Category: Ireland
Ireland – About the country
Ireland is one of the most scenic countries to visit in the world. The reasons to visit are endless: from beautiful coastline, hiking trails, castles everywhere, lively pubs and good music, you name it! If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, let me tell you a few things about the country.
Visa Requirements
Ireland does not require visas for EU, UK, and US citizens. Follow this link to find more details about visa requirements, as well as details about all other situations.
A useful tool to sort the documents you need to travel is iVisa.
Where is Ireland, connections
The island of Ireland is in the northern Atlantic. It is divided between Northern Ireland (part of the UK) and the Republic of Ireland.
You can fly in from most European major cities and from the US. The main airport is Dublin, but there are a few smaller airports throughout the island.
Another option is to get to the island by ferry from the UK western ports.
Transport
Public transport is well organized, with reliable train and bus connections. If you need to rent a car, keep in mind that you need to drive in the left lane. Driving is the best option to explore the scenic coastal routes and rural Ireland.
Money
Ireland uses Euros, which is pretty convenient if you arrive from most European countries. Card payments are widely accepted. You can even make church donations by card in some places.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Ireland is generally on the expensive side. That applies to housing as well. Look for the best accommodation on booking.com.
Best places to visit in Ireland
There are so many places worth visiting that you will always want another trip to the island. If you land in Dublin for a few days only, you will probably explore the city and take a couple of day trips from Dublin. Get to Malahide village and visit the castle, or maybe to Howth, close to Dublin.
If you have some more time, drive some of the Wild Atlantic Road, starting from colorful Kinsale. Another option is to head west and see the Cliffs of Moher, or go to Northern Ireland to see the Giant’s Causeway.
Food (and drinks)
Ireland is not necessarily famous for its cuisine. However, there are a few things you must eat while there. As on most islands, fish and seafood are always fresh and delicious. Beef and dairy products are also exceptional. As for representative dishes, don’t miss the fish pie, shepherd’s pie, the seafood chowder, and any beef stew.
To go with that, you must choose between beer and local whiskey. Dublin is home to the most famous Irish beer, Guinness, and locals will always be glad to have a pint of the black stuff. The Franciscan Well, another great Irish beer, is a good reason to visit Cork, where they brew it. As for whiskey, Jameson and Teeling are the most well-known, but they make a lot of good whiskey in Ireland. Visiting a whiskey museum could be on your things to do in Dublin list.