Dublin is perfect for a family getaway

Ireland is a stunning country full of rolling hills, top cultural attractions and plenty of fresh air. All this makes it perfect for a family holiday, particularly Dublin. The city has everything you could need on a getaway and is close to the beach.

This is why it is a good idea to purchase Dublin car hire from Auto Europe. You will then have the freedom to get to and from the airport as conveniently as possible - which is great when you have little ones in tow - as well as be able to explore the surrounding area, including its stretches of sand.

Below are some of the top reasons why Dublin will make the ideal break for you and your family, no matter what time of the year you visit.

Its proximity to the beach

Whether you want a bracing autumn stroll or to soak up the rays with an ice cream during the summer, Dublin's nearby beaches are great for a family daytrip. A break in Dublin enables you to combine the seaside with the city, meaning everyone is catered for. Dollymount Strand is actually inside the city limits and is a stunning and very long beach, providing ample space for kids to run around and play. The Bull Island nature reserve is a UNESCO biosphere reserve located in the hinterland, adding to the charm of this corner of Dublin.

Another popular family destination is Loughshinny Beach, which has a public car park should you have hired a vehicle. Loughshinny itself is a charming seaside village with a sheltered beach, complete with a picnic area and a fishing harbour. Pack some sandwiches and tuck in while you watch the goings-on of the fishermen.

Its green spaces

Dublin is a very green city and its plentiful open spaces are perfect for a bike ride, family picnic or a stroll. One of the best places to head to is Phoenix Park, which is one of the biggest city green spaces in the whole of Europe. Some of the events that go on to keep adults and children alike amused include an historical interpretation of the park's past from 3,500 BC to how it stands today. Kids can also learn more about the local wildlife and will no doubt have fun trying to spot a creature or two.

The National Botanic Gardens are a fantastic attraction and span 19.5 hectares. Youngsters will love exploring the glasshouses, including the Cactus House, while some of the impressive plant and tree species housed in the gardens include native strawberry trees, the Last Rose of the Summer and the weeping Atlantic cedar.

Its history

Where there is an interesting history, there are usually castles. Kids love castles and exploring these majestic buildings always feels like an adventure for them. Malahide Castle in County Dublin is around a 30-minute drive from the city centre. Set to reopen in September 2012 following refurbishment works, the castle lies in 250 acres of park and is filled with stunning period furniture, a large collection of paintings and, according to some, five ghosts.

Another castle that you and your family might like to head to is Ardgillan Castle. Built in 1738, the former fortress affords you amazing views across the Bay of Drogheda, gardens, mixed woodland and rolling pastures.