Ireland Travel Information

Climate

Ireland has a temperate maritime climate, meaning that it is generally mild with temperatures rarely reaching extreme highs or lows. The western coast tends to be wetter and milder, while the eastern coast is drier and cooler. The temperatures are generally cool in the summer and mild in the winter. The temperature in the summer can range between 15-20 °C (59-68 °F) and in the winter it ranges between 3-8 °C (37-46 °F)

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Ireland depends on what you want to do and where you want to go.

• Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit as the weather is mild and the crowds are not as heavy as in the summer. It's also a great time to see the wildflowers and greenery.
• Summer (June to August) is considered high season, the weather is mild and the days are longer, it's the perfect time to explore the outdoors, go hiking, and visit the beaches.
• Fall (September to November) is a great time to visit, with milder weather and fewer crowds. It's also the perfect time to see the fall foliage, and for golf enthusiasts, it's a great time to play golf.
• Winter (December to February) can be quite cool and damp, especially in the interior, but it is also the low season, which means fewer crowds and lower prices. It's also the perfect time to see the Christmas markets.

Overall, the best time to visit Ireland depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your trip. Keep in mind that peak travel season is usually in the summer months and it can be quite busy in some places.

Hotels

Ireland offers a wide variety of hotel options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury 5-star hotels to budget-friendly 2-star hotels, you can find accommodations in every major city and tourist destination in Ireland. Many hotels offer amenities such as a gym, pool, and spa, while others may have a restaurant or bar on-site.

Bed and Breakfast

Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs) are a popular accommodation option in Ireland. They offer comfortable rooms and a delicious traditional breakfast. They are often family-run and can provide a more personal and intimate experience.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are similar to Bed and Breakfasts but they offer more basic facilities and they are run by the owner. They are a popular budget-friendly accommodation option in Ireland.

Hostels

Hostels are a great option for budget-conscious travelers, they offer dormitory-style accommodation and shared facilities such as bathrooms and kitchens. Some hostels offer private rooms as well.

Vacation Rentals

Another popular accommodation option in Ireland is renting an apartment or vacation rental. This is a great option for travelers who want the comforts of home, such as a kitchen and living room, and also for those who want to stay in a specific area for longer periods.

Campsites

Campsites are a popular option for travelers who want to explore Ireland's beautiful countryside and beaches. Ireland offers a wide variety of campsites, from basic to luxurious, and many of them offer amenities such as bathrooms, showers, and swimming pools.

Ultimately, the best accommodation option for you will depend on your personal preferences, budget and the purpose of your trip. Keep in mind that peak travel season is usually in the summer months and prices tend to be higher during that period.

Train

Ireland has a modern and efficient train system that connects major cities and tourist destinations. The trains are comfortable, and most offer first and second class seating options. Train travel is generally considered one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to get around Ireland.

Bus

Bus travel is also a popular option in Ireland, especially for shorter trips and to reach smaller towns. Buses are generally less expensive than trains, but the journey can be longer and less comfortable.

Car

Renting a car is a great option for travelers who want to explore Ireland's beautiful countryside and visit smaller towns and villages that are not easily accessible by public transportation. Keep in mind that traffic in Ireland can be heavy, especially in big cities and parking can be difficult in some areas.

Air

Ireland has several major airports that connect the country to destinations around the world. Flying is a good option for travelers who are looking to cover long distances quickly and efficiently.

Taxi and Ridesharing

Taxis and ridesharing services such as Uber are also available in Ireland. However, they tend to be more expensive than other transportation options and may be more difficult to find in smaller towns and villages.

Bike

Cycling is a popular way to explore the countryside, many towns and cities have bike rental services and dedicated bike lanes. Also, it is an eco-friendly way to move around

Ferry

Ferries are a great way to explore the coastal towns and islands in Ireland, they are available from the main ports such as Dublin, Cork and Rosslare.

Ultimately, the best transportation option for you will depend on your itinerary, budget, and personal preferences. Keep in mind that public transportation options are generally more affordable and efficient, while rental cars and taxis offer more flexibility. Keep in mind that transportation options in the rural areas may be limited and more expensive than in the cities.

Currency

• The currency in Ireland is the Euro (€).
• ATMs are widely available throughout the country where you can withdraw Euros.

Cash And Cards

• It is recommended to carry a mix of cash and cards in Ireland.
• Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, but it's always good to carry some cash for smaller purchases or places that only accept cash.

ATMs

• ATMs are commonly found in cities, towns, and tourist areas.
• Make sure to check if your card will incur any fees for international withdrawals.

Tipping

• Tipping in Ireland is not mandatory but appreciated.
• In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the bill if the service has been satisfactory.
• Tipping is not expected in pubs or bars.

Cost Of Living

• Ireland has a relatively high cost of living, especially in major cities like Dublin.
• Accommodation, dining out, and transportation can be expensive.
• It's advisable to budget accordingly and plan your expenses.

Scams

• Be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas, especially in Dublin.
• Avoid giving money to street beggars as it can attract unwanted attention.
• Be wary of scams involving fake charity collectors or unauthorized tour guides.