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Home / Ireland /


NO ONE EXPECTED THIS.

Nate Hake No one expected this. UpdatedJune 30, 2024
No one expected this. 36 Comments


I’m a full time traveler who has been to over 80 countries. And, while I usually
prefer less popular destinations, I have to admit that Ireland has totally
captured my heart. To help other travelers fall in love with the Emerald Isle
too, I put together these quick things to know before your trip.

You should also check out my Ireland Itinerary for a pre-planned route around
the island.

Want to jump around? [Show me the Table of Contents]

 * 17 Ireland Travel Tips to Know Before Visiting
   * #1 – Be Prepared for Every Season … In the Same Day!
   * #2 – Know the Difference Between Ireland and Northern Ireland
   * #3 – You May Need Euros and Pounds
   * #4 – Rent a Car to Fully Experience Ireland’s Countryside
   * #5 – A Week is the Perfect Amount of Time for Ireland
   * #6 – Resist the Temptation to Spend All Your Time in Dublin
   * #7 – Enjoy the Craic!
   * #8 – Try Ireland’s Other Stout – Murphy’s
   * #9 – Go to the Cliffs of Moher, But Go Early!
   * #10 – Tip 10-15% in Irish Restaurants and Pubs
   * #11 – Tourism in Ireland is Highly Seasonal
   * #12 – Ireland Has 5 International Airports to Choose From
   * #13 – You Can Travel Ireland Even on a Budget
   * #14 – Consider Travel Insurance Covering Ireland
   * #15 – Ireland Drives on the Left Hand Side!
   * #16 – And Look to Your RIGHT When Crossing
   * #17 – English is Not the Only Language in Ireland


17 IRELAND TRAVEL TIPS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING




#1 – BE PREPARED FOR EVERY SEASON … IN THE SAME DAY!

My hair doens’nt normally look this good – that’s just the crazy weather in
Ireland!

Ireland is famous for its damp but unpredictable climate. It can be bright and
sunny one minute, and windy and rainy the next. So be sure to pack for multiple
climates, wear layers, and to always keep a raincoat or a travel umbrella
nearby.

You should always expect that it might rain in Ireland, even on a sunny day.

Most importantly, keep a good attitude through it all: the shifting weather is
all part of the fun of traveling to Ireland, and all the rain is why Ireland is
so green and lush!




#2 – KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IRELAND AND NORTHERN IRELAND

Northern Ireland is the one in the north 😉

Ireland is the name of Europe’s second most populous island, and it is home to
both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The latter is much smaller
and, depending upon who you ask, Northern Ireland has been described as either a
country or province.

The important thing to remember is that Northern Ireland is part of the United
Kingdom, which means that you’ll have to cross a border to get there from the
Republic of Ireland.




#3 – YOU MAY NEED EUROS AND POUNDS

Ok, so we just went over how the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are in
separate countries. So this next one logically flows from that: the two use
different currencies!

Northern Ireland uses the Pound sterling, while the Republic of Ireland uses the
Euro. Fortunately, ATMs and currency exchanges are widely available on both
sides of the border – and credit cards are pretty widely accepted to boot – so
currency should be a pretty frictionless experience for most travelers.


#4 – RENT A CAR TO FULLY EXPERIENCE IRELAND’S COUNTRYSIDE

Driving is the best way to see Ireland

In my opinion, the best way to see Ireland is with a rental car.

Sure, it’s entirely possible to travel around Ireland by bus and train. Public
transport in Ireland is pretty good. The Irish trains are really nice and, even
where they don’t run, the buses are pretty plentiful.

Plus, there are plenty of tour companies willing to shuttle you around to the
country’s many sights. So, renting a car in Ireland isn’t mandatory to have a
good trip.

But the best parts of your trip are probably going to be things like finding
your new favorite pub in some random country village, stumbling upon an
under-touristed castle set against green rolling hills, or doing a road trip to
explore the many incredible Game of Thrones filming locations in Ireland.

These sort of spontaneous adventures are frankly much easier to have if you have
your own wheels. Plus, Ireland’s roads are of good quality and are incredibly
scenic. There is nothing quite as exciting as driving through Ireland’s green
countryside!

For more, check out our guide to renting a car in Dublin.




#5 – A WEEK IS THE PERFECT AMOUNT OF TIME FOR IRELAND

St. Ann’s Cathedral viewed from Grafton Street in Dublin, Ireland

There are so many things to do in Ireland that you could easily spend an entire
month on the island and never get bored.

But most tourists to Ireland visit for an average of about 7 days, which I
happen to think is more or less the perfect amount of time to soak in the
Emerald Isle.

If you need help planning your itinerary, check out my pre-planned 7 day Ireland
itinerary – I’ve already done all the work for you!




#6 – RESIST THE TEMPTATION TO SPEND ALL YOUR TIME IN DUBLIN

Killarney – one of many cool destinations outside Dublin!

Look, Dublin is a popular tourist city for a reason. It’s got an incredible pub
culture, charming architecture, and there are enough things to do in Dublin to
keep you busy for a few days in Dublin.

Dublin is so charming, in fact, that it can be tempting to stay in Dublin your
entire trip. There is just so much to do, even on rainy days in Dublin (of which
there are many), that the city tends to suck people in.

But even most Dubliners will privately admit that the best parts of Ireland are
outside of the city.

And while the island is small and it is perfectly possible to sample Ireland’s
green landscapes on day trips, to really immerse yourself in Ireland you should
plan to stay in any one of Ireland’s other awesome cities, towns, villages, or
hamlets.

Plus, Dublin is more expensive than the rest of the country, and you’ll find
better deals in the countryside. If you need some inspiration for where to go,
check out my guide on what to see in Ireland in 7 days.




#7 – ENJOY THE CRAIC!

“Enjoy the Craic” at one of Ireland’s many pubs (Pictured here: the Laurels pub
in Killarney)!

You won’t be in Ireland long before you hear the word “craic” bandied about
somewhere. So what does it mean exactly?

Well, I’ve heard a number of different translations depending on context, but it
usually means something like “good times,” “party,” or “entertainment,” though
it can also mean “gossip” or “chatter.” See here for a primer on the various
levels of craic – it’s definitely one of the things you should know before
traveling to Ireland!

In any event, craic epitomizes Ireland’s sociable culture. So saddle up on that
pub stool, put away your smartphone, and prepare to actually — you know — talk
to the people around you. You never know what kind of craic you might get into!




#8 – TRY IRELAND’S OTHER STOUT – MURPHY’S

Guinness isn’t the only stout in Ireland!

I don’t think there is a brand that is more intertwined with a single culture
than Guinness is with Ireland. And Guinness, for all its mass-marketing, is
still definitely something you’ll want to partake in while in Ireland. But did
you know that there is another stout that rivals Guinness in Ireland?

Murphy’s Irish Stout maintains a loyal following throughout much of the country,
and especially in its hometown of Cork. You can find it next to the Guinness in
most Irish pubs and you’ll find that it has its own unique dark flavor.

People tend to have a strong preference between the two stouts, so try both
early on and be prepared to choose a side in the great Irish stout war!




#9 – GO TO THE CLIFFS OF MOHER, BUT GO EARLY!

Get here early for the best shots!

The Cliffs of Moher are the single most popular attraction in Ireland for a
reason. In my opinion, you should definitely try to visit on your first trip to
Ireland if you can.

But, if you can, try to time your visit to the Cliffs of Moher so that you
arrive right at 8 am when they open, before the tour buses start to roll in.
You’ll be less likely to have to fight with another tourist for that perfect
Instagram shot!

Ok, but maybe you’re the type of traveler who prefers to skip the famous sites?
One of our writers Niamh grew up in Ireland. And she actually suggest visiting
Dingle vs the Cliffs of Moher if you’re short on time.




#10 – TIP 10-15% IN IRISH RESTAURANTS AND PUBS

If you forget cash, most places in Ireland do accept credit cards!

Ireland does not have as heavy of a tipping culture as you’d find in the United
States, but it’s still customary to leave 10-15% of your tab for service at a
restaurant or pub. Note that sometimes for large groups a service charge will
already be added.

For taxis in Ireland, tipping is usually not mandatory or expected, though it
never hurts to round up the tab.




#11 – TOURISM IN IRELAND IS HIGHLY SEASONAL

Summer brings crowds to Ireland, especially Dublin

Planning a trip to Ireland is very different during the summer peak tourism
seasons versus the less popular winter. Typically, July and August are the peak
months for Ireland’s tourism season.

If you choose to visit Ireland during this time, you might find it a little
pricier and you definitely will want to book your hotel in advance.

Alternatively, consider visiting Ireland during shoulder season (April, May,
June, September or October), when prices are a bit lower and attractions a bit
less crowded. The weather is still ok though (well, as “ok” as it gets in a
country that’s constantly overcast).

Note that if you travel to Ireland in the winter months you may find some of the
more rural attractions to be closed or have limited hours, though the major
sites should all be open. For more, see Matthew’s full guide to when to visit
Ireland.




#12 – IRELAND HAS 5 INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS TO CHOOSE FROM

The Shannon Airport. (photo: upthebanner / 123rf)

If you’re looking for cheap flights to Ireland, you’re probably just pricing out
flights to the Dublin airport.

One of my favorite hacks is to be sure to also look at flights from the island’s
other international airports: Cork Airport, Shannon Airport, Knock Airport, and
Belfast Airport.

Sure, there are loads more flights to Dublin, but some of the alternative
airports also run direct routes to the United States, so it’s worth checking!




#13 – YOU CAN TRAVEL IRELAND EVEN ON A BUDGET

Sure, Ireland isn’t the cheapest place to travel in the world. But, as
destinations in Europe go, Ireland is surprisingly manageable for budget
travelers.

Here are some practical ways to save money:

 * 🛏️ Stay in Hostels – Ireland has a pretty healthy backpacking circuit, plus
   lots of students studying abroad, so that means that most of the major cities
   have hostels and budget inns that cater to the shoestring budget crowd.
 * 🚍 Take Public Transport – Ireland has a pretty great bus system.
 * 🍽️ Cook Your Own Food – It helps if your apartment or hotel has a kitchen,
   but even just using a kettle to make a couple ramen lunches can save money.
 * ✨ Join a Work / Accommodation Exchange – You can find many opportunities to
   exchange volunteer work for accommodation on a platform like Worldpackers.


#14 – CONSIDER TRAVEL INSURANCE COVERING IRELAND

Traveling was fraught with risk even before the global health crisis, but these
days you really don’t want to take any chances.

While travel to Ireland is very safe, and crime rates are quite low, you never
know what might happen in a foreign country. That’s why I personally chose to
get Ireland travel insurance.


#15 – IRELAND DRIVES ON THE LEFT HAND SIDE!

A road near Connemara, Ireland

Remember Ireland drives on the left side of the road in Ireland (both the
Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland). It’ll require an adjustment if you’re
used to driving on the right, but you can totally handle it.




#16 – AND LOOK TO YOUR RIGHT WHEN CROSSING

As a corollary to our previous tip, crossing the street in Ireland means turning
your head to look to the right.

If you’re visiting Ireland from the USA or another right-side driving country,
you might be instinctively used to looking left, so this is one of those things
you’ll have to remind yourself of for safety’s sake!


#17 – ENGLISH IS NOT THE ONLY LANGUAGE IN IRELAND

No, don’t worry: you’ll be able to get by just fine with your English while
traveling to Ireland. Ireland is actually a predominately English-speaking
island (although I’ll admit I’ve often had to strain to understand the Irish
accent).

But you should be aware that in the Republic of Ireland both English and Gaelic
are considered official languages under the Irish Constitution. So don’t be
surprised to find signs on roads or in shops that are in both English and
Gaelic!

***

Now you’re ready for your trip to Ireland. Let me know if you have questions in
the comments.

Ireland is an incredible, gorgeous country, and I hope you have as much fun
there as I did.

Oh, and before you go to Ireland for the first time, be sure to read my Guide to
Ireland in 7 Days! It’s packed with a detailed itinerary you can totally feel
free to steal!

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Nate Hake

Nate Hake is the founder and CEO of Travel Lemming. Nate left his home in the
USA and his career as a corporate attorney in 2016 to explore the world full
time. Nate has been traveling the world ever since, and is especially
experienced traveling Mexico, Europe, Argentina, and Thailand. Nate’s travel
advice has been featured in dozens of international publications, including NBC
News, CNN, Mic, Business Insider, Mashable, and Yahoo News.

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 1.  Tweedy says:
     January 11, 2018 at 4:08 am
     
     Hello Nate. I will be traveling to Ireland in July 2018. Where would you
     suggest I start my tour. Will be hiring a car at the Dublin airport . Need
     to make accommodation reservations. This is my 1st visit. So don’t know
     much about the different cities and places. Will be there for 8 Days And
     would like to visit as many places as possible
     
     Reply
     1. Nate says:
        January 11, 2018 at 8:27 am
        
        Hi Tweedy,
        
        Where will you be coming from? If you’ve got a car already, and you’re
        not coming off some long flight that will make you tired, I’d say it
        makes sense to head straight west and then loop back to Dublin at the
        end of your trip. So that means you could start in Cork, Killarney, or
        Galway depending on what you’re looking to see.
        
        -Nate
        
        Reply
        
     
 2.  Priscilla says:
     March 13, 2019 at 9:33 pm
     
     Hi Nate! I just stumbled onto your blog as I looked for tips for our
     upcoming trip. We are hoping to go in August or September. Is there a
     difference in temperature during those two months? I’m from Alabama, so I’m
     used to heat and rain, but I’m hoping for some warm not very hot temps.
     Fingers crossed! We are planning to rent a car and see where the road leads
     us. Any tips on packing? I have heard that the cars are tiny, so is it best
     to pack in a carry on? Thanks for your great info.
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        March 13, 2019 at 11:14 pm
        
        Hey Priscilla! I think you’re going to love Ireland, although fair
        warning that it may not be quite as warm as you want (though it will
        depend and you might get lucky). Get ready for rain more than anything
        else!
        
        And while the cars are tiny, unless you are a family, I think you’re
        going to be fine with a normal size suitcase. For packing, just be sure
        to bring gear for the rain (umbrella, rain jacket, some good waterproof
        shoes). Otherwise just good layered clothing and you should be fine!
        
        Have a great trip and please do let me know if there is anything I can
        help with!
        Nate
        
        Reply
        
     
 3.  David Rousculp says:
     May 1, 2022 at 9:01 am
     
     Is there any tickets or passes I should buy prior to arriving? I’ll be
     there in the end of July 2022.
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        May 1, 2022 at 9:36 am
        
        The main thing is to make sure you have any reservations done before you
        get to Ireland, as July is busy. Hotels and rental cars tend to book up.
        Most of the major sites, such as Cliffs of Moher, do have sufficient
        capacity. It might be a good idea to buy your Guinness ticket in advance
        though.
        
        Reply
        
     
 4.  Kelly Chambers says:
     July 1, 2022 at 10:20 pm
     
     Hi Nate, My friend and I are going to Dublin and Belfast in June, 2023.
     Does it matter which order we should see/stay the cities?
     Thanks!
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        July 2, 2022 at 2:52 am
        
        No it doesn’t really matter much. Visiting whichever city is best for
        the flight you get in and out of Ireland. Have fun!
        
        Reply
        
     
 5.  Mary O'Keeffe says:
     November 28, 2022 at 6:50 pm
     
     Hi Nate. Great article. As an Irish citizen, I would recommend staying as
     little time as possible in Dublin. The real charm of Ireland is the west
     coast, Kerry, Galway, Clare, Mayo, Donegal. As an Irish person I dont like
     Dublin and urge you all to experience the real Ireland on the West. Much
     nicer scenery, friendlier people, great ‘craic’, traditional music, you
     might see some locals speaking Irish or ‘Gaelic’.
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        November 29, 2022 at 6:07 am
        
        Great tips thank you Mary!
        
        Reply
        
     2. Tara Byerly says:
        December 16, 2022 at 10:12 pm
        
        Hi Mary,
        My name is Tara and I am planning on visiting the Island either in
        November of 2023 or March of 2023. It’s my first visit and I really want
        to see some of the places that my ancestors came from. I’m a descendant
        of the O’Flarety’s, O’Wheeler’s, O’Terrel’s, and the Eskew’s all of
        Ireland. My mother’s mother’s side of the family is FULL BLOODED Irish
        and very proud of it.. I would like to know more about where they
        originated from and be able to visit those places…Do you have any
        recommendations for me?
        
        Reply
        
     
 6.  Susan says:
     January 21, 2023 at 7:58 pm
     
     Hi Nate,
     So glad I came across your site and found all these great tips. We are
     hoping to go in September 2023. I am just wondering if the early part of
     that month is better, or does it matter? Also, we are flying from Orlando,
     FL and I am curious if Dublin is the only option or if we can go into
     Shannon? I had a friend tell me to fly into Dublin and come back through
     Shannon. Also, as for currency, do you suggest doing the exchange here in
     the states or there? How much would you suggest having on hand for small
     things like tips? This is our first trip overseas and just want to be
     prepared. Thank you.
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        January 22, 2023 at 3:30 am
        
        September is a nice month as there is less rain (not no rain, but less)
        in Ireland. Plus, the summer crowds have left. I don’t know that the
        part of the month matters. Check Cork, Shannon, and Dublin airports and
        just go with whatever flight is most convenient/cheapest.
        
        In terms of money, I always use my ATM card and withdraw from ATMs. I
        use Charles Schwab bank, and they reimburse ATM fees and also give the
        interbank loan rate on money transfers, which is the best you can get.
        There are other banks that do the same, so you might check with yours.
        Alternatively, bring dollars and you can change at an exchange counter,
        you’ll just lose a bit in the exchange rate.
        
        Reply
        
     
 7.  Sue says:
     January 22, 2023 at 4:13 pm
     
     Hi Nate. Can you help with advise on tour companies that have good ratings?
     This would be for bus tours that go to Ireland and Scotland. Trying to
     avoid issues with poor travel guides and poor accommodations . Any advise.
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        January 23, 2023 at 3:16 am
        
        Hi Sue! I have only traveled independently in Ireland, apart from some
        day trip tours, but maybe some readers can chime in with suggestions. I
        hope you love Ireland!
        
        Reply
        
     
 8.  Michael says:
     January 24, 2023 at 7:09 pm
     
     Hello Nate,
     
     Great information, thank you!
     I’m thinking about taking my sister to Ireland in April or May 2023. We’ll
     fly in and out of Dublin and want to rent a car. Would like it to be a 5 or
     6 day trip.
     My question, I want to explore family history for a day in Cahersiveen and
     Valentina Isle and just not sure what the best way to do this. Will be
     arriving in Dublin and departing from Dublin. Any thoughts? Appreciate any
     information you can provide or direction.
     
     Thank you-Michael
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        January 24, 2023 at 7:53 pm
        
        Hi Michael,
        
        First, for researching ancestry in Ireland, check out this site:
        https://www.irishgenealogy.ie/en/
        
        Second, in terms of logistics, I would suggest planning your trip around
        doing the Ring of Kerry. It passes through Cahersiveen and fits in
        perfectly in your itinerary in terms of geography and timeframe. The
        Ring of Kerry is ideal for 3-4 days of exploring, then you can use your
        remaining time to explore your ancestry and maybe do a bit of sight
        seeing in Dublin.
        
        Hope you enjoy Ireland!
        Nate
        
        Reply
        
     
 9.  Crissie says:
     January 30, 2023 at 7:52 am
     
     Hi Nate,
     We are going to Ireland for our anniversary in March 2023.
     What do you recommend?
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        January 30, 2023 at 8:39 pm
        
        Check out the Wild Atlantic Way! All the isolated wild beaches and cliff
        walks are romantic, plus there are so many charming small towns to
        discover. But, really, anywhere in Ireland could be lovely! Happy
        anniversary!
        
        Reply
        
     
 10. Patricia says:
     February 27, 2023 at 11:54 am
     
     Hi Nate,
     
     My family and I are visiting in September 2023 flying into Dubin and
     staying in Killarney. I want to rent a car, do I need to purchase their
     insurance or can I use my state farm insurance?
     What’s the most economical way to rent a car in Ireland for 10 days?
     Thank you in advance. 😊
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        February 27, 2023 at 8:44 pm
        
        Hi Patricia! Sounds like a fun trip. I would call your insurance
        provider and ask directly. In the past, my own insurance did not work
        abroad, but it’s going to depend on your specific policy. In terms of
        renting a car, personally I find the cheapest prices on Discover Cars,
        which compares various agencies.
        
        Reply
        
     
 11. Brian Pitts says:
     March 23, 2023 at 9:57 am
     
     Hello Nate-
     My wife and I are planning a 6 day trip in Mid-May. We will be flying into
     Dublin and basing our stay in the Wexford region.
     We adopting a dog from a breeder there who has been very kind and
     accommodating to us. What suggestions do you have for day trips and sights
     in that area?
     We are told that the beaches are beautiful.
     Also, we have been offered the breeders car for our travels.
     While we are both comfortable with manual transmission cars. We are curious
     on your thoughts of this translating to the left-side of the road.
     Thanks in advance.
     -Brian
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        March 24, 2023 at 6:01 am
        
        Hi Brian! Sounds like a fun trip. I unfortunately do not have anything
        to add about the Wexford region, but maybe another reader will chime in.
        Regarding driving on the left, it’s a transition I’ve done many times in
        different countries and it is always a jarring experience but you get
        used to it. Just stay extra alert and remember to check yourself anytime
        you’re turning onto an empty road. Have fun in Ireland!
        
        Reply
        
     
 12. Pam Wolbert says:
     May 15, 2023 at 6:30 pm
     
     Hi Nate,
     We are doing a CIE tour of southern Ireland starting and ending in Dublin.
     Then we will be on our own for a few days in Belfast hoping to do the
     Titanic museum, Giant’s Causway, and the Peace Wall. We’ll use the train
     from Dublin to Belfast and back. Can you recommend hotels in Belfast near
     the train station? There are 10 of us. We also are looking for a hotel in
     Dublin near the train station which provides a shuttle to the airport.
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        May 15, 2023 at 9:16 pm
        
        Hi Pam – I don’t have any specific recs near the Belfast train station,
        but maybe a reader does!
        
        Reply
        
     
 13. Andrea says:
     June 14, 2023 at 4:48 pm
     
     We are going to Ireland for the 4th time and your suggestions have still
     been very helpful.
     
     My advice to others is to get out of Dublin and stay in smaller towns. Bed
     and Breakfasts are great since owners give you lots of great advice. Go to
     pubs and sit at the bar to enjoy great local conversation. Often you can
     enjoy wonderful Irish music played by locals in the pubs. Roads ARE narrow
     so take your time. Visiting the Cliffs of Mohr at sunset is also beautiful
     and less congested.Cead Mile Falte!
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        June 14, 2023 at 8:47 pm
        
        Thank you for sharing Andrea! I hope you enjoy your return trip to
        Ireland!
        
        Reply
        
     
 14. Cheryl Brooks says:
     June 23, 2023 at 3:44 pm
     
     Hello Nate,
     My husband and I are in our 70’s and would rather take an organized tour. I
     was told to do a CIE tour but others have recommended My Ireland tours. If
     you have any recommendations it would be appreciated.
     We want to do a two week tour so we can take in Belfast too.
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        June 23, 2023 at 9:28 pm
        
        Hi Cheryl! Organized tours are very popular in Ireland, but I don’t have
        any specific knowledge of the tour companies you mention. Perhaps a
        reader will chime in. I hope you enjoy Ireland!
        
        Reply
        
     
 15. Maegan Brown says:
     August 8, 2023 at 10:07 am
     
     Hello Nate! Thank you for all of this awesome travel information! My
     husband and I are finally making it over to Ireland. We got married on Leap
     Day 2020 and then covid hit and we couldn’t take our honeymoon to Ireland,
     so we decided for our “first real anniversary” we would go. We will be
     going at the tail end of February thru March for 11 days, 10 due to travel.
     We intend to rent a car and see the country on our own timeline. How
     realistic is it to do Dublin/Cork/Killarney/Galway AND to pop up to see the
     Giant’s Causeway? If it’s too much, it’s too much but man I’d love to be
     able to see them and possibly the northern lights. Thank you for any input!
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        August 8, 2023 at 10:51 pm
        
        Hi Maegan! That itinerary sounds doable as long as you are comfortable
        with a faster pace of travel. However, the Giants Causeway part is
        definitely going to add quite a bit of road time to the journey.
        Personally, I would cut that part as I appreciate slightly slower travel
        these days. But it’s definitely still manageable as long as you are ok
        with the fact you will be in the car frequently. Ireland is beautiful to
        explore from a car, though!
        
        Reply
        
     
 16. Cathy Schuetter says:
     November 26, 2023 at 12:17 pm
     
     Hi Nate, your tips are wonderful and I certainly took notes! We are
     visiting for my daughter’s wedding at Waterford Castle in July. Are you
     familiar with that area or the surrounding areas. Any input would be
     appreciated! If guests do not rent a car to get from Dublin to the Island,
     do you know of other ways to get there? Thanks in advance!
     Cathy
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        November 26, 2023 at 9:33 pm
        
        Hi Cathy – I have not been to Waterford yet, but come back and let us
        know how it is after your trip to Ireland! In terms of transport, the
        same coach that goes from Dublin to Cork stops over in Waterford. You
        can check timetables here. It should also be possible to take Irish Rail
        from Dublin. Hope that helps!
        
        Reply
        1. Cathy Schuetter says:
           November 27, 2023 at 7:10 am
           
           Oh my gosh, thank you. That link is very helpful. I am trying to
           gather options for all the American guests on how to get from Dublin
           to Waterford and I had not seen that bus. 🙂
           
           Reply
           
        
     
 17. Katrinia Yarborough says:
     January 18, 2024 at 10:56 am
     
     Hi Nate,
     Traveling to Ireland in June. We arrive in Dublin from USA at 7:45AM. We
     will have 1 checked bag each. We need to head straight to Kerry. Ryan Air
     has a flight at 10:45AM. Is that enough time to clear Customs, retrieve and
     recheck bags and make the Ryan Air Flight? Thanks for your advice.
     
     Reply
     1. Nate Hake says:
        January 18, 2024 at 8:35 pm
        
        3 hours is generally enough to make a connection, but the bigger issue
        is if your inbound flight is delayed. It’s a risk for sure, so up to you
        if it’s worth it. Worse case scenario, you’d need to find an alternate
        flight or mode of transport.
        
        Reply
        
     


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