At a Glance Traveling to Ireland in the fall and winter comes with real perks: cheaper flights, smaller crowds, and a slower pace at sites that get packed all summer. This guide covers why the off-season is worth considering, plus what to expect month to month from October through February, practical tips for your trip,…
Advice for using public transportation with a Leap card in Dublin and around the country.
Limitations of the Visitor Leap Card.
How to purchase a Leap Card for your Ireland vacation.
What’s the best way to get around Ireland? It depends on your itinerary, budget, travel style, and how much flexibility you want. In this video, I break down the pros and cons of traveling around Ireland by train, bus, rental car, private driver guide, and even boat. We’ll look at where each option works well,…
At a Glance Dark tourism in Ireland covers more ground than most travelers expect, from famine memorials and workhouses to ghost tours, ancient beliefs, and haunted castles. For travelers interested in Irish history, genealogy, folklore, or the stories that don’t fit neatly into the usual castles-and-cliffs itinerary, these places can add another layer of understanding…
Credit card coverage can be a good option for a car rental in Ireland, but simply having rental car protection on your card doesn’t mean you’re covered. Some cards exclude Ireland entirely, while others have limits on the vehicles they cover, the length of the rental, or the amount they’ll pay. Before you decline the…
At a Glance The Beara Peninsula, also known as the Ring of Beara, sits in southwest Ireland, just south of its more famous neighbor, the Ring of Kerry. It’s a good fit for travelers who want scenic coastal roads and conversations with locals without the tour buses. This guide covers where to base yourself, what…
If you’re planning to rent a car in Ireland and you’re over 75, don’t assume every rental company has the same requirements. In this quick Ireland travel tip, I explain how to find each company’s senior driver policy, show you where to look on rental websites, and summarize which companies only require a valid driver’s…
At a Glance Motorhome and campervan travel in Ireland has grown a lot in recent years, and this guide covers what first-timers actually need to know: vehicle size, where you can legally park overnight, and the apps that make it easier. Whether you’re weighing a motorhome trip against a rental car or already sold on…
If you’re planning to rely on credit card or third-party rental car insurance in Ireland, I want to tell you about the one time I actually had to use mine. The insurance paid the claim. That wasn’t the problem. The problem was everything that happened over the next two months. This happened back in 2015,…
Landing in Dublin but beginning your vacation elsewhere – options to get to your first destination safely – without driving. Why driving long distances after an overnight flight isn’t safe Where Does Your Ireland Vacation Begin? So what do you do if your vacation begins in another location – like Galway, Killarney, Clare, or Cork?…
The warmth of an Irish welcome is legendary and Booking.com travelers have named their stand-out friendly destinations. Booking.com’s 2026 Traveller Review Awards feature 13 towns and villages on the island of Ireland that have been recognized for exceptional hospitality, warmth, and guest experience. The awards are based on more than 370 million verified traveler reviews,…
Five weeks on the road across Ireland brings plenty of unforgettable moments — and a few lessons learned the hard way. From airport advice and overlooked historic sites to island adventures and incredible local experiences, this trip delivered a little bit of everything. For travelers planning their own Ireland itinerary, these are the stops, stays,…
A chance meeting in Dublin led to a lively catch-up about how travel in Ireland is changing – and how visitors can experience so much more than the usual highlights. Custom Food and Whiskey Tours in Ireland What started as a Dublin food tour has grown into something much bigger. Gráinne, owner of Flavour Trails,…
Ireland’s world-famous golf courses may top the bucket list, but some of the most memorable experiences happen well beyond the marquee names – especially when you pair great golf with Irish whiskey and local connection. This article is based on podcast episode 336 featuring David Hayes, owner of Dunes & Drams, a bespoke tour company…
Just after Easter, Jody is heading back to Ireland—and this trip is filled with experiences, stays, and a few surprises that might inspire your own plans. Ireland trip preview: tours, experiences, and places to stay This upcoming visit blends guided tours, hands-on experiences, and independent exploring across Ireland—from the Causeway Coast to the southeast, with…
Cruise stops in Ireland can feel like a whirlwind – but with the right plan, even a few hours can turn into an unforgettable experience. With more cruise ships arriving at Irish ports each year, travelers have more options than ever when it comes to shore excursions. But not all tours, or tour providers, are…
Ireland and castles go hand in hand. With thousands scattered across the island, it can feel like there’s one around every bend in the road. The real challenge isn’t finding castles in Ireland — it’s deciding which ones to add to your itinerary. This article is based on the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 331….
Landing at Dublin Airport is often the first stop in your Ireland journey, but one of the first questions many travelers have is how to get into the city centre. A lot of people immediately look for the cheapest option. That makes sense, but the cheapest option may not always be the best choice depending…
Group tours are one of the most popular ways to experience Ireland – especially for travelers who want to see a lot without worrying about driving, directions, or logistics. Nearly half of overseas visitors explore Ireland this way, which means coaches crisscross the island daily, bringing travelers to castles, coastlines, and charming towns. But what…
This article is part of my Planning Your Ireland Vacation series — a step-by-step guide that walks you through the entire planning process, answers common questions, and helps you move forward with clarity. If you’d like to follow the full series in order, you’ll find it at:IrelandFamilyVacations.com/planning During your Ireland vacation you’ll have dozens of…