Guinness might be one of the most iconic Irish exports, but did you know it's the number one selling draft beer in the United States? It’s growing at an impressive rate – so much so that Guinness Brewery Ambassador Zach Berger proudly shared the news at Iowa Irish Fest. That creamy pint? It’s not just a nod to Ireland—it’s a thriving, evolving brand with deep roots and global appeal.

And here’s something most people don’t realize: all Guinness Draft sold in the U.S. is brewed in Dublin at St. James’s Gate. While there are Guinness breweries in Baltimore and Chicago, those are innovation hubs – think limited-run beers and culinary pairings – not production sites for the classic stout.

This article is based on podcast episode 284 featuring Zack Berger, Guinness Brand Ambassador (follow on Instagram @guinnessinthecity).
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Guinness has come a long way since the days when it was shipped in barrels and bottled in individual pubs. Back then, quality control teams traveled to those pubs to ensure the product remained true. If a pub was caught altering the beer? The punishment was a national ad outing the misrepresentation. A bold move, but effective.

The Guinness we know today, with its distinct pour and that classic “wait for the settle” moment, didn’t debut until 1959. Before that, a pub might have served a blend of casks to achieve that creamy result. Innovation has always been baked into Guinness and continues today through its American breweries.

There’s a reason the Guinness Storehouse is the number one attraction in Ireland. It’s more than beer, it’s legacy. Guinness has managed to stay true to its Irish identity while becoming a global brand. In fact, in some parts of Africa, Guinness is seen more as a local product than an import. That kind of cultural integration doesn’t happen by accident.

According to Zach, it’s Guinness’s authenticity, consistency, and connection to Irish craftsmanship that keeps people returning. Whether it’s music, film, or beer – Irish culture is having a moment, and Guinness is at the center of it.

And yes, that harp on the pint is the same harp you see on official Irish emblems – but with a twist. Quite literally. Guinness used it first. When Ireland became a republic and adopted the harp as a national symbol, they flipped it to avoid copyright infringement.

Even if you’re not a beer drinker (hi, me), the Guinness Storehouse is well worth a visit. It’s part museum, part cultural experience, and packed with layers of storytelling. You can expect:

The story behind the zoo ads is delightful. Artist John Gilroy drew inspiration from a seal balancing a ball, imagined it was a pint, and ran with it – eventually introducing the world to a whole animal cast and the famous zookeeper (a self-portrait, by the way).

There’s no “wrong” time to visit the Storehouse, but your ideal moment depends on your pace. Want a more relaxed, less-crowded visit? Go in the morning right when it opens. Interested in a livelier vibe with music and energy? Aim for the afternoon.

Visiting in the off-season? Try to time your Gravity Bar visit with the sunset. In winter months, the low light and city views are especially stunning.

And no matter when you go, don’t rush it. The tour is self-guided, and 90 minutes is a minimum if you want to absorb everything.

Guinness’s two American breweries – in Baltimore and Chicago – aren’t about recreating the classics. Instead, they focus on what’s next. These spots brew limited-edition beers like IPAs, lagers, and even fruited sours or barrel-aged stouts. If you’re visiting, don’t just order a standard draft – ask what’s new and local.

Baltimore offers a sprawling beer garden and open brewery feel, while Chicago delivers a more urban, culinary-forward experience, complete with beer cocktails and food pairings. Both serve as an introduction to the Guinness brand beyond the iconic stout and a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation.

Guinness may begin with a pint, but its story is so much more than that. It's about innovation, legacy, global identity, and great marketing. It's almost the story of Ireland – rich history with an eye to the future.

The post Guinness Stories: What You Might Not Know About Ireland’s Iconic Brew appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Dublin is often the first stop on an Ireland itinerary, but too often, visitors rush through it.

Gráinne Lawlor wants you to slow down, sit down, and taste the city. Through her company, Flavour Trails, she offers food, whiskey, and storytelling tours that highlight the heart of Dublin: its people, its history, and it's incredible local flavor.

After years working abroad and then for a local tour company, Gráinne Lawlor took the leap and bought the business she loved. Today she runs Flavour Trails, offering unforgettable food, whiskey, and storytelling tours in the heart of Dublin.

What makes her tours stand out? It's the way she and her team weave history, culture, and pure craic into every stop. And she’s not just serving up bites and sips, she’s dishing out insights only a local (and a very well-fed one at that) can offer.

This article is based on Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 282 featuring Gráinne Lawlor, owner of Flavour Trails in Dublin.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Gráinne isn’t originally from Dublin, but she’s fallen hard for the capital – and for good reason.

Dublin is incredibly walkable, filled with warm, helpful people, and home to some of the best free cultural experiences in Ireland. From galleries and museums to impromptu pub storytelling sessions, the city doesn’t charge you to soak in the culture.

And the best part? You can start your sightseeing early, be in bed at a reasonable hour, and still pack in a full day of fun.

Temple Bar might be famous, but it’s also famously overpriced. If you’re after real music and a more authentic vibe, Gráinne recommends:

Both spots offer nightly tunes without the tourist mark-up.

And a bonus: Silverworks, where you can forge your own claddagh ring or Christmas ornament. Gráinne swears even the skeptical men get into it.

Flavour Trails tours are never rushed. Think three courses, three stops, and stories that stick with you. The food tour is their most popular, showcasing Irish dishes the way locals eat them – served with history and humor.

Then there’s the whiskey tour – six samples across three locations, covering all three styles of Irish whiskey (yes, that’s a thing). Add in food pairings and education, and even non-whiskey drinkers walk away fans.

The newest offering? A storytelling tour filled with folklore, pub etiquette, and colorful characters. Drinks and snacks included, of course.

If you want to support local (and skip those hefty third-party booking fees), head straight to flavourtrails.ie.
You can also find these tours on Viator: The Irish Food Trail, The Whiskey Trail, or The Storytelling Trail.

Follow FlavourTrails on social:

Gráinne’s best whiskey-buying advice? Don’t buy what you can find at home – opt for bottles that aren’t exported. The duty-free shop at Dublin Airport is one of the best around, but if you want help deciding, head to The Celtic Whiskey Shop or The Corkscrew. They’ll ship it for you, too.

If you're landing in Dublin and not sure where to start, consider booking a Flavour Trails tour on your first day. You’ll get over your jet lag, get a feel for the city, and gather recommendations from locals who don’t take commissions – just pride in sharing the best of their city.

Gráinne and her team aren’t shy about giving honest advice, whether you're wondering where to eat or what to skip entirely. It's the kind of insight you just can't get from a guidebook.

The post Flavour Trails in Dublin: Food, Whiskey & Stories You’ll Want to Savor appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

When a new list of “underrated” Irish attractions makes the rounds, I always take a look. Sometimes I nod in agreement. Sometimes I roll my eyes and wonder who decided the Rock of Cashel was a hidden secret.

That was my reaction to a recent ranking from SumUp, which used everything from TripAdvisor reviews to Instagram posts and Google searches to highlight Ireland’s lesser-known spots. A great idea, if the definition of underrated doesn’t stretch to include Blarney Castle.

That said, there are a few places on the list that truly fly under the radar—and quite a few more that didn’t make the cut but should have. So let’s talk about the ones that are worth your time, how to fit them into your itinerary without going miles out of your way, and why a trip that mixes well-known highlights with lesser-visited places often ends up being the most rewarding.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 280. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Not everything on the list was a stretch. A handful of sites are genuinely overlooked by most travelers, even if they’re hiding in plain sight. Some are just far enough off the usual routes to be missed, while others sit in popular areas but don’t get the attention they deserve.

If you're looking to skip the crowds without skipping the good stuff, these are the spots to consider adding to your itinerary.

Just 15 minutes from Dublin Airport, Malahide Castle and Gardens is an easy way to start your trip -especially if you’re trying to stay awake after an overnight flight. The guided tours are engaging (even for kids), the gardens are gorgeous, and the on-site café and Avoca shop are the perfect spot to refuel. The castles setting in a charming seaside village make it feel like a gentle, scenic welcome to Ireland.

Pair it with: Malahide is a perfect day trip from Dublin – just 30 minutes by DART or bus. This is also a terrific way to refresh yourself before taking on your first day's drive.

Yes, it’s a cemetery. But it’s also one of the best places in Dublin to get a crash course in Irish history. The Glasnevin guided tours are anything but dull, and if you time it right, you might catch a re-enactment or costumed guide that brings the stories to life.

Don’t miss: A pint at John Kavanagh’s pub next door—known locally as The Gravediggers.

Pair it with: A visit to the nearby Botanic Gardens or following a tour of Kilmainham Gaol to continue your history lesson.

Sitting in Cork Harbour, Spike Island was once a monastery, then a fortress, and eventually one of the largest prisons in Europe. It’s a fascinating (and chilling) half-day experience, but be prepared – between the ferry ride, guided tour, and time on island, you’ll need 3.5 -4 hours.

Pair it with: Cobh's other maritime highlights, including the Titanic Experience and a hike up Spy Hill to get the iconic shot of the Deck of Cards houses and St. Coleman's Cathedral. For safety reasons do not climb on the wall – just hold your camera (or phone) over the wall and you'll get the shot.

Most visitors to Galway stick to the colorful Latin Quarter and Eyre Square, but a walk along the Salthill Promenade gives you sea views, fresh air, and a more relaxed pace. If you’re lucky, you might even spot someone kicking the “kicking wall” at the end for good luck.

Salthill is about an hours' walk from the Latin Quarter. If you're wanting to add it to a day's touring, consider the hop-on hop-off bus.

Pair it with: An afternoon exploring Galway City or as a wind-down after a day trip to Connemara.

Some of my favorite experiences in Ireland don’t show up in rankings at all. They’re not tied to big marketing campaigns or social media influencers – but they’re rich in story, scenery, and character.

Here are the spots I’d add to the list, along with ideas for how to include them without straying too far off course.

Tucked into the middle of the country, Birr Castle Demense feels like a fairytale estate with a twist- it played a key role in astronomical discovery. The gardens are lush and expansive, but the real surprise is the Leviathan: a massive telescope that was the largest in the world for 70 years.

Pair it with: A visit to Clonmacnoise or as a scenic detour between Dublin and Galway. It’s also an easy stop if you’re overnighting between the cities.

Located in the Shannon Estuary, this uninhabited island is home to a round tower, ruined churches, and sweeping views – all without any tour buses. You’ll need to take a short boat trip from Kilrush, but once you're there, it feels like stepping into another world.

Pair it with: A Loop Head drive or time in Kilkee. Great for travelers basing in west Clare and looking for something quieter than the Cliffs of Moher.

Often overshadowed by its flashier neighbor, the Rock of Cashel, Cahir Castle is one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved Norman castles (keep your eyes peels for cannonballs!). Visitors can duck into the dungeon or climb to the tops of towers. Grab a sandwich and crisps at the cafe across the street before crossing the river to the parkland behind the castle for a picnic.

Pair it with: A visit to Cashel or the Swiss Cottage nearby. It’s a perfect half-day stop on your route between Dublin and Killarney.

Ireland’s most southerly point comes with a scenic drive, a dramatic bridge crossing, and views that rival the Cliffs of Moher – without the crowds. You might even spot seals lounging near the rocks below the signal station.

Pair it with: A stay in West Cork or as a very scenic drive from Kenmare or Killarney to Kensale (plan a full day). Make sure to check opening times, especially outside of summer.

Westport House sits on the foundations of one of Gráinne Ní Mháille castles—you may know her as Grace O’Malley, Ireland’s legendary Pirate Queen. Inside, you’ll find elegant rooms and family history; outside, acres of parkland, a lake, and seasonal attractions that make it especially fun for families. It’s a site that surprises people—historic, scenic, and far more than just another stately home.

Pair it with: A climb (or photo op) at Croagh Patrick (don't miss the moving famine memorial sculpture across the road!), or a bike ride along one of the coastal greenways.

Ireland’s northernmost point doesn’t get the love it deserves, but a drive around Inishowen delivers stone forts, famine history, a disappearing lake, and Malin Head – the actual tip-top of the island. You’ll even find a “magic road” that defies gravity (or at least seems to).

Tip: Contact Adam Stewart at Flat Cap Adventurers for an off-road adventure you won't soon forget!

Pair it with: A day trip from Derry or a side trip as you enter or leave Northern Ireland. Allow a full day to explore the loop.

Some of the sites on the original list are well worth visiting, but calling them underrated might be a bit generous. These are the places that regularly appear on “must-see” lists, sell out in advance, or are already firmly on the tourist trail.

That doesn’t mean they aren’t great. It just means they’re not quite hidden.

You can’t even get to Skellig Michael without advance planning – and that’s if the weather cooperates. It’s spectacular, but it’s no secret. Just ask the next Star Wars fan in line.

Yes, there’s more to see than the stone, but when your wait to climb to the top of the castle ruin to kiss the rock stretches on and on, it’s safe to say it’s not flying under the radar.

Kilkenny’s crown jewel and one of the most photographed spots in Ireland. Gorgeous? Absolutely. Underrated? Not quite. That said, Kilkenny is far more than just its castle – and most people leave wishing they’d allowed more time for exploration in Ireland’s medieval capital.

Still the most popular scenic drive in Ireland, especially with tour buses – though the Dingle Peninsula seems determined to take that crown. For a more underrated experience, head to the next peninsula over and follow the quieter, wilder Ring of Beara.

Both are standout heritage sites—just not hidden ones. Muckross draws huge crowds within Killarney National Park, and Bunratty’s medieval banquets book up fast.

Underrated can mean a lot of things. Sometimes it’s a place few people have heard of. Other times, it’s a stop that gets overlooked simply because it’s not on the tour bus circuit or trending on Instagram. But often, it’s a site that’s hiding in plain sight: worth your time, but easy to miss if you don’t know to look.

The best trips to Ireland don’t rely on someone else’s definition of what’s worth seeing. They find a balance – between the iconic and the unexpected, between the stops you’ve been dreaming about for years and the ones that take you by surprise.

If you’re looking for a place to start, my free Ireland itineraries include many of the spots I’ve mentioned here- underrated and marquee – woven together in routes that feel manageable, flexible, and full of those moments that make a trip truly memorable.

The post Ireland’s Underrated Attractions(how to add them to your itinerary & escape the crowds) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

If you're wondering where to eat in Dublin, these three picks cover every craving and budget, each one recommended by Gráinne Lawlor of Flavor Trails, who knows this city’s food scene inside and out.

Find Grainne's full podcast interview & article here.

Try a spice bag from a Chinese-Irish takeaway on Capel Street or Camden Street. It’s salty, spicy, and addictively good. Vegetarian versions are available too—perfect if you're not a fan of chicken.

Head to The Seafood Café in Temple Bar, run by local seafood supplier Niall Sabongi. It’s relaxed, fresh, and has an oyster happy hour that’s tough to beat.

If you’re celebrating or just want to be wowed, book a table at Chapter One in Parnell Square. The tasting menu is exceptional, the service is warm (never stuffy), and yes—it’s worth every cent.

Hungry yet? You should be.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 277

The post 3 Dublin Dining Spots Worth Planning Your Day Around appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

If Newgrange and Kilmainham Gaol are on your Ireland itinerary, you’ll need more than interest to visit – you’ll need a timed ticket.

These two OPW-managed sites are incredibly popular, and both strongly recommend advance booking. The good news? Even if you don’t have your OPW Heritage Card yet, you can still reserve your spot.

Not sure what an OPW Heritage Card is or why you should have it?
Learn why the OPW Heritage Card is the Best Deal in Irish History

Here’s what to know:

Whether you're using your OPW Heritage Card or paying per site, the process is nearly identical. Just visit HeritageIreland.ie, find your site, click “Book Online,” and follow the prompts.
Choose “Heritage Card holder” if you plan to have one, and you’ll bypass payment.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 273

The post Booking Newgrange and Kilmainham Gaol with (or without) an OPW Card appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Step aboard the Jeanie Johnston in Dublin's Docklands and learn the stories of those who left Ireland for a better life across the ocean.

This article is based on podcast episode 112 featuring David Cleary, (former) Head of Sales at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum and The Jeanie Johnston, an Irish Famine Story.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

If you've been listening to the podcast a fair amount of time you've heard about EPIC in podcast episode 31. 

Since its opening in 2016 EPIC has been named the top visitor attraction in Europe 3 years in a row (2019, 20, 21). It's an astounding experience and one I think every visitor to Dublin should make time for (2 hours at the minimum).

Jeanie Johnston is an authentic replica of an Irish-owned famine ship that sailed from Dublin during some of the worst years in Irish history, 1845 thru 1852 – the Irish potato famine.

The ship is located on the harbour in the River Liffey, directly across from EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.

The Jeanie Johnston stands out above other so-named ‘coffin ships' as it had a reputation for looking after its passengers. The ship was not overloaded and even had a qualified medical doctor on board. In all its 16 transatlantic voyages not one person perished.

Conditions on the ship were cramped, but passengers were provided with daily rations and a bit of time on deck each day for fresh air.

When you tour the Jeanie Johnston you will hear the stories of the passengers. You will learn why they left Ireland, where they left from, what life was like onboard the ship, and even their experiences after arriving in North America.

Climbing belowdecks of the Jeanie Johnston is an emotional experience. You can easily put yourself in the shoes of the people fleeing Ireland. The feelings of worry, fear, and hopelessness surround you in the dark, cramped space.

Above decks you'll have beautiful views of the Dublin skyline, as well as the Samuel Beckett Bridge, a cable bridge inspired by the Irish harp.

40+ attractions & activities – including the Jeanie Johnston & EPIC

The Docklands Area, in the center of the city, is built around the docks and Port of Dublin. In the past few years the area has changed. It used to be filled with warehouses and industrial buildings. Now new buildings housing technology companies sit next to historical sites. Pubs and restaurants fill the area and it's a really vibrant place to explore.

The Docklands are a 10 minute walk from O'Connell Street. Walking along the river allows you to feel the history of Dublin while seeing the future of the city.

The Famine Sculptures in the Docklands stand at the end of the National Famine Way. The 165 km walk begins at Strokestown House in County Roscommon and recreates the route of 1490 emigrants that were evicted from Strokestown Estate during the famine.

Learn more about the National Famine Museum, Strokestown House and the National Famine Way.

Within EPIC you can visit the Irish Family History Centre. You can learn more about your own family history by booking genealogy services, in person or virtually.

Learn more in my chat with historian and genealogist Declan Bready in podcast episode 88.

Book tickets at JeanieJohnston.ie or combo tickets with EPIC at EPICchq.com

Both the Jeanie Johnston and EPIC are included in the Dublin Pass.

Just walk around the city. Dublin is a small, compact city and you can walk everywhere. It is truly like walking through history. Let the sights, sounds, and vibrancy of the city surround you.

Enjoy the local pubs and restaurants. As you stroll follow your gut. If you like the look of a place go in. Bonus: restaurants post their menus outside so you can see what's on offer. Check out the Long Hall pub.

Visit Phoenix Park. Take the Luas (surface level light rail) and explore. Dublin Zoo is located here and there is also a heard of deer.

Take the train (DART) to Howth. It's a beautiful fishing village. Enjoy the walk around the peninsula and reward yourself with fish & chips.

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Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital and home to the country’s busiest airport, is a no-brainer starting (or ending) point for your Irish adventure.

There’s plenty to see and do in Dublin—you could easily spend a few days soaking up the sights, history, and pints—but don’t stop there! Some of Ireland’s most incredible spots are just a day trip away.

The best part? You don’t even need a car to get out and explore. Whether you prefer to do your own thing or hop on a guided tour, there are loads of great options.

Below, I’ve rounded up 6 fantastic day trips from Dublin you can do on your own or with a tour group, plus one can’t-miss experience that’s only available as a guided tour—and a couple I’d recommend skipping altogether.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 261.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article & get tour links.

Ireland Family Vacations is programmatic ad-free, supported through partnerships with trusted travel brands I personally work with and recommend. We may earn income from purchases made via affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn commission from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. ​See why this is important.

Dublin might be perched on Ireland’s east coast, but thanks to its great bus and train links, it’s a perfect jumping-off point for exploring all over the island.

In the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, just 30 minutes south of Dublin, the hermit monk St. Kevin founded a settlement that would become one of the country's great ecclesiastical centres of learning. The remains of the monastic city, including the round tower, date from the 10th-12th centuries.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin Hop aboard the Glendalough Bus at St. Steven's Green. Spend time in the Glendalough Visitor Centre (an OPW Heritage site) before exploring the monastic site. Wear good hiking boots and dress in layers to get out end enjoy some of the nearby marked walking trails. 

Join a Guided Tour You'll find quite a few tour options that will take you through the Wicklow Mountains to Glendalough, and some will even include the magnificent Powerscourt Estate.

The village of Malahide is a terrific half-day getaway from Dublin.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin Take the train from Connolly Station in Dublin city centre in under 30 minutes or Dublin Bus route 32 or 42. Enjoy a guided castle tour and explore the gardens. Enjoy the village's charming shops and tasty restaurants.

Pro tip: Malahide Castle & Gardens makes a terrific spot for photos! Here's how we did it.

The small coastal village of Howth, just north of Dublin, is popular for it's beautiful cliff walk and charming harbour. Howth also has a charming castle with grounds to wander and the Abbey Tavern hosts a Traditional Irish Show that features a 3-course meal.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin The train from Connolly Station to Howth takes about 30 minutes. Dublin Bus 6 or H3 take about 45 minutes.
From the train station turn left to head toward the harbour and cliff walk, or right to visit the castle.

Join a Guided Tour

Kilkenny is a wonderfully walkable city with loads to do! Plan a full day to enjoy everything the city has to offer!

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin Take the train from Heuston Station in just 90 minutes or direct bus routes on Dublin Coach or JJ Kavanagh & Sons. If you want to enjoy the highlights of medieval Kilkenny plan to arrive early and plan a full day's adventure.

Once in Kilkenny you can easily explore the highlights of the Medieval Mile, from Kilkenny Castle to St Canice's Cathedral. Join the Shenanigans Walk for fun insight into the city or hop aboard a guided boat trip on the River Nore. If you enjoy a pint, be sure to check out the Smithwick's tour.

Join a Guided Tour 

Galway is a bustling harbour city with a lively traditional vibe.

Do It Yourself day trip from Dublin The train from Dublin city centre takes just 2.5 hours or CityLink Express bus service takes only slightly longer. Visit historic Galway sites like the Galway Museum, Spanish Arch, Kerwin's Lane and The Claddagh. The Latin Quarter is a busy spot filled with shops, restaurants, and pubs.

Join a Guided Tour Once in Galway you have a few great tour options in the city.

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, is both Irish and British, and has a very different vibe than Dublin.

Do It Yourself Day Trip from Dublin It takes just 2.5 hours to reach Belfast by train from Dublin city centre.

Titanic Belfast is an incredible tour, and includes the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line ship.
Book a Black Taxi tour to help you understand the history of The Troubles and sign your name to the Peace Walls that still divide the city.
Or take in the city at your own pace on a Hop-on Hop-off bus.
More time? Consider the Ulster Muesum, Botanic Gardens, or CS Lewis Square.

Join a Guided Tour

A day tour into the heart of ancient Ireland – the Boyne Valley in County Meath – can't be created in a DIY trip without a car. The sites are too far apart, and some are too rural, to be easily connected by bus.

But if the Neolithic and Celtic history of Ireland interests you, a tour through the Boyne Valley should be at the top of your day trips from Dublin list.

There are 2 trips from Dublin that you may be surprised are not on this list: The Cliffs of Moher and the Giant's Causeway.

There are 2 reasons for that. The first being that you really can't DIY these tours from Dublin.

But, more than that, I don't recommend these trips as day tours due to the length of the day. Most trips to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin are 12 hours long. And over 7 of those hours are spent driving. And Giant's Causeway trips from Dublin are 13 hours, with the majority of your time being spent on a bus.

If you want to day tour to the Cliffs of Moher, I recommend spending at least one night in Galway and enjoying a full tour of the Burren, there is so much more to see and do in that area.

If you want to explore the Causeway Coast, do that day trip from Belfast. One thing to note with any bus tour along the Causeway Coast: no large bus tours visit the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, they only stop at a viewpoint. If that site is high on your list, you will need to invest in a private tour.

The post Day Trips from Dublin (no car required!) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Flights to Ireland from North America are overnight, which means you'll arrive in Ireland in the morning, leaving a nearly full day for exploration!

If you've rented a car and are ready to hit the road, I highly recommend a good breakfast to fuel you for the day ahead (your body ‘s fuel is food or sleep and since you're a bit jet lagged your body will be craving more than airline food to keep it moving).

Need jet lag tips? Find them here!

There are some very good options in the Arrivals Hall at Dublin Airport. Other than gas stations that is all that may be available before 9am.

But what should you do if your first stop is Dublin?

This article is also available as a podcast. Scroll to the bottom of the page to listen.

If your first stop in Ireland is a day or two in Dublin you've made a good choice! You can adjust to the time difference without needing to drive and the city is terrific for walking and staving off tiredness.

But what about your luggage? And what should you do so early in the morning?

You can always request early check in at your Dublin hotel, but it is never guaranteed.

If you must have a hotel room that you can check in to upon arrival you need to book for the evening prior – and be sure to let the hotel know you will be checking in late. This is the only way to guarantee your room will be ready when you roll in between 7am – 1pm.

If you don't want to spend money on the extra night's accommodation, most hotels will hold your bags in a secure space so you can jump right in to everything the city has to offer.

If you're staying someplace that won't hold your bags there are spots across the city that will do so for a fee. Your bags will be stored securely and are insured.

Bounce is one company that offers bag storage across Dublin. Prebooking is not required.

Just like my recommendation for those heading out in a car, you should find someplace for your first Irish breakfast.

At 7am the nearest breakfast spot may well be the hotel but as the morning progresses more spots will open up.

A few spots to keep in mind

Many sites and attractions won't open until 9 or 10am, but there is still plenty to occupy your time in Dublin before then! I think Dublin has a different feel in the morning before people begin coming in to work and the tourists are awake. It's perfectly peaceful. Consider these activities:

Average check-in time at Dublin hotels is 4pm. If you're room is ready before then – and you have left contact information with the hotel, they will let you know.

But I think the best game plan for your first day in Ireland is to eat well and stay active. Go to bed around 8pm (unless you've gotten a major second wind) and set an alarm for no later than 9am the next day. This will get you onto ‘Irish time' quickly and help alleviate jet lag during your vacation.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 248

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Welcome to your culinary journey through Ireland, where the rich history and vibrant culture come alive on your plate. From hearty stews to the beloved boxty, discover the flavors that make Ireland a food lover's paradise.

This article is based on a podcast featuring Frank Corbett, the mastermind behind Corbett's Traditional Irish Food Experience. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you will find the player at the bottom of the page.

What exactly is traditional Irish food? According to Frank Corbett, it encompasses the island's culinary history, spanning over 9,000 years.

Originally, it was about what the land could provide—fishing, hunting, and farming. As time passed, Ireland embraced new ingredients, creating a rich tapestry of flavors.

Today, traditional Irish food is a celebration of local produce, with dishes like Irish stew and bacon and cabbage leading the way.

Ireland's culinary landscape is dotted with regional specialties that have become iconic.

Dublin's coddle, a savory stew of bacon and sausage, is a must-try for anyone visiting the capital.

In the north, boxty—a versatile potato dish—showcases the creativity rooted in Irish kitchens.

Meanwhile, Wexford's strawberries and Kerry's butter are celebrated across the country.

Many dishes, like the universally adored Irish fry and lamb stew, have found a place on tables nationwide, each reflecting the unique touch of the cook.

Irish cuisine is deeply intertwined with cultural traditions and celebrations.

During Halloween, barmbrack—a sweet bread with hidden trinkets—is a nostalgic treat that tells stories with every bite.

Christmas in County Cork brings the delight of spiced beef, a festive dish steeped in local tradition.

Corned beef is a traditional food for St. Patrick's Day in the US – but is it Irish? The answer may surprise you.

Inspired by his time in China, Frank Corbett launched the Traditional Irish Food Experience to educate and delight both locals and visitors.

This intimate dining experience, with a maximum of 8 guests, is offered in Dublin and Tipperary. The menu features about 10 traditional items, treating guests to a feast of flavors while Frank shares his passion and knowledge.

This experience, which ends with a moving ballad sung in Irish, is not just about tasting food but understanding its history.

Bookings are made through the website trytraditional.com. Groups can be as few as 2 people, with a maximum of 8 guests. The experience is available in Dublin at Gallagher's Boxty House and in Tipperary at Cahir House Hotel.

Whet your appetite by following Corbett's Traditional Irish Food Experience on Facebook or Instagram.

No trip to Ireland would be complete without sampling some of its iconic dishes.

First on the list is black pudding, a savory blood sausage that surprises and delights with its rich flavor. Try black pudding with a traditional Irish Breakfast.

Next, try boxty, a versatile potato-based dish that can be served as pancakes or bread, showcasing the creativity and resourcefulness of Irish cooking. Boxty recipe to make at home.

Lastly, don't miss Dublin coddle, a hearty stew of sausages and bacon, perfect for warming up on a chilly Irish evening.

Each of these dishes offers a taste of Ireland's culinary heritage and a delicious way to connect with its culture.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 238

The post A Taste of Ireland: Corbett’s Traditional Irish Food Experience appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Fiona Dalton, the founder of Dalton's Musical History Tours. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.

Visiting Dublin? Learn about the Dublin Pass Here

Learn about the history of Dublin through song! Dalton's Musical History Tour of Dublin combines the city's history and music in a fun tour that all ages will enjoy.

Fiona had been a secretary for 25 years but had always been a singer. Missing that, she decided to get back to her singing roots and work as a tour guide, as well. As she went through school and began to do research on music in Dublin, the idea really formed into a unique tourism idea.

As Fiona studied Dublin's history and music history she found an obvious link between the two.

Six sites on on her initial tour, and more tours will be added through the year.

Fiona chose the songs first, learning the history of those, and then chose the places based on that history.

Fiona chose songs based on familiarity and ease for people to learn.

Fiona will sing the song through, then the group will sing with her.

But you don't have to sing if you don't want to. 

It's really very fun! View a wee snippet of video from my tour!

Book your Musical History Tour of Dublin online

Or contact Fiona on Facebook or Instagram. 

Irish Rock ‘n' Roll Museum in Temple Bar. Memorabilia of Irish rock ‘n' roll history, with a large focus on U2, of course. The recording studio is great fun.

Dublinia. Explore Viking and Medieval Dublin. Very interactive so a terrific museum with the kids!

Tip: The Rock & Roll Museum and Dublinia are both included in the Dublin Pass

Trim Castle in Meath. Ireland's largest Norman castle. A guided tour is fascinating. And there are ghosts!

Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 68

The post Musical History Tour of Dublin with Fiona Dalton appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.