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Ireland
Ireland captivates with its rolling green landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore vibrant cities like Dublin, enjoy the scenic beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, and experience warm hospitality in charming villages. Ireland's blend of natural beauty and lively traditions makes it a must-visit destination.
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Summary
Overview
Months
05. May, 11. November, 03. March, 10. October, 06. June, 09. September, 02. February, 01. January, 12. December, 07. July, 08. August, 04. April
Vacation type
Sightseeing, Nature, Party, Family, Couple, Hiking
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
0-10°C, 10-20°C
Rainfall
0-50mm, 50-100mm
Safety
Very safe
Continent
Europe
Currency
Euro
Languages
English, Irish
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Ireland is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These months offer mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and beautiful landscapes.
- Spring (April to June): Features pleasant weather with blooming flowers and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring cities like Dublin and Galway, as well as enjoying the countryside and coastal areas.
- Autumn (September to October): Provides cooler temperatures and stunning fall colors, perfect for sightseeing with fewer crowds and more affordable prices compared to the summer months.
Summer (July to August) is also a good time to visit, with warmer weather and numerous festivals, but it is the peak tourist season, leading to higher prices and more crowds.
Winter (November to March) can be cold and wet, with shorter daylight hours and potential for frost or snow. However, it’s a good time for experiencing Ireland’s cozy pubs, cultural events, and fewer tourists.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: June-August (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($40-100/day)
Accommodation: $25-50/night (budget hostels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-25/day (local food, pubs).
Activities: $10-25/day (sightseeing, free museums).
Transportation: $5-15/day (public transportation, local buses).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($100-200/day)
Accommodation: $50-100/night (mid-range hotels, B&Bs).
Food: $20-40/day (restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $20-40/day (tours, historical sites).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local taxis, rentals).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (shopping, extra activities).
Luxury Vacation ($200+/day)
Accommodation: $100+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private taxis, rentals).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Off-Peak Season: September-May (Fall & Winter)
Budget Vacation ($30-80/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget accommodations).
Food: $10-20/day (local restaurants).
Activities: $5-15/day (sightseeing, cultural activities).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($80-150/day)
Accommodation: $40-80/night (mid-range accommodations).
Food: $15-30/day (local eateries).
Activities: $10-25/day (local tours, museums).
Transportation: $10-20/day (taxis, local transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $70+/night (luxury resorts).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $20+/day (exclusive experiences, private tours).
Transportation: $15+/day (private taxis).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Dublin
- The capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, historic landmarks like Trinity College and Dublin Castle, and lively neighborhoods such as Temple Bar.
2. Cork
- Known for its charming streets, the English Market, and the nearby Blarney Castle. It’s a gateway to exploring the beautiful landscapes of County Cork.
3. Galway
- Famous for its artistic atmosphere, colorful buildings, and annual festivals. Key attractions include the Spanish Arch, Galway Cathedral, and the nearby Connemara region.
4. Limerick
- Known for its medieval history and landmarks such as King John’s Castle and the Treaty Stone. The city also offers cultural events and a vibrant arts scene.
5. Kilkenny
- Renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral, as well as its lively arts and crafts scene.
Dublin
Islands
1. Achill Island
- Known for its dramatic landscapes, including cliffs, beaches, and mountains. It’s the largest island off the coast of Ireland and offers a range of outdoor activities.
2. Aran Islands
- A group of three islands (Inis Mór, Inis Meain, and Inis Meadhon) known for their traditional Irish culture, ancient stone forts, and rugged landscapes.
3. Skellig Michael
- Famous for its monastic settlement and steep, rocky terrain. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers stunning views and historical interest.
4. Garnish Island
- Located in County Cork, this island is known for its beautiful gardens and scenic walking trails. It’s a popular spot for its tranquil atmosphere and diverse plant life.
5. Tory Island
- Off the coast of Donegal, known for its unique community, vibrant local culture, and beautiful coastal scenery. It offers a more remote and authentic island experience.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Cliffs of Moher
- Admire the dramatic sea cliffs rising over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking coastal views.
2. Killarney National Park
- Explore the scenic landscapes of lakes, mountains, and woodlands, including the picturesque Muckross House and Gardens.
3. Giant’s Causeway
- Marvel at the unique basalt columns formed by volcanic activity on this UNESCO World Heritage site.
4. Connemara
- Discover the rugged beauty of this region with its lakes, mountains, and traditional Irish villages.
5. Ring of Kerry
- Drive or tour this scenic route through lush landscapes, charming towns, and coastal views.
6. Dingle Peninsula
- Enjoy the stunning coastal scenery, sandy beaches, and historical sites of this picturesque peninsula.
Cultural Attractions
1. Trinity College Dublin
- Visit the historic university to see the Book of Kells and explore the impressive Old Library.
2. Dublin Castle
- Explore the historic castle with its medieval and Georgian architecture and learn about its significant role in Irish history.
3. Kilmainham Gaol
- Tour this historic prison in Dublin, known for its role in Ireland’s struggle for independence.
4. Blarney Castle
- Kiss the famous Blarney Stone and explore the castle’s beautiful gardens and historic ruins.
5. The Rock of Cashel
- Discover this ancient site with its impressive medieval buildings perched on a limestone hill.
6. Galway’s Latin Quarter
- Experience the vibrant culture of Galway through its lively streets, historic buildings, and traditional music.
How to get around
1.Domestic Flights
- For traveling between major cities and regional destinations, domestic flights are available. Aer Lingus and Ryanair offer flights connecting Dublin with cities like Cork, Shannon, Galway, and Knock.
2. Trains
- Ireland has an extensive rail network operated by Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann). The train system connects major cities and towns, including Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway, and Waterford. The DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) and Commuter Rail services cover the Dublin metropolitan area and surrounding regions.
3. Public Buses
- Public buses operate in cities and towns throughout Ireland. In Dublin, Dublin Bus provides extensive coverage. For intercity travel, companies like Bus Éireann and CityLink offer services between major cities and towns.
4. Metro
- Dublin has a light rail system known as the LUAS (Light Rail Transit), which consists of two lines (Red and Green) covering key areas of the city and suburbs. Plans for an expanded metro system are in development.
5. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
- Taxis are readily available in cities and can be hailed on the street or booked by phone. Ride-hailing apps like Uber operate in Dublin, and local services like Free Now (formerly MyTaxi) are also popular.
6. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring Ireland’s scenic countryside, coastal routes, and remote areas. Driving is on the left side of the road. Major car rental agencies like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Enterprise operate in Dublin, Cork, and other cities.
7. Motorcycles and Scooters
- Renting a motorcycle or scooter can be an option for short-distance travel and exploring local areas. Ensure you have a valid license and are familiar with local traffic conditions.
8. Bicycles
- In Dublin and other cities, bike-sharing schemes and rental services are available. Dublinbikes offers bike rentals for exploring the city. Cycling is also popular for enjoying scenic routes and coastal paths.
9. Ferries
- For travel to and from Ireland’s offshore islands, such as the Aran Islands or the Blasket Islands, ferry services are available. Companies like Island Ferries and Doolin Ferry Company provide these services.
10. Local Minibuses and Coaches
- In rural areas and smaller towns, local minibuses and coach services provide essential connectivity and can be booked for private tours.
For getting around Ireland, domestic flights and trains are useful for long-distance travel, while public buses and the LUAS light rail provide city and regional transportation. Car rentals offer flexibility for exploring various regions, and taxis and ride-hailing apps provide convenience for local travel. Bicycles, motorcycles, and ferries offer additional options for enjoying the country's landscapes and islands.
What to eat
1. Irish Stew
- A hearty stew made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, showcasing traditional flavors.
2. Colcannon
- Mashed potatoes mixed with cabbage or kale, often enjoyed as a side dish.
3. Soda Bread
- A dense bread made with baking soda instead of yeast, often served with butter.
4. Boxty
- A traditional potato pancake made from grated potatoes, often served with sour cream.
5. Black Pudding
- A type of blood sausage made from pork blood, fat, and spices, commonly enjoyed at breakfast.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Dublin Airport (DUB)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €50 to €200.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $800.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,000 to $1,600.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Many travelers, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the U.K., do not need a visa to enter Ireland for short stays.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Citizens from several countries can enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply for an Irish visa at an Irish embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- Common visa types include:
- Short Stay Visa: For tourism or business, allowing stays up to 90 days.
- Long Stay Visa: For work, study, or family reunification.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take from 8 to 12 weeks, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
6. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days; visa holders can stay for the duration specified in their visa.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug type G (three rectangular pins) is used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, usually around 10-15% for good service.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Vodafone and Three. They can be purchased at stores.
6. Driving Side
- In Ireland, people drive on the left side of the road.