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Every summer, Galway transforms into a true cultural capital with the Galway International Arts Festival. For two weeks, the city comes alive with a rich and diverse programme, attracting artists and visitors from all over the world. Theatre, music, dance, visual arts and street performances come together to create one of Ireland’s leading events, offering a unique experience in the heart of Galway. An extraordinary festival This year, the festival returns for its 49th edition and once again promises to completely transform the city. Streets, squares and iconic venues become spaces for artistic expression. Every corner of Galway can hold a surprise: an impromptu performance, a visual installation or an open-air concert. This mix of large-scale shows and spontaneous moments makes each day different and truly immersive. The atmosphere is vibrant, warm and festive, with a real sense of closeness between artists and audiences, which is what makes the event so unique. Programme The Galway International Arts Festival offers an impressive programme each year, bringing together a wide range of artistic disciplines:contemporary theatrelive musicdancevisual artsperformances and installations On 17 July 2026, don’t miss the iconic Block Rockin' Beats at the Heineken® Big Top for an unforgettable night. The Flaming Lips make a triumphant return to the Heineken® Big Top on 16 July 2026, for their only Irish show not to be missed. Known for their signature kaleidoscopic visuals, they have been listed among the “50 Bands to See Before You Die” by Q Magazine. And many more acts are still to be announced. The full programme will be available in May, so stay updated on the official website: www.giaf.ie. Practical information Location: Galway Dates: 13–26 July 2026 Tickets: depending on events and performances Beyond the shows, it is the overall atmosphere of Galway that truly enhances the experience. Lively terraces, music in the streets and spontaneous encounters create a friendly and welcoming vibe. The Galway International Arts Festival is a must-see summer event in Ireland. It is also a great opportunity to discover Galway in a different way, taking the time to wander around and be surprised by the city. For more information, visit the website: www.giaf.ie

Where to Stay: Fashion-Forward and Fabulous Kick off your stay at The London EDITION in Fitzrovia. With minimalist yet luxurious interiors, a lobby bar that feels like a fashion week afterparty, and a location that puts you minutes from Soho and Oxford Street, it’s the ultimate base for the style-conscious traveler Prefer a more intimate setting? Book a room at Number Sixteen in South Kensington. This boutique townhouse by Firmdale Hotels offers whimsical, British interiors and a lush private garden that feels like a secret escape from the city buzz. Where to Shop: From British Classics to Cult Cool Begin in Mayfair, where you'll find sleek flagships like Burberry, Roksanda, and Self-Portrait, alongside the legendary Liberty London, a must-visit for its eclectic fashion, beauty, and homeware offerings. For those in search of edgier labels, Dover Street Market in Haymarket is a treasure trove of high-concept fashion from designers like Simone Rocha, Rick Owens, and Jacquemus. Then make your way to Knightsbridge for a classic London shopping moment: Harrods. This iconic department store is as much an experience as it is a destination. From luxury fashion houses like Dior, Prada, and Alexander McQueen to exclusive beauty halls and the decadent food halls, Harrods delivers fashion fantasy at every turn. Head east to Shoreditch to discover Goodhood and LN-CC, two of the city’s most influential independent retailers known for their curated fashion, home goods, and lifestyle collections. And don’t miss Machine-A in Soho for a tight edit of global and emerging talent that reflects London’s boundary-pushing style DNA. Where to Eat: A Taste of London, Stylishly Served Start your day with brunch at Granger & Co. in Notting Hill, a laid-back spot with sunny interiors and an A-list clientele. For lunch, book a table at Sketch in Mayfair, not just for the food, but for the jaw-dropping interiors, art installations, and famously pink Gallery room. Dinner calls for something with buzz and boldness, try Brat in Shoreditch, a Michelin-starred hotspot known for open-fire cooking, perfectly charred turbot, and a rustic-chic dining room packed with fashion insiders and creatives. For a more relaxed but equally delicious evening, Gloria Trattoria offers pasta, pink walls, and people-watching galore. Bonus Moments Between shopping and eating, stroll along Regent’s Canal, explore Columbia Road Flower Market on Sundays, or grab a flat white from Monmouth Coffee in Covent Garden. Every corner of London feels like a fashion shoot, just don’t forget your camera. Getting There: With multiple daily return flights from Dublin and Cork to London RTN from €60 pp, a stylish weekend escape is just a short hop across the Irish Sea.

Every summer, the alpine resort of Megève swaps hiking boots and mountain bikes for show-jumping arenas as the International Jumping of Megève returns to the foot of Mont Blanc. Now celebrating its 15th edition, the event will take place from 11 to 19 July 2026, transforming the elegant French mountain resort into one of Europe’s most scenic equestrian destinations. Over the course of several days, riders, horses and spectators from around the world gather in Megève for a competition that combines elite international sport with a lively summer atmosphere in the Alps. Held in the heart of the resort, the event attracts more than 500 horses and 350 riders representing around twenty countries each year. From rising young competitors to some of the biggest names on the international show-jumping circuit, the competition has become a major fixture on Megève’s summer sporting calendar. Beyond the arena itself, the atmosphere spills across the resort, with visitors able to enjoy public activities, entertainment and open-air events throughout the week. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Mont Blanc, the competition offers a very different side to an Alpine summer holiday, blending world-class sport with the relaxed charm of a traditional mountain village. Known for its chic chalets, gourmet restaurants and year-round appeal, Megève has long attracted visitors looking for a more refined Alpine escape, and the International Jumping adds another layer to the destination’s summer appeal. While winter may bring skiers to the slopes, July sees the resort filled with terraces, outdoor events and visitors enjoying the mountain scenery in warmer weather. For travellers considering a summer break around the event, a seven-night stay at Mamie Megève, arriving on 11 July 2026, is currently priced from £484 per person based on two people sharing a double room with breakfast included. Flights and transfers are extra. With international sport, mountain scenery and a lively resort atmosphere all coming together in one destination, the International Jumping of Megève offers an alternative summer experience in the Alps that goes far beyond hiking and skiing. For more information, visit Megève Tourisme.

Less than two hours from Dublin, one of Northern Ireland’s most scenic summer spots has officially reopened for the season. The celebrated Bollinger Garden at Culloden Estate & Spa is back for summer 2026, bringing Champagne, cocktails and Belfast Lough views together in the grounds of the five-star estate. Set beside the hotel’s Cultra Inn, the outdoor garden has become a seasonal favourite for both hotel guests and local visitors, with its sweeping waterfront setting offering one of the most picturesque terraces in the region. This year’s reopening comes with a refreshed food and drinks offering, including a new spritz menu alongside Bollinger Champagne and summer cocktails designed for long afternoons overlooking the lough. Guests can also order from a new selection of sharing plates, with dishes including Véire Irish Wagyu Meatballs, Rockvale Farm Buffalo Chicken and Tiger Prawn Skewers. Cormac Fadden, General Manager of the Culloden Estate & Spa, said the reopening marks the beginning of the summer season at the property. “The return of our Bollinger Champagne Garden signals the beginning of summer at the Culloden Estate & Spa. Each year we build on this unique experience with new food and drinks offerings. As well as an enticing summer spritz menu visitors and guests can enjoy dishes such as Véire Irish Wagyu Meatballs, Rockvale Farm Buffalo Chicken and Tiger Prawn Skewers,” he said. To coincide with the reopening, the hotel has also launched a summer getaway offer aimed at travellers looking for an easy luxury break closer to home. Available on selected dates until August 31st, the offer includes 15 per cent off newly refurbished Garden Rooms, with rates from €265 for two people. The package includes breakfast, a complimentary room upgrade and full access to the hotel’s spa facilities, making it an appealing option for anyone looking to swap airport queues for a short luxury escape along the coast. Known for its grand estate setting, coastal views and award-winning spa, Culloden Estate & Spa has long been one of Northern Ireland’s best-known five-star stays, and the return of the Bollinger Garden adds another reason to plan a summer visit. For more information, visit cullodenestateandspa.com.

A few days can go a long way on the Rhine, especially when the route includes castle-lined valleys, vineyard-covered hillsides and some of Germany’s most atmospheric riverside towns. Riviera Travel is currently offering a three-night Rhine Gorge & Cologne Discovery Taster River Cruise from €1,049 per person, giving travellers the chance to experience one of Europe’s most scenic waterways in a shorter, easy-paced itinerary. Departing on 7th November 2026, the cruise combines time in Cologne, the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge and the lively wine town of Rüdesheim, all while sailing aboard the MS Riviera Resplendence. The itinerary begins in Cologne, a city known for its striking Gothic cathedral, historic Old Town and lively café culture along the Rhine waterfront. From there, the cruise heads south into the Rhine Gorge, widely regarded as the most beautiful stretch of the river. Here, steep vineyard terraces, medieval castles and tiny riverside villages appear around almost every bend, creating the kind of scenery most travellers associate with classic European river cruising. There is also time to explore Rüdesheim, one of the Rhine’s best-known wine towns. Famous for its half-timbered streets, local Rieslings and welcoming atmosphere, it offers a more relaxed stop along the journey and a chance to experience the region beyond the riverbanks. The sailing takes place aboard the MS Riviera Resplendence, with all meals included throughout the cruise, alongside an all-inclusive drinks package and complimentary onboard Wi-Fi. Escorted tours and excursions included in the itinerary are also covered, with Riviera Travel’s Cruise Director accompanying guests throughout the trip. Return flights and airport transfers are included in the package, making it a straightforward option for travellers looking for a shorter European cruise break without the hassle of arranging separate transport. With autumn colours often still lingering across the Rhine Valley in November, the departure offers a particularly scenic time to experience the region, whether it’s your first river cruise or simply a shorter escape before the end of the year. The Rhine Gorge & Cologne Discovery Taster River Cruise is priced from €1,049 per person. For more information or to book, click here.

There’s something undeniably magical about Florence. The Tuscan capital is a city where history breathes through every cobblestone, and art isn’t just confined to museums, it spills onto the streets, piazzas, and even the everyday lives of its people. With just 48 hours in this Renaissance gem, you can dive deep into a world of timeless beauty, sumptuous food, and a buzzing contemporary scene that perfectly complements its storied past. Where to Stay: Stylish Florentine Retreats Portrait Firenze A sleek, boutique hotel overlooking the Arno River, with interiors inspired by classic Italian elegance and breathtaking views of the Ponte Vecchio. Hotel Brunelleschi Set inside a restored medieval tower, this hotel offers a blend of history and modern luxury in the heart of Florence’s historic center.. Day 1: Renaissance Icons & Rooftop Vibes Morning: Begin at the iconic Duomo, then climb Brunelleschi’s dome for sky-high views of Florence’s cinnamon rooftops. Nearby, visit one of the city’s charming wine windows , tiny arched hatches in old stone walls once used during the plague to sell wine. They’ve made a quirky, photo-worthy comeback. Order a chilled white through a hole in the wall and sip it like a true Florentine. Lunch: Make your way to the Gucci Garden Museum , a hybrid of fashion, art, and history housed in the stunning Palazzo della Mercanzia. Explore Alessandro Michele’s dreamy, maximalist universe, then grab lunch at Gucci Osteria if you're feeling bougie. Afternoon: Wander through the artisan-filled Oltrarno district, home to vintage shops, independent studios, and creative flair. Stop by La Menagere a floral coffee moment , part café, part flower shop, part concept store , and snap away. Evening: Watch the golden hour glow at the stunning Loggia Rooftop Bar with dreamy views of the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio. For dinner, head to Osteria Santo Spirit beloved for its gooey truffle gnocchi and candle-lit vibes on the piazza. After Dark: Ease into the night with craft cocktails at Volume, a cool, artsy bar in the Santo Spirito square. Feeling experimental? Slip into the hidden Rasputin , a secret speakeasy known for its moody aesthetic and mixology mastery. Day 2: Views, Vintage Finds & Vibey Nights Morning: Kickstart the day with a visit to Santo Spirito Market, where locals shop and chat over espresso. Grab a quick panino or try the legendary lampredotto (Florentine street food staple). Then wander the Oltrarno streets and pop into artisan shops and galleries. Lunch: Head to Ditta Artigianale, Florence’s coffee revolution spot and brunch haven. Expect killer flat whites, croque madames, and a laid-back cool crowd. Afternoon: Take in one of the best city panoramas from Piazzale Michelangelo , ideal for golden-hour shots and the perfect place to pause and breathe in Florence. Afterwards, explore nearby Giardino delle Rose, a lesser-known rose garden with dreamy photo ops. Evening: Florence lights up after dark, and Angel Rooftop or 701 Rooftop are where to begin your night. Both offer skyline views, sleek cocktails, and a buzzy but intimate atmosphere. Dinner: Tuck into a stylish dinner back in the city at Osteria Santo Spirito if you missed it on Day 1 or try Trattoria Cammillo , a classic with retro charm and a celebrity-following for good reason. Late Night Drinks & Dancing: Start at Mad Souls & Spirits, a playful and chaotic cocktail bar packed with personality and neon. Then hit up Club Twenty One for a house-party-meets-club feel, or go full glam at YAB Firenze , stylish late-night haunt with fashion-forward energy and booming beats. Most Instagrammable Spots The Duomo at sunrise or sunset Florence skyline from Piazzale Michelangelo A glass of wine through a wine window The eclectic displays inside Gucci Garden Rooftop cocktails with the Arno River in the background The dreamy archways of Loggia dei Lanzi Truffle gnocchi from Osteria Santo Spirito Florence delivers big on art, fashion, food, and fantasy. In 48 hours, you’ll unlock centuries of beauty, and more than a few secret doors into the city’s trendiest corners. Whether you’re climbing domes, sipping spritzes on rooftops, or dancing until dawn, Florence proves it’s as much about the moment as it is about the masterpiece. Getting There: Flights from Ireland From Dublin (DUB):Ryanair and Aer Lingus fly direct to Florence (FLR) from around €70 return. https://www.skyscanner.ie/ From Cork (ORK):There are no direct flights, but easy one-stop routes via London or Amsterdam start around €120. https://www.skyscanner.ie/

Yosemite National Park, famous for its iconic granite monoliths and rushing waterfalls, has a quieter, less crowded side. A significant 95% of visitors only see 5% of the park, which has over 750,000 acres of outstanding scenery and bucket-list-worthy hikes to be explored. Over half of Yosemite is in Tuolumne County, where there’s plenty of room to roam away from the crowd, making it a perfect destination for summer visitation. Until September 30, advance reservations will be required to enter and drive through Yosemite National Park for under €2.50. See below for a list of unforgettable sights travellers can experience – with or without a reservation. Natural Wonders Head through the Big Oak Flat entrance of the park and enjoy a hike to the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. The smallest of the park’s sequoia groves, Tuolumne’s home to about two dozen mature giant sequoias. Growing only on the western slopes of California’s Sierra Nevada, these giant trees can live for more than 3,000 years and are immense, majestic trees that have inspired travellers for decades. Reservation needed. Even in the height of summer when Yosemite is being explored by visitors from around the world, Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is an oasis of calm. Yosemite Valley’s slightly smaller twin is off the beaten track and offers spectacular scenery of granite monoliths. The water hides an additional 300 feet of granite cliffs and provides fresh drinking water for the San Francisco area. Tip – arrive early as parking is limited. No reservation needed. Visit the incomparable open scenery of Tuolumne Meadows, a spectacular subalpine meadow surrounded by granite domes and cliffs. One of the largest high-elevation meadows in the Sierra Nevada, Tuolumne Meadows offers scenic views, hiking opportunities, ranger programmes and campgrounds for those looking to truly escape into nature. Reservation needed. Hidden Hikes Hike along the Tuolumne River to scenic Carlon Falls to enjoy the perfect place to cool off and have a picnic. Carlon is a nine metre-high waterfall with a pool at its base that’s perfect for cooling off on a warm summer day. The trailhead starts in the Stanislaus National Forest, meaning this hike is ideal for those who just missed a park reservation. No reservation needed. Marvel at some of the park’s tallest waterfalls – Tueeulala, Wapama and Rancheria. One of the most popular hikes, the five-mile Wapama Falls Rancheria Falls Trail offers spectacular views of all three waterfalls and the stunning valley that links them together. Reservation needed. Getting there: The easiest way to get into the park is by booking a ticket on public transportation. The Yosemite Area Regional Transit System (YARTS) includes entrance into the park with a ticket, so a park reservation is not needed for a park reservation. Or book a guided tour operator, which not only allows you entrance into the park, but a local expert who will be able to guide you through. No reservation needed.

Fly direct from Dublin or Cork to Naples. Pack light. Think linen, SPF 50, and one perfect pair of sandals. This isn’t about doing everything, it’s about doing it well. Five days on Italy’s most photogenic coastline, where slow mornings, sea views, and Aperol at golden hour are the only non-negotiables. Luxe doesn’t need to shout. And beauty here? It’s everywhere. DAY 1: NAPOLI → POSITANO Land in Naples early. A pre-booked transfer (private if you’re leaning in, shared if you’re balancing) whisks you to Positano in just over 90 minutes. Check in to Villa Treville or Le Sirenuse if you’re going full dream mode, otherwise, Casa Buonocore is impossibly chic and quietly stylish. Unpack. Float above the sea. Dinner at La Sponda: think candlelit, lemon-drenched, and timeless. DAY 2: POSITANO BEACH CLUB ENERGY Wake slow. Coffee on the terrace, morning swim, soft robe moment. Catch the boat shuttle to Arienzo Beach Club, reserve ahead and ask for front row. Lunch is grilled fish, rosé, that signature Amalfi ease. Afternoon: explore Positano’s steep, flower-framed lanes. Pop into Emporio Sirenuse and Luisa Positano. Evening drinks at Franco’s Bar, then dinner at Casa e Bottega, clean, coastal, fresh. DAY 3: CAPRI DAY TRIP (FLEXIBLE LUXURY) Capri, but make it you. If chartering a boat isn’t in the plan, the ferry from Positano gets you there in under 40 minutes. Once on the island, hire a local boat for a few hours or grab a convertible taxi to La Fontelina. Reserve loungers. Order the pasta. Swim. Sun. Repeat. Explore Capri town for a quick boutique browse before ferrying home, salt-slicked and happy. DAY 4: RAVELLO (TWO WAYS) Ravello is where the Amalfi Coast exhales. If you’re in the mood for drama, hire a vintage Fiat or Vespa. Prefer ease? Catch the local SITA bus or book a transfer, it’s winding, but worth it. Spend your day wandering Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, then linger over lunch at Belmond Caruso. It’s elegance without excess. Return via Amalfi town if you fancy a gelato and a golden hour photo. DAY 5: BACK TO NAPLES Your final morning. Coffee with a view. Breathe it in. Transfer to Naples with a pit stop at Gran Caffè Gambrinus for one last La Fontelina. If time allows, stroll the Spanish Quarter or peek into a gallery. Then it’s wheels up, returning home just a little more bronzed, a little more Italian, and fully, deliciously reset. Minimal itinerary, maximum impact. Five days, no bad angles, and every moment worthy of your feed, but even better in real life.

For those looking to tick a true bucket-list experience off in 2026, this Kenya Wildlife Safari offer from Travalue.ie delivers a classic introduction to Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife. Priced from €3,550 per person, the six-night escorted tour includes return flights from Dublin to Nairobi, making it a seamless long-haul adventure from the outset. From the moment you arrive, the journey shifts quickly from city to savannah, with a carefully planned itinerary that takes in some of Kenya’s most celebrated national parks, including Amboseli, Lake Nakuru and the world-famous Maasai Mara. This is a hands-on, immersive safari experience rather than a luxury lodge stay. Travellers journey overland in purpose-built vehicles, camping in the bush at points along the way and travelling with an experienced local crew. The reward is access to more remote areas and a more authentic connection to the landscape, with opportunities to spot the “Big Five; lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and buffalo all in their natural habitat. Beyond wildlife, the itinerary also leans into cultural experiences. A highlight includes time spent in a traditional Maasai village, where guests are welcomed into the community, gaining insight into daily life and customs. There are also smaller, memorable moments woven throughout, from early morning game drives in Lake Nakuru, one of the best places to see rhinos, to shared meals prepared during a local cooking experience under the African sky. With departures available throughout October 2026, this is a well-rounded introduction to Kenya for first-time safari travellers, combining wildlife, culture and a sense of adventure in one of the world’s most iconic destinations. To book, click here.

With golden beaches, jaw-dropping architecture, lush parks, and bold Catalan flavors, Barcelona serves up magic at every turn. Short on time? No worries. Here’s how to spend a perfectly curated 48 hours in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, packed with Instagram-worthy views, trendsetting bites, and plenty of Mediterranean charm. And with direct flights from Dublin to Barcelona in under three hours, it’s never been easier to explore this amazing city. From Weekend stays to longer trips check out Loveholidays.ie Where to Stay: Stylish Sleeps in the City For a stay as stylish as your itinerary, check into: 1. The Hoxton, Poblenou – With rooftop pool vibes, lush interiors, and a ground-floor taquería, this trendy hotel blends industrial cool with warm Mediterranean tones. It's close to the beach and even closer to Barcelona’s creative energy. 2. Casa Bonay – A boutique hotel housed in a neoclassical building in the Eixample district, Casa Bonay is a favorite among design lovers. Expect curated local art, a rooftop bar, and a cult-followed coffee shop downstairs. Day 1: Churros, Gaudí & Urban Cool Start your day like a true local with crispy churros dipped in thick, velvety Spanish hot chocolate at one of the city’s iconic cafés, Granja Viader or Granja Dulcinea, both nestled near the bustling La Rambla. Then it’s time for some architectural magic. Visit Casa Batlló and the awe-inspiring La Sagrada Família, two of Antoni Gaudí’s most celebrated creations. These masterpieces aren’t just beautiful, they're surreal, bold, and totally grid-worthy. Next, wander into the Gothic Quarter, where moody stone alleys, flower-draped balconies, and hidden plazas create a storybook setting. Snap a photo at the neo-Gothic Pont del Bisbe, one of the most photographed spots in the city. For lunch, indulge at El Nacional, a stunning multi-concept restaurant on Passeig de Gràcia. Think soaring ceilings, marble counters, and Art Deco elegance, plus all your Spanish favorites under one roof. In the afternoon, head to Park Güell for vibrant mosaic terraces and panoramic city views. Don’t miss the iconic lizard sculpture and those dreamy tiled benches. As evening falls, explore the effortlessly cool neighborhoods of El Born or Sant Antoni, both packed with character and culinary creativity. Try Bar Cañete for elevated tapas or Funky Bakers Eatery for colorful, Middle Eastern–inspired dishes. End the night at Paradiso, a hidden speakeasy ranked among the world’s best bars, if you can find it. Day 2: Beachy Bliss & Paella by the Sea Begin your second day with a sunrise walk through Barceloneta, the city’s iconic beachside neighborhood. Whether you're jogging the palm-lined promenade or sipping coffee slowly, the coastal calm here is unmatched. Grab breakfast at Brunch & Cake by the Sea, where every plate looks like it was made for your Instagram feed, beautiful, bold, and delicious. Spend the rest of the morning relaxing on the beach, swim, sunbathe, or just people-watch, before heading to lunch at Can Solé or Xiringuito Escribà, both beloved for their authentic paella and unbeatable Mediterranean views. Top tip: good paella takes time, so order a sangria, sit back, and savor the moment. To end your 48-hour adventure, head up to the rooftop terrace at Sercotel Rosellón for a cocktail, where you’ll get unbeatable views of the Sagrada Família and the city skyline. for a sunset like no other. With sweeping views over the entire city and sea, it’s the perfect way to say adéu to Barcelona, and snap one last iconic photo.

Set against the backdrop of Killiney Hill, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel is one of Ireland’s most iconic hotels and a go-to destination for wedding celebrations. Just a 30 minutes drive from Dublin city and overlooking Dublin Bay, the historic castle offers a unique blend of heritage charm, elegant interiors and breathtaking coastal views. With over 50 years of experience, Fitzpatrick Castle caters for everything from intimate ceremonies to larger celebrations, including civil ceremonies and partnerships, all in one stunning location. Couples can enjoy a complete wedding experience in one location, from ceremony to reception and beyond. Thoughtfully designed packages, starting from €119 per person, include everything from drinks receptions and five-course dining to after-party options and overnight stays, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the celebration. Pre-wedding moments can also be seamlessly hosted on-site, from relaxed rehearsal dinners to informal Day 2 gatherings, including BBQs and on-site activities such as padel, creating a multi-day celebration for couples and their guests. With beautiful gardens, light-filled spaces and a sense of occasion throughout, it provides a timeless setting for your special day, from ceremony to reception, with exceptional service at every step. The Ceremony For newlyweds-to-be you can opt to have your ceremony within the confines of the beautiful Fitzpatrick Castle or at a local church. Close by to the hotel you'll find Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church, Sts. Alphonsus and Columba Roman Catholic Church and the Holy Trinity Church of Ireland – depending on your denomination. OR you could opt for a ceremony within the Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, its elegant ambiance has been the cherished setting for countless Civil Ceremonies and Civil Partnerships, infusing each occasion with grace and splendour. Their dedicated team of wedding co-ordinators will customise your very own Civil Ceremony package to suit your Dublin wedding venue needs. With packages varying based on numbers from 30 to 280 guests, The Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel also offers garden ceremonies that are – of course – weather dependent. In every package, you’ll walk down red-carpeted aisle past candle-lit lanterns to a floral centre-piece on the registrar’s table. The Reception Imagine this: after the ceremony, your guests begin to mill in the Fitzpatrick Castle, greeted by a Prosecco and craft beer reception, with a mini–Afternoon Tea that includes a selection of fresh finger sandwiches, homemade scones served with clotted cream and jam alongside tea & coffee. In the exclusive historic Castle ballroom, tables are dressed with a crisp white linen with your choice of a range of stylish bespoke chairs. There are personalised menus on every table framed in gold-gilded Georgian mirrors and seasonal floral centrepieces or candelabras. Your guests will enjoy a five-course dinner with choice of main course and a half bottle of recommended wine for each guest. After your dancing is finished, guests can then enjoy a Chef’s selection of hot finger food and a late-night bar. All this, in the Vico Package for just €129 per person, Sunday to Thursday and €139 per person Friday and Saturday with a minimum number of 100 adults. If you want to opt for the Sorrento Package, priced at €149 per person Sunday to Thursday and €159 per person Friday and Saturday with a minimum number of 80 adults – your guests will have a bespoke gin bar at your reception with a waiter serving classic Castle canapés, and the afterparty will include delicious mini fish and chip cones and homemade sliders and chips with their late night bar. Included in the Sorrento Package is also the opportunity to enjoy a Prosecco or drink of your choice to toast the happy couple (i.e. you and your partner!)! You’ll be a happy couple indeed because included in both wedding packages is the use of the historic 1847 Castle wing & private gardens. Before your big day, you’re invited to their award-winning Mapas Restaurant for your chosen wedding menu tasting. You’ll be gifted a complimentary bridal suite with a delicious Champagne breakfast, and your guests can enjoy preferred rates for up to 15 rooms for the night of your wedding (subject to availability). And then, a year later, the Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel invites you back to celebrate your first anniversary with dinner in their award-winning Mapas Restaurant! Doesn’t that sound glorious? Find out more at https://www.fitzpatrickcastle.com/weddings.html If you want to get a taste of the Fitzpatrick Castle - be sure to check out our competition at instagram.com/traveltimesglobal!

With grand boulevards, world-class art, buzzing plazas, and irresistible tapas, Madrid is a city that pulses with passion and style. Whether you're here for the culture, the food, or just the sheer energy, Spain’s capital knows how to impress. Short on time? No problem. Here’s how to spend a perfectly curated 48 hours in Madrid, think iconic sights, rooftop cocktails, late-night bites, and endless photo ops under that golden Spanish sun. And with direct flights from Dublin to Madrid in just under three hours, it’s never been easier to get swept up in the capital’s charm. From weekend escapes to extended city breaks, check out Loveholidays.ie to plan your perfect getaway. Where to Stay: Chic City Stays For a base that’s as effortlessly cool as Madrid itself, check into: Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid , Nestled in the trendy Chueca district, this boutique gem is all eclectic elegance, with bold interiors, a buzzing social scene, and luxe touches throughout. Bonus: you're steps from some of the city’s best nightlife and cafés. Edition Madrid, The Edition Madrid is a luxury hotel blending contemporary design with historic charm, offering upscale dining, a rooftop pool, and panoramic city views in the heart of Spain’s capital. Day 1: Art, Style & Rooftop Views Morning, Start your day in Malasaña, Madrid’s effortlessly cool neighbourhood. Grab breakfast at Federal Café , on Comendadoras Square a bright, modern spot known for its flat whites and eggs benedict. Walk off your brunch with a wander through El Retiro Park, Madrid’s green heart. Rent a rowboat on the lake or stroll past marble statues and glass pavilions. Then head to the Prado Museum to see works by Goya, Velázquez, and Rubens , a must for art lovers. Afternoon, Stop for lunch at Casa Mono, an elegant bistro near the Royal Palace with delicious Mediterranean plates and serious interior goals. After, explore Barrio de las Letras, Madrid’s literary quarter. Browse stylish boutiques, take photos of quotes etched into the streets, and don’t miss a pit stop at Chocolatería San Ginés for the city’s most iconic churros and hot chocolate. Evening, Begin your night at Ginkgo Sky Bar, where cocktails come with sweeping skyline views and a golden-hour glow. For dinner, book a table at Barracuda MX, a fashionable spot blending Mexican flavours with Spanish flair. End the night at Macera TallerBar, known for its house-infused spirits and creative cocktails, perfect for a stylish nightcap. Day 2: Local Life, Vintage Finds & Sunset Magic Morning, Kick off your day at Hanso Café, a design-forward coffee spot near Malasaña serving matcha lattes and buttery pastries. From there, dive into Lavapiés, Madrid’s multicultural quarter packed with street art, indie galleries, and colourful markets. If it’s Sunday, wander through El Rastro, Spain’s largest flea market, full of vintage fashion, vinyl records, and hidden gems. Afternoon, Have lunch at La Musa, a trendy tapas bar in the heart of Malasaña, buzzing with locals and loaded with flavour. Spend the afternoon browsing vintage shops like Magpie Vintage or unwind with a coffee and book at La Central, a dreamy bookstore-meets-café. Evening , Make your way to El Imparcial, a concept restaurant inside a former newspaper HQ where art and fine dining collide. As the sun sets, head to Templo de Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple overlooking the city, one of Madrid’s most breathtaking and Instagrammable views. Toast your final night with a cocktail at Salmon Guru, one of the world’s top bars, and a sensory playground of colour, flavour, and fun. Madrid is bold, beautiful, and bursting with energy , a weekend full of flavour, fashion, and unforgettable moments. Direct flights from Ireland mean you’re only ever a few hours from sunshine, sangria, and style.