Cheap staycations for families in Ireland

If you’re looking for a family staycation in Ireland that won’t stretch the budget, there are lots of places to consider. With travel costs rising and family schedules packed, staying local is becoming more popular than ever. And the best part? Ireland is full of amazing places to explore without paying long haul prices.

What is a staycation?

A staycation is simply a holiday close to home. Instead of flights and long trips, you can pack up the car, hit the road, and be on your break within a couple of hours. No waiting around the airport, no baggage limits, just a simple, stress free chance to get away.

If you’re looking for some staycation ideas in Ireland, the country is full of family friendly spots, so you can enjoy the feeling of a holiday without spending a fortune.

Affordable family friendly destinations across Ireland

You don’t have to go far to find great value staycations for families. Ireland’s small size means that you’re never too far away from a coastline, park, forest, or a lovely town.

Sligo

Sligo is packed with free natural attractions that kids love:

• Strandhill beach for surfing and paddle boarding
• Rosses Point beach for walking and swimming
• Climb the wooden boardwalk up Knocknarea
• See the Devil’s Chimney waterfall on the Gleniff Horseshoe Drive

With plenty of budget friendly B&Bs, it’s easy to plan a stay that suits your pocket.

Kilkenny

• Castle Park playground
• The Medieval Mile Walk

Kilkenny offers a mix of medieval charm and kid friendly fun:

If you stay slightly outside the city, in places like Callan or Bennettsbridge, you’ll usually find better prices.

Wexford

Wexford is a top choice for beach loving families.

Curracloe, Rosslare, and Morriscastle offer:

• Strips of long sandy beach
• Family friendly mobile homes
• Plenty of ice cream stops

It’s simple, relaxed, and perfect for a low cost summer break.

Kerry & Clare (without the premium price)

Both counties are popular places to visit on holiday, but you can keep costs down by staying in a smaller town like:

• Ballyheigue in Kerry
• Kilrush in Clare

You’ll still be close to the beach, cliff walk, and national park - just without the higher prices.

Free and low cost activities to try

A family staycation in Ireland doesn’t need big spending. Some of the best family moments come from simple days out.

• Beach day: Ireland’s coastline is one huge (and free) adventure zone.
• Walk through a national park: Wicklow, Killarney, and Connemara offer a stunning view for all ages.
• Greenways: Try the Waterford Greenway or Royal Canal Greenway for family cycling or a gentle stroll.
• Visit a local festival: Many towns run free summer events, perfect for a day out.
• Museums: Several museums across Ireland, including the National Museum of Ireland, offer free entry.

It’s amazing how much fun you can have without spending very much at all.

How to plan a cheap and stress free staycation

A little preparation can make your break both simple, and cheaper.

• Choose midweek if you can: Accommodation is often cheaper when it’s not the weekend.
• Pick free cancellation options: Handy if you find a better deal later.
• Cater for yourself: It’s budget friendly and easier when travelling with kids.
• Limit paid activities: Choose one “treat” activity per trip instead of per day.
• Pack smart: Snacks, board games, rain gear, and reusable water bottles help keep small costs from adding up.

A digital wallet may also help reduce the need to carry physical cash or bank cards with you or may be useful if you forget them. See how digital wallets work.

A bit of planning goes a long way, for both your wallet and your peace of mind.

Manage the cost of summer more easily

Even with good planning, family breaks can come with surprise expenses, new sandals, sun cream, or a quick last minute raincoat (because, well, Ireland).

To make summer spending easier to manage, the Avant Money One Card offers:

• 0% interest on purchases for the first 3 months*
• 0% interest on Money Transfers for 12 months*
• 0% interest on Balance Transfers for 9 months*

Used responsibly, it’s a handy way to spread out the cost of holiday essentials without paying extra. It can help you keep your staycation stress free, both on the road and in your budget.

Also, don’t forget financial safety while on holidays. See our blog on safety tips while using your credit card on holidays.

Variable interest rate 16.8%. Typical APR 22.9% (Annual Percentage Rate) includes government stamp duty of €30.

Representative example: assuming credit limit of €1,500 repaid in 12 equal monthly instalments, total amount repayable is €1,666.50. Total cost of credit is €166.50.

*You will need to complete a Balance Transfer or Money Transfer within the first 90 days of opening your account to avail of the promotional rates. For any offers related to purchases, the promotional period commences from the date your account is opened. You’ll need to pay your minimum monthly repayment on time each month and stay within your credit limit to keep your promotional rate. When the promotional offer ends any outstanding amount will be charged interest at your standard variable rate of 16.8%. Money Transfers are available from €100 up to 95% of your credit limit.

Lending criteria, terms and conditions apply. Avant Money Credit Cards are only available to customers over the age of 18 and resident of Republic of Ireland. Rates correct as of 23rd April 2026 and are subject to change.

Bankinter S.A., trading as Avant Money, is authorised by the Banco de España in Spain and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for consumer protection rules.