Cork crowned Ireland's Favourite City Break as Galway wins Hearts in new Leonardo Hotels Survey

Danny Joyce | Editor
34 minutes ago
4 min read

Cork has been crowned Ireland's favourite destination for a spontaneous city break, according to a new national survey by Leonardo Hotels, narrowly edging out Galway by just one percent.

As city breaks continue to grow in popularity, Leonardo Hotels surveyed Irish adults to uncover what people really look for when planning an Irish city getaway, from their preferred destinations and hotel must-haves to the celebrities they'd most like to travel with.

*Executive room at Leonardo Hotel Dublin Parnell Square*

The survey of Irish adults reveals Cork (38%) is the city people are most likely to choose for an impromptu weekend escape, with Galway (37%) close behind. Belfast (16%) and Dublin (9%) trailed behind, proving that when it comes to a last-minute getaway, the south and west are Ireland’s go-to for a city break.

While Cork claimed the overall city break title, Galway emerged as Ireland's city of romance, with almost half of respondents (48%) choosing it as the country's best place to fall in love. Galway also topped the rankings for the best craic (43%) and was named Ireland's favourite destination for solo travellers (41%), cementing its reputation as one of the country's most vibrant and welcoming destinations.

Cork, meanwhile, earned the title of Ireland's friendliest city, with 46% of respondents choosing it for its warm welcome, just ahead of Galway (44%). When it came to food, Dublin was in a league of its own, with 42% of respondents crowning the capital as Ireland's best food destination, ahead of Cork (31%), Galway (18%) and Belfast (9%).

Food and culture top the city break wish list

When deciding where to visit, Irish travellers are driven by experiences. Food and culture were tied as the biggest priorities when choosing a city break, with 39% selecting each as their most important factor. Relaxation (9%), nightlife (8%) and shopping (5%) followed some way behind, suggesting today's travellers are looking for memorable experiences rather than simply a weekend away.

The perfect hotel starts with location and a great night's sleep

While destination matters, choosing the right hotel is just as important. Nearly three in ten people (29%) said a central location is the biggest factor in making them feel they've picked a great hotel, ahead of a comfortable bed (25%),friendly staff (21%), a great breakfast (13%) and stylish interiors (12%).

When asked what makes a hotel stay truly memorable, comfort came out on top once again, with 37% saying comfortable beds and pillows are the biggest sign of a great stay. Late checkout (22%) and a powerful shower (21%)followed, while a huge breakfast (12%) and blackout curtains (8%) proved less important than getting a great night's sleep.

We've all been there...

The survey also revealed some relatable holiday habits. Three in ten (30%) admitted they've missed hotel breakfast after a late night out, while 19% have booked a city break purely because of something they saw on social media.

Meanwhile, 15% confessed they've extended a hotel stay simply because they weren't ready to go home, 14% have returned to a city because of a great hotel experience and 12% admitted to cancelling sightseeing plans just to stay in bed a little longer. One in ten (10%) also confessed to pretending they knew their way around a city when they were actually completely lost.

Ireland's dream travel companions

When it comes to hitting the road this summer, Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan is the celebrity Irish people most want in the passenger seat, receiving 38% of the vote. Cillian Murphy came second (27%), followed by Vogue Williams (18%) and Barry Keoghan (17%).

And who would Irish people most like to enjoy a hotel nightcap with? Comedian Joanne McNally came out on top with 37%, just ahead of Niall Horan (33%). Paul Mescal (19%) and Maura Higgins (11%) completed the list.

With five centrally located hotels in Galway, Cork, Belfast and two in Dublin (Parnell Street and Christchurch), Leonardo Hotels makes it easy to explore the best of Irish cities this summer. Guests can enjoy a relaxing and stylish stay, with modern rooms designed for ultimate comfort. Every room features bespoke DREAM beds, ensuring the perfect night's sleep. Unwind with a flat screen TV, refresh in a luxurious rainfall shower, and enjoy thoughtful touches that make every stay special.

In addition, guests can take advantage of on-site dining options. For an early-morning boost or an afternoon pick-me-up try the on-site Lavazza coffee bar, indulge in a plentiful breakfast, all before checking out the Bar and Grill menu with an array of seasonal options ranging from simple bar snacks, casual bites, a sit down meal, or seasonal spritzes.

Leonardo Hotels is making it easier than ever to explore top destinations with its loyalty programme, Leonardo Advantage Club, whereby members receive 10% OFF bookings every time. Signing up is quick, easy and free, giving members access to fantastic perks including 10% off food and drinks, exclusive offers, free late check-out and the ability to redeem points for stays across Leonardo Hotels in Europe.

As an added bonus, Leonardo Hotels are giving 5 lucky Advantage Club members the chance to win a two-night weekend stay for two, including breakfast, at any Leonardo Hotel in the UK or Ireland. Winners can choose from incredible destinations including London, Manchester, Edinburgh or Dublin, making it the perfect excuse to start planning their next city break. Simply sign up to Advantage Club at leonardo-hotels.com and enter your details here for your chance to win. Competition closes on 31st August 2026.