Have a Christmas cracker in Dublin!

Small in size but huge in character, Dublin City comes alive with festive cheer for Christmas. Picture buzzing pubs playing Christmas songs, jolly carollers under twinkling lights and the best shopping around.

For a direct line to Christmas vibes, head for the dazzling chandeliers of Grafton street. As well as the best high street shopping, jolly buskers and street entertainers perform for the Christmas crowds. Drop into Bewley’s Café for a hot chocolate to warm chilly fingers. A short stroll from here brings you to South William Street and the all the splendour of the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre.

This beautiful townhouse is packed full of specialised shops, pretty boutiques and tasty cafés. Christmas is the time for buying presents and the Dublin Docklands Christmas Market has got you covered. Set against the backdrop of a Victorian fairground, this Christmas market hosts local Irish craftspeople, seasonal foods and live music. Grab a unique Irish gift for that special someone or simply soak up the jolly atmosphere.

A quick Luas ride brings you back into the city centre. For a guaranteed magic Christmas moment enjoy a performance of Christmas carols by St Patrick’s Cathedral Choir.

Christmas Cheer

When the sun goes down, follow the sounds of merriment to Temple Bar. Dressed up in Christmas decorations, Temple Bar is the place to enjoy a pint of Guinness and a traditional Irish music session. If trad music isn’t your thing, catch a live music gig at The Button Factory or Buskers Bar.

Christmas in Belfast

Belfast City puts an international spin on Christmas with the Belfast Continental Christmas Market. Belfast City Hall will be lit up like a Christmas tree as the market bustles under its gaze. With up to 15 stalls dedicated to local craftspeople and artisan producers, this is the ideal spot to pick up a unique Irish gift. For yet more Christmas shopping fun, visit the Christmas Craft Festival at the epic Belfast Castle. Or take the legwork out of your shopping with a visit to Victoria Square Shopping Centre, which has everything you could need in one location.

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Tea for two?

No trip to Belfast is complete without a visit to the stunning Titanic Belfast. Here, the tragic tale of the world’s most famous ship is told over ten interactive galleries. For a slice of luxury, enjoy seasonal afternoon tea next to the replica grand staircase from Titanic as live Christmas music provides the soundtrack.

For those last minute stocking-fillers, St George’s Market is packed full of friendly chat and bargains. Belfast knows how to party, too. For Christmas cheer on tap, hit the coolest bar in town: The Crown Liquor saloon. This gem of the Victorian age boasts hearty ales and a quirky Victorian interior.

A Christmas like no other!

Like we said, nowhere does Christmas like Ireland. Our shops and Christmas markets are brimming with unique gift ideas. And our cities transform into festive playgrounds for the Christmas season. When you’re all shopped out, you’ve got the famous Irish nightlife to explore. So get your Christmas adventure in Ireland cracking!