Ireland Travel AdviceYour Questions Answered

FAQs about Ireland Vacations

• What is the best time of year to visit Ireland?

  The best time to visit Ireland is between the months of April and October. You'll get the best chance of settled weather between May and September. However, if you're looking for smaller crowds and more budget-friendly deals, consider visiting in the less popular months of April or October. Outside of these times, the weather can be too cold and wet to make the most of your tour of Ireland, and many off the attraction will be taking a seasonal break.

• How many days do you need?

  A popular itinerary for Ireland is 7-10 days, especially for first-time visitors. Take in Dublin city and its attractions over three days, followed by two days in Galway to as a base for visits to the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara, then three to four days days in Killarney, the Ring of Kerry and County Cork for Blarney Castle and the surrounding area. Explore our itinerary options to find the perfect match for your tour of Ireland.

• Is Ireland an expensive country to visit?

  Price-wise, Ireland is comparable with many other popular tourist destinations in Western Europe. Most North American visitors tend to book a tour vacation, whether that's a shared tour package or a customized private tour. Prices for Ireland tours vary significantly depending on the type of tour you choose, the level of accommodation, and the time of year you visit. For an affordable tour package, you can expect to pay €210 or more per day, per person, based on double occupancy. If you're booking a private tour, prices are generaly higher unless you're bringing a large group. A private party of four people is likely to spend in the region of €300-350 per person, per day. These guide prices include accommodation, most meals, transportation, and guided sightseeing, but not flights.

• Are there any Irish etiquette rules for tourists?

  Yes, there are a few etiquette rules to keep in mind when visiting Ireland. The majority of these are based around good manners, such as holding the door open for the person behind you, giving a wave to a passing car if they have given you the right of way and asking people in a pub if the empty seat near them is being used before taking it. The round system in pubs is one to be particularly mindful of, this is buying everyone in your group (including yourself) a drink and then the next person in the round does the same, until it comes back to you. For more on the round system, and Irish pub etiquette in general, take a look at our page on pub culture in Ireland.

• What is Ireland's number 1 tourist attraction?

  Ireland's number 1 attraction is the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin city. With approximately 1.4 million visitors every year, the Guinness Storehouse welcomed it's 25 millionth guest in 2024 — 24 years after it opened. For an in-depth look at the Guinness Storehouse, and the other iconic attractions across Ireland and Britain , check out our page on the must-see sights of a UK and Ireland Tour.

• What is Ireland's most visited city?

  Ireland's most visited city is Dublin. The 'Fair City' attracts millions of tourists every year. The capital is known for its historical landmarks, lively atmosphere, and cultural attractions such as Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse, and Temple Bar. For more info on Dublin city and its attractions on our Dublin Travel Guide.

• What three cities should I visit in Ireland?

  The three cities you should visit in Ireland are Dublin, Cork and Galway. Making it to these three gives the most-rounded tour of Ireland. Dublin city offers endless culture and history, Cork has a vibrant food scene and a chance to offer its nearby attractions, while Galway has a laid-back, bohemian vibe with plenty to see and do.