Cooler corners of Europe: book your next unique adventure
Europe is packed with iconic cities, but some of the most interesting experiences lie just beyond the usual stops. With our direct flights to destinations like Berlin, Brussels, Amsterdam, Seville, Paris, Zurich, Milan, and Vienna, it’s never been easier to reach these vibrant hubs – but why not push a bit further to discover some trendy hidden gems?
Whether it’s the medieval magic of Görlitz, the gorgeous canals of Giethoorn, or the storybook charm of Dinant, these places have an authentic character all of their own. And with our great fares and smooth connections, it’s never been easier to plan an adventure that strays a little off the beaten path. It’s time to book your flight to Europe and trade busy streets for hidden beaches, hilltop towns and river valleys.
Görlitz, Germany (closest city: Berlin)
Architectural beauty is everywhere in Görlitz, a quaint German town perched on the Polish border. It’s known for carefully preserved medieval buildings and has played host to films like The Grand Budapest Hotel and Inglourious Basterds. You’ll find cobbled streets, pastel-coloured townhouses and intricate facades and feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Climb the 16th-century Reichenbacher Tower for breakthaking views, or refuel at the elegant Café Haus Lucullus for traditional German pastries and coffee. With our direct flights to Berlin, you’re just a few hours away by train from this sweet destination.
Book your direct flight from Dublin to Berlin.
Görlitz, Germany
Dinant, Belgium (closest city: Brussels)
Many travellers may have encountered Dinant on Instagram — after all, its epic beauty has inspired countless hashtags and riverside poses. Located in Belgium’s rugged Ardennes region, this stunningly gorgeous place is known for its dramatic clifftop citadel (and, by the way, for being the birthplace of the saxophone). Stroll along the Meuse River, take the cable car up to the 11th-century citadel for panoramic views, and pop into Maison Leffe for an authentic taste of Belgium’s famous brewing history. Just a 90-minute train ride from Brussels, Dinant makes for a refreshing escape from the city.
Book your direct flight from Dublin to Brussels.
Dinant, Belgium
Giethoorn, Netherlands (closest city: Amsterdam)
Giethoorn is all about quiet, canal-side life and makes a peaceful contrast with the colourful chaos of its neighbouring city, Amsterdam. Sometimes called the “Venice of the North,” this charming place rests on a network of canals, thatched-roof cottages and wooden bridges. There’s plenty to do for a chilled weekend: rent a whisper boat to glide silently on the water, or bike your way around the nearby nature reserves. The two Michelin-starred De Lindenhof is run by chef and owner Martin Kruithof; housed in a quaint farmhouse, it’s a culinary experience you won’t forget. For more casual options, there are plenty of hearty family restaurants. Just a 90-minute train journey from Amsterdam, Giethoorn is a beautiful, peaceful spot.
Book your direct flight from Dublin to Amsterdam.
Giethoorn, Netherlands
Ronda, Spain (closest city: Seville)
Perched on a jaw-dropping gorge in Andalucía, Ronda is one of Spain’s most striking towns. Famous for an ancient bullring, epic views, and its whitewashed houses (that cling miraculously to the cliffs), it’s a fascinating place in which to spend a few days. Take in the views on the Puente Nuevo bridge, explore the intricate old town, and try a glass of the region’s punchy red wine at a rustic bodega. With direct Aer Lingus flights to Just one hour and 20 minutes from Malaga by car, Ronda is an excellent stop on any road trip through Spain.
Book your direct flight from Dublin to Malaga.
Ronda, Spain
Honfleur, France (Closest city: Paris)
Picture the scene — a harbour packed with seafood restaurants, narrow cobbled streets and quaint half-timbered houses. You’re in Honfleur, an achingly lovely town in Normandy known for its rich maritime history. It’s popular with artists and photographers, who delight in a series of pastel-coloured buildings reflected in the waters of the Vieux-Bassin. Try local restaurant L’Absinthe, for fresh oysters and creamy fish stews. Just a couple of hours by car from Paris, Honfleur is well worth exploring.
Book your direct flight from Dublin to Paris.
Honfleur, France
Gruyères, Switzerland (closest city: Zurich)
Famous for its cheese and the surreal HR Giger Museum, this medieval hilltop town offers beautiful alpine views and a glimpse into traditional Swiss life. Explore the fairy-tale Gruyères Castle, sample some indulgent fondue, or visit the Giger Bar to imagine yourself as part of the ship’s crew in sci-fi horror film, Alien. With our great value direct flights to both Zurich and Geneva, you’re just a short train ride away from this Swiss gem.
Book your direct flight from Dublin to Zurich or Geneva.
Gruyères, Switzerland
Bergamo, Italy (closest city: Milan)
Sometimes overshadowed by its world-famous neighbour Milan, this hilltop city comes with historic streets, sweeping views and a laid-back vibe. Hop on the funicular to the old town, wander the medieval lanes of Città Alta, or stop at La Marianna for a scoop of their famous stracciatella – a chocolate-flaked gelato that was invented here. With our direct flights from Dublin to Milan, it’s a smooth journey to this classic Italian destination.
Book your direct flight from Dublin to Milan.
Bergamo, Italy
Wachau Valley, Austria (closest city: Vienna)
If you’re into wine, you might already know about Austria’s Wachau Valley. This UNESCO-listed wine region along the Danube is awash with charming villages, rolling vineyards and gorgeous river views. The medieval town of Dürnstein makes a great base for local adventures; try some crisp white wines at a family-run winery, or board a relaxed river cruise through the valley’s picturesque landscapes. Just an hour from Vienna by train, the Wachau Valley is full of adventure.
Book direct flight from Dublin to Vienna.
Wachau Valley, Austria
Ready to book your flight to Europe?
It’s easy to think we’ve seen much of what Europe has to offer – but there’s always more to discover. From charming villages to scenic river valleys, the continent is full of lesser-known places that reward those willing to explore a little further.
So why not dig a bit deeper, wander a bit further, and uncover the quieter corners where history, culture, and adventure still contain some surprises? With our direct routes and seamless connections, it’s never been easier to find your next unexpected adventure. Book your flight today and see Europe in a whole new light.
