The celebration has grown into a lively St. Patrick’s Day weekend across Europe. Cities glow in green, streets are filled with live music, and cafés extend their opening hours. The atmosphere feels friendly and welcoming, which makes it ideal for a long weekend away.

Travelling by ferry adds freedom and ease too. With P&O Ferries, luggage limits are unlimited, and bringing your own vehicle allows you to explore beyond city centres at your own pace. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities for St. Patrick’s Day fun for all ages.

Ireland remains the heart of the celebration. Events mix large parades with local traditions, storytelling, and music. Planning a trip to Ireland means spending a weekend that feels authentic, with each city offering a slightly different mood. It is the perfect choice for St. Patrick's Day travel in Europe.

Dublin hosts one of Europe’s most recognisable St. Patrick’s Day celebration parades, usually lasting for three days. The city centre comes alive with performers, musicians, colourful floats, and themed street shows, from the beginning of Parnell Square to the finishing point at the junction of Kevin Street and Cuffe Street. 

Between events, the all-time-famous Temple Bar offers traditional Irish music, casual dining, and a lively evening scene. It is also known for its impeccable hospitality and friendly staff, who make the experience all the more worthwhile. 

Museums and cultural venues also extend their programmes during the festival. Ireland is rich with various kinds of museums that cater to every type of visitor, such as the National Museum of Ireland, Chester Beatty, The National Print Museum, and Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI), just to name a few. Guided walks and exhibitions offer a deeper sense of Irish heritage. You will never run out of things to do in Dublin over St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

There are so many fun things to do in Northern Ireland, especially over St. Patrick’s Day weekend, as it offers an eclectic mix of celebrations. In Belfast, visitors can enjoy live music across the Cathedral Quarter, heritage-led walking routes around City Hall, and relaxed, family-friendly events spread across the city. St George’s Market also adds to the atmosphere, with local food, crafts, and live performances. 

By planning your trip to Northern Ireland with P&O Ferries, your unforgettable adventure starts the moment you set foot on board. Travelling by ferry keeps the experience flexible and unhurried. We operate regular crossings, making short breaks easy to plan. 

Beyond the city, coastal towns, scenic countryside, and historic estates remain open and accessible over the holiday. Many travellers pair city celebrations with coastal drives or cultural stops, turning the journey itself into one of the most practical and enjoyable St. Patrick’s Day ideas for the long weekend.

Cork and Galway have a more local feel. Parades are smaller and easier to follow, with traditional dancing and community performances. Food markets and craft stalls add to the festive atmosphere, making both cities welcoming for families. 

During a St. Patrick’s Day holiday in Cork, don’t miss iconic spots like Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery, or the Blackrock Castle Observatory.

In Galway, the festivities come alive with themed parades and lively musical performances. Be sure to catch the vibrant nightlife at Electric Galway or The Quays Bar, where local DJs, poetry readings, storytelling, and more create an unforgettable St. Paddy’s Day experience.

Family-Friendly St. Patrick’s Day Activities

Many European cities feature daytime celebrations that suit families during St. Patrick’s Day holidays. Starting with the home of St. Patrick’s Day, you will find plenty of family activities in Ireland during this joyous occasion. 

For example, Dublin’s public squares and cultural centres often host craft workshops, storytelling sessions based on Irish folklore, and traditional music performances designed for younger audiences. Museums and libraries may also run themed programmes that introduce the holiday through hands-on activities. 

Elsewhere, cities such as London and Belfast offer relaxed street festivals with Irish dance demonstrations, face painting, and short parades that are easy for children to follow. For families travelling by ferry, having your own car makes it easier to move between venues and enjoy St. Patrick’s Day activities with children.