City Breaks in Ireland This Summer

Posted on 12 May 2026 | Summer Getaways

The Best City Breaks in Ireland This Summer

Planning a summer escape without the airport queues? Ireland and Northern Ireland are packed with vibrant cities perfect for a weekend away, from coastal adventures and food hotspots to live music, shopping and historic attractions. Whether you’re travelling as a Family, organising a girls’ getaway or planning a spontaneous couples midweek break, there’s never been a better time to discover the cities closer to home.

At Getaways Ireland, you’ll find fantastic hotel deals in some of the island’s most exciting destinations, making your summer city break even easier to plan.

Dublin: Rooftop Bars, Culture and Summer Buzz

Temple Bar, Dublin, Ireland.
There’s always something happening in Dublin during the summer months. From open-air concerts and rooftop cocktails to coastal walks in Howth and shopping along Grafton Street, Dublin delivers the perfect mix of culture and nightlife.
 
Top things to do in Dublin this summer:
 
  • Explore the Guinness Storehouse
  • Take a walk through Phoenix Park
  • Enjoy live music in Temple Bar
  • Visit the seaside villages of Howth or Dún Laoghaire
  • Discover Dublin’s food scene at Fade Street and George’s Street

For a stylish city stay, book a break at Cassidys Hotel Dublin, available on Getaways Ireland. It’s an ideal base for exploring the capital while staying close to Dublin’s top attractions.

Cork: Foodie Favourite with Laid-Back CharmThe English Markets, Cork, Ireland.6

Cork has become one of Ireland’s top destinations for summer city breaks thanks to its incredible food scene, vibrant pubs and relaxed atmosphere. The city is compact, walkable and full of hidden gems.

Top things to do in Cork this summer:

 
  • Visit the famous English Market
  • Take a harbour cruise on the River Lee
  • Explore Cork’s café and brunch culture
  • Discover street art and local galleries
  • Enjoy day trips to Kinsale or Cobh

Stay in the heart of the city at Maldron Hotel South Mall Cork City, one of the top city break hotels featured on Getaways Ireland.

Galway: Coastal Energy and Festival FunSalthill Promenade, Galway, Ireland.

If you’re looking for music, atmosphere and coastal views, Galway is hard to beat. Summer in Galway means street performers, lively pubs, outdoor dining and sunsets along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Top things to do in Galway this summer:

  • Wander through the Latin Quarter
  • Walk the Salthill Promenade
  • Enjoy traditional Irish music sessions
  • Visit Galway Cathedral and Eyre Square
  • Take a day trip to Connemara or the Aran Islands

Book a relaxing stay at The Galmont Hotel & Spa for a luxury city escape close to Galway’s best attractions.

Belfast: Titanic History and Vibrant Nightlife

Titanic Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Belfast has become one of the most exciting destinations on the island for a summer getaway. With a buzzing nightlife scene, incredible restaurants and fascinating history, Belfast offers something for everyone

Top things to do in Belfast this summer:

  • Visit Titanic Belfast
  • Explore the Cathedral Quarter
  • Discover Belfast’s famous murals
  • Shop at Victoria Square
  • Take a Black Cab history tour

For a central and comfortable stay, check out The voco Belfast on Getaways Ireland. It’s perfect for a weekend of sightseeing and nightlife.

Kilkenny: Medieval Streets and Summer Events

Smithwick's Experience, Kilkenny, Ireland.

For a smaller city break packed with charm, Kilkenny is a fantastic summer choice. Known for its medieval streets, lively pubs and excellent restaurants, Kilkenny is ideal for couples and groups alike.

Top things to do in Kilkenny this summer:

  • Tour Kilkenny Castle
  • Visit Smithwick’s Experience
  • Walk the Medieval Mile
  • Enjoy outdoor dining and live music
  • Browse local craft shops and boutiques

Getaways Ireland features great hotel offers in Kilkenny like The Kilford Arms Hotel, making it easy to enjoy a stylish and affordable summer staycation.

Why Choose a Summer City Break in Ireland?

Summer staycations continue to grow in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. Ireland’s cities offer incredible food, culture, shopping and entertainment without the hassle of international travel. Whether you want a luxury hotel stay, a foodie weekend or a lively night away with friends, there’s a city break to suit every style and budget.

Explore the latest hotel deals and summer offers now at Getaways Ireland City Breaks.