Dhia duit! (Hello!)
Welcome to the Ireland Travel Tips & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page!
If you have questions about travel in Ireland, it's likely you'll find the answer you seek here- just click the chapter topic below to be taken to the tips you need!
If you don't find an answer to your question, just send an email to jody(at)irelandfamilyvacations(dot)com or use the easy contact form. I will reply directly to you and maybe add your question to this page- because if you need an answer, it's likely someone else does, too!
Ireland Travel Tips & FAQs
Table of contents
When is the best time to visit Ireland?
I've visited Ireland in every season and can honestly say that there is no bad time to vacation in Ireland!
Much of this decision depends on your vacation budget, what you wish to see and do, and when you can get away.
For the best bargain, visit in the low season- November thru early March. Days are shorter and some attractions may be closed. This is an ideal time to visit Dublin.
Is money no object? Visit during high season- late May thru August.
For great deals when most attractions are open plan for the fall shoulder season- September and October.
For more tips on when to visit Ireland:
When is The Best Time to Visit Ireland
Cool Facts about Ireland Winter Vacations
Visiting Ireland in January- What You Can Really Expect
Reader Question: When is the Best Time to Visit Irish Gardens?
I reached out to 3 estates known for their fabulous gardens for the answer to this great question! Click here to read more…
Ireland Travel- Tips for Flights & Airfare
Here are some tips to help you find the best airfare to Ireland.
Reader Question: On traveling to Ireland, do you suggest purchasing a package? Or should I take direct flights?
This is really a great question, and one that I know many people have. So which should you do?
It depends. Not helpful, I know. So let me go into further details. Read more…
Handy Airport Tips
Dublin Airport- Tips for Arrival and Departure
Shannon Airport- Tips for Arrival and Departure
Money Tips – Best Exchange Rates, Budgeting & VAT
Handy Money Tips for Your Ireland Vacation
Plan a simple vacation budget
Should you buy travel insurance for an Ireland vacation?
How NOT to Lose Money if You Have to Cancel Your Vacation
How & When to get Euros
The OPW Heritage Card is the best value for visitors who want to visit Ireland's historic sites
All about the VAT- Value Added Tax- and how to get your refund
Best Ireland souvenirs for everyone in your family
Ireland Travel Planning & Itineraries
Wondering if your itinerary is “do-able”? Email it to me – along with the dates you are planning to travel and the ages of travelers. I'll give you my honest opinion.
Everyone knows that Disney is in the business of creating magical vacation experiences. But is a Disney Ireland vacation right for your family? Read my side-by-side breakdown of Adventures by Disney Ireland Family Vacation and a (nearly identical) DIY Ireland Family Vacation to help you decide.
I have advice on how to create an itinerary that won't ruin your Ireland Vacation. As well as my own recommendation for a first Ireland vacation itinerary.
The amount of things to do and places to see in Ireland can be overwhelming. Here are some tips that may help you decide what to see and do in Ireland.
Reader Question : I want my time to be my own but, I don’t want to feel like I’m rushing from place to place just to fill the “must see” tourist squares. Any suggestions on how to spend two weeks, slowly?
This is a great question- and one I still struggle with personally. There is just so very much to see, do, and experience in Ireland! I have a few questions to help you decide what to see and do and a few tips on how to keep from rushing your itinerary. Read more…
Packing for an Ireland Vacation
Wondering what to take? How many pair of shoes should you pack? Wondering what clothes to pack for Ireland's often changing weather? Or maybe you just want advice on a raincoat.
And take a look at the gadgets you need (or don't need) during your vacation.
Use this What to Pack for Ireland Travel Checklist to be sure you have everything before you go!
Ireland Lodging & Accommodations
Should you choose a B&B, hotel or self catering cottage?Not sure where you should stay? Check out this quick guide to Ireland lodging.
Reader Question: Are there B&Bs that can accommodate a family of 4 in one room?
Yes, you'll find many bed & breakfasts in Ireland with rooms that can accommodate a family of 4. What you want to ask for is a ‘family room'. These rooms are usually a bit larger to accommodate a double bed and one or two twin beds. Read more….
Staying Connected in Ireland
Will your phone work in Ireland? How to use your mobile phone in Ireland – and not come home to an outrageous bill.
Reader Question: We will be traveling across Ireland for 10 days, beginning in Dublin and ending in Shannon. Our route is mostly set, and I know that the B&Bs we are staying in advertise wifi. How is the wifi in Ireland? Do I need my own plan? And will I find wifi anywhere else?
Staying connected in Ireland is important- whether you just want to keep in touch with family and friends or share your amazing trip across your favorite social accounts. I’m happy to report that wifi in Ireland is quite good in hotels & B&Bs across the country. In addition to your lodging you’ll find complimentary wifi in many cafés, pubs, and tourist attractions. For many travelers this is more than enough connectivity. If you want to be connected more than that, you have a couple of options. Read more…
Car Rental & Driving in Ireland
Wondering which car rental provider is best for you? What's a CDW and do you need it? And just how hard is it to drive on the left? Get all the answers: Everything You Need to Know About Car Rental in Ireland
Over 70? You CAN rent a car in Ireland. Get all the facts and learn the senior driver policies for each car rental company in Ireland.
Tips for driving in Ireland without GPS and the best road map for your Ireland vacation.
Concerned about driving on the ‘wrong' side of the road or navigating roundabouts? All the tips you need for driving in Ireland (podcast).
Eating in Ireland
You can find any type of food you desire in Ireland. But just because you see a McDonald's doesn't mean you should eat there. (Go for the local favorite- Supermac's!)
Ireland has a rich culture of locally sourced food, and the flavors are incredible! Enjoy this article about eating in Ireland.
Are you traveling with someone who has food sensitivities or allergies? You'll find it's easy to eat in Ireland (podcast)!
Reader Question: we are a little nervous about the food, and making sure we can find things the kids like. They are finicky eaters as it is — never mind throwing foreign fare into the mix!!
Oh, Irish food! There is so much to love! But I can understand the worry- especially if you are traveling with picky eaters! Read more….
Gaeilge : The Irish Language
Though the Irish speak English, you'll see the Irish language everywhere- especially on road signs. And, within Gaeltacht areas the signs are only in Irish!Here is some of the Irish Gaelic you'll see on road signs.
Should you try a few words of Irish when you visit Ireland? Yes! Find out why!
IRELAND TRAVEL board
