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A war of words has broken out over claims that hotel rates have almost doubled in Dublin for the days leading up to St Patrick’s Day tomorrow.

St Patrick's Day parade in Dublin

St Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin Image by William Murphy / CC BY 2.0

The rates for today (Monday) are pitched at an average €182 in the city compared to the normal price of €98, says a hotel comparison website.

The Irish Independent reports that the cost for a hotel on average tomorrow, which is St Patrick’s Day, is €178, which is a 76% jump in comparison to the following Tuesday at just over €100.

However the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF), disagree with the site findings, stating that the prices do not reflect the average rate actually paid by visitors this St Patrick’s Day.

The IHF pointed out that up to 80% of bookings are made weeks and months in advance when tourists are offered “excellent value”.

The Federation claim that  the Trivago.ie research is based on last minute prices and latest availability when people are booking days before the big event and may not always book standard rooms.

Mr Tim Fenn, Chief Executive of IHF recommended early booking for best value. He also said potential customers should advise people to check hotels’ own websites which often have better rates.