Did you already know Dublin isn’t solely certainly one of Ireland’s costliest cities, but in addition certainly one of Europe’s?
That’s proper.
Traveling by this historic metropolis can price greater than a leprechaun’s horde of gold, however that is certainly one of a number of explanation why vacationers have found one other vibrant metropolis alongside the coast with timeless pubs, astounding castles, and neighboring storybook cities.

Last yr, we reported summertime was the season luring in vacationers, however Spring 2025 is much more engaging with enjoyable festivals filling up the calendar from March to May.
Better but, Americans can fly nonstop into Shannon, the place reaching Galway is lower than an hour away.
Why You Should Bypass Dublin
Don’t get me improper, Dublin is an superior metropolis.
The downside with visiting this yr is there are merely far more possible choices on your pockets.
Dublin-based Ryanair is arguably Europe’s hottest funds airline, and even their flights to/from Dublin have been discovered to be sky-high.
This is essentially partially on account of a passenger cap positioned at Dublin’s major airport, inflicting typical provide and demand predictability to be a bit of wonky.
In reality, vacationers are already sticking it to Dublin as tourism numbers are ‘flat’, in accordance with a new report.
The discount of accessible seats his pushed airfare by the roof in some instances albeit I’ve seen some Aer Lingus offers onerous to cross up for those who simply have to go to Dublin any time quickly.
That being mentioned, vacationers (together with Americans as I discussed) can fly nonstop to Shannon, a a lot smaller airport however simply as handy when venturing into this less-touristy facet of Ireland.
United launched a brand new flight from Newark and New York final yr and is being reinstated this spring together with a brand-new Delta route launching May 2025.
Discover More Of Ireland: Start With Galway
Galway will not be a family identify, however it has all of the Irish attraction of Dublin plus phenomenal coastlines.
Keep in thoughts Ireland does take a bit to heat up from winter, however you will note loads of sunny days come spring.
That being mentioned, packing a light-weight coat is advisable for the chilly coastal breeze and nippy nights round city.
Galway is about on the alternative coast of Dublin and seashores are fairly frankly a lot prettier on this facet, and hugging the scenic River Corrib, it is no surprise why so many guests declare to like Galway’s nature.
In reality, Galway is dwelling to quite a few Blue Flag-certified beaches, making them a number of the most pristine seashores to go to on the earth.
There are additionally a number of jaw-dropping islands, together with native legend Inis Mor, simply off the coast and simple to succeed in by ferry.
But Galway is not solely a seaside getaway; it is a thrill to wander this lesser-known metropolis’s vibrant streets and pop in full of life bars showcasing native musicians or quieter dim-lit pubs in a extra conventional sense.
Whatever you do, do not skip grabbing a pint at Galway’s oldest pub, Tigh Neachtain’s, standing the take a look at of time since 1894.
Lastly, Galway is a wonderful gateway to a laundry listing of Ireland’s famed castles, corresponding to Merlin Castle, Ballindooley Castle, and Claregalway Castle.
Galway’s Spring Festivals, Including A Legendary St. Patty’s Celebration
A springtime getaway to Ireland with dabbling in St. Patrick’s Day festivities must be against the law!
Besides Dublin’s value conundrum, Galway’s fun-filled festivals this spring undoubtedly make it Ireland’s most enticing city to go to this spring.
What looks as if a unending occasion season, vacationers can have no hassle biding time with so many occasions to select from, however there are 3 to circle in your calendar:
- Seachtain na Gaeilge (world’s largest Irish language competition) – March 1 – 17
- St. Patrick’s Day Festival – March 15 -17
- Galway Food Festival – May 1-31
As for St. Patty’s, the principle parade is the stuff of legends, passing the almost multiple-centuries-old Hardiman Hotel on Eyre Square, which boasts its personal pub with dwell live shows each weekend.
After the shenanigans die down and you have to calm down, try the idyllic storybook cities of Cong and Clonbur close by.
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This article initially appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed listed below are the writer’s alone, not these of any financial institution, bank card issuer, lodge, airline, or different entity. This content material has not been reviewed, authorised or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included inside the put up.