Discover the Beauty and Culture of Ireland: A Traveler's Guide
The lure of Ireland lies in its landscapes and its people, and it is through involvement with both that visitors get to experience the soul of this ancient land of saints and scholars.
Ireland’s hills are a walker’s paradise, not only because of the extensive network of trails, but because exploring on foot allows travellers to appreciate the lakes, rivers, and coastal views that are so much a part of the Irish landscape. Watersports such as angling, sailing and surfing are popular too, and many visitors come for the golf. That said, the country’s real passion is horses – there is a potential Derby winner in every valley and a packed betting shop in every high street.
The Irish weather is not the most predictable in the world. Then again, much of the beauty of the Irish landscape is due to its climate. Indeed, poor weather has had positive influences on the Irish way of life. Music and song plays an integral part in day-to-day routine and visitors are able to experience this in the many pubs so characteristic of the social landscape of Ireland. Irish music is captivating – arguably some of the best in the world – and Irish pubs are a highlight of a journey through the country.
Over the years, Ireland has survived invasions, famine and civil war, but has recently come into its own, benefiting from peace in the North, support from the EU, and a new vitality that has caused the country to be dubbed the ‘Celtic Tiger’. There has never been a better time to visit.
Overview
Ireland is truly one of the great sightseeing destinations, where travellers can expect an abundance of beautiful natural landscapes, and cultural and historical sights aplenty. Attractions such Blarney Castle, Trinity College and the soaring Cliffs of Moher should be high on any visitor’s list of things to see, but the real magic of Ireland lies in the unexpected encounters with the wholeheartedly welcoming locals. The Emerald Isle is famously full of music and good cheer and no amount of rain can dampen spirits. Also, the Guinness really tastes better here at the source.
Winter is not the best time to visit, as it is cold and rainy, so travellers should plan trips for the summer months between April and September. The ideal ways to get around are by rented car or bicycle, which visitors can use to explore the photogenic country lanes. The roads are good in Ireland and driving around is not unduly stressful.
Climate in Ireland
Ireland is notorious for experiencing cold, damp weather for much of the year. This is due to its temperate climate, but is compensated for by its delightful green countryside. It is, however, possible to enjoy some warm, sunny and dry days during the pleasant summer months between May and September, and those who travel to Ireland in winter will find that the weather is far less severe than in the UK. Summer (May to September) is the warmest and driest season and is the best time to visit Ireland, though attractions can get crowded in July and August. Winter is characterised by short, wet, foggy days and long nights, but the temperature rarely gets below freezing due to the tempering Gulf Stream winds that buffet the west coast of Ireland. Some attractions are only open in summer but many tourists visit Ireland in the off-season when accommodation is cheaper. Spring and autumn can also be very pleasant times to visit. The southeast is the driest region of Ireland, enjoying more sunny days than the rest of the country. It seldom snows in Ireland.
Health Notes when travelling to Ireland
There are no special health requirements for visitors, though all eligible travellers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should be obtained before departing for Ireland. After Brexit, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an alternative to travel insurance. Medical facilities are good and medicines are widely available; if travellers require specific medication, it is always advised that they bring it with them. Travellers should make sure to carry all medications in their original containers, clearly labeled. They should also have a signed, dated letter from their doctor describing all medical conditions and listing all prescribed medications, including generic names.
Safety Notes when travelling to Ireland
Most visitors to Ireland enjoy a fairly high level of personal safety. Ireland has a very low level of violent crime, but there is a high incidence of petty theft in tourist areas and foreigners are targeted by pick-pockets. Travellers should take sensible precautions against petty theft, including duplicating important documents, carrying valuables in separate bags or pockets, and leaving valuables in hotel safes whenever possible. Terrorism is no more a threat in Ireland than in other Western countries and safety in the country has improved significantly with peace in Northern Ireland. Those travelling into Northern Ireland should note that the safety alerts for that country are completely seperate and can be found in the United Kingdom travel guide.
Customs in Ireland
The Irish are warm and welcoming and their conversation is often light hearted and dosed with humour, irreverence and self-depreciation. A handshake is the normal form of greeting, though close friends will hug or kiss each other on the cheek. The pub remains at the centre of many communities, and alcohol may be bought by anyone over 18 years old. Smoking is not allowed in public spaces, including in pubs and restaurants. Visitors should refrain from forcing discussions of political and religious differences and show respect if the topics are brought up. Attitudes towards LGBT people are liberal and same-sex marriage is legal.
Duty Free in Ireland
Travellers over 17 years old arriving from non-EU countries do not have to pay duty on most products. Regulations allow 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars, 250g tobacco; one litre of spirits with more than 22 percent alcohol volume, two litres of dessert wine, port of sherry with a maximum 22 percent alcohol content; and four litres of wine or 16 litres of beer. Other duty free products include perfume up to 50g or 250ml eau de toilette; and other goods for personal consumption to the value of €430 per adult or €215 for children under 15 years.
Doing Business in Ireland
The Irish are very sociable and, although the usual elements of business etiquette apply (punctuality, formal wear, a courteous manner), foreigners can expect good conversation and a rather relaxed air. Handshakes are customary on introduction, and foreigners should take the lead from the host with regards to using first names or surnames. Business hours are usually from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, with a lunch break from 1pm to 2pm.
Communication in Ireland
The international access code for Ireland is +353. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free WiFi are widely available; purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option than accepting international roaming costs, which can be high.
Tipping in Ireland
A 10 percent tip will be welcomed in restaurants and cafes, and occasionally a service charge will be added to the bill. Tipping is not usual in bars and pubs, or for other services.
Passport/Visa Note
All foreign passengers to Ireland must be able to show proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in the country. Passengers should also hold return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, as immigration officers might demand that they demonstrate proof of their intention to leave Ireland. If the traveller’s passport bears a British inadmissable stamp, unless the immigration officer is convinced that they will not travel on to the United Kingdom, entry may be refused to Ireland. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passport have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa required for 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required for 90 days.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Ireland. Passport exemptions apply to holders of proof of nationality issued to nationals of Ireland and British subjects, for travel between Ireland and Great Britain and Northern Ireland only. No visa is required for holders of British passports endorsed British Citizen, British National (Overseas), or British Overseas Territories Citizen.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required for 90 days.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required 90 days.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required for 90 days.
Tourist Offices
Irish Tourist Office, Dublin: http://www.ireland.com
Ireland Embassies
- In the United States:
Irish Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 462 3939.
- In Canada:
Irish Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 233 6281.
- In the United Kingdom:
Irish Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7235 2171.
- In Australia:
Irish Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6214 0000.
- In New Zealand:
Consulate-General of Ireland, Auckland, New Zealand: +64 (0)9 977 2252.
- In South Africa:
Irish Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 452 1000.
Foreign Embassies in Ireland
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Dublin: +353 (0)1 668 8777.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Dublin: +353 (0)1 234 4000.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Dublin: +353 (0)1 205 3700.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Dublin: +353 (0)1 664 5300.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand High Commission, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 (0)20 7930 8422.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Dublin: +353 (0)1 661 5553.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
