Ireland is one of the most magical places in Europe. If you’re interested in beautiful landscapes, kind people, and excellent beer, this is the place for you.
In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know before visiting Ireland. I’ll give you details on the the must-see attractions, all the food and drink you need to try, and other essential tips and tricks.
Where To Visit in Ireland
Dublin
Dublin is the capital of Ireland and most likely the city you will fly into. This city shows off the industrial side of Ireland and provides more of a city feel. It is home to some must-see attractions like the Guinness Storehouse and Temple Bar. Though Dublin is nice, a trip to Ireland should include much more than just the capital. You must explore the countryside!
Cork
Cork City Ireland’s second-largest city and it is located in the southern part of the Island. Cork is a great central location for a variety of incredible day trips to places like Blarney Castle, Cobh, and the Rock of Cashel. It provides a small city atmosphere, but it is much less touristy than Dublin. Check out my Cork, Ireland Travel Guide for more information.
Galway
Galway is the heart of all the best sights in Ireland. If you’re only in the country for a few days, I advise you to spend those days in Galway. Here, you’ll be close to the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands, the Burren, Connemara, and more. Plus, this city has plenty of fun and traditional things to do. You can cross off every item on my “must-see” list for Ireland in Galway.
Kerry
Kerry shows off the rural, picturesque side of Ireland. It is easily the best place to view the Irish landscape, experience local towns, and see ancient castles. This region is home to the Ring of Kerry – a very popular sightseeing route for tourists and locals alike. Due to its rural nature, you’ll want to rent a car or go on a tour if you’re visiting this area.
Kilkenny
Kilkenny has a charm unlike anywhere else in Ireland. It is authentic to its traditional Irish roots. This interesting city boasts Kilkenny Castle, Smithwick’s Brewery, and the Hole in the Wall pub. While you’re in the area, I’d also recommend stopping in the town of Waterford and touring the Waterford Crystal factory.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is one of the most beautiful and historic areas on the Emerald Isle. Though Northern Ireland and Ireland are completely separate countries, their close proximity makes them a popular duo for travelers. Northern Ireland has a complex history that makes it a great stop for history buffs. It is also home to some must-see attractions such as Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede bridge, the Titanic Museum, and plenty of Game of Thrones filming locations (such as King’s Road!).
What You Need to Know About Ireland
Essential Activities
When in Ireland, there are a few things you MUST do:
- Explore the Cliffs of Moher
- Spend time in a quality pub and listen to some Trad (traditional Irish music)
- Drink a Guinness
- Talk to a local and find out how incredibly nice they are (and listen to their awesome accent)
- Have tea and scones (with Irish butter and Irish milk) in a cafe
- Find a castle in the lush, green countryside
Food and Drink
While in Ireland, you must eat and drink all the incredible things that make this country unique. These are my favorites:
Food
- Irish Tea & Scones
- Fish n Chips
- Guinness Stew
- Cadbury Chocolate (my favorite is the fruit & nut bars)
- Irish butter and milk
Alcohol
- Guinness (from Dublin)
- Smithwick’s (from Kilkenny, pronounced “Smith-Icks”)
- Murphy’s (from Cork)
- Beamish (from Cork)
- Harp Lager
- Galway Hooker (from Galway)
- Bulmer’s Cider
- Orchard Thieves Cider
- Jameson Whiskey (from Cork)
- Franciscan Well (from Cork)
Transportation
In Ireland, public transportation between regions is minimal. As a tourist, you will have the best time traveling to multiple cities if you rent a car. This will allow you to see rural Ireland, which is the most beautiful part of the country. To see rural Ireland without a car, I’d highly recommend going on a bus tour of the region you’re interested in. This will allow you to see things you simply cannot have access to when using public transportation.
In terms of general travel between destinations, there are many options. Taxis (not Uber) can be used around cities, but they would be too expensive for longer travel. Bus Eireann buses are very common and provide transportation from big and small cities, but they often take a long time. Big cities will have buses stop often, while smaller towns may only have a bus stop twice a day. Some cities are connected via train, but this is very rare. Trains are faster than buses and should be used when available.
I would recommend Paddywagon Tours and Irish Experience Tours if you opt to use a tour company on your trip.
Souvenirs
I always recommend visiting locally-owned shops for souvenirs. However, if you find yourself stuck in a city and desperate for an Irish Wool sweater, I recommend checking out a storefront for Carrol’s Irish Gifts.
My favorite souvenirs:
- Irish Wool Sweater or Blanket
- Claddagh Ring (Traditionally made in Galway)
- Handwoven Napkins
- Pint Glasses for local brews (ask your bartender if you can keep your pint)
- Waterford Crystal (Made in Waterford, Ireland)
Counties in Ireland
Ireland is organized into many different provinces known as counties. These counties boast a variety of cities and towns. Some cities have the same name as the county, but they are still different things. For example, you would refer to a county as County Cork (abbreviated Co.Cork) and the city that shares the same name as Cork City.
Cell Phones
I highly recommend using the company “3” (Three) if you’re in Ireland for a week or more and want to use your cell phone. You can buy an unlimited data SIM card for $20 a month that works on unlocked phones. I have an iPhone from Verizon and it worked perfectly. You can usually get the SIM cards at gas stations, but your best bet would be to find a 3 store. There’s generally one or more in every decent-sized city!
Visiting Ireland?
If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, reach out to me! I’m happy to offer up some more detailed advice, recommendations, and general tips.
