Ireland Travel Tips Archives - Ireland Family Vacations

Choosing an Ireland vacation package seems simple enough. You find a deal you like- be it self-drive or guided- and make the purchase. Done. Ireland vacation booked and ready.

But it may not be so simple. Airline transfers, car rental, accommodations… they all play a role in the success of your vacation to Ireland.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 324. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Ireland vacation deals are designed to be attractive – but what looks good at first glance may not be the vacation of your dreams.

Use the tips below to help you avoid Ireland vacation package purchase regret.

Vacation packages are often marketed as ‘all or mostly inclusive' – but there are always additional costs.

Were you attracted by the price? Cheap Ireland vacations may not be the best deal. You will be able to spot this as you break down the package.

Were you attracted by the accommodations? A bit of research into the vacation package will reveal more about your lodging.

Were you attracted by the images or description? Dig into the details and see if those places are included in the package or are just ‘suggestions'.

Keep in mind what appealed to you as you dig into the deal.

As you review the vacation package you'll easily see if it is as great a deal as it first appeared or if the tour is the right fit for you.

The post Ireland Vacation Packages: How to Tell a Great Deal from a Costly Mistake appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Avoid the worst Dublin crowds by planning your trip around these dates when prices will rise, accommodations will fill, and streets will be swarming with people.

Get all the tips you need to plan your Ireland vacation in 2026.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 321

The post Dublin Dates to Avoid in 2026 appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

If you're planning a trip to Ireland in 2026 these tips will make planning smoother, help you avoid crowds, and maybe even save you a bit of money.

Probably the most important tips are when NOT to be in Dublin, but there are some updates to European entry & exit systems that you need to know, as well as really important advice for 2027.

In case you're wondering why you would want to get your Ireland travel advice from me…

My name is Jody Halsted, and I am an Ireland travel advisor. I have been traveling to and through Ireland for over 23 years (!!), publish Ireland Family Vacations, host the Traveling in Ireland podcast, assist hundreds of travelers with their Ireland vacations each year and, occasionally, I also host small group tours through Ireland (I have 2 this spring so you can look forward to some live from Ireland episodes in April and May).

That's a lot! But Ireland travel is my passion; and my goal -100% – is to help you have an amazing Ireland vacation. And I have quite a few ways to do that.

My website, Ireland Family Vacations, is a complete resource for Ireland vacation planning – filled with information on what to do & see as well as handy tips for planning your trip and free itineraries to get your plans in motion quickly. (Don't let the name fool you! I travel through Ireland solo, with my husband, with my family, and hosting small group tours. Whatever your group size or dynamic I am able to assist!)

My itinerary personalization, vacation coaching, and custom itinerary creation services help you maximize your Ireland experience, and my small group guided tours are designed to not only deliver the ‘authentic' Ireland of your dreams but also introduce you to the people and hidden places that make the country so very magical.

If you love the process of planning your trip the Ireland Travel Compass walks you step-by-step through my expert process, from when to visit and how long the perfect vacation lasts, to what to see, where to stay, and even what to eat. It's basically my entire Ireland vacation planning brain laid out.

On a more personal note, I have 2 daughters, now in college, who have been traveling through Ireland with me since before they could toddle and one very supportive husband (who loves it when I plan other people's vacations because it means I'm not planning my own).

Now that you know all about me, let's jump into what you need to know as you consider planning an Ireland vacation in 2026!

This article is based on Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 320. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

There are currently no restrictions in place for North Americans traveling to Ireland.
Ireland travel restrictions and other requirement are found here.

Read and understand cancellation policies on everything from flights and transportation to tours and accommodations before booking.

If booking with a credit card be aware of the cancellation coverage you may have with that card.

I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance if you book tickets our tours that don't allow 100% refund if cancelled. And always if you are booking a tour package (and not necessarily the one the company offers).

Irish tourism numbers showed that tourism from Europe into Ireland was down, but numbers from North America remained steady.

From my perspective things are already looking busy, especially in the months of May, late August, and September. (The shoulder season is the new high season.)

Aer Lingus, Ireland's flagship airline is adding 2 new US routes in 2026, bringing the total to 18 routes from Dublin!
This is important because Aer Lingus is considered a ‘budget' carrier. And when budget carriers enter a market, US based airlines will drop rates to compete.

🔴 New Routes: Raleigh/ Durham (beginning April 13) and Pittsburgh beginning at the end of May.
🟢 Existing Routes: New York JFK, Boston, Chicago O'Hare, Washington Dulles, Cleveland, Hartford, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Newark, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, Indianapolis, and Nashville.

Dublin is always busy – especially in the summer months – but busy events are beginning early this year and continuing through the end of September.

The Aer Lingus Football Classic has become an end-of-August tradition, marking the opening of the NCAA season.
2026 brings teams from Texas Christian University and the University of North Carolina into Ireland's capital.
The game is scheduled for Saturday, August 29.
The Aer Lingus Football Classic brings over 50,000 football fans to Dublin annually.
My advice: if you are not coming for the game, avoid Dublin from Thursday, August 27 – Sunday, August 30.
Prices rise, hotel rooms sell out, and the city is busier than normal.

UPDATE: The NFL commissioner announced that there will be no NFL game in Dublin in 2026 on February 2, 2026.
While the date of the NFL Week 4 Game in Dublin hasn't been announced yet, the logical assumption is that it will take place on September 27.
It's a good bet that the Steelers will again be playing – they have a 4-year partnership with Aer Lingus (hence that new 2026 route) – but nothing is confirmed yet, and won't be until the 2026 schedule is announced.
This game brough 73,000 football fans to Dublin last September, driving up prices in the city at a time when they are usually going down.
My advice: if you aren't visiting for the game avoid from Thursday, September 24 – Monday, September 28.

Something else to keep in mind is concerts. The Oasis Reunion tour and Taylor Swift shows definitely caused a rise in prices and thousands of extra people in Dublin these past years . A few tours to make sure you don't clash with in 2026:

The Dublin marathon will be run the Sunday of October Bank Holiday weekend – which falls on October 25. You can expect crowds, street closures, and accommodation to be booked out months in advance.

If you are considering travel in September 2027 you'll want to keep a few things in mind.

The first two being the college football game at the end of August and the NFL game, which is likely to be held at the end of Septemver.

But in between those will be the Ryder Cup, which will be held at Adare Manor September 17-19.

Now here's the thing – Adare is a tiny, tiny village. And, according to my friends in Ireland, accommodations there are already booked. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if locals will be spiffing up their homes and renting them out for crazy amounts of money to help provide accommodation.

We are seeing tournament packages that include accommodation and transfers from as far away as Cork and Galway, and some hotels in those cities and areas between are already sold out. Though I haven't heard specifically, I imagine accommodations in Killarney, Tralee, and Limerick city are also filling rooms, as well.

The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) began in 2025 but, as many people noted, it was not widely enforced.
The UK government has stated that is was to ‘allow travelers time to adjust to new rules'. From February 2026 visitors can expect ETAs to be checked by transport into the UK.

This will definitely apply to ferries and flights into Northern Ireland, but if you are flying into Dublin or Shannon, it should not be an issue (even if passing through London). At this time, it is still unclear if buses that run from the Republic into Northern Ireland will be checking for compliance.

If Northern Ireland, Scotland, or England are part of your 2026 travel plans, apply for your ETA before traveling. More info in this article.

This applies only to the Schengen Region of the EU – not Ireland – but I want to mention it in case you are planning to visit another European country or two.
The new EU Entry-Exit System is causing backups as long as 3 hours at some airports. Do your research if you have another EU country in your 2026 travel plans.

Accommodations for 2026 are beginning to fill, especially for more budget friendly options like 3-star hotels and hostels. Ireland continues to host nearly 100,000 displaced people across the country, so accommodations are at a premium, especially in the cities and popular areas.
Book early – especially if traveling May – September.

You will also want to do a bit of research before booking AirBnB properties as new legislation could force many to close to help with the housing crisis. Unfortunately nothing is clear yet, but this is set to take effect at the end of May so I recommend messaging the hosts to verify that your accommodation will not be affected before booking.

If you want to try to ‘wing it' (which I definitely don't recommend during the busy season) be prepared to stay away from town centres in more rural areas.
Any ‘special' accommodations – like castles or manor houses – as well as any popular locations (Dublin, Killarney, Doolin, Dingle) should always be booked in advance.

Just plug in your dates to this handy map to find available accommodations.

Book your rental car early for the best prices. Large vehicles – minivans and up – are in high demand and can get scarce and costly if you wait to book closer to your travel dates.
Use the Renting a Car & Driving in Ireland resource page to answer all the questions you have on this topic.
When you are comparing car rentals don't forget to use my exclusive link to save 10% at Irish Car Rentals.
Petrol costs in Ireland are currently USD$6.55 per gallon.

Train and bus travel was very popular last year along the main tourist routes, and I don't see that changing. Book tickets for public transportation in advance, especially if traveling with a group.

If you have a group of 6 or larger hiring a licensed driver guide may be the best money you spend. Not only will everyone comfortably fit in their touring vehicle (with plenty of room for luggage) but everyone can enjoy the journey.

You can hire drivers for the entirety of your trip, for point to point travel, or for day trips.

For groups of 12 or more plan to book early as minibuses and touring coaches are in high demand.

Hiring a Driver in Ireland 2026 Guide

Book tours and popular ‘must see' attractions (like Book of Kells, Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, and Newgrange) in advance to avoid disappointment.

OPW spots like Newgrange and Kilmainham Gaol both offer online booking (30 days in advance for Newgrange; 28 for Kilmainham) prior to your visit. You will want to log on at that 28/30 day mark – at midnight Irish time if possible- to secure your tickets. Here's how to book tickets.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is operating on timed tickets for both the bridge and the car park and, according to the National Trust website, pre-booking is essential for rope bridge crossing. The booking window is 60 days.

If Blarney Castle is on your itinerary check to see if your planned day to visit corresponds with a day a cruise ship is in Cork or Cobh. If they match you may want to switch your date if possible or plan to arrive the minute the site opens. Here's how to figure that out.

To avoid the worst of the crowds in popular spots like the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, the Rock of Cashel, Kylemore Abbey, and similar spots try to time your visit before 10 am or in the mid-to-late afternoon (or evening if available!) to miss the majority of large tour buses.

Do your homework. Book early. And for answers to more of your Ireland travel questions visit the Frequently Asked Questions page .

The post Handy Travel Tips for Your Ireland Trip in 2026 appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

This Quick Tip shares where to find the Family Travel Resource Page on my website — a hub packed with practical articles, kid-friendly recommendations, and free itineraries designed to help families of all ages plan a smoother, happier Ireland trip. If you’re traveling with little ones, teens, or a full multigenerational crew, this page saves time and gets you straight to the information that matters.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 317

The post Family Travel in Ireland: Your Essential Resource Page appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I’m showing you exactly where to find answers to the most common Ireland travel questions. Over 20 years of traveler questions — and my own “learned the hard way” experiences — are organized on my FAQ page to help you plan with confidence. From safety and seasons to flights, packing, car rental, lodging, and food… this is the single best place to start your trip planning.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 316

[powerpoint]

The post Ireland Travel Questions? Here’s Where to Find the Answers. appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode…
I’m breaking down the three main types of driver services in Ireland so you can choose the one that fits your style, budget, and itinerary. From full-service, white-glove driver-guided tours to flexible private drivers to simple point-to-point transfers, you’ll learn what each option includes and when they make the most sense. I also share red flags, common booking mistakes, and where to find my trusted driver recommendations.

👉 Find my updated driver guide list, rates, and recommendations:
IrelandFamilyVacations.com/driver

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 313

The post Hiring a Driver in Ireland: 3 Driver Options Explained appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

What makes Ireland such a special place? Get an Insider's Tour of the Emerald Isle with Jack Kavanagh, author of Always Ireland.

Jack shares the 3 things he believes make Ireland so appealing to Americans, his advice for people planning a trip, and 3 places he thinks people shouldn't miss.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 145

The post An Insiders Tour of Ireland with Jack Kavanagh appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Ireland vacation accommodations are as varied as the landscape. You'll find everything from charming rural hostels and homey B&Bs to luxury resorts and castles that invite you to feel like the lord (or lady) of the manor.

Most Ireland travelers find themselves somewhere in between the two extremes and choosing the best places to stay in Ireland is based on your vacation dreams, your planned itinerary, and your budget.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 311. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

You won’t find many big-name hotel chains in Ireland – and that’s part of the charm. Most places are independently owned and family run, which means every stay has a bit of personality. From cozy farmhouses to elegant manor homes, these smaller accommodations often reflect the people and families who run them.

Looking for recommended accommodations in a specific location?
Search by county here!

The first thing to know about hotels in Ireland is that the star-rating system is completely subjective. A three-star hotel in Ireland might feel more like a two-star in the U.S., but a five-star hotel is a five-star the world over.

Choose a hotel for the experience, not just the bed. Maybe you want a central location that lets you walk everywhere, a spa escape where you’ll be pampered, or the chance to sleep like royalty in a historic manor surrounded by acres of countryside.

Before you book, take time to read the hotel’s website carefully so you know what’s included – and what’s not. If anything’s unclear, don’t hesitate to send an email and ask. Irish hospitality often starts with that first friendly reply.

It's definitely a splurge, but one you won't forget! Ireland is dotted with castle hotels and country houses. Ashford Castle has been named ‘Best in the World' by Travel & Leisure multiple times.

Lough Eske Castle, Adare Manor, Dromoland Castle, Ballynahinch Castle, Kinnitty Castle, Cabra Castle, and Clontarf Castle are only a few of the dozen castle hotels in Ireland.

But all castle hotels aren't created equal, so be sure to do your homework when booking!

Some hotels include the word castle due to their proximity to a local ruin. Others may have a few rooms in the castle while another nearby building provides more lodging. Know what you're getting before hitting the reservation button!

For a truly royal experience consider renting a private heritage property, like the Barbican Gatelodge in County Antrim or Bansha Castle in County Tipperary.

I do love a great Irish Bed & Breakfast. The céad míle fáilte – the hundred thousand welcomes – is evident the moment you walk through the door.

On my first solo trip to Ireland, I arrived at a B&B near Shannon cold and drenched after a windy afternoon at the Cliffs of Moher. My hostess took one look at me, led me straight to my room, drew a hot bath, and delivered tea and biscuits a few moments later. No matter how nice a hotel is, you just don’t get that kind of care.

No two B&Bs are alike. One might be in a stately manor house, another purpose-built with spacious ensuite rooms, and another an expanded family home with cozy charm.

What they all share is a personal touch that can make your Ireland stay unforgettable. A B&B host isn’t just your lodging provider – they’re your local guide, restaurant critic, and connection to the community around you.

A terrific option for larger families or groups is to rent a self-catering cottage or holiday home.
Self-catering stays can also be a less expensive options for travelers on a tighter budget as they don't include extra amenities or breakfast.

Choose a place that’s centrally located to the sights you plan to visit and the activities you want to enjoy. Then use it as your base for day trips from your Irish home away from home.

One of the best parts of renting a holiday home in Ireland is how quickly you feel like part of the community. You’ll experience daily life in a more local way – popping into the grocery store, relaxing in “your own” garden, or trying your hand at cooking Irish dishes.

We love self-catering stays for the extra space and the easy comfort of being able to unwind without worrying about other guests.

All hostels are not created equal. If you're on a budget you'll find many hostels that offer private and family rooms, linens, and very comfortable common areas.

HostelWorld is one of the best resources for Irish hostels.

This is by no means an exhaustive listing of places to stay when visiting Ireland.

Camping, glamping, farm stays, and retreats can also be found across the country.

The post Best Places to Stay in Ireland: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Trip appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

This final installment in my Car Rental in Ireland series brings together money saving tips I’ve shared throughout the series – all in one handy guide to help you cut costs on your rental.

A few smart decisions can keep hundreds of euros in your pocket while still getting the car you need.

Every penny counts when you’re planning a trip, and rental cars can take up a large chunk of your budget. These simple do’s and don’ts – drawn from real traveler questions and my own experience – will help you avoid extra costs while still getting the car that fits your trip.

The best prices go to travelers who book early – especially for high season or holiday travel. Automatics and larger vehicles sell out first, and last-minute rentals often cost far more. Consider reservations with free cancellation so you can rebook if rates drop closer to your trip.

Get an unbeatable quote on your car rental in Ireland with Irish Car Rentals!
Click my exclusive link to save 10%!

If you’re spending a few days in Dublin or another major city, wait to rent your car until you’re ready to explore beyond town. You’ll save on rental fees, fuel, and parking costs. Pick up your car the morning you leave the city and return it before heading home.

Not all rental quotes show the same information – and that can make one deal look cheaper than it really is. When comparing, make sure each quote includes the same insurance coverage, taxes, and fees. Look at the total price, not just the daily rate. Taking a few extra minutes to compare apples to apples can easily save you a big surprise at the rental counter.

Most rental desks offer GPS units, toll tags, and other extras that sound helpful but can quickly add up. Your mobile map app works perfectly well across Ireland if you have data, and tolls rarely add up to the price you are charged for the toll pass. Before you add any extras at the desk, ask yourself whether you planned to buy it before you walked up to the counter – if not, skip it.

Not every quote includes cross border fees or roadside coverage, so check before you confirm. Review the fuel policy to avoid refill fees. Some rental agencies charge small admin fees for using your own insurance or credit card hold, so factor those in when comparing companies.

A quick walkaround can save you from costly disputes later. If you don't have a zero deductible excess policy, take photos or a short video of the car before leaving the lot and again when you return it. Be sure to capture smaller details like wheels and glass. Return the car on time – late returns can trigger an extra day’s charge.

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to renting a car in Ireland. Book early, skip what you don’t need, and take a few extra minutes to understand the details of your agreement. The savings can easily cover a great meal, a night in a cozy B&B, or an extra adventure along the way.

That’s a wrap for the Car Rental in Ireland series — I hope these videos have helped you feel more confident about renting, driving, and exploring Ireland on your own schedule.

If you’ve just discovered this post, you can find the rest of the series below. Each one covers a specific part of the car rental process – short, practical, and packed with details to make your Ireland trip easier.

• Manual vs Automatic – What It Really Costs
• Fees, Insurance & Hidden Costs Explained
• Ireland Car Rental Insurance Demystified
• Comparing Car Rental Quotes
• When to Rent (and Why You Don’t Need a Car in Dublin)
• How to Book the Right Car for Your Ireland Vacation
• Pick Up & Return – What to Expect
• Driver’s License & International Permit
• Driving Across the Border (Ireland ↔ Northern Ireland & Scotland)
• How to Save Money on Car Rental in Ireland (Do’s & Don’ts)

You can also visit the complete Renting a Car & Driving in Ireland one-stop resource.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 310

The post How to Save Money on Car Rental in Ireland (Do’s & Don’ts) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

In this part of the Car Rental in Ireland series, we’re looking at one of the most common traveler questions: can you take your rental car into Northern Ireland, or even across to Scotland? Here’s what to know before planning a trip that crosses borders.

Many travelers visiting Ireland plan to explore beyond the Republic’s borders, whether that means heading into Northern Ireland or, possibly, taking a ferry across the Irish Sea to Scotland.

While crossing the border on the island is easy, taking a rental car beyond it isn’t always straightforward. Here’s how to make sure you’re covered – and avoid unexpected costs or insurance problems along the way.

Traveling between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland is simple – there’s no checkpoint or customs stop, and in most places, you’ll cross the border without even noticing (until you see a speed limit sign – the Republic uses kilometers per hour while Northern Ireland uses miles per hour). What does change, though, are the rules attached to your rental car agreement.

Rental companies charge a cross-border fee, usually a flat rate for the entire rental period, to cover additional insurance requirements. With a few companies this is included in your rate, but with most companies this is an additional fee.
(Review Car Rental Fees & Hidden Costs for more information.) Car rental series episode 2

Your rental company will ask if you plan to travel to Northern Ireland. Be honest with them – don't try to avoid the fee.
Firstly, they will know as the cars are monitored.
And second, if you don’t share that information you could void your insurance coverage and be liable for any damage or incidents that occur while you’re north of the border.

What about picking up a car in Dublin and dropping off in Belfast (or vice versa)?

Not every car rental company will allow this, so you'll need to do your research.
The rental company will need to have a rental location in both countries and there may be an extra fee for the ‘international drop off'.

I recommend creating few test bookings to compare prices and read the terms.

Pro Tip: Your rental agreement includes all insurance and roadside service information so keep your copy in the glove box.

Ferries operate from Dublin and Belfast to several ports in Scotland and England, but most rental companies don’t allow their vehicles to leave the island of Ireland. If Scotland is part of your itinerary, the easiest option is to return your Irish rental car in Belfast or Dublin and book a separate rental once you arrive in Scotland.

A few rental agencies occasionally permit cars to travel by ferry, but this is rare and always requires advance approval. Policies can change without notice, so it’s essential to confirm before you book – not when you arrive at the dock.

If permission is granted, be prepared for an increased rate to cover insurance and a return fee to cover the vehicle should it be damaged while the car is outside of Ireland.

In most cases, arranging separate rentals on each side of the Irish Sea is simpler, cheaper, and far less stressful.

Pro Tip: It may even cost less to fly from Dublin or Belfast to Edinburgh or Glasgow. Check budget airlines like RyanAir and EasyJet.

A few small but important details change once you cross the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Car insurance and currency differ north and south – Ireland uses euros (€), while Northern Ireland uses pounds sterling (£). Most credit cards are accepted on both sides, but it’s still helpful to have a small amount of local cash if you’re traveling outside major towns.

You’ll also notice a change in road signs. Distances and speed limits in the Republic are shown in kilometers, but once you cross into Northern Ireland, they switch to miles. Keep that in mind when checking your speed, setting your cruise control, and judging travel time.

Mobile coverage can vary near the border, so check whether your phone plan includes both Irish and UK networks. And if you’re using GPS or a map app, make sure your destination didn’t switch country settings automatically – it’s an easy mistake to make when towns share similar names on both sides.

So yes, you can take your rental car across the border into Northern Ireland, or even Scotland, as long as your rental agreement allows it. Just make sure you’ve paid the fee and have the proof tucked safely in your glove box.

The next episode wraps up this series with how to save money on your Ireland car rental – I’ll share the do’s and don’ts that can make your rental cheaper and easier.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 308

The post Can You Drive a Rental Car from Ireland to Northern Ireland (and Scotland)? appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.