Between the rolling green hills, the breathtaking countryside views and the hip streets of Dublin, Ireland is calling your name this year! Travel Weekly has reported that Ireland will be among the top destinations for luxury travelers in 2023. If the travel experts are correct, and you’re considering a luxury vacation in Ireland (or you’ve already booked your trip) here are the best places to stay and eat, and the top must-see sights.
How to Have the Best Luxury Vacation in Ireland
Luxury Ireland vacation: Where to Stay
When choosing a place to stay, it’s important to remember a few crucial steps. Ambiance, location, and amenities are three factors to consider when booking your luxury stay in Ireland.
in Dublin
Overlooking St Stephen’s Green, The Shelbourne is a stone’s throw away from many of Dublin’s famous landmarks and key shopping and cultural centers in the city. Spacious rooms and stunning views give The Shelbourne an edge, with amenities like a spa, salon, gym, and multiple dining options.
For a luxury vacation in Ireland, the best places to stay and eat and must-see sights. Saint Stephens Green, Dublin.
Other Dublin contenders include The Merrion Hotel with lavish rooms, like their Garden Wing Room Suites that overlook their beautifully landscaped gardens, and The Westbury Hotel, a part of the Doyle Collection.
in the countryside
Are you looking for a fairytale getaway in the countryside? Try the Castlemartyr Resort, an elegant estate rich with Irish history. Or Adare Manor, which includes a golf course, Michelin Star restaurant Oak Room, and a lavish spa.
For a luxury vacation in Ireland, the best places to stay and eat and must-see sights. Adare Manor, County Limerick.
Luxury Ireland vacation: Where and What to Eat
Food – everyone’s favorite part of travel!
in Dublin
From classic Irish cuisine with a sophisticated twist, visit Pig’s Ear, a hip restaurant balancing traditional and modern dishes. For a different taste of Europe, there’s Pichet, a French/Italian bistro. Dublin is also home to Glovers Alley by Andy McFadden, a fine dining establishment that overlooks St Stephen’s Green in the city center and serves some of Ireland’s top produce.
For a luxury vacation in Ireland, the best places to stay and eat and must-see sights on your trip. The Palace Bar, Dublin.
Need more help deciding on a spot to eat? Try to 10 Tastings of Dublin tour, a food tour highlighting ten delicious and typical tastings ranging from sweet to savory. The private walking tour can be 100% customized to your food wishes and allows you to experience Irish cuisine most authentically. You’ll also be treated to a glass of cider and discover some of Dublin’s most iconic attractions.
in the countryside
Are you staying outside of Dublin? Not to worry – your tastebuds will be treated too. Many of Ireland’s smaller cities host high-profile restaurants, such as Galway’s Michelin Star restaurant, Anair, which sources food from Ireland’s farms, wildlands, and shores with an ever-changing menu, and Yugo in Belfast, which serves up contemporary Asian fare.
Luxury Ireland vacation: where to go Shopping
Accommodations booked and bellies full? It’s time for a shopping spree on Dublin’s prestigious Grafton Street, home to some of the world’s top designer names like Louis Vuitton and Chanel. You’ll also find Ireland’s high-end department store, Brown Thomas. Bonus: Grafton Street is pedestrian-only, so you won’t have to worry about pesky cars and buses getting in the way of your shopping trip.
For a luxury vacation in Ireland, the best places to stay and eat and must-see sights on your trip. Grafton Street, Dublin.
Luxury Ireland vacation: Top Entertainment and Attractions
It’s not a complete trip to Ireland without a taste of Guinness. Book a private Jameson and Guinness half-day tour with an in-depth insight into Irish whiskey and stout hosted by an expert guide. Stop at the Guinness Storehouse and top off your stay with a pint. Then head to the Jameson Distillery on Bow Steet as you learn the ins and outs of your favorite whiskey. Sláinte!
The Kilmainham Gaol Museum is a prison-turned national monument. Once holding over thousands of men, women, and children for crimes, this restored prison will take you on a journey through Irish history and is one of Dublin’s top attractions. Discover the stories of the people held here, from ordinary criminals to those fighting for Irish independence. With so many stories to share, the Kilmainham Gaol Museum also hosts temporary exhibits. Bookings can be made online.
For a luxury vacation in Ireland, the best places to stay and eat and must-see sights on your trip. Kilmainham Gaol Museum, Dublin.
Looking to escape the clutches of the city? Drive the Wild Atlantic Way along the West Coast of Ireland from Donegal to Cork. From lush green mountains to the jagged ocean shore, the Wild Atlantic way allows you to explore the entire coast through six regions, each with its distinct beauty. Whether you’re looking to see the Northern Lights along the North Headlands route or longing to see sweeping bay views on The Bay Coast, there’s no wrong way to explore the Wild Atlantic Way. The stunning views will have you wondering why you’ve ever passed up this country.
Luxury Ireland vacation: the must-see sites
What makes a Euro-trip iconic? A visit to a well-rounded castle, of course. The Dublin Castle holds 800 years of history, which you can learn about through their daily guided tours. Bookings can be made directly on their website.
If you didn’t visit the Cliffs of Moher, did you even go to Ireland? A range of tour companies offers day-trip options to the Cliffs of Moher and surrounding towns, with accommodations from coach buses to private drivers. We recommend a private tour from a company such as Elegant Irish Tours.
For a luxury vacation in Ireland, the best places to stay and eat and must-see sights. The Cliffs of Moher.
Across the country from Dublin lies the Dingle Peninsula, a stunning peninsula on Ireland’s southwest coast, famous for rolling hills, precipitous cliffs, and breathtaking sea views. The ride from Dublin is just over four hours long, with the option to hire a private lift to kick back, relax, and enjoy those Irish green views.
For a luxury vacation in Ireland, the best places to stay and eat and must-see sights. Dingle peninsula, Kerry.
Are you looking to saunter around some of Dublin’s finest neighborhoods? Ranelagh, Ballsbridge, and Dalkey make up some of the city’s most posh spots. Visit Bresson for a French fine dining experience in Dalkey, shop the Ranelagh Village Market every weekend for organic foods and beauty products, or wander amongst the old Victorian buildings that line Ballsbridge’s streets before heading for an afternoon stroll in Herbert Park.
the Best Luxury Vacation in Ireland
Whether you’re an experienced Ireland traveler or visiting for the first time, there’s no shortage of food, entertainment, and scenic beauty when it comes to Ireland. So, is Ireland on your 2023 travel bucket list, dear reader?
about the author
Lauren Reiss is a freelance brand strategist, writer, and social media manager. She describes herself as creative, funky, and loyal. Lauren loves to travel and decided to live a nomadic lifestyle in 2022 before settling in sunny San Diego. She loves the beach, Italian food, skiing, and spending time with loved ones.
