tour ireland on a budget

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Budget Tours & Trips to Ireland

Explore a varied offer of budget Ireland adventures that will take you through some of the most renowned destinations such as Dublin and Killarney. Each affordable tour will provide you with memorable moments for some of the lowest prices on the market. Discover the best  budget tours  around the world with TourRadar and the best Ireland vacations .

20 Budget Ireland tour packages with 1,215 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

The Celtic Voyage - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

Mike and Team do a great job, friendly and very professional in accommodating people from all over the place. A very good selection of attractions, pointing out special locations, ending in a awesome relaxing tour! Looking forward for similar tours in the future!

Iconic Ireland National Geographic Journeys

Authentic Ireland - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

The tour guides were polite and assisted with any queries or concerns. They were well informed on the areas we visited and kept the party entertained with local lore and history. The tour pace was not hectic but rewarding, while providing great opportunity to view and learn about the areas visited. Scheduled catch up time to do your own thing was well planned. Overall we loved the country and people and the tour allowed us to get a memorable experience of the essence of Ireland. thank you.

• Sightseeing

Irish Escape

Great introduction to Ireland! The guide we had, Carmel, was great! Learned so much about Ireland that I otherwise wouldn't have learned were it not for the information Carmel enthusiastically shared about her country. She mentioned some books about some of the regions we traveled through and I've started reading one of them so I can extend my vacation to Ireland a little bit more in my mind. The sites were great and the coach was very nice and comfortable. You get just enough time to linger at each site for as long as you'd need to. The accommodations on the trip were good and the included meals were as well. You get some nights to yourself which is nice. I found this a wonderful introduction to Ireland and can't wait to return to see things I didn't get to this time.

Picturesque Solo Ireland Tour

• Hiking & Trekking

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 10 Day

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 5 Day

Kerry Camino Walk

Irish Discovery

Fantastic tour, one of the best I have ever been on. Helen was great and the driver David was also excellent. I just wish we could have spent a little more time at each place and the wifi on the bus was terrible.

5 Day Dublin including Giants Causeway, Cliffs of Moher, Galway City & Cahir Castles

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Self Guided Walking Holidays

The Kerry Way - Self Guided 5 Days

The Dingle Way - Self Guided Ireland 10 Day

The Dingle Way - Self Guided Ireland 8 Day

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 8 Day

The Kerry Way - Self Guided Ireland 8 Day

What people love about budget tours in ireland.

This tour was so good! We experienced more of Ireland than the itinerary indicated (because of stops we made along our journey, which I loved!), but never felt rushed. Our guide Diarmuid is such a professional - he provided us with interesting information about the places we stopped and Ireland in general, kept us on schedule with a relaxed demeanor, and is genuinely a very nice person. I've never traveled with a tour group before and this one couldn't have been any better. The Emerald Isle is so beautiful and everyone is so friendly that, even when there was a bit of rain, it was still fun. Many thanks to Mick and Diarmuid (the best!!) for making this a most memorable trip. PS the accommodations were fantastic - especially the breakfasts!

Everything went perfectly, from the tour guide and driver, to the sites chosen for us.

More Budget Tours in Ireland

• Southern Ireland tours (16)
• Ireland Wild Atlantic Way tours (13)
• Munster tours (10)
• Budget Active tours (15)
• Budget Self-Guided tours (11)
• Budget Private tours (11)
• Budget Hiking & Trekking tours (10)
• Budget Family tours (9)
• Budget In-depth Cultural tours (6)
• Budget Coach / Bus tours (5)
• Budget Explorer tours (5)
• Ireland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (230)
• For Couples (121)
• Young Adults (9)
• Seniors (159)

Visiting Ireland on a Budget: A Complete Guide (2024)

A World in Reach contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a commission at no cost to you! Read my full disclosure here .

Considering a trip to Ireland but don’t want to break the bank? Here’s the ultimate guide to visiting Ireland on a budget, complete with helpful travel tips from a local!

Wondering how to visit Ireland on a budget? You’ve come to the right place!

Ireland was the first country I ever visited outside of the United States, so it’s a very special place for me. I got to spend two weeks exploring all over the Emerald Isle.

Ireland is one of the most popular countries to visit in the world, and for good reason. The charm, the natural beauty, the people, and the history are just a few of the reasons a trip to Ireland is worth making.

Unfortunately, Ireland is consistently ranked as one of the most expensive countries in Europe and beyond.

That being said, it is still possible to visit Ireland on a budget…if you know how to do it right.

To help you with planning a trip to Ireland on a budget, I reached out to my friend Josh from A Backpacker’s World .

Josh is a full-time budget traveler who is from Ireland, so he knows all the local tips and tricks for a budget-friendly trip .

So without further ado, here’s a complete guide to visiting Ireland without breaking the bank!

Ireland Daily Shoestring Budget

The average budget traveler will spend around €60-70 a day in Ireland including accommodation, transport, food, and activities.

These 4 costs are always the main expenses while backpacking.

Of course, it’s possible to survive on less than this as an ultra-shoestring budget traveler, and on the other hand, it’s easy to spend a lot more money than this too.

At the end of the day, every traveler is different and there is no “one size fits all” budget .

VISITING IRELAND ON A BUDGET

How to get to ireland on a budget.

Ireland is famous for a lot of things, and there’s no denying that Ryanair is one of them.

Whether for better or for worse, Ryanair is the most popular budget airline throughout Europe. It’s got mixed opinions but personally, I love Ryanair.

I think if you have your expectations in check, you can’t go wrong with them. They’re perfectly suited for budget travelers.

You can easily get return flights to Dublin from all over Europe for anywhere from €20-50. I wouldn’t spend more than this – if you can be flexible with your dates you can save so much more.

If you’re not already in Europe, your flights will cost significantly more, but you can still get relatively affordable flights from the US to Dublin.

I am a huge fan of Going , an email newsletter that sends out flight deals from US airports to destinations all around the world. They often send emails with deals from the US to Dublin for as low as $400.

Going has both free and paid subscription options, and I personally use and love the paid one. Click here to sign up for a Going Premium free trial.

Once you make it to Ireland, you can easily add another European destination to your trip. Or, if you get a great flight deal, fly to another destination in Europe before grabbing a cheap Ryanair flight to Ireland.

How to Get Around Ireland on a Budget

Ireland’s public transport system is “meh”, but it’s the best option you have when you’re on a budget.

There are trams in Dublin but there aren’t really anywhere else.

While you’re in a city or town, most things are close together so it’s walkable.

Ireland is pretty small so you’ll never be too far away from anything. Between destinations, you’ll mainly rely on buses and trains to get you around the island.

Taxis in Ireland are very expensive and there’s rarely an occasion where you need to take one, so if you are being strict with your budget, avoid them at all costs.

Getting between cities and places, you’ll most likely take buses.

Flixbus doesn’t operate in Ireland, but the local transport systems run coaches between major places , like from Dublin to Belfast or Galway.

Unfortunately, hitchhiking isn’t really a thing in Ireland. You can try it for sure, but I’ve never even seen someone attempt it in 20 years of living here. 

Budget Accommodation in Ireland

As always when traveling on a budget, the best way to save money on accommodation is by staying in a hostel.

You won’t always have an abundance of choices to choose between, but most places in Ireland will have at least a couple of hostel options.

The average price is between €20-30 a night , so it’s not the cheapest in the world, but it’s still significantly cheaper than a hotel or Airbnb or equivalent.

I typically use Booking.com and Hostelworld to search for hostels.

Just make sure to read reviews before booking so you can make sure that the hostel’s vibe matches what you’re looking for. Some hostels are very party-focused, while others are more laid back.

Places to Visit in Ireland on a Budget

There are so many places to visit in Ireland, but when you’re on a budget, you’re limited to where you can go.

It would be impossible to visit Ireland without checking out some of these places, but others are more suited for shoestring budgets.

I recommend doing your own research and using these as a basis to form your itinerary, not just following it blindly, because every traveler enjoys different things.

Dublin is likely where you’ll first arrive in Ireland.

It’s the country’s largest city and home to its largest airport, so it’s probably where you’ll fly into whether you’re coming from the US or taking a Ryanair flight from somewhere else in Europe.

Many visitors don’t spend a whole lot of time in Dublin, but make sure you don’t just move on straight away to your next destination.

The city has a lot to offer, and there are so many reasons to visit Dublin . It’s the capital of Ireland and it’s filled with history and culture.

Taking a walking tour is a must – I recommend taking an Easter Rising-themed tour of Dublin to learn about the uprising, it’s fascinating.

And of course, you can’t skip sightseeing with the likes of Temple Bar, Trinity College and the Book of Kells, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

If you end up spending a longer amount of time here, you can also take advantage of the many day trip options from Dublin .

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland, which is a country on the island of Ireland but that’s actually part of the United Kingdom.

It’s well worth a visit as, like Dublin, it’s filled with history, and I’d recommend taking a walking tour themed around “The Troubles” .

There are also lots of tours from Belfast , making it easy to get from the city to the other main attractions and destinations in Northern Ireland , such as the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

Galway is a pretty affordable city, and even though it’s a city, it feels like a small town.

Apart from being included in an Ed Sheeran song, there is a great music scene in Galway.

The culture in the city is really traditional and it’s likely what you imagine when you picture Ireland.

The atmosphere is really lively and friendly and the best way to describe Galway would be as “cozy”.

Although it’s pretty out of the way as it’s right on the south coast of Ireland, Cork is a must-visit.

It’s one of the most well-known places in Ireland and when you visit it yourself, you’ll see why.

Just like Galway, Cork is a very traditional Irish destination. The charm of the city is unmissable and will hit you in the face as soon as you arrive.

The colorful houses that line the water perfectly sum up the appeal of Cork.

Kilkenny is a very historical place, with cobbled streets and of course, Kilkenny Castle.

It’s like stepping back in time, with medieval buildings and streets. It simply feels “Irish”.

Plus, it’s one of the cheaper destinations in Ireland which is always good when you’re traveling on a budget!

The castle gardens are free to visit too which is a nice plus, but make sure you don’t miss the Medieval Mile either – it’s stunning. 

Other places in Ireland that you may choose to visit include Sligo, Limerick, and Westport.

When visiting Ireland on a budget, make sure to avoid places like Enniskillen and Donegal. They are very expensive as they are popular staycation destinations for Irish people, with fancy retreats and resorts.

Things to Do in Ireland on a Budget

While traveling on a budget in Ireland, you’re going to want to predominately do free things or very cheap things.

Without getting into very specific things such as visiting the Cliffs of Moher or walking along the River Liffey in Dublin, here are a few generic things to do in Ireland no matter where you are on the island.

The good thing about sightseeing is that it’s completely free, and in some cases, that’s all you want to do.

For example in Dublin, the Temple Bar is cool to see, but if you want to have a drink, it’s going to cost you a fortune.

It’s not worth it, so sometimes it’s better to just enjoy things by looking at them.

Free Walking Tours

One of the best things you can do on a budget anywhere in the world, Ireland included, is take a free walking tour .

While the word “free” is slightly misleading as you are expected to tip at the end, a €10 tip for a tour which would normally cost like €50 is a no-brainer.

Explore Free Museums

Many of the museums in Ireland are completely free of charge including the Natural History Museum and the National Gallery of Ireland in Dublin or the Ulster Museum in Belfast.

You can donate if you like, but most people don’t, including locals.

Exploring a museum for free is always a great way to spend a few hours, and if you don’t have a good time, well, at least it was free.

Take a Coastal Drive

If you’re staying in Ireland for a bit longer than most, you may wish to rent a car, and if you do, you are going to have some incredible drives.

Ireland’s coasts are some of the most beautiful in the world, with the likes of the Wild Atlantic Way which is one of the most Instagrammable places in Ireland for sure.

Take a Hike

One of the biggest selling points of Ireland is its natural beauty.

There are endless hiking opportunities such as in the Mourne Mountains or at Howth Castle.

All you need to do is find a way to get to these places for cheap (usually public transport), and then it’s completely free.

Most parks and areas of natural beauty in Ireland only charge for vehicles and don’t charge for pedestrian access.

Ireland Budget Travel Tips

As always with budget travel, there are some tips and tricks that apply to the specific country to help you save money.

Ireland is no different, so here are some helpful tips for visiting Ireland on a budget.

1. You can drink tap water in Ireland

Tap water in Ireland is completely safe to drink, so there’s no need to pay for bottled water.

It actually tastes quite nice too – it’s very fresh, especially in the countryside.

Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle. Not only will it save you money, but it’s better for the environment, too.

2. Visit during off-peak season

Every country has a peak season, and like most places, Ireland’s is in the summer.

But the thing about Ireland is that the weather gets so bad throughout the rest of the year that few people want to come – the peak and off-peak seasons are very contrasting.

But there is a silver lining, and it means things are much cheaper, which is good for budget travelers.

3. Take advantage of student discounts

Many attractions and museums all over Ireland offer discounts to students, with some restaurants even doing special deals for students.

If you are a student, make sure you bring your ID or International Student Identity Card as it will save you tons of money.

If you’re not a student, I’m not saying to bring a fake ID, but someone in Ireland isn’t going to know whether your American university ID is legit or not…

4. Book things in advance

One thing that I don’t like about Ireland is the lack of spontaneity.

A huge perk of budget travel is always the ability to be spontaneous, but Ireland isn’t really designed for this.

Many things are cheaper if you book online rather than turning up and paying on arrival. This applies to attractions like zoos and activities like bowling or mini golf.

5. Always bring a coat

While this trip has nothing to do with visiting Ireland on a budget, it’s more just a general tip for visiting Ireland.

Always have a coat with you, even in summer.

I know most countries will say this but in Ireland, you really can have all four seasons in an hour.

Also, don’t trust the weather forecast, it’s usually wrong.

Plus, bringing a coat with you will prevent you from having to purchase one on a chilly day!

Ireland on a Budget: Final Thoughts

And there you have it, a complete guide to visiting Ireland on a budget!

While it’s not a country that’s designed for budget travel, it’s still possible to do, it’s just a little more difficult.

But it’s so worth it – you’re guaranteed to leave Ireland with memories to last a lifetime.

So, get those flights booked and go and enjoy life on a budget in Ireland!

After traveling outside of the US for the first time while studying abroad, I quickly developed a love for travel and an obsession for exploring as much of the world as possible. Now, I'm on a mission to teach college students, young adults, and anyone else who wants to see the world how to travel while minimizing their expenses and maximizing their experiences.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Ireland Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 1, 2024

I love backpacking around Ireland for the rolling green hills, historic castles, beautiful seaside landscapes, and all the Guinness and Jameson you can drink. The Emerald Isle is an enchanting postcard-perfect destination with tons to see and do whether you’re in the Dublin for a long weekend or plan to spend several weeks backpacking across the country.

While millions of people visit Ireland each year, most of them stick to Dublin , see the main sights, drink a few pints, and head on their way.

But there is so much more to traveling here — especially if you have time to rent a car and get off the beaten path. Ireland is the perfect road trip country. Seriously. Drive around! And make plenty of stops along the way. You’ll find cool little towns and tons of ruins and castles, some of which are rumored to be haunted.

Anyone who has spent time in Ireland will agree that it’s a magical land full of wonder, history, nature and plenty of post-travel tales. No one ever leaves Ireland unhappy.

This Ireland travel guide can help you make the most out of your time on the Emerald Isle and ensure you have fun without breaking the bank.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Ireland

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in ireland.

1. Have fun in Dublin

Dublin is synonymous with fun. The capital of the Republic of Ireland and its largest city, Dublin offers so much to explore . The city’s 18th century Georgian architecture is some of the best in Europe. Take a walk through history with a visit to Dublin Castle, be awe-struck by St. Patrick’s Cathedral’s medieval architecture, which was completed in 1260, tour Trinity College for a look inside one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions and while you’re there check out the iconic Book of Kells (an illuminated manuscript) from 800 CE. Literature lovers can stroll around the city on a self-guided literary tour. Fans of Ireland’s most famous export (Guinness) will find no shortage of pubs that claim to pour the city’s best pint but go directly to the source with a tour of the Guinness Storehouse (admission starts at 24 EUR). At night there’s bountiful live music in small pubs or larger clubs, one of the many ways to experience Irish“craic,” the nation’s word for that fun feeling you have with friends.

2. Admire the Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher stretch for 8 kilometers (5 miles) along the Atlantic coast in County Clare. They offer some of the most incredible views in all of Ireland. On a clear day you can see as far as Aran Islands in one direction, and Galway Bay in the other. The cliff’s name comes from the Gaelic word Mothar which means “ruins of a fort” and O’Brien’s tower, which now sits atop the cliffs, was constructed using the original fort’s stone in 1835. The cliffs reach a height of 214 meters (702 feet) and are home to a wide variety of birds. If you visit in late spring, you’ll probably see a colony of colorful puffins. Save this activity for a sunny day because there isn’t much to see when the cliffs are shrouded in Ireland’s famous mist. Admission is 10 EUR. If you’re short on time, take a day tour (they usually have a few stops, including Galway). Coming from Galway, it’s about a 90-minute drive. From Dublin, it’s more than three hours by car or bus.

3. See the Giant’s Causeway

Cross the border into Northern Ireland to visit the famous Giant’s Causeway , a natural geological phenomenon composed of over 40,000 basalt pillars that look like a staircase for giants. They formed between 50 and 60 million years ago during the Paleocene Epoch due to intense volcanic activity in the area. The tallest of the columns are around 12 meters (39 feet) high and 28 meters (92 feet) thick. The name is also said to have come from an Irish legend where a giant named Finn McCool created a path across the Irish Sea face down his arch enemy, the Scottish giant Benandonner. The pillars are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and named one of the top four natural wonders in The United Kingdom. It’s a protected nature reserve, however you can walk across the rocks using one of the four marked trails. Maps are available at the visitor center. Admission is free, but if you arrive by car you need to pay for parking, though it includes a guided tour.

4. Drive along the Ring of Kerry

This is one of the most well-trodden tourist trails in Ireland for a reason. Stretching almost 200 kilometers (125 miles), the Ring of Kerry is a scenic route that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula on the west coast of Ireland. It’s the ultimate Irish road trip along winding coastal roads, lush green pastures, and rolling hills. You’ll pass by lakes, small mountains, historical forts, and an ancient druid stone circle. Stop for a few of the highlights along the route. Ross Castle, built in the 15th century is open to guided tours. Lough Leane consists of a series of small lakes surrounded by dense forest and ancient castle ruins scattered in the area. You could spend the whole day in Killarney National Park with its lakes, walking trails and waterfalls. Staigue stone fort is a circular stone ruin likely built in the Iron Age. Driving the entire route takes 3.5 to 4 hours nonstop, but plan for an all-day adventure with stops. If you don’t have a vehicle you can take a day tour from Killarney . And if you want to challenge yourself, trek the 215-kilometer (135-mile) Kerry Way on foot!

5. Wander Galway

Other things to see and do in ireland, 1. spend time in cork.

Cork is a buzzing city nestled on Ireland’s southern coast. Originally a maritime hub, Cork is now a cosmopolitan university city filled with cheap eats and a lively nightlife. Head to the English Market in the morning for baked goods or fresh produce – it’s one of the oldest covered markets in Europe. Joind the hundreds of thousands of people that come here each year to kiss the Blarney Stone for good luck. There’s plenty of opportunity to hike around Gougane Barra, and to enjoy the coastal landscape around Mizen Head where you’ll find a suspension bridge with views of towering cliffs and the Atlantic. Surfing and whale watching are also popular here as minke whales, fin whales, and humpback whales are commonly seen along the coast (expect to pay around 55 EUR for a whale watching tour).

2. Party on St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick is Ireland’s patron saint. As the legend goes, he drove all the snakes out of the country. Whether you believe the legend or not, this is the biggest party of the year in which everyone is Irish. The biggest parade takes place in Dublin. It’s one of the biggest parties in the world so be sure to book your stay in advance as everything sells out quickly!

3. Kiss the Blarney Stone

Blarney Castle sits just outside Cork. Built in the 15th century, visitors flock here to see the Stone, which is made of Carboniferous limestone and is built into the castle itself. The stone was set in 1446 and it is said to bestow eloquence on all those who kiss it (“blarney” has come to mean “flattering speech”). Expect a long line during summer months or other peak travel times. Admission is 18 EUR (16 EUR if you buy your ticket online).

4. See historic castles

Ireland is steeped in history and the entire country is covered in castles (there are some 30,000 castles and castle ruins here). For fans of ruins, don’t miss the crumbling charm of Dunluce Castle or the majestic half-standing Rock of Cashel with soaring archways. The impeccably preserved Cahir Castle in Tipperary is also one of the largest. If it’s within your budget, attend a medieval banquet at the Bunratty Castle in Clare or book a room at the beautifully restored Ashford Castle in County Mayo. If you’re just on a quick trip to Dublin, take the 30-minute train outside the city to Malahide Castle. If you plan on visiting a lot of castles, get the Heritage Card. It’s 40 EUR and provides free entry into tons of Ireland’s castles and will save you a ton.

5. Hike in Connemara

This national park in County Galway covers more than 30 square kilometers (12 square miles), offering scenic views and great hiking. Most people come here for hiking and forest bike riding, though there are a few castles within the park as well as an old mining area and a heritage and history center. There are also tons of wildlife to spot, such as rabbits, foxes, stoats, hawks, falcons, and herds of Connemara ponies. There are several trails that range from short loops on flat land, to more strenuous mixed-terrain paths that offer elevated views. Admission is free and day tours are available . There are no campsites, but wild camping is allowed – just come prepared with all the necessary gear.

6. Wander the John F. Kennedy Arboretum

Located in County Wexford 30 minutes west of Waterford, this garden is home to over 4,500 species of trees and shrubs. There are several tea rooms, a visitors’ center, and a picnic area here too. The arboretum gets its name from the fact that JFK’s great-grandfather was born nearby, and the President visited in 1963. The arboretum opened five years later in his honor, paid for by donations from Irish Americans. Admission is free.

7. Explore the Aran Islands

Located in Galway Bay, only 1,200 people call these islands home. Here, Irish is the primary language (though many also speak English). You can get around by bus, bike, or carriage as you see the various heritage sights, ruins, castles, and scenic landscapes. Tobar Einne and O’Brien’s Castle are two of the most popular attractions. On Inis More (Inishmore) you can visit Dun Aengus, a Bronze Age and Iron Age fort hugging the coast, and the Seven Churches ruins featuring a large complex of partially-preserved structures and graveyards with traditional Irish Cross stones. Inis Mor is the largest of the islands and the most accessible. You can take a bus from Galway and hop on the ferry from Rossaveal (30 EUR).

8. Go back in time at Ulster Museum

Head into Northern Ireland for a day trip and visit the Ulster Museum. It has a vast and diverse collection of all kinds of artifacts and artwork, ranging from rare paintings, archeology and local history to wildlife and dinosaurs to relics from the Spanish Armada and Egyptian mummies. The museum is located within a large botanical garden. It’s the biggest museum in Northern Ireland. Admission is free. You can reach Belfast from Dublin in less than two hours by car.

9. See Newgrange

Located 45 minutes north of Dublin by car, Newgrange is a prehistoric burial mound that dates back over 5,200 years (which makes it older than both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids). Human remains, as well as other artifacts, were found in the massive tomb, which is composed of a ring of stone topped by earth. Inside are several burial chambers and passageways. Every year on the Winter Solstice, a beam of light streams down the perfectly aligned entrance passage to illuminate the interior chamber. Admission is 10 EUR.

10. Visit Killarney

Killarney is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations thanks to its undeniable medieval charm. Located in the southwest of the country, you can visit Muckross Abbey (a 15th-century Franciscan friary on rolling green hills inside Killarney National Park), Ross Castle (which also dates to the 15th century), or wander around the town itself, which looks like a quaint village with small shops and colorful buildings. Some of the other best things to do in Killarney include renting a bike to cycle around Killarney National Park or relaxing at one of the nearby lakes. This is also the traditional starting point for exploring the Ring of Kerry.

11. Learn about (and sample some) whiskey

If you’re a whiskey fan, take a tour of the Jameson Distillery in Cork and see how Irish whiskey is made. Jameson is one of the oldest whiskey companies in Ireland and is the best-selling Irish whiskey in the world. On a tour, you’ll visit the main buildings and learn how their whiskey is made, what sets Irish whiskey apart from other types, and how the company got started as a small family distillery. There are several different tours, but the Jameson Distillery Experience tour is the best value at 23 EUR. It’s 75-minutes and includes a whiskey sample

For more information on specific cities in Ireland, check out these guides:

• Cork Travel Guide
• Dublin Travel Guide
• Galway Travel Guide

Ireland Travel Costs

Accommodation – There’s no shortage of choices on where to stay in Ireland. Hostels are common across the country, especially in cities, and you’ll find privately run cozy hostels and larger chains. For those biking or backpacking across the country, you’re in luck. There are a number of hostels and budget hotels in rural areas that see a lot of active travelers on foot or bike. There’s also a wide variety of mid-price chains across Ireland if you’d like to upgrade for a few nights. Summer is peak season, so book ahead.

Prices average 28-40 EUR per night for a hostel dorm room with 4-8 beds. You can find private rooms that sleep two ranging from 60-100 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also include self-catering facilities.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot for two people without electricity can be found for around 12-15 EUR per night.

Budget hotels average 90-130 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and some also include an Irish breakfast (toast, eggs, sausage, and beans).

Airbnb is available all around the country with private rooms starting at 40 EUR per night. Full apartments with a kitchen average of 100 EUR per night. Expect to pay double (or more) if you don’t book in advance.

Food – Ireland is very much a “meat and potatoes” country. Potatoes have been a common staple since the 18th century, along with seafood (it’s an island after all!). Cod, salmon, and oysters are some of the most popular seafood options, with other staple dishes being shepherd’s pie, black pudding, bacon and cabbage, fish and chips, and meat stews. You’ll find plenty of budget eats and street food, especially in larger urban areas, including takeaway fish and chips and a wide range of food trucks in Dublin. Vegan meals are bit harder to find. There are a few choices for budget to moderately-priced restaurants that offer vegan and vegetarian fare in Dublin, Cork, and Galway. There are also more modern Irish restaurants popping up, especially in Dublin, but expect to pay up.

A traditional meal costs around 15 EUR. For a multi-course meal with a drink, expect to pay at least 30 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) starts at 9 EUR for a combo meal.

Pizza costs 7-10 EUR for a medium while Chinese food costs around 9-12 EUR for a main dish. Fish and chips can be found for as little as 6 EUR.

Beer is around 5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3.50 EUR. Bottled water is 1.50 EUR.

If you want to cook your meals, expect to pay 40-60 EUR per week for groceries that include basic staples like pasta, rice, produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Ireland Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 65 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation, and do free and cheap activities like free walking tours or visiting castles. If you plan on drinking, add 5-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 140 EUR per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for most meals at cheap fast food places, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting the Cliffs of Moher.

On a “luxury” budget of at least 240 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car for day trips, and do as many tours and excursions as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Ireland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It’s easy to break the bank in Ireland as all those pub visits can add up fast. To help you save without sacrificing your trip, here are some money-saving tips for Ireland:

• Ask for student discounts – A valid student ID can get you discounts of up to 50% on many attractions, museums, and buses throughout the country. If you have a valid student ID, always ask for discounts. Take note, these discounts most often apply to anyone under 26 with a student ID.
• Drink less – Ireland’s strong pub culture can hit your wallet hard. Temper the cost by visiting happy hours, drinking at home, or skipping drinks altogether.
• Eat the pub food – Eat at the pubs for hearty local Irish food that won’t destroy your wallet. It’s not healthy, but it’s affordable.
• Get an OPW Heritage Card – If you love to tour heritage sites, pick up this card. It provides free access to most of the castles throughout the country. The card is 40 EUR.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place and show you around their city. You not only get to save money but you make a new friend in the process!
• Eat early – Many restaurants have budget dinner options if you eat early (usually before 6pm). You won’t have as much variety since it’s a set menu, but it will be much cheaper!
• Cook your meals – Staying in a hostel will help you make new travel buddies, and they’ll likely have a kitchen. The biggest grocery chain is Tesco, which has large super stores and smaller city shops for basics. Don’t snooze on Aldi or Lidl. These discount grocers carry everything you’d need for a meal, and have aisles with deeply-discounted merch.
• Take free walking tour – Some of the bigger cities in Ireland (like Dublin and Galway) have free walking tours available. They’re the best way to see the main highlights on a budget. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Ireland

Ireland has plenty of fun, social hostels. Here are my suggested places to stay if you’re on a budget:

• Generator Hostel (Dublin)
• Jacobs Inn (Dublin)
• Galway City Hostel (Galway)
• The Nest Boutique Hostel (Galway)
• Sheilas Cork Hostel (Cork)
• An Oige Youth Hostel (Killarney)
• The Hideout Hostel (Dingle)

How to Get Around Ireland

Public transportation – Public transportation in Ireland is clean, safe, and reliable. Bus trips around Dublin cost about 3 EUR while Galway tickets are 2.20 EUR and tickets in Belfast are 1.60 GBP if you head into Northern Ireland.

With a LEAP card (a card you can top up to use on the country’s public transportation), you can use all public transportation options for reduced prices (up to 31% off compared to cash tickets). You can even use it for DublinBikes self-service bicycle rentals.

A day pass on public transportation costs 8-10 EUR.

Bus – Ireland is a small island so you won’t find too many routes that are longer than a few hours. That means that prices are pretty reasonable. The 2.5-hour trip from Dublin to Belfast in Northern Ireland costs around 20 EUR. A bus from Dublin to Galway takes about 2.5 hours and costs between 12-25 EUR.

Bus Éireann is the main coach service, while Translink serves the North (and includes Ulsterbus and Goldline). You can search their website for the best deals and for route schedules. If you book early, you’ll get the lowest ticket prices.

There’s a really handy journey planning website that can help you plan your route (but you can’t buy tickets there).

Train – Irish Rail is the main train service provider in Ireland. While the train is more expensive than the bus, it’s still quite affordable. Cork to Dublin takes around 2.5 hours and costs 20-30 EUR while Galway to Dublin costs 17-25 EUR and takes about the same amount of time.

Bus & train passes – Ireland has several rail and bus passes that might make sense for you depending on your itinerary and budget:

• Irish Explorer – Five days of unlimited Irish Rail travel within 15 consecutive days for 128 EUR.
• Sunday Day Tracker – This deal is for one day of unlimited travel (Sundays only) on Translink buses and trains in the North. It costs 3.50 EUR
• Trekker Four Day – Unlimited travel on Irish Rail within a four-day period for 88 EUR.

Car Rental – Renting a car in Ireland is affordable, with prices starting around 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Renting a car is the best way to get around the country too. Renters need to be at least 21 years old. Just keep in mind that most rentals are manuals and that they drive on the left.

When to Go to Ireland

Ireland’s temperate climate makes it a good destination to visit year-round, keeping in mind that you’re guaranteed to encounter rain no matter when you visit.

The summer months (June-August) are the warmest and the sunniest so this is when the country is at its liveliest. Keep in mind that this is peak season so you’ll compete for accommodation in the larger cities. And lines will be longer for attractions like museums or castles. Prices are a little inflated too. Average temperatures hover between 13-20°C (56-68°F) but can climb to 25°C (77°F) or more. Be warned, if you go for a swim at one of the beaches, the water will be cold. Ocean temperatures won’t be over 18°C (65°F) on a warm day! They’ll likely be a little cooler.

Winters can be drizzly with short daylight hours, but temperatures rarely fall below freezing. Dress warmly and be prepared for lots of indoor activities if you visit during this time. If you visit around Christmas, the festive lights and Christmas markets make for a warmer atmosphere. The pubs will be more celebratory, too.

Saint Patrick’s Day in March is huge all around the country. During this time, hostels and hotels fill up quickly, and prices spike. Temperatures are still mild and Ireland is just as beautiful as ever but you’ll need to book your accommodation in advance.

Overall, the shoulder seasons (March-May and September-October) are my favorite times to visit. Aside from St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll find prices to be a little lower and the country to be less busy. The weather is decent enough for exploring too. Just bring an umbrella! September is an especially fun time to see Ireland. The weather is still warm-ish but the larger crowds, especially those traveling with children, have cleared out. You might feel like you’re the only tourist at a castle or on a hike.

How to Stay Safe in Ireland

Ireland is very safe and the risk of experiencing violent crime here is low. That said, scams and pick-pocketing can occur in high-traffic areas, especially around tourist attractions like Temple Bar in Dublin. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

If you rent a car, don’t leave valuables inside the vehicle overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Be alert when driving, especially on twisty country roads or roundabouts (traffic circles). Most roads are paved and in good condition, but if you are used to driving on the other side (they drive on the left in Ireland) a steep curve may surprise you.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, or venture into unknown areas after dark, etc.). For tips, use one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web as they’ll be able to provide better advice than I can.

When camping, understand designated sites from wild spots. Wild camping is generally accepted, but keep in mind that much of the remote land you see is probably private property. Camp sites are well kept, but when opting for parks or remote areas, you may not have cell service.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 or 999 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Ireland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Ireland Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Ireland and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Dublin

The Best Walking Tours in Dublin

The 5 Best Hostels in Dublin

Where to Stay in Dublin: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Tour Companies in Ireland

My Love Note to the Irish

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
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• Europe Tours
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• Budget Tours

Affordable trips to Ireland 2024/2025

Experience the enchanting yet affordable side of Ireland on our carefully curated budget trips to Ireland . Explore charming coastal towns like Dingle and Kinsale, while our handpicked, local accommodations will ensure a comfortable, modest stay amidst gorgeous Irish countryside. Marvel at historic landmarks such as Trim Castle, Dunluce Castle, and the Rock of Cashel, and unwind in bustling parks like Merrion Square in Dublin or Fitzgerald Park in Cork. Take leisurely walks along the waterfront, learn about the rich history of Waterford Crystal, and indulge in budget-friendly meals. Discover the beauty of Ireland without breaking the bank with our affordable group tours to Ireland. Get acquainted with like-minded travelers on our group tours to Ireland. Explore the most affordable trips to Ireland listed below.

• Best Time To Visit Ireland

55 budget tours in Ireland

• Starts Dublin, Ireland
• Ends Dublin, Ireland

Irish Explorer

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Coach
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,685
• Special Deal (32%): - US$ 545
• Total Price from: US$ 1,140
• May 12 Only 4 seats left
• May 26 Only 6 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Best of Ireland

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='21020'>+1 more
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,050
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 466
• Total Price from: US$ 2,584
• May 14 10+ seats left
• May 24 10+ seats left

Irish Wonder

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='21273'>+1 more
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,875
• Special Deal (18%): - US$ 340
• Total Price from: US$ 1,535
• May 19 Only 5 seats left
• Jun 02 Only 8 seats left

Irish Highlights

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='23154'>+2 more
• Transport Ferry & Coach
• Age Range 5-95 yrs
• May 19 10+ seats left
• Jun 02 Only 6 seats left

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='23430'>+2 more
• Transport Coach & Ferry
• Jun 02 Only 10 seats left

Ireland in a Week

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Age Range 18-35 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,855
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 377
• Total Price from: US$ 1,478
• May 08 Only 6 seats left
• May 18 Only 10 seats left

Amazing Ireland

• Activities Chill out
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,450
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 676
• Total Price from: US$ 3,774
• May 05 Only 10 seats left
• May 12 10+ seats left

• Starts Bunclody, Ireland

The Wicklow Way - 9 Days

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Guest House
• Transport Bus & Taxi
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• May 01 10+ seats left
• May 02 10+ seats left

• Starts Tinahely, Ireland

The Wicklow Way - 7 Days

• Transport Train, Bus & Taxi

• Ends Belfast, Ireland

Highlights of Ireland

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Art and architecture
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,599
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 520
• Total Price from: US$ 2,079
• May 18 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 01 Only 2 seats left

• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='22541'>+2 more
• May 14 Only 7 seats left
• May 24 Only 5 seats left

• Starts Tralee, Ireland

Dingle Peninsula Walk

• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking Walking tours , Trekking and Hiking , Winter adventure & Beach 'data-more-tripid='20331'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hut
• Transport Train & Bus

• Starts Killarney, Ireland
• Ends Killarney, Ireland

Walking the Kerry Way and Killarney National Park

• Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
• Age Range 18-95 yrs
• May 01 Only 8 seats left
• May 03 Only 8 seats left

Shamrocks and Leprechauns

• Activities Family & Art and architecture Family , Art and architecture , Museum and gallery visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='21002'>+2 more
• Transport Coach, Ferry & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,325
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 652
• Total Price from: US$ 2,673
• Jun 16 Only 7 seats left
• Jul 14 10+ seats left

Ireland Budget Tour Reviews

• Adam Curran

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Ireland With No Frills

Low-Cost Vacations in Ireland

Ireland on a budget is... complicated. After (quite successfully) playing catch-up with other developed nations in the prosperity stakes, the Irish themselves have become (nearly) used to high prices for everything. Hey, we can afford it now, can’t we?

On the other hand, tourists become nearly apoplectic when working out the restaurant bill, especially if they have to convert it into dollars. So, is really low-budget travel to and through Ireland still possible?

It is, but only if you are prepared to cut corners and do without the frills.

Coming to Ireland

Getting there is the first problem - and more than likely to take out a large chunk of your overall budget.

Unless you work the cost of your passage off on a Panamanian tramp steamer via Lagos and Murmansk, as an overseas visitor you will have little choice but to fly in. Costly but not necessarily expensive if you  choose the right airline .

If you are coming from mainland Europe and are feeling really adventurous, consider hitching a ride on a long-distance truck, paying your ferry passage as a foot passenger. It might work out safer, as cheap and certainly quicker to catch a no-frills flight. If you are a group, ferry travel with your own car is another option.

Traveling Around Ireland

A car is ideal, no contest. But unless you bring your own vehicle, you’ll have to rent a car in Ireland . So other alternatives might work out less expensive - but how easy is it to  get around Ireland without a car ?

Hitch-hiking is cheapest but also dangerous. You might get picked up by a driver at the lower end of driving skills, somebody looking for payment in kind (usually the sexual kind) or a plain old psycho.

If you are prepared to cover small distances only, consider walking Ireland. Or, for the more energetic willing to brave traffic, cycling across Ireland is another low-cost option (if you bring your own bike - cycle hire can work out nearly as expensive as car hire).

Lodgings in Ireland

Unless you are prepared to sleep rough (which we would, under no circumstances, advise) you will have to splash out some money here.

Maybe the cheapest option at first glance is a tent. But you have to remember that  camping in Ireland is allowed only with the express consent of the land's owner . And if the land is owned by the state this consent is simply not there. Pitching your tent in an unauthorized area is illegal, no discussion needed. Though the question remains how likely it is to get caught in some remote areas.

So if you consider hiring a pitch and lugging your gear around, simply bunking in a hostel or youth hostel may begin to sound more sensible. Depending on room size, additional comforts and location, a bed will cost you anything from € 12 per night, rarely less. Shop around if you can, usually the nearer to the city center and/or train and bus stations, the more expensive hostels are. Hostels in travel hotspots can work out as expensive as Bed & Breakfast accommodation .

Irish Food and Drink

Self-catering and "on the run" is the motto, spiced up with a keen eye for a bargain.

Hit the nearest Starbucks for a coffee and a croissant and you are at least € 5 out of pocket. The same money will buy you more than a day's rations at any Aldi, Lidl, or SuperValu (in Northern Ireland add Asda). And a fairly good spread at any deli counter.

Be aware that alcohol is extremely expensive in Ireland (slightly less so in Northern Ireland), don’t fall into the trap of spending more in one evening in the pub than what you calculated would see you fed for the week. Dublin's best pubs are not the best idea to save money, seriously.

Things to Do and See in Ireland

The Irish tourism industry is up to world standard and can extort money out of visitors with the best of them. From the frankly ridiculous parking charges at the Cliffs of Moher to creating the impression that you have to pay for visiting Glendalough or Tara , your purse is in danger all the time.

But the good news is there are plenty of free attractions in Ireland and cost-saving sights in Dublin .

Your Realistic Irish Budget per Day

Well, it all depends. But with a bit of luck, by going outside the main season, self-catering in hostels and using pedal-power you’d be able to get by on as low as € 20 per day. Obviously, any additional frills will add. But by sticking to the very basics you are still able to see Ireland on a budget.

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Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

The Emerald Isle has it all. From Coleraine to Kinsale, Ireland takes you on a journey for all the senses. But it can be quite costly.

Though getting there shouldn't break the bank, many visitors find themselves going over budget during a trip. With St Patrick's Day on March 17, if you're planning a low-cost holiday to Ireland, here are some tips on making your Irish experience budget travel friendly.

There are plenty of options to fly to Ireland using points and miles from more than 20 U.K. airports. You can redeem Avios on British Airways or Aer Lingus . With BA's   Reward Flight Savers , you can get one-way flights to Dublin from just 7,500 Avios + $0.65 in economy from either London City (LCY) or London Heathrow (LHR).

Read our complete guide about how to get to Ireland on points and miles here .

A car is the cheapest option to get around Ireland. For car rental, The Platinum Card® from American Express is handy as you automatically receive elite status with Avis and Hertz , which makes renting a car easier and faster (enrollment required). With a car, you are in complete control, and Ireland's roads traverse the beautiful countryside, which is free and breathtakingly stunning.

Read more: Second Cities: Destinations to add onto a trip to Dublin

Budget accommodation

If you are points savvy, hostels don't need to be an option if you visit at the right time. Winter months are best if you are on a budget with peak season between June to August. For instance, The Westin in Dublin , an SPG category 7 property, is located in a 19th-century building with a clock tower overlooking the famous Spire and has a great city-centre location. Room rates start at $340 (staying in early April) per night or 50,000 Bonvoy points.

Airbnbs offer a happy medium as they are generally cheaper than a hotel but you can still enjoy proper Irish hospitality and stay in funky accommodation like castles, such as Wilton Castle, which has seven bedrooms.

Heritage Card

Similar to a National Trust membership, an Ireland Heritage Card is valid for an entire year and provides free admission to any site operated by the Office of Public Works (OPW). This includes major attractions including Killarney National Park, Ross Castle, Dublin Castle, Glenveagh National Park, Ennis Friary, the Iveagh Gardens and much more. At $44 for an adult pass (or $102 for a family pass of two adults and five kids aged 12 to 18), it's well worth the purchase if you plan on visiting more than six attractions when you are in Ireland. Just make sure to bring cash as some places don't accept cards. If you're only planning to stay in the Dublin area throughout your trip, consider a Dublin Pass instead.

Read more : Pot of gold: A review of Aer Lingus on the A321neo in business class from Dublin to Philadelphia

Eating and drinking

No trip to Ireland is complete without a visit to the pub, but be aware that booze is expensive in Ireland (slightly less so in Northern Ireland). A pint of Guinness could cost you up to $8 in Dublin. A great way to budget is to find a pub with some live music, enjoy a couple of pints and sing along to some Irish trad music.

Supermarket delis stock excellent local Irish produce or go local and make a crisp sandwich in slabs of white bread and lashings of butter. If you are spending some time in Ireland, the SuperValu rewards scheme is a good one with one point for every euro spent, and there are over 200 grocery stores to shop in. You can also double your points at SuperValu when you pay with Visa.

Free things to do in Ireland

In Ireland, it's not uncommon to charge tourists for the pleasure of seeing some of the great sights, including the Cliffs of Moher. Did you know that two of Ireland's top attractions, the Hill of Tara and Glendalough, are actually free to visit? The entrance fee applies only to the local heritage center and not the attraction itself. In Belfast, the famous political wall-paintings provide splendid murals of communities living next to but totally isolated from each other. The Ulster Museum nearby is also free.

No trip to Ireland is complete without a visit to Dublin. There are lots of free things to do in Dublin especially as the weather warms up. Heading up the list of free attractions in Dublin is the National Gallery, which has a wide array of art. Walking tours are a great way to discover Dublin and the Dublin Free Walking Tour offers two free tours.

You could easily spend a day exploring Phoenix Park, Europe's largest inner-city park. You don't need to pay for Dublin Zoo to see animals as Phoenix Park is home to a large collection of deer. Staying outdoors, the National Botanical Gardens are a green haven north of the city center.

Bottom line

There is something for everyone to discover including castles, coastline, culture and even Michelin-starred restaurants. Ireland caters for every budget and with a little planning, points can come in very handy. A cheap holiday in Ireland is also the best way to immerse yourself in Irish culture and get to know the country and its people.

• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Affordable Budget Tours to Ireland

Embark on a wallet-friendly escapade that doesn't compromise on fun with these amazing budget tours to Ireland. We've meticulously analyzed a diverse selection of affordable organized tours from highly reviewed companies, guaranteeing you an unforgettable experience in Ireland without breaking the bank. From pocket-friendly prices and exceptional guest ratings to outstanding service, captivating destinations, and thrilling activities, these curated tours prove that adventure and affordability can go hand in hand. So, let's find your next budget-friendly tour to Ireland in our selection below.

• Wild Atlantic Way | Ireland 10 Days, $1527.93
• Ireland’s Ancient East 6 Days, $871.05
• ONE FOR THE ROAD 15 Days, $2213.53

What are budget and low-cost tours like in Ireland?

Here are the important factors:

• 5 trip options analyzed
• $139 average price per day (USD)
• 6 to 15 days in length
• 4.6 of 5 average rating
• 54 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of budget tours? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 54 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 6 days, while the longest is 15 days. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 5 budget tours, you can rest assured that Ireland has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 5 Best Budget Tours in Ireland

Wild atlantic way | ireland.

• On Sale: 10% Off See Prices
• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for budget tours.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This exceptional trip offering by BTOURS has received a 5 out of 5 rating. On this 10-day voyage, visiting Ireland and Northern Ireland, you can unwind while also making new memories. Along the way, this journey encompasses 11 destinations, including Burren, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick, and Dingle. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Dublin. With a group size of 5 people, it's suitable for travelers from 18 to 85 years old. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $138 per day.

Ireland’s Ancient East

Check out this voyage that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 5 out of 5 rating. This itinerary covers 7 captivating destinations, with stops in Kilkenny, Glendalough, New Ross, and Waterford, among others. Dublin will be both the start and end of your journey. Spanning across 6 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 6 participants, and it's great for travelers from 18 to 85 years old. Brought to you by the renowned BTOURS , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $131 per day - an unbeatable value.

ONE FOR THE ROAD

This 15-day journey is ideal for travelers from 2 to 75 years old. And priced at only $148 per day, it's a great value, too. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 4 destinations, featuring Cork and Killarney. Your adventure starts and ends in Dublin. It's offered by Interrailing Packages , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

• Train & Rail

The Best Of Ireland

Priced at just $131 per day, this terrific 8-day trip is ideal for travelers from 9 to 80 years old. Uncover the beauty of 5 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Galway, Connemara National Park, and Ring of Kerry. Dublin will be the beginning and end of your trip. Organized by the reputable Indus Travels , this is one of the best tours on this list.

Celtic Connections Self-Drive

Check out this incredible trip that has received a 4 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Ireland. With an emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. With a duration of 15 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 4 people, and is good for travelers from 8 to 90 years old. Traverse through 12 enchanting destinations, with Ring of Kerry, Kilkenny, Wicklow, and Perth among the must-see stops along the route. Edinburgh marks the starting point, while Dublin stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. This fantastic option, organized by Indus Travels , presents an unbeatable value at just $147 per day.

• In-depth Cultural

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland , The Best Historical Tours in Ireland , The Best 10-Day Tours in Ireland , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland , The Best 3-Day Tours in Ireland , The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Ireland , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Ireland , The Best Adventure Tours to Ireland , The Best Eco Tours in Ireland , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Ireland , The Best Cultural Tours in Ireland , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Ireland , The Best Self Drive Tours in Ireland , The Best Walking Tours in Ireland , The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland , or The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dublin , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Killarney , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Galway , The Best 10-Day Tours from Dublin , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin for more package tour options.

How much do budget tours cost in Ireland?

After analyzing 5 budget tours in Ireland, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $139 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for budget tours with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Ireland .

And for more information on Ireland, see Ireland Travel Costs and Ireland Hotel Costs .

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The Cost of Travel in Ireland (2024): A Detailed Budget Breakdown

Ireland was one of the first countries I ever added to my travel bucket list.

Perhaps it was the hopeless romantic in me thinking I’d meet a handsome man, like in P.S. I Love You , or maybe it was the sheer number of beautiful photos that left me captivated. 

Either way, I was deeply drawn to Ireland’s culture and natural landscapes from a young age. So much so that I was determined to get there as soon as I possibly could, so when the opportunity arose for me to study abroad in Ireland, I was filling in my application form within minutes.

Yes, I achieved my lifelong goal of visiting Ireland and before I knew it, I was taking my first steps in this beautiful country, pinching myself that I was actually living there now.

I didn’t want to squander that opportunity, which is why I spent almost every weekend exploring the Emerald Isle from top to bottom. It wasn’t a surprise to discover that travelling across Ireland didn’t come cheap, but I wouldn’t say it was overly expensive either. I averaged around €156/$ 170 per day while I was travelling across the country, with most of that money being spent on accommodation and food.

One of the best ways to see Ireland and save money is to rent a car and drive around at your own pace, but I joined plenty of bus tours, too. Taking tours cost more, but it meant I didn’t have to worry about driving or navigation either. In the end, these were some of my favorite weekends — and definitely worth the money. 

Whether it was driving along the winding, postcard-worthy clifftop roads that had me feeling like I was on the edge of the world or drinking with locals in a teeny-tiny pub in Dublin, Ireland was all that I dreamed it to be and more.

After my most recent trip last year, I decided to finally sit down and share exactly how much you can expect to spend while travelling in Ireland, so let’s get started.

What’s Included in this Post 

This budget breakdown covers how much I spent on accommodation, transportation, activities, and food while I travelled around the country.

I’ve not included my flights into and out of Ireland as this is going to vary significantly based on where you’ll be arriving from.

The amounts in this guide are listed in Euros and U.S. dollars, simply because the vast majority of readers of this site are from the U.S. and close to a million Americans visit Ireland each year.

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Ireland

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Couchsurfing  exists in Ireland and allows you to stay with a local for free , usually sleeping on their sofa and enjoying a local’s insight into life in their country. It’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget’s tight, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can browse through the 80,000+ Irish hosts on  the Couchsurfing site .

Housesitting  is a great option for  free  accommodation. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees: you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you  do  have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. I have friends who have housesat in castles before! For free!  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

I will make a quick note, however, that post-pandemic, the cost of hostels in Dublin is obnoxiously high. As in, while looking for a hostel in the city for July 2023, the cheapest price I could find was €100 for a dorm bed or €200 for a private room .

Yes, really. It’s something I’ve encountered in numerous countries since the pandemic, but it did seem to be particularly bad in Dublin.

Away from the capital and outside the peak summer travel season, though, hostels in Ireland  are more sensibly priced. You can expect to spend around  €40 a night for a dorm bed  for a well-reviewed hostel in Ireland, with the price increasing to slightly about  €60 a night  for the absolute best of the best.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you can expect to spend around  €120 a night  for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with a friend or partner, there’s not always a lot in it compared to two dorm beds. €150-190 a night  will get you an exceptionally well-reviewed private room in a hostel or hotel.

I use  HostelWorld  to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And, of course, there are always hotels, which are usually priced about the same as a private room in a hostel, but typically have a few more comforts. You’ll pay  €120-200 a night  for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location, depending on where you are and when you’re traveling. I always use  Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices.

The Cost of Accommodation in Ireland 

There’s lots of wonderful places to stay in Ireland — from B&Bs to castles to hotels and hostels. 

If you’re even toying with the idea of staying in a castle (I know: the ultimate fairy-tale dream) then you’re looking at around $200-$600 a night for the higher-end, luxury versions. Honestly, I think Ireland is a fantastic place to splurge on accommodation if you can afford to. 

I always like to share the accommodation I stayed in on my travels, as well as recommend alternatives when mine weren’t so wonderful. Everywhere I recommend below has excellent reviews and offers great value for money.

Here’s my list of my favourite accommodation options in Ireland:

Dublin: Staycity Aparthotels Mark Street ( €180 a night )

Dublin is unbelievably expensive right now, so I really felt like I lucked out when I discovered this modern hotel. Not only is it in the best location in town — within walking distance of Temple Bar and all the main tourist attractions — but the staff are wonderful and the rooms comfortable. The heating and air conditioning worked well, the rooms were silent, and it felt as though we were staying in a brand new hotel. It’s one of the cheapest accommodation options in Dublin while also being one of the best reviewed. I wouldn’t consider staying anywhere else!

Galway: The Stop B&B ( €219 a night )

As far as I’m concerned, Galway is a must-visit destination on any trip to Ireland. Its lively atmosphere, vibrant street busking, and brightly colored buildings make it one of my favorite cities: it’s one of the places I always revisit whenever I’m in the country. I stay at the Stop B&B when I do: it’s easily one of the best-rated options in town that’s still in a great location a few minute’s walk from the city centre. The rooms are absolutely spotless, stylish and modern without feeling generic, and Russell (the host) couldn’t have been more welcoming. Shoutout to the delicious included breakfast as well: it was better than what I had in most restaurants!

Cork : Hotel Isaacs Cork City ( €169 a night )

I really enjoyed my stay at Hotel Isaacs for the couple of nights I spent in Cork. It’s one of the more affordable hotels in the city, but is still in an ideal location, just a five minute walk from the centre and ten minutes from the bus and train stations. It’s nice and quiet despite being right in the heart of things, and my room was bigger than many I’ve stayed in in Ireland. There’s a good onsite bar but in the end I didn’t spend much time there: the staff’s recommendations for traditional pubs nearby were so good that I spent my evenings there instead!

Dingle : Murphy’s Pub and Bed & Breakfast ( €135 a night )

The stunning Dingle Peninsula is one of the most beautiful parts of the country; I don’t think I’ve ever seen such vibrant shades of green anywhere else on the planet! You’ll need at least a couple of days to fully explore the area, and I’d recommend staying at the delightful Murphy’s Pub in Dingle overnight while you do. Right in the middle of town and on the waterfront, you couldn’t ask for a better location to explore the town from. Not that you even have to leave the building if you don’t want to: one of the big benefits of staying in a pub is only having to walk a few steps to dinner, and that’s equally true here! My room was large, spotless, and very quiet considering it’s above the bar, and the included breakfast was super-tasty and set me up for the rest of the day. I really enjoyed my stay at this cozy family-run pub: I just wish I’d had another night there!

Belfast (Northern Ireland) : Citi North Guesthouse ( €94 a night )

Belfast is one of the most interesting cities I have been to. It’s deeply cultured, rooted in history and close to some of the most stunning natural landscapes I’ve ever seen. And if you’re planning a stint in Belfast, you need to stay at Citi North. Not only is it one of the most inexpensive guesthouses in town, but it also offers up one of the best breakfasts in the city — included in the price, of course. And it’s the small touches that really make the difference here, whether it’s having your bed made up and linens replaced while you’re busy hitting the streets of Belfast, receiving local recommendations on how to make the most of your vacation, or sleeping on a bed so comfortable that it feels like lounging on a cloud. It’s also in particularly handy location for boarding the  hop on hop off tour  or meeting up with one of the  black taxi tours .

The Cost of Transportation in Ireland 

Transportation around Ireland isn’t just a way of getting around, it’s an attraction in and of itself. For the most part, I used buses to get around the country when I hadn’t rented a car.

Bus and Train — The bus will probably be your main way of getting around if you don’t have a driver’s license. I found the bus system in Ireland to be very reliable and easy. and it covers pretty much anywhere you’re likely to want to go. The buses are quite comfortable and modern, they almost always leave on time, and most even have free Wi-Fi on board! And because Ireland is a pretty small island, the costs are actually quite reasonable. 

The main bus companies are Bus Éireann, Citylink, Aircoach, and Go Bus. Bus Éireann is the biggest and best of them, with reasonable prices and routes that cover the entire country. Plus, WiFi, power sockets, and comfy seats!

If trains are more your thing, they can also be a good way of getting around, especially on routes that go mostly along the coast: there are some epic views to be had! Tickets do tend to cost a bit more than the equivalent bus trip, though, and the trains don’t run as often as the buses or to as many places.

That said, shorter trips are still quite cheap: I paid €8.35 for a walk-up ticket from Enniscorthy to Rosslare, which wasn’t a lot more than the bus.

You can buy tickets on the day from self-service machines and ticket counters, or in discounted advance tickets from the Irish Rail website . You just collect your ticket from the machine when you get to the station.

Here are some of the typical bus and train route cost breakdowns, booked a few days in advance: 

• Bus from Dublin to Galway: €15/$17
• Bus from Dublin to Cork:  €15/$17
• Bus from Dublin to Belfast: €11.50/$14
• Train from Cork to Killarney: €12/$13
• Train from Killarney to Galway: €17.33/$19

City Travel — This mostly pertains to getting around Dublin. I found the city centre to be compact enough that you could easily walk places (if you’re wearing comfortable shoes of course!). Unlike most European cities, Dublin doesn’t have an underground system, so your best bet is to use the extensive public bus network. 

If you’ll be using public transport a lot, pick up a LEAP card: you can buy and top up at ticket offices and most convenience stores. You’ll save up to 30% on the regular single ticket cash price, although note that the card has a €5 deposit and €5 minimum topup.

With your card, you’ll pay a €2 for most bus trips in Dublin, with a daily cap of €5.60 . You can also use your LEAP card towards the train, tram, or Dublin bike rental. It’s worthwhile if you’re traveling beyond Dublin as well: you can use it in other cities like Limerick, Galway, and Cork. 

Car Rental — Like I said earlier, if you have a driver’s license and you’re comfortable driving on the left side of the road, then this is by far one of the most cost-effective and flexible options. Renting a car and driving around Ireland is one of the best ways to explore the vast countryside on your own timetable. Prices start at €26 ($28) per day for a simple, economy car. This is a great option if you’re traveling with friends or a partner because you can split both the costs of the rental and gas. 

Keep in mind that car rental prices do change depending on the time of year and how high the demand is. Typically the further you book out, the better prices there will be. I always use RentalCars.com to find the best deals for car rentals, as they always seem to find cheaper options than I can score by going direct.

The Cost of Food in Ireland 

Irish food feels like coming home. It just invites a feeling of sitting by the fireplace in a cozy cottage on the water, surrounded by friends and family. Whether it’s seafood chowder, cottage pie, or classic fish and chips, hearty, feel-good food is everywhere in this country. If you’re eating out for all your meals, though, you’re definitely going to notice a dent in your budget. 

If you want to start your day off with a lot of food, look no further than the traditional Irish Breakfast. Similar to the Full English from across the channel, you’ll end up with some combination of bacon, sausages, baked beans, eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes, black and white pudding, and toast. You’ll pay around €15 ($16.50) for it, although it’s not uncommon to see half-sized versions on the menu for those who’d like to save a bit of money (and their arteries).

You don’t have to go the traditional route, though, at least not when you’re in a major city. Especially in Dublin, but elsewhere as well, there are plenty of brunch-style cafes with a wide range of healthier options. I’ve had everything from shakshuka and granola bowls to salmon and eggs and the ubiquitous avocado on toast, paying €12-15 ($13-16.50) each time.

Pub meals typically offer the best value, especially outside the tourist areas of major cities. There, it’s not hard to find a delicious, filling meal of rich Irish stew and soda bread, fresh fish and chips, or tasty burgers for around €15-20 ($16.50-22) per person. A similar meal at a more upscale restaurant will be more like €20-25 ($22-27) . 

It’s worth looking out for restaurants that offer lunchtime or early bird specials. Often during the middle of the week, at certain times before the dinner rush, restaurants will offer full meals at a discounted rate. 

If you’re staying at accommodation with shared kitchens, this is a fantastic way to save money on food. When I spent money on groceries, I usually paid around €60 ($65) per week, or €8.50 ($9.50) per day for basic things like pasta and vegetables. 

If the place you’re staying at includes a free breakfast, I’d definitely suggest taking advantage of it. Especially if it’s a cooked breakfast, but even if it’s a lighter continental option, it often means you can get by with something small like a sandwich or wrap for lunch while you’re out exploring, and then opt to cook dinner in the evenings. Then you’ll average around €20 ($24) per day. 

Fancy a pint of Guinness or my personal favorite, Smithwick’s Irish Red? You’re looking at around €6 for every additional bevvy that you tack on, which you’ll be tempted to do at many points! I’d suggest going easy on the drinks in Temple Bar and other major tourist spots, though: prices there can be a lot higher than elsewhere! 

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in Ireland 

The activities in Ireland are so much fun! The rich history, incredible landscapes and quirky attractions will make memories to last a lifetime. I found most activities and entrance fees to be reasonably priced, at least compared to some other places in Europe. 

Without a doubt, my favorite experiences were taking a tour of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula Tour. These are spectacular drives, with incredibly lush mountains and ocean views that I couldn’t tear my eyes away from. I went with Paddywagon for my tours, and felt very taken care of. All I needed to do was sit back and enjoy the drive: it was nice to be able to just gaze out the window and let someone else do the driving! They made sure to stop frequently so we could get out, take pictures, and see everything up close. 

I also enjoyed seeing the Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway, experiencing the Guinness Storehouse and kissing the Blarney Stone. When I think about my time in Ireland, these are always the first activities that come to mind. 

Unless you’re a huge history buff, I personally thought that seeing The Book of Kells in Dublin was overrated and overpriced. But everything else is worth it!

Here’s a breakdown of some of the costs you might expect for the top attractions in Ireland: 

• Blarney Castle and Stone: €22/$24 (online discount)
• Guinness storehouse in Dublin: €20/$22 (online only)
• Cliffs of Moher: free
• The Book of Kells and Trinity College Dublin: €25/$27
• Giant’s Causeway: free
• Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge: €15.50/$17
• Connemara National Park: free
• 3-day tour of southern Ireland (Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, Cliffs of Moher, and Galway): €389/$422 (including accommodations, entrance fees, and breakfasts)  

If you’re like me, and love to make the most of time, then tours are really a great way to experience a country. I recommend hoping over to Get Your Guide for a range of activities and tours, like the Wild Wicklow Day Tour from Dublin ( €30/$33 ), Tour of Connemara National Park ( €35/$38 ), Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher Cruise ( €70/$76 ), or a Game of Thrones studio tour ( €34.50/$38) . 

The Cost of Travel Insurance in Ireland

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Ireland. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re way cheaper than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Ireland? 

It’s time to tally up all of my expenses to see my total travel costs!

• Accommodation: €159/$172 per day between two (€79.50/$86 each)
• Transportation: € 20/$22 per day
• Food: € 34/$37 per day
• Activities/Entrance Fees: € 23/$25 per day

Average amount spent in Ireland: € 156.50/ $170 a day!

What do you think? Are the costs to travel in Ireland about what you expected, or is it more or less expensive? Let me know!

Author bio: Born and raised in Toronto, Lydia has found “home” throughout her travels around the world. She’s a passionate storyteller and writer and you can usually find her dreaming about new adventures or having a deep conversation with a friend.

Related Articles on Ireland 💰 The Cost of Travel in Dublin: A 2024 Budget Breakdown ☘️ The Absolute Best Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Hi Lauren- thanks for this info. You want to check your math on these $ to pound conversions above; many are reversed (or leftover from when this was originally written perhaps and the pound was higher than the dollar?)

Hi LeeAnn! There aren’t any pound amounts in this article — do you mean Euros? I’ve double checked all the numbers and the exchange rate is still accurate as of today. The only thing I can think of is that you’re interpreting my Euro (€) prices as pounds (£)!

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18 Tips On How To Budget Travel Ireland Like A Pro

We aren’t called the Economical Excursionists for nothing here folks.  What started as a genuine need to be frugal to afford travel quickly became a passion, and to be honest, a game to me.  I get some weird thrill out of getting the best bang for my buck no matter where we travel now, and that definitely included figuring out how to budget travel Ireland on our one week trip around the south island.

But, traveling to Ireland on a budget does NOT mean you have to slum it up or even skip important destinations just for the sake of “budget travel.”  Nope, it’s important to truly enjoy your trip, but you can totally do so without breaking the bank.  The reality is, you just have to know HOW to travel to Ireland on a budget- and that’s exactly what I’ll show you in this article. 

If you haven’t yet, be sure to read all our Tips and Tricks For Anyone Traveling to Ireland

Here is our exact 7 Day Ireland Itinerary to help you plan as well.

Planning a Trip to Ireland on a Budget

^Planning a trip to Ireland? Don’t Forget To Pin This!^

Let’s first look at a completely average cost of a trip to Ireland.  Just for generalization’s sake, let’s look at some typical prices of things you’d need if you weren’t traveling Ireland on a budget:

• Airfare: $600-800 in high season from major hubs per person
• Daily Accommodation: $100 (standard double occupancy room)
• Daily Meals: $30-$50/Day per person
• Transportation: Varies depending on what you choose within the country

These costs are actually neither expensive nor cheap for what I see in Europe, but rather pretty typical costs.  But hey, that doesn’t mean I don’t want to have a cheap Ireland vacation!!!

How To Get Cheap Flights To Ireland

Travel hack with credit cards.

If you don’t follow us much, you may not be aware that we’ve traveled literally all over the world for close to free because of travel hacking.  You just pay taxes and fees on flights, which to Europe could be as low as about $12.  You can read all about what is travel hacking here if that sounds intriguing.

Budget Airlines

There are a ton of budget airlines now that operate to Ireland.  The catch is that the cheapest flights are typically from major hubs (ie New York).  You can always hodge podge together an itinerary if you are in a location that the budget airlines don’t service.  For example, try to find a cheap flight on Frontier or Southwest to New York and then switch airlines for the cross- Atlantic flight.  This isn’t always easy and in some cities even requires a complete airport change.  We’ve done this numerous times from JFK to Laguardia as well as Chicago O’Hare to Midway.  You’ll obviously need to have PLENTY of time between flights.  Maybe more important is you’ll want a “go with the flow” attitude if going that route, as you never know what can come up when traveling!

The other catch to budget airlines is that they are budget for a reason.  But hey, for around $300 for a roundtrip flight to/from Ireland, I’ll bring my own food, and do a carry on luggage only!! If you aren’t aware of the quirks of budget airlines, if you see a super cheap price, just be sure to see what “extras” you need to pay for.  You might be surprised what they’ll charge you for (anything from seat assignment to oversized hand baggage).  Again, as long as you know the rules, you’ll be fine and just saved a ton of money on flights!!

A few main budget airlines to Ireland are:

• Ryan Air (from Europe)
• Wizz Air (to Belfast)

Google Flights

I still don’t understand how people don’t know to just use Flights.Google.Com .  It is one of the best search tools you can find for the average user.  I love using this as my first searches because it includes airlines you may not even know exist.  For example, I’ve never heard of Tap Air Portugal, but apparently, they fly into Dublin from New York!? Who Knew!?

You can even set alerts on Google Flights to help you snatch up that cheap flight.

Know When To Go

There are plenty of theories in the travel world when the cheapest times to travel are, but the reality is that nowhere is “off the beaten path” anymore and you probably won’t find huge discounts in different seasons.

With that being said, it IS often still cheaper (comparatively) to fly in offseason to Ireland (winter), but with that comes a lot of downsides such as:

• Short daylight hours
• Some things being closed
• Not as good of weather

However, if you are really trying to penny pinch and are really traveling Ireland on a budget, then this is a way to see if you can cut some costs. 

Budget Car Rental in Ireland

Many people will wonder if they can make a t rip to Ireland cost less if they do public transportation (a totally valid though since that is true in so many locations).

While yes there are buses that you can use, the reality is, for the confusion and time the Ireland buses would add, it is not worth any cost savings.  Plus, you can get a budget rental car in Ireland for REALLY affordable prices.  I mean, we are talking like $15 a day or less!!! Obviously, if there is more than one of you traveling, this becomes a no brainer, especially when you look at all the amazing places you’ll want to go in the countryside that would be near impossible by public transportation. 

For our 7 Days in Ireland, our car rental cost about $100.  That’s about $14/Day! Score!

Pro Tip: Often rental companies will give a discount for longer rentals.  If you have the time in your itinerary, you might find that you’ll get a cheaper daily rate for a 7 day rental compared to a 3 day tip.

But wait…it gets better (said in my best, cheesiest, infomercial voice….)

Do You Need Extra Insurance To Drive In Ireland?

Many rental companies worldwide have a CDW waiver.  This waiver is NOT insurance.  Instead, it says that the rental company will greatly reduce (notice I didn’t say eliminate) an outrageously high deductible if you are in an accident or if the car is damaged (something that is NOT uncommon on those teeny tiny Irish roads!)

Most countries use the Collision Damage Waiver as part of their rental agreement for insurance.  However, Ireland is one of the few countries that does not. (We have found that many countries where you have to drive on the left side does not include CDW….I’m going to go ahead and assume that’s because too many people get into accidents because they momentarily forgot they were driving on the left!)

So, in Ireland, car rental companies will “require” you to add the CDW to your rental agreement.  However, that can cost upwards of $30…..A DAY!

Yeah, you read that right.  The insurance can be more than the car rental itself!

So I know what you are thinking.  “Ok, that’s fine, I’ll just deny the coverage.”

Sorry friends, not possible.  You actually MUST have CDW coverage in order to drive in Ireland.  So what’s a budget traveler to do!?

Check Your Credit Card Policy

Depending on your credit card, they may actually cover CDW as part of their services on the card.  Just call your credit card and ask if they include this and if so, request a written letter from the credit card company stating the policy.  You’ll obviously want to do this well before your trip so that you have a physical copy to give the rental company.

You might find that the rental company gives a ton of push back on this or even tries to then get you to agree to different additional insurance.  This is why a written, physical copy (preferably one copy for yourself) is important.

Don’t Get an International Driver’s Licence

You actually don’t need an international permit (not that they are terribly expensive) if you are just going to Ireland and are there for a short trip.  However, if you are a frequent traveler, I still advise always having one.

Also, your car rental company may ask or even require one.  Therefore, double-check before arriving just to make sure you have all your ducks in a row.

You do need a current/ valid driver’s license as well as your own insurance before driving in Ireland, so don’t forget your wallet!

Get A Heritage Card…..Maybe

If you are only going to be in Ireland (IE Dublin) for a few days, then the Heritage Card may not be worth it.

However, if you are going to be traveling in Ireland for 5 days or more and/or are planning on hitting up as many tourist sites as you can, then the Heritage Card can make it worth it.

The Way It Works: You buy a Heritage Card, which is actually good for a whole year, and you now have free access to any tourist attraction on the Office of Public Works (OPW) list.  So, for example, you can get into a lot of popular sites such as:

• Burren National Park
• Killarney National Park
• Muckross House and Farms
• Cahir Castle
• Trim Castle
• Ok….a TON of castles.  Just look at this list
• Ennis Friary

Basically, if you were already planning on visiting about 6 sites on the list (depending on the sight), then it pays for itself.  But, what I really liked about the Heritage Card was since there were SO many places on the list, we decided to randomly make some pit stops that we wouldn’t have otherwise.  Since they didn’t cost us any extra to get into because we already had the card, it was a great way to see more than what we would have otherwise.

You can easily buy the cards at most of the locations, but only a small handful will accept cards , so just have cash on hand.

Free Wednesdays!

On the first Wednesday of the month, there is a small list of places that the Office of Public Works (OPW) allows for a limited number of free visitors.  While I wouldn’t say that anything on the list particularly stands out as a fantastic steal, if all your stars align (you are there on the first Wednesday and you were planning on going to one of the listed locations) then hey, every penny saved counts when doing budget travel!

Go Grocery Shopping

If you have already read my Easiest Ways to Penny Pinch WHILE Traveling , then you know I am a HUGE fan of finding local grocery stores for regular meals.

If you are staying at a wonderful Irish B&B (more on this below), then an insanely large, traditional Irish breakfast is usually included.  We are talking numerous eggs, bacon, several types of sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and sometimes potatoes…..ALL on one (ok, maybe numerous) plates.

Depending on what kind of eater you are, you can fill up on this and just have a snack in your day bag (granola bars and fruit are my go-tos) to tide me over until a big dinner.

Alternatively, I love finding local grocery stores and getting things like sandwich supplies, fruit, or anything locally fun (Irish soda bread from the bakery, hand pies to go, etc)

By doing this, you then are only looking at needing to eat out once a day, which can greatly reduce costs.  Or, you know, spend that saved money on an extra Guinness or 3 😉

Some grocery chains that are common in Ireland are:

Choose Accommodation Wisely

Authentic irish b&bs.

One of our favorite B&Bs: Browne’s in Dingle

We stayed at traditional B&Bs during our week in Ireland, and this actually was more expensive than our typical budget accommodation.  However, we really wanted to get more info on that authentic Irish Hospitality experience. While you can get some really fantastic B&Bs for around $80/night, that still isn’t what I consider “Budget Travel.”

Alternatively, you can try the AirBnB route.  I personally love staying at AirBnBs now that we have kids, because we select the “Entire Place” option and get, well, an entire home!  It’s perfect for extra space, a kitchen to save money on meals and not be cramped into a small hotel room with two toddlers.  However, if you go the “Entire Place” route, you will miss out on that fantastic Irish B&B experience.

You can also choose to filter just by renting out 1 room of a home and staying with a host.  This way, you’ll get a much more authentic B&B experience (but probably without those amazing breakfasts!)

Both of these options are much less expensive than the traditional B&B route.  There are double occupancy rooms for only about $45 last I checked in Dingle, for example, and only around $60 for a small 1 bedroom loft.

If you are wanting to stay in an AirBnB, here is up to $30 off your first booking .

Yup, you read that right.  Spend the night in a castle!!! Ok, so again, this is not what I would call “Budget Travel” but you can actually find some pretty reasonably priced stays at actual castles!  On AirBnB, there are a few that are around the $150/night mark.  Not “cheap” but definitely unique and not insanely expensive!

STOP!!!  I know I know, “Hostels.”  You are thinking, “Thanks, LeAnna, but I am well past my hostel days.  I don’t care to share a bunk bed in a room with 6-12 other people.”

But here’s the thing if you are trying to travel Ireland on a budget: Many hostels in Ireland are NOT what you think of in a traditional sense.

Just to entertain me for a moment, look at HostelWorld and see what they have for options.  You’ll see that more often than not, you get a private, double occupancy room, some even with it’s own ensuite bathroom (gasp! I know, unheard of in traditional hostels!)

If you are truly looking for cheap places to stay in Ireland, don’t write off hostels quite yet.

Dublin on a Budget

If you are looking for cheap trips to Ireland, a quick jaunt to just Dublin might be an answer.  You’ll miss out on so much of what Ireland has to offer, but considering that getting around Ireland is one of the most costly budget items (outside of the flight), then just staying in and near Dublin may not be a horrible idea.

All of the above is still true if you are just staying in Dublin, but here are a few more things you can do.

Free Things To Do in Dublin

Dublin Guinness

I’m such a sucker for finding free things to do when traveling.  Here are a few things you can do in Dublin for free:

• Take a Free Walking Tour:  This was honestly one of the best things we did while in Dublin.  We hopped on the Sandeman’s Europe Free Walking Tour it was one of the best ones we’ve done (we do free walking tours almost everywhere we go when offered!)  It is a LONG day and very long walking tour, but they seriously hit up so many sights and give such great context to the history of Dublin and Ireland as a whole.  I don’t do star ratings, but if I did, this would definitely get 5 Star!
• Dublin Castle:  So, not ALL of the Dublin Castle is free, and it might be hard to get in (book ahead!) for even the free stuff, but you can still see the Chapel Royal and a few of its museums for free.
• Art Galleries and the Chester Beatty Library:  Dublin has numerous art galleries that are actually free and the Chester Beatty Library is a great choice for a free or rainy day activity
• National Museum of Ireland: If you are wanting to start your trip with really learning about the fascinating (and tumultuous) history of Ireland, this is a great place to start.  I always feel things like this really give a trip much more meaning and bonus points that this one is free!
• Weekly Markets: Hit up the Saturday Temple Bar food market for great eats or go to the Designer Mart for a craft market
• Free Music: One of my favorite free things to do in Ireland was to listen to the locals play music.  It is so beautiful and soulful! Grafton or Henry Street both provide great places to find local musicians playing and of course just ask the locals where a great pub for free music is and they’ll point you in the right direction!
• Phoneix Park: If you are getting out into the gorgeous countryside, I don’t know if I would put this at the top of my list, but if you are just staying in Dublin and want a bit of a reprise, this is one of the largest urban parks in Europe to enjoy at no cost.Dublin is going to be a little bit more expensive than other locations in Ireland but you can still find Dublin Budget Hotels.

Where To Stay in Dublin on a Budget

I obviously like using Booking.com as my first line of defense in saving some cash when traveling and booking hotels.  I use the filters like crazy (I usually select the $0-55 and $55-111 options, select high rated properties, and even compare things like hotels to entire apartment rentals)

Hostels, again, are a great choice in Dublin if you are really wanting to save money for cheap Ireland trips.

Pro Tip: Stay Outside the City Center

We chose to stay just outside the city center and we saved a ton of money.  Ironically, this was actually one of our favorite B&Bs during our entire stay in Ireland!

Here’s Where we Stayed

The key to this is ensuring that there is a bus line near your accommodation.  We had one literally across the street from our B&B, so it made the 20 minute drive into the city center a cinch.

There you have it.  Are cheap Ireland vacations possible?  I’m not sure I would say CHEAP, but I definitely believe you can do Ireland budget travel if you know where to look!  If you’ve been there, do you have any other cheap Ireland travel tips?

Planning your trip?  What other areas can I help you figure out ways to travel cheap in Ireland? 

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The Perfect Guide On How To Travel Ireland On A Budget

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Ireland, also known as the Emerald Isle, is an incredibly beautiful country with a fascinating history, friendly local people, and great traditions. For those looking for a budget destination, Ireland is not the first place that comes to mind. However, it is possible to travel Ireland on a budget.

But let’s just be clear, Ireland is an expensive country. Though as I’ve said, it is indeed very possible to enjoy your time in Ireland on a budget. In fact, I think you can even stick to a travel budget of 40 Euros a day .

With a good amount of trip planning and willingness to sacrifice comfort for saving some money, it is possible to make Ireland affordable. Luckily, we’ve gone ahead and done the homework for you. So sit back, relax, and take notes on how to travel Ireland on a budget.

Transportation

Ireland is not a massive country like the US or Russia so it is possible to drive from one end of the country to the other in one day.

I recommend renting the smallest, most affordable yet dependable car possible. Book well in advance to ensure you get the best pricing for your rental car. This is where traveling with a friend or partner comes in handy because you can split the cost of the car and make it even cheaper.

Like anything else, the longer you have the car, the further the daily rate goes down so if you do choose to rent a car, try to have it for at least 5 days or a week.

The second option I’d recommend for transportation would be to cycle across Ireland. This option is considerably cheaper, but definitely more of an adventure and you must have much more time to travel around Ireland.

The final option which is definitely the cheapest way to travel around Ireland is using your own two feet and walking! I know this sound crazy, but according to Google Maps, if you walk from Dublin to Galway, it would only take you 42 hours. You could realistically walk the country in one week.

Of course, this is assuming that you are doing this walk in summer. Along the way, you can discover the charming Irish countryside and stay in smaller towns.

Accommodations

Speaking of where to stay, there are various budget-friendly options you should know about as you’re planning your own trip to Ireland.

The first is to bring your own camping gear and stay in camping sites. This low-cost option involves more planning to make sure you have all of the right equipment but can be extremely rewarding waking up in Ireland’s lush, green hills. There are plenty of camping sites that are specifically designed for travelers with all of the amenities you need including showers.

Be wary of camping outside of these sites, as it is considered illegal. Make sure you get the express consent of landowners before pitching your tent somewhere.

The next option for budget travelers is to stay in hostels. While in major cities such as Dublin, you will pay a premium, outside of these cities, hostels get considerably cheaper. You can expect to pay 15 Euros a night with many including breakfast in the price. A nice bonus part about hostels is that it is easy to meet fellow travelers and maybe you can even hitch a ride to the next town.

10 Smart Tips To Stay Safe When Traveling Alone

As a traveler that does plenty of sports when I travel, I struggle the most with not spending a fortune on eating out. Luckily, I have found some methods that work anywhere in the world to save some money on food.

The best way for eating in Ireland on a budget is to determine how much you are willing to spend daily on food. For example, maybe you only want to spend 15 Euros a day on food, you have to do your research and look for any restaurant specials you can find.

Something that has helped me tremendously, however, is not eating out at restaurants. I always try to find local markets or grocery stores. In Ireland, large supermarkets such as Tesco, Dunnes, Asda, or Sainsbury’s offer the most affordable food.

I look for any discounts, coupons, or specials that the store currently has. I usually stick to basics such as protein, vegetables, and fruit. I never regularly buy sweets or sodas that don’t add any nutritional value to my meals and just add costs to my budget.

The final piece of advice that I would recommend is to try to cook your own meals whenever possible. Besides being healthier for you, you can save a lot of money by buying the raw ingredients yourself and cooking a nice meal.

If you are traveling with friends or your partner, you can split the costs of the meal to further reduce how much you are spending. If you are staying at a hostel, invite others to have dinner with you and most are more than willing to return the favor the next night.

Sightseeing

Of course, you traveled to Ireland to see the country and there are a ton of places to see! Like many countries, tourism is a massive industry in Ireland and they charge a premium for this service. Have no fear though, if you come prepared and plan ahead, you’ll be able to see everything you want to see without spending a fortune on admission.

One of the best-kept secrets in Ireland’s tourism industry is called the Heritage Card. It costs 90 Euros for two adults and is well worth the cost if you plan on seeing more than 7 historical sites across Ireland. You can easily stop by 8-10 historical sites in a week and each site costs about 13 Euros so the card starts paying for itself quite quickly.

The card works throughout Ireland and looks like a credit card. With the Heritage Card, you’ll have access to over 97 sites within the country. However, be aware that the Cliffs Of Moher is not included on the card and it charges its own rate.

Another little-known piece of advice to take advantage of is that most sites have Wednesdays when entry is free. On these days, each historical site becomes extremely crowded so if you want to go, I’d recommend that you go at the opening of the site to make sure you get in without any problems.

Know any other tips to travel Ireland on a budget? Please feel free to share them below in the comments section!

Suggested next reading: 15 Gorgeous Towns In Ireland You Need To See

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Published by Grant Simon

Grant Simon is an entrepreneur, writer, personal trainer, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and an endorphins chaser. He has climbed a volcano in Chile, swam with sharks in the Galapagos Islands, and survived a motorcycle crash in Thailand. Besides raising his heart rate in over 35 countries, the Chicago native enjoys birdwatching, reading the newspaper, and eating too many pancakes in one sitting. He is currently based in Montréal, plotting his next bold move. View all posts by Grant Simon

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How To Get Around Ireland: The Pros + Cons To Cars, Tours and Public Transport

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

Deciding how to get around Ireland can be stressful.

Especially if this is your first time visiting and you don’t know the lay of the land.

Over the 34+ years that I’ve lived in Ireland I’ve travelled about by car, train bus, bike and everything in between.

The guide below leans on my many years of getting around Ireland while making every mistake imaginable along the way!

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about how to get around Ireland

Click to enlarge

Take 30 seconds to read the points below as they’ll get you up-to-speed on how to get around Ireland quickly:

1. Your options are car, bus, train, tour and tram (kinda)

Public transportation in Ireland varies by county-to-county. You’ll find all of the above in Dublin (the capital) and most ‘main’ cities and towns (e.g. Killarney) will have the first four. More info below.

2. If you’re unsure, focus on your  planned route

I’d recommend that you don’t even think about how to get around Ireland until you’ve at least mapped out a rough Ireland itinerary . The reason for this is that it may not be possible to do what you want to do  without  a car (of course, it may turn out that your road trip is completely doable via public transport).

3. There are pros and cons to every mode of transport

Most people (myself included) say that the best way to get around Ireland is by car, but there’s pros and cons to it and every mode of transportation. It’s worth weighing up the pros and cons of each as they’ll ultimately help you decide.

4. Budget will often be a decider

9 times out of 10 budget is the decider to how visitors end up travelling around Ireland. Renting a car in Ireland is often pretty expensive and, if you’re doing Ireland on a budget , the cost of your trip to Ireland will drop dramatically by using buses and trains.

The best way of getting around Ireland boils down to 3 things

Photos via Shutterstock

Deciding how to get around Ireland isn’t a decision to take lightly. Your main mode of transport, where it be a car or a bus, is going to have a massive effect on your trip.

There are three different things to consider when making your decision:

• Your experience
• Your budget
• What you want to see

1. Your experience

The biggest thing to consider about how to get around in Ireland is how the chosen mode of transport is going to affect your overall experience while travelling.

If you’re nervous behind the wheel and you’re driving in Ireland for the first time , will having to drive each day cause you stress and ruin the trip?!

Or maybe you love driving and the thoughts of driving the Ring of Kerry or the Antrim Coast will be the highlight of the trip?!

Or , if getting around Ireland needs to be as stress-free as possible for you, maybe you’re better off booking on an organised tour!

2. Your budget

Another massive consideration for when you’re trying to figure out the best way to travel around Ireland is how much money you have to spend.

Car rental can be expensive if you’re travelling solo. However, it works out nice and reasonable if you’re travelling with a group. Big group tours can be pretty good price-wise, whereas smaller tours can be expensive.

If you’re looking at ways to save money when you visit, hop into our guide to Ireland on a budget . It’s packed with easy ways to save money.

3. What you want to see

Another good way to help you pick the best way to get around Ireland is to write down all of the various places that you want to visit.

If, for example, you’re only visiting big towns or cities in Ireland , public transport will be fine (see our guide to getting around Ireland without a car ).

If you fancy visiting places off the beaten track, a rental car or a private driver (expensive) are your best bests.

At the end of the guide, I’m going to pop down a few different scenarios and recommend what I think are the best modes of transport for each example.

The pros and cons to getting around Ireland by car, tour and public transport

When deciding how to get around in Ireland, it’s worth weighing up the pros and cons to each mode of transport.

Below, you’ll find the advantages and disadvantages of getting around Ireland by bus, train, car and tour.

1. Travelling around Ireland by car

Arguably the best way to travel in Ireland is by car (it’s why our self drive Ireland tours are so popular!).

A car gives you the freedom to go where you want when you want, without having to rely on public transport or tour providers.

Getting around Ireland by car has far more advantages than disadvantages. The main advantage is freedom; being able to go where you want whenever it tickles you fancy makes this a very attractive mode of transport for many.

• Freedom and flexibility
• It makes planning a trip to Ireland more straightforward
• And you can change it as you go if you like
• It can work out cheap if there’s a group of you to share costs

Disadvantages

The biggest disadvantages of using a car for getting around Ireland is that it’ll be expensive for solo travellers and it’s likely to make the trip unnecessarily stressful for some drivers.

• If you’re on your own, it can be expensive
• If you’re a nervous driving, it can make the trip stressful

2. Getting around in Ireland using buses, trains and trams

Public transport in Ireland can be very hit and miss. It’s generally good in the main towns and cities, but services get poorer the more off-the-beaten-path you go.

Now, we’ve published hundreds of Irish road trip guides using only public transport for those of you that want to avoid the planning pains. Here are the pros and cons:

• It can be the cheapest option if you’re travelling solo and plan on getting around Ireland on a budget
• Trains and buses run frequently in the busier towns and cities in Ireland
• It can work out well if you combine it with private tours
• Public transport can be unreliable
• Trains, in particular, can be expensive if they’re not booked in advance

3. Getting around Ireland with a tour company

Another popular way for getting around Ireland is by using a tour provider that organises all-in tours of Ireland. These tend to be pretty popular and they vary in terms of group size and trip length.

One quick word of warning: if you’re booking a tour of Ireland in advance, make sure to do plenty of research in advance. Be crystal clear on what’s included and what’s left to pay for.

• They’ll do all of the hard work
• There’s no need to think about car rental, itineraries or any of that craic
• It’s less stressful
• You’ll be travelling around Ireland with a group of people that you’ll (hopefully) have a laugh with
• Most organised tours have experienced guides
• Tours, especially the larger ones, tend to be very inflexible
• They can be expensive (the smaller tours tend to be far pricier than the larger ones)
• You can get stuck with a load of people that irritate you (hopefully this won’t be the case)

4. Using a private driver

If you’re wondering how to travel around Ireland and you have a fat budget, a private driver is arguably the best way to get around Ireland.

If you fancy going down this route, do PLENTY of research – you’re going to be stuck in a very small space with this person for long periods of time – you need to find someone that’s going to enhance your experience and not hinder it.

• If you pick the right guide, you’ll tap into a wealth of knowledge
• The driver will generally follow your desired route
• A private driver is also a handy option for those of you that want to do part of a trip with a guide and part on your own
• The most expensive way of travelling around Ireland
• You need to do thorough research to ensure that you get the best bang for your buck
• If you end up getting a guide that you don’t gel with, you’ll be stuck in a very small space with them each day, which isn’t ideal

5. Combine modes of transport

The best way to get around Ireland, in my opinion, is to combine modes of transport.

This is especially useful for those of you who want to avoid car rental.

1. The public transport and organised tour combination

A combination of public transport and organised tours is going to be a solid option for those of you that can’t (or that don’t want to) rent a car.

Example : you fly into Dublin and you’re there for three nights. You can get around easily on foot and by using buses, the LUAS (a tram) and the DART (train).

You explore the city for two days and take one of the  many  day trips from Dublin (e.g. Meath).

You take a train to Galway and spend several days there. You can spend day one exploring the city. Day two on an organised tour to Connemara and day three on a day tour to Clare.

2. Rental car and public transport combination

Another solid combination is by using a rental car and public transportation. Let’s say you fly into Belfast. You spend the first day exploring the city.

Then you rent a car for a few days and drive the Causeway Coastal Route and then head on to Donegal.

Or, let’s say you fly into Shannon. You rent a car near the airport and then drive to Kerry. You explore the various peninsulas for a few days before dropping off the car and heading to Killarney.

You spend the day in the national park before taking the train to Dublin and exploring the capital. Or you could take the train to Waterford or Tipperary.

My 2 cents on picking the best way to get around Ireland

Deciding how to get around Ireland can be stressful, as it has such a massive impact on your overall trip.

The easiest way to decide the best transport type for  you  is to consider:

When you’ve taken the above into account, you’ll then want to map out a rough itinerary ( follow the steps here – they’ll remove stress from the process).

Once you have your route, you’ll be able to determine how to get around. Or, if you don’t want the hassle of planning the itinerary, follow one of our detailed road trip guides .

FAQs about how to get around in Ireland

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘How to get around Ireland on public transport?’ to ‘What’s the cheapest option?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What is the best way to get around Ireland?

In my experience, based on 33 years of living here, the best way to get around Ireland is by car. However, if you’re only visiting main towns and cities, you could easily use public transport.

Is it easy to get around in Ireland?

Yes and no. For example, without a car, getting around Donegal can be a nightmare. With a car, you’ll have no hassle. Main towns and cities are well served by buses, also.

What is the cheapest way to travel around Ireland?

If you’re looking to keep costs low, getting around Ireland via buses and trains is the cheapest option. You can reduce costs further by booking tickets in advance.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Kevin, Shelley, Aidan and Josh

Monday 6th of March 2023

My wife and I are coming to Ireland for 2 weeks at the end of July with our two teenage boys. Our first four day are in Dublin using public transportation. Then we would like to tour, at a pace that is our own, without having to be on a schedule with booked B and B's or hotels. What we are pondering is renting a camper van for our time outside Dublin. Is using a camper van a viable option, if so would you recommend a maximum size of camper van in width or legnth?

Keith O'Hara

Hey! Yep, plenty of people travel about by camper and, if you're used to driving one, then it's worth considering. It's just worth keeping in mind that there are restrictions about where you can park it up.

Mary Hankins

Tuesday 22nd of March 2022

Planning a trip in the Spring of 2023. So far plans include landing in Shannon, 2 days sightseeing Galway area, then on to Kenmare and seeing Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula. Beara is primary objective as mother was born and raised there. However can't clarify if there's bus service to Kenmare or service from Kenmore to Castletownbere. Is there? Will have approx 2 weeks to sightsee and visit, cant decide if a car will be doable for second week. Your thoughts please.

Hey Mary! From what I can tell, you'd need to take a bus (the 286) from Castletownbere to Glengarriff and then take another from Glengarriff (the R51a) to Kenmare. When you say that you can't decide if a car will be doable, what do you mean?

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Rishi Sunak has hailed the arrival of pay day with a reminder his government's additional National Insurance tax cut kicks in this month for the first time.

At last month's budget, the chancellor announced NI will be cut by a further 2p - so some workers will pay 8% of their earnings instead of the 12% if was before autumn.

The prime minister has repeated his claim this will be worth £900 for someone on the average UK salary.

While this additional cut - on top of the previous 2p cut in January - does equate to £900 for those on average full-time earnings of £35,000, there are two key issues with Mr Sunak's claim:

• Once the effect of all income tax changes since 2021 are taken into account, the Institute for Fiscal Studies reports an average earner will benefit from a tax cut of £340 - far less than £900;
• Moreover, anyone earning less than £26,000 or between £55,000-£131,000 will ultimately be worse off.

In short, this is because NI cuts are more than offset by other tax rises.

We explain below how this is the case...

Tax thresholds

This is partly down to tax thresholds - the amount you are allowed to earn before you start paying tax (and national insurance) and before you start paying the higher rate of tax - will remain frozen. 

This means people end up paying more tax than they otherwise would, when their pay rises with inflation but the thresholds don't keep up. 

This phenomenon is known as "fiscal drag" and it's often called a stealth tax because it's not as noticeable immediately in your pay packet.

That low threshold of £12,570 has been in place since April 2021. 

The Office for Budget Responsibility says if it had increased with inflation it would be set at £15,220 for 2024/25.

If that were the case, workers could earn an extra £2,650 tax-free each year.

Less give, more take

Sky News analysis shows someone on £16,000 a year will pay £607 more in total - equivalent to more than three months of average household spending on food. 

Their income level means national insurance savings are limited but they are paying 20% in income tax on an additional £2,650 of earnings.

In its analysis , the IFS states: "In aggregate the NICs cuts just serve to give back a portion of the money that is being taken away through other income tax and NICs changes - in particular, multi-year freezes to tax thresholds at a time of high inflation."

Overall, according to the institute, for every £1 given back to workers by the National Insurance cuts, £1.30 will have been taken away due to threshold changes between 2021 and 2024.

This rises to £1.90 in 2027.

The UK could face a shortage of cava due to a drought in the sparking wine's Spanish heartlands.

The Penedes area of Catalonia is dealing with its worst drought on record, with vineyards across the region so parched the roots of 30-year-old vines have died.

It's left shrivelled red and green grapes languishing under intense sun, fuelled by fossil-fuel driven climate change.

Cava is an increasingly popular drink in the UK, with 17.8 million bottles sold in 2023 - an increase of 5% from the previous year, when Britons stocked up on 16.8 million bottles, according to the Cava Regulatory Board.

That makes the UK the fourth-biggest buyer, behind only the US, Belgium and Germany.

Workforce slashed

The problems have been compounded after Catalonia-based cava producer Freixenet announced it will temporarily lay off 615 workers, almost 80% of its workforce.

Under Spanish law, companies facing exceptional circumstances can lay off staff or reduce working hours.

This measure is expected to take effect from May and it is not known how long it will last.

Price rises

One industry source told retail publication The Grocer  that cava shortages would push up prices "certainly for next year" if there isn't enough supply.

This could last for years if the drought persists, they added.

Consumer expert Helen Dewdney told MailOnline the staff cuts at Freixenet can only mean one thing - price rises.

However, she added, supermarkets say they are not experiencing any issues right now.

Parents are being hammered by rising childcare costs, according to a new study that suggests they may spend more than £160,000 raising their child to the age of 18.

Research by Hargreaves Lansdown has found that parents with children pay £6,969 a year more than couples without.

Over 18 years and assuming an annual inflation rate of 3%, that amounts to a whopping £163,175, the investment platform said.

Its study also found that parents were less likely to have money left at the end of the month.

Single parents carry the biggest burden, with the research suggesting they have just £85 left on average compared to £365 for couples with children.

Hargreaves Lansdown also found just 23% of single parents reported having enough emergency savings to cover at least three months' worth of essential expenses, compared to 63% of couples with children.

Parents are also at a slight disadvantage when it comes to pensions, the research found, with only 43% of couples with children on track for a moderate retirement income, compared to 47% without. Only 17% of single parents have a decent projected pension fund.

Sarah Coles, head of personal finance at the firm, said "having children is one of the most expensive decisions a person can make".

She adds that as a result of having a child, "financial resilience suffers across the board", and added: "For single parents, life is even tougher, and they face far lower resilience on almost every measure.

"It means we need all the help we can get."

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

One of the top stories shaking up the markets this morning is that UK-based mining company Anglo American has rejected a major $38.8bn (£31bn) takeover bid.

Details of the attempted buyout by Australian rival BHP emerged yesterday  - sending Anglo American shares soaring.

The deal would have created the world's biggest copper mining company - with the news coming as the price of the metal hit record highs this week.

However, Anglo American has now dismissed the proposal as "opportunistic" and said BHP had undervalued the company.

Anglo's shares are slightly down by 0.8% this morning - suggesting investors may not have given up hopes that a deal could eventually be agreed.

However, overall the FTSE 100 is up around 0.4% this morning, buoyed by strong reported earnings from US tech giants Microsoft and Google owner Alphabet.

It's helped the index, of the London Stock Exchange's 100 most valuable companies, hit yet another intraday (during the day) record of 8,136 points this morning.

The winning streak comes after a week of all-time highs on the index - including a record close of 8,078 points yesterday. The score is based on a calculation of the total value of the shares on the index.

Among the companies doing well this morning is NatWest - despite the bank reporting a fall in pre-tax profits of nearly 28% for the first quarter of the year.

Shares in the lender are up more than 3% after its results were better than expected by analysts.

On the currency markets, £1 buys $1.25 US or €1.16, almost on a par with yesterday.

Meanwhile, the price of a barrel of Brent crude oil has crept up slightly to $89 (£71).

Self-checkouts - they're like marmite, people seem to either love them or hate them.

But the boss of Sainsbury's has claimed that his customers do  enjoy using self-checkouts, despite criticism that that machines don't always provide the convenience promised.

Simon Roberts told The Telegraph that there are more of them in Sainsbury's stores "than a number of years ago" as shoppers like the "speedy checkout".

But despite this, he said there won't be a time when they'll replace cashiers completely.

"Over the last year, where we've put more self-checkouts in, we're always making sure that the traditional kind of belted checkout is there," he said.

His comments come after northern supermarket Booths ditched self-checkouts at all but two of its sites after customer feedback. 

Walmart and Costco in the US have also scaled back on the systems.

Let us know in the comments - do you love or hate self-checkouts?

We've all heard consumer advice that's repeated so often it almost becomes cliché. So, every Friday the Money team will get to the bottom of a different "fact" and decide whether it's a myth or must.

This week it is...

'Smart meters save you money'

For this one, we've enlisted the help of Dr Steve Buckley, also known as the Energy Doctor and head of data science at Loop...

So do smart meters help you save? 

"The short answer is both yes and no," Steve says.

"Installing a smart meter by itself won't magically reduce your energy consumption. But, by giving you easy access to your energy usage data, smart meters pave the way for savings that you couldn't achieve otherwise."

Before smart meters, most households only found out how much energy they had used when the bill arrived. 

By that stage it's too late to address wasteful usage, leading to what's known as "bill shock". 

"With a smart meter, you can see your usage and costs in real-time through an in-home display or an app provided by your supplier," Steve says. 

"This immediate feedback encourages you to use less energy. If you measure it, you can control it."

In 2022, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero found that homes with smart meters used about 3.4% less electricity and 3% less gas. 

"This might not seem like a lot, but it adds up to a saving of over £50 per household annually," Steve says.  

If all homes in the UK made similar cuts, that would amount to savings of around £1.5bn and a potential reduction in CO2 emissions by about 2.7m tonnes each year. 

"Good for individual households but also great for the planet," Steve says. 

Smart meters are often installed at no extra cost to the consumer - it's effectively free data for households. 

Limitations

Smart meters are more or less what you make of them - a simple, free tool that allows you to see headline figures. 

However, "without detailed analysis, it's tough to identify and eliminate" where you could be wasting money, Steve says. 

Apps like Utrack, Loop and Hugo Energy can help you work out where you might be losing money by offering a more detailed breakdown if connected to your smart meter. 

Those tools are often free, but you may need to register your card details as proof of address. 

The tools give a number of useful insights, including looking at consumption in other households of similar size or monitoring where chunks of your money are going, such as to a faulty boiler or the "phantom load" (energy wasted by devices left on unnecessarily).

Myth or must?

Although smart meters alone don't reduce energy bills, they are a vital tool to help energy efficiency and cost savings. 

By Ollie Cooper, Money team

It can be hard to balance getting nutritious foods that make you feel good without spending a lot.

In this series, which ends today after digging into yoghurt, bread, pasta, fruit juice and plant-based milk, we've tried to find the healthiest options in the supermarket for the best value.

Sunna Van Kampen,  founder of  Tonic Health ,  who went viral on social media for reviewing food in the search of healthier choices, has given his input for the past six weeks.

And for the final part of the series, we're looking at the nation's favourite snack: crisps. 

The series does not aim to identify the outright healthiest option, but to help you get better nutritional value for as little money as possible.

We're a people obsessed: in the UK, we get through six billion packets of crisps a year.

Sunna has three easy tips for finding the tastiest options that are kinder to your body...

1. Understand the fat facts

"Typical crisps can be oil sponges and contain over 30% fat from low-quality vegetable oils that have been fried," Sunna says. 

"What we are on the lookout for those that buck the trend and stay away from the fat." 

So, he says, aim for crisps that contain less than 15% total fat.

2. Fibre up your snack time

"While crisps aren't exactly salad, some can offer more nutritional value than others," Sunna says.

"Check the labels for options that have more fibre or protein."

These help you feel fuller for longer and also keep your digestive system happy.

3. Portion control

"It's easy to demolish an entire bag in one sitting - however, many brands offer multipack bags that are portion-controlled, usually around 25g a bag," Sunna says.

Sticking to these helps to manage calorie intake and stops overindulging.

The big picture

"Small changes might not immediately seem like a lot but if you eat a bag a day with your lunch, we are talking about up to a whopping two litres of oil cut from your diet over the course of the year," Sunna says,

"This is not permission to eat crisps every day (enjoy as an occasional treat) but rather an indication of how small changes add up quickly overtime."

The good news is Sunna's recommendations are all similar in price to their popular, fattier rivals - so you don't need to make a bigger investment to reap some health benefits. 

We've included the prices for the brands' standard multipacks at Tesco - correct as of time of writing. 

Walkers Oven Baked - £1.95 for six-pack

"Around £1.95 for a pack of six, these crisps are baked, not fried, slashing the fat content to 13%, so a great option."

Popchips - £2.25 for five-pack

"These have just 13% fat content as they're popped rather than fried so are a great way to go reducing fat without compromising on the crunch."

And for some non-crisp options...

ProperCorn Popcorn - £2 for six-pack

Often described as "the healthier, lighter option", Sunna says ProperCorn "isn't actually the best option on the market for fat content at 17.4%".

That being said, you do get "double the fibre of standard crisps at 10.9g per 100g". 

At only £2 for a pack of six, it's well-priced, too.

Snack A Jacks - £2.20 for five-pack

"At only 8.3% fat per 100g, it's a great option at £2.20 for a pack of five."

Penn State Baked Pretzels - £1.50 for 175g bag

Now for Sunna's winner.

"The German classic is a great option at only 4.6% fat per 100g," he says.

One downfall is that they are not available in portioned bags, so be careful with the whole 175g bag for £1.50.

Want another option altogether?

"If you want to be even healthier, consider the switch to nuts, seeds or even dried cheese snacks," Sunna says.

"Higher in calories yes, but higher in good healthy fats too and are more satiating which will limit the chance of overeating."

The nutritionist's view -  from  Dr Laura Brown , senior lecturer in nutrition, food and health sciences at Teesside University...

"Baked instead of fried crisps is definitely a way forward as well as the popcorn suggestion," she says.

"We should also be aiming to look at the amount of protein and fibre found in products. For example, lentil and pea snacks are growing in popularity due to their higher protein and fibre values, so the focus should be more on looking for ingredients other than potatoes, oil and salt. 

"I also feel 'crisp' based snacks made in an air fryer are becoming more popular. These can include a wholemeal wrap with a small amount of oil added, and placed in the air fryer with paprika and other seasoning added for flavour. 

"Also, chickpeas in the air fryer make for a super delicious protein and fibre rich snack. They are cheaper than crisps and lower in fat since no oil has to be added."

Read more from this series... 

Halifax has become the latest major lender to up mortgage rates.

They are putting up a range of deals by 0.2%.

BM Solutions also announced increases today.

It follows similar moves by TSB, NatWest, Virgin, Barclays, Accord, Leeds Building Society, HSBC and Coventry last week.

Lenders are responding to swap rates - which dictate how much it costs to lend money - rising on the back of higher than expected US inflation data, and concerns this could delay interest rate cuts there. 

US trends often materialise elsewhere - though many economists are still expecting a base rate cut from 5.25% to 5% in the UK in June.

This is what average mortgage rates look like as of today...

Justin Moy, managing director of EHF Mortgages, told Newspage: "Yet more bad news for mortgage borrowers, as two of the biggest lenders announce increases to their fixed-rate products. 

"As mortgage rates creep up and past 5% even for those with the largest deposits, we seem to be lacking a clear strategy of the government or the Bank of England on how rates will eventually fall. 

"Even 2% inflation may not be enough to reverse the recent trends in rates."

Morrisons has launched two major changes for shoppers – with stores now offering travel money and trolleys featuring advertisements.

Announcing their bureau de change service, Morrisons said customers could exchange currencies in select stores or could place their money orders online at Morrisonstravelmoney.com.

Using the online service means customers can either click and collect their cash in certain Morrisons stores or at any of Eurochange's 240 branches. Alternatively, they can go for home delivery.

Services director at Morrisons, Jamie Winter, said the service "will provide our customers with easy access to a wide range of currencies at competitive exchange rates".

So far, stores in the following areas have travel money kiosks:

• Basingstoke

In other news, the supermarket chain rolled out a new trolley advertising across 300 stores in a partnership with Retail Media Group.

A sweetener used in drinks, sauces, savoury and sweet foods and chewing gum can cause serious damage to people's health, according to a new study.

Neotame, a "relatively new" sweetener, could damage the intestine by causing damage to healthy bacteria in the gut, according to the study, leading it to become diseased and attack the gut wall.

The study by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, found the negative effect of neotame "has the potential to influence a range of gut functions resulting in poor gut health", potentially impacting metabolic and inflammatory diseases, neuropathic pain, and neurological conditions.

The illnesses this could lead to include irritable bowel disease or insulin resistance.

Read the full story here ...

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How to Prepare for a Trip to Ireland

• Post author: colette
• Post published: October 22, 2023
• Post category: Planning
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Many first-time visitors have little knowledge of how to prepare for a trip to Ireland. But with these 12 tips, I'm hoping you'll feel more confident about planning that dream vacation.

Table of Contents

1. Use Credit Card Rewards

If you’re wondering what credit cards are the best in terms of travel rewards, my first choice would be the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card , which is also a good credit card to use when renting a car in Ireland .

If you are a member of the Aer Lingus rewards program, AerClub , you can transfer your Chase Ultimate Rewards points directly to the loyalty program at a 1:1 ratio, meaning that 1 Chase Ultimate Rewards point converts to 1 AerClub Avios point.

The Chase cards that are in the Ultimate Rewards Program include the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, the Chase Freedom Flex card and the Chase Freedom Unlimited card, among others.

You could also apply for an Aer Lingus Visa Signature Card .

With the card, you earn 75,000 Avios points after spending $5,000 within three months of opening the account, in addition to 50,000 bonus Avios points when you spend $20,000 within the first 12 months of opening it.

If you are in the American Express Membership Rewards Program , you can also get Avios points on a 1:1 basis.

The American Express Business Gold Card, the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card, the American Express Green Card, and others are all in this rewards program.

The Marriott Bonvoy program is also a transfer partner, with every 3 points from that program converting to 1 Avios point.

2. Travel in the Off-Season

Traveling to Ireland during the off-season is a lot cheaper than say, the summer months. As you prepare for your trip to Ireland, it's useful to remember that, plus, you’ll also avoid the problem of long lines to attractions and more expensive accommodation.

Instead, try to visit during the “shoulder season,” which is in April, May, early June, and early October.

September , while a bit more expensive, is also a good time to travel to Ireland.

Read More: Best Time to Visit Ireland

3. Find Airfare Bargains

Depending on the time of year that you’re flying, it can be beneficial during the planning process to book a flight that includes a layover. They are usually cheaper.

To do this, you’ll need to use a search engine like Google Flights , Avisales , Priceline or Kiwi , which pulls the prices of flights from thousands of different airlines, going from the most expensive to the cheapest.

Layovers don't suit everyone, however.

In that case, I suggest that you watch out for bargains, including keeping an eye for for sales on Aer Lingus and other airlines that fly direct to Ireland .

4. Use the Right Bank Card

Preparing for a trip to Ireland also means choosing the right bank card , preferably one where you won’t incur foreign transaction fees or ATM usage fees.

I suggest you apply for the Charles Schwab Debit card .

If approved, you’ll get a $100 bonus award on deposits over $1,000. This also applies to other types of accounts that Schwab offers. Even though you will incur some fees while using the card at an ATM in Ireland, all of them will be refunded within a month or so.

5. Purchase a Heritage Card

Most tourists are not aware of this valuable card, which will get you into several heritage sites in Ireland that normally charge an admission fee.

While some heritage sites are indeed free to enter, the card is useful if you intend to visit the fee-paying attractions.

The cost of the card is €40 for adults, €30 for seniors (60 and over), €10 for students and children ages 12-18; and €90 for a family of 7 (kids must be ages 12-18) and is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

You can purchase the card on the Heritage Ireland website or any of the heritage sites around the country.

Take the Treasures of Ireland Tour with TourRadar

6. Accessing WiFi the Smart Way in Ireland

While it’s possible to get Wifi in most public places in Ireland, such as airports, restaurants, and bars, as well as on buses and trains, you won’t be able to access it while you travel around Ireland in your rental car unless you enable data roaming, which can be expensive.

As you prepare for your trip to Ireland, it's know what your Wifi options are. Here are the most common ones.

• Sign up for an international mobile usage plan from your carrier but read the fine print before signing on as this can be expensive.
• Purchase a new Sim card for your phone (provided it is not locked) from any Tesco supermarket in Ireland (both north and south of the border), at the WH Smith bookstore in Dublin Airport's Terminal 1 or at the Left Luggage store , also in Terminal 1. You can also purchase a Sim card in Terminal 2 at the Spar shop. Your purchase will also include a mobile usage plan for the duration of your stay in the country.
• Rent a personal WiFi device from Wi-Fi Candy , which can be picked up at Dublin Airport or delivered to your hotel on the first night of your stay. The rates are quite reasonable, and you can get unlimited data usage as well. Get 10% off your purchase with code irelandonabudget.
• Purchase a cheap prepaid phone from Tesco to use while you’re on vacation in Ireland.
• Purchase an eSim from Airalo (this works on an iPhone 11 and up as well as a variety of Samsung phones)
• Simply rely on Wi-Fi when you can, provided you have your data turned off or your phone is on airplane mode.

7. Choose a Smaller Rental Car

If you’re light on luggage, then a compact rental car is something to consider when planning this portion of your trip.

While Ireland’s motorways are equal to those in Europe, the U.S., and elsewhere, there are still many smaller roads that you’ll find yourself navigating.

This is when a small car comes in handy. Gas (petrol) is expensive in Ireland, so renting a smaller vehicle makes sense. If you can drive a stick shift, you can save even more.

8. Avail of Free Museums

As you plan your trip to Ireland, you'll want to take explore all budget options.

In Dublin alone, you’ll find a variety of free museums and galleries to visit.

There are others across the country that are free to visit. Some include the Crawford Art Gallery in Cork; the Museum of Country Life in County Mayo; St. Nicholas' Church in Galway; the Monaghan County Museum , and the Sligo County Museum , as well as the Jackie Clarke Collection in Ballina, County Mayo.

9. Get Fueled Daily with a Hearty Irish Breakfast

Most accommodation in Ireland, whether it’s a B&B or a hotel, will serve a full Irish breakfast that should keep you going for several hours. That's good to know as you plan a road trip across Ireland.

If you must eat during the day, you could pop into a small café and order a bowl of hearty soup and a roll or some delicious Irish cheese and crackers.

Such fare can be easily accessed while on the road at various convenience stores, which are often located within a gas station/petrol stop. Centra and SuperValu are common stores that sell good quality convenience food for travelers on the road.

Find Irish Cheese & Other Irish Favorites at Food Ireland

10. Consider Public Transportation

Getting around Ireland by public transportation is quite doable and often a lot cheaper than renting a car, and is something you should definitely think about as you're planning a vacation to Ireland.

If you’re interested in spending more time in towns and cities, getting there by bus or train is completely doable.

Purchase the above ebook on the Ireland on a Budget Etsy store .

11. Go for Mid-Range Accommodation

My advice when preparing for a trip to Ireland is to choose accommodation that is moderately priced.

Mid-range hotels and B&Bs are always a great option in Ireland. Prices have gone up throughout Ireland post-Covid, and that is especially true in Dublin , Cork , Galway and other big cities.

B&Bs or a family-run hotels tend to be cheaper, and an added advantage of staying in them is that you get to meet the family running the establishment who can give you valuable, on-the-ground advice about local tourist attractions.

If you want to splurge for a night or two, don’t deny yourself that pleasure either.

My suggestions — and those that are popular with members of the Ireland on a Budget Facebook Group — include Ireland's many castle-hotels.

They include Ballyseede Castle Hotel  in Tralee, County Kerry; Kinnity Castle Hotel near Birr, County Offaly; Abbeyglen Castle Hotel in Clifden, County Galway, and Ballynahinch Castle Hotel in Connemara , County Galway.

12. Get a Tax Refund on Souvenirs Bought in Ireland

If you are visiting Ireland from outside the EU be prepared to apply for a tax refund on certain items that you buy.

Please know that since VAT has already been added to many goods that are for sale in Irish stores, you will not see that added tax on your receipt, like you will in the United States, for example.

However, some goods, are free from VAT.

They include children’s clothing, footwear, and food (except for chocolate and other confectionery items). If you purchase any of those items, you won’t be able to apply for the special tax refund.

Many stores in Ireland offer VAT-free shopping for tourists outside of the EU. You must ask them first before buying and if you are required to spend a specific amount before you’ll get the benefit.

More information can be found at Ireland's Citizens Information website .

You will not get tax relief on accommodation, car hire, meals, or the cost to visit tourist attractions.

Do you have any of your own Ireland travel planning tips that you can share in the comments below?

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10 ways to experience Oregon on a budget

Apr 23, 2024 • 5 min read

Experience Oregon on a budget with these money-saving tips © AscentXmedia / Getty Images

Oregon is like dozens of vacation destinations rolled into one.

In addition to the natural beauty of its many landscapes, the Beaver State is home to vineyards, dazzling cities and exciting cultural events like the Oregon Shakespeare Festival . The only catch? With so many options, you can easily spend a fortune on your itinerary.

Luckily, this doesn’t have to be the case. With a little planning, you can visit Oregon on a budget. These travel hacks will help you see bucket list Oregon locations – like the Pacific Ocean, Crater Lake National Park  and cities like Portland – without breaking the bank. 

Daily costs in Oregon

• Dorm lodging in a hostel: $28
• Basic hotel room for two: $100
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb:) $110
• Camping fees: $17 for a tent site 
• Public transportation: $5.60 for a day pass in Portland 
• Coffee $3–6 a cup
• Sandwich: $10
• Dinner for two: $50 
• Wine tasting: $15

Skip the rental car 

Save yourself the money and hassle of renting a car on your next trip to Portland. Many of the city’s top attractions are walkable from downtown, plus you’ll find bike shares and scooter rentals on virtually every corner. If you need to venture further, a day pass for Portland’s TriMet transportation system (including light rail, commuter rail and bus service throughout the metro area) is just $5.60. 

Oregon’s inter-city bus line, Point , offers affordable transportation for longer distances. The scenic Northwest route from Portland to Astoria is a popular way to get to the coast since tickets are only $18 each way. Once you arrive, downtown Astoria is walkable. During warmer months, you can take a ride on the historic riverfront trolley for just $2 a day.  

Local tip: If you’re arriving by air, catch the light rail at the south end of the PDX terminal building. 

See the very best of Oregon with our guide to the top places to visit

Visit the beach during the shoulder season 

The Oregon coast is most popular from Memorial Day through the end of September. This means lodging comes at a premium. You’ll save money if you plan your visit outside of that time frame. The weather can be quite lovely in spring and fall and the beaches are far less crowded. Even stormy winter days are beautiful on the coast when waves crash on the surf.

Purchase your lift tickets in advance 

If you’re planning a ski trip to a destination like Timberline or Mt Bachelor , you’ll save money by purchasing your lift ticket online. If your plans are flexible, search for a few different dates to find the best deal. Most of the time you’ll get a better price the farther you book in advance. Since ski season in Oregon usually lasts through April or May, there are plenty of dates to choose from. 

Explore Southern Oregon 

In addition to attractions like Crater Lake National Park , Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve  and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Southern Oregon is home to fantastic vineyards and wineries. Besides being an amazing vacation destination, lodging, restaurants, and activities like wine tasting usually cost less than they do in hot spots like Portland or Willamette Valley. Base yourself in Grants Pass, Ashland or Klamath Falls to save money without sacrificing memorable experiences.

Book hotel rooms or rental houses during the week 

Most hotels and rental homes are cheaper on weekdays than they are on weekends. If you aren’t tied to a specific date, try playing with booking platforms to see how much your stay will cost on different days of the week. You can put the money you save towards meals or transportation. 

Take advantage of free or discounted museum days 

Many of Oregon’s best museums offer free or discounted admission to the public regularly. Examples include free admission to the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute in Pendleton on the first Friday of every month, free admission to the Portland Art Museum on the first Thursday of every month, or $5 admission to the Omni Museum of Science and Industry on the first Sunday of every month. Free admission and discount programs are usually listed on museum websites. 

Stay in a hostel

Forge friendships with fellow travelers and save big bucks on lodging with accommodations at properties like Portland Hostel , where dorm-style beds cost as little as $36 a night. If you’re traveling to the Oregon coast, a shared room at the Seaside Lodge and International Hostel can be yours for about $50 a night. In Southern Oregon, shared rooms at Ashland Commons Hostel are as little as $28 a night.

Time your visit to Oregon just right with this seasonal guide

Oregon’s state parks are not only beautiful, they are excellent places to stay . Although prices at individual parks vary, you can generally expect to pay about $17 a night for a tent site, between $30–40 for a non-resident RV site, and about $50 a night for a yurt or rustic cabin. For exact rates, search for your dates and desired location online.

Snag a wine-tasting passport 

Tasting fees at Oregon’s wineries typically run from $15–25 a person, although they can easily cost more, depending on the winery. If you’re visiting several wineries, it can put a serious dent in your budget. The Heart of Willamette Passport offers free or discounted tastings at wineries in the Corvallis area for a one-time fee of $45. If you’re traveling with a plus one, a second passport can be purchased at a $5 discount. 

Seek out happy hours

Happy hour is hardly a new concept but the discounts are especially rewarding in a food-centric city like Portland. Find $5 cocktails and two tacos for $5 at Pig Patas Tacos or $10 chicken sandwiches with half-off bottles of wine at Radio Room . There are plenty of great happy hours in other parts of the state, too, including $6 for poutine and wings plus discounted drinks at Taproot Lounge and Cafe in Salem. 

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Sustainable Travel

Nov 29, 2019 • 1 min read

Ready to plan your 2020 rail adventures? Amtrak is offering fares for as low as $19 in its Black Friday / Cyber Monday sale, with special discounts…

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