Every summer, many Irish families focus on one goal: finding a warm getaway at the lowest possible cost. However, for those fortunate enough to have a little extra cash to spare this season, adding some luxurious touches to your trip can make your travels even more memorable. In today’s unpredictable economy, with looming trade wars and financial market shifts, investing in small comforts while traveling can be a much-needed treat.
If you are wondering how to elevate your travel experience from Ireland, this guide offers several options for adding a bit of luxury to your travel plans this spring and summer.
Lounges: A Sanctuary Before Takeoff
Nothing beats relaxing in a calm and comfortable airport lounge while waiting for your flight. Lounges offer respite from crowded terminals, complete with food, drinks, and amenities.
Dublin Airport Lounge Options
- Terminal 1 Lounge: Book online for €25 or pay €40 on the day. Amenities include two drinks, hot meals (meat and vegetarian options), and snacks. According to Dublin Airport Authority (DAA), this lounge will soon be expanded and revamped.
- Liffey Lounge (Between Terminals 1 and 2): €25 if pre-booked or €35 walk-in. Business-class ticket holders enter free. Offers drinks, snacks, cold buffets, and shower facilities. Closes at 7 PM.
- Martello Lounge: Higher-end option at €39 online or €46 at the door. Free for Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, and Egyptair passengers. Features an extensive food selection including hot breakfasts until 2 PM.
- US Pre-Clearance Lounge: Starting from €39; business class passengers enter free.
For travelers at Shannon Airport, the Ború and Burren Lounges charge €50 and offer three complimentary drinks, snacks, and newspapers. Cork Airport provides a similar experience starting at €35.99 per child and €52.99 per adult, including Irish favorites like Tayto crisps and Barry’s Tea.
Free Lounge Access
Before paying, check if you qualify for free lounge access:
- Institute of Directors Members: Free access at Dublin, Shannon, and Cork airports.
- Bank of Ireland Premier Customers: Two free lounge visits annually with a Black Visa Debit Card.
- VHI Travel Insurance: Flight delays over 60 minutes grant access to over 1,700+ lounges globally.
International lounge access memberships include:
- LoungeKey: Included with select Mastercard cards.
- Priority Pass: €245 per year for 10 free visits.
Ultra-Exclusive Options
Frequent flyers might consider Dublin Airport Club Membership, offering unlimited lounge, red car park, and fast-track access. Prices start at €1,500 per year.
Go VIP: Platinum Services at Dublin Airport
For Irish travelers seeking the ultimate luxury to your travel experience, Platinum Services at Dublin Airport offer a private terminal, fast security clearance, a personal suite, and a chauffeur-driven car to your aircraft.
- Cost: €395 per adult or €1,220 for a family of four.
- Airport transfers: Additional €520 per adult or €1,555 for a family.
Fast-Track Through Security
“Fast Track” allows you to breeze through airport security. Although it was overwhelmed in the past, today’s service at Dublin Airport is notably faster.
- Typical times: 12 minutes at Terminal 1 and 5 minutes at Terminal 2.
- Price: Between €7.99-€13.99 per person, depending on demand.
Booking is flexible and can be done minutes before arriving at security.
Drive and Drop: Valet Parking Services
Skip the shuttle buses with new valet parking options at Dublin Airport:
- Long-Term Parking Rates (July 5-19, 2025):
- Blue Car Park: €167
- Red Car Park: €224
- Short-Term Parking: €299
- Private Operators:
- Expresspark: €247.50 (includes meet and greet)
- Exemplar: €300 (includes valet and optional car charging)
- Clayton Hotel Parking: €126.65 (10-minute shuttle service)
Dublin Airport has also recently expanded its own valet service to Terminal 1.
Flights: Bidding for Upgrades
If you want to enjoy business or first class without paying the full price, many airlines now allow you to bid for upgrades.
- Aer Lingus Upgrades: Available only on North American routes.
- Regular Business Fare: Starts from €950 per flight.
- Bidding: Minimum offers around €350.
Using Avios Points:
- 37,000 Avios needed for a one-way business class upgrade to the U.S.
- Earn just 450 points per typical €150 European flight.
Flash Car Rentals Abroad
Driving a stylish car at your destination can be another way to add luxury to your travel.
Options with Sixt:
- Nice, France:
- BMW M850 Convertible: €693/day
- Range Rover: €731/day
- Lisbon, Portugal:
- Porsche Boxster: €645/day
- VW T-Roc Cabrio Convertible: €161/day
These high-end rentals are perfect for exploring chic destinations like the French Riviera or the Algarve.
Ferry Travel Upgrades
If you’re traveling by sea this summer:
- Irish Ferries to France: Club class upgrade at €130 for a family of four, includes unlimited snacks and drinks.
- Brittany Ferries to Spain: Club cabins come with access to premium lounges.
Quick Summary: Summer Travel Upgrades
| Upgrade Option | Cost (Family of 4) |
|---|---|
| Fast Track at Dublin Airport | €51.96 |
| Lounge Access at Dublin (Liffey Lounge) | €100 |
| Fancy Car Rental (Porsche, Lisbon) | €645/day |
| Drop & Go Parking (Expresspark) | €247.50 for 2 weeks |
| Platinum Services Private Terminal | €1,220 |
FAQs
Q1: Is fast-track security worth it at Dublin Airport?
A1: Yes, especially during peak times. It saves considerable time and stress for a small fee, typically under €14 per person.
Q2: How can I access airport lounges for free from Ireland?
A2: Check your credit cards, travel insurance, or memberships like the Institute of Directors. Some programs offer complimentary lounge access.
Q3: Can I bid for a flight upgrade with every airline from Ireland?
A3: Not all airlines offer bidding systems, but many, including Aer Lingus on transatlantic flights, allow you to bid for affordable upgrades.
