Ireland

Astonishing, 700-foot cliffs towering over crashing waves below.

Herds of sheep grazing in lush green fields.

Cities filled with lively pubs and historic libraries and joyful music and brightly colored buildings.

Atmospheric ruins of castles and abbeys and other historic sites.

This, and so much more, is Ireland.

In the foreground, people walk on a trail surrounded by grass and fences. In the background is O'Brien's Tower and, in the distance, Moher Tower at Hag's Head.
My brother walks down the hill at Dunmore Head, looking toward buildings on green hills above and turquoise water below.
More than a dozen shelves filled with old books. A ladder sits ready to help visitors access the higher books.

Things to Do in Ireland

Hike along spectacular seaside cliffs, experience driving loops with wonderfully varied scenery, visit national parks and historic ruins, and more.

An imposing brown castle stands in front of a gray, stormy sky.
10 things to Add to Your Ireland Bucket List
People walk on a trail at the top of a very steep cliff. In the background, the cliffs continue, ending at a tower (Moher Tower at Hag's Head).
A Complete Guide to the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk
Old and new buildings sit in the midst of green Irish fields.
Slea Head Drive vs. Ring of Kerry: Which Is Better?
Stone ruins (Hore Abbey) sit quietly amongst green grass. In the foreground are blurry pink weeds.
What to Know About Visiting the Rock of Cashel and Hore Abbey

Northern Ireland

Though it’s legally and politically part of the United Kingdom — at least for now — Northern Ireland shares an island with the nation of Ireland, and many of its people view it as part of Ireland in the ways that really matter.

Whether or not they’re in favor of Irish reunification, many visitors like to visit both Northern Ireland and its southern counterpart in one trip, since there are no border checks between them and plenty of sights worth seeing all around the island.

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, here’s what to know about visiting Northern Ireland too.

A small model of the Titanic is backlist in front of a purple wall.
Titanic, Trails, and Troubles // A One Week Northern Ireland Itinerary
How Much I Spent for 10 Days in Northern Ireland
A dog howls beside a window in a camper van.
How to Get Around Northern Ireland Without a Car
Black and white striped lighthouse in the foreground; the mainland in the background.
How to Take a Day Trip to Rathlin Island // Northern Ireland’s Northernmost Point
Building facade stating "You are now entering Free Derry." The bottom of the sign contains additional pro-Palestine messaging.
How to Spend Two Days in Derry
Masts of sailboats reflecting in water below.
How to Spend One Day in Belfast
Man walks down the basalt columns of Giant's Causeway.
What to Know About Visiting Giant’s Causeway
Two people stand on top a cliff above Giant's Causeway. In the distance is Northern Ireland's coastline.
How to Walk from Giant’s Causeway to Carrick-a-Rede Bridge
Ireland Travel Essentials

Visa Requirements

Citizens of many countries, including the USA, do not need to apply for a visa in advance of arrival.

READ MORE

Currency

Like most countries in the European Union, Ireland uses the Euro.

READ MORE

Power Plugs

Ireland uses type G power outlets. I recommend traveling with a universal power adapter.

MY FAVORITE ADAPTER

Getting Around

Outside of notable cities, Ireland’s public transit is not that great. You’ll need to rent a car to explore more of the country.

FIND A CAR

Lodging

Hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs are all good options throughout Ireland.

FIND A ROOM

Tours & Experiences

There are excellent walking tours in many cities, day trips to top tourist destinations, brewery experiences, and more.

BROWSE FOR TOURS