Explore Ireland's Emerald Isle

From dramatic coastlines to ancient castles and vibrant culture - discover when and how to visit the land of a hundred thousand welcomes safely

Scenic Irish Landscape

Ireland's Celtic Adventures Await

Experience rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, charming villages and rich Celtic heritage

Ideal Travel Time

When to experience Ireland's mild climate and vibrant culture

πŸ—ΊοΈ Planning Your Irish Adventure

The best time to visit Ireland, balancing cost, weather, and special events, is typically during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May to early June) and early autumn (September to October).

Cost: These periods are outside the peak tourist season (July and August), so you'll likely find more reasonable prices for flights and accommodations.

Weather: Late spring and early autumn in Ireland usually offer milder weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The days are relatively long, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant.

Dublin, Ireland - May 23, 2024: Tourists stroll in the Temple Bar district

Explore Dublin's vibrant Temple Bar district

Essential Travel Tips

Important travel tips, safety advice, and general suggestions for Ireland

πŸ›‚ Travel Documentation

Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. Check if you need a visa or any additional documentation based on your nationality.

πŸ’Š Health Insurance

While Ireland has good healthcare services, it's advisable to have travel health insurance for unexpected medical expenses.

πŸ’Ά Currency

Ireland uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially in rural areas.

πŸš— Transportation

Ireland has a well-connected public transport system. Renting a car is also a popular option for flexibility, especially for exploring the countryside. Remember, driving is on the left side of the road.

πŸ”’ Safety

Ireland is generally a very safe destination. However, as in any tourist area, be aware of your belongings and surroundings, especially in crowded places.

🌦️ Weather

Irish weather is known for being unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproof clothing, and comfortable walking shoes.

πŸ”Œ Electricity

Ireland uses Type G electrical plugs, so bring an adapter for your devices if necessary.

πŸ—£οΈ Communication

English is widely spoken. Irish (Gaelic) is also an official language, mostly used in certain areas of the west.

πŸ’¬ Cultural Etiquette

Irish people are known for their friendliness. Respect local customs and traditions, and try engaging in friendly conversations.

πŸ’° Tipping

Tipping in Ireland is appreciated but not compulsory. A 10-15% tip in restaurants and for services is customary if a service charge hasn't already been added.

Ready for Your Irish Adventure? By following these tips and staying informed, your trip to Ireland can be both enjoyable and memorable. Have an amazing journey exploring the Emerald Isle's stunning landscapes and rich culture!

Join the Journey

Discover Ireland's enchanting landscapes and rich heritage with our expertly crafted itineraries

Epic sunlight by the beach and big rocky cliffs with parrots flying around. El Condor, Rio Negro province, Argentina

Experience the dramatic beauty of Ireland's iconic coastal cliffs - where land meets the wild Atlantic

Your Ultimate 7-Day Irish Adventure

A one-week journey through Ireland offers a splendid opportunity to explore its vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and rich historical sites from Dublin to the Wild Atlantic Way.

1-2 Dublin

  • Activities: Explore historic Dublin streets, Guinness Storehouse tour, Trinity College and Book of Kells, Dublin Castle and National Museum.
  • Transport: Train or car to Cork (2.5 hours).

3 Cork

  • Activities: English Market visit, Cork City Gaol, St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, Blarney Castle and Stone.
  • Transport: Drive or bus to Killarney (1.5 hours).

4-5 Killarney & Kerry

  • Activities: Ring of Kerry scenic drive, Killarney National Park, Muckross House and Gardens, jaunting car ride.
  • Transport: Drive or bus to Galway (3 hours).

Travel Tips

Car Rental: Explore at your own pace.

Weather: Pack layers and waterproofs.

Booking: Pre-book popular attractions.

6-7 Galway & Cliffs of Moher

  • Activities: Explore Galway's cobblestone streets, Galway City Museum, Cliffs of Moher day trip, Burren National Park.
  • Departure: Return to Dublin (2.5 hours by car or train).

This itinerary provides the perfect introduction to Ireland's historic cities, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality! πŸ€πŸ°

14-Day Ultimate Ireland Adventure

Embark on a comprehensive two-week journey through Ireland, exploring stunning landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems from Dublin to Northern Ireland.

1 Week 1: Southern Ireland

Day 1-3: Dublin
  • Activities: Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, Temple Bar nightlife.
  • Transport: Rent car or train to Kilkenny (1.5 hours).
Day 4: Kilkenny
  • Activities: Kilkenny Castle, medieval streets, St. Canice's Cathedral, Black Abbey.
  • Transport: Drive or bus to Cork (2 hours).
Day 5-6: Cork & Cobh
  • Activities: English Market, Cork City Gaol, Cobh Heritage Centre, Titanic Museum.
  • Transport: Drive/train to Killarney (1.5 hours).

2 Week 2: West & Northern Ireland

Day 7: Killarney
  • Activities: Ring of Kerry drive, Killarney National Park, Muckross House, Ross Castle.
  • Transport: Drive to Galway.
Day 8-9: Galway
  • Activities: Explore Galway City, Cliffs of Moher day trip, Burren, local culture.
  • Transport: Drive to Donegal (3.5 hours).
Day 10-11: Donegal
  • Activities: Donegal Castle, Glenveagh National Park, scenic beaches, local traditions.
  • Transport: Drive to Derry.
Day 12-14: Northern Ireland

Derry:

  • Walk city walls
  • Tower Museum
  • Peace Bridge

Belfast:

  • Titanic Belfast
  • Black Taxi Tour
  • Crumlin Road Gaol

Travel Tips

Driving: Left-side driving, rent car for flexibility.
Weather: Pack waterproof clothing and layers.
Cuisine: Try Irish stew, local seafood, pub experiences.
Culture: Irish people are famously friendly.

This 14-day itinerary blends Ireland's vibrant cities, historic landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences! πŸ€βœ¨

Your Ultimate 21-Day Irish Adventure

Embark on an extraordinary journey through Ireland's most captivating landscapes, historic cities, and hidden gems. This comprehensive 3-week exploration covers the entire Emerald Isle.

1 Week 1: Dublin and Ireland's Ancient East

Day 1-3: Dublin
  • Activities: Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, Book of Kells, St. Stephen's Green, Temple Bar nightlife.
  • Transport: Rent car or train to Kilkenny (1.5 hours).
Day 4-5: Kilkenny
  • Activities: Kilkenny Castle, medieval streets, St. Canice's Cathedral, Black Abbey.
  • Transport: Drive to Cork (2 hours).
Day 6-7: Cork & Cobh
  • Activities: English Market, Cork City Gaol, Cobh Heritage Centre, Titanic Experience.
  • Transport: Drive to Killarney (1.5 hours).

2 Week 2: The Wild Atlantic Way

Day 8-9: Killarney & Kerry
  • Activities: Ring of Kerry drive, Killarney National Park, Muckross House, Ross Castle.
  • Transport: Drive to Dingle (1 hour).
Day 10-11: Dingle
  • Activities: Slea Head Drive, Dingle Distillery, dolphin watching, scenic peninsulas.
  • Transport: Drive to Galway (2.5 hours).
Day 12-13: Galway
  • Activities: Explore Galway City, Cliffs of Moher, Burren National Park, local culture.
  • Transport: Drive to Donegal (3 hours).

3 Week 3: Northern Ireland & Dublin

Day 14-16: Donegal
  • Activities: Donegal Castle, Glenveagh National Park, scenic beaches, local traditions.
  • Transport: Drive to Derry.
Day 17-18: Derry & Belfast
  • Activities: Derry city walls, Tower Museum, Titanic Belfast, Black Taxi Tour, Crumlin Road Gaol.
  • Transport: Drive to Dublin (2 hours).
Day 19-21: Dublin
  • Activities: Revisit favorite spots, coastal walks in Howth or Bray, missed museums, final experiences.
  • Departure: From Dublin Airport.

Travel Tips

Driving: Drive on left, expect narrow roads.
Weather: Pack layers, prepare for rain.
Local Experiences: Engage with locals, enjoy pub music.
Heritage: Consider Heritage Card for discounts.

This comprehensive 21-day itinerary offers an unforgettable exploration of Ireland, blending historic cities, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences! πŸ€πŸŒˆ

Ready for Your Irish Adventure?

From Dublin's historic streets to the Cliffs of Moher - the Emerald Isle awaits your discovery!

Discover Ireland

Explore Ireland's Top Destinations

From dramatic coastal cliffs to ancient castles, vibrant cities to mystical landscapes - discover the magic of the Emerald Isle's most breathtaking destinations

Beautiful landscapes of the Ring of Kerry route Ireland

πŸ€ The Ring of Kerry - Ireland's most scenic coastal route. Begin your journey through this ancient land of legends, and explore 18 more incredible destinations across the Emerald Isle.

Dublin

2-3 days

Activities: Visit the Guinness Storehouse, explore Trinity College and see the Book of Kells, wander through Temple Bar

Accommodation: Boutique hotels in the city center, historic Georgian guesthouses

Specialties: Irish stew, Guinness, boxty

Galway

2 days

Activities: Enjoy live music in the pubs, stroll along Salthill Promenade, visit Galway City Museum

Accommodation: City center hotels, waterfront apartments

Specialties: Galway oysters, Connemara smoked salmon

Cliffs of Moher

1 day

Activities: Walk along the cliffs, visit visitor center, enjoy breathtaking natural views

Accommodation: Cozy B&Bs in Doolin

Specialties: Seafood chowder, craft beers

Ring of Kerry

2-3 days

Activities: Drive the scenic route, visit Killarney National Park, explore quaint towns like Kenmare

Accommodation: Lakeside hotels, traditional cottages

Specialties: Kerry lamb, Skelligs chocolate

Cork

2 days

Activities: Explore the English Market, visit Cork City Gaol, day trip to Blarney Castle

Accommodation: Boutique hotels in the city, countryside B&Bs

Specialties: Drisheen (black pudding), Cork dry gin

Dingle Peninsula

2-3 days

Activities: Drive the Slea Head Drive, spot Fungie the Dingle Dolphin on a boat tour, visit ancient beehive huts

Accommodation: Family-run guesthouses, seaside cottages

Specialties: Fresh seafood, Dingle Gin

Killarney National Park

2-3 days

Activities: Visit Muckross House and Gardens, hike to Torc Waterfall, enjoy a boat ride on the lakes

Accommodation: Historic hotels, eco-friendly lodges

Specialties: Boxty, locally sourced venison

Giant's Causeway

1 day

Activities: Explore unique basalt columns, visit Visitor Experience, hike the coastal path

Accommodation: Charming guesthouses, seaside hotels

Specialties: Irish whiskey, Ulster fry

Belfast

2-3 days

Activities: Visit the Titanic Belfast museum, explore the historic City Hall, take a black cab tour of the political murals

Accommodation: Modern city hotels, historic inns

Specialties: Soda bread, Belfast bap, Bushmills whiskey

Connemara

2-3 days

Activities: Visit Connemara National Park, explore Kylemore Abbey, experience the rugged landscape

Accommodation: Lakeside lodges, traditional Irish cottages

Specialties: Connemara lamb, Irish poitΓ­n

Kilkenny

1-2 days

Activities: Visit Kilkenny Castle, explore the medieval Mile, enjoy the vibrant arts scene

Accommodation: Historic hotels, charming inns

Specialties: Kilkenny ale, local artisan cheeses

Wicklow Mountains

1-2 days

Activities: Hike to Glendalough and explore the monastic site, enjoy the scenic drives through the Sally Gap

Accommodation: Mountain retreats, cozy B&Bs

Specialties: Irish lamb stew, craft beers

The Burren

1-2 days

Activities: Explore unique limestone landscape, visit ancient dolmens, discover rare flora

Accommodation: Country houses, eco-friendly lodges

Specialties: Burren smoked salmon, local cheeses

Skellig Michael

1 day

Activities: Visit UNESCO World Heritage site, explore early Christian monastery, view Star Wars filming location

Accommodation: Stay in Portmagee or Valentia Island

Specialties: Fresh seafood, traditional Irish breakfast

Donegal

2-3 days

Activities: Visit Donegal Castle, explore Slieve League Cliffs, enjoy beaches of the Wild Atlantic Way

Accommodation: Seaside hotels, country B&Bs

Specialties: Donegal oysters, Irish lamb

Waterford

1-2 days

Activities: Visit the Waterford Crystal Factory, explore the Viking Triangle, enjoy the city's historic architecture

Accommodation: Boutique hotels, riverside inns

Specialties: Waterford blaa (bread), local seafood

Wexford

1-2 days

Activities: Visit the Irish National Heritage Park, explore the historic town center, enjoy the coastal scenery

Accommodation: Seaside resorts, traditional guesthouses

Specialties: Wexford strawberries, local seafood

Kildare

1-2 days

Activities: Visit the Irish National Stud, explore the Japanese Gardens, enjoy the racing heritage

Accommodation: Equestrian-themed hotels, country lodges

Specialties: Local horse racing culture, traditional Irish cuisine

Ireland's Hidden Gems

Exploring Ireland through its hidden gems offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the country's breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture away from the crowds. This meticulously crafted itinerary is designed to guide you through lesser-known yet captivating destinations across Ireland, promising an authentic and memorable experience.

Day 1-3: Beara Peninsula

A less traveled but stunningly beautiful area in County Cork compared to the Ring of Kerry.

Activities:

Drive the scenic Beara Way, visit Castletownbere, hike to the Uragh Stone Circle, and take a cable car to Dursey Island.

Day 4-6: Inishowen Peninsula

The northernmost point of mainland Ireland in County Donegal, offering rugged landscapes and rich history.

Activities:

Drive the Inishowen 100 scenic route and explore hidden beaches along the dramatic coastline.

Day 7-9: Connemara

County Galway's wild natural beauty awaits with stunning landscapes and historic sites.

Activities:

Hike in Connemara National Park, visit the magnificent Kylemore Abbey, and explore the breathtaking Sky Road.

Day 10-12: The Burren

A unique karst landscape in County Clare with fascinating flora and ancient sites.

Activities:

Explore the Burren National Park and enjoy traditional Irish music in charming villages throughout the region.

Travel Tips

Transportation

Renting a car is the best way to explore these off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own pace.

Accommodations

Stay in local B&Bs, country inns, or cottages for authentic Irish hospitality and charm.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer mild weather and fewer tourists.

Culinary Exploration

Discover unique regional flavors: savor local seafood, traditional Irish stews, and artisanal cheeses.

Beautiful landscapes of the Ring of Kerry route Ireland

Travel Budget for Ireland

Emerald Isle of castles and cliffs

Budget Travel

Accommodation

Hostels or budget hotels can cost around €20 to €40 per night.

Food

Eating at inexpensive restaurants or self-catering might average around €10 to €15 per meal.

Transportation

Using public transport, expect to spend about €10 to €20 per day.

Activities

Free or low-cost attractions can average around €5 to €15 per day.

Total Daily Cost: €45 - €90

Mid-Range Travel

Accommodation

Mid-range hotels or B&Bs typically cost about €60 to €120 per night.

Food

Dining at mid-tier restaurants can average €15 to €30 per meal.

Transportation

Renting a car or using more comfortable public transport might cost €20 to €40 per day.

Activities

Paid attractions and tours could average €20 to €40 per day.

Total Daily Cost: €115 - €230

Luxury Travel

Accommodation

Luxury hotels or upscale rentals can start from €150 upwards per night.

Food

High-end dining experiences can be around €30 to €70 or more per meal.

Transportation

Private drivers or first-class travel options might average €50 to €100 per day.

Activities

Exclusive tours, experiences, and entry fees to premium attractions can range from €40 to €100 or more per day.

Total Daily Cost: €270 - €420+

Planning Tips for Ireland

These are general estimates and prices in cities like Dublin might be higher, while smaller towns or rural areas could offer more affordable options. Always check current exchange rates and consider potential variations in costs due to seasonal changes or special events. The best time to visit is May-September for warmer weather. Don't miss the Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, and traditional Irish pubs!