How to plan a trip to Ireland on your own

Planning a trip to Ireland? It can feel like a lot at first, so many places to go, things to see, and decisions to make. But once you know what to focus on, it’s surprisingly simple.

Maybe you want to drive the Wild Atlantic Way, hear live trad in a Galway pub, or hike through the rain in Connemara and love every second of it. This guide covers how to plan a trip to Ireland from start to finish. You’ll get clear advice on when to go, what to book, how to move around, and what not to miss.

By the end, you won’t just feel ready. You’ll actually be excited to plan.

How to plan a first-time trip to Ireland?

Planning your first trip to Ireland isn’t something you can do in one sitting. It takes time and a bit of strategy. The good news? You don’t need to have it all figured out right away.

Start by giving yourself at least four to six months to build your Ireland itinerary. That gives you time to research places, compare routes, and lock in bookings without the last-minute panic. Start simple. Look at a map. Choose a few must-see spots. Then move on to flights, transport, places to stay, and what you actually want to do once you’re there.

Break it down into steps and it stops feeling like a chore. And don’t forget to enjoy it. This is part of the trip too. Use solid Ireland travel tips to make smart decisions, and let the plan take shape one piece at a time.

Step 1: Define your trip's parameters

• When to do this: 4-6 months before (6+ months if traveling June-August or during St. Patrick's Day)

Getting a sense of your trip's basic details early on helps keep things realistic and enjoyable, especially when you're trying to stick to a budget. These choices will set the tone for the rest of your planning and save you from mistakes, like trying to pack too much into too little time. 

Things to figure out at this stage:

• When's the best time to visit Ireland?
• How much does a trip to Ireland cost?
• How many days are enough for Ireland?
• Can I combine my trip to Ireland with Scotland or UK?

When's the best time to visit Ireland?

Trying to figure out the best time to visit Ireland? Start by thinking about what kind of trip you want. Festivals, coastal hikes, pub crawls, peace, the timing matters more than you might think.

• June to August is the busiest time. You’ll get long days, warmer temperatures, and a full calendar of events. But crowds are heavy and prices are high.
• April to May and September to October are ideal for a slower pace. These months offer fewer tourists, better deals, and weather that’s still mild enough for exploring.
• November to March is the quiet season. Expect shorter days, more rain, and fewer open attractions outside the cities. But if you want fewer tourists and lively nights in cozy pubs, this could work.

Weather and what to expect

Ireland’s weather is famously unpredictable. You might get sunshine, mist, and a rainbow all before lunch.

• December is usually the wettest month, especially in the west.
• The east coast, including Dublin, tends to be a little drier.
• Most rain is light and scattered. Locals call it a soft day, think mist, not monsoon.
• Summer is mild, with highs around 59°F to 68°F. Winter temperatures hover between 39°F and 46°F near the coast.

Key events to plan around

If you want to plan a trip around the festival, be sure to book in advance.

• St Patrick’s Day in March fills Dublin with crowds, music, and Guinness.
• Galway International Arts Festival in July brings a buzz to the west coast.
• Cork Jazz Festival in October is one of the biggest music events in the country.

How much does a trip to Ireland cost?

Figuring out how to plan a trip to Ireland starts with knowing what you can afford. The country suits a wide range of travel styles, from shoestring backpackers to castle-hopping luxury seekers.

Cities like Dublin and Galway tend to be more expensive. For better value, head to smaller towns or rural areas in counties like Kerry, Donegal, or Clare.

• Budget (€60 to €100 / $65 to $110 per day): Stay in hostels or simple B&Bs, use public transport, and stick to free sights. It works if you're planning a trip to Ireland on a budget, but expect to make trade-offs.
• Mid-range (€100 to €200 / $110 to $220 per day): Rent a car, sleep in a decent hotel, and mix in a few paid attractions and restaurant meals. This is a realistic range for most visitors.
• High-end (€200+ / $220+ per day): Think castle hotels, private tours, and fine dining. If you want premium comfort, Ireland can deliver.

How many days do you need in Ireland?

If you're planning your first visit, 7 days in Ireland gives you just enough time to see the highlights. You can split your trip between Dublin and the countryside, without feeling too rushed.

For a more complete experience, a 10-day Ireland itinerary lets you cover more ground. You could explore the Wild Atlantic Way, visit the Cliffs of Moher, drive through Connemara, and still have time for villages in Cork and Kerry.

If you're short on time, a Dublin city break is still worth it. Not sure how long to stay in Dublin? Two to three days is ideal. That gives you time to see the major sights and fit in a quick trip to places like Howth or the Wicklow Mountains.

Just keep in mind that Ireland's small size is misleading. Narrow roads, scenic routes, and frequent stops mean everything takes longer than it looks on a map.

Can you combine Ireland with Scotland or the UK?

You can absolutely combine Ireland with Scotland or other parts of the UK. If you're planning an Ireland and Scotland itinerary, the easiest option is to fly. Dublin to Edinburgh takes about one hour. London is just ninety minutes away. Trains and ferries are possible but take longer and offer less flexibility.

With ten days or more, you can fit in the highlights of both countries. Spend a week exploring Ireland, then hop over to Scotland for castles, coastlines, and whisky tastings. Just make sure to leave enough time to enjoy each destination. Travel days tend to eat into your plans more than expected.

Adding Northern Ireland is even simpler. Belfast and the Giant’s Causeway are a few hours from Dublin and make a great extension to any route. You can visit by car, train, or on a guided day tour.

Some travelers try to add cities like London, Paris, or Amsterdam to the mix. It is possible, but unless you have two full weeks, you may end up rushing through everything. Ireland works best when you slow down. Let the scenery and pace of life do the heavy lifting.

Step 2: Make your trip "wish list"

• When to do this: 4-6 months before

At this stage, don't worry about having everything figured out. Just put together a "wish list" of places you might want to visit, along with a general idea of how far apart things are. Creating a Google map for this can be a good way to stay organized. Start with a couple "must-haves," and in later steps, we will fill the days in between.

What are the best places to visit in Ireland?

Ireland is compact but full of contrasts. If you're looking for the best places to visit in Ireland, think beyond the big-name sights. From dramatic cliffs and windswept islands to buzzing cities and quiet inland trails, these are the places worth planning your trip around.

Top cities to visit in Ireland

Use cities as anchors for your route; each has its own flavor, and most are great for day trips.

• Dublin: Home to Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse, and a vibrant pub scene. Two to three days is enough if you're planning a quick city break.
• Galway: A walkable, artsy city with live music, street performers, and easy access to Connemara and the Aran Islands.
• Cork: Ireland's food capital, with spots like the English Market and a strong pub culture. Good base for exploring the south.
• Belfast (Northern Ireland): Titanic Belfast, murals, and a gateway to the Causeway Coast.
• Kilkenny: Smaller but full of character. Known for its medieval castle, narrow lanes, and artsy vibe.

Nature and adventure

Ireland’s outdoors are where the real magic happens, from windswept cliffs to remote hikes.

• Wild Atlantic Way: A 1,600-mile coastal route with endless sea views, surf towns, and scenic stops.
• Killarney National Park: Lakes, red deer, and mountain trails in County Kerry.
• Wicklow Mountains: Just south of Dublin. Great hiking, especially the Spinc trail above Glendalough.
• The Burren: A surreal limestone landscape with wildflowers growing out of rock.
• Connemara National Park: Bog, mountain, and coast. Hike Diamond Hill for big views with little effort.
• Glenveagh National Park: A quieter spot in Donegal, with red deer and wild scenery.

Beaches and islands

For something peaceful, remote, or windswept, Ireland’s beaches and islands are often overlooked.

• Barleycove Beach (Cork): Wide sands and dunes without the crowds.
• Dog’s Bay (Connemara): A soft, seashell-strewn beach perfect for a quiet walk.
• Dingle Peninsula: Great mix of beaches, cliffs, and friendly villages. Inch Beach and Coumeenoole are standouts.
• Aran Islands: Traditional Irish culture, stone forts, and car-free roads. Stay overnight to escape the day-tripper rush.
• Skellig Michael: A remote island monastery reached by boat. Limited access, but worth it if you can snag a ticket.

Historic and cultural highlights

Ireland’s long history shows up in everything from ancient tombs to medieval castles.

• Newgrange: A 5,200-year-old passage tomb that lights up at the winter solstice.
• Rock of Cashel: Dramatic hilltop ruins in Tipperary with views over the Golden Vale.
• Blarney Castle: Yes, people still kiss the stone. But the gardens and grounds are just as good.
• Kilkenny Castle: A well-preserved Norman stronghold with an impressive art collection.
• Glendalough Monastic Site: Peaceful ruins in a wooded valley. Arrive early or late to avoid the crowds.

Off-the-radar experiences

Skip the tour buses and try these quieter spots for a deeper dive into Ireland.

• Loop Head Peninsula: In County Clare, with sea arches, cliffs, and hardly any tourists.
• Slieve League Cliffs: Taller than the Cliffs of Moher and far less visited.
• Copper Coast: A UNESCO Global Geopark in Waterford with cliffs, coves, and ancient geology.
• Bog snorkeling (yes, really): Try it in Offaly if you're into weird sports and don't mind getting muddy.

Step 3: Get the admin sorted early

• When to do this: 3-6 months before (or longer depending on your country)

If you're wondering how to plan a trip to Ireland, don’t skip the boring stuff. Sorting out admin early can save you money, time, and last-minute stress. Too many travelers miss out on unique stays or spend more than they should because they leave the paperwork to the final week.

At this stage, focus on the essentials:

• Do you need a visa to enter Ireland?
• Will you need an international driving permit?
• Have you arranged travel insurance?

These tasks vary depending on where you're coming from, so check the details well in advance. It’s not the fun part of trip planning, but it makes everything else easier.

Do you need a visa to go to Ireland?

Entry requirements depend on your nationality, so check them early in your planning.

• UK citizens can enter Ireland without a passport under the Common Travel Area agreement.
• Holders of UK visas may be eligible for the Irish Visa Waiver Programme, which allows short stays without applying for a separate Irish visa.
• EU and EEA citizens can enter with just a national ID card.
• Non-EU visitors may need a visa, though many nationalities can visit Ireland for up to 90 days without one.

Rules can change, so always check the latest details on the official Irish Immigration Service website before you travel.

Do you need special driving permit for Ireland?

If you're planning to drive in Ireland, the process is straightforward for most visitors.

• A valid license from the EU, UK, US, Canada, or Australia is usually accepted without an International Driving Permit.
• If your license is not in English, you may need a permit, so it’s worth checking before you go.
• Rental companies often require drivers to be at least 21. Some charge extra for drivers under 25.
• Make sure your rental includes full insurance. Many travellers also add a collision damage waiver for extra protection.

Driving is on the left. Rural roads can be narrow, winding, and slower than expected. Road signs are in kilometers, and roundabouts are common. Choosing a smaller car can make driving easier, especially outside cities.

Do you need travel insurance?

Yes, travel insurance is a smart idea for any trip to Ireland. If you're planning to hike, explore coastal trails, or try adventure sports, make sure your policy covers those activities. It should also include medical coverage, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Ireland's weather can be unpredictable, so having flexible coverage is a plus.

If you're visiting from the EU, bring your EHIC or GHIC card for basic healthcare access. If you're coming from outside the EU, check that your insurance includes medical treatment abroad.

Step 4: Map out your route and how to get around Ireland

• When to do this: 2 to 4 months before your trip

Now that you’ve narrowed down your must-see places, it’s time to connect the dots. At this stage of planning a trip to Ireland, focus on how you’ll get from one spot to the next: by rental car, train, bus, or a mix of all three.

Check travel times carefully. Ireland looks small, but winding roads and scenic detours can slow you down. Look for places worth stopping along the way to break up longer journeys and make the most of your route.

Planning how to get around Ireland now helps you build a realistic itinerary, avoid backtracking, and get more out of every day.

How to get around Ireland

Ireland may be small, but getting around still takes planning. You might drive along winding coastal roads, take the train between cities, or mix the two. However you travel, your choice of transport will shape the trip.

Driving in Ireland

Renting a car gives you the most freedom, especially if you want to explore rural areas, hidden beaches, or scenic viewpoints without relying on timetables. This is the best option for tackling some of the best road trips in Ireland, like the Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula.

You’ll drive on the left, and roads outside the cities can be narrow, winding, and edged with stone walls. Choose a smaller car if you're heading off the main routes.

Rental companies usually require drivers to be at least 21, and most charge extra if you’re under 25. Automatic cars are available, but they’re limited and more expensive. Fuel, tolls, and insurance should also be factored into your budget.

Public transport

Ireland’s rail and bus network works well if you’re sticking to the main towns and cities.

Irish Rail connects major hubs like Dublin, Galway, Cork, and Limerick. Bus Éireann covers a wider network, including smaller towns, but rural routes can be limited or infrequent. Local buses and trams (like Dublin’s LUAS) are a solid option for getting around cities.

If you're focusing on cities or don’t want the hassle of driving, public transport is a relaxed and budget-friendly way to see the country.

Guided tours

If you’d rather not drive or handle every detail yourself, guided tours are an easy way to explore. Options range from full island circuits to themed day trips focused on history, whiskey, film locations, or outdoor adventures.

For something more personal, tailor-made travel is available through Ireland local experts, who can design an itinerary around your interests and time frame. It’s a great option if you want flexibility without the hassle of planning.

Ferries and boat trips

Ireland is an island, so boats are part of the travel experience. Regular ferries connect the mainland with places like the Aran Islands, Rathlin Island, and Inishbofin. These trips give you a real taste of island life, especially if you stay overnight.

You can also take boat tours along the Dingle Peninsula or around the Skelligs for dramatic coastal views and a chance to spot dolphins or seabirds. River cruises on the Shannon offer a slower, scenic way to explore inland Ireland.

Crossing into Northern Ireland

Traveling between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland is simple. There’s no hard border, no passport checks, and no paperwork.

What changes? The currency shifts from euros to pounds sterling, and road signs switch from kilometres to miles. You’ll also notice subtle differences in accents, signage, and cultural references.

Driving, buses, and trains all cross the border without issue, making it easy to include both in a single trip.

Step 5: Lock in the major bookings

• When to do this: 3-4 months before (or earlier for high season)

Booking your major travel plans early means you'll get the best flight deals and accommodations, so you can relax well before your trip. It saves you from the stress of scrambling at the last minute and potentially paying more. A lot of people make the mistake of waiting too long, which usually leaves fewer options and higher prices.

Questions to consider in advance:

• What's the best way to book flights to Ireland?
• Where should you stay in Ireland?

What's the best way to book flights to Ireland?

Ireland has three main international airports. Dublin is the busiest and offers the widest range of international routes. Shannon works well if you want quick access to the west, while Cork is the best entry point for the south.

Ryanair and Aer Lingus often have the lowest fares, especially if you book three to six months ahead. From North America, you’ll also find good connections through major hubs like London, Amsterdam, and Paris.

Summer from June to August is peak season, which means higher prices and busier airports. If you can, book early or look at spring and autumn dates for better value.

Where should you stay in Ireland?

Accommodation in Ireland comes in all shapes and sizes. You can go classic with a cozy B&B, splash out on a castle stay, or try something unusual like a lighthouse, a thatched cottage in Connemara, or eco-friendly glamping pods in Mayo.

For planning purposes, think about bases rather than neighborhoods:

• Dublin works well for first-time visitors and the city culture.
• Galway is perfect for live music, food, and access to Connemara and the Aran Islands.
• Cork is Ireland’s food capital and a good starting point for the south.
• Killarney or Dingle in County Kerry puts you on the doorstep of the Ring of Kerry and the Wild Atlantic Way.
• Belfast in Northern Ireland offers history, culture, and easy access to the Causeway Coast.

Book three to six months ahead if you’re traveling in summer, expect B&Bs and guesthouses to be more common than hotels in rural areas, and remember that self-catering cottages are ideal if you’re renting a car and want flexibility.

Step 6: Plan and book your activities

• When to do this: 2-3 months before

Now that flights and accommodation are sorted, it’s time to think about how you’ll spend your days. You don’t need a minute-by-minute itinerary, but some things to do in Ireland are worth booking in advance so you don’t miss out, especially in peak season.

What to book in advance

Book of Kells at Trinity College: tickets sell out quickly, and mornings before 10 am are quieter.

• Guinness Storehouse: reserve a time slot online; weekdays are less busy.
• Kilmainham Gaol: limited numbers mean tours often sell out weeks ahead.
• Whiskey distillery tours: Jameson and Teeling in Dublin, plus smaller regional distilleries.
• Cliffs of Moher experiences: boat trips from Doolin or guided walks along the coastal trail.
• Game of Thrones tours in Northern Ireland: very popular in summer.

Tips for top attractions

Many of the most popular attractions in Ireland now use timed tickets. Combo passes can save money: the Dublin Pass works well if you’re visiting several city attractions, while the Heritage Card covers castles and historic sites across the country. Skip-the-line tickets are worth it at busy spots like Blarney Castle.

Leave space for local experiences

Not everything needs to be pre-planned. Traditional music sessions, farmers’ markets, or a spontaneous hike are best enjoyed without a rigid schedule. Balance your must-book activities with room for surprises, that’s often where the best memories come from.

People also ask

When you’re working out how to plan a trip to Ireland, it helps to have answers to the practical stuff. Here are quick responses to the most common questions.

How do you stay connected in Ireland?

An eSIM is the easiest option; set it up before you land with providers like Three or Vodafone. Physical SIM cards are sold at Dublin Airport and in major cities. Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafés, and restaurants, but rural areas can be patchy, so download maps offline.

What currency is used in Ireland?

The Republic uses the euro (€). Northern Ireland uses the pound sterling (£). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, and contactless payments are standard.

Where can you find ATMs in Ireland?

ATMs are easy to find in cities and towns. Bank-operated ones (AIB, Bank of Ireland, Ulster Bank) usually have the best rates. In rural areas, machines are less common, so carry some cash for pubs and markets.

What should you pack for Ireland?

Pack for unpredictable weather: layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes. Even in summer, evenings can be cool. Bring a UK-style three-prong adapter for electronics.

Can you drink the tap water in Ireland?

Yes. Tap water is safe to drink throughout the Republic and Northern Ireland. Many travelers carry a reusable bottle to refill on the go.

How much should you tip in Ireland?

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10 percent is standard if service isn’t included. Round up taxi fares and leave small change in pubs or cafés.

Is Ireland safe for solo travel?

Yes. Ireland is generally safe, with low crime rates and friendly locals. Use the same common-sense precautions as you would anywhere: keep valuables secure and stay aware at night in cities.