Ireland
At The Travel Tinker, we share your passion for discovery, particularly when it comes to the captivating landscapes and rich heritage of Ireland. From the rugged cliffs of Moher to the windswept coast of Antrim, this enchanting island is a treasure trove of history, myth, and natural beauty, waiting to be explored. And we’re here to be your trusted guide every step of the way.
From the vibrant streets of Dublin, with its literary legacy and Guinness-fueled charm, to the historic cities of Belfast and Derry – Londonderry, Ireland’s urban centres are a vibrant blend of the modern and the ancient. Delve into the cultural heartbeat of these cities, and emerge enriched with tales of Celtic legends, rebellious spirits, and warm Irish hospitality.
But Ireland is more than just its cities. Prepare to be awestruck by the natural wonders of the Cliffs of Moher, the Giant’s Causeway, and the Ring of Kerry. Wander through the rolling hills of the countryside, where ancient castles and monasteries whisper secrets of the past. Or, lose yourself in the wild beauty of Connemara, the Burren, and the Mourne Mountains. And for fans of the small screen, the real-world Westeros awaits, with ‘Game of Thrones’ filming locations scattered across the island.
Best Time To Visit
Ireland and Northern Ireland, with their lush landscapes and rugged coastlines, offer year-round charm.
Spring (March to May) is a hidden gem, with blooming wildflowers, playful lambs, mild weather (12°C/54°F), and festivals like St. Patrick’s and the Cork International Choral Festival. It’s perfect for hiking, cycling, or visiting the Cliffs of Moher.
Summer (June to August) is peak season, featuring long days (up to 18 hours of daylight), warm temperatures (15°C–20°C), and events like the Galway Arts Festival. It’s ideal for exploring the coastline and iconic spots like the Ring of Kerry.
Autumn (September to November) brings golden foliage and events like the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, while winter (December to February) offers a peaceful escape with fewer crowds. However, spring and summer are best for enjoying Ireland’s outdoors and stable weather.
What To Expect
Capital: Belfast (Northern Ireland) , Dublin (Rep. Ireland)
Population: 1.885 million (Belfast), 592,713 (Dublin)
Language: In Ireland, English is the first language. However, Ullans (Ulster-Scots) and Irish are both recognised as culturally significant
Currency: The official currency of Northern Ireland is Pound Sterling (GBP). 1 USD is equivalent to 0.81 GBP. 1 € is equivalent to 0.86 GBP. Republic of Ireland use the Euro! Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, so there is no need to carry large amounts of cash on you. ATMs are available in all towns and cities. A lot of places will also accept contactless payments like Apple Pay or Google pay.
Plugs: The plugs in both Northern Ireland and Ireland are type G. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Over the years, Ireland has undergone significant transformation and today stands as a popular tourist destination known for its hospitality. While it’s generally safe for travellers, as with any region, it’s always wise to stay informed about local nuances. Major cities like Belfast and Derry – Londonderry are bustling with activity, and tourists typically find them welcoming. Always be aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas late at night, and stay updated on local news.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Ireland and reasons to visit Ireland
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Ireland as a whole
1. Marvel at the Giant's Causeway
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Giant’s Causeway is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders. This geological marvel consists of around 40,000 interlocking hexagonal basalt columns, resulting from volcanic activity millions of years ago. Local folklore, however, credits the creation to the giant Finn McCool. As you stroll along this mesmerising coastal area, you’re not just stepping on unique rock formations but also walking through tales of ancient myths and Earth’s fascinating history.
2. Traverse the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Suspended nearly 30 metres above the sea and spanning 20 metres between the mainland and the tiny island of Carrick-a-Rede, this rope bridge offers an exhilarating experience for the adventurous soul. Originally erected by salmon fishermen over 350 years ago, crossing the bridge promises not only a slight adrenaline rush but also unrivalled views of Rathlin Island, Scotland, and the aquamarine waters below. Embrace the salty sea breeze and the panoramic vistas as you tread cautiously across.
3. Step Back in Time at Titanic Belfast
Located on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard where the RMS Titanic was built, Titanic Belfast is a tribute to Belfast’s maritime heritage. This state-of-the-art visitor centre delves into the story of the Titanic, from her conception in the early 1900s to her tragic maiden voyage. With nine interactive galleries that include a shipyard ride, recreations of the interiors, and underwater explorations of the wreck, this is a captivating journey through history and human endeavour.
4. Explore the Walls of Derry - Londonderry
Encircling the old heart of Derry, Londonderry are the city’s historic walls, remarkably intact since the 17th century. Stretching over 1.5 kilometres, these walls provide a unique promenade from which to view the layout of the original town. As you amble along, you’ll encounter several museums, cannons, watchtowers, and historical points of interest, making it a living testament to the city’s rich past and resilience.
5. Unwind in the Mourne Mountains
For nature enthusiasts, the Mourne Mountains are nothing short of paradise. This granite mountain range, located in County Down, offers spectacular landscapes, serene lakes, and a plethora of trails suitable for both novice hikers and seasoned mountaineers. Slieve Donard, standing tall at 850 metres, is the highest peak and promises breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and the surrounding countryside. Whether you’re after a challenging trek or a leisurely stroll, the Mournes cater to all, providing a refreshing escape from the bustle of urban life.
Ireland Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – €20–40 / £17–35 GBP / $22–44
- Hostel Private Rooms – €50–100 / £43–87 GBP / $55–110
- Budget Hotels – €70–120 / £61–104 GBP / $77–132
- Airbnb Private Rooms – €40–80 / £35–70 GBP / $44–88
- Airbnb Apartments – €80+ / £70+ GBP / $88+
- Campsites – €15–25 / £13–22 GBP / $16–28
Transportation
- Local Bus/Tram (One-Way Ticket) – €2–3 / £1.70–2.60 GBP / $2.20–3.30
- Intercity Bus or Train (One-Way) – €15–30 / £13–26 GBP / $16–33
- Taxi (per km) – €1.20–1.80 / £1–1.60 GBP / $1.30–2
- Car Rental (per day) – €40–80 / £35–70 GBP / $44–88
Food
- Budget Meal – €8–15 / £7–13 GBP / $9–16
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – €20–40 / £17–35 GBP / $22–44
- Coffee – €2–3 / £1.70–2.60 GBP / $2.20–3.30
- Beer (Pint) – €5–7 / £4.30–6 GBP / $5.50–7.70
Activities
- Museum Entry – €5–15 / £4.30–13 GBP / $5.50–16
- Guided Tours – €30–70 / £26–61 GBP / $33–77
- Cliffs of Moher Entry – €10–12 / £8.70–10 GBP / $11–13
- Boat Tours (Dublin, Cork, Galway) – €20–50 / £17–43 GBP / $22–55
Ireland Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – €50–70 / £43–60 / $55–77 Per Day
A backpacking budget allows you to stay in hostel dorms or budget campsites, cook your meals, and use affordable transportation like public buses and trams. Free or low-cost activities like exploring historic towns, hiking trails, or public parks help keep costs down.
If you plan to enjoy Ireland’s famous pubs, add an extra €5–10 / £4.30–8.70 / $5.50–11 for drinks. Shopping at supermarkets like Tesco or Lidl for groceries can also stretch your budget further.
Midrange – €120–180 / £105–155 / $132–198 Per Day
A mid-range budget offers the comfort of private rooms in hostels, Airbnbs, or boutique hotels. You’ll have the flexibility to eat at mid-range restaurants, enjoy drinks at traditional pubs, and explore attractions like the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, or guided city tours.
This budget also covers car rentals for day trips, entry fees to popular sites, and occasional splurges like a boat tour in Galway or a whiskey-tasting experience in Dublin.
Upscale – €250+ / £220+ / $275+ Per Day
A luxury budget ensures a stay in high-end hotels or Airbnbs, often in historic or scenic locations. You can dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, enjoy cocktails at rooftop bars, and explore Ireland with private or exclusive tours of castles, distilleries, and countryside estates.
This budget also includes seamless transportation options, such as private car hires, first-class train tickets, or chauffeur-driven tours, ensuring a stress-free and indulgent experience across Ireland.
Ireland Money-Saving Tips (Including Northern Ireland)
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle – Tap water in Ireland and Northern Ireland is safe to drink, so carrying a reusable water bottle can save you money and reduce plastic waste. Many cafes and public areas also offer refill stations.
Take Free Walking Tours – Major cities like Dublin, Belfast, and Galway offer free walking tours led by knowledgeable local guides. These tours are a great way to learn about history and culture, but remember to tip your guide as a gesture of appreciation.
Cook Your Own Meals – Stay in hostels or Airbnbs with kitchen facilities and shop at supermarkets like Tesco, Lidl, or ASDA (in Northern Ireland). Cooking your meals is cost-effective and lets you try fresh local ingredients.
Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodation – Hostels from Hostelworld, budget hotels, and guesthouses from Booking.com offer affordable options throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland. Staying slightly outside city centers can also save you money without sacrificing convenience.
Use Public Transportation – Both Ireland and Northern Ireland have efficient public transport systems. Use buses or trains for intercity travel, and purchase day passes for unlimited local journeys. In Dublin, the Leap Card offers great savings.
Rent a Bike or Walk – Cities like Dublin and Galway are walkable, while renting a bike is a cheap and scenic way to explore rural areas or city outskirts. Northern Ireland’s greenways are perfect for cycling.
Visit Free Attractions – Ireland is full of free attractions, including public parks, scenic drives like the Causeway Coastal Route, and historic landmarks like Dublin’s Phoenix Park or Belfast’s Peace Walls.
Eat at Pubs or Markets – Instead of pricey restaurants, dine at local pubs, which often offer hearty meals at reasonable prices. Markets like the English Market in Cork or St. George’s Market in Belfast are great for affordable snacks and meals.
Travel Off-Peak – Use buses and trains during off-peak hours to save on fares. Booking train tickets in advance can also help you find discounted rates.
Take Advantage of Discount Cards – Look into tourist discount cards like the Dublin Pass or the Ireland Heritage Card, which offer free or reduced entry to popular attractions. Northern Ireland’s National Trust Membership is great for free access to heritage sites.
Enjoy Free Natural Attractions – Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes, from the Cliffs of Moher to Giant’s Causeway, are often free or charge minimal fees. Take advantage of hiking trails, beaches, and scenic drives without breaking the bank.
Travel Off-Season – Visiting during the off-season (late autumn to early spring) means lower accommodation and flight costs, fewer crowds, and cheaper tickets for attractions. Just be prepared for cooler weather.
How to Get Around in Ireland
Walking
Walking is one of the best ways to explore Irish cities and towns. Dublin, Galway, and Belfast have compact city centers with many attractions within walking distance. For smaller towns and villages, walking is ideal for soaking in the local charm and scenery.
Public Transportation
Ireland and Northern Ireland have efficient public transportation systems connecting major cities and towns.
- Buses: Bus Éireann in Ireland and Translink in Northern Ireland provide extensive bus services.
- Cost: Single fares start from €2–5 / £1.70–4.30 / $2.20–5.50, depending on distance.
- Trains: The Irish Rail and Northern Ireland Railways offer scenic and comfortable train services.
- Cost: Train tickets range from €10–40 / £8.70–35 / $11–44 for intercity travel. Advance booking often provides discounts.
- Tips: Consider multi-day or group travel passes for cost savings, especially in cities like Dublin or Belfast. Use BusBud for cheaper fares!
Airport Transfers
- Dublin Airport to City Centre: The Airlink Express bus costs €7 / £6 / $7.70 for a one-way ticket and takes about 30 minutes. Taxis cost €25–35 / £22–30 / $27–38, depending on traffic.
- Belfast International Airport: Airport buses to the city centre cost £8–10 / €9–12 / $10–13.50, while taxis are approximately £25–30 / €29–35 / $31–38.
- Recommended Airport Transfer: Welcome Pickups
Taxis and Ridesharing
Taxis are widely available but can be expensive.
- Base Fare: €4–5 / £3.50–4.30 / $4.40–5.50
- Per Kilometre: €1.50–2 / £1.30–1.70 / $1.60–2.20
Ridesharing apps like Uber operate in limited areas, mainly Belfast. In Dublin, Free Now is a popular taxi-hailing app.
Car Rental
Renting a car is the best option for exploring Ireland’s countryside and remote areas.
- Cost: Rentals start at €40–80 / £35–70 / $44–88 per day.
- Driving Tips: Drive on the left-hand side of the road. Watch for narrow country roads and be prepared for sheep crossings! Check parking restrictions in cities to avoid fines.
- Recommended Car Rental: DiscoverCars Ireland
Cycling
Cycling is a scenic and eco-friendly way to explore Ireland. Coastal paths and countryside roads are popular among cyclists.
- Bike Rentals: Start at €15–25 / £13–22 / $16–28 per day.
- City Bikes: Dublin and Belfast offer bike-sharing schemes like DublinBikes and Belfast Bikes, with short-term rentals starting at just €1–2 / £0.85–1.70 / $1.10–2.20.
Ferries
Ferries are essential for reaching Ireland’s offshore islands and connecting Ireland to the UK.
- Islands (Aran, Skellig Michael, Rathlin): Passenger fares start at €20–30 / £17–26 / $22–33 round trip.
- Dublin to Holyhead or Belfast to Cairnryan (UK): Fares start at €30–50 / £26–43 / $33–55 for foot passengers.
Tips for Getting Around
- Plan Ahead: Use apps like Transport for Ireland or Translink for schedules and real-time updates.
- Check the Weather: Rain is common, so always have an umbrella or waterproof gear when walking or cycling.
- Validate Tickets: Always validate bus or train tickets to avoid fines.
Ireland’s diverse transport options make it easy to navigate cities and countryside while enjoying its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture!
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