Best Places to Stay in Ireland: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Trip

Ireland vacation accommodations are as varied as the landscape. You'll find everything from charming rural hostels and homey B&Bs to luxury resorts and castles that invite you to feel like the lord (or lady) of the manor. Most Ireland travelers find themselves somewhere in between the two extremes and choosing the best places to stay in Ireland is based on your vacation dreams, your planned itinerary, and your budget. This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 311. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links. Understanding Your Ireland Lodging Options You won’t find many big-name hotel chains in Ireland – and that’s part of the charm. Most places are independently owned and family run, which means every stay has a bit of personality. From cozy farmhouses to elegant manor homes, these smaller accommodations often reflect the people and families who run them. Looking for recommended accommodations in a specific location?Search by county here! Choosing a Hotel in Ireland The first thing to know about hotels in Ireland is that the star-rating system is completely subjective. A three-star hotel in Ireland might feel more like a two-star in the U.S., but a five-star hotel is a five-star the world over. Choose a hotel for the experience, not just the bed. Maybe you want a central location that lets you walk everywhere, a spa escape where you’ll be pampered, or the chance to sleep like royalty in a historic manor surrounded by acres of countryside. Before you book, take time to read the hotel’s website carefully so you know what’s included – and what’s not. If anything’s unclear, don’t hesitate to send an email and ask. Irish hospitality often starts with that first friendly reply. Ireland Hotel Tips Don’t rely on star ratings alone. A 3-star in Ireland might mean charming and traditional – or just dated. Reading recent reviews and the hotel’s own description helps you set realistic expectations.Confirm check-in and check-out times, especially for your first night – arriving early after a long flight can leave you waiting for hours if your room isn’t ready.Confirm what’s included in your rate. Want breakfast? Parking? Late checkout? Make sure it’s spelled out clearly before you book.If you’ve chosen a hotel for the pool, note that bathing caps (and sometimes pool shoes) are required. Children may only be allowed during designated times.If you’re staying in a city, check how close you are to public transport and what parking will cost. It may make sense to pick up your rental car after leaving the city.Ask about lifts (elevators). Many older or boutique hotels don’t have them, which can matter if you’re managing luggage or mobility needs.Remember that the “first floor” in Ireland is one level above ground level. If you want to avoid stairs, request a ground-floor room.Traveling with kids? Confirm if the crèche or kids’ club is open during your stay – some only operate on weekends or in high season. Stay in an Irish Castle Lough Eske Castle is a peaceful and quiet retreat in Donegal It's definitely a splurge, but one you won't forget! Ireland is dotted with castle hotels and country houses. Ashford Castle has been named ‘Best in the World' by Travel & Leisure multiple times. Lough Eske Castle, Adare Manor, Dromoland Castle, Ballynahinch Castle, Kinnitty Castle, Cabra Castle, and Clontarf Castle are only a few of the dozen castle hotels in Ireland. But all castle hotels aren't created equal, so be sure to do your homework when booking! Some hotels include the word castle due to their proximity to a local ruin. Others may have a few rooms in the castle while another nearby building provides more lodging. Know what you're getting before hitting the reservation button! For a truly royal experience consider renting a private heritage property, like the Barbican Gatelodge in County Antrim or Bansha Castle in County Tipperary. Staying in an Irish Bed and Breakfast Caed mile failte at The Old Bank in Bruff, County Limerick. I do love a great Irish Bed & Breakfast. The céad míle fáilte – the hundred thousand welcomes – is evident the moment you walk through the door. On my first solo trip to Ireland, I arrived at a B&B near Shannon cold and drenched after a windy afternoon at the Cliffs of Moher. My hostess took one look at me, led me straight to my room, drew a hot bath, and delivered tea and biscuits a few moments later. No matter how nice a hotel is, you just don’t get that kind of care. No two B&Bs are alike. One might be in a stately manor house, another purpose-built with spacious ensuite rooms, and another an expanded family home with cozy charm. What they all share is a personal touch that can make your Ireland stay unforgettable. A B&B host isn’t just your lodging provider – they’re your local guide, restaurant critic, and connection to the community around...