Last updated on March 16th, 2025 at 09:30 am
Are you visiting Ireland for the first time? When visiting Australia, who would you rather take advice from? Someone from France, or an actual Australian?!
This list of travel tips for visiting Ireland for the first time comes straight from the hearts of two ACTUAL IRISH PEOPLE, who are Ireland-born and bred. We know Ireland like the back of our hand and we are delighted to provide you with authentic and practical advice to help you make the most of your Ireland trip.
We will share exactly what you need to know for your first trip to Ireland, and we will even let you in on a few bonus Ireland travel tips to not look like a tourist and leave your new Irish friends dumbfounded!
From the history, the natural beauty, and most importantly the Irish people – (we may leave the weather out of this one) Ireland is one of the best countries in the world to visit, and wherever you have arrived from, you will be made to feel like you are at home.
There’s a long list of tips for visiting Ireland for the first time to get through, but we want to ensure you have the best holiday of your life, so let’s get stuck in!
The Ultimate Ireland Travel Tips & Advice
For our first travel tip for visiting Ireland for the first time, well just get it out of the way and mention the elephant in the room – the weather can be shite!
Ireland Travel Tips: Weather
This means at any time of year the weather can be unpredictable, it can snow in summer and have a heat wave in winter, nothing surprises us anymore.
Because Ireland’s weather can be unreliable, make sure to pack layers, shorts, waterproof clothing, a wooly hat, and a bikini regardless of the season!
On a serious note, Ireland has a mild climate and is a great country to visit any time of the year.
Ireland Travel Tips: A Realistic Ireland Itinerary
For our next travel tip when visiting Ireland for the first time, we would like to talk about Ireland itineraries. Often when we read other bloggers’ Ireland itineraries they don’t make any sense at all. It is like traveling from Point A to Point E, and then back to Point B, it gets even more frustrating when people leave comments saying how good it is!
However, we have created the perfect 14-day Ireland itinerary that takes you on a logical journey to visit all of Ireland’s must-see attractions. All times and distances are included.
Yes, you’ll be busy, but this carefully planned Ireland trip has been done by us before, and ensures you too will get the most out of your time on your Ireland holiday.
Ireland Travel Tips: Driving
If you plan to travel around Ireland by car, familiarize yourself with driving on the LEFT SIDE of the road.
More importantly, if you plan on venturing outside of main towns/cities, the roads will become very winding and narrow country lanes. Simply slow down, keep to your side of the road, and breathe! With a bit of practice, you’ll be navigating Ireland by car like a pro in no time!
The best way to explore Ireland is by car – click to get a free quote for Car Rental in Ireland.
Ireland Travel Tips: Public Transportation
If you don’t want to rent a car during your trip, you’ll be happy to know that there’s a great public transportation system in Ireland. With trains, buses, and the Luas light rail in Dublin, it’s easy to get around and see the best attractions and cities in Ireland without having to drive yourself. Perhaps a tour of Ireland might be your better option in that case.
Purchasing a Leap Card for discounted fares on public transportation in Dublin and other major cities will save you money. Additionally, and this is a very important Ireland travel tip – Always thank your bus driver when you reach your destination!
Trust the leading tour group for Ireland holidays to create your perfect trip with Ireland Tours Brendan Vacations. Explore the Best of Ireland!
Ireland Travel Tips: Currency
If you are traveling to Ireland from outside of the EU then know that Ireland uses the Euro (EUR). While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in more rural areas.
You are also entitled to a VAT refund for qualified purchases made during your visit when traveling to Ireland from a non-EU country. Items include alcohol, cigarettes, perfumes, cosmetics, watches and jewelry.
Check out The Irish Roadtrips guide on VAT refunds.
Ireland Travel Tips: Tipping
Tipping in Ireland is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service, particularly in restaurants. A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.
Ireland Travel Tips: Pub Culture
Ireland is famous for its pub culture, so make sure to visit a traditional Irish pub during your stay. Enjoy live traditional Irish music, our famous hearty pub grub, and a delicious creamy pint of Guinness.
Ireland Travel Tips: Safety
Ireland is a safe place to visit for tourists, but it’s always a good idea to take common-sense precautions as you would anywhere else in the world. Over the last few years, there have been incidents in Ireland’s capital, Dublin where tourists were robbed. Avoid walking home by yourself and take a taxi or Uber back to your accommodation.
Ireland Travel Tips: It’s OK to Say “Hello!”
Irish people are known for their friendliness and hospitality. It’s crazy we know, but Irish people like to acknowledge other people, whether we know them or not!
Expect to be greeted with a friendly “hello” or “how’s it going” by a stranger in the street, in a pub, on the bus, in a shop…..Don’t panic and set off your stranger danger alarm, Irish people just like to chat!
One of our favorite sayings happy Irish people say is – It’s nice to be nice!
Ireland Travel Tips: Explore Beyond Dublin
Many tourists will visit Dublin for their “Ireland Holiday” and then leave, which is such a pity. While Dublin is a fantastic city to explore in Ireland, be sure to venture beyond the capital to discover Ireland’s stunning countryside, most beautiful towns, and rugged coastline of the Atlantic Ocean.
*Ireland Travel Tip – Happy Irish Wanderers are both from the West of Ireland and would highly recommend visiting destinations such as the Cliffs of Moher, the beautiful Cobh in County Cork, the Ring of Kerry, and the Giant’s Causeway to name but a few.
If you are visiting Ireland for the first time then check out our Amazing Ireland Bucket List.
Ireland Travel Tips: Embrace the Craic
Now this is an important one. When visiting Ireland for the first time you will hear the Irish word “craic” (pronounced “crack”) everywhere you go.
Craic refers to fun, enjoyment, and good times. You will probably be asked “What’s the Craic” on many occasions – this just means “What’s going on?” and/or “How are you?”
Embrace the craic during your Ireland holiday by engaging with locals, enjoying the famous Irish hospitality, and immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of our welcoming country.
Find out all you need to know about embracing all that Irish Craic.
Ireland Travel Tips: Visit Off-Peak
Visiting Ireland can be quite expensive. Consider traveling to Ireland during the off-peak season (outside of the months of June-September).
Remember you’re not guaranteed nice weather in an Irish summer anyway!
Not only will this avoid crowds but you could potentially save LOTS of money on accommodations and attractions – put these savings towards pints instead!
Travelling smart to make money go further is all what Happy Irish Wanderers are about!
If you are visiting Ireland for the first time, then check out some tours of the best attractions in Ireland.
Ireland Travel Tips: Explore Ancient Sites
One of the things we love most about our beloved country is its fascinating Irish history. Ireland is home to numerous ancient sites, including megalithic tombs, stone circles, and medieval castles. Some Irish attractions, such as Newgrange are over 5,000 years old, making them even older than the Great Pyramids!
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these fascinating Ireland landmarks dotted throughout the countryside.
Ireland Travel Tips: Book Tickets In Advance
This is a very important travel tip when visiting Ireland for the first time. If you’re planning to visit some of Ireland’s most popular attractions like Newgrange, the Book of Kells, and Kilmainham Gaol, you may find yourself disappointed if you show up on the day and expect to buy tickets at the counter.
These popular Ireland tours often sell out months in advance, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets ahead of time.
Ireland Travel Tips: Experience Irish Cuisine
Never mind any other tips, the main Ireland travel tip is to bring a BIG appetite with you! Irish food is some of the best cuisines in the world. Let’s just say you’ll be “well fed“.
Bonus Tip – Our top traditional Irish foods to try include hearty Irish stews, Sunday roasts, seafood chowder, home-made soda bread WITH REAL IRISH BUTTER, bacon and cabbage, and of course the famous full traditional Irish breakfasts with delicious black and white pudding.
Ireland Travel Tips: Enjoy Outdoor Activities
Ireland’s stunning landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, fishing, and golfing. Even if the Irish weather doesn’t hold up, once you dress with appropriate gear, you’ll be grand!
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder after all, and an overcast windy day can give a wild rugged feel when exploring Ireland’s scenic trails and coastlines. Just don’t go too close to those cliff edges on the very windy days!
Ireland Travel Tips: Respect Nature
Ireland’s natural beauty is a precious resource. Help preserve it by following the Leave No Trace rules, disposing of waste responsibly, and respecting wildlife during your outdoor adventures.
Ireland Travel Tips: Learn Some Irish Phrases
While English is the primary language spoken in Ireland, learning a few words and phrases in the Irish language can enhance your cultural experience and show respect for the country’s heritage.
This is where you will charm your new Irish friends and leave them dumbfounded.
- Dia dhuit (pronounced: dee-ah gwit) – This means “hello” in Irish.
- Sláinte (pronounced: slawn-cha) – This is a toast meaning “health.” It’s often used when raising a glass for a drink. This one you’ll surely remember!
- Go raibh mile maith agat (pronounced: guh rev mile mah agut) – This means “thank you”
- Conas atá tú? (pronounced: kun-us ah-taw too) – This translates to “How are you?” It’s a common way to greet someone and ask how they’re doing.
- Slan (pronounced: slahn) – This is a farewell, meaning “goodbye” or “farewell.”
While we are in the learning phase, check out a selection of 16 AMAZING BOOKS ABOUT IRELAND. The list includes fiction, non-fiction, travel guides, historical accounts, and even children’s literature!
Ireland Travel Tips: Discover Hidden Gems
Visiting Ireland is an opportunity for exploration and our country is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Venture off the beaten path, literally in any direction, to uncover quaint villages, secluded beaches, and lesser-known attractions that offer a more authentic Irish experience.
Trust us you will be greeted with welcome and curiosity whenever you end up, don’t be surprised if you are offered a cup of tea!
Ireland Travel Tips: Stay in Unique Accommodations
Consider staying in unique accommodations such as historic castles, cozy cottages, or enchanting forest lodges for what is sure to be an unforgettable stay.
Light that fire, curl up, and soak in your authentic Irish surroundings.
We’ve selected the Top 3 of the most amazing and unique stays in Ireland that are sure to be ticked off your bucket list. Seeing as these are unique stays, just a heads up, they will be more expensive than your average stay.
Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway – Think forest bathing, zen vibes, seaweed baths, and sheer bliss.
Russel’s Cottage – For an authentic cozy cottage stay with epic views of the Wild Atlantic Ocean, Russel’s Cottage is calling your name.
Mount Eagle – Last, most definitely not least, Mount Eagle could be the most perfect option for a celebration or party. Think accommodation with its very own PUB, hot tub, sauna, and poker room, and can sleep 24 people. If you are planning a group trip to Ireland look no further.
Ireland Travel Tips: Attend Festivals and Events
Throughout the year there is an array of Irish festivals and events, celebrating music, literature, food, and more.
Of course, Paddy’s Day is great craic, but we have lots more than that. Check local event calendars and plan your visit to coincide with a festival or cultural celebration.
Ireland Travel Tip – It is called Paddy’s Day, not Patty’s, we are not celebrating burgers!
Ireland Travel Tips: Take a Day Trip to Northern Ireland
If time allows, consider taking a trip to Northern Ireland to explore attractions such as the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and the vibrant city of Belfast.
Enjoy Ireland, Our Beautiful Nation
There you have it folks, all the Ireland travel tips that you will need to make your Ireland holiday even better.
We truly hope you love Ireland as much as we do, and we can even go as far as guaranteeing you that this will be the case.
We always love to hear about Ireland travel and basically anything Irish, so please let us know how you get on if you have been or intend to visit Ireland.
Leave a comment below, or even better, leave us a message on our socials.
Slán go fóil
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