The ultimate travel guide to Ireland: everything you need to know before you go! The island is split into the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland that is part of the UK. This guide will encompass both countries. I encourage you to visit both countries while you’re on the island!
The best time to visit
Peak season is directly related to the drier season in Ireland which is considered June, July and August. Personally, I try to avoid peak season anywhere I travel. The best time to visit Ireland to avoid that crowd is between March and May or between September and November where you can avoid peak season yet avoid the colder winter months.
Weather
Windy. The first thing that comes to mind is the wind! Second to that is the frequent rain showers. Even if you travel during the “dry” season, I would expect a few rain drops to occur sometime on your trip. In general, the temperatures are mild and are rarely extreme. The temperature will vary more inland.
The hottest months are July and August with the average daily highs ranging from 17-18 degrees celcius (63-64 degrees F).
The coldest months are January and February where the mean daily temp is between 4-7 degrees celcius (39-45 degrees F).
With Ireland being an island, the weather can be unpredictable. Check the weather before you go and pack layers!
Click here for a packing guide to Ireland!
Currency
The Emerald Isle has two different currencies. Ireland uses the Euro while Northern Ireland adopted the pound when joining the UK. If you are a cash person, it is in your best interest to have some of both. Many places accept credit card now, but know that if you are just buying drinks or leaving a tip, cash is hand.
On the topic of tipping, tipping is expected in restaurants and following a tour guide. 10-15% is generally an acceptable amount. Look to see if it has already been added to your restaurant bill first, though.
Accomodations
There is no one good answer for the best accommodations. We had good luck with renting airBNBs throughout our entire Ireland trip, aside from one hotel in Galway that was cheaper. However, for a unique experience you can try out a Bed and Breakfast at BandB Ireland!
Click here for recommendations on finding cheap accommodations!
Transportation
Personally, I believe the best way to see Ireland is by renting a car. There is a lot of vast landscape and places to see that are most easily accessed by driving yourself.
There is a railway system that connects the main cities. However, a lot of sites are outside of the main cities and will require car or bus to navigate. For example, you can train to Killarney, but no train travels the Wild Atlantic Way, so you will need to take a bus tour or drive yourself around the coastline.
If you do rent a car, remember you will be driving from the right side of the car on the left side of the road!
For more information on transportation in Ireland visit Transport for Ireland!
Itinerary
Looking at a map, you’ll find most of the biggest towns are along the coast of Ireland. To see the most of Ireland, I recommend an itinerary that circumnavigates the island! Click here to see our 10-day itinerary that circumnavigates the island. If you have more days available, adjust the itinerary as needed!
There is a lot to see and do in Ireland. What you want to do will likely vary depending on your hobbies and interests. However, here is a list of 10 activities we recommend on your trip around the Emerald Isle!
Planning a trip is a lot of work and can become overwhelming. Use this travel guide to Ireland to help make your planning easier. If you still have questions or concerns, feel free to ask me anything while you plan your trip!