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Top 10 things to know before traveling to Ireland

Mar 27, 2024 • 9 min read

From pub etiquette to catching public transport – here's what you need to know before you go to Ireland © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

A lifetime of living in Ireland has given me some insight into the vagaries of my home country, beginning with the number one rule: never assume anything. This is a country that delights in confounding even your most comfortable expectations about pretty much everything, from the weather to the quality of the wifi.

Here are 10 tips that I’m pretty comfortable giving anyone who plans a visit, whether for the first time or the fifth. I’ve got some practical tips around VAT refunds and the most efficient ways to get around, but then there’s a bunch of suggestions on how to crack the mightiest nut of all – the Irish themselves. Because be in no doubt, while Ireland has gorgeous landscapes, a rich history and the best pubs in the world, your visit will only be truly memorable if you get to know the people – friendly and welcoming but often contradictory and inscrutable.

1. Plan on at least seven days to start making sense of the country

Ireland is small, but there’s an awful lot to it. Luckily, distances in Ireland aren’t huge so you can get most anywhere in a few hours, but the list of where to go can get very long, very quickly.

It’ll take you a couple of days to even begin to make a dent in Dublin , but once you go beyond the capital you’ll need at least five days to make a lightening stop tour of the major highlights of the west: Galway and Connemara, Clare (where you’ll find the Cliffs of Moher and the most authentic traditional music in the country), Kerry (you’ll need a whole day just for the Ring of Kerry and another for the Dingle Peninsula ) and Cork , only it’s time to go home so you can only make enough time for Cork City .

Clearly the only solution is to plan for a month; at the end of it, you’ll be wanting to stay a year. 

2. Keep it to casual wear

The Irish aren’t big on formal wear and only pull it out for very specific occasions (a wedding, a ball, the opening of a parliamentary session). Which means you can wear pretty much whatever you want: smart casual is the most you'll need for fancy dinners, the theatre or the concert hall.

Irish summers are warm but rarely hot, so you'll want something extra when the temperatures cool, especially in the evening. Ultimately the ever-changeable weather will determine your outfits, but a light waterproof jacket should never be beyond reach for the almost-inevitable rain. If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking – in cities or on hills – a good pair of walking shoes, preferably waterproof, will do the trick.

Add these top beaches around Ireland to your travel itinerary. 

3. The land of a 100,000 welcomes

Céad míle fáilte – literally, 100,000 welcomes. The famous Irish greeting suggests a country that is big on displays of affection, but nothing could be further from the truth. A firm handshake – with eye contact – is the appropriate greeting when meeting men, women and older children for the first time. Once a friendship is made, then all bets are off and anything goes, from a hug and a kiss on the cheek (primarily amongst female friends) to an air nod and a casual "hey".

Younger Irish are less formal than their older counterparts, but even they generally eschew effusive greetings: more often than not, a quick handshake and a casual nod is the best way to say hello for the first time.

4. The Irish love to talk, until they don’t

The Irish are renowned for their chat, but with people they don’t know particularly well they generally like to keep it to topics that are light and not likely to embarrass. Despite their gregarious nature, the Irish tend to be reserved when it comes to life’s more serious issues and are very mistrustful of "oversharers". 

The old adage that the Irish will talk about anything except sex, religion and politics is something of an over-simplification, but if you do find yourself steering into deeper waters around sensitive topics it’s always better to listen: locals aren’t shy about getting into heated discussion amongst themselves about all kinds of topics but take a dim view of outsiders who express (even legitimate) criticisms of Ireland or the Irish.

5. You’d better learn about the rounds system

It’s a firm rule of drinking with locals. If someone buys you a drink, you’re obliged to buy them one back – this is the bedrock of Irish pub culture. Nothing will hasten your fall from social grace here like the failure to uphold this pub law. 

The time to repay the drink you’re drinking? It’s when the person you’re drinking with is just about to finish theirs. It doesn’t matter if you’re halfway through your own drink at that moment: you can’t let your drinking buddy sit in front of an empty glass. Your greatest challenge will probably be trying to keep up with your fellow drinkers, who may keep buying you drinks in every round even when you've still got a collection of unfinished pints in front of you and you're sliding face first down the bar.

6. The best way to visit cities is on foot or by public transport

Driving and parking in Irish cities is a nightmare. There’s no free parking anywhere; the unrelenting traffic will test even the most patient of drivers; and the one-way systems in major urban centres will confound you to the point of madness (although map apps are pretty good at pointing you in the right direction).

The good news is you don’t need a car to visit any Irish city. Dublin, the biggest by far, has a pretty decent system of public transport, but even then most of the major sights are within walking distance of each other. Same goes for Cork, Belfast, Limerick and Galway, which are more easily explored without a car.

Save this guide to the best road trips in Ireland.

7. The easiest way to explore Ireland is by car

If cities are best experienced without a car, the most effective way to explore the rest of the country is with one. The bus network, made up of a mix of public and private operators, is extensive and generally quite competitive, though journey times can be slow and lots of the points of interest outside towns are not served. The rail network is quicker but more limited, serving only some major towns and cities. Both buses and trains get busy during peak times; you'll need to book in advance to be guaranteed a seat. 

Cars can be hired in every major town and city. The Irish drive on the left hand side; distances and speed limits in the Republic are measured in kilometres, but once you cross the invisible border into Northern Ireland everything switches to miles.

8. Ireland is good cycling country

Ireland's compact size and scenic landscapes make it a good cycling destination, albeit one you need to prepare for. The weather is unreliable, roads can be very narrow and Irish drivers tend to drive quickly, even on those narrow roads. A growing network of greenways, such as the 42km Great Western Greenway in County Mayo and the Royal Canal Greenway that runs through the midlands, are a great and hassle-free way to see the country from two wheels. A good tip for cyclists in the west is that the prevailing winds make it easier to cycle from south to north. 

Buses will carry bikes, but only if there’s room. Intercity trains will also carry bikes, but you’ll need to book a space in advance as there’s limited capacity. Suburban rail services in Dublin won’t take bikes during rush hour (7am to 10am and 4pm to 7pm). A number of Irish companies arrange cycle tours, including Go Visit Ireland  and Cycling Safaris .

9. Pick the right season to travel in Ireland

June to mid-September is high season: the weather is at its best and the most popular parts of the country – Dublin , Kerry and the southern and western coasts – are at their busiest. The downside is big crowds and the highest rates for accommodation and car hire.

Rates drop off from mid-September as the crowds start to thin, but most tourist spots are still open to take advantage of the last weeks of the season. Although weather can never be predicted with any degree of accuracy, the weather can be surprisingly lovely right up to mid-October.

Low season runs from November to the middle of March; Irish winter days are short, damp and cold, but the upside is fewer visitors and some terrific accommodation deals. A lot of the west coast goes into winter hibernation, though, with a lot of attractions and hotels closing down; if you’re planning to visit during this time you should check what’s open before you travel.   

Ready to head to Ireland? These are the best times to visit.

10. Claim your VAT back if you’re visiting from outside the EU

Most goods come with value-added tax (VAT) of 23%, which non-EU residents can claim back as part of the Retail Export Scheme, so long as the purchase was made with a credit card. Visitors from the UK can also benefit from this, but not visitors from Northern Ireland.

Before making a purchase, check with the retailer that they operate the scheme. If they do, you will be issued an export voucher for the purchase, which you need to get certified by customs when you leave Ireland. The voucher is sent back to the retailer who then refunds you the VAT (minus any processing fee). 

Rather than operate the scheme themselves, many retailers use VAT-refunding agencies, whereby you go through the same process of presenting the agency’s own certificate at customs. Some agencies, though, operate a scheme where you don’t pay any VAT upfront, but if you don’t file the paperwork correctly (either sending it back to the agency or presenting it to customs) your card will be charged later. Some goods such as books, children's clothing and educational items are excluded from VAT.

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Best places to visit in ireland.

Ireland's rich culture, enchanting green landscapes and friendly locals are just a few reasons why so many travelers make the journey to this island country. But with so many cities, charming small towns and countryside wonders to choose from, it may be hard to decide exactly what should be on your Emerald Isle itinerary. U.S. News took into account sights, adventure, food and culture, plus expert opinions and traveler sentiment, to determine the best places to visit in Ireland. If you want to have a say in next year's list, be sure to vote below.

Dingle Peninsula

Cliffs of moher, iveragh peninsula, glenveagh national park, inishowen peninsula, connemara national park, aran islands.

With a stoic castle, wild coastline and great "craic" (fun, entertainment and good company), Donegal checks off many items on an Ireland vacation bucket list. Donegal visitors can see the 15th-century Donegal Castle, grab a pint of Guinness in a traditional Irish bar dating back to the 1700s or revel in one of the town's high-spirited festivals. Meanwhile, Donegal's northwest coast location makes it ideal for driving along the scenic Donegal Bay to the Slieve League cliffs – which are nearly three times as tall as the Cliffs of Moher – or hopping to islands known for their exceptional preservation of the Gaelic language and culture.

Though Dublin is Ireland's hub for politics, culture and music, its approachable and relaxed culture sets it apart from most European capitals. Before making a beeline for the Guinness Storehouse, consider a walking tour to take in popular attractions like Trinity College (and its swoon-worthy library), the 13th-century Dublin Castle and the always exuberant Temple Bar district. Save time to take in the arts, too: Dublin is home to the national theater of Ireland and plenty of festivals and museums dedicated to Irish literary greats. Plus, Dublin offers easy access  to alluring destinations like the fishing village of Howth and Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Located along the country's famous Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula consistently stuns with its otherworldly scenery (think: evergreen cliffs, craggy coastlines and vibrant blue waters). Begin your journey by driving along Slea Head Drive, a scenic route known for its photo-worthy vistas. If you'd rather see the peninsula on foot, head down the Dingle Way, a network of trails that spans the entire peninsula. Or, take a ferry to the Blasket Islands to explore jaw-dropping cliffs, look for wildlife like sheep and dolphins, and visit pristine beaches without rubbing elbows with other tourists.

For the quintessential Irish countryside experience, travel to Killarney. The town is surrounded by evergreen hills and valley on all sides, affording plenty of opportunities to become one with nature. Visitors gravitate toward Killarney National Park, which features Ireland's highest mountain range, MacGillycuddy's Reeks. If you aren't much of a hiker, you can still enjoy the scenic lakes or visit one of Killarney's centuries-old churches or castles.

The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland's most popular tourist attraction, welcoming more than 1 million visitors each year. In fact, the cliffs are so popular that cities situated more than 100 miles away often offer full-day bus tours to the attraction. Once you lay eyes on this sight, you'll understand why so many people travel hours to gaze at it. Measuring more than 8 miles long and 700 feet tall, the cliffs provide breathtaking views of Galway Bay, parts of Connemara National Park and the Aran Islands on a clear day.

This peninsula in County Kerry is best known for featuring the world-famous Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile scenic drive that circles around the entire peninsula. Along the way, visitors will enjoy truly spectacular scenery both on the coast and inland. Can't-miss stops include Ladies View, Rossbeigh Strand, Derrynane beach and the Gap of Dunloe. Travelers should also save time for visiting some of the peninsula's picturesque small towns and castles, which are both developed and abandoned. Be sure to stay at least one night here for a glimpse of the stars in Ireland's first dark sky reserve.

Surrounded by a looming mountain, sandy beaches and charming countryside (dubbed "Yeats Country" after the county's famed poet), Sligo offers something for everyone. If you're up for an adventure, hike the loop around the iconic Benbulben mountain, take a surf lesson in Strandhill or watch the big-wave pros at Mullaghmore Head. Meanwhile, more leisurely travelers can visit Sligo town's popular sites like The Model art center and Sligo Abbey, or take a coastal drive to fine estates like the Lissadell House and Gardens (open seasonally). Just make time for a few stops along the Sligo Food Trail on your way.

After Dublin, Cork is Ireland's largest city. Located at the southern end of the country, this city of more than 200,000 residents is famous for being home to Blarney Castle and its Blarney Stone. According to local legend, the stone will grant you the gift of eloquence, if you dare kiss it. Cork is also where you'll find 18th- and 19th-century churches, the Cork City Gaol (a former prison converted into a museum) and lush Fitzgerald Park, among other noteworthy attractions. When hunger strikes, explore Cork's English Market, where you'll find everything from meat and fish counters to cafes and bakeries.

Located just 17 miles south of Cork, this enclave on Ireland's southern coast charms visitors with rainbow-hued buildings and a "riviera" vibe. Sailing is central to Kinsale, which hosts several regattas throughout the summer, but other water activities like kayaking and surfing hold equal appeal. Those who prefer to stay on land can visit nearby attractions like the scenic Nohoval Cove and historic Charles Fort. What's more, as one of Ireland's top culinary destinations, Kinsale entices foodies with more than 50 delectable eateries and food-centric celebrations like the Kinsale Gourmet Festival and Kinsale Street Feast.

Galway offers the best of both worlds for travelers. City slickers can revel in Galway's relatively light but palpable bustle, while outdoor lovers can venture outside the city to see many natural attractions, including the Salthill Promenade, Wild Atlantic Way and, farther afield, Burren National Park. If you prefer to stay local, stroll through the lively Latin Quarter, then check out historical attractions like the Spanish Arch and St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church.

Situated in the heart of County Donegal, Glenveagh National Park sets a picturesque scene, complete with a lakeside castle and lush mountains. Here, active sightseers can bask in the unspoiled natural beauty of the Emerald Isle, with nearly 40,000 acres that are completely free to access for hiking, biking, fishing and camping. Highlights include the Derryveagh Mountains, the sweeping valleys of the Poisoned Glen and the rugged shores of Lough Inshagh and Lough Veagh. For a small fee, visitors can also take a tour of the Glenveagh Castle, a stately granite structure representing the idyllic highland retreat, and explore its varied gardens and tearooms.  

Situated just northwest of Ireland's border with Northern Ireland, the Inishowen Peninsula is the country's largest peninsula. Its remote location 170 miles northwest of Dublin plus its otherworldly scenery and thatched cottages create a peaceful setting you won't find in Ireland's more tourist-heavy peninsulas. Must-see natural wonders here include Malin Head, Trawbreaga Bay and the Gap of Mamore. If you've always dreamed of seeing the northern lights , be sure to visit in winter when the aurora borealis' beautiful hues are typically visible throughout the peninsula.

Expect awe-inspiring scenery everywhere you turn when you visit this 5,000-acre national park during the warmer months. Connemara National Park is home to the Twelve Bens mountain range, plus woodlands, grasslands, heaths (wild, undeveloped flatlands) and bogs (wetlands) that you can explore via one of several trails. To get a good overview of the park's diverse scenery, hike the Diamond Hill paths and walk the Green Road along Killary Harbour. The latter is where you'll find one of Ireland's few glacial fjords.

Travelers keen on getting a taste of what old Ireland looked and felt like should consider visiting the Aran Islands. Accessible by plane from Connemara or by ferry from Rossaveal, Galway and Doolin on Ireland's western coast, the Aran Islands feature important historical sites, Celtic churches and lots of untouched landscapes (think: the "Banshees of Inisherin," some of which was filmed here). Plus, Gaelic is widely spoken, providing an authentic cultural experience. Though all three islands offer noteworthy sights, plan on spending the bulk of your time on Inis Mór (or Inishmore), where the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa is located.

Kilkenny offers a hearty amount of historical attractions for travelers to explore. This is largely thanks to the town's prior distinction of being the medieval capital of Ireland, a heritage that remains evident today  in the Medieval Mile, Kilkenny's top attraction. Within the Medieval Mile you'll find several interesting sights, such as Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral and the Medieval Mile Museum. This historic part of town is also home to the Smithwick's Experience, where you can learn more about how one of Ireland's most popular ales is brewed.

Head to this small seaport on Ireland's southeastern coast to catch a glimpse of the country's oldest city. Waterford is full of history, and its attractions reflect that. History buffs can learn more about the city's Viking roots at Waterford Treasures' Medieval Museum, Reginald's Tower and Bishop's Palace facilities. Or, they can take a tour of the 18th-century House of Waterford factory to see how the city's world-renowned crystal is made. For travelers who need a break from Waterford's rich history, there's the Waterford Greenway, a nearly 30-mile-long walking and bike path.

Those who plan on visiting Cork should save time for a daytrip to Cobh. This charming small town, which sits on an island in Cork Harbor, is known for its past as both a major departure point for Irish emigrating to the U.S. and as the last port of call for the Titanic. Travelers who want to learn more about these key roles in Cobh's history can visit the Cobh Heritage Centre and Titanic Experience Cobh. Before leaving, take a stroll around town to admire Cobh's striking Victorian-era architecture and brightly colored storefronts and homes.

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How To Do Ireland On A Budget (9 Tips And Tricks)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 30, 2023

Planning a trip to Ireland on a budget? It’ll be trickier than you think!

I’ve lived in Ireland for 34+ years and things seem to get more expensive by the year (for example, the cost of a 5-day budget trip comes in at €1,261/$1,340 per person).

The biggest expense, after your flights, is accommodation, with even beds in a hostel dorm coming in at €78+ per night.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom – there are ways of travelling Ireland cheaply, as you’ll discover below.

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about doing Ireland on a budget

Click to enlarge

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland on a budget, take 15 seconds to scan the points below, first, as they’ll get you up-to-speed quickly:

1. Ireland is expensive

Some parts of Ireland are more expensive than others (e.g. Dublin City vs rural West Cork) but, for the most part, it’s getting harder and harder to get value-for-money when it comes to accommodation, in particular.

2. You need to learn how to lower your unavoidable costs

You have avoidable and unavoidable costs. It’s possible to dramatically reduce your unavoidable costs, like your flights, accommodation and how you get around, by planning ahead (info below).

3. And you need to be clear about your avoidable costs

The likes of souvenirs, drinks in the pub, breakfast (it’ll be included in your accommodation if you plan properly!) and certain paid tours/attractions are all avoidable costs. Being clear on what isn’t an absolutely necessity  is key to doing Ireland on a budget.

Travelling Ireland cheaply: 9 handy tips

Photos via Shutterstock

If you’re planning on doing some cheap travel in Ireland, the tips below will hopefully come in handy.

In particular, for those of you visiting the capital, pay attention to the tips for doing Dublin on a budget.

Tip 1: Travel when prices are lower

Arguably the most important factor in travelling Ireland cheaply is to only visit when the price of flights and accommodation are at their lowest point.

If you read our guide to the best time to visit Ireland , you’ll see that some months (the peak season) are far more expensive than others.

If you’re looking to do Ireland on a budget, you’re better off visiting in the shoulder season or during the off-season. The one trade-off is the the weather in Ireland can be worse during these months.

Cost comparison: Return flights from the US in early March cost from €415/$440 vs €585/$621 in June –  that’s a saving of €170/$172!

Tip 2: Monitor flight prices and book as early as possible

OK, so you’ve decided you’re visiting during the off-season. The next step in visiting Ireland on a budget is to check the flight prices.

Now, if you check them and see that they are within your budget,  book them asap –  there’s no need to wait.

However, if they’re outside of your budget, it’s always worth setting up a price alert with the likes of Skyscanner. More often than not you’ll find they’ll go up and down.

WARNING: Plan your  Ireland itinerary   before you book flights . There are several   airports in Ireland so it’s worth knowing which airport will make the most convenient start-point for your road trip!

Tip 3: Weigh up the different ways of getting around Ireland

The cheapest way of getting around Ireland on a budget is to use public transport.

Public transport in Ireland , while far from perfect, will save you cash when you compare it to the cost of renting a car in Ireland .

For example, if you were to rent a car for 5 days in June it’d cost from €403/$428 (not including insurance, fuel, etc.).

When you compare this to using buses (e.g. €21/$22.30 to go from Dublin to Galway) and trains (e.g. €21/$22.30 to go from Dublin to Cork), the saving is clear.

Our 2 cents:  In our guide to Ireland without a car , you’ll find why combining public transport with organised day tours is a very handy way of getting around.

Tip 4: Find pocket-friendly places to stay (warning: it ain’t easy!)

Photos via Shearwater

Arguably one of the most important Ireland travel tips when it comes to doing Ireland on a budget revolves around finding pocket-friendly accommodation.

Hotels in Ireland, especially in cities and busy towns, can be insanely expensive. You’ll find, 9 times out of 10 that B&Bs and Airbnbs are cheaper.

You tend to get the best deals in towns and villages that lay a little off-the-beaten-path. In the photo above, you’ll see Shearwater in West Cork – the best value place I’ve stayed in years!

Traveller beware: The problem that can arise when booking lodging off-the-beaten-path is that its sometimes impossible to reach by public transport.

Tip 5: Be prepared when it comes to food – eating out can skyrocket your budget

Photos via Great Jones on FB

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland on a budget, you need to be prepared when it comes to food. Eating out for breakfast, lunch and dinner will obliterate your bank account, so you need to plan.

One of the easiest ways to save money on eating out is to stay in self-catering accommodation where you can cook your own meals.

However, that’s not always possible. A good approach is to try and book B&Bs where your breakfast will be included.

If that’s not possible, go to a store like Dunnes or Lidl and buy supplies to make breakfast and lunch (e.g. oatmeal pots, fruit and sandwich fillings).

For perspective:  Breakfast in a cafe will cost from €10/$10.60 to €15/$15.92 while dinner will cost €15/$15.92 to €25/$26.53.

Tip 6: Pubs can be great, but an ‘entertainment budget’ is key

Photos via Dan and Molly’s on FB

Another way to do Ireland on a budget is to limit the amount that you drink in pubs. If like me, you tend to have five or six pints on a night out, you’ll find that the €€€’s add up very quickly.

The price of a pint in Ireland can range from €5.50/$5.79 to €9/$9.48 ( Temple Bar …) depending on where you are.

If you’re spending one week in Ireland and you drink 20 pints over the week at, say, €5/$5.27 a go, that’s €100/$105.36.

Now, it could be argued that you’re on holiday and that there’s nothing like rounding off a day of exploring with a post-adventure pint, but you need to be careful if you’re trying to keep your spending to a minimum.

Set an entertainment budget: And stick to it! If it’s €50/$52.68 for the week, so be it. It’ll make doing Ireland on a budget that bit easier!

Tip 7: If you’re organised, you can get a VAT refund on some purchases

Bottom left: Massonstock. Top right: simarik. Left: Corelens (Canva)

If you’re travelling to Ireland from outside of the EU, you may be entitled to a VAT refund on some purchases.

Now, you might think that this isn’t worth doing, but the standard VAT rate is 23%… yes, 23% (just keep in mind that this  doesn’t  apply to everything you buy!).

Read more about what the refund applies to and how to claim it in our guide to the VAT refund .

Tip 8: Visiting Dublin? Get a Leap Visitor Card and a Dublin Pass

Two of the handiest ways of doing Ireland on a budget if you plan on spending time in Dublin is to get a Leap Visitor Card and a Dublin Pass .

The Leap Visitor Card gives you unlimited travel on Dublin City Bus, Luas, DART, and Commuter Rail and it’s only €16 for a 3-day pass.

The Dublin Pass is another handy money-saving tool to have in your arsenal and you can save between €24.50 and €54.50 on visiting Dublin’s top attractions .

You pay a set price and it gives you access to many of Dublin’s main attractions, like the Guinness Storehouse and the EPIC Museum.

Tip 9: Visiting lots of historical sites? Buy a Heritage Card

The Heritage Card is a handy way to save a decent chunk of money on admissions to Heritage Sites in Ireland, like Kilmainham Gaol , the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, Cahir Castle and loads more.

The Heritage Card is pretty decent price-wise. Here’s how much a ticket costs (note: families are likely to make the biggest savings with one of these):

• Adult: €40
• Senior: €30 (60 years and over)
• Student/Child €10.00
• Family €90.00 (2 adults & 5 eligible children)

Find out more about how much you could save and which places are included in our guide to the Heritage Card .

FAQs about how to travel Ireland cheap

If you’re still struggling, feel free to ask any questions about how to travel Ireland cheap in the comments section below.

If you’re visiting Ireland or Northern Ireland for the first time and you’re struggling to plan your trip, visit our tourist information hub – it’s packed with information you’ll find useful.

Can you visit Ireland on a budget?

You can, but it is by no means easy. The biggest expense, after your flights, is accommodation, with even beds in a hostel dorm coming in at €78+ per night. Travelling to Ireland on a budget is getting harder and harder.

Can you go to Ireland on the cheap?

The honest answer is that it depends on 1, when you are visiting from (e.g. it’ll be more expensive to fly from the US than it will to get a ferry from the UK) and 2, how flexible your dates are (i.e. it’s expensive to fly during peak season).

What is a low Ireland travel budget?

Based on our calculations, a low Ireland travel budget for two people travelling from JFK in the US in June of 2024 comes in at €2,523/$2,679 (or €1,261/$1,340 per person).

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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22 Travel Tips For Ireland For First-Time Visitors

Categories Travel Guides

Going to Ireland for the first time? This lush green country, aptly named ‘ Emerald Isle ’ sure packs a punch when it comes to attractions.

There are diverse landscapes, ancient archeological structures, old churches and lots of castles . It’s not the biggest country in the world but daunting nonetheless.

Ireland is an easy country to get around in, the Irish are warm and accommodating, and going there looks like a huge epic adventure. Make the most of your trip by taking into consideration these travel tips for Ireland.

Things you'll find in this article

Travel Tips Before Going to Ireland 

Travel tips for staying in ireland , travel tips in eating in ireland , travel tips getting around ireland, travel tips for enjoying ireland .

1. Ireland is a great place to visit any time of the year because of its mild, temperate climate.

However, if you want to be sure that most attractions are accessible or open, the best time to visit is during the shoulder season.

These are months that are in between the peak and low seasons. There’s March to May and September to November . During these months, temperatures are still mild, tourist sites are less congested and you’d definitely enjoy the beauty of the Emerald Isle.

2. Ireland is beautiful at any time of the year but it also has pretty unpredictable weather. Expect rain, even during summer.

It’s best to be always prepared so pack an umbrella, slip-proof shoes, a cardigan, and a waterproof jacket to stay warm and dry. Check out this packing list for Ireland for all seasons . 

Dark Hedges, Image by Christine Rogador

3. Don’t forget to bring your adapter plug, especially if you travel with multiple electronic devices.

You would surely want to capture and document your trip so your cellphone and camera needs to be fully charged before you leave your hostel or hotel. Pack your adapter to help save time while in Ireland with a busy itinerary. 

4. An essential advice not just when traveling to Ireland but to any other country is to buy travel insurance.

Good travel insurance will protect you and take care of you when you get sick or injured while traveling, as well as during theft and cancellations.

It is pretty much your very own comprehensive protection if anything goes wrong while you’re on vacation. Never go on any trip without it. 

5. Make sure to check first if you need a visa to go to Ireland to avoid unnecessary inconveniences. For Philippine passport holders like me, you can check out this guide on how to apply for Ireland Tourist Visa for Filipinos. 

6. If you’re looking for an easy way to save some cash while in Ireland, it’s best to stay in a hostel. They’re cheap, give you access to the bare necessities and usually includes free breakfast. Check out this list of places to stay by cities . 

7. However, even if it’s slightly pricier, a bed and breakfast is a great option as well. You get to stay in a homey atmosphere, and has additional opportunities to interact with locals.

Bed and breakfasts and guesthouses also often serve Irish food instead of getting them in pricier restaurants outside. These accommodations are often in old or historic houses, some are even in castles. 

8. You can also combine your accommodation choices. For example, stay in a hostel when in big cities like Dublin or Belfast, then book a guesthouse then in smaller cities or towns. 

9. Take advantage of the free food, especially free breakfast in your accommodations. Be sure to eat right before going anywhere. 

10. Ireland has some cool low-cost local supermarkets. Take advantage of these by buying some basic pick-me-ups like canned or bottled juice, cereal bars, digestive biscuits, and crisps.

They come in handy when you get hungry in between exploring sights or during long-distance trips to the countryside. 

11. A great way to save some cash is to eat early, whether it’s lunch or dinner. Many restaurants in Ireland offer budget lunch nor dinner to the’early birds’ and they’re cheaper.

There isn’t a lot of options though as they’re usually set meals. It is another way to experience local cuisine, too! 

12. Try at least any of the food and drinks that Ireland is known for. Have the traditional Irish breakfast , some stew, bangers, and mash or even fish and chips.

Have a pint of Guinness, a glass of whiskey or Irish coffee. Trying these definitely adds to the experience. 

13. Ireland has excellent public transportation, so take advantage of it especially in the big cities. Most offer free wifi, have friendly drivers and are known to always arrive on time. 

14. If you want to save more, get a LEAP card . This is a card you can top up to use on Ireland’s public transportation. With the card, you get discounts on fares compared to cash tickets. It’s very useful in Dublin and Belfast as well as Cork , Galway , Limerick , and Waterford . 

You can also get a Dublin Pass that will give you access to over 30 attractions in Dublin for free and a hop-off and hop-on bus tour. You can get it Dublin Pass . 

15. If you’d like to explore Ireland past the big cities at your own pace, it is best to rent a car. It’s quite easy to rent a car in Ireland and in the long run, it will be your cheapest option. 

Renting (or hiring) a car is also a fantastic way to see most of the Emerald Isle as there’s a lot of scenic drives going from one city or town to another. If you’re unfamiliar with driving rules in Ireland, you can check out this guide for driving in Ireland . 

Where to Book: Rentalcars.

16. Try ridesharing, which is another lowcost means of transportation for visitors in Ireland.

Here, you only have to pass a small background check to get approved. The drivers who rideshare are also registered and vetted. Once approved, the driver will pick you up.

With this option, you only need to pitch in for gas. Two good ridesharing apps you can try are BlaBlaCar and CarpoolWorld

17. Be sure to get a Heritage card — it’s a card you can to up and gives you access to some of the best attractions across Ireland. Specifically, the Heritage card gives free admission to site managed by the Office of Public Works.

These include Dublin Castle , Ennis Friary, the Iveagh Gardens, Glenveagh National Park, Killarney National Park, Ross Castle , and more. This is valid for a year so you can explore as much as you want here.

18. When in cafes, restaurants or even spas, know that Ireland does not have a set culture on tipping.  However, a few euros will be very much appreciated easily especially for exceptional service. Check out this tipping tips for Ireland.  

19. Don’t drink too much when in a pub. If you’re trying to save but want to experience Ireland’s pub culture, go ahead and order a pint of Guinness. Pub drinks are a bit pricer, so stick to just one pint.

A fantastic way to do this is to find a pub with a great atmosphere and especially one with a band that features traditional Irish music. Then, you can order one drink and enjoy the rest of the evening

20. Talk to as many locals as possible — in your hotel or bed and breakfast, a pub or wherever you happen to be. The Irish are a friendly, accommodating lot and are happy to help out visitors to their country. 

21. You should absolutely visit Northern Ireland . It’s a long drive bit truly worth it. Visit Belfast, drive along the Causeway Coastal Route or see the gorgeous town of Portrush . 

22. Ireland is 32,595 square miles (84,421 square kilometers) and is packed full of sights. Pace yourself and don’t squeeze ten attractions in a single day or two.

When in Ireland, you may opt to visit just a few sights or try around two interesting activities in a day. Be sure to really enjoy and savor each place you visit. 

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

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2024 ireland travel guide: how to plan the perfect trip.

We were fortunate enough to spend 16 days travelling around all of Ireland in June and July 2019.

We designed a route, rented a campervan and set off on what proved to be a pretty epic journey!

Our route took us around the entire country, starting and ending just outside Dublin.

As Cazzy is from Ireland herself, we have already visited a number of Northern Ireland’s best sites over the years.

However, neither of us were prepared for just how breathtakingly beautiful the rest of Ireland is; and it’s safe to say that our Ireland vacation is one of the best adventures we have been on to date.

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland this year (which you 100% should be) then hopefully this full-on Ireland travel guide will help you with everything you need to know.

Including the best places to visit right through to some of our favourite Ireland travel tips .

Whether you are travelling to Ireland alone, or backpacking with a group of friends, this should be a one stop Ireland guide to help you on your way.

So, without further ado, let’s get started ...

Travellerspoint

Quick Things To Know About Ireland

The island of Ireland is made up of 2 countries. Northern Ireland uses Pound Sterling (£) and Ireland uses the Euro (€).

They speak English all across Ireland. There are also a number of Gaeltacht areas where they predominantly speak Irish.

Power sockets

They use the standard Type G plug socket, the same as you will find all across the UK.

Travel vaccines

Standard travel vaccines are advised for trips to Ireland . If you are from the UK, then you may have received almost all of these during school education. For other countries, this will vary. Here's a list of recommended vaccines for visiting Ireland.

Malaria risk

Non-existent.

You will find ATMs all across Ireland, with numerous different banks. They are all fine to use and generally highly reliable. To get the best exchange rates and avoid hefty charges from your bank at home, you should get a travel card before you visit. We always use Revolut , Monzo or Starling regardless of where in the world we go, as they offer the best exchange rates. If you can’t access these, then perhaps a TransferWise debit card would work well. I use them for getting paid in foreign currencies, however their card charges you fees to use it, whereas Revolut, Monzo and Starling do not.

The best places to go partying in Ireland are the big cities; notably Belfast , Dublin , Galway , Cork and Kilkenny. In these towns and cities you will find live music every night of the week and even some bars open till the early hours. As well as this, you will find traditional Irish bars literally EVERYWHERE in Ireland. However, if you want big nights of drinking and live music, the villages and towns tend not to liven up until the weekend.

If you’re from inside the EU, then your regular sim should work for free in Ireland. Cazzy and I are on O2 sims and we had great data connection almost everywhere we went. If you’re visiting from outside the EU, then I’d recommend picking up a local sim as they are pretty cheap and you could even then use it if you plan on going to other EU countries. Both in Northern Ireland and Ireland, you can get these sims from local shops in all towns.

You don’t have to tip in Ireland, however 10% is the customary rate if you do wish to. Some bars and restaurants will add it onto the bill as an option.

Christianity is the dominant religion all over the island of Ireland. In the Republic of Ireland, Catholicism is more widely spread, but in Northern Ireland there is an almost 50/50 split between Protestant and Catholics.

Where do we begin!? Ireland has a very rich history, stretching back hundreds of years when invaders first came to the shores from Britain. The British have had a tumultuous relationship with the Irish for a long time, particularly throughout the late 20th century. This period, often called The Troubles, saw a number of atrocities committed on both sides as the IRA fought for a united Ireland and the British fought to maintain control. In 1998, the Good Friday Peace Agreement was signed which formally recognised Northern Ireland as a part of the UK and the rest becoming the Republic of Ireland. Even today, however, Northern Ireland is highly divided, with many wanting to join Ireland and the rest wanting to remain a part of the UK. It would take too long to divulge the full history here, but it’s worth familiarising yourself. I recommend reading more here , here and here .

Ireland is, generally speaking, a very safe country to visit. That being said, you should exercise common sense to avoid getting yourself in trouble. This includes not flashing money out and about in busy cities and not being out drunk late at night on your own. Also, if you are planning on driving in Ireland (more on this below) then take it careful on narrow country roads when it is dark or wet. Also, avoid upsetting any drunk locals by calling them Brits or referring to Derry as Londonderry.

Best Places To Visit In Ireland

With so many incredible spots, the only problem you’ll have with planning your trip is deciding where to travel in Ireland!

Ireland is without a doubt one of the most beautiful countries in the world; filled with rolling hills of green and breathtaking castles.

Personally, my favourite part of the country is the western coast where all along it you are greeted with dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. To make full use of this area though, you'll need at least 7 days in Ireland (ideally more though!)

But to help you with planning a rough route, here’s a quick look at my 10 favourite places to visit in Ireland .

Dublin is by far Ireland’s most popular city for tourists (according to official tourism statistics ), with millions flocking here every year, regardless of whether they are on a calm family holiday or an outrageous stag do.

Attractions such as the Guinness factory and Temple Bar are among Ireland’s most visited attractions, and this city definitely lives up to the hype!

It can be a little pricier than other parts of Ireland, but if you only have a few days to spend in Ireland, then it’s a good choice.

There are tour companies offering day trips to many great sites outside of the city, so it’s a good place to base yourself for a few nights.

Real Also: The Best Things To Do In Dublin, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

2. Killarney

This is perhaps my favourite town in all of Ireland.

Because the nightlife is so much fun!

Every night of the week, the dozen or so bars in town are pumping out traditional Irish music; and the atmosphere was better than anywhere else we visited.

It’s hard not to love live music and the packed-out bars and pubs are so alive with craic.

Also, in the day time you have many of Ireland’s best things to do located right on your doorstep, such as the Gap of Dunloe and the Killarney National Park.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Killarney, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

I’ve been to Belfast a number of times now, and each time have found new fun things to see and do.

I’m particularly fond of this city around Christmas time, when they open the Belfast Christmas markets.

The whole city is lit up with decorations and lights and it’s such a cosy place to stroll around with a nice hot cup of coffee in hand.

In the summer it’s another great place to be, with an array of bars and clubs located all across the city; as well as attractions such as the Titanic Quarter and Cathedral Quarter.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Belfast, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

The number one reason people head to the small town of Blarney is to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone.

Well, yes this certainly is a great experience, as it's one of the Ireland’s most mythical sites, shrouded in myths and legends dating back hundreds of years.

As well as this, the town itself is quaint and lovely, complete with local bars and restaurants and narrow streets to explore.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Cork, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

5. Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula, as a whole, is really lovely and I would recommend it as a place to spend a relaxing few days away from the stresses of everyday life.

The Main town of Dingle is filled with shops and restaurants, as well as some of the best fish & chips joints you’ll find in Ireland.

It has the feel fairly typical seaside town and you could really unwind and take it easy here.

Aside from the main town, the peninsula offers some of the best views you'll find in Ireland, particularly out on the western tip near Coumeenoole Beach.

Inch Beach is another really unique spot on this peninsula and well worth a brisk, windy walk.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Dingle, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

Once again, if you are looking to escape and unwind for a few days, then Doolin is a perfect choice.

It’s a small village, which can’t have more than a few hundred people living there.

But what they do have is a small strip in town with 4 or 5 real traditional pubs; we visited Gus O'Connors and found it to be lively and packed full of tourists all enjoying the great food and live music.

From the village, it’s possible to walk all the way to the Cliffs of Moher, following a path that go the whole way along the coast.

On the way, you also pass by one of my top 5 best castles in Ireland : Doonagore Castle.

Finally, it’s from Doolin pier that you can take day trips across to the Aran Islands.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Clare, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

If you’re looking for buzzing nightlife and typical Irsh charm, then Galway is another top choice, aside from Dublin and Killarney .

When we visited, the weather was amazing and we enjoyed a number of pubs and beer gardens all throughout the town.

When the sun's out, the Latin Quarter is literally packed full of people either drinking or listening to live street performers.

Further on up, you’ll also find Eyre Square another great spot for Irish bars.

Aside from drinking, Galways has a lot more to offer, and we really enjoyed the hour or so walk along the seafront taking us all the way from Galway to Salthill.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Galway, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

8. Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a great place to visit, especially if you want to head out of Dublin, but don’t have enough time to visit the western coast.

It’s a Norman town, with the castle and many of the buildings dating back more than 800 years.

The Kilkenny Castle and the grounds around it are the best attraction, and I recommend stopping off here and having your lunch on the big lawn next to the castle.

There are other great things to do in Kilkenny as well, including visiting the cathedrals, the abbey and a whole array of small shops and pubs that line the cobbled high street.

9. The Causeway Coast

The Causeway Coast is easily one of the top 5 places to visit in Ireland, and from here you can explore Northern Ireland's best attractions. Including Dunluce Castle, Bushmills Distillery, The Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and, of course, the Giant's Causeway.

If the weather is clear and calm, then there are few better places to be in Ireland than the Causeway Coast.

From there, you can also head across to Derry, or down to the Dark Hedges.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Northern Ireland

10. County Donegal

As a whole, county Donegal is one of my favourite places to visit in Ireland. 

The landscape up there is very different to other parts of Ireland, and the barren rugged countryside makes for awesome hiking and road tripping.

Some of my favorite spots in Donegal are the Slieve League Cliffs, Lough Derg and Malin Head.

There are also some great wild camping spots here, notably Lough Derg and Mullaghderg Beach.

As well as some of Ireland’s best castles, such as Doe Castle and Lough Eske Castle.

Next time we visit, I fully intend on spending more time around Glenveagh National Park, one of my favourite national parks from across Ireland.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Donegal, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

Our 10 Favourite Things To Do In Ireland

There are incredible experiences to be had all across Ireland.

There are famous sites to visit all across the country, many of which are located well outside of the popular tourist towns and cities.

Well, by having our own campervan, we visited the entire country from south to north and east to west, and along the way kept track of all of the best things to see and do in Ireland .

Here’s my top 10 (in no particular order) ...

1. Walk along the cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s biggest tourist attraction outside of Dublin.

Why do you think that is?

Well, it’s because they are awesome!

They rise up 700 feet above the water and are such an impressive site on a clear day.

Best of all, you can walk all the way along them to the town of Doolin if you wish; just be careful as the path gets very busy during peak times.

That’s why we got there early, as by 10am the cliffs are packed with people and you don’t get the same experience.

2. Visit Giants Causeway

Arguably Northern Ireland’s best attraction, Giant's Causeway is a geographical phenomenon that has amazed people for generations.

It has also brought about a number of myths and legends, notably those about Finn the Giant who once lived there, and who’s chimney stack you can still see smoking some days.

When you visit for the first time, I recommend paying to get the audio headset so you can learn more about the causeway on the walk down.

After you’ve walked over them and caught some really cool photos, head further round and then right up the mountain to the top of the cliffs.

The views from up there are awesome and well worth the climb.

3. Rent a campervan and drive Ireland yourself

I would say that the number one thing to do in Ireland is to hire a vehicle and drive yourself around Ireland .

Most of the best things to see and do aren’t in the towns and cities, but are instead located by the coast in hard to reach places.

Well, having a car or campervan gives you complete control over where you go and what you do and will allow you to experience Ireland to the max.

We rented a campervan with Spaceship Rentals and had the most amazing time ever!

You can read more about our epic 16 day Ireland road trip here .

4. Walk the Gap of Dunloe

The Gap of Dunloe is perhaps Ireland’s most magical spot; a 6 km long valley that takes you through some truly awe inspiring scenery.

What I loved most was that the farther you travel through it, the more the landscape seems to keep on changing.

It looks almost entirely different from one end to the other, making it a pleasure to walk in both directions (which you’re going to need to do!).

If you head there nice and early, you can get there and back in a couple hours and then head into Kate Kearney’s Cottage for a spot of well-earned brunch.

5. Spend a night listening to Irish traditional music

Some of my favorite memories from Ireland is our time spent in old-fashioned Irish pubs listening to Irish music late into the night.

I’ve always been a big fan of Irish music, but nothing beats listening to it in person.

Typically, pubs are more likely to have live music on Friday and Saturday night; unless you are visiting a big city like Dublin or Galway when you should find it most nights.

6. Wild camp by a lough

If you choose to rent a vehicle and drive yourself around, you’ll soon discover that Ireland is filled with beautiful loughs.

For years now, Cazzy has been campaign with her family to Lough Derg in Donegal , arguably one of Ireland's most scenic spots.

However, if you just drive around the country you will find large, secluded loughs everywhere, many with possible wild camping spots.

To find out more, you can read this guide Cazzy wrote on wild camping in Ireland.

7. Kiss the Blarney Stone

Kissing the Blarney Stone is perhaps one of the most famous things you must do in Ireland.

Located not far outside of Cork , Blarney Castle is a 570 year old castle shrouded in myths and legends, most notably those about the Blarney Stone.

There are numerous tales on how the Blarney Stone came to be at Blarney Castle, and you can learn all about these on your way up through the castle to kiss the stone.

Regardless of which tale you believe, you cannot deny the magical gift of eloquence that it bestows upon all that kiss it.

8. Check out the Rock of Cashel

From a distance, the Rock of Cashel is possibly the most breathtaking castle in Ireland.

For hundreds of years it served as the seat of the kings of Ireland, and it is certainly worthy of such a role.

Over the years, the Rock of Cashel grew in size, but the oldest remaining parts of the site date back as far as the year 1100, making it more than 900 years old!

From the inside, a lot of it has fallen into disrepair, but is still well worth a walk around.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Tipperary, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

9. Go hiking in the national parks

Ireland has a number of national parks and we were lucky enough to pass through a number of them on our road trip.

My favourites being Wicklow, Killarney, Connemara and Glenveagh.

What’s nice is that each of them is unique in it’s own way and it’s great taking time to go for a walk through them wherever possible.

10. Learn about Irish history

I first started learning about Irish history in 2015 when Cazzy first took me to Ireland to meet her family.

I quickly learned that the Irish have a VERY lengthy and tumultuous history with the English. After years of conflict and violence the country was split in two ( Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland), but the drama didn’t stop there. 

Northern Ireland has a rich history with regards to the Troubles that followed. 

It’s an intense and recent history that’s very important and you can see real life examples of what it was like in cities like Belfast , Derry and Dublin .

When Is The Best Time To Visit Ireland?

Really, Ireland is a great country to visit at all times of the year.

As the seasons change, the landscape changes with it and you can expect to find a whole another country.

However, if you're looking for warm weather and clear skies, then the best time to travel to Ireland is in the Summer months of June to August.

We visited in June/July and the weather was absolutely amazing almost the entire time; we had clear blue skies and excellent views wherever we went.

The shoulder months of April/May (Spring) and September/October (Autumn) might also be nice as well, however, you're more likely to have a lot of wind and rain during your visit.

If you are happy to put up with much colder weather, then Ireland can be nice and snowy in December and January.

This is also when it’s the cheapest time to visit Ireland as most tourists won’t be there.

That being said, a lot of Ireland’s best attractions won’t be open either.

The only thing I will say is this … Ireland is famously unpredictable when it comes to its weather.

Though we had excellent weather in June and July on our visit, it is just as likely that you visit in this time and its wet and windy the whole time.

Similarly, weather can change from one hour to the next with mist descending out of nowhere and then clearing as if it was never there.

It’s all a part of the mystery that makes Ireland what it is.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Kerry, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

Travelling In Ireland: Sorting Your Ireland Visa

Seeing as both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are in the EU, you can visit either country without hassle if you also hold an EU passport.

If you are from outside of the EU, then your visa requirements will differ.

Here is a list of all countries that need a visa to enter Ireland and here’s a useful page on applying for a visa if you do need one.

How Do You Get To Ireland?

You have two main options for getting into Ireland, these are:

1. Flying to Ireland

The 2 main airports that you will likely be flying into are Dublin and Belfast.

Typically speaking, these have the most available flights and are cheapest.

Especially if you are entering from another European country and book your flights with Ryanair .

If you are flying in long haul, such as from America, then chances are it will be Dublin or Belfast that have the cheapest flights.

That being said there are a number of other airports in Ireland to fly into.

Though they may be a little pricier, you can then save money on getting buses across the country if that’s where you plan on spending a weekend; for example in Galway or Cork.

To find the cheapest flights into Ireland, I recommend using Skyscanner .

In the “To” box, you can select “Ireland (IE)” and it will tell you which airports offer the cheapest deals.

Be aware, however, that this will not include Northern Ireland . For that you will need to search for “Northern Ireland (UK)” separately.

2. Taking a ferry to Ireland

It is possible to drive over to Ireland by ferry, and there are a number of ports up the coast.

Personally, I’ve taken the ferry from Liverpool to Dublin before, as well as the ferry from Rosslare to Pembroke.

Each of them takes no more than a few hours and the weather is typically pretty cold.

I always book my ferry crossings to Ireland using Direct Ferries.

Getting Around Ireland

When it comes to getting around Ireland, you’ve got a few main options, these include:

1. Hiring a campervan or car

By far your best option for getting around Ireland is to hire a campervan and drive yourself around.

Not only does this give you complete flexibility over your schedule, it also means you get to wild camp in some pretty cool places!

There are a variety of campervan companies you can choose from, but we recommend Spaceships Rentals and you can check out our review of them here .

If you would rather, just can rent a car you’ll be happy to hear there are lots of great car rental companies in Ireland .

A good place to start your search is with Rentalcars.com .

Read Also: The 35 Best Castles In Ireland That You Need To Visit

2. Using buses

Buses travel between major cities all across Ireland and there are a variety of different companies to choose from. 

You can find links to all major cities from the airports, but also connections from city to city. These buses will be comfortable, air conditioned and generally have WiFi. 

Local buses for day trips within cities and getting around are also common and easy to use. 

The bus network in Ireland is quite well established and to find your way from A to B, I suggest you head to a local tourism office for advice. 

There is a tourism office in almost every little town in Ireland, so you’ll always find someone who can help you with Ireland bus routes. 

3. Private tours

Tours in Ireland are the most common way to get around for lots of visitors. 

Whilst I’ve never done a tour myself, I know there are a wide range of tour companies and the tours in Ireland are generally quite high quality and great value for money. 

You can opt for group tours or pay a little extra for private tours. I suggest using GetYourGuide for all your tour needs! 

The train network is quite established, but it’s more expensive, and I wouldn’t rely on it to get everywhere.

I’ve never actually used the train, but you can get all the information and prices you need on the Irish Rail Network website . It is a good way to get around towns. 

For more information, check out Cazzy’s blog post on getting around Ireland .

Real Also: The Best Things To Do In Mayo, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

Finding The Best Accommodation In Ireland

Regardless of how you plan on getting around the country, you’re probably wondering where to stay in Ireland. Well, here you go!

Accommodation for camping and caravanning

If you’re planning on hiring a campervan in Ireland , then you have two main options when it comes to accommodation.

1. Use campsites

There are campsites located all across Ireland, and even in peak summer months you should be able to call up on the day and book somewhere to stay that same night.

To find campsites when we were travelling across Ireland we mostly used a guidebook from Camping Ireland .

Alternatively, if you don’t have a guide book, you can use websites such as:

• Camping Ireland
• EuroCampings

You can expect a pitch in a typical caravan site to set you back between €20 and €30 per night.

2. Wild camp

One of the best things about having your own campervan or motorhome in Ireland is the opportunity to wild camp.

There are awesome wild camping spots located all across Ireland; any of which are online, but most of which you can discover yourself!

For more info, check out this guide Cazzy wrote on wild camping spots in Ireland .

Other Accommodation in Ireland

If you’re planning on getting around Ireland by bus, train or car, then you will find tonnes of great hotels, hostels and B&Bs all across the Emerald Isle.

Great sites for finding the best places to stay in Ireland include:

• Booking.com (Top choice for hotels in Ireland)
• Airbnb (Top choice for homestays and B&Bs in Ireland)
• Hostelworld (Top choice for hostels in Ireland)
• CozyCozy (easy-to-use price comparison tool for options given above)

A mid-range double hotel room or Airbnb stay will set you back anywhere between €50 and €80 per night.

A single bed in a hostel dorm room ranges from €15 to €25.

To make a quick booking, here's a roundup of the best places to stay for each major part of Ireland:

Ireland Travel Guide: What to wear in Ireland

Generally speaking … wear warm clothes!

Even if you plan on visiting in the summer months, you can never guarantee clear weather, so take warm clothes, like jeans and a jumper, as well as a waterproof coat.

If you are visiting in colder winter months, then make sure you take plenty of warm comfy clothes, especially if you plan to be out walking in the national parks.

That being said, in the summer months the weather can also be very nice, so take some shorts and t-shirts or dresses with you to make the most of it.

If you’re by the coast when the weathers nice, then you’ll see lots of pale Irish people walking down the beach with their t-shirts off; this is because everyone makes full use of the hot weather when it does arrive!

Read More: What To Pack For Ireland

Eating and Drinking in Ireland

If you want to experience good old fashioned Irish cooking, then the best place to go is a traditional Irish pub.

Here, you will find a number of homemade classics, with my favourite being Irish stew.

If you can, the best way to enjoy Irish stew is with a few pieces of wheaten bread, which is a type of bread only really made and sold in Ireland and is much stodgier than regular bread.

On that note, Ireland sells a few different types of bread that you don’t really get elsewhere; including potato bread and soda bread.

Aside from these few classics, a lot of the food you’ll find in Ireland can be found elsewhere in Europe, particularly the UK.

This includes typical pub grub like bangers & mash, fish & chips and lasagne.

If you’re heading out for a busy day of sightseeing, then a good way to start your day is with an Irish/Ulster fry.

This consists of a variety of things including bacon, sausage, beans, potato bread, soda bread, mushrooms and tomatoes.

As you’d imagine, its with alcohol that Ireland really comes into its own!

Their two big specialities being Guiness and whiskey (not spelt “whisky”, that’s Scottish).

If you ask me, then Guinness really isn’t all that, and I would much rather have a nice cold pint of cider, which is also becoming extremely popular now across Ireland.

If you’re a fan of whiskey then you will love Ireland as most bars tend to have at least half a dozen to a dozen different varieties on sale.

You will also find large distilleries located all across Ireland, including the Bushmills Distillery next to the Giant's Causeway .

There are a number of smaller homegrown distilleries cropping up, such as the Slane Distillery at Slane castle .

Useful Online Tools For Your Ireland Trip

When you're planning a vacation in Ireland, then there’s all kinds of online tools out there that will help make your trip ten times better.

Here’s the online websites and applications that we used when travelling Ireland:

• Skyscanner - For booking flights
• Spaceships Rentals - For organising a campervan
• Google Maps - For saving places to visit, as well as day-to-day navigation
• Booking.com - For finding the best deals on all kinds of hotels
• Airbnb - For finding the most affordable homestays
• Revolut / Starling - For avoiding any fees when converting our money to Euros

The cost of Travelling Ireland

Ireland certainly isn’t the cheapest country to visit, but nor is it the most expensive.

Here a rough overview of how much things typically cost in Ireland.

• Groceries - €5-10 per day each (Lidl and Aldi are the cheapest supermarkets to use)
• Eating out - €15-20 for a decent meal with a drink
• Alcohol - €4.50 for a pint in a pub / €1.50 for a can of beer/cider in supermarkets / €7 for a single spirit with mixer in a pub (35ml) / €13 for a 70cl bottle of vodka in a supermarket
• Tours & activities - Entrance fees to most castles are around €10, day trips to other islands are €30 or more. Here’s a list of popular tours in Ireland
• Transport - Buses and trains can cost €15 and upwards, depending on the length of journey
• Fuel - We spent €7.50/day each and were driving 4 to 5 hours every day (here’s a list of current fuel prices in Ireland )

So, how much did we spend on our visit to Ireland?

It’s worth pointing out that our Ireland road trip was in collaboration with Spaceships Rentals , who covered much of the cost of the campervan rental.

If we include the full cost of the rental into our overall expenditure, then here’s how much we spent overall for 16 days around Ireland:

€1400 (or €87.50 each/per day)

As a rough breakdown, per day this included:

• €50 for the van and insurance
• €5-10 on groceries
• €10 on entrance fees
• €7.50 on fuel
• €10 on drinks/food in a pub
• €5 on campsite fees (we only stayed in a campsite 6 nights)

Obviously, on some days we spent more on eating out, but on the other days we cooked for ourselves so only spent money on groceries.

Drone Laws In Ireland

First up, yes, it is legal to fly a travel drone in Ireland.

That being said, there are a number of rules and regulations in place that you need to follow; as set by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA).

The biggest thing that you need to know is that you must register your drone before legally being allowed to fly it there.

Registering it is relatively straightforward, and you can find the simple 2-step process for doing so on this page here .

DO NOTE: It took 5 weeks after registering for the paperwork to get shipped to me.

In this paperwork is a small sticker that you are meant to attach to your drone, to show that it has been registered properly.

I’m not sure how long it’s meant to take, especially if you live further afield than England, like me; so I advise registering as far in advance as possible before you are due to arrive.

When in Ireland, you will need to follow a number of regulations involving how far you can fly it, how high you can fly and where you can legally fly it.

You can read all about up-to-date Ireland drone laws here .

My favourite drone spots in Ireland

What’s nice is that Ireland is filled with incredible drone spots. Here were 5 of my favourite spots for filming with a drone in Ireland:

• Anywhere up the Wild Atlantic Way (Ireland’s rugged western coast)
• Doonagore Castle
• Gap of Dunloe
• Achill Island
• Glenveagh National Park

Final Thoughts And Advice

If I could advise you of just one thing when planning a trip around Ireland, it would be to find a way to drive your own vehicle.

I can honestly say that the best part about seeing Irealand are the in-between moments.

Sure, many of the towns and cities are lovely, but if this is all you see then you are truly missing out on the best sites Ireland has to offer.

We had such a great time driving the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Beara and the Ring of Kerry , as well as through Ireland’s many breathtaking national parks.

It is so liberating having complete control over your schedule and your day-to-day itinerary, and you will find hidden villages and pubs that you’d otherwise be unable to explore unless you have control over where you travel to.

I’d highly recommend renting a campervan from Spaceships Rentals , but if you don’t like the idea of camping or want a smaller vehicle, then I’m sure renting a car would be equally as amazing.

A good place to start your search for that would be something like Rentalcars.com .

Other than that, if you have any other questions and think I’ve missed anything from this ridiculously in-depth Ireland travel guide, then just drop a comment below!

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Europe , Ireland , Scotland , Travel

The perfect scotland and ireland itinerary.

Trips to Ireland and Scotland are some of my favorites to help plan. Both countries are some of my favorites and they can be easily combined. This Scotland and Ireland itinerary will help you plan the best trip!

This post contains affiliate links.

• Should I go to Scotland or Ireland?

I often get asked by my readers which trip they should take, Ireland or Scotland? While both destinations are amazing and beautiful with so much to offer, and I always try to help them make the right choice for their needs, I don’t think this has to be an either-or choice. If you’re really struggling with the Ireland vs Scotland debate, why not choose both? When you use this itinerary to travel to Ireland and Scotland you’re getting the best of both worlds within two weeks.

Here's a Short Cut

Best Time to Visit Ireland and Scotland

Fly between scotland and ireland, ferry from ireland to scotland, ireland and scotland tours, ireland scotland map, scotland and ireland itinerary, day 1: arrive in dublin, day 2: explore dublin, day 3 & 4: take an overnight trip to the west of ireland, day 5: wicklow mountains, day 6 & 7: northern ireland and back to dublin, days 1-2: explore edinburgh , day 3: scottish highlands, days 4-6: isle of skye, day 7: depart from edinburgh.

The best time to visit Ireland and Scotland is usually off-peak in shoulder season between April-May and September-October. If you go to Ireland and Scotland during these times you’ll avoid the crowds, but still be able to enjoy nicer weather than in the winter.

Getting Between Scotland and Ireland

Trips to Ireland and Scotland offer the best of both worlds and can be done affordably too. Getting from Ireland to Scotland is easy and affordable. There are many companies that offer Ireland and Scotland tours that are great, or you can choose to take the trip on your own.

There are plenty of cheap flights from Ireland to Scotland and from Scotland to Ireland. You can fly with Ryanair for as little as $21 USD! Honestly, that’s cheaper than the cost of a nice dinner! So if you really are having a hard time deciding between Ireland and Scotland, go ahead and do both!

Learn how to find cheap flights to and from Ireland and Scotland by reading my   guide to flying for cheap or nearly free here.

If you have your own car or are using this itinerary as part of a larger European trip, you might also consider taking the ferry from Ireland to Scotland or vice versa. This would also work if you’re planning to fly in and out of the same airport. However, if you are flying into Scotland or Ireland and plan to fly out of a different airport, I would not recommend taking the ferry. Especially since flights between Scotland and Ireland are so cheap! If you do decide to go for a rental car in one country and leave it in the other, it will cost you at least $1500 USD ($500 for a cross border fee and $500 for a one-way rental fee). And then you have the cost of the ferry on top of that which is a few hundred dollars. While sailing across the North Chanel is truly beautiful, It’s not worth the expense if you will be renting a car.

Visiting Ireland and Scotland can seem a little daunting on your own and tours can be a great way to go if you’re feeling a little nervous about it. These are some great Ireland and Scotland tours that will help you get a great overview of these two destinations:

This interactive map should help you plan your Ireland and Scotland itinerary. You can click on each destination to find more information.

I outline a great Ireland and Scotland itinerary below, but if you want to skip all the planning and simply use this downloadable, printable, detailed itinerary , you can find it here.

Get the Full Itinerary I’m giving you a detailed day-by-day Ireland and Scotland itinerary. You can do this itinerary in any order you wish, but this seemed the most logical to me. This itinerary begins in Ireland and ends in Scotland, where you can choose to fly home from, or simply fly back to Ireland for a round trip ticket. The choice is yours. I recommend flying in and out of wherever you can   get the best deals .  I generally find Ireland cheaper to fly to from the United States but have occasionally found great deals to Scotland as well.

Ireland could literally take you years to explore! So if you’re planning a trip to Ireland , I’m giving you just a week in this itinerary of things to do in Ireland , but I think it will show you some of the best places to visit in Ireland in a short amount of time. If you’re interested in a longer, more detailed trip to Ireland, you can check out my full  Ireland Itinerary. 

For the first day of your Scotland and Ireland vacation, arrive in Dublin airport and adjust to the time change. Dublin is Ireland’s capital city, so you’re sure to visit places while you’re here. Keep yourself awake until a reasonable hour (between 8 pm and 11 pm) and wake up early the next morning.

Now that you’re hopefully feeling well-rested and not too jet-lagged, it’s time to explore the capital of the Republic of Ireland. Don’t miss these stops in Dublin:

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Dublin Castle
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Trinity College Library
• St. Stephens Green
• Lunch at Avoca Wool Shop & Cafe
• Little Museum of London
• Take a   Bus Tour   of Dublin
• Howth Cliffs
• Phoenix Park

Take an entire day to explore the west of Ireland. If you’re self-driving it will take about 3.5 hours to get to the west coast known as the Wild Atlantic Way. If you’re feeling nervous about driving in Ireland there are several great day trips from Galway that will take you to the west for this 2-day trip.  This amazing tour   explores the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and Killarney National Park, with an overnight stay in Dingle.

Don’t miss these stops on your trip to the West:

• Killarney National Park (learn more about   Killarney   here.)
• Muckross House & Traditional Farm
• Muckross Abbey
• Killarney Town
• Cliffs of Moher
• Blarney Castle

Spend a day in the beautiful County Wicklow. Be sure not to miss these:

• Powerscourt Estate: Dating back over 200 years, these are some of the most beautiful gardens in all of Ireland
• Glendalough: Beautiful lakes surrounded by stunning mountains!
• Silver Strand Beach: A beautiful and secluded beach
• Wicklow Gaol: This old jail is a great place to learn some interesting and sad Irish history.
• Wicklow Town: Adorable Irish town

Spend two days in beautiful Northern Ireland! You can take the three-hour drive yourself or take  this great two-day tour   that will take you to all the best sites. Be sure not to miss these:

• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Giant’s Causeway
• Dark Hedges

In between your exploration, make sure you also visit the city center and get to experience local dishes and listen to traditional Irish music while you’re in town!

Now that you’ve enjoyed a full week in Ireland, it’s time to hop over the Irish Channel and visit the beautiful and rugged Scotland! Most flights will take you into Edinburgh where you can either rent a car or spend a few days in the city then do some tours in the highlands. If you want to experience a great overview of the country, you can do my full  Scotland Itinerary.

I normally like to advise people to get out of the big cities and explore the countryside, but Edinburgh has so much to offer that I think it’s worth spending at least 2 days here. You can learn about what to do in Edinburgh in  my detailed guide here,   but be sure not to miss these top spots:

• Edinburgh Castle
• Holyrood Palace
• The Royal Mile
• St. Gile’s Cathedral
• Scott Monument
• Grass Market
• Princes Street Gardens
• Take a    Harry Potter Walking Tour
• Visit the Elephant House Cafe where JK Rowling ate
• Victoria Street
• Hike Arthur’s Seat
• Calton Hill
• Cairngorms National Park

If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a castle, be sure to check out these awesome castle hotels in Scotland.

Spend day 4 exploring the highlands of Scotland. Visit Inverness and try and find the Loch Ness Monster! You can drive here or take   this easy day tour from Edinburgh.   Be sure to read my   guide to the highlands   and don’t miss these sites:

• Urquhart Castle
• Fort William

You can’t visit Scotland without taking a trip to visit the breathtakingly beautiful Isle of Skye. It’s rugged beauty and history combined with its rugged island charm is sure to win your heart! Driving to the Isle of Skye can be a little scary if you don’t know what to expect. The roads are one lane so you must share the road with oncoming traffic. If you’re not comfortable driving in those conditions, it might be a good idea to take a tour to the Isle of Skye.

Rabbie’s does an amazing 3-day tour that comes with your own comedic  kilted tour guide to take you through the Isle of Skye while learning all about its interesting past and natural wonders. You can find the  tour here. 

Be sure to read   my complete guide to the Isle of Skye   before going.

Whether you decide to drive to the Isle of Skye on your own or take a tour, don’t miss these sites:

• The Quiraing 
• Old Man of Storr
• Neist Point
• Dunvegan Castle
• Fairy Pools
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Museum of Island Life & Flora MacDonald’s Grave

On the last day of your Scotland and Ireland vacation, travel back to Edinburgh and either fly home from there or fly back to Dublin to fly home.

I hope this itinerary will help plan many trips to Ireland and Scotland. They are both such amazing destinations and I know you’ll love them! If you need help planning, please feel free to reach out  Facebook   or  Instagram , or send me an email me  [email protected]

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Home » Europe » Ireland » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Ireland Travel Guide 2024

Welcome to the land of cheeky leprechauns, misty green mountains, haunted castles, frothy black beer, dramatic glaciated coastline, and gold standard humour. Backpacking Ireland is a treat for any traveler.

It has the perfect combination of natural beauty, fascinating history, pumping cities, and friendly locals. Ireland is the perfect travel destination, whether you’re a newbie backpacker or a veteran who want to get off the beaten path.

But Ireland isn’t cheap if you don’t know the tricks. So I’ll show you how to backpacking Ireland on a budget.

This is the only backpacker-oriented Ireland travel guide you will ever need. Get Ireland travel tips and honest advice on where to go backpacking in Ireland: backpacker accommodation, suggested Ireland itineraries, top things to do in Ireland, how to travel the country, daily travel costs, best hikes, Ireland budget travel hacks , and much more…

This is the ultimate travel  guide to backpacking Ireland …

Let’s do it!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Why Go Backpacking in Ireland?

Jaw-dropping emerald mountains dotted with castles, glaciated lakes, bogs, and dense forests define Ireland’s natural interior landscapes. The Irish national park system has done well to protect the country’s natural wonders. Wicklow Mountains, Connemara, Killarney, and Glenveagh National Parks are among the most scenic places in all of Europe.

If all of that wasn’t enough, you have the Irish coast to contemplate. Ireland is an island (who knew?) and enjoys 900 miles (1,448 km) of coastline.

Well, actually, depending on who you ask, it might be more like 3,000 km. Anyway, there is a lot of Irish coast!

The Irish coast is famous for the mind-blowing scenes found at Giant’s Causeway and the Cliffs of Moher . Apart from these popular coastal landmarks, a majority of the Irish coast is wild and prime off the beaten track territory.

By the end of this backpacking Ireland travel guide, you’ll get acquainted with the top places to visit in Ireland as well as the lesser-explored hidden gems of the country.

Now, let’s look at some of your itinerary options for your backpacking Ireland adventure.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Ireland

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Ireland is full of wonderful places to explore. But sure, I’m going to give you my best recommendations for an Ireland backpacking itinerary.

Nothing’s too far away in Ireland so it’s easy to mix it up, do it back to front, fall in love and never leave. Backpacking Ireland itineraries become badass when you travel off route a little too.

Visiting Ireland for a month or more really opens doors to new opportunities. For your itinerary, you can combine a few of the Ireland routes mentioned above into one giant trip, if you have the time.

7-Day Travel Itinerary for Ireland: Northern Ireland, Castles, and Whiskey

If you are backpacking through Ireland, Northern Ireland is a fascinating part of the island and you should take the time to visit. Northern Ireland is in fact not part of the Republic of Ireland. For better or worse (depending on who you ask), Northern Ireland remains a part of the UK.

The Northern Irish national identity is complicated. But be sure – the folks there are extremely proud to be Irish all the same.

The great city of Belfast has great things to do . It’s an easy port in and out too. From Belfast head north along the coast towards the Giant’s Causeway .

Make time for a stop at the legendary Bushmills Distillery ; it’s a day boozing hard kinda place. Even for me at that time in my life, that was way too early to start sampling whiskey – but what the hell. It makes for an interesting rest of the day (as long as you’re not driving). 

The Antrim Coast to (London) Derry is the next logical route on your Northern Ireland Roadtrip. Check out Dunluce Castle . 

Game of Thrones fans, get stoked because you might recognize a place or two. Hint: Mussenden Temple .

If you want to branch out a bit, head towards Enniskillen . Devenish Island is worth a look if you fancy a short boat trip to see it.

2-Week Travel Itinerary for Ireland: Highlights and Culture

So let’s say you got 2 weeks for your backpacking Ireland itinerary. It’s still not heaps of time but you can cherry-pick some highlights of Ireland.

First hit the world-famous Cliffs of Moher to immediately have your mind blown upon arriving in the country. It’s popular – but worth it – so plan accordingly!

It’s just south of Galway , if you have time (or curiosity) for it. Take a short ferry to Dunguaire Castle or see the Aran Islands across Galway Bay. 

The next stop is Killarney in the south. This is down to Killarney National Park. The park is within walking distance from the Old Town. Go for an epic hike at Ross Castle .

From Killarney, take the best short road trip in Ireland along Ring of Kerry road: the quintessential Ireland experience. Take in gorgeous views of coastal cliffs, postcard pastoral landscapes, and charming villages. 

If you’re heading to Dublin , and don’t have time for Ring of Kerry, Limerick makes a great stopover. You’ll be overloaded with awesome things to do but a weekend in Dublin is enough time.

1-Month Travel Itinerary for Ireland: Culture and National Parks

Finally! With a month, you can plan the ultimate Ireland road trip itinerary that revolves around visiting national parks. Take your time to stop, go for hikes, camp, and explore at your leisure.

You can begin this trip in either Belfast , Dublin , or Galway . For ease, let’s say you start in Dublin.

Your first stop after a weekend in Dublin is Wicklow Mountains National Park . Wicklow is Ireland’s only national park not found on the West Coast. This national park is a dreamy place to enjoy mountains, lakes, trekking, and camping.

After Wicklow, head southwest to Killarney National Park . A truly spectacular lake and mountain scenery await.

Burren National Park, south of Galway, holds some of the most unique rock formations and landscapes to be found in all of Ireland. Connemara National Park , north of Galway, is something special still. Dense peat bog forests make up the majority of the flatlands surrounding the impressive Twelve Bens mountain range .

That leaves us with Ballycroy and Glenveagh National Park in the far northwestern corner of the country. Hopefully, you’ll have time left on your Ireland itinerary for these.

For such a small country, Ireland offers up a vast variety of awesome regions to explore. There’s Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, and more! You won’t be short on options when deciding where to stay in Ireland .

Ireland is home to quaint villages, where cosying up to a pint of Guinness by the fire while being serenaded by local troubadours is the main activity. For many travellers, including myself, it is Ireland’s wild places that are the main attraction.

In contrast, bustling cities like Dublin, Belfast, Cork, and Galway offer up a taste of modern Irish life. Ireland’s urban centres feature booming nightlife, world-class museums, impressive architecture, and plenty of free attractions to enjoy. Then there is the beer…

• Backpacking Dublin

After living in Europe for some time now, I still say that this is one of my favourite cities. Visiting Dublin is a special experience.

Dublin truly has something for every backpacker. You could easily spend a week here checking out historical attractions, Dublin Castle, impressive museums, pub hopping, and eating delicious food. It’s all here.

I wouldn’t normally advise people to check out a post office, but the  General Post Office  on O’Connell Street in Dublin. The first seeds of the Irish Republic were planted here after a bloody struggle in 1916. It’s pretty cool to see while you’re saying in Dublin .

Some of the libraries in Dublin might as well be museums. They hold one-of-a-kind treasures of Irish history and national identity. The Library at Trinity College Dublin is something quite special.

I recommend checking out The Book of Kells , a 9th-century masterpiece of great historical significance and one of the national treasures of Ireland. The grounds at Trinity College are a great place for a picnic too – weather permitting, obviously.

The Temple Bar is a bit of a tourist trap and so is the Guinness Brewery . But honestly, I recommend them. I learned a lot about Irish beer and they are very impressive.

Plus, you have never had a Guinness this good. The beer barely travels from the keg to your lips. Perfection.

Special shout out to the Dublin pub (I won’t say which one) and the owner who closed down his place at 2 am and let us hang out inside until the wee hours. I might add he was even kind enough to gift us a chunk of hash (which we promptly smoked inside the pub). You’re the man.

These places to visit in Dublin are where the magic is. This is why I love Ireland: people are genuinely kind and thoughtful.

Need help deciding between Dublin vs Belfast ? Check out our helpful guide.

Backpacking Galway

If you thought Dublin was easy on the eyes, then you are really going to fall for County Galway.

It has one of the most attractive urban city centres in Ireland and there are loads of things to do in Galway. All of the attractions are within close proximity to the city. And there are many attractions…

If you are backpacking Ireland without a car then Galway is the logical place to base your day trips. There have been many a song written about Galway Bay and it’s a no-brainer to see why.

No matter where in Galway you stay, you can easily walk to the bay and Dunguaire Castle from the city. Be sure to catch a sunset here if you can. The colours explode across the water and cast epic shades of tangerine and purple along the castle walls.

The Galway Museum is a great spot for travellers to get to know local history. For centuries, Ireland was very regional so the Museum in Galway will shine a light on local customs and traditions not found in other parts of Ireland.

Dough Bros pizzeria on Abbeygate Street is sure to crush any hunger you have built up during your urban or coastal explorations.

If you happen to pass through Galway on a Saturday, a visit to the centuries-old Galway Street Market is a must. This is the area with some of the best hostels in Galway too.

Backpacking the Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher , in County Clare, are one of Ireland’s most popular attractions. Odds are, folks who are backpacking Ireland are going to want to visit them – whether on a guided tour or broke backpacker style.

The reality is, if you go in the summer, there will be swarms of people and enough flashbulbs going off to make you feel like you are at a rave. If you are here visiting in the off-season (really anytime not June-September) there might be very few people indeed.

The Cliffs of Moher are special and you should check them out. If you have your own wheels or doing it van life style , it’s easy.

Just come very early in the morning or just before the sun goes down. There is definitely a peak time of day when the gaggles of tourist buses roll through. Plan accordingly.

There are, in fact, other interesting things to do right around the Cliffs of Moher that are far less popular. Check out  O’Connors Pub i n Doolin for a pint and some fine Celtic folk music .  A tour of Doolin Cave is also bound to be an exciting adventure, though one you have to book and pay for.

Backpacking Limerick

As you walk around Limerick, the 13th-century King John’s Castle (entrance fee €13) certainly makes a lasting first impression. Located right on the riverfront, King John’s Castle is a fine place to visit when it’s not crazy busy.

In summer, street food vendors line the boardwalk and offer up a wide variety of budget-friendly food. If the weather is nice, take picnic supplies and a blanket and head to People’s Park . For a good rainy day activity, check out Frank McCourt Museum (author of Angela’s Ashes).

The Milk Market is one of the best farmers’ market scenes in Ireland. There are usually a few talented musicians playing as well. Check out the selection of cheese and fresh produce.

The Milk Market is a good place to stock your cooler or pick up picnic supplies. There are also more than a few good hostels in Limerick .

Backpacking Killarney

Let the outdoor adventures begin. The town of Killarney is located just a stone’s throw away from Killarney National Park .

As you spend some time backpacking around Ireland, you will see these calendars and books for sale that all focus on one thing: beautiful doors found throughout Ireland. Yes, you read that right – doors .

There are some great areas in Killarney with gorgeous colourful buildings (and doors ;)), cool cafes, homey pubs, and a really badass castle nearby. The 15th-century Ross Castle was recently restored and now welcomes visitors. Rent a bike and explore the surrounding area too.

You can hire a cheap kayak and take a tour of the lake. Lots of hostels in Killarney offer good value Ireland backpacking tours – even if you (like me) usually hate them.

If you have an inexplicable draw towards the occult or supernatural ghost stories, take a Killarney ghost tour. Be warned that those of fragile constitution may pee their pants in fear.

Now the really good bit: Killarney National Park was the first national park in Ireland (est. 1932). Basically, some rich Irish dudes donated a portion of their sprawling estate, and voila , insta-park.

Check out the impressive Muckross Abbey (formerly part of the Muckross estate). The building features beautiful stone architecture and has an all-around haunted sort of a vibe.

The Torc waterfall is the most heavily photographed waterfall in Ireland. Beyond where the average tourists tread, however, is Torc Mountain . Fantastic views await you at the top.

The even less explored Gap of Dunloe is a must-visit area. Misty mountains, almost-fake greenery, and a chilly bubbling river all make the Gap of Dunloe a special trek.

The main 7-mile trail runs along a series of connected lakes from Kate Kearney’s Cottage to Lord Brandon’s Cottage. More on hiking in Killarney National Park later in the guide.

Backpacking the Kerry Road

For those backpacking Ireland in a car or campervan, the Kerry Road is one road you need to visit. The Kerry Road is a 179km loop that can be done in two or three days; it’s ideal for backpackers tackling a 7 day Ireland itinerary.

The road takes you through a diverse cross-section of landscapes. Pastoral scenes straight out of a W.B. Yeats poem mixed with stunning coastal views dotted with cute AF seaside villages.

The UNESCO World Heritage,  Skellig Islands , is just 11 kilometres from the  Iveragh Peninsula . Catch a boat to check them out from  Valentia or Portmagee .

Portmagee is the quintessential southern Irish postcard port town. Be sure to grab a beer and some tunes at the Bridge Bar (music Friday and Saturday).

Just down the Kerry Ring Road is the town of  Ballinskelligs in County Kerry, a place where the Irish language is still alive and well. It makes a fine spot to rest up for the night.

Backpacking Cork

Cork is another booming Irish university city in the south of the country. It’s all things cosmopolitan, liberal, and hipster. If you’re thirsty, Cork boasts a huge selection of fine pubs and eateries.

Like music? You can find live music in town every night of the week.

It is kind of like the Paris of Ireland in the sense that there is a coffee shop on every corner. Well, in fact, that is the only comparison.

The English Market in the centre of town is the perfect spot to start your day and a great rainy day activity. Browse amongst the vendors hawking fresh veggies, cheese, bread, and take-away food. There are tons of great places to eat in Cork , so save a little in your budget to snag something tasty.

Franciscan Well Brewery serves up tasty local beers and has a garden out back. They regularly have beer festivals too so keep an eye out when you’re in town.

Backpacking Kilkenny

Before heading for the mountains in Wicklow, Kilkenny makes for a good day or overnight stop. This medieval city is home to the remarkable  Kilkenny Castle . The castle was built in 1195 (!) by Norman colonists.

Many well-preserved churches and monasteries, like the dramatic St. Canice’s Cathedral and the Black Abbey Dominicane , are worth a look too. Both structures are from the 13th-century and come with a laundry list of associated history.

Kilkenny is famous throughout Ireland for being the city of craftspeople. The key to getting the most from Kilkenny is choosing where to stay carefully.

Artisans line the streets selling beautifully produced pottery, art, and, jewellery. If they haven’t been run out of town, try to avoid shops selling cheap knockoffs obviously made in China.

Backpacking Wicklow Mountains National Park

Picturesque woodland, mountains, moors, and a crystal clear lake? All tied together with a fine system of trail networks? Sounds pretty damn good.

The Wicklow Mountains are simply beautiful. Trekking and camping opportunities abound and surprisingly not too far from Dublin. There are also plenty of more-than-ideal spots to park your campervan throughout the park.

Many people choose to summit Great Sugar Loaf Mountain from which you can (on a clear day) see for miles in every direction. This volcano-shaped mountain is not an actual volcano, but it is steep and conical so be sure to bring plenty of water along.

Honestly, though, you’ll want to get a bit deeper into the park to really enjoy the spectacular natural landscapes. Another great spot is  Lough Tay , a.k.a. “the Guinness lake”. If Guinness wasn’t a beer in Ireland they would probably call it “Black Tea Lake” or “Black Water Lough”.

I’m sure the whole Guinness thing is a subliminal marketing attempt. Didn’t work on me! Who wants a beer?

For those of you with a little more time on your hands, I strongly recommend that you tackle the Wicklow Way Trek.  This 80-mile (129 km) hike takes you through the very heart of the park. If you are hiking the Wicklow Way in the summer, make sure to NOT do the hike when the ultramarathon is happening.

Backpacking Belfast

In the limited amount of time I spent in Belfast, I really enjoyed it. Belfast is home to attractive streets, a buzzing nightlife, and a fiercely proud population. It’s also one of the best places to visit in Ireland by train.

Depending on where in Belfast you stay , you find that locals here are really proud to be Irish. Their identity is deeply entwined in Irish culture and they often don’t talk too kindly about being part of the UK or about their British neighbours. This is especially relevant after Brexit…

Have a pint at Belfast’s oldest pub, Kelly Cellars .

Visit the peace walls ; another surreal yet interesting part of this city is the fact that there are massive walls separating communities from the days when Protestants and Catholics were at each other’s throats.

It is hard to believe that in a modern European city in the 21st century that such walls exist. Rumour has it that these walls will be taken down in the next decade or so.

Get chatting with people in the hostels in Belfast . Then, to seal the deal on Belfast, check out a rugby game at the famous Ulster stadium.

If you love food (who doesn’t), consider taking a Belfast Food Tour to get to know some tasty local faire.

Backpacking the Giant’s Causeway

Another  very popular but equally mind-blowing destination in Ireland is the Giant’s Causeway . The Giant’s Causeway is an area of roughly 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption.

Of course, the Irish turned the whole natural phenomenon thing into a looney legend about some guy named Finn who used the massive basalt “steps” to go to Scotland for a rendezvous battle with his rivals. Thus the legend of Finn McCool.

He wussed out before the fight and came back by the way. Finn Mc-not-so-Cool . I couldn’t help myself.

The Giant’s Causeway is another spot where timing is key. Come early in the morning or for sunset after a few drinks at the Bushmills Distillery  nearby (roughly 10 mins).

If you’re visiting Ireland for more nature spots, consider staying at a vacation rental in the Irish countryside near Giants Causeway for a truly authentic experience.

If you’re really keen to get away in nature and do some inner healing, then you might want to consider a yoga retreat in Ireland .

Backpacking (London) Derry

Two things vividly stand out in my memory about Derry. The first is that I really enjoyed it and ended up having some excellent conversations with locals over about six(?) pints of beer. The second is before those six beers were shared those same locals almost killed me.

Well, not really but they were super pissed when I told them (purely out of ignorance) that “I really like this town, London Derry.” One dude grabbed me by the shirt and said, “Aye! It’s Derry boy-o ye can be surrre ove-it.”

In the end, it was fine and we got drunk and all was well.  Peadar O’Donnell’s Pub is where it went down if you want to visit the place yourself. They have some pretty rowdy music sessions most nights of the week.

Point is, the name “London” Derry aught not be used lightly, as it is clearly a very sensitive topic. Locals, I gathered, do not like to remember that they are indeed a part of the United Kingdom.

Like I said I enjoyed the town and there are some cool things to do. Be sure to visit Derry’s ancient fortified city walls  (9 meters thick!).

The food at Pyke ‘n’ Pommes down by the Quay will make your tongue dance pirouettes of happiness. Try the pulled pork sandwich. It would make my North Carolina friends proud…

Derry is Irish AF, ye can be surrre ove-it .

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Ireland

Ireland is one of those countries where the VAST majority of people who visit it only see the same dozen or so places. There is most definitely a tourist route. That leaves a huge amount of Ireland which is, essentially, off the beaten track.

In my experience, once you are out on a trail hiking for just a couple minutes, most tourists don’t follow. If the bus is out of sight, they suddenly become incapable of advancing any further.

That is not to say that travelers and locals alike are not out in the mountains. They certainly are, just far fewer than one would think after seeing all of the tourist traffic on the roads.

Hike and camp in remote places as much as possible. Really get to know the Irish national park systems and the tiny villages hidden within them. Explore some of the less-visited stretches of coast in the far south east and west of the country.

Head out to some of the lonely islands found off of the  Dingle Peninsula . Take your Irish road trip from the Kerry Ring Road and check out the  Skellig Ring Road and Enniskillen in County Fermanagh.

Get to know Ireland’s five least visited counties :

• Laois & Leitrim
• Offaly & Roscommon

Backpacking Ireland is all about finding what you like to do. If you have the ambition there is an untold number of hidden gems just waiting for you to go and find them…

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Where do I start with fun things to do in Ireland? Once you drag yourself out of the pub, you can explore the mystical land that Ireland is really famous for.

Here are some top things to do in Ireland :

1. Drive (or hitchhike) the Dingle Peninsula Road

Hailed by many as the best short road trip in Ireland, a drive down the Dingle Peninsula takes you on a journey. Stopover in some of Ireland’s best hostels in Dingle or experience van life in the country’s most stunning southerly landscapes and whimsical Irish-speaking villages.

2. Take in a Sunset at the Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is already one of Ireland’s most inspiring places. Seeing it through the filter of west coast sunset light is something further special. Bring along a beer or two and soak it all in.

3. Try the tipple

Don’t mind if I do? Alcohol is one of Ireland’s most popular non-natural attractions… and for good reason. Trying real Guinness in Ireland is essential and it’s definitely worth paying a visit to the Guinness brewery.

If you’re a whiskey drinker then you have to take the Jameson tour. I personally think Whiskey takes like piss but I still had a great time.

4. Hike the Wicklow Way Trail

This is worth packing some hiking gear for. The hike will take you three or four days – nothing crazy. But along each step of the way, you will discover why the Wicklow Mountains are one of the most beautiful places in Ireland.

5. Stay in a (haunted) castle

There are loads of stunning castles in Ireland to see. You can even stay in many – some are even budget-friendly.

If you’ve got the cash, you can find fancy rooms and superior service to make your trip to Ireland even more unique. Castles are often looking for volunteers too (wink, wink).

Leap Castle, in County Offaly, is Ireland’s most haunted structure. I am sure there are many haunted castles in Ireland, so don’t stop here. The hunt is on.

6. Travel Ireland by campervan

Travelling Ireland from the comfort of a campervan is the way to go if you can afford it. You have almost unlimited freedom of where you can go and park up. Love it.

7. Stay in a Mountain Hut

Spread through Ireland’s national parks are a system of well-maintained (some more so than others) mountain huts. An overnight stay in a mountain hut is a definite part of the experience of trekking in Ireland.

8. Go to the pub…

Hey… This is Ireland. Go to the pub!

There’s nothing like pub food after a long hike Oh, gwon then, 1 pint… we’re on ‘oliday.

Pubs spread a special kind of energy. Although alcohol is part of it, it’s not all about it: it’s about recuperation and socialising. Enjoy it.

9. Catch the Sunrise from Carrauntoohil

Carrauntoohil is the tallest mountain in Ireland (1,038 meters). Many people tackle it during the day when the sun makes a rare appearance.

A sunrise hike here means few if any people and epic views (hopefully) for as far as the fog will let you see. All the better if you camp somewhere on the mountain.

In the off-season, you will likely be alone. In cold months, expect snow.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Ireland has one of the best networks of hostels in the UK . Unless you are in the absolute furthest corners of the country, odds are you can score a cheap place to stay on your Ireland backpacking adventure.

If you bring along a  good camping tent  and a sleeping bag, in addition to renting a car or van, your experience while backpacking Ireland will be far more fun and unique than sleeping in a hostel every night. Decisions, decisions.

Although sometimes you just need a warm, dry place to shower up and sleep. One of my favourite ways to meet interesting locals and save some cash is to use  Couchsurfing . Couchsurfing truly is one of the best tools available if you’re wondering how to stay in Ireland on a budget.

If you’re travelling with friends, renting a cottage in Ireland can even be cheap. The average price for a hostel bed in Ireland is location-dependent. But, in general, you can find a dorm bed for as low as €10 and as high as €30+.

The Best Places To Stay in Ireland

I have to suggest some incredible hostels in Ireland . Big up to those guys for making an adventure unforgettable! Here is some serious accommodation to consider:

Backpacking in Europe is never going to be as cheap as backpacking in Southeast Asia, for example. Staying in hotels every night, drinking like a fish, dining out, going to pubs all night, and booking last minute trains will certainly destroy any budget you might have hoped to keep.

Worried about spending too much money on your Ireland trip? Don’t worry too much – there are plenty of tips and tricks to keep your Ireland travel costs low.

While backpacking in Ireland, shit adds up quick if you’re not careful! Visiting Ireland on a budget ain’t easy: the country is damned expensive to stay in. Eating and drinking out can easily be more than $50 a day too.

Considering this, a  comfortable Ireland travel budget is between $100-200 USD a day. Of course, you can make it cheaper, but this is one of those places you have to really work for it.

Here is what you can expect to spend on a daily basis (excluding car or van hire):

A Daily Budget For Ireland

Money in ireland.

The currency in Ireland is the Euro = € EUR

The currency in Northern Ireland is the British Pound Sterling =  £ GBP

ATMs are widely available in just about every place in the country. When visiting rural areas in Ireland, it is always best to deal in cash. If you want to stop at a farm and buy some cheese, veggies, meat, etc. you will need cash.

If you bring heaps of foreign currency to exchange, expect to get a poor exchange rate at the airport. Find out whether or not your bank in your home country has fee-free international withdrawal. If so, activate it for your trip or for whenever you travel abroad.

Once I discovered my bank card had that option, I saved a huge amount in ATM fees! When travelling to Ireland on a budget, every dollar (euro) counts, right?

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker recommends Wise – the artist formerly known as Transferwise ! It’s our favourite platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods.

Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks. But the real question is… is it better than Western Union? Yes, it most certainly is.

Travel Tips – Ireland On a Budget

• Camp : With plenty of stunning mountains, lakes, sprawling farmland, hidden castles, and remote coastline in Ireland, camping saves you money and can help you get off of the beaten path.
• Cook your own food: Travel with a  portable backpacking stove and cook your own food to save some serious cash whilst backpacking across Ireland. If you plan to do some overnight hiking trips or camping having a backpacking stove will be ESSENTIAL to your success.
• Planning ahead: Sometimes it’s nice to be spontaneous. But if you can, booking your transport and accommodation ahead will save you a tonne of money.
• Budget-friendly Tours: If you go on any guided tours, you can pay them off in instalments. Global Work and Travel have the broke backpacker in mind with this one. You can even choose the amount per instalment! The highlights of Ireland tour is sure to tickle your fancy.

Travel to Ireland with a Reusable Water Bottle

Plastic washes up in even the most pristine places… So do your part and keep our planet beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you can be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel, you can see the full extent of the global plastic problem. So I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

The “best” time to travel to Ireland certainly depends on what you plan to do. Like most places in Europe, Ireland is crazy busy during the summer.

If you can, try to avoid coming between June – August. Backpacking Ireland simply isn’t as fun when the roads are slammed with buses and every place you visit is just as crowded.

When to visit is tricky because the weather in the mountains is best during the summer as well. Sublime, dry hiking weather is (more) possible in the summer.

That said, if you bring the right gear, a solid rain jacket , a warm down jacket, and a badass sleeping bag, the cold and wet won’t really affect you. You’ll just deal with it and have a grand time.

Winters are cold, grey, dark, and very wet. Winter is actually a great time to come, but you’ll end up spending more time snuggled up to a fire in a pub than actually seeing the country.

So that means early spring and late autumn. In my opinion, early March – April and October – November are the best months to visit Ireland.

Irish Cultural Festivals

St. Patrick’s Day, March –  You know… St. Patrick’s day. There is an Irish pub in every country that parties St. Patrick’s Day with excessive alcohol and ridiculous green attire. Well, St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland is the craziest.

Easter, March or April – For Catholics, Easter and the month leading up to it is a big event in Ireland. Even if people aren’t particularly religious, Easter is still an excuse to get together with family and friends, eat, and have a good time.

Traditional Irish Music Festivals (Trad Fests), All year – Really, there are a ton of traditional folk fests happening in Ireland throughout the year. Any journey backpacking Ireland should involve some Irish folk music.

What To Pack For Ireland

When you’re packing for an adventure , there are some things that are top of the list:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Since the car bombs and sectarian violence subsided decades ago Ireland has become one of the safest countries in Europe. You should never feel unsafe whilst camping in rural areas or walking about in big cities.

That said, we live in the modern world. Sadly, no one ever knows where or when some shit might go down.

Whilst travelling in large cities and crowded public spaces, always keep your guard up. Pickpockets and petty thieves are just part of modern urban life. Always keep an eye on your stuff when riding the metro, eating a meal, or visiting a busy market.

Drunk, alone, and lost when it’s late at night is a recipe for trouble anywhere in the world. Always follow your usual travel safety procedures , especially when knocking a few back.

If you plan on swimming in the ocean, beware of very strong currents and rip tides; both of which kill tourists every year. This sea here is a special kind of ice-cold that makes your balls shrivel into little raisins. It also means it can be pretty dangerous, especially after a drink.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Ireland

The obvious drug of choice in Ireland is alcohol. No matter where you are in the country you can always find a pint and someone to share it with. Most social interactions in Ireland, for better or worse, revolve around drinking, music, and chatting.

Weed can easily be found, though in hash form. Expect to pay about €15-20/gram.

Cocaine and other hard drugs are available but I can’t say I recommend them. For one, any cocaine you find will have come from a very long distance away and will have been cut more times than a person in a jailhouse fight.

There is a thriving club scene in big cities like Dublin and Cork. If you are after some sort of a party drug or a little weed, odds are you can score there. People are generally very friendly too: ask around, hostels and pubs are a good place, and someone will probably know someone.

Be aware that all drugs with the exception of alcohol carry harsh penalties in Ireland. Be smart about how you buy and how you consume your party favours.

Modern Ireland is increasingly pulling away from its conservative roots – much to the despair of the Catholic Church. There is a booming LGBTQ+ community in all of the major cities in the country. Ireland joined the list of European countries with legalized same-sex marriage back in 2015.

Travel Insurance for Ireland

When you’re travelling, you can’t always prepare for everything. But if you get good travel insurance for Ireland , you’re setting yourself up well.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Ireland is served by five main international airports – Dublin being the biggest. The other options are Cork , Shannon , Knock , and Belfast Airports.

I personally flew in and out of Shannon, which meant I could start my trip near Galway. If you are coming from elsewhere in Europe or the USA, flights into Dublin are likely to be the cheapest.

If you book early, you can find tickets from major cities in Europe (Paris, London, Madrid, Frankfurt) for less than $25(!). That’s dollars not Euros. Usually, the budget airlines like Ryanair or Easy Jet have strict baggage restrictions so plan accordingly or plan to pay a bit more to bring a large backpack.

It is also possible to take the ferry from Cairnryan, Scotland or Liverpool, England to Belfast (2 hr 15 mins). If you are bringing a vehicle over to Ireland from the UK it doesn’t actually cost that much more on the ferry.

If it were me I’d only take the ferry if I was intending to bring my vehicle over. Flying is cheaper and more convenient although it does pose the question of how sustainable it is .

Entry Requirements for Ireland

The Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are NOT  a part of the Schengen Area of Western Europe. This is a big win for non-European travellers backpacking Europe who want to come to Ireland after visiting the Schengen Area in Europe.

Basically, if you are not a European resident, you only have 3 months (out of every 180-day cycle) in which to spend in Europe’s Schengen states. This can be a real pain in the ass if you are wanting to stick around Europe for longer than three months.

Like the UK, Ireland is an opt-out of the Schengen Area. You can spend 3 months in Europe and 3 months backpacking Ireland without any hassle.

Passport holders from Australia, the US, and Europe do not need a visa in advance to enter Ireland. In fact, many nationalities are not required to obtain a visa prior to arrival.

Normally a tourist visa valid for 3 months is issued upon arrival. If you are from a country not on the visa-free-entry list, you will need to apply for a visa through the Irish embassy in your home country.

You do not need to get another stamp when entering Northern Ireland. The border is open and you can normally pass right through in a car or on the train.

For getting around Ireland there are many options.

Getting a car rental is easy. Booking in advance is the best way to ensure you score the lowest price and your choice of vehicle.

Often, you can find the best car rental prices when you pick up the rental from the airport. Make sure you also purchase a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages such as tires, windscreens, theft, and more at a fraction of the price you would pay at the rental desk.

Travelling by Public Transport in Ireland

With regard to public transport, Ireland is very well connected by both public/private bus and by train.

Whether you are backpacking around Europe or just Ireland you should consider buying a Eurorail pass . It’s the best and cheapest way for train travel in Europe . If you plan on taking multiple train rides on an extended backpacking trip, a Eurorail pass is the way to go.

The Eurorail website is configured based on your location and currency. Europeans and UK citizens have special options for train travel .

There are different For Eurorail options for people from the Americas .

Bus Eireann and Citylink are the most common low-cost bus companies. Generally speaking, it is easy to find buses between major cities in Ireland.

As you begin to get more rural, finding local connections gets more complicated. Since many of Ireland’s attractions are in rural places, bus travel in Ireland can feel quite restrictive as a primary.

Buses are best for trips like getting from Dublin to Galway or Belfast to Dublin. Certainly, you can see the whole country by bus. But I offer a word of warning to those considering travelling Ireland exclusively  by bus: you will not be able to get off the beaten path much, if at all.

You can find some pretty cheap car rentals in Ireland. I would strongly recommend renting a car for at least some of the time you plan to travel here.

Campervanning in Ireland

By far the best way to get around Ireland is by campervan. Campervans are great because you are travelling with a mobile shelter and kitchen that is capable of parking just about anywhere for the night.

Whilst campervan rentals in Ireland are not cheap, you do end up saving money on accommodation and cooking for yourself. The biggest win for going the campervan route is unprecedented freedom. The list of benefits to renting a campervan in Ireland goes on and on.

Really enjoy a place you went for a day hike and want to sleep there? Easy.

Interested in parking super close to a popular attraction so that you can be the first one to arrive in the morning? Sorted.

Want to snuggle up with your lover, sip tea, and read whilst it is pouring rain outside? No problem.

Curious to know if a castle is really haunted at night so you need to park close to it? Bam.

Hitchhiking in Ireland

I did not personally hitchhike in Ireland, but I have been told by friends that they had a fair bit of success. The sight of two people with massive backpacks in tow is a harder sell for people with small cars or lots of gear already themselves.

I would NOT try to hitchhike in or around major cities. When accepting a ride, ALWAYS have your spidey senses firing. 

If a person sketches you out, fuck ’em; you have time. Be polite, don’t say fuck ’em , but turn the ride down all the same. Better to wait for a ride that makes you feel 100% comfortable.

For people backpacking Ireland for a couple of months, hitchhiking is a great option because you are in no real rush. Big smiles and the right hitchhiking spot will go a long way towards your ultimate success (or failure).

Onwards Travel from Ireland

As Ireland is an island, your options for onward travel are somewhat limited. Basically, you are flying or taking the ferry to the UK. To find the cheapest flights or ferry tickets, book as far in advance as possible.

If you’re still not over the rolling green hills and too many sheep, then travelling the UK is an easy choice. Scotland and Wales in particular are highly recommended. Getting to the rest of Europe is no great task either.

If you are flying out of the European continent from Ireland, you may find it cheaper to fly to London first and take a plane to where ever you’re going from there.

Living costs in Ireland are problematically high when compared to wages so it is not exactly an ideal place to seek your fortune. Despite this, Ireland does remain popular with migrant workers from Eastern Europe.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Work Visas in Ireland

Citizens of the UK and EU can live and work in Ireland freely. Everybody else will need a work and residency permit.

If you are looking for a short term solution, and are of the right age, you could even try out a working holiday in Ireland .

Volunteer Work in Ireland

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in Ireland which you can join ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much anything!

Of course, Ireland is a wealthy nation that doesn’t rely on backpacker volunteers in the same way less-developed countries do. That being said, there are still a number of different opportunities for travelers to offer up some time and skills.

From farming in county Mayo to gardening in Galway, there are plenty of options for the green-fingered backpackers out there. Other options include animal care and nannying. Ireland offers a short-stay visa for volunteers staying less than 90 days; anyone staying longer should apply for a Volunteer Visa.

Want to find some awesome volunteering opportunities in Ireland? Then signup for Worldpackers , a platform that connects local hosts with volunteer travelers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Programs run through reputable work exchange programs , like Worldpackers, are generally very well-managed and highly reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Ah, the Irish. What’s not to like? The Irish people I have met over the years have all been super fun, cool, genuine folks.

Irish people are highly intelligent, sensitive, or should I say attuned people with strong characters and a desire to show you a good time in the nation that they are fiercely proud of. Despite the heavy boom in tourism over the past decade Ireland and its population still remain down to earth people.

You know by now how important the Irish pub is in Irish society. Not just for the beer or cocktails mind you. For many communities (urban or rural), the pub is the place to meet.

The Irish are vibrant storytellers, cheeky gossipers, and quicker to slap a joke on you before you can say  Carrauntoohil .

Music, all-night debates, poetry nights, comedy shows, community meetings, and countless other activities all take place in the pub. Even for people who don’t drink, the pub is a quintessential part of the Irish experience.

Useful Travel Phrases for Ireland

English is the official language of Ireland. In certain parts of Ireland, however, the Irish language (Gaeilge), is spoken. Almost without exception, local folks will speak English, and Gaeilge is not awfully useful language to learn .

What is useful however is knowing some slang words! Once you can use some of these, you’ll really get respect from the locals.

• Craic – banter, gossip, or general fun
• Eejit – idiot, a total fool
• Boyo – boy, youngster
• Crack on! – Get going!
• Donkey’s years – a long time
• Grand – fantastic, really good
• Gobshite – a person who runs their mouth
• Bucketing down – raining a lot
• Thanks a million – thank you very much
• Feck off – you can probably guess this one

What To Eat In Ireland

If stereotypes dominate your perception of Irish cuisine, then you’re probably thinking “Right, Irish food. You mean potatoes?” Well, yes – but give me a chance here.

While nobody is debating that the Irish have more gastronomic prowess than France, the Irish still offer up a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes to try. I didn’t find the food in Ireland to be super diverse but they are good at what they do cook. And yes, traditional Irish cooking mostly involves some form of meat and potatoes .

Ireland is becoming a more diverse country all the time. Thousands of immigrants come to Ireland every year to make it their new home.

With them, they have brought the cuisines of their home countries. Thank god! In my opinion, this is an absolute blessing for the Irish and backpackers alike!

If you get sick of meat and potatoes, there is always Indian, Thai, Pakistani, Kebab, Falafel, Italian, and American food somewhere close by. Note : I am aware that falafel and kebab are not nationalities.

Must-Try Dishes in Ireland

Here are a few of my favourite dishes native to Ireland:

• Coddle – A hearty stew with rough layers of sausages and fatty bacon with potatoes and onions.
• Cottage pie – A cafe classic. A beef, gravy, and vegetable mess topped with mashed potatoes.
• Soda Bread – A type of bread made with baking soda instead of yeast. Try the one with raisins
• Irish Breakfast – Closely linked to its brethren in the UK, the Irish breakfast is something you will not walk away hungry from. Eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, and a number of side dishes are common place.
• Fish and Chips – When you want basic but still delicious, fish and chips is the classic. You can find it everywhere in Ireland.

A note on Irish  s andwiches – I need to sneak this in here. Don’t buy the god-awful pre-made sandwiches they sell in gas stations, rest stops, and all over Ireland in various places. They are expensive and all utterly disappointing.

For some reason, I always thought the next one would be better. They were all almost inedible. Don’t repeat my mistake…

Drinking in Ireland

Ireland is the land of beer and whiskey.

Sadly more teenagers in the western world can probably identify the Guinness logo before they could point out a tomato plant in the garden. Point being, Irish beer is world-famous. And it’s tasty…

Ireland is also home to one of the world’s oldest whiskey distilleries, Bushmills. It is a marketing myth that Bushmills is the  oldest distillery in Ireland.

The distillery at Kilbeggan is in fact the oldest licensed distillery in the country. But who is counting?

Here is a list of some more of Ireland’s tastiest and best beers :

• Murphy’s Irish
• O’Hara’s Irish Wheat
• Smithwick’s Irish Ale
• Porterhouse Brewing Co. Oyster Stout
• O’Hara’s Celtic Stout
• Beamish Irish Stout

Best Whiskey in Ireland

Whiskey is another animal altogether. Ireland has a long tradition of producing quality whiskey and right now that still rings true.

The world of whiskey  aficionados is far above my pay grade, though I can appreciate a whiskey that is not the generic Jack Daniels or Jim Beam. In fact, many Irish people would argue that those aren’t even real whiskeys.

The really nice whiskey being produced in Ireland is way too expensive to even think about trying if you’re backpacking Ireland with any sort of a budget conscience. That said, there are still plenty of fine whiskeys to be had that don’t cost a few hundred bucks a bottle.

Here are some of the best whiskeys to try in Ireland :

• Clontarf 1014 Irish Whiskey
• Knappogue Castle Single Malt Irish Whiskey
• Teeling Trinity Range

A Brief History of Ireland

To put it lightly, Ireland had a pretty wild ride in the 20th century.

Independence (from the UK) was gained after much struggle and bloodshed. 1916–1921 was marked by political violence and upheaval, ending in the partition of Ireland and independence for 26 of its 32 counties. The struggle was far from over, however.

In 1949, the state was formally declared a republic and it left the British Commonwealth.

The 1960’s and 70’s were pretty insane in Ireland.

Protestants vs Catholics in Ireland

The level of historical hatred, violence, clashes, and deaths resulting from Protestant-Catholic relations, or lack there-of, is at the heart of the major conflict that swept Northern Ireland during this time period.

We all know about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We know about the level of hatred that exists between the two groups.

I don’t think it is too difficult to consider the former Protestant-Catholic issue as any less powerful or significant, at least in its heyday.

The Protestant State and the IRA

As the civil rights movement of the United States gained worldwide acknowledgement, Catholics rallied together to achieve a similar socio-political recognition in Ireland. This resulted in the formation of various organizations such as the Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association (NICRA) in 1967 and the Campaign for Social Justice (CSJ) in 1964.

Non-violent protest became an increasingly important factor in mobilizing Catholic sympathies and opinion, and thus more effective in generating support than actively violent groups such as the IRA.

In October 1968, a peaceful civil rights march in Derry turned violent as police brutally beat protesters. The outbreak was televised by international media, and as a result the march was highly publicized which further confirmed the socio-political turmoil in Ireland.

A violent counter-reaction from conservative unionists led to civil disorder, notably the Battle of the Bogside and the Northern Ireland riots of August 1969. To restore order, British troops were deployed to the streets of Northern Ireland at that time.

The violent outbreaks in the late 1960s encouraged and helped strengthen military groups such as the IRA, who posited themselves as the protectors of the working class Catholics who were vulnerable to police and civilian brutality.

During the late sixties and early seventies recruitment into the IRA organization dramatically increased as street and civilian violence worsened. Shit was crazy: car bombs were going off constantly, killing loads of people.

Riots, stabbings, shootings, and police beatings were all part of daily life during this time. Most of the violence took place in Northern Ireland, but some also spread to England and across the Irish border.

Modern Ireland

Modern Ireland is a good place to be. Ireland’s economy became more diverse and sophisticated than ever before by integrating itself into the global economy.

The Catholic Church, which once exercised great power, found its influence on socio-political issues in Ireland much reduced. Irish bishops are no longer able to advise and influence the public on how to exercise their political rights.

As I mentioned before, same-sex marriage was legalized in 2015.

On May 26th, Irish people turned out in droves to vote in favour of legalizing abortions. In a major victory for progressives and more importantly for women, the country celebrated in the streets in typically Irish fashion. Go Ireland!

Beyond the main tourist attractions in Ireland are hidden opportunities to make the most memorable memories. You won’t be disappointed to find that backpacking Ireland is way beyond what you expected.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Wild Camping in Ireland

You should have gathered by now that there are a million and one place to camp in Ireland.

Want to wake up to some of the most epic views of your life? Whilst backpacking Ireland, consider camping as much as you can. If a bit of sun or a dry spell is forecasted, all the better reason to get out there and pitch your tent. You’ll save heaps of cash too by camping. Win win.

Always obey “no camping” signs. Respect farmers property, and when in doubt always ask permission BEFORE setting up shop. The last thing you want is some half-sober gun-wielding farmer pissed off because you are squatting on his (or her) land.

Get familiar with  “ leave no trace principles ” and put them into practice.

If you are in the market for a solid, lightweight, and reliable tent, I highly recommend the MSR Hubba Hubba 2-person tent . This compact tent is up to the challenge of battling Ireland’s uncooperative weather.

Trekking in Ireland

If you have been paying attention you know that Ireland is an amazing place to come for trekking and hiking.

Ireland is home to national parks, reserves, nature parks, and plenty of green belts. There are awesome day hikes and/or challenging multi-day treks to get into in most regions of Ireland.

Ireland is full of mind-blowing human achievements. Castles, art, forts, ancient walls, churches, cathedrals, villages, cities…Ireland has them all in abundance.

Whilst they are impressive and important to Ireland’s history and culture DNA, the real magic of the country lies out in its wild places…

Best Hikes in Killarney National Park

• Carrauntoohil – Devil’s Ladder route : 12 km /4-6 hours – Good for experienced hikers wanting to tackle Ireland’s tallest peak. The views are magnificent.
• North Kerry Way : 48km/3 days – One of the best multi-day coastal hikes in the country.
• Lough Googh Loop : 10km/5 hours – Not as challenging as Carrauntoohil, but still features plenty of epic views and a few treacherous drop-offs.
• Mount Brandon : 10 km/4-5 hours – A good hike for beginners. Well-marked and easy to follow route means it can be hiked in any weather

Best Hikes in Connemara National Park

• Big Baun : 9km/4 hours –  climb the biggest mountain of the 12 Ben mountains.
• The Lettergesh Circuit : 10 km/ 2-3 hours – Hailed as one of the top hikes in all of Ireland. Good for beginners. Very scenic.
• The Maumeen Mountain Pass : 13km/ 6 hours – Maumeen Mountain Pass is home to an ancient pilgrimage site. Legend has it that Saint Patrick visited the same spot. There are some epic mountain views as well as a tiny church dedicated to the saint.
• The Diamond Hill Trail : 10 km/ 2-3 hours – A demanding loop through misty bogland and open hill country.

Best Hikes in Ballycroy National Park

• Letterkeen Loops : 6-12 km/ 2-5 hours – There are several route options to choose from, each varying in difficulty and distance.
• Bangor Trail : 40 k/ 10 hours+/2 days – The main route through the park is the Bangor Trail which starts in Bangor Erris and finishes in Newport. The Bangor Trail is an old road through the Nephin Beg mountains in north-west Mayo. As always whilst backpacking Ireland, bring good rain gear!

Best Hikes in Glenveagh National Park and Donnegal

• Glen Walk : 22 km/7-9 hours – A great long-ish hike for novice hikers looking to take in the diversity and beauty of Glenveagh. Pack plenty of food and wet weather gear!
• Bluestack Way : 64.3 km/3 days+ – Starting in Donegal Town, the trail weaves its way through Banagher Hill and the Eglish Valley.
• Bunglas to Glenties : 67.5 km/3-4 days – Supposedly this trek is the first part of the International Appalachian Trail, which I don’t fully understand, having hiked a good portion of the original AT myself. The idea behind the IAT is if you continue hiking up through the state of Maine (US), into Canada, and pretend the Atlantic Ocean wasn’t there, the trail would pick-up in Ireland. There you go. Oh and there are cool pubs with crackling fireplaces along this route too.
• Arranmore Way : 14 km/ 6 hours – Catch the ferry boat to Arranmore, Donegal’s largest offshore island and enjoy epic coastal views featuring jagged sea-stacks, caves, and a colony of Petrels.

Hiking the Wild Atlantic Way

The true hiking crown jewel of Ireland is the  Wild Atlantic Way . Well, let’s call it a fucking arduous, stunningly beautiful, epic walk of a lifetime. The trail is 1,600 miles (2600 km) long!

The trail runs north to south (and vice versa) along Ireland’s exquisite West Coast.

Nobody just stumbles upon this trek. It takes careful planning, and months of mental and physical preparation. Not to mention a massive time commitment.

You can be sure that a thru-hike attempt will be one of the greatest and most challenging undertakings of your life.

The Wild Atlantic Way is among the world’s premiere long-distance hiking trails. If you have the will and the 3-5 months it takes to complete it, good on you and best of luck.

Joining an Organized Tour in Ireland

For most countries, Ireland included, solo travel is the name of the game. That said, if you are short on time, energy, or just want to be part of an awesome group of travellers you can opt to join an organized tour .

G Adventures  is a solid down-to-earth tour company catering to backpackers just like you, and their prices and itineraries reflect the interests of the backpacker crowd. You can score some pretty sweet deals on epic trips in Ireland for a fraction of the price of what other tour operators charge.

How much does backpacking in Ireland cost?

A comfortable Ireland budget is between $100 – $200 per day. Hey, it’s not a cheap place to travel. It can absolutely be done for less. You just have to pull out all your best cheap travel tricks.

What is the best month to visit Ireland?

March – April and October – November are the best months to travel to Ireland. You’ll also find these are the cheapest months. Although summer is amazing, there are much more tourists and inflated prices.

Is Ireland good for backpacking?

Is the Pope Catholic? Yes! Ireland is the ultimate adventure. Stunning scenery, incredible people, hiking galore – this is one you’ll never forget.

Are leprechauns real?

You know they say: every time someone asks that another leprechaun dies.

Well, there you have it, boyo.

I hope you find my backpacking Ireland travel guide helpful! It was a pleasure to write.

Awesome adventures (and a little debauchery) await you in Ireland. During your time backpacking around this mystical and powerful land, don’t forget to take a look around now and again. You might find a pot of gold.

The Irish are proud people. They don’t let just anyone into their circles. But when they do, you’ll find them to be one of the warmest nations of people on the planet.

Best of luck on your journey! Have a cold one for me when you get there.

• Where to stay in Ireland
• Complete packing list for Ireland
• Things to do in Dublin

*Special thanks to  Kyle Murphy  and  Erin Wolf  for their contributions to this article. If you liked some of Kyle’s photographs and want to work with him or to learn more about what he does, check out his website  www.kmportraits.com  and follow him on Instagram  @briskventure .

You can find Erin Wolf on Instagram at  @wolfpackqueen .

Aiden Freeborn

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Appreciate your pro tips on traveling in Ireland! I’m thinking wild camping might not be as easy as in Scotland? Still planning to backpack in both countries so will scrub down more deets on wild camping in Ireland. Thanks again for a well written resource. Cheers!

Awesome, thanks.

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Ireland Reddit page closed amid moderator backlash

The Ireland Reddit page was shut down yeserday after online moderators said they faced an “onslaught of racially motivated” content.

The moderators said that they have faced personal abuse for attempting to manage the content, and said the Ireland subreddit page would remain closed until Reddit can make “the most basic assurances on the personal safety and privacy” of moderators.

Reddit, which works like a message board, has different “subreddits” dedicated to certain topics. The Ireland subreddit, which is dedicated to conversations and news related to Ireland, is one of the largest and most active social media sites in the country, with just over 300,000 members.

Moderators are people who volunteer to monitor the content, and are normally unpaid.

In a statement sent to “admins”, which refers to paid Reddit employees, the Reddit Ireland moderators said they have been reporting problem users to admin staff for over two years.

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“When the mods on r/Ireland were faced with an onslaught of racially-motivated brigading coupled with personal targeting/threats towards mods, we reached out to the admins and tried to tackle this proactively by recruiting more moderators to stem the flow,” they said in a statement.

“Brigading” refers to when a group of users online make a concentrated effort to manipulate a different or larger community.

“We’ve now found that while we managed to curtail the racially-motivated content through sheer power in numbers, we also caused more volunteer mods to face constant abuse, and legitimate threats to their safety — to which Reddit’s Administration has acknowledged, yet actively allowed to continue,” the moderators said.

The decision to shut down the Ireland subreddit comes only three months after the page was closed between midnight and 8am every day to try to reduce the amount of racist content being posted.

In a statement on June 8, the moderators of the subreddit said that there are “a multitude of sockpuppet accounts” typically posting in American hours, between midnight and 8am Irish time, and spamming the subreddit with racist or hateful comments.

They said this means moderators are spending nights “constantly watching over every thread and comment submitted” to ensure that they can ban the accounts involved. They said the move to close the account between midnight and 8am was necessary to “stem the flow of racist and extremist content”.

Moderators said yesterday that they were the targets of personal threats. “It’s not unreasonable to expect that a company which has what’s essentially unlimited resources to run a souped-up message board can ensure that adequate staffing is available to deal with legitimate threats to the safety of their unpaid volunteers,” they said.

Moderators said they are unwilling to re-engage on recruiting more active moderators when the administrators “have actively supported” them being the target of harassment and abuse.

“We will be happy to re-open the sub once the admins engage with making the bare minimum expected efforts in preventing this,” the moderators said.

Reddit did not respond to requests for comment.

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