Galway is a popular base for exploring Ireland’s west coast, and for good reason. Stay in or around Galway City and you have Connemara to the west, the Burren to the south, Athlone to the east, and the Aran Islands just offshore. But just because you can reach somewhere from Galway doesn’t necessarily mean it…
Booking flights to Ireland is the moment your vacation starts to feel real. But when you’re comparing itineraries, the choices aren’t always straightforward. One flight connects through Chicago, Boston, or another US airport before flying overnight to Ireland. Another flies overnight to London, Amsterdam, or Paris, where you’ll catch a second flight to Dublin. If…
Dublin is one of the most popular bases for an Ireland vacation. But if you’re staying in Dublin, how far should you travel for a day trip without spending most of your day getting there and back? I like to use a 90-minute radius. Three hours of round-trip travel still leaves plenty of time for…
Kinsale may sit at the beginning or the end of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, depending on how you travel it, but this colorful County Cork town deserves more than a quick stop.Fáilte Ireland certified guide Clodagh FitzGerald shares a local’s perspective on Kinsale, from the history of Charles Fort and James Fort to harbour adventures,…
One question I’m asked more and more often is whether you can stay in one central location and take day trips around Ireland. It sounds very logical. Unpack once, stay someplace central, drive out each day, then return to your home away from home. The problem is that Ireland doesn’t really have one location that…
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 The Global Irish Famine Way uses a simple but powerful symbol – a pair of bronze children’s shoes – to connect Ireland with communities shaped by Famine-era emigration. For travelers interested in Irish history, ancestry, and the diaspora, it offers a new way to understand where those journeys began, where they led,…
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,…
Abbeyleix at a Glance If your ideal Ireland itinerary includes historic towns, memorable meals, scenic walks, and time to truly experience a place instead of simply passing through, Abbeyleix deserves a closer look. Nestled in the heart of County Laois, this Georgian market town is perfectly positioned for exploring Ireland’s Ancient East while offering plenty…
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 Ring of Kerry is famous for dramatic coastlines, mountain passes, colorful villages, and unforgettable views. It’s one of Ireland’s most iconic driving routes – and for good reason. But beyond the photo stops and scenic overlooks is another experience that rewards travelers willing to slow down. For this guide, County Kerry native and whiskey…
For many North Americans, discovering Irish ancestry begins with a family story. Maybe a grandparent mentioned a county in Ireland. Perhaps there’s an old photograph, a faded letter, or a surname that has been passed down through generations. The excitement of uncovering those connections can quickly turn into frustration when records become difficult to find…
Ireland’s most memorable experiences aren’t always found on the busiest routes. In County Cavan, travelers trade crowded attractions for quiet waterways, forest walks, and the simple pleasure of having time to enjoy where they are. For visitors who prefer exploring at their own pace, Cavan offers a different side of Ireland. It’s a place where…