Last updated on June 16th, 2025 at 06:19 pm
Let’s be real: Ireland is magical. But it’s also… not cheap.
Guinness isn’t free (sadly), and neither are those cozy castle hotels you saw on Instagram. But good news – you absolutely can visit Ireland on a budget and still come home with a camera roll full of cliffs, castles, and craic (that’s Irish for fun, not… you know).
In this guide to exploring Ireland on a budget, we’ll show you how to squeeze the most magic out of your euros without ending up living off gas station sandwiches (Although, Irish chicken fillet rolls at these stations will change your life)
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, visiting Ireland on a budget is 100% possible – and dare we say, it might just be the best way to experience our Emerald Isle.
This guide is packed with practical tips, apps to download, a ready-made budget Ireland itinerary, and local secrets to truly give you a genuine, authentic Irish experience without breaking the bank.
Visit Ireland on a Budget: Best Travel Tools
- Flights to Ireland: Compare on Trip.com
- Hotels in Ireland: Book on Trip.com
- Car Rentals in Ireland: Search deals on DiscoverCars
- eSIM for Ireland: Buy with Drimsim – a virtual eSIM delivered within minutes
- Travel Insurance for Ireland: Get covered with World Nomads
- Discover affordable Irish tours: some are a LOT more affordable than others so choose wisely.
Why Travel Ireland on a Budget?
As locals, we’re here to help you plan smart, explore the hidden gems, and enjoy truly authentic Irish experiences – are you ready to experience the real Ireland?
Traveling Ireland on a budget lets you:
- Avoid tourist traps and connect with locals
- Discover underrated towns, trails, and cafes
- Stretch your euro (and pounds in Northern Ireland) further
So, Is Ireland Expensive?
Honestly, yes. Ireland is expensive – especially if you wander into Temple Bar and accidentally buy a €9 pint of Guinness.
But if you’re willing to swap overpriced cocktails for windswept cliffs and charming traditional pubs (with €5 pints and actual locals), you’ll not only save money – you’ll have a genuine Irish experience.
Beyond Temple Bar: Hidden Gem for the Cheapest Guinness in Dublin
One of our top tips – among many in this budget-friendly Ireland guide – is to venture away from the touristy Temple Bar (Pub street in Dublin with no actual Irish people) and head instead to the iconic Gravediggers Pub, officially known as John Kavanagh’s. Established in 1833, this family-run Dublin pub earned its nickname from serving gravediggers at Glasnevin Cemetery, located right next door.
Glasnevin Cemetery is the resting place of Irish heroes like Daniel O’Connell, Michael Collins, and Charles Stewart Parnell, making the pub a perfect spot to enjoy a pint steeped in history and culture. The Gravediggers also serves traditional dishes like the famous Irish Coddle, and you’ll pay around €4.60 for a Guinness – about half the price you’d find in Temple Bar.
What more could you ask for?
Discover Ireland’s Castles and Ruins Without the Crowds
Ireland is home to over 30,000 castles and ruins, and the best part is – many of these historic sites in Ireland are completely free to visit – from hidden medieval abbeys to scenic castle ruins in the countryside. If you’re looking for authentic and affordable things to do in Ireland, exploring its lesser-known Irish castles is a must.
Just beside the popular Rock of Cashel, for example, lies Hore Abbey, an atmospheric 13th-century ruin set in a quiet green field. It’s completely free to visit and just as impressive – and chances are, you’ll have it all to yourself.
In the following video, we explore the iconic Rock of Cashel and take a stroll over to the nearby, free-to-visit Hore Abbey. Discover our thoughts on both sites, along with a few other fascinating historical gems in Ireland you can visit for free.
So if you’re driving through the countryside and spot a crumbling tower or ancient wall on the horizon, pull over. Wander in. These lesser-known historic sites in Ireland often aren’t marked on big tours, but they’re everywhere – and they’re some of the most memorable stops you’ll make.
It might be a budget-friendly trip to Ireland, but experiences like these – having a centuries-old castle ruin all to yourself – feel priceless. Honestly, we think that sounds a lot better than elbowing your way through the gift shop.
If you’re looking to explore more of the best castles in Ireland, be sure to check out our Castles in Ireland Itinerary – many of these historic sites are nestled in some of the most beautiful towns in Ireland, making it a win-win for history lovers and scenic travelers alike!
Explore Ancient Ireland for Free
While on the theme of castles – and if this kind of thing interests you – you can delve even further into Irish history without spending a cent.
Some of the most fascinating sites in the country are completely free to visit and offer a window into Ireland’s ancient past. If you’re planning to visit Ireland on a budget, don’t miss out on exploring its megalithic sites – from mysterious stone circles to ancient tombs scattered across the countryside.
Read more about the Greatest Megalithic Sites in Ireland and start planning your itinerary through ancient Ireland today.
These spots are not only rich in Irish history, but they also help you experience the depth of Ireland’s culture without adding to your travel costs. It’s a great way to step back in time and get to know the real Ireland for free!
Most of these sites are free to visit – except for Newgrange. That said, Newgrange is absolutely worth the entrance fee, and we highly recommend adding it to your itinerary. This remarkable Irish megalithic passage tomb, which is older than the Egyptian pyramids, is not only a stunning example of ancient engineering but also an astronomical masterpiece. Designed to align perfectly with the rising sun during the winter solstice, Newgrange offers a powerful glimpse into the advanced knowledge and spiritual world of prehistoric Ireland.
*While you’re trying to visit Ireland on a budget, it’s worth noting that entry to Newgrange costs just €5–€10 – in our opinion, an incredibly reasonable price for what you’ll experience. Considering the site’s age, significance, and stunning design, it’s absolutely worth the small fee.
Be sure to sample some of Ireland’s world-renowned whiskey – but before you dive into the Irish pub scene, take a moment to explore the related articles below to help you make the most of your trip to Ireland:
- 50 Easy Irish Phrases and Funny Irish Slang Words
- Expert Advice on The Best Dos and Don’ts For Visiting Ireland
- Why Do Irish People Drink? The Real Reasons Behind the Pint
- 60 Best Irish Insults to SURVIVE Your Ireland Trip
- Most hilarious Irish Insults to make you laugh out loud!
Now that you’ve got some insider tips for how to travel Ireland on a budget, let’s dive into practical advice and a sample budget-friendly itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.
Public Transport Tips for Budget-Friendly Travel in Ireland
Book Irish Rail and Bus Éireann tickets early for discounts: Many train and bus services in Ireland offer cheaper fares when you book in advance online. Planning ahead can save you a good chunk compared to buying last-minute tickets.
Use a Leap Visitor Card for discounted public transport in cities: If you’re spending time in Dublin, Cork, or Galway, the Leap Visitor Card gives you unlimited travel on buses, trams, and trains within the city zones for a set number of days – much cheaper than buying single tickets every time.
Try GoCar for flexible car-sharing options: GoCar is a popular car-sharing service available in many Irish cities and towns. You can rent a car by the hour or day through their easy-to-use app, which is perfect if you want the convenience of a car without the hassle and cost of traditional rentals. It’s ideal for short trips or exploring more remote areas in Ireland on a budget.
Budget-Friendly Food Tips for Ireland
Eating well in Ireland doesn’t have to break the bank – in fact, some of the best Irish food experiences are both affordable and authentic.
Whether you’re road-tripping along the Wild Atlantic Way or spending a few days in cities like Galway or Dublin, here’s how to keep your food costs low while still eating like a local:
Carvery Lunches in Local Pubs: Most traditional Irish pubs serve carvery lunches between 12:00 and 3:00 PM. You’ll get a full plate of roast meat, potatoes, vegetables, and gravy – often for under €12. This is a local favorite and a great way to experience hearty Irish cooking on a budget.
Supermac’s and Local Takeaways: Ireland’s own fast food chain, Supermac’s, is a reliable go-to for quick, cheap eats – with better portion sizes than international chains and solid options like curry chips or chicken goujons – try the curry-cheese chips!!
You’ll also find small-town “chippers” (fish & chip shops) offering generous meals for around €6–€10.
Grab-and-Go from Grocery Stores: Stores like Dunnes, Tesco, Lidl, and Aldi have great deli counters, meal deals, and fresh bakery items.
For just €3–€6, you can pick up a sandwich, a hot pie, or a salad box – perfect for picnic lunches for your Irish road trip.
Top Tip: As mentioned above, (but it is worth a second mention!) be sure to try the iconic Irish chicken fillet roll from a deli counter at shops like Spar or Centra – it’s a simple, delicious Irish classic that might just change your life!
Markets and Street Food: Cities like Galway, Limerick, and Cork have fantastic outdoor markets (like the Milk Market or English Market) where you can grab fresh local food, hot meals, and delicious snacks for great prices.
Cafés with Daily Specials: Many smaller cafés and coffee shops offer soup and sandwich combos, or hot dish specials for under €10 – often using seasonal and local ingredients.
Skip Tourist Traps: In popular tourist areas, avoid restaurants directly beside top Irish landmarks. As with anywhere else in the world, just walking a few streets over usually leads to better food at lower prices – and more locals. Find out more ways we eat cheap during our travels.
Budget Travel Tips for Solo Travelers in Ireland
Ireland is a fantastic destination for solo travelers, especially those on a budget. It’s friendly, safe, and full of opportunities to meet locals and other travelers.
Here’s a guide with practical tips just for solo travelers in Ireland to keep costs down:
Stay in Hostels or Small Guesthouses: Ireland’s hostel scene is clean, safe, and social – perfect for solo travelers. Many have private rooms if you prefer privacy but still want the community vibe. Plus, you’ll save big compared to hotels in Ireland and often get access to free walking tours, communal kitchens, and local advice.
Use Public Transport for Solo-Friendly Routes: Bus Éireann and Irish Rail offer good service between major cities and towns. While car hire is best for rural adventures, solo travelers can save by sticking to public transport and walking tours in places like Dublin, Galway, Cork, or Killarney.
Take Free or Low-Cost Walking Tours: Most Irish cities offer free walking tours (tip-based), which are not only budget-friendly but a great way to meet people and learn about local culture. It’s also a safer and more engaging way to explore alone, especially early in your Ireland trip.
Eat at the Bar in Pubs: Ireland’s pubs are solo-traveler-friendly – it’s common to eat at the bar and strike up a conversation – what can we say Irish people love to chat! Many Irish pubs offer budget-friendly lunch deals or bar menus, so it’s easy to enjoy Irish cuisine without spending much or feeling awkward dining alone.
Pack Light and Smart: Smaller B&Bs and hostels don’t always have elevators, and Irish weather can be unpredictable. A compact backpack or suitcase makes moving around cheaper (especially with public transport) and easier when navigating cobbled streets or narrow stairs.
Join Day Tours to Connect with Others: If you’re solo but want to explore places like the Cliffs of Moher or the Ring of Kerry, join a day tour from Galway, Dublin, or Killarney – check out Paddywagon or Wild Rover Tours.
These are affordable, safe, and often include local guides and small groups – a great way to meet people without the commitment of an Ireland group trip.
Use Apps Like Meetup or Couchsurfing: Looking to connect with locals or other travelers? Meetup, Couchsurfing, or Facebook travel groups often list events, walks, or pub nights. It’s a great way to stay social even when traveling solo in Ireland.
- Pub quizzes and live music are also great for meeting locals in Ireland – check out the best pubs in Ireland for traditional Irish music.
Embrace the Freedom: Solo travel means setting your own pace. Pull over at a random ruin, wander a quiet beach at sunset, or spend an afternoon reading in a pub – many of Ireland’s best moments are unplanned and cost nothing.
Related articles to enhance your budget-friendly Ireland adventures:
- Best Places to Stay in Ireland for First-Time Visitors
- Most Beautiful Towns in Ireland
- 2-week Irish Road Trip Itinerary – A full lap of Ireland in 2-weeks
- 5 Best Counties in Ireland
- Greatest Irish Symbols and Their Meaning
Top Discount Sites & Apps for Budget Travel in Ireland
If you are serious about visiting Ireland on a budget, keep an eye on the following sites and apps for up-to-date discounts regarding budget travel in Ireland and get even more bang for your buck!
Student Beans: A popular free discount platform for full-time students worldwide. By verifying your student status, you can unlock exclusive savings on Irish tours (like Paddywagon), restaurants, retail stores, and more. Especially useful for student tourists visiting Ireland. Website: studentbeans.com
UNiDAYS: Similar to Student Beans, UNiDAYS offers exclusive discounts on fashion, tech, takeout, and travel services. Available to students enrolled in full-time education around the world. Website: myunidays.com
Leap Card – Student & Young Adult Card: This prepaid travel card offers 50% off fares on buses, trams (Luas), DART, and commuter trains across Ireland. Available to full-time students and anyone aged 19–23. A must for budget travel within cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Website: leapcard.ie
Daft Deals: An Irish site featuring local deals, discounts, and giveaways on restaurants, services, and entertainment. Offers vary by region but can be great for spontaneous savings. Website: daftdeals.ie
DealRush: This Irish daily deals website features big discounts on experiences like spa days, meals, and short hotel stays. It’s a useful tool for both locals and tourists looking to explore on a budget. Website: dealrush.ie
Groupon Ireland: A well-known discount platform offering local deals on restaurants, hotel breaks, activities, and more. A reliable choice for tourists looking for value experiences around Ireland. Website: groupon.ie
Too Good To Go: A food-saving app that lets you purchase leftover meals or baked goods from cafes and restaurants at significantly reduced prices. Available in larger Irish cities like Dublin and Cork, it’s perfect for cheap, spontaneous eats. App: Available on iOS and Android
Revolut Perks: Revolut cardholders can access cashback and exclusive offers directly through the app while traveling in Ireland. Look out for in-app deals with Irish retailers, cafes, and services. Website: revolut.com
Budget Travel Tips for Families Visiting Ireland
Traveling Ireland on a budget with kids? Absolutely doable.
Here’s a practical guide with budget travel tips for families visiting Ireland – focusing on saving money while making the trip fun and memorable for all ages
Choose Family-Friendly Accommodation: Look for self-catering cottages, family-run B&Bs, or budget hotels with family rooms or adjoining rooms. Self-catering lets you save money by preparing some meals yourself, while B&Bs often include a hearty traditional Irish breakfast that keeps kids fueled for the day.
Rent a Car for Flexibility: Traveling with kids in Ireland is easier when you rent a car with DiscoverCars – you can stop whenever you need breaks, avoid long waits, and explore Ireland’s child-friendly attractions outside cities. Sharing the cost with extended family or friends makes it even more affordable to visit Ireland.
Plan Free or Low-Cost Activities: Ireland is packed with outdoor adventures that kids love and cost nothing or very little. Beaches like Inch Beach, playgrounds in national parks like Killarney, scenic drives (Dingle’s Slea Head Drive is our favorite), and castle ruins to explore will keep the whole family entertained without a big price tag.
Visit Castles with Kids in Mind: Many castles and historic sites in Ireland offer discounted or free admission for children. The Rock of Cashel, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, and Dunguaire Castle have hands-on exhibits or gardens where kids can roam safely. Always check online for family ticket deals or combo passes.
Eat Smart with Kids: Look for pubs and cafés with kids’ menus or early-bird specials. Many Irish pubs offer affordable carvery lunches where kids eat well without extra fuss. For picky eaters, supermarkets like Lldi or Aldi are great for quick sandwiches, snacks, and drinks.
Use Family-Friendly Walking Trails: Many Irish national parks and coastal areas have easy, stroller-friendly walking paths suitable for all ages. The Muckross Lake Loop in Killarney and Salthill Promenade in Galway are ideal for family outings looking for low-cost activities in Ireland.
Top Insider Tip: If you’re passing through Cahir in County Tipperary, don’t miss the charming Irish Fairy Trail hidden in the woods – it’s a magical stop for all ages. While you’re there, be sure to visit the impressive Cahir Castle, one of Ireland’s best-preserved castles.
Take Advantage of Discounts and Free Attractions: When traveling Ireland on a budget many museums, galleries, and cultural sites offer free entry or discounted family rates. The National Museum of Ireland (Dublin), The Hunt Museum (Limerick), and many city museums welcome kids for free or minimal fees.
Pack Smart and Prepare for Weather: Irish weather can be changeable (understatement of the year!) so bring layers, rain gear, and comfortable shoes for everyone. Packing snacks and refillable water bottles keeps kids happy between stops and saves money on convenience stores.
Ready to explore Ireland on a budget? Now that you’ve got our top Irish travel tips, it’s time to see what a budget-friendly Ireland itinerary can look like.
This sample Irish itinerary is just one example – there are endless ways to explore Ireland affordably depending on your interests, travel style, and budget. If you’d like a personalized cheap travel plan for Ireland, feel free to get in touch. We’re happy to help you create your dream low-cost Ireland itinerary!
7-Day Budget Ireland Itinerary
An Irish road trip is one of the best ways to explore Ireland on a budget – giving you total freedom over where you go and when.
Here’s a sample week-long budget-friendly Ireland itinerary to inspire your trip:
Day 1: Arrive in Dublin
- Take a low-cost airport bus into the city
- Join a free walking tour
- Visit Trinity College and the Long Room library
- Stroll through Temple Bar (great atmosphere but skip the drinks – they’re overpriced!)
- Swap Temple Bar pints for Gravedigger pints at half the price and experience the Coddle – an authentic, traditional Dublin dish.
- Catch some of the amazingly talented buskers on O’Connell Street – the vibe is incredible!
- Most of the Dublin Museums such as the National Museum of Ireland are free to visit.
- Stay in a budget-friendly Dublin hostel
Day 2: Dublin to Galway (2.5–3 hrs)
- Pick up a rental car early – DiscoverCars compares all the best deals to suit you.
- Break up your drive from Dublin to Galway with a stop in Athlone. Visit Ireland’s oldest pub, Sean’s Bar, dating back over 1,100 years, and explore Athlone Castle for a dose of history
- Wander Galway’s Latin Quarter and enjoy free live street music
- Walk the Salthill Promenade – “The Prom” is lined with a variety of cafés, restaurants, and traditional Irish pubs, making it easy to grab a bite or enjoy a drink while taking in the wild Atlantic coastal views
- Visit the Galway Cathedral and enjoy a picnic by the Spanish Arch
- Stay in the budget-friendly Kinlay Hostel in Galway
- Low-Cost Eats in Galway: Dough Bros on Middle Street serves tasty wood-fired pizzas, mostly under €15- great value in Galway. For classic fish and chips in Galway, grab a takeaway from McDonagh’s on Quay Street for about €10–€13 and enjoy it by the Spanish Arch.
Day 3: Cliffs of Moher Day Trip
- Drive to the Cliffs of Moher from Galway early to beat crowds – the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s top natural attractions
- Stop in the picturesque village of Doolin for lunch and traditional Irish music
- Insiders Tip: If you walk the Cliffs of Moher trail from Doolin you get “free entry”!
- Visit the Burren for a unique (and free) nature walk – The Burren’s limestone landscape formed around 330 to 350 million years ago and is one of Ireland’s most geologically and ecologically unique landscapes.
- Return to Galway for the night and enjoy some of the best pubs in Ireland for traditional music.
If unique hikes are your thing, check out our most unique trekking adventures around the world.
Day 4: Galway to Dingle Peninsula (3.5 hrs)
- Consider taking the route to Dingle via Adare Village – often called Ireland’s prettiest village. It’s a great stop for a coffee and a walk among thatched cottages, charming shops, and a picturesque park. Free to stroll and snap some postcard-perfect pictures!
- Once you reach Dingle, Slea Head Drive is an absolute must. It’s one of Ireland’s most breathtaking scenic drives – winding along cliffs, through ancient stone forts, past secluded beaches like Coumeenoole, and with views of the famous Blasket Islands at Dun Quin Pier. The Slea Head loop drive can take 1.5–2 hours with stops, and it’s free (aside from fuel).
- Dingle Accommodation: Look for family-run B&Bs in or near Dingle Town.
- Low-Cost Eats in Dingle: For pub grub, check out Foxy John’s (also a hardware store!) or The Dingle Pub, where you can often get a hearty dish like traditional Bacon and Cabbage or fish and chips for under €15.
Day 5: Dingle to Killarney (1.5 hrs)
- A relaxed drive from Dingle to Killarney gives you a full day to explore. You could also add a quick detour through Inch Beach if you want a final coastal stop – a 5-kilometer stretch of golden sand, offering panoramic views of Dingle Bay.
- Explore Killarney National Park: Free to enter, this massive park has forests, lakes, and waterfalls. Don’t miss Torc Waterfall and Ross Castle (you can walk around it for free or pay a small fee for a guided tour).
- Bike Rental Tip: Instead of the tourist-popular option of a horse and cart ride – consider renting bikes from Killarney Bike Rental (about €15–20 for a half-day) and cycle around Muckross Abbey, Muckross House, and Lough Leane. It’s healthier for you too – you can work off those pints! Want an even more budget-friendly way to explore Ireland? Wander!
- Budget Killarney Dinner: Try Murphy Brownes or La Rambla for affordable meals in Killarney, or go super traditional at The Laurels Pub and order the traditional Irish Beef Stew!
- Where to Stay: Budget-friendly options like Neptune’s Hostel (clean and centrally located) offer good value, as well as, budget family rooms.
Ireland Accommodation Tip: Book early in the summer and use platforms like Trip.com where you can get loyalty rewards such as discounts, room upgrades, and free breakfasts to name a few perks.
Day 6: Killarney to Limerick (1.5 hrs)
- King John’s Castle (€13.50 entry) is worth a visit in Limerick for its interactive exhibitions and views over the River Shannon.
- Limerick’s Milk Market (open on weekends) is ideal for browsing Irish cheeses, baked goods, and crafts – and grabbing an affordable lunch in Limerick. The Limerick Milk Market is one of Ireland’s oldest markets, with origins dating back to the 13th century.
- The Hunt Museum in Limerick offers a rich collection of art and antiquities spanning over 10,000 years of history. For just €12.50 you can witness an impressive collection of art and antiques, including works by Picasso, Yeats, and Henry Moore.
- Limerick Accommodation Tip: Staying just outside Limerick (in places like Castletroy or Annacotty) can save money – look for Airbnb or local B&Bs for around €80–€100 per night.
Day 7: Limerick to Shannon Airport (30 min)
- Drive Time: It’s a short, easy 25–30 minute drive from Limerick to Shannon Airport, making it a stress-free final travel day.
- Car Rental Tip: Be sure to fill up the tank near the airport (there are petrol stations in Shannon Town) before dropping off your rental to avoid extra fees.
- Why Fly from Shannon? Flying out of Shannon Airport is a huge time-saver compared to returning to Dublin – no long cross-country drive, fewer crowds, and quicker security lines.
- Optional Stop – Bunratty Castle & Folk Park:
If you have a late flight, consider spending your final couple of hours at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, just 15 minutes from both Limerick and Shannon Airport. Explore the fully restored medieval fortress and stroll through the adjacent Folk Park, which recreates 19th-century Irish village life. The entry fee to Bunratty Castle is €15 and can be booked online to save time. - Food Tip: For a final taste of traditional Irish food, pop into the famous Durty Nelly’s Pub right next to Bunratty Castle – for some of the best food in Ireland, the perfect spot for a farewell lunch or pint before heading to the airport.
Is Budget Travel in Ireland Worth It?
Yes, 100% – budget travel in Ireland is absolutely worth it.
You don’t need luxury Irish hotels or pricey guided tours to experience the best of Ireland.
In fact, when you choose to visit Ireland on a budget, you end up with richer, more meaningful, and authentic Irish experiences. From chatting with locals in a cozy village pub to hiking coastal cliffs that cost nothing but time, the true magic of Ireland is in its people, landscapes, and stories – not your spending.
Speaking of magic, if you’re still on the hunt for enchanting places to stay during your budget-friendly Irish adventure, we’ve got some truly unique accommodation options – like a traditional Irish thatch cottage. It might be a little cheeky on the wallet, but trust us, it’s totally worth the splurge for the experience!
Ready to Visit Ireland on a Budget?
Budget travel in Ireland doesn’t mean missing out – it means discovering the real Ireland.
With a bit of flexibility and the tips above, you’ll get the most out of your budget trip to Ireland, save money, and create memories you’ll talk about for years.
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