Airbnb reveals trending destinations for winter family brrr-eaks in Ireland and beyond

 As the days get shorter and the chill sets in at home, Airbnb has revealed its trending destinations that Irish families are choosing for the ultimate winter wonderland retreat¹.  

Whether it’s a night of board games and movies by the fireplace, or getting together to explore the bustling Christmas markets, these trending destinations offer something special for all the family this winter.

Mediaeval Irish towns and countryside escapes 

When it comes to Irish stays, families are seeking to explore the rich history of Ireland. Famous towns like Carlingford and Athlone are a popular choice during winter months, filled with historical charm and beautiful scenery for the perfect festive getaway. 

Families don’t seem to fear the wild weather, many are opting to stay in the heart of the Burren to explore the great outdoors during winter. Searches for rural towns are on the rise, as are other top destinations including Tramore and Kinsale, where they can enjoy frosty coastal walks and stunning nature views. 

Christmas market towns in Ireland are also among the top travel choices for families this winter, with searches for Tralee and Waterford City on the rise for this time of the year.  

Discover festive cheer at the oldest and biggest Christmas markets across Europe  

New data from Airbnb has revealed that Irish families are increasingly choosing to explore the hometown of the man himself, Father Christmas in Rovaniemi, Lapland². Taking in the spectacular Northern Lights, meeting Santa Claus and taking a sleigh ride with Rudolph is set to be an unforgettable experience for all the family, making Rovaniemi a trending destination this winter. 

Airbnb’s data also shows that families in Ireland are picking traditional European Christmas market destinations to get into the holiday spirit as Munich and Brussels are some of the most sought-after cities during colder months. These destinations offer families the perfect opportunity to come together and make some jolly memories, from ice-skating to sight-seeing and enjoying a cosy cup of hot chocolate after a day of exploring the sprawling Christmas markets. 

Many Irish families are looking to enjoy festivities just across the pond in the UK. Liverpool, London and Manchester are seeing a boost in searches, according to Airbnb. With plenty of activities for kids like Christmas light displays and Santa’s Grotto experiences, England’s major cities are coming in high on the list of in-demand destinations for Irish families.

For those looking to avoid the winter blues, sunny destinations like Miami and Albufeira have also proven popular as families seek to soak up the sunshine. Christmas doesn’t need to be served cold!

Derek Nolan, Head of Public Policy in Ireland at Airbnb said: “This winter, families in Ireland are opting for the traditional festive destinations to get in the Christmas spirit. Major cities like Brussels and Munich as well as the iconic Lapland experience offer something for everyone in the family as they get ready for Santa’s visit. Our millions of hosts will be opening their doors and making sure that each family gets a warm welcome, providing them with a comfortable stay after a busy day of festivities.” 

A tailored family experience

To ease the stress of finding the right stay, Airbnb has introduced over 50 new guest filters, helping families quickly identify ideal options from proximity to points of interest, such as parks or playgrounds, to recommended filters based on your past bookings and searches. These new features will help families find a stay that meets all their needs, allowing for a relaxing and memorable holiday together.

Trending domestic destinations among families this winter	Trending international destinations among families this Winter
Sligo, County Sligo Waterford, County Waterford Bunratty, County Clare Salthill, County Galway Tramore, County Waterford Carlingford, County Louth Tralee, County Kerry Ballyvaughan, County Clare Athlone, County Westmeath Kinsale, County Cork	Sydney, New South Wales, Australia Albufeira, Faro District, Portugal Liverpool, England London, England Reykjavík, Reykjavíkurborg, Iceland Miami, Florida, United States Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland Brussels, Brussels, Belgium Munich, Bavaria, Germany Manchester, England

Ultimate family-friendly Airbnbs in trending destinations this winter 

Waterford, County Waterford

Cottage in the city

A home away from home and minutes from the city, this Waterford cottage offers a picturesque stay with The Greenway on its doorstep. Views of the River Suir and its proximity to the Waterford Viking Triangle make it one to add to the list.

Kinsale, County Cork

Ancestral townhouse

Newly refurbished, O’Herlihys Kinsale House is a leisurely stroll from the town centre which boasts renowned restaurants and a picturesque harbour. It’s the perfect choice for a family bonding experience this winter, it has three bedrooms and spacious living areas.

Carlingford, County Louth

Rustic charm cottage

Located by St John’s Castle, this cottage has a view of the mountains and nearby harbour. An older period home, it offers the chance to enjoy an evening by the fire for the ultimate cosy stay.

Tralee, County Kerry

Central stay with hot tub

This centrally-located home is complete with an outdoor play area and a hot tub. Enjoy a fun and entertaining stay  for all ages, and  finish your trip by taking in the sights of the Ring of Kerry during the festive  season.

Ballyvaughan, County Clare

Lodge in the heart of the Burren

Situated in the coastal village of Ballyvaughan, this lodge is surrounded by limestone mountains and sea. One of the oldest caves in Ireland is only a few minutes away. Take in the crisp mornings with a coffee on the outdoor terrace or spend the evening watching the night sky at this quaint escape.

Athlone, County Westmeath

Townhouse with a Shannon view

Stroll through the historic town of Athlone and explore the local award-winning restaurants, or opt to dine in with the family at this stylish three-bedroom townhouse overlooking the river Shannon. 

Tramore, County Waterford

Boutique townhouse with a sea view

Set on a Victorian terrace overlooking Tramore Bay, this newly refurbished home is just three minutes from the beach. The open plan living area with panoramic windows offers the perfect environment for some family bonding time.

Albufeira, Portugal

Villa in the historic downtown

This property has a private outdoor pool and is  only a few steps from the beach and main square, offering something for everyone. A comfortable and open-concept villa, it comes with its own terrace and stunning views.

Liverpool, England

A Georgian gem with a secret garden

The charming two-bedroom apartment located in the Georgian Quarter sleeps six guests, and is only a short stroll from the tranquil Sefton Park. Spend some time in the secret garden and take in the hustle and bustle of the city from the comfort of your home away from home.

London, England

Four-bedroom home in Hyde Park

Ideal for bigger families, this four-bedroom home in Central London sleeps eight guests. It offers a blend of comfort and convenience, and an inviting living area ideal for movie nights in.

Miami, USA

An oasis in Miami Springs

This home is entertainment galore, from the excitement of arcade games to a friendly match on the mini-golf course or a game of pool. Only 15 minutes from Miami Beach and with an outdoor pool, it’s ideal for soaking up the rays.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Cosy home in Lapland

Both central and peaceful, this inviting stay has three bedrooms and a fireplace for the ultimate cosy vibes. Catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights with the family and enjoy a wood-burning sauna for the full experience.

Brussels, Belgium

Beautiful light family home

This newly renovated 1800s home spans across three floors, providing plenty of space for the whole family. Centrally located, the Royal Park and Ambiorix Square are not to be missed during your stay.

Munich, Germany

Large and bright apartment

This home is perfect for families with younger kids, who can enjoy hours of fun in the playroom and explore the many books at their disposal. During the day, take a short metro to downtown or a scenic walk to the Isar.

Manchester, England

The White House in the Northern Quarter

A compact home dating back to the 1830s, it’s full of character and provides easy access to the city on foot. This stay has a well-equipped kitchen and sleeps eight guests, as well providing an ideal chill-out zone for an evening with the family.