backpacking trips in ireland

12 of the best hikes and walks in Ireland

Mar 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Find the perfect walking route for you with these top hiking trails in Ireland © Juraj Kamenicky / Shutterstock

Hiking in Ireland  means magnificent coastal cliffs, rewarding family friendly walks and a variety of terrain and scenery that'll leave you in awe of the beautiful Emerald Isle.

The country has so much to offer in terms of natural beauty, and seeing it on foot is one of the best ways to experience it. Ascend steep rocky paths, jump in the ocean right after, and sit in a local cafe to analyze the peaks and pits of the trail you just conquered.

Here's our pick of Ireland's best hiking routes.

1. Carrauntoohil, County Kerry

The highest peak in Ireland 13km (8 miles) out and back, 4 – 5 hours, hard

The route you will most likely take to reach the highest point in Ireland is known as “the Devil’s Ladder” and it is no joke. As the name suggests, this trail is challenging, steep and dangerous. Be aware of the difficulty and potential falling rocks from above before embarking on this trail.

If you’re not 100% confident in taking on this hike but still want to reach the top of Ireland, then you should contact a local guide. There are plenty in the area and hiring one to help you safely reach the summit is a good idea.

2. Mweelrea, County Mayo

Connacht’s highest mountain 10.5km (6.5 miles) out and back, 3.5 – 4.5 hours, hard

Offering up incredible views of the surrounding mountains, Mweelrea is a hike you can’t miss if you’re traveling along the Wild Atlantic Way . The highest mountain in the province of Connacht, standing at 814m (2671ft), has many different routes to the top that vary in difficulty and views.

For many, the best route to take starts and ends at Silverstrand Beach. Not only do you get constant coastal views on the trail, but you can also hop straight into the sea to cool down afterwards.

3. Croaghan Cliffs, County Mayo

Best island hike 12km (7.5 miles) loop, 4 – 5 hours, hard

The third highest sea cliffs in Europe, located right beside one of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches , on an island that’s accessible by car. How perfect can a hike sound?

With cliffs three times bigger than the Cliffs of Moher , this hike is not to be missed if you’re traveling the west coast of Ireland. If the full hike is too long for you there’s a shorter one-hour-long round-trip hike up to a viewpoint looking down on Keem Bay. The views here are nothing short of spectacular.

4. The Wicklow Way

Ireland’s best multi-day hike 130km (80 miles) thru-hike, 5 – 7 days, hard

The Wicklow Way is a dedicated hiker's dream and Ireland's crowning jewel thru-hike. Challenge yourself to finish it as fast as possible or just take your time and enjoy the serenity of the Wicklow mountains.

Some of the best camping features along the trail are the three Adirondack shelters, located near Scarr mountain, Glenmalure and Aughavannagh. Sleeping a night in one of these shelters with just a mat and sleeping bag is a great experience.

5. Mt Errigal, County Donegal

Best sunrise or sunset hike 5km (3.1 miles) out and back, 2–3 hours, moderate

The best views in Donegal have got even better since a new trail and stairs were added to this beautiful mountain to make it that bit easier to reach the summit.

If you’re looking to catch a sunrise or sunset then Errigal is the hike for you. The 360-degree views of Donegal guarantee the perfect vantage point to watch the sun appear or disappear. If you’re lucky, you might even get above the clouds and see a cloud inversion. The best time to catch one of these is during autumn or winter.

6. Lugnaquilla, County Wicklow

The best hike for sweeping views of Wicklow 13km (8 miles) out and back, 3.5 – 4.5 hours, hard

A combination of forest paths, cliff faces, a valley trail, a waterfall and a river guides you up to the highest point in Wicklow . This hike offers some of the best views of the Wicklow mountains and is the perfect way to pick out any of the other peaks you would like to attempt.

If you’re finishing your hike in Glenmalure, there is a great mix of activities for you to try. Grab a pint of Guinness in a cozy pub, take a cold plunge in Coolalingo waterfall or hit up the local sauna. All of these activities are a five-minute drive from the starting point of your hike.

7. Croagh Patrick, County Mayo

A unique pilgrimage 8km (5 miles) out and back, 3 – 4 hours, hard

If you’re looking for a unique hiking experience then plan to hike Croagh Patrick on Reek Sunday (the last Sunday in July), when thousands of pilgrims hike up to the summit to attend mass in honor of St Patrick – some will even hike barefoot as an act of penance.

If a pilgrimage isn’t your scene, you can climb this spectacular mountain any other day of the year. The summit offers some of the most incredible views of Clew Bay, a natural ocean bay that contains 365 islands.

8. The Great Sugar Loaf, County Wicklow

A great walk for the entire family 2.5km (1.5 miles) out and back, 1 – 1.5 hours, easy

One of Ireland’s most recognizable hikes, the Great Sugar Loaf gets its name from resembling a giant pile of sugar. This short walk includes a steep scramble to the summit that makes the panoramic views from the peak that little bit more rewarding.

If you happen to hike the Great Sugar Loaf on an exceptionally clear day you can see all the way across the Irish Sea to Snowdonia in Wales. Pretty impressive for a mountain that stands at only 501m (1643ft) tall.

9. Ballinastoe to Djouce, County Wicklow

Best hike to take it slow 12km (7.5 miles) out and back, 2.5 – 3.5 hours, moderate

Take a mythical walk through Ballinastoe Woods before emerging at a viewpoint overlooking Guinness Lake. This is one of those trails where you have to keep reminding yourself to watch where you’re putting your feet because it’s nearly impossible to take your eyes off the views.

Keep an eye out for the JB Malone Memorial along the trail. He is the man responsible for getting the Wicklow Way to become a recognized trail, and a true legend in the Irish hill-walking community.

10. Lough Ouler Loop, County Wicklow

Best romantic hike 8km (5 miles) loop, 3 – 4 hours, hard

Lough Ouler is known as the "Love Heart Lake," so you can probably guess why it’s the ultimate hike to go on for a date. This trail is the best place to catch an epic sunrise with your significant other, but of course it's just as amazing solo. 

If you’re willing to brave the cold lake waters, Lough Ouler is the perfect place for a swim, and you can set up camp quite comfortably beside the lake.

11. Glenbarrow Waterfall Loop, County Laois

Best hike for reconnecting with nature 4.5km (2.8 miles) loop, 1 – 2 hours, easy

This gentle hike offers you the chance to stroll along a riverside as you explore a moss-covered forest. Many people will take the opportunity to go for a dip in the waterfall or meditate beside it, taking in the calming sounds of the flowing water.

The trail is located in the Slieve Bloom Mountains, a great place for hikers and trail runners to enjoy. With routes that range from 2km (1.2 miles) all the way up to 60km (37 miles), this mountain range caters for every ability level.

12. Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk, County Wicklow

Best scenic walk near Dublin 9km (5.5 miles) one way, 2 – 3 hours, easy

The Bray to Greystones cliff walk is the perfect walk for families staying in Dublin ; it starts and ends near the two town train stations that both take you back to the city . For those looking for a higher vantage point, Bray Head can be incorporated into the hike to get sweeping views of the Dublin and Wicklow coastlines.

Bray and Greystones are both filled with excellent cafes and restaurants for refuelling after your hike. With immersion in coastal nature and high-quality food and coffee available afterwards, you’ve got the best of both worlds on this trail.

Top tips for hiking in Ireland

• Pack for all weather. The Irish weather can be volatile, particularly on exposed peaks, so come prepared.
• Trails can sometimes be hard to follow on the more difficult routes, so do your research before attempting any trail. Make use of the official, detailed regional maps called Ordnance Survey Maps .
• Walkers and cyclists in Ireland have no rights of access to privately owned land. Access has been negotiated with landowners for many national trails and waymarked walks. However, you will occasionally come across locked gates, barbed-wire fences or "no walkers allowed" signs – these are legal and must be obeyed.
• Leave no trace. Anything you bring with you on a hike must come home with you.
• Pack snacks and water before you leave your accommodation or get them in the town or city where you are staying. There are very few shops close to many of Ireland's best hiking routes.
• The emergency numbers for Ireland are 112 or 999.

This article was first published May 19, 2021 and updated Mar 7, 2024.

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Backpacking ireland: 30 travel tips to save you time and money.

If you are planning on backpacking Ireland this year (which you should be!), then you’ll soon realise that there’s a lot to know before visiting Ireland or the first time,

Ireland is one of the world's best backpacking destinations for a whole number of reasons, including their love of myths and legends and rather impressive array of castles.

And if you’re coming from somewhere far away, like the USA, then you’ll probably need to brush up on their road laws and use of slang.

Well, no matter where you’re from, I’ve put together this epic list of Ireland travel tips, covering everything you might possibly need to know for planning a trip to Ireland on a budget.

So, whether you’re backpacking around for a month, or even just a few days, then hopefully these do’s and don'ts of travelling to Ireland will hold you in good stead

Travellerspoint

General Ireland travel tips

1. remember, there’s a north and a south.

Northern Ireland is a part of the UK and “southern” Ireland is a part of the EU.

In the North they use Pound Sterling and in the south they use Euros.

But don’t worry there’s no hard border so you can cross without hassle between the south and north. for planning where to go, check out these guides on the best things to do in Ireland and the best things to do in Northern Ireland .

2. It’s worth knowing a bit of Irish slang

One of the most important things to know about Ireland is that Irish people love to talk in slang, and coupled with the strong accents, it can often prove tricky trying to work out what someone is saying.

Well, to help you out, here’s a few slang words and phrases you can expect to hear:

• “What about ya?” ….. How are you
• “Aye” ….. Yes
• “Top of the mornin’ to ya” ….. Good Morning
• “What’s the craic?” ….. What are you up to? / How are you?
• “Craic” ….. fun/banter
• “Bang on” ….. That’s great
• “Hey boyo” ….. Hey there (aimed at guys)
• “Wee” ….. Small 
• “Ya feckin eejit” ….. You f****ing idiot
• “Take a gander” ….. Have a look
• “That’s grand” ….. That’s perfect/good/great
• “Dead on” ….. Perfect
• “I was mortified” ….. I was very embarrassed
• “Do you fancy a poke?” … Would you like an ice cream?
• “Your man” ….. That guy (used in sentences when trying to think of someone’s name)

3. It’s called Derry, not Londonderry

Both in the north and south, the vast majority of people know Derry as, well, Derry.

Officially, it is also called Londonderry, but many locals will take great offence if you call it Londonderry in front of them.

It really depends on who you're talking too, but I know Cazzy is a pro Derry!

After years of oppression and abuse from the British, there is a deep seated sense of Irish pride both in the south and north (except for Unionists of course), so calling it Londonderry could get you in trouble.

4. Get used to tall tales and legends

When visiting popular sites, such as Giant’s Causeway or Blarney Castle , prepare yourself for some rather far-fetched tales!

A whole array of myths and legends have been used to explain the countries breathtaking scenery and wide array of castles, and these have been passed down from generation to generation.

Though many probably have some element of truth to them, others are clearly the work of someone who’s perhaps had a few too many pints of Guinness.

Read Also: 35 Best Ireland Castles

5. Take your EHIC card (If you are in the EU)

The European Health Insurance Card is a great way to get free hospital cover for a number of different accidents.

If you are based in the EU, then you can get one for free and take it anywhere in the EU.

Depending on which country you are in, the sort of cover this will give you can vary.

However, in many cases it will save you needing to pay for a hospital cover for a whole range of minor accidents.

Just remember, an EHIC is NOT a replacement for actual travel insurance.

If you’re backpacking Ireland, then I recommend checking out the insurance on offer from SafetyWing .

6. Make note of emergency numbers

Hopefully nothing goes wrong on your journey around Ireland, but if it does, then it’s best to have any emergency contact details at hand. In Ireland, the big ones are:

• Police, Fire & ambulance: 112 or 999

In Northern Ireland, they are:

• Police, Fire & ambulance: 999

Just type those numbers straight into your mobile or landline and they will work. If you need to call another number, such as your breakdown company, then remember, the area code for Ireland is +353 and for Northern Ireland it is +44.

7. Try Irish stew and wheaten bread!

Ireland isn’t particularly famous for their culinary expertise; at least beyond potatoes and Guinness.

However, one food you simply have to try is traditional Irish stew!

This staple meal dates back hundreds of years and is made solely of beef and good old hearty root vegetables.

I first tried this when I went camping to Lough Derg (in Donegal ) with Cazzy and her family a few years ago and I've loved it ever since.

It’s best enjoyed on a cold night in a warm Irish pub.

Ireland travel tips for getting around

8. hire a set of wheels.

The best part about visiting Ireland is exploring small rural villages and towns, as well as taking epic road trips; such as the Ring Of Kerry and Wild Atlantic Way.

Having your own campervan gives you complete freedom and makes a trip to Ireland 10 times more enjoyable.

You can read up on our incredible 16 day Ireland road trip here .

And here is our review of Spaceships Rentals .

Alternatively, you could get a small car quite cheap. A good place to search for this is Rentalcars.com .

Read: Best Campervan Rentals in Ireland (for all budgets!)

9. Download a navigation app

Nowadays, you don’t need a big clunky GPS device for getting around Ireland. Instead, all you need to do is download an app right to your phone.

We used Google Maps for all of Ireland as it synced up to all of the places I had saved to visit.

Other apps you could use include Maps.me and Waze .

10. Remember, they drive on the left!

This is important if you are an American traveling to Ireland, or any other country where they drive on the right!

As a friendly reminder, whenever you cross the road, remember to look right.

11. You’ll need to wave buses down

If you’re waiting for the bus, then be prepared to step out and wave it down.

Otherwise, there’s a very good chance they won’t stop and will leave you stood in the cold until another one comes by!

12. Some of the best spots require you to take a ferry

Off the west coast in particular, Ireland has a number of rugged, enticing islands to visit.

These are usually less busy than the mainland and far less touristy.

This also means they have a lot of charm so are well worth checking out. In recent years, Skellig Island has become increasingly popular, seeing as it’s a filming location for Star Wars.

A number of companies now offer day tours, such as this one .

Another popular Ireland is Inishmore , located off County Clare as a part of the Aran Islands. In the far north you have Tory Ireland which, up until 2018 when he died , had its own elected King!

Ireland travel tips for saving money

13. get yourself a local sim card.

As our phones are from the UK, Cazzy and I have a sim and phone contract with O2 . And because we are in the UK, any data we have can be used for free all across the EU. In fact, if you buy a sim card with any company in the EU, you should be able to use it in all other EU countries for free.

So head to a phone shop when you arrive in Ireland and pick yourself up a sim with a few gigabytes of data.

This will save you a fortune in roaming charges and means you have access to the internet everywhere you are in Ireland and means you don’t need to rely on trying to find WiFi.

According to these guys , eir Mobile has the best coverage across Ireland.

14. Shop smartly in the north and south

Generally speaking, Ireland is more expensive than Northern Ireland.

For example, food and alcohol is pricier in the south, both in restaurants and in supermarkets.

However, fuel is cheaper in the south.

As you’d imagine, many people living near the border will travel to either country if they’re looking to fill up their car or stock up on groceries.

This will come in useful if, like us, you get your hands on a set of wheels.

Read: Hiring a campervan in Ireland: a full guide

15. Get yourself a travel card

Exchanging currencies in person or before you travel is never the best way to go. Instead, to get the most for your money, you are best off getting yourself a travel card and then withdrawing from an ATM when you arrive.

For us, we always use Revolut and Monzo when we travel.

They offer the best exchange rates possible, and don’t charge any fees when paying using the card itself. If you are withdrawing from an ATM, then you get free withdrawals up to £200 per month.

Cazzy and I each have a Monzo and Revolut, so we get £800 of free withdrawals every month, which means we hardly ever run into any fees.

Both Revolut ad Monzo are extremely easy to use and you can keep them topped up directly from an app on your phone. Having these cards has literally saved us hundreds of dollars in unwanted fees over the last few years of backpacking.

We have also recently just ordered our Starling Bank cards which seem to be exactly the same as Revolut and Monzo, but apparently charges absolutely nothing on up to £300 worth of withdrawals every DAY!

For information, you can check out our in-depth Revolut review here...

16. Make use of all comparison sites

The cost of accommodation can soon rack up in Ireland.

To get the best deals on hotels and hostels, you should make use of a few accommodation comparison sites. This includes:

• Booking.com
• Airbnb ( sign up through this link to get $35 off your first booking )
• TripAdvisor
• Hostelworld

The same goes for booking flights into Ireland. We always use Skyscanner , but Momondo is another decent flight comparison site as well.

17. Buy a Heritage Card a month before your trip

You have to pay to enter many of the most popular Ireland tourist attractions, such as castles and national parks.

And at €10 to €20 a pop, the cost of these soon adds up.

Well, it’s possible to buy something called a Heritage Pass which, for a one-off fee of €40 (as of 2019), you can get into a wide number of attractions for free. It’s cheaper for children and students and you can find out more about which sites that are included in the pass here .

18. Do your shopping at Lidl or Aldi

If you’re shopping for groceries and booze, then the cheapest place is Lidl or Aldi.

These are located in all major cities and towns across Ireland (but there’s no Aldi in the north) and are usually built right next to each other.

But just as a heads up, the price of beer, cider, wine and spirits isn’t that cheap anywhere in Ireland.

For example, the cheapest you’ll get a can of cider is €1.50, no matter how many you buy at one time.

This is about twice as much as the price in England and 3 or 4 times as much as cheap European countries.

Other supermarkets like Supervalu, Tesco, Centra and Spar are available everywhere but aren’t always as cheap or have as much variety.

Ireland travel tips for those looking to party

19. head to the bigger cities for wild nights out.

You’ll find bars all across Ireland (literally everywhere), but if you’re looking for live music late into the night and bars that stay open until the early hours, you are limited for choice.

Your best options would be:

• Belfast, Ireland
• Dublin, Ireland
• Galway, Ireland
• Killarney, Ireland

20. Try and track down Wetherspoons

If you’ve never been to the UK, then you probably won’t have heard of Wetherspoons .

Well, it’s a chain of almost 1,000 pubs located all across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and now Ireland.

They only recently opened locations in Ireland so, as of 2021 there are only 3. This includes 2 in Dublin and one in Cork.

They are known for having incredibly cheap drink and food deals so are the best places for pre-drinks and great atmosphere.

However, I would only recommend starting out in a Wetherspoons in order to save some cash, and then heading out to true Irish pubs with live music to finish off your evening.

Ireland travel tips for planning where to go in Ireland

21. use google maps for planning places to visit.

My process for planning our Ireland road trip went like this:

• Bring up a whole bunch of travel blogs on the best places to visit in Ireland
• Pick all of the things I wanted to say and then pin them on Google Maps . Do this by first finding the place on Maps and then clicking the “save” icon.
• Afterwards, you can then look at all of the things you want to see and plan a rough route around Ireland and Northern Ireland

22. Look carefully at baggage restrictions

If you’re flying to Ireland from within Europe, then chances are that Ryanair will be offering the cheapest flights.

Well, make sure you check their baggage limitations carefully. They are a 100% no frills airline and you get essentially nothing along with a regular ticket.

You get one small bag (smaller than a typical cabin bag) and you have to put it under the seat. If you wish to take on board a larger bag up to 10kg, then you will need to pay extra. And make sure you do this ahead of time, otherwise they charge you €35 to buy space for a bag at the airport.

23. Take note of how long the days are

When visiting Ireland in the summer months, it can be light all the way from 6am in the morning till 11pm at night.

But in the winter months (November til February), the days are much shorter.

As such, if you plan on having a busy schedule then you’re better off heading there when you’ve got lots of daylight to work with.

24. Be aware of Sundays & bank holidays

On Sundays and bank holidays, the opening hours of many shops and attractions are usually much shorter.

In many cases, places don’t open at all on such days as the majority of people get the day off work.

Here’s a list of all major Irish bank holidays.

25. Take time to appreciate the castles

Ireland is literally the country of castles.

You will see castles everywhere you go.

We averaged at 3 to 4 castles every day we were there and they are some of the nicest things about the country.

Many have been well maintained over the years and have special gardens to explore, such as Lismore and Ashford .

Many more have fallen into some sort of disrepair over the years, such as Dunluce and Minard .

Even more are featured as key locations in Game of Thrones, such as Castle Ward .

Either way, take time to include them in your route and snap a few shots.

You could even do a castle tour of Ireland if you were that way inclined.

For help planning your trip, here’s a list I put together of the 35 best castles in Ireland .

26. Drop into the Tourist Information centres in each town

Ireland has had some major tourism pushes in recent years, and they happily welcome tourists to towns, cities and villages all across the country.

As such, you will find tourist information centres located in almost all top destinations.

It’s worthwhile stopping in, as they can give you a rundown of the best things to see there, as well as to answer any other questions you have. Such as the best places to eat and the best places to stay for the night.

We use this travel tip all around the world!

27. If you’re unsure of a route, just drive the Wild Atlantic Way!

In my ever so humble opinion, many of the best places to visit in Ireland lie across the western coast of Ireland.

Just by driving this epic route, you will pass through top Ireland destinations like:

• And many more ...

As well as many of the best things to see in Ireland , including:

• The Ring of Kerry
• The Ring of Beara
• The Dingle Peninsula
• The Cliffs of Moher
• The Gap of Dunloe
• The Connemara National Park
• And plenty more ...

But even better than this is the fact that the drive itself is nothing short of spectacular. All along the route you pass a diverse array of landscapes, with most of it being jaw dropping cliffs with crashing waves. Just head to the deep south or northernmost point of the route and start driving.

You can add in detours to bigger towns and cities and even do some day trips to the islands just off the coast. I would recommend leaving as much as 10 to 14 days to do the whole thing comfortably. But if you have less time, then just do as much as you can and come back another time to finish the rest!

Ireland Travel tips for what to pack

28. bring cold weather clothes.

The best time to visit Ireland is usually the warmer months of May/June through to August/September.

But even if you are visiting in the Summer months, chances are that you will see a lot of cold, wet and windy weather.

It’s like this all year round, all across the country so when packing for Ireland be sure to take some full length trousers, a jumper and a coat.

That being said, when we visited in June/July 2019, about 90% of our days were in the mid-20s.

However, having grown up in Ireland, Cazzy can confirm that this lucky weather is a rarity!

29. Take a decent camera

A lot of countries don’t live up to the hype and the sights are never what they seem like on Instagram.

Well, I can honestly say that this is NOT the case with Ireland!

Both the north and south are incredibly beautiful, scenic and altogether unique.

As of writing I’ve been to more than 60 countries around the world, and none have proved as green and luscious as Ireland.

You’ll spend your days driving through winding roads amidst green fields, blue lakes and incredible forestry.

But perhaps the most impressive part of Ireland is it’s coastline, made up of jagged cliffs and rocks. If you want to capture those memories, it’s worth taking a decent camera with you.

Modern smartphone cameras are fine for most of your needs, and you’ll get some awesome selfies! Here’s the camera equipment we took to Ireland:

• Mavic Pro drone
• Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II

30. Bring a UK travel adaptor with you (Type G, 3 pinned)

In both the north and south, they use the Type G (3-pinned) adaptor everywhere.

It’s worth picking up an international travel adaptor, like this one , if you plan on going elsewhere in Europe as well.

Final thoughts for backpacking Ireland

Backpacking Ireland really is an incredible experience, as the country is steeped in so much history and natural beauty. 

And though it might seem expensive at first, your trip can be made more affordable by following the Ireland travel tips given above.

But if your budget can allow, and you are travelling to Ireland for the first time, then the number one tip that I have to repeat is to get yourself a set of wheels!

Having a campervan to explore in really helped make our experience that much better, as you get to take in far more of the country and to choose your own customised Ireland and Northern Ireland itinerary.

If you have any more questions about travelling to Ireland as a backpacker and how to make the most of your experience, just drop a comment below!

• Our In-depth Ireland Travel Guide
• Hiring A Campervan In Ireland - Everything You Need To Know
• The Best Things To Do In Tipperary, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

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Self-Guided Hiking Tours of Ireland

Picture an Ireland hiking tour designed especially for you

A hiking tour where you decide how far to walk each day, with whom and where. The only timetable that matters is your timetable.

A hiking tour where you stay at top choice B&B’s and have your bags transferred every day.

A hiking tour where we tell you all about Irish history and folklore and where to find the tastiest food and the best pint of Guinness.

And to make sure you pick the perfect hiking trip In Ireland, we have hiked all around the country, seeking out the most beautiful trails for you.

Where will your next hiking adventure be?

What People Say about Hillwalk Tours

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• Self-Guided Choose from 10 unique trails in Ireland with multiple itinerary options
• Customizable Pick the dates & the number of days you want to walk
• Made for You Decide how many daily miles/km (on average) you want to walk
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• Hassle-Free Walk freely: we'll move your luggage for you!
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19 Of The Best Hikes In Ireland For 2024

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 21, 2023

Take every guide to the best hikes in Ireland with a good whack of salt (including this one).

The trails that one person might regard as incredible another may think as just alright !

So, in this guide we’re going to show you what we think are the best mountain hikes in Ireland!

Note: If you’re looking for walking trails, e.g. the Howth Cliff Walk, see our Irish walks guide!).

Table of Contents

What we think are the best hikes in Ireland

Photos via Shutterstock

This guide is packed with a mix of hard and easy hikes in Ireland. Keep in mind that  many  of them require adequate planning and the ability to use a map and compass.

Below, you’ll find everything from Carrauntoohil and the Pilgrim’s Path to Croagh Patrick, the Spinc and some of the more overlooked hiking trails in Ireland.

1. Croagh Patrick (Mayo)

Photos courtesy Gareth McCormack/garethmccormack via Failte Ireland

Climbing Croagh Patrick when the weather’s fine and there’s no cloud cover is one of those experiences that just sticks with you.

I did this one several years back with my dad, about a year after having spinal surgery, and it was a challenge and a half.

However, despite the damage I did to my knee that is still present to this day, this was the most enjoyable of the many  hikes in Ireland I’ve done over the years.

It took us 3.5 hours to complete and good God the view out over Clew Bay will be imprinted upon my mind forever more. This is one of the best hikes in Ireland for good reason.

• Difficulty : Difficult
• Length : 7km
• Start point : Croagh Patrick Visitor Centre

2. Torc Mountain (Kerry)

I know a lot of people who’ve visited Killarney and never realised that one of Kerry’s finest rambles started a short spin from the town.

On a clear day, the Torc Mountain walk offers glorious views of the lakes of Killarney and the wider national park.

It’s a  very  busy trail (parking nearby can be a nightmare) at times and, while it’s graded as ‘Moderate’ it’s reasonably strenuous in places.

There’s plenty of things to do in Killarney , but if you’re looking for work up an appetite while soak up outstanding views, the Torc hike is a must.

• Difficulty : Moderate
• Length : 8km
• Start point : One of several nearby car parks

3. The Mount Errigal Loop (Donegal)

The Mount Errigal hike has had a serious upgrade over the last 12-or-so-months thanks to conservation work that has made what was once a boggy hike in places now nice and walkable.

At 2,464 ft high, Errigal is the highest peak in the Seven Sisters and it’s the tallest peak in Donegal.

If you reach its summit on a fine day, you’ll have views of everywhere from Slieve Snaght in north Donegal to Sligo’s Benbulben. See our Donegal walks guide for more trails in the area.

• Difficulty : Moderate to difficult
• Length : 4.5 km
• Start point : Errigal Mountain Hike Parking

4. Carrauntoohil (Kerry)

The Carrauntoohil hike is widely regarded as one of the toughest mountain hikes in Ireland and it requires goodhiking/navigational experience.

At an impressive 1,038-metres, Carrauntoohil is Ireland’s highest mountain and preparation for the trail is crucial .

If you take the Devil’s Ladder route from the now-famous Cronin’s Yard it’ll take you between 6 and 8 hours.

Again, this is one of the toughest hikes in Ireland so, if you’re not familiar with navigation, take a guided hike or avoid this one.

• Difficulty : Strenuous
• Length : 12km
• Start point : Cronin’s Yard

5. Slieve Donard (Down)

The Mourne Mountains in County Down are home to some of the best hikes in Ireland, including the mighty Slieve Donard hike .

Standing over Newcastle town as a height of 850 metres, Donard is the highest peak in Northern Ireland and the 19th highest peak in Ireland.

You’ll want to allow between 4-5 hours for this one. On a clear day, you’ll be treated to views out over Newcastle, Carlingford Bay and beyond.

Now, this is one of  many  Mourne Mountain hikes – the likes of Slieve Doan and  Slieve Binnian .

• Difficulty : Moderate to Strenuous
• Length : 9km
• Start point : Donard Car Park

6. The Knocknarea Queen Maeve Trail (Sligo)

The Knocknarea Queen Maeve Trail is one of the best walks in Sligo , but do it either early in the morning or at an off-peak time as it gets busy!

Park in the rugby club (there’s an honesty box) and then head across the road and follow the fence upwards. 

You’ll get a bit of respite when the trail levels out, offering views over Strandhill, before it continues up through the forest towards the summit.

When you reach the summit, soak up the views behind you before tipping on another 10 minutes for a look at Queen Maeve’s cairn.

• Length : 6km
• Start point : The rugby club car park

7. Mount Brandon (Kerry)

The Mount Brandon hike is another of the toughest hikes in Ireland, with an ascent will challenge experienced hikers, never mind the inexperienced.

Standing at 952 metres in height, the trail here is often hard to follow and there are several treacherous points if you don’t know the way (you can find a guided hike online!).

However, for those with experience under their belt, this is one of the more rewarding mountain hikes in Ireland with breath-taking views of the Dingle Peninsula from its summit.

• Length : 9 km
• Start point : Faha Grotto car park

8. Diamond Hill (Galway)

There are heaps of walks in Connemara but few pack a punch like the brilliant Diamond Hill walk .

There is a short (3 km) and a long (7km) trail to choose from, with the longer of the two offering views of everywhere from Inishturk Island to the Twelve Bens.

The trails begins at the visitor centre and there’s a relatively gentle uphill section before you reach the base of the hill. Then the fun begins…

This is one of several trails that regularly features in guides to the best hikes in Ireland, and the result is that it can be mobbed at times, so arrive early.

• Difficulty : Moderate to strenuous
• Length : 3 km – 7km / 1.5 – 3 hours
• Start point : Connemara National Park Visitor Centre

9. Coumshingaun Lake Walk (Waterford)

The Coumshingaun Lake Walk is one of the toughest mountain hikes in Ireland that I’ve done over the last few years.

I did this during a mid-summer heatwave and I’d say I stopped a good 20 times on the way up (OK… maybe 30!).

This hike is absolutely lethal in places and can pose a real risk to life if the weather changes and you aren’t familiar with navigating.

However, for those well used to trails like this, Coumshingaun is the type of walk that sticks with you long after you pull out of the car park.

• Length : 7.5 km
• Start point : Coumshingaun Lough car park

10. Galtymore (Tipperary/Limerick)

Galtymore is one of the most overlooked hiking trails in Ireland and, like several hikes mentioned above, requires good experience.

At a whopping 919M, Galtymore Mountain is the highest point in both Tipperary and Limerick.

It’s part of the Galtee Mountain range which runs 20 km east to west in between the M7 and the Glen of Harlow.

The trail is a solid 11 km-long and takes a good 4 hours to complete. There’s a long aul steep section that leads to the summit which makes this a tough one!

• Length : 11 km
• Start point : Galtymore North Car Park

11. The Devil’s Chimney (Sligo)

The Devil’s Chimney (Sruth in Aghaidh An Aird) is one of the more unique Irish hikes.

You’ll find the trail on the Leitrim/Sligo border and it’s worth noting from the get-go that the waterfall only flows after heavy rainfall.

There’s a looped walk here that’s around 1.2km in length and that takes 45 minutes to 1 hour to finish.

• Length : 1.2 km
• Start point : Trailhead car park

12. Croaghaun Cliffs (Mayo)

There are several ways to see the  Croaghaun Cliffs (the highest sea cliffs in Ireland) on Achill Island in County Mayo.

You can access them from a point just before you arrive to Keem Bay or you can climb the hill over Keem and get to them from there.

Either way, you’ll be treated to some of the best scenery in the west from the viewpoint over Keem.

Like several of the hikes in Ireland mentioned above, this is the last place you want to be when the weather turns and you’ve no navigational experience.

• Length : 8.5 km
• Start point : Keem Bay

13. Divis Summit Trail (Antrim)

There’s plenty of walks in Belfast and, while the Cave Hill walk tends to grab much of the attention online, it’s the Divis Summit Trail that I find myself going back to over and over again.

Kicking-off a stone’s throw from the bustling Belfast city centre, this hike up to Divis Summit offers incredible views out over the city and beyond.

Although graded as moderate, it’s a longish slog to the top. However, it’s the perfect way to escape the city for a few hours before heading back in for a post-hike feed.

• Length : 4.8 km

14. Tonlegee (Wicklow)

I’ve spent a handful of weekends ticking off the various walks in Wicklow this year, but one stands out as being the toughest Lough Ouler .

You kick this one off from the car park at Turlough Hill and there’s a long and very steep climb until you reach the summit of Tonlegee.

You then ramble across to the other side and, after 15 minutes or so, are greeted with a view of Ireland’s heart-shaped lake. 

• Length : 2 – 4.5 hours depending on route
• Start point : Turlough Hill car park

15. The Pilgrim’s Path (Donegal)

This is one of the more dangerous hiking trails in Ireland and I’d actively recommend you avoid it unless you have the ability to navigate if the weather turns.

The Pilgrim’s Path that takes you to the Slieve League Cliffs follows an ancient path that was once used by pilgrims to reach a small church.

The ocean and cliff views are outstanding but the trail can be hard to follow at times and there are numerous treacherous points.

• Length : 8 km
• Start point : Teelin

16. Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Trail (Fermanagh)

Often referred to as Ireland’s ‘Stairway to Heaven ‘, the Legnabrocky Trail takes you up the boardwalk on Cuilcagh Mountain in Fermanagh.

I’ve done this one in spring and summer and on both occasions, despite the relatively mild weather, the wind that whips you from every side made it freezing, so dress appropriately.

The trail kicks off from the car park (you can book a space in advance) and follows a fairly bleak trail for a while before opening up and treating you to views of the boardwalk.

The boardwalk itself can be a challenge, but the reward on a clear day is views out of the surrounding landscape.

• Length : 9.5 km
• Start point : One of two car parks at the trailhead

17. Slieve Foye (Louth)

I have a love/hate relationship with the Slieve Foye hike . On one hand, the views of Carlingford Lough and the Mournes are some of the best you’ll find anywhere in this part of Ireland.

On the other, the trail is terribly maintained, very overgrown in places and it’s difficult to follow, even after you’ve done it several times.

With that being said, it’s hard to beat a fine Saturday morning spent walking on the Cooley Peninsula followed up with lunch in the buzzy town.

• Start point : Carlingford Town

18. Caves of Keash (Sligo)

If you’re looking for short and easy hikes in Ireland, aim for the Caves of Keash . Reputed to date back to 500-800 years before the Pyramids of Egypt were built, the views from these caves will knock you sideways.

There’s a little bit of parking at the trailhead and you’ll then need to pass through a field with cows before following a trail a short ish distance to the top.

Good walking shoes are needed as it can get  very  steep and slippy. Your reward is a peach of a view out over a quiet corner of Sligo.

• Difficulty : Easy to moderate
• Length : 1.5 km

19. The Spinc (Wicklow)

We’ve saved one of the best hikes in Ireland until last. The Spinc Walk isn’t the longest of the many hikes in Glendalough , but it’s arguably the best-known.

The Spinc is the name of the hill that stands overlooking the Upper Lake. The trail takes you up and over the Spinc, providing glorious views of the valley below.

If you walk it clockwise, you’ll have to conquer a fair few steps. But once this section is out of the way, it’s all level ground and descent. 

• Length : 3.5 – 4 hours
• Start point : Glendalough

What great Irish hikes have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some of the best hikes in Ireland from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about the best hiking Ireland has to offer

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are the best mountain hikes in Ireland?’ to 

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What is the best hike in Ireland?

This will be subjective, but in my opinion, one of the best hikes in Ireland is the Croagh Patrick hike. Torc Mountain in Kerry is excellent, too.

What is the toughest hike in Ireland?

Hiking in Ireland doesn’t get much tougher than Carrauntoohil – Ireland’s highest mountain. Mount Brandon and Lugnaquilla are both very tough, also.

Is hiking in Ireland good?

Yes. Although it doesn’t get half the promotion it deserves by tourist boards, hiking in Ireland has a lot to offer, from easy trails to day-long hikes and everything in between.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Sinead Brock

Tuesday 21st of July 2020

The Sphinc in Glendalough deserves a mention, 2/3 hour hike on a boardwalk with amazing views at the tip.

Self-Guided Walking Holidays in Ireland

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Walking Holidays In Ireland

Hilltoptreks offer Award winning Guided and Self Guided Walking Holidays in Ireland. As well as Day Tours from Dublin, Guided Day Walks and Multi-day hiking Tours of Ireland.

All the guides are qualified and local giving you the best insight during your day hike, hiking tour or walking holidays in Ireland..

From all the tours you really get to see the Irish landscape up close and personal. You will be brought of the beaten track where you can experience Ireland’s real beauty.

Hilltoptreks have been organizing fantastic Walking holidays, day hikes, hiking tours and Day Tours in Ireland for numerous years. Over this period they have fine tuned their tours and cherry picked some of the finest walks in Ireland just for you.

They like to pride themselves on offering you the best insight into Ireland. Including its culture, history, music, people and of course Ireland’s beautiful landscape.

So in a nutshell what Hilltoptreks provide are: • Irish Day Tours from Dublin of Wicklow, Glendalough, Kilkenny, the Boyne Valley and Newgrange.. • Guided Day hikes and walks to some of Ireland’s most scenic locations. • Walking Holidays in Ireland and Europe – Guided or Self Guided. • Hiking Tours throughout Ireland. • Day Tours with Guided Walks or Horse Riding Options. • Short Walking Breaks and hiking tours in Ireland. • We can also Tailor make Tours or day hikes to suit you, your family, company, group or friends

Why choose our walking & hiking holidays?

Local qualified guides (a real insight into ireland).

All our guided Irish day tours, hill walking, trekking and hiking tours are hosted by local and qualified guides. They will give you a real insight into Ireland and the places you are visiting. The guides are also friendly and can help you with any inquiries you may have.

Customised Tours (Tours to suit all tastes and abilities)

We operate Irish day tours, Hill Walking, trekking, day hikes, hiking tours and multi day tours through out Ireland. On our Multi-day tours we do this in a way that you have a choice on most days of the activities if any, that you would like to do.

A Lifetime Experience (Off the beaten track with highlights also)

Our hill walking, trekking and hiking Irish tours are designed so that you will visit the recommended highlights of the area you visit in Ireland. You will also visit and explore many places that are off the beaten track.

What People Say about Walking Holidays in Ireland.

“We can’t thank Hilltop Treks enough! They helped my boyfriend plan the most perfect engagement at Guinness Lake. It was the most breathtaking backdrop to our wonderful moment.”

“Hilltop treks thanks for a fabulous day tour in Wicklow! Loved it all!”

“Excellent way to spend a day” – Wonderful experience to enter Newgrange and a lot of wonderful sights around the Boyne Valley

Wicklow day trip with horse back riding was even five stars in the rain!!!

“Have gone on a few hikes now with Hilltoptreks they are always great fun, with a lovely group of friendly people. The locations are stunning also and Terry has great local knowledge”

BEST way to see beautiful Ireland!

Review of  Hilltoptreks

Reviewed 12th July 2019 via mobile

Stop what you’re doing and book a trek with Hilltop Treks already! I was so thoroughly impressed with my experience of the Wicklow/Glendalough tour, I honestly can’t recommend it enough. I only had a few days in Ireland, so the incredible scenery and knowledge gleaned from this tour gave me a real sense of the country and culture as a whole. Massive, MASSIVE thank you to our incredible guide Johnny, who absolutely made the experience. Funny, caring and deeply passionate about this part of Ireland, he is a wonderful ambassador for this beautiful country. Can’t wait to visit again!

Date of experience:  July 2019

Great guided tour

Reviewed 9th July 2021 via mobile

Loved walking with Terry. Terry knows the Dublin Wicklow mountains like the back of his hand and his relaxed leadership style makes for a great day out leaving you to enjoy the views and good company. I would definitely recommend Terry and look forward to more hikes in the hills in the future.

Date of experience:  July 2021

Memorable private tour of Powerscourt, Wicklow, and Glendalough

Reviewed 22 Aug 2019

Visiting these incredibly beautiful sites on a relaxing private day tour was a definite highlight of our family vacation. Thanks to Hugh for a well-paced, comfortable trip with lots of interesting commentary and discussions along the way, and for dropping us off at our Kilkenny hotel with recommendations for our visit there. Highly recommended!

Date of experience:  22nd Aug 2019

You might also be interested in our Short Walking Breaks for 2024

Walking weekend in mayo, march 30th – april 1st 2024, walking weekend in scotland, may 31st – june 3rd 2024.

Hill Walking Holidays in Ireland

HilltopTreks Blog

Tour of Wicklow and Glendalough

Tour of Wicklow and Glendalough from Dublin Glendalough and Wicklow Tours from Dublin written by Linda I recently went on Hilltop Trek’s Tour of Wicklow and Glendalough and would highly recommend it! Why? Well, what I personally liked about this tour was that it was on a mini bus with max capacity of 16 people. […]

Walking the sheep’s head way

Hill Walking in West Cork The Sheep’s Head Way Discover the beauty and wonders of this little Peninsula on the Sheep’s Head Way.  Gillian takes a few days walking on the Sheep’s Head Way in West Cork. Gillian has a real love for the outdoors, flora and fauna and there is nothing she enjoys more […]

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Guided Walking Tours LP (Ireland)

Guided walking tours of ireland.

Our guided walking holidays in Ireland are designed for your convenience and enjoyment. You’ll enjoy a relaxed pace so you can appreciate the stunning scenery along Ireland’s most iconic walking routes.

Prefer hiking on your own at your own pace? You might like our self guided walking tours in Ireland instead. Choose from a variety of routes and lengths of hikes with a plan that’s completely organised for you, from accommodations to luggage transfers and more!

About Our Guided Hiking Tours in Ireland

Ireland boasts a variety of routes and regions where you can enjoy diverse landscapes and beautiful scenery. From mesmerising coastal routes to ancient ruins, from easy woodland trails to challenging ascents, you can find whatever you enjoy right here on a hiking tour in Ireland.

At Footfalls Walking Holidays, we cater to each unique group, ensuring everyone is comfortable and safe as we walk together each day. With lots of single travellers, as well as some couples and families, we like to give everyone space and time to get to know each other and to find a comfortable cadence as we walk together.

Our daily walks range between 10 and 15 kilometres per day and we cap our groups at 14 total to keep things fun and easy to manage.

From your arrival at the airport, we take care of everything along the way: luggage transfers, transportation, food, accommodation, and showing you daily trails and landmarks.

We choose accommodations in local family-run bed and breakfasts, small hotels or guesthouses, where you will enjoy a friendly welcome and all the comforts of home.

You can join us as an individual, couple, or as part of a group of friends or family. Our hope is for you to return home revitalised and refreshed after your guided walking tour of Ireland and its stunning natural beauty!

Below, you’ll find our recommended routes around Ireland that we know and love. If you have any questions at all, feel free to contact us and we’d be delighted to help.

Guided Walking Routes in Ireland

Ireland north.

8-Day Guided Walking Tour: Donegal & Antrim (Ireland North)

Grade: Easy to Moderate

7-Day Guided Walking Holiday in Belfast & The Mourne Mountains

Ireland north west.

Our guided walking tours of Ireland takes in the quaint island of Achill, Ballycroy National Park and the magnificent wild Atlantic seacliffs of Carrowteige. 

8-Day Guided Wild Atlantic Way Walking Tour: North-West (Ireland North-West)

Grade: Easy

Ireland West

8-Day Guided Walking Tour: Connemara, The Burren & Aran Islands (Ireland West)

Ireland south-west.

8-Day Guided Walking Tour: Cork & Kerry (Ireland Southwest)

8-Day Guided Walking Tour: Wild Atlantic Way South-West (Ireland South-West)

Ireland east.

8-Day Guided Walking Tour in Wales & Wicklow

6-Day Guided Walking Tour: Wicklow Mountains Deluxe (Ireland East)

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The ultimate guide to backpacking Ireland

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on October 3, 2019 |

Many things may come to mind when you think of Ireland as its charm has reached every corner of the globe. Perhaps you’ve hunted for four leaf clovers and heard tales of leprechauns and world-famous beer. The real Ireland is even more enchanting. Its landscapes are breath-taking, ranging from wild and rugged mountains to green hills and valleys. It has beautiful, historic cities, a great musical culture, fantastic pubs and most importantly, a warm, welcoming hospitable people. And yes, lots of beer. All this, and more, is what makes backpacking Ireland so amazing.

Lough Tay, Dublin 📸 : gregda

Jump straight to:

• The best time to visit Ireland

Best places to visit in Ireland

Travelling around ireland, accommodation in ireland.

• Ireland backpacking itinerary

Cost of backpacking Ireland

What to eat and drink in ireland, irish culture and people, travel advice for ireland, best time to visit ireland.

Ireland is known for its emerald green landscape, but there’s a reason for this: the weather. Ireland tends to be quite rainy all year round, however, it’s no worse than parts of England. The climate is best summed up with one word: changeable. You can really see all four seasons in one day here. The wettest months tend to be in Autumn and Winter, and the driest in the spring, but this changes year by year. So remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather – just bad preparation! Remember to bring your waterproof jacket and a jumper whenever you go, and don’t let the weather dictate your plans!

There’s not that much seasonal variation in temperature either, with the summer months averaging highs of around 13-18 degrees. On the flip side, winters don’t get too cold. One thing that does vary widely, however, is the length of the days. In winter, the sun goes down around 4 pm, but in the middle of summer, it doesn’t get dark until after 10 pm, allowing you to sit out long into the evening. Ireland is pretty small, so the differences between places aren’t too drastic.  It’s generally a bit rainier on the west coast, with clouds coming in from the Atlantic, as well as getting a little cooler the further north you go.

Best time to visit Northern Ireland

The best time to visit Northern Ireland for a backpacking trip is in late spring and early summer, when you’re likely to get the most sunshine. However, if you’re doing a short city break, you can go at any time of year, as you’re unlikely to get extreme weather. The coldest months are between late February and early March, with very little chance of snow. The driest areas are around Belfast and the eastern coast, which get significantly less rainfall than Galway, Cork and the rest of the south/west.

Best time to visit Dublin

Dublin’s where you’ll find the driest climate relative to the rest of Ireland. It’s also pretty mild, with winter temperatures similar to those in Southeast England. The driest months in Dublin are between February and April, but the best time to visit Dublin is in late spring, when the temperatures are a little warmer. Given that the city has plenty to see – the weather usually isn’t too much trouble anyway, as there are plenty of pubs and free museums to duck into.

Best time to visit Galway

The west coast, around Galway, is the wettest part of Ireland. However, it’s slightly warmer than Dublin. So, if you’re lucky, you might get some hot, sunny weather – with the isolated white-sand beaches making it worth the risk! The best time to visit Galway is probably when it’s driest, in the late spring and early summer.

📸: @iaraanddavid_travel

Ireland’s landscapes are beautiful, ranging from the dramatic to the gentle. Each of its national parks have their own unique character and can be just as breath-taking as more well-known destinations (if a bit rainier!) Apart from Dublin, its cities are relatively small, but are full of life, easily walkable, and have a rich history. To help you choose where to spend your time we’ve listed some of the best places to visit in Ireland including the most scenic places the country has to offer, as well as the best cities in Ireland to visit:

Scenic spots:

Mount errigal and dunlewy lough, county donegal.

As you approach the Derryveagh mountains, all you see are dark shadows on the horizon. Before you know it, you are amongst them, with the long, unfenced road winding through the valleys. Drive far enough and you’ll come to Dunlewy Lough, which sits down in a quiet valley, cut off from the outside world. Rising above its shores is Errigal, the highest mountain in Donegal, and one of the best hikes in Ireland. However, the steep, rocky slopes means the route can be challenging.

If you’d prefer something a little more gentle, you can also take a walk down around the lake. This will take you a forest in which you’ll find a hidden world covered bright purple flowers and almost luminous green mosses. You’ll also pass an abandoned church, where you can sit and look out over the water!

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Glencolumbkille and Malin Beg, County Donegal

Glencolumbkille sits on a stretch of coast Donegal’s southwestern corner. As you travel round the cliffs, you’ll be greeted with the spectacular sight of grey, stony headlands and jagged rocks being pounded by the mighty waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Eventually, you’ll reach the beautiful white sand beach of Silver Strand: a serene, isolated cove, hidden beneath the steep cliffs.

Just behind Glencolumbkille are the Slieve League ( Sliabh Liag ) cliffs, some of the highest sea cliffs in Ireland. Here, a jagged mountainside plunges straight down into the ocean. The colossal scale of this is difficult to capture in any photograph: really huge waves end up looking like tiny ripples. If you want to explore, there are great hikes in the area, including the so-called “One Man’s Path” a narrow, rocky trail with sheer drops on either side. Just be careful, this should not be attempted if you’re not an experienced hiker – even if it is a great place for getting that perfect Instagram shot!

Wicklow Mountains, County Wicklow

The northern edge of this national park can be reached by taking a €3.30 local bus service from Dublin to Enniskerry, meaning it’s ideal if you want to escape the city for a while. If you’re really keen, you can hike along the so-called “Wicklow Way,” a 130 km interlinked network of roads and paths stretching all the way down through the county. If you don’t feel up to that, you can simply wander along the trail for as long as you like, through fields and glades filled with ferns, wildflowers and shamrocks. One great walk, which takes about an hour each way, is from Knockree hostel to Powerscourt Waterfall, the highest in Ireland. Seeing it this way also allows you to avoid paying the entry fee!

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Copper Coast, County Waterford

If you want a day by the sea, some ice cream or fish and chips, head on down to the scenic little harbour town of Dunmore East. It’s an hour away from Waterford city by bike, or 20 or so minutes by car or bus. The little sheltered cove is gorgeous, with golden sand and deep blue water, overlooked by cliffs on both sides. If you don’t feel like getting your feet wet, sit outside at the Strand Inn, which overlooks the beach, looking out towards Hook Head and its famous lighthouse.

From Dunmore, you can head around the coastline along the so-called “Copper Coast”, which has been designated an UNESCO Geopark. Even if you’re not a geologist, it’s easy to appreciate the beautiful cliffs and seaside villages, such as Stradbally and Tramore, which literally means “big strand”. Here you’ll find a 5 km stretch of golden sand where you can hire surfboards, fish, or go sea kayaking.

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Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry

With sea on three sides and towering green mountains behind, the Dingle peninsula is a spectacular setting for a drive by the sea. We’d recommend you stop off at Inch Beach, a spit of sand that juts out into the bay for miles, with towering dunes full of wildflowers. On the right side, you can see the Dingle Peninsula, to the left the golden shores of the Iveragh Peninsula.

From Inch Beach, you can head along the coastal roads to the colourful little harbour town of Dingle. But, if you’ve got a little time, it’s worth taking a minor detour down to Minard Castle. The roads are a bit narrow and windy, but it’s definitely worth it. You’ll not only be rewarded with the sight of a medieval stone tower, but also a quiet little beach with a clear mountain stream flowing into the bay.

From the colourful town of Dingle, you can head up towards Conor Pass along Spa Road, which snakes away out of sight, tightly hugging the undulating landscape. If you look hard on a clear day, you can even see the rocky pyramid-shaped Skellig Islands jutting out of the sea. If they look familiar, perhaps that’s because they were used as a location in the new Star Wars films!

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Killarney National Park, County Kerry

Killarney National Park 📸 : @cochou33

Killarney, is home to one of Ireland’s most beautiful national parks, and its tallest peak, Carrauntoohil. It’s hardly surprising then, that you’ll find some of the best hikes in Ireland here. In fact, the “Kerry Way” signposted route runs through the county, for over 200 km, taking experienced hikers eight days or more to conquer.

However, you don’t have to be a seasoned hiker to enjoy the trail – you can always walk along one of its 20 sections. There’s a walking loop starting in Killarney, which takes in the Victorian stately home, a ruined monastery and old traditional farms. Nearby you’ll find Torc waterfall, which crashes down into a little pool, creating a surrounding mist. If you continue up the steps past the waterfall, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of Killarney’s three lakes.

For a break while you’re driving or hiking round the national park, there’s no better place than The Strawberry Field Pancake Cottage. Renowned for its delicious pancakes, the café rests within Killarney’s isolated countryside. Afterwards, you can head on up to the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow valley, with steep, high sides. It feels incredibly isolated and cut-off, almost like going through a tunnel. Look one way and you’ll see the valley and lakes of Killarney open up in front of you, look back and you see the mountains closing in on each other.

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Strawberry Field Pancake Cottage 📸: @iaraanddavid_travel

Aran Islands, County Galway

The Aran Islands are three, isolated rocky pieces of land lying between the edge of Galway Bay and the North Atlantic. They’re pretty inhospitable and rugged, battered by the waves and winds, making the place feel like it’s at the edge of the world. The historic isolation of the islanders means that many of them speak Irish as a native language. In fact, we heard it being spoken on the Ferry, and by locals in the local pub. To get there, you can book a ferry and bus transfer from Galway, or from Doolin, in County Clare.

The two smaller islands, Inisheer ( Inis Oír ), and Inishmaan ( Inis Meáin ), are a little less touristed and easier to get around. However, if you’re visiting Inishmore ( Inis Mór ), the largest island, it’s a good idea to go for a whole day, as there’s a lot to see. It’s still only 14 km (8.7 miles) long: meaning that the best way to get around is renting a bike. Head around the coast and there’s a spot where, if you look hard enough, you can spot the silvery heads of seals bobbing up and down on the water. Continue a little further around the coast and you’ll stumble upon Kilmurvey beach, where the sands are a pristine, dazzling shade of white.

The island is also home to a handful of prehistoric stone forts, with the most well-known being Dún Aonghasa. However, if you don’t want to pay, it’s perhaps better to head to Dún Eochla, which perhaps even more impressive in scale. These historical sights blend in with its natural wonders, such as Poll na Bpeist or “the wormhole”. This natural, perfectly rectangular pool sits atop a bare, rocky clifftop. As calm as it seems, diving into the pool is strongly advised against. Sometimes, the drop down to the water can be about 15 metres, with waves crashing over the clifftops and draining down into the pool.

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Connemara, County Galway

Connemara is another national park, in the west of the country, but it differs a lot to the others. The Wicklow mountains are characterised by rolling valleys and forests, whereas Killarney has huge lakes and dramatic rocky mountains. Connemara national park, on the other hand, feature huge, rounded hills that are curved like a camel’s hump. The roads wind through the misty valleys as you approach the park’s visitor centre, about an hour and a half away from Galway. From here, there are several well-marked walking and hiking routes, each for different abilities. The toughest one leads to the summit of Diamond Hill, going over boardwalk, and rocky slopes, with views of the sea on three sides and golden beaches in the distance. When you reach the summit, you can see all the way down to the Victorian grandeur of Kylemore Abbey.

Kylemore Abbey is a huge 19 th century “castle” – but it’s the setting that really sets it apart. Unlike other, similar places, it is set against the backdrop of a steep mountain slope, with a serene lake stretching out in front. However, the main highlight is provided by the gardens. The manicured flowerbeds contrast beautifully with the surrounding wilderness and the kitchen gardens are full of juicy redcurrants, blackcurrants and raspberries.

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North coast of Northern Ireland, County Antrim and County Derry

The north coast is probably the one of the most well-known and best places to visit in Northern Ireland. It’s known for its white sandy beaches, green fields and of course, the Giant’s Causeway. More recently, it’s gained fame as one of the locations for the acclaimed fantasy series, Game of Thrones. These Game of Thrones locations are worth seeing for the sake of their wild beauty, even if you’re not a fantasy fan. One such place is Ballintoy harbour, a tiny cove at the bottom of a single-track winding road, full of little fishing boats. Another recommended stop is at the Dark Hedges, otherwise known as the “King’s Road”, where ancient trees curve and twist to form an eerie tunnel.

If you want a little adventure, and are a fan of wildlife, catch the boat from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island. During the late spring and summer months, it’s home to a huge colony of birds who nest on its high cliffs, including cute little puffins! If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to see seals relaxing around the harbour. For something a little more daring, head to the notorious Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, where you can test your mettle by walking across a vertical drop above the rough, churning waves. If you’d rather just relax, there’s always the White Rocks beach, near Portrush, with its golden sands and dazzling white limestone cliffs.

The most famous sight around here, the Giant’s Causeway, is also worth seeing. Layers upon layers of hexagonal columns rise up out of the ocean, looking as if they were fashioned by a giant’s hand. the best part is probably the walk, which takes you over the cliffs, giving you a spectacular bird’s eye view. And for those in need of a little refreshment after a tiring day outdoors, the Old Bushmills Distillery is just a few miles away. Founded in 1608, it’s also the oldest continually-operating distillery in the world.

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Mourne Mountains, County Down

This is where you’ll find Northern Ireland’s biggest mountain, Slieve Donard. You can reach it without a car, by taking a bus from Belfast to the seaside town of Newcastle. The route is quite easy to follow, but requires hiking shoes, as it can be a bit muddy in places. The views from the summit, however, are gorgeous, looking out for miles out over the coast. If you’d prefer to do something more gentle, you can also hike to a viewpoint part of the way up the mountain, or just walk along the beautiful seafront promenade with an ice cream.

Those people renting a car should also consider visiting the Silent Valley Reservoir. This huge artificial lake supplies the entire population of Belfast and is hidden away in the narrow space between the mountain slopes. It’s a beautiful and secluded location to sit, relax, or take a walk around.

Temple Bar, Dublin 📸 : @diogopalhais

If you ask anyone who’s visited Ireland about the best places to see, the Republic of Ireland’s capital is always high on the list. There’s s a lot to see, a lot to do, as well as a lot of visitors! The historical centre is packed to the brim with beautiful buildings and parks, many of which are free.

Free attractions in Dublin:

• Stephen’s Green: this 17 th century square is filled with trees, ponds and sculptures, and was one of the spots held by the rebels during the 1916 Easter Rising.
• Merrion Square: another park in a city square, which is home to a famous statue of Oscar Wilde.
• Phoenix Park: this is the largest urban park in Europe, and home to a herd of deer! Áras an Uachtaráin , the official residence of the President of Ireland is located here, and on Saturdays, you can even book a free guided tour!

Museums and Galleries:

As Ireland’s capital, Dublin is home to many of Ireland’s best public museums and galleries, many of which are free to explore, so take advantage of this!

• Chester Beattie Library: housed in Dublin Castle, this museum displays beautiful and rare manuscripts from places such as East Asia, the Middle East and North America.
• Irish Museum of Modern Art: situated in a former hospital, this place has six multi-roomed exhibits, which are constantly changing.
• National Gallery of Ireland: this fascinating gallery includes medieval, renaissance and modern works, including those of renowned local artists.
• National Museum of Ireland: this is not really one museum, but four, with three of them located in Dublin – specialising in Archaeology, Natural History and Decorative Arts.

Given its history full of literature, scholarship, conflict and revolution: Dublin is fascinating just to wander around. So, take advantage of a free walking tour, or explore these historical sites for yourself:

• Statues of O’Connell Street: this busy shopping street is full of statues of famous Irish revolutionaries, labour leaders, parliamentarians and reformers, including Daniel O’Connell, after whom it is named.
• GPO (General Post Office): this imposing stone building was the main headquarters of those taking part in the Easter rising, an armed insurrection that aimed to create an independent Irish Republic. There is a paid exhibition inside, but you can still visit the post office itself, which has beautiful floors and an ornate ceiling.
• Trinity College Grounds: you have to pay a steep charge to visit its historical library, which contains the precious medieval manuscript “the Book of Kells”. However, the grounds themselves are free to enter.
• Famine Memorial: this tribute to the millions of people who died and emigrated during the potato famine of 1845-1849, shows emaciated figures trekking along to the port of Dublin in search of a new life abroad (though many died during their journey).
• Glasnevin cemetery: this is the resting place for many famous Irish figures, including the musician Luke Kelly, of the Dubliners, and the writer Brendan Behan.

One paid attraction that is worth seeing is Kilmainham Gaol. This cold, grey stone building, located in a quiet suburb, has witnessed many key events in Irish history, including five rebellions. It is where the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were held and then executed. It has held prisoners from the subsequent Irish War of Independence and Irish Civil War. Perhaps the most shocking fact, however, is how some victims of the famine committed crimes simply to be held here and have a roof over their heads.

Going out in Dublin can feel overwhelming, with hordes of tourists flocking into the iconic pubs of the Temple Bar area, which gets extremely crowded and quite rowdy. In terms of iconic bars, O’Donoghue’s near Merrion Square is a good bet. This spot has live music every night and is where the trad band “The Dubliners” started out. Although it’s packed with tourists, the crowd is generally less rowdy. Also worth a visit is the Brazen Head, which claims to be Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 1198.

For somewhere a bit more off the beaten track, head north of the river to the area of Stoneybatter, where you’ll find great pubs and cocktail bars, full of locals. We arrived in the middle of the “Stoneybatter Festival” which takes place in June each year. The events even included Wuffstock, a fancy-dress parade for dogs and their owners!

Find out more about all the free things to do in Dublin in our guide.

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Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny 📸: @kmitchhodge

Kilkenny, although compact, is worth visiting. Hundreds of years of history is packed into two adjoining streets, known as the Medieval Mile, which stretches from the cathedral at one end and the castle at the other. The space in between is teeming with history: from the Tudor Roche House to the Black Abbey. It’s not all grey, medieval stone though, the town is like a picture postcard snapshot of Ireland – with colourful pubs, restaurants and cafes on cobbled streets.

As well as being a medieval town, Kilkenny is known as being the birthplace of Smithwicks (pronounced Smith-icks), probably the second most well-known Irish beer (after Guinness). You can still visit the old brewery today, where you’ll get the chance taste the beer at different stages of the brewing process and smell the different types of hops used. This will give you all you need to bluff with even the most seasoned of craft beer snobs! Even if you’re not all that interested in this boozy barley beverage, the tour is fascinating simply from a historical point of view: it’s built on the ruins of an abbey that brewed beer until it was closed down by King Henry VIII. In the end, you’ll get the chance to sample a pint, with three different varieties on offer!

In the same way as with its historical sights, Kilkenny’s nightlife packs a big punch for its size, with over 15 bars and pubs within 10-15 minutes’ walk of one-another.  It’s a historic town, so there are tourists, but it’s nowhere near as crowded as central Dublin. Plus, if you’re more of a fan of tea and coffee than beer, don’t fret! Kilkenny has some cute little cafes, including Cakeface patisserie, which serves up delicious baked treats.

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Waterford 📸: @yaboicarl

Waterford is one of Ireland’s oldest cities, dating back to Viking times. The traces of this history are most evident in the old part of the city, the so-called “Viking Triangle”. In fact, there are six medieval towers scattered around. If it’s a rainy day, why not visit the “Museum of Treasures”? This is actually made up of three separate buildings, each within 3 minutes’ walk of each other: the Viking-built Reginald’s tower, the Medieval Museum and the Bishop’s Palace.

The city itself is incredibly pretty, its main street extending along a stretch of river for about a kilometre and a half. This creates a dazzling effect as the lights from bars, restaurants, and shops are reflected in the water. Step back from here, and you’ll end up on bustling pedestrian streets full of little squares, coffee shops and boutiques.

Given that it’s a relatively small city and not as much of a tourist hotspot as Dublin, it’s easy to wander from one place to the other without getting lost.  We’d recommend a little bar called ‘An Uisce Beatha’, the Irish name for whisky literally translating as “water of life”. This pub hosts a lively, youthful crowd, with free music on most nights.

Cork 📸: @yvesalarie

Cork is the Republic of Ireland’s second city, but sees less backpackers than Dublin and Galway. However, it really shouldn’t, as it’s absolutely full of life, music and history!

Also just outside Cork is Blarney castle, one of the most famous attractions in all of Ireland. It’s a very touristy spot, and entrance costs between €14 and €18 (with online discounts available). Although this may seem like a lot, the castle’s gardens are huge and there’s a lot to see – in fact, you could spend the whole day exploring. The beautiful grounds contain a garden of poisonous plants, a glade filled with huge ferns and a waterfall, as well as a dungeon, where you can crawl through medieval stone passages on your hands and knees.

In the high season, queues for the castle can be huge, but you can avoid this by going on a weekday. Once you get to the top, you can admire the views, and kiss the legendary Blarney stone, which is said to bless you with the gift of the gab. The whole thing might seem like a bit of a silly tourist ritual, but it’s impossible not to get caught up in the atmosphere of the whole thing!

Cork itself is great for going out, with music around every corner and streets full of people. In the Victorian Quarter there’s Sin É, which serves a huge selection of whiskies, gins and beers, as well as having a traditional music session every night. If you want to listen to something a bit different, head down to the Crane Lane Theatre. This consists of three different bars, each with different things going on, as well as the theatre itself. There you can see free gigs (everything from jazz to reggae), DJ nights, and even take a dance lesson. Oh, and if you’re looking for a caffeine rather than alcohol-based pick-me-up, head to Three Fools’ Coffee or Cork Coffee Roasters.

Budget travellers looking for something to do can take a wander around the Campus of University College Cork. Here, you can enjoy the parkland, visit the exhibitions at the Glucksman Institute, and admire the beautiful stained-glass windows of the Great Hall, all without spending a cent. The English Market is also free to enter, but you’ll probably end up spending something! It’s situated in a building that dates back to 1786 and is full of stalls selling fresh meat, fish, vegetables and fresh local baked goods, as well as arts and crafts. There’s even a brightly coloured fountain filled with models of birds!

For something quirky to do, head to the Butter Museum: Cork used to be a centre of the huge Irish butter business, and even had its own Butter Exchange (like a Wall Street for butter). Just around the corner, you will see (or hear) Shandon Church. Here you can pay to climb the tower and have a go at ringing the bells yourself. A little less imposing is Shandon Sweets, a cute family run factory and shop, where you can enjoy some locally-made sugary goodness.

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Galway, Ireland 📸 : @mymytudoan

Galway is smaller than Dublin, Belfast and Cork – but is very lively (perhaps, in part, due to its high student population). You can see this in the Latin Quarter – home to many medieval buildings and filled with narrow, cobbled streets onto which partygoers pour onto to at night to enjoy a drink in the open air. We went to the Quays bar, which blasted out cheesy indie and pop hits all night long. We also ended up in a great rock bar called Sally Long’s, after which we headed to the west end to hear some traditional music at the Crane Bar. There was a trad music session in the upstairs room, with everyone crowded around, sitting on stools, listening attentively to around 8 musicians on fiddle, tin whistle, flute and mandolin.

The historic Latin Quarter is also great for exploring during the day, and as you head further down the river, you’ll find another historical landmark, the Spanish Arch. This stone gateway, built in 1584, is connected to the remains of the city walls, and used to house the soldiers who manned the battlements. On the other side of this is the Galway City Museum, which is free to enter, and will give you an insight into what Galway looked like in medieval times. It also houses a full-size “Galway Hooker”: a sailboat designed to withstand the harsh North Atlantic weather.

Although Galway’s medieval buildings date back hundreds of years, the cathedral was only built in the 50s and 60s. It looks much older, but it’s actually the last great stone cathedral to be built in Europe. It’s worth visiting to admire the artwork underneath the dome, consisting of angels and stars set against an emerald green background.

Another thing that’s great about Galway is that if it’s a sunny day, and you don’t feel tramping around the streets or standing indoors, you can easily just head out to the area of Salthill. This is just 20 minutes’ walk from Eyre Square, past the west end and has some beautiful beaches, as well as a diving platform where you take the plunge into the not-so-tropical water of Galway Bay.

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Belfast 📸 : @kaelihearn

The island’s other capital city, Belfast, is very different to Dublin. It’s a much younger city and is perhaps less “classically beautiful”. However, it’s emerged from its turbulent past to become a great destination and has somewhat of an alternative feel in places. It’s also cheaper for going out than in a lot of cities in the Republic, with a great bar and restaurant scene.

In terms of sights, you’ll be spoilt for choice. A lot of hostels are located around the university, which is made up of beautiful redbrick buildings. Just around the corner, you’ll be able to see the Botanical Gardens, with its ornate Victorian greenhouse, as well as the Ulster Museum. Alternatively, you can visit the exhibitions at the City Hall, and take a tour of this spectacular building, which is full of marble floors and columns, stained glass windows and chandeliers. Best of all, every one of these attractions are completely free!

One of Belfast’s biggest draws in recent years has been the Titanic Museum, a huge shining metal structure, as high as the ship itself, where you can find interactive exhibitions and even a ride guiding you through the history of the shipyards. It may seem quite pricey, but the ticket also includes entrance to the Nomadic, a boat that brought passengers to the Titanic at Cherbourg, France.

If you want to go out somewhere that’s cheap and student friendly, the area around the University and the Dublin Road is a good bet. However, for something slightly more upmarket, the Cathedral Quarter is the place to go. Here you can find “the Harp Bar”, which is all red velvet seats and fancy decorations, or the Dirty Onion, which has an outdoor terrace in a ruined building. There are also cultural venues, such as the MAC and Black Box, which host art exhibitions, theatrical performances and films. Still, if you’d prefer something a little more alternative, it’s just a short walk to the Sunflower Bar, which hosts musical events ranging from ukulele sessions to bluegrass music, and attracts a young, progressive, activist crowd.

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Derry  📸: @kmitchhodge

Northern Ireland ’s second city is definitely worth a stop, not least because it’s the only fully-intact walled city in all of Ireland. You can still walk round the top of the walls, free of charge, look down over the rest of the city. Within the walls themselves, you’ll find the “Tower Museum”, which takes you through the city’s eventful history, from prehistoric times to the sectarian violence that plagued the city from the 1960s to the 1990s. It’s not all dark and depressing though: you’ll also hear about the city’s cultural heritage, including the band “The Undertones”, who penned the song “Teenage Kicks”.

The history of the Derry (called ‘Londonderry’ in the UK), is very contested, all the way down to the city’s name. It should come as no surprise then, that it has witnessed key events for people on both sides of the Unionist/Nationalist divide. The city saw historic civil rights marches in the 1960s and early 1970s. The predominantly nationalist “Bogside” also witnessed clashes between police and the local residents, as well as the incident known as “Bloody Sunday”.

It’s in the Bogside that you’ll find the Free Derry Museum (which shares its name with a famous mural), a place that recounts the story of this conflict. On the other side there is the Siege Museum, which focuses on 17 th century siege during which the Protestants of Derry held out against an army led by the Catholic King James.

However, there’s more to the city than the dark days of its past, with plenty of cheery, and good value bars and restaurants. One such place is Sandino’s, which is full of posters and memorabilia supporting various progressive causes, and often hosts great live music events. You can also pose with one of the city’s newest murals, a painting of the stars of Derry Girls, a hit comedy series set in the city!

Unfortunately, in Ireland, the public transport network isn’t as extensive or developed as in other western European countries. However, both buses and trains are relatively affordable, making backpacking on a budget in Ireland easy. There are easy links between a lot of the major towns and cities. But when it comes to more rural spots, provision can be a bit lacking.

Trains in Ireland are modern, comfortable and usually punctual, with good links on the east coast and to Galway. The prices here are reasonable too: an advance ticket between Dublin and Kilkenny can cost as little as €14, with extra discounts available for students. But there’s no direct line from Waterford to Cork, which makes a round trip by train difficult. Travelling by train also needs planning, as they often don’t run as regularly as buses or coaches.

In the west of Ireland, train links are much less developed, and although it’s easy to reach Galway, heading north through the scenic counties of Sligo and Mayo requires a lot of changeovers. It’s even harder to navigate the scenic and isolated county of Donegal, where there are no train connections at all. Indeed, in the past, many rural train stations were shut down in favour of a (short-sighted) transport policy favouring cars. On the other hand, some of these former lines, such as the “Waterford Greenway”, have been repurposed as cycle and walking paths – allowing you to explore the countryside away from the roads. Trains in Northern Ireland are pretty lacking too, and many places in the southwest, such as the beautiful Lakeland county of Fermanagh, have no railway lines at all. Luckily for tourists, in addition to the line from Belfast to Dublin, there’s one that stretches north, linking Belfast to towns on the scenic Causeway coast, such as Portrush and Castlerock. This same line then heads west alongside the sea and finishes in the city of Derry, with the last stretch of the journey overlooking the sea.

One of the easiest ways to get to places is travelling around Ireland by bus. A lot of the services, especially those between more major towns and cities, are comfortable and modern, and have lots of luggage space, as well as occasional internet access. These usually run more regularly than trains and are often just as quick. They also have routes between cities where trains do not, and if you’re travelling up the west coast without a car, buses are a lifesaver. They can reach beautiful rural areas and isolated counties such as Donegal where trains do not. In addition, local bus services will allow you travel to tourist attractions just outside cities. From Dublin, you can catch a bus to Enniskerry and explore the Wicklow Mountains, from Cork, you can head out to the colourful little fishing village of Kinsale.

There are a lot of isolated sights in Ireland that can’t easily be reached by bus or train, and require you to take an organised tour. Some of these go directly from the hostels, and are pretty good value. Another alternative is travelling around Ireland by car for the ultimate Ireland road trip! This will allow you to see ruined churches, abbeys and abandoned stone cottages, as well as letting you stop to get out and appreciate the landscape: something you’ll want to do every five minutes or so! Just be aware that the roads in some rural areas are full of cracks, are narrow, and sometimes even have sheep wandering across them.

Gardiner House Hostel, Dublin

Ireland is a popular place for backpackers, meaning that there’s a wide range of hostels and budget accommodation. Hostels in cities such as Dublin and Galway tend to be bigger, with more going on, but can be quite busy. In the countryside, or smaller towns, such as Kilkenny , you can find cute little places with just a handful of rooms, where it’s easy to get to know other guests!

Hostels in Dublin and Galway are significantly more expensive than other places, with prices soaring on the weekends. However, nightly rates in Dublin can more than double to over €50, the price of a weekend room in Galway is more reasonable at around €30. Strangely, the same is not true of Cork, where prices remain pretty steady.

Where you stay in Dublin depends a lot on what you want to do. Gardiner House Hostel is about 20 minutes’ walk from the city centre, allowing you to avoid the noisiness of the city centre. Another great spot, Abigail’s Hostel , is right in the middle of Temple Bar, hosting nightly pub crawls and surrounded by lively pubs, bars and clubs. There are also a couple of places that are a little closer to the city, but in the quieter areas, such as the Four Courts Hostel . All these places have facilities including storage lockers and fully-equipped kitchens, as well as providing a free breakfast and wifi.

There’s also plenty of choice when it comes to hostels in Galway, with almost all of them being rated above an 8 on the Hostelworld website. Sleepzone is good if you want somewhere central at a reasonable price: it’s five minutes from Kinlay Square Centre, most of the dorms are ensuites and there’s a fantastic kitchen, TV room and outdoor terrace. Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel , which is just around the corner, is another good choice. But if you want something a little quieter and still within walking distance of the city, you can stay at Nest Boutique Hostel , located right beside the beaches of Salthill.

Hostels in Cork are pretty few and far between, with the choice essentially coming down to Kinlay House Cork and Bru Bar & Hostel. Both are located at the northern end of the city centre, close to sights such as the Shandon Bells and the Butter Museum. Both also offer free Wifi and free breakfast. Bru Bar & Hostel , as you might guess from the name, it has its own bar with discounts available for guests! But if you want to relax, go for Kinlay House , you can get access to the pool and gym next door (which includes a jacuzzi and steam room) for €5.

Some of the best hostels we stayed in on our trip were in rural areas, where you can find small, cosy places that feel more like guesthouses. One of those places is Tom’s Cottage , an eco-friendly hostel that’s a 15-minute drive from Waterford. Apart from a couple of houses across the road, there’s nothing but green fields all around, making it the perfect place to relax and recharge. Tom, who runs the hostel, is an incredibly friendly guy, often even inviting guests to hear him play in an Irish trad music band at the local pub.

Global Village, Belfast

When it comes to city hostels, Belfast is really good value. Global Village , Vagabonds and Botanical Backpackers are all rated at 9 or above on Hostelworld. They’re also located in the youthful Queen’s Quarter, nearby Queen’s University Belfast. You can get a bed from about £14 and all of them offer free breakfast, WiFi and a common room to relax and hang out in.

There are also plenty of hostels in the towns and villages in the north coast. Bushmills Youth Hostel is perfectly situated, just 5 minutes’ walk from the Old Bushmills Distillery and a short bus ride from the Giant’s Causeway. The village itself also has plenty of pubs, restaurants and cafés. If you don’t mind being a little more isolated, the Sheep Island View hostel in the village of Ballintoy is a good shout. Its picturesque location overlooks the sea and cliffs, and is only a short walk from a cute little harbour and beach. Outside Belfast and the north coast, there aren’t so many options when it comes to hostels in Northern Ireland . While there’s not many dorms in Derry, Hostel Connect is great value and fantastically located, with beds for as little as £17.30 (€19.26).

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Ireland Backpacking Itinerary

Connemara National Park 📸: @benorloff  

There are endless things to see and explore in Ireland, and you could spend years without having discovered all that it has to offer. However, this being the real world, most people don’t have that much time or money. So, to help you, we’ve put together a few rough travel itineraries. Given how different every backpacker is, we’ve tried to make this relatively flexible. Just bear in mind that it’s not exhaustive and you may want to skip certain places or choose to discover somewhere else entirely.

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Itinerary 1:

Day 1: Dublin

This is where you’ll most likely be arriving into, whether by boat or by plane. Depending on the amount of time you have, you can explore some of the free museums, or Phoenix Park (which doesn’t close, meaning you can go and visit later in the evening to save some time).

Day 2: Kilkenny

The journey here from Dublin is less than two hours by bus or train. This means you’ll have time to explore the medieval sights of the city, whether it’s the castle, cathedral or abbey! If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can always pop into the brewery.

Day 3: Waterford

Again, this Viking city is a short hop by bus or train from Kilkenny. You can either wander around and take in these sights for yourself, take a city tour, or visit one of the city’s museums. If you’re more of a sporty type, you can head out along the Waterford Greenway cycle route!

Day 4: Cork

The easiest way to get here from Waterford is by bus, as the train takes a long and complicated route. Once you’re here, you can head out on a local bus to Blarney to explore the castle and gardens. Or you can choose to stay in the city and ring the bells of Shandon at St. Anne’s Church, as well as visiting the Butter Museum, university campus and English Market.

Day 5: Galway

The bus journey from Cork to Galway takes a little longer, at around two and a half hours. But this will still allow you to explore some of the main sights, such as the Cathedral and Spanish Arch, as well as enjoying the local nightlife.

Day 6: Galway day trip

Galway is a good base for exploring some of the most scenic areas in Ireland. From here, you can take a day trip out to Connemara National Park, or to the Aran Islands. Those of you who have a car can always spend a night in Connemara if you want!

Day 7: Dublin

From Galway you can take a bus or train straight back to Dublin. Spend your afternoon exploring more of the free museums and galleries, wandering around the city centre parks, or heading out to Kilmainham Gaol.

If you’ve got a car, and enjoy the outdoors, you can easily do a day trip out to the Wicklow Mountains instead of spending a second day in Dublin (or skip a destination and go to Killarney national park instead). If you’d rather explore the big city more, you can even catch the bus or train from Cork straight back to Dublin. It’s all up to you!

Even though it’s a small island, for an Ireland itinerary, 14 days isn’t that long. Given that lack of public transport in some places makes things complicated, the guide below sets out separate routes for travelling with and without a car, giving you some alternatives if you want to alter your journey a bit.

Itinerary 2:

By public transport

(See section above)

Day 3:   Waterford

Day 5: Killarney

Take a day trip out through the National Park by bus, a boat trip around the lakes, or visit Ross Castle, which is just a short walk away!

Day 6: Killarney

Take a trip out to see the gorgeous Dingle peninsula, and maybe even go whale watching.

Day 7: Cork

Use your second day in Cork to explore some of the sights of the city, or head out to Blarney, whichever you missed the first-time round!

Day 8: Galway

Day 9: Galway day trip

Day 10: Dublin

(see section above)

Option 1: you can take the bus to Letterkenny, in County Donegal, basing yourself there for two or three nights. You can then take day trips out to places such as Errigal, Slieve League or the Inishowen Peninsula, before heading back to Dublin for another night before you get your flight.

Option 2: you can get the train or bus up to Belfast, stay there a night or two, then head up to the north coast for a night. After this you can head back to Belfast and then to Dublin (if you’re flying home from there).

Option 3: if you don’t want to go that far, you can simply go hiking in the Wicklow mountains, and take some extra time to explore Dublin’s many sights.

Day 1: Kilkenny

Head straight from the airport to this beautiful medieval town.

Day 2: Waterford

(See above)

Day 3: Cork

Use the drive from Cork to see some of the breathtaking Copper Coast, and maybe visit some scenic villages along the way.

Check in and then head off to explore the beautiful Dingle peninsula, stopping off at the beach if it’s a sunny day.

Take a trip around the Ring of Kerry road to see some stunning landscapes, or park up somewhere in the national park to do a hike. It’s also worth making a slight diversion to see the Gap of Dunloe.

Day 7: Galway

Head to Galway, perhaps stopping off at the famous “Cliffs of Moher” along the way. Use the rest of the day to explore the town and its sights!

You can use this day to see the Aran Islands, either driving or taking the bus to the ferry terminal.

Day 9: Connemara

Head out to Connemara and explore the unique mountains. You can take the Connemara Loop route (see below), go hiking, or even do some water sports on Killary Fjord.

Days 10-12:

Option 1: take the car up the West Coast, along the Wild Atlantic Way (see below) to Donegal. There you can visit the cliffs of Slieve League and nearby beaches, then head on up to the Derryveagh Mountains and Glenveagh National Park. You can spend the third day exploring more of Donegal or visit Derry, just over the border.

Option 2: take the car up to Belfast and then spend a couple of days exploring the north coast or go to Derry.

Option 3: head to the Wicklow mountains, and spend a couple of days hiking and exploring, before heading back to Dublin. You can even go back to the city a day earlier, if you want more of a chance to see all its sights properly.

Once you get back to Dublin, you can return your rental car and spend the next couple of days exploring the city.

Day 13: Dublin

Day 14: Dublin

Given its small size, it’s pretty easy to put together a Northern Ireland itinerary. However, if you’d like to visit the west of Northern Ireland as well, transport can be a bit of an issue. To help with this, I’ve put together one itinerary for those with a car, and one for those without a car.

Itinerary 3:

Without a car

Day 1: Belfast

Here you can spend the day exploring the free attractions around the University, including the museum and botanical gardens. Afterwards, why not go out to explore some of the pubs and coffee shops around the Cathedral Quarter? Here, you can find out what exhibitions and events are going on at the MAC or Black Box.

Day 2: north coast

In the morning, take the train to Coleraine. Then, take the train to Portrush, where you can go to the beach, go surfing, or just enjoy an ice cream by the sea. Alternatively, you can head to Bushmills, from where you can take the bus or walk to the Giant’s Causeway, and take a tour of the whiskey distillery.

Day 3: north coast

You can take the bus from either Portrush or Bushmills to Ballycastle, from where you can head off to see the wildlife of Rathlin Island. Another option is to go to Ballintoy harbour, which (as mentioned above) was a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Day 4: Derry

Take the bus from Bushmills or train from Portrush to Coleraine. From there, you can take the train to Derry. You can explore the city walls, cathedral, Guildhall and museums, and have a night out if you’re feeling like it.

Day 5: Belfast

On returning to Belfast you can visit the Titanic Experience museum, as well as taking a tour of the City Hall.

Day 6: head home or take a day trip to the Mournes.

From there, you can head home, or if you want to explore a bit more, take the bus down to Newcastle. You can even walk from the town to the peak of Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland’s highest mountain.

Day 1: north coast

Drive from the airport in Belfast up to a hostel in Bushmills or Portrush. On the way you can visit various scenic spots, some of which have been in the TV series “Game of Thrones”, such as the Dark Hedges and Ballintoy harbour. Later on, you can visit the Giant’s Causeway, and then, if you’re staying in Bushmills, make a stop at the legendary distillery. You can also take the beautifully scenic Antrim coast road (see below) – a scenic, but indirect route.

On your second day, you can visit the seaside town of Portrush, and go for a surfing lesson, or just enjoy a day by the sea. You can also get the ferry from Ballycastle to go and enjoy the wildlife there.

Day 3: Derry

Option 1: head back to Belfast for a couple of days, and see some of the things you missed.

Option 2: go and explore Donegal, just over the border before heading back.

Option 3: continue your Northern Ireland journey, by going to see the beautiful Lakelands of County Fermanagh. From there, you can head back east to Newcastle and the Mournes (see section above), before returning to Belfast.

When you take a car around Ireland, it’s not just a mode of transport. For many people, doing an Ireland road trip is a long-held dream. There are plenty of amazing roads through the breathtaking countryside, so we’ve included a short selection of some great routes that you can include in your itinerary:

Causeway Coastal Route – County Antrim and Derry

This route stretches all the way from Belfast, heading past castles, green forested valleys, little beaches and harbours, as well as Game of Thrones sights. The most scenic part of it is probably “the Antrim Coast Road” which was built in the 19 th century. It runs along a small stretch of ground beneath the foot of the cliffs and the sea, making it a beautiful drive.

Wild Atlantic Way

This 2,500 km signposted route covers the entire length of Ireland’s west coast, from just outside Derry all the way to Kinsale, outside Cork. The website Wild Atlantic Way lets you customise your journey, so you don’t have to tackle the whole thing in one trip:

Ring of Kerry

This road takes you right around Killarney National Park, taking in some of its most remarkable and beautiful sights, such as Moll’s Gap and Torc waterfall. Conveniently, it starts and finishes in the town of Killarney, where there are plenty of hostels.

Connemara Loop

Like the Ring of Kerry, this signposted circuit takes you around the beautiful mountains, lakes and fjords of the Connemara National Park.

(Bonus non-car route) Waterford Greenway

You don’t need to have a car to explore the Irish countryside at your leisure, and the Waterford Greenway is a great example of this. Built along a disused railway line, it cuts through beautiful landscapes on its way from Waterford city to the harbour town of Dungarvan.

When you’re backpacking around Ireland, you’ll notice that prices can vary widely from place to place. Restaurants, groceries and accommodation in bigger cities tend to cost a lot more than rural areas. Northern Ireland is also generally cheaper, especially when it comes to alcohol. So, if you’re going through Northern Ireland on your way to the Republic, and enjoy the occasional drink, it’s best to stock up on alcohol there and take it with you.

One saving grace is that the costs of travel are quite cheap – both with intercity buses and trains. However, if you’re travelling long distances by rail, it’s worth booking in advance to get a good deal. Also, there are plenty of free attractions. The countryside is full of gorgeous hiking routes, abandoned buildings, and castles and monasteries that are free to explore. In the cities, you can find green parks full of flowers, as well as museums, botanical gardens and scenic university campuses, many of which charge no entrance fee.

When it comes to food, it’s obviously best to stay out of the touristy areas. If you want something cheap, but don’t want to cook, there are supermarkets such as Dunnes and small shops such as Centra, where you can find salad bars full of rice, pasta and veggies, as well as fast food such as pizzas, cooked breakfasts and potato wedges!

Remembering the currency Ireland uses is pretty simple if you remember one thing: the Republic of Ireland uses the Euro, and because Northern Ireland is part of the UK, it uses British Pounds. Even though Northern Irish notes look different, you will still be able to spend English or Scottish notes there without any problems.

Budget for backpacking Ireland

When you’re backpacking around Ireland, travel costs per day can be difficult to estimate, depending on where you’re going, what and where you’re eating and where you’re staying. So, I’ve set out a rough guide to potential prices for each activity, at the lower and higher price ends:

Dublin has a reputation for being expensive, and once you get there, you’ll realise it’s not entirely undeserved. However, since it’s the capital, there are plenty of free attractions, which I’ve listed in the section “where to go in Ireland”, above. To help you out some more, I’ve set out some other tips for visiting Dublin on a budget below:

• Taxis in Dublin are extortionate – and can be about €18 for a 10-15 minute journey. It’s better to either walk or take advantage of the city’s many buses and trams. Another big cost is accommodation.
• Obviously, hostels are a great place to stay and meet other like-minded people, as well as for saving money, but prices skyrocket on Fridays and Saturdays, so it’s best to go during the week.
• Food and drink are obviously expensive in Dublin, especially in areas such as Temple Bar- meaning it’s often better to cook in or grab something ready-made from a supermarket.
• If you want to eat out, remember, the further you go out from the city centre, the less likely you’re going to get stung with high prices. If money’s a little tight, it’s perhaps best to enjoy one nice meal out, rather than going to a string of mediocre places and spending more money overall.

Duke of York Pub, Belfast 📸 : @kmitchhodge

Traditional Irish food is rich and hearty, perfect for a grey, rainy day. One great thing about food in Ireland is the quality produce: fish from the nearby sea, fresh local fruit and vegetables, cheese from local creameries and freshly baked sweet treats. The best places to look out for fresh local produce are at the markets. Both Belfast (St. George’s Market) and Cork (the English Market) have centuries-old marketplaces serving up fresh fish, fruit and veg and cooked food, alongside arts and crafts.

One of the great delights of Irish cuisine is the bread, specifically soda bread and wheaten (or brown soda, depending on where you’re from). White soda is soft, fluffy and dense, and in the North is often served fried as part of a cooked breakfast. This makes it beautifully crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside: an unhealthy, but vegetarian-friendly treat. There’s also brown soda, or wheaten, which is rich, crumbly and best served with a steaming hot bowl of vegetable soup.

It may be a stereotype – but traditionally, the Irish do eat a lot of potatoes. Many people, especially the older generation, are connoisseurs, knowing all the different varieties. There’s no better way to enjoy these beautiful carbs than in champ: a dish consisting of crunchy spring onions mixed into potatoes with rich butter and milk to make smooth, creamy side. Alternatively, there’s Colcannon, in which flavoursome curly green cabbage is mixed in instead.

When it comes to pub food, the Irish do it really well. Some meals are similar to what you can get in Britain, but with a bit of a twist. The classic example of this is the steak and Guinness pie, ideally with a crumbly buttery crust, the beer adding to the rich, meaty flavour. If this sounds appealing, head to The Pie Maker in Galway, where you can also find chicken and vegetarian pies baked with a delicious spelt-flour crust. If that’s not your thing, try a warming lamb stew, or the most simple Irish dish of all, bacon, potatoes and cabbage.

For Irish snacks, the best place to go is the bakery. Here you’ll find beautiful, soft scones in a variety of flavours, as well as huge array of traybakes. One such delight is Fifteens, which you’ll only be able to find in Northern Ireland. These are delicious, squidgy treats made from 15 cherries, 15 marshmallows, 15 biscuits mixed up with sweetened condensed milk.

Ireland also has soft drinks and crisps you won’t find anywhere else. People are fanatical about Tayto crisps, but there’s a big rivalry here, as the brands are different in the North and South. We’ll leave it up to you to decide which you prefer!

On St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll probably find the usual treats, such as candy floss and chips, being sold around the streets. However, there are no real St. Patrick’s Day food traditions: green beer and milkshakes are both American inventions. If you really want to go traditional, it’s probably best to go with a hearty stew or lamb roast. Up North though, at traditional fairs, there are some odd food traditions. Go to the Auld Lammas Fair in Ballycastle and you’ll find people snacking on “dulse”, a type of edible seaweed, and “yellow man” – a type of honeycomb that’s liable to break your teeth if you’re not careful!

Ireland is pretty renowned for its beer, and Guinness beer is one of its main exports. You can even do a tour of their brewery in Dublin! The pub culture is also very prominent particularly in cities like Dublin and Galway.

Until relatively recently, Ireland was a very rural country and one of the poorest in Europe. It has had a long and turbulent history, characterised by war, colonisation, famine, violent revolution and sectarian tension. However, it also has a long tradition of scholarship, poetry and music. Although it’s now a thoroughly modern country, Ireland’s culture has been shaped by its history. One thing that can’t be denied however, is the warmth and hospitality of its people, perhaps owing itself to the that fact that, in the past tight-knit communities had to rely on each other to get through hardship. Below, I’ll set out some Irish culture facts to help you get by, and hopefully give you a deeper appreciation for the things you’ll come across.

There are some isolated parts of Ireland, particularly in the west, where you can still see traces of the old, slow rural way of life. Many parts of the County Donegal, for example, still feel very cut off from the rest of the world.  Here you can find Doagh Famine Village and Glencolumbkille Folk Village: which both allow you to see the type of two-room white cottages where whole families used to live, scraping a meagre living off the barren land. You can also witness rural life first hand, by visiting the working farms at Muckross House in County Kerry, which still use age-old agricultural techniques. If you’re a dog lover, and want to get a taste of life in the Irish countryside, why not go to see some sheepdog demonstrations at “Away to Me”, which is part of a working farm in southern Donegal?

It is also mostly in the western counties that you’ll find Gaeltachta, areas in which the Irish language is spoken in an everyday context. These include the Aran Islands and Connemara in Galway, as large areas of Donegal and Kerry. Irish shouldn’t be confused with the local dialect of English however, since it’s from a completely different language family. The first time you’ll encounter it will probably be on road signs, all of which are bilingual. In places like Dublin, you’re unlikely to hear it, but go into a pub in certain rural areas in the west, and you’ll hear locals switching seamlessly between English and Irish. But don’t worry, even in Gaeltacht areas, almost everyone speaks English at a native level too. Still, there are summer Irish language courses available in Gaeltacht areas if you’re interested in learning more.

Traditional music is a big part of Irish culture, and typically involves instruments such as the fiddle (violin), tin whistle, flute, banjo, guitar and uillean pipes (a type of Irish bagpipes). The style includes songs that tell tales of lost loves, historical events, misfortune and celebration, coming from a time when stories were passed down through word of mouth. There’s also more instrumental music, which is often played at lively traditional dances called céilis. The music also can be performed in a more casual, informal environment. A group of musicians often gather round a pub table, sipping beer and playing songs together, something that’s known as a session (séisun). This creates a warm and friendly atmosphere, with people in the bar chatting to each other rather than sitting in silence.

Northern Irish culture is similar to the rest of Ireland, and you’ll find traditional music, quaint rural villages and friendly, hospitable people there too. However, the tension surrounding historical events feels much closer. From the late 60s to mid-90s there was conflict arising from tensions between those who identified as Irish and support a united Ireland, and those who identified as British. Today, these tensions have greatly lessened, with both sides, especially young people, freely mixing with one another. In reality, they share most aspects of their culture, yet close links with southwest Scotland have left their mark here. You may hear this in the way people speak, and encounter Scots-language poetry, bagpipe performances and highland dancing.

Another aspect of life in Ireland is Irish Traveller culture. They are a recognised ethnic minority group, making up around 0.5% of the Irish population. They mainly speak English, but also use “Shelta” or “Cant”, a language formed using aspects of both English and Irish. They are traditionally nomadic, setting up camp in “stopping places”. The Travelling Community played a key role in the Irish economy, providing seasonal labour in planting or harvesting crops, as well as trading in certain wares.

Ireland visa

Not only is the Republic of Ireland a member state of the EU, it’s also part of the so-called “common travel area”. This means that British citizens technically don’t need visas or passports to cross the border. However, airport officials will check the ID of visitors travelling by air from the UK . Travelling from the UK by sea doesn’t require any ID, but it’s still best to bring either your passport or driving licence in case you need to prove your nationality at some point.

Northern Ireland is even easier to visit when travelling from the UK, as you won’t have to go through any sort of passport control, with most airlines accepting UK driving licences as a form of ID (to be safe, check your airline’s website before travelling). If you’re a non-UK citizen, it’s best to bring either your passport or national identity card. Crossing the border between Northern Ireland into the Republic of Ireland is even easier, as there are no controls or checkpoints, meaning you won’t need any documents to do so.

Although both the UK (including Northern Ireland) and Republic of Ireland are currently Member States of the EU, they are not part of the “Schengen Zone”, which abolishes internal border controls. This means that you will be subject to passport control when travelling from another EU country. However, if you are an EU citizen, this will only consist of a quick glance at your ID, after which you’ll be waved through. You’ll then have the same rights to travel/stay as in any other Member State, allowing you stay for three months with no further conditions. If you want to stay for longer, you may need to get a job, apply to study, or prove you have sufficient means to support yourself, including health insurance.

Please bear in mind however that the rights and visa requirements applicable to EU citizens travelling to Northern Ireland, as well as the requirements for crossing the Irish/UK border, may change after the Brexit deadline on 31 October 2019.

Visitors to Ireland from outside the UK and EU may not need a visa either. For Australian, Canadian, US and New Zealand citizens, as well as nationals of the other countries listed here who are visiting Ireland, visa requirements are practically non-existent. Citizens of these countries are entitled to visa-free entry for up to 90 days in the Republic of Ireland.

In general, the visa requirements in Northern Ireland are the same as the rest of the UK. Visitors from certain countries, including Australia, New Zealand, the USA or Canada who are flying to Northern Ireland (or elsewhere in the UK) can enter the country and stay for up to 6 months without a visa.  However, they must bring the same documents as you would if applying for a visa. If you are travelling for tourism, this simply constitutes a travel document (i.e. a passport). If the travel document is not in English or Welsh, this must be translated into English. For any further document requirements that may need, please check this page . Also bear in mind however, that if you are already visiting the Republic of Ireland, you can visit Northern Ireland by crossing the border on land without having to go through any checks.

If you want to stay in the Republic of Ireland for a little longer, but are not an EU or UK citizen, there’s a chance you could apply for a working holiday scheme. These schemes are based on two-way agreements between Ireland and other countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA. There are specific requirements for each, and you can find the details under the following links:

New Zealand

There are similar schemes in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK for citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand (see more details here), but there is no UK working holiday scheme for US citizens.

So, to sum up, Ireland’s a great destination, with small, but lively cities, in addition to beautiful landscapes. There are plenty of places to go hiking, cycling, and when the weather’s nice, there aren’t many places with nicer beaches. It’s somewhere you can find complete isolation and serenity, or enjoy the atmosphere of a busy pub. It may not the warmest place in the world, but with all this to offer, don’t miss out on what is surely one of Europe’s most scenic, interesting and friendly destinations.

About the Author:

I’m David Irvine, and I’m originally from Northern Ireland. I’ve got a passion for languages, other cultures, and learning about local history. I’m currently based in Glasgow, Scotland, have previously lived and worked in Germany and in Portugal, and love nothing more than showing people around my favourite places, wherever I am. I’m a translator (of German, French and Portuguese), and love adapting travel writing for speakers of different languages. I’m also an occasional scribbler, passionate (geeky) fan of jazz music and amateur dramatics enthusiast. You can follow my travels (along with my partner, Iara) at @iaraanddavid_travel and find out more about my translating/blogging work on my  LinkedIn profile .

Special thanks goes out to my girlfriend, Iara Calton, for helping me research my trip, taking beautiful pictures and putting up with my scatter-brained nature. Thanks too to Allie Mairs and Philip Tallon for their company on the second leg of the journey, especially to Phil, for driving us around for miles!

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Hiking Ireland: Best Irish Hiking Trails

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The Emerald Isle, a beautiful blend of nature and culture, beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning landscapes and diverse natural beauty. Ireland’s varied terrain ranges from rugged coastlines to pristine beaches, lush green valleys, and rolling hills. Rich in history and adorned with ancient ruins and castles, for those that like hiking, Ireland offers an experience beyond the ordinary. The flora and fauna, coupled with the warm welcome of friendly locals, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil escape. Let’s dive into the best Irish trails!

Carrauntoohil, County Kerry

Reaching 3,407 feet, Carrauntoohil in County Kerry is Ireland’s highest mountain and part of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range. This sandstone range stretches 12 miles from the Gap of Dunloe in the east, to Glencar in the west, and contains most of Ireland’s sharpest and tallest mountains.  Should they brave the trek, Carrauntoohil provides the adventurous an opportunity to find views from unparalleled heights. 

The Devil’s Ladder Route, the most popular trail to the summit, clocks in at 7.3 miles and is considered challenging. This well-trodden path leads hikers between two glorious lakes, Lake Gouragh and Lake Callee, before entering steep gullies filled with loose scree. Popular and demanding, the reward is worth the push. At the summit, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the MacGillycuddy mountain range, pristine lakes, and lush Irish valleys. Look out for rare birds like the Green-winged Teal, Ring-billed Gulls, and Kumlien’s Gull.

If the Devil’s Ladder isn’t thrilling enough, the Coomloughra Horseshoe Loop hits three of Ireland’s tallest peaks: Beenkeragh, Carrauntoohil, and Caher in less than half a mile of additional trekking. This loop is a serious mountaineering route with exposed rocky sections, scrambling, and strong route-finding skills required. Proceed with caution, or go with a guide!  

The Wicklow Way

Known as Ireland’s best multi-day thru-hike, The Wicklow Way winds its path south from Dublin through the prized Wicklow mountains. Covering 82 miles, this 8-10 day experience is a dedicated hiker’s dream, and the crowning jewel of Irish thru-hikes. Established in 1980, it was the first such trail in Ireland and is part of a network of long-distance self-guided walking trails known colloquially as ‘way-marked ways.’ 

The trail combines easy accessibility with a wide variety of scenic experiences, including a section that goes through Dublin, allowing hikers to explore the cosmopolitan city. Highlights along the route include the Guinness Factory, the Book of Kells, St. Stephan’s Green, EPIC Museum, Glendalough Monastic Settlement, Powerscourt Estate, and Waterfall, offering a blend of historical, cultural, and natural wonders.

The Causeway Coast Way

For a coastal adventure, The Causeway Coast Way spans 32 miles, providing a 2-3 day thru-hike from Port Stewart to Ballycastle on the northeasternmost tip of Ireland. With a moderate difficulty level, this low-lying coastal walk is a section of the Ulster Way trail. Passing through some of the biggest tourist attractions in Northern Ireland, including the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, and the Bushmills Distillery, this trail offers a wide range of terrain and experiences. 

From rugged cliff sections to sandy beach walks, promenade strolls, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Hikers can enjoy one of the best Irish trails with straightforward navigation while spotting seabirds and marine life alike. An easy addition to any list of the best Irish trails.

Croaghaun Cliffs, County Mayo

The Croaghaun Cliffs in County Mayo boast the highest sea cliffs in Ireland, towering three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher, and reaching 2,257 feet in height. The out-and-back trail to the summit is a rigorous 5.8 miles, with 2,929 feet of elevation gain. A challenging, yet popular trek, it begins in Keem Bay and ends at Croaghaun Cliffs. 

As with most hiking in Ireland, it is recommended hikers possess strong navigation and route-finding skills for this adventure as trails can be difficult to find and trail markers few and far between. Once summited, this unique location offers sweeping views of Keem Bay and dramatic cliffs surrounding it, as well as a peaceful sense of isolation in this wild and remote area of Ireland. Visitors are rewarded with a deep connection to nature in an unspoiled, secluded nature experience.

Croagh Patrick Pilgrim Trail

For a spiritual journey, the Croagh Patrick Pilgrim Trail covers 4.4 miles out and back with a 2,437-foot elevation gain. Widely considered Ireland’s holiest mountain, Croag Patrick is the fourth-highest peak in the country. The rocky and muddy terrain along the gentle ascent is complemented by spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, and a beautiful coastal landscape. 

Look out from the summit to the azure waters of Clew Bay and its 365 islands.Some say this is the best panoramic view in the country. Legend has it that Saint Patrick spent forty days fasting at the summit in 441 AD, making it the site of an old pilgrim route attracting thousands of visitors each year on the last Sunday of July, Reek Sunday. 

Mount Errigal, County Donegal

Situated in Northern Ireland, Mount Errigal is a visually striking mountain offering a 3.4-mile out-and-back trail with 1,657 feet of elevation gain. The tallest peak of the Derryveagh Mountains, Errigal’s distinctive quartzite peak rises above the surrounding landscape. The challenging hikes provide spectacular sunrise or sunset views, a 360 degree panorama, and a perfect vantagepoint to view the Derryveagh Mountains, Poisoned Glen, the Atlantic coastline, and even the neighboring countries on clear days. 

The trail includes a walk along One Man’s Pass, a tight, narrow passage to a nearby peak, offering a unique and magical experience. The rewards extend to associated mythical tales, steeped in history and local lore, making it one of Ireland’s best hiking trails.

Torc Waterfall Loop, Killarney National Park

In the heart of Killarney National Park, the Torc Waterfall Loop offers a 5.5-mile circuit with a moderate difficulty level and 1,184 feet of elevation gain. This highly-trafficked trail takes hikers to one of the best waterfalls in Ireland, the Torc Waterfall. Surrounded by picturesque cascades, lush flora, moss-covered rocks, and amazing views of the National Park, visitors will feel they have entered a fantasy movie set. 

The diverse trail showcases woodland and open landscapes, lush vegetation, indigenous Irish trees like Oak, Beech, and Holly, and plentiful opportunities to spot wildlife like red deer, Eurasian jays, Robins, and various songbirds. There are many myths surrounding the names of the waterfall, as Torc means boar in Irish. Some say a man was cursed and turned into a boar every night, and when his secret was revealed, he disappeared into the Devil’s Punchbowl lake that flows over Torc Falls.  

Guided Ireland Hiking TOUR

Tips for Hiking Ireland

As with most outdoor activities in Ireland, it is wise to carry a waterproof jacket, rainpants, and an umbrella. The dynamic weather patterns can be hard to navigate and it’s common to experience brilliant sunshine quickly followed by deluging rains. Stay prepared by packing waterproof clothing, warm layers, and sturdy hiking shoes. 

The trails can become dangerous and slippery during heavy rain, and are challenging to navigate during extra cloudy and misty mornings. Always do the research ahead of time to ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience. Or join our guided Ireland hiking trip and hike the best Irish trails while also enjoying quaint accommodations, local cuisine, and convenient transportation.

About Shelby Lynn

Shelby is a whimsical writer, and wanderer. Her curiosity constantly introduces her to new and inspiring escapades. Her passion for rock climbing fields adventures near and far. And rarely is she without a small library in tow. She currently resides in Salt Lake City but will forever call the Pacific Northwest home.

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A Complete Guide to Backpacking in Ireland

How to save and hike in Ireland

Backpacking through  Ireland  can be a rewarding experience for anyone who wants to see the great outdoors while also exploring on a budget. Several way-marked routes are available for long-distance hikes and there are always shorter hikes and hill walks available across the country.

Planning the ultimate backpacking trip in Ireland depends on budget, priorities in terms of time on the trails versus sightseeing in major areas, timing, and gear. Here is how to be prepared for just about anything, and tips for saving some cash, while traversing across the Emerald Isle.

Backpacking in Ireland can be a great way to see the remote corners of the Emerald Isle on a pretty low budget. There are usually no fees for the actual hikes so you do not need any expensive permits to access the trails. If you already own all the appropriate gear, then the only thing if a plane ticket and a plan.

That being said, there are two major budget considerations are more dependent on where you chose to stay (camping, hostels, B&B or hotels), and how you plan to get around when you are off the trail. Plan to pay a base of €25/night for the most basic campsite or hostel, and then around €20 for private buses between major cities.

Eating out in Ireland does not have to be expensive, but a basic pub meal will set you back around €10 and pints start around €4.50. Of course, there is also plenty of Irish fast food if you are on a serious budget. If you plan to camp, supermarkets are plentiful in cities and towns.

Where to Stay and How to Get Around

Your preferred sites will lead you to where to stay while backpacking through Ireland.

Irish Caravan & Camping Council lists 150 caravan and campsites to use in Ireland. If you know your itinerary, you can book the dates ahead of time to ensure a spot at coveted sites. To find similar information for Northern Ireland, try Go Camping NI.

Most larger towns clean, if not always modern, hostels. For a cheap place to stay with a homecooked meal include, family-run B&Bs are very popular throughout Ireland. The best way to decide where to stay is to plan your routes first, then pick stops along the way. For example, it is not always possible to stay inside parks, so if you plan your hike, you can then find the village closest to where you will exit for the day.

Stay in Dublin for a day or two to see the main sites, then head to hike in the Wicklow Mountains . The Cliffs of Moher in the west of Ireland also have fantastic coastal hikes, and are the gateway to discovering the rugged and beautiful backcountry. Connemara is known for its untouched landscapes, and there is nothing like the rolling green hills of Kerry. To the north, the Giant’s Causeway is a backpacking must. For a great outdoor time, also plan to spend a few days exploring the Mourne Mountains .

Renting a car and driving gives you the most flexibility if you want to see some smaller trailers and more distant corners of the island. However, you do not need a car for any of the cities and parking will be more hassle then it is worth.

Bus Éireann is the main intercity option for buses and tends to be more popular than trains. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time because certain routes can be sporadic. In major cities like Dublin and Belfast, public city buses are a great option. In rural areas, strangers may offer to give you a lift in their cars. Use basic safety knowledge and good sense before hitchhiking.

Private walking tour companies can organize to transport you and your gear between trail stops for the most comfortable way to backpack.

The best time to backpack in Ireland is in spring and summer, ideally between April and mid-September. These are the months when Ireland's weather is warmer (though unlikely to go above 75F) and usually less rainy than fall and winter. The only drawback is dealing with larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation and plane tickets.

Autumn and winter are options but are much less recommended if you want to spend much time outside. National Parks also often adopt shorter winter hours or close their visitor’s center outside of peak summertime periods. The days are also considerably shorter, leaving less time for walking in the sun (if it happens to make an appearance). Many campsites and country hotels also close during the winter season.

Packing the right clothes is a key part of comfortably backpacking in Ireland. If you plan to really hit the trails, good hiking footwear is the most fundamental piece of gear to pack. You want your shoes to be sturdy and waterproof. A pair of running shoes is really not going to cut it if you plan to do real hillwalking.

Always check the weather before you set out and build some flexibility into your schedule to be able to reroute in case of storms. That being said, rain is possible at any time of year in Ireland so a waterproof outer layer is necessary – plus a cover for your backpack, if possible. It is a good idea to pack a spare set of clothes if you plan to be out for the day when there is a wet forecast in store.

Pack a small flashlight if you will be backpacking longer distances. There can be very little ambient light when you are outside of towns so the flashlight will be a lifesaver if you get caught outside after twilight.

Climbing Irish mountains is not as intense as scaling Everest, so you can leave most free climbing gear behind. However, the walks can be challenging and walking sticks can keep you keep your footing in slick or muddy conditions.

In many cases, you will have to walk along some quiet Irish roads for at least part of your journey. Most walkers in Ireland carry a high visibility vest and don the bright yellow safety gear if they are along the shoulder. Roads are curvy and narrow so it is always better to be seen. And remember – drivers will be on the left.

Most trails are well marked, but if you are doing some serious backpacking then you will still want to bring a map and compass. A good hiking guide is also the best way to determine detailed routes based on difficulty levels.

Be sure to pack your cell phone, too. Coverage can get spotty in rural areas and inside some national parks, so be sure someone knows where you will be and when you plan to be back in case you run into trouble.

Finally, bring a tent and sleeping bag if you are going to camp, but leave it behind if you want to stay in hostels – they simply aren’t allowed.

Money-Saving Tips

One of the highest costs to factor into your budget is transportation between trails. If you plan to take the train, look out for mid-week deals or book your tickets in advance from Irish Rail. Same day tickets tend to be more expensive.

Wild camping in Ireland would be the cheapest way to stay overnight and while it is not technically banned, it is also not so easy to do legally. To pitch your tent outside of a campground, you need to the permission of the owner – be that the local council or the farmer. Be ready to seek out the landowner and maybe even bring a small token of appreciation if you are being granted permission to stay on private land. Even if you have to spring for a campsite, they can start as low as €25 a night if you have your own tent.

For the best B&B and hotel deals, stay outside of major Irish towns and cities. Smaller villages offer a quaint appeal and better prices. If you do plan to stay in a city center, try to avoid booking your trips around major events like the Galway Races, which cause accommodation prices to skyrocket.

If you are still in college, be sure to pack your student ID. Students are entitled to discounts on a range of things in Ireland, including tickets to many main attractions as well as public transportation passes.

Shop at the market if you plan to cook for yourself as a way to save on your food budget. Aldi and Lidl are two low-cost supermarkets that are found throughout Ireland.

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Backpacking Ireland

Looking for important travel information while backpacking in Ireland? Here you will find information on working in Ireland, entry visas, Ireland hostels , and much more.

Table of Contents

Facts About Ireland

Things to do in ireland, entry visa requirements for ireland.

• Work Permits and Backpacker Jobs in Ireland
• Ireland Hostels & Budget Accommodation 

Ireland is a popular tourist destination due to its relaxed culture, historic traditions, and of course, its love of Guinness. American travellers particularly fall in love with the people of Ireland and their charming and unique accent.

In light of the divergent modern histories of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, making generalisations about Irish culture is tricky. However, although there are still occasional outbreaks of violence in Northern Ireland most of these are between organised criminal groups and centred in very specific areas of Belfast. Indeed, visitors to Northern Ireland will be surprised at the reality of the country, with Belfast still a perfectly safe city for people to explore.

• Currency: Euro
• Time Zone: GMT
• Language: English
• Telephone Services: Country code +353, International Access number 16
• Emergency Numbers: 112 for all services

Climate in Ireland

The climate in Ireland is very similar to that of mainland Britain, you can expect a reasonable amount of rain all seasons round and none of the seasons are particularly extreme.

Dublin is the capital city and thriving hub of the Republic of Ireland, famed for its welcoming nature and extremely popular with tourists historically. As well as the obligatory Guinness dispensing pubs filled with traditional live music, Dublin has a thoroughly refined cultural side, with attractions such as the Dublin Writers Museum, the James Joyce Museum and the Shaw Birthplace.

The Republic of Ireland is also packed with architectural wonders. Located just outside Dublin is Malahide Castle, a beautifully restored castle dating from 1185. With over 250 acres of adjoining parklands and the nearby Fry Model Railway, there is plenty to keep you occupied for a day.

Aran Islands

Other highlights include a ferry hop over to the Aran Islands which gives you a taste of what Ireland must have been like before the general population migration to big cities. Finally, no trip could be complete without an expedition to Blarney Castle, home of the famous Blarney Stone which is said to give the ‘gift of the gab’ to all who kiss it. The Castle itself is a fabulous stop-off for those visitors taking in Cork or Killarney.

Unique Activities in Ireland

Since popular places in Ireland can get crowded during tourist season, it is wise to reserve tickets and activities ahead of time. GetYourGuide sells entrance tickets to museums and landmarks at face value so you can avoid the lines and save that precious time for more exploring.

Viator is another popular travel website that helps you book things to do in Ireland. They work directly with local tour operators in Ireland, so you won’t have to scour the internet or roam around town trying to find the best deal.

If you know your schedule ahead of time, a great insider tip is to buy tickets for major tourist attractions ahead of time. Tiqets has entrance tickets and skip-the-line passes for major attractions in Ireland which can be a worthwhile cost for mega attractions during peak tourist season.

How to Find Cheap Flights to Ireland

If you’re flying to Ireland or plan to take short flights within the country, we recommend using a few different flight comparison search engines. Kiwi is a new favourite among travellers. On average, we have found the cheapest flights to Ireland with them compared to the other websites out there.

Of course, it is always worth checking Skyscanner to guarantee you’re getting the best deal. Both websites offer great flexible search options, allowing you to search the whole country of Ireland to find the cheapest airport to fly into, and also see prices for a full month if you’re flexible on travel dates.

Another way to travel to Ireland on a budget would be to take a ferry. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Ireland is divided from England in the east by the Irish Sea and St. George’s Channel. It is through this route, with ferry tickets to Ireland in hand, that tourists often arrive in Dublin.

How to Travel Around Ireland on a Budget

Train and long-distance bus are the standard modes of transport for how to get around Ireland . Buses are the more economical option, nevertheless, they are well-equipped with the usual modern conveniences that expect when travelling in Europe. Train travel, on the other hand, is the fastest way between two cities in Ireland , and the train stations are conveniently located right in the center of town.

Certain routes are better suited to one mode of transport than the other. To compare your options for journeys from A to B, you can try Omio . They compare trains, buses (and even flights) so you can decide for yourself the tradeoff between cost and travel time.

Train travel in Ireland

Rail services operate between Ireland’s major towns, with Dublin acting as a hub for most routes. A Britrail pass covers the UK as well so it is quite economical. However, if you want to get off the beaten track a little, buses cover a larger area and, although quite expensive, the standard of service is generally good.

Driving in Ireland

By far the best way to travel, however, is by rented car. It gives you flexibility and the ability to enjoy going off the typical highways to experience undiscovered Ireland. If you decide you want to rent a car, you can use DiscoverCars to compare offers from the major car rental agencies in the region.

Backpacking Tours in Ireland

Though part of the fun of backpacking Ireland is exploring on your own, there are situations, especially when venturing off the tourist trail, when it does make sense to go with a guide or a small group. 

The most popular option for a social travel experience is Contiki tours. Contiki trips offer more than just transportation, they are organized social group travel for travelers aged 18-35. Whether you’re traveling by yourself or going with a group of friends, Contiki tours are perfect for people looking to have a blast, meet new friends, and form lifelong memories. They offer tours that travel primarily in Ireland or longer tours that cover other nearby places.

G Adventures is another great option for organized travel, but with a smaller group. It’s a great choice for anyone backpacking Ireland alone who would like to meet up with like-minded travellers. It’s also a practical option for exploring places where you need an experienced guide, like a long hiking adventure or visiting a place well off the beaten path. You can choose from different styles of small group tours like active, wellness, hiking trips, 18-30somethings, and more.

Health and Safety in Ireland

The health service in Ireland is very good, with modern equipment and highly skilled staff. Provided you have travel insurance , you will be sure to get a very high standard of care. All food and drinking water should be considered safe and there are no special health precautions that you should take beyond that which you take at home.

As with travel to all other countries abroad, it is vital that you get travel insurance before you leave. Even for short trips, our go-to travel insurance provider is World Nomads , which is also recommended by Lonely Planet, HostelWorld , and other major travel companies.

EU nationals do not require a passport as long as they carry an ID card (a driver’s licence will suffice for Brits). EU nationals also do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. Visas for longer stays are normally granted to EU or US citizens without too much bother; you can contact the Irish Embassy for details.

Visa requirements for Ireland can vary widely depending on your country of origin and can change over time. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, be sure to check the latest visa requirements while you’re still planning your trip.

Foreigner Work Permits and Backpacker Jobs in Ireland

Working in Ireland during your gap year or time abroad has many advantages: cheap travel from the UK, familiarity with the language, and no need for a work permit if you are an EU national. Since language should be no barrier for those from the UK, going from place to place enquiring about casual work, in bars, restaurants and the like, as well as consulting local job papers, notice boards, and writing to hotels and bars could land you some temporary employment.

Au pair in Ireland

Most au pairs in Ireland, as well as the UK, are Europeans who usually want to improve their English. Popular areas to find au pair work are in places such as Dublin and Cork. Au pairs receive around €50 (approx. €35) a week for working up to 35 hours. Inter-S jours is an au pair recruitment agency and places men and women in six to 18-month au pair positions.

Seasonal work in Ireland

Try Dublin, Cork, and Kerry as well as other large tourist-populated areas for work in pubs, bars, restaurants, and hotels. Some hotel jobs can pay up to €230 (approx. €160) per week and accommodation is sometimes provided. Jobs at activity centres are also worth investigating, for example, the Blessington Adventure Centre, which specialises in water sports activities, the Atlantic Adventure Centre in Lecanvey, and Neptune Adventure in Baltray, to name but a few. There is no guarantee of finding a job at any of these places but it is always worth contacting them to find out. See the Irish Tourist Board website for more details of tourist areas with possible job opportunities.

Internships in Ireland

Dublin Internships is a company that organises ten to fifteen-week internships for students. Internships give you a chance to experience a job that might set you up for a future career, and will always look good on a CV.

Visit the Dublin Internships website to find out more information and to apply for an internship position. Applications should be made three months before you want to start an internship. 15-week programmes begin either at the beginning of the autumn or spring semester, and 10-week internships take place during the summer.

Volunteering in Ireland

If you are intending to stay in Ireland for a whole year, want something to last for the entire duration, and earning money is not your first priority, there are many opportunities for volunteer programmes. Camphill Communities runs projects across the world in communities for adults with special needs. Work includes assisting a few residents on a day-to-day basis, and accommodation is provided for volunteers who are asked to work for at least one year.

Careforce also runs one year projects for volunteers who work as Christian volunteers and again provide accommodation, food, and pocket money. If you are more interested in environmental projects, Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland (CVNI) require volunteers for at least six months at a time, to help with conservation work such as tree-planting, and general management of the environment. Accommodation is sometimes, but not always, provided by CVNI.

Agriculture and Farming jobs in Ireland

If outdoor type of work appeals to you, WWOOF is a voluntary organisation that provides work on organic farms and includes board and accommodation for a membership of €10 per year, check their website for more information.

Ireland Hostels & Budget Accommodation

All types of accommodation are on offer, from youth hostels and B&B’s right up to high-class hotels. The best value for money are the small family run B&B’s which offer a much better standard of accommodation than youth hostels for a negligible extra charge. You will be able to find literally hundreds of B&B’s and hostels online which will accept reservations.

We have had good experiences finding hostels in Ireland on HostelWorld . They have the largest inventory of hostels worldwide, and with over 10 million reviews and ratings from other travellers, you know exactly what to expect.

Another good way to find accommodation in Ireland is by checking booking.com . You’ll find hotels, homestays, hostels, and other unique accommodations. They have the most reviews and advanced filtering of any accommodation-booking site, so you’ll be sure to find a great place in your budget. Many of the places on booking.com also offer free cancellation, which takes the pressure off the planning phase of your trip to Ireland.

If you are backpacking with another travel companion, we highly recommend booking a rental via VRBO . With a vacation rental in Ireland, you’ll have more space, your own kitchen, and you’ll get a better feel for how the locals live. Plus, the cost of a vacation rental can be split among your group, oftentimes making it cheaper than doing individual hotel rooms. 

If you’re looking to save even more money while backpacking in Ireland, there are plenty of creative ways to get free accommodation in exchange for work . For example, one of our favorite ways to stay in amazing locations for free is by signing up as a petsitter with Trusted Housesitters . The site connects responsible animal lovers with petsitting opportunities in Ireland and all over the world. It’s a win-win for both sides – travellers can stay in amazing locations for free, and homeowners can rest easy knowing that someone is watching over their place.

And lastly, CouchSurfing is a great community that connects travellers with local hosts in Ireland. You can stay for free with verified hosts, who will usually take some time to show you around the local spots.

Useful Links for Backpacking in Ireland

• Eurail – Rail Passes for travellers who plan on doing lots of train travel in a short period of time. Single-Country passes for Ireland as well as Multi-Country passes available
• Omio – Train, bus, and flight search for Ireland and all of Europe. Offers online booking and mobile tickets
• DiscoverCars – The world’s leading rental car search engines to rent a car in Ireland 
• Kiwi and Skyscanner – Flight comparison search engines to find the cheapest flights to Ireland and within the country
• GetYourGuide and Viator – a collection of local tours and activities in Ireland . Also offers Skip the Line tickets for crowded attractions
• Tiqets – Website selling entrance tickets and skip the line tickets for major tourist attractions in Ireland
• GAdventures – guided small group tours in Ireland , great for solo travellers or for those interested in a more adventurous trip which would require a guide
• HostelWorld – #1 hostel search website to find accommodation while backpacking Ireland. Thousands of hostels and millions of reviews from fellow travellers
• Booking.com – commonly used booking site for accommodation in Ireland . Find hostels, hotels, and other unique accommodation in Ireland with advanced filtering and millions of reviews
• World Nomads Travel Insurance – Comprehensive travel insurance for long and short trips when backpacking Ireland

There you have it, the ultimate Ireland backpacking guide. We hope you have found all the information you need for  backpacking around Ireland .

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TRAVEL AND CORONAVIRUS – UPDATE FOR JOYCE’S IRELAND GUESTS

Joyce’s Ireland Hiking Tours of Ireland 30 year anniversary 1994-2024 | Guided Hiking Vacations Ireland / England / Wales / Scotland/ France | Walking Tours Ireland

Welcome to Joyce’s Ireland Guided Hiking Tours and Walking Vacations in Ireland / England / Scotland / Wales/ France. Our fully escorted hiking tours are run by experienced, professional guides. We travel in groups of four to twelve people.

We escort you on hikes through Ireland’s most scenic trails , walking through undiscovered Irish routes lined with uninterrupted views. If you want to hike through Connemara, the Dingle Way, the Antrim Coast, or take a ferry over to the Islands, sit back, relax and let Joyce’s Ireland take care of your Irish hiking vacation .

Walks are suitable for hikers wanting to travel at a steady pace with time to sit and look around, whilst soaking up the atmosphere, taking pictures, and listening to Irish folklore. All hikes are graded as easy to moderate .  Sign up now for your hiking tour in Ireland.

• Dates and prices for 2024/2025 » Book Your Vacation » Frequently Asked Questions » Testimonials To Joyce's Tours »

Why Take a Guided Hiking Tour?

Perhaps map reading is not your thing? In that case, a guided tour is a better idea for your hiking vacation in Ireland. In Ireland there is a distinct lack of “rights of way” and marked trails. Joyce’s Ireland guides will ensure you never end up taking the wrong path or trespassing on private land. And if you’re not too keen on driving a car on the wrong side of a narrow, one-lane road, lined with dry stone walls, then leave the driving to us! These are more than just hiking tours and guided walks, but we will also delight you with some of the less visited Irish historic and cultural sites. Our vehicles are suitable to take the roads less travelled and enable access to the remotest areas of splendid and secluded Irish landscape. This really is the “Hidden Ireland”.

Personal attention and quality service

Joyce’s Ireland is a small company so we are therefore able to offer you personal attention and a quality service. All this combined with many years of experience guiding groups all around Ireland.

Clients often return for a second or third time, or more. We stay in a selection of quality, comfortable accommodation approved by the high standards of the Irish Tourist Board. Rooms are en suite with private bath and/or shower. We travel on a comfortable minivan, so we have flexibility in our choices of hiking routes. Tours are suitable for walkers and hikers of all abilities and all age groups. If you like the idea of hiking in the Irish wilderness, sand dunes, native forest, rugged hills, heather covered moors, quiet river valleys, empty beaches, and ancient tracks, followed by a gourmet meal in good company with a comfortable, warm, well-equipped private room at the end of the day, Joyce’s Ireland awaits you…

Where Else Do We Go?  Scotland, Wales, England, France

Joyce’s Ireland also offers guided hiking tours on the South Coast of Wales , visiting Chepstow, the Brecon Beacons, the Gower Peninsula, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. We can also take you on a guided hiking vacation of South West England including Cornwall, Devon, Exmoor, Dartmoor, The Mendip Hills, and the Cotswolds. In 2019 we ran our first hiking tour in the Lake District of North West England.  We have a fantastic hiking tour in the Highlands of Scotland visiting the West Highland Way, the Isle of Skye and the Hebrides.  New from 2019 is our fantastic hiking tour in England’s Lake District .  And finally our lovely hiking tour in Provence , France, a wine and walking holiday in the Rhone valley with hikes through the beautiful countryside followed by visits to wineries.  

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Hiking through the emerald isle: the best backpacking destinations.

When thinking about where to camp this summer, look no further than the beautiful Emerald Isle. Ireland is surrounded by rugged coastlines, ruined forts and endless countryside – making it the perfect place to pitch up for your adventure holiday. With an array of camping and hiking spots putting tourists in the heart of nature, Ireland guarantees a trip to remember.

In today’s post, the adventure holiday specialists from Wilderness Ireland will guide you through the best backpacking destinations in Ireland – making sure you’re in the know before you plan your next trip.

Wicklow Mountains

Spanning the entire distance of Wicklow on the east coast, the Wicklow Mountains National Park is covered in natural heath – and with mountain roads leading to tiny streams, you’re guaranteed breathtaking views. The deep and enigmatic lakes in the valleys are something to be admired – and you’re free to camp with no fee in most of the valleys.

Beara Peninsula

The Beara Peninsula (main image) is a beautiful and remote place – and with narrow roads and little tourism, it’s a picture perfect destination on the southwest coast of Ireland. It features the biggest white fishing port in Ireland, meaning fish is guaranteed to be on the menu wherever you eat. Visit one of the many local pubs before following on a self-guided walking route, such as Beara Way.

The Burren National Park is 4000 acres of hazel scrub, ashy woodland and limestone pavements – and with deep lakes and steaming springs, it’s a positively postcard-worthy spot. In Ireland’s smallest national park, you’ll find pure tranquility – with multiple nature reserves to explore. Pack a picnic and take note of all the wild animals you spot.

Letterfrack

Letterfrack is a small but lively village, offering a perfect place for backpackers to explore and relax. Right by the sea, it’s overlooked by the majestic Diamond Mountain and Connemara National Park, which you’re free to explore. Letterfrack epitomises the Irish way of life, and is famous for being the best destination anywhere in Ireland when it comes to finding traditional Irish folk music.

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are a short 45-minute ferry ride from Galway, consisting of three smaller limestone islands situated on the west coast of Ireland. The islands are home to just 1200 inhabitants – the majority of whom speak Irish Gaelic – and host an annual Red Bull Cliff Diving Festival for backpackers with an unquenchable thirst for adventure.

So there you have it: just five of Ireland’s most glorious highlights, brought to you by the adventure holiday experts at Wilderness Ireland .

Do you have any hiking or backpacking destinations you can recommend?

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Hiking Tours of Ireland

• Explore the historic charm and Irish ‘craic’ of Dublin City
• Hike the Dingle Way, Nat Geo claimed 'Most Beautiful Place on Earth'
• Explore ruined castles and standing stones on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Coast
• Trek over green pastures, sheep fields and valleys on the Wicklow Way
• Pubs, Irish music, pints of Guinness and fresh seafood all in abundance
• Explore County Kerry’s ancient stone-walled trails and highest Irish peaks

Ireland exudes beauty and spirit inside and out. With its rolling green pastures, this ‘Emerald Isle’ features dramatic cliffs topped with wild coastal paths, and a countryside dotted with Celtic influence and ancient footpaths lined with stone walls. Steeped in history, the friendly and fun essence of the Irish people is found at every bend in the road, and at every corner of the villages there is a pub serving a pint of ‘The Black Stuff’ – Guinness.

Our first-hand knowledge of Ireland's best kept secrets has allowed countless Macs customers to enjoy their self-guided hiking adventures and truly take in every corner of the country.

You can choose to discover rugged coastlines, golden beaches, and colorful Gaeltacht villages whilst hiking the Dingle Way , or hike amongst Ireland's highest peaks on the Kerry Way . South of Dublin on the east coast, the well-known Wicklow Way can give you an excellent experience on ancient trails and remote valleys. For lesser-traveled coastal paths with simply stunning views, we highly recommend the Wild West Coast of Ireland .

At Macs, we pride ourselves in our unique expertize that are unmatched in the US market. Showcasing a selection spanning across the entirety of Ireland, you have free range to choose a hiking adventure rooted in Irish spirit that is suitable for your individual preferences.

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Discover ireland.

Our first-hand knowledge of Ireland's best kept secrets has allowed countless Macs Adventure customers to confidently explore every corner of the country. We've been running our self guided hiking trips in Ireland since 2006, and have dialed in the perfect itineraries for culture, food and drink, and scenery.

Choice of Tours: Ireland is now one of our most popular destinations for US customers, with hundreds of hikers traveling with Macs Adventure to Ireland each year. Whether you're interested in impressive coastal trails with castle ruins and ancient stones such as those on the Dingle Way , or the best live-music pub in town, rest assured we've planned it right for you.

Self-guided: We provide the freedom for you to choose your route and travel companions, and to discover Ireland independently at your own pace. We've made great friends with the accommodation providers and baggage handlers and should you have the slightest issue, they'll do everything possible to help you out. Additionally, our 24/7 support team is just a phone call away.

Accommodation: Our accommodation is carefully selected to ensure you have a good level of comfort alongside friendly Irish service. We find the best B&BS and guesthouses, or more up market In Style hotels, in the villages and towns that our routes pass through. You'll find that it’s the people and the proprietors that make these tours and Ireland so special. All of your luggage is transported to the next overnight – hassle free hiking the way you want it.

We pride ourselves on our unique expertize and we showcase a fine selection of tours spanning across the entirety of Ireland. The beauty of this Emerald Isle and the Irish spirit is embedded in all our hiking in Ireland vacations.

Irish pubs are famous throughout the world, and most major cities now have an Irish pub/bar. However, an authentic Irish pub is not full of people with green hats with shamrocks dangling from them!

Who goes to the pub: In the late 17th century, the ‘Public House’ was a place for working men to drink. It's now a hub for the local community and everyone, including children are welcome. It’s common for an Irish family to take a baby baptism party for a drink at the pub after church. The Irish love getting together and having a chat over an informal pint.

The ‘Craic’: Pronounced ‘crack’, this very Irish saying translates to ‘What’s been going on with you, tell me a story about your day’. You go to the pub to hear the craic.

Buying rounds: The landlord of the pub is also normally a friend and will know all the locals. You order at the bar, and no tip is expected. If you’re with a group, you’ll take turns in buying drinks for the table. But you can’t leave before it’s your round!

Guinness: A pint of The Black Stuff. It’s unlikely that you’ll find an Irish pub which doesn’t sell Guinness. First brewed in Dublin in 1759 and is now brewed worldwide – however naturally it always tastes better in it’s homeland! 

The music: Small groups of local musicians will often play in the pub. It’s a casual affair with the musicians sitting in the corner drinking pints whilst playing. Impromptu music with a singsong and the tin whistle is less common, but this is the magic of small-town pubs when friends get together.

Food: A few pubs will serve food, but not all. However, you’ll aways be able to get a small pack of salty peanuts and a bag of ‘crisps’…don’t ask for chips as might end up with a portion of fries!

Sláinte: Cheers

Potato was the staple food of the Irish in the mid 1800’s. The plant disease ‘potato blight’ caused the crops to fail in successive years from 1845-1849. The British rule still forced wheat, cattle, diary and beans to be exported and as a result over 2 million people died of hunger or emigrated from Ireland.

The emigration to the USA was at its peak during this period, and the Irish comprised nearly half of all immigrants in the USA in the 1840s. This flow continued till about 1930. The population of Ireland pre-Famine was over 8 million, and it’s never regained these numbers, with it currently being around 5 million.

When thinking about the Dingle Way , a spectacular coast, rugged mountains, and ancient ruins come to mind. But that's not all the peninsula has to offer! The area has a rich cultural heritage; an ancient language, welcoming residents, longstanding traditions, and outstanding food. The Dingle Peninsula is more than an attraction, it is more than a visit, it is a destination. Residents and members of Dingle Peninsula Tourism Alliance have recognized their responsibility to keep the area protected, to allow future generations to enjoy it as much as we do today.

Here are some simple ways to contribute during your visit!

• Say “NO” to plastic – a great way of doing this is limiting the use of straws, plastic drinking bottles, plastic coffee cups and plastic bags.
• Leave no trace – carry your personal waste such as wrappers from snacks and other items and avoid littering along the route.
• Stay local, shop local – Support the local communities by eating and shopping locally!
• Let nature's sounds prevail – enjoy your experience, keep your noise to a minimum and respect farm animals and wildlife around you (with the added bonus of a higher chance of finding them!)
• Leave what you find – Don’t take home rocks, plants or flowers as souvenirs as some of these can be valuable for the natural habitats.

Shellfish - Being an island nation, it’s no wonder seafood especially shellfish is popular. Lobster, crab, shrimps and mussels can be found on most menus in the summer, and in September oysters come into season. Food festivals such as the Galway Oyster Festival (September) and the Dublin Bay prawn festival in Howth (May) are a joy for foodie visitors.

Soda Bread - The basic ingredients are always the same, baking soda, buttermilk and flour. However, every Irish family has a different recipe which can include adding seeds, bran or oats and making it sweet with honey or dried fruits. Always eaten sliced with butter.

Stew - A good plate of hearty Irish stew is a one-pot meal with potatoes, onions and traditionally mutton, but usually lamb these days. Carrots are sometimes added, and it’s left to simmer and reduce for a thick delicious warming meal coming in from a rainy day!

Colcannon and Champ  - Both these dishes are potato based, and it’s unlikely you’d have both on your plate at the same time. Champ is mashed potato with spring onions, butter and milk. Colcannon is the same but also includes cabbage or kale.

Boxty  - Another potato dish, Boxty covers the full range of potato dumplings, potato pancakes and potato bread. Usually, it’s grated potato mixed with mashed potato and then cooked in different ways for the various types. It’s often eaten with eggs and bacon for breakfast or with smoked salmon for lunch.

The Dingle Peninsula is one of the main "Gaeltacht" areas of the Emerald Isle, where the Irish language (Gaelic) is widely spoken at home, in schools and even the workplace. Due to its remote location, it was removed from the influences of the modern world for a long time and the local language and traditions have largely remained intact. Staying in "Gaeltacht" villages means you get to really immerse yourself in the Irish cultural heritage.

You can be sure to come across the Gaelic symbols during your Dingle Way adventure - road signs, names, descriptions and even menu items! Learning a few phrases will help you to get a deeper understanding of the people of this beautiful part of the world.

Here are a few sentences to practice:

Good morning - "Maidin Mhaith" (pronounced: mod-jin wot)

Cheers - "Slainte" (pronounced: slawn-cheh)

I speak only a little Irish - "Níl agam ach beagáinín Gaeilge" (pronounced: kneel ah-gum ock byug-aneen gayle-geh)

Thank you - "Tapadh leat" (pronounced: tapah lat)

The weather is beautiful today - "Ta an aimsir go halainn inniu" (pronounced: taw an eyeim-shur guh haul-inn inn-you)

Storytelling has been a staple of the Irish culture since the dawn of time and the folklore has famous myths and legends. Think of the many songs, limericks and tales that exist. It is safe to say that mythology and Ireland go hand in hand, have you heard of any of these stories?

• The Leprechauns  (or locally known as " Leath bhrògan"):  The name translates from 'shoemaker' and the leprechaun is the cultural symbol of Ireland. They were said to roam the Emerald Isle before humans did, wearing a unique hat and red hair. Leprechauns leave a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, so be sure to have a look if you see one!
• The Pooka (or locally known as "púca"): Pooka's are shape-changing creatures that are some of the most feared in Irish folklore. They are said to be evil and bring bad luck to those who have seen them. For this reason, they are most feared by farmers around the times of harvest!
• The Irish Harp : You may have noticed that the harp is the national symbol of Ireland, think of the company logos of famous Irish brands such as Guinness and Ryanair. The story goes that evil gods stole the first harp from Dagda (an Irish king). This caused a lack of music in Ireland and people turned very sad. The evil gods then gave back the harp and the joy returned to the entire land. This is how the harp became a national icon!
• The Shamrock : The three-leafed clover is an important Irish legend and crucial in the spread of Christianity across the Emerald Isle. St Patrick saw a clover and decided to use it to explain the three strands of the father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit as one, to the Celts. The Celts could previously not understand what St Patrick was trying to say, but with the help of the shamrock, they finally did. 

Reading a book can give you a really good taste of the culture, history and landscapes of a destination. Whether you are planning a trip to Ireland or have recently booked a trip, here are some classic books that are set in Ireland!

Dubliners by James Joyce - This famous collection includes 15 short stories about the lives of ordinary people living in Dublin in the early 1900s. The book has a variety of characters and is an easy read with varied outlooks on life. 

The Sea by John Banville - This novel is about love, loss, and the power of memory. A middle-aged Irishman called Max returns to the seaside town where he spent his summer holidays as a child to cope with the loss of his dear wife. Max comes to understand the past and this is the center of this beautifully written novel.

The Wild Irish Girl by Sydney Owensen - This book quickly reached bestseller status after it was published in 1806. In this story, a badly behaved boy is banished to his father's estate in Ireland to mend his ways. He then falls in love with the land and with a girl that he meets, but there are some complicated family affairs.

The Green Road by Anne Enright - This is the 6th novel by Anne Enright concerning the lives of the Madigan family on Ireland's Atlantic coast. This book is about family, selfishness and compassion when a family returns to the west coast of Ireland for a final family Christmas before their mother's home is about to sell. After a big conflict, the family is confronted with their ties and the road that brought them home. 

Galway Bay by Mary Pat Kelly - This story takes place in a hidden corner of Ireland where fisherman and farmers find hope and courage in their songs, faith and celebrations. This novel describes the life of a young couple starting a family and selling their crops and catch to pay rent. Potatoes have become the bread and butter of their existence and when three harvests are destroyed, the natural disaster turns into The Great Starvation.

The Yellow House by Patricia Falvey - This novel delves into the politics of Northern Ireland at the beginning of the 20th-century where main character Eileen is torn between two men, each drawing her to one extreme. As war is declared, Eileen begins working at a local mill and tries to save money to hold onto her dreams. This story describes her struggles in trying to separate politics from her personal life.

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Activity Levels 2-4

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

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Premiere Hotels - From lavish luxury to on-trend boutique, offering experiences as unique as the regions we explore.

Casual Plus Hotels - A step above Casual but not quite Premiere.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

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2024 : Jun-Oct 2025 : May-Sep

Cork, Killarney & Ancient Celtic Wonders

Relish the artistry of a stone wall. The warmth of a wool sweater. The charm of a centuries-old footpath. The pleasure of an afternoon pint. The laughter of strangers. The drama of a seanachie's  story. Discover that a beautiful day can be cloudy with a chance of rain. And that vacations don't need to be measured in tan lines. Find your bliss on our Ireland Walking & Hiking Tour.

• Revel in the renowned beauty of the Emerald Isle on hikes through varied landscapes, from dramatic coastline to country lands 
• Connect with our knowledgeable local guide who brings stories of the region to life 
• Join a private whiskey tasting with a local expert and an evening listening to yarns spun by a well-known Irish storyteller 
• Admire the dramatic peaks, scintillating lakes, green hills and vast gorges in wild and scenic Killarney National Park 

Start/End Cork

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into and out of Cork Airport (ORK).

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, complete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Take in Ireland's spectacular natural beauty during country road rambles and coastal cliff walks • Hike in the Gap of Dunloe—a striking glaciated valley • After a climb, arrive at a viewpoint over verdant Kerry farmlands and the mountain ranges of MacGillycuddy's Reeks, home to some of Ireland's highest peaks • From the top of aptly named Windy Gap, gaze at the inspiring panorama of Caragh Lake and Dingle Bay • Delight in the art of storytelling as a local seanachie spins enchanting tales • Victorian décor charms at our lakeside Ring of Kerry lodge. 

Enjoy the gracious hospitality of the Slattery family at this restored Victorian gem—originally a hunting lodge—set on the world-renowned Ring of Kerry. 

Our fantastic local guide shares secrets of Muckross Estate, its ruined abbey and Torc Waterfall • Stroll to 15th-century Ross Castle on the shore of Lower Lake and tour its restored tower • Explore historic Killarney's craft shops, boutiques and lively pubs.

Overlooking the famous Gap of Dunloe, this beautiful estate hotel boasts 13th-century castle ruins. (pool, spa)

Alongside our local expert, hike in wild Killarney National Park, with windswept mountains, deep lakes and gorges • Climb Torc Mountain for 360-degree views before arriving in charming Kenmare, where rows of houses sport cheerfully painted façades • Visit our hotel’s state-of-the-art spa • ​On the rugged Beara Peninsula, trek over Mount Knockagarrane, taking in awe-inspiring views of lakes and mountains • The undeveloped peninsula probably looks today like it did to the ancient Celts • Join a private whiskey tasting with aficionado John Moriarty • Peaceful paths lead past old-growth trees and saltwater marshes to one of County Kerry’s largest stone circles, a Druid site dating from 2000 BC. 

It's just a short walk to the pubs and shops from this regal Victorian estate, nestled amid magnificent parkland on Kenmare Bay. A Relais & Châteaux member. (pool, spa) 

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

*Includes shuttle

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What's Included

• All breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
• Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
• Snacks and beverages between meals
• Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
• Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
• All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
• On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
• Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
• Park and other entry fees
• Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
• Select coach transfers
• Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

Straight Talk

We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.

Carrig Country House and Park Hotel Kenmare are Premiere Hotels. While they offer outstanding service and amenities, please note that they are not equipped with air-conditioning. Despite the region's generally temperate climate and cool nights, guest rooms can occasionally become warm during peak temperatures.

World-Class Hotels

Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

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Backpacking  Ireland

Irland is known as the “Green Island”, and this name immediately reveals one of the country’s greatest asset. The island off the coast of the Atlantic ocean is characterized by wide grasslands that you can explore by foot while on a hike. Naturally, you can also walk along the steep cliffs and breathe in the fresh sea air. If at some point you start to feel lonely – don’t worry! You’ll find entertainment in one of the lively cities’ pubs, where you can recharge your batteries with stew and ale. Have fun discovering our ideal backpacking route of Ireland!

Important Basics

English, Irish

Parliamentary republic

Highest temperature by day: 8°C to 18°C

Highest temperature at night: 3°C to 11°C

Summer: June to September / Winter: December to February

There are no wild snakes in Ireland. 

Dublin is the capital and a real highlight of your trip! More than 525,000 people live in Dublin, whose translation from Gaelic means “town of the ford of the hurdles”. Dublin is located on the east coast and is on average 20 meters above sea level.

The capital has a maritime climate, meaning that winters are mild and summer rather cool.

It is quite convenient to explore the city center on foot. There are many sights that you should not miss, such as the Christ Church Cathedral, the city’s oldest building, or the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which is the largest church in the city.

The Dublin Castle, the hearth of Irish history, is considered another great highlight. The Trinity College is another important sight, since it is worth walking around the university campus and visit the exhibition of the Book of Kells in the old library. There, you can also find the so-called Long Room, which is really beautiful.

Of course, Dublin offers some great museums that are worth visiting, such as the National Gallery of Ireland, the Irish Museum of Modern Art and the Dublin Writers Museum. A visit is not only worthwhile when the weather is bad.

If the sun shines, you have plenty of great options in Dublin. For instance, you can spend time in Phoenix Park, which is the largest city park in the world, where you can also see tame deer. The park is also the residence of the American ambassador and the Irish president… who would have ever imagined that?

Dublin is versatile and you will surely like it! You can stay overnight at one of the city’s hostels and get a bed in a 6-person dorm for €27 a night.

Wicklow National Park

After having spent time in the capital, you will immerse yourself in nature. Rent a car in Dublin and drive from there to the Wicklow Mountain National Park. The Wicklow Mountains National Park is located in the eastern part of the island, and it is one of the six national parks present in Ireland. It is about 200 km2 in size, and it has earned the status of national park only in 1991. Next to the Wicklow Mountains, near Glendalough, which translated from Gaelic means “valley of the two lakes”, you can admire the ruins of a 6th-century monastery. Another important sight of the National Park is said to be the megalithic structures in the northwestern part, which are located around Seefin Mountain and Sorrel Hill. The hills have a 10-meter diameter and are about three meters high. On the southeastern shore of the Upper Lake, it is possible to find in the woodland the remains of the Reefert Church. The name of the church, which dates back to the 11th century, derives from the Irish world for kings’ graves. The archaeological monument Daher is also worth seeing. The stony ring fort has a dry-stone wall with a diameter of about 20 meters, which, today, is still about one-meter high. You can get a bed in an 8-person dorm for €32 a night at one of the local hostels.

From Wicklow Mountain National Park, continue your journey by car. Next stop: Killarney. Killarney, located in the southwestern part of Ireland, counts approximately 14,500 inhabitants. It borders the northern end of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, the highest mountain in Ireland. Moreover, the lake Lough Lane, which belongs to the Killarney National Park, is really close. The national park is of course worth seeing, as well as Ross island and Ross Castle. The Torc waterfall is beautiful and the stone circle of Lissyviggeen is interesting and exciting. Killarney is altogether famous for the seemingly deserted lake and the picturesque mountains of Killarney National Park. If you wish to discover something more than nature and history, you can also go to a Gaelic Football match. Gaelic Football is the Irish national sport and Killarney has a long football tradition, meaning you are in the right place to learn about this interesting sport! Otherwise, if you want to relax or go swimming, we can recommend the recreational center which includes a sauna. It is called Aura and it is not too far away from the city center. A particularly nice experience, which is highly suggested, is a boat trip over one of the lakes in Killarney. Here, you’ll spend the night at a hostel and get a bed in an 8-person dorm for €27 a night.

Your next stop will be Dingle, which you will reach with your rental car. The Dingle Peninsula is located in Kerry County, in the western area of Ireland. It is 50 km long and 9 km wide.

The peninsula is hilly and, here, you can discover many prehistoric monuments, especially in the western part. The Gallarus Oratory, a rustic corbel vault construction from the early Christian period, was built using dry-stone walling techniques and is a stunning sight. 

The flat sandy beach on the Inch spit, as well as the western coastal road called Slea Head Drive, are absolutely worth seeing. Moreover, you can do different hikes on the Dingle, for example, to Mount Brandon or Sliabh Mis.

A boat trip to Blasket Islands is also a must. To explore the area you can go on a bike tour, hike, or ride a horse.

You can sleep at one of the city’s hostels and get a bed in a dorm for €18 a night.

From Dingle, you’ll reach your last destination: Galway. Galway is also the capital of the County. The city, which counts approximately 80,000 inhabitants, is located on the western Irish coast on the northernmost shore of Galway Bay.

Summer months are the warmest here, with an average temperature of 19°C in July and August.

Galway is also called the “city of the tribes” because the city was dominated by 14 merchant families, indeed “tribes”, since the 15th century. These families built many castles all over the Galway County, which means many well known corners and streets bear names that recall these “tribes”.

Lynch’s Castle, as well as the Galway City Museum, are beautiful and worth seeing. The Spanish Arch is located at the southwest end of the city and it is one of the few remaining that once used to protect the city. You should also take a look at the archway. Here, you will spend the night at a local hostel and get a bed in a 6-person dorm for €25 a night.

After having seen all corners of Ireland, discovered the vibrant capital and enjoyed the calm nature in the National Park, now it’s time to go back home. Drive back to Dublin to catch your flight back home.

Ireland  Route Map

Du möchtest 

Deine  eigene, reise erstellen , du möchtest deine, eigene  reise erstellen , dos and don ’ ts , food & drinks, costs..

Irish Breakfast: in Ireland, the typical Irish Breakfast consists of meat and egg, often served with baked beans, potatoes, and mushrooms. It’s super delicious!

Irish potato soup:  the Irish potato soup is characterised by its creamy consistency.

Main courses

Seafood: Seafood dishes are super popular in Ireland. Especially in summer, you can order whole seafood platters, which offer all kind of choices.

Smoked salmon:  The locals love to eat salmon. Usually, it is smoked and prepared with lemons and white wine. It simply tastes delicious.

Soda bread:  you can order the typical Irish bread as a side dish or to eat something in between meals.

Coodle:  this is a sumptuous snack which include different kinds of sausages and breads. It is served with oven-roasted vegetables and salad.

Champ with bacon:  this meat dish is prepared with bacon and cabbage together with a creamy herb sauce as a topping.

Irish stew: the stew consists of lamb and cabbage, accompanied with onion and garlic sauce. It is simply delicious!

Beer: we all know Guinness; in Ireland it tastes twice as good! Yet, there are also other good types of beer.

Irish whiskey:  of course, this liquor should not be missed during a visit to an Irish pub

Cost of living

• Lunch at a restaurant in the business district: €27.6
• Meal at a fast-food restaurant: €8
• Average dinner for two at a local restaurant: €30
• Cappuccino in a tourist area: €3.13
• 2 movie tickets: €22
• 0.5 liter of a local beer at the supermarkets: €2.44
• Marlboro cigarettes (20 pack): €13
• 1 glass of beer at a local bar: €5

Personal Hygiene

• Normal haircut for men in a tourist area: €17.89
• Shampoo: €3.45
• Deodorant: €2.88

Roadtrip: is there a better way to travel across Ireland? Hardly, that is why it is an absolute must!

Irish Pubs: go to a Pub in the evening. No other country gives so much importance to go to a pub; here, you’ll also get to know Irish culture.

Be sociable: the Irish love the community and to make new friends. Here, you should be open and friendly.

A round on you: in Ireland, people like to buy a drink and take turns. This is the wrong place for stinginess!

Curse first: the Irish are known to curse a lot. Don’t be offended because it is not against your personality.

Light clothing: even in Summer, Ireland is not a country where you can lie on the beach with only a bikini. Always remember to take warm clothes with you.

Jokes about the accent: the Irish accent is not to be overheard. However, don’t try to make fun of it or imitate it, as it can easily be considered offensive.

Visa , Visa, Passport & Vaccinations

Temporary passport

National id, temporary national id, child’s pass.

(Not necessary)

Robert Koch Instituts

Additional Remarks .

Ireland isn’t part of the European Convention on the Regulation of the Movement of Persons between the Member States of the Council of Europe from 13/12/1957. Travel documents must be valid upon entry and exit. Please also inform yourself on the current entry regulations regarding the Corona virus. Current information about this can be found at your country’s Foreign Office.

The team at Backpacker Trail wishes you lots of fun and an unforgettable trip!

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Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
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Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in London

10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

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Money blog: Slippery floors and a burst of heat - tricks shops use to get you to spend more

In the final part of our psychology of shopping series, we speak to fair fashion campaigner Venetia La Manna about the tricks fast fashion companies use to get people to spend, spend, spend. Read this and the rest of today's consumer news in the Money blog.

Thursday 6 June 2024 08:15, UK

• Asda goes from cheapest to most expensive supermarket for petrol
• Five switching offers launch in quick succession offering up to £200 - and this is best time of month to do it
• Ed Conway : Claim of £2k tax rise under Labour is over four years - same maths suggests Tories have raised taxes by £13k in last four years
• Ian King : Why European rates decision could impact global economy - and your holiday money

Essential reads

• How brands get you to buy more, more, more
• Top chef shares his take on an Italian classic - and Warwickshire Cheap Eats
• Women in Business : 'I quit well-paid job while seven months pregnant after men said I didn't understand - now I'm a CEO'
• How much are student loans, when do you start paying back and what is the interest?
• Your rights when deliveries or returns don't arrive - and why leaving instructions could jeopardise them
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

By Emily Mee , news reporter

We've all been there. You have a bad day and you need a little pick-me-up - so you head straight to your favourite website to buy something new.

That hit of dopamine you get when buying something is what many businesses rely on - and no one seems to understand it better than fast fashion brands. 

But not only is this hurting our wallets, it's also harming the planet. 

In the final part of our psychology of shopping series, we spoke to fair fashion campaigner Venetia La Manna ( @venetialamanna ) - who advocates for a more sustainable approach to clothing - about the little tricks fast fashion companies use to get people to spend, spend, spend... 

Always in a rush - and slippery floors

Many of the techniques fashion companies use involve ensuring people feel rushed to make purchasing decisions. 

Ms La Manna says websites and social media pages are set up to make them look "very immediate" so we "always feel like we have to buy something before it's gone" - meaning you're not able to sit with a purchase and think about whether you need it. 

Fast fashion companies also keep an eye on trends and push out products as soon as possible to make sure people are "buying very, very quickly without necessarily much thought". 

And the sense of urgency is not just limited to online stores.

Ms La Manna says physical clothes shops will make sure their floors are slippery "so you can almost whizz around with more ease".

Often they will also have loud music to encourage "shopping in a frenzy". 

They know what you want

Fashion sites use "highly advanced" search engine optimisation to find out what kind of products their customers are searching for and push these items to them, Ms La Manna says. 

They also work with popular online influencers and get them to post affiliate links - meaning if you want to look like your favourite influencer or celebrity, you can buy what they're wearing "in just a few clicks". 

Ultimately, they are making things "very easy to buy" and often have shopfronts on popular social media sites like Instagram and TikTok. 

Plus, there is the issue of affordability. 

Many are driving their prices down so low that "it makes you feel like 'hey, why not' when it's cheaper than a sandwich or a coffee", Ms La Manna says. 

Heaters at the entrance

Physical shops use other techniques to entice customers to buy. 

For example, Ms La Manna says the heat changes when you go into the shop so you're "invited into a warmer environment". 

Shops are also set out in a specific way, often placing cheaper items near checkouts and easy outfit formulas near each other. 

The dopamine hit

With lots going on in the world, we may be more susceptible to falling into the spending trap than ever. 

"The world is really heavy and people are struggling. Buying fast fashion or buying stuff gives us a momentary hit of dopamine, and of course we need that - when we're suffering, when we're feeling low, [shopping] is an easy one to reach for," Ms La Manna says. 

Despite practising "slow fashion" - trying to buy less and more consciously - for years, Ms La Manna says she still has moments where she feels that buying something would make her feel better. 

But she says it's possible to get much-needed dopamine hits from elsewhere - including by being active in your community, or by taking your time to find something you really, really want (ideally secondhand!). 

Why does it matter? 

Aside from being bad for your wallet, Ms La Manna says overconsumption is also bad for the planet and for the garment workers making your clothes. 

She says many big fashion companies don't pay their garment workers a fair living wage - with many unable to provide food for their families, living in poverty and lacking paid time off. 

The overproduction of clothing is also harming communities in the global south who are left to deal with vast piles of unwanted items, she says. 

The majority of clothes taken to charity shops or recycling bins don't end up being resold - instead they are shipped off largely to places in the global south, where communities are "left to deal with a problem that's not theirs". 

For more information on slow fashion, Ms La Manna suggests checking out The Or Foundation, Remake and the Clean Clothes Campaign. 

Three whiskies created by Aldi have been named among the best in the world.

The budget supermarket took home three golds at the International Spirits Challenge awards for: 

• Glen Marnoch Highland Single Scotch Whisky (£18.49, 70cl)
• Highland Earl Blended Scotch Whisky (£16.89, 1L)
• Samuel Joe’s Straight Kentucky Bourbon (£14.99, 70cl)

In the single malt category, Aldi's submission beat the likes of M&S as well as premium brand Lochlea Distillery, which costs around £45 a bottle. 

Other gold winners included Johnnie Walker, Jameson and Glenfiddich. 

Aldi was also given three silver medals for its Highland Black Blended Scotch Whisky, Glen Marnoch Speyside Single Malt Whisky and Glen Marnoch Islay Single Malt Whisky. 

"This industry recognition helps to prove that great quality doesn't have to come with a luxury price tag and customers can be confident they're saving money with us, whilst getting the best whisky taste and experience," said Julie Ashfield, managing director of buying at Aldi UK. 

As we've previously discussed in the Money blog, holidaying Brits can avoid costly roaming charges by using their own travel eSim - and there's now another mainstream option to choose from courtesy of Uswitch.

UK travellers who want to use their phones abroad usually rely on their roaming plans and data passes or sign up for a local SIM at their destination, which can often require time-consuming ID checks and additional documentation.

That can be costly. 

Since Brexit, the UK no longer benefits from several EU-mandated rules, including a worldwide data roaming cap of £45.

Roaming costs, especially in countries outside the EU, can now be as high as £9 for every 1MB of roaming data - equivalent to streaming Netflix for 14.4 seconds.

The savings with eSims are potentially massive, as our cost of living specialist Megan Harwood-Baynes outlined here last month...

USwitch product

Using 10GB of data in Morocco on a UK Pay As You Go network with uncapped fees would cost on average of £56,166, compared to just £17 with a USwitch eSim.

eSims are available online and are entirely digital - meaning customers don't need to visit a phone network store or wait for a physical SIM card to arrive in the post.

Most new smartphones are already compatible with eSim technology, including every iPhone released from 2018 onwards and most Samsung devices released from 2020 onwards.

"eSIMs offer them a newfound freedom that's cheaper than traditional data roaming and with none of the hassle of finding a local SIM card provider when you arrive," said CEO and co-founder of (USwitch's partner in this project) eSIM Go Zacchary Couldrick.

Asda has gone from selling the cheapest petrol out of the supermarket chains to now costing the most, according to the latest fuel price figures.

RAC says Asda's big rivals, Morrisons, Sainsbury's and Tesco, all sold a litre of unleaded petrol for 2.1p less on average at the end of May.

Diesel was also coming out costlier at Asda, with the supermarket 2.5p per litre more expensive than the rest of its supermarket competition.

Drivers are being urged - by the RAC - to change their refuelling habits to find the best prices. 

What makes up the cost of a litre of petrol?

The price you pay for fuel at the pumps is governed by wholesale fuel prices, which are affected by several factors.

These include the global price of crude oil, which itself is governed by supply and demand and oil refinery production and capacity.

Distribution costs, fuel duty (currently 52.95p a litre in the UK), VAT (currently at 20%) and profit margins dictated by fuel retailers all come into account when working out why prices of fuel rise and fall.

Fuel duty rate and VAT largely stay the same, though oil prices and the strength of the pound to the US dollar (refined fuel is sold in dollars per metric tonne) can cause prices to be extremely volatile.

How have UK petrol prices changed in the 21st century

Unleaded fuel in 2000 had an average cost of 80.35p, while the average cost of diesel in the same year was 81.73p.

The lowest average cost for unleaded petrol in the last 24 years came in 2002, where the average was 73.5p. Diesel also had its cheapest average cost in this year at 75.6p.

Unsurprisingly, the most expensive average prices for fuel have fallen in recent years. In 2022, the average cost of unleaded fuel was 165.06p and the average cost of diesel was 178.13p.

P Diddy has sold off his stake in the media company he founded more than a decade ago. 

The rapper, whose real name is Sean Combs, released his shares of Revolt with the company saying the have been fully redeemed and retired. 

Revolt has not disclosed how much Combs was paid for his stake in the hip-hop news and entertainment company, which he founded in 2013.

It also announced a new ownership structure that will give its employees an equity stake in the company. 

The move comes after several lawsuits were filed against Combs , accusing him of sexual assault and rape. 

In November, he was sued by R&B singer Cassie, who said he subjected her to a years-long abusive relationship that included beatings and rape.

Combs settled the lawsuit with Cassie, whose full name is Casandra Ventura, a few days after it was filed.

Three in five secondary school teachers and nearly 80% of primary school teachers are spending their own money on supporting students, according to new research.

A report by the National Foundation for Educational Research, based on a survey of 1,282 teachers and senior leaders, found a quarter of teachers had already spent £100 of their own cash on their pupils or school this academic year.

Some 79% of primary school teachers and 62% of secondary school educators reported spending their own money at some point.

And nearly one in five primary and 17% of secondary teachers said they were spending money on meeting pastoral needs such as providing food or clothes.

Jude Hillary, the NFER's co-head of UK policy and practice, said the report "clearly highlights the high level of need among young people".

She said teachers were "going above and beyond to meet pupils' pastoral needs using their personal funds" and the "unrecognised" support was coming at a time when staff themselves are facing their own cost pressures.

Tesco has started re-stocking its packs of a dozen eggs online, after lengthy supply issues forced them to stop selling them.

The supermarket had already re-started selling them in stores, but online shoppers had to buy two packs of six eggs if they wanted 12, costing them very slightly more.

The shortages began in the autumn of 2022 as farmers left the industry or pulled back on production due to rising costs.

An outbreak of bird flu last year also impacted the sector.

Customers of Loveholidays have had their travel plans thrown into chaos after the parent company of two of its partners unexpectedly went bust. 

In a post on Facebook, the holiday firm said FTI Group, which owns YouTravel and Meeting Point, had filed for insolvency. 

As a result, the accommodation and transfer arrangements of some travellers have been affected. 

A "small number" of hotels have already started contacting Loveholiday travellers, asking them to pay for their rooms again.

In the comments of the post, one person said they had been "threatened to be removed by police" for refusing to pay again. 

"We are supposed to go home Thursday evening and worried our transfers and flights might be affected because we are refusing to pay again," Scott Love wrote. 

"Shambles this and has ruined our holiday for me, my partner and three children." 

Several other people commented, asking the provider to tell them if their trip had been impacted. 

Loveholidays said it was "working hard" to honour its customers bookings and "minimise disruption" to any holiday. 

It also said it was "absolutely committed" to covering costs and was working with affected customers, and the hotels involved, to make sure that happens.

Those who are on holiday and need support have been advised to contact the holiday support team by calling the number on their booking documents. 

"If you're travelling with us soon and are wondering if your holiday is affected: Please don't worry. There is nothing you need to do - our team is working hard to honour any impacted bookings with another partner," Loveholidays added. 

Sky News has contacted the company for comment. 

Chef Tom Brown has announced he is closing his high-end Hackney restaurant Cornerstone due to high costs of the tasting menu format and changing diner preferences.

The seafood-focused restaurant first opened in 2018 and earned a Michelin star in 2021.

In a statement, Brown said Cornerstone had been his "proudest moment" and his "home for the last six years", and added that his focus would now be on his nearby Pearly Queen site.

First Direct is ending its text message banking service after 25 years, according to a report.

An email seen by This Is Money said the service - which texts customers mini bank statements and alerts them to their balance dropping below a certain amount - will be stopped on 10 August.

First Direct told the outlet that customers could get "more detailed and up-to-date information" by logging onto its app or online banking.

Tesco has partnered with Virgin Red to offer Clubcard holders the chance to turn points into experiences.

Those signed up to the supermarket's loyalty scheme will get twice the points value when they turn points earned on their shopping into Virgin Points.

A bonus 5,000 points is available for anyone who signs up to auto-exchange all their Clubcard points to Virgin Points for the first time.

McDonald's has lost the EU trademark for "Big Mac" when it comes to chicken sandwiches after a long-running dispute with an Irish restaurant chain. 

The European Court of Justice upheld a complaint from Galway-based Supermac's against the US fast food giant. 

The trademark for the words "Big Mac" was initially registered with the EU International Property Office (EUIPO) in respect of meat, fish and chicken sandwiches as well as a range of restaurant services by McDonald's in 1996.

Generally, the rights of a holder to an EU trademark are revoked if it has not been put to genuine use within a continuous period of five years.

Supermac's argued McDonald's had insufficiently used the contested trademark in relation to "chicken sandwiches".

McDonald's and the EUIPO put forward examples of advertisements and display boards relating to "Grand Big Mac Chickens".

However, the court found the evidence was not sufficient to prove McDonald's had used the contested trademark enough in relation to poultry products.

Supermac's complaint was upheld and McDonald's protection of the phrase for such purposes was overturned. 

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Exploring history and wildlife on the UK’s storied coastal paths

From jagged cliffs rising out of the sea to sandy coves and quaint fishing villages, the UK's coastline has some incredible walking trails. Here are five of the best locations.

The UK has just over 11,000 miles of coastline, encompassing UNESCO World Heritage sites, dinosaur fossils, surfing beaches, pirate coves and cliffs. For now, walkers cannot officially walk the entire periphery; there's no continuous trail and some stretches are off-limits, but there are some fine stretches to get a handle on this island nation. From a route which encompasses some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe to an island-hopping adventure across the Isles of Scilly, here’s a selection of some of the most dramatic coastal trails as recommended by walking experts HF Holidays .  

1. Meirionnydd Coast, North Wales  

Which is more astonishing — that around 200 different types of shell comprise the substrate on Wales’s Shell Island, or that someone took the time to count them? Either way, also known as Mochras is a beauty to behold, with its diverse detritus and specklings of wildflowers. Mochras is one of the many attractions that dot the miles of broad, sandy beaches uniquely set against the mountainous backdrop of Eryri National Park (formerly Snowdonia).

To explore the area, embark on this epic eight-day adventure , which starts at Penrhyndeudraeth and trails south across sand dunes, fishing villages and estuarine habitats towards the Dyfi Valley. Harlech Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed medieval fortification, is a particular highlight along this coastal trail — dedicate one to two hours to walk the walls and learn about its illustrious history at the on-site exhibition. On free days, walkers may choose to explore the opulent Italianate village of Portmeirion and the subterranean chambers of Llechwedd Slate Caverns.

2. Orkney & Shetland, Scotland  

Abundant wildlife, maritime heritage, unique culture and local crafts — you can expect all of this and more on Orkney and Shetland, two of Scotland’s northernmost archipelagos. Providing stepping stones to Northern Europe, these isles have helped to elucidate early migration patterns on the continent — the Shetland site of Jarlshof stands testament to that, where 4,000-year-old discoveries include Bronze and Stone Age settlements, Norse longhouses and medieval smallholdings. Orkney, meanwhile, is home to one of Europe’s most significant prehistoric settlements, the UNESCO-listed Heart of Neolithic Orkney, with its 5,000-year-old ceremonial stone circles, chambered tombs, communal living quarters and sacred burial sites.

Experience the best of both isles on this eight-day adventure , which includes Marwick, Orkney and Muckle Roe, Shetland. The nine-mile clifftop coastal path from Marwick Bay to the Brough of Birsay is a particular highlight for wildlife lovers, as it overlooks RSPB Marwick Head Nature Reserve. Here, keen twitchers may spot gulls and skuas patrolling the skies, while grey and common seals bob in the waters below. The walk is followed with a visit to explore the mysterious Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, which, together with Skara Brae and Maes How, form the Heart of Neolithic Orkney.

3. North Cornwall, Southwest England

The lives of the Cornish people have always been inextricably linked to the sea. As such, coastal walks here offer the chance to get up close to the county’s storied, industrial mining heritage. These relics of Cornwall’s past have become county emblems — particularly along the rugged northern coast covered on this eight-day adventure . Starting at the sandy, surfing beach of Treyarnon Bay near Padstow and ending at Cape Cornwall, just four miles north of Land's End, this coastal trail offers all the classic sights of the Cornish coastline, including quiet coves, traditional fishing villages and a mosaic of rare coastal habitats, including saltmarshes, sand dunes and even Atlantic temperate rainforest.  

Along the route, look out for the early 20 th -century tin mines of Geevor and the   19 th -century tin mine Botallack, the latter of which was made famous by BBC’s Poldark   series. It’s worth keeping an eye on the blue horizon, too, where fin, minke and humpback whales may be spotted in ever-increasing numbers.  

4. Somerset & North Devon, Southwest England

Stretching a mammoth 630 miles through Dorset, Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, the South West Coastal Path is the UK’s longest national trail and perhaps one of the most picturesque of all, encompassing wild countryside, sweeping seafront panoramas, pretty ports and historic county towns.

Tackle a portion of the epic coastal trail on this eight-day adventure , which begins at the quaint seaside resort of Minehead in Somerset and ends at the secluded sands of Croyde Bay in northern Devon. Porlock Weir, a bustling harbour village surrounded by steep wooded slopes, verdant farmland and heather-covered moorlands, is a particular highlight along the trail. Walkers will also enjoy visiting Lynton and Lynmouth, two sister villages dubbed ‘the Switzerland of England’ due to their distinct Alpine appearance. They also provide the gateway to Devon’s Valley of the Rocks, a dramatic dry valley known for its rugged, prehistoric landscape and spectacular views of the Bristol Channel.

5. Isles of Scilly, Southwest England

With its white-powder-sand beaches and sparkling sapphire waters, the Isles of Scilly are often touted as Britain’s somewhat chillier answer to the Caribbean coast. So remote is this archipelago, lying 28 miles off the southwest coast of mainland Cornwall, that little has left its mark: only five islands are inhabited, while the other 140 provide a haven for seabirds and other wildlife.

Drink it all in by hopping between the islands on this seven-day adventure , which traverses the archipelago via a series of dramatic coastal trails. Here, walkers can discover peaceful, secluded bays on Bryher, breathtaking landscapes dotted with wildflowers and archaeological ruins on St Agnes and St Martin’s, and wild heathland, rocky coastlines and 16th and 17th century castles on Tresco. The latter is also home to Abbey Garden, a botanical paradise with more than 3,000 species of plants and trees, and Valhalla museum, which houses figureheads salvaged from shipwrecks from around the islands' shores.  

Related Topics

• WALKING TOURS

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