Family Holiday Homes in Ireland Compare Size and Price

Family Holiday Homes in Ireland: Compare Size and Price for the Perfect Stay

When planning a family holiday in Ireland, the goal is simple: find a comfortable, safe, and convenient holiday accommodation at a price that fits the budget, while still offering enough space for everyone to relax after a day of adventures. Ireland is a destination that shines for families thanks to its welcoming towns, child-friendly activities, and a countryside that feels magical without being far from modern conveniences. Whether you are seeking a coastal cottage with sea views, a roomy countryside farmhouse, or a modern townhouse in a lively town, there are plenty of options in the vacation rentals market. This guide is designed for families who value size, price, safety, and easy access to activities, local experiences, and things to do in Ireland.

If you want to start your search with a wide range of options across the island, you can explore curated listings on Search and Stay, a website that helps you find accommodations in the area with filters that match family needs, budgets, and preferred locations. For families who want to compare size and price quickly, this article breaks down what to look for, where to stay, and how to optimize for holiday accommodation at the best value.

Why Ireland Works for a Family Stay

Ireland stands out as a family destination for several reasons. It is a safe, friendly country with compact drive times between major towns and many family-friendly activities close to holiday rental homes. The country’s landscapes—from cliffs and beaches to rolling green hills and fairy-tale towns—offer endless opportunities for outdoor play, exploration, and memorable local experiences and things to do. When you are traveling with kids, having enough space in a comfortable place to stay is essential, as is a kitchen to prepare meals, laundry facilities, and clear safety features. Ireland’s varied destinations mean you can choose a destination that suits your family’s pace—whether you want to slow down in a seaside village or explore a vibrant city while keeping comfort and safety at the forefront.

In addition to safety and convenience, families often look for accommodations that support flexibility. A short term rental or a vacation rental with multiple bedrooms provides room for parents to unwind after children’s bedtime routines, space for play areas, and kitchens that simplify feeding schedules during busy travel days. Whether you want to rent a holiday rental with a garden, a holiday accommodation with a fully equipped kitchen, or a vacation rentals home near the coast, Ireland’s market offers options that align with a family’s rhythm, budget, and travel tempo.

Types of Family-Friendly Holiday Homes in Ireland

When you begin comparing size and price, you’ll encounter a range of property types that suit different family configurations and vacation styles. Here are the most common categories and what to expect from each in terms of space, price, and family-suitable features:

Two- to three-bedroom cottages – Ideal for smaller families or those who prefer a cozier layout. These often come with comfortable living spaces, a kitchen, a garden, and a sense of charm that’s perfect for relaxed evenings after a day of sightseeing. Prices vary by location, season, and proximity to beaches or attractions.
Four- to six-bedroom houses – The sweet spot for larger families or two families traveling together. These homes deliver plenty of common space, multiple bathrooms, and sometimes extras like a games room, a large garden, or a dedicated play area. These often represent good value per person when the group size is high, though the per-night rate will be higher than smaller properties.
Farm stays and countryside villas – Great for families who want space, tranquility, and a taste of rural Ireland. These might offer rural views, access to nature trails, and sometimes farm-based activities suitable for kids.
Coastal cottages and seaside towns – Ideal for families who want the thrill of the coast, sea air, and easy access to beaches. Expect close proximity to cafes, picnic spots, and coastal walks.
Apartment and townhouse complexes – A practical option for families seeking modern amenities, security features, and proximity to towns with attractions. These can be particularly convenient in cities or near major scenic routes.

Understanding the size and layout is crucial for planning a vacation that feels comfortable for everyone. When you are searching for a holiday accommodation or a short term rental, the key metrics to compare are the number of bedrooms and beds, the total square footage, the number of bathrooms, the availability of separate living and dining spaces, and the presence of a fully equipped kitchen. A family-centered property will typically feature child-friendly amenities such as high chairs, stair gates, cot beds, and a secure garden. If a property has these features, it becomes easier to plan days with kids in mind and to maintain routines, which is a major confidence booster for safety-conscious families.

How to Compare Size for Family Comfort

To choose the right size for your family, consider the following practical guidelines:

Count the travelers and plan for sleep arrangements. Do you need rooms that can accommodate a 3- or 4-bedroom setup, or can a 2-bedroom place work with a sofa bed or rollaway options?
Consider daily routines. Is there space for kids to nap, play, and eat without cramping adult time in the living area?
Factor in time for meals. A larger kitchen or a dining area that can seat the entire group can significantly improve convenience and reduce eating out costs.
Look for outdoor space. A garden or yard is a huge advantage for families, providing a safe area for kids to burn energy and for adults to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Check accessibility. If anyone in the family has mobility considerations, confirm that bedrooms, bathrooms, and entry points are accessible or that the property offers features like minimal stairs or accessible facilities.

For families focusing on a long-termor multi-generational stay, a larger home often translates into a lower per-person rent and more freedom for everyone to enjoy a holiday without feeling crowded. If you’re comparing two options—say a 3-bedroom cottage versus a 5-bedroom house—the key questions are: Which space best supports nightly routines? Which property offers the activities and comfort you want right on the doorstep? And which aligns with your budget per night, especially when you factor in weekly or monthly discounts that some hosts offer during off-peak periods?

Destination Spotlight: Where in Ireland to Stay with Family

Choosing a destination can shape the entire family experience. Ireland offers a diverse mix of coastlines, mountains, city life, and rural escapes. Here are some standout regions to consider, along with the kinds of family-friendly activities they offer and the typical accommodation styles you’ll find in each area.

Dublin and the East Coast

In and around Dublin, you’ll find a wide range of vacation rentals and holiday accommodation ranging from modern city apartments to comfortable family homes in leafy suburbs. This area is ideal for families who want a mix of culture, history, and quick access to museums, interactive science centers, and family-friendly theater. Easy day trips from Dublin include Malahide Castle, Howth Head coastal trails, and family-friendly beaches in Portmarnock. A city base also provides convenient access to Dublin Zoo, the National Museum, and interactive centers that children often love.

When you’re looking for accommodation, consider staying in a place with a short walk to a grocery shop, cafes, and playgrounds. A well-located three- or four-bedroom home near public transport can be a practical choice for city-based explorations with kids, especially if you want to minimize daily car usage. If you want to search for options in the region, you can use the Search and Stay platform to find holiday homes with the right mix of space and proximity to attractions.

Wicklow and County Meath: Green Hills and Coastal Escapes

Just south of Dublin, Wicklow offers rolling hills, forests, and the famous Glendalough Valley. Families gravitate toward large cottages with countryside views, gardens, and nearby activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and lakefront strolls. County Meath offers a fascinating blend of historic sites, pet-friendly farms, and accessible castles. In these regions, a 4- to 5-bedroom home near scenic drives and family-friendly trails can deliver a balanced itinerary of outdoors, culture, and relaxation.

Explore the Wild Atlantic Way: Kerry, Clare, Galway, and Mayo

For families who want dramatic coastlines, dramatic skies, and a sense of adventure, the west coast is unbeatable. The Wild Atlantic Way runs along dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming towns, with plenty of things to do for kids and adults alike. In County Kerry, you might book a seaside cottage with panoramic ocean views and direct access to beaches like Inch Beach or Derrynane. In County Clare, a beachside house near the Burren offers unique landscapes and accessible walking paths. Galway Bay and Connemara provide spacious holiday homes with quick access to family-friendly attractions, boat tours, and traditional Irish music sessions that welcome audiences of all ages. Mayo offers a mix of rugged coastlines and friendly villages where you can rent a large home and explore scenic drives, fishing harbors, and nature reserves.

Munster and the Southern Countryside

Counties Cork and Limerick provide a blend of coast and countryside, with family-oriented activities such as wildlife parks, gardens, and interactive heritage centers. Large houses near towns like Kinsale, Bantry, or Kilkee provide a convenient base for day trips to beaches, castles, and coastal trails. Look for rentals with easy access to shops and eateries to minimize driving time, which helps with nap schedules and packing efficiency for day trips.

Donegal and the Northern Edge

In the far north-west, Donegal offers dramatic coastline, rugged scenery, and a sense of wide-open space. Large holiday homes with sea views and plenty of outdoor space are particularly appealing for families who want to balance exploration with downtime at their base. Expect fewer crowds and a scenic drive to major attractions like Glenveagh National Park or the Inishowen Peninsula, paired with cozy, well-equipped accommodations for family stays.

Value, Size, and Price: How to Compare in Ireland

Comparing size and price across Ireland’s vacation rentals involves a mix of understanding per-night rates, occupancy allowances, included amenities, and peak-season demand. Here are some practical tips to help you gauge value:

Base price vs. per-person cost – Larger homes often have higher base nightly rates, but when you divide the cost by the number of guests, the per-person rate can become quite reasonable, especially for families of five or more. If you’re traveling with multiple generations or with friends, a larger home may provide better overall value than several smaller units.
Occupancy and bedding configurations – Check how many beds are available and whether there are sofa beds or pull-out options for kids. Some listings advertise “sleeps X” but may not clearly indicate whether children’s beds are included. Clarify if necessary, as this affects overall comfort and price per head.
Inclusions and amenities – A higher nightly rate may include essential amenities such as Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, an outdoor space, and parking. When you factor these into the value, it can offset the larger rent by reducing daily expenses (e.g., less eating out, fewer laundry costs, etc.).
Seasonality and weekly discounts – Ireland has a busy peak season in summer and around bank holidays. If you can travel in shoulder seasons, many hosts offer meaningful discounts for weekly stays, making a larger property more affordable. Don’t forget to check for early-bird or last-minute deals as well as multi-week discounts.
Local taxes and fees – Some properties add cleaning fees, service charges, or local occupancy taxes. Always review the total price to avoid surprises at checkout. A property that includes cleaning and utilities in the price can be more convenient for families who want to minimize on-site management during a holiday.
Distance to activities – A lower price in a remote location might save money on the nightly rate, but you’ll spend more time driving to beaches, parks, or kid-friendly attractions. A higher-priced property in a central location can save time and stress, which is especially valuable for families prioritizing convenience.

When you compare size and price, also consider the flexibility of cancellation policies and the host’s responsiveness. Family trips can be dynamic, with delays or changes to plans; a lenient cancellation policy and strong host communication make a big difference in reducing uncertainty and stress. Look for listings with clear safety features and child-friendly accommodations that ensure comfort for all ages, especially younger children who benefit from safe outdoor spaces and well-maintained interiors.

What to Look for in a Family-Friendly Listing

To ensure a seamless stay, here are the features to prioritize when evaluating holiday homes for families:

Safety and security – Childproofed spaces, window guards, stair gates, secure fences, and a clean, well-maintained environment.
Kitchen and dining – A fully equipped kitchen with appliances, cookware, and a dining area that can accommodate the whole family, helping with meal planning and reducing restaurant costs.
Laundry facilities – A washer and dryer simplify travel for families with kids who create a lot of laundry during trips.
Outdoor space – A garden or patio where kids can play and families can unwind after a busy day. Outdoor seating and a safe play area are big wins.
Entertainment and activities – A TV with streaming, board games, books, and outdoor recreation options like bicycles or beach gear can make a big difference on rainy days or after long days out.
Proximity to kid-friendly activities – Look for listings near beaches, parks, playgrounds, wildlife centers, museums, or family-friendly cafes to minimize long drives with children.
Parking and accessibility – Easy parking and accessible entrances help families that travel with strollers or mobility aids.
Pet policies (if relevant) – If you’re traveling with a pet, verify whether the property allows pets and whether there are nearby green spaces for walks.

When you’re planning, also consider the activities and vacation goals you have for the trip. Is your focus on beach days, hiking, exploring historic sites, or indulging in local culture? The right destination and a well-sized holiday accommodation can unlock an itinerary that delivers on all fronts while keeping safety and convenience at the forefront.

Signature Family Itineraries: 7 to 10 Days in Ireland

To help you visualize how size and price play into a practical plan, here are sample itineraries that emphasize family-friendly pacing, engaging activities, and realistic travel times. Each itinerary centers around a base family home that allows you to stay in comfort and quickly access activities. The durations can be adjusted depending on the family size and interests.

Atlantic Coast Discovery: Galway to Clare to Kerry (7–9 days)

Day 1–2: Base in Galway or a coastal town with a large house. Explore Salthill Promenade, Galway City Museum, and kid-friendly cafes. Day trips to Connemara National Park for easy trails and a visit to a working farm or wildlife sanctuary. Evening meals at family-friendly pubs or restaurants with gentle entertainment for kids.

Day 3–4: Drive to the Cliffs of Moher area and Doolin. Book a family-friendly cliff-view walk or bus tour along the coast. Consider a boat trip to see marine life if weather allows. Stay in a seaside cottage in or near Doolin or Lisdoonvarna for easy access to beaches and scenic routes.

Day 5–6: Travel to the Loop Head or Burren region for nature walks, mushroom trails, and cave exploration. A well-located family home here can simplify day trips and allow for restful afternoons.

Day 7–9: Move to a larger property near a Kerry town such as Dingle or Killarney. Include a day at the Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula, with time to enjoy beaches, family-friendly museums, and a traditional Irish music session suitable for all ages. End with a relaxed evening at the rental, cooking together and sharing photos from the trip.

South-East to Dublin: Gardens, Castles, and City Exploration (7–8 days)

Base in a large family home in Wicklow or near Waterford, with easy access to Dublin for a day trip. Schedule family-friendly castles like Kilkenny or Cahir, explore national parks, and enjoy kid-friendly interactive centers. Include a day in Dublin with visits to the National Museum, Dublin Zoo, and a family-friendly harbor cruise. Return to a comfortable holiday accommodation with a garden and play space to unwind after city adventures.

Valley and Villages: Rural Ireland Stay (7–10 days)

Choose a countryside farm stay or a large rural house in counties Cork, Limerick, or Kilkenny. Plan scenic drives, visits to local farms with demonstrations, and time to play outdoors in open fields. A well-equipped kitchen supports cooking family meals, and a backyard provides space for kids to burn energy in a safe environment. The pace here is restful, with opportunities to interact with local hosts and learn about Ireland’s rural traditions.

Donegal Coastline Family Escape (7–9 days)

Base near a scenic village with sea views and access to beaches. Family-friendly hikes, boat tours, and visits to coastal towns offer a balanced schedule. A large house near the coast ensures you have room to spread out, and a kitchen makes it simple to prepare meals after long days of beach activities, rock pooling, and gentle cliff walks.

Local Experiences and Things to Do with Kids

Beyond the property itself, Ireland is packed with local experiences and things to do that appeal to families. Here are ideas that match a family-friendly stay mindset:

Beach days with safe swimming zones and gentle tides. Ireland’s coastline offers many family-friendly beaches with lifeguards in summer months in popular spots like Bray, Bundoran, Lahinch, and Inch.
Wildlife encounters, such as visiting seal colonies, bird watching at wildlife reserves, or exploring farm parks where children can meet animals and learn about farming traditions.
Adventure playgrounds, family-friendly hiking trails, and kid-focused museums that blend education with play, such as science centers, observatories, or historical re-enactments.
Castle and heritage sites with children-friendly tours. Ireland’s castles are often paired with gardens and scenic grounds that invite kids to explore and imagine stories from the past.
Traditional Irish music and cultural nights that welcome families and provide a gentle introduction to Irish culture through rhythm and storytelling.
Boat trips, kayaking, and sheltered coastal waters where beginners can try water sports with instructors, ensuring safety and supervision for younger travelers.
Scenic drives and photography stops that help families capture memories while keeping travel time reasonable for kids who need rest periods or snacks along the way.

When planning activities, tailor the mix to your children’s ages, energy levels, and interests. Building a flexible schedule with blocks of rest, play, and exploration helps maintain balance and reduces the risk of fatigue. An affordable, well-located rental makes it easier to bend or extend plans based on how the family feels on any given day.

Booking Tips for Family-Focused Travellers

To maximize value and ensure a smooth experience, keep these booking considerations in mind:

Read reviews from families to gauge how accurately the listing represents space, safety, and suitability for children.
Confirm bedding arrangements and any child-specific equipment offered (high chairs, cribs, stair gates) before booking.
Check for essential amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, laundry, parking, and Wi-Fi—these are particularly important for families who want to minimize stress during travel.
Inspect the safety features for staircases, pool areas, and outdoor spaces. If a property has a garden, verify whether it is fenced or gate-secured.
Ask about flexibility in check-in/check-out times and whether the host offers late checkouts in case of travel delays or a need for extra rest after long days.
Plan for off-peak savings by considering shoulder seasons, which can offer better prices and fewer crowds, while still delivering excellent weather and family-friendly activities.

Renting with Confidence: Safety and Convenience as Core Priorities

Safety-conscious families want a stay that is as stress-free as possible. In practice, this means selecting properties that prioritize secure interiors and child-friendly layouts. It also means choosing destinations and accommodations that keep essential services within easy reach, minimize long drives, and provide reliable utilities and connectivity for remote work or streaming entertainment during downtime. Convenience-focused travelers favor listings with straightforward access, parking, and well-documented instructions for check-in, appliances, and local shops. When you choose a large family home near towns or along the coast, you enjoy the security of familiar routines—meals at home, quiet evenings, and a home base that supports your day-to-day needs while you explore Ireland’s many magnets for families.

Getting the Best Value: Steps to a Smarter Search

To ensure you land the best value for your family’s vacation or holiday in Ireland, follow a simple, repeatable search process:

Start with a clear resident count, bed requirements, and budget per night. This helps narrow possibilities quickly to rentals that genuinely fit.
Filter for family-friendly amenities (high chairs, cots, stair gates, fenced outdoor spaces, laundry, kitchen equipment).
Prefer listings with verified photos and recent reviews from families. Look for mentions of space adequacy for kids, storage for travel gear, and accessibility.
Check the distance to beaches, parks, and kid-friendly attractions. A location near parks and family centers reduces driving time and makes days easier for little travelers.
Compare cancellation policies and host responsiveness. A flexible plan can be a big relief if travel plans shift due to weather, especially with the uncertainty that often accompanies family trips.
Assess total costs, including cleaning fees, service fees, and local taxes. A seemingly low nightly rate can be offset by additional charges, so always calculate the final price for the whole stay.

Online platforms, like Search and Stay, can be a reliable way to compare holiday accommodation, vacation rentals, and holiday rental options in Ireland. They help you filter by region, size, and budget while providing insights gleaned from host descriptions and guest reviews. In combination with a careful, family-centered evaluation process, these tools empower you to select a property that harmonizes with your family’s pace, safety concerns, and convenience preferences.

Sample Itinerary Planner: Quick Reference for Size and Price Decisions

To assist you further, here is quick guidance on how to plan around size and price for different trip lengths and family configurations. Use these as starting points when evaluating listings, then tailor to your family’s needs and travel rhythms:

Small family (2–4 travelers) – A two- or three-bedroom cottage or apartment is often sufficient. Expect mid-range pricing, strong value per night, and a compact but comfortable layout. If you want more space for living and dining without a dramatic price increase, a four-bedroom option may offer better value on a per-person basis, especially during off-peak times.
Medium family (5–6 travelers) – A four-bedroom home or a five-bedroom house is common and typically priced to reflect greater occupancy. Kitchens with dining spaces for all, multiple bathrooms, and a sizable living area are valuable features for this group. You’ll often find favorable weekly rates in shoulder season that bring per-person costs down significantly.
Large family or multiple families traveling together (7–10+ travelers) – A six-bedroom or larger home provides the best comfort and social space. While the nightly rate is higher, the per-person cost tends to be competitive when shared among many travelers, particularly in off-peak weeks. Look for properties with multiple living zones and outdoor spaces to reduce crowding inside the home.

Whichever size you choose, the aim is to create a stay that is enjoyable, safe, and easy to manage for all family members. A thoughtfully sized property, paired with a strategic itinerary and smart budgeting, ensures you get a memorable Irish holiday that feels effortless and rewarding.

Conclusion: Family-Focused Holiday Homes in Ireland Deliver Space, Safety, and Savvy Value

Ireland offers an abundance of options for families seeking vacation rentals or holiday accommodation that balance size, price, safety, and convenience. By prioritizing properties with ample space, practical layouts, and kid-friendly amenities, you can craft a stay that supports relaxed mornings, exciting afternoons, and comfortable evenings together. Whether your goal is to park yourself in a cozy coastal cottage, base a multi-family adventure from a large countryside home, or enjoy a city-break with a family-friendly apartment, the Irish market has something to satisfy every budget and preference.

Remember to use reliable sources and destination-specific tools to compare options, read recent family reviews, and understand what each listing truly offers. And don’t forget to explore options via Search and Stay, which can help you locate a wide range of holiday rentals and accommodations in Ireland tailored to your family’s needs. With the right choice of destination and a well-sized, well-equipped property, your family’s Irish adventure can be comfortable, safe, and filled with memorable things to do and local experiences.

Happy planning, and may your Ireland stay be a wonderful blend of fun, learning, and shared moments that strengthen family bonds while offering the convenience you expect from a modern vacation rental experience.

Family Holiday Homes in Ireland Compare Size and Price