With airline routes continuing to expand and flexible working making weekend escapes easier to plan, more Irish travellers are choosing short-haul holidays.
Many fantastic destinations are reachable in around four hours or less from Ireland. Discover which destinations are proving most popular this year and get inspiration and expert travel tips for your next short-haul holiday.
- Why choose short-haul travel?
Short-haul travel gives you maximum flexibility. Instead of having to negotiate complicated logistics as you do with long-haul journeys, you can plan short-haul holidays in minutes and be in unfamiliar territory in less than half a day. With great offers on last-minute flights, it’s a cost-effective way to spend spontaneous weekends away and make meaningful memories.
Short-haul trips are also time-effective when planned properly. Straightforward journeys minimise airport waiting time, especially if you choose to take carry-on bags rather than checked luggage. However, if you’re not careful, you could find yourself facing delays that are doubly frustrating for holidays when time is of the essence. Travel insurance provider Staysure recently shared expert tips for avoiding frustrating delays for overseas holidays, including booking flights at quieter times and tracking your flight on the day.
- The best short-haul destinations
Ireland is brilliantly positioned for short-haul travel, offering easy access to Europe. The continent has no shortage of amazing urban and rural locations, satisfying a wide range of interests whether you want to explore cultural heritage, wander the countryside or feast on gastronomic delights.
Lanzarote remains one of the most popular holiday destinations among Irish travellers according to recent Aer Lingus booking data. With year-round sunshine, excellent flight connections and broad appeal for families, couples and retirees alike, it continues to rank among Ireland’s favourite short-haul getaways. Let’s explore some of the other destinations that should be on your radar
- Beach retreats
You’ve got several stand-out options for some spring and summer beach time. Spain’s Costa del Sol is enduringly popular, with Málaga remaining one of the most popular gateways to the region. Combining a centuries-old heritage and world-class museums with pristine Mediterranean beaches, modern facilities and a lively nightlife, it’s a no-brainer.
Portugal’s Algarve is a quieter alternative with spectacular cliff-lined beaches backed by untamed dunes and charming towns and villages. A wide range of outdoor activities are possible in the area, including golfing and hiking. Croatia has become an increasingly sought-after destination for sophisticated coastal getaways, thanks to its clear waters and attractive old towns.
- City breaks
Many European cities offer an appealing mix of history, culture, food and entertainment. This makes them perfect for weekend getaways where time is limited, and you want to pack in as much as possible.
Rome is currently one of the most popular city-break destinations among Irish holidaymakers. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting several ancient ruins, the most spectacular being the Colosseum, one of the Wonders of the World. Evenings can be spent sampling mouthwatering traditional pizza, pasta and gelato at the trattorie that spill out onto the cobbled streets. London remains a favourite among Irish travellers thanks to its excellent flight connections, world-class entertainment and close cultural links with Ireland
- Winter sun
When Irish temperatures fall – all too soon, according to most residents – many travellers head south in search of warmer weather. Yes, this is possible without committing to a long-haul flight! The Canary Islands, a little over four hours away on a plane, have mild temperatures through much of the winter, suitable for beach holidays well into autumn and enjoyable outdoor activities in winter. Many visitors are drawn to the islands’ dramatic volcanic landscapes and distinctive black-sand beaches.
For sun but not the warm temperatures, try your luck with mainland Europe city breaks. Culturally rich capitals like Berlin, Amsterdam and Prague see many dry, bright days, drawing travellers with the promise of fun-filled Christmas markets and affordable, delicious dining. If it rains? You’ve got some of the best museums in the world to enjoy.
