Summer in Ireland, which falls in June, July, and August, attracts the most visitors compared to other seasons and it’s not hard to see why. Here, you’ll get fewer (to zero) rainfalls and more sunshine, allowing travellers to see Ireland’s stunning landscapes in their best state. There are lots of festivals and events dotted all around the country too. Lastly, students are on their school break during these months.
While summer seems like the best time to visit Ireland for climate and tours, it also tends to be the most expensive time due to the influx of travellers. Accommodation rates, for one, are expected to skyrocket as the travel demand increases.
That seems off-putting for frugal travellers, considering that Ireland, in general, isn’t the cheapest destination to visit, don’t you think? And that’s why we’re here. In this article, we’ll list down 7 tips on how to enjoy your summer holiday in Ireland without putting a huge dent in your wallets.
1. Visit during the shoulder months of summer
The high season for a lot of attractions and accommodation in Ireland is usually from April until December. The busiest months in this period are July and August. During that peak season, Ireland is abuzz with visitors from around the world. You may find yourself sharing attractions with a flock of tourists or competing to book a hotel stay.
That being the case, it’d be a wise move to be more flexible and time your trip during the shoulder months of summer, namely April to May, and September to October. They’re not the warmest but still have great weather. Those months also receive fewer visitors, which would be perfect if you’re looking for a quieter vacation and lower rates.
2. Or stay midweek
For obvious reasons, midweek breaks also tend to offer better value for travellers. If you’re extra flexible with your travel time and book during midweek, you’ll find hotels with more availability, cheaper rates, and even better service.
3. Use third-party sites for search but book directly with the hotel
While you can find seemingly cheaper rates on third-party websites, travel insiders have revealed that it’s actually wiser to use the hotel’s official website for booking. For instance, this hotel in Waterford rewards you with €15 per night off when you book directly. You’ll also receive a complimentary drink and free cancellation perks.
By booking directly, you’ll have better access to exclusive promos like price discounts, packages, and extras that add value. You’re more likely to get quality rooms (bigger space, better views), as hotels reserve their best rooms for guests who book directly with them.
4. Check out hotel alternatives
During summer, you’ll still find lots of hotels to stay in but the increased travel demand pushes the rates up especially if you’re visiting a major city like Dublin. If you’re looking for a cheaper way to enjoy your summer holiday, you may consider checking out an affordable hotel alternative.
Ireland has a wealth of affordable hotel alternatives that provide good value for your money. These include hostels, university accommodations or dorm rooms, self-catering stays like apartments and vacation rentals, and even budget hotels.
5. Be flexible
Not travelling with kids? Perhaps being a little spontaneous can give you either a free or cheap way to stay.
Couchsurfing, for instance, is an attractive option for spontaneous backpackers who’d love to stay for free while making new friends. It connects travellers to friendly and hospitable locals who offer a place to sleep. You may also download the Hotel Tonight app to score discounted rates on hotels’ spare rooms (from last-minute cancellations).
6. Book flights and accommodation early
Given that you’re travelling in peak season, it always pays to be an early bird. You’ll get the best deals if you plan your trip well and book your flights and accommodation early.
Wherever you plan to stay, it is crucial that your base is close to the attractions you intend to visit. Consider accommodation’s proximity to major transportation hubs, cultural attractions, shopping centres, dining spots, nightlife districts, and other places that mean the most to your summer holiday.
7. Find fun yet free things to do in Ireland
If you’re a seasoned traveller, you can certainly agree that the best things in life really do come for free. While accommodation takes the biggest chunk of your travel budget, your favorite parts of the holiday don’t usually happen there — your fondest travel memories usually take place outdoors. And ironically, it’s where you spend less or zero on.
Ireland has a plethora of attractions you can access for free. You can find world-class museums, art galleries, libraries, and heritage sites like castles with free access. There’ll be a wide array of amazing natural wonders to feast your eyes on, from urban parks and gardens to expansive national parks with scenic hiking trails and panoramic views. Ireland has a wealth of beaches and coastal towns you can access for free, if that’s your idea of a perfect summer getaway.
As for tours, you may also find free or cheap guided tours with historians and friendly locals as hosts.
So, don’t let the peak season scare you away from experiencing the magic of Ireland in the summer! Remember, with little planning and flexibility, you can create unforgettable summer memories in Ireland without breaking the bank.
Author Bio: Carmina Natividad is a free-spirited damsel who loves documenting her adventures. Her fondness for travel, food, and cultural appreciation makes it easy for her to write inspiring pieces of content about them. To know more about hotels and travel blogs, you may visit Viking Hotel Waterford.
