Ireland Travel Tips Archives - Ireland Family Vacations

With Ireland's tourism numbers increasing annually it's understandable that many travelers are looking outside the busy summer months to plan their vacation.

In this article you'll learn Ireland travel tips for off-season vacations plus my advice on taking your children out of school to visit Ireland.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 267. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

UPDATE PODCAST LINK

Ireland travel falls into 3 distinct seasons:

High Season: the busiest time for tourism; May thru mid-to-late September

Shoulder Season: not as busy as high season, but still quite a lovely time to visit; mid-March thru April (after St. Patrick's Day) and mid-to-late September thru the end of October

Low Season: the slowest tourism period with shorter days, longer nights, and the possibility of more temperamental weather; November thru mid-March, excluding Christmas, New Year, and St. Patrick's Day

You'll find great travel deals, fewer crowds, and lively evening in the pubs. Check out Cool Facts About Ireland Winter Vacations.

Ireland is the birthplace of Halloween! Not only will you find plenty of family friendly activities at places like Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, but two terrific festivals take place for Samhain; Puca Festival in County Meath and Derry Halloween, the largest Halloween festival in Europe.

Christmas markets are a great reason to travel to Ireland! Markets begin in mid-November and run until just before Christmas. Most markets take place at the weekends, but be sure to check schedules as some may have bonus dates.

While my answer isn't the right one for everyone, I do believe that it is ok to take your children out of school to travel, especially when they are young. It does become more complicated as children hit upper middle school and high school.

With our connect-from-anywhere world it is easier than ever to travel during the school year, though I understand that not all schools are as flexible or as understanding as ours was.

A few tips to help you plan to take your children out of school for Ireland travel:

In December, January and February visit Dublin. Tourist attractions in Dublin don't close seasonally. And you can easily plan day trips to Wicklow, Kilkenny, and the Boyne Valley on fine days.

In fall plan to explore Connemara. The westernmost region of County Galway is especially enchanting as the days shorten.

In spring head follow a route along the Celtic Coast. Beginning in Dublin travel south through Wicklow, Wexford, and Waterford, before turning north into Tipperary and Kilkenny on your way back to Dublin.

The post Tips for Ireland Vacations in the Off-Season appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Planning your Ireland vacation is a smart way to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

While the idea of “winging it” might sound tempting, today’s travel landscape in Ireland is a bit different from what it used to be. With more visitors, limited accommodations, and higher demand for attractions, a little planning goes a long way.

Here’s a look at the key things to pay attention to when planning your Ireland itinerary—accommodations, transportation, and attractions—so you can focus on the fun while the essentials are sorted.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 266. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “failure to plan is planning to fail.” While it might sound a bit intense, there’s some truth to it. Sure, the idea of showing up and figuring things out as you go seems like a great way to travel, but the reality is, Ireland can be a lot busier than you might expect, especially during the high season. It’s no longer as easy to just show up and find a place to stay.

All the tips you need – IN ORDER – to plan your dream vacation to Ireland

If you’re flying in from North America or elsewhere, having your first and last nights booked in advance is a good idea. This way, you won’t have to scramble for accommodations right when you arrive or deal with the stress of finding a place to stay on your last night—especially if your departure is early in the morning.

Accommodation availability in Ireland can be a bit tricky these days. The number of bed and breakfasts has dropped, and popular accommodations like castles or manor houses can be hard to book last-minute. If you have your heart set on staying in a certain place or a special kind of accommodation, it’s best to plan ahead—sometimes as much as a year in advance.

During peak times (late May to September), it’s even more important to book early, especially in busy areas like Dublin, Galway, Killarney, and Doolin. Even if you're feeling spontaneous, it’s a good idea to at least check availability ahead of time to avoid the possibility of ending up far from the action, or in a place without the amenities you were hoping for.

When it comes to transportation in Ireland, renting a car is one of the most popular options for exploring the country.

While rental cars are generally available, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Manual transmissions are the standard in Ireland, so if you need an automatic, it’s strongly recommended to reserve ahead of time. Additionally, if you’re traveling with a larger group or need a vehicle that fits all your luggage, book early to ensure you get the right size.

Vehicles with eight or nine passenger seats are especially hard to find and typically only available at Dublin Airport. If you need one of these larger cars, don’t leave it to chance—secure it well in advance.

Even if you're using public transportation like trains or buses, booking tickets ahead of time is a good idea, especially if you're traveling with a group or during a busy bank holiday weekend. These services can fill up quickly, leaving you with fewer options if you're not prepared.

As for attractions, some of Ireland’s most iconic spots require advance reservations, particularly during peak season. The Book of Kells, Kilmainham Gaol, and Newgrange are some of the most popular, and you’ll want to book tickets ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Similarly, attractions like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Titanic Belfast often require pre-booking, especially if you plan to visit during busy months.

For unique experiences, such as afternoon tea or certain guided tours, it's always best to reserve in advance. These activities can fill up quickly, and many require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice to ensure everything is prepared for your visit.

While it’s important to lock in your accommodations, transportation, and major attractions, you don’t have to plan every single detail of your trip. Ireland still offers plenty of opportunities for spontaneous exploration. Once you have the essentials sorted, you’ll have the freedom to venture off the beaten path, try new activities, and shift your plans if something else catches your eye.

The key is finding the right balance—secure the main components of your trip and leave room for flexibility. If you’re visiting during the off-season (late September through October or after St. Patrick’s Day through April), it’s a little easier to “wing it,” though be aware that last-minute bookings may be pricier due to availability.

In the end, how much you plan depends on your travel style and the time of year you’re visiting. During peak season, a little preparation is a great way to avoid missing out on your first-choice accommodations or activities. But if you’re traveling during the off-season, you can certainly embrace more spontaneity.

The bottom line? Your Ireland vacation can be the perfect blend of thoughtful planning and flexibility. By taking care of the big-ticket items—like accommodations, transportation, and must-visit attractions—you’ll ensure that your trip goes smoothly, with plenty of room for spontaneous adventures as you explore this beautiful country.

The post Why ‘Winging It’ Might Not Be the Best Plan for Your Ireland Vacation appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

If you're flying to Ireland from North America, chances are you're looking at round-trip tickets into and out of Dublin. It's the most popular route for good reason—direct flights, solid availability, and yes, it’s usually cheaper.

But if your Irish adventure follows a classic path—landing in Dublin, heading down to Killarney or Dingle, touring the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula, and working your way up the west coast toward the Cliffs of Moher and Galway—there’s another way to plan your flights.

Here’s a pro tip: fly into Dublin, but fly out of Shannon.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 265. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Shannon Airport sits on the west coast of Ireland, in a town that was essentially built around the airport. It’s ideally located if you’re wrapping up your trip in the west, and there are a few good reasons to consider it over looping all the way back to Dublin.

1. More Time to Explore the West
Sure, technically you have the same number of days in Ireland no matter how you fly. But if you’re finishing in Galway or the Burren and need to get back to Dublin for your flight, you’re looking at a three-hour drive—minimum. That’s half a touring day lost to driving a motorway with few worthwhile stops unless you go out of your way. If you fly out of Shannon instead, you could spend that time enjoying more of Ireland’s west coast instead of rushing to get to your gate.

2. A Far More Relaxed Departure
Dublin Airport is busy. Very busy. You’re told to arrive three hours ahead of your flight, and while sometimes you might breeze through in under an hour, other times you won’t. A random security check, a baggage issue, or just plain volume can all throw a wrench in your departure. It’s crowded, chaotic, and kind of stressful.

Shannon Airport, by contrast, is a dream. It’s small, quiet, and efficient. One time, I got from the rental car drop-off to my gate—via security and U.S. customs—in 27 minutes. I don’t recommend cutting it that close, but even with a 90-minute to two-hour cushion, it’s a much smoother experience. Fewer people, shorter lines, and far less tension.

Frequently asked Ireland travel questions – and the answers you seek!

Of course, there’s a tradeoff. Flying into Dublin and out of Shannon (known as a multi-city ticket) is often more expensive. And depending on when you’re traveling—especially late fall or winter—it may not even be available, as airlines sometimes cut the Shannon route due to low demand.

So, is it worth it? That depends on a few things:
– What could you do with the time you'd save by not driving back to Dublin? If you’d rather spend it exploring a quiet village, hiking a cliffside trail, or lingering over a pint in a cozy pub, that might be worth something to you.
– What are you paying to stay near Dublin Airport vs. the west coast? Accommodations near Dublin often cost more—sometimes €150–€200 more per night—than a similar stay in the west.

For me, if the flight out of Shannon costs no more than $200 more per person than a round-trip out of Dublin, it’s worth it. The extra time on the ground and the calm departure experience balance out the added cost. Of course, your priorities and budget may differ.

The post Arrive in Dublin, Depart from Shannon: Why to Consider this Itinerary Tweak appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Booking flights can be a nerve-wracking game of ‘now or later.’ That anxiety often leads to early clicks — and higher prices.

I use a simple flight monitoring process to take the edge off (outlined here), but timing – and a bit of patience – plays a crucial role. So, can you book flights too early? Let’s break that down.

While tracking flight prices can help you predict what may happen, it is not a fool proof indicator of what flight prices may do.

Airlines use dynamic pricing algorithms to adjust prices based on demand, competition for other airlines, and market conditions. Due to these constant changes, booking too early can result in paying higher prices for flights than if you had waited.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 263. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

There is no exact perfect time to book a flight to Ireland, though experts say the best time to book an international flight is 2-6 months in advance.

I begin monitoring my flight routes when I decide on my travel dates and note them in my planning documents. I usually find the best prices from my airport (Chicago on Aer Lingus) between 6 – 8 weeks prior to departure.

Get my insight here!

The post Can You Book Flights too Early? appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

I fear that I can be a bit like a broken record as I seem to repeat ‘slow down, do less, experience more' like it is a personal Ireland travel mantra.

Which, I suppose, it kind of is. As I've mentioned previously, I've made every travel mistake there is to make and I still struggle not to repeat them with every trip I make.

I want my time to be my own but, I don't want to feel like I'm rushing from place to place just to fill the “must see” tourist squares. Any suggestions on how to spend two weeks, slowly?

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 262.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

This is a great question- and one I still struggle with personally. There is just so very much to see, do, and experience in Ireland!

I share the 10 steps I use to plan an Ireland itinerary here.

1. Visualize your trip (use a map & circle everyplace on your list)

Before you begin with step one, you need to know just a few things:

• Where are you arriving and departing from? This is hugely important if you are arriving in Ireland early in the morning after an overseas flight. You don't want to drive a long distance that first day (I recommend no more than 90 minutes), but you do want to be active to combat your jet lag.
  On your final evening you will want to be within easy driving distance of the airport – especially if your flight leaves in the morning (tips here).

After you know these things, then begin working through the 10 vacation planning steps that I outline. As you begin marking your map, you'll be able to see what works in your time frame- and what doesn't.

If an area really resonates with you as you plan, stay an extra day or two. Keep your schedule somewhat fluid. In the overall scheme of things, very little in Ireland must be booked

Sometimes you will need to drop one ‘must see' site for another that is more important to you. It's ok to do this! This is your vacation and you can make it exactly how you want it!

You won't miss the places you didn't see, but you may always regret not spending more time in a spot that really interests you.

The post Ireland at Your Own Pace: Smart Tips for a Trip Without the Rush appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

I offer a lot of Ireland travel advice. In over 22 years of travel to and through Ireland, I have made dozens (hundreds?) of mistakes and have learned a lot. Additionally, I spend a lot of time researching anything new, confirming and updating the information I have, and traveling (on my own dime and not on hosted trips) to get the same experiences that you would have on your own visit.

So when I offer advice you can know that it is genuine, based on my own experiences, and not something that has been purchased, or paid for.

That said, I do have travel partners that I recommend. These partnerships actually came about after I used a product, experienced a tour, or visited somewhere. Like the advice that I offer, recommendations and referrals are based on experience.

Why am I sharing this with you?

Because I want you to understand where my advice and opinions originate. And because what I'm about to say may seem the opposite of what you might imagine.

This article is based on the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 260.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article.

While I may have plenty of opinions and advice on how to make your Ireland trip the best it can be, what I share are, ultimately, my opinions.

You are the Authority on Your Ireland Trip

YOU know best how you, your family, or your group, travel.

YOU know best what you like, and more importantly, don't like.

YOU know what is important to you when it comes to everything from accommodations to food, activities to transportation.

So when I am sharing advice I hope you take what is useful to you, discard what isn't, and when you have questions, reach out and ask. I share my email at the end of every podcast and you can also reach out to me on the Ireland Family Vacations Instagram and Facebook accounts.

My entire goal is to help you have an amazing trip to Ireland.

You may be wondering what inspired this topic.

After being mentioned and tagged in some Ireland travel forums, I joined a few. I comment once in a while when I know I can offer the most thorough advice, but mostly I just lurk. And, quite often, feel very badly for the person who asked the question as so many of the responses are not helpful, not on topic, or even judgmental.

I'm not saying that forums are a bad place to get information – far from it. There is some really good advice to be gained – especially if you ask questions correctly.

• Why? “Best” is subjective—what’s best for a backpacker is different from what’s best for a luxury traveler.

• Why? Everyone’s interests differ, and you may get a list of overhyped tourist traps.

• Why? This term, like ‘best' carries different meaning for different people. Be specific with value and cost.

• Why? Asking, “Is Belfast safe?” may get unhelpful or fear-based responses.

• Why? Many places marketed as “off the beaten path” are actually popular among experienced travelers.

When using travel forums to get advice, keep these five key tips in mind:

Vague questions like “What should I do in Ireland?” will get generic responses. Instead, provide details: dates of travel, interests, budget, travel style (luxury vs. budget), and any must-sees. This helps others give you tailored advice. I would also advise to ask multiple smaller questions focused on portions of your trip rather than asking questions that could lead to answers that span the country.

Travel information changes frequently. A post from five years ago about a bus route or a great restaurant may no longer be relevant. Always look for the most recent advice or verify older recommendations with a quick search.

Not all advice is equal. Some forum members are locals or frequent travelers to Ireland, while others may be first-timers giving opinions based on limited experience. Look for users with a history of detailed, knowledgeable posts.

Even if a forum suggests a great deal or itinerary, double-check prices, hours, and availability on official websites or trusted platforms before committing. Forums are great for ideas, but they shouldn't be your only source for finalizing plans.

If you found the advice someone offered very helpful, let them know. A simple “Thanks!” goes a long way. If you take their advice and it works out well, consider updating the thread – not creating a new one- with your experience to help future travelers.

Planning a trip to Ireland can feel a bit overwhelming—but don’t worry, I’m here to help! 🍀 From figuring out the best time to visit and what to pack, to understanding how to drive on the “other side” of the road, the Frequently Asked Questions page here at Ireland Family Vacations has all the tips and tricks you need.

The post Getting the Most Helpful Advice from Travel Forums appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

In this episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast, Jody shares valuable insights and tips for planning multi-generational family trips to Ireland. She emphasizes the importance of creating memorable experiences for families, discusses transportation logistics, accommodation choices, and activity planning, and offers advice on how to manage group dynamics effectively. Jody also highlights the benefits of seeking professional assistance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for everyone involved.

Takeaways

Multi-generational trips create lasting memories for families.
Transportation planning is crucial for large family groups.
Accommodations should cater to the needs of all ages.
It's important to balance activities for different interests.
Group planning can become chaotic with too many opinions.
Child-free nights can enhance parents' enjoyment.
Hiring a driver guide can reduce travel stress.
Mixing accommodations can provide comfort and privacy.
Planning activities requires input but should be streamlined.
Professional help can simplify the travel planning process.

Professional Planning

Inclusive Driver Guide with Ireland Chauffeur Travel – use code IFRV for a 5% savings on your tour package

Inclusive Self Drive with Celtic Self Drive – use code IFV for an exclusive savings

Custom Itinerary Creation – work with Jody to create your amazing multigenerational Ireland trip

The post Tips to Plan a Memorable Multigenerational Trip to Ireland appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

EP 251

The post Choosing the Best Mobile Connectivity for Your Ireland Vacation appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

So, what is CDW coverage and why do you have to have it?

Put very simply, CDW coverage limits your liability for material damage to the vehicle.

Basic CDW is included in your rental agreement. This coverage limits your liability for damage to the vehicle. But it does not completely cover it.

The amount over and above the basic CDW coverage is the ‘excess', which usually begins around €2500 and rises based on vehicle make and model. If there is damage to the car ‘in excess' of the basic CDW, you will be responsible for that amount.

The post Ireland Car Rental CDW Insurance appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

I answer many questions about travel in Ireland, but the most popular topic- by far- concerns driving in Ireland.  One of the most common questions I receive is about Ireland rental car insurance, particularly CDW coverage (Collision Damage Waiver).

CLICK HERE to learn Everything You Need to Know About Car Rental in Ireland

This article is also available as a podcast. You will find the podcast player at the end of this article.

While you can opt out of the CDW coverage in some countries, it is a mandatory insurance in Ireland.  And while many credit cards offer CDW coverage if you use them to pay for the rental, a slightly deeper search shows that most do not cover rentals in Ireland.

Put very simply, CDW coverage limits your liability for material damage to the vehicle.

Basic CDW is included in your rental agreement. This coverage limits your liability for damage to the vehicle. But it does not completely cover it.

The amount over and above the basic CDW coverage is the ‘excess', which usually begins around €2500 and rises based on vehicle make and model. If there is damage to the car ‘in excess' of the basic CDW, you will be responsible for that amount.

This amount is covered in three ways:

Option 1

The Excess is held on your credit card. This is the credit card you used to book the car rental. This amount will be released when the car is returned undamaged.

Option 2

Purchase Vehicle Excess (also called CDW Excess, CDI Excess, Super CDW, Super Damage Waiver). This insurance upgrade is available at a per-day date (normally from €26-30). This option reduces your liability to €100 or even zero. If there is damage to your car you will not be responsible beyond the deductible.

Option 3

Americans and Canadians can waive CDW if their credit card company allows it.

It is important to note that Discover Card is not accepted in Ireland and many rental car companies will not accept American Express to waive CDW.

This is still a little confusing, so I'll break it down a bit more:  You cannot rent a car in Ireland without providing insurance in some way.  Insurance is paid for when you pick up the car unless you have arranged coverage beforehand, so be sure to have room on your credit card for this fee.  If you opt for basic CDW (option 1) a “hold” will be placed on your card equal to the coverage amount necessary for that vehicle (can be from €2500- €7000).

CDW Excess coverage is in addition to your car rental fees so it pays to do your homework.

I prefer to rent with Irish Car Rentals.  Their rental rates are very competitive and Vehicle Excess (SCDW) can be added when you book online – no cash out of hand when you pick up the car and you'll be on your way quicker.

I also compare costs with Auto Europe, which will also allow you to add Super CDW when you reserve your vehicle, and Discover Cars, which offers its own 3rd party insurance options.

Certain credit cards offer collision damage cover for the driver, however most VISA, Mastercard, and American Express card issuing companies in the North America have withdrawn coverage for car rental in the Republic of Ireland.

If the customer wishes to use their credit card to cover collision damage, they must first waive CDW when reserving their rental car, then obtain a current Letter of Authorization from the credit card company. This letter must be presented at the time of rental in order to waive the CDW/CDI coverage. Client should note that theft insurance may not be included.

Tip: Letter needs to be issued less than 2 weeks prior to picking up the car. A quick call to your card issuer will result in an immediate email of authorization. Print this out and present to rental company. Credit card used to rent the car must be the same as credit card offering coverage.

It is your sole responsibility to determine coverage with your provider and present proof upon arrival. If proof of coverage is insufficient, you will be liable for the full value of the vehicle and a minimum deposit (hold) will be required. Alternatively, you may opt to purchase CDW/CDI locally which will limit your liability.

Also note that your credit card will have a ‘hold’ place on it for at least €2500 (often €5000 or more) in case of damage, so be sure your credit limit is sufficient. This ‘hold’ is released when the car is returned undamaged.

If you have an accident, the vehicle repair costs will be charged to your credit card (hence the ‘hold') and you will file the paperwork with your credit card company to have the amount refunded via their insurance coverage.

Third party excess policies, like those from travel insurance or DiscoverCars, do not reduce your excess to zero. They simply insure the excess. This means that if your excess (the amount held on your credit card) is taken due to damage caused by you during your rental, you can claim this amount back through the company you purchased this policy from.

You must have proof of the policy when you pick up the car and it must confirm relevant coverage for the Republic of Ireland. You will be required to leave an excess deposit (often €5000 or more) held on the credit card used to rent the car.

Drivers who arrive without a relevant card and letter, or those who do not have excess available on their card, will be required to purchase SCDW/ Excess/ Super CDW coverage from the car rental company.

• Research the cars in the class you are renting- know what you can expect.  Rent the smallest car you can comfortably use – and don't forget about your luggage.

Everything You Need to Know About Car Rental in Ireland – 8 steps to renting a car in Ireland

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 247

The post Ireland Rental Car Insurance: What is CDW Coverage and Why Do I Need It? appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.