Ireland

Things to Do in Ireland

Windswept coastlines, ancient history, and warm pub fires.

  • CapitalDublin
  • CurrencyEuro (EUR)
  • LanguageEnglish, Irish (Gaeilge)
  • Time zoneGMT / UTC+0 (IST / UTC+1 in summer)
  • Emergency112 or 999

Why visit Ireland?

Ireland, known as the Emerald Isle, offers a landscape shaped by Atlantic winds, ancient history, and a famously welcoming culture. From the jagged cliffs of the west coast to the historic streets of Dublin, the country balances rugged natural beauty with a rich literary and musical heritage. Whether you are searching for prehistoric passage tombs older than the pyramids or a quiet corner in a traditional pub, Ireland rewards slow, deliberate travel.

Planning a trip here requires preparing for highly changeable weather—local folklore says you can experience all four seasons in a single afternoon. The country's compact size makes it ideal for road trips, but narrow, winding rural lanes mean driving takes longer than distances suggest. Taking your time allows you to explore regional distinctiveness, from the Gaelic-speaking communities of Connemara to the culinary hubs of County Cork.

To experience Ireland at its best, venture beyond the major gateway of Dublin. Dedicate time to the Wild Atlantic Way, a 2,500-kilometer coastal route that showcases Europe's most dramatic maritime scenery. Embrace the local rhythm of craic by leaving room in your schedule for spontaneous detours, evening music sessions, and coastal walks.

The Cliffs of Moher

The Ring of Kerry

Trinity College & Book of Kells

Glendalough Valley

The Giant's Causeway

Connemara National Park

Popular regions

The East & Ancient East

The East & Ancient East

The Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way

The South & Southwest

The South & Southwest

The Hidden Heartlands

The Hidden Heartlands

When to visit Ireland

Based on average conditions in Ireland.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Temperature10°12°15°18°20°19°17°14°11°
Rain17d13d14d11d12d11d12d13d12d15d16d17d
CrowdsLowLowMedMedHighHighHighHighMedMedLowLow
  • Cold
  • Comfortable / dry / low crowds
  • Cool–hot / typical / moderate
  • Very hot / wetter / high crowds

Plan your trip to Ireland

Dublin & Surroundings

3-4 Days

The Wild Atlantic Way (Clare & Galway)

4-5 Days

Kerry & West Cork

3-4 Days

Northern Ireland Route

3 Days

Getting around Ireland

Car Rental

Trains (Irish Rail)

Buses (Bus Éireann & Private Coaches)

Costs, food & practical info

Costs

  • Budget

    €70 - €100 / day

  • Mid-range

    €150 - €250 / day

  • Luxury

    €350+ / day

Food & drinks

  • Full Irish Breakfast€12.00 - €16.00
  • Seafood Chowder with Brown Bread€8.00 - €12.00
  • Traditional Irish Stew€15.00 - €20.00
  • Pint of Guinness€5.50 - €7.50
  • Artisanal Farmhouse Cheese Board€12.00 - €18.00

Practical

  • Tipping Culture

  • Weather Preparedness

  • Driving in Ireland

  • Border Crossings

  • Opening Hours

Insight in one click

Frequently asked questions about visiting Ireland

How many days do I need in Ireland? +

A 10 to 14-day trip is ideal to see both the east and west coasts. A 7-day trip is best focused on one specific region, such as Dublin and the West Coast.

When is the best time to visit Ireland? +

May to September offers the warmest temperatures, longest daylight hours, and the best chance of dry weather, though July and August are highly crowded.

What is the first-timer route for Ireland? +

Start in Dublin for 2 days, travel west to Galway and Connemara, head south to view the Cliffs of Moher, drive the Ring of Kerry, and return via Kilkenny.

Is Ireland expensive to visit? +

Yes, particularly for accommodation in Dublin and car rentals during peak summer. You can save money by staying in B&Bs and eating hearty pub lunches instead of formal dinners.

Can I get around Ireland without a car? +

You can easily travel between cities like Dublin, Galway, and Cork by train or bus. However, reaching natural highlights like the Ring of Kerry or remote Atlantic beaches is much easier with a car.

Do I need cash, or is card widely accepted? +

Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, including taxis and small pubs. It is useful to carry a small amount of cash (€20-€50) for small rural vendors or tips.

What is the driving etiquette on narrow Irish country roads? +

Be prepared to reverse to a passing place if you meet an oncoming vehicle. It is customary to give a friendly wave of thanks to drivers who pull over to let you pass.