Ireland, the Emerald Isle, captivates visitors with its dramatic coastlines, ancient castles, vibrant cities, and legendary hospitality. From the rugged Cliffs of Moher to the lively pubs of Dublin, Ireland offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and Celtic culture that enchants travelers year-round.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Dublin Zoo
One of Europe's oldest and best zoos in Phoenix Park, with African Savanna, Asian Forest, and Kaziranga Forest Trail habitats. New World Primates and family farmyard areas delight younger children.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
A genuine 15th-century castle paired with a recreated 19th-century Irish village with costumed characters, farm animals, and traditional crafts. Medieval castle tour thrills older children.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Fota Wildlife Park
Safari-style wildlife park near Cork where cheetahs, giraffes, and ring-tailed lemurs roam freely among visitors. The miniature railway and playground extend the visit for small children.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Tayto Park Theme Park
Ireland's most exciting theme park near Ashbourne with the massive CúChulainn roller coaster, water rides, zoo, and the fascinating Tayto crisp factory tour. Best for children 6+ who meet height requirements.
Duration: Full day
Killarney National Park Jaunting Car
A horse-drawn jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park — Ireland's most traditional family activity. Drivers (jarveys) tell stories and point out wildlife on the route to Ross Castle.
Duration: 1-2 hours
W5 Science Discovery Centre, Belfast
Northern Ireland's leading hands-on science and discovery centre near the Titanic Quarter with 250 interactive exhibits across five zones. Excellent for curious children of all ages.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Viking Splash Tours Dublin
A hilarious amphibious DUKW vehicle tour that drives through Dublin streets and then splashes into the Grand Canal. Guides in Viking helmets provide entertaining commentary throughout.
Duration: 1.25 hours
Explorium at Dundrum
Ireland's largest indoor adventure playground and nature discovery space in south Dublin with climbing structures, sensory play, and Irish nature exhibits perfect for active families on rainy days.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Maldron Hotel Tallaght
Family-friendly city hotel in south Dublin with spacious family rooms, children stay free policy, and easy access to Luas tram for city centre.
Family features: Family rooms (2 adults + 2 children), cot available, children's menu, swimming pool access
Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
Central Killarney hotel with leisure centre, indoor swimming pool, and family rooms in the heart of town steps from restaurants and National Park access.
Family features: Indoor pool, family rooms, children's menu, Killarney National Park access
Dingle Skellig Hotel
Family-run hotel overlooking Dingle Bay with ocean views, indoor pool, and warm Kerry hospitality. Excellent base for beach days, boat trips, and Dingle Peninsula exploration.
Family features: Indoor pool, ocean views, family rooms, children's activity programme in summer
Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin
Contemporary Dublin city centre hotel with family rooms connecting to parents' room, indoor pool, and prime location near Christchurch and Dublin attractions.
Family features: Connecting family rooms, swimming pool, central location, children's breakfast menu
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Most Irish restaurants welcome children and have high chairs; always ask when booking
Children's menus (€7-12) are standard at casual restaurants, pubs, and hotel restaurants
Fish and chips from a quality chipper is universally loved by children and affordable (€7-10)
Gino's Gelato has multiple Dublin, Cork, and Galway locations for excellent Italian ice cream
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Book popular attractions (Tayto Park, Dublin Zoo) online in advance, especially for weekends and school holidays
Irish Atlantic beaches are beautiful but cold — pack wetsuits for children wanting to swim
Many Irish castles have steep narrow spiral staircases — consider this with pushchairs or very small children