Travel Guide to Ireland
A comprehensive guide to exploring Ireland from the dramatic Cliffs of Moher and Wild Atlantic Way to Dublin's vibrant pub culture, Georgian heritage, Ring of Kerry scenic drives, ancient castles, traditional music sessions, literary heritage, Irish whiskey distilleries, the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland, Aran Islands, hotel costs in EUR, visa requirements for EU and international travelers, essential healthcare coverage, and travel insurance considerations for unpredictable Irish weather.
- What there is to do in Ireland
- Cultural experiences & natural wonders
- Seasonal attractions & adventure activities
- Quick profiles of major cities
- Hotel cost ranges
- Visa & entry requirements
- Healthcare costs & detailed insurance breakdown
Safety Ratings and Resources
Reissued after periodic review without changes.
Exercise normal precautions in Ireland.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Ireland.
If you decide to travel to Ireland:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
- Review the Country Security Report for Ireland.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Generally very safe; alcohol-heavy nightlife can bring some harassment, but violent crime against tourists is rare.
View Women's Travel Safety Guide →Marriage equality affirmed by referendum; high acceptance and active queer communities.
View LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Guide →
Ireland is one of Europe's most captivating destinations, offering an extraordinary blend of dramatic natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, literary traditions, and genuine Irish hospitality. From the iconic Cliffs of Moher and the scenic Wild Atlantic Way to Dublin's vibrant pub culture, ancient castles dotting the countryside, traditional music sessions, the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland, and the charming Aran Islands, Ireland packs remarkable diversity into a relatively compact island.
Major Cities in Japan
Dublin
Dublin is Ireland's vibrant capital with over 1.2 million residents. This historic city blends Georgian elegance with contemporary culture, offering world-class museums, literary heritage, cosmopolitan dining, and famous pub culture.
- Temple Bar district - historic neighborhood with live music
- Trinity College - Book of Kells and Long Room
- Georgian architecture - 18th-century townhouses
- Guinness Storehouse - brewery experience
- Literary heritage sites
- River Liffey walks
Galway
Galway is a bohemian arts hub on Ireland's west coast known for colorful buildings, vibrant cultural scene, and position as gateway to Aran Islands and Connemara.
- Latin Quarter - medieval streets
- Traditional music sessions nightly
- Aran Islands access by ferry
- Bohemian atmosphere
- Walkable city center
Cork
Cork is Ireland's second-largest city and heart of the food scene with vibrant culture, historic markets, and friendly locals.
- English Market - historic covered market since 1788
- Michelin-starred restaurants
- St. Fin Barre's Cathedral
- Compact walkable center
- Coastal access
Killarney
Killarney is the traditional base for Ring of Kerry exploration and Killarney National Park, surrounded by mountains, lakes, and forests.
- Killarney National Park - glacial lakes
- Ring of Kerry scenic drive
- Gap of Dunloe - mountain pass
- Hiking trails
- Jaunting car tours
Belfast
Belfast is Northern Ireland's capital, known for Titanic heritage, vibrant political murals, and cultural renaissance.
- Titanic Quarter museum
- Political murals
- Cathedral Quarter arts
- Botanic Gardens
- Causeway Coast access
Limerick
Limerick is a medieval city on River Shannon with cultural heritage and riverside setting, serving as gateway to Wild Atlantic Way.
- King John's Castle
- St. Mary's Cathedral
- River Shannon walks
- Medieval quarter
- Clare gateway
Dingle
Dingle is a charming coastal town on Dingle Peninsula known for traditional Irish character, stunning coastal scenery, and traditional music hub.
- Dingle Peninsula scenic drives
- Traditional music nightly
- Picturesque harbor
- Fungi dolphin watching
- Slea Head Drive
Hotel Costs in Japan
Budget Accommodations
- Hostel dorms: EUR 15-35 per night
- Private hostels: EUR 40-80
- Budget hotels: EUR 50-100
- Simple B&Bs: EUR 60-120
Mid-Range Accommodations
- 3-star hotels: EUR 80-150 single / EUR 100-180 double
- Dublin/Cork: EUR 120-200
- Boutique: EUR 100-180
- Quality B&Bs: EUR 80-150 with breakfast
Luxury Accommodations
- 5-star Dublin/Cork: EUR 200-400+
- Castle hotels: EUR 250-500+
- Spa properties: EUR 300-600+
- Premium coastal: EUR 150-350+
Peak June-August has 50-100% higher prices. Book 2-3 months ahead. Shoulder April-May and Sept-Oct offer best value. Low season Nov-March has lowest prices but rain.
Visa & Entry Requirements
- EU/EEA: Visa-free entry with passport or national ID; right to work and reside
- Non-EU: Most receive 90-day visa-free; valid passport required with 6+ months validity
- Proof of onward travel may be requested (enforcement variable)
- No vaccinations required for entry to Ireland from most countries
- For Northern Ireland: UK entry requirements apply
Additional visa information
- EU/EEA citizens visa-free indefinite stay with passport or national ID
- US, Canadian, Australian, NZ citizens receive 90-day visa-free entry
- Non-EU passports need 6+ months validity
- Northern Ireland (UK) has separate post-Brexit requirements
Healthcare & Medical Information
Healthcare overview
Ireland has excellent healthcare standards with a mix of public and private systems. Dublin and major cities have outstanding private hospitals meeting international standards with English-speaking doctors. Quality varies by region but all areas offer adequate emergency care. Main considerations are weather-related risks from cold, wet exposure, trip disruptions from unpredictable Atlantic weather, and ensuring adequate waterproof clothing. No exotic disease risks exist in Ireland. Travel insurance is important primarily for trip interruption coverage due to weather disruptions. EU citizens with EHIC can access public healthcare. Ireland is one of Europe's safest destinations health-wise.
Typical medical costs
- General practitioner visit: EUR 50-80
- Specialist consultation: EUR 100-200
- Emergency room visit: EUR 100-500
- Hospital overnight stay: EUR 800-3,000 per day
- ICU stay: EUR 2,000-8,000 per day
- Emergency surgery: EUR 5,000-50,000+ per procedure
- Dental check-up: EUR 50-100
- Emergency dental: EUR 150-500+
Travel Insurance Recommendations
While travel insurance is not always required, it's recommended for international travel to protect against unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other travel-related issues.
Common travel issues to consider
- Trip disruption and weather-related cancellations - ferries, flights, road closures very common in Ireland
- Activity cancellations - outdoor tours, island ferries cancelled due to weather
- Slips and falls on wet surfaces - wet conditions increase accident risk on trails and streets
- Road accidents - accidents in wet conditions or while adjusting to left-side driving
- Missed connections - flight delays causing missed onward travel
- Petty theft - pickpocketing in tourist areas, though less common than continental Europe
Recommended providers
Consider comparing policies from multiple providers to find coverage that matches your travel needs.
Emergency Contacts
Emergency Services
112 or 999
US Embassy Dublin
+353 1 668-8777
Tourist Assistance
+353 1 605 7700