Ireland Travel Tips Archives - 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.

Are you ready to tee off in one of the most picturesque and challenging golf destinations in the world? Look no further than Ireland, where the rolling green landscapes and stunning coastline provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable golfing experience.

Below we'll delve into what makes Ireland such a fantastic golf destination, explore some of the best golf courses in Ireland, and learn how my podcast guest Ireland Travel Links can help you plan the golf trip of a lifetime.

This article is based on podcast episode 207 featuring Gerard Bourke, CEO of Ireland Travel Links.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Ireland's allure as a golfing destination lies in its unique combination of natural beauty, challenging courses, and rich history. Golfers from around the globe are drawn to Ireland's rugged coastline, where links courses offer a thrilling test of skill against the elements.

The term “links” refers to courses that are situated along the coast, with sandy terrain that links the foreshore to the inland areas. This distinctive landscape creates a one-of-a-kind golfing experience, where players must navigate undulating fairways, unpredictable winds, and strategically placed hazards.

One of the key attractions of golfing in Ireland is the opportunity to play on some of the world's finest links courses. From iconic Ballybunion (County Kerry) to historic Lahinch (County Clare) and scenic Waterville (County Kerry), Ireland boasts a wealth of top-tier golfing destinations that challenge and inspire players of all skill levels.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, Ireland's diverse array of courses offers something for everyone.

While links courses are a defining feature of Ireland's golfing landscape, the country also boasts beautifully manicured inland courses that provide a different golfing experience. Resorts like Adare Manor (County Limerick) and Ashford Castle (County Mayo) offer championship-caliber courses set amidst lush countryside, where players can enjoy immaculate fairways and meticulously groomed greens.

In recent years, a new type of course has emerged in Ireland: headland golf. These courses, such as Old Head (County Cork) and Hogs Head (County Kerry), are situated on cliff edges overlooking the sea, offering a unique blend of coastal scenery and challenging play.

Whether you prefer the traditional links experience or the modern amenities of a resort course, Ireland has a course to suit your preferences.

When packing for your golfing adventure in Ireland, be sure to bring layers to accommodate the changeable weather. While Ireland is known for its occasional rain showers, the weather can be surprisingly pleasant, especially during the summer months. A good rain suit and lightweight layers will ensure you're prepared for whatever conditions Mother Nature throws your way.

While golf etiquette is fairly standard worldwide, there are a few customs unique to Ireland that visitors should be aware of. Avoid wearing hats in the clubhouse and be mindful of using cell phones on the course.

Smart casual attire is generally acceptable, although some clubs may have specific dress codes for dining areas.

During your rounds, be sure to respect the course and your fellow players by repairing divots, raking bunkers, and maintaining a steady pace of play. Caddies are available at many courses and can provide valuable insights into course strategy and local knowledge. Embrace the challenge of links golf, and don't be deterred by the occasional rain or wind – it's all part of the experience!

Planning a golf trip in Ireland requires careful consideration and advance booking, especially for popular courses like Ballybunion and Lahinch. With the help of Ireland Travel Links, you can take the stress out of planning and enjoy a seamless golfing experience from start to finish.

As a family-run, bespoke tour operator specializing in golf tours, they offer personalized service and expert guidance every step of the way. From arranging tee times at Ireland's best golf courses to recommending hidden gems and local attractions, their dedicated team will ensure your golf trip exceeds expectations.

Their comprehensive packages include accommodations, transportation, tee times, and more, allowing you to focus on what you love – playing golf and exploring the beauty of Ireland.

You can learn more about Ireland Travel Links on Instagram and Facebook.

While Ireland boasts countless world-class golf courses, a few stand out as must-play destinations for avid golfers.

In the South West region, iconic courses like Ballybunion, Lahinch, and Waterville offer an unparalleled golfing experience steeped in history and tradition.

Further afield, gems like Portmarnock (County Louth) and the European Club (County Wicklow) provide a taste of Ireland's diverse golfing landscape.

Ultimately, the best course for you will depend on your preferences and playing style. Golfing in Ireland is more than just a sport – it's an experience that immerses you in the country's rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Whether you're teeing off on a windswept links course or enjoying a leisurely round amidst rolling countryside, Ireland offers a golfing experience that will stay with you long after you've returned home.

The post A Golfer’s Guide to Ireland appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

If you're planning a summer trip to Ireland, you might be surprised to discover that air conditioning is not common in most accommodations. Whether you're booking a hotel, a B&B, or a self-catering cottage, it's likely the rooms won’t have A/C – and that’s not a mistake. It's simply because Ireland hasn’t really needed it.

Ireland has a mild, temperate climate. Even in summer, daytime highs often stay in the 60s or low 70s Fahrenheit (15–22°C). Buildings were traditionally built to retain heat, not to cool down. So air conditioning just never became standard—even in hotels.

That said, summer can bring the occasional heat wave with highs in the low 80s, and those warmer spells can feel uncomfortable, especially if you're not expecting them.

Most places still don't have A/C, but newer or more modernized hotels might. You're most likely to find air conditioning in:

If you’re traveling during the summer and air conditioning is important to you, don’t assume it’s there. Here’s how to check:

Most accommodations will provide fans in the rooms or on request, and many rooms have windows that open, which can help bring in cool evening air.

Unless you hit one of those rare “this is the week we get summer” stretches, you’ll probably be just fine.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 276

The post Why Don’t Irish Accommodations Have Air Conditioning? appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

I received a question from a podcast listener with some questions about Christmas travel in Ireland.

While her inquiry about car rental and things they could consider doing was an easy one for me to answer, it was the conversation that followed that prompted this episode…

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 185. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

I'll share Victoria's words (with her permission).

When we googled Ireland at Christmas time last Spring, what we found made it sound like a great time to visit – Dublin looks so lively at Christmas, and there are Christmas markets, etc.. We assumed Christmas Day itself much would be closed but we had no idea that the day after so much would be closed and Christmas Eve as well. 

We purposely booked a hotel in Dublin, rather than Airbnb for that part of our trip, so that we could have Christmas dinner in a hotel. We booked the Westin last June. When we reserved, I confirmed that they have a full-service restaurant and that they offer dinner on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.  In the fall I followed up to reserve Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals at the hotel for our family of five. At which point, I learned that the only meal option on Christmas Day is a 2:00 buffet that is €200 person so €1,000 for my family of five. I searched for other meal options outside of the Westin and found that the only places open for meals on Christmas are other hotels and that they all only serve their special Christmas Day meals to hotel guests. 

In the end, we canceled our Westin booking and booked the Fleet Hotel in Temple Bar instead which looks lovely and has a Christmas Day dinner at 4:00 for €65 person – much more reasonable for our family of five. They also offer a reasonable Christmas Eve dinner, which we reserved. 

We have learned a lot about planning a trip to Ireland over Christmas – especially the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meal situation, the fact that no trains or buses operate on December 26th and that most restaurants and tourist sites are also closed on December 26th.  Worth sharing with others considering going at Christmas time.

It's important to do your research before booking your flights.

Dublin Airport is closed on Christmas Day.

Shannon Airport has historically been the only airport in Ireland that is open on Christmas Day. In the past they have even ‘decorated' the runway as a Christmas tree.

Many hotels close over the Christmas holiday – especially those outside the tourist centers of Dublin, Galway, Killarney, and Cork. The hotels that are open charge a premium for their rooms so booking early is recommended.

You aren't likely to find many B&Bs that cater to guests over Christmas as most owners are spending the holiday with their own families.

If you plan to stay in a self-catering accommodation be sure to verify that someone will be available if you have any problems during your stay. And, if you are checking in later on Christmas Eve, ask if your host can stock food items for an extra fee.

The holidays are peak season for car rentals as many expats come home to visit family, in addition to the tourists that arrive to celebrate their own holidays. Demand is high so book your vehicle well in advance for best selection and pricing.

Be sure to review Everything You Need to Know About Car Rental in Ireland and when booking with Irish Car Rentals use my exclusive link to save 10%.

Plan your car rental pick-up carefully as on December 24, Christmas Eve, many car rental locations will close early. You won't be able to pick up a rental car on Christmas Day anywhere and many car rental locations are also closed – or operating on very limited hours – on December 26th (Boxing Day/ St Stephen's Day).

Trains do not run on Christmas Day and St. Stephen's Day. Schedules could be limited on Christmas Eve usually end at 9pm. Schedules through December 30 may operate on a holiday timetable.

Buses do not run on Christmas Day and offer limited schedules on Christmas Eve and December 26.

A few taxi are usually available on Christmas Day in the larger cities. You can expect low availability and longer wait times if you do order a taxi or Uber, but since nothing is open where are you going to go?

It is very difficult to find a restaurant open on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, though some Asian restaurants have been known to serve customers.

Hotels that are open usually only serve meals to guests who are staying on the property so be sure you have made reservations in advance.

If you are staying in self-catering accommodations be sure to do your shopping in advance of Christmas Eve – and purchase enough for at least 2 days.

Most shops – of all types – will close early on Christmas Eve and will remain closed for Christmas Day. Some may open on December 26, and those that do will likely be operating on limited hours.

All attractions are closed on Christmas Day and any that are open on Christmas Eve will close early. December 26 is a toss-up – most attractions that remain open year-round will be operating today, though they may have a limited schedule.

Remember, though, that many smaller and rural attractions close from November through February. You want to do your research to see what will be available in the areas you plan to visit while you are in Ireland.

It's important to know that Christmas markets in Ireland wrap up before Christmas, though some locations may have holiday events running through the new year.

If you want to visit Christmas markets plan your visit in late November and early to mid-December, focusing on weekends.

If you are traveling with gifts, especially through security, wait until you arrive at your destination to wrap them. If airline staff need to open them for any reason, all your hard work will be ripped to shreds.

The post Ireland for Christmas? Advice You NEED Before Booking Your Flights appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

When planning a trip to Ireland, accommodation details matter—and one common source of confusion is hotel room descriptions that don't actually match the bed size. While the terms may sound familiar, what you get can be very different from what you're expecting.

Learn more about accommodations in Ireland-
from bed & breakfasts to luxury castles.

In North America, we know our twin, full, queen, and king beds. But in Ireland, those labels change a bit: a single equals a twin, a double matches a full, a king is often closer to a queen, and a super king- well, in the US we might call that a ‘California King'.

The real trouble starts when hotels use the word “double.” In Ireland, “double room” might describe a room for two people, not necessarily a room with a double bed. You might find yourself with anything from a full-sized mattress to a king, or even two twins pushed together.

A few examples from real hotels:

Moral of the story? Always check the room description and photos before you book. And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to email the hotel directly to confirm bed size.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 275

The post What a “Double Room” Really Means in Ireland (and How to Book the Right Bed) 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.

When it comes to packing for your Ireland vacation it is easy to pack way more than you will need. The old adage of ‘lay out everything you think you need then leave half of it at home' stands true.

Not only does it lighten your load but realizing you've been lugging around a bunch of unnecessary items when you're trying to find space to pack souvenirs is frustrating.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 272. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Deciding what is necessary and what can be left at home can be difficult.

Once you've determined what clothes you need for an Ireland vacation, the next step is to determine what you use daily, what you can't be without, and how to make it all fit in your luggage (and maybe in your rental car).

Large bottles of hair products, cleansers, and creams take up lots of space in your luggage (and they are heavy!).

When possible, downsize your products into refillable bottles or purchase travel size items.

If you are checking a suitcase pack only the necessities into your carry-on bag, remembering that all liquids must fit into a single quart size clear bag.

Packing items in your checked luggage? Put anything that could cause a mess into a sealed plastic bag or leak-proof toiletry case in case the change in air pressure causes a spill.

Essential medications should never be put into checked baggage.

If a medication is prescribed by your doctor keep it in the original packaging with both the doctor's and traveler's names on the label. Bring enough medicine to last your entire stay in Ireland.

You may wish to bring a letter or prescription from your doctor in case you need to consult a pharmacist during your trip.

If you take over-the-counter medications daily you may wish to bring these with you, though many can be found in Ireland under a different name. Most towns and villages have a pharmacy with helpful staff who can offer advice or help you choose the correct product.

Sleep apnea (CPAP) machines may be carried on and do not count as an additional item. Be sure to check with your airline to confirm your machine is allowed to fly.

I recommend simplifying your makeup routine for your trip. Tinted moisturizer, mascara and a lip color will get you through most days.

If you need to bring more try to pare it down to just the essentials – there's no need to bring your full makeup kit.

Bring simple pieces that can be worn with both casual and dressy clothing. Do not bring large, flashy, expensive jewelry.

Never put jewelry in your checked bag.

Before you pack all your gadgets think about what you will really use – and what will just weigh you down.

Then consider the electricity in Ireland.

Quick overview: an adapter changes the outlet configuration so your power plugs fit the wall socket in the country you are visiting (in this case, Ireland). A converter changes the electricity so you can use your non-dual voltage electronics in a foreign country.

Ireland plugs are type G (the same as the UK) with a standard voltage of 230V.

Any dual voltage electronics you bring to Ireland will require an adapter. I recommend an adapter with multiple outlets, including standard, USB, and USBC, for charging.

If your electronics are not dual voltage you will need to invest in a converter. Converters are bulkier than adapters and usually have multiple pieces. Do not confuse an adapter with a converter – you will melt your electronics.

If you opt to purchase a converter be sure it is equipped for the country you are traveling to and is compatible with the electronic you plan to use it with.

Evaluate how much you need your computer. Unless you are working remotely can you get by without it for the duration of your vacation?

If you do bring your computer don't forget your charging cord.

Consider cloud storage instead of bringing an external drive or purchase a small thumb drive. This one has 1T of storage and has both USB and USBC compatibility.

If you enjoy taking photos with more than the camera on your phone, don't bring every lens in your kit. I find that a couple of lenses can handle most photos. I find that one lens that is good for portraits with a bit of zoom and one landscape lens work well for me.

If you have a GoPro it does come in handy as a dash cam – but only if you have the space for it.

Unless you are a professional photographer, I recommend leaving your drone at home. They are bulky, are restricted in many places, and can be easily lost or damaged if you fly them at the coast (those winds can be strong!). Drone laws in Ireland

Don't forget charging cords, batteries, and SD cards for your cameras and recording equipment.

Reminder: spare lithium batteries must be packed in your carry-on bag. They are not allowed in checked luggage.

Trust me – you won't style your hair as often as you think you will.

If you bring a curling or straightening iron be sure it is a dual voltage appliance. Look for a tag that shows 110/120v to 220/240v or states ‘dual voltage'.

Do not pack a hair dryer for your Ireland vacation. They take a lot of space and most accommodations will have them available for your use.

I love to read, but books are heavy!

Instead of taking every guidebook snap a photo of the information you want and put it into a digital folder for reference. Or purchase the digital copy.

If you're a voracious reader like me use a Kindle or the Kindle app on your smartphone or tablet (and don't forget a charger).

I don't know why you would, but if you travel to Ireland with €10,000 or more in cash you must declare it on arrival.

Never put cash in your checked bag.

Related: How & When Should I Get Euros?

No matter if you travel carry-on or check a bag, organization is key when packing your suitcase.

I like to pack outfits together- especially when packing for children- so I know I have everything I need.

When choosing luggage for your Ireland vacation I advise planning to travel carry-on only.

If you can't make that work (I totally understand) and are checking a bag, I recommend packing at least one outfit, an extra pair of shoes, and any toiletries you might need, into your carry-on. Just in case your bag doesn't arrive at the airport when you do.

If you are traveling with family pack a few outfits for each person in each checked bag. Then, if one gets lost, there will still be clothes for everyone. And make sure everyone has their own carry-on (see above).

I do recommend taking as few bags as possible. Our family of 4 usually packs one personal bag and one carry-on per person plus one large, checked bag that we all use. (We will use two large, checked bags if I stay in Ireland longer to lead a tour.)

The type of luggage you buy is very much personal preference. I like hard sided luggage to check and soft sided for carry-on.

Any luggage locks, built in or attached, need to be TSA approved. If the TSA can not access your luggage they will cut the lock or hold your luggage until you can open it for them.

Related: Carry-On Necessities for Your Flight to Ireland

The post Ireland Vacation Packing Tips: What to Take & What to Leave Home appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Blarney Castle and Gardens is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations – and for good reason. But if you show up at the wrong time, your magical visit can quickly turn into a crowded, stressful experience.

Here’s a quick planning tip that can make all the difference.

Most travelers don’t realize this, but Blarney Castle can get especially busy when cruise ships dock nearby. The ports of Cobh, Ringaskiddy, and the Port of Cork all welcome cruise ships during the warmer months. And many of those passengers head to Blarney.

That means hundreds of extra visitors descending on the site in a single day.

The best way to avoid those crowds? Check the cruise ship schedules before you plan your visit. The Port of Cork website lists upcoming cruise arrivals, and it’s a tool I use regularly when helping clients fine-tune their Ireland itineraries.

Here’s how to use it:

Sometimes cruise schedules differ between sources. I’ve found small discrepancies between what’s listed on the Port of Cork site and other tools (even AI ones like ChatGPT). If there’s any doubt, I recommend trusting the Port of Cork site for the most current updates, since itineraries can change with weather or port availability.

If your itinerary is already set and you discover a cruise ship will be in port, don’t panic. You can still avoid the worst of the crowds with smart timing.

Try one of these strategies:

Cruise crowds don’t just impact Blarney. If you're visiting other popular sites like the Jameson Distillery in Midleton, it's worth checking schedules there, too. While those tours are booked by time slots and may not feel as crowded, it’s still helpful to know when to expect a surge in visitors (or understand why no bookings are available).

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to enjoying top tourist spots in Ireland. By checking cruise ship schedules, you can avoid the busiest times at Blarney Castle and make sure your visit is every bit as memorable as you hoped.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 271

The post When Not to Visit Blarney Castle (and How to Time It Right) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Slip off the motorway and into another era with a visit to Morrissey’s Pub in Abbeyleix, County Laois. Established in 1775, this isn’t just a place to grab a pint—it’s a deep dive into the kind of Irish hospitality and history that you just can’t fake.

This article is based on podcast episode 168 featuring John Nolan, manager of Morrissey's Pub in Abbeyleix.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

From the moment you walk through the doors of Morrissey’s, it’s clear this is no ordinary pub. With a layout that reflects its history as a multi-purpose town hub – grocery, newsagent, travel agent, and even undertaker – it feels more like stepping into a living museum than a bar.

Manager John Nolan, who trained under Paddy Mulhall (the last Morrissey family owner), proudly carries on the pub’s traditions. His signature white shop coat isn’t just for show – it’s part of the legacy and practicality of working in a centuries-old space.

According to John, a real Irish pub isn't just about the look – though Morrissey’s shelves, loose sweets, biscuit tins, and antique weighing scales certainly deliver on that front. What makes a place truly traditional is the people behind the bar and the way they treat you.

“You can’t fake the dents and imperfections,” John says. More importantly, you can’t fake genuine interest in your customers. A traditional Irish pub, he believes, is built on service first – welcoming each person who walks through the door with individual attention and a hearty bit of conversation.

John encourages visitors to take at least one day of their Ireland trip to veer off the well-worn tourist path. That’s where the true magic is, where you meet real people who aren’t just performing hospitality but living it.

Spend a day in the Midlands. Explore Abbeyleix and County Laois. Start with an Irish breakfast (a packet of Tayto and a pint of Guinness) at Morrissey’s, let someone like local guide Aubrey Hutchinson show you around, then return to the pub to swap stories (true or otherwise) over another pint. It’s these unscripted moments that leave lasting impressions.

If your journey takes you from Dublin to Cork, Kilkenny, or Killarney, skip the motorway for a bit and detour into Abbeyleix. Morrissey’s Pub is more than a place to grab a drink—it’s a living piece of Ireland’s cultural tapestry.

And who knows? With everything happening in County Laois lately, Abbeyleix might just be Ireland’s next must-see spot.

The post Step Into Morrissey’s: Abbeyleix’s Timeless Irish Pub appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

It happens all the time—you walk up to the rental counter in Ireland, share your reservation information, and the agent smiles and says, “We can upgrade you today!”

But before you say yes, take a pause.

While an upgrade might sound like a win, it’s not always the best choice for your trip – or your wallet. Consider the 4 questions below to help you easily determine if an upgrade is a good idea for your trip – or a decision you may regret.

Is your original rental a good fit for your trip?
Does it have enough space for passengers and luggage? Will it be comfortable for the amount of driving you’re planning? If the answer is yes, an upgrade might not add much value – especially if it’s to a larger or flashier car that doesn't suit your needs.

to renting a car & driving
in Ireland

You have the right to see what you’re agreeing to.
Ask to view both the car you booked and the one being offered. Sometimes the upgrade is genuinely better – but other times it’s just bigger, which could mean harder parking, narrower road headaches, and higher fuel use.

Be clear on the details before signing.
Is there a price increase? Will insurance cost more? Is fuel consumption higher? Don’t assume the word “upgrade” means free – always ask for the full cost breakdown.

If you sign the contract and then realize the upgrade wasn’t a good call, head back to the rental desk before leaving the lot. Once you drive away, the contract is locked in and you’re responsible for the new terms.

Upgrades aren’t necessarily bad – but they aren’t automatically better. Take a moment to consider what works best for you and your trip. A little pause at the counter can save you time, money, and renters remorse.

You can also find this information in the Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 270

The post Should You Accept a Rental Car Upgrade? Here’s How to Decide appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.