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Ireland finale with Carrousel Travel

This is it folks – the final story from TCL’s Irish adventure, put together by Carrousel Travel. The good news is that we already have our next trip planned! More information on that is coming up after the surprise dinner experience and looking back at the amazing memories and friendships made on this trip.

ITALIAN RIVIERA + FRANCE

Mediterranean cruise, hosted by dave dahl, mediterranean criuse, 9-night cruise sailing october 5-14, 2024, join dave dahl, former chief meteorologist for kstp-tv, on this mediterranean adventure.

Experience the joys of la dolce vita on an award-winning cruise to the Italian Riviera and other gems of the Western Mediterranean. This spectacular destination has a bounty of treasures waiting to be discovered, from mouthwatering cuisine to magnificent archaeological sites and some of the world’s greatest art treasures. And your home away from home, the brand new Celebrity Ascent, is a destination all its own.

As an added bonus, you’ll enjoy this trip of a lifetime with special host, Dave Dahl, former Chief Meteorologist for KSTP-TV. Born and raised in Minnesota, Dave received his bachelor’s degree in meteorology from Florida State University and then spent the next 43 years providing Minnesota with daily weather forecasts until his retirement in 2020.

Begin your cruise in the enchanting seaside city of Barcelona, Spain, then continue on to discover the French ports of Nice and Ajaccio, Corsica. From there you will visit Italy’s most beautiful coastal destinations, as well as the incredible historical port of Valletta, Malta. Dive into the azure ocean off the island of Sardinia and marvel at the grandeur of Mount Etna in Sicily. Explore the Colosseum and the Vatican in Rome. And don’t forget to savor all of the fresh mediterranean flavors along the way.

During the cruise, embark on exciting shore excursions that include in-depth city tours, wine tastings, cooking classes, and more. There’s no shortage of beauty and wonder awaiting you on a luxury Mediterranean cruise with Celebrity Cruises.

For more information or to reserve your spot, contact Carrousel Travel at 612-866-2503 or [email protected] , or submit your information through the contact form.

CONTACT US TODAY

• I would like more information on the Mediterranean Cruise with Dave Dahl!
• I have booked travel through Carrousel Travel in the past.

CRUISE ITINERARY

Today you start your cruise adventure and board your ship in Barcelona. Formerly a sleepy Spanish city, Barcelona has recently been reborn as an eclectic fusion of the modern and medieval. This coastal city exudes European charm and is a major destination with must-see architectural gems that date back some 2,000 years. You’ll encounter fascinating examples from the Roman Empire, the Middle Ages, the Modern masters like Gaudî, and many Cataluñian greats. Outstanding art museums can be found throughout the city, proudly displaying the works of world-renowned artists and countrymen, including Goya, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalî, and Joan Miró.

For a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city center, venture to the awaiting Mediterranean Sea and all the seaside has to offer. Maybe a brisk hike in the nearby forest covered Collserola Hills or the hilltop in Montjuïc with its botanical gardens is the perfect recharge for a rollicking evening in one of the premier party capitals of the world. Round out your visit to Barcelona dining at a tapas bar and savor a variety of delicious small dishes to share—from traditional Spanish to the more innovative.

Relax and unwind. Soak in the ocean views, show off your culinary prowess at a cooking class, try your luck at the casino, or treat yourself to an escape at the spa.

This jewel of the French Riviera is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and terraced cafes. Stroll the ultra-famous Promenade des Anglais or see masterpieces by Matisse, Renoir, Monet and Chagall in one of Nice’s many museums.

On the West coast of Corsica lies Ajaccio, the island’s largest town. Replete with all the charm and sophistication of a French Mediterranean resort—palm trees, sandy beaches, bountiful shopping, beautiful marina and colorful cafes, bars and bistros—you would not be amiss to liken Ajaccio to the more well-known South-of-France hotspots, such as the Cote d’Azur, Cap d’Antibes or Marseille.

A great place to start your investigation of Ajaccio is to stroll down to the Maison Napoleon, the eponymous birthplace of the iconic French military leader, and the nearby cathedral where he was christened. Famed for being Napoleon Bonaparte’s birthplace, Ajaccio tips its hat to its most famous and storied resident throughout town, from his childhood home to seafront statues, museums, and street names. Take a scenic tour to the Austerlitz Square, Iles Sanguinaires viewpoint and the narrow, picturesque streets of old Ajaccio.

Sample some of the local fresh market’s delights for in-season delicacies, pastries and the fresh fish, vegetables, cheeses, and Corsican wines. Dining in town is essentially a French experience with a bit of Italian tossed in. Be sure to try the island’s popular pork charcuterie and fritelli, the doughnut made with chestnut flowers.

As you approach this lovely port from the sea, you’ll marvel at the castles and cathedrals, perched on successive terraces. Originally settled over 2,700 years ago, Cagliari retains much of its original seaside charm. Pristine waters and white sand beaches surround the island, offering great opportunities to scuba, snorkel, and swim in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Once home to Italian nobility and aristocrats, this ancient city boasts the 3,000-year-old ruins of Nora, ancient temples and thermal baths of Sardinia, and the Neolithis Nuraghic Village of Su Nuraxi di Barumini.

Savor the distinct Italian flavor of Cagliari cuisine with pasta feasts, fresh seafood, and prime meats on menu at bistros and restaurants throughout the city. A stroll down Vias Garibaldi and Manno will bring you to the finest artisan shops and boutiques. Lovely handcrafts, regional cheeses, and island wines can be found at the open-air markets around the city for delightful keepsakes and souvenirs. With every Vespa that zips by and every golden-domed palazzi you see, you will come to realize that Cagliari is the most Italian of the Sardinian islands.

Take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.

In addition to a number of significant works of art, this town is known for the many fortifications built by the Knights of Malta, who for years helped care for European pilgrims and crusaders en route to and from the Holy Land. The walled city of Valletta was founded in 1565 by the Knights of St. John and it remains a masterfully preserved medieval treasure. From the glittering baroque interior of the Co-Cathedral of St. John to the charm found wandering the old cobbled avenues, it’s no wonder this tiny city has earned World Heritage status.

Hidden among the foreboding fortresses and decorative masterpieces is a city with growing appreciation for contemporary design, exciting, culinary offerings, and burgeoning nightlife scene.Maltese cuisine is a fusion of Mediterranean dishes and influences with touches of French and Sicilian. Fresh seafood and the Maltese wines from the distinguished local vineyards are always on the menu.

Stroll along the cobblestone streets of Mdina to see its medieval churches, cathedrals, and palaces. Experience two Maltese treasures: The Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk village. Or, set off on a Maltese sightseeing adventure beginning at Valleta’s Upper Barrakka Gardens. It’s a wonderfully small capital that’s bursting with stories. Valleta is a place you’re sure to create a few stories of your own.

Located in northeastern Sicily on the slopes of the Peloritani Mountains, Messina is an ancient place with a fascinating history. Marvel at the ruins of the Santa Maria Alemanna Church, built in 1220 A.D. You’ll also want to see the Duomo, a Romanesque and Norman cathedral that includes a display of artifacts in its treasury.

Framed by Mount Vesuvius along a dramatic skyline, the 2,800 year-old port city of Naples is full of historical sites, churches, and museums that make it a fascinating place to explore. For all of Rome’s notoriety, Naples, with its historic city center deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has just as many important archeological sites and landmarks.

Visit the Museo Archeologico Nazionale for a world-class collection of Egyptian and Graeco-Roman artifacts. And, if you’d like to venture a little deeper, then exploring Naples from below the ground is a must. Start with a trip into the basement of the San Lorenzo Maggiore church where you’ll find a partially excavated Roman market and a little deeper, just below the Roman ruins, you’ll find remnants from the Greeks to discover.

And in the region where pizza was first invented, you know the food is going to be incredible. Whether you’re looking for a thin, wood-fired Margherita pie, spaghetti alle vongole or a zeppole dusted with confectioner’s sugar, Naples and her bountiful edible treasures is sure to please.

Only 35 miles down the coast, Salerno offers you a rich history, but also boasts a marvelous collection of parks, natural wonders, and unique vantage points to take in the beauty of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Two cities. One incredible stretch of Italian coastline.

Today you depart from the ship in Rome and return to the U.S.

Civitavecchia was settled in 108 A.D. by the Emperor Trajan and has since served faithfully as a gateway to Rome, the capital of Italy.

Once the center of the Ancient World from which emperors ruled over nearly all of western civilization, Rome is still a cultural mecca. Only a few cities in the world can boast such a well-preserved level of architecture, art, and religious iconography.

There’s an enormous wealth of culture and history to discover on a cruise to Rome. Visit the ancient halls of the 50,000-seat Colosseum, gaze upon the ceilings of Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, and stroll the Capitoline Museum.

Roman culinary prowess is well respected and beloved the world over. Experience authentic pizza, hearty bowls of fresh pasta, excellent cheeses, wines, seafood, and delightful desserts like tiramisu and gelato at family-run trattorias that have been preparing these traditional dishes for centuries.

Walk the cobblestoned piazzas making your way to narrow side streets where you’re sure to find craftsman shops and beautiful boutiques filled with gorgeous handmade accessories and homewares for keepsakes and souvenirs.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

• 9 night/10 day cruise onboard the Celebrity Ascent in chosen cabin category
• All-inclusive meals while onboard the ship
• All-inclusive beverage package onboard the ship – includes specialty coffees, juices, sodas, bottled water and alcoholic beverages
• Onboard ship activities and entertainment
• Special Group Welcome Reception
• Gatherings with host, Dave Dahl, throughout the cruise
• All onboard gratuities for wait staff, bar staff, and cabin stewards
• Complimentary wifi in cabins and public spaces for one device per person
• All taxes, port charges, and fees

CRUISE ONLY PRICING

(*) Pricing based on credit card payment. All other pricing based on cash or check payment. All prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy. Please inquire about other occupancy options. Airfare is not included in listed prices.

CELEBRITY ASCENT

Introducing Celebrity Cruises’ newest award-winning resort at sea, Celebrity Ascent , the fourth and most innovative ship in their highly awarded Edge® Series. Celebrity Ascent features 32 distinctive restaurants, bars, and lounges, including the newly designed Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud. Ascent includes all the best of their Edge Series ships, from the inviting multi-deck Sunset Bar designed by Edge Series Travel Ambassador Nate Berkus, to the open-air Rooftop Garden, where two cantilevered floating pools offer breathtaking views six feet over the ship’s edge. Celebrity Ascent takes their innovative outward-facing design further than ever, creating an even closer connection between you, the sea, and every exciting place on the horizon. Soak up the sun, salt breezes, and stunning scenery in newly expanded open-air spaces. Savor fine dining that rivals anything you’d find on land. And discover even more ways to relax and renew.

CABIN CATEGORIES

Inside Cabin

Interior Space: 181-202 sq. ft.

Stylishly designed with ample living space, bigger bathrooms, and more storage space, Inside Staterooms are a comfortable home away from home where you’ll find it easy to unwind. Each inside stateroom on board Celebrity includes world-class amenities.

Oceanview Cabin

Interior Space: 200-242 sq. ft.

Larger living spaces and breathtaking views of scenery that changes daily make Ocean View Staterooms the ideal place to unwind at sea. These perfectly indulgent spaces come furnished with Celebrity’s eXhale® bedding featuring the luxury king-size Cashmere™ Mattress and everything else a modern traveler needs.

Veranda Cabin

Interior Space: 202-228 sq. ft. Veranda: 40 sq. ft.

Enjoy the great outdoors—and stunning ocean views—with the luxury of your own private veranda. And, with our state-of-the-art technology, you can precisely adjust nearly every comfort feature of your room.

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Europe , Ireland , Travel

Wanderlust guide – complete ireland itinerary.

Want to make your trip to Ireland easy and memorable?

This full Ireland Itinerary is for YOU! 

How long does it normally take you to plan a vacation?

If you’re like me, it takes weeks or even months to decide where to go, what to do, where to stay, and how to get there! Don’t worry, I’ve taken care of ALL of that!

As an avid traveler who has lived in Ireland and taken many trips to this amazing country, I have mapped out an amazing itinerary that will guarantee you see the best sites!

What’s Included in the Guide?

• 37 detailed pages
• Day by day instructions
• Daily schedules
• An Interactive Downloadable Map
• Tried and tested tours and classes
• Transportation timetables 
• Accommodation Recommendations
• Tons of Ireland Resources from me
• Ireland Packing List
• Trip Checklist
• Personal Support from me!

Here’s a Preview of my Ireland Itinerary

And 30+ more pages of schedules and information!

Which locations does this itinerary cover?

This guide covers as much of Ireland as is physically possible to see in 10+ days . If it’s too much for you, feel free to cut 1 or more of the days out of your schedule. Nothing is set in stone, and I’m not the boss of you ha! Ultimately, your trip schedule is up to you , but this itinerary gives you the best opportunity to see as much of Ireland as you can in a short amount of time.

Have even more time in Ireland? Lucky you! Stay longer in any destination! Here’s where this guide will take you:

• Hook Peninsula
• Ring of Kerry
• Dingle Peninsula
• Cliffs of Moher
• Northern Ireland

Why do I need this guide?

“Many people like to go on guided tours of Ireland costing thousands of dollars, but you don’t need to! You can ‘virtually’ take me with you by using this detailed itinerary. This is exactly what I’d do if I was taking you through Ireland myself. With me as your guide, you can see the best of Ireland with confidence! “ -Vanessa

Are you ready to invest in your vacation?

Get this complete itinerary for $24.99.

My detailed Ireland itinerary is delivered immediately to your email inbox without any extra spam!

Not the Trip You Need?

Not exactly the trip you’re looking for? Don’t worry, I also offer custom trip planning by request for many destinations! Learn more here.

Custom Travel Planning

Commercial use is prohibited.

If you love my itinerary please encourage your friends or family to purchase their own copy. 

If you have any questions about this itinerary, please contact me! 

Wanderlust Crew

2 thoughts on “ wanderlust guide – complete ireland itinerary ”.

We plan to visit Ireland this fall Sept October 2021. We are 2 seniors and 73 and plan to spend 8 days there.

That sounds like such a lovely trip! Ireland is such an amazing place to visit. Hopefully, by the fall things will start opening back up and it will be safe to travel!

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Top 10 things to know before traveling to Ireland

Mar 27, 2024 • 9 min read

From pub etiquette to catching public transport – here's what you need to know before you go to Ireland © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

A lifetime of living in Ireland has given me some insight into the vagaries of my home country, beginning with the number one rule: never assume anything. This is a country that delights in confounding even your most comfortable expectations about pretty much everything, from the weather to the quality of the wifi.

Here are 10 tips that I’m pretty comfortable giving anyone who plans a visit, whether for the first time or the fifth. I’ve got some practical tips around VAT refunds and the most efficient ways to get around, but then there’s a bunch of suggestions on how to crack the mightiest nut of all – the Irish themselves. Because be in no doubt, while Ireland has gorgeous landscapes, a rich history and the best pubs in the world, your visit will only be truly memorable if you get to know the people – friendly and welcoming but often contradictory and inscrutable.

1. Plan on at least seven days to start making sense of the country

Ireland is small, but there’s an awful lot to it. Luckily, distances in Ireland aren’t huge so you can get most anywhere in a few hours, but the list of where to go can get very long, very quickly.

It’ll take you a couple of days to even begin to make a dent in Dublin , but once you go beyond the capital you’ll need at least five days to make a lightening stop tour of the major highlights of the west: Galway and Connemara, Clare (where you’ll find the Cliffs of Moher and the most authentic traditional music in the country), Kerry (you’ll need a whole day just for the Ring of Kerry and another for the Dingle Peninsula ) and Cork , only it’s time to go home so you can only make enough time for Cork City .

Clearly the only solution is to plan for a month; at the end of it, you’ll be wanting to stay a year. 

2. Keep it to casual wear

The Irish aren’t big on formal wear and only pull it out for very specific occasions (a wedding, a ball, the opening of a parliamentary session). Which means you can wear pretty much whatever you want: smart casual is the most you'll need for fancy dinners, the theatre or the concert hall.

Irish summers are warm but rarely hot, so you'll want something extra when the temperatures cool, especially in the evening. Ultimately the ever-changeable weather will determine your outfits, but a light waterproof jacket should never be beyond reach for the almost-inevitable rain. If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking – in cities or on hills – a good pair of walking shoes, preferably waterproof, will do the trick.

Add these top beaches around Ireland to your travel itinerary. 

3. The land of a 100,000 welcomes

Céad míle fáilte – literally, 100,000 welcomes. The famous Irish greeting suggests a country that is big on displays of affection, but nothing could be further from the truth. A firm handshake – with eye contact – is the appropriate greeting when meeting men, women and older children for the first time. Once a friendship is made, then all bets are off and anything goes, from a hug and a kiss on the cheek (primarily amongst female friends) to an air nod and a casual "hey".

Younger Irish are less formal than their older counterparts, but even they generally eschew effusive greetings: more often than not, a quick handshake and a casual nod is the best way to say hello for the first time.

4. The Irish love to talk, until they don’t

The Irish are renowned for their chat, but with people they don’t know particularly well they generally like to keep it to topics that are light and not likely to embarrass. Despite their gregarious nature, the Irish tend to be reserved when it comes to life’s more serious issues and are very mistrustful of "oversharers". 

The old adage that the Irish will talk about anything except sex, religion and politics is something of an over-simplification, but if you do find yourself steering into deeper waters around sensitive topics it’s always better to listen: locals aren’t shy about getting into heated discussion amongst themselves about all kinds of topics but take a dim view of outsiders who express (even legitimate) criticisms of Ireland or the Irish.

5. You’d better learn about the rounds system

It’s a firm rule of drinking with locals. If someone buys you a drink, you’re obliged to buy them one back – this is the bedrock of Irish pub culture. Nothing will hasten your fall from social grace here like the failure to uphold this pub law. 

The time to repay the drink you’re drinking? It’s when the person you’re drinking with is just about to finish theirs. It doesn’t matter if you’re halfway through your own drink at that moment: you can’t let your drinking buddy sit in front of an empty glass. Your greatest challenge will probably be trying to keep up with your fellow drinkers, who may keep buying you drinks in every round even when you've still got a collection of unfinished pints in front of you and you're sliding face first down the bar.

6. The best way to visit cities is on foot or by public transport

Driving and parking in Irish cities is a nightmare. There’s no free parking anywhere; the unrelenting traffic will test even the most patient of drivers; and the one-way systems in major urban centres will confound you to the point of madness (although map apps are pretty good at pointing you in the right direction).

The good news is you don’t need a car to visit any Irish city. Dublin, the biggest by far, has a pretty decent system of public transport, but even then most of the major sights are within walking distance of each other. Same goes for Cork, Belfast, Limerick and Galway, which are more easily explored without a car.

Save this guide to the best road trips in Ireland.

7. The easiest way to explore Ireland is by car

If cities are best experienced without a car, the most effective way to explore the rest of the country is with one. The bus network, made up of a mix of public and private operators, is extensive and generally quite competitive, though journey times can be slow and lots of the points of interest outside towns are not served. The rail network is quicker but more limited, serving only some major towns and cities. Both buses and trains get busy during peak times; you'll need to book in advance to be guaranteed a seat. 

Cars can be hired in every major town and city. The Irish drive on the left hand side; distances and speed limits in the Republic are measured in kilometres, but once you cross the invisible border into Northern Ireland everything switches to miles.

8. Ireland is good cycling country

Ireland's compact size and scenic landscapes make it a good cycling destination, albeit one you need to prepare for. The weather is unreliable, roads can be very narrow and Irish drivers tend to drive quickly, even on those narrow roads. A growing network of greenways, such as the 42km Great Western Greenway in County Mayo and the Royal Canal Greenway that runs through the midlands, are a great and hassle-free way to see the country from two wheels. A good tip for cyclists in the west is that the prevailing winds make it easier to cycle from south to north. 

Buses will carry bikes, but only if there’s room. Intercity trains will also carry bikes, but you’ll need to book a space in advance as there’s limited capacity. Suburban rail services in Dublin won’t take bikes during rush hour (7am to 10am and 4pm to 7pm). A number of Irish companies arrange cycle tours, including Go Visit Ireland  and Cycling Safaris .

9. Pick the right season to travel in Ireland

June to mid-September is high season: the weather is at its best and the most popular parts of the country – Dublin , Kerry and the southern and western coasts – are at their busiest. The downside is big crowds and the highest rates for accommodation and car hire.

Rates drop off from mid-September as the crowds start to thin, but most tourist spots are still open to take advantage of the last weeks of the season. Although weather can never be predicted with any degree of accuracy, the weather can be surprisingly lovely right up to mid-October.

Low season runs from November to the middle of March; Irish winter days are short, damp and cold, but the upside is fewer visitors and some terrific accommodation deals. A lot of the west coast goes into winter hibernation, though, with a lot of attractions and hotels closing down; if you’re planning to visit during this time you should check what’s open before you travel.   

Ready to head to Ireland? These are the best times to visit.

10. Claim your VAT back if you’re visiting from outside the EU

Most goods come with value-added tax (VAT) of 23%, which non-EU residents can claim back as part of the Retail Export Scheme, so long as the purchase was made with a credit card. Visitors from the UK can also benefit from this, but not visitors from Northern Ireland.

Before making a purchase, check with the retailer that they operate the scheme. If they do, you will be issued an export voucher for the purchase, which you need to get certified by customs when you leave Ireland. The voucher is sent back to the retailer who then refunds you the VAT (minus any processing fee). 

Rather than operate the scheme themselves, many retailers use VAT-refunding agencies, whereby you go through the same process of presenting the agency’s own certificate at customs. Some agencies, though, operate a scheme where you don’t pay any VAT upfront, but if you don’t file the paperwork correctly (either sending it back to the agency or presenting it to customs) your card will be charged later. Some goods such as books, children's clothing and educational items are excluded from VAT.

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How To Get Around Ireland: The Pros + Cons To Cars, Tours and Public Transport

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

Deciding how to get around Ireland can be stressful.

Especially if this is your first time visiting and you don’t know the lay of the land.

Over the 34+ years that I’ve lived in Ireland I’ve travelled about by car, train bus, bike and everything in between.

The guide below leans on my many years of getting around Ireland while making every mistake imaginable along the way!

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about how to get around Ireland

Click to enlarge

Take 30 seconds to read the points below as they’ll get you up-to-speed on how to get around Ireland quickly:

1. Your options are car, bus, train, tour and tram (kinda)

Public transportation in Ireland varies by county-to-county. You’ll find all of the above in Dublin (the capital) and most ‘main’ cities and towns (e.g. Killarney) will have the first four. More info below.

2. If you’re unsure, focus on your  planned route

I’d recommend that you don’t even think about how to get around Ireland until you’ve at least mapped out a rough Ireland itinerary . The reason for this is that it may not be possible to do what you want to do  without  a car (of course, it may turn out that your road trip is completely doable via public transport).

3. There are pros and cons to every mode of transport

Most people (myself included) say that the best way to get around Ireland is by car, but there’s pros and cons to it and every mode of transportation. It’s worth weighing up the pros and cons of each as they’ll ultimately help you decide.

4. Budget will often be a decider

9 times out of 10 budget is the decider to how visitors end up travelling around Ireland. Renting a car in Ireland is often pretty expensive and, if you’re doing Ireland on a budget , the cost of your trip to Ireland will drop dramatically by using buses and trains.

The best way of getting around Ireland boils down to 3 things

Photos via Shutterstock

Deciding how to get around Ireland isn’t a decision to take lightly. Your main mode of transport, where it be a car or a bus, is going to have a massive effect on your trip.

There are three different things to consider when making your decision:

• Your experience
• Your budget
• What you want to see

1. Your experience

The biggest thing to consider about how to get around in Ireland is how the chosen mode of transport is going to affect your overall experience while travelling.

If you’re nervous behind the wheel and you’re driving in Ireland for the first time , will having to drive each day cause you stress and ruin the trip?!

Or maybe you love driving and the thoughts of driving the Ring of Kerry or the Antrim Coast will be the highlight of the trip?!

Or , if getting around Ireland needs to be as stress-free as possible for you, maybe you’re better off booking on an organised tour!

2. Your budget

Another massive consideration for when you’re trying to figure out the best way to travel around Ireland is how much money you have to spend.

Car rental can be expensive if you’re travelling solo. However, it works out nice and reasonable if you’re travelling with a group. Big group tours can be pretty good price-wise, whereas smaller tours can be expensive.

If you’re looking at ways to save money when you visit, hop into our guide to Ireland on a budget . It’s packed with easy ways to save money.

3. What you want to see

Another good way to help you pick the best way to get around Ireland is to write down all of the various places that you want to visit.

If, for example, you’re only visiting big towns or cities in Ireland , public transport will be fine (see our guide to getting around Ireland without a car ).

If you fancy visiting places off the beaten track, a rental car or a private driver (expensive) are your best bests.

At the end of the guide, I’m going to pop down a few different scenarios and recommend what I think are the best modes of transport for each example.

The pros and cons to getting around Ireland by car, tour and public transport

When deciding how to get around in Ireland, it’s worth weighing up the pros and cons to each mode of transport.

Below, you’ll find the advantages and disadvantages of getting around Ireland by bus, train, car and tour.

1. Travelling around Ireland by car

Arguably the best way to travel in Ireland is by car (it’s why our self drive Ireland tours are so popular!).

A car gives you the freedom to go where you want when you want, without having to rely on public transport or tour providers.

Getting around Ireland by car has far more advantages than disadvantages. The main advantage is freedom; being able to go where you want whenever it tickles you fancy makes this a very attractive mode of transport for many.

• Freedom and flexibility
• It makes planning a trip to Ireland more straightforward
• And you can change it as you go if you like
• It can work out cheap if there’s a group of you to share costs

Disadvantages

The biggest disadvantages of using a car for getting around Ireland is that it’ll be expensive for solo travellers and it’s likely to make the trip unnecessarily stressful for some drivers.

• If you’re on your own, it can be expensive
• If you’re a nervous driving, it can make the trip stressful

2. Getting around in Ireland using buses, trains and trams

Public transport in Ireland can be very hit and miss. It’s generally good in the main towns and cities, but services get poorer the more off-the-beaten-path you go.

Now, we’ve published hundreds of Irish road trip guides using only public transport for those of you that want to avoid the planning pains. Here are the pros and cons:

• It can be the cheapest option if you’re travelling solo and plan on getting around Ireland on a budget
• Trains and buses run frequently in the busier towns and cities in Ireland
• It can work out well if you combine it with private tours
• Public transport can be unreliable
• Trains, in particular, can be expensive if they’re not booked in advance

3. Getting around Ireland with a tour company

Another popular way for getting around Ireland is by using a tour provider that organises all-in tours of Ireland. These tend to be pretty popular and they vary in terms of group size and trip length.

One quick word of warning: if you’re booking a tour of Ireland in advance, make sure to do plenty of research in advance. Be crystal clear on what’s included and what’s left to pay for.

• They’ll do all of the hard work
• There’s no need to think about car rental, itineraries or any of that craic
• It’s less stressful
• You’ll be travelling around Ireland with a group of people that you’ll (hopefully) have a laugh with
• Most organised tours have experienced guides
• Tours, especially the larger ones, tend to be very inflexible
• They can be expensive (the smaller tours tend to be far pricier than the larger ones)
• You can get stuck with a load of people that irritate you (hopefully this won’t be the case)

4. Using a private driver

If you’re wondering how to travel around Ireland and you have a fat budget, a private driver is arguably the best way to get around Ireland.

If you fancy going down this route, do PLENTY of research – you’re going to be stuck in a very small space with this person for long periods of time – you need to find someone that’s going to enhance your experience and not hinder it.

• If you pick the right guide, you’ll tap into a wealth of knowledge
• The driver will generally follow your desired route
• A private driver is also a handy option for those of you that want to do part of a trip with a guide and part on your own
• The most expensive way of travelling around Ireland
• You need to do thorough research to ensure that you get the best bang for your buck
• If you end up getting a guide that you don’t gel with, you’ll be stuck in a very small space with them each day, which isn’t ideal

5. Combine modes of transport

The best way to get around Ireland, in my opinion, is to combine modes of transport.

This is especially useful for those of you who want to avoid car rental.

1. The public transport and organised tour combination

A combination of public transport and organised tours is going to be a solid option for those of you that can’t (or that don’t want to) rent a car.

Example : you fly into Dublin and you’re there for three nights. You can get around easily on foot and by using buses, the LUAS (a tram) and the DART (train).

You explore the city for two days and take one of the  many  day trips from Dublin (e.g. Meath).

You take a train to Galway and spend several days there. You can spend day one exploring the city. Day two on an organised tour to Connemara and day three on a day tour to Clare.

2. Rental car and public transport combination

Another solid combination is by using a rental car and public transportation. Let’s say you fly into Belfast. You spend the first day exploring the city.

Then you rent a car for a few days and drive the Causeway Coastal Route and then head on to Donegal.

Or, let’s say you fly into Shannon. You rent a car near the airport and then drive to Kerry. You explore the various peninsulas for a few days before dropping off the car and heading to Killarney.

You spend the day in the national park before taking the train to Dublin and exploring the capital. Or you could take the train to Waterford or Tipperary.

My 2 cents on picking the best way to get around Ireland

Deciding how to get around Ireland can be stressful, as it has such a massive impact on your overall trip.

The easiest way to decide the best transport type for  you  is to consider:

When you’ve taken the above into account, you’ll then want to map out a rough itinerary ( follow the steps here – they’ll remove stress from the process).

Once you have your route, you’ll be able to determine how to get around. Or, if you don’t want the hassle of planning the itinerary, follow one of our detailed road trip guides .

FAQs about how to get around in Ireland

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘How to get around Ireland on public transport?’ to ‘What’s the cheapest option?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What is the best way to get around Ireland?

In my experience, based on 33 years of living here, the best way to get around Ireland is by car. However, if you’re only visiting main towns and cities, you could easily use public transport.

Is it easy to get around in Ireland?

Yes and no. For example, without a car, getting around Donegal can be a nightmare. With a car, you’ll have no hassle. Main towns and cities are well served by buses, also.

What is the cheapest way to travel around Ireland?

If you’re looking to keep costs low, getting around Ireland via buses and trains is the cheapest option. You can reduce costs further by booking tickets in advance.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Kevin, Shelley, Aidan and Josh

Monday 6th of March 2023

My wife and I are coming to Ireland for 2 weeks at the end of July with our two teenage boys. Our first four day are in Dublin using public transportation. Then we would like to tour, at a pace that is our own, without having to be on a schedule with booked B and B's or hotels. What we are pondering is renting a camper van for our time outside Dublin. Is using a camper van a viable option, if so would you recommend a maximum size of camper van in width or legnth?

Keith O'Hara

Hey! Yep, plenty of people travel about by camper and, if you're used to driving one, then it's worth considering. It's just worth keeping in mind that there are restrictions about where you can park it up.

Mary Hankins

Tuesday 22nd of March 2022

Planning a trip in the Spring of 2023. So far plans include landing in Shannon, 2 days sightseeing Galway area, then on to Kenmare and seeing Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula. Beara is primary objective as mother was born and raised there. However can't clarify if there's bus service to Kenmare or service from Kenmore to Castletownbere. Is there? Will have approx 2 weeks to sightsee and visit, cant decide if a car will be doable for second week. Your thoughts please.

Hey Mary! From what I can tell, you'd need to take a bus (the 286) from Castletownbere to Glengarriff and then take another from Glengarriff (the R51a) to Kenmare. When you say that you can't decide if a car will be doable, what do you mean?

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Magical. Lively. Green!

What's it like to travel to Ireland? You could try to envision it - you can dream about it, you can look at photos, you can read every travel book - but in the end, it's impossible to know unless you go. See it for yourself and discover what you knew was always there, and find a few surprises too.

Explore More

From the boisterous characters at the local pub to the vibrant citizens of Dublin, the Irish are a gracious and generous lot. It’s often a chance encounter or rare moment that makes travel in Ireland special. As the natives will tell you, “go where Ireland takes you.” No matter if you have always dreamt of strolling the streets of a picturesque village or exploring a stately castle, Ireland and its people eagerly await your arrival.

Destination Must-Sees

Cliffs of Moher:

Stand in absolute awe of these series of cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day you can see the Aran Islands and Galway Bay as well as other iconic sites. Go to O’Brien’s Tower which stands near the highest point of the cliffs and has been a favorite viewing spot for hundreds of years.

Giant’s Causeway:

Giant’s Causeway was formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity that produced “stepping stones” that look like an old cobbled road leading mysteriously into the sea. This is a UNESCO site and an absolute must-see.

Dublin, the “Fair City”:

This modern yet traditional capital city of Ireland is filled to the brim with charm! Fall in love while strolling through the city’s rows of magnificent Georgian townhouses. See St. Patrick’s Cathedral which dates back to the 13th century.

Destination Must-Do's

Visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about the brewing process that produces this beloved beer. Savor this world-famous Irish stout (dark beer) that originated in the brewery of Arthur Guinness located in Dublin.

Irish House Party:

Just a few minutes from the city center in an 18th century townhouse, you’ll enjoy an incredible and fun experience in Dublin. Join in the toe-tapping, rocking fun of this popular music showcase featuring traditional Irish dancing and music at their best.

40 Shades of Green:

Listen up – this melodic song about Ireland was written and performed by American country singer Johnny Cash in 1958. He recalled singing this song in Ireland and being told that it sounded like an old Irish folk tune. Listen to it to set the mood for your trip.

Ah, pubs are THE place to grab a pint of your favorite beverage, relax, and join in socializing with the locals. Strike up a conversation and hear great stories from Ireland’s rich bank of folklore. This is a vibrant, warm and welcoming place to truly get to know the people of Ireland.

Expert Advice

If you have some extra time before your tour begins to explore Dublin, you'll find plenty to do! The public bus service allows you to easily make your way around, or perhaps hop on a double decker sightseeing bus which loops through the city, giving you access to some of the city’s highlights.

As you prepare to explore Ireland — the verdant Emerald Isle — enjoy a casual dress style and be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes. It is recommended to bring clothing that may be worn in layers and can be added or removed as the temperature changes.

While cooking in Ireland can be considered simple, it’s also quite modern and tasty. Favorites like fish and chips, Irish breakfasts, potatoes prepared in various ways, soda bread, Irish stew and shellfish are quite common. All in all, you will eat very well during your time exploring Ireland.

Featured Tours to Ireland

Shades of Ireland featuring Northern Ireland

Shades of Ireland

Irish Splendor

The Best of Ireland featuring the Wild Atlantic Way

Countryside of the Emerald Isle

Exploring Scotland & Ireland featuring The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Exploring Scotland & Ireland

Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales

Brochures that Feature Our Ireland Tours

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