Thank you for being part of our journey this year – here’s to more adventures, memories, and exploring the beauty of Ireland together in 2025!

Nollaig Shona Dhuit! 🌟💚

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24/12/2024

🎄✨ Happy Christmas Eve! ✨🎄

In Ireland, Christmas Eve is all about warmth and welcome. One cherished tradition was lighting a candle in the window to symbolise hospitality and hope, inviting Mary and Joseph—or any traveller in need of shelter—to rest. 🕯️💛

These days, you’ll often see a candle bridge glowing in the windows of nearly every home in Ireland, adding a festive and magical touch to the evening! 🏠✨

Fun fact: In years gone by, the youngest family member often got the honour of lighting the candle, and it was sometimes left in the care of someone named Mary—historically one of Ireland’s most popular names! If there was no Mary, it would be the youngest in the home.

As candles light up homes across the country tonight, it’s a beautiful reminder of the true spirit of Christmas. Nollaig Shona Duit! 🌟☘️

What’s lighting up your Christmas Eve? Share your traditions with us below! 🎅🎁

23/12/2024

🏞️☘️ Kate & Jason’s Irish Adventure! ☘️🏞️

Kate and Jason just wrapped up an unforgettable week exploring Ireland on our Best of Ireland 7-Night Self-Drive Package—customized by our amazing travel expert, Linda! 😍

From cozy, traditional B&Bs in Cashel and Killarney to stylish central hotels in the lively cities of Galway and Dublin, they truly got the best of both worlds. Oh, and did we mention they scored a 15% discount on the trip? 🤑 No wonder they had such a blast! 🎉

Who’s ready to plan their own Irish getaway?Give us a call! 🌈✨

21/12/2024

🌟 Celebrating the Winter Solstice at Newgrange! 🌟

Today marks the Winter Solstice, a time when the sun aligns perfectly with the passage at Newgrange, illuminating the ancient chamber inside this iconic monument. For thousands of years, this moment has held deep significance in Irish culture, symbolizing renewal and the return of the light. It’s a powerful reminder of Ireland’s rich heritage and its connection to the cycles of nature. 🌞✨

Did you know you can experience the magic of Newgrange all year round? Whether you're visiting in the depth of winter or the warmth of summer, Our vacation packages can be customised to let you explore this incredible UNESCO World Heritage site anytime.

Book your dream vacation and step back in time at Newgrange! 🏛️🌍

18/12/2024

🌍🚂 Discover Ireland Like Susan and Charlie Did! ☘️✨

Susan and Charlie just returned from our 7-Night Best of Ireland Rail Tour and they were over the moon with their experience! 🛤️💚 Arranged by our wonderful travel expert Nuala, their trip was seamless from start to finish. Here's what made it unforgettable:

🎩 Personalized Touch: A warm meet-and-greet with a chauffeur whisked them to their Dublin hotel in style.
🚞 Scenic Rail Adventures: From Dublin to Killarney, from Galway to Dublin, they soaked up breathtaking views.
🎄 Cosy Charm: Nights at the festive International Hotel and visits to heritage-rich spots like Bunratty Castle and Adare.
🌄 Bucket-List Moments: A guided tour of the Ring of Kerry, the Aran Islands, the Cliffs of Moher, and The Burren.

While Charlie explored Ireland's stunning landscapes, Susan delighted in the cosy, magical places she adores. ❤️

Our rail tours are about freedom and flexibility—you’re not tied to the tracks, and there’s no need to stress about driving! 🚗💤 Experience the beauty, culture, and ease of Ireland the way you’ve always dreamed.

Ready for your own adventure? Let us help you plan your perfect Irish getaway! ☘️

📩 Drop us a message or visit [https://www.discoveringireland.com/] to learn more!

14/12/2024

🎄✨ The holidays are here, and in Ireland, that means the iconic Guinness Christmas ad is back on our screens! ☘️ Since its launch in 2004, this ad has become as much a part of Christmas as mince pies and fairy lights.

With its heartwarming scenes of snowy Irish streets and twinkling pub windows, it never fails to bring on that festive feeling. ❄️🎅

But here’s the fun part – how many places do you recognise in the ad? From Dublin landmarks to countryside gems, it’s a little tour of Ireland at Christmastime.

Let us know in the comments – and Sláinte to the magic of an Irish Christmas! 🍻🎄

Happy Christmas from everyone at Guinness. Even at the Home of the Black Stuff, We're dreaming of a White One. The iconic Guinness Christmas TV ad filmed in ...

06/12/2024

This week has seen the medieval city of Limerick in the mid-west of Ireland transformed into 90s USA! Irish Hollywood A Lister and actor Liam Neeson has taken to the streets of the birthplace of Richard Harris to film 4 Kids Walk Into A Bank, a movie rendition of the comic book. Filming continues next week! ☘️🎬

30/11/2024

☘️Discover the Timeless Charm of Galway with discoveringireland.com! ☘️

From the vibrant Latin Quarter to the breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way, Galway offers an unforgettable experience all year round.

🌟 Spring & Summer: Explore scenic beaches, lively festivals, and the iconic Claddagh.
🍂 Autumn: Stroll through historic streets, soak in the artsy vibe, and savour seasonal flavours.
❄️ Winter: Experience warm and welcoming pubs, twinkling lights, and festive magic. 🎄

Whether you're chasing adventure, culture, or relaxation, Galway has it all. Let IrishTourism.com craft your perfect vacation, every season of the year.

📅 Plan your trip now: [https://www.discoveringireland.com/vacations/pub-folk10-nights/]

📍 Your Galway adventure awaits!

28/11/2024

🍂 Spend Thanksgiving in Ireland 🍂

Looking for a unique way to celebrate Thanksgiving? Why not spend it in Ireland! While Thanksgiving isn’t a traditional Irish holiday, you’ll find warm welcomes, cosy pubs with roaring fires and plenty of places to gather with loved ones for a feast.

Explore Ireland’s stunning autumn/winter landscapes, from the rustic hues of Killarney National Park to the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way. Many Irish restaurants and hotels now offer Thanksgiving-inspired menus, blending the best of Irish and American tastes.

Add a touch of Irish magic to your holiday next year. ✨☘️ 🦃 Discover more at discoveringIreland.com

🍁 Where would you spend Thanksgiving in Ireland? Let us know! 🍁

22/11/2024

❄️ Winter Wonderland on the Wild Atlantic Way ❄️

Forget the White Cliffs of Dover - The Cliffs of Moher, dusted in snow, are a sight to behold this season! Experience the beauty and magic of Ireland’s rugged coast with our Best of the Wild Atlantic Way Vacation Package.

From majestic landscapes to unforgettable adventures, your perfect Irish escape is just a click away. ☘️ Remember if you sign up by 30 November it is only €25pp deposit AND you get 15% off our self drive package! ☘️

Discover more: https://www.irishtourism.com/wild-atlantic-way-/



Photo: George Karbus Photography