Where to Stay in Ireland: Accommodation for Every Trip
Ireland offers a wide variety of places to stay, from lively city hotels in Dublin to peaceful countryside retreats in Carlow. Whether you’re planning a short break, a family holiday or a longer road trip, there’s accommodation to suit every style of travel and every budget.
Hiring a car gives you the freedom to choose where you stay, not just what’s closest to public transport, making it easier to discover great value and more memorable places along the way.
A place to stay for every type of trip
Hotels
Hotels are a popular option across Ireland, offering convenience, comfort and a wide range of facilities. In cities like Dublin, Cork, Galway and Belfast, you’ll find everything from luxury hotels and boutique stays to well‑known Irish hotel groups offering reliable, good‑value accommodation.
Outside city centres, hotels often provide free parking, larger rooms and better value, making them a great option if you’re travelling by car.
Tip: If you’re staying in a city hotel, check whether parking is included or discounted, as city‑centre parking can be limited.
Guesthouses and B&Bs
Guesthouses and bed and breakfasts are a long‑standing part of Irish travel culture and are known for their warm welcomes and local knowledge. They’re especially common in rural areas, small towns and along popular touring routes such as the Wild Atlantic Way.
Staying in a B&B often means home‑cooked breakfasts, local tips you won’t find online and easy parking right outside the door. They’re an excellent choice if you want a more personal experience and great value, particularly when exploring the countryside.
B and B Ireland is a great starting point for discovering B and B's along your driving route.
Self‑catering accommodation
Self‑catering accommodation includes apartments, holiday homes and traditional cottages. These are ideal for families, groups or longer stays, offering space, flexibility and the option to dine in when it suits you.
Having a car makes self‑catering even easier, allowing you to shop locally, visit nearby towns and beaches and explore at your own pace without relying on timetables.
Self‑catering properties are widely available throughout Ireland, from coastal cottages in Clare and Kerry to countryside retreats in the Midlands and West.
Self Catering can be booked via:
Hostels
Ireland has a strong network of modern, well‑run hostels offering both shared and private rooms. They’re a great option for solo travellers, students and budget‑conscious visitors.Hostels are particularly common in city centres and tourist hotspots.
Unique stays
If you’re looking for something a little different, Ireland has no shortage of memorable places to stay. These include coastal lodges and eco‑retreats, traditional farm stays, historic houses and country estates, and glamping pods and cabins in scenic locations.
Farm stays, such as family‑run riding stables or countryside properties like Island View Riding Stables, offer a chance to experience rural Ireland at a slower pace. These types of accommodation are often off the main tourist routes and are best reached by car, with plenty of space and parking included.
Where to stay?
Ireland’s cities offer a wide mix of accommodation, from boutique hotels to budget‑friendly options.
- Dublin is ideal for culture, shopping, dining and nightlife
- Galway is a lively base for the west of Ireland and the Wild Atlantic Way
- Cork is known for food, festivals and easy access to the south coast
- Belfast is a vibrant city close to the Causeway Coast
If you’re hiring a car, consider staying just outside the city centre. This often means better value, free parking and a quieter night’s sleep, while still being only a short drive from the main attractions.
Some of Ireland’s best accommodation is found beyond the cities, in small towns, coastal villages and countryside settings. These areas often offer better value for longer stays, easier parking and more space and flexibility.
With a rental car, you can explore regions like the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and the Ancient East with ease.
Parking tips when choosing accommodation in Ireland
If you’re travelling with a hire car, parking is worth considering before you book.
- Check if parking is included: Many hotels, guesthouses and self‑catering properties offer free on‑site parking, particularly outside city centres.
- City parking may cost extra: Some city hotels charge for parking or use nearby public car parks. Look for discounted or validated rates.
- Outside the city often means better value: Staying a short drive away can save money and reduce stress.
- Rural stays usually include parking: Farm stays, cottages and countryside accommodation almost always have space to park.
- Electric vehicle charging: If you’re driving an electric or hybrid vehicle, check whether charging is available on site or nearby. Many of our Hybids do not need to be charged and simply recharge as you drive.
Make more of your stay with Budget Car Rental Ireland
Ireland is compact and easy to explore by car. A short drive can take you from a busy city to a peaceful beach or countryside retreat, giving you more choice when it comes to where you stay.
With convenient pick‑up locations at airports and cities nationwide, Budget Car Rental Ireland helps you travel your way, with the freedom to choose accommodation that suits your plans, pace and budget.
Wherever you decide to stay, Budget helps you get there. Book your car hire today.
