best travel tips for ireland

22 Travel Tips For Ireland For First-Time Visitors

Categories Travel Guides

Going to Ireland for the first time? This lush green country, aptly named ‘ Emerald Isle ’ sure packs a punch when it comes to attractions.

There are diverse landscapes, ancient archeological structures, old churches and lots of castles . It’s not the biggest country in the world but daunting nonetheless.

Ireland is an easy country to get around in, the Irish are warm and accommodating, and going there looks like a huge epic adventure. Make the most of your trip by taking into consideration these travel tips for Ireland.

Things you'll find in this article

Travel Tips Before Going to Ireland 

Travel tips for staying in ireland , travel tips in eating in ireland , travel tips getting around ireland, travel tips for enjoying ireland .

1. Ireland is a great place to visit any time of the year because of its mild, temperate climate.

However, if you want to be sure that most attractions are accessible or open, the best time to visit is during the shoulder season.

These are months that are in between the peak and low seasons. There’s March to May and September to November . During these months, temperatures are still mild, tourist sites are less congested and you’d definitely enjoy the beauty of the Emerald Isle.

2. Ireland is beautiful at any time of the year but it also has pretty unpredictable weather. Expect rain, even during summer.

It’s best to be always prepared so pack an umbrella, slip-proof shoes, a cardigan, and a waterproof jacket to stay warm and dry. Check out this packing list for Ireland for all seasons . 

Dark Hedges, Image by Christine Rogador

3. Don’t forget to bring your adapter plug, especially if you travel with multiple electronic devices.

You would surely want to capture and document your trip so your cellphone and camera needs to be fully charged before you leave your hostel or hotel. Pack your adapter to help save time while in Ireland with a busy itinerary. 

4. An essential advice not just when traveling to Ireland but to any other country is to buy travel insurance.

Good travel insurance will protect you and take care of you when you get sick or injured while traveling, as well as during theft and cancellations.

It is pretty much your very own comprehensive protection if anything goes wrong while you’re on vacation. Never go on any trip without it. 

5. Make sure to check first if you need a visa to go to Ireland to avoid unnecessary inconveniences. For Philippine passport holders like me, you can check out this guide on how to apply for Ireland Tourist Visa for Filipinos. 

6. If you’re looking for an easy way to save some cash while in Ireland, it’s best to stay in a hostel. They’re cheap, give you access to the bare necessities and usually includes free breakfast. Check out this list of places to stay by cities . 

7. However, even if it’s slightly pricier, a bed and breakfast is a great option as well. You get to stay in a homey atmosphere, and has additional opportunities to interact with locals.

Bed and breakfasts and guesthouses also often serve Irish food instead of getting them in pricier restaurants outside. These accommodations are often in old or historic houses, some are even in castles. 

8. You can also combine your accommodation choices. For example, stay in a hostel when in big cities like Dublin or Belfast, then book a guesthouse then in smaller cities or towns. 

9. Take advantage of the free food, especially free breakfast in your accommodations. Be sure to eat right before going anywhere. 

10. Ireland has some cool low-cost local supermarkets. Take advantage of these by buying some basic pick-me-ups like canned or bottled juice, cereal bars, digestive biscuits, and crisps.

They come in handy when you get hungry in between exploring sights or during long-distance trips to the countryside. 

11. A great way to save some cash is to eat early, whether it’s lunch or dinner. Many restaurants in Ireland offer budget lunch nor dinner to the’early birds’ and they’re cheaper.

There isn’t a lot of options though as they’re usually set meals. It is another way to experience local cuisine, too! 

12. Try at least any of the food and drinks that Ireland is known for. Have the traditional Irish breakfast , some stew, bangers, and mash or even fish and chips.

Have a pint of Guinness, a glass of whiskey or Irish coffee. Trying these definitely adds to the experience. 

13. Ireland has excellent public transportation, so take advantage of it especially in the big cities. Most offer free wifi, have friendly drivers and are known to always arrive on time. 

14. If you want to save more, get a LEAP card . This is a card you can top up to use on Ireland’s public transportation. With the card, you get discounts on fares compared to cash tickets. It’s very useful in Dublin and Belfast as well as Cork , Galway , Limerick , and Waterford . 

You can also get a Dublin Pass that will give you access to over 30 attractions in Dublin for free and a hop-off and hop-on bus tour. You can get it Dublin Pass . 

15. If you’d like to explore Ireland past the big cities at your own pace, it is best to rent a car. It’s quite easy to rent a car in Ireland and in the long run, it will be your cheapest option. 

Renting (or hiring) a car is also a fantastic way to see most of the Emerald Isle as there’s a lot of scenic drives going from one city or town to another. If you’re unfamiliar with driving rules in Ireland, you can check out this guide for driving in Ireland . 

Where to Book: Rentalcars.

16. Try ridesharing, which is another lowcost means of transportation for visitors in Ireland.

Here, you only have to pass a small background check to get approved. The drivers who rideshare are also registered and vetted. Once approved, the driver will pick you up.

With this option, you only need to pitch in for gas. Two good ridesharing apps you can try are BlaBlaCar and CarpoolWorld

17. Be sure to get a Heritage card — it’s a card you can to up and gives you access to some of the best attractions across Ireland. Specifically, the Heritage card gives free admission to site managed by the Office of Public Works.

These include Dublin Castle , Ennis Friary, the Iveagh Gardens, Glenveagh National Park, Killarney National Park, Ross Castle , and more. This is valid for a year so you can explore as much as you want here.

18. When in cafes, restaurants or even spas, know that Ireland does not have a set culture on tipping.  However, a few euros will be very much appreciated easily especially for exceptional service. Check out this tipping tips for Ireland.  

19. Don’t drink too much when in a pub. If you’re trying to save but want to experience Ireland’s pub culture, go ahead and order a pint of Guinness. Pub drinks are a bit pricer, so stick to just one pint.

A fantastic way to do this is to find a pub with a great atmosphere and especially one with a band that features traditional Irish music. Then, you can order one drink and enjoy the rest of the evening

20. Talk to as many locals as possible — in your hotel or bed and breakfast, a pub or wherever you happen to be. The Irish are a friendly, accommodating lot and are happy to help out visitors to their country. 

21. You should absolutely visit Northern Ireland . It’s a long drive bit truly worth it. Visit Belfast, drive along the Causeway Coastal Route or see the gorgeous town of Portrush . 

22. Ireland is 32,595 square miles (84,421 square kilometers) and is packed full of sights. Pace yourself and don’t squeeze ten attractions in a single day or two.

When in Ireland, you may opt to visit just a few sights or try around two interesting activities in a day. Be sure to really enjoy and savor each place you visit. 

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

Planning a Trip to Ireland in 2024: 15 Expert Tips to Know

By: Author Leah Shoup

Posted on Published: February 12, 2024

If you’re planning your first trip to Ireland, you’re in for a real treat. With its rolling green hills, historic castles, and lovely villages, the Emerald Isle is one of Europe’s most charming destinations. Nonetheless, before you go, there are a few things you need to know to make the most of your visit.

With this in mind, I’ve created this complete guide on how to plan a vacation to Ireland, breaking it down into 15 main tips. I’ll review the best time of year to visit the country, airport options, tips for driving in Ireland, and itinerary planning–all things I wish I had known before my first trip!

1. Begin tracking flights up to 11 months in advance. 

Likely, the cost will be high 11 months out and then begin to shift up and down once you’re about six months out. For flights to Ireland, I recommend booking at least three months in advance to save the most money (unless you find a great deal close to time!). 

2. Dublin isn’t the only airport in Ireland with transatlantic flights.

If you’ve visited Dublin already, consider flying into SNN for closer access to attractions like the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula. Or, another option in your Ireland vacation planning is to arrive in Dublin and depart from the Shannon Airport in County Clare.

3. Travel in shoulder season to avoid crowds.

As an expert Ireland trip planner, I recommend April and May for the best vacation weather with minimal rainfall and fewer crowds . Just make sure to avoid traveling during the country’s Easter holidays, as many local families choose to vacation during these two weeks.

Read More: The Best Books About Ireland

4. Rent a car to see the most beautiful parts of Ireland.

If it’s your first time planning an Ireland trip, here are a few quick recommendations on renting a car:

• Can you drive a stick shift? If so, you can save money, as manual cars are more common and cheaper to rent in Ireland than automatics.
• Rental car companies in Ireland typically charge to add an additional driver. Nonetheless, I highly recommend having at least two authorized drivers per vehicle.
• Before paying for CDW insurance at the counter, check if your credit card covers it. For instance, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card provides auto rental collision damage waiver benefits. Obtain proof of primary insurance from Card Benefit Services before traveling to Ireland.
• Opting for a diesel vehicle can save you money during your Ireland vacation, especially if you plan to drive extensively. While the upfront cost might be higher, it proves cost-effective in the long run. Note that the black hose identifies the diesel pump in Ireland.
• Choose a compact car for Irish roads, particularly in the countryside. Opt for the smallest rental that accommodates your luggage comfortably.

5. Prepare yourself to drive on the left side of the road.

Keep in mind that the driver’s seat is on the right side, and the gear shift is to the driver’s left. Passing is done on the right, and highway exits are on the left.

Therefore, I suggest watching a few videos beforehand to get used to the concept–it really helped me! Use the left lane for left turns, the right lane for right turns, and the left lane for going straight unless signs indicate otherwise.

Pro tip: Look to your right instead of your left when crossing the street.

6. Plan your driving route around Ireland.

After completing these steps, I recommend marking your must-visit attractions on a map to understand where they are in relation to your start and end points . Some of the most popular places to see on an Ireland vacation (outside of Dublin) include:

• The Cliffs of Moher: These sea cliffs in County Clare are Ireland’s most famous tourist attraction, receiving over 1.5 million visitors per year.
• The Ring of Kerry: This scenic driving route in County Kerry, southwestern Ireland, passes through the Iveragh Peninsula. Popular highlights include Killarney National Park, the Kerry Cliffs, and boat tours of Skellig Michael .
• Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone: Blarney Castle in County Cork is famous for the legendary Blarney Stone, believed to grant the “gift of the gab” to those who kiss it. Don’t miss the beautiful gardens!
• Connemara National Park: Laid out across Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden and the Twelve Bens mountain range, Connemara National Park is a stunning natural space in County Galway, Ireland.

7. Book accommodations in advance.

• Ashford Castle: This 5-star hotel is located in County Mayo, Ireland, and is one of the oldest castle hotels in the country, dating back to 1228. 
• Adare Manor: Adare Manor is an award-winning five-star hotel & golf resort in County Limerick, Ireland. The manor dates back to the 13th century, and the present-day estate spans over 840 acres.
• Dromoland Castle: One of Ireland’s finest luxury castle hotels, this property dates back to the 15th century and makes the perfect base for exploring the West of Ireland, including the Cliffs of Moher.

8. Limit your time in Dublin to 1-2 days.

Dublin is an ideal starting point with attractions like the Guinness Storehouse and Trinity College. However, while staying at hotels in Dublin City Centre and taking day trips is suitable for shorter trips (four days or less), it may be limiting for extended vacations in Ireland!

Another of our best Ireland travel tips is to save Dublin for the end of your trip. Pick up your rental car at the Dublin Airport and explore destinations outside the city first. This flexibility lets you adjust your time elsewhere before spending around two days in Dublin at the end!

9. Make sure to include Northern Ireland in your itinerary.

Explore Belfast for historical sites from the Troubles, including Crumlin Road Gaol and the Peace Wall. I highly recommend taking a walking tour to see the renowned murals in Belfast and visiting Titanic Belfast for a deep dive into the Titanic’s history next to the place where it was designed and built.

When traveling to Northern Ireland, remember that it’s technically part of the United Kingdom. So, when you cross the border, you’ll notice the switch from kilometers to miles per hour and the use of pounds instead of euros like the Republic of Ireland.

10. Include hidden gems in your Ireland trip itinerary.

Here are some of our favorite off-the-beaten-track attractions to consider in your Ireland trip planning:

• The Dingle Peninsula: This Peninsula in southwest Ireland features one of the most scenic drives in the country: Slea Head Drive . Experience rugged cliffs, sweeping beaches, and even Star Wars filming locations.
• Slieve League Cliffs: T he second-highest sea cliffs in Ireland are located in County Donegal along the Wild Atlantic Way. They offer stunning views of the Irish coastline at nearly 2,000 feet high (600 m). 
• The Aran Islands: This group of three islands is situated in Galway Bay, off the west coast of Ireland. After you reach the islands by ferry, popular activities include cycling, hiking trails, and visiting the beaches.
• Skellig Michael: This island off the coast of County Kerry is best known for its historic Gaelic monastery, dating back to the 6th century. You can only visit on an eco-boat or landing tour!

Pro tip: tipping in Ireland isn’t mandatory, but it is appreciated. Check for a service charge first–especially if you’re in a large group.

11. Don’t try to see everything in one trip.

12. Maintain some flexibility in your Ireland itinerary.

13. Purchase a SIM card to stay connected.

14. You’ll want to pack clothing that you can layer.

15. Purchase travel insurance. 

Did you enjoy this post? Pin this Ireland travel guide for later!

This article was first published in June 2022 and has since been updated.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Saturday 27th of January 2024

This is so great! Thank you so much for the helpful hints. Can’t wait to visit.

Susan Giuffre

Tuesday 25th of July 2023

This has been the BEST website on travel to Ireland I have come across. We just came back from Greece and Italy. Wonderful but there were a lot of problems with our travel agent and information. My husband, and I and out dear friends, another couple, want to visit Ireland and plan it ourselves. Your article is excellent with information.

I have also liked and followed you on your face book page.

Oh, we all live in North Carolina, USA.

Thank you again!

Barb Spellman

Monday 1st of January 2024

@Susan Giuffre, I hope you don’t mind my contacting you. My husband, myself, possibly two other couples, are JUST beginning plans for an Ireland trip. I, like you, came across this post and I saw YOUR post. We’re in Florida and I’m not embarrassed to say it all seems a little overwhelming!!! We’re thinking sometime late August, first of September, 2024. May I ask if your plans have progressed, where/HOW you started? I suppose, make a list of sites we want to see, then hotel stays??? Lol …. thanks for any hints you might have!!

Thursday 8th of September 2022

Hello! I am from USA I saw your blog. It was great, informative and really useful information that you shared with us. I share your article to my friends and he was totally impressed keep in touch

20+ Ireland Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

If you’re one of the lucky souls currently planning a trip to Ireland, please … take me with you.

Home to sprawling green hills, rugged coastline and many a cozy pub… There are few places in Europe that make me feel as a calm and at home as Ireland.

… and I don’t think I’m alone! The island of Ireland welcomes over 11 million visitors each year, an astounding number that seems to only grow in popularity as more diehard fangirls spread the word.

So hi – here I am, diehard fangirl reporting for duty.

At first glance, Ireland is a fairly ‘easy’ destination for English speakers – the locals are friendly, they speak our language, and for anyone who has been to an Irish pub or donned green for St Patrick’s Day, the culture feels somewhat familiar.

… But there are still plenty of mistakes to be made.

So, in this post, I’ll be sharing all my top Ireland tips and must-knows, from cultural missteps to avoid and tips on saving money to the best ways to get around. I hope you find it helpful!

Save this list of Ireland Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Know the difference between Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland

First – let’s get our terminology right. While the term “Ireland” is often the go-to in most instances, there is an important distinction to be made between Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Simply put: Ireland is the umbrella term used for the island of Ireland, commonly known in marketing materials as the Emerald Isle.

Within Ireland though, there are two separate entities: the Republic of Ireland, which is part of the EU and made up of 26 counties, largely in the south of the island.

And Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK, and made up of 6 counties in the Northeast portion of the island.

The reason for this division is very complicated and rooted in a long history that is wayyy beyond the scope of a regular Ireland travel tips post, but practically speaking for travellers, an important Ireland travel must-know is that…

2. The two different parts of Ireland use different currencies

With the distinction above in mind, you should know that when you visit Ireland (depending on where you go), you are not simply visiting a single country with one common currency, you’re actually dealing with two currencies – both the Euro used in the Republic of Ireland and the Pound, used in Northern Ireland.

I’d recommend getting a bit of cash in both currencies just in case, and then otherwise relying on a travel-friendly credit card like a Wise card.

3. Ireland can be pricey

There are some countries known for their eye-gouging prices in Europe. The likes of Switzerland, Iceland, and Norway for instance are well known budget destroyers, with most backpackers keeping ample distance in fear that even breathing there costs money.

But what surprised me on my first visit was actually how pricey Ireland can be as well.

Particularly in cities like Dublin, the prices of accommodation are quite shocking (easily €30-€40 for a bunk in a hostel, or € 150+ for an alright hotel). Dining out can also be a huge cost, with a recent survey concluding that meals out in Dublin cost more than in London, Paris, and Rome.

So, keep in mind that this won’t be a budget-friendly trip by any means.

4. Book accommodation with a kitchen to save money

If budget is a factor, one big recommendation I have is to book accommodation with a kitchen so you can cook for yourself.

Even preparing a handful of meals for yourself can end up saving you hundreds throughout the trip.

5. Consider staying/exploring outside of big cities

Another Ireland money-saving tip is to maybe spend just a night or two in Dublin (or other cities), and prioritizing places a bit farther out.

This is a dual purpose Ireland tip because I truly think some of the best parts of Ireland are out in the countryside, with the dramatic landscapes and lush greenery stealing the show.

On my first trip, I limited my stay to three days in Dublin, with a day trip out to see the Cliffs of Moher. While I enjoyed my time, it wasn’t until my second trip where we drove around the country for 10 days that I really became obsessed.

There’s just something about those rolling green hills and grazing cows that do wonders for one’s mental well-being. All the better if there’s stony castles along the way.

So, if possible: be sure to diversify your Ireland itinerary and explore beyond just cities.

6. Plan a road trip if you can

I’m usually a huge advocate for public transport when traveling in Europe, but when in Ireland, you really can’t beat renting a car.

Ireland is home to some of the most stunning road trips in the world, an unsurprising fact considering the entire West Coast is basically a sightseeing route.

Known as the Wild Atlantic Way, this scenic stretch of Ireland offers 1600 miles (or 2600km) of astounding natural beauty.

Many visitors will choose to do just a portion of the Wild Atlantic Way, with the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula being some of the most famous picks, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with a coastal road trip in Ireland.

7. Book day tours from cities if you can’t rent a car

But hey, sometimes renting a car isn’t always possible. In those cases, don’t fret – you can still enjoy the best parts of Ireland… you just need to get a little crafty.

The easiest option? Booking day tours.

Many tour companies these days offer day tours departing from major Irish cities, so you can enjoy the scenic perks of a road trip without worrying about driving on the left side or navigating those famously narrow Irish roads.

Of course, this option is much less flexible, and makes crowds pretty much inescapable (since on a tour bus, you are the crowds), but the rewards are well worth it.

8. Public transport is fine for city to city travel

While the benefits of renting a car are numerous, the public transportation system in Ireland is surprisingly affordable and convenient if you’re travelling between major cities, whether going by train or by bus.

For instance, you can easily go from Dublin to Belfast or over to Galway for about 20 euro.

Combining public transport with the tip above re: day tours, you can easily explore some of Ireland’s most scenic landscapes without dealing with a car rental.

9. Don’t miss the world’s oldest bar in Athlone!

This is a niche Ireland tip, but one well worth mentioning.

If, during your trip, you plan to cover the common route of Dublin to Galway, I’d highly recommend stopping halfway in Athlone.

This tiny but vibrant town is full of colourful shops and cool historical attractions, but most importantly it’s home to Sean’s Bar, said to be the oldest bar in the world. 

(As someone dating a Sean who loves bars, this was quite the thrill)

10. On a budget? Look into Ryanair

Now in terms of getting to Ireland, one important thing to know is that Ireland is home to one of the world’s most notorious budget airlines, Ryanair. (You can read my full review for more details)

Whether you know them from their 1 euro flight deals once upon a time, their self-deprecating TikToks or their famously outspoken CEO, Ryanair is a bit of a legend when it comes to the budget travel space.

Because they’re headquartered in Ireland, you can fly to Ireland from most countries in Europe for astoundingly low prices.

So, if you’re struggling to find cheap flights from your home airport, consider hopping on Google Flights and looking for flights into other European countries, and then adding on a Ryanair flight.

This can help you add another destination to your trip and also potentially save you money. 

I cover this more in-depth in my how to find cheap flights to Europe guide.

11. Don’t plan your Ireland trip around good weather

With Ireland’s somewhat rainy reputation, I think many first time visitors are tempted to plan their trip for the summer season, hoping to maximize the likelihood of the sun making a guest appearance.

… but Irish weather is special. And notoriously moody. So in the span of a day, you may get sunshine, rain, AND hail, often in multiple cycles… no matter the time of year.

I went once in August and wore a sundress with a raincoat pretty much the entire trip so weather-wise, I don’t think there’s as much a difference between shoulder and peak season in Ireland as in elsewhere.

Plus, given the high accommodation prices, you’re better off visiting in the shoulder/off season anyway.

So, keep that in mind when deciding when to visit. Sunshine and warmth is not guaranteed ever, not even in July/August.

12. Familiarize yourself with Irish words and slang 

Now, as I’m sure you know by now, English is spoken everywhere in Ireland.

… But there are some unique aspects to this English that can confuse first time visitors. Specifically some terms that they might not be familiar with.

Here are a few:

• Craic : Basically slang for fun. So if someone says good craic, they mean good fun, and not good… other stuff.
• Quid : This word is used in place of the currency, kind of like how we sometimes say 5 bucks instead of 5 dollars, in Ireland, sometimes they say 5 quid instead of 5 euro or 5 pound.
• Arseways: Slang for “gone wrong”
• The Jacks: Slang for the bathroom (e.g. running to the jacks is running to the bathroom)
• Petrol: This is the word they use for gas, so rather than ‘gas station’, it’s ‘petrol station’
• Boot: This is the word they use for the trunk of a car

And lastly, this one isn’t slang but it’s important: Sláinte, which is Irish for Cheers! If you do this trip right, you’ll be saying that a lot.

13. Beware that many Irish words and names are not at all pronounced like they’re spelled

All throughout Ireland, you’ll encounter signage that’s both in English and in Irish (AKA Gaeilge ).

Of course, unless you speak Gaeilge , getting by with English is fine, but if you plan on trying to pronounce Gaeilge names (whether reading a sign, or saying someone’s name), just know that you might struggle.

For instance, Niamh is pronounced like Neev, Siobhan is pronounced like Shiv-awn, and Eoghan is pronounced like Owen. 

14. Research the history of Ireland before your trip

I think that historical context is always important when visiting any country, but especially in Ireland, having a basic grasp of the island’s history can help you steer clear of cultural missteps and saying something you shouldn’t.

This is because while Ireland is a peaceful and beautiful place to visit now, it wasn’t always this way… and there are still some lingering tensions, given that the period of civil unrest known as “the Troubles” lasted until the late 1990s.

No idea what I’m talking about? Here is a very very brief summary:

All the way back in the 12th century, Ireland became the British Empire’s first colony when England invaded Ireland.

But of course, as in most colonies, people in Ireland weren’t happy about being controlled by the English and wanted to be able to rule themselves. Tensions grew for centuries, a huge factor being that most of Ireland was Catholic, rather than Protestant (which much of England was, from the 1500s onwards).

Following centuries of tension, a treaty was signed about 100 years ago that divided Northern Ireland from what was then known as Southern Ireland. Southern Ireland was then once again in charge of their own affairs, leaving the UK one year later (eventually becoming what is now known as the Republic of Ireland).

Northern Ireland however remained part of the UK, largely due to its large population of Protestants and British loyalists. Of course, as you can imagine, not everybody was happy about this decision.

And so, civil unrest between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland continued for decades, with the most famous period of violence and terrorism known as the Troubles lasting over 30 years, ending only in the late 1990s.

So, with this in mind, be respectful and remember the topic of Ireland vs. Republic of Ireland vs. Northern Ireland may still be a touchy subject for some…. and most certainly do not EVER ever ever order an ‘Irish car bomb’ at a bar.

15. Steer clear of obnoxious behaviour when chatting with locals

In a similar vein, there are some other no-nos to steer clear of if you find yourself in the lucky position of chatting with locals.

First – avoid silly stereotypes. Most locals have no interest in hearing you ask about leprechauns, red hair, potatoes, or four leaf clovers, even in a jokey way.

Second – if you’re one of the many, many, many tourists that visit Ireland hoping to trace their heritage, be sure to read the room before talking it up too much. While it can be a nice point of connection, I’ve heard that it can be really obnoxious when American tourists go to Ireland and brag about being Irish and grill people about the origins of their last name and all that.

16. Make sure you try a Guinness 

Now, with those etiquette tips done and dusted, we move onto what I consider possibly my most important Ireland travel tip: have a Guinness. At least one!

It is 1000% not a myth that Guinness tastes better in Ireland. I don’t know the wizardry behind it, but Guinness in Ireland is creamy, delicious, and you owe it to the country to try one.

I warn you though: this might unlock a lifelong obsession.

17. And visit as many pubs as possible

Another very important Ireland tip: go to a pub. Multiple, even. Why not move in? Become a regular. Never leave .

I’m not joking when I say that Irish pubs are the pinnacle of warmth and coziness. The pub culture here is incredible (little wonder why there’s thousands of Irish pubs around the world) and hands down, there’s no better place to appreciate the comfort of this country than in a wooden snug, nursing your 4th pint of Guinness.

It’s worth noting that pubs in Ireland aren’t just about drinking.

They’re great places to grab a bite to eat and enjoy live music too… so just because you don’t love pubs back home, I promise you the experience here is very different, and worth trying at least once.

18. Be sure to indulge in Irish cuisine

Of course, between all the Guinnesses, it’s important to line your stomach as well with some comforting eats.

Irish fare may not be as renowned worldwide as some other European cuisines, but there are some tasty must-tries that I can heartily recommend.

• Butter and dairy in general – This sounds stupid, but hear me out. Ireland is filled with gorgeous green grass for cows to feast on, and I’m not sure if that’s why, but the dairy in this country is frankly out of this world. I could eat the butter in Ireland by the spoonful. On top of soda bread, it’s amazing. The ice cream is also excellent. 
• Fresh seafood – Ireland is surrounded by water, and that water holds some truly delicious treasures… especially shellfish like oysters. 
• Irish stew – If you want a hearty and warming meal, you can’t go wrong with a meat stew loaded with potatoes and flavourful veggies.
• Full Irish Breakfast – Very similar to the full English breakfast, but it comes with either Black Pudding or White Pudding, and often soda bread instead of regular bread. Don’t question what these things are, just try them and get back to me. I personally think they’re delicious.

19. Seek out sights beyond the biggest, most famous ones

Some attractions in Ireland have immediate name recognition, hence why tourists flock to them in droves… but speaking from personal experience, my favourite places in Ireland have been the ones I hadn’t ever heard of before my trips.

So, while you can check out the Blarney Stone if you really want to (though kissing it is questionable), and a pint at Dublin’s Temple Bar is good for checking off the bucket list, know that some of the best things to do in Ireland are the ones you likely haven’t heard of.

Put in some extra work into finding your own hidden gems, and your trip will be 1000x better for it!

20. Visit big attractions just before they close

Now if you do (inevitably) end up at some of Ireland’s biggest attractions, my big tip for avoiding the tourist masses is simply visiting just before closing time.

With these main attractions, most visitors tend to come on day tours in the middle of the morning/afternoon, hence why you’re able to escape most of them if you plan your visit for just before closing time.

For instance, I went to the Cliffs of Moher at sunset once in the middle of August, and it was empty. Empty. Not a single bus tour in sight!

I also went to the Giant’s Causeway right when the visitor centre was closing and it was much quieter than normal.

So yes, definitely steal that Ireland travel hack if you can. 

21. Watch movies and TV shows set in Ireland to get you excited for your trip

Last but not least, if you want to enjoy your Ireland trip to its fullest, I implore you to consume as much media as possible with Ireland as its glorious backdrop.

And if you’re wondering if I have recommendations, duh – of course I do.

• If you want romance, Once, PS I Love You, Leap Year and Finding You are great choices.
• If you want something really good but kinda weird, the Banshees of Inesherin is great.
• If you want an excuse to watch Star Wars, watch The Last Jedi for some Irish eye candy.
• And if you want to be emotionally ruined, watch Normal People. There’s not a ton of Irish landscapes but the story takes place in Ireland and is so beautiful.
• Lastly, if you’re visiting Northern Ireland, watch Game of Thrones and if you’re visiting Derry and want a comedy, watch Derry Girls.

I hope this list of Ireland Travel Tips was helpful!

Quite frankly, if you made it this far, you deserve some kind of medal! This was a VERY long list of tips for Ireland, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

1 thought on “20+ Ireland Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go”

I love your tips, always! And the pub thing is true, both in Ireland and England. I was in London for 36 hours once, and went to six pubs. No lie. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a nightcap. It was wonderful. Thank you!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

25+ Helpful Ireland Travel Tips for a Stress-free Trip

With over 20 percent of Americans claiming Irish heritage, travel to Ireland is on many bucket lists. Everyone has heard stories of kissing the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle and driving the Ring of Kerry — but when it comes to visiting Ireland, there are a few things to know before you go. I’ve visited Ireland a couple of times and I wanted to share these Ireland travel tips while they are still fresh in my mind.

Of course the biggest challenge when planning a trip to Ireland is figuring out where to go. One option is to fly into Dublin and travel south and west through Kilkenny, Waterford , County Cork, Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, and slowly make your way up to Galway (stopping at the Cliffs of Moher of course) and flying out of Shannon or back to Dublin. Those more adventurous may prefer the northern area of Donegal.

If you have two or more weeks, you can add in a visit to Northern Ireland (which is part of the United Kingdom) and see iconic sites like Giant’s Causeway and Dunlace Castle.  Whether you have two weeks or just a long weekend, don’t focus on checking off a list of must-see sights. Instead, take your time and enjoy traditional Irish music, food, culture and the incredible warmth of the Irish people.

If you need help planning your trip, I’m happy to refer you to one of my travel advisor friends that can help you put together an amazing trip.

Ireland Travel Tips

This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission.

Know Before you Go

One of the nice things about visiting Ireland is that it is very culturally familiar. English is widely spoken (and with the most charming Irish accent) and customs are not too different from what North Americans are comfortable with. The Irish people are incredibly warm and welcoming and this makes Ireland a very kid-friendly destination. The combination of English-speaking, family-friendly, and Irish heritage makes Ireland a very popular first international trip for families.

Ireland also doesn’t need to be an expensive vacation (see how much a trip to Ireland costs ). While there are plenty of five-star castle accommodations, there are also country houses, city hotels, and vacation rentals that are quite affordable for families compared to visiting London or other big cities.

July and August is peak tourist season in Ireland, so you can expect higher prices and larger crowds. The shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October used to be much quieter, but global tourism growth has really made these seasons quite busy also.

While winter in Ireland isn’t terribly cold, it will be damp and dreary and some establishments in the countryside will close from November through early March. So while the crowds will be less, there are some drawbacks to visiting in winter as well.

Getting There

As I mentioned, there are many affordable flights on the national carrier Aer Lingus. Here are a few tips to ease your entry and exit into Ireland:

• You can fly into Dublin, Shannon, or Cork so don’t feel like you have to go into and out of Dublin — just note that some airlines only fly into these airports on certain days
• Be prepared for questions at immigration as to the purpose of your trip
• On your return, you can pre-clear United States customs and immigration at Dublin and Shannon airports. Please leave yourself time to get through this process (approximately two to three hours at Dublin and one to two hours at Shannon.)
• When you are leaving out of Dublin airport, you will need to go through standard airport security and then if you want to do any shopping or eating, do it next before entering the U.S. pre-clearance area
• There is a Global Entry line and kiosks in Dublin which may or may not be open
• After pre-clearance there are not a lot of food or shopping options
• Shannon Airport offers special services for those on the Autism spectrum or suffering from sensory issues including a special waiting room

Getting Around

Getting around in Ireland can be tricky — especially with a large family. You can certainly hire a driver guide or take public transportation between cities and towns. You can even fly between cities to save time. But chances are if you are going into the countryside, you will end up renting a car.

Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• You drive on the left throughout Ireland and this can take some getting used to if you are accustomed to driving on the right
• Expect small, narrow roads with very little room to pass by. If tight lanes make you nervous, you may want to give up driving duties
• Because of the narrow roads, it is highly recommended that you rent the smallest car possible. And unless you are very comfortable driving a manual, I would recommend spending the extra money for an automatic transmission. Trust me, driving on the left is challenging enough without also contending with a stick shift
• To fully enjoy your sightseeing, you may want to hire a driver-guide if you can afford it. Expect to pay around 250 euro per day for a half-day excursion
• Driving will always take longer than you expect (or Google predicts) so leave extra time to get from place to place
• Cell service can be spotty and rental car GPS is not always reliable so I would recommend also investing in a paper map as a back up and ask for or print out directions to your destination. Just assign one of your passengers to be the navigator!
• Make sure you purchase full car insurance coverage because it is not unheard of for someone to knock off a side mirror passing stone walls or busses on these narrow roads
• Bring along change (in Euro for the Republic of Ireland and British pounds/pence for Northern Ireland) for tolls and parking meters
• Tell your car rental company if you plan on passing into Northern Ireland or taking the ferry to England or Scotland
• Bring along a travel guide that includes a key to all the main road signs and parking symbols as they are not wholly intuitive
• When crossing the street, remember to look right. There are painted signs at intersections to remind visitors in many main cities and towns but it is good to always remind yourself
• When entering a rotary, you enter to the left
• One trick to driving on the left is to remember to always keep the center line of the road on the driver’s side of the car

What to Pack

In Ireland, the weather is unpredictable and frequently rainy so the trick is to be prepared.

• You will want to plan on packing and wearing layers (very similar to my Scotland packing list )
• While the sunny days are spectacular, rainy days can be raw so make sure to bring along a raincoat, umbrella, and weather-proof boots or shoes
• You will also need a European (for the Republic of Ireland) and/or UK adapter (for Northern Ireland) and a converter for appliances like hair dryers or flat irons
• Don’t forget your camera with a battery charger and lots of extra juice for your phone and camera because the scenery is stunning!
• The Republic of Ireland operates on the Euro, while Northern Ireland uses the British pound.
• Restaurants will typically include a service charge but if not, tipping beyond 10 to 12 percent is not expected
• Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, although you will want a card without a foreign transaction fee and ideally a card with a chip and pin
• Free WiFi is available at most attractions and restaurants
• You can save money when visiting attractions by investing in a Heritage Card. The Heritage Card provides for free admission to all fee-paying State managed OPW Heritage Sites located throughout the country for one year from the date of first use (with the exception of Muckross Traditional Farms, Killarney)
• Non-European Union visitors can shop tax-free by requesting a tax refund at airport kiosks. There are FEXCO Tax Refund Kiosks at Dublin, Shannon & Cork Airports, where you can quickly process your refund and claim your tax back. It is super fast and easy!

PIN THIS FOR LATER

SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave SaveSave SaveSaveSaveSave SaveSave

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

Find this useful? Share it!

Publish Date: May 23, 2024

3 thoughts on “25+ Helpful Ireland Travel Tips for a Stress-free Trip”

This is great information – we are going to Ireland in a month and I’m beyond excited!

Have a great trip!! It is a magical place and I really want to return to explore more.

Many thanks for sharing this useful article. My dream is to visit Ireland. I really want to see this beautiful nature and also the old castles and the sea…I want to rent a car and to travel all over Ireland. It would be sooo nice.

Comments are closed.

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER & RECEIVE A FAMILY VACATION PLANNING KIT!

We3Travel.com will use the information you provide on this form to send you newsletters. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting [email protected] . By clicking below, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.

Start typing and press enter to search

Top 10 things to know before traveling to Ireland

Mar 27, 2024 • 9 min read

From pub etiquette to catching public transport – here's what you need to know before you go to Ireland © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

A lifetime of living in Ireland has given me some insight into the vagaries of my home country, beginning with the number one rule: never assume anything. This is a country that delights in confounding even your most comfortable expectations about pretty much everything, from the weather to the quality of the wifi.

Here are 10 tips that I’m pretty comfortable giving anyone who plans a visit, whether for the first time or the fifth. I’ve got some practical tips around VAT refunds and the most efficient ways to get around, but then there’s a bunch of suggestions on how to crack the mightiest nut of all – the Irish themselves. Because be in no doubt, while Ireland has gorgeous landscapes, a rich history and the best pubs in the world, your visit will only be truly memorable if you get to know the people – friendly and welcoming but often contradictory and inscrutable.

1. Plan on at least seven days to start making sense of the country

Ireland is small, but there’s an awful lot to it. Luckily, distances in Ireland aren’t huge so you can get most anywhere in a few hours, but the list of where to go can get very long, very quickly.

It’ll take you a couple of days to even begin to make a dent in Dublin , but once you go beyond the capital you’ll need at least five days to make a lightening stop tour of the major highlights of the west: Galway and Connemara, Clare (where you’ll find the Cliffs of Moher and the most authentic traditional music in the country), Kerry (you’ll need a whole day just for the Ring of Kerry and another for the Dingle Peninsula ) and Cork , only it’s time to go home so you can only make enough time for Cork City .

Clearly the only solution is to plan for a month; at the end of it, you’ll be wanting to stay a year. 

2. Keep it to casual wear

The Irish aren’t big on formal wear and only pull it out for very specific occasions (a wedding, a ball, the opening of a parliamentary session). Which means you can wear pretty much whatever you want: smart casual is the most you'll need for fancy dinners, the theatre or the concert hall.

Irish summers are warm but rarely hot, so you'll want something extra when the temperatures cool, especially in the evening. Ultimately the ever-changeable weather will determine your outfits, but a light waterproof jacket should never be beyond reach for the almost-inevitable rain. If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking – in cities or on hills – a good pair of walking shoes, preferably waterproof, will do the trick.

Add these top beaches around Ireland to your travel itinerary. 

3. The land of a 100,000 welcomes

Céad míle fáilte – literally, 100,000 welcomes. The famous Irish greeting suggests a country that is big on displays of affection, but nothing could be further from the truth. A firm handshake – with eye contact – is the appropriate greeting when meeting men, women and older children for the first time. Once a friendship is made, then all bets are off and anything goes, from a hug and a kiss on the cheek (primarily amongst female friends) to an air nod and a casual "hey".

Younger Irish are less formal than their older counterparts, but even they generally eschew effusive greetings: more often than not, a quick handshake and a casual nod is the best way to say hello for the first time.

4. The Irish love to talk, until they don’t

The Irish are renowned for their chat, but with people they don’t know particularly well they generally like to keep it to topics that are light and not likely to embarrass. Despite their gregarious nature, the Irish tend to be reserved when it comes to life’s more serious issues and are very mistrustful of "oversharers". 

The old adage that the Irish will talk about anything except sex, religion and politics is something of an over-simplification, but if you do find yourself steering into deeper waters around sensitive topics it’s always better to listen: locals aren’t shy about getting into heated discussion amongst themselves about all kinds of topics but take a dim view of outsiders who express (even legitimate) criticisms of Ireland or the Irish.

5. You’d better learn about the rounds system

It’s a firm rule of drinking with locals. If someone buys you a drink, you’re obliged to buy them one back – this is the bedrock of Irish pub culture. Nothing will hasten your fall from social grace here like the failure to uphold this pub law. 

The time to repay the drink you’re drinking? It’s when the person you’re drinking with is just about to finish theirs. It doesn’t matter if you’re halfway through your own drink at that moment: you can’t let your drinking buddy sit in front of an empty glass. Your greatest challenge will probably be trying to keep up with your fellow drinkers, who may keep buying you drinks in every round even when you've still got a collection of unfinished pints in front of you and you're sliding face first down the bar.

6. The best way to visit cities is on foot or by public transport

Driving and parking in Irish cities is a nightmare. There’s no free parking anywhere; the unrelenting traffic will test even the most patient of drivers; and the one-way systems in major urban centres will confound you to the point of madness (although map apps are pretty good at pointing you in the right direction).

The good news is you don’t need a car to visit any Irish city. Dublin, the biggest by far, has a pretty decent system of public transport, but even then most of the major sights are within walking distance of each other. Same goes for Cork, Belfast, Limerick and Galway, which are more easily explored without a car.

Save this guide to the best road trips in Ireland.

7. The easiest way to explore Ireland is by car

If cities are best experienced without a car, the most effective way to explore the rest of the country is with one. The bus network, made up of a mix of public and private operators, is extensive and generally quite competitive, though journey times can be slow and lots of the points of interest outside towns are not served. The rail network is quicker but more limited, serving only some major towns and cities. Both buses and trains get busy during peak times; you'll need to book in advance to be guaranteed a seat. 

Cars can be hired in every major town and city. The Irish drive on the left hand side; distances and speed limits in the Republic are measured in kilometres, but once you cross the invisible border into Northern Ireland everything switches to miles.

8. Ireland is good cycling country

Ireland's compact size and scenic landscapes make it a good cycling destination, albeit one you need to prepare for. The weather is unreliable, roads can be very narrow and Irish drivers tend to drive quickly, even on those narrow roads. A growing network of greenways, such as the 42km Great Western Greenway in County Mayo and the Royal Canal Greenway that runs through the midlands, are a great and hassle-free way to see the country from two wheels. A good tip for cyclists in the west is that the prevailing winds make it easier to cycle from south to north. 

Buses will carry bikes, but only if there’s room. Intercity trains will also carry bikes, but you’ll need to book a space in advance as there’s limited capacity. Suburban rail services in Dublin won’t take bikes during rush hour (7am to 10am and 4pm to 7pm). A number of Irish companies arrange cycle tours, including Go Visit Ireland  and Cycling Safaris .

9. Pick the right season to travel in Ireland

June to mid-September is high season: the weather is at its best and the most popular parts of the country – Dublin , Kerry and the southern and western coasts – are at their busiest. The downside is big crowds and the highest rates for accommodation and car hire.

Rates drop off from mid-September as the crowds start to thin, but most tourist spots are still open to take advantage of the last weeks of the season. Although weather can never be predicted with any degree of accuracy, the weather can be surprisingly lovely right up to mid-October.

Low season runs from November to the middle of March; Irish winter days are short, damp and cold, but the upside is fewer visitors and some terrific accommodation deals. A lot of the west coast goes into winter hibernation, though, with a lot of attractions and hotels closing down; if you’re planning to visit during this time you should check what’s open before you travel.   

Ready to head to Ireland? These are the best times to visit.

10. Claim your VAT back if you’re visiting from outside the EU

Most goods come with value-added tax (VAT) of 23%, which non-EU residents can claim back as part of the Retail Export Scheme, so long as the purchase was made with a credit card. Visitors from the UK can also benefit from this, but not visitors from Northern Ireland.

Before making a purchase, check with the retailer that they operate the scheme. If they do, you will be issued an export voucher for the purchase, which you need to get certified by customs when you leave Ireland. The voucher is sent back to the retailer who then refunds you the VAT (minus any processing fee). 

Rather than operate the scheme themselves, many retailers use VAT-refunding agencies, whereby you go through the same process of presenting the agency’s own certificate at customs. Some agencies, though, operate a scheme where you don’t pay any VAT upfront, but if you don’t file the paperwork correctly (either sending it back to the agency or presenting it to customs) your card will be charged later. Some goods such as books, children's clothing and educational items are excluded from VAT.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

May 3, 2024 • 14 min read

Should you book your next trip with cash or points? Here's an expert's guide and everything you need to be considering.

Apr 14, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 2, 2024 • 9 min read

Mar 31, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 30, 2024 • 4 min read

Mar 28, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 13, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 11, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 5, 2024 • 3 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 20 min read

23 No Holds Barred Ireland Travel Tips to Help You Crush Your Trip

Ireland offers 32,000 square miles of castles, coastline and culture. With so much to chose from, planning a trip to Ireland can be overwhelming. No worries, I’ve got you covered. These 23 Ireland travel tips will answer your key questions and guide you to resources that will help you put together your own best trip.

23 Super Useful Ireland Travel Tips and No BS

I’ve traveled to Ireland many times and I have opinions . This Ireland trip planner is not cobbled together from random Google searches. I’ve made all of the mistakes already– like crashing the rental car in Doonbeg and nearly driving into a marathon in Galway. I unsuccessfully tried to do too much on my first Irish road trip and also failed entirely to understand the historical significance of the Hill of Tara. I stayed in the wrong hotel in Killarney and narrowly averted the vomitorium on a rocky ferry crossing from Wales.

I’ve been there. And I’m going to give you my best advice, so that when you travel to Ireland, you can avoid the mishaps.

When is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?

Spring through fall, or whenever you can slide out of work.

Ireland is called the Emerald Isle for a reason. On any given day, there is a 30-40% chance of rain. The temperatures are also fairly cool all year round. So don’t let weather drive your decision for when to visit Ireland. That said, avoid August if you can, because it’s a very busy tourism month throughout Europe.

Otherwise, just plan travel to Ireland whenever your work schedule permits….and bring a GoreTex jacket.

How Many Days Do I Need for Ireland?

7-10 days is the sweet spot, but it depends upon how much time you can squeeze out of your vacation allotment.

Some people spend a month in Ireland and do the full circuit. Others, just spend a three day weekend in Dublin. The real question you should ask yourself is– “how much time do I have for Ireland… and how do I make the most of it without wearing myself out?”

If you want to see a lot of Ireland, then 7-10 days is the sweet spot. This will allow you to spend a few days in Dublin and then do a road trip loop that could include: Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Loophead, Dingle (and/or Ring of Kerry), and Cashel.

Check out this Ireland itinerary , it will give you suggestions for how to piece together a 5-10 day trip that will give you most of the highlights without exhausting yourself.

Read also: Do the Works on the Great Ocean Road Drive: 18 Key Stops with Itinerary Options

What’s it Like to Go Solo in Ireland?

Solo travel in Ireland is safe, fun and far less lonely than you might imagine.

I’ve traveled solo to Ireland three times and I’ve never have a bored moment. Nor have I experienced that “nervous look over the shoulder and clutch your bag” feeling that every solo female traveler dreads. Irish culture is very friendly and welcoming.

My favorite Ireland travel tip for solo travelers– simply pull up a bar stool at the local pub and start talking to the bartender. You can also engage with others by taking walking tours or day trips.

But don’t be afraid to be on your own. I did a solo road trip from Galway around Connemara and experienced a restorative day by getting deliberately lost along the coastline.

Read also: The Best 2-day Antrim Coast Road Trip For Game of Thrones Sites and Giant’s Causeway

Is it Worth Renting a Car in Ireland?

Yes! Summoning the intestinal fortitude required to tackle Ireland’s tight roads will reward you with tons of coastline.

Look, driving in Ireland can be tricky. Driving on the left with a manual transmission down charmingly tight roads is a nail biter. But if you do it, you give yourself the freedom to drive down that random peninsula, get lost or spend extra time someplace cool.

If you do a bus tour, or even worse, try to see everything as a series of day trips from Dublin, you will miss the point of traveling to Ireland. The tour buses are timed such that they all tend to arrive at the same time. So it’s just you and 10,000 of your closest friends elbowing each other out of the way at the Cliffs of Moher. Frustrating…and kind of dangerous because those cliffs are inconceivably steep.

Follow this guide for how to survive driving in Ireland and you’ll get ten tips for making a rental car work for you.

Places to See by Train if You Don’t Want to Rent the Car

You can easily get to the following popular tourist cities by train: Galway, Waterford, Cork and Killarney.

If I didn’t convince you with my treatise on why you should rent a car, then there are alternatives. I’m still not a fan of the glass bottom bus bus tours, but you can use Irish rail to get to some pretty cool places. Here are my tips for Ireland travel without a car:

• From Cork : You can easily take a train or bus to the cute coastal towns of Kinsale and Cobh.
• From Waterford : You can enjoy touring the crystal factory, great food and beautiful beaches.
• From Galway : You can take a full day tour to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren , and/or tour Connemara and Kylemore Abbey . In town, you can pub hop and hear some fantastic trad music.
• From Killarney : You can do the Ring of Kerry as a day tour , or take a guided hike through Killarney National Park.

What doesn’t work well by train is the Dingle Peninsula. The nearest train station is an hour away in Tralee. There are day trips available from Killarney for Dingle but you’ll spend two hours of the seven hour trip just getting there and back.

Can I See it All in One Trip?

Absolutely not and you shouldn’t try to. You are better off going to fewer places and spending more time in each than rushing from one place to the next.

Even if this is your once-in-a-lifetime Ireland trip, you are better off doing fewer things slowly rather than racing to fit in everything. In Ireland, distances aren’t far as the crow flies, but road speeds are slow and you don’t want to spend more time in the car than out of it.

Here are four Ireland travel tips that I hope will convince you to slow down and spend that extra night somewhere:

• Near Galway : If you do the overnight Connemara trip that I mentioned earlier, you can visit beautiful Kylemore Abbey and spend the night in the charming little harbor town of Cliften. Offbeat options in the area include a bog hike (I swear, you won’t get stuck) and the Sky Road which has epic views stretching all the way across the pacific.
• Near Dingle : An extra night in Dingle will give you time to take the boat out to Great Blasket Island. It features an abandoned village and is a windswept paradise for sea lions, sheep and hikers.
• Near Doolin : If you overnight in Doolin you can have an evening of great beer and trad music. Then you can get up early and hit the nearby Cliffs of Moher without the crowds.
• Near Giant’s Causeway : The Causeway park is open all of the time…but the parking lot isn’t. If you spend the night in one of the B&Bs up the hill, you can walk down early in the morning (or after 5pm) and have the park all to yourself.

Which is Better: Dingle Peninsula or Ring of Kerry?

Absolutely the Dingle Peninsula.

The Wild Atlantic Way covers 2,500 kilometers (1,553 miles) of craggy coastline and crazy cliffs, including both the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula. So, there is no shortage of awesome coastline to feed your eyeballs. But, if you take my advice to slow it down, then you may have to choose between visiting one peninsula or the other.

I prefer Dingle for its compact distribution of ancient sites and friendly town vibe. There are a number of pubs that have regular trad music sessions with the requisite craic. Driving over Conor Pass on a clear day will delivery some of the best views in Ireland, hands down. There is a string of ancient forts, beehive huts and ruined churches that are both interesting and easy to access.

The last time I was there, we loved it so much, that we added on an extra day at the last minute.

Killarney is fine as a base of operations for the Iveragh Peninsula. However, I feel that it has few too many tourist shops selling Irish kitsch. There are hundreds of articles answering the question of “which way to drive the Ring of Kerry”, all offering advice on how to avoid the crush of tour buses. That alone should tell you that you need a serious strategy for tackling this over touristed spot.

Where Can I Find a Quiet Patch of Coastline?

Everywhere. Just drive down nearly any random peninsula off of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Even if you drive the popular Iveragh Peninsula and Dingle Peninsula routes, you’ll only cover 262 of the 1,500 kilometers of the Wild Atlantic Way. There is plenty of coastline remaining for a quiet spot. So, load up your car with a hunk of Irish cheese and some bread and plan to pull over for a picnic.

Here are a few of the top beaches in Ireland:

• Cork : Inchdoney Beach
• Iveragh Peninsula : Derrynane Beach
• Dingle Peninsula : Inch Beach
• Antrim Coast : Ballycastle Beach
• Donegal : Marble Hill Beach and Ballymastocker
• Achill Island : Keem Bay

How Do I Beat the Hordes at the Cliffs of Moher

Get there by 8:30am or after 4pm.

Most of the tour buses stopping at the Cliffs of Moher take about two hours to arrive from either Galway or Dingle. They won’t get there until between 10am and noon. Stay in nearby Doolin or Lahinch and you’ll arrive at the cliffs before everyone else.

If you arrive right at 8:30am, you can spend an hour or so walking the cliffs and then head into the visitors center. Another alternative is to hike in from Doolin on the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Trail.

How do I Find Game of Thrones Filming Locations?

There’s an app for that.

The Game of Thrones production single handedly sparked a major boom in tourism for Northern Ireland. If you want to self-drive the sites, stop at the tourist information desk at the Belfast airport and they’ll give you a map and guide to Northern Ireland.

Then, download the Game of Thrones  app  from the tourist bureau. It will give you a detailed map for finding all of the filming sites along the Causeway coast.

In the interest of full disclosure, I must confess that I used the app to find what I thought was the Dark Hedges (Kings Road). But I was in the wrong spot and took pictures of some lovely trees, which were not the right trees. Oops.

If you want to avoid taking pictures of the wrong trees, or you’d like something more experiential, this tour is a day trip from Belfast, which include dress-up costumes and swords.

How do I Feel the Force at Irish Star Wars Filming Locations?

There more Star Wars locations than just Skellig Michael.

What the Game of Thrones did for the west coast of Northern Ireland, Star Wars is doing for the west and south coasts of the Republic of Ireland. The force awakened with Luke and Rey delicately perched on Skellig Michael.

You can visit Skellig Michael as a day trip from the Iveragh Peninsula, but only in the summer, only if you book ahead, and only if the weather cooperates.

Other filming sites include the Loophead Peninsula (pictured above). Loophead is worth visiting because it is way off the tourist trail and it hosts the oldest running lighthouse in Ireland.

Other shooting locations include Malin Head in County Donegal, Sybil Head in Dingle, and Mizen Head and Brow Head in County Cork.

Do I Really Need to Visit the Guinness Storehouse?

Meh. Only if you are truly interested in the history of Irish beer making.

Somehow, the Guinness Storehouse has become the top attraction for people traveling to Ireland. I’m a contrarian traveler and usually avoid visiting the super-touristy stuff so it wasn’t until my third visit to Dublin that I actually made it to there. The Storehouse takes you through a multi-story history of the beer and how it is made. They offer a class on how to pull your own perfect pint and at the end, you get a glass of beer at their rooftop bar.

But at €17.50-25, the experience is expensive. So if you just like to drink beer, but don’t care about how the malt gets turned into mash, then just visit some cool historic pubs , like the Quays Pub shown above.

Do I Really Need to Kiss the Blarney Stone?

Absolutely Not! Gross!

Here’s an Ireland travel tip for you– do you really want to hang out a four story window to kiss some slutty castle wall? I’m distantly related to Robert the Bruce, who received the stone in 1314, but I’m still not going to make out with it.

Go to the nearby Rock of Cashel instead. It began as the seat for the Munster kings through the 12th century. The land was later donated to the Catholic church and chapel was constructed in 1127. The evocative cathedral grounds loom over the landscape, a moody reminder of Ireland’s long history.

Should I Visit Trinity College?

Yes, but be sure to visit a few of Dublin’s other beautiful libraries too .

The Book of Kells and the Long Library at Trinity College are the fourth most popular attraction in Ireland—and worth it. The library houses 200,000 of the library’s oldest books. The light streaming in from the windows illuminates row after row of books, all connected together by a beautiful curved ceiling. I’m a nut for beautiful libraries and this one is a stunner.

That said, there are also some other lovely libraries in Dublin, including the National Library and the Marsh’s Library. Check out this literary tour of Dublin for more info.

Should I Take the Hop on Hop Off Bus in Dublin?

Absolutely not, unless you’d like to pay a premium to spend all day on a bus.

I’m not a fan of the HoHo buses. They cost a premium and are never the most efficient way to get from A to B. For instance, to get from the Guinness Storehouse back to central Dublin, the bus runs a 25 minute loop through Phoenix Park. The normal bus takes just 12 minutes. So take the bus or an Uber. It’s cheaper.

Furthermore, most of the most popular things to do in Dublin are easily walkable from the center of the city.

How do I get From Dublin Airport to Central Dublin?

Take the 747 or 757 city bus line. It’s cheap, fast and not smelly.

The bus is by far the best way to get into Dublin. It’s a hybrid between a shuttle and a city bus route. It costs €7 one way and only takes about 25 minutes in normal traffic. You can catch either the 747 or the 757, depending upon your destination. The bus stops are right outside the main terminal and have clearly marked maps.

Tragically Practical Ireland Travel Tips

What is the currency in ireland.

Well, that depends upon where you go. Northern Ireland is part of the UK and they use the Pound. The Republic of Ireland is in the EU and they use the Euro.

Should You Tip in Ireland?

Not too much. You are not expected to tip for cab rides or bar service. If you have restaurant or bar table service, 10% is fine. But check first and make sure that they didn’t already add a service charge to the bill.

How to Get Mobile Data in Ireland

Don’t try to travel to Ireland without mobile service. If you are driving, you are definitely going to need the mapping services.

If you are in the US and on T-mobile, you are good to go as international service is included.

If you don’t have T-mobile but do have an unlocked phone (one that isn’t on a plan), then just pick up a €20 sim card at the airport. If you don’t have an unlocked phone, consider paying off your phone and then having it unlocked. Because, international plans out of the US are a terrible deal and can cost $140 for a two week trip.

Getting to Ireland

There are five cities with major airports: Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Shannon and Knock. They are serviced by major airlines such as Aer Lingus, American, Delta, British Air and United. Low cost carriers such as Ryan Air, Flybe and Eurowings also service Ireland.

Flying to (or through) Ireland from North America is often much cheaper than using gateways like London or Paris. Check alternative routing to try to score a cheaper fare.

Tips for Booking Accommodation

Unless you are traveling in August and/or on a summer weekend, lodging will be fairly easy to get in Ireland—outside of the major cities, that is. It’s worth it to pre-book the major cities, or if you want to do a splurge stay at a castle. Otherwise, give yourself a bit of itinerary flexibility and leave some nights open to chance.

I like using Booking.com for accommodation in Europe because they are more likely to have the smaller hotels and B&Bs that I like.

Dublin hotels are expensive for what you get, so it’s best to book ahead there. Galway and Belfast don’t have a lot of hotel inventory so consider AirBnB or a hostel for those cities.

My best Ireland travel tip for accommodation is to simply be flexible. There are so many smaller B&Bs dotted all over the country, you can often simply roll up and find a bed for the night. And if that particular B&B is full, they will often call around for you and help you find a bed.

Packing Essentials for Ireland

Ireland has a chilly, rainy climate so you’ll want to pack for the elements. But if you don’t want to  overpack , check out this packing list  for the UK & Ireland . It’s a carry-on only list that will give you three weeks of clothes for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Here is a short list of essentials for walking around Dublin.

• A gore-tex  rain jacket
• A snappy looking  pair of waterproof walking shoes
• Extra data card  for your camera
• An Irish emerald green  reusable water bottle

More Resources for Planning a Trip to Ireland

Here are some additional resources to help you plan your travels to Ireland

General Advice

• Read up before you go with this list of great Irish books .
• Road trip itinerary suggestions for a 5-10 trip.
• Ten tips for how to survive driving in Ireland .

Northern Ireland

• Disobey the Rick Steves guide in Northern Ireland .
• Driving itinerary for the Antrim Coast .
• Mural tour of Belfast.

Republic of Ireland

• Driving itinerary for Galway through the Connemara .
• Two different 1-day itineraries for Dublin .
• A literary tour of Dublin.
• Cool bookshops in Dublin .

Share these Ireland travel tips with your friends and pin it:

Ultimate IRELAND Travel Guide

Ireland is a country located in Northwestern Europe .  Dublin is the capital and well worth spending some time in. The whole country is gorgeous and we can’t say enough good things about how amazing a visit to this country is for the traveler.

We spent 3 full weeks road-tripping and this is our extensive Ireland travel guide to help you plan your trip.

Between the landscapes, colors, pub culture and history you could easily max out a 90-day visa, although most travelers spend an average of 2 weeks in the country.

One of the biggest highlights is renting a car upon arrival and heading off on a road trip to  explore the Wild Atlantic Way .

Destinations

Ireland travel: quick tips, don’t visit ireland without:.

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

IRELAND BUCKET LIST

See the cliffs of moher.

This is one of the most famous natural places in all of Europe and is an Ireland itinerary must. Looking out over the Atlantic Ocean truly makes you feel like you’re on the edge of the world. 

DRINK GUINNESS IN A PUB

Ireland has a very fun and intense pub culture that you simply cannot miss during a visit. Belly up to the bar, order a Guinness and get ready to converse with the locals. They love to chat and share their stories.

DRIVE THE RING OF KERRY

One of the most scenic driving routes in Ireland, the  Ring of Kerry  navigates the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and south coast. Along the way, you can expect plenty of mountains, moss, and narrow roads. 

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN IRELAND

There is no shortage of great things to do in Ireland during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

Each city has it’s own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our city guides once you decide where you’re itinerary will take you.

HIKE IN THE WICKLOW MOUNTAINS:   Just south of Dublin is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Ireland, the Wicklow Mountains. While it’s possible to visit on a day trip from Dublin, we’d recommend you spend at least one night. There are many hiking trails, lakes and forests to explore here. Also, don’t miss a stop at  Glendalough .

KISS THE BLARNEY STONE:  One of the most time-honored tourist traditions is to pay a visit to Blarney Castle. Aside from exploring the beautiful grounds, you can climb to the top to kiss the infamous stone that is said to give you the gift of the gab.

VISIT THE TITANIC MUSEUM IN CORK:  One of the last ports of call for the  RMS Titanic , before it sailed off into the Atlantic and on to its fate, was in Cork, Ireland. Here, you can your a well put together museum on the ship, the passengers and what it would have been like to sail on this mega-ship.

DRIVE THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY:  One of the best road trips in the world is to set off on the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland. Heading south from Dublin, this route follows the coast taking you to places like the Rock of Cashel, Cork, the Ring of Kerry, Killarney, Limerick, the Dingle Peninsula, the Cliffs of Moher and Galway, to name a few. It is the ultimate exploration of this beautiful country.

GO PUB HOPPING IN DUBLIN:  Head to the historical downtown in Dublin and embark on an evening of colorful pub hopping. This popular area has multiple pubs along several blocks, including the famous Temple Bar. Many offer live music.

TOUR THE CAUSEWAY COAST:  While this road trip route along the  Causeway Coast  is located in Northern Ireland, it is worth a side trip while you’re touring around Ireland. This route features the city of Belfast, the Dark Hedges, Giants Causeway, Carrik A Rede Bridge and Dunluce Castle, along with other  Game of Thrones  filming locations.

SEE PUFFINS AT SKELLIG MICHAEL:  Take a tiny boat out into the Atlantic Ocean from Portmagee, where you’ll be headed for the  Skellig Islands . It is here that you can spend time climbing several stones laid as stairs up to the top of the island. Along the way, if you visit during the right time of the year, you’ll be able to observe hundreds of nesting puffins.

HAVE DINNER AT BUNRATTY CASTLE:  One of the coolest things you can do in Ireland is to have dinner at Bunratty Castle. But this isn’t any normal dinner, this is a medieval-themed dinner held in the castles great hall. It’s like stepping back in time as you eat period meals, served in a traditional way with good entertainment too.

CLIMB CARRAUNTOOHILL:  If you love to hike, then climbing the tallest mountain in Ireland should be on your must-do list.  Carrauntoohill  can be summited in a full day hiking trip and gives you some spectacular views over the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks.

GO HORSE TREKKING IN DINGLE:  Calling all horse lovers, have you ever dreamed of galloping on the beach? This would be an adventure for you. Offering day trips to multi-day overnight trips, you can explore the Dingle Peninsula by horseback. It’s surreal to gallop along the beaches and ride past castles that sit in the lush landscapes.

FOODIE BUCKET LIST

Irish food is characterized by hearty meals and filling dishes that will quickly warm you up after an inevitably rainy day. The best place to try traditional Irish food is generally in the local pub, where you can wash a hot stew or a pie down with a heavy pint of Guinness.

In the cities though, you’ll also find a cosmopolitan fusion of international restaurants and bars from across the world, that provide Ireland with an excellent culinary scene.

IRISH STEW:  A classic Irish Stew makes use of almost anything that’s available in the kitchen or in the fields. Take potatoes, turnips, carrots, onions and whatever else you can find, and chuck them in with mutton, beef, chicken or any other meat. Stew it all up, slowly of course, and you’ve got yourself an Irish Stew.

IRISH BREAKFAST: Start the day well with a full Irish Breakfast. Similar to its famous English neighbor, the Irish Breakfast is a fry up of mammoth proportions, that’s guaranteed to keep you fuelled for hours. Take sausages, bacon, eggs, black pudding, beans, toast, and anything else you fancy and fry it all up for breakfast.

SHELLFISH:  With an extensive coastline, Ireland has access to a huge range of shellfish, and coastal cities like Galway are famed for their ability to prepare the likes of mussels and oysters to a high standard.

IRISH FESTIVALS

ST PATRICKS DAY:  Easily the biggest celebration in Ireland, St Patricks Day is a festival that has spread all over the world, thanks to the huge Irish diaspora. Mostly associated with the drinking of Guinness and copious amounts of other alcohol while you wear green, St Patricks Day is actually much more than this, and it’s a deep-rooted cultural and religious day devoted to Ireland’s patron saint. You’ll find parades and celebrations across the country, but the biggest events happen in Dublin. Expect things to be busy, with accommodation in the capital selling out far in advance of the 17th March each year and parties going on until the early, early hours of the morning.

NEW YEAR’S EVE:  Equally as big a time to party in Ireland is New Year’s Eve. Celebrating the end of the old year and the start of the new, the Irish are prone to long nights and loud celebrations across the country. Again, head to Dublin for the biggest events.

GALWAY RACES:  Every July, hundreds of thousands of visitors and horse racing fanatics descend upon Galway for a week-long schedule of horse racing. It’s a huge event in Ireland, and you’ll have the opportunity to experience a national past time first hand, and to meet plenty of locals at the Galway Races.

PLAN AN IRELAND ROAD TRIP!

Popular regions in ireland.

Dublin is the iconic Irish capital and one of the most popular places to visit in the country. While the city can get crowded – particularly on weekends and during holidays, especially St Patrick’s Day – Dublin is a destination that never fails to excite. It’s a place that’s steeped in history and you can visit the many national museums to learn more about Irish heritage over the centuries. Enjoy some of the country’s best restaurants, best art galleries, and of course, best pubs, and don’t forget to visit the famous Guinness Storehouse or the Jameson Whiskey Distillery.

CONNEMARA PENINSULA

Western Ireland, north of Galway , is a beautiful off-the-beaten-path destination that is best explored independently with a rental car. From this region, you can drive through the Connemara National Park, see the stunning Kylemore Abbey and visit untouched beaches.  It’s also the place to celebrate the unique Connemara horse breed and one of the biggest studs is located in this area. 

WILD ATLANTIC WAY

The Wild Atlantic Way is the encompassing name that’s been given to the entirety of the western, Atlantic coastline of Ireland by the tourism board, and it’s marketing at its best. It is now one of the best road trips in the world. The Wild Atlantic Way really is a wild place, but it’s more than just stormy seas and dramatic coastline. Along the route, you can visit classic towns and cities such as Sligo, Galway, Tralee, and many, many more. You can visit remote, offshore islands, stand on the edge of the incredible Cliffs of Moher, and see some of the country’s best beaches and national parks.

NORTHERN IRELAND

While all of Ireland is naturally beautiful, some of the best stuff resides in Northern Ireland.  Belfast is an incredibly interesting city with a torrid past and a born-again vibe. It’s worth spending a few days here.  Venturing north you’ll see a variety of wonders and many Game of Thrones filming locations. Highlights of the Causeway Coast include Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges, Carrick-a-Rede bridge, and Dunluce Castle.

RING OF KERRY

The Ring of Kerry is one of the best tourist routes in the country. If you’re looking to travel to Ireland for history, culture, and outdoor scenery, then the Ring of Kerry has it all. Start in Killarney , explore Killarney National Park, and then travel from village to village across the Iveragh Peninsula. It requires extra planning, but adding a visit to the  Skellig Islands  will be the highlight of your drive. When you have finished this drive, be sure to explore nearby Limerick , Bunratty, and Shannon.

IRELAND TRAVEL BUDGET

Setting a budget for travel to Ireland is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere in Ireland on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for travel within Ireland. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

ACCOMMODATION:  Varies by type and rating. Generally, you can expect  camping  to be free to Euro 10 per night,  hostels  to average Euro 10 to 20 per night,  mid-range hotels  to average Euro 50 to 100 per night and  luxury hotels  to be Euro 100 and up per night.

ATTRACTIONS : Activity costs will vary, some museums are free to enter, as are national parks. The Guinness Storehouse costs 16 Euros to enter, while the famous Blarney Castle also costs 16 Euros for entry.

TRANSPORTATION:  The most popular method of travel around Germany are by train, bus or rental car. The  Flix Bus Inter City Fare  averages Euro 15.  Car rental  varies by length of time and generally average around Euro 20 per day for a compact. A  litre of petrol  will cost you around Euro 1.50.

FOOD:  Food will vary widely depending on your tastes and what restaurants you choose to visit on your trip. Generally, though, you can expect to find  pub food  for around Euro 10 to 15, take a meal in a  mid-range restaurant  for Euro 25 per person and pay around Euro 5 for a  pint of beer .

40 EURO PER DAY

Staying in hostels, eating fast food or cooking own food, and entrance and transport to a few attractions.

100 EURO PER DAY

Private rooms. Restaurant meals. Lots of museums, attractions and a couple of day trips.

200 EURO + PER DAY

Upscale hotels. Private transport. Restaurant meals and bars. No limit on attractions or museums.

WHERE TO STAY IN IRELAND

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in IRELAND. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

For more specific advice, check out Best Area to Stay in Dublin – Best Hotels & Travel Tips

HOW TO GET AROUND IN IRELAND

Ireland is a small country and with an excellent road network and an excellent public transport system, it’s easy to travel around and to get from one destination to the next quickly and efficiently. The best part is that you have options.

FLIGHTS:  Ireland is the home of infamous budget airline Ryanair, and you’ll find cheap flights across the country and all over Europe, making it a relatively easy place to fly in and out of. Domestically though, you may not need to fly too much, as distances between cities aren’t huge, and after factoring in waiting times at terminals, you may find it’s just as quick to take the bus.

BUS:  Bus travel is by far the most common form of public transport in Ireland, and there are regular connections between most major cities. Outside of the main bus routes though, using public bus services in rural Ireland can be a tedious affair. Local routes tend to be incredibly slow and irregular. Some services on the Ring of Kerry for example, only have one departure a day.

CAR RENTAL:  Renting a car is the best way to travel to Ireland and to explore the best that the country has to offer. You won’t be pressed to keep to public transport schedules and you’ll have the flexibility to stop wherever you like and to admire whichever dramatic views you like the most. Check out  Discover Rental Cars  for great deals.

TRAIN:  Train travel is less common than bus travel, but the Irish rail network does connect Dublin with most other major cities. Dublin is the hub, and traveling by train between other cities, can prove to be more difficult once you are out of the capital.

HIKING & CYCLING:  Ireland has a whole network of long-distance hiking and cycling trails that are becoming popular with outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike the Kerry Way or you can cycle the length of the Wild Atlantic Way, to name just two of the routes out there.

TOP IRELAND TOURS

Highlights of ireland.

9 Days from Dublin to Belfast Highlights: Hiking, Culture, City Tours & Nature

ICONIC IRELAND – NAT GEO

9 Days from Dublin Highlights: Hiking, Culture, City Tours & Nature

WALKING KERRY WAY & KILLARNEY NP

8 Days from Killarney Highlights: Hiking, Camping, Nature & Off the Beaten Path

WHEN TO VISIT IRELAND

When planning your travel to Ireland, it’s important to bear in mind that no matter what time of year it is, the weather can be unpredictable.

This is  one of the windiest, rainiest places in Europe , and even in the height of summer, the clouds can roll in from the Atlantic with little notice and cause a downpour. That’s all part of the Irish experience though, and as long as you are prepared for every eventually, then you won’t be caught out.

The country has  four traditional seasons , and by far the most popular season to travel to Ireland in is  summer . This is when there is less chance of rain and bad weather, and for the most part, you can expect temperatures in the mid 20 degrees celsius from May through to August.

If you can though,  avoid July and August , as this is peak season when things are at their absolute busiest due to the school holidays.

The summer season is great for hiking, but so are  spring and fall  too, and you may want to wait for the shoulder seasons if you can, before visiting.

The coldest time of year to visit is in  winter , between November and February. This is never a particularly popular time to visit for tourists, aside from over the Christmas and New Year breaks, and if you brave the cold weather and the short, dark days, then you’ll find that in many places, you might well be the only traveler.

For more information, check out the  Best Time to Visit Ireland: Month by Month Breakdown

PLAN AN EPIC ITINERARY IN IRELAND!

Safety in ireland.

Ireland is an incredibly safe country to visit, particularly in friendly and welcoming rural areas. Tourists have little to worry about, although some urban areas late at night, may be best avoided, particularly if you have been to a few pubs beforehand.

As with anywhere, be wary of opportunistic criminals and be aware of your belongings and your surroundings when you travel to Ireland.

As with any destination, we recommend learning and adhering to certain safety practices when you travel. Be sure to read our personal  travel safety tips , compiled from our travels across 7 continents.

IRELAND TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Ireland travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Ireland and start planning your dream trip.

Is Achill Island Ireland’s Best Kept Secret? Epic Things to Do & Tips

Is inis mór in the aran islands worth visiting tips & advice to make the most of your visit, is westport, ireland worth visiting get the inside scoop, 15 essential ireland travel tips for first time visitors, ireland’s causeway coastal route: 5 best stops, best time to visit ireland: month by month breakdown, 15 cities in ireland that are worth visiting, 15 sweet things to do in cork, ireland, 15 fabulous things to do in killarney, ireland, 15 fun things to do in limerick, ireland, visiting skellig michael: what you should know before you go, 10 best things to do in belfast, ireland, driving the ring of kerry in ireland: tours, map and travel guide, 16 spectacular things to do in galway, 16 crazy cool things to do in dingle, best area to stay in dublin – best hotels & travel tips, 10 best day trips from dublin worth taking, ultimate 3 day weekend in dublin itinerary, 9 best castles to visit in ireland, 33 ireland photos guaranteed to cause wanderlust, best road trip routes in ireland, 4 best hikes in the mourne mountains of northern ireland, a short guide to renting a car in ireland, horseback riding in dingle, ireland, finding glendalough in the wicklow mountains of ireland, the real titanic experience in ireland, climbing carrauntoohill: ireland’s tallest peak.

Grab The Free Printable Ultimate Ireland Packing List  for the best packing and pre-trip to-do list for Ireland

31 Ireland Travel Tips You Won’t Find in a Guidebook

The below is a list of 31 tangible and practical Ireland travel tips for how to plan and have a better trip to Ireland. Guidebooks are great for “what to do,” but they often don’t cover “how to.” I’ve got you covered with some of my favorite tips from 15+ years of traveling to Ireland.

So grab a cup of tea and settle in:

Ireland Travel Tips Before You Go

#1. Use a local library to start your Ireland travel planning. Most libraries have an excellent travel section and it’s free to check out as many books as I need. I pour over the sections that describe the areas we want to travel to. When it comes time to buy my own books, I usually have a pretty solid idea of which ones will be the most helpful.

#2 . Search for photos of the place you want to visit on Google images. The collective images help me to see the type of place it is from different perspectives, not just what it’s like on their website. For example, type in Skellig Michael. Don’t those photos make you want to hop on a plane right now? (me too!)

#3. Pick a zone. This may be contrary to popular opinion, but Ireland travel is so much better if you go deeper instead of wider. If you are traveling for a week, pick an area to explore. I promise there is enough to do in each zone.  Got two weeks, pick two zones. Only 10 days? Pick a zone and a nearby town in another area. You’ll be driving less, experiencing more and loving the people you get to meet!

#4. Plan to stay at least two nights in each place. The reason? It often takes one day to drive to a location while stopping to see the amazing sites along the way. You need another day to actually enjoy everything in or very nearby the place you are staying.

For example, take one day to drive from the Cliffs of Moher to Killarney stopping in Bunratty, Limerick and Adare along the way. Then you will have another full day or more to actually enjoy (and see!) many sites in Killarney before moving on to your next stop.

If you follow this rule throughout your trip, you will find you have a much more immersive experience than most.

Packing for Ireland

#5. Pack a power strip to plug in all of your electronics without needing an adapter for each one. Plus, you will be less likely to forget your charging cords and adapters since all of your electronics will be in one spot. Bonus: you’ll make lots of friends at the airport. :-)

#6. You can’t bring too many Ziploc bags. They are thin and lightweight and come in super handy when you want to bring home a bottle of whiskey or need to transport a wet washcloth (which, by the way, aren’t always offered at B&B’s so bring your own).

#7. Pack as light as you can. I usually start by putting out everything I want to take to Ireland on my bed. Then I put half of it back. It ends up being about the perfect amount (here’s my ultimate packing list ).

#8. Pack a scarf. Admittedly it probably sounds like fashion advice and not and Ireland travel tip, but packing a scarf is one of the most useful items in my suitcase. Not only can I bundle up on a cold airplane or a windy cliffside, but I’ve also got a makeshift picnic blanket, towel, eye mask, pillow, or knapsack at my immediate disposal.

Once when visiting  Kylemore Abbey , the gnats were really bad (like so bad that the grounds were deserted and most people just toured the abbey and left). I wanted to keep walking around the gardens and exploring, so I bundled my scarf around my head covering basically everything but my eyes. I was well protected had the whole garden to myself because no one else wanted to battle the bugs. It’s actually one of my favorite memories of that trip. All because I had a scarf with me.

Tips for Staying Healthy in Ireland

#9. Trim your nails. Dirt, germs and all sorts of other unpleasant things live underneath the nails. If you keep your nails short, there is less space for the nastiness to hide out and you will be less likely to unknowingly transfer germs to your mouth.

#10.   Use disinfectant wipes. They are always handy when traveling on the plane, in the car or even after a messy meal. We use them to wipe off all the surfaces that we might touch during our transatlantic flight to keep those yucky airline germs at bay (be sure to get the unscented ones in case anyone near is allergic).

Universal Travel Tips

#11. Photograph your luggage. If you ever lose your luggage on a flight, you’ll be asked several questions about its size, shape and make. If you’ve got a picture, it will make the process so much easier!

#12. Take a business card. If you are in an unfamiliar city, grab your hotel or B&B business card (or take a picture of it) with the address listed. If you need to grab a taxi or get turned around walking, you’ll have the exact street address for reference.

#13. Remember to check your passport expiration date . Border patrol and airlines can refuse you entry into a country if your passport isn’t valid for 6 months after you come home. At the time of publishing, US passports are taking about 13 weeks to process a new passport (5-7 weeks if expedited), so be sure to check well before you leave.

#14. Make a copy of your passport. If you ever find yourself with a lost or stolen passport, you will be glad you did. Not that you will really want to leave Ireland, but keeping a copy in a safe place, separate from where you store the original (or even emailing a photo of it to yourself), will help the US Embassy in Dublin expedite a replacement.

#15. Hide the stuff in your car. It isn’t a fun subject, but unfortunately, no matter where you are (even in Ireland) you can be a victim of theft. When traveling with your luggage, be sure to put everything in the boot (trunk). Don’t leave bags in the back seat. Cultural and heritage spots with parking that is a good walk from the main site are prime target areas (think stone circles out in the middle of the field).

#16.   Bring a few pens for the flight home. When you return to the US, you will need to complete a Customs Form before you land (either in the airport or on the flight). Often you are handed the form sans something to write with. We always bring extra pens along for us and for our seatmates who almost always don’t have one.

Tips for Ireland’s B&Bs

#17.   Check-in on time . We absolutely love staying in B&B’s, but it is really easy to be out exploring for the day and forget to check-in to our B&B between 3:00 – 6:00 PM.

So we always arrange our itinerary to arrive at our B&B by 4:00 PM.  If we get delayed by traffic or need to make a quick stop, we have a bit of cushion. On the rare occasion we are running really late, we’ll give our hosts a call to let them know when to expect us (and apologize).

Of course, if you know ahead of time that you want to arrange an early or late check-in, just ask. You’d be surprised how accommodating most hosts are even though it takes a lot of effort for them to be available to you outside of the usual 3:00-6:00 PM.

#18.   Check the water temperature in the shower . We often find ourselves going back to our B&B after a morning of hiking wanting a nice hot shower. Before I get undressed and in the shower, I check to see if the water warms up quickly. If not, I pop down and ask our host to turn on the immersion water heater.

Many B&B’s have the heater on for their guests in the morning and evening during typical shower times, but turn it off to save energy. However, if you want to get a shower late morning through late afternoon, you might find it very cold. Hosts are very happy to turn it on for you. You just might have to ask.

Not all showers are on this immersion system. Some have units right in the shower that you can turn on to your desired heat setting. With this system, you shouldn’t have any problem getting a warm shower any time of day.

#19. If you are really worried about the effects of jet lag, book a hotel or B&B room for the night before you arrive in Ireland . While you won’t be there the evening before, you will be able to check-in and have access to a bed, shower, and hearty breakfast within a couple of hours of landing. Just make sure your host knows when to expect you.

#20.   Chat up your host and other B&B guests while you are eating breakfast. We’ve gotten the best off-the-beaten-path Ireland travel tips from other travelers who have already toured the area. Many have sought out places and things we would have never even known to look for. Sometimes these hidden gems are the best parts of our trip.

Joe and I can both be a little introverted (especially in the morning), so it can feel a little awkward starting a conversation with a couple or family next to us. But almost everyone likes talking about their travels, so we start with asking about their favorite thing so far. You’d be surprised how chatty and helpful everyone is. Sometimes the whole room erupts in conversation.

Driving in Ireland Travel Tips

#21.   YouTube offers some great videos about driving in Ireland before you actually do it. There are some great videos out there that give tips for driving on the left as well as simply show the different types of roads you’ll come across.

Spend 30 minutes on YouTube before you go and you will be feeling so much more confident about getting behind the wheel. Here are a couple videos to get you started:

Ride along with a Professional Driving Teacher Roundabouts in Ireland Driving the Ring of Kerry

#22. When driving in Ireland don’t ever let anyone make you feel like you need to go faster than you want. Keep your eye out for pull-offs on the side of the road to let locals pass you. You will probably get a friendly wave from the driver, thanking you for allowing them by. Even if you have to pull over every 15 minutes, it will be worth it. Nothing is better than enjoying the beautiful scenery of Ireland at a pace you are comfortable with.

#23. If you are nervous about driving in Ireland first thing after a long-haul flight, one of the best ways to get your bearings before you go is to check out Google Street View . This can be especially helpful around the airport areas where it might be a little busy and you’re likely are the most nervous. Once you’ve been driving for a few days, it gets easier. Promise.

#24. Follow the brown signs. You see them everywhere in Ireland. From high crosses to stone circles and beaches, they are pointing you toward common sites and things often not in the guide books. We typically pick a few  brown signs and follow them just to see where they lead.

Once we followed a sign for a waterfall, we had no idea where we were really going but the brown signs pointed us in the right direction. We finally came upon the bottom of a cliff that had a 20-foot waterfall streaming down. And we had it all to ourselves.

Tips for Spending Money in Ireland

#25. The best way to get euros in Ireland is by using your ATM card.  The best exchange rate will almost always be obtained through an ATM on the ground with your debit card.

Tell your bank you’re going to Ireland and make sure you know how much they charge for foreign transaction fees. Our bank charges $5.00 each time we take any amount out. Others charge a percentage. What your bank charges will make a difference on how often and how much you’ll want to take out.

The best part is that banks in Ireland don’t charge you anything for using their ATMs.

#26. Hold on to your spare change for the ride home. Since we aren’t used to using cash in the US nearly as much as we do in Ireland, Joe and I find our pockets full of change after our trips to the green land.

Rather than saving the coins for next time, we give our change to UNICEF on the plane ride back. UNICEF has a program called Change for Good where they take donated currency to support impoverished children around the world. American Airlines and Aer Lingus both take part in the program.

While our change donations probably amount to less than $10 each time, the Change for Good program has generated more than $17 million dollars from American Airlines alone. I like being a part of that, even if it is just the tiniest bit.

WIFI in Ireland

#27.   WhatsApp is one of my favorite travel apps because I can send all the pics and text I want to anyone who has the app for free. Have a pic that would be fun to send home to those poor souls going to work every day while you are living it up in Ireland? No matter where I am as long as I can get to wifi, I can call or text home. It saves me from expensive international text messaging fees with my cell carrier.

#28.  Most B&B’s and hotels will have wifi, but the signal can be spotty. Go down to the common area and cozy on the couch. You’ll likely have great reception and may even find yourself a new friend.

Ireland’s Food & Drink

#29. When walking into a pub for a pint or some food, go to the bar to ask for a menu before finding a seat . If you sit right down you might find yourself waiting a long time for service.

#30.   Pack a picnic.  So simple to do, yet so easy to forget. On your first day in the countryside, head to the store and grab a few things you can stash in your car for a picnic (crackers, chips, chocolate, drinks, and anything else new and interesting you can find). You will undoubtedly come across at least one or two spots during your trip that are just ripe for an impromptu picnic.

#31. Never say no to a cup of tea. People travel to Ireland for all sorts of reasons, family heritage, the pubs, the history, the beautiful scenery. Those are all great reasons to go, but the best thing about Ireland is the people. The Irish seem to have an innate sense of hospitality. For us, it feels like coming home every time we’re there.

One of the best Ireland travel tips I can share with you is that when someone invites you to have a cup of tea, they aren’t just asking if you would like a beverage. They are looking for a bit of friendly conversation with you . Even if you aren’t much of a tea drinker, always say yes to a cup. You never know what kind of conversations and experiences it may lead to.

Want even more tips & the Best Ireland Packing List ?

Grab my free printable of the Ultimate Ireland Packing list and a series of my most favorite tips for Ireland (yes, even more tips!).

I think you’re going to love them!! 😊

Similar Posts

Infinite Ireland meets Irish Fireside

The #1 thing you need to know before renting a car in Ireland

20 Irish Whiskey Distillery Tours You Should Consider for Your Trip to Ireland

7 Ways to Call the US from Ireland

15 Days in Ireland, Northern Ireland & a Wee Bit of Scotland

Which one? Shannon or Dublin Airport?

15 comments.

I loved my trip with CIE and can’t wait to get back. Hoping to win a trip for 2 to take my best friend to Ireland. I rave about it still.

I’d love to go with my best friend too and winning a trip would be amazing!! :-)

This is such useful information. I would definitely agree with the way you have zoned the country.

On my next trip to Ireland, I’d like to rent a holiday home or something similar. I know the general area where I’d like to stay and explore Any suggestions on how I should go about doing this? Love your website! Thanks for your help. Sincerely, Gaye Ann from Oklahoma

Hi Gaye Ann! I would start by searching for self-catering rentals in the area you would like to be. For example, if you are looking for something in west cork, Google search the town name + self-catering or short-term rental. There are many, many self-catering providers in Ireland, so you won’t find it difficult to get one, but sometimes it can be difficult to find reviews, so asking a lot of questions (like are heating and linens included, or what’s the kitchen stocked with) can help. Often self-catering cottages are rented one week at a time and you can receive discounts for longer rentals, so that’s a great thing to ask too. Here are a few sites I have bookmarked to look for cottages, but there are dozens more out there. http://www.westcork-cottages.com/ http://www.hogansirishcottages.com/ http://www.imagineireland.com http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rentals/ireland/r37 http://www.daft.ie/holiday-homes/

I also really like AirBnB. We’ve rented rooms, studio apartments and full houses via AirBnB with fantastic experiences. And they tend to be less money than the traditional “holiday home” in Ireland. This is our referral link for AirBnB, which gives a $20 discount off the first stay: https://www.airbnb.com/c/schastain1 I am all about full-disclosure, so if you sign up and stay with this link, we also get a small discount off our next stay with AirBnB too. :-)

I hope this helps get you started!!

I have teenage girls and we’re dying to go to Ireland. Help! Where is “hip”, safe, and still won’t leave me with a migraine and an empty pocketbook. :) We are fairly outdoorsy. (Think 5k, not marathon) Do love your website. Go raibh agat

Hi Maggie!! Your question made me smile…the struggle is real with teenagers. :-) I’ve found that most families I’ve worked with who have teenagers, really love the jaw dropping gorgeous vistas and the sites that are a bit more interactive. There are a lot of those depending on which part of Ireland you’re planning on visiting. Here are some places/activities that you might consider:

http://www.atlanticseakayaking.com/ (on my bucket list too!) http://www.aranislandferries.com/ (Either a day trip to the Aran Islands or the Cliffs cruise) http://www.blarneycastle.ie/ (Kissing the stone, but even the grounds are gorgeous!) http://www.shannonheritage.com/BunrattyCastleAndFolkPark/ (The banquets are a little kitschy, but really so much fun) http://www.irishfolktours.com/ (another great night, but in Dublin this time) If you’re fit for a 5k, you’re fit for some amazing hill walking–really our favorite thing to do in Ireland. I’d suggest a seaside cliff walk.

I hope this helps get you started! Have a fantastic time with your family Maggie!

If you had to choose one Trad Banquet Evening would you suggest Bunratty or IrishFolk tours Dublin?

Hi Mary! That’s a really hard one actually. We love the Trad banquet in Bunratty and do it every time we fly out of Shannon. I haven’t done the Irish Folk Tours at the Brazen Head in Dublin, but it gets wonderful reviews and is on my list to do. If it were me, I’d likely pick the one that best fits in my schedule or itinerary. :-)

Hi! I’m wondering I’m disabled but I can walk. I’m worried I won’t be able to find amenities that I would need? Is there a guide or website that would be useful? Thank you! Sincerely a wanna be Irish woman!, Ms.Micheal Ann Hodge

Hi Stephanie, my husband and I will be visiting Ireland for the first time in Mid September. We are so excited. I will have exactly three weeks of vacation time. We will be flying from the San Francisco area and I am thinking that I will want a day to recuperate before returning to work. My husband wants to see in London for 2 to 3 days and also Paris for two days. Of course 2 days will be spent traveling so those will be lost days. My main objective for this trip is seeing Ireland which is my heritage. My question is this, will this allow us enough time to really be able to see Ireland? I would be happy to spend the entire time seeing the emerald isle, but I am willing to consider his wishes. Thanks, Linda

Hi Linda, How lucky that you have three weeks! While you definitely can spend a few days in Paris or London before or after Ireland, I would just caution that you’ll not only be losing travel days to and from the US. But you’ll also lose quite a bit of time traveling to and from the airports in London and Paris (neither are right in the city)–so add another three days of travel. Still, that leaves you with some time to experience all three places. My advice however would be to visit only two countries, which will give you a solid amount of time to see both places. I’ve loved my time in Paris and London is great too, but in my biased opinion, Ireland is certainly worth at least a week or more of your time. :-)

Hi Stephanie, Thanks so much for your input! Also loved your info on using your credit card to possibly cover auto insurance! We are wondering what might be the best base in Northern Ireland to stay for two or three nights to visit the Giant’s Causeway and The Gobbins? Looking for a village that has some nice B&B’s and some restaurants nearby. We will be driving for the first time there. Thanks, Linda

LOVED this amazing post!!! Thank you for sharing your great tips with readers. Can’t wait for my Ireland adventure!

Stephanie, Thanks for these tips and the ultimate packing list! The hubby and I are looking forward to our upcoming trip.

Question: Have you spent much time in Northern Ireland? Like you, we prefer to go deeper rather than wider. We chose to explore NI since our ‘big event’ is seeing Van Morrison perform at the Slieve Donard resort. We’ll be in Belfast and/or Slieve Donard for 10 days with a car. Any particular spots we shouldn’t miss? Would a day trip to Dublin be realistic?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

The Best Ireland Itinerary (Irishman’s 2024 Guide)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: April 15, 2024

We spent 8 months and €15,728 building what is, in my opinion, the best Ireland itinerary library available anywhere.

It became clear long ago that there is no such thing as a ‘one-size-fits-all’ Ireland travel itinerary.

For example, some of you will have a car while others will be relying on public transport.

So, we created a library of Ireland itineraries that let you pick a starting point, trip length, method of transport and much  more.

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about our Ireland itinerary library

Click to enlarge

WAIT – please take 10 seconds to read the points below before you scroll. It’ll make finding your perfect Ireland trip itinerary easier:

1. You can pick your trip length and starting point

Two of the key elements in any Ireland itinerary are the length and the start point. Our road trip itineraries range from 3 days right the way up to 4 weeks. There are also multiple start points including the main ferry terminals and airports in Ireland .

2. You can pick a mode of transport

You can pick an Ireland trip itinerary based on how you plan on getting around Ireland . We have Ireland itineraries that  only  use public transport for those of you doing Ireland without a car . We also have itineraries for those of you that plan on renting a car in Ireland .

3. You can decide how fast you want to travel

Love to squeeze as much as possible into each day? Our ‘Fast Trips’ are just for you! Prefer to take it easy and avoid moving accommodation too often? You’ll love our ‘Slow Trips’.

4. You can choose a travel itinerary for Ireland to suit your fitness

Travelling with someone that has poor mobility? No problem – we have low fitness Ireland itineraries. Want to tackle some of the different hikes in Ireland? We’ve medium-high fitness itineraries just for you!

5. You’ll find our different itineraries starting from 3 days below

Now it’s time for you to find the best Ireland itinerary for  you . We’re gong to start at the 3 day Ireland itineraries and then work our way up to 21 days. Dive on in!

3 days in Ireland

3 days in Ireland is a fairly small amount of time, so you need to be careful – you can easily fall into the trap of trying to do much.

The result is that your itinerary will be over-packed and you’ll spend most of your time in the car/on public transport.

The best Ireland itinerary for 3 days is one that finds a central base and that sees you explore around you on day trips.

Some people with a small amount of time like this can feel disheartened, but don’t – you can see many of the best things to do in Ireland in 3 days. You just need a logical itinerary.

4 days in Ireland

4 days in Ireland is a decent chunk of time. However, if you have the flexibility to chose when to visit Ireland (many don’t), try and arrive during summer or spring.

These two seasons boast plenty of daylight hours so, although you only have 4 days, you’ll still have plenty of time to explore.

These shorter road trips can be tricky to map out at times so, when it comes to planning a trip to Ireland with only 4 days to work with, take your time.

The best Ireland itinerary for 4 days is one that uses 1 – 2 ‘bases’ max and that explores a specific corner of Ireland, e.g. Kerry and West Cork.

5 days in Ireland

Click to enlarge map

5 days in Ireland is arguably the perfect amount of time to explore a section of Ireland.

These are our most popular Ireland itineraries and it’s a trip length that many people visiting Ireland choose.

If it was me, I’d try and fly into either Shannon or Dublin. Landing in Shannon places you right on the Wild Atlantic Way with everywhere from the Aran Islands to the Cliffs of Moher close by.

We’ve had our Ireland vacation itinerary guides live on our site for over a year and they’ve racked up some great reviews. Enjoy!

6 days in Ireland

6 days in Ireland is a lovely amount of time to play with and you can easily cover a decent bit of land during this time.

The beauty of 6 days, also, is that if you’re flying a good distance to get to Ireland, you can take some time out to banish the jet lag.

The best Ireland itinerary for 6 days, in my opinion, is one that doesn’t stretch itself too thin.

If you’re starting in Belfast, for example, tackle the Causeway Coastal Route and then explore the many places to visit in Donegal .

7 days in Ireland

Our itineraries for spending 7 days in Ireland mark the start of our longer Irish road trips.

Trips of this length are great as they give you a lot of flexibility when it comes to what you can do (even if it’ll see the cost of a trip to Ireland increase steadily).

If you’re visiting for 7 days, try and visit during summer or spring as the weather in Ireland tends to be better then and you’ll get more bang-for-your-buck.

8 days in Ireland

8 days in Ireland provides you with options. You aren’t too hard pressed for time and 8 days ensures you don’t have to rush at any point (unless you want to!).

With 8 days, you can explore several counties in depth or you can go full-steam-ahead and try and squeeze in as much as possible.

The best Ireland trip itinerary for 8 days, for me, would be starting in Dublin and then working down through Wicklow, Wexford, Waterford and then around through Cork and Kerry.

9 days in Ireland

So, you’re spending 9 days in Ireland . Wonderful! However, you want to see all of the ‘main’ attractions during this time and you’re worried it’s too much.

It’s likely (and I’m basing this on getting emails from endless visitors) that you’re trying to pack in too much to the point that you’ll spend all your time moving accommodation and travelling.

9 days is a lovely chunk of time. But don’t get carried away. You can see and do  a lot  during this time frame. You just need to decide how much travelling about is ‘too much’.

10 days in Ireland

The second most popular of our Ireland vacation itinerary guides are the ones focused on spending 10 days in Ireland .

This is a mighty amount of time for an Irish road trip and it gives you a huge amount of flexibility.

For this trip length, you could easily pick 3-4 bases and fit a huge amount in while still taking it nice and handy. Or, you could go full whack and try and see as much of the island as possible!

11 days in Ireland

Our itineraries for spending 11 days in Ireland have gone down well since we published them last year.

In particular, the ones that use public transport have received good feedback, especially as planning buses and trains for this number of days was a nightmare .

The best Ireland itinerary for 11 days is up for debate. Personally, I think if you have this amount of time to play with the island is your oyster – you just need to pick a well-thought-out route, which is our Ireland trip itinerary library comes in.

12 days in Ireland

If you’re spending 12 days in Ireland , you’re in for a treat. You can see a whole lot in 12 days, from the  many  castles in Ireland to islands, cliffs and lots more.

You don’t have to worry too much when it comes to picking a start point for a trip of this length, as you’ve a bit of room for error.

If I had the option, I’d start in Cork and drive the Wild Atlantic Way, taking in the likes of Kinsale , the Beara Peninsula , Doolin and Achill Island .

13 days in Ireland

If you have 13 days in Ireland you’ll be the envy of many, and for good reason – you can cover a lot of ground in a 13 day Ireland trip itinerary.

We’ve created 56 different Ireland itineraries for a 13-day trip (yes, 56) and they’ve been used by over 100,000 people in only a few short months.

The different routes take in everywhere from County Mayo and County Clare to some of the most charming small towns in Ireland . Check ’em out below!

14 days in Ireland

Our 14 days in Ireland itineraries were some of the most enjoyable to research, plan and write as we had a fair idea that this trip length would be popular.

Thankfully, it was! Those of you planning a 2-week Ireland trip itinerary are on the cusp of a bucket list road trip that you’ll remember for a life time.

Although I’d argue that there’s no best Ireland itinerary for a trip this length, we’ve created 56 different options for you to choose from at the link below.

15 days in Ireland

15 days in Ireland poses a great number of adventure opportunities. If you’re doing Ireland on a budget , you’ll need to be careful about where you pick as your bases.

I’d avoid the various cities in Ireland along with key tourist towns and, if you can, stay slightly off-the-beaten-path.

We spent a huge amount of time mapping out our 17-day Ireland itineraries and, based on initial feedback, they’re going down very well already!

16 days in Ireland

16 days in Ireland is the stuff of road-trip-envy. You’ll have the chance to see a massive amount of Ireland during this time.

As was the case with all of our Ireland vacation itinerary guides, we spent a lot of time planning our 16-day routes.

At the link below, you’ll be able to pick a trip based on start point, fitness level, mode of transport and how fast you like to travel.

17 days in Ireland

17 days in Ireland is, yep, a good chunk of time. We found these Ireland itineraries tricky to plan out at times, especially the ones that use public transport.

However, we got there in the end and these routes have been read over 70,000 times in recent months.

The best Ireland itinerary for this length of time is one that doesn’t go overboard when it comes to moving hotels and that takes the time to experience each of the areas it uses as a base.

18 days in Ireland

18 days in Ireland is a massive amount of time to work with. However, it’s worth getting a sense of the lay of the land with a trip of this length.

Although you can see plenty on an 18-day Ireland travel itinerary, the aul trap of spreading yourself too thin is an easy one to fall into.

Our 18-day Ireland itineraries took a fair bit of time to map out and I’m confident you’ll find them  very  useful.

19 days in Ireland

19 days in Ireland is another considerable amount of time. However, and I’ll sound like a broken record, it comes with advantages and disadvantages.

It’s easy to fall into a trap when planning an Ireland itinerary of this length and think,  ‘Ah, sure we’ve loads of time – we’ll just head over and play it by ear!” .

19 days requires a lot of planning as there are  many  moving parts with a trip of this length. Luckily, you’ll find the best Ireland itinerary for 19 days at the link below.

20 days in Ireland

Few people, aside from those of us that live here, get to spend 20 days in Ireland .

This is a massive amount of time and it gives you the opportunity to either explore one corner of Ireland in depth or squeeze in as much as possible.

For example, you could explore Kerry (the Ring of Kerry , Dingle Peninsula , etc) and then work your way through West Cork, Waterford, Wexford and more.

The best Ireland itinerary for 20 days is one picks an adequate number of bases near key areas of interest and that avoids falling into the trap of trying to ‘fit everything in’.

21 days in Ireland

21 days in Ireland is a huge amount of time, and this comes with both pros and cons.

You could arguably map out the best Ireland itinerary imaginable with 3 weeks, but you’ll also need to spend a lot of time planning.

This was the hardest of our Ireland vacation itinerary guides to create and the research phase took over 12 days. We did the hard work for you – cheers!

FAQs about the best Ireland trip itinerary 

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from Ireland vacation ideas to detailed train itineraries.

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 Ireland itinerary?

I’d argue that there is no best Ireland travel itinerary – no ‘one size fits all’. We’ve created hundreds of Ireland itineraries for you to choose from, in an attempt to help you find the best Ireland itinerary based on your situation.

How many days in Ireland is enough?

It depends. If you’re looking to see specific things and they’re close together, 5 days could be plenty. If you’re looking to see the West of Ireland, you’ll want at least 7. There is one one clear answer.

Is Rick Steves Ireland itinerary good?

By all accounts, Rick Steves Ireland itinerary guides are pretty good. I’ve spoken to many Americans, in particular, visiting Ireland for the first time who swear by Rick’s itineraries.

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.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Nicola Doyle

Thursday 7th of April 2022

Do you have a guide to travelling around Ireland with a dog?

Keith O'Hara

Friday 8th of April 2022

Hey Nicola - I don't, but this is weird timing. Myself and my dad have been chatting about doing a trip with our dog who's an absolute nightmare in the car. So, while we've nothing on planning a trip in Ireland for those with a dog yet, but hopefully it's on the horizon!

Friday 6th of August 2021

Hello. Thanks for all your posts. They are very informative and helpful.

One questions, when planning can we assume the driving times we see on Google Maps are more or less accurate? I know there are a lot of country roads and I didn't know if this was taken into account by Google.

Thanks again!

Heather Cripe

Sunday 18th of April 2021

Hello Keith,

I’m just writing to thank you for doing this. I do not have a set date for when I can come to Ireland but reading the info you provided and the extensive comments you’ve answered, I almost feel like I’ve been to Ireland already! I know that’s when I can finally plan my trip, this website will be my go to for planning my trip! God bless you Keith!

Monday 19th of April 2021

A fine message to wake up to! Thanks a million Heather - I'm glad you found it useful. Hopefully your visit is just over the horizon.

Cheers from a cold and sunny Dublin!

Sunday 17th of May 2020

Hi Keith, I am planning to take my grandparents to Ireland next spring. My grandmother has always wanted to go and never got the chance to travel. However, they are not in the best of health and I don't think they could handle walking an hour+ (which seems to be the best/only way to see some of the main spots you mention in your recommended itineraries).

Do you have any recommendations for best places to go that don't require much of a hike? My Grandparents would love: beautiful landscapes, local places that don't feel touristy (they always manage to make friends with locals while out eating, etc), places of historical significance.

Hey! A lot of people planning a visit to Ireland have this problem, but it can definitely be worked around.

Say, for example, they're very limited mobility wise, if you took them to Donegal, there's plenty of places where you can literally drive right up to for an incredible view.

Here's a couple of examples:

- The Slieve League Cliffs: you can drive right up to the 'main' view - Ballymastocker Bay: you can pull in on the road above and grab an incredible view - The Inishowen 100 drive: there's an endless number of great views on this (the one at Tra Na Rossan is unreal!

If you're looking for lovely little towns, you can't bate Ardara (Nancy's pub, in particular, is lovely!).

I hope this helps!

Lynda rendell

Wednesday 29th of April 2020

Hi Keith Just found your page. It’s brilliant My husband retires 2021 and we are planning on visiting his great great grandfathers Museum in Mayo His mother’s birthplace in Connemara and auntie in Newlawn we then want to end up in Galway and Dublin Have you any advice of B&B pubs en route to these places We are hoping to go for 15 days so any advice or help would be greatly appreciated we will be travelling from Heathrow Airport UK We’ve never been to Ireland before so we are really really looking forward to it thank you

The Travel Blogger’s Guide to Ireland

By: Author Monica Stott

Categories Ireland , UK

If you’re looking for a guide to Ireland you’ll already know there’s endless amounts of information out there!  There are so many Ireland guides, road trip itineraries and lists of things to do in Ireland it can be overwhelming so I’ve pulled together some of my favourite blogger’s guides to Ireland into one giant, handy guide.

I love reading travel blogs to hear about real experiences from genuine and authentic people. Blogs are a great place to discover things to do and what to avoid and bloggers often create the best travel guides because they are based on their own personal experiences.

After visiting Ireland recently, I wrote about my 1 week road trip itinerary for Ireland  and 50 of my favourite things to do in Dublin but I wanted to pull together a travel blogger’s guide to Ireland to give you a comprehensive guide to Ireland to help you plan your perfect Ireland itinerary.

Rather than you having to search for the best travel blogs while you’re researching your Ireland trip, I’ve rounded up the ones that I think are the most useful, interesting and inspiring!

The Travel Blogger’s Guide to Ireland

Tips for visiting Ireland

If you’re planning your first trip to Ireland, this useful first-timer’s guide to Ireland will help you to decide when to go, what to pack, where to stay, how to get around, and what activities you can’t miss off your Ireland itinerary when you get there.

From currency to street signs (and plenty of helpful tips in between), the couple behind Pages of Travel really do offer the ultimate resource for planning a trip to Ireland. They even share packing tips and ideas for getting online on the road.

To make sure that you don’t miss any of the best things to do in Ireland, Dave and Deb at ThePlanetD are sharing their 21 favourite things to do in Ireland, in a guide that covers the whole country!

Another brilliant and comprehensive guide to Ireland for first-timers, this post offers a sample Ireland itinerary, as well as some delicious food tips so you can eat your way around the country. There’s also a helpful section on whether a road trip is right for you.

Another gem from the guys at Hand Luggage Only, a blog you can always rely on for great travel guides. This is not your average Ireland guide, this one offers tips for exploring Dublin and the ancient east coast of Ireland, while getting to know more about the Vikings that used to inhabit the area. Visit museums, take virtual reality tours and enjoy an immersive night of Viking-themed entertainment that you’ll never forget!

Ireland Itineraries

With just seven days to explore, you might not feel like you’ll be able to see a lot, but Helene proves just how much you can do in Ireland in a week. She includes a handy map in this post, and also shows you how you can cuddle a sheepdog along the way – sounds like the perfect Irish trip, right?

Got a little bit longer than just a week in Ireland? This Ireland itinerary takes 10 days, covering Dublin, the Rock of Cashel, Galway, the Cliffs of Moher, the Dingle Peninsula, and Northern Ireland. They also offer some extra stop suggestions in case you have time to spare.

Follow in the footsteps of the incredible Amber Fillerup (A.K.A. Barefoot Blonde) as she travels with her gorgeous family for a week in Ireland. This is great inspiration for anyone travelling with small kids, as Amber shares what her two little ones enjoyed, and what they’d do differently next time. A great example of an honest blogger (and so much mum inspo here!)

If you’re not sure how long to travel in Ireland for, this post gives a great idea of how much you can see and do with different amounts of time.

An 18-day road trip for Ireland – The Irish Road Trip

This epic guide is amazingly detailed with day-by-day information for a full road trip around the entire coast of Ireland. This is road trip goals right here!

Food and Drink in Ireland

There’s nothing better than a great cup of coffee before a day of exploring, and Sophie’s guide to the best coffee shops in Dublin will get your day off to the best start. Check out these local caffeine hotspots, which all offer just a bit more character than your average Starbucks!

If you love to eat your way around a destination as much as I do, this food guide to Western Ireland will help you to explore while making sure that food is at the centre of your trip. Caution: don’t read this post while you’re hungry!

Whether you consider yourself a foodie or not, there are certain dishes or items you just can’t leave Ireland without tasting. From soda bread to boxty, and plenty in between, use this guide as an Irish food bucket list.

There’s more to Dublin’s culinary scene than just the Guinness Storehouse, and in this post, the guys over at Hand Luggage Only explore some food experiences that will make your trip to Dublin even more delicious!

Ireland Road Trip Tips

Written by a blogger who’s visited Ireland seven times, this really is an expert guide to an Ireland road trip, and offers tips on where to stop, where to stay, where to eat and what to do in each of the locations in the itinerary.

Loads of guides to Ireland try to cover both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in one massive post, but That Backpacker focuses only on Northern Ireland in a road trip guide that’ll make you want to pack your bags immediately.

Can’t decide which Irish road trip to do? Vicky shares the three road trips she thinks are the most unmissable. The trouble is, after seeing these photos, you’re probably going to want to do all three!

This popular Ireland road trip route is part of the Wild Atlantic Way, and it offers those doing the trail loads to see, do and experience. Christobel Travel lists the must-stop places along the Dingle Peninsula Drive to help you plan your trip.

Having been named one of the best road trip routes in the world, the Causeway Coast is quickly gaining popularity among road trip lovers across the globe. This comprehensive guide to Ireland’s Causeway Coastal route shares tips and hidden gems to discover along the way.

Things to do in Dublin

In this helpful post, Hayley shares her top 20 favourite things to do in Dublin, including where to eat and drink, where to shop, which museums to visit and where to go on day trips from Dublin, if you fancy exploring a bit further afield.

If you don’t have time to see everything in Dublin, Helene has listed the top ten things that she thinks no traveller should leave without doing. Think of it like a bucket list for those who are short on time when visiting Dublin!

If you’ve read a couple of Dublin guides by now, you’ll know about The Temple Bar, the Book of Kells and the Guinness Storehouse. But Sophie shares a few lesser-known attractions in this post, such as the Molly Malone statue and the medieval Malahide Castle.

Once you’ve ticked off your Dublin bucket list, it’s time to see a bit more of the surrounding area. This post shares five amazing day trip ideas that are just a hop, skip and a jump away from Dublin. I never knew some of these famous sights were so easy to reach, so next time I’m in Dublin I’ll be sure to do at least a couple of these!

Want to do something totally unique in Dublin? Visit during the Bram Stoker Festival, which takes place the weekend before Halloween, and which celebrates the Dublin-born author of Dracula. Expect plenty of thrills and a totally different experience of Dublin!

Things to do in Galway

If you’re looking for somewhere to base yourself for your Ireland road trip, this post argues that Galway City is the place to be. With tips on where to fly into, what to do in Galway, and what to see in the area, Karisa shares just how breathtaking this slice of Ireland really is.

Still not convinced that Galway is the destination for you? This post may just change your mind, with 7 great reasons why you’ll love Galway. My favourite? Ed Sheeran used to busk here!

Now that you’ve been convinced to visit Galway, it’s time to start planning what you’ll be doing there. This post shares 15 fantastic things to do in Galway, and the best part is that they’re all free!

Things to do in Belfast

Belfast can sometimes be overlooked, or used just as a gateway to the Causeway Coast, and other attractions in Northern Ireland. But anyone who’s been will attest to the fact that it’s a brilliant and vibrant city, worth getting to know before moving on. This 24 hour guide shares the best things to see and do (and drink!) while you’re there.

Looking for something different to do in Belfast? Lucy’s got you covered with these fun suggestions, from watching an ice hockey game to taking a cooking class. They might not be the best-known things to do, but they certainly are memorable!

Belfast really is beautiful, and in this guide, Jess shares the best that there is to see in this city, from its history to its food, drink, culture and even politics.

If you’ve got a little bit more time to explore, this 48 hour itinerary shares how to spend a weekend in Belfast, seeing the sights, testing the flavours, and exploring the history of this fascinating city. Don’t miss the most Instagrammable restaurant in town!

Ireland Packing Lists

Do you ever get frustrated that most packing lists are geared just towards women? Well, this one’s got the guys covered, too. Get tips on footwear, layering, the best jacket to pack for a trip to Ireland, as well as what kind of weather you can expect. Oh, and don’t forget your umbrella!

If you’re not lucky enough to be visiting Ireland in the middle of summer, packing for your trip might be a little tricky. This packing guide helps you to know what to pack for the off-season, when you will definitely need a few extra layers to stay warm and dry.

Alex from TravelFashionGirl is basically the queen of packing lists, so this post all about what to wear in Dublin is about as comprehensive as they get. This particular post was written with the help of a Dublin local, and it offers tips on what to pack for every season, so it’s an essential resource for your trip to Ireland.

Castles in Ireland

Did you know that there are something like 30,000 castles in Ireland? That’s a lot to choose from, but this post by Wanderlust and Lipstick highlights five of the most amazing castles to visit in Ireland so you don’t have to try to check all 30,000 off your list!

If you’re travelling to Ireland with kids, it can be difficult to know which sights and attractions are going to be family-friendly. This post by BattleMum shares the best castles in Ireland that are kid-friendly (as well as being spectacular) so everyone will have a good time.

If you’re brave enough to visit a haunted castle (which I’m definitely not), this blog post shares 15 castles in Ireland where you might encounter a ghost. Some are hotels (so you can be haunted while you sleep, if you dare), while others are sites you can wander around in – keep your eyes peeled for strange occurrences, though!

One of the most famous among Ireland’s incredible array of castles, Blarney Castle is located in County Cork, and it’s got a lot more to it than just the Blarney Stone, as Julie discovers in this charming post. Even if this is the only castle you see, you’ll get to know it in depth thanks to these 8 secrets.

Film Locations in Ireland

It’s almost impossible to mention a trip to Northern Ireland without also mentioning Game of Thrones, as many of the show’s epic scenes were filmed along the Causeway Coast. Take a look at the best bits of Westeros in Northern Ireland, including the beautiful Dark Hedges and some furry stars!

Anyone who’s watched the romantic comedy P.S. I Love You will know that the real star of the film was the stunning Irish scenery featured throughout. Use this guide to see some of the incredible locations that were used for filming this tear-jerker of a movie.

It’s not only Game of Thrones that brings mega-fans to Ireland from all over the world – Star Wars fans flock here in droves thanks to one short scene in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. The location is Skellig Michael, and although it can be difficult to reach (especially without a booking), this blogger was determined…and found a way!

There you have it, the ultimate travel blogger’s guide to Ireland!

Do you have any more tips to add to this guide to Ireland?

Thursday 19th of August 2021

very beautifull place, keep sharing and thanks

Anna Makridi

Thursday 28th of June 2018

Ireland is amazing! Helpful tips! Thanks for sharing!

Ireland Travel Guide

Your complete ireland travel guide, with our tips, ideas on things to do, and best things to see in ireland. great for first time travellers..

Shrouded in a veil of mystery, Ireland entices and surprises all who step foot within its mystical boundaries.

Fairy tales, stories, myths, and legends rule the land along with stunning landscapes, many of which can be found on the Wild Atlantic Way.

And when everything is said and done nothing quite beats a relaxing pint in a pub with the locals while listening to traditional Irish music.

This Ireland travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular Guides

• Causeway Coast
• Wild Atlantic Way

Our highlight

Table of Contents

Fast Facts About Ireland

• Currency: is the EURO and is around 1 euro to 1.15 USD
• Power: voltage is 230 V 50 Hz; Power sockets G
• Visa:  90-day visa on arrival for most nationalities ( click here  for more info)
• Driving in Ireland is done on the left-hand side of the road! 
• Value added tax (VAT) is charged on purchases, such as meals at restaurants, shopping expenses, and hotel accommodations. If you are resident of a non-European Union country, you can get a refund of this tax in certain participating shops. For more info on VAT refunds,  click here .
• When to visit Ireland: Expect rain and clouds year round and it can get below zero in the winter. Best times to visit are March to May and then September to November when the temperatures are still good and the crowds are smaller.
• Best Way to get around: The best way to explore Ireland is by renting a car.

Things to See and Do in Ireland

• Skellig Michael – The setting for the latest Star Wars Film, The Force Awakens
• Take a Game of Thrones Tour – Much of the series was filmed in Northern Ireland, so why not relive those TV moments in person?
• Drive the Entire Wild Atlantic Way – The world’s longest coastal route
• Kayak at Nighttime – Let your eyes adjust to the dark as you paddle underneath the stars in Country Cork
• Horseback Ride in Dingle – There is no better way to experience the quiet Irish countryside than to ride a horse into the hills.
• Try Coasteering – With all the cliffs and caves on Ireland
• The Best Things to do in Northern Ireland  – Don’t forget to go and see Northern Ireland too!
• Visit the Ancient East to see the ancient wonder of Newgrange

Ireland Travel Guides

• 23 of The Very Best Things to do in Ireland
• Tips for Visiting The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
• Where to Stay in Dublin, Ireland: Best Areas and Hotels for Every Budget
• Kiss the Blarney Stone for the Gift of the Gab
• Guinness Storehouse in Dublin – The Ultimate Tasting Tour
• 33 of the Best Things to do in Dublin – 2021
• Poulnabrone Dolmen: The Eerie Marvel of Ireland’s Biggest Portal Tomb

Accommodation

Budget: These can run between $50-60 USD per night, have a private bathroom and often include a free breakfast. Note that prices increase in larger cities like Dublin and at busy times of the year by about $10-20 per night.

Mid Range: These usually run about $70-90 USD per night and usually come with free wifi and free breakfast. VRBO is a really popular option in Ireland with most accommodation, with a private room, going for about $65/night.

High End: If you want to be pampered on you visit Ireland it is possible in the larger cities like Dublin where high-end accommodations like the Fitzwilliam Hotel can start at $400/night. In the smaller cities, it might be best to check out an VRBO for more of a selection.

If you are doing the Wild Atlantic Way please check out our Accommodation Guide for that trip.

We found the best way to keep food costs down, especially for dinners, is to look for the “Early Bird” special. Most pubs and restaurants offer this at a certain time a day and you can get a meal for a fraction of the cost it would normally set you back.

Fast food will cost you around $5-6, a good hearty meal in a pub will run between $10-15 and dishes in high-end restaurants start at approx. $21.

Most importantly a pint of Guinness will set you back about $5!

The Best Ways to Get Around Ireland

Getting to Ireland: Dublin Airport is the main hub for travelers but you can also get to Ireland through various combinations of Air and rail and ferry from Britain. It will take longer but it’s often cheaper depending on where you are flying from.

You can check for the best flights to Ireland on Skyscanner.

Inter-city Transportation: With Ireland being a fairly small country getting around is fairly easy and cost-effective. If you are only traveling the main cities then bus or train is your best way.

Train cost varies by distance but to get from Dublin to say Cork will run you $60-75 and takes about 2.5 hours. Considering that is only about $12 more than the bus it is the preferred way to travel.

City Transportation:  We thing Ireland has some of the best public transport around. It is fast, timely, inexpensive and all busses and trains have free WIFI.

In Dublin expect to pay 3 Euro for a single journey. For a cheaper option use their Bikeshare service.

Car Rental:  By far the most flexible way to discover the country is by renting a car . It is fairly reasonable ($40/Day) and allows to reach those charming little towns you might not otherwise be able to discover.

Just remember they drive on the left-hand side of the road and almost all cars are a manual transmission. If you want an aoutomatic you will have to pay more.

When to Go to Ireland

June through September is the best time to visit Ireland

But the weather is unpredictable at anytime. We have been to Ireland in February, April, Mid Summer and Autumn and have had sunny days during them all. It can rain anytime.

The temperature is warmest from June – September (an average of 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit), which makes it great for exploring the outdoors.

April to June is a good month to go if you want to avoid some of the crowds before the tourism peak occurs in July and August.

Where to Stay in Ireland

• Check out Availability & Prices on   Tripadvisor  /  Booking.com
• Check out Availability & Prices on   TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com
• Check out Availability & Prices  –  TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation in Ireland.

Ireland Accommodation Guides

• Where to Stay on the Wild Atlantic Way
• A Game of Thrones Tour of Northern Ireland

What to Pack for Ireland

Ireland’s weather is mild throughout the year. In fact, the country’s weather can be summed up perfectly in three little words: mild, moist and changeable with lots of rainfall.

• Pack a raincoat  – chances are that you will encounter rain no matter what month you travel. A light rain shell is highly recommended as it will combat the rain AND wind you will probably face in Ireland.
• Layers  – When traveling to different climates remember that layering is the key to effortlessly transitioning from cold to hot climates or vice versa. For travel during winter months, make sure to bring a heavier coat as air frost can be common in certain areas.
• Footwear   – Whether you are exploring Ireland’s rocky countryside or spending the day discovering the country’s cities by foot, expect to spend a lot of time on your feet. Pack a pair of lightweight, durable, waterproof and comfortable shoes and/or a pair of light boots with lugged soles and ankle support if you plan on doing a lot of hiking
• Classic Basic items  – You do not need to be a fashionista to blend in. The key is in embracing neutral-toned items that can be mixed and matched easily. Avoid logos, baseball caps, shorts, hoodies, flip-flops, and running shoes as these items scream  tourist!

Ireland Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Ireland Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Ireland click here.

17 Best Cities in Ireland to Visit in 2024

22 Best Things To Do In Galway, Ireland in 2024

Cliffs of Moher: The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Ireland’s Top Attraction

13 Important Ireland Travel Tips for First-Timers

Posted on Last updated: May 25, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » Ireland » 13 Important Ireland Travel Tips for First-Timers

Sharing is caring!

Are you visiting Ireland for the first time? Check out these amazing Ireland travel tips for first-timers that will save you stress!

This list of ireland travel tips was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

I just got back from a trip to Ireland and want to share all my top tips and tricks with you!

Famous for its cozy pubs, friendly locals, and hearty food, visiting Ireland is the travel equivalent of a warm hug. English speakers have a shared language which can make traveling in Ireland easier and less stressful than in other European countries .

But easier doesn’t mean easy!

Ireland is made up of two countries, for starters. There’s also an endless list of must-see attractions, both in the rolling green hills of the countryside and the cobblestone-lined cities.

These Ireland travel tips for first-timers will help you navigate the country and avoid all the mistakes other newbies in the Emerald Isle make.

Follow this Ireland travel guide to learn all the things to know about Ireland before visiting so you have an incredible vacation!

13 Incredible Ireland Travel Tips Worth a Read

Differences between northern ireland and ireland.

One essential piece of Ireland travel advice to know before you go is to learn the differences between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

The Republic of Ireland split from Northern Ireland in 1921. The Republic is part of the European Union and Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom. However, culturally, many people who live in Northern Ireland think of themselves as Irish.

There is an open border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Planning Your Ireland Trip

Ireland’s not a large country, but one of the best Ireland travel tips for first-timers is to learn about all the top destinations for travelers before booking anything.

Dublin is Ireland’s capital city and main travel hub, so you almost certainly will (and should) spend some time in this city. It has lots of pubs, museums, historic neighborhoods, and parks.

Other cities to consider visiting are Cork in the south, Galway in the west, and Belfast in Northern Ireland.

Any Ireland travel guide will rave about Ireland’s countryside. Ireland has six national parks with Connemara and Killarney being two of the most diverse. However, Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains is widely considered one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.

There’s no shortage of scenic drives, with the 111-mile Ring of Kerry taking the top spot. 30-mile Slea Head Drive and the 32-mile Causeway Coast are also beautiful.

The Cliffs of Moher and Giant’s Causeway are bucket list destinations for anyone visiting Ireland for the first time.

You may be surprised to learn that Ireland has 80 accessible islands, with Achill Island being the largest. The Aran Islands near Galway and the Skellig Islands near Killarney are well worth visiting when the ferries are running in the warmer months.

How Many Days in Ireland?

Two types of vacation make sense in Ireland: a city break and a road trip. If you just want to visit Dublin (or any of the other cities) then you’ll need a minimum of four days. 

It’s not worth flying over from North America for anything less! You can always take day trips to the countryside if four days is too many in a city.

Of course, the best way to visit Ireland is by road trip! That’s what I did with my friend and we had a BLAST!

Seven days is the minimum number of days for a road trip. One of the best tips for traveling to Ireland is to plan a two-week itinerary if you have the time. Two weeks will allow you to drive around the whole island, including Northern Ireland.

Accommodation in Ireland

These next Ireland travel tips are about the variety of accommodation. The best type of accommodation depends on whereabouts you’re staying.

For instance, hotels are ideal in bigger cities like Dublin , Galway , and Belfast . You won’t need a parking space and you have the flexibility of leaving your luggage at any time. Get my list of kid-friendly Dublin hotels.

Guesthouses or Bed and Breakfasts are the best places to stay in countryside towns like Doolin and Killarney . If you’re lucky, the owners will be a lovely older couple with great stories and will serve a huge Irish breakfast in the morning!

Check out Airbnb for quirkier accommodation options in rural areas. You could end up staying in a pod with a sea view or even a tree house.

Ireland and Northern Ireland don’t charge tourist tax for accommodation like other European countries.

Public Transportation in Ireland

Ireland’s public transport system is better connected than in North America. However, one of the key general traveling in Ireland tips is to use public transport in cities and rent a car in the countryside.

The capital cities, Dublin and Belfast , are super walkable. But they also have buses and tram systems which you can figure out using Google Maps. 

For trams, buy a ticket from the machine on the platform before boarding. For buses, use a contactless credit card to pay the payment machine. Super easy! 

You can use the Translink train network to get from city to city.

Taxis and Ride Shares

While you’ll be able to access the Uber app in Ireland, almost no one in Ireland uses it! You’ll find that there aren’t many Uber drivers available either. 

FreeNow is the preferred taxi/ride-share app in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. It is on the pricier side, but it’s much more reliable than any other taxi app. 

One-way trips between Dublin city center and Dublin Airport, for example, can cost around €30.

Renting a Car and Driving in Ireland

If you are traveling to more than one place in Dublin, one of the top travel tips for Ireland is to rent a car. This is what we did.

To drive in Ireland, you’ll need an International Driver’s License. It’s also a left-hand side of the road country and most people drive cars with manual transmissions.

If you’re used to driving an automatic, it might be worth requesting one from the rental company. They will charge extra, but it will be one less thing to worry about. Ireland’s countryside also has fairly narrow roads!

You can also drive across the Northern Ireland border in a rental car but expect a small extra fee. Note that the Republic of Ireland measures speed in kilometers, while Northern Ireland measures in miles.

Check your credit card benefits as they might cover car rental insurance.

Money in Ireland

The Republic of Ireland uses the Euro currency and Northern Ireland uses GBP. You won’t be able to pay in Euros in Northern Ireland and vice versa in the Republic of Ireland.

One of the smartest tips for travel to Ireland is to get a travel-friendly credit card that charges low fees for different currencies. Bring a Visa or Mastercard backup if American Express is your preferred type of card as it’s not widely accepted in Ireland.

There are lots of ATMs outside of banks or supermarkets that are safe to use. Seek out Tesco, Sainsbury’s, the Bank of Ireland, and Ulster Bank.

Keep a little bit of cash on you for small purchases.

Dining in Ireland Tips

Traditional Irish cuisine is similar to British cuisine. Don’t expect a lot of spices! It’s mostly hearty stews with potatoes, savory pies, and seafood.

You can’t leave Ireland without ordering an Irish-fried breakfast. Expect a huge plate of bacon, sausage, eggs, potatoes, beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and white or black pudding. It’s usually served with soda bread which originated in Ireland.

One of the most essential dining in Ireland tips is to book reservations for popular places in big cities, especially on the weekend.

Tipping in Ireland is more relaxed than in North America. It’s only mandatory to tip in restaurants, where 10-15% is perfect (20% for a big group or on a public holiday). Feel free to leave a couple of euros or pounds in a café or bar. 

Learn Some Irish Slang Words and Phrases

Ireland’s official languages are English and Irish (Gaeilge). Although most Irish people’s first language is English, there are lots of slang words and English-Gaelic mashups in common use that you may not have heard before!

One of the best travel in Ireland tips is to learn a few to listen out for. Here are the most popular slang words:

• Craic ( crack ) – good fun or good chat/gossip
• Eejit – idiot
• Feck – a softer alternative to an expletive!
• Grand – great
• Bang on – correct
• Chucking it/bucketing it down – raining heavy
• Crack on – continue
• Fella – man
• Gaff – home
• Gander – a quick look
• Leg it – run fast
• Lad/lass – boy/girl

If there are any others you hear on your travels, don’t be afraid to ask their meaning! Most Irish people love explaining the origins of their colorful language.

Ireland’s National Parks are Free to Enter

Unlike the US, Ireland’s national parks are completely open. You will not need to buy a national park pass before visiting! 

But one of the best traveling to Ireland tips is to stop by the Visitor Center anyway. All six Irish national parks have a visitor center nearby with a café, gift shop, and local information.

Get a Travel Adapter

Both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland use the Type G socket. It takes large, three-pronged plugs and operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

These are commonly known as the British sockets and they’re not widely used. Plus, they use a different voltage to North American sockets. Bring an adapter with USB sockets so you only need to pack one.

Safety and Awareness in Ireland

According to the U.S. Department of State, Ireland is a Level 1 country which is the safest level. It’s even safer than the UK! 

However, one of the key travel tips to Ireland is to be aware of the bar culture here. It’s common for large groups of very drunk people to be hanging outside of pubs in the city center on the weekends.

If you’re traveling with young kids or as a solo female traveler, try and stay away from these areas. Order a taxi back to your accommodation instead of walking.

Dublin is the only city where you need to be extra vigilant about your belongings in case of pickpockets. High-touristed areas like the Temple Bar neighborhood and outside the Guinness Storehouse are where you should be more cautious of pickpockets.

Tips on Traveling to Ireland FAQs

What is the best month to travel to ireland.

The best months to travel to Ireland are April, May, September, and October. These months have the best balance of mild weather, fewer crowds, and less expensive accommodation.

How do you dress in Ireland and not look like a tourist?

One of the best fashion tips for traveling in Ireland and looking like a local is to wear ‘elevated’ casual clothing. 

Leave the exercise shorts and tank tops in your gym bag! Wear jeans, sturdy boots, and a nice wool sweater. You’ll need to pack a waterproof jacket no matter when you visit.

How much cash should I bring to Ireland?

Bring a small amount of cash (maybe $100 worth of Euros and $50 of GBP, depending on the length of your trip and where you are visiting). 

You will be able to use your credit cards almost everywhere, except small purchases in small businesses that will usually prefer cash.

Ireland Travel Tips Wrap-Up

Those are all the best Ireland travel tips that first-timers need to know!

Once you’ve figured out when and where you want to travel on your first time in Ireland, this guide has all the tips for Ireland travel you need. You don’t have to worry about transport, handling money, or whether or not you’ll understand the accents.

Focus on staying dry, soaking in the literary history, staying on the left-hand side of the road, and making memories. Sláinte!

Looking for more Ireland travel resources? Check out How To Plan a Trip to Ireland: Step-by-Step Guide , Ireland in Summer , 21 Most Spectacular Hidden Gems in Ireland , 19 Best Things To Do in Wicklow for Families Visiting Ireland , 17 Wonderful Things To Do in Wexford With Kids on Your Trip to Ireland , Insider’s List of Things to Do in Cork with Kids , How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Photo Shoot in Dublin , and 12 Best Day Trips From Dublin by Train !

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• The ultimate Ireland travel planning guide

• Ireland Food and Drink
• Things to Do
• Destination Guides
• Itineraries
• Packing Lists
• Seasonal Guides
• Where to Stay

Ireland Packing List: 17 Essentials You Actually Need for 2024

Even if you have no Irish ancestry, Ireland is a destination that calls out to many people. Blessed with beautiful countryside, compelling history and folklore, and a good presence in pop culture, Ireland is probably among the most well-known countries for American travelers.

Having visited many times myself, I can unequivocally state that Ireland lives up to the hype. I’ll never forget the rolling green fields or the sheep wandering down narrow two-lane roads.

The fish and chips I had along the Wild Atlantic Way were so exquisitely good, they tasted like the first fish and chips I ever ate. Even a monsoon-like downpour that limited visibility and soaked me through couldn’t dampen my spirits about Ireland.

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, you might be curious about what to pack for Ireland. You may plan the most wonderful vacation, but it’s not going to be as enjoyable if you don’t have the right items. I’m here to help with your Ireland packing list, but first…

This post was first written in 2018 and last updated in January 2023.

Table of Contents

Tips for Packing for Ireland

What’s the weather like in ireland.

Ireland has four distinct seasons, which is both a blessing and a curse. It’s a blessing because you can pack exactly what you need given the season you’re visiting; it’s a curse because you have to try and figure out which season you’ll be in and risk bringing the wrong items if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the weather each season so you’ll know what to bring to Ireland:

• Spring in Ireland is from March through May. Average temperatures in this season range from lows around 39°F (4°C) in March to highs around 59°F (15°C) in May. This is a pretty big swing, so it’s best to assume that March weather is a bit more winter-like (thus you pack more winter items) and May is a bit more summer-like (thus pack summer items). Visiting Ireland in April ? Good luck!
• Summer in Ireland is from June to September . The weather is typically sunny, and average temperatures range from 63-69°F (17-19°C). By the end of September, temperatures are starting to drop, so don’t assume it will be as warm on September 30th as it was on September 1st.
• Autumn in Ireland is from late September to November. Temperatures start to drop, from the 60s°F (15°C) to the 40s°F (10°C). You can also expect the weather to turn a bit damper, though to be honest, Ireland gets rain year-round in certain parts of the country.
• Winter in Ireland is from December to February.  Get ready for temperatures in the 30s-40s°F (10°C and colder) on average, and some of the rainier months of the year. Some parts of the country will even see snow! ❄️ Pack layers to stay warm and rain gear to stay dry during these months!

With this in mind, let’s dive into the travel essentials for Ireland that you need.

What You Actually Need on Your Ireland Packing List

I’ll be honest: I pretty much pack 90% of the same things over and over… and I bet you do too.

Most packing lists are about 90% of those same things, right? So instead of giving you an Ireland packing list that’s 90% of what you already know or are already planning to pack ( yes, you do need one pair of underwear for each day… ) , here’s a packing list that’s 100% of things you need specifically for making a packing list for Ireland.

In addition to the list of things to bring to Ireland, you might add other things based on the activities you plan to enjoy. For example, if you’re doing a lot of hiking, you might want to swap out the waterproof hiking boots I recommend for a heartier pair you’ve already broken in. If you plan to take a tip in the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll need a swimsuit (and a brave soul!).

No matter what, though, these items won’t take up unnecessary space in your bag. Here are my specific recommendations on how to pack for Ireland.

1. The  Lonely Planet  Ireland Travel Guide

I love the feeling of a guidebook in my hands, ready to be opened for the first time to start helping me plan my trip.  Whether you need restaurant recommendations or pro tips on scenic viewpoints, the  Lonely Planet guide to Ireland is a worthwhile investment when wondering what to bring when traveling to Ireland. You can read it on the plane over too!

Other good options for helpful guidebooks include Fodor’s Essential Ireland as well as my favorite travel guide Rick Steves Ireland. You can put sticky notes on all the pages of interest as you read through it and go back to create your finalized itinerary later.

Make sure to book your car rental in advance! I love using Discover Cars when I travel.

2. Wind-Proof Umbrella

Did you know that in some parts of Ireland, it rains up to 255 days per year?! It depends on the time of year you visit, but that means, on average, you can expect rain two days out of every three you’re in Ireland, especially when you visit Ireland in November and later into the winter season.

I don’t typically travel with an umbrella, but I was so glad to have one when I was in Dublin in the winter . It’s nice not to be dripping wet when stepping into a pub after an afternoon of exploring!

To combat this, invest in a good umbrella that can withstand the weather and won’t break the first second you step out to admire the view on the Wild Atlantic Way. They come in a variety of different colors if you want your umbrella to stand out from the others. It’s one of the must haves for Ireland travel so you don’t get soaked, especially if you’re visiting Ireland without a car .

3. Raincoat

Similarly, you’re more than likely going to need a solid raincoat while traveling in Ireland. A good rain shell keeps out rain, dries quickly, and packs up small… because we don’t check luggage around these parts! The key is to get one that’s waterproof so you don’t end up getting your clothes underneath soaked.

This one also comes in a delightful Irish green if you want to be totally on-brand with the Emerald Isle when considering what to take to Ireland.

4. Green Blanket Scarf

You already know I love scarves while traveling, and a scarf is essential for what to bring on a trip to Ireland. This Irish scarf is perfect for travel in Ireland for several reasons:

• It’s a blanket scarf you can wrap up to stay warm.
• It has green.
• It also has orange and white, giving it a distinctly Irish vibe.

With black as the base color, you can get away with wearing this every day of your trip, and it’ll look great. There are a variety of colors you can choose from if you want something a little different.

5. Waterproof Boots

I cannot rave enough about these boots from Teva . I bought a pair a few years back, and they have held up so well . They are water-resistant, have great traction, and are comfortable, making them perfect for any adventure. They also have stylish boots to wear out at night or tall boots to wear on colder days.

They can handle whatever you throw at them, from plodding through soggy clover fields to hiking along the Cliffs of Moher or on the Giant’s Causeway. (Note: Teva has redesigned these boots, so they may look different when you click through.) They’re essential for visiting Ireland for 7 days .

6. Moisture-Wicking Socks

Wet socks suck, and so do sweaty socks. I always bring multiple pairs of Merino wool socks everywhere I go so I have warm, dry feet, whether I’m hiking around Dublin or just exploring the city on a rainy day.

These moisture-wicking socks will help keep your feet warm even if you step in a deep puddle or get a bit of rainwater inside your boots. I also love recommending socks because they’re my #1 most forgotten-at-home item!

7. Sunglasses

I know it seems weird to recommend sunglasses right after all that rain gear, but you’ll thank me. When you get to the Atlantic coast, and the sun comes out for two minutes and blinds you with its glare, you’ll be glad you included this in your summer packing for Ireland. Sunglasses also take up zero room in your bag.

If you tend to lose sunglasses on trips, you can always stock up on a few cheaper pairs so you won’t be upset if you break them or forget them somewhere.

8. Universal Adapter

Unless you live in the U.K., you will need an adapter to plug in your electronics. You’ll especially want this if you have a big day of photographing landmarks in Ireland and will need a fully charged camera.

I’m a huge sucker for multi-use anything, and this universal adapter is perfect. It has USB ports and receives any kind of plug – plus, it has the necessary “Type G” prongs for Ireland. You can also buy one with multiple ports so you can charge all your gadgets at the same time.

If you’re confused about voltage converters vs. travel adapters, read all about voltage in Ireland .

9. Phone Transmitter

If you’re a good reader taking all of my advice and planning to travel by taking a 10-day Ireland road trip , this will be your saving grace. This adapter plugs into the car, connects via Bluetooth and allows you to crank up your favorite Spotify playlist anywhere (may I suggest this Ireland Roadtrip playlist ?). It also has a USB charger!

10. Irish Wool Sweater

Okay, so this one isn’t one of the things to pack for Ireland that’s absolutely necessary, but I would recommend leaving space in your bag for it if you don’t bring a sweater.

Irish wool sweaters are known the world over for their warmth and comfort. You can buy one when out traveling, or check out The Irish Store for a bigger selection!

These sweaters are also perfect if you’re looking for Irish gift ideas to get others.

What to Pack for Ireland: On the Plane

Now that we’ve talked about what to pack for Ireland when you’re there, let’s talk about a few Ireland travel essentials for the plane ride.

11. Travel Backpack

I started traveling with a travel backpack years ago and haven’t looked back. If you’ve ever had a trip where you got to the plane with your backpack, only to have everything in a jumbled mess when you open it, you won’t have to worry about that with this pack.

There are numerous compartments to organize absolutely everything, from your laptop to books to snacks to travel documents. You’ll love putting this on your Ireland packing list so you’re ready to hit the road as soon as you land.

12. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Chances are you’ll have a long flight to get here, so you’ll want to ensure you’re comfortable.

I’ve used these noise-canceling headphones for years, whether I’m waiting in the airport or working at a coffee shop on my travels. They’re so comfortable, block out a good portion of noise, and fold up to save space.

13. Portable Phone Charger

You will be taking so many quick photos and videos with your phone, as well as using it for directions. That means it’ll die quickly, which is the worst when you’re traveling. You’ll want to make sure your phone is fully charged and ready to go as soon as you get off the plane.

I learned the hard way that not every airline has a charger in its seat, so be prepared with this portable phone charger . I’ve been using this one for years and love it. Just recharge it when you get to your hotel for the night so you’re ready for the next day.

14. Travel Wallet

This travel wallet is one of the top items my readers buy because it’s so cute plus handy. It comes in over 40 different colors (I have rose gold) and has organized slots for your ID, credit cards, and cash.

You can also put your passport and a pen in it for when you have to fill out forms at customs, so this is a must for your Ireland packing list to ensure you’re prepared as soon as you land. I’ve used this for years and never looked back.

Optional Items to Consider Packing for Ireland

I’ve put together a weekend packing list to help you see some of the basics I pack for every trip. However, here are a few suggestions for what to pack for a trip to Ireland.

I tend to wear my tennis shoes during the day to explore, but sometimes these get dirty or just don’t fit the fancier restaurant I want to go to later. My travel backpack is often with me during the day, so I love having a pair of flats in it that I can quickly throw on to dress up my outfit.

It’s also comfortable to let my feet relax after a day of adventures. I love Rothy’s for both travel and every day because they’re stylish, plus they’re machine washable.

16. Winter Coat

While I listed a raincoat as something to bring anytime you visit Ireland, a winter coat is a must when exploring Dublin during Christmastime or anytime during that general season. It can get really chilly during this time of year, particularly when you’re on the coast and the wind is biting.

If you think you’ll wear it often, I recommend investing in a brand like Columbia . I’ve had their jackets for years, whether I’m hiking or traveling, and they always keep me warm.

17. Packing Cubes

I used to think packing cubes were a waste of money, but I got them at my wedding as a gift and decided to use them for our European honeymoon (which ended in Ireland, in fact!). When you’re bringing a lot of clothes for a longer trip, these are crucial for helping you organize everything.

Sometimes I travel and only stay in one city for a night or two before moving on to the next, so these allow me to keep some items like socks and underwear in the smaller cubes without having them get lost in the sea of other clothes. I consider these essentials for traveling to Ireland if you like being organized like I do!

Additionally, here are a couple of tips to help you know what to pack for a trip to Ireland:

• What you pack for Ireland will vary a lot based on the season you visit. Ireland’s summer months are noticeably drier and warmer than the winter months. As such, you may find you don’t need to pack as many long trousers or waterproof items. Be sure to check the forecast before you start packing for Ireland – and throw in a rain shell anyway because it never hurts to have one!
• Don’t want to pack a guidebook? Snag a digital copy. Lonely Planet offers ebook versions of all their guidebooks, usually at the same price or cheaper. Here’s the link for the Ireland ebook .
• Adjust your Ireland packing list based on how long you’re traveling.  Whether you’re only spending one day in Dublin to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day or making a Northern Ireland road trip to accomplish your Ireland bucket list , add one more top for every two days of travel, and one more pair of trousers for every 3 days. Don’t forget extra undergarments and socks!
• Pack for travel in Europe. Dublin and other Irish cities have a base level of fashion that’s slightly less casual than in the U.S. You can’t go wrong with black pieces and classic items from your wardrobe.
• Visiting Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day? I have a special packing list for St. Patrick’s Day !

Have any other questions about this Ireland packing list or what to pack for Ireland? Let me know in the comments!

Marissa became obsessed with Ireland when she first visited in 2015, and has been back numerous times since to explore more of the Emerald Isle. She started this site to help others plan their trip to Ireland based off her experiences.

8 thoughts on “ Ireland Packing List: 17 Essentials You Actually Need for 2024 ”

Thank you. I’ve seen a few items here I have not seen anywhere else. and they make sense.

I’m so glad to help! Thanks for reading, Kelly 🙂

We are just starting to plan a trip to Ireland in June, and I stumbled across your website. I am very impressed with it, and plan to use it as an important resource . Thank you for all the information! For the backpacks, would you recommend the larger or smaller on?

I like smaller ones for day bags personally.

Going in April (the “good luck” month)! Do you have any recommendations for a 9 hole golf course around Dublin?

Deer Park Golf Course is highly rated.

I love my TEVA sandals and wore them throughout Japan and Greece. When it rained, my feet just quickly air dried and no blistering. Would these also work in Ireland? I am trying to pack the minimum. Thanks for your advice!

It depends on the time of year that you’re coming – summer might be okay, but otherwise you might get a bit cold!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

20 Best Places to Visit in Ireland — From a Dark-sky Park With Milky Way Views to One of Europe's Highest Sea Cliffs

From the popular Cliffs of Moher to lesser-known towns, islands, and mountains, these are the best places to visit in Ireland.

CaptureLight/Getty Images

When I visited Ireland for the first time back in 2016, I thought my four-day itinerary was airtight. My friend and I would spend a night in Dublin, head to Galway, drive to the Wicklow Mountains, and then explore Howth before flying home from the capital city. While we certainly covered a lot of ground, the plan was flawed from the beginning. Four days is barely enough time to discover one region, much less the country as a whole. Yes, I checked off several popular items — including Trinity College Library, Quay Street, and the Cliffs of Moher — but the country boasts many more charming villages, natural wonders, and historic landmarks, each as worthy of a visit as the next. 

According to Michael Leahy, the head concierge at Ashford Castle , I’m not the only traveler who has made that mistake. “I find that first-time visitors to Ireland often misjudge how large and expansive the island is, and therefore underestimate the time they need to fully explore and enjoy Ireland’s myriad attractions, sites, hotels, rich history, and cultural heritage,” he tells Travel + Leisure . If your schedule is flexible, he recommends extending your trip — so it’s longer than just a few days — in order to get a “well-rounded Irish experience.” 

By embracing this leisurely pace, you’ll also be able to appreciate your trip more profoundly. “Beyond the picturesque landscapes, taking time to interact with locals, immersing yourself in traditional music, and exploring local pubs can enhance your overall experience and truly integrate you into the Irish way of life,” explains Chris Parkes, front of house manager at Adare Manor .

To ensure your trip to the Emerald Isle is more comprehensive than my original endeavor, we asked some of the country’s most knowledgeable experts to share their recommendations for the best places to visit in Ireland. Read on to discover their favorites.

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

There’s a good chance you’ll start your Irish adventure in Dublin , home to Dublin Castle, Trinity College Dublin, the National Museum of Ireland, and the Guinness Storehouse. It’s a walkable city, so you’ll be able to explore most of it in just a day or two. For an extra dose of history and a drink, of course, make your way to The Brazen Head , which Patrick McManus, concierge at The Shelbourne , notes is the oldest pub in Dublin.

lisandrotrarbach/Getty Images

According to Parkes, Galway’s “bohemian atmosphere and lively arts scene” are two reasons you’ll want to visit the harbor city during your journey. Unlike Dublin, where you may feel the need to see as much as possible, Galway is a bit more low-key. He recommends travelers “stroll through cobblestone streets, savor traditional music in local pubs, and experience the enchanting landscapes of Connemara that surround this charismatic city.”

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

In Kinsale, “beautiful views of the harbor abound,” says Anna Marron, guest relations manager at Liss Ard Estate . If it’s a nice day, stretch your legs along the 3.7-mile Scilly Walk before heading to Bulman Bar & Restaurant for dinner. Or, if you want something a bit more elevated, there’s the Michelin-rated Bastion , which is only open Thursday through Sunday.

Old Head of Kinsale

Fergus Wright/Getty Images

Marron describes the Old Head of Kinsale as a “world-class golf course on many golfer's ... lists.” It’s only about a 20-minute drive from the town, but it stands alone as its own destination. “It’s the Pebble Beach of Ireland,” she adds, referring to the golf paradise in Northern California.

Cliffs of Moher

There’s a reason the Cliffs of Moher make an appearance on your Instagram feed every so often — and they’re even more beautiful in person. “Towering over the Atlantic Ocean, the cliffs offer panoramic views that are both exhilarating and serene,” says Parkes. Plus, says, McManus, the surrounding landscape is equally impressive, “with unique and precious wildlife and natural flora and fauna.”

Iveragh Peninsula

Dawid Kalisinski Photography/Getty Images

Leahy describes the Iveragh Peninsula as a “stunning stretch of heritage in southwestern Ireland” that offers a “picturesque escape into nature’s awaiting embrace.” Many travelers choose to explore the area via the Ring of Kerry, the scenic drive that encircles the peninsula. The route’s popularity stems from the fact that the 111-mile journey is accented by incredible landscapes, small villages, and top-tier views of the Atlantic Ocean.  

Borisb17/Getty Images

If you decide to complete the Ring of Kerry scenic drive, you’ll come across Killarney. Take the time to explore the town — it’s very walkable — but Parkes also shares that nearby Killarney National Park should not be overlooked: “Within the park, you'll find the three famous Killarney lakes, which provide breathtaking views as they sit beside the mountain range ... [and] Torc Waterfall, one of the most spectacular in Ireland and best viewed after heavy rain.”

Dingle Peninsula

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

You’ll find the Dingle Peninsula slightly northwest of Killarney. According to Parkes, its “rugged coastline and charming villages” create the ultimate Irish experience. “Explore the Slea Head Drive for jaw-dropping vistas, encounter ancient archaeological sites, and engage with the welcoming locals who add a touch of warmth to this picturesque region,” he adds. 

Aran Islands

GummyBone/Getty Images

Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer make up the Aran Islands, a place known for its ruins and sacred sites. “The islands unfold a tale of timeless elegance against the backdrop of the Atlantic's gentle embrace,” explains Leahy. If you’re already in Galway, you can take the seasonal ferry directly from the city to the islands.

If your trip was inspired by the desire to hear Irish music, look no further than Doolin, a coastal village known as the “traditional music capital of Ireland.” Take a seat at Gus O'Connor's Pub or McDermott's Pub and enjoy hours of lively tunes, pint in hand. Doolin is also called the “gateway to the Aran Islands,” as the rocky isles are just offshore.

Located southwest of Limerick, Adare was founded in the 13th century, and since then, it's become known as one of the most beautiful villages in the country. Parkes shares he may be a bit biased, given that he works in Adare, but he also says it’s a destination that captivates visitors with its “timeless charm … picture-perfect thatched cottages, historic architecture, and lush green landscapes.” 

Trim Castle

Located in County Meath, Trim Castle is the largest Norman castle in Ireland and a well-preserved example of Anglo-Norman military architecture. Travelers may recognize it from "Braveheart," but the castle’s history goes all the way back to the 12th century, when it served as a fortress during the Norman invasion of Ireland.

If you’re after an unforgettable view of the ocean and its powerful waves, Marron suggests checking out Mizen Head in West Cork. She calls the geographical feature a “more dramatic and less-visited version of the Cliffs of Moher,” and it’s commonly known as the mainland’s most southwesterly point.

Wicklow Mountains National Park

Courtesy CONSARC Consultancy

McManus also recommends exploring Wicklow Mountains National Park , the largest of Ireland’s six national parks. Hikers and walkers have their choice of paths in this stunning region — and movie buffs will want to make their way to Sally Gap, a recognizable setting from the 2007 film "P.S. I Love You."

Giant’s Causeway

Ruben Earth/Getty Images

The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most identifiable features in Ireland. While scientists have discovered that the 40,000 basalt columns sticking out of the sea were formed by volcanic activity more than 50 million years ago, there’s still a mystical and sacred feeling to the area. “This historic route invites pilgrims and wanderers alike to tread upon its hallowed ground, whispering tales of spirituality and connection through the ages,” shares Leahy. 

Jerpoint Abbey

imageBROKER/Thomas Schaeffer/Getty Images

History can be found nearly everywhere you go in Ireland — but it’s particularly noticeable at Jerpoint Abbey in County Kilkenny. The medieval Cistercian abbey dates back to the 12th century and features Romanesque and Gothic elements. Inside, visitors will find a church, tower, cloister, and several detailed stone sculptures.

Mayo Dark Sky Park

 Josh Matthews/Courtesy Mayo Dark Sky Park

If the weather permits, astronomy enthusiasts will be able to see stars, planets, the Milky Way, and even meteor showers while inside Mayo Dark Sky Park , a designated dark-sky preserve in County Mayo. Should you visit, Leahy says you’ll get to witness these “celestial wonders unfolded beneath a cloak of velvety darkness,” all completely free of charge.

Backpacksandbubbly/Getty Images

“Howth is a lovely fisherman’s village,” says McManus. It’s a quick trip from Dublin — about 30 minutes by train — so it’s an easy destination to tack on to the beginning or end of your trip. Start the day with a moderate hike along the 3.7-mile Howth Cliff Walk, then head back to the village for some fresh seafood (you can’t go wrong with fish and chips). 

Croagh Patrick

Kriangkrai Thitimakorn/Getty Images

Croagh Patrick, which you may hear referred to as “the Reek,” is one of Leahy’s recommendations, thanks to its “iconic peak overlooking the surrounding landscape” and its role as a “majestic pilgrimage site.” The mountain has held religious significance for mor ethan 1,500 years, and it’s said that Ireland's patron saint, St. Patrick, spent 40 days fasting on its summit in the fifth century. It’s also popular with hikers and those interested in panoramic views of Clew Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding countryside.

Sliabh Liag

Artur Kosmatka/Getty Images

Sliabh Liag, or Slieve League, is one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, measuring in at nearly 2,000 feet above sea level. Significantly taller than the Cliffs of Moher, which reach 702 feet, these cliffs provide amazing views in nearly every direction — and they’re a convenient stop along the famed Wild Atlantic Way .

Related Articles

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 15 Ireland Travel Tips For A Trouble-free And Fulfilling Irish Vacation

26 Oct 2021

Located in northwestern Europe, the majestic island of Ireland with rolling mountains, breathtaking monuments, ancient castles exquisite landscapes, rugged terrain, and lip-smacking beer and whiskey is truly a stunner. Housing two unique and magnificent UNESCO World Heritage sites – Brú na Bóinne and Skellig Michael, Ireland is one of the world’s most greenest and friendliest tourist places, making it ideal for all kinds of travelers. But while the warmth and hospitality offered by the Irish makes it a traveler’s delight, you must follow some basic Ireland travel tips when you visit it for a fun and trouble-free vacation.

Must Read: Experience Ireland In December Like A Local By Indulging In These 8 Things

15 Best Ireland Travel Tips To Keep In Mind

Like any other tourist destinations, there are various safety precautions and tips to be kept in mind while traveling to Ireland. Here are some useful things to know before visiting Ireland that will help you plan and execute a wonderful holiday.

1. Pack For An Unpredictable Weather

Image Source

Ireland’s weather is pretty notorious for changing with the blink of an eye. One minute it’s weepingly wet and the next minute it’s sunny and warm. You must keep a tab on the weather forecast on the internet every day before leaving your hotel. And here’s what you must pack for Ireland:

• Rainproof jackets and umbrellas
• Sweaters and knitted tops
• Extra pair of trekking shoes and comfortable boots
• Plenty of warm clothes even in the summer
• Hats, scarves, and gloves
• Portable mobile chargers
• Sunscreen and sunglasses

Suggested Read: 13 Best Things To Do In Summer In Ireland For A Chilled-Out Holiday

Europe Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Magnificent Switzerland Holiday 6D/5N Package @ Rs 69,999

Plan your trip today!

Magnificent Europe Tour 7D/6N Package @ Rs 70,975

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

France & Switzerland Tour Package 8D/7N @ Rs 90,000

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Scintillating Spain & Portugal Tour 11D/10N @ Rs 101,150

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

6 Country Europe Tour Package 12D/11N @ Rs 118,650

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Know The Difference Between Ireland And Northern Ireland

Although Irish people are kind and helpful, one must know the geographical attributes before visiting this famous tourist destination. The Republic of Ireland, commonly known as just Ireland is a separate country and is a part of European Government. Therefore, the currency used here is Euros. On the other hand, Northern Ireland is a separate nation that falls under the jurisdiction of the United Kingdom, which uses Pound sterling as currency.

Suggested Read: 10 Exotic Resorts And Villas In Ireland That Offer A Luxurious Experience Like None Other

3. Rent A Car To See The Country

The public transport system of Ireland is less reliable when it comes to exploring the hidden jewels of Ireland. If you wish to explore the popular attractions of Ireland all by yourself, then renting a car is the best option. Most of the roads in Ireland are windy and are one-way, making it easy to navigate. So, if you are planning to rent a car, then here are some quick things to remember:

• Drive on the left side of the road
• Seat belts are compulsory for persons sitting at the front seats
• Use of mobile phones is strictly prohibited
• Children under 12 are not allowed to sit in the front
• Drive within the speed limits, look for signs
• Drinking and driving is a serious offence in Ireland
• Don’t use horns between 11 PM and 7 AM
• International driving permit is must to rent a car in Ireland
• Most of the places in Ireland have paid parking
• Look for street signs showing parking information displayed in both Irish (Gaelic) and English

Suggested Read: 10 Most Popular Resorts In Ireland: Epitomes Of Class, Elegance, And Stunning Views

4. Do Not Tip In Ireland

Most of the restaurants, bartenders, food counters, and even the taxi drivers in Ireland do not accept tips. The invoices are usually inclusive of the service tax, which is generally 10%. If you are too happy with the services offered, you can appreciate the efforts with a small tip.

Suggested Read: 10 Castles In Ireland You Will Definitely Want To Be Trapped Inside

5. Plan Your Dining And Shopping Schedules

This is one of the most important Ireland travel tips for travelers. Restaurants, pubs, and shopping stores are not open round the clock in Ireland. Therefore, it is best to get your shopping errands done before sunset and by Saturday. Sunday is observed as a day of rest in many smaller towns and villages. However, many independent cafes, restaurants, and shopping stores in major tourist places are open till late to entertain guests.

Suggested Read: 11 Indian Restaurants In Ireland Where You Can Go Relish Savory Treats

6. Wear A Swim Cap In The Pool

If you wish to plunge into a public or even a hotel pool, you must wear a swim cap. Ireland laws do not let swimmers not wearing a proper swimsuit with all accessories to enter the swimming pool. Swim caps are compulsory even for young children. You can even buy them from the hotels for 3 to 5 Euros.

Suggested Read: Enjoy A Rejuvenating Holiday At Ireland Tourism-Emerald Isle

7. Don’t Drink In Public Areas

Among all the travel tips for Northern Ireland and even for the Republic of Ireland (or Ireland), this is the foremost thing to remember. The Irish government has strict laws against locals and tourists caught drinking in parks and on the beaches. Heavy fines are levied, or the individual is even imprisoned till a bail is issued.

Suggested Read: Trip To Ireland: For An Ultimate Holiday Experience Amid The Enchanting Landscapes!

8. Respect The Irish People And Customs

Regardless of which country you are traveling to, this is probably the most important travel tip every tourist must be aware of. It always nice to make eye contact with everyone you meet on the street and nod. In Ireland, make a conscious effort to thank the bus driver, the shopkeeper, the hotel staff, and so on.

Suggested Read: Celebrate Christmas In Ireland And Get To Know The Exciting And Amusing Irish Traditions

9. Buy A Heritage Card To Visit Historic Marvels

One of the most affordable ways to explore all cultural and heritage sites of Ireland is to get yourself a Heritage Card from the Office of Public Works (OPW). The Heritage Card costs just 25 Euros and is valid for up to one year. There are more than 75 heritage sites all over the country besides castles, national parks, and war memorial gardens. A few of these heritage sites give free entrance. You can also buy a Heritage Card online in advance. The card comes handy to visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Bru-na-Boinne and Skellig Michael.

Suggested Read: Spend Your Winter In Ireland & Have All These Amazing Experiences For A Wonderful Holiday

10. Shop Tax Free

Don’t forget to grab a refund of the tax money levied on all your shopping bills when you’re at the airport. Many retailers across Ireland will specially have posters or stickers on their store frontage saying that the items sold here are tax-exempted for tourists. This is one of the best Ireland travel tips for shopaholics who don’t want to spend a lot on shopping but still wish to take home loads of gifts for friends and families and some local memorabilia.

Suggested Read: 12 Best Islands In Europe Honeymoon Packed With Romance & Passion

11. Backpack Across Ireland

Image source: One of the best backpacking tips for Ireland travel that we can give you is to book a stay in a hostel. Other than this, you must make sure to book your tickets for all attractions as well as the Heritage Card way in advance. Try to travel on foot around the cities, and eat like a local from street side vendors, diners, and small restaurants. Ireland is undoubtedly a perfect retreat for backpackers if these tips are followed.

Suggested Read: 15 Hotels In Ireland That Let You Experience Irish Hospitality

12. Know Some Irish Lingo

No matter which country your choose to travel, It is extremely important to know some common words and phrases of that particular nation. Irish people on the other hand love to talk in slang coupled with strong accents. So it is good to know a few common Irish phrases.

“Top of the morning to you” – Good Morning “Bang on” – That’s great! “Aye” – Yes “Wee” – Small “Hey boyo” – Hey there (aimed at guys) “What’s the craic?” – What are you up to?

Suggested Read: Two Weeks In Europe: Music Festival, Austrian Beer & Unforgettable Madness With Friends

13. Consider More Than One Airport

Ireland receives a majority of tourist traffic coming through the Dublin International Airport, which makes it crowded during peak season. So it’s absolutely convenient to consider other international airports. You have the Belfast International Airport in Northern Ireland and Cork Airport in the southern part of Ireland that you can fly to. In the western part of Ireland, you have Shannon and Knock airports for easy breezy flying experience.

Suggested Read: 10 Fun & Exciting Things To Do In Ireland

14. Plan Your Trip In Advance

Thee flight tickets to Ireland during the peak tourist season are expensive. So, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance. You can book a cheap Ryanair flight and like many other European countries, Irish Rail gives you the option of booking train tickets in advance.

Suggested Read: Ireland Honeymoon Guide: All You Need To Know For Celebrating Your Special Vacay The Irish Way

15. Don’t Just Drink At The Irish Pubs

Renowned for its drinking culture and nightlife, Ireland pubs are famous for many more things than just Guinness, Ireland’s famous beer. Most Irish pubs serve traditional and authentic Irish dishes that are so enticing that you would want to revisit.

Further Read: This First Direct Ferry Route From Ireland To Spain Will Be A Dream Come True For Travelers

From nature to history and from serving the best beers in the world to taking you to enchanting places, Ireland has a lot in its kitty to offer to all kinds of travelers from any corner of the globe. Keep these Ireland travel tips in mind before you book your getaway to Ireland and enjoy a fabulous holiday experience.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ireland Travel Tips

What should I know before traveling to Ireland?

There are quite a few things to know before traveling to Ireland like renting a car, no tipping, packing for an unpredictable weather, and so on.

Do you tip in Ireland?

Irish people do not entertain tipping. But if you are impressed by the services offered at a restaurant, you are allowed to tip as per your discretion.

What should you not say in Ireland?

When in Ireland, never debate with taxi drivers, never say that Ireland is part of the British Isles, and never ask for directions in Kerry.

Is Ireland expensive to visit?

Ireland is a famous tourist destination and like other tourist places in Europe, the flight tickets are expensive during the peak season. Christmas holidays in December and the summer months (from June to August) are the times when the airfare costs are high.

How can I save money when traveling to Ireland?

Well, one of the best ways to save money when traveling to Ireland is by buying a Heritage Card which costs around 25 Euros. The card comes handy in exploring the historic places and monuments of Ireland.

What is the best Ireland vacation itinerary?

No matter what places you choose to explore here, your Ireland vacation will not disappoint you. But, here are a few places that are best for an Ireland vacation itinerary: 1. Rock of Cashel 2. Killarney 3. Coha 4. Cliffs of Moher 5. Dingle 6. Ring of Kerry 7. Achill Island 8. Slieve Cliffs 9. Dunluce Castle 10. Dark Hedges 11. Belfast 12. Dublin 13. Doolin

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

Plan Your Vacation Today!

Trip to Singapore at Rs 20,499/-

Get Quotes From Local Experts

Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-

Talk to Our Experts Today

Maldives Honeymoon Trip at Rs 39,800/-

Pay with easy EMI Option

Europe Trip at Rs 89,999/-

All Inclusive Deals

Vacation in Dubai at Rs 27,499/-

Hong Kong Holiday at Rs 24,999/-

Money Safe Guarantee

Thailand Holiday at Rs 7,999/-

Flights Excluded

People Also Read:

Mexico Travel Tips New Zealand Travel Tips ancouver Travel Tips

Recent Posts

Best Cities To Visit In Turkey For A Wonderful Trip

Discover These Famous Landmarks In Europe During Your Next Trip

Exploring Rich Cultural History: Heritage Sites In Europe

Meilleure vie nocturne d’Europe: 9 villes pour faire la fête comme si de rien n’était

11 Villages In Finland: Experience The Thrill Of Offbeat Adventures

5 Endroits à visiter en Europe en juin pour une expérience merveilleuse

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2024 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• International
• Europe » Ireland »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Maldives Tour Packages
• Bali Tour Packages
• Dubai Tour Packages
• Singapore Tour Packages
• Thailand Tour Packages
• Europe Tour Packages
• Sri Lanka Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Thailand Tourism
• Bali Tourism
• Singapore Tourism
• Maldives Tourism
• Mauritius Tourism
• Dubai Tourism
• Europe Tourism
• Hotels in Thailand
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Mauritius
• Hotels in Bali
• Hotels in Dubai
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Sri Lanka

Money blog: HSBC announces mortgage rate increases

HSBC has today announced wholesale rate hikes across its residential and buy-to-let mortgage product ranges. Read this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news below - and leave your thoughts in the comments box.

Tuesday 4 June 2024 06:15, UK

• Glitch that delayed 500,000 benefit payments 'fixed', HMRC says
• HSBC announces mortgage rate increases
• London could be set for second biggest listing in its history
• Virgin Atlantic launches new flight from Manchester to Las Vegas

Essential reads

• Your rights when deliveries or returns don't arrive - and why leaving instructions could jeopardise them
• What happens to our brains when we shop?
• Think twice before buying your holiday clothes from Zara
• Where is all the money going? Here's who is really responsible for concert tickets going crazy
• Would tourist tax put you off visiting Scotland?
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

Yesterday we talked about the dopamine hit you get when shopping - and spoke to a psychologist about how you might learn to control it.

But what if it's gone too far? That's what we're discussing in the second of this four-part series this week.

A  piece by the Royal College of Psychiatrists , published by Cambridge University Press in 2012, said shopping addiction, often referred to as compulsive buying disorder (CBD), "was first described by the German psychiatrist Emil Kraepelin almost a century ago".

He called the disorder "oniomania" (from the Greek onios, meaning "for sale", and mania, meaning "insanity").

A hundred years on, the World Health Organisation doesn't classify shopping addiction as a mental illness, unlike gambling, video game addiction, pyromania and kleptomania - but psychologists are taking note of the subject.

According to a 2021 paper in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions, potential  symptoms  of a compulsive shopping disorder include:

• Preoccupation with shopping (an irresistible urge to buy a product);
• Reduced control over buying behaviours;
• Buying products but not using them for the purposes they were intended to serve;
• Using shopping to regulate mood;
• Negative consequences afterwards such as guilt, shame, debt, relationship problems;
• Negative mood and cognitive symptoms if attempting to stop.

Donald W Black, a prominent American psychiatrist, has written extensively on the subject. He says the "disorder has a lifetime prevalence of 5.8% in the US general population".

There has been much debate about whether CBD is a valid mental illness - amid concerns of over medicalising. However, a growing number of rehab clinics are offering treatment.

The Priory's website says: "If you are addicted to spending money, and are finding that it is affecting your finances, relationships, health and quality of life, this is just as serious as any other addiction."

The Abbey Care Foundation says signs you may have a shopping addition include juggling multiple credit cards, hiding extravagant spending from your family, hoarding things you don't use and getting angry at anyone who tries to get in the way of your spending.

The foundation even breaks down different types of shopping addict:

• Bargain-seekers:  These people have a shopping habit of actively seeking items on sale. When they spot items for less than their perceived value, they purchase them. This behaviour makes them feel like they are winning and relieves shopping addiction. 
• Collectors:  This shopping addiction entails seeking out different versions of a particular item. The desire to collect or complete a set of similar items drives this addiction. 
• Show-offs:  The compulsive behaviour is driven by the desire to buy high-value items. In some cases, the individual's self-worth or self-esteem is attached to making such purchases. 
• Trophy-hunters:  The shopping addiction is for rare, expensive items. The individual intentionally looks for the most expensive or rarest items and gains satisfaction in buying them. 
• Shopping bulimics:  This shopping addiction is like the eating disorder known as bulimia nervosa. Individuals categorised as shopping bulimics make large, frequent purchases only to request later refunds. They do so to cushion themselves from the financial consequences of making such large purchases. 

Join us tomorrow as we speak to a woman for who this used to be all too real - leading her into £40,000 of debt.

Passengers will soon be able to book British Airways flights in a few clicks as part of a major revamp by the airline. 

The company told The Telegraph it wanted to style its website on the "three clicks and you can check out" approach of Amazon. 

British Airways said it was spending £7bn on a revamp, which would see the company's app and website relaunched. 

Other changes will include new planes, revamped seats and refurbished airport lounges. 

Customers will also be able to rebook, claim a refund and cancel flights online. 

The new website is currently being trialled by people flying from London Gatwick to Montpellier in France, Antalya in Turkey and Bari, Cagliari and Catania in Italy. 

Basically, student finance is a government-financed loan that covers university students' tuition fees and living costs for the duration of their study. 

There are two main types of loan, tuition and maintenance - we'll take each in turn. 

Tuition fees 

Undergraduate courses in England generally cost students about £9,250 a year.

That's a lot for a young person (or their family) to cover, so the government offers to pay that outright, direct to the university, on their behalf. 

This is known as your tuition loan - we'll come to how this is repaid later. 

Maintenance loans

These help students cover day-to-day costs, such as rent and food, while studying.

For the 2024-25 academic year, students can borrow anywhere between £4,327 and £13,348 for each year of study - depending on where you live, where you're going to study and your family's financial situation. 

See how much you could be entitled to by clicking here .

The various plans 

Here's where it gets more complicated. What plan you may be on is listed below... 

Why no Plan 3? The repayment plan for postgraduate loans in England and Wales is actually Plan 3.

In the UK, you pay nothing up front, and the amount you pay back each month is determined by how much you earn. 

You'll repay a percentage of your income over the threshold for your type of loan, depending on how often you get paid - see the table below for the thresholds. 

With those thresholds in mind, you'll repay either:

• 9% of your income over the threshold if you're on Plan 1, 2, 4 or 5
• 6% of your income over the threshold if you're on a postgraduate loan (Plan 3)

If you're on multiple plans, the rules are slightly different.

If you don't have a postgraduate loan, you'll repay 9% of your income over the lowest threshold out of the plan types you have.

In this scenario, you'll only have a single repayment taken each time you get paid, even if you're on more than one plan type.

But if you do have a postgraduate loan, you'll repay 6% of your income over the postgraduate loan threshold  and 9% of your income over the lowest threshold for any other plan types you have.

You don't need to worry about paying it off each month yourself if you're employed - the money will be deducted from your earnings before it hits your account, like income tax. 

Interest rates

Like any loan, you'll be paying back what you owe plus a little bit on the top - known as interest. 

With student loans, that extra on the top isn't so little right now, as it is linked to retail price rises.

• 6.25% if you're on Plan 1
• 7.8% if you're on Plan 2
• 6.25% if you're on Plan 4
• 7.8% if you're on Plan 5
• 7.8% if you're on a postgraduate loan plan (Plan 3)

Read other entries in our Basically... series...

Royal Mail's incoming owner has refused to rule out stamp price hikes under his leadership. 

In fact, Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky seemed to suggest there might be more increases to come. 

"I can't make unconditional commitments," he told The Times when questioned on the topic. 

"[If] your circulation is 50% of what it was … you either need to go home, or you need to increase the unit price and hope that people will pay for it. Because if not, you are making losses.

"You can be loss-making for a year or two, but you can't be in a loss for 20 years. It's simple maths. There's no mystery to it." 

First class stamp prices have more than doubled since 2018 from 67p to £1.35. 

The businessman, nicknamed the Czech Sphinx, had his £3.6bn offer accepted by the postal service's parent company, International Distribution Services, last week. 

It said the agreement included a series of "contractual commitments" to protect public service aspects of the Royal Mail - such as its universal service obligation to "one-price-goes-anywhere" first-class post six days a week.

Many were shocked by the deal, with Royal Mail reporting losses of £1m a day in recent years. 

You can read more about the Czech Sphinx below...

A major error that meant 500,000 families did not receive their scheduled child benefit today has been "fixed", HMRC has said.

In a post on X, HMRC said affected families would get the money on Wednesday morning, two days after the payments were due...

Multiple readers have got in touch to say they had been affected by the problem, which meant almost a third of payments scheduled for today were not made.

Reader Susan1984 said: "When should we expect to receive the missing payment? This has left not just me but so many more families with kids completely stuck for food and fuel this morning."

Earlier, HMRC apologised and said it was working urgently to resolve the issue, which would not affected payments scheduled for tomorrow (see post at 14.41).

Child benefit is usually paid every four weeks on a Monday or a Tuesday at a rate of £25.60 for an eldest or only child and £16.95 for each additional child.

The bank has today announced wholesale rate hikes across its residential and buy-to-let mortgage product ranges. 

The new rates, which come into effect tomorrow, will be applied largely across its two, three and five-year fixed rates for purchase and remortgage. 

However, a number of rates available to existing HSBC customers looking to switch will also see increases. 

Brokers say more lenders could increase rates this week. 

This is thanks to an uptick in swap rates due to hopes fading for a cut to the base rate set by the Bank of England in June. 

Here is what some industry insiders told Newspage...

The dreaded 'higher for longer' scenario is no longer a mere notion: it's the harsh reality for many. It looks like these elevated rates are here to stay for the foreseeable future. Ranald Mitchell, director at Charwin Private Clients

We can now expect more awkward conversations with clients who have read that rates are coming down and inflation is under control. HSBC have been fairly competitive recently so the hope is that they just need to turn the tap off a little to catch up and this isn't an upward trend that will continue into the summer period. David Stirling, independent financial advisor at Mint Mortgages and Protection

HSBC is one of several lenders to already have announced changes this week. Even with the higher rates on offer, I would not suggest waiting in the hope of a drop any time soon. My advice to borrowers is take control of the situation and start the process of arranging a new deal as early as possible, secure a rate and, if a better one materialises, change to it. Simon Bridgland, broker/director at Release Freedom

Child benefit payments have not arrived on time for approximately half a million people.

Almost a third of payments scheduled for today were not made - and we've had multiple readers get in touch to say they've been impacted.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has apologised and said it is working urgently to resolve the issue.

"We're sorry that some customers' child benefit payments have not arrived as scheduled and we are working urgently to resolve the issue," said an HMRC spokesperson.

"The issues that caused payment problems today will not impact payments scheduled for tomorrow."

Child benefit is usually paid every four weeks on a Monday or a Tuesday at a rate of £25.60 for an eldest or only child and £16.95 per additional child.

Some people may receive the benefit weekly, for example if they are a single parent or receiving certain other benefits, such as universal credit.

HMRC added on X that there was "no need for customers to call us" and it will provide updates on the social media platform.

As of August 2023, 6.91 million families were in receipt of child benefit payments.

Reader Sam E said: "No warning, complete denial, no update, just endless worry for those who rely on the benefit. The denial in particular is an insult. How long will it be until it's sorted?"

Last week, the Scottish Parliament passed a bill meaning local authorities can set an additional charge for overnight accommodation. 

For tourists heading to Scotland, that means an extra fee for staying hotels, bed and breakfasts and holiday lets.

According to Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill, the fee will be a percentage of the cost of a hotel or other room.

For instance, a 1% levy on a £200 booking means a visitor would pay £2 in tourist tax.

We asked our followers in LinkedIn if the tourist tax would put them off visiting the country. 

The majority of them (59%) said it wouldn't stop them from taking a trip there - but 41% would think twice.

Any charges or levies are not expected to come into effect until spring 2026, as councils need to consult local businesses before carrying out an 18-month implementation period.

Those receiving disability benefits will not pay any charges, with children and young people also exempt.

Manchester, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole already charge people to stay the night. 

Manchester's £1-a-night City Visitor Charge was introduced last April, and is estimated to have raised around £2.8m in its first year.

European hotspots like Barcelona and Venice also have tourist taxes, with the Spanish city charging visitors €3.25 if they're staying in official accommodation.

Your comments on LinkedIn :

"We love Scotland (I'm a Scot) but live close enough to drive up and do some shopping and stay over for a meal etc and we do so perhaps every six weeks or so. So I'm now classed as a 'tourist' even though I spend about £200 on a room - perhaps another £200 quid on a meal and drinks etc etc - not to mention the money we spend in the shops. And they want to charge us both £2.50 a night?" Paul Mclean

Many countries apply tourist taxes, so why should Scotland be any different?The big questions, for me, are how will the money be spent? Will it be spent directly benefiting the city or just vanish into government coffers? The other is who counts as a tourist. A foreign national visiting from a country outside of the UK would seem a sensible definition, but to charge domestic visitors would probably be shootings themselves in the foot somewhat. Scott Taylor-Barr

From my experience, Edinburgh is already one of the most expensive cities to visit. Greig Cahill

Hopefully the contributions are put towards the development of tourism, and/or will be used in the right ways. From my experience working in France, French nationals are very accepting of the tourist tax and in France, I see the logic in it. Let's hope it works... 🤞🏻 Jennifer Wightman

Virgin Atlantic has launched the first flight of its new service from Manchester to Las Vegas today. 

It makes Manchester Airport the only place outside of London to offer direct flights to America's west coast. 

Virgin Atlantic already has a daily connection to Sin City from London Heathrow, but launched the new route to support strong customer demand in the North West. 

It marks the airline's fourth service from Manchester to the US, building on established services of Orlando, New York and Atlanta. 

"Few places sum up the glitz and glamour of international travel like Las Vegas. Giving passengers in the North the opportunity to fly there directly and experience everything it has to offer is a real game-changer," Chris Woodroofe, managing director at Manchester Airport said. 

The launch has been marked with showgirls joining the flight's cabin crew and welcoming flyers at the check-in desk. 

Flight VS85 on an A350-1000 departed Manchester Airport at 9.50am. 

Rolex has increased the price of some of its watches in the UK after the cost of gold surged. 

The leading luxury watch manufacturer has hiked some prices by as much as 4%. 

One of its most famous pieces, the Daytona chronograph, will now cost you £38,700 - up from £37,200. 

The price of a yellow golf GMT Master II has also increased from £34,000 to £35,400. 

That's according to information on its UK website, which is tracked by Bloomberg. 

Typically, Rolex raises prices for its watches annually in January.

It increased prices in the UK by about 4% for some models at that time but left US prices unchanged.

It comes after the price of gold reached record highs earlier this year, coming in at £1,932.44 per ounce in April. 

Increased prices isn't the only thing that makes buying a Rolex difficult, though. 

Despite high prices, waiting lists for them have been rising, according to Watches of Switzerland. 

Some waiting lists can be years long, which is part of the reason they are so exclusive.

So even if you have a spare £35,000, you might still find it difficult to actually get your hands on one. 

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free