A trip to Ireland offers a mix of stunning landscapes, historic sites, vibrant cities, and rich cultural experiences. Here's what you need to know for your visit:
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Mild weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer tourists.
Summer (June–August): Warmest weather, long daylight hours, and lots of festivals. However, it’s the busiest and most expensive season.
Autumn (September–November): Beautiful fall colors, moderate weather, and smaller crowds.
Winter (December–February): Cold and rainy, but great for cozy pubs, Christmas markets, and lower travel costs.
Things to Do
Experience Irish pubs – Enjoy traditional music, Guinness, and friendly locals.
Visit castles – From Blarney Castle to Ashford Castle, Ireland is full of historic fortresses.
Hiking & outdoor activities – The Wicklow Mountains, Killarney National Park, and the Causeway Coast offer great trails.
Explore ancient sites – Visit Newgrange, an older-than-the-pyramids tomb.
Whiskey tasting – Tour distilleries in Jameson, Bushmills, and Tullamore Dew.
Transportation
Renting a car is the best way to explore the countryside, but remember they drive on the left side!
Trains & buses connect major cities but have limited service in rural areas.
Domestic flights are available but rarely necessary due to Ireland’s small size.
Top Destinations
Cities
Dublin – The capital city, known for Trinity College, Guinness Storehouse, Temple Bar, and historic sites.
Cork – Famous for the English Market, Blarney Castle, and a lively food scene.
Galway – A vibrant artsy city with great pubs, live music, and easy access to the Cliffs of Moher.
Belfast – The capital of Northern Ireland, home to the Titanic Museum and political murals.
Scenic & Historic Attractions
Cliffs of Moher – Breathtaking sea cliffs on the west coast.
Ring of Kerry – A scenic drive with mountains, lakes, and coastal views.
Giant’s Causeway (Northern Ireland) – A UNESCO World Heritage site with unique hexagonal basalt columns.
The Wild Atlantic Way – A coastal route with stunning ocean views and charming villages.
Connemara National Park – Known for rugged landscapes, hiking trails, and wild ponies.
Rock of Cashel – A medieval castle and cathedral complex.
Travel Tips
Currency: Euro (€) in the Republic of Ireland, British Pound (£) in Northern Ireland.
Weather: Often unpredictable—bring a rain jacket and layers!
Power plugs: Type G (same as the UK).
Tipping: Not expected in pubs, but 10-15% in restaurants is standard.
Visa: Many nationalities (including the US, Canada, and most of Europe) don’t need a visa for short stays.