Hotels in Balbriggan

Balbriggan: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Historic Elegance

Discover the picturesque village of Balbriggan, nestled along the stunning Irish Sea in County Fingal. This charming destination boasts a beautiful beach, perfect for sunbathing and seaside strolls, alongside the historic Martello Tower offering breathtaking views. Explore the nearby tranquil lake and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant local culture. Ideal for romantic getaways or family adventures, Balbriggan invites travelers to experience its unique blend of natural beauty and heritage. Whether you're seeking relaxation or exploration, Balbriggan is a delightful off-the-beaten-path gem just a short journey from Dublin city center. For the best hotel rates in Balbriggan and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Balbriggan

Some of the best places to stay in Balbriggan are City Centre Dublin, Ballsbridge and Dublin 8. City Centre Dublin is perfect for first-time visitors, offering vibrant nightlife, historic landmarks, and easy access to attractions. Ballsbridge boasts a more upscale vibe with charming architecture and riverside parks, ideal for a relaxing stay. Dublin 8 features a mix of culture and history, with unique museums and eateries. Accommodations range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, with competitive room rates. Balbriggan and Skerries also offer appealing hotels, such as the Bracken Court Hotel, for a comfortable stay near the coast. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Balbriggan:

1. City Centre DublinOpens in a new window: City Centre Dublin is a vibrant area perfect for travelers interested in culture, entertainment, and sports. With attractions like Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse, and Aviva Stadium nearby, you'll find plenty to explore. The hotels here are luxurious and suited for both business and family travelers. Notable options include The Shelbourne, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, which offers a full spa and extensive business facilities; The Westbury HotelOpens in a new window, ideal for families with child-friendly amenities; and Conrad DublinOpens in a new window, perfect for those seeking adventure with nearby recreational activities.
2. BallsbridgeOpens in a new window: Ballsbridge is an upscale neighborhood known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to cultural sites like Aviva Stadium, Trinity College, and the Guinness Storehouse. This area features several luxurious hotels, including Radisson Blu St. Helen's HotelOpens in a new window, which caters to families and couples with romantic packages; InterContinental Dublin, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, which provides direct beach access and adventure sports; and Dylan HotelOpens in a new window, offering various outdoor activities for families and adventure seekers alike.
3. Dublin 8Opens in a new window: Dublin 8 is a family-oriented area with key attractions including the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, and Aviva Stadium, making it an excellent choice for culture enthusiasts. Accommodations here include Hilton Dublin KilmainhamOpens in a new window, a pet-friendly option offering family amenities; Carton House a Fairmont Managed HotelOpens in a new window, which features adventure sports and activities; and The K ClubOpens in a new window, providing a range of family-friendly services and recreational opportunities. This area balances historical charm with modern conveniences, making it a great base for exploration.

Things to do in Balbriggan for first time

Three days in Balbriggan offers travelers a delightful blend of stunning beaches, serene lakes, and lush parks. Enjoy activities like hiking along scenic trails, dancing to live music, or fishing in tranquil waters, all while soaking in the beauty of the Irish Sea and surrounding landscapes. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Balbriggan:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Balbriggan by exploring the stunning Malahide Castle, a historic gem set in beautiful gardens. Afterward, head to Donabate Beach, where you can enjoy a relaxing walk along the sandy shore and take in the breathtaking coastal views. Finally, wrap up your day at Malahide Beach, perfect for unwinding as you watch the sunset over the water, perhaps with a picnic or a stroll along the promenade.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at Dublin Castle, a significant historical site with beautiful architecture and gardens. From there, take a short walk to Abbey Street, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and maybe do some shopping. Conclude your day at Trinity College, home to The Book of Kells, a stunning manuscript that showcases Ireland's rich history and artistry—don't miss the Long Room of the Old Library for a truly awe-inspiring experience.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to O'Connell Street, Dublin's main thoroughfare, where you can admire iconic monuments like the Spire. Next, venture to Skerries Mills, an impressive heritage site that tells the story of Ireland’s milling history. Conclude your day with a visit to Clontarf Castle, where you can explore the grounds, enjoy a meal in their restaurant, and revel in the blend of history and elegance that the castle offers.

5 tips to find a great Balbriggan hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Balbriggan is during January, February, and November, when hotel rates are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, it's wise to book your flight at least 8 months in advance to secure better prices. For a great value for money, plan to stay at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the main attractions, which include the beautiful beach and the historic castle. This way, you can make the most of your trip while keeping it on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking last-minute deals for hotels in Balbriggan, you're in luck! You could find fantastic offers through Hotels.com. Start by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may discover great rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of scoring a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions. With good availability and competitive prices, you might just snag a perfect getaway in Balbriggan.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Balbriggan.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Balbriggan is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars, buses, and trains to explore the area, which is more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Balbriggan and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Balbriggan

Here are a few popular dishes in Balbriggan, County Fingal, Ireland:

• Irish Stew: This hearty dish, typically made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, is a staple of Irish cuisine. Often simmered to perfection, it's a soul-warming meal that reflects the country’s agricultural roots. Enjoying it in a cozy pub setting enhances the experience, as it's often served with a slice of traditional brown bread.
• Fish and Chips: A classic dish that showcases the region's access to fresh seafood, it features crispy battered fish served with thick-cut fries. Often enjoyed at seaside eateries, this dish is perfect for a casual meal, often accompanied by a splash of malt vinegar and a side of tartar sauce.
• Guinness: No visit is complete without savoring a pint of this iconic stout. Known for its rich, dark flavor and creamy head, enjoying a Guinness in a local pub is a quintessential Irish experience, often paired perfectly with your meal.

Best time to go to Balbriggan

Balbriggan experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 41.9°F (5.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 59.2°F (15.1°C). November is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Balbriggan, April, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.