Rolling green hills, castles, whiskey, rain, Guinness beer, and rugged coastline draws millions of visitors each year. The country’s small size and accessibility make it an amazing destination. Before you head off to Ireland we’re here to help you brush up on some Ireland fun facts!

Ireland Fun Facts You Might Not Know!

1. The longest place name in Ireland is Muckanaghederdauhaulia

This is one of those Irish fun facts kids will love. In Irish Gaelic, this roughly translates as “piggery between two expanses of briny water.”

Though it doesn’t come close to the longest Welsh place name (google it), we still think it’s a long enough – and confusing enough – word. To be exact, this one-word place name is 22 letters of goodness describing a boggy peninsula where no one lives.

2. Halloween is Irish

(One of the Ireland Facts You Probably Didn’t Know)

What? Nope, this is one of those cool facts about Ireland that is true! Halloween may have Christian ties, with Allhallowtide beginning a three-day veneration of the dearly departed, but Halloween traditions as we know them begin with the Celtic festival of Samhain.

In Old Irish, this means “Summer’s End.” It features bonfires, terrifying masks, even more terrifying turnip lanterns, and amateur dress-ups. See more festivals in Ireland here.

3. St Patrick wasn’t Irish

Not at all. He was a regular Romano-British person kidnapped and sold into slavery by Irish raiders at age 16. At some point, he escaped and returned as a missionary to convert the Celtic polytheists of Ireland. Maybe. His life story is shrouded in mystery, but one thing’s for sure – he wasn’t Irish.

4. More Irish people live outside of Ireland than in Ireland

This is one of my favorite crazy fun facts about Ireland that is hard to believe! From around 1700, between nine and ten million Irish-born people emigrated. That’s way more than Ireland’s highest population of 8.4 million during the 1840s.

Today, around 80 million people worldwide claim Irish descent (including more than 36 million Americans). There’s even a government position dedicated to this – Minister of State for the Diaspora and International Development.

5. Know Your Irish Pub Etiquette

Okay, this isn’t one of those die-hard facts about Ireland, but more of a fun bar one! If someone buys you a drink, you buy them a drink back. If you’re in a group, drinks will most likely be purchased in a “round.”

One person buys everyone’s drinks. So when it comes to your turn, do your duty. The round is sacred, sometimes considered Dublin pub and Galway pub etiquette.

6. Students shouldn’t stand under the bell at Trinity College

Called the Campanile, this little architectural feature on the grounds of Trinity College is a lovely sight. But if you’re a student of Trinity College, you’ll be staying away; superstition states that if you pass under the bell before you graduate, you will fail.

You shouldn’t even stand near it. Another legend states that the bell rings automatically if a virgin stands underneath it.

7. The Shamrock isn’t a symbol of Ireland

This is probably one of those facts about Ireland you didn’t know. The Anglicised form of seamróg – which simply means “young clover” – the shamrock isn’t any more a national symbol of the Republic of Ireland than Guinness is.

It’s linked to St Patrick, who’s often depicted preaching while holding a shamrock. The real symbol? A harp – a Gaelic harp, to be precise.

8. Ireland is named after a goddess

In Old Irish, she was known as Eriu. In modern Gaelic, it’s Eire. That’s exactly the same name as Ireland is known in the mother tongue. Eriu, with her sisters Banba and Fódla, was part of a triumvirate of goddesses that looked out for the general well-being of the ancient island nation. Even Banba and Fódla are sometimes used as poetic names for Ireland.

9. Ireland has won the Eurovision Song Contest more than any other European country

Eurovision lovers – is this one of those Ireland facts you knew? If you don’t know what that is, Eurovision is a song and dance extravaganza where all the nations of Europe try to out-cheese each other with pop songs.

Ireland has won a record-breaking seven times. Seven. It’s also the only country to win it three times in a row. It seems Ireland knows a thing or two about pop ballads.

10. You can see the Northern Lights in Ireland

If you don’t feel like spending your inheritance on a trip to far-flung Finland or pricey Iceland or Norway, well… a little-known fact about Ireland is that you can see the Northern Lights from this Atlantic island. 

11. Ireland was Neutral during World War II

“Officially,” anyway. They did provide some clandestine help; a detailed weather report from County Mayo, for example, gave the green light for the D-Day Landings. Despite being neutral, Ireland was also the victim of a few bombings because Allies and Axis bombers were missing their targets. It remains neutral and isn’t even a part of NATO.

12. Guinness isn’t the only drink available

Guinness is famous – that’s obvious. But on a trip to Ireland, you can try more drinks than just that. There’s Murphy’s, another stout (like Guinness) established in 1856. There’s whiskey in the form of Jameson (1780) and Bushmills, the oldest Irish whiskey – in production since 1608. There’s Bulmer’s Irish cider, first made in 1935. The list could go on.

13. But the land the company owns is on a 9,000-year lease

Crazy, we know, but it’s true. In 1759, the founder, Arthur Guinness, signed a contract for the land on which the Guinness Brewery stands – St James’ Gate Brewery. It was approved for 9,000 years. That’s pretty confident. It seems like so far, at least, it’s stood the test of time. Let’s see how the next 8,740 years go.

14. Ireland has its own Olympics

One of the best sports facts about Ireland now. Yes, it has its own Olympics, claimed to predate the actual Olympics. Called the Tailteann Games, this dates back to at least 1600 BC and is a famous edition of “funeral games” – athletic competitions held in honor of a recently deceased person.

15. Yes, Guinness World Records is related to the Guinness

This is another one of those fun facts about Ireland! This began thanks to the awesomely named managing director of Guinness at the time, Sir Hugh Beaver. He went out shooting with some buddies, missed a shot, and got into an argument about what was the fastest game bird in Europe. Classic.

Later that evening, they tried to confirm the answer in reference books but realized it was impossible. Realizing people had these kinds of debates in pubs nightly across Ireland, he decided that the idea of a Record Book would settle these debates. So the original Google was born in 1955.

16. Ireland currently has a record-breaking prime minister

Leo Varadkar, born in 1979, became Ireland’s prime minister in 2017. Not only is he the youngest prime minister the country has ever ushered into power, but he is also the first of Indian heritage. What a cool Irish fact!

To add more to the list of firsts, Leo Varadkar is Ireland’s first openly gay party leader and prime minister. How’s that for fun facts about Ireland?

17. There are around 3,000 castles in Ireland

Castles and the ruins thereof are located all over Ireland. Centuries-old fortifications, restored castles, half-fallen down towers. You name it, Ireland’s got it. To have that many in such a small area are pretty mad, though.

18. The O’ in Irish names means “Descendant of…”

A useful, name-based fact about Ireland now. You’ve probably seen a zillion surnames that begin with O.’ O’Brien. O’Malley. O’Murphy. The list goes on and on. The O – or more properly  Ó – means descendant of. If you were wondering, Mac, means “son of.” Fitz is of Norman origin and derives from Latin filius – son.

19. There are no snakes in Ireland

When planning a trip to Ireland, it may be awesome to know there are no snakes! The legend and well-known “fact” about Ireland and is that Saint Patrick drove all the snakes away. But in fact, there were never any snakes, to begin with. It’s more to do with the Ice Age than anything else. You may find a snake in a zoo, however.

20. Newgrange is older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids at Giza

Newgrange, a prehistoric monument in County Meath, is an amazing passage tomb that dates back to the Neolithic period. We’re talking 3,200 BC. That’s older than Stonehenge, which dates back to around 3,000 BC. The Giza Pyramids were built in 2,600 BC.

It’s not just old but impressive – a big circular dome 76m in diameter complete with a stone-walled burial chamber. Though sealed for actual millennia, it has featured in various Irish folklore and mythology since construction. Pretty cool Irish fact, eh?

21. Not everyone in Ireland has red hair

You’d be surprised, but seriously – this world-shifting fact about Ireland is that, yes, not everyone has red or ginger hair. Only about 9% of the population are redheads. It’s just a colossal stereotype that everyone is ginger in Ireland.

22. It’s one of the world’s biggest movie stars

Yes, the entire country is what I’m referring to in this fun fact about Ireland. The Cliffs of Moher have featured in Harry Potter. The beach of Curracloe Strand was the D-day landing scene in Saving Private Ryan.

Scenes from the 1969 Italian Job were shot at Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin. The island of Skellig Michael and its ancient monastic settlement was famously in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. If you’re prepared to do some hiking in Ireland, you can see a bunch more.

23. The place with the most pubs per person is County Mayo

Though you may instantly be thinking of Dublin as the place with the highest pub-to-person ratio, it’s County Mayo. Yes, Dublin’s 722 pubs mean one pub for every 1,649 people in the capital, but with 373 pubs in all, Mayo has one pub for every 323 people. Dublin doesn’t even have the most pubs; County Cork has nearly a thousand (955).

24. One of Ireland’s most charming towns is abandoned

The glacial valley of Glendalough is one of the most beautiful places in Ireland. There are two mirror-like lakes and nature in abundance. Hidden here is an old monastic settlement – and no one lives there.

It’s not really a town, to be fair, but Saint Kevin founded this collection of buildings where monks used to live in the 6th century. It’s not hard to see how this spot became a site of religious contemplation. To get there, renting a car in Ireland and exploring these hidden gems is best.

25. Irish Gaelic is the first official language of the Republic of Ireland

Gaelic is a compulsory subject in schools. Street signs are in English and Gaelic. There are whole areas (called Gaeltacht) of the Republic of Ireland where people’s actual first language is Gaelic, notably in coastal areas of County Mayo and County Cork. Only around 1.7% of the population speaks it daily, however.

26. And Irish words are amazing

Not necessarily one of the best “facts about Ireland,” but we can’t help ourselves. Not necessarily “Gaelic,” but words used by many Irish people daily are pretty awesome, so we thought you should get to know a few. There’s “craic” (pronounced “crack) as in “what’s the craic?” (what’s going on?) and “good craic” (good fun).

“Grand” is what they say instead of good and okay; e.g., “I’m grand.” There’s “fair play,” which is like saying “well done.” “Eejit” is a good one (i.e., idiot). There are hundreds more.

27. But more people speak Polish than Gaelic in Ireland 

Being a country in the European Union, Ireland allows free movement of people, and many people from elsewhere in the EU live in Ireland. While just over 82,600 people speak Gaelic outside of school, 119,526 speak Polish at home, making Gaelic the 3rd most-spoken language. 56,430 speak French at home.

28. Comedy is a big deal

Dark, dry comedy is the thing in Ireland. TV shows  – from the ‘90s favorite Father Ted to 2016’s Derry Girls – put characters in compromising situations where no one ever ends up better off than they were before. It’s genius, and you need to experience it.

29. There’s a ton of marine life just off the coast of Ireland

Did you know that you can go whale watching from County Cork? That you could spot basking sharks? Seals? Puffins? Sea turtles? It’s not all Emerald Isle rolling valleys and castles; it’s also those rugged offshore islands and the host of sea life that lives around ‘em!

30. It’s not “Southern Ireland”

It’s Ireland. The Republic of Ireland. After a long history of being entwined with (but probably more correctly, under) British rule, Ireland fought a guerrilla war against its overlords and gained independence in 1922.

The northeastern portion, historically populated with “Ulster Planters” (colonists of English and Scottish origin), decided to opt out, supporting the Union and remaining part of the UK. The rest is history. Confusing, messy history.

PLANNING A TRIP TO IRELAND?

Check out all of our resources!

• 25 Best Things To Do In Galway
• Our ultimate Ireland Packing List + Irish Outfit Ideas
• Our Top Ireland Travel Tips to Know Before You Go
• 20 Tips For Renting a Car in Ireland
• 11 Amazing Castles In Ireland To See!
• How Much Does A Trip To Ireland Cost?

I hope you enjoyed it! Any other fun facts about Ireland I forgot?

Quick Ireland Travel Tips

• ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Gaelic: “Dia dhuit” and “Go raibh maith agat”
• Currency: Euro – (EUR) – €
• Visa: The Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland are separate countries on the island of Ireland. The Republic of Ireland, known as ‘Ireland, ‘ grants 90-day visas. Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom, also grants 90 days.
• Weather: Expect lots of weather! Ireland is known for having rapid shifts and lots of rain – the only reason a country like Ireland remains so green and fertile. See our full packing list here.
• When is the best time to visit Ireland? Ireland is a fantastic country to visit year-round. However, you’ll find crowds during the summer. My favorite time to visit Ireland is in September when the weather is cool and the low crowds. Plus, it’s when the famous Galway Oyster Festival happens!

All that weather does make for some wonderful sights. It’s tough not to love the country’s verdant rolling hills, crumbling castles, dramatic coastlines, welcoming locals, and charming farms. It’s often said in the country there is no bad weather, just the wrong clothes.

Tips For Packing For Ireland

We recommend everyone bring several staple items for a trip. Ireland is well known for being wet, so the weather will play a significant role in what you throw in your backpack or suitcase. Simple wardrobe choices feel right at home in Ireland. There is always the odd exception, like a night out to the Abbey Theatre in Dublin or an excellent meal in Galway.

We spend most of our time in Ireland wearing a sweater, jeans, boots, and a handy rain jacket. Most travelers, ourselves included, will spend their time outside exploring Ireland’s countryside. It’s filled with old walking paths, castles, cozy pubs, sheep, and quaint towns; it’s the perfect place to lose yourself.

• Rain gear is always a good idea to pack: a rain jacket, umbrella, and weatherproof boots.
• Packing cubes help separate damp and dirty clothes from clean ones.
• Three pairs of shoes are the maximum you should pack—a nice, casual, and athletic shoe/boot.
• Ireland is a relaxed place, so there is no need for fancy clothes unless you’re staying at one of the famed golf resorts.
• It’s almost always sweater weather, so pack your favorite wool sweater or cardigan.
• A scarf and hat are a great way to warm up if there is a chill in the air.
• It’s not always cold. Summers can be warm and have fantastic weather. Be sure to check the weather beforehand and pack some clothes for warm weather. We’ve had glorious weather on trips and miserable weather that made us question our trip to Ireland altogether.

The Weather in Ireland

reland has a cool, damp, and rainy oceanic climate year-round. Temperatures do not change much throughout the year. It’s just as rare to have a hot day in the summer as snow in the winter. This is good news for packing as you won’t have to worry about various climates. It’s best to check the weather a week before your trip to get an idea of what the temperatures will be like during your trip. We have an article about the best time to visit Ireland if you’d like a more in-depth overview.

Seasons in Ireland

What to Wear in Ireland?

Wool Sweater

If there is one article of clothing made for travel in Ireland, it’s the wool sweater. A sweater makes a great travel outfit staple. They’re comfortable, stylish, and warm. The season doesn’t matter, as most of Ireland is temperate and remains fresh year-round. You can expect comfortable daytime temperatures and chilly evenings in the summer.

I have several sweaters, but my favorites are organic materials like wool or Alpaca. Ireland has some terrific wool and sweater producers, but it may take a bit of digging. In recent years, most tourist shops often sell cheap foreign-produced versions. We put in some legwork, and Tasha got hers from Cottage Handcrafts in Connemara in the photo above.

Rain Jacket

Right after you pack your wool sweater, reach for a rain jacket. If we were taking bets, we’d wager you’ll see some rain during your trip to Ireland. It doesn’t get that green without plenty of rain. The rain varies a lot in Ireland. Some days, it may only be an afternoon shower, while other storms can last for days.

We suggest a packable rain jacket made for the outdoors/hiking. These jackets are lightweight, durable, packable, waterproof, and windproof. Any rain jacket will do, but the top-dollar ones designed for the outdoors will hold up and help in inclement weather. They also do an exceptional job of blocking the wind, which can be unrelenting.

Flannel Shirt

Flannel shirts are fabulous mid-layers for both men and women. A nice flannel provides warmth, comfort, and style. They’re super easy to style for a relaxed outdoor look. A cozy flannel is perfect for travel days, sightseeing, or casual hikes. Most of Ireland is very casual, and you’ll feel at home in a flannel or sweater.

Down Jacket

In the summer, travelers can probably get by with a wool sweater and rain jacket to stay warm. Outside of the summer, a down jacket is an excellent idea. We recommend a packable down jacket on a trip with cool weather since they’re versatile. For a destination like Ireland, a it’s a great way to keep warm without wasting too much space in your luggage. If you prefer a more stylish jacket option, a peacoat is a classic wardrobe choice, but it’s cumbersome, so you’ll need to wear it on the plane.

T-Shirt

A classic tee will never go out of style. We suggest sticking with solid colors like black, white, or grey. Hiking on a sunny day can be pretty warm, and we often shed layers. A classic cotton tee shirt is adequate if you have plans for casual hikes or walks around the village. However, a merino wool shirt is a worthy investment and one of the best pieces of travel clothes.

Wools shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management. I’ve tested a lot of wool shirts out, and my favorite for travel so far is from Unbound Merino. Cameron prefers the grey as it’s super easy to stain the white ones.

Jeans

Jeans are an Ireland fashion staple but aren’t the best packing or most comfortable travel pants. However, travelers have options such as DU/ER jeans. The organic cotton jeans look sharp, but a subtle blend of polyester and spandex allows the jeans to stretch and resist wrinkles perfect for travel. Thanks to the synthetic blend, they’re great for lengthy trips as there is no need to wash the jeans.

Technical Pants

A pair of chinos or travel pants are great for traveling around Ireland. Our first choice is a reliable pair of “travel pants” with synthetic materials. These pants are often stain-resistant, dry quickly, weigh less, remain fresh for multiple wears, and are more comfortable than traditional pants or chinos.

We love that these technical pants, previously only made for hiking, now resemble chinos. It’s a classic pant that goes with a sweater, dress shirt, t-shirt, or blouse. For women, we suggest the Kuhl Freeflex Pants for outdoor adventures and the Everlane Utility Barrel Pants for a more stylish city/town look. Men should check out the KUHL Renegade Rock Pants for outdoor adventures and the Western Rise Evolution 2.0 Pants for everything else.

Scarf

A scarf is a travel staple and a great wardrobe choice for women and men traveling in Ireland. They act as an accessory to your outfit and are super comfortable, adding warmth. Ireland is known for its windy days, so the scarf protects your neck. They can spice up an outfit you’ve already worn three days in a row and can be thrown into a bag or purse to pull out when the sun sets and the weather gets chilly.

Sneakers

Hitting the sidewalk and letting the city or town unfurl around you is one of the best ways to get familiar with a new destination. A comfortable pair of shoes for both men and women are essential when packing your bag for Ireland. I wouldn’t recommend those terrible clunky hiking shoes or athletic shoes many tourists like to bring. Since most of Ireland’s towns and cities are lovely for walking around, we suggest packing good walking shoes.

Boots

Pack a pair of boots to help cope with all the wet weather. Locals like to wear “Wellies” or Wellington Boots, big rubber boots. We’re always happy in regular boots because we stay off farms and bogs. I’m a leather boot fiend and love classic boots. Our go-to boot for travel is are a pair of Blundstone boots.

Travel Underwear

Generally, we’ll pack five to seven pairs of underwear for a typical trip. We recommend several pairs of underwear made from wool or a synthetic material. These materials are antimicrobial, so they stay fresh longer and can dry quickly overnight if you hand wash them.

Wool Socks

We’ve learned to love our feet with a good pair of socks. You will want to keep your feet dry while walking around. Most importantly, wool socks stay fresh for several days as they have natural antimicrobial properties. We travel with several pairs of wool socks on any trip. Our recommendations for socks are Darn Tough and Smartwool.

Sunglasses

A stylish pair of sunglasses is an excellent addition to an outfit. Everyone owns at least one pair of sunglasses. However, it’s best to ensure they have UV protection for the health of your eyes. We always travel with two pairs of sunglasses as we’re pretty active. A pair for hiking and outdoor adventures and a couple of stylish sunglasses to wear at the beach or around town for the day.

Ireland Packing List for Women

Overcoat

If you want a stylish look that will keep you warm, I’d suggest picking up a peacoat. An overcoat is excellent for providing warmth and looking great. While we love our down jackets for their warmth and convenience, they aren’t the best-looking things in the world, and you’d look pretty silly wearing one with a dress or suit.

Long Sleeve Cardigan

A cardigan is one of my favorite items to wear in Ireland. A cardigan has a great relaxed style and look and keeps you warm. They’re also light enough to eat up minimal room in the suitcase. I pack one during any season in Ireland as you can wear it with a coat in winter, and it’s rarely too warm in the summer.

Blouse

While Ireland is casual, people are still presentable in public. Most women wear a nice dress shirt, blouse, or sweater on colder days. They’ll bust out the summer dress if you get a rare warm summer day. Most women should avoid graphic tees or short-sleeved shirts; instead, wear a light blouse. It’s a perfect item to wear in the summer as the right blouse is super cool and comfortable.

Fleece Lined Leggings

It can get quite cold in Ireland, especially come late October until about April. This is when I often turn to fleece-lined leggings that look great while walking around cities like Dublin or Galway but keep me extra warm. Fleece-lined leggings are perfect to wear like regular leggings and go with any sweater or jacket you have!

Romper/Jumpsuit

Rompers are probably one of my favorite travel outfits for Ireland because they’re stylish, comfortable, and practical. You can’t go wrong here, and I’d suggest throwing at least one or two rompers in your suitcase for Ireland. They’re great for a night out on the town in Dublin and surprisingly superb for Irish attire. We love Patagonia’s Fleetwith Romper for travel!

Black Flats

A pair of black flats is always great to have in a suitcase. They’re stylish, comfortable, and take up minimal luggage space. My tip, stay away from heels, many towns have cobblestone streets, and you don’t want to break an ankle trying to look good. Just let the locals impress you with their skills of walking in heels.

Men’s Ireland Packing List

Overcoat

Just like women, a stylish overcoat will keep you warm. While we love our down jackets for their warmth and convenience, they aren’t the best-looking things in the world, and you’d look pretty silly wearing one with a dress or suit.

Dress Shirt/Chinos

You’d look pretty ridiculous wearing a T-shirt or a flannel out to a nice meal in Glasgow. It’s a great idea to travel with at least one nice outfit that fits your style. Your travel plans in Ireland will also have an enormous impact. Western Rise makes travel-specific men’s dress clothes that are wrinkle and stain-resistant. They also make a great gift!

Henley

A henley is a great clothing choice for Ireland. It’s lightweight yet provides some warmth from the wind, and it’s more appropriate than a long-sleeved graphic shirt or technical clothing.

What To Pack

Daypack

You’ll need something to stash your photography gear, hand sanitizers, papers, phones, and anything else for a full day out when traveling. We’ve tested out a ton of daypacks and backpacks over the years.

Toiletry Bag

Keeping your toiletries organized and separated from your clothes is always a good idea. It almost feels like a toiletry bag is essential for any trip. Plus, it’s not uncommon to find small or cramped bathrooms in Ireland. Buying a hanging toiletry bag is a great option if you are limited on counter space. This bag style tends to have a better organization system with various sections for storage than the traditional option. We love the Peak Design Wash Pouch. It contains a hidden hook to hang and features terrific organization.

Travel Adaptor

Your electronics packing list for Ireland will include an adaptor. We always keep one handy in our carry-on bags, so we can charge electronics on arrival or at the airport. For the United Kingdom, you’ll need the British “Type G” three-prong adaptor. However, most of Europe uses Type C, F, and E adaptors. Check out the one I have, which is good for Europe.

Camera

A high-quality camera is an essential packing item for Ireland if you want some great shots while on your vacation We travel with a bunch of cameras. Still, the one we universally recommend is the RX 100. They make several models at different price points, but it’s a simple-to-use point-and-shoot camera that anyone can operate. It also takes superb images with a 20mp resolution and full manual controls.

Travel Towel

We always pack a travel towel when we’re on the road. It’s one of the best travel essentials for international travel you can buy. They pack up small, antimicrobial, and lightweight, so they will save you from always needing a new towel or constantly washing yours. A towel is necessary for backpackers as hostels often do not supply a towel. However, they’re also excellent for those not on a budget for excursions and tours.

Kindle Paperwhite

A Kindle is an essential travel accessory for travelers who love to read. As much as we love an actual book, they are too heavy and take up too much room in my suitcase. We recently upgraded to the Kindle Paperwhite and love it. It’s small, has touchscreen functions, and has a backlight to read at night without a harsh glare. It’s tough to beat the feeling of warming up next to a wood stove with a cuppa tea and a good book.

Ireland Guidebook

We spend enough time attached to our phones in everyday life and planning our trips. Once we reach a destination like Ireland, we put the phone away and pick up a guidebook to help with our trip.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are phenomenal for the organization of any backpack or suitcase. They are one of those packing essentials that should be in every bag as they keep all of your clothes and toiletries organized. Cubes also keep clothes folded and protect them from wrinkles. Our favorite packing cubes are currently from Peak Design.

Passport Holder

For the women, I suggest traveling with an anti-theft black and stylish purse to hold belongings. Cameron has an excellent passport wallet with his passport and credit cards, so he never leaves it anywhere.

Essential Documents To Pack

• Passport – This is obvious, but you won’t make it very far without a passport.
• Credit Cards – We always use several travel credit cards that offer purchase protection, rewards, and no foreign transaction fees.
• Visa – Make sure you have a visa if you need one.
• Debit Cards – It’s good to carry euros in Ireland. We never bother with money exchanges that provide awful exchange rates. Instead, we rely on the ATM when we arrive. Charles Schwab, Ally, and Capital One offer low or no foreign transaction fees. Keep in mind the Republic of Ireland uses Euro, and Northern Ireland uses the Great British Pound.
• Driving License – If you plan to rent a car, you will need your driver’s license, plus it never hurts to have a second form of I.D. If your license is not in English, you may need an IDP translation to English.

What Luggage To Bring To Ireland?

Hardshell Suitcase

Travel Backpack

I have two bag recommendations for a trip to Europe. You can opt for a traditional hardshell suitcase with four wheels or a travel backpack. Suitcases with four wheels are best as the ability to roll sideways down the aisle of a train or a sidewalk makes life a lot easier. We prefer hardshell as it does a better job at protection and security. Our favorite hardshell suitcase is the Delsey Helium Aero 25″.

Travel backpacks are great for young backpackers, digital nomads, or minimalists! They are also great if you want to save on any checked bag fees your air carrier may charge you. If paying for taxis or car rentals makes you hesitant, you’ll want to book accommodation near public transport or have a backpack. Our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack and the NOMATIC Backpack but read about the best backpacks for Europe if you’d like to learn more.

Nomatic Backpack Review: The BEST Travel Backpack?

Summary

It’s best not to forget things like medications, toiletries, and other personal items you might need when traveling. However, pharmacies are readily available in every Irish city and town. However, this is a general Ireland packing list for all to go off of. Remember that Ireland isn’t the end of the world, and if you forget something, it’s likely you’ll be able to find it when you get there. Enjoy your trip! Sláinte! 

Travel to Ireland is popular and exciting, we think there must be something to the rolling green hills, castles, whiskey, rain, Guinness beer, and rugged coastline as it draws millions of visitors to plan a trip to Ireland every year.

The country’s small size and accessibility make it easy for travelers of all ages. However, there are a few things to know before heading to the Emerald Isle and traveling to Ireland.

Traveling Ireland? Here Are Our Ireland Travel Tips to Know

1. Which Ireland?

One of my top Ireland travel tips is to know the difference between the two Irelands. The Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are on the island of Ireland. To clarify, The Republic of Ireland is its own country – while Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom. It’s been like this since the 1920s, and people would appreciate it if the world knew the difference.

Ireland is the British Isles, but that does not make it British. Great Britain refers to the largest islands of the British Isles and represents most of the United Kingdom. The UK comprises England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. It can confuse foreigners, so watch this video to clear it up.

You can travel freely between the two countries. We traveled easily between the two countries many times and were never stopped at a border post or had to produce a passport to get stamped.

Here’s some more detailed information – granted, this has changing rules. Citizens of The Republic of Ireland are referred to as Irish, while citizens of Northern Ireland are Northern Irish.

2. You May Need Both the Euro and the Pound

When you’re planning a trip to Ireland, take note of the currency. Ireland uses the Euro note, and Northern Ireland uses the British Pound.

I wouldn’t suggest changing currencies at a currency exchange, but an ATM to pull out the money you need. You can read more about our travel banking tips before traveling to Ireland.

3. Expect Rain With a Chance of Sun

I’m sure you weren’t planning on traveling to Ireland for a suntan. The country is known for being very green, which means plenty of rain! Rainfall has become a part of Irish life, especially in the west.

The average number of “wet days” ranges from about 150 days to 225 days a year. Your best chance of sun and warmth in Ireland is in the summer months of June, July, and August.

We went in late October and still had a few lovely days of sunshine. What I’m trying to say is to be prepared for all sorts of weather when you plan your trip to Ireland. No matter what, remember to pack a packable rain jacket.

4. There Are Plenty of Rainbows, but no Leprechauns

With all that rain in Ireland, you will undoubtedly see a few rainbows. But I wouldn’t chase them to the end in search of a leprechaun with some lucky gold charms.

Although leprechauns are part of modern Irish folklore, there aren’t any real leprechauns in Ireland – sadly.

5. A Pint Should Cost No More Than €5

If you have traveled to Ireland, you will probably want to get at least one pint of Guinness in an Irish pub. A pint of Guinness at a pub in Dublin or Galway should cost no more than €5-6; if it does, you are more than likely in a tourist pub ripping you off.

We do, however, recommend visiting the Guinness Store House. At €26 a ticket, it may be the most expensive Guinness you’ll ever pay for, but the whole experience and tour is well worth it when you are visiting Dublin and into beer. You can pick up priority access tickets here and skip the line!

6. Chase Your Family Ancestry!

If you’re traveling to Ireland from the US, you may get asked if you are chasing your ancestry. I think we were asked at least ten times what made us plan a trip to Ireland.

Were we chasing our ancestry? Did we have relatives in Ireland? Do we have Irish blood? The truth is we just came for the beautiful countryside, history, and friendly locals. (And I love PS I Love You).

So, we always had to tell our new friends that we weren’t Irish and neither of us had Irish ancestors – at least not that we knew. The reason for the question so often is that there are a lot of tourists in Ireland – specifically a lot of American tourists like us- tracking down their ancestors.

Between 1820 and 1930, 4.5 million Irish immigrated to America. At one point, they made up over 1/3 of the immigrants in the country. So, that means many Irish Americans are floating around today, and many want to chase their heritage!

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7. The Ship of Dreams

Do you remember that quote in Titanic where Tommy O’ Ryan tells Fabrizio, “It was an Irish ship,” and “15,000 Irishmen built the ship?” It’s okay if you don’t; I have just seen the movie a hundred too many times. The grand Titanic was built in Belfast, Ireland. Which back at the turn of the century was a part of Ireland (which was all still part of Britain).

The ship was built on Queen’s Island, now known as the Titanic Quarter, in Belfast Harbour by the shipbuilders Harland & Wolff. If you know anything about the Titanic, you know it was the largest ship of its time. SPOILER: On the night of April 14th. 1912 the ship hit an iceberg and sank.

However, her legacy has been in movies, books, music, and marine time safety regulations. The latest iteration is the new Titanic Belfast museum. It’s located exactly where the ship was constructed. I’ve been back to the museum twice and have loved it both times. It’s worth a half-day if you find yourself in Belfast.

8. You Can Stay at the Most Bombed Hotel in Europe

On Great Victoria Street in Belfast, you can find a hotel with a fantastic history. Europa Belfast Hotel is a beautiful hotel, which you can quickly see from the outside. But we were shocked to find out that it is the most bombed hotel in not only all of Europe but the entire world!

During The Troubles, the Europa suffered 36 whopping bomb attacks. The most damaging was in 1993, and it closed for refurbishments. Nowadays it’s the best hotel to stay at in the city.

It’s an iconic part of Belfast with plenty of character. We knew we just had to stay on our visit to Belfast. We found the hotel to be charming, comfortable, and beautifully decorated. Check out the piano bar even if you aren’t staying overnight!

9. Love Game of Thrones?

Do you watch Game of Thrones? I don’t, but Cameron does, so he had a field day reliving certain scenes that are on the hit HBO show. Much of the show films in Northern Ireland, and if you are a GOT geek, I suggest renting a car and driving to all the locations in Northern Ireland to see for yourself.

Some iconic locations include the Antrim plateau, the Dark Hedges, Cushendun Caves, Murlough Bay, Ballintoy Harbour, Larrybane, Castle Ward, Inch Abbey, and Downhill Strand. They are among some of the best places to visit in Ireland. If you’re not keen on driving or don’t have a car rental in your budget, consider booking a tour.

10. You Can Travel Ireland On a Budget

Ireland is not the cheapest country to travel; however, it is possible to plan a trip to Ireland while staying on a budget. Hostel dorm rooms will cost anywhere from €15 to €25 a night, while you can also find a mid-range hotel room for €100. We opted to stay in Airbnb’s and had our apartment for €60 a night. Of course this all depends on the time of year you travel.

The good news is that food at the grocery store is affordable. We were able to go to Lidl and spend €25  for three days worth of food for the two of us.

Ireland produces a lot of its food, so the food is not only affordable but excellent quality. Expect to pay between €7-12 for a cheap fish n chips meal. Irish cuisine is very hearty, with some of the staple dishes being Irish stew and seafood pie. See exactly what it costs to travel to Ireland here.

25 BEST Restaurants In Galway, Ireland

11. You Don’t NEED a Car When You Travel to Ireland

I’ve traveled to Ireland three times now. The first time I was backpacking Europe and took public buses everywhere. Ireland’s bus and train system is efficient, affordable, and reliable, with most transport options featuring free WiFi. On our most recent trip, we rented a car in Ireland to get around the island, which is also affordable and reliable.

Having a car is always the more comfortable and convenient option, but if you are just one person, the rental and fuel costs may break your budget. I would suggest checking Ireland’s bus timetables to make sure you can get where you want to go by public transport. Consider renting a car if you are a group of two or more.

Just note that drivers drive on the left side of the road in Ireland and Northern Ireland, and you should know how to drive a manual car as automatics are expensive. Speed limits are in kilometers per hour in Ireland and miles per hour in Northern Ireland – confusing. You can drive the vehicle in and out of Northern Ireland as much as you like without border checks. See my other driving in Ireland travel tips.

12. Ah, Ryan Air

When you plan a trip to Ireland, the first step is to purchase a flight. That’s where you may see the budget carrier Ryan Air pop up. The notorious Ryan Air is an Irish company. If you plan to fly around Europe from Ireland, you may have to fly with a low-cost carrier.

I know they’ve received quite a lot of bad and justified press in the past. But we have flown them at least ten times around Europe and have never had an issue with them. Just lower your expectations, abide by all their rules to avoid extra fees, and enjoy your cheap flight – most meals out cost more than their flights!

If you are traveling to Ireland from the USA, you’ll have to cross over the pond. Unfortunately, RyanAir doesn’t service flights between the United States and Ireland; however, Aer Lingus does, and they are a great and reputable airline.

13. What to Pack When You Travel to Ireland

I have to note in this Ireland travel guide about the weather. Remember when I said that it rains a lot in Ireland? That means you should pack a rain jacket and travel umbrella in your carry-on luggage. I also recommend packing a nice wool sweater, scarf, and hat for those windy days. Even in the summer.

We enjoyed going on long walks and hiking in Ireland, so it’s a good idea to pack a comfortable pair of walking shoes.

Ireland is stunningly green, and all that green doesn’t come from clear sunny skies every day. The wettest months, almost everywhere throughout Ireland are December and January. April is the driest month generally in some places,but in many southern Irish parts, June is the driest. The west coast receives rainfall every few days.

What To Wear in Ireland • Perfect Ireland Packing List

14. Practice Your Language Skills

Every time I have traveled to Ireland, I am surprised that many people still read and speak Irish Gaelic. I found this most prevalent near Galway, but even the road signs around the country are in both English and Gaelic. That’s because Irish Gaelic is the first official language, followed by English.

According to the 2016 Irish census, more than 70,000 people speak Irish Gaelic daily, and about 55% (c. 2,500,000) of people in the Republic claim to understand and speak the language. Of course, everyone will know English, but it doesn’t hurt to learn a few phrases before your trip; you’ll probably even impress the locals!

15. When is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?

When is the best time to visit Ireland, you ask? Although most countries have ‘ideal’ times of the year where visiting is optimal, the best time to travel anywhere isn’t as dependent on the weather state as you might assume.

Instead, a trip is only as good as what you make of it; there are always many things to do in any city, no matter the season. This means that even cold or windy weather can, for many, be the preferred travel condition. 

That being said, my favorite time to travel to Ireland is in September when the leaves change color, the air cool, and tourism is slowing down. I have a month-by-month Ireland travel section here!

16. Ireland Has Plenty of Castles to Visit!

It’s pretty hard to visit Ireland and not visit a castle at least once during your travels. But with so many (over 30,000!), how do you know which ones are worth the trip? We’ve broken it down for you with a list of the best castles to visit in Ireland so that you can select from some of the best-known and most-loved options. 

Whether you want to explore the ruins of a once magnificent fort or get a taste of medieval life in a well-maintained relic, you can get a little glimpse into the past during your trip to Ireland. From reenacted scenes featuring knights and royalty to elaborate banquet dinners in your own castle, you may want to stay forever and never return to the present!

17. Make Sure to Get Out of Dublin

My top Ireland travel tip is to escape Dublin a bit, even if just for day trips. Dublin is a fantastic travel destination and where many travelers to Ireland will start their trip. It’s the main hub for travel in and out of Ireland. Of course, you will want to spend some time in the iconic capital city, but it’s best not to spend all your time in Ireland in Dublin.

There are plenty of fantastic places to explore, even day trips just two hours away from Dublin. For instance, Kilkenny is beautiful and just 1.5 hours away!

We recommend spending two days enjoying all Dublin has to offer before moving on.

18. Consider Renting a Car to Make the Most of Your Trip

I know I mentioned before you don’t need a car in Ireland, and you definitely don’t with a good bus and train network. However renting a car in Ireland is one of the best ways to explore off the beaten path. Not only can you get to far off destinations that the trains and buses don’t often reach, but you can stop when you want and stay as long as you would like.

We recommend renting a car in major cities like Dublin and Galway for the best rates. It’s best to rent a car as soon as your plane tickets are booked (you can always cancel later) to avoid high rental fees.

19. Is Ireland Travel Safe

Ireland is considered the world’s third most “peaceful” nation, according to Vision of Humanity’sGlobal Peace Index.

Ireland is a very safe country to visit. Crime is low, and almost nonexistent outside of major cities. It’s one of my favorite places to recommend for solo female travelers or first time travelers. Everyone speaks English, signs are English, and you’ll mainly encounter very friendly Irish lads and lassies.

Of course, like anywhere be vigilant at night, and don’t flash around expensive goods.

20. Where Should You Go in Ireland?

The question is, where shouldn’t you go in Ireland? Everywhere is so darn unique and mesmerizing I doubt you’ll be disappointed anywhere.

Some of the best places to visit in Ireland are Galway, Aran Islands, Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, Wicklow Mountains, Clifden – I could go one and on!

Of course you should plan to visit some Irish Castles while visiting. I recommend people get out in the countryside rather than spend the majority of their time in the cities.

21. What Are the Best Irish Festivals?

Ireland is the land of festivals and something is going on every month of the year. There is St Patricks Day, on March 17th every year, which is Ireland’s biggest and most extravagant celebration. If you happen to be in Ireland in March, head to Dublin for the time of your life!

Some other notable festivals are the Galway International Arts Festival, Galway Oyster Fest, and Fleadh Cheoil!

12 Amazing Irish Festivals to Attend

22. How Many Days Should You Spend in Ireland?

Do you have a month?

In all seriousness, we would recommend spending at least 7-10 days in Ireland. This will give you ample time to explore the countryside, sit down at a pub with a Guinness, and even plan some hiking!

Where to Go Hiking in Ireland? The 15 Best Hikes in Ireland

23. How Much Does a Trip to Ireland Cost?

Any Ireland trip planner should mention the budget. So how much spending money per day should you have in Ireland? Asides from the pre-trip expenses like airfare, luggage, and any Ireland packing list items you’ll want to buy, I believe you can get by in Ireland for under €50 a day.

That’s if you stay in cheap accommodation, don’t drink much alcohol, cook meals, eat paninis, travel outside summer months, and do not partake in costly activities. If you want to travel on a more modest and comfortable budget, plan on spending at least €100 per day per person.

Total Two-Week Trip to Ireland Cost (pp)

24. Money-Saving Ireland Travel Tips

Two Currencies

As mentioned before in this Ireland travel guide, Ireland is two countries! The Republic of Ireland, which takes up most of the island of Ireland and Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom, occupies the Northeast. The Republic of Ireland uses the Euro (€), and the United Kingdom uses the British Pound (£).

Cook Your Own Food

When working out how to plan a trip to Ireland on a budget, you should have a budget for meals. If your accommodation has a kitchen, it’s best to use it. We save money this way when traveling around Ireland. Grocery stores in Ireland are impressive and well-stocked, and one can easily cook a fantastic meal with delicious Italian red wine for cheap.

Drink Tap Water

The tap water in Ireland is wonderful to drink, so best not to waste money or plastic on one-time-use water bottles. Get yourself a travel water bottle and keep refilling it!

Travel During the Offseason

Traveling in Ireland, particularly shrines in the offseason. I don’t like crowds or high prices, so I love traveling between September and May.

25. Quick Ireland Travel Tips

• ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Gaelic: “Dia dhuit” and “Go raibh maith agat”
• Currency: Euro – (EUR) – €
• Visa: The Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland are separate countries on the island of Ireland. The Republic of Ireland, known as ‘Ireland,’ grants 90-day visas. Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom, also grants 90 days.
• Weather: Expect lots of weather! Ireland is known for having rapid shifts in and lots of rain – it’s the only reason a country like Ireland remains so green and fertile. See our full packing list here.

While many visitors flock to Dublin, I prefer Galway’s vibe. It’s known as “The City of the Tribes” and feels much more Irish than the capital. There are many things to do in Galway city center and even some epic day trips from the city. Galway is a great tourist destination and jumping-off point for those driving the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s only two hours from Dublin and is one of Ireland’s most culturally interesting places.

Things To do in Galway, Ireland

Explore The Latin Quarter

Historic cities come with rich and intriguing histories. Galway, dating from 1124, exhibits much of this historic architecture and is a notable attraction when visiting this city. Most of it centers around the hook-shaped district of the Latin Quarter.

Galway’s original settlement has defensive walls, and many still stand today – some in very peculiar places, such as the citadel and wall section inside a shopping mall. Across the district, you can find some of the city’s best pubs, restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries. It’s the heart of the city, with the majority of the streets limited to pedestrians, perfect for exploring on foot.

The Spanish Arch

The Spanish Arch, in the Latin Quarter, is one of Galway’s top things to do. It dates back to 1584 and tells a story about its past. The arch is a former gate from when the city was walled to protect its quays. It sits on the bank of the River Corrib, where the latter meets the sea. It helped to prevent foreign ships from passing through and looting merchants. Along with notable points on the wall and the Spanish Arch, you’ll find informative plaques that provide context and information on the ancient stonework.

Eyre Square

Eyre Square is a public park located in the heart of Galway City. It’s one of the best free things to see in Galway, and being in a bustling part of town, it offers a vibrant nightlife and a wide array of shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. Its location sits on the former “The Green,” a medieval landmark at the city’s gate. Townsfolk would congregate here to pass the time, much as they do today.

The park has undergone several redevelopments throughout its lifetime, complete with name changes. While it is widely known as Eyre Square, it was officially renamed as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park since the US President had made a speech there during his term in office.

The square is home to statues and public art (there is a beautiful sculpture of the Galway Hooker boat on display) and was even the site of the third most extended Occupy Camp movement globally, at 216 consecutive days.

Buy a Claddagh Ring

If you are still wondering what to do in Galway, Ireland, why not check out a ring shop? A highlight of our trip to Ireland was learning how they make a Claddagh Ring. It’s a traditional Irish ring representing love, loyalty, and friendship!

The heart represents love, and the crown represents loyalty. The ring originated in Galway and has been produced there since the 1700s. You can find shops selling the ring around the city center, and sometimes you can even find them making them. It’s now an iconic ring worn by many as an emblem to their Irish heritage.

St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church

The St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church is a medieval Anglican church in the center of the town. It is steeped in nearly 800 years of history, making it a must-see on the endless list of things to do in Galway City. As a church, its hallowed interiors have seen many facets of life in the city. During the reign of the 14 tribes of Galway, it was the location for mayoral election deliberation and voting.

A widely-circulated belief is that Christopher Columbus prayed here during his stopover in Galway en route to the New World. Though Sunday Mass may not be for you, there’s no denying it’s part of life and culture in Galway; this church’s mass often welcomes up to 300 churchgoers for the 11 am service.

Quay Street

Quay Street is your best bet if you’re looking for things to do in Galway City that are a mix of fast-paced and laid back. Quay Street is perfect for an afternoon wander through the best combination of shops, restaurants, cafés, and pubs (it is Ireland, after all).

Once you’ve had your fill of food & bevies, a little shopping may be in order. If you’re more of a take-it-all-in kind of person and love to people-watch, just wandering through the winding cobbled streets is always a great way to spend time in this part of town. Live music, street performers, and buskers are all over, giving this little gem in the heart of Galway a beat and personality all its own.

Lynch’s Castle

Architecture remains from many different designs, styles, and construction eras in a city as old as Galway. The Lynch’s Castle is one such edifice, erected in a classic Irish gothic style that looks deceptively unassuming from outside despite its predicted age of around 500 years. It even houses a bank in a fitting unity of old and new.

Lynch’s Castle was once home to one of the most powerful families in the area, one of 14 tribes who ruled the region. The castle was their refuge from raids and features many architectural intricacies, such as gargoyles, window carvings, and detailed moldings.

The Lynch family crest features prominently on the outer facade. One of only a few earthly treasures from Galway’s past still standing today, it is a building worth seeing, though only the first of its four floors are open to public perusal.

Menlo Castle

If you’re into castles with a side of mystery and folk magic, Menlo Castle is a must-visit and a unique Irish castle. It was home to the wealthy and powerful Blake family, who owned land in many regions. The ivy-ridden, overgrown ruins that remain today are a glimpse of the magnificent structure that once stood.

Its history is shrouded in lore, with tales of faerie rings and lights spotted by a midwife shortly before the fire overtook the Lord and Lady’s daughter’s bedroom, presumably claiming her life (they never found remains). Some years later, the Blake baronet who inherited the land was dead.

This spot on the list is more of a self-service visiting point, as the castle is now in ruins, and no museum nor guided tours operate on the grounds. However, it does make for a lovely walk (or bike ride) and some beautiful pictures, particularly with the greenery overtaking the crumbled stone.

Barna Woods

While most European cities are exciting in their own right, with a diverse array of museums, restaurants, bustling neighborhoods, and vibrant city streets, sometimes the purest joys of traveling come from the quiet days where you can slow your pace.

Barna Woods – located only three miles from Galway’s city center – offers a respite from the city’s fast pace. With creeping moss, oak trees, old stone bridges, and a forest floor carpeted with fallen leaves, Barna Woods gives off an aura of ancient magic and lore—how very Irish! It’s a beautiful spot for an afternoon bike ride, a picnic, or even just a stroll, but be sure to bring boots as there is often mud.

Mutton Island

One of the best things to do in Galway is to check out Mutton Island. No need to hop on a boat to access this island; Mutton Island is connected to South Park by a long causeway of about a mile and offers some pretty spectacular views the whole way there. You can begin your walk along the banks of the River Corrib by South Park before turning onto the causeway; this gorgeous path is full of old houses and beautiful greenery.

Though being the base of a sewage treatment plant, Mutton Island has no permanent residents, and it hosts plant workers daily. A path follows along the plant’s perimeter, with sweeping views out to sea. This beauty makes the causeway and the island a popular spot for marriage proposals, so if any ladies are traveling with a partner in tow, cross your fingers!

Take A Cruise On The Corrib Princess

In the summer months, the Corrib Princess sails up the river from Galway to Lough Corrib. Along the way, you’ll follow the historic waterway used by local boats for centuries. It’s a beautiful waterway that moves through the verdant countryside with a wealth of wildlife and tranquility.

The ship is a leisure cruise carrying passengers faithfully along the river for years. Along the way, the boat’s guides explain the history of the region, share landmarks, and teach you about the local flora and fauna. As this is Ireland, you can also have a pint on board while passing through the countryside.

• Season — May to September
• Tour Length — 90 Minutes
• Website: — Link

Galway Bay

With Ireland being famous for its shorelines, it’s no surprise that Galway Bay is on the list of things to do in Galway City. Bring your camera because the views you’ll see from here are among some of the most beautiful in the region, mainly if you capture the brightly colored houses dotting the shoreline. The bay is also well-known for the Galway Hooker, an all-red traditional sailing craft from the years leading up to the Great Famine.

25 Ireland Travel Tips to Know BEFORE You Go

Visit the Aran Islands

If you have an extra day or a little spare time, Galway is not too far from the bay to the Aran Islands, well-known for its natural beauty and ancient structures. The island’s 1200 inhabitants, while fluent in English, speak primarily Irish Gaelic since the region is a part of the Gaeltacht. If you happen to be interested in brushing up on your Irish Gaelic, this would be an excellent place to take a quick lesson!

Galway Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas

Though not particularly old, the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas (commonly referred to as the Galway Cathedral) is among the top things to do in Galway City. Interestingly, it was initially the location of the city prison. Upon its completion in 1965, it became the last stone cathedral built in Europe.

Mass is held daily, and the inside of the cathedral is worth seeing for its stone walls, rose and glass mosaic windows, and impressive dome and pillars done in Renaissance style. If you happen to be near the Spanish Arch, it’s not much farther to walk here.

Salthill Beaches

Another one for the list for those seeking outdoor activities, the Salthill Beaches are among the top outdoor things to do in Galway, no matter the weather. There are several beaches ranging from sandy to rocky. Blackrock Beach and Ladies Beach are the top ones to visit.

If you’d rather keep your distance from the chilly water, there’s a lovely promenade winding along the shoreline that is popular with runners and walkers. Whether you’re there for a wintry stroll or plan to spread out and enjoy a summer day, the ocean breeze and perfect beachcombing make the Salthill Beaches a memorable way to spend the day.

Day trip to the Cliffs of Moher & the Burren

It would be a shame to visit Ireland and not pay a visit to the famous Cliffs of Moher. To get to the Cliffs of Moher from Galway will take you less than two hours drive. It’s a perfect day trip opportunity, and you will find many companies offer it as a day tour.

The Cliffs themselves are astounding. From walled areas for those afraid of heights to un-walled sites for thrill-seekers, the views you will get of the crashing sea below, the endless skyline, and the famed Irish shorelines are among some of the most beautiful you will see in your lifetime. The entire region surrounding the cliffs is the Burren; taking a scenic drive through this region will show you the impressive bedrock formations that coat the ground.

Leftover from the last Ice Age, they are now permanently a part of the environment here. Mesolithic and Megalithic peoples once called the region home. Most notable are the Megalithic people, who built many of today’s tombs.

Day trip to Kylemore Abbey & Connemara National Park

Kylemore Abbey is only an hour and a half drive from Galway City, a beautiful and elegant estate home built in 1868 for a wealthy family. Later, it became a Benedictine monastery in 1920. Located on the edge of Pollacapall Lough and backdropped by a fertile green hillside, it is a famous landmark in the region (and makes for some beautiful photography).

Today, its neo-Gothic church, Victorian walled gardens, and ancient mausoleum are some of its most popular features. It is not far from the town of Clifden and is just minutes from Connemara National Park, which boasts nearly 3,000 hectares of grassland, forests, bogs, and mountains – perfect for all you hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, it houses remnants from early human civilization, including megalithic tombs over 4,000 years in age and a 19th-century cemetery. If you’re not driving you can book a tour.

Galway City Museum

Museums are often a promising way of spending an afternoon, especially in a city such as Galway, where history is so diverse. The Galway City Museum, located right beside the Spanish Arch, offers a multitude of fascinating exhibits, both permanent and temporary.

Among the permanent exhibits offered by the museum are the history of prehistoric Galway and Medieval Galway, providing a fascinating insight into how tiny ancient settlements grow into thriving cities over many hundreds of years. With a country so steeped in history as Ireland, you can bet that each city’s history is just as enchanting, and Galway is no exception. The museum is relatively new (only open since 2006), but its collections and exhibits are worth visiting.

Hall of the Red Earl

The building is one for the history buffs visiting this city. The Hall of the Red Earl is one of the unique things to do in Galway. Richard, the Red Earl, had his hall built in the 13th century to entertain guests; while much of the building is lost, the foundations remain. Even more fascinating is that these stone foundations lay undiscovered until the 1990s, when they were found unexpectedly during an expansion of the main building.

The remains are encased in glass for visitors to admire. Some of the fascinating artifacts also found among the ruins are displayed (including items such as pipes and gold cufflinks). Entry is free, so it’s an excellent spot to visit if you’re feeling a little more frugal towards the end of your trip.

Enjoy the Galway Oyster Fest

The native Galway Flat Oyster comes into season every September through April. There’s no better Irish way to celebrate this wild Atlantic and salty oyster than with a giant festival, a few pints of Guinness, and live Irish music in Galway Bay Harbour. In celebration of the season, the Galway Oyster and Seafood Festival happens every year on the last weekend of September and has over the previous 66 years.

It may have started as a gathering of a few dozen people, but since has grown to include several thousand people and truckfuls of oysters. While you can enjoy oysters all year, like Pacific Oyster or Giga, the festival highlights the native flat and is quite the party!

Dunguaire Castle

Dunguaire Castle is one of the most famous castles in Ireland. Located on the shores of Galway Bay, Dunguaire Castle is as picturesque as they come (not to mention there are some stunning views from the castle towers of the lush green countryside below).

The castle was constructed in 1520 and has been the site of many battles and sieges during that time. It came to a well-known local surgeon and author in 1924, who, being friends with poets & writers such as Yeats, is credited with a literary revival in the region.

The castle’s interior retains all the charm of medieval decor, with a banquet hall that hosts regular summer feasts for visitors. Its tower stands at 75 feet and looks out over the nearby town of Kinvarra, which is about 30 minutes away from Galway. Tickets to enter the castle cost £7.

Lough Corrib 

Lough Corrib is the largest lake in Ireland and is one of the best fishing lakes in Europe. Its unique geography means there are 365 islands on Lough Corrib. One island for each day of the year. It’s a beautiful lake that offers plenty of recreational activities.

For most, a walk along the shore and some time relaxing on its shores will suffice. We spent some fantastic time on the lake after visiting the town of Oughterard, which is about a half-hour outside of Galway. One of the best things to do in Galway County is to head here after some fresh mussels at Powers Thatch Bar and Restaurant nearby!

Go Fly Fishing For Brown Trout

Hire a local guide and head out to catch brown trout, pike, or salmon. Lough Corrib and the river are well known for their healthy fish populations. Thanks to the healthy fly hatches, clean water, and limestone bottoms, fishing here is well known in Ireland.

If you’d love to get out in the countryside and catch some local fish, it’s best to hire an experienced guide. They’ll know the best spots, handle local regulations, and supply the equipment.

Head Out to Cnoc Suain

Cnoc Suain may be the best cultural experience you can have in the Galway region. And that’s in an area that is brimming with cultural experiences! Cnoc Suain is a collection of small cottages set on a hill. It all plays well to the name since Cnoc Suain means “restful hill” in Irish, although we still can’t pronounce it!

Your hosts, Dearbhaill and Charlie, could not be more welcoming and eager to teach more about the property’s history and Irish culture. The two teach you about Irish food, history, music, and the surrounding landscape. If you have rented a car in Ireland and can visit Cnoc Suain, it’s well worth it, although I would call first to make sure Dearbhaill and Charlie are available. It’s best as an overnight with dinner and cultural experiences enjoyed from your guesthouse.

Enjoy a Festival!

The city of Galway has been dubbed “Festival City“ and is well known as the festival capital of Ireland. Throughout the year, the city draws in visitors from all over the world for world-class events, like St. Patrick’s Day in March, the Galway Races in the summer, Galway Jazz Festival, the Comedy Festival, and Galway International Arts Festival in October.

A lot is happening in this little Irish city, and that extends beyond the song “Galway Girl” and enticing pubs they’re world-famous. Besides the Galway Oyster Fest, we have visited the Halloween Festival to see one of the best Halloween Parades on this planet!

12 Amazing Irish Festivals to Attend

Best Things To Do In Galway Map

Where to Stay In Galway?

Jury’s Inn

It’s tough to get a better location than the Jury’s Inn. It’s located smack dab in the middle of Galway, only a few minutes to about everything.

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The Galmont Hotel & Spa

A posh waterfront hotel that is set on the Lough Atalia. It is only 230 m from the Galway railway station and a 5-minute walk from Eyre Square.

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The Best Galway Restaurants

• Aniar Restaurant & Boutique Cookery School: Michelin Starred restaurant located in Galway’s West End. A contemporary twist on Irish cuisine. Reservations are needed!
• Ard Bia at Nimmos: Near the Galway City Museum this is one of the best restaurants in Galway housed in one of the most beautiful spaces. Reservations are highly recommended.
• The Dough Bros: If you’re in the mood for the best pizza in Ireland, you will absolutely love this place.
• The Quay Street Kitchen: One of the best restaurants in Galway center that serves Irish food and a few vegan options.

The Best Restaurants in Galway

Galway Top Tours

• Galway Food Tour
• Galway City: Guided 1.5-Hour Walking Tour
• Galway: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

Galway Day Trips

• From Galway: Full-Day Cliffs of Moher & The Burren Day Tour
• From Galway: Connemara and Cong Full-Day Tour
• From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey & Galway Day Tour

One thing for which there is no short supply in this incredible country is festivals; Ireland is chock full of beautiful places, events, festivals, and fairs to suit various interests. From arts and traditional music to some of the best local food you’ll ever taste, there’s something for everyone. And bonus, the fun doesn’t stop in the chilly months! Here is a list of some of the most popular Irish festivals…for every month of the year!

Irish Festivals Worthy of Attending

The Top Irish Festival in January – Temple Bar TradFest 

The Temple Bar TradFest (say that ten times fast) runs for five days in the last half of January every year, at the tail end of winter and to celebrate the imminent arrival of spring. This festival is growing in popularity every single year. The festival’s genre is in the name; this is a niche celebration of traditional Irish tunes.

At least, that’s how it started out; now, the festival has expanded so that there is a widespread of musical genres to appeal both to the stubbornly traditional and the musical generalist. TradFest’s roots are firmly planted in traditional Irish music, but folk and even rock and roll have a place there. 

The festival showcases national talent in several different venues (including City Hall) so that you can see more of the city while you attend.

Location: Dublin

The Top Irish Festival in February – The Gathering

Over two decades of this festival in Ireland has culminated in something extraordinary. The Gathering is a widely-loved festival for Irish tradition in its richest forms – including music, jig, storytelling, and ceilidhs.

There are even masterclasses from musicians to teach the art of instrument craft. Whether your interest lies with the fiddle, accordion, flute, or another instrument, there are workshops and experts to show you the tricks of their trade.

The sheer size of the festival means that events, shows, and workshops will take place in several venues located around town – from trendy bars and swanky hotels to classic ballrooms – but it is headquartered at the Gleneagle Hotel. If you can get a room there, you’ll be close to the action!

Location: Killarney, County Kerry

The Top Irish Festival in March – St Patrick’s Day Festival (Obviously)

St Patrick’s Day, on March 17th every year, is the biggest and most extravagant of the Irish festivals. Obviously, you knew this would be listed on this list of the best festivals in Ireland.

Every city will, of course, have its own festival, parade, or other fun show, but the largest of them is undoubtedly the annual St Patrick’s Day Festival in Dublin City. This celebration spans a full five days in mid-March and is geared towards those with an inner party animal. Think Mardi Gras, but for nearly a week and with a lot more beer.

The events offered across the five days cover a lot of ground: you can tour the 300-year-old Marsh’s Library, take a city walk to retrace the steps of St. Patrick himself, fill your stomach at a craft beer & food festival, listen to live music left right and center, and the cherry on top: a huge parade that works for hand in glove with theatre and pageantry companies to put on a show, unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Location: Dublin and around Ireland

The Top Irish Festival in April – Cork VegFest

If you have any interest in veganism, sustainability, animal rights issues, or just a general appreciation for food, you’ll want to add the Cork VegFest to your itinerary. This isn’t just about plant-based dishes; VegFest is a celebration of veganism and vegan cuisine and puts a spotlight on local vegan-friendly businesses.

You can find everything here, including demonstrations, product and dish sampling, information booths, and many more. As the vegan industry & lifestyle grows in popularity, so do the options for plant-based food substitutes (and their quality has skyrocketed in recent years, so even if you aren’t vegan, we can promise that you are in for some very fine dining!).

Veganism is growing, and this popular Irish festival shows that the plant-based food movement is starting to reach more and more communities in many countries. Every April, there’s a roster of panel speakers, performers, and educators to add something new to your vegan knowledge. But in addition to the educational aspects, there are fun events such as a vegan (temporary) tattoo station and even a hot sauce competition!

Location: Cork, County Cork

The Top Irish Festival in May – The Burren Slow Food Festival

For anyone who hasn’t yet come across the term, ‘slow food’ is, in short, a movement: it is a celebration of food that is made and eaten slowly, intentionally, and mindfully. There is also a heavy emphasis on a production process with a small footprint; if it is actively fighting against harming the environment, chances are it qualifies as slow food.

The Burren Slow Food Festival is one celebration dedicated to knowing and understanding where your food comes from and the economic, political, and agricultural aspects of the entire culture of the food processing industry. This May festival offers food and cooking demonstrations, meet and greets with local food producers who keep their farming local, and sampling of some of the freshest, Ireland-produced food around.

You might never have thought of food as ‘endangered,’ but that’s just the kind of eye-opening information you’ll learn if you attend!

Location: The Burren, County Clare

The Top Irish Festival in June – Taste of Dublin

Four days in June (5^th – 18^th June 2023) are home to another festival entirely dedicated to food (we know these are numerous, but how could anyone get bored of a food festival?). While this festival has similarities to other culinary-related events in the country (engaging with industry suppliers, chefs, and other professionals), the key feature of the Taste of Dublin is undoubtedly its masterclasses on offer. Always wanted to learn how to make cocktails? No problem.

Spend time in the taste marketplace to connect with artisan culinary producers to find the best of the best when it comes to ingredients & supplies – these vendors stock only the best when it comes to food and drink. This is a ticketed event (€28 for a standard entrance), but it’s worth the investment.

Location: Dublin City

The Top Irish Festival in July – Galway International Arts Festival

The GIAF (Galway International Arts Festival) happens in July each year. Now in its 43rd year, the festival sees installations and contributions by musicians, dance companies, theater productions, and more. The festival has grown to such a size that it overtakes several venues within the city, many with extra accessibility and sustainability initiatives. 

Think anything and everything, including street dancing performances, giant puppeteering, and on-the-spot live music jam sessions. Whether your particular arts interests lie in the theater, music, dance, visual arts, or comedy, there are sure to be dozens of shows you’ll be ecstatic to see.

The annual recorded talks are also on display, where people ranging from red carpet stars and playwrights to CEOs are interviewed to talk about their perception of issues faced by our world today.

Location: Galway City, County Galway

The Top Irish Festival in August – Fleadh Cheoil

One of the nicest months of the year, some of the best traditional music Ireland as a whole has to offer, and five straight days of musical and artistic indulgence. The Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann festival takes place in Drogheda every year, having started with its founders dreaming of bringing Ireland’s top musical talent to their small town for five days a year.

In a time when traditional musicians were not held in high esteem, the goal was to bring morale to an all-time high and reinvigorate the pride and joy taken in the country’s traditional sound. 

Nearly 70 years later, the festival is only growing in size with each passing year. Nearly 400,000 attendees come from all over the country, with around one-third of visitors arriving overseas. Local orchestras, live street music & dance, walking tours of the historic city, and organized concerts held in various venues around town are just a sliver of what’s on offer at this renowned festival. Note that most of the events are ticketed, so be sure to obtain them beforehand on the festival website.

Location: Drogheda, County Meath

The Top Irish Festival in September – National Ploughing Festival

You can add this to your list of unique festivals in Ireland. While not focusing on traditional Irish tunes or the finest dining the country has to offer, the National Ploughing Festival is still a significant cultural event in the country.

This festival is an outdoor agricultural event focusing on – as the name would suggest – the main event consisting of a plowing competition, where the neatness and linearity of the plowing strip are judged against other competitors. 

Ireland’s festival is the largest in the world, and the festival lasts a full three days, with an astonishing attendance of almost 300,000. The perfect combination of participation (this is something of a farmer’s party!) and uniqueness makes it an ideal candidate for the list of popular festivals in Ireland.

Location: Ballintrane, County Carlow

Other Option – Galway Oyster Fest

The native Galway Flat Oyster comes into season every September through April and is one of the best festivals in Ireland we’ve ever attended. There’s no better or Irish way to celebrate this wild Atlantic and salty oyster than with a giant festival, a few pints of Guinness, and live Irish music in Galway Bay Harbour.

In celebration of the season, the Galway Oyster and Seafood festival happens on the last weekend of September every year and has over the previous 64 years.

It may have started as a little gathering of a couple of dozen people, but it has grown to include several thousand people and truckfuls of oysters. While you can enjoy oysters all year, like Oyster Pacific Oyster or Giga, the festival highlights the native flat and is quite the party!

Location: Downtown Galway

The Top Irish Festival in October – Cork Folk Festival

If there’s one thing Ireland knows how to do, it’s music. This year, Cork is hosting the annual folk festival for the 40th year in a row, and it promises to be a seriously good time. This isn’t your average folk festival where indie singers and bands come from all over the world; instead, this is a homage to Irish folk music. 

The venues involved are bars and pubs, among the city’s oldest or most popular venues, including An Spailpin Fanach (founded in 1779) and Oliver Plunkett Bar. So not only will you get to hear some of the best regional folk music the country has to offer, but the ambiance and setting will complement the tunes just as nicely. (Plus, we know from personal experience that a Guinness goes perfectly with Irish folk music, especially when it’s live.)

Location: Cork, County Cork

Other October Option – Halloween Festival

The city of Galway has been dubbed “Festival City” and is well known as the festival capital of Ireland.

Throughout the year, the city draws in visitors from all over the world for world-class events, like St. Patrick’s Day in March, the Galway Races in the summer, Galway Jazz Festival, the Comedy Festival, and Galway International Arts Festival in October.

Besides the Galway Oyster Fest, we could visit the Halloween Festival and see one of the best Halloween Parades on this planet! The whole city lights up in spookiness. Fall is in the air, people drink beer at the Galway pubs and their scary costumes, and the night ends with an epic Halloween parade.

Location: Galway City

The Top Irish Festival in November – Cork Chocolate Festival And Baking World

We’ve all had our weekends where we overindulge in sweets a little more than we’d have liked, but when there’s an entire weekend festival dedicated to chocolate and baked goods, you’d be crazy not to partake.

Another festival in Cork, the Baking and Chocolate Weekend, happens over a weekend in the last half of November. So it’s a perfect way to start feeling festive in time for the arrival of December. The decadence and immediate interest with which most greet this festival landed it pretty quickly on our list of popular festivals in Ireland.

Over the two-day festival, top chocolatiers and bakers from Ireland and abroad will host demonstrations, and attendees can partake in 30-minute tasting sessions (because what good is a chocolate festival if you don’t get to eat any?). If you’re traveling with children, there are even workshops available for both samplings of the goods and for any kids with an interest in baking themselves!

Location: Cork, County Cork

The Top Irish Festival in December – Viennese Christmas by Candlelight

With the arrival of December, the Irish festivals around the country take a turn towards the Christmassy. With the holidays fast approaching, festive events pop up left and right, such as Bavarian-inspired Christmas markets, holiday music events, and city-wide decorating. 

Happening annually in St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin City, the Viennese Christmas by Candlelight is a one-night affair where the London Concertante arrives to play through their festive orchestra list of pieces, from Tchaikovsky and Brahms to Strauss.

Regardless of your level of knowledge or involvement with classical music, this is something that even the most novice of orchestra-goers can enjoy and is sure to get you in the mood for the holidays.

Occurring only two weeks before Christmas, it’s the perfect evening out.

Location: St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin

Quick Ireland Travel Tips

• ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Gaelic: “Dia dhuit” and “Go raibh maith agat”
• Currency: Euro – (EUR) – €
• Visa: The Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland are separate countries on the island of Ireland. The Republic of Ireland, known as ‘Ireland,’ grants 90-day visas. Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom, also grants 90 days.
• Weather: Expect lots of weather! Ireland is known for having rapid shifts and lots of rain – the only reason a country like Ireland remains so green and fertile. See our full packing list here.
• When is the best time to visit Dublin? Ireland is a fantastic country to visit year-round. However, you’ll find crowds during the summer. My favorite time to visit Ireland is in September when the weather is cool and the low crowds. Plus, it’s when the famous Galway Oyster Festival happens!

Best Places To Visit In Ireland (Beautiful Travel Destinations)

When is the Best Time to Travel to Ireland for Good Weather?

If you are wondering when the best time to visit Ireland for good weather is – it’s summer. You stand your best chance of good weather in Ireland between July and early September. Temperatures range from 15°C-21°C.

However, September is a great time to visit the best festivals in Ireland. Of course, St. Patricks Day is the most famous Irish festival, so you’ll have to deal with Irish march weather if you want to experience that.

Locals enjoy the sunny weather and festivals in the countryside and the city. It’s the perfect time to enjoy a pint of Guinness outside and watch life go by! Read more about the best time to visit Ireland.

Money-Saving Tips For Ireland

Two Currencies

Keep in mind that Ireland is actually two countries! The Republic of Ireland, which takes up most of the island of Ireland, and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom, occupy the Northeast. The Republic of Ireland uses the Euro (€), and the United Kingdom uses the British Pound (£). You can learn more about travel in Ireland here.

Cook Your Own Food

If your accommodation has a kitchen, it’s best to use it. We save money this way when traveling around Ireland. Grocery stores in Ireland are excellent and well-stocked, and one can easily cook a fantastic meal with delicious Italian red wine for cheap.

The grocery store provides excellent value, especially on Italian food like pasta, prosciutto, and grapes. Don’t worry about eating local, as they’re often stocked with many beautiful Italian products.

Drink Tap Water

The tap water in Ireland is lovely to drink, so best not to waste money or plastic on one-time-use water bottles. Get yourself a travel water bottle and keep refilling it!

Travel During the Offseason

Ireland, particularly shrines, in the offseason. I’m not too fond of crowds or high prices, so I love traveling between September and May. We highlight the best time to visit Ireland in this post.

It’s well known for its music scene, with several pubs offering live music almost every night of the week. We had just come off an 18-hour flight and drove three hours from Dublin but still managed to poke our heads into Lowry’s tavern for a “welcome to Ireland pint.”

As with almost every night in Clifden, we were greeted by live music and a spirited crowd. Clifden is a lively small Irish town well worth a few days of exploration. Here are all the best things to do in Clifden.

The Best Things To Do In Clifden

Clifden Castle

If there’s one thing Ireland has, it’s beautiful ruined castles. Clifden Castle is one such edifice and one of the best things to do in Clifden. The structure was once an imposing manor house belonging to John D’Arcy, the descendant of a noble family in the area who rose to prominence as the town’s magistrate. The beautiful castle was built in a Roman Gothic style, including turrets.

Over time, the castle passed to a different family, but when their patriarch died, it became all but abandoned, its furnishings sold off to pay for debts. Today, the interior consists of quiet, empty halls and spacious rooms. While it is on private property, it is open for visits—but there are no opening hours nor guided tours, so don’t expect any direction.

• Location: 5 minutes east of Clifden on Sky Road
• Insider Tip: While adventuring within the castle might seem exciting, be wary of weak and crumbling walls, and take extreme caution if you decide to venture inside.

Sky Road

This one is a sight to behold and easily one of the best things to do in Clifden. While you could walk some of it, it’s probably better suited to something with wheels like a car or a bike because, at a total of 16km, it’s pretty long!

Sky Road stretches along the Connemara coastline, offering some of the region’s best views—hence why it’s considered one of the most picturesque places in Ireland (and considering the rest of the country, that’s saying a lot).

You’ll be treated to views of the surrounding Connemara countryside, the islands across from the mainland, and nearby County Mayo and County Clare. You can even see past the islands and out to the endless expanse that is the Atlantic Ocean.

• Insider Tip: Be sure to visit the single viewpoint to admire the scenery and take photos.

Connemara Heritage & History Center

This is kind of a two-part attraction. One part consists of the Connemara Heritage and History Center, which delves into the intriguing past of the Connemara region. The site is on a hill farm with cows, sheep, and the famous breed of horses, Connemara ponies.

The heritage center was built in this location due to the second part of the attraction – a preserved 19th-century pre-famine cottage that once belonged to a man named Dan O’Hara, who was evicted and forced to emigrate.

Don’t miss out on the demonstrations of historical activities, like soda bread making, sheep herding, and the crannóg and clochaun reconstructions (prehistoric lake and oratory, respectively).

• Location: Lettershea, Clifden
• Insider Tip: Guided tours are available, but you have to arrange in advance.

The Station House Museum

Eoin Gardiner, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons / Best Things to do in Clifden

While the railway is no more, the structure of its Clifden stop station remains. After its train days were over, it was a tweed mill before becoming the museum it is today. While the infrastructure is largely preserved as the original train station, the inside has been turned into exhibits on John D’Arcy (Clifden’s founder), the Connemara pony, and Marconi, among the first to bring telecommunications to Clifden in the early 1900s.

Nearby, there are other things to see: the Station House Hotel, the Old Engine House (detailing Marconi’s role in Clifden’s development), and the ‘Goods Store,’ which is now a theater and performance venue.

• Location: Station House Courtyard, Galway Rd
• Insider Tip: Hungry? Less than a five-minute walk away is Mannions, a well-known local spot with seafood and bar snacks.

Monument of John D’Arcy

While the monument itself isn’t the most fascinating, it’s still pretty cool to see this modern-looking short obelisk paying homage to John D’Arcy, the founder of Clifden. It’s located just a few minutes east of the city (on the way to Clifden Castle), not far from the coastline. The monument has some carved graffiti dating back to its installation, which is always neat to see.

The main attraction here is actually not the stone monument but the incredible view over Clifden. Gazing inland, you’ll be able to see clearly over the town. And looking towards the horizon, you can see across the water, making this an optimal sunrise and sunset spot.

• Location: 7 Beach Rd, Cloghaunard
• Insider Tip: To get to the top is a short hike. Along the way, there are a few Connemara ponies to see as well.

The Alcock and Brown Landing Site

Just a 15–minute drive south of the heart of town is a nondescript area with a very modern-looking monument.

Designed to look like the tip of a plane, it is, in fact, a homage to the exact spot where 20th-century pilots John Alcock and Arthur Brown crash-landed their WWI plane after successfully (albeit dangerously) completing history’s first-ever transatlantic flight all the way from Newfoundland, Canada.

The flight itself was fraught with nail-biting conditions, like poor visibility, a failed radio, and dangerous weather, among other mechanical failures. However, against all odds, they reached Ireland’s western coast and landed (safely) on what appeared to be a strip of grass—which was really a bog!

• Location: Marconi St, Derrigimlagh
• Insider Tip: The surrounding area is wonderful for a short hike (usually done in under two hours).

Mannin Bay Blueway

A bit of a departure from the usual historical sights, this is something you’ll want to add to your list of things to do in Clifden. Mannin Bay Blueway is a stunning beach area with white sand, azure water, and verdant green dunes (you might almost forget you’re in Ireland).

Find the Coral Strand Road, which will lead you to the beach via a small car park. Once here, this is a launch area for tons of water sports. You can rent kayaks, go snorkeling, or just relax in the shallows of the water. In the summer, this is a bustling place for both travelers and locals, so arrive early to get first pick of the spots.

Thanks to the ecology, Mannin Bay is a haven for beachcombers—especially those searching for seashells. Have your camera ready because this is unlike any scenery you’ll see elsewhere in the region.

• Location: R341, Shannanagower
• Insider Tip: There are no public toilets in the area, so do your business beforehand.

Attend Market Day

This is an excellent option if you want an experience that immerses you in the town’s culture and makes you feel like a local. So, if you’re in Clifden on a Friday, don’t miss out on Market Day.

Taking place in the aptly-named Market Square, it’s a network of local producers selling home-grown fruits and vegetables, flowers, conserves, and baked pastries.

It’s year-round, but naturally, the best time to be outside is in the warmer months. Picture a Friday morning with a steaming coffee and a fresh pastry as you sit, and people watch.

• Location: Market Square, Clifden
• Insider Tip: Get here at the start, as most sellers are cleaned out by noon. 

Stop for a pint at Lowry’s Music and Whiskey Bar

Having a pint in Ireland is probably on anyone’s bucket list, but imagine having a pint in the bar voted 2019’s Best Traditional Bar in Ireland. The reviews speak for themselves: guests have commended everything from the ambiance to the toasted sandwiches.

But the real treat isn’t just the bar food; it’s the vast selection of Irish whiskey and artisan gins available to sample. Plus, there’s traditional live music every night, seven days a week. Stopping at Lowry’s is one of the best things in Clifden, so don’t miss your chance to come here!

• Location: Market St, Clifden
• Insider Tip: Because of the live entertainment from traditional Irish musicians, the place fills up fast, so arrive early to get a seat.

Take a kayaking tour

It’s easy to get a stunning view of the horizon from the cliff’s edge, but if you’re interested in seeing a different point of view, then a guided kayaking tour (whether just a few hours or several days) could be right up your alley. You’ll be able to see the rocky cliffs from out on the glittering water and witness the sea birds circling overhead, tiny in the distance.

Just a small sample of some of the incredible sights you can see on one of these tours – the Killary Fjord, the Delphi Blueway, and the Cleggan sea caves. 

• See the tour operator site here.
• Insider Tip: While kayaking is relatively easy to pick up, even as a beginner, the shortest of these outings can average four hours, so you might want to have some kayaking experience (and arm stamina). 

Trek through Connemara National Park

If hiking in Ireland is your thing, then Connemara National Park will surely be a day well spent for you. It’s one of the country’s six national parks (not too shabby considering its modest size) and covers around 2000 hectares of bogland, verdant rolling hills, forest, and grasslands.

While it’s perfect for anyone wanting to see some of Ireland’s wild, rugged beauty, it’s also a history lesson. There are many signs of early human habitation, such as the 4,000-year-old megalithic tombs. 

If you’re quiet, you can even do a little fauna-watching. The area is home to many species of birds throughout the year. If you’re visiting in the winter, you might get lucky and spot a wild fox or a mountain goat.

• Location: Letterfrack, County Galway
• Insider Tip: Check out the visitor center if you need any resources or help getting started.

Visit Turbot Island

One of the best things to do in Clifden is visit Turbot Island. While Turbot Island used to house a small community, it has not had inhabitants since the 70s. Their houses remain on the northern side of the island. It was, incidentally, the first sighting of land by pilots Alcock and Brown as they finally reached Europe in their airplane. 

While there isn’t much to do on the island regarding activities, it’s a beautiful example of Ireland’s raw and rugged beauty. A few summer homes are occupied during these warmer months, but other than that, you are likely to be quite alone while exploring this stunning little plot of land.

• Location: Directly west of the Wild Atlantic Viewpoint along Sky Road.
• Insider Tip: Land your boat on the island’s northern side, as it’s easier to access that way.

Visit Kylemore Abbey

You’ve likely seen photos of this incredible abbey before. Kylemore Abbey is one of the best things to do near Clifden. Located around a 25-minute drive from Clifden, this is a perfect day trip or even just a half-day outing. In 1920, Kylemore Abbey was originally built as a Benedictine monastery by nuns fleeing Belgium during WWI.

Today, it’s a year-round historical attraction serving travelers from all over the world. Its grounds comprise over a thousand acres of incredible architecture, nature walks, and a huge Victorian walled garden. It even has its own neo-Gothic church.

Ireland’s Abbey has many myths and legends, but the Battle of the Giants is extremely well-known. It tells the story of two giants – Cú Chulainn and Fionn McCool – fighting by launching stones at each other, one of which is still there today. You can even make a wish on it.

• Location: Connemara
• Cost: €16.00 (includes access to full castle grounds)
• Insider tip: There’s a cute small tearoom that sells refreshments, a great way to refuel before heading back to Clifden. 

Take a day trip to Pearse Cottage

Around a 40-minute drive from Clifden is another historical cottage worth seeing if you visit Connemara. Patrick Pearse was a writer and linguist, particularly passionate about the Irish Gaelic language and its preservation.

Though he later became a revolutionary, during his humble beginnings, he purchased land. He built himself a cottage with a thatched roof (unusual for someone of his stature even then, as this was associated with poorer housing).

After his execution, it was burned down by rivals and reconstructed in the 1940s. Today, it is a reminder of the architecture of the time and a visual reminder of Ireland’s mystique and folklore. Sitting on the edge of a loch, it also makes for great photos.

• Location: Ros Muc, County Galway
• Insider Tip: Check out the newly-minted visitor’s center, which was established in 2016.

Whitethorn Gallery

Owned and curated by artist Anne Merrins, the Clifden Whitethorn Gallery is a testament to the talent of Irish painters and sculptors. The gallery is full of pieces made by local artists, showcasing many paintings that display the magical essence of the Irish landscapes. 

While these pieces can be pricey, you can always find something (be it a print or a painting) to take home as a reminder of your time in Ireland. Plus, you are supporting local artists, which goes a long way to maintain the region’s cultural identity.

• Location: Main St, Clifden
• Insider Tip: The gallery is a part of the Station House Courtyard, right near the Station House Museum.

Quick Ireland Travel Tips

• ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Gaelic: “Dia dhuit” and “Go raibh maith agat”
• Currency: Euro – (EUR) – €
• Visa: The Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland are separate countries on the island of Ireland. The Republic of Ireland, known as ‘Ireland,’ grants 90-day visas. Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom, also grants 90 days.
• Weather: Expect lots of weather! Ireland is known for having rapid shifts and lots of rain – the only reason a country like Ireland remains so green and fertile. See our full packing list here.
• When is the best time to visit Ireland? Ireland is a fantastic country to visit year-round. However, you’ll find crowds during the summer. My favorite time to visit Ireland is in September when the weather is cool and the low crowds. You can read all about the weather in Ireland here.

25 Ireland Travel Tips to Know Before You Go

Renting a Car in Ireland

Self-drive vacations in Ireland are a trendy way to see the country’s glories, especially since many of its tourist sights and best natural landscapes are challenging to reach using rail or bus networks.

Having your own vehicle also gives you the freedom to explore the sights and sounds that most interest you, when you want to, compared to the set itineraries of a tour group!

Renting a car in Ireland is not a complicated process. Read our tips for renting a car in Ireland here.

Plan and Pack for Ireland

Our Recommendation For Travel Insurance

We don’t travel without travel insurance, and neither should you. You never know what can happen in a foreign country, and it’s best to be prepared. HeyMondo offers excellent short and long-term travel insurance policies.

HeyMondo

With beautifully-preserved antique elements, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time—only adding to your experience in a Dublin pub.

With so many choices (especially in a city like Dublin), it’s hard to decide which Dublin pubs will win your heart (and your cash). We’ve narrowed down the choices to a condensed list of the best pubs in Dublin, so you can head straight there without needing to juggle the options. Don’t forget to grab a pint of Guinness as you listen to traditional Irish music!

The Best Pubs in Dublin

1. O’Donoghues Bar

• Location: 15 Merrion Row, Dublin
• Insider Tip: This is supposedly the best Guinness anywhere in Ireland.

Fan of traditional Irish music? You won’t want to miss O’Donoghues Bar. Most famously known as the venue where Dublin-based group The Dubliners began performing in the 1960s shortly before shooting to stardom, today, the bar is a neighborhood staple that attracts locals and tourists alike. 

When the live music on rotation combines authentic, top quality, and often spur of the moment, you can’t only visit once. Often when musicians perform on stage, additional musicians will emerge from the crowd and join the crew onstage, which makes for unforgettable impromptu jam sessions that you’ll remember for ages.

Pair that with a perfect pint of Guinness and a plate of Irish stew, and you won’t ever want to leave.

2. The Brazen Head

• Location: 20 Lower Bridge St, The Liberties, Dublin
• Insider Tip: To maximize your time, end your afternoon at the nearby Guinness Factory (a short walk away) before heading to the pub for (another) pint. 

In a city as old as Dublin, it doesn’t carry much weight to say that a specific place is old – that is, unless you’re the Brazen Head Pub, which carries the official title of being Dublin’s oldest pub, having stood since 1198. Though you can never be sure how much of its original structure is still standing, the ancient stone, intricately carved wood, and dim lighting only add to its historic charm. 

Great writers such as Jonathan Swift and James Joyce are frequently associated with the Dublin bar, and scrolls and historical texts are displayed on the wall. The pub’s interior offers three cozy rooms, and an outdoor courtyard is also available in the warmer summer months.

3. The Long Hall

• Location: 51 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2
• Insider Tip: No kids are allowed here, so no need to hold back too much. Try the Irish coffee for both a little something strong and a little boost to keep you up late to listen to some seriously great Irish music.

The magical interiors certainly will if the outside doesn’t necessarily give you that sense of wonder that many aged pubs often do. The Long Hall is a Victorian pub dating back to 1766, with a long history (hence the name). A medley of portraits, engravings, and prints line the walls, depicting everything from Russian emperors to women of the nobility.

Fun fact: Bruce Springsteen has been known to pop in from time to time; play your cards right, and you could wind up drinking your pint next to the man himself.

4. Palace Bar

• Location: 21 Fleet St, Temple Bar, Dublin 2
• Insider Tip: Try the IPA craft beer with a cheese plate for a unique flavor pairing.

It may be located on Fleet Street, but don’t worry, there are no demon barbers here. Dublin’s Palace Bar is another Victorianesque pub that retains all its historical charm – no doubt helped by the ancient-looking lampposts and the hanging baskets overflowing with bright, colorful posies. 

This was another literary hotspot, once owned by the then-editor of the Irish Times. While the building is much more dated, the pub itself has been pulling pints since 1823. Due to newspaper ownership, this became a favorite spot for writers to meet sources. Even today, it is a popular spot for journalists for both working and socializing.

If you want to try something new – or just want to take a break from Guinness – stick around for one of their regular whiskey tastings, where an impressive array of malts are on offer (including a house blend if you really want to feel like a Dubliner!).

5. The Stag’s Head

• Location: 1 Dame Ct, Dublin
• Insider Tip: Swing by on a Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday if you like stand-up comedy (there are shows on these days in the downstairs venue room). On these nights, there’s the added lure of free ice cream during intermission!

This little gem in Dublin is aptly named; once you pay it a visit, it won’t be hard to understand why. The Stag’s Head pub is, first and foremost, decorated with mostly stag-themed elements – a stained glass window, carved wood panels, mirror art, and (of course) a massive stag’s head above the main door and the bar itself. 

If you happen to be in the Grafton Street shopping area, this pub is a hop, skip, and jump away, meaning you’re closer to kicking back with a pint. 

6. Toners

• Location: 139 Baggot Street Lower, Dublin 2
• Insider Tip: There’s not much in the way of food here, but generally, bartenders won’t mind if you order yourself a takeaway!

Visiting this gem of Ireland’s capital city is like taking a trip back in time. Much of its original Victorian decor has been preserved, including original furniture, glass-encased historical curiosities, and even interior stone flooring. 

Rory Guinness, an established member of the famed beer-brewing family, has himself declared that Toners pub in Dublin pours the best pint of Guinness (we’re pretty sure that obligates you to go at least once), so this was deserving of a spot on the list of best pubs in Dublin.

This was also a popular spot with many writers, and rumor is that Toners was the only pub where Yeats would have a pint. Needless to say, with so many accolades, it’s definitely one of the best pubs in Dublin.

But if that title isn’t enough to sway you, then maybe you’ll be convinced by the enormous year-round beer garden out back, where Mumford & Sons played a concert!

7. The Cobblestone

• Location: 77 King St N, Smithfield, Dublin
• Insider Tip: This is a neighborhood staple located in one of the city’s oldest areas and space fills up fast; go early to nab a spot at the bar.

Though it’s more or less a guarantee that any Irish pub worth its salt will have live Irish music, the Cobblestone pub is arguably one of the absolute top places to experience it – if not the best – in the city; it’s no wonder that this one made it onto the list of the best pubs in Dublin. 

Affectionately coined “a drinking pub with a music problem,” the pub is owned by the Mulligan family, who have a rich history of about five generations long of playing some of the finest tunes around. The owner’s brother is an accomplished uilleann pipe player, and there are monthly pipers’ sessions. The family plays together seven nights a week in the pub, often not for show but solely for atmosphere and enjoyment.

There are also frequent musical shows in other genres, like rock, folk, bluegrass, and jazz. But of course, if you are coming for authentic Irish music, you won’t be disappointed; there are often fiddle nights too!

8. The Norseman

• Location: 28E Essex Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2
• Insider Tip: If you don’t want to stray far, the upper levels of the building offer some very comfortable accommodations.

Formerly known as Farrington’s of Temple Bar, the pub’s name was recently changed back to the original name – The Norseman. Back in the 1500s, It was originally known as the Wooden Man Tavern due to a wooden Viking statue outside on the street. The pub became officially licensed in 1692, making it among the oldest bars in Dublin. 

While this pub, like any, pulls a great pint of Guinness, it’s also a gastropub and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you don’t have to wait until evening opening times to satisfy any cravings you may have. We have it on good authority that the beef and Guinness pie is hearty and delicious and pairs perfectly with your pint. 

9. The Hairy Lemon

• Location: Stephen Street Lower, Dublin 2
• Insider Tip: If you are a smoker, there is a covered smoking area, so you don’t need to stand outside in poor weather.

Do you even need another reason to visit with a name like that? It is named after a famed Dublin dog catcher, who (unfortunately) is reported to have resembled a hairy lemon, thanks to an uneven complexion and some unfortunate facial hair. Just like its namesake, the bar is unlike anything you’ve ever seen and is definitely not your average Irish pub.

Aside from the culinary capers, you’ll definitely want to sample (seafood chowder, Irish coffee, Guinness pie, and the bread and butter pudding), the interior alone is worth a visit, even though the outer façade reveals nothing of the paraphernalia inside.

Memorabilia, both modern & vintage, is strung from every possible open spot, and the room decor inside is a mixture of modern, brightly-colored furniture and artistic graffiti murals painted on the walls.

10. The Bleeding Horse

• Location: 24-25 Camden Street Upper, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin
• Insider Tip: The much-loved cottage pie is gluten-free!

Though its name may give you pause, don’t worry; this pub has nothing in store for you but good times. More than 350 years old, The Bleeding Horse has an interior that is reminiscent of a medieval banquet hall, thanks to high vaulted ceilings, exposed wood beams, and antique artwork.

The origin of the name is unknown for sure, and there are many theories, but the vast majority believe that the name originates from the Battle of Rathmines (dating from 1649, the same year that the pub opened its doors), where an injured horse fled from the scene.

The interior is cozy, thanks to endless little nooks, crannies, and tucked-away spots for privacy. Pair a hidden spot with a popular menu item such as the buffalo sauce chicken wings (not Irish, but highly regarded!) or the ever-popular fish and chips plate, a smooth, malty pint of beer, and you’re set for a relaxing evening that is the perfect Ireland experience.

11. McDaid’s

• Location: 3 Harry St, Dublin
• Insider Tip: While you probably can’t go inside unless you befriend the barman, have a peek behind the bar and see if you can spot the ancient trap door that leads down to the cellars.

Ever been in a morgue? Us neither, but after a visit to McDaid’s, you won’t be able to say that anymore. Formerly the city mortuary, the building where today’s McDaid’s pub is situated was later converted from the morgue to a chapel, which accounts for its high, arched Gothic ceilings. All in all, it’s a truly bizarre mix of architecture and decor that makes for one of the most unique pubs you’ll find in Dublin. 

While Irish music is no stranger here, the bar is better known for its jazz and blues nights. If you want to hear something a little different than what you’ve been experiencing in the city so far, this is a nice pace change that still retains the charm, appeal, and Irishness of a traditional Dublin pub.

12. L Mulligan Grocer

• Location: 18 Stoneybatter, Arran Quay, Dublin 7
• Insider Tip: The triple-cooked chips (fries) are great value at only £3.50 and are enough to feed several people – not to mention absolutely delicious. The spiced potted crab is also a dish that is highly recommended!

If you’re looking for a Guinness, keep on walking because this is not your typical Irish pub. Famous for being the only pub that does not offer Guinness (a bold decision in a city such as Dublin), it is building a reputation for itself as an excellent place for gastropub food. Popular choices include Belgian ales and local, lesser-known craft beers if you want a beer.

Quiet, out of the way, and not yet discovered by the mass population, this is a great spot to avoid after-work crowds and have a more relaxing evening. See insider tips for food recommendations, but just know that servers quickly recommend specific beers for all the different dishes!

13. Temple Bar Pub

• Location: 18 Stoneybatter, Arran Quay, Dublin 7
  Insider Tip: The Temple Bar has a huge selection of Whiskeys, Scotch & Bourbons (over 450!), so come here if you want an Irish Whisky on the rocks.

Locals will tell you that Temple Bar Pub is definitely not one of the best pubs in Dublin, but it is a tourist staple, so I feel it had to be mentioned.

Temple Bar is a busy bar on Temple Bar streets. It’s usually always crowded with foreigners slamming down Guinness and listening to Irish music. They have delicious oysters and play live music 7 days a week. With this also comes the most expensive Guinness in Dublin, but that’s what you get for a bar that has hosted some of the most famous bands throughout history!

Best Pubs in Dublin Map

Quick Ireland Travel Tips

Before hitting up these pubs in Dublin, read our Ireland travel tips.

• ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Gaelic: “Dia dhuit” and “Go raibh maith agat”
• Currency: Euro – (EUR) – €
• Visa: The Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland are separate countries on the island of Ireland. The Republic of Ireland, known as ‘Ireland’, grants 90-day visas. Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom, also grants 90 days.
• Weather: Expect lots of weather! Ireland is known for having rapid shifts in and lots of rain – it’s only the only reason a country like Ireland remains so green and fertile. See our full packing list here.
• When is the best time to visit Dublin? Ireland is a fantastic country to visit year-round. However, you’ll find crowds during the summer. My favorite time to visit Ireland is in September when the weather is cool and the low crowds. Plus, it’s when the famous Galway Oyster Festival happens!

What to Pack for Ireland

Are you wondering what to wear in Ireland? The Emerald Isle has drawn many tourists from all over the world to its shores for decades. Perhaps it’s ancestral pasts for so many Americans that draw people to Ireland. Or it could merely be the friendly locals who create such a welcoming atmosphere in a stunning country rich in heritage.

Coming from the US, a self-drive vacation in Ireland probably means renting a car. Although this is, for the most part, not a complicated process, there are some things you need to know.

Here, we list our tips for renting a car in Ireland, making the process easier for you! We promise there’s really nothing to worry about – even though you’ll be driving on the left-hand side of the road!

Check car rental prices in Ireland first!

Tips for Renting a Car in Ireland

Plan Your trip to Ireland

Having a rough idea of where you want to go during your Ireland vacation before leaving home will make the process of renting a vehicle a whole lot simpler when you get there. At this stage, you definitely don’t need to have an hour by hour breakdown, but knowing the major destinations you’re desperate to visit is a huge plus.

At the very least, knowing your start and end points – most likely dependent on where you’re flying into and out of – will inform where you’ll want to pick up and drop off your rental vehicle.

For most people coming from North America, you will probably arrive and depart from Dublin Airport. On the outskirts of the Irish capital, it is the Republic of Ireland’s main international airport and has all the biggest rental agencies on site.

Believe it or not, picking up your rental vehicle from Dublin Airport is normally cheaper than picking it up from the city center of Dublin!

Prebook Your Rental Vehicle

It’s advisable to pre-book your rental vehicle, which is why it’s important to know the location you’ll be looking to rent it from. It’s straightforward to do online.

Though it’s unlikely a rental agency will ever run out of vehicles, turning up without a booking means the company might not have any of the size or type of car you’re looking for, and will also result in higher last minute pricing.

While you can drive in Ireland for up to a year on your standard US driving license, you’ll need to be at least 21 years of age to rent a vehicle in the Republic; those aged 21 to 24 will be hit with a surcharge (since this age group is statistically most likely to have an accident). Similar charges sometimes exist for those over the age of 75, for the same reasons.

If you’re traveling as a group, it’s worth considering whether to name more than one driver. Doing this, you can divide up the driving time – but most rental agencies will charge you more for the privilege.

So, if you have specific requirements (see choosing your rental vehicle below), or want to keep costs to a minimum (and who doesn’t?), it’s doubly important to pre-book! A few sites I like to compare rates on are:

How To Choose Your Rental Vehicle

Before renting a car in Ireland, remember that drivers in Ireland drive on the left-hand side of the road. It’s the opposite side to the US (and most of Europe), with the steering wheel on the right-hand side of the vehicle as a result. However, much of the rest of the car’s systems are identical to US vehicles.

Importantly, the clutch (for manual transmission vehicles), foot brake, and gas pedal (called the accelerator pedal in Ireland) are in the same order from left (clutch) to right (gas).

As you might have already guessed with our mention of the clutch, most vehicles in Ireland – including rental cars – are manual transmission, with a gear shift (on the left side of the driver) and clutch pedal. If you don’t think you’ll be happy driving a manual car, automatics are available. Make sure you make this desire clear when booking. Automatics tend to be a little more expensive to rent, so if you don’t need an automatic, you can keep costs down driving a manual.

Our main Ireland rental car tip when choosing your rental vehicle is to opt for a smaller one! Aside from its highways (motorways), roads in Ireland tend to be much narrower than roads you’ll be used to in the US. Sometimes they are little more than a single lane for both directions of traffic!

Choosing a smaller car will make driving around the country much less stressful all round. Bear in mind the number of people you’re traveling with (two-door cars tend to have very little space for the back seats), and how much luggage you’ll have; you’ll want a trunk (called a boot in Ireland) which is large enough to accommodate it all!

What To Wear in Ireland • Ireland Packing List

Upfront costs When Renting a Car in Ireland

Arriving without a booking will almost certainly cost you more. Understandably, the larger the vehicle, the higher the price will be.

Making life a little more complicated, any prices you see online will be a ‘from’ price. In other words, the lowest possible price your rental could be theoretically. You’ll only find the actual cost (generally somewhere close to the ‘from’ price) when going through the booking process to the end.

As is the case when renting a car almost anywhere in the world, you are responsible for fuel costs when renting in Ireland, which means returning your rental car to the agency with a full fuel tank or at least what they gave you the vehicle at.

These days, agencies will be happy to fill up the vehicle themselves on its return, but it will generally cost you more than visiting a gas station for yourself. On that point, don’t be surprised by the cost of either gas or diesel in Ireland; it’s significantly more than in the US.

Gas or diesel?

So, which should you choose – gas or diesel?

Knowing roughly how far you’ll be going will help you understand what sort of vehicle you’ll want – one with a gas (called petrol here) or diesel engine. Diesel vehicles are better for longer journeys, such as if you are planning to drive the 1,500-mile Wild Atlantic Way. Diesel is also slightly cheaper per liter (the way fuel is bought in Ireland). All gas stations (petrol stations) also sell diesel, making it much easier to find than in the US. However, on the average vacation, you probably won’t notice any economic difference between gas (petrol) or diesel.

Either way, make sure you know whether your vehicle uses gas or diesel. The two are not interchangeable. All gas sold in Ireland is unleaded, so if it uses gas, it will use unleaded gas.

25 Ireland Travel Tips to Know BEFORE You Go

Rental Car Insurance

Irish law states that you must have collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance when driving in Ireland. What this means for those renting a car in Ireland is having the additional cost of CDW insurance added to any rental car check. The upside is that if you have any sort of accident, you’re completely covered, and will not have to shell out any more than an excess of a couple of hundred dollars. That’s a definite win in our eyes!

If you have a US credit card, it’s possible you already have CDW insurance and don’t know it! It’s worth it to check your documentation and call your credit card to find out. It’s even worth considering signing up to a new credit card that does offer this. Some credit card companies – annoying – explicitly exclude the Republic of Ireland (as well as Italy) though. Again, it’s up to you to figure that out.

If you’re already covered, take a copy of paperwork as proof. Never one to miss a trick, if you already have CDW insurance, it’s likely the rental car agency will charge you an ‘administration fee’ of around €30. However, even with this fee, you’re still saving money.

Get the Right Card

Bringing me to my next point – credit cards with primary rental insurance. The Chase Sapphire Reserve is my favorite travel credit card for many reasons, but the primary rental insurance is one of its best perks (including Priority Pass membership). When you put your rental car on your Chase Sapphire Reserve card you get primary coverage around the world up to $75,000.

That works out great for us since we are nomadic and don’t have a car or home. Car rental companies in Ireland and around the world love to scare customers and upsell all their insurance packages. You need to make sure if you need it or not before falling victim to their trap. Call your credit card company and always find out before you get to Ireland.

How Much Does A Trip To Ireland Cost?

Expect a Hold Charge

Every single one of our forty or so rental cars has put a hold on our credit card for the rental period. Holds can range anywhere from a few hundred bucks to $1000+ in some countries. The “excess charge,” as it is called is typically stated in your reservation details, but it is easy to miss.

We are aware that they must put this hold on our card, but it can be a huge shocker if you are unsuspecting and end up over your credit limit on your credit card. These excess charges are for scenarios where you disappear with the car and are never seen again, or get in a crash and refuse to pay. Stuff like that.

Navigation

It’s worth mentioning that distances and speeds in the Republic of Ireland are recorded in kilometers rather than miles. This can make sights seem further away than they actually are, although the winding country roads you’re likely to encounter means travel times are a little longer than those in the US.

It’s unlikely your rental vehicle will have a built-in GPS navigation system, generally referred to as SatNav (satellite navigation); however, it is likely that you will be offered a separate GPS (at additional cost, of course), instead.

Whether you are traveling on your own or as a group, we think navigation – of whatever sort – is a must. It takes much of the stress out of driving on roads you aren’t used to and having to rely on road signage.

You might be happy using paper maps, but it’s not normal for them to be supplied with a rental car, which means you may as well opt for the GPS instead.

Smartphone apps such as Google Maps are a brilliant free alternative, which give you the additional advantage of knowing up-to-the-minute traffic and road conditions. You should download a map of Ireland to your phone from Google Maps while you’re in good WiFi. If you forget to do this, Dublin Airpot has free (albeit slow) WiFi where you can download Google Maps to your phone before you hit the road.

And if you haven’t swapped your US SIM service for a local one and don’t want to spend a fortune on internet roaming charges, there are offline apps such as maps.me that you can download before you go; they have all the same navigation information, minus the traffic reports.

32 Beautiful Places To Visit In Ireland

Pick up a Sim Card

I have found Ireland to have some of the cheapest data available. Last time we were there we picked up a sim card for €20 from Three and had unlimited data for the month. Yes – unlimited 4G data. I’m not certain if they are still offering this deal, but it’s worth checking out when you get into the city center.

We often go into the malls to visit the telecom stores. We try to avoid picking up a Sim card at the airport if possible as they are usually more expensive than in the city center.

More on Pick Up and Drop Off

After all the paperwork is sorted with the rental company, you’ll be asked if you want to be shown around the vehicle. We always feel a little foolish agreeing to this, but it’s always worth it! Unless your rental vehicle is exactly the same as the car you have at home, several systems are likely to be different.

When the agent shows you around, make sure you ask them to show you how all the essential systems function. When you depart, you should be completely happy with using the vehicle – remember, you are legally responsible for it. So, make sure you know how to operate the headlights, indicator lights, hazard lights, and windscreen wipers. Also, be sure to understand how to engage reverse gear (sometimes you need to hold down a button or similar) and how to open the petrol flap and the trunk!

If you decide to pick up your rental car in Ireland at one location and return it to another, just be aware that this is another way rental agencies have of adding to the overall price. You’ll want to balance any additional costs involved with the benefits of leaving the country from a different airport to the one you arrived into.

In any case, most direct flights from the US to Ireland arrive at Dublin Airport. On returning home, you’ll need to arrive at least three hours before your scheduled flight time to pass through US security checks.

Inspect and Take Photos

If you run into a guardrail with your rental you’re going to be charged for damages. If someone else ran into a guardrail before you and you don’t note it when you pick up the rental car you could also be charged for damages. Always, always, always, inspect every single rental car you get with great detail – inside and out.

Note any damages with the company and take photos just in case. Cam and I are both meticulous with rental car dings, scratches, windshield cracks, and cigarette burns.  Never assume that a scratch or ding is not important or big enough to note. When you return your rental make sure you get a slip signing off that all was okay on the car so they don’t come back and try to charge you later.

We’ve been blamed multiple times for things like “excessive sand on the floor in Mozambique,” random pieces of cheap plastic falling off in Mexico, and we were even charged for a small scratch on the hubcap in South Africa. Take photos and put up a fight if you think you are in the right.

Check Your Charges on Your Credit Card once You Leave Ireland

We’ve had multiple instances of rental car companies charging our credit card for damages weeks after we returned the rental car and they signed off that all was okay. The most memorable example of this happening was with Hertz Ireland (Dublin Airport – which has horrendous reviews).

They signed off that the car was in great shape and full on gas. A few weeks later when we were checking our credit card statement I noticed they had charged our card $120 for fuel. When I called they stated that we returned the car on empty. Thankfully I still had a photo of our return receipt to prove that this was not true. I sent this to their head office, and they still insisted they would charge me. So what did I do?

I took it up with my credit card of course and had them go after Hertz Ireland. All I had to do was provide proof of my receipt and that I was right and the charge was reversed. Of course, I left a bad review on the Hertz Dublin Airport Google page too.

So always document your receipts and take photos – you may end up needing them!

Drinking and Driving in Ireland

This should go without saying, but drinking and driving is a grave offense in Ireland. The legal limit is .5 milligrams of alcohol per milliliter of blood. So pretty much, no alcohol should be in your bloodstream.

The Irish take this very seriously, and most do not drive if they plan on drinking. If you want to go out for a night at the pubs and drink as much Guinness as possible, make sure you have a responsible way back to your accommodation.

Other tips for renting a car in Ireland

It’s a legal requirement for all passengers to wear a seat belt/safety belt at all times when the engine is running, with the Irish Police (the Garda) issuing significant on-the-spot fines to those caught not doing so. Even foreign nationals must pay these fines or face arrest (in any EU nation).

Likewise, it is not permitted to use a cell phone when driving in Ireland to make calls or send/receive SMS text messages. You can use your smartphone for navigation purposes, but it must be hands-free only (such as safely stowed on the windscreen), and you must not program navigation while the vehicle’s engine is running. On the spot fines range between €80 to €160.

In an emergency, you can call 999 or 112 (the Europe-wide emergency number) for police (Garda), fire services, and the ambulance service. Operators for both numbers speak English.

Driving in Ireland? Here Are Our Must Read Self Drive Tips

How Much with a Rental Car in Ireland Cost?

Depends on the season! In the summer, your rental car will likely be higher than in October.

We’ve scored rentals cars for €200-400 per week in Ireland, but prices can also go a lot higher than that. Some of our tips for getting a good deal on an Ireland rental car:

• The sooner you book, the better
• Do searches on Discover Cars, Kayak, and Skyscanner to see different rates
• Go with well-known companies like SiXT and Europcar. The smaller unknown ones are more likely to nickel and dime you.

Roads in Ireland – M, N, R, L

There are four main types of route in Ireland, all handily graded and signed as such. M stands for motorway – in other words, a highway – and are the largest routes comprising multilane roads with the highest speed limits. They are best for long distances.

N – or ‘national’ – routes are major routes connecting bigger towns and cities. The speed limit tends to be 100 kmh (60 mph), although their winding nature means as a visitor you’re unlikely to want to reach these speeds. Speed limits are just that; limits, not targets. If other vehicles on the road want to pass you as a result, let them, and don’t stress.

R roads are Ireland’s regional roads. They are much narrower, to the point sometimes they can appear as a single-lane for both directions. Go slow on these roads and be ready to pull to the side when encountering traffic heading in the opposite direction. Should you dare, the speed limit for these roads is 80 kmh (50 mph).

The last type of road are L roads. The L stands for ‘local,’ and they are rarely used countryside lanes.

In built-up areas including towns and cities, unless told otherwise, assume the speed limit to be 50 kmh (30 mph – when traffic allows!).

Toll Roads in Ireland

There are 11 different toll road routes in the Republic of Ireland, which basically cover the country’s major M and N routes. Despite the cost (they’re much cheaper than equivalents in much of the US in any case), they are worth using because they will substantially reduce your overall travel time, giving you more time at your destination.

All but one of the toll routes have traditional booths where you pay. Payment is taken in cash, so make sure you have Euros with you. Cashiers are not able to accept US dollars or pounds sterling.

That leaves one toll route that doesn’t have traditional pay booths. This is Dublin’s M50, which uses a barrier-free system where cameras record each vehicle’s license plate (number plate).

You then have up to 8 pm that day to pay, either online, over the phone, or at shops anywhere in the country that display the Payzone sign. If you don’t pay by 8 pm, you will face a fine, which will be passed on to you by the rental company. But check first with the rental car companies, many companies have an electronic tag that pays the toll automatically (before passing the cost on to you).

Our last time in Ireland we rented with Dooley, and this wasn’t included. We forgot to pay the M50 toll a few times, and the fine doubled. It was extremely annoying to have to remember to pay this by a specific time every day. I wish they had a better system for this.

Filling Up Your Rental Car in Ireland

Gas stations (petrol stations) usually are well signposted and easy enough to spot because of their similarity to the US version. Needless to say, be sure not to run low on gas. They tend to exist on the outskirts of towns and cities, on major roads in towns, and on the highways.

In the countryside, they can be much rarer. You have been warned! If you can, avoid filling up on highways, where the cost per liter (the standard way of selling fuel) will be higher. (A point to note – fuel is much more expensive than in the US, so it’s essential to take this into account.)

Despite their name, petrol stations sell both gasoline (petrol) and diesel. All gasoline in Ireland is unleaded. Gas stations tend to be self-service, so you’ll need to fill up the tank yourself, although if you’re struggling, someone will be happy to help. The pumps keep flowing until you take your fingers off the trigger, or the tank is full; there are no set volumes/prices to fill up to. To pay, you’ll need to pop inside (afterward).

If it’s a shorter trip, you might not need to fill up. However, if you return your rental vehicle to the company without a full tank of fuel, you’ll likely be charged, and a premium charge at that. Read more of our rental car tips here.

Should You Travel Ireland By Car?

So is renting a car in Ireland for you? YES! Absolutely! Especially if you want to get into the glorious Irish countryside and stay outside the cities. I have visited Ireland three separate times. The first time I backpacked around Ireland and stuck to buses, which was great but I felt I could have seen more with my own transport. The second and third times we opted for a rental car, and it was well worth it.

Having a rental car means you can go wherever you want, whenever you want and it gives you unlimited freedom. There are so many hidden gems of Ireland you will regret not having your own set of wheels to get around. Follow these top tips, and you’ll have a great time driving in Ireland!

Thinking about renting a car in Ireland? With our tips, you now have all you need to know about self-drive vacations in this fantastic destination! Now that you have all the information, no Irish castle needs to go unexplored!

What to Pack for Ireland

Are you wondering what to wear in Ireland? The Emerald Isle has drawn many tourists from all over the world to its shores for decades.

Perhaps it’s ancestral pasts for so many Americans that draw people to Ireland. Or it could merely be the friendly locals who create such a welcoming atmosphere in a stunning country rich in heritage.

It’s tough not to love Ireland for its rolling hills of green, forgotten Irish castles, whiskey, craggy coastline, and cozy pubs full of music. We’ve made four separate trips to the country over the last five years and have a pretty good idea of the average costs in Ireland.

That way when you climb the local mountain or book a day trip out to the Cliffs of Moher you know what to expect. For the most part, the country is very affordable as most experiences are centered around exploring the countryside or wandering around towns.

Heck one of the most cultural things to do in Ireland is to drink a Guinness at the local pub while listening to an Irish trad session, which sets you back €5 a pint. It’s one of our favorite places to travel as you get great value in Ireland!

Since all local costs will be in Euros that’s the currency that will use for all prices in this guide to traveling costs in Ireland. However, keep in mind that Northern Ireland is in the United Kingdom and uses the British Pound (GBP).

How Much Does A Trip to Ireland Cost?

Transport in Ireland

The first thing you should look at in your trip to Ireland cost is transport. Transportation around Ireland is affordable and simple to understand. Most visitors will likely use public transportation as it does an effective job of connecting the main cities and towns. Since distances are not vast in Ireland it’s pretty affordable to rely on the public transport system with a combination of buses and trains.

However, the most effective way to travel around Ireland is in a rental car. We suggest a car because it’s a great way to explore the countryside and typically offers good value for transportation costs.

Trains in Ireland

Ireland is a pretty small nation so train travel is limited, but all of the major destinations are connected via a rail line. We’re often surprised by how extensive the rail network is in Ireland. This is a great way to get around Ireland and makes for a pleasant journey as the Irish countryside passes by the train window. Tickets are affordable with the longest journey costing just around €25 one way. You can find all of the destinations by train on Irish Rail’s website here.

Fare Examples

Rail Pass in Ireland

A great value to consider with the train system is one of the tourist tickets offered by Irish Rail. These tickets provide unlimited travel on the trains during a set amount of time. There are two different options for this ticket the four days of unlimited travel with the Trekker ticket and the Explorer Ticket that provides 5 days of unlimited travel over 15 consecutive days.

The Trekker ticket is great if you want to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time. However, the Explorer is a tougher sell since most one-way tickets come out to around €20. To get your value out of the ticket you’ll need multiple long-distance trips in a single travel day.

Please keep in mind these tickets only work in the Republic of Ireland which does not include Northern Ireland if you have plans to visit Belfast. Also, these tickets can only be bought at ticket counters for Irish Rail.

Rail Pass Details

Buses

This is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to travel around Ireland with public transport. Ireland has an extensive network of modern buses with WiFi and restrooms that can get you from point Dublin to Dingle and everywhere in between. It’s great to check if a destination or town you’re trying to reach is not serviced by the train system.

The primary bus company is Bus Eireann that operates an extensive network not service by national government buses or trains. Bus Eireann operates several intercity networks too, so they’re prevalent throughout the country. Prices are affordable but operate on a dynamic pricing system so booking tickets in advance, especially in the summer, is the best way to get a deal.

Fare Examples

Car Rental

Rental Averages

These are average prices for summer rentals booked three-four months in advance out of Dublin. If you travel in the offseason rates are much lower with averages well under €100 a week!

Total Cost of Rental Car

This is just an average guess of what the total cost of a car rental for a week would cost in summer. It’s based on previous trips in which we have rented a car in Ireland. It’s totally possible to go over or under these estimations.

It’s fairly affordable to drive a vehicle around Ireland as there is not an abundance of tolls roads aside from the highways to and from Dublin. Please note the M50 a ring road around the Dublin city center that requires you to pay online or at a service station.

Fuel on average is around a €1.46 per liter which translates to about €5.51 a gallon. It’s not cheap, but distances are not vast in Ireland so fuel goes a long way between stops. Overall, it’s our preferred method for exploring the countryside but keep in mind countryside roads are extremely narrow and driven on the left side of the road. If you’re not a confident driver it’s best to not rent a car, or you can read our tips on driving in Ireland here.

• RentalCars.com: Provides comparisons for car rentals in Ireland.
• AutoEurope: I can often find deals here for car rentals in Europe.
• Discover Car Hire: Searches rental car prices around the globe.

Flights

Never forget about flights when estimating your trip to Ireland cost. Flights aren’t that practical of a way to get around Ireland and there are only a handful of routes avaialble. The only real advantage would be if you plan to arrive via Dublin, but then want to fly to the region of Ireland you wish to explore like Kerry or Donnegal. These flights are generally aroud €50-€100.

All of this being said! RyanAir is the low-cost carrier of Europe and it is an Irish Airline based out of Dublin. So you have tremendous opportunities for low-cost flights from Dublin to other destinations in Europe.

When you book in advance you can generally get a good price on tickets. Though, one should always be wary of booking budget airlines. You’ll also have to pay for check bags that can often cost as much as the flight at around €30.

Cost of Accommodation

It’s important to think about accommodation in your trip to Ireland cost. There is some good value to be had in Ireland for accommodation. However, that occurs outside of the peak summer months of July and August. The summer has a high demand so booking must be done in many months in advance in the most popular destinations to score a deal in a desirable location.

Once you do go for bookings, you can find everything from a cozy bed and breakfast, hostels, standard hotels, lighthouses, resorts, guesthouses, castles, and everything in between. We love traveling Ireland for some of the unique accommodation options!

Accommodation options are largely dominated by small establishments which is the charm of Ireland so don’t expect 5-star resorts or many boutique hotels. That being said there are a few very high-end golf resorts and castle/estate hotels like the Ashford Castle that can deliver a luxurious holiday.

In Dublin due to Ireland’s lucrative tax law that has attracted many multinational corporations, the city sees a lot of business travelers. The business travelers combined with the demand from tourists creates a pretty high priced city year-round. The result is poor value and with no “wow” factor sights or things to do in Dublin, we’d rather spend our time outside of the city. That being said it is a pleasant city where you can definitely spend a few enjoyable few days.

Ireland is very popular in the summer months so to get the best value book in advance or travel in the shoulder season. This also means that in very popular destinations like Galway or Kerry prices can like Dublin be fairly high.

One of our favorite things in Ireland is to book with Airbnb. The platform hosts some really unique accommodation options if you do some searching. You can book things like windmills, crafter cottages, lighthouses, treehouses, converted wagons, or barns. Due to the extensive range prices vary greatly from €30 – €200 a night. For the most part, you can find a great deal!

Hotel Averages

Food Cost in Ireland

Dining

We love eating in Ireland, it’s certainly not a foodie scene like France or Italy. Ireland does have some great comfort food and beautiful local products like farm-fresh vegetables, cheese, and meat. Since most of the dining comes from low key restaurants and pubs expect to pay anywhere from €10 – €30 for a meal. When you add a tasty pint of beer for €5 dining in Ireland is pretty affordable.

Irish food similar to English food has a bit of a bad rap, but the foodie scene is alive and well. There are a number of Michelin star restaurants and fine dining establishments that uplift Irish ingredients to a tremendous degree. We got to hang out with the chef of Anair in Galway where he shared they our strict in adherence to Irish ingredients to the point where no chocolate or even pepper can be found in their food! For fine dining in Ireland expect to pay €75 – €150 a person.

While the grocery stores in Ireland are of some of the best we’ve ever gotten in the world for quality, experience, and price. If you’re backpacking, on a budget, or a family don’t fret too much if you have access to a kitchen as you’ll be able to cook affordable meals. We’ve spent a week relaxing along the coast in a cottage and spent less than €100 for a week of food and two people. A real budget saver when determining what a trip to Ireland costs.

Breakfast

The great part about many guesthouses, hotels, and B&Bs in Ireland is they include breakfast for free. The standard Irish breakfast includes things like eggs, salmon, toast, mushrooms, sausage, tomato, and beans. If your lodging doesn’t include breakfast expect to pay around €10 for breakfast.

Lunch

This varies a lot because a simple sandwich from the local grocery store or a packed lunch can be had for a couple of euros. However, if you’re having a meal out the pricing is about the same as dinner so expect to pay €10 to €20.

Daily Food Costs

Cost of Activities in Ireland

Activities in Ireland, for the most part, are reasonably priced. However, it all depends on when and where. One of the best things to do in Ireland is to simply explore. Free activities can mean hiking in Ireland, music in a local pub, walking around Galway, exploring forgotten Irish castles or relaxing on a craggy beach.

Ireland has been catering to visitors for years now and there are lots of great tours and activities to enjoy in Ireland. Things like bike tours, kayak tours, star gazing, cultural experiences, or distillery tours. Generally, prices range from about €15 up to €100. There are also lots of day trips and tours to spots like the Cliffs of Moher or Giant’s Causeway.

Entry into major sites like many of the Castles in Ireland, the cliffs of Moher, or Giants Causeway cost anywhere from €5 to €15. Of course, you can book these as day trip tours and not worry about the individual prices as it’s included in the tour, but those trips generally cost €50+.

Of course, activities are really broad and prices vary greatly! For example, if you’re coming to Ireland to golf obviously you’ll have to pay a number of green fees. The most famous courses cost around €200 to €300 to tee off, but there are a number of public courses for around €30 around Ireland. Ireland also has some amazing diving, but again expect high costs on specialty activities like diving.

Popular Activities/Tours in Ireland

Miscellaneous Expenses in Ireland

Flight to Ireland

Like with most travel, your flight to Ireland will be your number one expense. It’s best to book in advance if you know your travel dates. If you have flexibility with your schedule you stand a greater chance at scoring a deal. We like to use Google Flights and Skyscanner’s open search feature to find good deals to Ireland. This can drastically determine what a trip to Ireland costs.

Luggage for Ireland

You’ll need to decide if you want a backpack or suitcase for your Ireland trip. I personally like to travel with a hard shell suitcase for my clothes and use a carry-on backpack for my important electronics. See a few of our posts here for recommendations:

Get Travel Insurance

Protect yourself from theft, injury, illness, or the unexpected. Heymondo has great short-term travel insurance plans! (World Pursuit Readers get 5% off!)

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How Much Does a Trip to Ireland Cost?

So how much spending money per day should you have in Ireland? Asides from the pre-trip expenses like airfare, luggage, and any Ireland packing list items you’ll want to buy I believe you can get by in Ireland for under €50 a day.

That’s if you’re staying in cheap accommodation, not drinking much alcohol, cooking your meals and eating paninis, and not partaking in costly activities. If you want to travel on a more modest and comfortable budget I would plan on spending €100 per day.

Total Two Week Trip to Ireland Cost (pp)

How to Save Money on Your Trip to Ireland Costs

Two Currencies

Keep in mind that Ireland is actually two countries! The Republic of Ireland which takes up the majority of the island of Ireland and Northern Ireland part of the United Kingdom occupies the Northeast. The Republic of Ireland uses the Euro (€) and the United Kingdom uses the British Pound (£). You can learn more about travel in Ireland here.

Cook Your Own Food

If your accommodation has a kitchen then it’s best to make use of it. We save money this way when traveling around Ireland. Grocery stores in Ireland are amazing and well-stocked, and one can easily cook an amazing meal with delicious Italian red wine for cheap.

The grocery store provides great value especially on Italian food like pasta, prosciutto, and grapes. Don’t worry about eating local either as they’re often stocked with tons of beautiful Italians products; most Italians eat at home anyways!

Drink Tap Water

The tap water in Ireland is perfectly fine to drink, so best not to waste money or plastic on one-time use water bottles. Get yourself a travel water bottle and keep refilling it!

Travel During the Offseason

In my opinion, traveling in Ireland particularly shrines in the offseason. I don’t like crowds or high prices and that’s why I love traveling between September and May. We highlight the best time to visit Ireland in this post.

I love visiting Ireland; we’ve been back four times and know we will return again. There must be something to the rolling green hills, castles, whiskey, rain, Guinness beer, and rugged coastline that doesn’t just draw us in but the millions of other visitors.

The country’s small size and accessibility make it easy for travelers to see many Ireland landmarks on just one trip. If you’re wondering where to go in Ireland, look no further; we have you covered with these beautiful Ireland points of interest!

Beautiful Places to Visit in Beautiful Ireland

Connemara National Park

Connemara is arguably one of the most breathtaking regions of Ireland and draws a comparison to the Scottish highlands. It’s a coastline of small villages, rolling hills, lakes, and mountains.

The Twelve Bens are the monuments of the region. It has a wild expanse of bogs and lakes along with wildlife. That extends to a wild herd of Connemara ponies who live in the Connemara National Park.

With a few extra days in Galway, we explored the region. The natural beauty took us by total surprise, and on our drive in, we found ourselves pulling off to the side of the road to take a walk or photo multiple times. We hadn’t had that feeling since we drove around the Scottish Coastline on the North Coast 500.

Where to stay in Connemara: Letterfrack Mountain Farm Cottage

Clifden

Clifden is the beating heart of the Galway region and the best place to visit in Ireland to explore Connemara National Park. It’s a Victorian-era town set along the famed Wild Atlantic Way. That means it’s a coastal town along with the mouth of the River Owenglin with access to the sea via a long narrow bay.

It’s well known for its music scene, with several pubs offering live music almost every night of the week. We had just come off an 18-hour flight and drove three hours from Dublin but still managed to poke our heads into Lowry’s tavern for a “welcome to Ireland pint.” Almost every night in Clifden, we were greeted by live music and a spirited crowd.

There are also several lovely cafes and tasty restaurants in the town. We enjoyed Guy’s Bar, Twelve Darcy, and the Steam Cafe.

Where to stay in Clifden: Abbeyglen Castle Hotel

Hill of Tara

The Hill of Tara in the Country Meath was once an ancient seat of power in Ireland and is one of the best places to travel in Ireland. It’s here that 142 kings reigned in ancient times. It’s often skipped, but in my opinion, it’s one of the best places to visit in Ireland.

It’s now a considerable walking site with ancient stones and interesting ground formations. It’s lovely to walk around at either sunrise or sunset. We came here not knowing what to expect, and it ended up being one of the best places to visit in Ireland.

Where to stay near Hill of Tara: Castle Arch Hotel

Cnoc Suain

Cnoc Suain may be the best cultural experience in the Galway region and one of the best places to visit in Ireland you likely haven’t heard about. And that’s in an area that is brimming with cultural experiences! Cnoc Suain is a collection of small cottages set on a hill. Although we still can’t pronounce it, it all plays well to the name since Cnoc Suain means “restful hill” in Irish.

Not many people have heard about this place, so we were happy to visit this fantastic place in Ireland.

The hosts, Dearbhaill and Charlie, could not be more welcoming and eager to teach more about the property and Irish culture. The two teach you about Irish food, history, music, and the surrounding landscape.

Their passion for their culture is evident, and they reel you in by getting excited when you drive a pole deep into the surrounding bog or taste a traditional dessert made from algae.

We can’t recommend visiting them enough. Visit the Cnoc Suain website and fill out the contact form if you want to do so. They also run a lovely Airbnb we wish we’d known about in advance, but we hope to stay there next time. (Oh, Ed Sheeran may or may not have visited if there are any fans out there).

Killarney

If you are after truly beautiful Ireland, head to Killarney as it’s one of Ireland’s top places to visit! Killarney, in County Kerry, is a trendy place to see in Ireland. It’s a tiny little town with plenty of shops, pubs, and things to do. It’s also a jumping-off point for a trip around the Ring of Kerry.

Some of the notable things to do in Killarney are St. Mary’s Cathedral, Muckruss Abbey, and the Lakes of Killarney.

Where to stay in Killarney: Earls Court House

Oughterard

This town is in the interior of Connemara and is one of the top places to see in beautiful Ireland. After spending some time at Cnoc Suain, we went to this little Irish town to spend the afternoon relaxing on the banks of Lough Corrib before the water starts its journey to the Atlantic Ocean.

It’s a great town outside of Galway to relax by the calm Irish water. We had some of the best mussels we’ve ever had at Powers Thatch Bar and Restaurant! Of course, a Guinness and Irish Coffee were enjoyed too, perfect end to a day.

Where to stay in Oughterard: Lakeland Midsummer Lakehouse

Dublin

The capital of Ireland needs no introduction. Dublin is known worldwide for its vibrancy, nightlife, and tourist attractions. The pubs in Dublin are well worth a visit and are precisely what you think of when you picture Ireland.

Over two-thirds of the Republic of Ireland’s population resides in the Greater Dublin area, meaning there are many things to do here.

It’s also the main entry point into Ireland, so you likely are going to be passing through Dublin on your way in or out of the country. While I don’t recommend spending a ton of time here, it’s very much worth a few days of exploration. It’s one of the best places to visit in Ireland for first-time visitors.

Where to stay in Dublin: The Alex

Galway

This Irish city is the fifth largest in the country and a major vacation destination for those visiting Ireland. It’s drawn us back three times, and we know we will be back again in the future. Although it’s a city, it’s considered one of the best places to visit in Ireland.

While many visitors flock to Dublin, I much prefer the vibe of Galway. It’s known as “The City of the Tribes” and feels much more Irish to me than the capital. There are many things to do in Galway City center, fun pubs to drink at, great Galway restaurants, an awesome Oyster fest, and even some epic day trips from the city. A visit to Galway should be on every Ireland itinerary.

Where to stay in Galway: St. Judes Lodge B&B

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher is on the western coast of the Republic of Ireland, about an hour and a half west of Limerick and only moments from the town of Doolin. If you are coming from Galway City, the Cliffs lie 90 minutes south.

The land stretches for five miles of rugged coastline, featuring steep drops and crashing waves, with beautiful unobstructed skyline views. The highest point of the cliffs – over 700 feet tall – proudly houses an observatory tower first constructed in 1835.

Due to the rugged and largely unspoiled natural beauty in the region, the Cliffs are known around the world. This is the country’s most visited attraction, seeing nearly one and a half million travelers every year.

Because of this, capacity is sometimes an issue, and visitors are encouraged to avoid the peak visiting times – read all about the Cliffs of Moher here.

Where to stay near Cliffs of Moher: B&B Ocean View

Ring of Kerry

This is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in beautiful Ireland, and for a good reason. The Ring of Kerry is a series of coastal roads that wind around lakes, mountains, and castles. It’s one of the most beautiful regions in Ireland and well worth a visit. One of the best ways to see the Ring of Kerry is on a day trip!

Where to stay near the Ring of Kerry: Muckross Park Hotel & Spa

Cork

Still wondering what to see in Ireland? Cork is a great option! Cork is a well-known Irish city in Munster province. Locals even refer to it as The Real Capital of Ireland. It’s got an Irish town feel with pubs and ancient sites, but without all the crowds.

There’s also a wonderful waterfront to stroll along, restaurants with live music, and St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral.

Where to stay in Cork: The River Lee Hotel 

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are an hour-long ferry ride from Galway off the coast of Ireland. They’re a lovely slice of the Irish countryside that remains simple, with visitors traveling via bikes and hiking.

The rocky islands still have a robust Irish spirit and remain raw and wild. A true gem of Ireland for those looking to get off the beaten path. The Aran Islands are easily one of the best places to visit in Ireland

Where to stay in the Aran Islands: Ard Einne House

Best Castles to Visit in Ireland

Malahide Castle & Gardens

Malahide Castle dates back to 1885 and was owned by the Talbot family for nearly 800 years, except for the period where, after Ireland’s conquest, Oliver Cromwell gave it to Miles Corbet, an English politician.

When he was hanged after Cromwell’s downfall, the castle fell back under Talbot ownership. The castle interiors are home to an array of artifacts from the castle’s tumultuous past, ranging from beautifully-made furniture to Victorian children’s toys.

This could be your new favorite place if you’re into ghost stories. Malahide Castle is rumored to be the most haunted castle in the country, and given its bloody history, this is no surprise.

Many visitors have reported seeing various apparitions throughout the castle, and you could be next; if you’re looking for a bit of extra excitement during your wander through history, this is a great choice.  

Where to stay near Malahide Castle: Grand Hotel

Bunratty Castle

Named for the Raite River, which flows alongside the castle and into the nearby city of Shannon, the castle’s location has been occupied for over a millennium by Normans, Vikings, and later, Irish nobility.

The first official structure was a defensive fortress built in 1250, and the lands were later granted to a lord who created the first stone structure. The MacNamara family built the current castle as it stood today in 1425.

The castle itself and Bunratty House are both open to the public. It is also famous for its regular banquet meals, where you can book in for a traditional medieval four-course dinner, along with entertainment provided by the Bunratty Castle Singers – so that you can get the whole experience of living in medieval luxury!

Where to stay near Bunratty Castle: Bunratty Castle Hotel

Dunguaire Castle

Located on the shores of Galway Bay, Dunguaire Castle is as picturesque as they come (not to mention there are some breathtaking views from the castle towers of the lush green countryside below).

The Irish castle was constructed in 1520 and has been the site of many battles and sieges during that time. It was passed to a well-known local surgeon and author in 1924, who, being friends with poets & writers such as Yeats, is credited with a literary revival in the region.

The castle’s interior retains all the charm of medieval decor, with a banquet hall that hosts regular summer feasts for visitors. Its tower stands at 75 feet and looks out over the nearby town of Kinvarra.

Where to stay near Dunguaire Castle: Fallon's Bed & Breakfast

Blarney Castle

No list of the best castles to visit in Ireland would be complete without mentioning Blarney Castle. Probably the most famous court in the country, Blarney Castle was originally a medieval stronghold built-in 1446.

Since it passed hands many different times throughout its history, the castle as it stands today is in partial ruins, but its charming wear and tear does not take away from its mythical quality.

But what Blarney Castle is perhaps best known for is the Blarney Stone – also known as the Stone of Eloquence. Visitors can (with assistance!) be hung upside down to kiss the stone, which is said to give the powers of eloquence and persuasiveness.

The stone’s origin is unclear, but local legend dictates that it was a stone on which many ancient Irish kings were crowned.

Where to stay near Blarney Castle: Muskerry Arms Bar and B&B

Rock of Cashel Castle

The Rock of Cashel is more than just a castle; it is a collection of structures sitting atop a hill in Cashel, County Tipperary. On the walled plateau is the Round Tower (the oldest structure in the complex, dating from 1100), Cormac’s Chapel, and the Cashel Cathedral.

There is also a nearby graveyard with burials of bishops and other notable figures throughout the region’s history. The Rock is also supposedly the site where St. Patrick converted a Munster King to Christianity, earning the castle another St. Patrick’s Rock nickname.

The views from the top alone are well worth a visit, but add to that a beautiful and grandiose castle, cathedral, and chapel, and you’re left with an awe-inspiring site steeped in Irish lore and legend.

Where to stay near Rock of Cashel: Rockville House B&B

Ross Castle

If you’ve ever wanted to live in a castle, this is probably your best shot. While open to the public for regular touring, Ross Castle is also a well-liked B&B in the area, with room decor attempting to mirror the styles & design of the time (but still with modern conveniences). You can even opt for a room in the tower for the most authentic castle experience.

Situated on the edge of Lough Leane, legend states that the castle’s original owner still rests in a deep sleep beneath the lough, rising only once every seven years to circle the castle astride a white horse. If you see him, don’t be afraid; the legend also states that witnesses to this miracle will be blessed with good fortune for the rest of their lives.

Where to stay near Ross Castle: Killarney Inn

Cahir Castle

Cahir Castle stands atop an island on the Suir River in Cahir, one of the largest and best-preserved castles in Ireland. Originally built as a top-tier defensive fortress, it was constructed on a former stone fort called a Cathair, which gave the current castle its name.

The excellent audio-visual guided tours are the best way to tour the castle and learn about the details of its history; guidebooks are available in several languages. Once you’ve had your fill of touring the castle, follow the path two kilometers along the river until you come to the Swiss Cottage. This was a nearby home owned by the Butlers (the same family that owned the castle grounds) and looks like something out of a woodland fairy tale.

Where to stay near Cahir Castle: Rockville House B&B

Doe Castle

As far as picturesque castles go, Doe Castle is way at the top of that list and is one of the best castles to visit in Ireland. Built on the inlet of Sheephaven Bay, the castle was initially created as a stronghold and is, to this day, considered to have been one of the most secure and safest fortress castles of the time.

The castle is known for many of its tragic love story legends, such as the story of a young woman who fell in love with a Celtic chieftain. When her father learned of her love, he kidnapped and tortured the young man and killed him with his sword at first sight.

Having seen this transpire from her window, the young woman jumped to her death in desperation. Locals affirm that you can sometimes spot a small rowboat carrying the two lovers together.

Where to stay near Doe Castle: Shandon Hotel & Spa

Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey is easily one of the best places on Ireland’s west coast. Kylemore Castle is an imposing structure set into the hills lining the Pollacappall Lough, among the most photogenic structures in Ireland. In 1920, a Benedictine Monastery was built by nuns who fled Belgium during the First World War.

Today, the grounds and interiors are open to visitors year-round. The estate has over 1000 acres of architecture and nature walks, including an enormous Victorian Walled Garden and a neo-Gothic church.

The Abbey is home to many myths and legends, but perhaps none so famous as the Battle of the Giants, which tells the tale of two Irish giants, Cú Chulainn and Fionn McCool, fighting by launching stones at each other – one of which is still present on the grounds of the Abbey; you can even make a wish on it.

Where to stay near Kylemore Abbey: Rosleague Manor Hotel

Trim Castle

If this iconic castle looks at all familiar to you, it might be because you saw it in a bit of film called Braveheart, so it’s pretty easy to see why it’s considered one of the best castles to visit in Ireland. Trim Castle in County Meath is the largest Norman castle in Ireland.

It was built in c. 1100 as a defense structure (its situation atop a hill overlooking the River Boyne was ideal for spotting invaders and reacting accordingly). Its towers are indeed a sight to behold; though a little ruined, this only adds to their beauty, as when standing within, you can look up the open, moss-covered turret and see the sky above.

Consider taking a guided tour to get the most out of your visit, as the guides are animated, knowledgeable, and informative. It’s a little piece of medieval history brought to life for an hour.

Where to stay near Trim Castle: Trim Castle Hotel

Kilkenny Castle

If you’re looking for somewhere to spend an afternoon, it’s pretty easy to let the hours tick away at Kilkenny Castle. Sitting beside the River Nore, the castle symbolizes medieval history from which the surrounding city grew.

The grounds boast sprawlings gardens which contain a more miniature rose garden, winding woodland pathways, and even an ornamental lake. They’re a charming place to wander around and imagine times long past.

Onsite is the Butler Art Gallery (formerly a servants’ quarters area), which hosts revolving displays of contemporary art. There is also a design center across the street featuring Irish crafts.

Where to stay near Kilkenny Castle: Butler House

Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

Giants Causeway

Giant’s Causeway isn’t just one of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland, but all of beautiful Ireland. If you know any of the natural landmarks of Northern Ireland, it has to be Giant’s Causeway. Almost 60 million years ago, the Giants Causeway was formed from, and this series of basalt rock columns is Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.

It is the one destination you can not miss on a trip to Northern Ireland. It’s a world-famous destination, and after visiting, we could see why. Rarely do we find such naturally beautiful spots on this planet.

We had two days of sunshine in Ireland, and we were lucky to spend one of them at the Giant’s Causeway. If you are driving yourself, note that it is £8.50 to park and access the cafe. However, we could avoid this charge by parking down the street and walking about 10 minutes to the main tourist entrance.

Where to stay near Giants Causeway: Causeway Hotel

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

I loved this spot in Ireland, definitely one of the best places to visit in Ireland! The Causeway Coast is a stunning place for a walk. Nearby to Giant’s Causeway, you can take a walk along the coast to check out a famous rope bridge perched between the beach and a tiny island. The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a small bridge, but it is well worth checking out given its height and hazardous location.

We were disappointed that it now costs money to walk across the bridge. So, we didn’t feel like dropping £8  to walk across a 15-meter long bridge. Instead, we enjoyed the beautiful coastline and snapped photographs of people crossing the bridge from the mainland.

As a side note, the overflow carpark here is known as the Larrybane Quarry. The former quarry was another setting from the Game of Thrones. The scene takes place in the third episode of Season 2 as Catelyn Stark meets with Renly Baratheon. So, if you’re a fan of the show, it’s well worth seeing!

Ballintoy Harbour

Ballinttoy Harbor is a charming little port town that used to be a port for shipping goods out of Northern Ireland. The historic harbor has made appearances in Game of Thrones, undoubtedly photogenic.

If you’re a fan of the fantasy series, its location was used as Pyke Bay on the Iron Islands.  The picturesque bay is the perfect place to park and have a midday picnic.

Dark Hedges

Surprise! Another Game of Thrones location also happens to be one of the most photographed in Northern Ireland. The site is famous for a long row of beech trees that overhang a stretch of road. It produced the effect of a tunnel and was purposely built to impress visitors to the Georgian mansion the Gracehill House.

The tree-lined street has been standing for two centuries and has only grown with age. We arrived a bit too late in the day to snap many photos because we had spent too long admiring the beauty of Giant’s Causeway. It’s one of the best places in Ireland to visit if you’re a photographer.

Rathlin Island

Just a short ferry ride off the coast lies Rathlin Island. The island is well known for its resident bird population. You can find puffins, guillemots, and razorbills in the right season. The island also plays an essential part in Scottish and Irish history as the famous Robert the Bruce retreated to the island in exile after being defeated by the English.

However, in his darkest hour on the picturesque island, he found inspiration through a spider and decided that he’d continue to fight for Scottish independence. The story has lived on in Scottish and Irish history, and spiders a treasured because they inspired a king!

It’s a charming island that you can reach via ferry. Several pubs, guesthouses, and friendly locals will be waiting for visitors who decide to make a worthwhile trip.

Bushmills

In the town of Bushmills, you can find the birthplace of Ireland’s most well-known whiskey producer. The distillery is still in operation, offering visitors a chance to tour and sample some of their whiskeys.

The whiskey dates back to 1784! I’m a big fan of whiskey and always jump at the chance to learn some more about the spirit. Tickets for a distillery tour are £8 per adult.

Belfast

It’s not your standard tourist city, but those always seem to be our favorites. Not long ago, the town was known for violence, The Troubles, that rocked it as Protestants and Catholics clashed.

However, since then, the city has made a triumphant return and continues to pull in more tourists every year. I love everything there is to do in Belfast – especially the Titanic Museum! Head to the city for pubs, museums, Victorian restored buildings, intriguing history, and culinary bites.

Where to stay in Belfast: Dukes At Queens

Londonderry

Also known as Derry, this is the second city in Northern Ireland. It was once an important inland port that used the River Foyle, but after the division of Ireland, it lost its natural hinterland.

It has a long history with impressive 17th-century walls around the old town that remain mostly intact. We took an afternoon off sightseeing and just strolled around the city to check coffee shops and restaurants.

Where to stay in Londonderry: Serendipity House

Tollymore Forest Park

Tollymore is a dense forest that feels like taking a step into a fairytale. Its playful garden designs date back to the 18th century, and since then, it has only grown with age. In an old wood forest, you can find grottos, “castles,” caves, bridges, and rocky outcrops.

Many of the trees here were planted as part of an experiment, as you can find monkey puzzles, eucalyptus, redwoods, and Monterey pines. The forest feels magical, and it shouldn’t be any surprise it has made a few film appearances, including (what else?) Game of Thrones.

Where to stay near Tollymore: Slieve Donard

Best Places to Visit in Ireland Map

Quick Ireland Travel Tips

• ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Gaelic: “Dia dhuit” and “Go raibh maith agat”
• Currency: Euro – (EUR) – € in the Republic of Ireland and the pound sterling (GBP) – £ in Northern Ireland
• Visa: The Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland are separate countries on the island of Ireland. The Republic of Ireland known as ‘Ireland’ grants 90-day visas. Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom also grants 90 days.
• Weather: Expect lots of weather! Ireland is known for having rapid shifts in and lots of rain – it’s only the only reason a country like Ireland remains so green and fertile. See our full packing list here.
• Get Around: The best way to get to see all these amazing places is to rent a car in Ireland. Here are our best tips for driving around Ireland.

When is the Best Time to Travel Beautiful Ireland?

If you’re still wondering when the best time to visit Ireland for good weather is summer. You stand your best chance of good weather in beautiful Ireland between July and early September. Temperatures range from 15°C-21°C.

You’ll find locals enjoying the sunny weather and festivals in the countryside and the city. It’s the perfect time to enjoy a pint of Guinness outside and watch life go by!

What to Pack for Beautiful Ireland?

Are you wondering what to wear in Ireland? The Emerald Isle has drawn many tourists from all over the world to its shores for decades. Perhaps it’s ancestral pasts for so many Americans that draw people to Ireland. Or it could merely be the friendly locals who create such a welcoming atmosphere in a stunning country rich in heritage.