hotels for solo travellers ireland

Great Hotels for solo travelers to Dublin

Great hotels for solo travelers and digital nomads in Dublin, Ireland. Modern and social lively hotels with lovely bars, social spaces, live music, rooftops and yoga classes.

Hi! I am Diana . This is my list with great hotels for solo travelers to Dublin.

Moxy Dublin City

Very good 4-star hotel with 149 rooms., set dates to show price · view on map.

Moxy Dublin City is a 4-star hotel located in the center of Dublin. The hotel features a stylish decor and clean, cozy communal areas where guests can relax. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the hotel has a good energy and a relaxed atmosphere. The lounge bar offers a comfortable space to unwind, and the hotel's location provides easy access to the city. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities, a shared lounge, and a bar. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast and the hotel is situated near popular attractions such as EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum and Trinity College.   Show full description

The Address Connolly

Very good 4-star hotel with 250 rooms..

Rooftop terrace. The Address Connolly is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Dublin's City Centre. Additionally, the hotel provides free WiFi, a gym, and Scandinavian saunas for guests to enjoy. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace , a cocktail bar , and a lounge area for resting after a day’s touring of Dublin. The Address Connolly promises a modern and cool vibe with spacious, clean, and modern communal areas . The hotel offers 278 guest rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The hotel features an award-winning restaurant, McGettigan's, and offers a variety of room options, including luxury accommodation and premier club suites. The hotel also offers exceptional, friendly service and well-designed boutique features throughout.   Show full description

Marlin Hotel Stephens Green

Very good 4-star hotel with 301 rooms..

Marlin Hotel Dublin is a modern hotel located in the center of Dublin, close to popular tourist attractions. Guests have praised the friendly staff, comfortable beds, and the beautiful lounge area , making it a great place to relax and enjoy a quiet cocktail. The hotel offers a fitness center, a bar, and a restaurant serving Full English/Irish breakfast. The rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs with Netflix, air conditioning, and private bathrooms with showers. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk and non-smoking rooms. The hotel's central location and modern decor make it a convenient and pleasant choice for visitors to Dublin.   Show full description

Wren Urban Nest

Fabulous 4-star hotel with 135 rooms..

Conveniently located in the centre of Dublin, Wren Urban Nest offers air-conditioned rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi and a restaurant. Boasting a bar, the hotel is close to several noted attractions, around 300 metres from The City Hall, 400 metres from Dublin Castle and 500 metres from Chester Beatty Library. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, a concierge service and luggage storage for guests. All guest rooms in the hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The private bathroom is fitted with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. At Wren Urban Nest all rooms have bed linen and towels. The accommodation offers a buffet or Full English/Irish breakfast. Popular points of interest near Wren Urban Nest include Gaiety Theatre, Trinity College and Irish Whiskey Museum. The nearest airport is Dublin Airport, 10 km from the hotel.   Show full description

Beckett Locke

Superb 4-star apartment hotel with 241 rooms..

Apartment hotel. Opened June 2021 . Beckett Locke is a 4-star aparthotel located in Dublin, offering accommodation with free WiFi and a kitchen equipped with modern appliances. The hotel also has a fitness center, a coffee shop, and a spacious lounge area for guests to relax or work. The communal areas are well-kept and provide a welcoming space for socializing or unwinding. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk and facilities for disabled guests. The rooms are stylish and come with a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and some even feature a terrace. Additionally, the hotel is conveniently located near popular attractions such as the 3Arena and The Convention Centre Dublin. The property is modern, clean, and offers a comfortable stay for guests visiting Dublin.   Show full description

Iveagh Garden Hotel

Fabulous 4-star hotel with 145 rooms..

The Iveagh Garden Hotel is a modern four-star hotel located in Dublin, offering polished rooms with historic garden views. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, and terrace, providing a cozy atmosphere for guests. It is known for its sustainable and eco-friendly practices, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious travelers. The hotel offers non-smoking rooms, room service, and VIP room facilities. The 24-hour front desk staff can arrange taxis and recommend local attractions. The hotel's central location, just a short walk from St. Stephen's Green and Grafton Street, makes it convenient for exploring Dublin on foot. The rooms are decorated in rich textures and offer city views, free WIFI, laptop-sized safes, complimentary water, Smart TVs, and bathrooms with rainfall showers and hairdryers.   Show full description

Point A Hotel Dublin Parnell Street

Very good hotel with 141 rooms..

Opened February 2021 . Point A Hotel Dublin Parnell Street is a cozy and modern hotel located in the heart of Dublin. The rooms are described as modern, clean, and comfortable, with a stylish and cozy lounge area . The hotel's central location allows for easy access to Dublin's best shops, bars, and attractions, making it a convenient choice for socializing and exploring the city. The hotel offers a stylish lounge area and a bar, where guests can relax and socialize. The on-site restaurant and coffee house provide convenient options for dining and socializing. The hotel also features a 24-hour front desk, ensuring guests have assistance whenever needed.   Show full description

Hampton By Hilton Dublin City Centre

Fabulous hotel with 211 rooms..

Opened September 2021 . Hampton By Hilton Dublin City Centre is a modern hotel located in the center of Dublin. It offers a fitness center, a bar, and a coffee house on-site. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. Some rooms even have city views. The hotel provides a continental, Full English/Irish, or vegetarian breakfast. The staff at the reception is available 24/7 and speaks multiple languages. The hotel is conveniently located near popular attractions such as St. Michan's Church, Jameson Distillery, and Dublin Castle. It is also close to public transportation, including the Luas tram stop right outside the hotel.   Show full description

Aloft Dublin City

Fabulous 4-star hotel with 193 rooms..

Rooftop bar. Aloft Dublin City is a modern 4-star hotel located in the heart of Dublin City. The rooftop bar and restaurant provide panoramic views of the city, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers. The hotel also offers a fitness center, and guests can enjoy the views from the 7th floor Re:Fuel restaurant and WXYZ bar. The hotel features a cool pub with regular live music , a cafe, and a 24-hour gym. It offers spacious modern rooms with free fast WiFi, walk-in showers, and family-friendly amenities. The hotel's unbeatable placement in The Liberties, one of Dublin's oldest and most historic areas, adds to its appeal. The staff at the reception can assist guests at any time of the day. The nearest airport is Dublin Airport, 13 km from the accommodation.   Show full description

Castle Hotel

Very good 4-star hotel with 141 rooms..

The Castle Hotel in Dublin is an elegant Georgian hotel located in the city center, just a short walk from O'Connell Street and Temple Bar. The hotel offers a restaurant and bar with live music , creating a social atmosphere for guests. The hotel's live music evenings and cozy lounges provide a welcoming and social environment for guests to enjoy. The hotel features sophisticated Georgian style with original staircases, crystal chandeliers, and marble fireplace s. The rooms are individually designed and equipped with amenities such as hairdryers, direct dial telephones, and tea/coffee making facilities. Additionally, the hotel has a secure private car park and provides daily housekeeping. The location is convenient for exploring Dublin, with attractions like Croke Park, art galleries, and theaters within walking distance.   Show full description

Arlington Hotel O'Connell Bridge

Very good hotel with 129 rooms..

The Arlington Hotel in Dublin is located in the heart of the city, overlooking the River Liffey. The hotel has a lively bar with live music every night, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The location is ideal for walking around Dublin, and the hotel's live music and entertainment add to the social atmosphere. The hotel offers spacious rooms with satellite TVs and free WiFi. The Knightsbridge Bar & Terrace and Knights Bistro offer traditional food, and Sinatra's bar provides an a la carte menu, breakfasts, Irish stew, and seafood. The central location makes it convenient for exploring Dublin's attractions, and the friendly staff are helpful with travel arrangements and sightseeing recommendations. The hotel also offers a good breakfast with plenty of choices.   Show full description

Cassidys Hotel

Very good hotel with 143 rooms..

Cassidys Hotel is a traditional hotel located in the heart of Dublin, offering warm rooms with free WiFi. The hotel features a wood-paneled bistro and bar, and it is situated opposite the famous Gate Theatre on Upper O'Connell Street, providing easy access to the city's main attractions. The hotel also offers a gym for guests to use during their stay. The central, boutique-style Cassidys Hotel has a relaxed restaurant serving modern Irish cuisine and traditional breakfasts. The rooms have black-out curtains, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, and facilities for making tea and coffee. The hotel also provides free Wi-Fi in public areas. The hotel's location is excellent for sightseeing, and it offers a comfortable and peaceful stay in the city center.   Show full description

The Trinity City Hotel

Very good 4-star hotel with 208 rooms..

The Trinity City Hotel is a Georgian hotel located in the heart of Dublin City Centre. The hotel provides an informal restaurant and bar with high-speed WiFi throughout. The hotel also has several opulently furnished lounges for guests to relax in. The Temple Bar district is just a 5-minute walk away, and the hotel has a 24-hour reception. It offers 262 rooms and is conveniently situated for exploring the historic streets of Dublin. The hotel features period details and extravagant decor in its rich bedrooms, bar, and restaurant. The large stylish rooms at the Trinity City Hotel include a flat-screen TV, a laptop safe, full-length mirror, and tea and coffee making facilities. The en-suite bathrooms are equipped with complimentary luxury toiletries. Some rooms have panoramic city views. The open-plan restaurant has huge floor-to-ceiling windows and serves light lunches and coffees during the day, with an evening dinner menu and a heated outdoor terrace area.   Show full description

The Shelbourne

Fabulous 5-star hotel with 232 rooms..

Luxury Hotel. The Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin is a historic five-star landmark located in the heart of the city, just a short walk from famous attractions like Trinity College and Grafton Street. The hotel also has a terrace, indoor pool, sauna, fitness center, and yoga classes , making it a great place to relax and socialize. The hotel offers luxurious rooms with pillow-top mattresses, sleek marble bathrooms, and free WiFi. Dining options include The Saddle Room, No.27 The Shelbourne Bar, and The Lord Mayor’s Lounge, where afternoon tea is served daily. The hotel features an exclusive Health Club and Spa with 7 treatment rooms, a 20-yard swimming pool, thermal facilities, and a state-of-the-art gymnasium. The Salon at The Shelbourne offers premium hairdressing and beauty services, including manicures, pedicures, and express facials.   Show full description

Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin

Fabulous 4-star hotel with 232 rooms..

Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin is a modern hotel located in the heart of Dublin. The hotel's central location makes it convenient for exploring the vibrant city of Dublin, with attractions such as Temple Bar and Guinness Storehouse within easy reach. The hotel's lively atmosphere, live music , and social spaces make it a great choice for travelers looking to experience the social and cultural aspects of the city. The hotel offers a restaurant serving Irish and international cuisine, a bar with live music, and a garden. Guests can enjoy a 24-hour fitness center and personalized workspaces in the spacious rooms and suites, which also feature free Wi-Fi.   Show full description

The Morrison Dublin

Fabulous 5-star hotel with 137 rooms..

Luxury Hotel. The Morrison Dublin, Curio Collection by Hilton, is a stylish hotel located in the heart of Dublin. The hotel is situated near important visitor attractions such as The Temple Bar, Jameson Distillery, and Jervis Shopping Centre. The Morrison Dublin provides a modern and trendy atmosphere, making it a great choice for travelers looking for a vibrant and central place to stay in Dublin. The hotel features a restaurant, room service, fitness center, bar, luggage storage, 24-hour front desk, safety deposit box, and non-smoking rooms. The hotel offers chic rooms and suites, some with river views. Guests can enjoy the convenience of a gym and a grill restaurant on-site. The hotel's central location and modern amenities make it a convenient and comfortable choice for visitors to Dublin.   Show full description

The College Green Dublin Hotel

Pleasant 5-star hotel with 220 rooms..

Historic hotel. The College Green Dublin Hotel, Autograph Collection, is a 5-star luxury hotel located in the heart of historic Dublin, overlooking Trinity College. The hotel features a restaurant offering fine dining experiences and an elegant Atrium Lounge for lunch, afternoon tea , and dinner. The hotel also offers a fitness center, bike tours, walking tours, a bar, luggage storage, 24-hour front desk, and safety deposit box. The hotel offers a stylish city center sanctuary with easy access to Dublin's finest shopping and entertainment. The spacious guestrooms are designed with natural materials such as Donegal linen and custom-woven carpets inspired by the Irish coastline. Morelands Grill is a contemporary grill restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The largest room, The Banking Hall, has been restored to its original 19th-century magnificence. The vibrant and central O’Connell Street is a 5-minute walk away, and the hotel is located at the end of Grafton Street, with its numerous shops.   Show full description

The Morgan Hotel

Fabulous 4-star hotel with 157 rooms..

The Morgan Hotel in Dublin is located in the vibrant Temple Bar area, offering luxurious rooms near Trinity College. The hotel's lively surroundings and comfortable communal areas , along with its friendly and helpful staff, make it a great choice for those looking to experience the social atmosphere of the Temple Bar district. The hotel provides free WiFi and features elegant furniture, flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, Nespresso machines, and en-suite bathrooms with monsoon power showers in each room. The restaurant and bar offer a contemporary dining experience and city-famous cocktails. The hotel also provides 24-hour concierge and room service. The central location is ideal for exploring Dublin's main shopping area, Grafton Street, and visiting Dublin Castle.   Show full description

Sandymount Hotel

Very good 4-star hotel with 156 rooms..

Located next to Dublin's Aviva Stadium, this family-run hotel offers free WiFi, private gardens, and free secure parking. For lunch and dinner guests can enjoy the delicious food at Line Out Bar overlooking private gardens. The city centre is just a few minutes away by DART, as are Dublin’s coastal villages. Each room at Sandymount Hotel features an en suite bathroom and a hairdryer. Rooms also include a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities and an iron. The property has been awarded Eco-Label certification by the Green Hospitality Programme. Full Irish and continental breakfast is served daily. Sandymount Hotel also offers guests a free shuttle bus service to nearby locations, this is subject to availability and must be booked in advance.The 3 Arena is less than a 10-minute drive from the hotel. The DART rail link is just a 5-minute walk away and will give you access to the city’s top attractions including Grafton Street, the Guinness Storehouse and Dublin Castle.   Show full description

Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin

Very good 4-star hotel with 452 rooms..

Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin is a modern hotel located in the heart of Dublin, in a historic building on the famous O'Connell Street. The hotel also features a terrace, and a bar. The River Liffey, Temple Bar, and the shopping districts are a few minutes’ walk away. The hotel offers a mix of modern rooms and traditional suites. Guests can enjoy relaxed dining and a grand lobby bar with original chandeliers. The hotel has its own gym with 24-hour access located on the first floor. Extensive car parking is available next to the hotel, at a surcharge. The hotel is centrally located for touring Dublin and offers a comfortable stay for visitors to the vibrant city.   Show full description

By Diana Almeida

This is my list with great hotels for solo travelers to Dublin.

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Trending Post : 52 Best Things to do in Ireland

Solo Travel Ireland Guide

Planning on doing some solo travel in Ireland and need assistance? You’re in the right place!

I took a trip to Ireland a few years ago on my way to the UK. I had long had a plan to see some of the famous cliffs Ireland is known for so I went to the Howth Cliffs, the closest cliffs when landing in Dublin. It was amazing how far out I could see on the water and I truly felt like it broadened my perspective of different cultures and gave me an appreciation for the diversity of the world.

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If you’re a solo traveler seeking your next destination, Ireland is ideal. Tourism is booming in Ireland due to its stunning landscapes, intriguing historical sites, and lively nightlife and music scene. Back in 2019 over 10 million people were recorded visiting Ireland.

You can spend your days exploring the Emerald Isle’s famous landmarks and hidden gems, then head out at night to enjoy traditional Irish music or dance at one of the country’s many pubs.

You’ll find Ireland to be one of the safest destinations to visit in Europe and the locals speak English, eliminating language barriers for many Western travelers.

With so much to do and see, planning can be tricky. I’ve outlined the perfect Ireland solo trip itinerary, complete with tips on staying safe and making unforgettable memories.

But why should you listen to me? I write a female solo travel blog and have traveled to more than 30 different states and countries. I write about all kinds of female solo travel destinations.

Is Ireland safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Absolutely! Ireland holds the third position on the Global Peace Index, making it one of the safest places for solo travel in Europe and the world.

Nonetheless, it’s wise to take precautions, such as securing your belongings to avoid pickpockets. Consider investing in pickpocket-proof garments and hidden pocket scarves for added security. For women, a bra wallet is one of these garments.

Mapping out your routes from accommodations to popular spots can aid in safe navigation, particularly in unfamiliar areas or during nighttime excursions.

And if you’re wondering about the safety for solo female travelers, the answer is yes! Ireland is generally safe, and there’s no need to hesitate about spending solo holidays in this welcoming country.

The Irish are renowned for their friendliness, so don’t hesitate to strike up conversations. Trust your instincts, take normal precautions, and if a situation feels uncomfortable, it’s always smart to leave it.

Following these tips ensures a safe and enjoyable solo travel experience, no matter where you go.

Getting to Ireland

Getting to Ireland is quite straightforward, and you’ll find some of the cheapest flights from the US to Ireland in comparison to other European destinations. Numerous major cities provide direct flights to Dublin , which serves as the starting point for most solo tours in Ireland .

I always suggest opting for direct flights, particularly for less experienced travelers. Direct flights reduce the likelihood of complications like lost luggage and delays that often occur during layovers.

For those flying solo, the prospect of navigating through a layover can add unnecessary stress, especially for first-time solo flyers. Avoiding the chance of being stranded in a different country due to a layover is a simple precaution.

Unless you’re on an extremely tight budget, where the savings are typically just a couple of hundred dollars, it’s advisable to book a direct flight when embarking on solo travel to Ireland.

Check out tools like SkyScanner or Cheapo Air for cheap flights or Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). You don’t even need to shell out any cash because they all have a free version. With these tools, you should be able to find a flight from the US to Ireland for about $400.

Getting around Ireland as a Solo Traveler

Navigating transportation as a solo female traveler in Ireland might seem a bit confusing, but it’s not impossible. The options available depend on the cities you plan to visit.

In cities like Dublin there are cars, trains, buses , or tours .

Ireland has a decent transportation network when it comes to big cities, but in the more rural areas, you may find there isn’t an easy way to get there. In that instance, you could rent your own car, take a tourist bus, or join a guided tour , which is frequently more cost-effective than renting a car in Ireland .

Most people will tell you renting a car is the best option though.

My favorite rentals car options for Ireland are RentalCars.com , AutoEurope and DiscoverCars .

Where To Travel Solo in Ireland? My Top 8 Suggestions

Embarking on solo travel in Ireland offers numerous enticing destinations, and there’s a wealth of things to see and do. Here are some top recommendations that can easily be incorporated into a single trip.

1. Dublin

Dublin stands out as a must-visit city in Ireland, brimming with life and attractions for solo travelers. As the largest city in Ireland, Dublin boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and numerous Irish pubs.

The Temple Bar area is renowned for its lively nightlife, featuring pubs and restaurants with live music. Beyond the vibrant atmosphere, the city is home to historical sites like Trinity College, founded in 1592, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, built in 1190.

Literary enthusiasts can explore the birthplace of James Joyce, a famous Irish writer. Nature lovers will find solace in Phoenix Park, Europe’s largest enclosed city park, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

• Dublin Tour Suggestion: Irish Food Trail Walking Tour
• Get the Hop-on, Hop-off Dublin Big Bus ticket
• Best Hostel in Dublin: Jacob’s Inn
• Best Hotel for Solo Travelers: The Address Connolly

Traveling north of Dublin leads to Meath, home to the remarkable prehistoric site of Newgrange. Constructed over 5000 years ago by a Neolithic farming community, Newgrange is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The site features an impressive stone passage tomb adorned with intricate carvings, aligning with the winter solstice sunrise.

Additionally, Meath hosts Trim Castle, a Norman castle situated atop an ancient hillfort. Built in the 12th century, Trim Castle is one of Ireland’s largest castles and has served as a filming location for movies such as Braveheart.

You’ll find lots of castles, scattered throughout the country, but Trim Castle is one of the most notable.

• Meath Tour Suggestion: Boyne Valley & Meath

3. County Wicklow

Located south of Dublin, County Wicklow is home to the enchanting Glendalough valley, celebrated for its serene lakes and mountainous landscapes. It’s a perfect escape from the clamoring noise of big cities.

Another highlight in Wicklow is the Wicklow Gap, boasting Ireland’s diverse and breathtaking scenery. It’s filled with vibrant plant life and the area is surrounded by mountains that form a sort of valley.

Visitors can explore the medieval capital, wander through castle gardens, and stroll down charming medieval streets.

• Wicklow Tour Suggestion: Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough and Kilkenny
• Best Hostel in Wicklow: Glendalough International Youth Hostel
• Best Hotel for Solo Travelers: Lus Mor B&B

4. Cork

Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city, bears the moniker “the rebel city” due to its rebellious history under English rule. The city boasts museums, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.

Cork offers attractions like the Crawford Art Gallery, Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, and Bishop Lucey Park.

Noteworthy is the tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle, believed to bestow the gift of eloquence.

Cork is also home to the Old Midleton Distillery, founded by John Jameson in 1825, providing insights into Irish whiskey production through guided tours and tastings. You could treat yourself to a glass as you soak in local tradition.

• Cork Tour Suggestion: Blarney Castle Cork City and Jameson Distillery
• Best Hostel in Cork: Bru Hostel
• Best Hotel for Solo Travelers: Rochestown Park Hotel

Situated in the northwest, Donegal is renowned for its rugged coastline and pristine beaches. The Wild Atlantic Way offers a picturesque drive along Donegal’s coastline.

The county features the Slieve League Cliffs, among Europe’s highest sea cliffs, providing awe-inspiring views.

Bundoran, the surf capital, attracts surfers of all levels. Tory Island offers a unique cultural and historical experience, while the Doagh Famine Village is an outdoor museum depicting life during the Great Famine.

The Inishowen Peninsula boasts picturesque villages, stunning beaches, and ancient ruins, with Glenveagh National Park offering hiking amidst mountains, lakes, and woodlands.

Evenings in Donegal invite exploration of traditional music and dance in Irish pubs or local music festivals. This is one of my favorite things to do in Ireland. You can soak up local culture and music all while having the time of your life. You might even see the Northern Lights !

• Donegal Tour Suggestion: Donegal Coast And Castles
• Best Hostel in Donegal: Bluestack Centre Hostel
• Best Hotel for Solo Travelers: The Ritz Accommodation

6. Killarney National Park

For a serene retreat, Killarney National Park in County Kerry offers a picturesque escape. Encompassing 26,000 acres, the park features lush green hills, grazing sheep, and numerous hiking trails.

Noteworthy attractions include the Torc Waterfall and the 19th-century Muckross House, now a tourist destination. Ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking a break from urban life, the park provides a tranquil setting to appreciate wildlife and breathtaking views.

• Killarney Tour Suggestion: Killarney National Park Horseback Ride
• Best Hostel in Killarney: The Black Sheep Hostel
• Best Hotel for Solo Travelers: The Brehon

7. The Ring of Kerry

A scenic 111-mile drive around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, the Ring of Kerry offers spectacular views of the Atlantic coastline and mountains. The journey includes visits to charming villages for traditional Irish food and music.

Key stops along the route include Ladies View, providing stunning views of the Lakes of Killarney, and the Kerry Cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline and Skellig Islands.

The Kerry Cliffs is one of the most memorable sights in all of Ireland. You’ve probably seen it all over social media.

The drive encompasses the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain pass with panoramic views. Additionally, travelers can explore Rossbeigh’s long sandy beach, visit Kenmare’s colorful town, or experience the traditional village of Sneem.

Serving as a gateway to the Skellig Islands, the Ring of Kerry allows boat tours to the remote islands housing a 6th-century monastery.

You’ll find these beehive-shaped huts all over these small islands as well as an abundance of puffin birds.

Alternatively, the Skellig Experience Centre offers insights into the islands’ history and wildlife through an interactive museum.

I prefer to get my experience with an area firsthand by exploring on my own.

• Ring of Kerry Tour Suggestion: Private Tour of Ring of Kerry & Valentia Island
• Best Hostel near Ring of Kerry: The Black Sheep Hostel
• Best Hotel for Solo Travelers: International Hotel Killarney  

8. Dingle Peninsula

Situated in the southwest, the Dingle Peninsula captivates with rolling hills, sandy beaches, and charming villages.

Home to Conor Pass, Ireland’s highest mountain pass, the region features the town of Dingle—a vibrant hub renowned for lively pubs, traditional music, and welcoming locals.

Throughout Ireland you’ll meet tons of friendly people. It’s one of the things I like best about it. Pubs are a great way to meet new people and learn some insights into the area.

The Dingle Peninsula offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and culture.

The surrounding countryside is a great area for cycling and hiking. There are many of these kinds of tours on sites like GetYourGuide or Viator . My grandpa even goes on biking vacations throughout Ireland and they explore the whole country by biking and stopping at local pubs along the way.

• Dingle Tour Suggestion: Private Guided Boat Tour in Dingle
• Best Hostel in Dingle: The Hideout Hostel
• Best Hotel for Solo Travelers: Dingle Skellig Hotel

Travel Tips For Solo Travelers To Ireland

To enhance your solo travel experience in Ireland, here are some essential tips to keep in mind.

● Maintain Connections while traveling Solo

Ensuring connectivity during solo travel in Ireland is crucial. Utilize your phone’s data plan through carriers like AT&T or Verizon. Cell phone carriers really hike up the prices for international charges though so they aren’t the best option.

Alternatively, you can rely on public Wi-Fi available at hotels, cafes, and pubs or purchase an eSIM online, either at the airport or from stores like Airalo . I recommend Airalo.

You can easily connect to it once you land internationally and it’ll probably only set you back about $17. Prices depend on which country you go to and how much data you’ll need. 

It’s smart to stay connected when traveling solo when you don’t know the area and just in case of an emergency.

Whichever method you choose, regularly check in with family or loved ones, sharing your Ireland solo travel itinerary.

● Prioritize safety during your solo trip to Ireland

While the Irish are generally friendly, safety remains a priority. Stay vigilant, avoid flaunting valuables, and consider using pickpocket-proof garments or hidden pocket scarves for added security. I personally like the bra wallets that are out there.

Apply common sense, and you’re likely to have a trouble-free solo travel experience in Ireland.

● Moderate alcohol consumption during your solo Ireland trip

Partaking in pub culture is enjoyable, but moderation is key during solo travel in Ireland. Excessive drinking can lead to unforeseen consequences, potentially dampening the remainder of your trip. Avoid drinking alone; it’s safer to be in groups, providing support if needed.

Consider joining solo travel groups in Ireland to make new friends and share experiences. Many companies offer single and multi-day trips catering to solo travelers.

Check out travel groups like TravelBFF . They regularly plan travel to various destinations.

● Make new friends

As a solo traveler, there are numerous ways to connect with people in Ireland. Join the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl , guiding you to pubs with literary themes or references.

Consider participating in walking tours that not only explore local attractions but also include dinner at nearby restaurants, like the Dublin Food Tour or Belfast Food Tour – a must for solo visitors who appreciate gourmet cuisine.

For those with an interest in castles and history, explore options like the Wicklow’s Historic Gaol Day Tour from Wicklow or a guided tour of Connemara National Park from Galway.

And if all else fails, simply walk into any pub in Ireland and take a seat at the bar. The locals are typically friendly, and there’s almost always an opportunity for a chat over a pint of Guinness!

Ensure Connemara National Park finds a spot on your solo travel itinerary in Ireland.

● Eat in Local Homes

Enjoy a unique solo travel experience in Ireland by dining in local homes through platforms like EatWith .

This not only allows you to connect with locals but also provides an opportunity to meet fellow travelers who have booked the same dinner or at-home cooking class. Ensure you book in advance to secure your preferred date.

● Know How to travel solo on a budget

Navigating solo travel on a budget in Ireland requires some forethought. Since you don’t have anyone to share costs with, consider traveling during the off-season when flights and hotel stays are often significantly discounted. Keep the weather in mind though.

Package tours can also be a cost-effective option as they often include meals, admission to attractions, and transportation, providing a clearer picture of the overall trip cost. Additionally, many tours offer the option to pair you with a roommate to reduce expenses.

Is travel insurance necessary for your trip to Ireland?

When embarking on a journey to Ireland, or any destination globally, having travel insurance is a prudent decision.

SafetyWing stands out as an excellent option for travel medical insurance, offering an extensive network and providing both short-term and long-term coverage.

This includes protection for extended travel durations and limited coverage in your home country. SafetyWing is also budget-friendly, offering $250,000 worth of coverage with a low overall deductible of $250.

Travel rewards cards also come with some insurance protections such as trip cancellation or trip interruption insurance.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Ireland proves to be among the top destinations for solo travelers. With its incredible culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming people, you’ll find it hard to discover a more friendly atmosphere.

The flexibility to tailor your trip to be as solitary or social as you desire is a unique aspect of visiting Ireland. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in nature, relax in a spa, or explore vibrant cities, the Emerald Isle offers a seamless and enjoyable experience for solo travelers.

Read More About Ireland

• 23 Fantastic Things to Do in Westport, Ireland
• 22 Travel Tips for Dublin & Beyond on a Budget
• 19 Fun Things to in Kenmare
• 10 Things to Know About Driving in Ireland
• 14 Amazing Things To Do Along Ireland’s Ring of Kerry
• 13 Breathtaking Vacation Rentals in Ireland

Recommended Travel Resources

* World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads or any other travel insurance company. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.  

• Travel Insurance: World Nomads *.
• Transport: CheapOAir and Skyscanner (Best Sites to Research Flight Prices) 
• Best Car Rental Deals: Rentalcars.com
• Best Sites to Find Hotel Deals: Hotels.com and Booking.com
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• Best Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide

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Rachel Sanchez is the face behind Travel Bug Rachel, where every journey is another chapter in a global adventure. Having explored many countries solo, Rachel's blog is a treasure trove of budget-friendly solo travel tips, with a dash of bougie on a budget. Her transformative trip to Ireland served as a pivotal moment, giving her a passion for travel and all the world has to offer. Inspired by the captivating landscapes of Ireland, Rachel's journey through Ireland fosters a deep appreciation for different cultures and traditions.

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Ireland

If you're planning to solo travel in Ireland, you're in for a treat. As this country in   Europe is one of the most welcoming for solo female travellers. The country has friendly locals, a rich culture and endless things to see and do. Having spent time solo in Ireland, I've put together a guide on Ireland to help you to travel solo here.

Discover the best places to go in Ireland, where to stay, how to get around and the best time to visit. I've covered each part of the country to help you decide where to go. Happy planning!

N.b. For every booking made through this article, I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping me to make a difference to their lives. 

Places To Go in Ireland

Tours in ireland, types of accommodation in ireland, best area to stay in dublin, how to get around ireland, ireland airports, best time to go to ireland.

Ireland is a great place for solo female travellers, and it’s definitely up there in my top countries for solos. That’s why I’ve given it 5 out of 5 stars for solo female travel. It is welcoming, safe and has good infrastructure. Plus it's easy to meet others here. 

If you’re wondering “is Ireland safe for solos?” Yes it is. The Irish reputation is for cheer and goodwill and the hospitality extends to visitors who will find that they are welcomed into Irish society at the drop of a hat.

The Irish are a friendly bunch and one great way to make new friends in almost any part of the country is to enter a neighbourhood bar and pull up a stool. You're more than likely to meet some locals who will be more than happy to treat you to pint of Guinness and tell you some Irish tales.

Just take it easy on the Irish whisky and Guinness so that you keep your wits about you at night. When you’re travelling around, you do need to be careful if you’re visiting the cliffs of Moher and stay within designated areas to remain safe.

For those who appreciate nature, history and culture, Ireland is a must-visit destination with plenty of fascinating sites to explore, including Blarney Castle and Kilkenny Castle. But if modern attractions and eating and dining are more your style, Dublin offers an array of trendy restaurants and bars. It’s definitely a country for the sociable Girl about the Globe.

Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the Blarney Stone

Ireland is an island in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Great Britain. It's known as “the Emerald Isle” because of its lush, green landscape.

Aside from Dublin, the capital, there are several other great places to visit in Ireland. For history buffs, the ancient monument of Newgrange in County Meath and the Norman Trim Castle are both fascinating sites to explore. Meanwhile, the picturesque valley of Glendalough in County Wicklow is a must-see for those seeking stunning natural scenery and monastic ruins.

The island is actually divided into two parts: the Republic of Ireland, which is an independent country, and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. If you’re considering a trip to Ireland, there are many different regions in the country, all offering a different slice of good ole Irish culture. Starting in the capital, Dublin, I’ve included all the regions worth exploring in a clockwise direction from East to West. To make it easy for you if you're planning a road trip around Ireland.

Dublin, the lively capital

No trip to Ireland would be complete without a visit to the lively city of Dublin. Dublin is one of the top destinations in Ireland for solo female travellers. Having visited here twice, it has got more touristy over the years and attracts a lot of backpackers. The capital itself is the largest city in Ireland and is full of history, culture and plenty of Irish bars.

There's always something going on here, and the Temple Bar area is well known for its nightlife, with many pubs and restaurants playing live music. But it isn’t just about the nightlife here. The capital is home to historical sites, including Trinity College which was founded in 1592 and St. Patrick's Cathedral which was built in 1190.

If you're into literature, don't miss out on visiting the birthplace of James Joyce – Dublin's famous writer whose work includes Ulysses among other well known novels. This is definitely one for all bookworms!

And nature lovers will appreciate Phoenix Park, the largest enclosed city park in Europe and a great place to enjoy a peaceful walk away from the liveliness of the city.

Newgrange, north of Dublin

Head north of Dublin and you’ll arrive at Newgrange, a prehistoric site located in County Meath. It was constructed over 5000 years ago by a Neolithic farming community and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monument is a unique feat of engineering, featuring an impressive stone passage tomb with elaborate carvings that align with the rising sun during the winter solstice.

Similarly, Trim Castle is a Norman castle situated on top of an ancient hillfort in Meath. It was constructed in the 12th century and is one of the largest castles in Ireland. The castle has been the setting for several movies, including the amazing Braveheart.

Glendalough

Country Wicklow

South of Dublin, in County Wicklow, lies the charming and scenic valley of Glendalough. It is renowned for its tranquil lakes and mountainous landscapes, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city.

Glendalough is also home to a 6th-century monastic settlement with ancient ruins, a round tower, and other historical relics that offer a glimpse into Ireland's rich cultural heritage.

Another popular attraction in County Wicklow is the Wicklow Gap, which is home to some of Ireland's most breathtaking and diverse scenery. You can explore the medieval capital of Ireland, wander through the castle gardens, and take a stroll down the quaint medieval side streets. Or soak in the rich history and culture of the region and visit the “black Abbey,” a historic structure that dates back to the Middle Ages.

Cork is the second largest city in Ireland. Known as “the rebel city” because of its rebellious history during English rule, it has museums, and art galleries as well as lively nightlife. The city has a long history dating back to medieval times when it was occupied by Vikings and later became part of England until 1691.

The city is home to the Crawford Art Gallery, a heritage building in the heart of the city with a large collection of Irish art. You can visit Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral with its three spires, take a walk along the River Lee and cross its many rivers, or stroll through Bishop Lucey Park, one of the largest green spaces in the city.

Many people come to Cork not just to see the city, but to kiss the Blarney Stone. If you haven’t heard of it, this magical stone located in the grounds of Blarney Castle is said to give you the gift the gab if you kiss it. (It does feel really weird kissing this piece of limestone but it is a tradition!) Make sure to explore the rest of the castle grounds afterwards. You can take the bus from Cork to reach it if you’re not travelling around Ireland by car.

If you didn’t get a chance to see the Jameson Distillery in Dublin, you can explore the one in Cork. Known as the Old Midleton Distillery, it was founded in 1825 by John Jameson, who also founded the famous Jameson Distillery in Dublin.

The distillery in Cork was established to cater to the growing demand for Jameson whiskey in the southern part of Ireland. Nowadays, you can take a guided tour of the distillery, take part in a whiskey tasting and see how Jameson whiskey is made. It’s an interesting part of the Irish whisky culture.

Donegal is a county in the north-west of Ireland that's known for its rugged coastline and beautiful beaches. It has some of the most breathtaking coastline in Ireland, and taking a drive along the Wild Atlantic Way is the perfect way to experience it. It is also home to the Slieve League Cliffs, some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe that offer stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Known as the surf capital of Ireland, Bundoran is a great spot for both experienced and beginner surfers. But it isn’t just about the waves here. You can take a boat trip to the remote island called Tory Island, to discover its unique culture and history. Or visit the Doagh Famine Village, an outdoor museum that tells the story of life in Donegal during the Great Famine and beyond.

Explore the Inishowen Peninsula with its picturesque villages, stunning beaches, and ancient ruins. Or hike Glenveagh National Park which is home to mountains, lakes, and woodlands. In the evenings you can sample the traditional music and dance of the rich cultural heritage in one of the Irish pubs or at one of the local music festivals held in Donegal.

And of course, being Ireland, Donegal has its very own castle. This 15th-century castle is a must-see in a mix of Gaelic and English architectural styles.

Killarney National Park

If you're looking for a beautiful and peaceful place to relax, consider the Killarney National Park. With its lakes and rolling hills, this National Park in County Kerry was the first one in the country. Within its 26,000 acres you’ll find lush green hills dotted with sheep grazing, and many trails to hike along.

It’s the perfect place for the outdoors and nature Girl about the Globe who wants to escape the cities, see some wildlife and enjoy some beautiful views. Make sure to see the Torc Waterfall and to visit the Muckross House, a 19th-century mansion which is now a tourist attraction.

The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a 111 mile scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. As well as stunning views of the Atlantic coastline and rugged mountains, take your time to stop at all the little villages and towns along the way for some traditional Irish food and music. You’ll need a whole day here if you’re planning to stop off.

Stop at the Ladies View, a scenic overlook that provides stunning views of the Lakes of Killarney. And make sure to also park at the Kerry Cliffs: These cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline and the Skellig Islands. As you drive around, you also drive through the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain pass with towering cliffs and panoramic views.

You can walk along the beach at long sandy beach of Rossbeigh or take a dip in the ocean. Visit the charming town of Kenmare with its colourful buildings and have a bite to eat in its excellent restaurants. Or see another colourful village called Sneem which is known for its traditional thatched-roofed buildings and beautiful harbour.

The Ring of Kerry is also a gateway to the Skellig Islands. You can take a boat tour to these remote islands, which are home to a 6th-century monastery and an abundance of seabirds. Or just visit the Skellig Experience Centre to learn about the history and wildlife of the Skellig Islands at this interactive museum.

Dingle Peninsula, Kerry

The Dingle Peninsula is a beautiful region in the south-west of Ireland that's known for its rolling hills, sandy beaches and charming villages. It's home to Conor Pass, which is the highest mountain pass in Ireland.

Explore the town of Dingle. This charming, vibrant town is known for its lively pubs, traditional music, and friendly locals. And there is surrounding countryside for hiking and cycling too. The town is also home to a variety of museums and galleries, showcasing the local history and art.

Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher, County Clare

One of the popular attractions in the country are The Cliffs of Moher. These dramatic cliffs are located on the west coast of Clare country and offer amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. They are one of Ireland's most famous natural attractions, and they offer stunning views from their cliffs 214 metres above the Atlantic.

The cliffs offer a range of activities including walking trails, birdwatching, and boat tours. Visitors can also explore the nearby visitor center, which offers exhibitions and displays about the cliffs' natural history and folklore.

Kylemore Abbey, Galway

Galway is a beautiful city located in the western part of Ireland, famous for its bustling nightlife and rich music scene. It's a cultural hub that was nominated as the European Capital of Culture in 2020. Apart from its lively atmosphere, Galway is also known for its literary heritage. Many famous writers like W.B Yeats and Oscar Wilde have lived and been inspired by this city.

You can immerse yourself in this literary culture by visiting places like Coole Park, a nature reserve that was once a favorite spot of W.B Yeats for hiking and inspiration. In the heart of Galway City lies Eyre Square, a popular hub of activity that is surrounded by restaurants, pubs, and shops.

One of the must-visit places in Galway is the Galway City Museum, situated on the banks of River Corrib. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich history of the region from prehistoric times to the present day. Once you’ve learnt about the region’s history you can just take a leisurely stroll along the Salthill Promenade and enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Aran Islands

Surrounding Galway

Near Galway is The Burren , Clare. The Burren is a unique region in the north-west of Ireland that's known for its lunar landscape and limestone cliffs. It's home to many ancient monuments, including Poulnabrone Dolmen which is over 6000 years old.

The Aran Islands are located off the coast of Galway and have long been considered sacred by locals. They are a group of three islands; Inishmore is the largest of the three, followed by Inishmaan and Inisheer. The islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, ancient historical sites, and unique culture. They are also famous for their handmade woollen jumpers.

Here, you can witness the traditional Irish way of life and immerse yourself in the Irish music, dance and language. Explore the prehistoric forts and ruins, stroll along rugged cliffs and sunbathe or surf at the sandy beaches. In the summer months, you can reach the islands by ferry from Galway in 1.5 hours.

Above Galway is Connemara. Connemara is a region in the west of Ireland that's known for its rugged landscape and majestic mountains. It's home to Kylemore Abbey, a Benedictine monastery dating back to 1920.

Nearby is one of Ireland’s hidden gems. On the border of Galway and County Mayo is the Royal Abbey of Cong. You can stroll across stone bridges and see the ruins of a Medieval Abbey. This region is great for nature solos with green meadows and lakes.

Sligo is a picturesque town in the northwest of Ireland that's known for its vibrant arts, music scene and festivals. Along with its rich cultural heritage, the town is dominated by mountains, lakes and beaches making it popular with nature lovers.

One of the most famous landmarks in Sligo is the magnificent Benbulben mountain, which is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The town is also home to several historic sites and cultural attractions, such as the Sligo Abbey, a medieval monastery dating back to the 13th century, and the Yeats Memorial Building, which celebrates the life and work of the famous Irish poet, William Butler Yeats.

For the wellness solo, the Voya Seaweed Baths are a relaxing experience for anyone who wants to unwind and rejuvenate their skin. The saltwater pool is filled with seaweed that's harvested from the surrounding waters of Sligo Bay. This charming town is ideal if you’re seeking natural beauty, cultural heritage and some artistic flair.

Overall, Ireland is a wonderful country to visit as a solo female traveller, offering a rich mix of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Dublin Castle

When you solo travel in Ireland, you won’t be short of company here but you are guaranteed to meet others on a tour and there are plenty of tours to take. If you’re interested in exploring Ireland's historical and cultural heritage, there are plenty of guided tours that cover the country's famous landmarks and attractions. Some popular options include the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Blarney Castle.

For a more adventurous experience, there are tours that offer hiking, cycling, and kayaking adventures so you can explore the country’s mountains, lakes and coastlines whilst keeping fit!

Get Your Guide   – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated Ireland activities and top things to see in Ireland. Choose from a tour of the Ring of Kerry, entrance to the Guinness Storehouse, or a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher, seeing Galway and Kilmacduagh Abbey on the way.

Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are plenty to book as a solo including day trips and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check Get Your Guide tours, prices and availability

Ireland has a wide choice of accommodation options. From 3 to 5-star hotels and spas to hotels on lake shores, there’s something for every kind of solo. With plenty of hostels if you’re on a budget and looking to be sociable and aparthotels to give you the flexibility to cook. There are guest houses, B&Bs and lodges and cottages in the countryside too.

The Best Area to Stay in Ireland

For party and city and sightseeing solos, choose the bustling city of Dublin. For Arty and Cultural solos, Galway has a vibrant arts and culture scene with traditional Irish music in cozy pubs. For history, stay in the lively city of Cork which has a laid-back vibe and of course, the famous Blarney Castle. Or for nature solos, choose the small town of Killarney, which is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is a starting point for the Ring of Kerry. For all accommodations, check rates and availability for all Ireland accommodation here

Dublin is easy to get around but if you’re looking for the best area to stay for you, it depends on what you’re looking for from your trip. The Temple Bar area is known for its lively nightlife, restaurants and pubs and is good for the party solo.

St. Stephen’s Green is a quieter area with beautiful parks and gardens, located just a short walk from the city centre, and ideal for those who want to be somewhere away from the hustle and bustle. Trinity College is a popular area for tourists. Located in the heart of Dublin it’s close to historic landmarks such as Trinity College and St. Stephen's Green.

Dublin 2 is known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options, with popular streets such as Grafton Street and Dawson Street. Or you could choose the Grand Canal Dock; a modern, up-and-coming area with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes. Depending on your budget, here are 3 recommended accommodations for solo female travellers. 

$ – Jacobs Inn Hostel. If you’re on a budget and looking for a sociable vibe, this friendly hostel is located near to the Temple Bar district and has live entertainment in the evenings. They have female-only dorms and there’s a free city walk to meet others too! Prices from £66/€75 p/n for a pod in a 12-bed mixed dorm. • Check rates and availability: Jacobs Inn Hostel

$$ – Wren Urban Nest. In walkable distance to Dublin Castle and The City Hall, this snug hotel offers great customer service and cosy snug rooms that are just perfect for solos. Plus they offer vegan and vegetarian options for breakfast. Prices from £148/€168 p/n for a snug nest. * Check rates and availability: Wren Urban Nest

$$$ – The Temple Bar Inn. Just a short walk from the main shopping streets, this 4 star hotel is in a great location to explore. The staff are great and there are 2 restaurants and a bar onsite too. Prices from £184/€209 p/n for a budget double room. • Check rates and availability: Temple Bar Inn

Getting around Ireland is super easy, with loads of different ways to explore this stunning country. If you're feeling brave and fancy some independence, renting a car is a great option. This gives you the flexibility to explore all the different areas of the country at your own pace. If you're from the UK, it's easy as they drive on the left-hand side but if you're used to driving on the right, it may be a bit tricky at first. 

The roads in Ireland are narrow and winding, so take your time and enjoy the scenery while you're driving. The Ring of Kerry is a circular route that takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland. This drive is definitely worth doing if you have the time!

If public transport is more your thing,  trains and buses can get you just about anywhere in Ireland. Irish Rail will take you to heaps of places, and Bus Éireann is perfect if you're looking for a budget-friendly option. You can also hop on a tour bus if you want to hit up all the big sights without the hassle.

Irish City Link is a great way to travel to certain parts of the country. They run routes from Dublin to Galway, Galway to Limerick and Galway to Cork. Find their timetables here  

For something a little different, cycling is a fantastic way to explore Ireland. Plenty of towns and cities offer bike rental services, and there are some seriously epic cycling routes to check out. The Wild Atlantic Way and Great Western Greenway are two awesome options for exploring the stunning countryside on two wheels.

If you're running short on time or just want to get around a bit faster, there are domestic flights between major cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Some smaller airports also offer flights to nearby destinations.

There are 5 international airports in Ireland. You can fly directly into Dublin from many major cities in UK, Europe or North America. There are also flights to Shannon, Cork and Knock airports that may be cheaper depending on where you're flying from.

Dublin Airport – From Dublin Airport, the bus takes 15 minutes or there is a Line 782 shuttle which takes 40 minutes. You can also find taxis at the airport. There’s also Irish Citylink which operates a non-stop express service between Dublin Airport and Dublin. Check all the options here

The bus is the cheapest option, but if you’re looking for an airport service that will be waiting for you at the airport when you arrive, pre-book a transfer with Hoppa, a safe and reliable service for solo females.

If you’re wondering ‘what is the weather like in Ireland?’ Be sure to come prepared for all types of weather. The Irish climate can be quite unpredictable, so it's always best to pack a variety of clothes. You may need sunscreen and a hat one day, and a heavy coat the next.

The best time to go really depends on what you're looking for. If you're hoping for sunny, warm weather, then summer (June to August) is your best bet. But be warned: this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit, as many tourists flock to the Emerald Isle during these months.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds and save a bit of money, then spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are great options. The weather is still mild, and you'll get to see the stunning countryside turn green and gold as the seasons change.

And if you're a fan of winter sports or cozy pubs, then winter (December to February) might be the perfect time for you. You'll get to enjoy festive cheer and perhaps even some snowfall, and there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy.

• Can I drink the water? Yes. Tap water is safe to drink in Ireland.
• Is tipping expected in Ireland? If there is a service charge added, you don’t really need to tip but if there isn’t one then the usual 10-15% is expected.
• Fixed price or barter? Fixed price.
• Any ATMs? Yes. You’ll find ATMs in the cities and the bigger towns.
• Which side of the road do they drive? The left-hand side.
• Is Ireland good for vegetarians? Yes, it is. There are many vegetarian restaurants in Dublin and other cities across the country.
• Any Seven Wonders of the World? No.

Related Posts

• Solo Travel in Northern Ireland
• Solo Travel in Europe
• Things To Do in Belfast

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Solo travel around Ireland

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Going it alone on your Ireland trip? Here are our tips for solo travellers, covering everything from practical advice to having fun and meeting new people

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If you’re planning a solo trip, the good news is that Ireland is the perfect choice – there’s great scenery and food, people are friendly and welcoming to visitors and there’s lots to do for the solo traveller. In fact, Rough Guides rates Ireland as one of the top countries in the world for travelling alone.

Belfast Traditional Music Trail

There are plenty of transport options to get around Ireland as a solo traveller. You can get to the cities and towns via public transport – the rail and bus network is reasonably priced and efficient. All the island's cities are very walkable and it can be fun to explore them on foot. But there are also bus services, commuter rail and tram services to help you get from A to B.

If you’re renting a car and taking a road trip around Ireland on your own, make sure to use a satnav or maps app on your phone with the audio instructions enabled, for help to navigate around the roads.

There’s plenty to do for the solo traveller, whether it’s having a quiet night at the cinema or theatre, taking in a live music gig, enjoying a comedy show, dining out or just sampling the atmosphere at the local pub, where it’s easy to strike up a conversation with friendly locals. Check out local event guides to find out what’s on in the area when you visit.

Dawson Street, Dublin city

Eating alone in a restaurant or café is no problem and it’s very common in Ireland to see people dining on delicious food or enjoying a coffee alone. You can ask for a quiet corner in the restaurant if you don’t want to draw attention to yourself, or a table at the centre of the action for people-watching.

If you’re drinking alone in a pub or bar, especially if you sit at the bar counter, someone (usually a friendly or curious local) may try to strike up a conversation with you. If people buy you a drink in the pub, the custom is to buy them (and whoever else is in the “round” of drinks) one back.

Most accommodation – hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs – is priced by the room, so it’s the same price whether the room is for a couple or a solo traveller. Some places do have single rooms, but they are rare. No matter where you stay, you can ask your hosts for help, advice and recommendations for things to see and do.

If you don’t mind sharing a room or dorm, you can try a hostel , which will cut down on costs. It will also give you a chance to meet other travellers.

Lough Derg, County Clare

If you would like to meet like-minded travellers, joining a group or guided tour is a fun option, whether it’s just for a day trip or a longer trek. Ask at your accommodation or the local tourist office what the best local group tours are. Ideas include joining a walking or hiking tour, taking a sea safari on a boat, going forest bathing or joining a guided kayaking tour .

Another way to have some fun solo or to interact with people is to try one of your hobbies in Ireland – or take up a new one. Look online for things like sports clubs, dance nights or open-mic nights and check social websites where you can book online for one-off events and activities. You will find everything from sports meetups and Irish language conversation sessions to dinner and concert outings – cities and urban areas are likely to have more regular activities.

Tracey's Farmhouse Kitchen, County Down

Something you see during your trip might inspire you to learn a new skill and travelling solo gives you the chance to learn something without any familiar faces watching. Your new skill could be anything from learning to surf (the waves along Ireland’s northwest coast are a great place to start) to signing up for a one-off art class, dance class, or crafts workshop.

Finally, one of the nicest things about travelling solo is being alone – so don’t forget to enjoy the peace and quiet. It’s easy to get away from the crowds and out into nature in Ireland, whether it’s on a cycling trail , a coastal walk, exploring a national park or just finding a secluded spot in a city park.

Keem Bay, County Mayo

Ireland has a relatively low crime rate but the usual crimes that a tourist might encounter elsewhere are present – such as pickpockets or theft from cars. While we know that crime is never the fault of the victim, there are still some “common sense” measures you can take to protect yourself and your goods whilst travelling. Don’t leave valuables unattended, keep your travel documents somewhere safe, and take the usual precautions that you would take when travelling solo anywhere in the world. If you have an emergency , call 999 for the police (known as the Gardaí in the Republic of Ireland and the PSNI in Northern Ireland), fire brigade or ambulance.

Solo female travellers should exercise the same precautions when in Ireland as they would anywhere else in the world. If you are unsure, check with locals to find out if an area or route has an unsafe reputation. Be aware that you may attract attention as a woman travelling alone. When going out, let someone know your plans and estimated return time, avoid hitch-hiking and take a licensed taxi back to your accommodation at night rather than walking.

Where do you want to go?

Do you feel like tasting wild Atlantic sea spray on your lips? Strolling through vibrant city streets? Exploring ancient ruins? Right this way…

Solo Travel In Ireland: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

By Kelie Fiala. This guide to traveling solo in Ireland contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking to experience solo travel in Ireland , but need help with the planning?

Then you’re in the right place!

If you’re a solo traveler in search of your next destination, Ireland is the perfect spot. Personally, it’s one of my favorite cities thanks to its stunning landscapes, interesting historical sites, and vibrant nightlife and music scene. 

In fact, you can spend your days exploring the Emerald Isle’s famous landmarks as well as its hidden gems, before heading out at night to hear traditional Irish music or dance the night away at one of the country’s many pubs.

It’s also very safe, which is a definite plus for those traveling alone, and locals speak English — which eliminates language barrier issues for many travelers coming from western countries.

With so much to do and see, it can be tricky to plan. Luckily, I’ve outlined the perfect Ireland solo trip itinerary — including tips on how to stay safe and have a memorable time.

⏳Short on time? Here are some quick tips for your solo trip to Ireland: ✈️ Dublin Airport Transfer: Book that here ☔ Safety: While Ireland is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack  travel safety essentials . One top pick is the  She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include  Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments  and  Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves 🚗  Renting A Car: Discover Cars  (save up to 70% using their comparison tool!) 🚅  Public Transportation: Omio 🏨  Accommodation: This map  can help you pinpoint top-rated and budget-friendly accommodation in the Irish cities you’re visiting solo. It’s currently set to the Temple Bar in Dublin, but you can easily change it to your intended destination in Ireland. 🎉  Experiences: Viator  (tours),  GetYourGuide  (tours), and  EatWith  (cooking classes & dining in local homes) 🏥 Travel Insurance: SafetyWing 📞 Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Confidently Enjoy Solo Travel In Ireland [Free Course]

Before we discuss how to have an amazing trip  traveling to Ireland alone , here is an invite to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re going to travel solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to dive into our  solo travel guide on visiting Ireland .

Is Ireland Safe For Solo Travelers?

Ireland is ranked third on the Global Peace Index , surpassed only by Iceland and New Zealand. This is one of the many reasons Ireland is one of the best places to travel solo in Europe , and the world.

Of course, while Ireland is a safe place to travel, you should still take precautions. 

For instance, when wandering around cities and towns, keep your belongings close to avoid pickpockets . You might also consider investing in pickpocket-proof garments and hidden pocket scarves to hide your cash and credit cards. This is one of my top tips for solo travelers .

If you have time, look up the best routes from your accommodation to popular tourist spots so you can avoid walking through sketchy areas, particularly at night.

And you might be wondering, “Is Ireland safe for solo female travelers?”

The answer is yes, but always keep your wits about you. Generally the country is a safe place, and you shouldn’t be scared to spend solo holidays in Ireland.

Also, the Irish are by-and-large a friendly bunch. Don’t be too scared to talk to others. You’ll make fast friends, no doubt.

Just always trust your gut and take normal precautions when you travel solo. This is really one of the most important solo travel safety tips to follow no matter where you go. If you feel at all uncomfortable, leave that situation.

Where Is Ireland?

Ireland, nicknamed “The Emerald Isle,” is a beautiful island nation at the western most point of Europe . 

Sometimes people think it is connected to England , confusing it with Scotland — which I think has to do with Northern Ireland being a part of the UK; however, Ireland is its own island just west of the United Kingdom.

It’s also pretty far north — in line with the Alaskan Panhandle to give you some perspective. This means you can catch the Northern Lights a few times a year there.

But for as far north as it is, the climate is pretty temperate. The summers are fairly cool compared to much of the US, and Ireland’s winters are more moderate, too. 

You will even find palm trees in parts of southern Ireland just because it almost never freezes there!

Getting To Ireland

Getting to Ireland is very easy from the US, and you can find great flight deals, too. Many major cities offer direct flights into Dublin, which is where most solo tours of Ireland begin.

I always recommend direct flights unless you’re a seasoned traveler. With a direct flight, there’s a lot less chance of lost luggage and delays that tend to occur when transferring planes. 

Traveling alone can be an added stressor for many people, especially if it’s your first time flying alone . Eliminating the possibility of getting stuck in a different country due to a layover is an easy precaution.

So unless you’re on a really strict budget — and usually it’s only going to be a savings of one or two hundred dollars — just book the direct flight when traveling alone to Ireland.

Getting Around Ireland As A Solo Traveler 

One aspect of solo female travel to Ireland that can feel confusing is how to get around. Luckily, if you’re traveling alone and want to see Ireland in all its beauty, there are several options for this.

Ireland has a great transport network, which makes it extremely easy to get around as a solo traveler. 

You can opt for a tour bus or guided tour, which is often more affordable than hiring a car. Here is a full list of guided tours in Ireland .

That being said, if you’re looking to explore at your own pace and save money on accommodation while doing so, renting a car might be the way to go. 

Here are the main options to consider when planning a solo trip to Ireland:

The train is very reliable and affordable if you want to spend a portion of your time in one city and then another portion across the country. This is a popular option for those backpacking Ireland alone.

For example, you can start out in Dublin (where you’ll likely be flying into), take a few day trips to Belfast (in Northern Ireland), Blarney Castle , or the Wicklow mountains, and then schedule a relatively quick train trip to Killarney. 

There you can visit Killarney National Park, explore the Dingle Peninsula, take a tour along the Ring of Kerry — you name it. 

You can use Omio to research Ireland train routes and book your transport.

The bus system is a great and economical way to get around Ireland, especially while staying in Dublin. 

There are a few apps you can use to follow the correct route and catch the right bus:

• Omio – research Ireland bus routes and book your transport
• Rome2rio – search any town, landmark, address, etc. across the globe to get from A to B
• Journey Planner – get real time route planning for transportation in Ireland, including timetables and maps
• TFI GO – buy bus tickets from your phone with this app

These are such handy tools when traveling solo in Ireland, as they help to eliminate a lot of the stress and confusion that often comes with figuring out routes and makes planning transportation pretty easy.

You can also get around Ireland by taking day trips from a centralized location. Many people enjoying solo female travel in Ireland choose to stay in Dublin and simply take day trips out west to visit popular spots.

You can click here for a full list of tours in and from Dublin .

Another great thing about a tour bus it that you don’t have to worry about listening for your stop. You can just sit back and enjoy the lovely views and interesting stories. Plus, bus tours often allow time for taking photos to remember your trip.

Other top spots to set up camp when exploring Ireland on your own are Killarney and Galway. 

You can click here for a full list of tours in and around Ireland .

Renting a car is certainly an option on a solo trip to Ireland. 

The best part about getting around by car is that you can move freely as you please. It’s also possible it can be cheaper than taking tours to get to various tourist spots, depending on how much you want to see. 

To help you save money, you can use a tool like Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

On the downside, you are solely responsible for getting yourself safely around an unfamiliar country, not to mention it can get lonely.

And if you find yourself stuck on the side of a remote road, it’s up to you alone to fix the situation.

Regardless of how you get where you need to go during your stay, it’s important to plan ahead and book tickets early — especially if traveling Ireland solo! 

This helps ensure there are enough seats available on each leg of your journey, and allows plenty of time for unforeseen circumstances that may arise such as delays caused by weather conditions.

Ireland Travel Map 

To help give you a lay of the land for your Ireland solo travel adventure, here is a map:

It has some of the main points of interest mentioned in this Ireland solo travel guide pre-plotted to make it easy for you to transfer to your phone and start exploring.

Solo Travel In Ireland: Where To Go 

Ireland really is the perfect place for solo travel, and there are many things to see and do when traveling to Ireland alone. Here are some of my top suggestions, all of which can be easily combined into one trip.

If you’d prefer to link up with others and are interested in researching solo travel groups in Ireland, you can book this Iconic Ireland Tour from GAdventures.

Dublin solo travel is an unforgettable experience! Plus, you’ll likely be flying into Dublin when you arrive, so this will typically be the first place on your itinerary.

Luckily, there are a ton of activities and places to visit for those traveling solo in Ireland.

Temple Bar , which is often touted as Dublin’s “bohemian quarter,” is a lively district with cobblestone streets showcasing cafes, restaurants, shops, pubs, and places to try some of the best street food in Dublin . You’ll definitely want to spend some time wandering around here.

Speaking of pubs, The Temple Bar Pub in Temple Bar is one of Ireland’s most famous bars. Dating back to 1840, its known for its live music and enormous whiskey collection. Sit at the bar to make some new friends more easily.

That being said, it’s hardly the only great place to enjoy a drink when you travel solo. Plus, pubs also serve delicious food.

If you love Guinness, definitely check out the Guinness Storehouse . Think of it as a museum, beer academy, and rooftop bar all wrapped up into one. You can visit on your own, or a book a Skip the Line Guinness and Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience Tour .

Also during your Dublin solo travel, don’t miss a stop to one of the many cathedrals — such as Christ Church Cathedral or St. Patrick’s Cathedral . 

Trinity College is another must-visit during solo travel in Dublin. You’ll walk through a gorgeous library on your way to see the Book of Kells — an illuminated manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament — and the campus itself is very beautiful. 

And if you love history, check out the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum . Here you’ll experience a state of the art, interactive museum about the emigration experience and the Irish diaspora throughout the world. 

Looking to get off the beaten path on your solo trip to Dublin?

Talk a walk down Grafton Street . It’s closed to cars, so you can walk with confidence while checking out the shops and street performers.

Additionally, St. Stephens Green is a really gorgeous park near Grafton Street and Trinity College. Pick up a coffee or tea from one of the nearby cafes and stroll along the pond. Or sit and people-watch on one of the many park benches.

In short, solo female travel in Dublin is a safe, fun, and memorable experience, and the city is one of the best places to travel in Ireland alone. It’s also easy to get around on foot and via public transportation.

If possible, try to plan for a 4 day Dublin itinerary as there is a lot to do and see.

Dublin Tours:   Click here for a full list of fun tours in Dublin . Dublin Hotels:   Click here for a full list of hotels in Dublin .

The city of Cork is a bustling and culturally diverse city — and the third largest in Ireland. It’s also an emerging foodie destination.

While here, make sure to visit the English Market in Cork’s city center. Dating back to 1788, it’s one of the oldest markets in Europe and has a variety of delicious foods — from a fish monger to jams and jellies to an entire counter dedicated to olives. If you’re looking for souvenirs to bring home, this is where you should shop.

Cork also many tasty pubs and restaurants. Cork & Fork is really great for Irish dishes featuring locally-sourced ingredients, while Priory Coffee is the perfect place to get your caffeine fix before you start exploring.

Also in the city center is Shandon Bells & Tower St. Anne’s Church . Built in 1722, it’s one of the oldest churches in Cork. Climb the 132 steps to get a stunning 360-degree view over the city!

One thing to realize is that Cork is not only a city, but also one of the southern counties of Ireland.

If you find yourself in County Cork while traveling alone in Ireland, you’ll likely be on your way to Blarney Castle . This is one of Ireland’s many historic castles, though is probably the most well known.

Dating back to AD 1200, the castle is full of history — though what it is really known for is its tradition of having visitors kiss the Blarney Stone.

The popular myth is that if you kiss the stone, you’ll be gifted with eloquent speech (or “the gift of gab”) for the rest of your days.

Another stop in Co. Cork is the town of Cobh (pronounced cove). Here you’ll enjoy strolling throughout the seaside town and learning a little Titanic history, as this was the last docking port before the ship’s fateful journey.

Both of these attractions are wonderful for solo travelers as they offer many peaceful spots to stop and enjoy gorgeous views, while also providing plenty of opportunities to meet friendly people at cafes and other points of interest.

You can get to Blarney Castle and Cobh by bus or train from Cork city. Both Cork and Cobh are very walkable and safe for those who visit Ireland solo.

Cork Tours:   Click here for a full list of fun tours in Cork . Cork Hotels:   Click here for a full list of hotels in Cork .

Another popular destination for solo trips in Ireland is Killarney in County Kerry.

Killarney is known for many things, mainly its beautiful lakes surrounded by mountains. Luckily, there are many ways to explore the natural beauty of this destination during solo travel in Ireland.

First of all, you absolutely must drive the Ring of Kerry , known as one of Ireland’s most scenic drives. If you don’t have a car, you can book a guided tour .

Driving around the Iveragh Peninsula while alone in Ireland, you’ll take in crystal lakes, gushing waterfalls, rugged mountains, lush forest, charming towns, and beautiful views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Along the way, you’ll discover many of Killarney’s highlights, all of which are worth spending time at. A few of these include the Lakes of Killarney , the old stone forts of Cahersiveen , the ancient medieval Ross Castle , the natural beauty and old stone bridges of the Gap of Dunloe , and Killarney National Park , to name a few.

Speaking of Killarney National Park , you should definitely spend some time here while traveling solo in Ireland.

This was Ireland’s first national park, and encompasses 25,425 acres (102.89 km2) of gardens, hiking, wildlife spotting, and stunning natural beauty featuring mountains, lakes, and forest. While exploring, keep your eyes peeled for deer, wild birds, and newts.

While in the park, you should also visit the 66-foot (220-meter) Torc Waterfall as well as the Muckross House and Gardens , where you can tour a Victorian mansion set on the shores of the lovely Muckross Lake.

You should also spend time at Innisfallen Island , which was once home to a monastery dating back to 640 AD. Today, you can explore the monastery ruins while taking in lovely views from the shores.

Note: If you’re uncomfortable exploring solo, you can book a guided tour of the park .

After a day of immersing yourself in natural beauty, head back to the city of Killarney for a tasty seafood meal and some entertainment. Killarney is actually known for its live music, and you’ll have numerous venues to choose from, like Murphy’s Bar and the Grand Bar & Niteclub .

What is great about Killarney for solo travelers in Ireland is that the main part of town is very compact, walkable, and safe with a low crime rate, so getting around on foot is easy, especially if you have a hotel room nearby.

Killarney Tours:   Click here for a full list of fun tours in Killarney . Killarney Hotels:   Click here for a full list of hotels in Killarney .

Dingle is probably one of the best towns in County Kerry. It’s a highlight when you visit Ireland solo, as it’s got everything an outdoor enthusiast could want.

You can hike the 179-kilometer (111-mile) Dingle Way — or at least a portion of it — take a surfing lesson at Inch Beach , or go kayaking or canoeing along the coastline.

You can also take an afternoon boat tour to go dolphin, seal, and whale watching. This day trip will be a highlight of your Irish adventure for sure.

These are all great activities for solo travelers who enjoy meeting new people, and want to get out and be active rather than sitting around at a pub.

That being said, there is nothing wrong with hanging out at a pub, and Dingle has some of the most fun and unique pubs around.

Basically every pub in Dingle has live music playing, so you can find a cozy spot at the bar and soak it all up.

But, where should you go out during solo travel in Ireland?

The Dingle Pub is great fun and they have live music every night. Moreover, Foxy John’s is part hardware store, part pub, which makes for an interesting visit to say the least. These pubs serve delicious food, too, and you can sit at the bar to interact with locals and other travelers.

But that’s the beauty of Dingle; you’ll find it has a charming quirkiness to it that is fun and endearing. Plus, it’s such a beautiful part of the west coast of Ireland!

Dingle Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Dingle . Dingle Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Dingle .

The beauty of solo travel in Galway is that it’s a smaller, more easily navigable city. The population is just above 80,000, so you won’t feel overwhelmed walking around on your own.

Plus, Galway has a fascinating history. Consider taking a walking tour with a local ( like these ) and learning all about the Latin Quarter and its Spanish heritage.

The Latin Quarter is a small, sociable section of the city that houses lots of pubs and restaurants, not to mention you’ll see many talented street performers.

While wandering, grab a sandwich or coffee and head to Eyre Square to people-watch. 

Also, depending on what time of year you’re visiting, you can check out a festival. Christmas Market Galway is amazing, as is the Galway International Oyster Festival and the Galway International Arts Festival , just to name a few annual events worth planning your solo trip to Ireland around.

Just be aware: if you’re planning your trip around a festival, hotels fill up fast, so book early.

Want to get out of the city? Take a cruise from Galway to the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher , a true bucket list experience. Here are some options .

The Cliffs of Moher are a huge attraction — and for good reason. As a solo traveler, you can wander around and soak up the dramatic beauty in peaceful solitude. Or you can make some friends on your trip there, take some selfies, and grab a latte at the onsite cafe with your new buddies.

You can also visit Connemara National Park , an absolutely gorgeous place to spend a day at. There are scenic mountain and woodland trails among the park’s 2,000 hectares (4,942 acres), offering an unforgettable opportunity to experience nature in Galway.

That being said, it’s not recommended to venture deep into the woods or mountain trails alone. Stick to the smaller well-populated paths, or book a guided trek like this one for safety.

Galway Tours:   Click here for a full list of fun tours in Galway . Galway Hotels:   Click here for a full list of hotels in Galway .

While the previously-mentioned cities are located in the Republic of Ireland, Belfast takes you to Northern Ireland — which is considered a different country and is actually within the United Kingdom. Luckily, it is very easy to travel between the two countries via public transportation or your own car.

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, and is known for its plethora of historical sites, among other things.

At Titanic Belfast , which is located at the ship’s original construction site, you can see the world’s largest Titanic exhibition.

There’s also Belfast Castle , a Victorian castle dating back to 1870. It’s perched 400 feet above sea level and offers stunning views over the City of Belfast and Belfast Lough. It’s free to enter and explore, and you can have a meal at the onsite restaurant, too.

You can also tour Crumlin Road Gaol , a historic prison dating back to 1845 that closed its doors in 1996. It’s located within the Cathedral Quarter , where you can wander narrow cobbled streets to see a mix of historic architecture and sites alongside trendy restaurants and galleries.

Now, it’s important to note that Belfast has a complicated history. From 1968 to 1998, Northern Ireland experienced a period of intense conflict between republicans and loyalists known as The Troubles . During this time, 3500 people were killed — and more than half of these killings happened in Belfast.

One way to explore this history is by visiting the Belfast Peace Wall , one of the many peace walls erected in Belfast during the violence to separate the warring groups.

The most famous of these walls divides The Falls and Shankill Roads. It is covered in murals showcasing imagery that provides insight into the differing local views of whether they should be a part of the United Kingdom or rule themselves.

Of course, history isn’t the only thing to explore while traveling solo in Ireland in Belfast. For instance, there are also ways to get out into nature — such as by exploring caves and cliffs at Cave Hill Country Park or booking a tour to Giant’s Causeway , a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to about 40,000 closely packed basalt pillars rising in striking fashion from the Antrim coastline.

Another fun thing to do when enjoying Belfast solo travel is visiting Game of Thrones filming locations (or booking a tour like this ).

Belfast itself is safe and easy to get around. The city center is compact and walkable, and public transport like buses and taxis can easily link you to other neighborhoods you may want to explore.

Belfast Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Belfast . Belfast Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Belfast . The city is also home to some of the best hotels in the UK with private hot tubs .

Travel Tips For Taking A Solo Trip To Ireland

To help you enjoy solo travel in Ireland even more, here are a few important tips to keep in mind.

Stay connected to someone at home while solo

The easiest way to stay connected while solo traveling in Ireland is by using your phone’s data plan through carriers like AT&T or Verizon. Many plans have an option to add a certain amount of data for a set rate.

However, this will probably cost more money than most people would like to spend.

Luckily, there are two other options available:

• get good at using public Wi-Fi when needed (like at hotels, cafes, and pubs)
• buy a SIM card to use while in the country (the best way, in my opinion)

You can buy a SIM card at the airport, at any of the local mobile stores such as Vodafone or Eir, or before you leave home. If you opt for the latter, here are some of the best international SIM cards for travel .

Just note that for it to work, your phone needs to be unlocked.

However you choose to stay in touch, just make sure to regularly check in with a family member or loved ones and let someone know your Ireland solo travel itinerary for the day.

Be mindful of safety when traveling Ireland solo

Irish people tend to be very friendly and welcoming, but it’s important to stay safe.

Stay aware of your surroundings and don’t flash valuables. You can also use pickpocket-proof garments or hidden pocket scarves to hide valuables like money and credit cards.

Use common sense, and you likely won’t run into any issues while traveling solo in Ireland.

Don’t drink too much on your solo Ireland trip

While going to the pubs is a fun part of Irish culture, try not to overdo it while traveling solo in Ireland. You never know what could happen when drinking excessively, and it can put a damper on the rest of your solo Ireland trip if you end up getting sick or arrested (or worse). 

Also, try not to drink alone — it’s always better to be in groups when consuming alcohol because then there will be someone else around if anything goes wrong.

You can actually join solo travel groups in Ireland, so you’ll never truly be alone even though you came solo. Many companies offer single day and multi-day trips where you can join as a solo traveler and make new friends.

For example, you can book this Iconic Ireland Tour from GAdventures, a company known for hosting excellent multi-day group tours.

Make new friends when traveling alone in Ireland

If you are a solo traveler, there are many ways to meet people in Ireland. You can go on the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl , which will take you to pubs with literary references or themes. 

You can also go on walking tours that include visits to local attractions and dinner at local restaurants, such as a Dublin Food Tour or a Belfast Food Tour . If you love delicious food, these types of excursions are a must for those visiting Ireland on their own.

If castles and history are more your thing, then check out the Wicklow’s Historic Gaol Day Tour from Wicklow or a guided tour of Connemara National Park from Galway.

If all else fails, just walk into any pub in Ireland and sit at the bar. The locals will be friendly enough and there is almost always an opportunity for a chat over a pint of Guinness!

Eat in local homes

One fun experience during solo travel in Ireland is dining in a local home through a platform like EatWith .

Not only will you meet locals, but you’ll be able to connect with other travelers who book the same dinner or at-home cooking class. Just make sure to book ahead so you don’t miss out on your preferred date.

Know how to travel solo on a budget

When traveling solo in Ireland, budget is of course a concern since you don’t have anyone to split costs with. Luckily, there are a number of ways to cut costs.

When possible, try to travel in the off season. Flights and hotel stays are often largely discounted during those months.

Also, consider package tours. Many of them include meals and the price of admission to attractions in the rates — not to mention your transportation is covered. This way, you have a better idea of the total cost of the trip upfront.

Moreover, many tours can set you up with a roommate to cut down on the price.

Do You Need Travel Insurance For Ireland? 

When visiting Ireland — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Final Thoughts On Traveling Alone In Ireland

Ireland is one of the best destinations for solo travelers.

The culture is amazing, the scenery is gorgeous, and you’ll be hard pressed to find friendlier people! 

What is really great is that you can make this trip as solo as you want. There are plenty of opportunities to disappear into nature, a spa, or a vibrant city. And then there are also endless opportunities to mix and mingle and make new friends.

You’ll truly be at ease in the Emerald Isle no matter what you choose.

What are your top tips for solo travel in Ireland?

About The Author

Kelie is a travel consultant based in the Midwest. On her blog, VacationsPlanned , you’ll find destination guides and travel tips for trips to Ireland and the Caribbean. Follow her love for all that is Ireland on Instagram .

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Solo Travel in Ireland: Why I Love and Recommend it

Ireland is my favourite country. As the first place I ever visited I now consider the emerald isle to be my home away from home and have returned multiple times. With stunning scenery, friendly locals, and delicious food I think Ireland is a must-visit for anyone. But, if you don’t have any to go with- don’t let it stop you. Ireland is perfect for solo travel. So pack your bag, grab your passport, and book a flight because you are going to love solo travel in Ireland. Here’s why. 

PS: Planning a trip to Ireland? Check out my Ireland itineraries.

A Choice of Accommodations

Ireland is one of few places that actually has a decent choice of accommodations that won’t burst your travel budget. Hostels are always a favourite among solo travellers, and there are plenty to be found around the country (many of which are, conveniently, attached to pubs!).

However, for those who aren’t big fans of the hostel life, yet don’t want to spend all the money on a hotel room, I recommend B&Bs. Irish B&Bs are some of the best in the world; with friendly hosts and full Irish breakfasts to start your day, you may never want to leave.

Owners are helpful and often willing to go out of their way to help solo travellers experience the best of what the area has to offer. This is especially true in terms of solo female travellers, whom most owners tend to keep an extra eye out for.

Check hotels.com or   booking.com for some top rated options. 

Tip: Keep in mind when booking a B&B; some are located quite a ways out of town. So if you don’t have a car, make sure to ask about the location and make sure it’s either within walking distance or there is public transportation.

Getting Around Ireland is Pretty Easy

There’s no need of worrying about having to rent a car to travel around which is one of the best benefits of solo travel in Ireland (although, road tripping it is a great way to see the country). Ireland is well connected by a network of buses, and for some routes, trains . Tickets can be purchased in advance (online or in the station) or right before departure at the station. Student fares are available, though purchasing them in person is not recommended as some stations only accept Irish student ID. So to be safe, it’s best to book online.

Another bonus: bus tickets are not specific to certain times, only certain days. So if your trip has a stopover in a small village and you want to stretch your legs and explore, there’s no issue with getting on a later bus. Express buses are also available on some routes, though they will cost you a little extra. However, depending on the route they may be worth it.

Tip: Bus tickets are significantly less expensive than train tickets and in many circumstances (ie Dublin to Galway), the bus route is faster.

Major Irish Bus lines include: Bus Éireann and City Link.

Ireland Has Plenty of Affordable Day Trip Options for Solo Travellers 

Ireland is small, and there is plenty you can see by just taking day trip. Local tour offices in major cities offer a variety of tours targeted to your needs and interests to multiple destinations across the Island. It’s a great way to see the sights, and if you get a good guide, hear some great folklore and stories about the area. It’s also a great way to meet fellow travellers. Before you book, check and see if your hotel has any discounts or affiliation with a certain company, and check online for discount codes. Student fares are available on most tours if you have proper ID (any student ID is accepted).

There are plenty of day trip options available from both Dublin and Galway. Some you can do on your own if you want to hop on a bus. However, others (especially full day ones across the country) are better on a group trip. It takes the stress our of navigating but also gives you some additional stops and sightseeing plus local stories. Prices depend on the trip itself but you will find several around the $50 mark. Some of my favourite day trips to recommend are:

From Dublin: Northern Ireland , Wicklow and Glendalough , Cliffs of Moher

From Galway: Aran Islands, Connemara and Kylemore Abbey , Cliffs of Moher

Ireland’s Pub Life is Solo Travel Friendly

The Irish are known for being friendly, and this stereotype doesn’t disappoint. If you are looking to get in with the locals, Ireland is a great place to do it, and what better place to find yourself some local friends than at the pub.

Pubs are great and many serve as restaurants as well as the watering hole for your nightly entertainment. All age groups can be found here; from young and barely legal teenagers to old grandfathers with hearing aids and jaunty caps. The pub culture of Ireland is one of the best things in the country and everyone is welcome.

Don’t worry about being alone, just grab a seat at the bar and chat to the bartender. Sooner or later you’ll fall into conversation with some fellow patrons and before you know it you’ll have some new drinking buddies.

For some of the best pubs in Dublin check out this post.  Or, for some of my favourites in Galway, check this list. 

*Tip: Proper Irish drinking etiquette is to buy everyone a round. So if people are taking turns buying you drinks, it’s not just because you are alone or good looking. Keep things going by buying everyone a round when it’s your turn, or else you might lose your new found friends. Check out my post on Irish pub etiquette for more tips.

Tips to Keep in Mind: aka How NOT to Make a Fool of Yourself in Ireland

• When people tell you the ‘crack’ is great, they aren’t talking about drugs. Craic is the Irish word for a fun atmosphere. So if you are looking for a good time, yes you want to go somewhere with great craic.
• If you are waiting to be served and someone asks if you are alright, they don’t actually care how your day is going. They are ready to help you or take your order.
• A proper Guinness is poured in stages, so don’t panic if you order and the bartender pours half your pint and then moves along to someone else. He/ she didn’t forget about you, just give it a minute.
• Drinking in Ireland is a social event; it’s not a race to see who can pound back the pints the fastest. Pace yourself.
• Baby Guinness shots are the best things ever. Trust me.

For tips on what to pack for Ireland check out my Ireland packing list.  

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

46 Comments

I rarely do the solo bit as my wife and I usually travel together but the thing that’d vibe with me most is that rental car situation. Hate it when a travel spot has you by the cajones – or other stuff lol – and you need to rent a car, to get around. Then they jack up those sweet prices. We ran into this in Fiji last year. But we were blessed, in that we could walk into town or get a cheap taxi to local spots. If we did travel, we sought out the advice of some Fijians, and we befriended a few, then hitchhiked with them. Not nearly as dangerous as it sounds, as I only nearly died like 3 to 4 times hahahaha!

Ireland is beyond beautiful, and your stories and pictures painted a wonderful picture for us. Thanks so much and keep on inspiring Hannah!

I haven’t been to Ireland yet, Hannah! Soon though, soon! It looks incredible. The pub life seems incredibly fun in particular (You look ravishing in that photo).

You’ll love it 🙂 and hahaa thanks! We had walked in the rain so my hair went crazyy!

Fantastic perspective. I actually did Dublin solo in February 2013 after a work event.

I thought it was extremely easy to meet new people, both local and tourist. I found myself taking the Jameson tour with two army boys from Germany, and later attending an Irish comedy show at a local pub (although some of the regional jokes I didn’t understand).

Great beer, great people, not the best food or weather.

Cheers! Ben http://www.HugePartyTravel.com

Haha yes, the weather can be a bit of a downer but I think it’s worth it for a visit 🙂

Great post! Ireland really is one of the best places I have ever traveled solo – it’s just so easy, people are so welcoming and friendly, and you really do have friends wherever you go!

so true! Love the people 🙂

Haha, yes, I was confused as well in the beginning when bartenders asked me if “I was allright” 🙂 Or if they said “Are you getting?” I learnt proper BBC English when I was at school, so this Irish variation was very confusing to me 🙂 But you gotta love the pubs and the craic indeed! 🙂

Can you believe I haven’t been to Ireland? And yes I know it’s right there! I was hoping my beau would have time to visit with me when he’s back in the UK because I wanna visit my beour and some of our friends from Lapland whilst I’m there.

very informative article. Had to make sure i was reading the “crack” part right 🙂 What would you think is a feasible daily budget for say….2 weeks to a month?

Haha yes you read the crack right…aren’t you glad I gave you the heads up? Haha. Budget depends on where you stay. Hostels in the bigger cities ( epecially Temple Bar district in Dublin) are pricey, especially on weekends, and for the same 40-50 euro you may be able to find a good B&B. In the smaller towns expect 15-20 euro/night. Busses you can average out between 10-20 euro or so each route (one ways). As for tours, the most expensive are the 12-13 hour all day trips from Dublin and, as of my last visit in March 2014, were about 65 euro at the highest end. Food you can go all over the place from cheap sandwiches at cafes to full meals at restaurants. You can definitely make food budget work how you want. If you are planning a trip and looking for specific recommendations feel free to contact me, I’m happy to help!

I couldn’t agree with you more! I’ve been to Ireland only twice (Cork, and we recently celebrated new Year in Dublin) and it would be my top destination to travel solo. Ireland is fantastic, there are so many things to do and see and the people are so great. It’s so easy to meet new people in Ireland, top country! 🙂

I bet New Year in Dublin was a blast!

Ireland has been high on my list for a long time, great shots!

Thanks Raphael, you definitely need to go!

Good insights (crack, buying a round of drinks, Guinness pouring, etc.)… all good things to know before making your first trip to Ireland! We visited this summer and loved it. Everyone was super friendly and you cant beat the scenery!

It really is beautiful isn’t it? 🙂

Totally agree with you on the Baby Guinness shots–love them! Reading though this makes me want to head back to Ireland–we absolutely loved it there and can definitely see how it would be a perfect place to travel solo!

I’ve been twice to Ireland but never did a solo travelling there, always went to visit friends. but it was such an easy country to travel around! I so would love to go back and explore some more!

Would love to visit Ireland! Great tip about staying in B&Bs. I’m not a big hostel person really so I think that Justin and I would do great staying at some cute B&Bs! Would love to take in the environment, the scenery, and hopefully meet some people while there! 🙂

The B&Bs are fantastic. If you ever go let me know, I have some good recommendations 🙂

Haha, I loved the “How NOT to Make a Fool of Yourself” list! So funny, but good to know. I didn’t know any of those things!

haha, well you are now prepared for an Irish adventure!

I’m planning to go to Ireland for my first solo travel for my 19th birthday. I loved all the pictures and the blog posts about Ireland. And I cant wait to go. But the thing is I think i’m too young or too inexperienced to go there alone. I was thinking to just visit Galway, then stay there for the rest of my trip. Or just travel with my family. Any suggestions or tips?

Honestly- I think Ireland is THE perfect place to start travelling as a solo female and I don’t have a single bad thing to say about Galway- although I definitely think you should explore more 🙂 feel free to email me with you want- more than happy to help you with tips and planning!

Hi Hanna, Yes Ireland is a great place to travel solo, but there are some nuances also. The pub is more than just a bar to most locals and there can be quite a difference between big city tourist pubs, big city local pubs, and small country pubs. I would advise against strolling into a pub and buying a round for the bar, it won’t endear you to locals. The best way is to sit at the bar wait to be served and order a pint, fight the urge to engage others, wait for your Guinness to be poured properly, wait for your pint to settle and take a nice long sip, thank the barman. What happens next depending on the pub is most likely a local will ask what country you are from or what part of the states you are from, they know because your accent will give you away, in a nice way. Once a little conversation flows you find yourself right in the middle of a craicing good time. Cheers.

Hey Brian. I definitely didn’t recommend walking into a new pub and just buying everyone a round- I don’t think most travellers could afford that, especially in the busy pubs 😉 it was more of a comment for when you meet or go out with a group of Irish friends. I’ve done exactly what you said- sit at the bar with my pint- many times and ended up in a small group of locals. In that situation you need to kick in the rounds- although usually I don’t start them.

Hey! I’m planning a trip to Ireland sometime in November. This is my first solo trip so I’m completely lost as to how and where to begin! How long before do you need to start the planning and the bookings? Also, any recommendations for some of the best places to visit? Thank you! Any tips and suggestions will be highly appreciated.

Hey- send me an email [email protected] and I will happily help you with some ideas 🙂

[…] I’m probably a bit biased since Ireland was where I started, but the Emerald Isle will always be one of my top recommendations for all solo travellers. The pub life, which is accessible to everyone- including solo females, makes it one of the easiest places to fit in and meet people. The country is full of natural beauty, picturesque towns, and interesting history, and the Irish themselves are legendary for their friendliness. For more on why Ireland is perfect for solo travel read this. […]

[…] could talk for days about why I love Ireland and why I think it’s perfect not just for solo travellers and women, but for everyone. And guess what? I’m going to! Because for my most recent trip I […]

One thing I will say about Ireland is that. The cheapest country, people in there are nice and would not easily fool you but if you are a solo traveler they might fool, people always take an advantage.thanks for the article

I guess there are always some rotten people but for the most part I think they are pretty good 🙂

Planning a trip to Ireland next December with my family thanks for the great share of knowledge. keep posting such a wonderful article

Yay! You’ll love it!

Ireland is one of the coolest places to beside any other country I have visited Ireland with my office colleague and saw northern lights it was amazing Ireland is the very cold country with limited crowed but it’s a fun place to visit the nice article, surely will visit again.

Thank you for such an informative, fun article, Hannah! I’ll be touching down in Ireland this May to hike the Ireland Way for 5 week’s, I’m really looking forward to it. 650 miles of pure bliss & craic ? I’ve been to Dublin once, 2014, for a few days. Can’t wait to be back!

That will be so amazing! (hopefully not too rainy-haha).

Hi there! I’m an older, first time solo traveler and first time to Europe! I want to go in November, and I’ve never travelled solo before. Any advice would be appreciated! I’m 61, and love to have fun, but don’t want to be trapped on a bus with a bunch of oldsters!

Haha I get you! November can be a bit of a hit or miss in Europe weather wise. Is Ireland where you wanted to go, or are you open to anywhere? Feel free to email me at [email protected] and we can discuss further

Looking to go to Ireland.. on my bucket list!! I am Planning on going alone,which makes me some what uncomfortable.. any groups for solo travelers coming up. interested in seeing Pubs, country side and some local culture!

There are a bunch of companies who do offer Ireland tours. I don’t…right now. I have recently partnered with Intrepid Travel in running a group tours. I’m doing my first one next spring to Greece. However, Ireland might be a good one too.

[…] all add to the draw of Galway’s nightlife. But another huge factor, especially important to solo female travellers in Ireland, is that Galway has been awarded the purple flag; crediting the city for its vibrant, diverse, but […]

[…] wouldn’t say Malta is my top-rated destination for solo travellers (Ireland and Portugal still top my list for those spots), however, it’s definitely a good spot. Being […]

[…] Solo Travel in Ireland […]

[…] to Edinburgh was my first real solo backpacking experience. Sure I’d been living in Ireland for a few weeks by then and seen a bit of the country, but I had either been with my parents or […]

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Solo Travel to Ireland In 2024

What is small group solo travel to Ireland like? We've answered your concerns in this handy guide.

Solo Travel To Ireland At A Glance

🥰 Ireland Is Super Friendly & Safe

👩‍❤️‍👩 New Friendships On Tour Are Very Common

👴 Solo Travel Suits All Ages In Ireland

🚐 Solo Travel Is Better In Small Groups

💰 Your Solo Tour Doesn't Have To Cost More

🌇 Dublin Is A Haven for Solo Travellers

"Someone who travels with just one wagon."

That's how one lady once defined a Vagabond to me.

Travelling solo has moved on since then. Yet it remains an exciting and enriching way to travel.

Being one of the world's safest, friendliest and most hospitable countries, Ireland is a great place to go vagabonding!

Below we've run down the reasons why we think travelling solo to Ireland is an excellent idea.

🥰 How Friendly Is Ireland?

Ireland is known as the land of a hundred thousand welcomes.

( Céad míle fáilte literally means 100,000 welcomes in Irish).

Travel solo in Ireland and you're sure to meet friendly locals. As we say here, 'there are no strangers here, just friends that you havent met yet'.

👍 How Safe Is Ireland For Solo Travellers?

Ireland is consistently named as one of the safest places in the world for tourists.

The Global Peace Index named us number 10 in the world in 2018.

Our off the beaten track ethos means that you'll be in smaller, rural communities on tour.

You may notice endearing customs out in the countryside. Irish strangers may greet you unexpectedly, stop for a chat or ask where you are from. This is very common while out hiking or while spending time in small villages.

Drivers often wave or signal to each other, even if they don't know the other car.

Feel free to wave back - it's just their way of saying howaya!

👩‍❤️‍👩 Will I Get Along With The Other Guests On Tour?

You'll never step twice into the same stream, as they say.

No one's Vagabond tour will be the same as another. This is also true of passengers. Our guests tend to represent a melting pot of ages, backgrounds and nationalities.

That said, our 2 distinct tour types broadly reflect our passenger interests.

• Vagabond Tours are upbeat, activity-focused and energetic.
• Driftwood Tours are more relaxed and centred on culture, crafts and history.

You'll find more BFFs on a Vagabond tour if your idea of a dream holiday is hiking, biking, kayaking and generally not keeping still for long.

The opposite is true of Driftwood. Your fellow guests will enjoy more time to stroll quaint villages, a bigger focus on culture and craft stops with less adrenaline expended.

We find that the friendships forged on tour are something truly special and inspiring.

Just read this from 2019 guest, Rick, via TripAdvisor :

"We enjoyed traveling in a small group which made it easy to make fast friends. We highly recommend Vagabond for an exciting adventure in Ireland."

👴 Ireland For The Chronologically Challenged

Don't presume that Vagabonds are young and Driftwooders are old.

The general perception is that solo travel is the reserve of 20- and 30- somethings. We find that ever greater numbers of solo travellers are in their 40s, 50s, 60s (and beyond).

More mature solo travellers can be just as adventurous as their younger counterparts.

We feel that this mix of ages makes Vagabond tours unique. Guests at different stages of life and from opposite ends of the earth often share amazingly similar interests or worldviews.

We have had 60 year olds try surfing for the first time on tour - no word of a lie!

Read Kevin's Driftwood Diary about travelling solo to Northern Ireland

💭 What Do Guests Say About Solo Travel In Ireland?

"As a solo traveler in my mid-20s, I knew I wanted to see more than the inside of a Contiki Coach Bus... While I was the youngest on our tour, there were other solo travelers, and a wide range of interests."

Allyson, TripAdvisor

"Our group was so wonderful, being a solo traveler my concerns turned out to be for naught. ...The activity level for me was great...The food and accommodations were outstanding."

arbt10, TripAdvisor

"Although I was alone, I was never alone because of our exceptional guide and 10 traveling companions from around the world... Our group was very diverse and we all enjoyed getting to know one another through our range of adventures."

Melanie, TripAdvisor

🚐 Why "Small" Group Tours Of Ireland?

Small group tours offer special benefits to the solo traveller.

Your 100% compostable VagaGuide will help you squeeze the juice out of Ireland.

Our tour guide team are trained to lead you to secret hotspots, away from crowds and generally make your trip less daunting.

At meal times, small group tours offer companionship. Shared activities (blood, sweat and tears!) can also be a great bonding experience.

Many guests leave Ireland with lasting friendships.

True story #1 : A now-married couple first met on a Vagabond tour!

True story #2:  One group of Driftwooders got on so well, they're planning their VagaReunion - back in Ireland with us!

💰 Will My Tour Cost More As A Solo Traveller?

The answer is no.

And also yes.

NO, it's cheaper - Solo travel in Ireland means more control over costs than if you were in a larger group.

Vagabond tours offer you the flexibility to choose your own lunches and dinners. This is great if you're on a budget. If you prefer your own company from time to time. Or if you just prefer tasty, quick street food to fancy, formal dining.

Our flexible itineraries allow you independence. Feeling flush? You can opt to try every single one of our activities.

Looking to save on extra expenditure? Just wander the colourful streets of whatever quaint village you're stopped at.

YES, it costs more - We do charge a single supplement for solo travellers' accommodation. Our hotel providers charge more per person for single rooms. We have to pass on this additional expense (at cost price).

Our single supplement prices range from 220 - 490 depending on the length of tour.

For example, our 7 Day Vagabond World Tour of Ireland costs €1,699, with a €230 single supplement for solo travellers.

🌇 Dublin: A Haven for Solo Travellers

It's hard to talk about solo travel to Ireland without mentioning Dublin.

All of our tours start and end in Dublin. The days in Dublin before and after your Vagabond tour offer a great opportunity to explore one of the liveliest cities in Europe.

Pubs, clubs, live music venues and a fantastic food scene - it's all here!

Need Dublin travel tips? We've put together this handy guide of non-touristy things to do in Dublin.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

Don't wait to get out there, to discover Ireland, experience friendship and enjoy yourself.

Our tours of Ireland are the perfect blend of adventure, culture, sightseeing and local experiences.

Get in touch if you'd like to know more about solo travel in Ireland

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A Solo Woman Traveling

Boutique Travel Guides & All-Female Luxury Tours

Solo Female Travel Dublin Guide: Weekend Itinerary + Map

Are you planning a trip to Dublin alone in 2024? My five solo voyages to this emerald isle have not only confirmed my love for Ireland, but it inspired me to write this solo Dublin travel guide for women!

Traveling to Ireland alone is a place for any first-time solo traveler! In Ireland, the warmth of its people truly shines through in the lively atmosphere of its pubs.

As a solo traveler, you’ll find Ireland to be a delightful destination. It’s a place where you can stroll in by yourself but are guaranteed to depart with new friendships.

The inviting nature of the locals in these social hubs ensures that you’re never truly alone, making Ireland an enjoyable and friendly experience for those exploring on their own.

On this page, I’ve curated a list of experiences that are perfect for women traveling alone and seeking to uncover the true spirit of Ireland solo.

From choosing the ideal accommodations to offering practical advice before and during your journey, these insights are gleaned from my firsthand experience.

Let me guide you through planning your Irish escapade , where every path leads to discovery and every moment is an invitation to join in the joy of Irish life.

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

I’m gonna be real honest with you about Dublin…

Chances are you are really going to enjoy visiting Dublin by yourself. I know I did the many times I have visited.

But there are things about Dublin you wanna watch out for.

On my first solo trip to Dublin, I didn’t really do enough research. I stayed in the worst possible area.

I would suggest you don’t stay in the following neighborhoods:

• North Inner City : Some parts of Dublin’s North Inner City have historically been associated with higher crime rates, though it’s also home to many cultural and tourist attractions.
• Sheriff Street : Though much of the area has been developed, some parts may still feel less welcoming, especially after dark.
• Certain parts of Ballymun and Finglas : While these areas are away from the city center and less likely to be visited by tourists, they have had reputations for social issues in the past.

Some parts of Dublin might not be as appealing, so it’s important to carefully consider hotel locations.

Reading reviews thoroughly can help you find a charming and comfortable area for your stay.

Check my recommendations further down the post .

I’ve personally never had any issues, but I don’t want to sugarcoat the city. There are dodgy areas just like most cities these days!

IS Dublin Is a Good Place for Solo Travel?

• My first reason for choosing Ireland for a solo weekend trip is the city sizes are small . Getting around by foot to all the major attractions is doable. I recently spent a four-night getaway in Dublin and took notes of every possible reason why you should go. 
• Reason number two for choosing a solo trip to Ireland is the friendly locals . Sure, in any city, you may come across some rude and unhappy souls, but generally, the people are a friendly bunch. And ladies, if you fancy the men, that accent is sexy ; )
• The third reason I recommend Ireland for a weekend trip is the country is safe . But, like any city, you will find dodgy areas, just do your hotel research thoroughly. 
• Reason number four why solo travel in Dublin is great is the comfort food . My favorite part about eating alone is ordering everything I want and not having to share!
• And finally, Dublin is a good place for your soul ! Ireland has some pretty incredible landscapes , the perfect place to go and reflect.

Looking for a Solo Female Travel Community?

Are you looking to be part of a tribe of like-minded travelers ? As a solo travel expert since 2009, I share my travel hacks and tips inside my exclusive FREE Facebook Group . Join today!

Getting to Dublin From The Airport Alone

One of the reasons I found Ireland to be a great destination for solo travel , is that Irish people speak English.

Assuming your native language is also English. Traveling solo can be stressful at times, so it is better to choose a destination where the language is your own.

Some buses and taxis will take you to the city center if you are coming to Dublin by plane. The traffic will determine the cost, but a taxi generally costs between 30 – 40 euros.

The bus is a more cost-effective option, but depending on the time of day can take a while. 

You can spend 7 euros from the airport to the city center of Dublin by pre-booking your ticket with The Airlink Express . A fantastic option if you want to take the bus.

If it’s your first-ever solo trip, sometimes it’s better to just pay for an airport transfer to take you to your hotel.

A smart way to start your weekend trip is by getting the 3-Day City Pass . 

📲 Downloadable Map of Dublin

📍 Download the Free pre-pinned Basic Google Map with 10 of the most popular sites in Dublin!

📍Download the PREMIUM Google Map with 55+ Top Sites, Cafes, Bars and Restaurants, Transit Hubs, and Unique Things To Do, plus a Digital Travel Planner!

👩🏻‍💻 Need Help Planning Your Trip? Get a customized itinerary !

With this pass, you will have access to the Dublin Hop-on Hop-off City Tour buses and the Dublin Bus public service buses , Airlink Express.

In Dublin, you want to download the App Free Now. Free Now is the taxi app used in Dublin, and it’s good to have it all set up before you land. 

Getting around Dublin by bus or train is very manageable and affordable.

My Favorite Travel Planning Resources

Affordable Car Rental Companies

Find the best rates & customer service with Discover Cars

Travel Insurance

Protect yourself and your trip with Travel Insurance

Have all the data you need to stay connected while away!

Train & Bus Tickets

Find the fastest & cheapest routes!

Best Flight Deals

Get inspired and find great flight prices!

Airport Transfer

Find the best deals to and from the airport!

Local Tours

Perfect for walking tours, day trips, and more!

Is Dublin Safe for Solo Female Travel?

Yes! Dublin, Ireland is a safe destination for solo females traveling alone. I advise you to stay in the city center and do additional research on sites like Numbeo .

I’ve never had any concerns on my five trips to Dublin, but I always practice caution when I travel.

The common sense stuff I’m sure you know is, don’t leave items unattended. Also, don’t overdo it with alcohol or walk in a dark alley by yourself.

Solo Female Travel Safety Gear

Secondary Lock

Feel extra secure in your accommodations with this affordable secondary lock.

Portable Safe

Want to protect your valuables anywhere? This portable safe will do the trick!

Portable Wifi

Being connected makes me feel safe! Get a portable Wi-Fi device and have the internet everywhere!

I don’t care how safe the city is, things happen. I always get travel insurance anytime I travel!

Travel Apps for Women

Download 13 must-have travel apps for women

Emergency Numbers

Emergency Number in Europe : Dial 112 & Emergency Number in the United States: Dial 911

Choosing The Right Neighborhood to Stay in Dublin

What makes a neighborhood in Dublin great? That really depends on what you are into.

There was a time in my life when staying in Temple Bar would have been my top choice.

But now, as a solo female traveling in her 40s , staying in Temple Bar would be a nightmare. Quaint and quiet streets are music to my ears!

I seek out neighborhoods with artisan coffee shops and high-end bistros.

Let me give you a better overview of the neighborhoods so you can make the right choice! If only a weekend in Ireland, make it a great one!

Personal Dublin Travel Stories: One of the hardest lessons I learned when I first started traveling was not paying close attention to hotel reviews. I failed to notice that everyone that gave this hotel a great rating were guests that liked to party all night at the clubs next to the hotel! Earplugs were needed! -Melissa A Solo Woman Traveling personal story

Where to Stay Solo in Dublin

There are so many neighborhoods in Dublin that are all suitable for a weekend in Ireland. Where you stay in Dublin will be vital to what you can see and do in a short time.

You will want to research ahead and be aware that accommodations in Dublin can be costly.

For this reason, I recommend booking.com and finding a short-term apartment stay. I find the best places when I book months in advance.

Pro Tip: Even though I found solo travel in Ireland to be super safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting travel insurance to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time. And if you are savvy, you should get a travel credit card with travel insurance .

What to Expect in the Temple Bar Neighborhood

Temple Bar is your bang-on, party all night into the morning and into the next week, neighborhood. A good place to stay in your 20’s for sure, and if you are traveling in your early 30’s you might love it.

You can find all iconic Irish Bars with Irish music , Irish food, and Irish spirit here. Just consider how lite of a sleeper you are if staying in this neighborhood.

The good times could be heard from the streets and in your hotel room…

Best Hotel In Temple Bar

Temple bar hotel.

If you solo traveling ladies are looking for my top choice of hotels in the Temple Bar neighborhood, I highly recommend the Temple Bar Hotel .

The Temple Bar Hotel is truly a unique stay in Dublin! Located right in the center of some of Dublin’s most iconic attractions and pubs, this hotel is sure to provide a memorable experience.

The Temple Bar Hotel provides a cozy atmosphere with comfortable rooms adorned with natural wood furnishings and plush carpets.

But the real charm comes from the stunning views of Dublin’s streets, rivers, and buildings – you’ll never want to leave!

You can also enjoy a delicious selection of traditional Irish dishes at the hotel’s restaurant . And if that wasn’t enough, Temple Bar Hotel is also home to an impressive collection of Irish whiskey and craft beers.

☘️ Check Rates & Availability

What to Expect in The St. Stephen’s Green Neighborhood?

The neighborhood of St. Stephen’s Green is very central and within close distance of Temple Bar.

The streets are lined with beautiful townhomes of Georgian-style architecture.

Whatever you do, don’t stay on Harcourt Street .

Harcourt Street is the famous street where all the nightclubs are located, and it’s loud AF. 

I had truly the worst night’s sleep on my first night in Dublin.

Best Hotel in St. Stephen’s Green

The westbury hotel.

On my 2nd trip to Dublin, I stayed in the St. Stephen’s Green neighborhood, my favorite hotel is The Westbury Hotel !

It is the perfect spot for you to stay and explore this vibrant Irish capital.

The Westbury offers all the amenities a modern woman needs – from complimentary WiFi in-room to more-than-comfortable beds. And if you’re feeling daring, why not take advantage of their 24-hour room service?

Whether it’s afternoon tea or a late-night snack, the Westbury will have your back.

The Number 31

To give you more options in St. Stephens Green, you could consider staying at Number 31 Hotel in Dublin. It is an absolute treat for solo female travelers!

What to Expect in the Christchurch Neighborhood

Christchurch neighborhood is the area where you might have guessed it, Christchurch Cathedral is located.

This is an excellent choice in the neighborhood if you can find a reasonably priced hotel.

Since it is so central and less noisy , the desirability drives up the room cost. 

I stayed right on the edge of this neighborhood before the canal just across from the Rathmines neighborhood.

So I can recommend staying here and walking into the city center. 

Wear your most comfortable shoes in Dublin. Transit by bus is available, but my guess is you will find yourself walking from one end of the city to the other.

I would say I averaged 25,000 or more steps a day if that gives you an idea.

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Ranelagh, Rathmines, Ballsbridge, and Donnybrook Neighborhoods

If you are okay with taking a very short bus ride to the city center, the neighborhoods mentioned above are great places to stay.

You can find terrific restaurants and shops located in these neighborhoods. 

Staying in any of these neighborhoods will give you the experience of really living in Dublin. I like to feel like I am part of the culture, rather than a tourist.

Best Solo-Friendly Hotels Outside the City Center of Dublin

• Sandymount Hotel
• Herbert Park Hotel
• InterContinental Dublin

Dublin Itinerary for Solo Travelers

Day 1 dublin itinerary.

Guinness Factory, Christ Church Cathedral & St. Patricks Cathedral

Start your morning exploring Dublin alone by visiting the most incredible cathedrals! Be sure to download my FREE GOOGLE MAP with all these locations saved.

Christchurch and St. Stephen’s Cathedral are a short distance from each other, and if the weather is decent, you can walk. 

Christchurch & St. Stephen’s Cathedral Information

Hours: Monday through Saturday 9:30 to 17:00. Sundays 12:30 to 15:00

Admission Cost: $12.00 – Get Tickets

Location: Christchurch Pl, Wood Quay, Dublin 8, Ireland

After you have marveled at these magnificent structures, it’s time to move on to the Guinness Factory ! 

Guinness is a staple of the Irish culture when it comes to picking a pint. The factory’s location is within the current neighborhood you are exploring, so walking there could be an option.

Once you arrive, you will pay an entrance fee of 26 euros.

This fee will gain you access to the factory Guinness storehouse , a self-guided tour of the brewery, and will get you 1 pint of Guinness in the sky bar. 

The factory has several on-site restaurants ranging in price and dining style. I enjoyed a wonderful lunch here on my day trip to the factory. 

And to end your day, fill your belly on this Irish Food Trail Tour!

Guinness Factory Information

Hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 to 17:00. Saturday & Sunday 9:30 to 18:00

Admission: 26 Euros on-site or get tickets in advance

Location: St. James’s Gate, Dublin 8, D08 VF8H, Ireland

Day 2 Dublin Itinerary

Trinity college, jameson distillery, traditional irish food & music.

In the morning, head over to Trinity College and view the 8th-century Books of Kells .

☘️ It is best to book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.

After a visit to Trinity College, head on to Dublin Castle for picture-taking and sightseeing. 

Trinity College Information

Hours: Monday through Saturday 9:30 to 17:00. Sundays 12:00 to 16:30

Admission: 19 euros (Book of Kells & Library)

Location: The University of Dublin Trinity College, College Green, Dublin, Ireland

A must-try place for lunch is Fish Shop on Benburb Street . This restaurant on Benburb Street is more casual and is open for lunch. I highly recommend the fish and chips! 

After a filling lunch at Fish Shop, continue to the Jameson Distillery for a tour and a taste.

The Jameson Distillery offers a few different tour options. The tours all vary in terms of times and prices. 

GET TICKETS: Jameson Distillery

No trip to Dublin would be complete without a night in the Temple Bar! For a traditional Irish food experience, head on over to The Stags Head .

This place gets very, very busy so… I would go earlier than later. At Stags Head you can expect some live music in addition to all the delicious food!

☘️ Or maybe you want to enjoy a traditional Irish House Party Dinner and Show !

Day 3 Dublin Itinerary

Hopefully, you aren’t feeling too wobbly from your night out in Temple Bar and are ready for a bike tour! 

It’s the best way to see Dublin ! And don’t worry this one starts at 10:30 so you can sleep off your night before ; )

This 2.5-hour bike tour hits the rest of the sites in Dublin you don’t want to miss like, the Samuel Beckett Bridge, Oscar Wilde Memorial, and Dublin Castle!

After your tour you can spend the rest of the day just walking around to the parts of the city you loved the most.

Best Dublin Bars and Restaurants

If it has to be your last night, and you want to have a nice dinner, check out Etto or Uno Mas . These restaurants have the same ownership and were the best meals I had in Dublin.

I highly recommend getting reservations at least a few weeks in advance. Otherwise, you may miss out! 

I travel to eat, it’s that simple. When I find an outstanding place, I want to share it with the world.

Below is a list of places that do it better than the rest! For an excellent dining and drinking experience, be sure to check out these places!

• Circa – Higher-end dining without the suit and tie. This place is a must-try!
• Bread 41 – Bread, lots, and lots of fantastic bread!
• Fumbally – Delicious cafe with lots of fresh food options
• VCC- Bar – Vintage Cocktail Club, need I say more…
• Peruke & Periwig – For a unique, one-of-a-kind dining experience, check this place out.
• The Long Hall – Traditional Irish Bar, come thirsty!

Dublin is becoming more Vegan friendly , and although none of these restaurants are strictly vegan, you are often able to find vegan items on the menus.

Bonus: Day 4 | Day Trip From Dublin Itinerary

If you have more time on your weekend in Ireland and are looking for a day trip from Dublin, I suggest Howth! You can travel to the seaside town of Howth from Dublin in approx 45 mins.

There is transportation by bus or by train. I took the bus , and it was effortless and fast. 

Howth is a port town on the coast of Ireland and offers spectacular views and a great coastal vibe. I spent around 2 hours walking around and taking pictures.

This is a pleasant day trip for all of you photographers, and the photo opportunities are endless.

I had lunch at Mamó Restaurant and was very impressed! This place is classy and small, so book ahead.

They serve a seasonal food menu with excellent wine pairings . The staff was very knowledgeable and friendly.

A Solo Weekend in Ireland Safety Tips

Is Dublin safe ? I have been to Ireland five times now. Each time I always felt welcomed and safe in my surroundings.

Every city has its areas you should be wary of, and even in good neighborhoods, you want to be vigilant.

Remember not to go overboard at the bars. This can be easy to do in Dublin, as the good times are infectious. Trouble seems to follow the loud and obnoxious, so don’t be that tourist.

Keep yourself sober enough to remember your evening, and you will be fine.

I don’t travel with fancy and expensive items, so I recommend you leave the designer labels at home. It is one less thing to worry about in general.

The Best Time of Year For Ireland Solo Travel

When visiting the Republic of Ireland alone, I suggest you visit between May through December. During these months you will have somewhat better weather, but most notably, there will be more things to do.

Christmas in Dublin is really magical and has lots of fun stuff to see. You could also get lucky with a good flight deal if you visit in early December.

It becomes the most important thing if you plan to check out small towns in Ireland. During the winter months, a lot of attractions are closed in winter.

Dublin Solo Travel Tips

• Dublin has a great coffee culture. Spend your mornings in different coffee shops like 3FE , Brother Hubbard , or The Fumbally . These are great places to relax, people-watch, and even strike up conversations with locals or fellow travelers.
• Don’t be afraid to take local transit. I took the buses and trains throughout Dublin and beyond with no issues.📲 Download the Irish Rail App!
• Join a tour to make connections. Every time I travel solo to any European destination I always join a tour. It is such a great way to make a friend or two and ensures you won’t get lonely .

Packing for a Solo Trip to Ireland

A great way to ensure you will have an easy breezy solo trip is to pack smart. Below are a few of my must-haves when I visit Ireland!

• Comfortable shoes , leave the heels at home. I bring just one really comfortable pair and something a little less casual but nothing fancy.
• A warm coat with a hood . Bonus points for waterproof
• Leggings . That comfort food doesn’t go down so easy in jeans
• Casual tops and sweaters.
• A journal. When traveling solo, you have the time to write down special moments.
• Don’t forget the umbrella !
• Hat & gloves in winter

Conclusion of A Solo Woman’s Guide to Dublin

I really hope you learned about what to expect when traveling to Dublin alone. My experiences in the city are something I truly cherish!

If you are feeling unsure and have questions, reach out to me directly via my contact form . I am here to support your travel journey!

Read Next: Is Galway Worth Visiting?

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FAQ’s Solo Female Travel to Ireland

Traveling alone in Ireland is very easy! Once you arrive in the city town center, you can see most attractions on foot. Traveling between cities alone in Ireland is possible with the public transit system of buses and trains!

There are many places to travel alone in Ireland! I recommend sticking to the more populated cities that offer the most transportation. Three cities I always recommend are Dublin, Galway, and Cork!

Yes! Women can feel safe to travel in Ireland alone. In my experience, you want to still be vigilant of your surroundings, but that is true of wherever you travel.

Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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22 Comments

Love this! I’ve quite neglected Ireland but I really need to make it back over and see Dublin – ive only been to Cork and Killarney. I’ll be revisiting this!

I am from Galway and you have described the perfect Dublin weekend.

I absolutely love Ireland! It’s definitely an easy place to travel around for a weekend. Temple Bar area is one of my favorites. 🙂 Great post – I loved your photos! Ireland has a special place in my heart because I studied abroad in Dublin last spring.

Nice article! Thanks for the inspiration…

Ireland is top of the list, and it’s posts like this that really make me want to go even more. There’s so much to do in Ireland, and I’ll definitely take some of your suggestions

We got cheated out of our weekend in Dublin years ago thanks to weather delaying our first flight and making us miss the second flight (then we spent 3 days in US airports trying to get to Europe). Your guide reminds me that we need to try to get over there again sometime soon.

I live in Ireland and love travelling around. One place I always struggle with is Dublin city. I never know where to go and other than the main shopping streets, always feel a little unsure. Never been to the Jameson Distillery or Trinity and always eat in chain restaurants because I don’t know any good ones. Loved this post, will for sure save it for the next time I’m visiting the big city 🙂

Sarah | thetalesoftinyboots.com

Dublin is on my bucket list to explore so I’m definitely saving this post to help me plan my trip!

Fab post! You’ve reminded me that although I love Ireland, I need to spend more time actually in Dublin. I have to admit, we normally drive straight through!

p.s. I am with you about Irish accents. So flipping sexy. <3

Beautiful photos! I would like to visit here some day!

Oh I love Ireland! I’ve only been to Dublin so far but I can’t wait to go explore the more remote areas and the coast!

I have many friends from Ireland (I live in Toronto and there is a large Irish population) so it’s on my list for sure!

Such a lovely read! Ireland is so high on my list, especially for a road trip!

Great post- really enjoyed all your suggestions and photos! My husband and I stayed in an AirBnB in Temple Bar for a long weekend back in 2016 and did a lot of things on your list! Can’t wait to go back and try out some of your other suggestions 🙂

• Pingback: Northern Ireland’s fabled Causeway Coastal route - Itinerary for 1 day - My Faulty Compass

Ireland is on my list and this sounds like the perfect guide! Love that you included day trips from Dublin too!

Great guide! I was supposed to be in Dublin this year, unfortunately, had to cancel all my travel plans. Will refer to all your Ireland guides for when I finally visit.

Aw I love Ireland!! And agree, it’s a great first solo trip :). Love your photos and blog! 🙂

The Brazen Head sounds like a good shout. As do several of the bars you’ve mentioned. Dublin has been on my list for years, and I’ve never quite managed to get there. I’ll be saving this guide for when I do. 🙂

I’ll keep Dublin in mind for my first solo trip! I’m so scared of travelling solo, but I want to do it. Not a lot of friends or family have the time to travel with me so I neeeed to do it to still travel.

As an Irish person, I love reading experiences from those who have visited the country. To get me through lockdown I’ve been watching irish travel vlogs – weird I know!

I am glad you loved visiting Ireland solo. I’ve recently written about Travelling to Galway solo as a women, to help other travelers. I received comments from other women who have travelled to Ireland alone for the post and I noticed that you said you’d visited Galway on a previous trip. Were you alone for this too as I’d love to include a comment from yourself if you were interested.

Let me know 🙂

slán agat Sarah |Tinyboots

Thank you for this amazing piece on Ireland; I love your writing style and feel every line of your writing.

Comments are closed.

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Dublin Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Dublin ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• Founded in 841 by Vikings , Dublin is the capital of Ireland (population: 1.5 million ).
• Has 2 names: Baile Átha Cliath (“town of the hurled ford”) and Dubhlinn (black pool).
• Home of many famous artists, musicians, actors, and writers (including George Bernard Shaw, James Joyce, Bram Stoker, and Oscar Wilde).
• Nicknames: The Dubs, The Liffeysiders, The Jackeens, The Jacks, The Metropolitans, The Pale, The Big Schmoke (referring to the city’s smog problems up to the 1980s).

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  Euro  (EUR).
• Spoken languages:   official languages are Irish and Gaelic,  but almost everyone speaks English .
• Best time to visit:  July  to  August (when temperatures range from 15° to 20° Celsius).
• Arriving from the airport: 3 types of bus transport: Aircoach (€7), Dublin Bus express AirLink service (€6), and other local routes (€2.65, with more frequent stops). Taxi fare is €20 to €30.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers in Dublin: Jacobs Inn . Located right by the bus station (and close to the city centre) in a safe area, this is a cozy establishment with clean beds and friendly staff. Cool “sleeping pod” bed design. Book in advance, as room prices in Dublin are notoriously high for any kind of accommodation.
• The cheapest accommodations are found near Dublin’s main bus station, Busaras .
• The areas south of the river are more expensive.

GETTING AROUND

• Light rail (LUAS) runs from 5.30 AM to 12.30 AM, every 15 minutes (every 5 minutes during peak times). Fares range from €1.70 to €2.60, depending on travel zones used.
• Dublin’s train services (Dublin Area Rapid Transit or DART), run from 6.30 AM to midnight with departures every 10 to 20 minutes. A one-way ticket starts from €2.10. A return day trip to Belfast will run you €8.00.
• You can easily rent a bicycle from one of the many bikeshare stations. Free for the first 30 minutes, and an additional €0.50 for every half hour after. Subscribe online and buy either the 1-day or 3-day ticket ( dublinbikes official site ).
• Taxis can be found on every corner (there are over 25,000 registered cabs in Dublin). Call City Cabs (872 7272) or National Radio Cabs (677 2222).

DUBLIN NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 18  (not enforced, under 18s are allowed in bars until 8 PM and after with an adult). Last call is midnight , but you can find bars and clubs open until 2.30 AM .
• Hip scene: the famous Temple Bar has a well-established nightlife scene, and is the mecca for bars and clubs in Dublin.
• For a real local pub experience, go to the Merrion Row  and  Baggot Street areas.
• Opened in 1198, The Brazen Head is allegedly the oldest pub in Ireland. Very touristy, but a good stop nonetheless.
• Great pubs/bars for solo travelers: Fibber Magees (rock/metal), Cassidys (classic), Bruxelles (fancier), Thomas House (beer hall), Token (arcade games), Anseo, and P. Mac’s (gastropub).

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Trinity College . Be sure to check out the Book of Kells (in the Long Room Library), a sacred manuscript authored by Celtic Monks in 800 AD. It is an illustrated representation of the four gospels of the New Testament.
• Christ Church Cathedral – the oldest building in Dublin, dating back to the 11 th century. Entry fee of €6 (€4 for students).
• Must-sees: The National Museum, National Gallery and National Library . Admission is free to all three.
• The Dublin Writers Museum is   dedicated to James Joyce, George Bernard Shaw, and many others. The tour is €7.25.
• Stop by the Guinness Storehouse and Old Jameson Distillery – be sure to raise your hand when they are picking volunteers for a tasting!
• Founded in 1204 for defence purposes, the Dublin Castle is now an Irish government complex. The tour is €4.50 (€3.50 for students).

INTERESTING WALKS

• Go on an  evening gravedigger and ghost bus tour. Perfect as an introduction to the city’s infamous plague epidemic.
• Walk around the Oscar Wilde house and statue,   found at the corner of Merrion Square (across from Merrion Park).
• Day trip out of Dublin: take a bus out to the  Wicklow mountains and Ireland’s Valley of the Kings . Discover the beautiful countryside, where a historic and mystical area awaits. Visit Giant’s Causeway , with its incredible geometric rock formations. Be sure to check out the famous rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede .

LOCAL WISDOM

• Irish people are known for their humour , and you will notice that they never seem to be in a hurry.
• You can test your Gaelic Football & Hurling skills at the  Croke Park Experience .
• Great restaurants to try: Terra Madre (cozy Italian), Grano (Italian), Etto ($$ – European), Variety Jones (Irish), allta restaurant, Camden Kitchen, F.X. Buckley Steakhouse ($$$ – multiple locations),
• Where to find  good cheap eats :  Indian restaurants around South William Street area serve three course meals for cheap. Parnell Street has a dense concentration of Chinese and Asian restaurants. Affordable (yet delicious) places: Takara Ramen & Deli Sushi Bar, Sano Pizza, and Xian Street Food Dublin, Forno 500 (pizza), and Suesey Street ($$$).
• Dangerous areas : Ireland has a low crime rate, and the murder rate is lower than any other EU state. Avoid the  Temple Bar area at night (gets rowdy).
• Call 999 or 112 for police, fire or ambulance.

Recommended trip duration:  2-3 days

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Incredible festival celebrated every year from 1st March and a tad before that until the 19th March when the city is set alight you`ll never see anything like this anywhere else I promise. @freedomtravel1 #SoloTravel #TravelFreedom #ExploreValencia #FallasFestival #ValenciaAdventures #TravelSpain #CulturalFiesta #SoloAdventures #FallasExperience #WanderlustValencia #FallasSolo #SoloInValencia #FallasAdventure #TravelSoloSpain #FestivalFreedom #FallasFun #SoloFiesta #ValenciaVibes #TravelCulture #SoloFallasExperience

Incredible festival celebrated every year from 1st March and a tad before that until the 19th March when the city is set alight you`ll never see anything like this anywhere else I promise. @freedomtravel1 #SoloTravel #TravelFreedom #ExploreValencia #FallasFestival #ValenciaAdventures #TravelSpain #CulturalFiesta #SoloAdventures #FallasExperience #WanderlustValencia #FallasSolo #SoloInValencia #FallasAdventure #TravelSoloSpain #FestivalFreedom #FallasFun #SoloFiesta #ValenciaVibes #TravelCulture #SoloFallasExperience ...

Incredible place

Incredible place ...

Valencia is an incredible city filled with such a sense of community that it leaves you with a lump in your throat when you see how the whole neighborhood comes together to celebrate. The music the kids play in it bands beside their parents, the proud grandparents waving their grandchildren on. I remember telling people about Cabanyal and the feedback that was mixed it was dangerous it was run down, but all I have seen and witnessed is the complete opposite. I sat at the bar on the main square last night because I couldn`t get back to the apartment and sat in sheer amazement of the number of people that take part in these processions. A place is absolutely nothing without the people in it.

Valencia is an incredible city filled with such a sense of community that it leaves you with a lump in your throat when you see how the whole neighborhood comes together to celebrate. The music the kids play in it bands beside their parents, the proud grandparents waving their grandchildren on. I remember telling people about Cabanyal and the feedback that was mixed it was dangerous it was run down, but all I have seen and witnessed is the complete opposite. I sat at the bar on the main square last night because I couldn`t get back to the apartment and sat in sheer amazement of the number of people that take part in these processions. A place is absolutely nothing without the people in it. ...

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Ireland Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

241 ireland tours for singles / solo travelers with 6,991 reviews.

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Great Tour of Ireland ( 7 days )

• In-depth Cultural

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

The Celtic Tour by Wild N Happy went way beyond my expectations! It was a complete delight to be enlightened by such knowledgeable, native guides of Gaelic Irish culture who authentically could share the stories of the historical unfolding of Irish history. I would only trust driving to the tour guide along those narrow and windy roads to awesome ancient historical landmarks along the amazing western coastline. Our guide knew the best spots to go to, depending on what your desire was to explore in the quaint villages and gave us plenty of time to assimilate. The Tour provided diversity, a well thought-out mix of outdoor and indoor activities, lots of surprising stops along the way, and everyone seemed fulfilled and reluctant to end this highly recommended Celtic adventure!

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

This was my first time in Ireland. I absolutely loved everything about this trip. Tour guide and bus driver were amazing. Totally worth every penny. Would go back in a heartbeat

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

8 Day Castles & Coast Experience - Small Group Tour

Wonderful small bus experience. I think we saw everything there was to see. Lots of fun.

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

Perfect size small group tour to allowed some small deviations due to weather and group vote that highlighted the most picturesque, historical, and thrilling sights of Southwest Ireland. Diarmuid and Michael proved worthy guides who are proud, passionate and knowledgeable about their homeland. My daughters and I truly enjoyed some of the recommended extra excursions (Gaelic Roots show with premium seating, Skellig Islands boat tour, and kayaking) along the way. Bring your rain gear and see Ireland without worrying about driving (these country roads are narrow). Absolutely amazing. Accommodations and breakfasts were nice, though room temp is generally out of your control in Ireland. Our favorites were Mizen Head, the Dingle Peninsula, and Killarney National Park. Will stick with us for life!

7-Day Ireland to Island Small Group Tour of Ireland

I have been on many guided tours before (> 20) and I must rank Finn the best tour guide I have ever had. He was very well organised, gave clear instructions and offered a variety of spot-on recommendations. His commentary was always relevant and interesting with an amusing twist. No one could convey his or her passion for their country better than Finn, and I found it heart-warmingly infectious. He was knowledgeable, warm, humorous, and unfailingly accommodating. He even took some amazing photos of us - not an easy task. Finn was a great ambassador for his company and his country. I highly recommend the 7-day Ireland to Island tour with Overland Ireland. Having Finn as your guide is the icing on the cake ... a rich, diverse, multi-layered, heavenly cake.

Introduction to Ireland

Our first bus tour and we were very pleased with the experience. The tour was fast paced, which was fine for us - be ready at 7am, bags out before breakfast, 8am on the bus. We saw so much more than if we would have tried it on our own. We were lucky to have a really nice group of fellow travelers, "our tour clan". Our guide Fiona, was knowledgeable and entertaining, driver Gary was perfect. Plan on doing the excursions of the Castle Banquet and the 300 year old Irish Pub, not that expensive and totally worth it.

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

The trip was interesting. The tour guide did a great job giving explaining things. We left early each day to miss the crowds. I loved the Cliffs of Moher. The optional experiences were extremely entertaining and fun.

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

Excellent guide - very informative and expert bus driver!

7-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour

Absolutely amazing. Our tour guide, Jack, was pleasant and super informative. I loved the selection of places we visited, the hotel breakfasts were delicious, the tour was organized well, the hotels were clean and comfortable and I met some great people. Strongly recommend this tour ????

Treasures of Ireland (End Dublin, 6 Days)

Overall, very good. No glitches, tour director and driver were knowledgeable and always helpful. Two hotels were wonderful, two were average. Additional excursions were all excellent. Could've used more time at Cliffs of Moher and Irish stew was offered at nearly every included meal - too much of a good thing.

The Best Of Ireland

The tour was great and our tour / bus driver is one of the best. He's extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of Ireland and went out of his way to do extra things that were not on the itinerary. We had plenty of time at all of our stops and loads of free time as well. Thanks Indus for a great time.

5-Day Spectacular South and West small group Tour of Ireland

Our tour guide Mark was the best! He was very patient, knowledgeable, kind, and honest when giving us recommendations for things to do. He was very flexible and always gave us other options if the weather was bad. I appreciated that he asked the group as a whole for their opinions before making a decision if a change in the plan was needed. He also constantly checked in with the group, and made sure we made plenty of rest stops so we weren't in the van for too long. The trip was so much fun and I liked that it was a smaller tour (14 people). I also loved that our accommodations were bed and breakfasts/inns rather than hotels/motels. It added to the magic of the trip. We really enjoyed our time and would definitely recommend to anyone!

Irish Elegance (Classic, 8 Days)

Excellent guide and driver. Saw a lot of things I would not have on my own. Nice bus and great people to hang out with.

7-Day Great Atlantic Adventure Small Group Tour

Exceeded my expectations. Culture, landscapes, language, history, activities…so much in just a week. Accommodations were very comfortable, food was delicious and plentiful, people were welcoming and generous. Our guide (Pat O’Mara) made the entir3 experience an absolute joy. He was knowledgeable, told stories and histories in a folksy and humorous tone. He was competent, flexible, and inspired with a clear love of his own country that made us love it too.

What people love about Ireland Solo Tours

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!

More information needed prior to booking about amount of walking involved. E.g.walk from B&Bs to centre of city and restaurants. And from bus parking to sites visited. It was also disappointing that group was scattered between 3 or 4 B& Bs well separated making meeting up for dinner at end of day difficult

More Tours in Ireland for Singles and Solo Travellers

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• Ireland Castle tours (9)
• Leinster tours (8)
• Connemara National Park tours (8)
• Seniors tours (160)
• Young Adults tours (9)
• 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

• Budget (20)
• Luxury (15)
• Singles and Solo (232)
• For Couples (121)
• Young Adults (9)
• Seniors (160)

Ireland for Solo Travelers

4.8 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

Dive into Irish culture—from contemporary cities to the country’s Ancient East—with new friends by your side.

Imagine yourself in a pub: You hear strains of Irish trad, enjoy the crisp carbonation of a freshly poured beer, and belt “sláinte” (pronounced “SLAWN-cha,” if you’re looking to practice) alongside the local crowd. You don’t need a travel pal to bring this vision to life—you just need a spot on this Solo Tour. From St. Patrick’s Cathedral to Blarney Castle to the Cliffs of Moher, this weeklong itinerary will take you to the core of Irish culture. And in true local tradition, you’ll leave having made plenty of new friends. Want to strengthen those bonds? Return to Dublin on the extension and get to know the city—and your companions—on a deeper level.

Your tour package includes

• 6 nights in a private room at handpicked hotels
• 6 breakfasts
• 3 dinners with beer or wine
• 1 beer tasting
• 4 sightseeing tours

Included highlights

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Guinness Brewery
• Temple Bar district
• Rock of Cashel
• Blarney Castle

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Dublin today.

Fáilte! (Pronounced “FALL-cha,” this expression means “welcome” in Irish, and you might hear it a fair bit over the next few days.) Head to your hotel and settle in, then get to know your Tour Director and fellow solo travelers over a welcome dinner, served with beer or wine. 

Settled by the Gaels and disputed over centuries by the Vikings and Anglo-Normans, Dublin traces its history back more than 1,300 years. Today, you’ll peel back some of the Irish capital’s layers on a comprehensive tour, led by a local expert.

• Stop in Phoenix Park, the largest enclosed public park in any European capital city. First established as a royal hunting ground by government decree in 1662, this 1,750-acre green space today houses Áras an Uachtaráin—the presidential residence.
• Walk through Old Dublin, then step into St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the country’s largest church. Founded in 1191, it serves as the national cathedral for the Church of Ireland, and its arresting Gothic architecture befits a building of its stature.
• Traverse Dublin’s city center, passing 17th-century St. Stephen’s Green as you go. Afterward, take some time to admire the Georgian architecture of Merrion Square. Another gardened area in the heart of Dublin, it’s been called home by some of Ireland’s foremost writers—Oscar Wilde and W.B. Yeats among them.
• See the dignified façade of Trinity College—Ireland’s oldest university—before walking by Grafton Street, Dublin’s premier shopping zone. As you go, see if you can spot the Molly Malone statue, a bronze sculpture dedicated to the protagonist of a popular Irish folk song.

This afternoon, pay a visit to St. James’s Gate—site of the legendary 260-year-old brewery behind Guinness dry stout—and take a self-guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse.

• Explore the Irish brand’s roots and growth through a series of exhibits highlighting its origins, advertising, and more.
• Learn how to pour a perfect pint of Guinness, straight from the tap. Then, head up to the top floor and enjoy your beer while soaking in 360-degree views of Dublin. Oh, and have a proper look around before taking your first sip: Draught Guinness tastes best when you give it a minute to settle.

Make your way to Ireland’s largest region: County Cork, a 2,900-square-mile tract of rolling hills and rugged mountains. En route, make a pair of detours into the Irish countryside.

• First, head into County Kilkenny and stop at its namesake town. Briefly the capital of Ireland in the 17th century, Kilkenny lays claim to the country’s best-preserved medieval town. Have a look around, then continue on to Kilkenny Castle. This imposing fortress was built along the River Nore in 1260, restored more than 700 years later, and now hosts more than one million annual visitors.
• Next, drive southwest through the lush fields of the Golden Vale into County Tipperary for a tour of the iconic Rock of Cashel. Home to more than 1,000 years of history, this 360-foot-tall outcrop guards a collection of Celtic, Christian, and Viking ruins and is one of Ireland’s premier attractions.

Later, sit down with your group for an included dinner, served with beer or wine.

Now one of Ireland’s most famous tourist sites, Blarney Castle was first built in 1210, then rebuilt in 1446 as a stronghold of the local MacCarthy of Muskerry dynasty. Today, you’ll set out into the Irish countryside and visit this famed fortress, completing a popular quest in the process: planting a peck on the Blarney Stone. Originally added as a defensive structure, this slab of limestone supposedly grants all who kiss it “the gift of gab.” Stretch out over the parapet and give it a smooch—then let us know how you feel!

Cap your day by adding an evening excursion to the historic town of Kinsale and enjoy walking winding streets and tucking into a traditional Irish meal. Need some alone time? Spend the night in or take some free moments to explore the neighborhood around your hotel.

An Evening in Kinsale

From $109 per person

Board your bus and roll north to County Galway, a beautiful lake-dotted region with a backstory to match. Before arriving in Galway proper, stop to enjoy some of the best views on the Emerald Isle.

• Redefine “taking the scenic route” with a quick detour into County Clare and a walk along the mesmerizing Cliffs of Moher. Sheer cliffs stretching into the distance, crashing waves below—you know this one.
• Drive on through the Burren. Distinct from the lush greens that typify the rest of the Irish landscape, greys dominate this limestone plateau, punctuated by bursts of wildflowers. Botanists will surely delight in this journey: More than 70% of Ireland’s flower species grow here.

Arrive in Galway, then let your Tour Director take the lead on a walking tour of the city’s highlights.

• Stroll past a trio of Galwegian icons: Lynch’s Castle, a castle-turned-bank that dates to the 16th century; the rustic home of “Ireland's most prestigious” troupe, the Druid Theatre Company; and John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, a popular green space better known to locals (and the world) as Eyre Square.
• Get a grasp of Galway’s Norman history by viewing its medieval walls—12th-century fortifications that once encircled the city—and the Spanish Arch. First erected in 1584 as an extension of Galway’s protective walls, its name alludes to the Spaniards who moored their ships and lived in the area.
• Peruse authentic Claddagh (said “CLA-da”) rings in a local shop. Steeped in legend and symbolism, these pieces of jewelry have been produced in their current guise—two hands clasping a crowned heart—since at least 1700 and are inextricably linked to Galway.

For architecture and vistas plucked out of a fantasy novel, you’ll want to come along on our visit to Kylemore Abbey and Connemara National Park. If you’d rather get to know Galway a bit better, spend a free day on your own: The city was named the European Capital of Culture in 2020—there’s plenty to see and do!

Tonight, rejoin your group for a farewell dinner at a local Galway pub, complete with traditional Gaelic music and good craic. (Pronounced “crack,” that’s the Irish term for fun and entertainment).

Kylemore Abbey & Connemara National Park

From $89 per person

Transfer to Dublin’s airport for your flight home or admire more of the Irish capital’s treasures—like a castle that locals say rivals Versailles—on your trip’s extension. 

Please note: Some airport transfers may leave very early in the morning to accommodate return flights.  

Before arriving in Dublin, traverse County Wicklow and marvel at some of Ireland’s wildest mountain scenery. Then, stop in Glendalough: One of Ireland’s foremost historic sites, this glacial valley cradles a sixth-century monastic settlement and abbey founded by the hermit Saint Kevin.

• Enter Wicklow Mountains National Park—one of six such preserves in the country—and make your way to the Glendalough Visitor Centre. After getting situated, explore the ancient monastery, roaming ruins like the Round Tower, the Gateway, and St. Kevin’s Cross.

Continue to Dublin, then set out with your groupmates for a traditional dinner, served with beer or wine and accompanied by Irish song and dance. Or, if you’d prefer, enjoy a free evening to yourself, roaming the city’s lanes in search of the perfect place for a nightcap.

Traditional Irish Dinner & Show

Head back into County Wicklow for a day on the immaculately manicured grounds of Powerscourt Estate—or take the free time to discover even more of Dublin. 

This evening, enjoy a farewell drink with your group and celebrate a trip well-spent. 

Powerscourt Estate & Gardens

From $59 per person

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.8 out of 5

5 out of 5 stars

Ireland is a beautiful country and my overall experience left me feeling I need to return. Not that it wasn’t packed with must see places because it certainly was but rather because the vibe is warm and friendly. Our tour director was the best! He was exceptionally knowledgeable which made every si...

Ireland is beautiful and the tour was wonderful. The food was delicious and the people were gracious. Our guide was Fergus who made Irish history come alive with the way he shared the history with the group. Our driver was Pat whose skill kept us safe on the narrow roads. His affable demeanor was de...

Hi Lana, We are delighted to hear that you had a ...

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This comfortable hotel is located near the center of Galway. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a hotel bar, and a restaurant. Nearby, you’ll find the Galway Sh...

This contemporary hotel is located on the coast of Garryvoe in County Cork. Guests enjoy a restaurant, bar, and health club. Nearby, you’ll find Garry...

This boutique hotel is located in Dublin’s city center. Guests enjoy the bistro, a gym, and the hotel bar. Nearby, you’ll find EPIC The Irish Emigrat...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter Ireland, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• There is no visa required for U.S. or Canadian citizens.
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code IR6.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in and depart from Dublin.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost if they are arriving or departing on the standard day.
• When you arrive in Dublin, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.

Physical Activity Level

This is a moderate physical activity-level tour. You can expect casual walks and plenty of time to explore throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a brisk-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• Most days full of included activities (more if you add excursions)
• Most transportation by motor coach
• Daily bus time varies and can be lengthy

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2 miles per day - this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
• Cobblestone streets can become slick when wet.
• While visiting Blarney Castle, travelers have the opportunity to kiss the Blarney Stone. In order to kiss the Blarney Stone, travelers must climb 128 very steep, narrow stairs.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
• Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.

Climate Considerations

• Travelers can expect cool, cloudy, and rainy days throughout the year, with occasional heatwaves in the summer months (June-September).

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
• If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
• Most transportation on this tour is by private motor coach. Private motor coaches have steps required to board and often do not provide access to ramps or lifts.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels and airports.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• We recommend packing your Insurance Card (from your primary insurance provider) in your carry on luggage.
• Go Ahead handpicks every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm.
• Accommodations are typically three to four star hotels.
• All accommodations include a private bathroom.
• Most rooms will include a safe for valuables.
• Your hotels will have Wifi, but it may be limited to common areas.
• Elevators in hotels are not guaranteed.
• Some hotels on this tour require travelers to walk with their luggage a few blocks as buses cannot drop travelers off right out front.
• Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• Ireland operates within 230–240 volts and uses a Type G plug with three large, flat pins.
• We cannot guarantee that your hotel accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with the hotel once they are confirmed about 30 days prior to departure.
• Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov .
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
• The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code IRL.
• This tour includes three dinners. Included meals may be plated set menus, buffet or family style depending on the location. Dinners include one glass of beer, wine, or soft drink and water, coffee and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• Irish pubs serve up hearty lunches, such as the traditional stew of bacon and boiled cabbage. Soda bread is delicious, very filling, and served with many meals. Nibble a scone at afternoon tea, with a pat of high-quality butter from County Kerry. Guinness stout is an international sensation, but locals might favor Murphy's, depending on where you are.
• Dublin has seen something of a culinary revolution, and the city now boasts an impressive array of new restaurants offering exciting cuisine with continental Europe, Asian, and even American influences.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10-$12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
• You will use the euro on tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
• To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
• Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
• The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
• Ireland is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is 5 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 5pm on tour.
• When you travel with EF Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit, and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
• Travel, when done responsibly, can make an enormous socio-economic impact to communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at local businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
• Prepare for your trip: be aware of the monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market, learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette, and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
• EF Go Ahead Tours encourages our travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single use plastics. You can avoid single use plastics by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.
• Environment: On this tour, we recommend the use of a reusable water bottle, as the local drinking water is safe for travelers. Your Tour Director can provide additional guidance on local water standards. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastics.
• Environment: When visiting national parks, reserves, or other protected areas, please do not remove anything from the natural environment or leave any litter. Carry out what you carried in.

• [email protected]
• (US / Ca) 011 353 21 237 9006
• (EU) 00 353 21 237 9006

Find Your Tour:

• England, Ireland and Scotland Tours
• Ireland Castle Tours
• Tour for max. 8 guests
• Tours for Solos
• Adults Only Tours
• Wild Atlantic Way
• Ireland's Ancient East
• Ireland Tours from Dublin
• Wild Atlantic Way Tours
• Ireland's Ancient East Tours

Arrange a Tour:

• Private Tours
• Private Tour Attractions
• Example Itineraries
• Genealogy Tours & Family Tree
• Golf Vacations
• Garden Tours

2024 Tour Packages:

• All Ireland Tours & Vacations
• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4390 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Britain Tour 10 Days | From €2490 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2890 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1590 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €990 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Historic Irish Castle Tour 7 Days | From €1790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €995 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.

2025 Tour Packages:

• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4590 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour 9 Days | €2490 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1690 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2890 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5690 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3290 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Tour Guides / Drivers
• Reviews of our Tours

Further Information

Frequently asked questions.

• Travelguide

About tour packages

• Choosing a Tour
• The Tour Hotels
• The Tour Buses

About private tours

• Arranging a Tour
• Private Tour Accommodation
• Private Tour Vehicles

• Singles Tours of Ireland

All our tour packages are open to single and solo travellers. Welcome to My Ireland Tour .

• Find a Tour
• Single Supplement

Solo Travellers Welcome

Here at My Ireland Tour, all our tour packages are open to solo and single travellers. Discover a rich and welcoming culture while meeting like-minded people on the adventure of a lifetime. As you'd expect, you will have your own private bedroom throughout your journey.

Our Solo Tours of Ireland

Please note that we do not offer singles-only tours . Everyone is welcome on our vacations and we get a whole range of participants, from solos and couples to families and groups of friends. If you'd like to know the current make-up of one particular tour before booking please get in touch . For information about solo occupancy rates, click here...

Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• 34 attractions
• Max. 26 ppl

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.

Iconic Britain Tour

• 14 attractions

Embark on a unique and unforgettable 10-day journey as you explore the most renowned and captivating attractions that England and Scotland have to offer.

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 13 attractions

Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable hub-and-spoke tour.

Deluxe Castle Tour

• 22 attractions

Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.

Historic Irish Castle Tour

• 15 attractions

A truly unique tour of Ireland. Visit the must-see attractions whilst discovering unique experiences beyond the tourist trail. All woven together by Ireland's historic castles.

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 25 attractions

Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.

Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 17 attractions

Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

• 8 attractions

Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

Ancient Ireland Tour

• 19 attractions

An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

• 24 attractions

Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.

Thanks for making us Ireland's top-rated tour company

A big thank you to all our past guests who have left so many amazing reviews. With 1296 five-star reviews out of a total of 1332, we are proud to call ourselves Ireland's top-rated tour operator.

See our reviews

Who comes on our Tours of Ireland?

We have a range of travellers on our tours, though the majority are small groups of 1 to 4 people per party. It's mostly adults on our tours, though we do get a few families (minimum age is 7 yrs old on our off-the-shelf tour packages ).

Will I get my own room?

Yes. You will be staying in your own individual hotel room(s). For this reason, a single supplement applies for guests travelling alone. Single rooms are subject to availability.

Will it be all Single Travellers on the Tour?

No. There will be a range of people on your tour; some will be travelling independently, some in couples, pairs and groups. Some families may also be present.

Are these "Dating" or "Singles" Holidays?

No , these are not dating vacations, nor are they for singles only. It's simply an opportunity for you to explore Ireland independently. You can be a sociable as you like or just enjoy your own company. It's entirely up to you.

What is the Single Occupancy Supplement?

To have a room to yourself, a single supplement applies. This covers the additional cost of having an individual room as compared to a shared-occupancy room.

Single Occupancy Supplement Rates

Single occupancy supplement rates 2024, single occupancy supplement rates 2025, britain & ireland tours : top 20 experiences.

There are so many amazing tourist attractions in Ireland & Britain, and our tours are designed to show you the very best of them. If you're not sure where to start, here we have compiled a top-20 list of the most popular Ireland tour experiences.

EPIC: Emigration Museum

Trace the fascinating history of Irish emigration through the ages. Read more...

• Guinness Storehouse

Learn all about the famous drink whose heritage is a story of Ireland itself. Read more...

• Cliffs of Moher

The views will not disappoint at this most popular tourist attraction. Read more...

• Kylemore Abbey

One of Ireland's most romantic and aesthetically pleasing buildings. Read more...

Traditional music and song in a real Irish pub. A true Irish experience. Read more...

• Blarney Castle

This 600-year-old Irish castle is famed for its legendary kissing stone. Read more...

The Burren takes its name from the Gaelic for "rocky land" or "great rock". Read more...

• Clonmacnoise

Religious artefacts and ruins found on the banks of the River Shannon. Read more...

The Giant's Causeway

40,000 basalt columns make up this UNESCO World Heritage site. Read more...

Christ Church

1000-year-old home to a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta. Read more...

• Dalwhinnie Distillery

Delve into the history of this esteemed distillery of Scotch whisky. Read more...

• Edinburgh Castle

Scotland's number 1 tourist attraction. Built during the 12th century. Read more...

• Holyrood Palace

This Palace is the official residence of the British Royal Family. Read more...

Kelvingrove Gallery

Including works by Rembrandt, Monet, Renoir, Pissarro & van Gogh. Read more...

Town of Portree

Explore the Inner Hebrides' largest town and scenic harbour. Read more...

The Roman Baths

Step into the timeless luxury and stunning architecture of the Roman Baths. Read more...

• Shakespeare's Birthplace

Immerse yourself in the birthplace of the most treasured son of literature. Read more...

• Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle sits atop Castle Hill in the Southeast of the town of Stirling. Read more...

Unearth mystical power and wonder of one of ancient England's greatest feats. Read more...

• York Minster

Uncover centuries of history and tales of heavenly grandeur. Read more...

Top Places to visit on a Vacation in Ireland & Britain And why visitors love them...

Britain and Ireland tours offer so many amazing places to visit, from the best-known tourist hotspots to the best-kept secrets. Here, we've put together a list of some of the most popular destinations among first-time visitors to Ireland and Britain. Of course, these unmissable destinations are widely featured on our range of Ireland and Britain vacations , and you can visit any of them on a customized private tour .

The "gateway to Ireland" is for more than just passing through. Visit the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and Epic: The Irish Emigration Museum.

From the vibrant and Bohemian city centre to the pristine Connemara wilderness, County Galway is always a favourite with visitors to Ireland.

3. Killarney

Killarney marks the start & endpoint of the Ring of Kerry. It is also home to some of Ireland's most famous castles, cathedrals and lakes.

Boasting attractions such as Blarney Castle, the Jameson Distillery and the fishing town of Kinsale, County Cork is a must-see destination.

5. Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a 111-mile circular route encompassing what is, arguably, the most scenic area of Ireland.

6. Connemara

A haven of tranquillity in western Galway. Connemara is home to Kylemore Abbey, Ballynahinch Castle and Clifden village.

Famed for its rugged coastline and mountains, County Donegal is brimming with stunning natural beauty.

A quaint fishing village in western County Kerry. A bottlenose dolphin named Fungie has been living in Dingle Bay since 1983.

The birthplace of the Titanic and once a major hub in the Industrial Revolution. Today, a city back on its feet after a turbulent past.

Monasteries, abbeys, manor houses & thatched cottages blend together to create a village that is as rich in heritage as it is easy on the eye.

11. Wexford

The "Sunny Southeast" brings with it Ireland's finest potatoes and strawberries, alongside some awe-inspiring scenery.

12. The Aran Islands

Take a step back in time with a visit to the Aran Islands. There are 1,200 Irish-speaking inhabitants, across three islands, and no cars.

Explore London's timeless charm: a bustling metropolis with iconic landmarks, rich history, and diverse culture.

14. Edinburgh

A charming city steeped in history and iconic structures, all overseen by the majestic Edinburgh Castle.

15. Stonehenge

Standing as a testament to ancient engineering, its purpose and construction remain a subject of intrigue.

16. Loch Ness

A legendary freshwater lake famous for its elusive inhabitant, the mythical Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as "Nessie".

• Sample Itineraries
• Transport Options
• Genealogy Tours

2024 Tour Packages

• Iconic Britain and Ireland (18 Days)
• Iconic Britain Tour (10 Days)
• Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (14 Days)
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (10 Days)
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (8 Days)
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (6 Days)
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour (10 Days)
• Historic Irish Castle Tour (7 Days)
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour (13 Days)
• Ancient Ireland Tour (8 Days)
• Discover Northern Ireland (6 Days)

2025 Tour Packages

• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• Highlights of Ireland and Scotland Tour (9 Days)

Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

Blarney Castle and The Blarney Stone

About Blarney Castle and The Blarney Stone

Situated five miles north-west of Cork city, Blarney Castle is a solid fixture on almost any tour of Ireland. It is best known for the famous "Blarney Stone" of which visitors are encouraged to kiss, in accordance with a tradition that spans centuries.

Visit their website...

• Blarney Woollen Mills

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

About The Burren

A limestone plateau covering 250 square kilometres, The Burren takes its name quite aptly from the Gaelic for "rocky land" or "great rock". While in one sense very fitting, the name does not do justice to what experts have more justly termed " one of the world's most stunningly unique natural heritage regions ".

The Burren runs alongside the Wild Atlantic Way .

• Christ Church Cathedral

About Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral, founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here in the crypt, you can see the Mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ, and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.

The Cliffs of Moher

About The Cliffs of Moher

One of the most popular and most eagerly anticipated attractions on any vacation in Ireland , and the views will not disappoint. They rise to a height of 702ft (214m) and 9 miles (14km) long, these sheer vertical cliffs hold a steady, undulating line against the tireless advance of the Atlantic below. A better view of the sea and setting sun you will not find.

The Cliffs of Moher are a Signature Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way. For more information click here .

Clonmacnoise Medieval Monastery

About Clonmacnoise Medieval Monastery

Perched on the banks of the River Shannon, Clonmacnoise is perhaps the foremost of Ireland's monastic cities. For those interested in early Christianity, it is a must-see destination. Enclosed within the ancient city walls are various ecclesiastical ruins including a cathedral, seven ancient churches, three high crosses, round towers and the largest collection of Early Christian grave slabs in Western Europe — all remarkably well preserved and fascinating to anyone, not just those with a special interest in Ireland's religious history.

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

About Dalwhinnie Distillery

Despite its remote location, the distillery is easily accessible and produces a remarkable spirit known as the "gentle spirit". Get an exclusive look at our functioning distillery and explore its distinctive high altitude and renowned malt.

About Edinburgh Castle

Luring over Edinburgh from its position on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle has been a fixture of the skyline since the 12th century. The location of Castle Rock, formed on top of an extinct volcano, made it the ideal location to build a defensive fortress. Edinburgh Castle, over the years, has been used as a place to burn 'witches' at the stake, foil rebellions and house prisoners of war. Today it is Scotland's number 1 tourist attraction.

EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum

About EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum

EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum, tracks the harrowing history of the 10 million Irish people left the island, for a variety of reasons, over the past 300 years.

About The Giant's Causeway

Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage site, known in Gaelic as Clochán na bhFomhórach or Clochán an Aifir, The Giant's Causeway is an area of 40,000 basalt columns, formed into a regular interlocking pattern by an ancient volcanic lava flow.

Glenveagh Castle

About Glenveagh Castle

Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

The Guinness Storehouse

About The Guinness Storehouse

Guinness is more than just a brand, indeed, more than just a beer. And that's not just for the Irish, but for the many millions of Guinness-drinkers worldwide. The site of the brewery itself is massive, at a staggering 26 hectares, but it will be the old grain storehouse that you visit. Shaped like a giant pint of the black stuff, this most popular of Dublin attractions towers over the surrounding neighbourhoods, with the top-floor Gravity Bar offering a delightful panorama across the Dublin cityscape which can only be enhanced by a well-earned pint to cap-off your visit.

Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

About Holyrood Palace

Holyrood Palace, officially known as The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the opposite end of The Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle. It is the official residence of the British Royal Family, and is often the setting for state occasions in the area. It has been the main residence of the Kings and Queens of Scots since the 16th century.

About Kelvingrove Gallery

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum was opened in 1901 having been partly funded by the proceeds of the International Exhibition, held in the area in 1888. Kelvingrove Park, where the gallery stands, is situated near the campus of the University of Glasgow. After a 3 year closure for refurbishments, the gallery was reopened in 2006 by Queen Elizabeth II. Works by Rembrandt, Monet, Renoir, Pissarro & van Gogh can be found amounts the over 8,000 strong collections of art.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey is not only one of Ireland's most attractive buildings; since 1920, it has also been home to the Sisters of the Benedictine Order in Ireland. Even today, Kylemore continues to operate as a working Abbey: here, the sisters live, work and pray, as well as welcome visitors from across the globe. Kylemore Abbey's greatest attraction is its location. Nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul, in the heart of the Connemara Mountains, it is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic locations.

Kylemore Abbey can be viewed along the Wild Atlantic Way.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

About Portree

Portree, the capital of the Isle of Skye, is the largest town located in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. The town boasts a picturesque harbour, which is surrounded by cliffs, and features a pier that was designed by the renowned Scottish civil engineer, Thomas Telford.

About Stirling Castle

A symbol of Scotland's national pride and independence, Stirling Castle sits atop Castle Hill in the Southeast of the town of Stirling. The main structure of the castle was built during the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. There have been a total of eight sieges of Stirling Castle, most of them occurring during the Wars of Scottish Independence.  

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

Irish Pubs and Traditional Music Sessions

About Irish Pubs and Traditional Music Sessions

Pubs (public houses) play a huge part in the culture of Ireland and have done throughout the ages. Sometimes busy, often noisy, but always friendly and welcoming places to meet the locals. In a pub, you will see a full cross-section of Irish society — its a place where people from all classes, ages, interests and backgrounds can mix.

About Stonehenge

Situated on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England, approximately two miles west of Amesbury, Stonehenge is an ancient monument. Comprised of a circular arrangement of towering sarsen stones, each measuring about 13 feet in height, seven feet in width, and weighing around 25 tons, it is adorned with horizontal lintel stones that connect them together.

About The Roman Baths

Situated in the city of Bath, Somerset, England, the Roman Baths are remarkably preserved thermal baths. The construction of a temple on this site took place between 60 and 70 AD during the initial decades of Roman Britain, ultimately giving rise to the creation of a small Roman urban settlement known as Aquae Sulis.

About Shakespeare's Birthplace

This charming half-timbered house stands as a testament to the iconic playwright's humble beginnings and offers a glimpse into the history and heritage of one of the world's greatest literary figures.

About York Minster

York Minster serves as the official residence of the Archbishop of York, who holds the third-highest position in the Church of England. It also stands as the main cathedral for the Diocese of York and the Province of York.

18-Day Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• Free time in London
• Manchester River Cruise
• Tour of York City
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Tour of Edinburgh City
• Tour of Glasgow City
• Tour of Belfast City
• Titanic Belfast
• Giant's Causeway
• Ring Of Kerry
• Irish Emigration Museum
• Departure flight home

10-Day Iconic Britain Tour

• Roman Baths
• Broadway to Cheltenham Railway
• Afternoon Tea at Broadway Hotel
• Chatsworth House
• Loch Lomond Cruise
• Glasgow City

14-Day Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Arrival at Edinburgh Airport
• St. Andrews Golf Club
• Kingsbarns Distillery Tour
• Loch Ness cruise
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Belleek Pottery
• Sheepdog Demo
• Blind Piper Pub
• Rock of Cashel

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Trim Castle
• Belfast City
• Belfast Murals
• Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
• Bushmills Distillery
• Derry City Walls
• Lough Erne Cruise
• Devenish Island
• Jameson Distillery Midleton

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Dublin Airport
• Free time in Galway City
• Killary Fjord
• Free time in Cork City
• Charles Fort
• Irish National Stud
• Traditional Farm Lunch

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Mikey Ryan's Bar
• Killarney National Park
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Galway City
• Free time in Dublin City
• St Patrick's Cathedral

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Glendalough Monastic Site
• Ring of Kerry

• Dublin Airport arrival
• Waterford Crystal
• Kilkenny Castle

• Arrival in Edinburgh Airport
• Edinburgh City tour
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Isle of Skye
• Glasgow City tour
• Belfast City tour
• Derry City tour
• Dublin City tour

• Lough Eske Castle
• Derry City Tour
• Free time in Derry City

• Pearse Lyons Distillery
• Traditional Music Night

• Derry City walking tour
• Ulster American Folk Park

9-Day Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Cruise Loch Lomond
• Clydeside Distillery Tour
• Glasgow City Tour
• Ferry to Belfast
• Belfast City Tour
• Glenshane Country Farm
• Giants Causeway
• Hillsborough Castle
• Carlingford Lough Ferry
• Farewell dinner and show

My Ireland Tour:

My Ireland Tour is a family business based right here in County Cork. Thanks for visiting our website: we're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the country we call home. As an independent Irish business, we're proud that we can give each guest the kind of service that has made us Ireland's top-rated tour operator. We hope to offer you a real Irish welcome soon. Our family business (My Ireland Tour Limited) is registered in Ireland, Company Number 547775.

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• 5 Church Hill  Carrigaline  Co. Cork  P43 X376  Ireland

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• Sustainability Policy
• Book a Tour

Hotel discounts for bike-riders, water turbines and low-impact seafood on a sustainable holiday in Clare

The county is on course to become ireland’s first certified sustainable tourism destination.

The Armada Hotel, at the top of the beach in beautiful Spanish Point, is currently the only hotel in Ireland to have achieved B Corp certification.

Ten years ago I visited Copenhagen for the first time. Our hotel was carbon-neutral thanks to a giant wind turbine in the car park. Our five-year-old son viewed the city from the front of a cargo bike as we navigated the extensive cycle lanes and cycle bridges of what was the greenest capital city in the world back then. Oslo has since moved into pole position.

These days a Nordic adventure is no longer needed to experience cutting-edge environmental practices while on holiday. Instead, travel west to County Clare, which has recently broken into the top 40 on the Global Destination Sustainability Index.

The Falls Hotel in Ennistymon may not have an on-site windmill but instead it generates up to 100 per cent of its power from a turbine installed in the surging river that flows metres from its front door.

Hotel Doolin became Ireland’s first carbon-neutral hotel in 2019. While Clare can’t compete with Copenhagen’s cycle lane network, this hotel offers a 10 per cent discount to guests hardy enough to arrive by bike.

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The Armada Hotel, at the top of the beach in beautiful Spanish Point, is currently the only hotel in Ireland to have achieved B Corp certification. Considered one of the most trustworthy metrics for sustainability, it can take years of hard work to achieve this impressive environmental accreditation. Intrigued, I visited the hotel over Easter with my wife and son to meet John Burke, the indefatigable owner, and experience first-hand the strides the hotelier has made to future-proof the business.

The road from Ennis to Spanish Point passes a wind farm strewn across a hillside, I’d read that 39 per cent of Clare’s electricity comes from renewables. Climate change is increasingly impacting our weather systems and sadly March 2024 was one of the wettest on record. Luckily the sun comes out as the Armada comes into view, firing-up the 264 solar panels neatly lined along the roof.

Lunch awaits in Aileen’s Restaurant. A wraparound wall of glass perfectly frames the endless view of the Atlantic. The room, with its adjacent Ocean Bar, has to be one of the most glamorous dining spaces in Ireland. It would be a shame not to try the hotel’s own Mist + Moss gin created with juniper berries from the Burren and locally foraged botanicals.

The Armada Hotel, Spanish Point, Co Clare.

Low-impact seafood is a well established feature of the restaurant menu. I order local hake with vegetables grown at the Armada’s own farm up the road, and cooked to perfection on newly installed induction hobs powered by the same solar panels we spotted earlier on the roof.

John Burke took over the reins of this hotel in 1999 from his father and, being no stranger to a challenge, having ascended the summit of Mount Everest, he took on the mission to improve the Armada on every level for both staff and guests.

He explains that B Corp certification is equally focused on employee wellbeing and community engagement, along with the more obvious environmental initiatives. Conferences at the hotel are encouraged to offset their travel footprint by supporting local dune restoration and native tree planting at Armada Farm. All the hotel’s art is by local artists. A wall of beautiful black and white photographs of local surfers and creatives offers guests a portal into the community that makes this corner of Ireland so special.

That night we sleep with the curtains and windows open, not wanting to miss out on the joy of our Atlantic view. I wake before dawn to a daub of yellow moon hovering just above the skyline. Several books about the area are left by our bedside and I read that Dusty Springfield’s ashes were scattered after her death beneath the Cliffs of Moher. This was Dusty’s favourite place in the world, and I can see why.

There’s no single-use plastic in our room and I fill our jug at a water station in the hallway. Coffee is made with compostable pods and I manage to convince my sleeping family to join me for an early morning swim as the beach is tantalisingly close. No chlorinated pool can compete with the thrill of a cold plunge into the ocean from a West of Ireland beach. A seaweed bath back in our room soon has us warm again and ready for the day.

After breakfast I set off inland beyond Miltown Malbay to visit Sam Gleeson at his workshop at the end of a twisting country road. Sam makes exquisite knives that are coveted by chefs, museums and food lovers all over the world. Using recycled steel from Sheffield he scores the polished metal with a decorative patina before adding a handle fashioned from beach plastic or local wood.

A knife in Sam Gleeson's workshop. He makes exquisite knives that are coveted by chefs, museums and food lovers all over the world.

Sam leads me through his vast warehouse, talking me through plans to open Under One Roof, an on-site community crafts and cookery school where cutler skills will be passed on and his partner Niamh Fox will share her wizardry in the kitchen.

He points me towards Moyhill Farm, just over the hill, where organic produce will be sourced for their school.

Fergal Smith realised it was no longer sustainable to travel the world as an elite big wave surfer and instead he and his wife Sally Smith focused their attention on a 65-acre regenerative farm that is very much at the centre of this tight-knit, west Clare community. We haven’t arrived on the right day for a farm tour but instead pick up some veg from the honesty box that’s open on Thursday until Sunday.

Google Maps leads us up a back road towards Doolin with views across to the Aran Islands and Connemara. Some years back the Irish artist Dorothy Cross made an extraordinary video of a boy soprano singing under the third largest stalactite in the world at Doolin Cave. I have wanted to visit ever since.

Doolin Cave

The guided tour down into the 7.3 metre shaft, complete with hard hats, doesn’t disappoint. Discovered in 1952 by two student cavers, this 500,000-year-old beauty at the centre of a pitch black chamber is a jaw-dropping natural wonder. The visitors centre has a green roof for local wildlife, and a range of beautiful ceramics made from clay dug from the cave. Impressively, every possible environmental practice has been implemented to run the business sustainably.

Oysters form part of the delicious menu in the Ocean Bar at the Armada Hotel, Spanish Point.

The Burren Ecotourism Network supports the local business community to adopt green initiatives along with rolling out car charging infrastructure and water refill stations. Even the small clubhouse of Doolin Pitch and Putt has solar panels. My wife is persuaded to pick up a golf club for the first time but even the backdrop of the Cliffs of Moher can’t convince her to carry on beyond the first nine holes. Nagle’s campsite across the road has had a similarly sustainable makeover but as it’s still March we’re glad to be heading back to the warmth of the Armada.

We make a pit stop in Lahinch for a sandwich at Hugo’s Bakery before a sign leads us down a lane to the Irish Chandler candle shop. The welcoming owner, Lisa Barnett, whose birthday it is when we visit, pours her own natural soy candles with fragrances inspired by the region and has even created a candle for our hotel drawing on the scents of the sea.

Back at the hotel, it’s time for the energy and buzz of the Ocean Bar for dinner. Tequila and lime oysters, sizzling skillet prawns, cocktails and great chats with Alex our Spanish waiter make for a lively evening. We even put our heads around the door of Johnny Burke’s pub for some trad music and a nightcap of the hotel’s own Armada 50 Whiskey before walking outside and marvelling at the blaze of stars in the sky at the edge of the Atlantic, soundtracked by the waves on the nearby beach.

Before sleep, I pick up local filmmaker Ken O’Sullivan’s book Stories from the Deep and lose myself until the early hours in his epic tale of tracking whales and marine life in the North Atlantic. Social media on occasion has its merits and before long I’m messaging back and forth with Ken to relay my envy of his aquatic adventures.

Sadly, we need to get back to Dublin the next morning. An American family are the only other early birds joining us for the impressive breakfast buffet at 7am. We fuel up for the trip with chia seed pudding, local eggs cooked to perfection, and freshly baked bread.

Before leaving I speak over coffee to Bernard Cahill, the Armada’s wellbeing manager. Bernard explains that the hotel bought 250 copies of Ken’s book for all of the bedrooms which also can be bought at reception. Supporting the local community is paramount to the hotel, with most of the Armada’s 250 suppliers located within an 80km radius of Spanish Point.

Kermit the Frog famously crooned ‘it’s not easy being Green’. The people I have met in West Clare have shown me that’s not necessarily the case any more – and easy or not, they are doing it anyway.

Fergal McCarthy was a guest of the Armada Hotel, doubles from €180: www.armadahotel.com

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