Ireland is one of those countries that often gets overlooked when people plan a trip around Europe. I’m not sure if it’s because many people don’t realize everything it has to offer or because it tends to be overshadowed by more popular destinations, but I’ve always found it pretty underrated. The truth is, there’s so much to see: incredible green landscapes, castles, charming towns, and scenic routes that look like they came straight out of a movie.
In this post, I’m sharing some useful tips and things to know before traveling to Ireland for the first time, so you can make the most of your trip.
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- Don’t limit yourself to Dublin
- Join a guided tour
- Entry requirements
- Be prepared for the changing weather
- Watch out for Foreign Transaction Fees
- How to get from Dublin Airport to the City Centre
- Rent a car if you want to explore Ireland
- Pubs are part of the experience
- Book accommodation in advance
- Language in Ireland
- Get an eSIM
- Try traditional irish food
- Get travel insurance
- Bring a universal adapter
Tips for visiting Ireland for the first time
1. Don’t limit yourself to Dublin
Dublin is a fairly small city that can easily be explored in just a few days, so I’d recommend spending 2–3 days there and taking at least a day trip to another part of the country, such as the famous Cliffs of Moher.
2. Join a guided tour
One of my favorite ways to get to know a new destination is by joining a guided tour or activity. It’s a great way to learn more about the history, culture, and highlights of a place, especially if it’s your first visit. Whether it’s a walking tour through Dublin, a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher, or an excursion to Northern Ireland, there are plenty of great options available.
I usually book activities through GetYourGuide or Civitatis, where you can find tours all across Ireland:
3. Entry requirements
First, it’s important to understand the difference between Ireland and Northern Ireland. Although they share the same island, they are not the same country, and entry requirements can differ depending on where you plan to travel.
The Republic of Ireland is a member of the European Union, while Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom. This means that the documents you need will depend on both your nationality and the regions you plan to visit.
If you’re a citizen of an EU country, you can travel to Ireland using a valid national ID card or passport. Travelers from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many others can visit Ireland for tourism without a visa for short stays, provided they hold a valid passport.
If you also plan to visit Northern Ireland (for example, Belfast or the Giant’s Causeway), keep in mind that you’ll be entering the United Kingdom. Since 2025, many visitors who do not require a visa for the UK must obtain an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before traveling. The ETA is linked electronically to your passport and is required for entry.
Before your trip, make sure to check the official entry requirements for both Ireland and the United Kingdom based on your nationality, and confirm whether you need an ETA for Northern Ireland.
4. Be prepared for changing weather
Ireland’s weather is famous for being unpredictable. It’s not unusual to experience sunshine, rain, and strong winds all in the same day. That’s why packing the right clothing is essential: bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes that can handle wet conditions.
- May to September: Generally the best time to visit. Temperatures usually range from 15°C to 22°C (59°F–72°F). I visited Dublin in August and was lucky enough to enjoy mostly sunny and warm days.
- April and October: A great alternative if you prefer fewer crowds. Expect temperatures around 10°C to 15°C (50°F–59°F).
- Winter (November to February): Cooler, wetter, and windier, with shorter daylight hours. Temperatures typically range from 3°C to 10°C (37°F–50°F).
5. Watch out for foreign transaction fees
If your trip includes Northern Ireland, keep in mind that the local currency is the British pound (£), while the Republic of Ireland uses the euro (€). Depending on your bank, card payments and ATM withdrawals in a different currency may come with extra fees.
For international travel, I usually recommend using a travel-friendly card such as N26, Revolut, or Wise. They often offer better exchange rates and lower fees than traditional banks, making them especially useful if you’ll be using both euros and pounds during your trip.
6. How to get from Dublin airport to the city centre
Most visitors start their trip in Dublin, as the city’s airport receives the majority of international flights to Ireland. There are several ways to get from Dublin Airport to the city centre:
Bus (the most popular option):Dublin Express and Aircoach connect the airport with central Dublin in around 30–40 minutes, stopping at convenient locations such as O’Connell Street. For most travelers, this is the best combination of price, speed, and convenience.
Private transfer: If you prefer a hassle-free arrival, a private transfer can take you directly from the airport to your hotel. It’s especially convenient if you’re arriving late at night or traveling with a lot of luggage.
Taxi or Uber: The journey usually takes around 25–35 minutes, depending on traffic, and typically costs between €30 and €40.
7. Rent a Car if You Want to Explore Ireland
13. Get travel insurance
Whenever you travel outside your home country, it’s important to have travel health insurance. I’ve included a 5% discount for booking your insurance.14. Bring a universal adapter
One of the best tips I can give you is to always bring a universal travel adapter. It’s much easier than buying a different adapter for each destination, and you can get one for around $15 on Amazon.Other useful guides about Europe:
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