Travel

Whether it's through a fear of flying or wanting to do things the green way, some of us simply don't want to get on a plane when we go off on holiday. Mercifully, there are many destinations that can be reached by ferry. And, while some of them are just grim port cities, others are fantastic spots for a short break. We've picked out five of the best.

Dublin

Where: East coast of Ireland.
Why? Dublin's legendary nightlife has long been a lure for visitors from the other side of the Irish Sea, and there are plenty of authentic pubs with live music if you manage to avoid the tourist traps in Temple Bar. And, of course, there are tours of the Guinness Brewery and Jameson Distillery as added bonuses.
From another perspective: Dublin can do arty as well as party. Check out the Dublin Fringe Festival in September and October, check out the Writer's Museum and do a James Joyce Walking Tour. Or, to combine the two, a Literary Pub Crawl.
Who with: P&O, Stena Line, Irish Ferries and Norfolkline.
Where from: Multiple ferries a day go from Holyhead and Liverpool.

Search: European destinations | Ferry tickets
Be there: Hotels in Dublin | Dublin travel guide
Related articles: Ten cities for summer fun | Travelling in Europe