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Self-Guided Hiking Tours of Ireland

5 Star Hiking Holidays

Picture an Ireland hiking tour designed especially for you

A hiking tour where you decide how far to walk each day, with whom and where. The only timetable that matters is your timetable.

A hiking tour where you stay at top choice B&B’s and have your bags transferred every day.

A hiking tour where we tell you all about Irish history and folklore and where to find the tastiest food and the best pint of Guinness.

And to make sure you pick the perfect hiking trip In Ireland, we have hiked all around the country, seeking out the most beautiful trails for you.

Where will your next hiking adventure be?

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  • Self-Guided Choose from 10 unique trails in Ireland with multiple itinerary options
  • Customizable Pick the dates & the number of days you want to walk
  • Made for You Decide how many daily miles/km (on average) you want to walk
  • Cosy Stay in highly-rated guesthouses with friendly hosts
  • Hassle-Free Walk freely: we'll move your luggage for you!
  • Contact Us Give us a call ( +353 91 429 619 ) or email us , our team is here to help

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TRAVEL AND CORONAVIRUS – UPDATE FOR JOYCE’S IRELAND GUESTS

30 Year Anniversary 1994 - 2024

Joyce’s Ireland Hiking Tours of Ireland 30 year anniversary 1994-2024 | Guided Hiking Vacations Ireland / England / Wales / Scotland/ France | Walking Tours Ireland

Welcome to Joyce’s Ireland Guided Hiking Tours and Walking Vacations in Ireland / England / Scotland / Wales/ France. Our fully escorted hiking tours are run by experienced, professional guides. We travel in groups of four to twelve people.

We escort you on hikes through Ireland’s most scenic trails , walking through undiscovered Irish routes lined with uninterrupted views. If you want to hike through Connemara, the Dingle Way, the Antrim Coast, or take a ferry over to the Islands, sit back, relax and let Joyce’s Ireland take care of your Irish hiking vacation .

Walks are suitable for hikers wanting to travel at a steady pace with time to sit and look around, whilst soaking up the atmosphere, taking pictures, and listening to Irish folklore. All hikes are graded as easy to moderate .  Sign up now for your hiking tour in Ireland.

  • Dates and prices for 2024/2025 » Book Your Vacation » Frequently Asked Questions » Testimonials To Joyce's Tours »

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Why Take a Guided Hiking Tour?

Perhaps map reading is not your thing? In that case, a guided tour is a better idea for your hiking vacation in Ireland. In Ireland there is a distinct lack of “rights of way” and marked trails. Joyce’s Ireland guides will ensure you never end up taking the wrong path or trespassing on private land. And if you’re not too keen on driving a car on the wrong side of a narrow, one-lane road, lined with dry stone walls, then leave the driving to us! These are more than just hiking tours and guided walks, but we will also delight you with some of the less visited Irish historic and cultural sites. Our vehicles are suitable to take the roads less travelled and enable access to the remotest areas of splendid and secluded Irish landscape. This really is the “Hidden Ireland”.

2018 Certificate of Excellence

Personal attention and quality service

Joyce’s Ireland is a small company so we are therefore able to offer you personal attention and a quality service. All this combined with many years of experience guiding groups all around Ireland.

Clients often return for a second or third time, or more. We stay in a selection of quality, comfortable accommodation approved by the high standards of the Irish Tourist Board. Rooms are en suite with private bath and/or shower. We travel on a comfortable minivan, so we have flexibility in our choices of hiking routes. Tours are suitable for walkers and hikers of all abilities and all age groups. If you like the idea of hiking in the Irish wilderness, sand dunes, native forest, rugged hills, heather covered moors, quiet river valleys, empty beaches, and ancient tracks, followed by a gourmet meal in good company with a comfortable, warm, well-equipped private room at the end of the day, Joyce’s Ireland awaits you…

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Where Else Do We Go?  Scotland, Wales, England, France

Joyce’s Ireland also offers guided hiking tours on the South Coast of Wales , visiting Chepstow, the Brecon Beacons, the Gower Peninsula, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. We can also take you on a guided hiking vacation of South West England including Cornwall, Devon, Exmoor, Dartmoor, The Mendip Hills, and the Cotswolds. In 2019 we ran our first hiking tour in the Lake District of North West England.  We have a fantastic hiking tour in the Highlands of Scotland visiting the West Highland Way, the Isle of Skye and the Hebrides.  New from 2019 is our fantastic hiking tour in England’s Lake District .  And finally our lovely hiking tour in Provence , France, a wine and walking holiday in the Rhone valley with hikes through the beautiful countryside followed by visits to wineries.  

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Footfalls Walking Hiking

Guided Walking Tours LP (Ireland)

Guided walking tours of ireland.

Our guided walking holidays in Ireland are designed for your convenience and enjoyment. You’ll enjoy a relaxed pace so you can appreciate the stunning scenery along Ireland’s most iconic walking routes.

Prefer hiking on your own at your own pace? You might like our self guided walking tours in Ireland instead. Choose from a variety of routes and lengths of hikes with a plan that’s completely organised for you, from accommodations to luggage transfers and more!

About Our Guided Hiking Tours in Ireland

Ireland boasts a variety of routes and regions where you can enjoy diverse landscapes and beautiful scenery. From mesmerising coastal routes to ancient ruins, from easy woodland trails to challenging ascents, you can find whatever you enjoy right here on a hiking tour in Ireland.

At Footfalls Walking Holidays, we cater to each unique group, ensuring everyone is comfortable and safe as we walk together each day. With lots of single travellers, as well as some couples and families, we like to give everyone space and time to get to know each other and to find a comfortable cadence as we walk together.

Our daily walks range between 10 and 15 kilometres per day and we cap our groups at 14 total to keep things fun and easy to manage.

From your arrival at the airport, we take care of everything along the way: luggage transfers, transportation, food, accommodation, and showing you daily trails and landmarks.

We choose accommodations in local family-run bed and breakfasts, small hotels or guesthouses, where you will enjoy a friendly welcome and all the comforts of home.

You can join us as an individual, couple, or as part of a group of friends or family. Our hope is for you to return home revitalised and refreshed after your guided walking tour of Ireland and its stunning natural beauty!

Below, you’ll find our recommended routes around Ireland that we know and love. If you have any questions at all, feel free to contact us and we’d be delighted to help.

Guided Walking Routes in Ireland

Ireland north.

8 Day Guided Walking Holiday Donegal & Antrim

8-Day Guided Walking Tour: Donegal & Antrim (Ireland North)

Grade: Easy to Moderate

8 Day Guided Walking Tour of Northern Ireland

7-Day Guided Walking Holiday in Belfast & The Mourne Mountains

Ireland north west.

Our guided walking tours of Ireland takes in the quaint island of Achill, Ballycroy National Park and the magnificent wild Atlantic seacliffs of Carrowteige. 

8 Day Guided Walking Tour Wild Atlantic Way North West

8-Day Guided Wild Atlantic Way Walking Tour: North-West (Ireland North-West)

Grade: Easy

Ireland West

8 Day Guided Walking Tour Connemara, The Burren and Aran Islands

8-Day Guided Walking Tour: Connemara, The Burren & Aran Islands (Ireland West)

Ireland south-west.

8 Day Guided Walking Holiday in Cork & Kerry

8-Day Guided Walking Tour: Cork & Kerry (Ireland Southwest)

8 Day Guided Walking Tour The Wild Atlantic Way South West

8-Day Guided Walking Tour: Wild Atlantic Way South-West (Ireland South-West)

Ireland east.

8 Day Guided Walking Holiday in Wales & Wicklow

8-Day Guided Walking Tour in Wales & Wicklow

6 Day Guided Walking Tour Wicklow Mountains Deluxe

6-Day Guided Walking Tour: Wicklow Mountains Deluxe (Ireland East)

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Ireland Walking & Hiking Tour

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We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - From lavish luxury to on-trend boutique, offering experiences as unique as the regions we explore.

Casual Plus Hotels - A step above Casual but not quite Premiere.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

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Cork, Killarney & Ancient Celtic Wonders

Relish the artistry of a stone wall. The warmth of a wool sweater. The charm of a centuries-old footpath. The pleasure of an afternoon pint. The laughter of strangers. The drama of a seanachie's  story. Discover that a beautiful day can be cloudy with a chance of rain. And that vacations don't need to be measured in tan lines. Find your bliss on our Ireland Walking & Hiking Tour.

  • Revel in the renowned beauty of the Emerald Isle on hikes through varied landscapes, from dramatic coastline to country lands 
  • Connect with our knowledgeable local guide who brings stories of the region to life 
  • Join a private whiskey tasting with a local expert and an evening listening to yarns spun by a well-known Irish storyteller 
  • Admire the dramatic peaks, scintillating lakes, green hills and vast gorges in wild and scenic Killarney National Park 

Ireland Walking & Hiking Tour map

Start/End Cork

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into and out of Cork Airport (ORK).

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, comnplete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

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Take in Ireland's spectacular natural beauty during country road rambles and coastal cliff walks • Hike in the Gap of Dunloe—a striking glaciated valley • After a climb, arrive at a viewpoint over verdant Kerry farmlands and the mountain ranges of MacGillycuddy's Reeks, home to some of Ireland's highest peaks • From the top of aptly named Windy Gap, gaze at the inspiring panorama of Caragh Lake and Dingle Bay • Delight in the art of storytelling as a local seanachie spins enchanting tales • Victorian décor charms at our lakeside Ring of Kerry lodge. 

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Enjoy the gracious hospitality of the Slattery family at this restored Victorian gem—originally a hunting lodge—set on the world-renowned Ring of Kerry. 

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Our fantastic local guide shares secrets of Muckross Estate, its ruined abbey and Torc Waterfall • Stroll to 15th-century Ross Castle on the shore of Lower Lake and tour its restored tower • Explore historic Killarney's craft shops, boutiques and lively pubs.

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Overlooking the famous Gap of Dunloe, this beautiful estate hotel boasts 13th-century castle ruins. (pool, spa)

backpacking tours ireland

Alongside our local expert, hike in wild Killarney National Park, with windswept mountains, deep lakes and gorges • Climb Torc Mountain for 360-degree views before arriving in charming Kenmare, where rows of houses sport cheerfully painted façades • Visit our hotel’s state-of-the-art spa • ​On the rugged Beara Peninsula, trek over Mount Knockagarrane, taking in awe-inspiring views of lakes and mountains • The undeveloped peninsula probably looks today like it did to the ancient Celts • Join a private whiskey tasting with aficionado John Moriarty • Peaceful paths lead past old-growth trees and saltwater marshes to one of County Kerry’s largest stone circles, a Druid site dating from 2000 BC. 

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It's just a short walk to the pubs and shops from this regal Victorian estate, nestled amid magnificent parkland on Kenmare Bay. A Relais & Châteaux member. (pool, spa) 

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

*Includes shuttle

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What's Included

  • All breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
  • Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
  • Snacks and beverages between meals
  • Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
  • Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
  • Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
  • On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
  • Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
  • Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
  • Park and other entry fees
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
  • Select coach transfers
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

Straight Talk

We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.

Carrig Country House and Park Hotel Kenmare are Premiere Hotels. While they offer outstanding service and amenities, please note that they are not equipped with air-conditioning. Despite the region's generally temperate climate and cool nights, guest rooms can occasionally become warm during peak temperatures.

Want more information? Download a detailed itinerary.

Itineraries include detailed descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights and more. It's the perfect tool to help you choose!

World-Class Hotels

Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

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Backpacking in Ireland , Reviews

Ireland backpacker tours: shamrocker adventures review.

Most of the time, I travel on my own.  I spent two years backpacking in South America , Mexico and Central America, so I have no problem travelling solo – in fact, I love it!  However, on my recent trip to Ireland, I only had a few days to try and fit in as much as possible, so I decided to take a 5-day tour of Ireland with Shamrocker Irish Adventures .  Shamrocker Adventures arrange escorted coach tours of Ireland for backpackers and budget travellers, so I was excited to see what was on offer.  After my 5 day trip, I found that these Ireland backpacker tours give you a great taste of the Emerald Isle without breaking the bank!  Here’s my full and honest  Shamrocker Adventures review of their 5 Day Ireland Tour, the Celtic Rocker.

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I received a complimentary tour in exchange for my review, but rest assured that all opinions here are 100% my own!

About Shamrocker Irish Adventures

When I was researching escorted tours of Ireland, I wanted a budget backpacking tour which wasn’t focused on partying the whole time.  After researching some other Ireland tour companies, Shamrocker offered the best combination of budget, adventure and variety of travellers, so I had no doubts when I contacted them to arrange one of their coach tours in Ireland.

A photo stop at the Rock of Cashel - seat of the Kings of Munster in Ireland

Shamrocker have been offering backpacking Ireland adventure tours since 1999, and it is their mission “to give independent budget travellers the chance to really discover Ireland and remember it as one of the best times of their life!” 

All Shamrocker guides are 100% Irish, so you know you are getting a true Irish experience, and the guides on my tour shared myths, legends and stories about the legendary Irish ‘craic’ throughout the trip.

Shamrocker also offer a ‘Book and Go Guarantee’ which means they never cancel a trip once you have booked on it.  They offer several different affordable tours around Ireland between 3-7 days, so you can choose the best tour itinerary to suit your travel plans and your budget.

Travel Safely

  • Leave valuables at home and don't keep all your money and credit cards in one place.  I love hidden pocket clothing like this travel scarf for stashing my cash and passport or a belt with a hidden pocket.   Read more about how to hide money while travelling .
  • Bring a water bottle with a built-in filter so you can safely drink water from any fresh water source while saving money and reducing plastic use.  I take my Water-to-Go bottle with me everywhere!
  • Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel.  I always buy travel insurance and was very glad I had insurance when I had my laptop and passport stolen in Ecuador!  Consider getting insurance for your trip to cover things like trip cancellation, emergency medical, lost luggage and stolen items, as well as adventure sports and activities and more.  
  • I chose World Nomads Travel Insurance for my recent backpacking trip to Australia and New Zealand.  They offer travel insurance for independent travellers and intrepid families and you can get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road

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As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from  World Nomads  using this link. I do not represent  World Nomads . This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

How the Shamrocker Bus Tours of Ireland Work

All of the Shamrocker Adventure Tours leave from Dublin, and there are several different tour options you can choose depending on the length of time you have and where you would like to go.  I was already planning to spend a couple of days in Northern Ireland, so I chose a 5-day tour in the south of Ireland. 

The Celtic Rocker tour leaves Dublin every Monday and Wednesday during the summer season from the end of May to the beginning of September, and on selected dates through the winter, and this fitted perfectly with the rest of my plans in Ireland.

Shamrocker tours include all transport on the tour(in private coaches between destinations, and occasional public bus and ferry trips mentioned in the itinerary), accommodation in shared hostel dorm rooms (although you can book a private room for an extra fee), breakfast, and a guide who will provide information about the stops, keep everyone together and help out with anything you might need along the way.

On this trip, we had 4 nights’ accommodation and 4 breakfasts included, as well as entry to the Cliffs of Moher and Blarney Castle  and stops at a whole host of highlights along the way.  Other extras such as the entrance to a whiskey distillery could be added on when you book.

Instead of being a specific Ireland walking tour, whiskey tour or castle tour we had a wide variety of activities and tried a bit of everything.  If it is your first time in Ireland or you aren’t quite sure what you’d like to do, a Shamrocker tour will give you a real flavour of the country, taking you to some of the top tourist attractions in Ireland as well as some beautiful areas you might not expect.

The Shamrocker Coaches

The size of the coaches depends on how many people are on the tour.  The second coach was bigger, it was a 37 seater and we had 37 people in our group so it was much cosier than the first coach!  We had USB charging sockets and free wifi on the bus, which was very useful for the longer periods of driving.

Accommodation on the Shamrocker Backpacker Tours

Accommodation for the four nights of my tour was included, in hostel 4, 6 or 10-bed dormitories.  There were a few people (mostly couples) who opted to upgrade to a private room in the hostels, so if you don’t fancy sharing a room there is that option for you as well. 

The hostels were all good quality, and all served a basic breakfast of bread, jam, and cereals.  All of the rooms I stayed in had comfy beds and all but the last hostel in Killarney had lockers and wifi in the rooms.  Our last hostel had wifi in the common areas, and I wasn’t too worried about the lockers at that stage as we all knew each other!

Our Celtic Rocker 5 Day Ireland Tour Itinerary

Ireland itinerary day 1 – dublin to galway.

From Dublin, our first stop was at the Hill of Tara, where the ancient Kings of Ireland used to come to be crowned.  On our way to the Tullamore we stopped off for a photo opportunity at Trim Castle.  From there, our coach drove to Tullamore Dew Whiskey Museum for an optional distillery tour, and a tasty lunch. 

I chose to take the tour, but those who didn’t had time to explore the pretty town of Tullamore instead.  After lunch we continued in the bus to Galway, where we would be spending two nights in the provided hostel accommodation.  We had some time to explore Galway in the afternoon, but the weather wasn’t great so after a walk around the town we retreated to the pub!

That evening, most of the group joined an optional pub tour of Galway, arranged by Tribes Pub Crawl, which took us around some of Galway’s best pubs, with live music, games and a potato collecting competition.  If you didn’t want to join the pub crawl there are plenty of bars and restaurants to explore in Galway, but it was a great way to get to know the group better.

Ireland Itinerary Day 2 – Inis Mór

Inis Mór (or Inishmore) is the largest of the Aran Islands, off the Galway coast.  To get there we took a public bus to the ferry terminal at Rossaveel which is about 45 minutes away from Galway, then a ferry to Inishmore. 

The ferry crossing was a bit rough on the way out, and very bad on the way back – I think partly due to the storm which was coming in from the Atlantic.  Some people who had a hangover from the revelry the night before felt a bit worse for wear, but with some Dramamine I kept my travel sickness at bay. 

In the winter months, instead of visiting Inishmore, the tour itinerary changes to visit Connemara instead.

READ MORE: A Day Trip to Inishmore from Galway

Inishmore is definitely worth the journey to get there.  We were also blessed with beautiful weather the whole day, and although it was windy the sun shone and made the island look even more beautiful. 

Miles of stone walls criss-cross the island, where residents made fields to farm on the rocky surface.  Cute cottages, fairy houses and church ruins were just some of the things we saw, but the highlight was Dún Aonghasa, a prehistoric hill fort perched on the cliff top. 

To get around the island you can hire bikes, take a horse and cart or a bus tour to see as much as possible.  We chose the bus tour, which was great as we got to see a lot more than we could have reached by bike in the time available, and our guide Patrick was a hoot!

We spent the night at Galway again, with the chance to see live music at the local pubs if we wanted, or to have an early night after the previous evening’s shenanigans!

Ireland Itinerary Day 3 – Galway to Ennis via the Cliffs of Moher

We left Galway to head towards the Cliffs of Moher .  Along the way we stopped off for a quick visit to Dunguaire Castle on the shores of Galway Bay, then at Poulnabrone, a stone-age tomb.  After a lunch stop, we arrived at the Cliffs of Moher, which had been closed that morning due to high winds from Storm Ali. 

Although the wind blew in strong gusts, the weather stayed dry, and we walked along the top of the cliffs admiring the views.  The cliffs are absolutely stunning, and it was wonderful (and scary at times!) to be so close to the edge.  After a wind-swept couple of hours on the cliffs we boarded the bus again to head to Ennis for dinner and live Irish music at a local pub.

READ MORE: Visiting the Cliffs of Moher from Galway

Ireland Itinerary Day 4 – Ennis to Killarney

Today was probably my least favourite day of the tour, partly due to the weather which finally caught up with us, and partly due to some odd timings meaning we didn’t have lunch till about 4pm. Although I did get to hold a baby lamb so it wasn’t all bad!! 

From Ennis we headed towards Killarney, stopping off briefly at Adare for a bathroom break and photos of some gorgeous thatched cottages.  Dingle was our next stop, a tiny town famous for its lone dolphin Fungie who lives in the bay.  We arrived in Dingle about 1pm, and had 45 minutes to wander around and get some snacks, before boarding the bus again to drive around the Slea Head Drive (stopping off at a sheep farm for a photo with a cute lamb!). 

By the time we got back to Dingle it was about 3.30pm, and had lunch then.  This was the only day when timings were a bit off, it would have been better to have lunch in Dingle before taking the Slea Head Drive, especially as the driver had to have a 45-minute break then anyway, so that was a bit strange.

After a late lunch, we continued on to Killarney, which we sadly didn’t have much time to explore.  Most of our group decided to join our guide William to go to an Irish dancing performance called Celtic Steps, which was fab.  The show had some live music and songs, and some incredible Irish dancers.  I have no hesitation in recommending the show!

Ireland Itinerary Day 5 – Killarney to Dublin

The last day of our Ireland tour was another drive-heavy day, as we made our way back to Dublin across the whole of Ireland.  Along the way, we had a good length of time to visit Blarney Castle (and queue to kiss the Blarney Stone!), and a photo stop for the Rock of Cashel which used to be the castle of the Kings of Munster. 

We made it back to Dublin about 6pm, there was quite a lot of traffic as we headed into the city, and when we arrived back I went for dinner in Dublin with some of the friends I’d made on the tour.

READ MORE: Visiting Blarney Castle and Kissing the Blarney Stone

What I Loved About Shamrocker Tours

I felt that the itinerary was well planned for the time we had available (apart from Day 4), and we saw a lot of different places in a short time.  I loved that we stopped off at various points of interest en route between our overnight stops, so I got to see a lot more of the country than I would have done if I was travelling by bus on my own.

The guides were friendly and fun, well organised and did well to talk to everyone in the group and make everyone feel welcome.

I met some lovely people from all over the world, especially Australia and the USA, and it was great to hang out with some new people for several days instead of just meeting them in a hostel for a night!

Anything I Didn’t Like?

As I mentioned, I am used to travelling alone so I found letting go of control quite difficult.  It is very hard for me now to rely on other people, and to trust they are going to make the right decision for me.  However, there was only one day on the tour when I thought the timings could have been planned better, apart from that I was happy to sit back and relax, even though it felt very strange at times!

One of the downsides of group travel, in general, is having to wait for other people to get ready, wait for other people to get on and off the bus, wait in queues for the toilet etc.  A good tip for this though is to take a seat at the front of the bus, so you are first off and so first in the queue for most things!

On Day 4, instead of seeing more of the coastline, I would have preferred to skip Dingle and the Slea Head drive and go straight to Killarney.  We had already spent two days on the coast, so to have a bit more time inland in Killarney would have been nice, to perhaps go to the Killarney National Park or Ross Castle, which was mentioned in the itinerary but we didn’t have time to do.

Would I Recommend These Ireland Backpacker Tours?

Absolutely!  If you are looking for a budget coach tour around Ireland I have no hesitation in recommending Shamrocker, as the value for money, itinerary and overall package is very hard to beat and perfect for backpackers. 

If you want a little more privacy you can upgrade to private rooms in the hostels, but for most people backpacking in Ireland the dorm rooms are more than sufficient.  What’s more, these Shamrocker Ireland backpacker tours are not just for twenty-year old students – I’m 35 and there were plenty of people around my age and older as well.  This isn’t luxury, but most definitely excellent value!

If you want to book, you’ll find all the information you need on their website , or you can check out more Shamrocker Adventures reviews on Tripadvisor.

Where to Stay in Dublin Before/After your Shamrocker Tour

The meeting point for all tours is at the Four Courts Hostel in Dublin, and we had to meet there are 8.15am so I chose to stay overnight at the Four Courts so I would there for my tour.  However, the bed was very squeaky and there was a large group of noisy students the night I stayed so I didn’t particularly enjoy it. 

When I returned to Dublin after the tour I stayed at the Gardiner House Hostel which was much more comfortable, although an Uber ride from the drop off point.  You can read my full review of the Gardiner House Hostel here .

BROWSE ALL HOSTELS IN DUBLIN

Have you taken an Ireland backpacker tour?  I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

Explore More Ireland Travel Destinations:

  • A Day Trip to the Aran Islands
  • Visiting the Cliffs of Moher from Galway
  • Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle
  • Where to Stay in Dublin: Gardiner House
  • Why Visit Dublin in Winter
  • Ireland Backpacker Tours: Shamrocker Review 
  • Things to do in Portrush NI
  • A Giant's Causeway Tour
  • Belfast Street Art
  • Titanic Afternoon Tea in Belfast

Like this post?  Pin it to read later:

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

9 thoughts on “ Ireland Backpacker Tours: Shamrocker Adventures Review ”

What a great experience overall. The ability to see so much and capture such stunning photography is quite impressive. Shamrocker sounds like they were the perfect partner and a company worth considering in the future.

We’ll have to remember these tours when we go to Europe. They seem like a great way to see the countryside. Of course, anywhere I get to snuggle baby lambs is pretty good.

This sounds like an amazing way to see Ireland! To be honest, I had no idea there were “backpacker” tours. I have only ever heard of group tours where things cost more because you stay in hotels and have other fancier additions. Knowing that this is more affordable is awesome! I have no issues staying in a hostel, so I would definitely want to do this tour if it means I save some money and am still able to see a lot.

Ahh what a great post! I kinda felt like I was in Ireland too, awesome pictures too! The Cliffs of Moher look absolutely stunning, I’m sure that it was a surreal experience! 🙂 Do you know if lots of people get to see Fungie? 🙂

I’ve barely touched Europe, but just beginning to plan an epic cross-Europe trip with my family next year, so this is really useful. I’m like you said; I never take tours and prefer to be in command, but traveling with kids is a whole different thing, so we are open to all options. Also, those cliff shots are amazing!

Awesome post. We did Ireland by camper, but now you having me wanting to come back and do this tour. Did I miss the section where you link to their site, and/or mention how much this tour costs?

I was happy to find your post as I am heading to Ireland next year. Also glad to see you would have skipped Dingle, as I was a little sad we couldn’t fit it into our schedule–now I don’t feel so bad. We won’t be joining a tour, but we also prefer to do a little bit of everything and I like the things you got to do. We have also used hostels in our travels, and that can be a great way to save a little money.

What a great itinerary. We made our own way through Ireland but I can totally see the benefits of taking a tour like this.

Also, your photographs are amazing and really capture the magic of Ireland. Thank you for sharing.

Sensational post Claire.

The Cliffs of Moher shot is brilliant. Looks like an epic spot we need to see on an Ireland trip.

Thanks for sharing.

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Hiking Tours of Ireland

  • Explore the historic charm and Irish ‘craic’ of Dublin City
  • Hike the Dingle Way, Nat Geo claimed 'Most Beautiful Place on Earth'
  • Explore ruined castles and standing stones on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Coast
  • Trek over green pastures, sheep fields and valleys on the Wicklow Way
  • Pubs, Irish music, pints of Guinness and fresh seafood all in abundance
  • Explore County Kerry’s ancient stone-walled trails and highest Irish peaks

Ireland exudes beauty and spirit inside and out. With its rolling green pastures, this ‘Emerald Isle’ features dramatic cliffs topped with wild coastal paths, and a countryside dotted with Celtic influence and ancient footpaths lined with stone walls. Steeped in history, the friendly and fun essence of the Irish people is found at every bend in the road, and at every corner of the villages there is a pub serving a pint of ‘The Black Stuff’ – Guinness.

Our first-hand knowledge of Ireland's best kept secrets has allowed countless Macs customers to enjoy their self-guided hiking adventures and truly take in every corner of the country.

You can choose to discover rugged coastlines, golden beaches, and colorful Gaeltacht villages whilst hiking the Dingle Way , or hike amongst Ireland's highest peaks on the Kerry Way . South of Dublin on the east coast, the well-known Wicklow Way can give you an excellent experience on ancient trails and remote valleys. For lesser-traveled coastal paths with simply stunning views, we highly recommend the Wild West Coast of Ireland .

At Macs, we pride ourselves in our unique expertize that are unmatched in the US market. Showcasing a selection spanning across the entirety of Ireland, you have free range to choose a hiking adventure rooted in Irish spirit that is suitable for your individual preferences.

backpacking tours ireland

Explore Ireland

The Dingle Way

Featured Tours - Ireland

Walking the Dingle Way

The Dingle Way - 10 Days & 9 Nights

Views at Slea Head

Best of the Dingle Way

The Cliffs of Moher

Walking Ireland's West Coast

The Powerscourt Estate

Dublin & The Wicklow Way In Style

Lough Tay, The Guinness Lake

The Wicklow Way - 7 Days & 6 Nights

The Kerry countryside

The Kerry Way - 11 Days & 10 Nights

Discover ireland.

Our first-hand knowledge of Ireland's best kept secrets has allowed countless Macs Adventure customers to confidently explore every corner of the country. We've been running our self guided hiking trips in Ireland since 2006, and have dialed in the perfect itineraries for culture, food and drink, and scenery.

Choice of Tours: Ireland is now one of our most popular destinations for US customers, with hundreds of hikers traveling with Macs Adventure to Ireland each year. Whether you're interested in impressive coastal trails with castle ruins and ancient stones such as those on the Dingle Way , or the best live-music pub in town, rest assured we've planned it right for you.

Self-guided: We provide the freedom for you to choose your route and travel companions, and to discover Ireland independently at your own pace. We've made great friends with the accommodation providers and baggage handlers and should you have the slightest issue, they'll do everything possible to help you out. Additionally, our 24/7 support team is just a phone call away.

Accommodation: Our accommodation is carefully selected to ensure you have a good level of comfort alongside friendly Irish service. We find the best B&BS and guesthouses, or more up market In Style hotels, in the villages and towns that our routes pass through. You'll find that it’s the people and the proprietors that make these tours and Ireland so special. All of your luggage is transported to the next overnight – hassle free hiking the way you want it.

We pride ourselves on our unique expertize and we showcase a fine selection of tours spanning across the entirety of Ireland. The beauty of this Emerald Isle and the Irish spirit is embedded in all our hiking in Ireland vacations.

Why Book your Hiking Vacation in Ireland with Macs Adventure?

Irish pubs are famous throughout the world, and most major cities now have an Irish pub/bar. However, an authentic Irish pub is not full of people with green hats with shamrocks dangling from them!

Who goes to the pub: In the late 17th century, the ‘Public House’ was a place for working men to drink. It's now a hub for the local community and everyone, including children are welcome. It’s common for an Irish family to take a baby baptism party for a drink at the pub after church. The Irish love getting together and having a chat over an informal pint.

The ‘Craic’: Pronounced ‘crack’, this very Irish saying translates to ‘What’s been going on with you, tell me a story about your day’. You go to the pub to hear the craic.

Buying rounds: The landlord of the pub is also normally a friend and will know all the locals. You order at the bar, and no tip is expected. If you’re with a group, you’ll take turns in buying drinks for the table. But you can’t leave before it’s your round!

Guinness: A pint of The Black Stuff. It’s unlikely that you’ll find an Irish pub which doesn’t sell Guinness. First brewed in Dublin in 1759 and is now brewed worldwide – however naturally it always tastes better in it’s homeland! 

The music: Small groups of local musicians will often play in the pub. It’s a casual affair with the musicians sitting in the corner drinking pints whilst playing. Impromptu music with a singsong and the tin whistle is less common, but this is the magic of small-town pubs when friends get together.

Food: A few pubs will serve food, but not all. However, you’ll aways be able to get a small pack of salty peanuts and a bag of ‘crisps’…don’t ask for chips as might end up with a portion of fries!

Sláinte: Cheers

Irish Pub Culture

Potato was the staple food of the Irish in the mid 1800’s. The plant disease ‘potato blight’ caused the crops to fail in successive years from 1845-1849. The British rule still forced wheat, cattle, diary and beans to be exported and as a result over 2 million people died of hunger or emigrated from Ireland.

The emigration to the USA was at its peak during this period, and the Irish comprised nearly half of all immigrants in the USA in the 1840s. This flow continued till about 1930. The population of Ireland pre-Famine was over 8 million, and it’s never regained these numbers, with it currently being around 5 million.

The Great Famine and Emigration to the USA (1845-1851)

When thinking about the Dingle Way , a spectacular coast, rugged mountains, and ancient ruins come to mind. But that's not all the peninsula has to offer! The area has a rich cultural heritage; an ancient language, welcoming residents, longstanding traditions, and outstanding food. The Dingle Peninsula is more than an attraction, it is more than a visit, it is a destination. Residents and members of Dingle Peninsula Tourism Alliance have recognized their responsibility to keep the area protected, to allow future generations to enjoy it as much as we do today.

Here are some simple ways to contribute during your visit!

  • Say “NO” to plastic – a great way of doing this is limiting the use of straws, plastic drinking bottles, plastic coffee cups and plastic bags.
  • Leave no trace – carry your personal waste such as wrappers from snacks and other items and avoid littering along the route.
  • Stay local, shop local – Support the local communities by eating and shopping locally!
  • Let nature's sounds prevail – enjoy your experience, keep your noise to a minimum and respect farm animals and wildlife around you (with the added bonus of a higher chance of finding them!)
  • Leave what you find – Don’t take home rocks, plants or flowers as souvenirs as some of these can be valuable for the natural habitats.

Sustainable Travel along the Dingle Way

Shellfish - Being an island nation, it’s no wonder seafood especially shellfish is popular. Lobster, crab, shrimps and mussels can be found on most menus in the summer, and in September oysters come into season. Food festivals such as the Galway Oyster Festival (September) and the Dublin Bay prawn festival in Howth (May) are a joy for foodie visitors.

Soda Bread - The basic ingredients are always the same, baking soda, buttermilk and flour. However, every Irish family has a different recipe which can include adding seeds, bran or oats and making it sweet with honey or dried fruits. Always eaten sliced with butter.

Stew - A good plate of hearty Irish stew is a one-pot meal with potatoes, onions and traditionally mutton, but usually lamb these days. Carrots are sometimes added, and it’s left to simmer and reduce for a thick delicious warming meal coming in from a rainy day!

Colcannon and Champ  - Both these dishes are potato based, and it’s unlikely you’d have both on your plate at the same time. Champ is mashed potato with spring onions, butter and milk. Colcannon is the same but also includes cabbage or kale.

Boxty  - Another potato dish, Boxty covers the full range of potato dumplings, potato pancakes and potato bread. Usually, it’s grated potato mixed with mashed potato and then cooked in different ways for the various types. It’s often eaten with eggs and bacon for breakfast or with smoked salmon for lunch.

Irish Food – Top 5

The Dingle Peninsula is one of the main "Gaeltacht" areas of the Emerald Isle, where the Irish language (Gaelic) is widely spoken at home, in schools and even the workplace. Due to its remote location, it was removed from the influences of the modern world for a long time and the local language and traditions have largely remained intact. Staying in "Gaeltacht" villages means you get to really immerse yourself in the Irish cultural heritage.

You can be sure to come across the Gaelic symbols during your Dingle Way adventure - road signs, names, descriptions and even menu items! Learning a few phrases will help you to get a deeper understanding of the people of this beautiful part of the world.

Here are a few sentences to practice:

Good morning - "Maidin Mhaith" (pronounced: mod-jin wot)

Cheers - "Slainte" (pronounced: slawn-cheh)

I speak only a little Irish - "Níl agam ach beagáinín Gaeilge" (pronounced: kneel ah-gum ock byug-aneen gayle-geh)

Thank you - "Tapadh leat" (pronounced: tapah lat)

The weather is beautiful today - "Ta an aimsir go halainn inniu" (pronounced: taw an eyeim-shur guh haul-inn inn-you)

Gaeltacht and local lingo

Storytelling has been a staple of the Irish culture since the dawn of time and the folklore has famous myths and legends. Think of the many songs, limericks and tales that exist. It is safe to say that mythology and Ireland go hand in hand, have you heard of any of these stories?

  • The Leprechauns  (or locally known as " Leath bhrògan"):  The name translates from 'shoemaker' and the leprechaun is the cultural symbol of Ireland. They were said to roam the Emerald Isle before humans did, wearing a unique hat and red hair. Leprechauns leave a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, so be sure to have a look if you see one!
  • The Pooka (or locally known as "púca"): Pooka's are shape-changing creatures that are some of the most feared in Irish folklore. They are said to be evil and bring bad luck to those who have seen them. For this reason, they are most feared by farmers around the times of harvest!
  • The Irish Harp : You may have noticed that the harp is the national symbol of Ireland, think of the company logos of famous Irish brands such as Guinness and Ryanair. The story goes that evil gods stole the first harp from Dagda (an Irish king). This caused a lack of music in Ireland and people turned very sad. The evil gods then gave back the harp and the joy returned to the entire land. This is how the harp became a national icon!
  • The Shamrock : The three-leafed clover is an important Irish legend and crucial in the spread of Christianity across the Emerald Isle. St Patrick saw a clover and decided to use it to explain the three strands of the father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit as one, to the Celts. The Celts could previously not understand what St Patrick was trying to say, but with the help of the shamrock, they finally did. 

Irish Myths & Legends

Reading a book can give you a really good taste of the culture, history and landscapes of a destination. Whether you are planning a trip to Ireland or have recently booked a trip, here are some classic books that are set in Ireland!

Dubliners by James Joyce - This famous collection includes 15 short stories about the lives of ordinary people living in Dublin in the early 1900s. The book has a variety of characters and is an easy read with varied outlooks on life. 

The Sea by John Banville - This novel is about love, loss, and the power of memory. A middle-aged Irishman called Max returns to the seaside town where he spent his summer holidays as a child to cope with the loss of his dear wife. Max comes to understand the past and this is the center of this beautifully written novel.

The Wild Irish Girl by Sydney Owensen - This book quickly reached bestseller status after it was published in 1806. In this story, a badly behaved boy is banished to his father's estate in Ireland to mend his ways. He then falls in love with the land and with a girl that he meets, but there are some complicated family affairs.

The Green Road by Anne Enright - This is the 6th novel by Anne Enright concerning the lives of the Madigan family on Ireland's Atlantic coast. This book is about family, selfishness and compassion when a family returns to the west coast of Ireland for a final family Christmas before their mother's home is about to sell. After a big conflict, the family is confronted with their ties and the road that brought them home. 

Galway Bay by Mary Pat Kelly - This story takes place in a hidden corner of Ireland where fisherman and farmers find hope and courage in their songs, faith and celebrations. This novel describes the life of a young couple starting a family and selling their crops and catch to pay rent. Potatoes have become the bread and butter of their existence and when three harvests are destroyed, the natural disaster turns into The Great Starvation.

The Yellow House by Patricia Falvey - This novel delves into the politics of Northern Ireland at the beginning of the 20th-century where main character Eileen is torn between two men, each drawing her to one extreme. As war is declared, Eileen begins working at a local mill and tries to save money to hold onto her dreams. This story describes her struggles in trying to separate politics from her personal life.

Irish Classic Books

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Budget Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland

Discover a varied offer of budget hiking & trekking adventures in Ireland that will take you through some of the most renowned destinations such as Roundwood and Enniskerry. Each affordable tour will provide you with memorable moments for some of the lowest prices on the market. 10 days in Ireland ? Find here the best itineraries.

10 Budget hiking & trekking tours in Ireland with reviews

The Dingle Way - Self Guided Ireland 9 Day Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking

The Dingle Way - Self Guided Ireland 9 Day

The Dingle Way - Self Guided Ireland 8 Day Tour

The Dingle Way - Self Guided Ireland 8 Day

The Kerry Way - Self Guided 5 Days Tour

  • Self Guided Walking Holidays

The Kerry Way - Self Guided 5 Days

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 8 Day Tour

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 8 Day

The Kerry Way - Self Guided Ireland 8 Day Tour

The Kerry Way - Self Guided Ireland 8 Day

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 4 Day Tour

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 4 Day

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 5 Day Tour

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 5 Day

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 10 Day Tour

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 10 Day

The Dingle Way - Self Guided Ireland 10 Day Tour

The Dingle Way - Self Guided Ireland 10 Day

The Kerry Way - Self Guided Ireland  11 Day Tour

The Kerry Way - Self Guided Ireland 11 Day

More budget tours in ireland.

  • Active tours (15)
  • Self-Guided tours (11)
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  • In-depth Cultural tours (7)
  • Coach / Bus tours (5)
  • Ireland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • Best 7 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
  • Best 10 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
  • 10 Best Hiking & Trekking Companies
  • Your Guide to Planning a Private Hike 2024/2025
  • Best Hiking Tours in The World 2024/2025

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Günstige Irland Trekking & Wanderreise
  • Français: Circuits Randonnée et trek Budget en Irlande
  • Español: Circuitos económicos de Senderismo y Trekking por Irlanda
  • Nederlands: Budget Wandelen & Trekking Rondreizen in Ierland
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The ultimate guide to backpacking Ireland

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on October 3, 2019 |

Many things may come to mind when you think of Ireland as its charm has reached every corner of the globe. Perhaps you’ve hunted for four leaf clovers and heard tales of leprechauns and world-famous beer. The real Ireland is even more enchanting. Its landscapes are breath-taking, ranging from wild and rugged mountains to green hills and valleys. It has beautiful, historic cities, a great musical culture, fantastic pubs and most importantly, a warm, welcoming hospitable people. And yes, lots of beer. All this, and more, is what makes backpacking Ireland so amazing.

backpacking ireland, group of people standing on lough tay mountain in ireland overlooking a lake

Lough Tay, Dublin 📸 : gregda

Jump straight to:

  • The best time to visit Ireland

Best places to visit in Ireland

Travelling around ireland, accommodation in ireland.

  • Ireland backpacking itinerary

Cost of backpacking Ireland

What to eat and drink in ireland, irish culture and people, travel advice for ireland, best time to visit ireland.

Ireland is known for its emerald green landscape, but there’s a reason for this: the weather. Ireland tends to be quite rainy all year round, however, it’s no worse than parts of England. The climate is best summed up with one word: changeable. You can really see all four seasons in one day here. The wettest months tend to be in Autumn and Winter, and the driest in the spring, but this changes year by year. So remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather – just bad preparation! Remember to bring your waterproof jacket and a jumper whenever you go, and don’t let the weather dictate your plans!

There’s not that much seasonal variation in temperature either, with the summer months averaging highs of around 13-18 degrees. On the flip side, winters don’t get too cold. One thing that does vary widely, however, is the length of the days. In winter, the sun goes down around 4 pm, but in the middle of summer, it doesn’t get dark until after 10 pm, allowing you to sit out long into the evening. Ireland is pretty small, so the differences between places aren’t too drastic.  It’s generally a bit rainier on the west coast, with clouds coming in from the Atlantic, as well as getting a little cooler the further north you go.

Best time to visit Northern Ireland

The best time to visit Northern Ireland for a backpacking trip is in late spring and early summer, when you’re likely to get the most sunshine. However, if you’re doing a short city break, you can go at any time of year, as you’re unlikely to get extreme weather. The coldest months are between late February and early March, with very little chance of snow. The driest areas are around Belfast and the eastern coast, which get significantly less rainfall than Galway, Cork and the rest of the south/west.

Best time to visit Dublin

Dublin’s where you’ll find the driest climate relative to the rest of Ireland. It’s also pretty mild, with winter temperatures similar to those in Southeast England. The driest months in Dublin are between February and April, but the best time to visit Dublin is in late spring, when the temperatures are a little warmer. Given that the city has plenty to see – the weather usually isn’t too much trouble anyway, as there are plenty of pubs and free museums to duck into.

Best time to visit Galway

The west coast, around Galway, is the wettest part of Ireland. However, it’s slightly warmer than Dublin. So, if you’re lucky, you might get some hot, sunny weather – with the isolated white-sand beaches making it worth the risk! The best time to visit Galway is probably when it’s driest, in the late spring and early summer.

backpacking ireland, view of rocks by the sea and green grass in ireland

📸: @iaraanddavid_travel

Ireland’s landscapes are beautiful, ranging from the dramatic to the gentle. Each of its national parks have their own unique character and can be just as breath-taking as more well-known destinations (if a bit rainier!) Apart from Dublin, its cities are relatively small, but are full of life, easily walkable, and have a rich history. To help you choose where to spend your time we’ve listed some of the best places to visit in Ireland including the most scenic places the country has to offer, as well as the best cities in Ireland to visit:

Scenic spots:

Mount errigal and dunlewy lough, county donegal.

As you approach the Derryveagh mountains, all you see are dark shadows on the horizon. Before you know it, you are amongst them, with the long, unfenced road winding through the valleys. Drive far enough and you’ll come to Dunlewy Lough, which sits down in a quiet valley, cut off from the outside world. Rising above its shores is Errigal, the highest mountain in Donegal, and one of the best hikes in Ireland. However, the steep, rocky slopes means the route can be challenging.

If you’d prefer something a little more gentle, you can also take a walk down around the lake. This will take you a forest in which you’ll find a hidden world covered bright purple flowers and almost luminous green mosses. You’ll also pass an abandoned church, where you can sit and look out over the water!

Find hostels in Donegal

Glencolumbkille and Malin Beg, County Donegal

Glencolumbkille sits on a stretch of coast Donegal’s southwestern corner. As you travel round the cliffs, you’ll be greeted with the spectacular sight of grey, stony headlands and jagged rocks being pounded by the mighty waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Eventually, you’ll reach the beautiful white sand beach of Silver Strand: a serene, isolated cove, hidden beneath the steep cliffs.

Just behind Glencolumbkille are the Slieve League ( Sliabh Liag ) cliffs, some of the highest sea cliffs in Ireland. Here, a jagged mountainside plunges straight down into the ocean. The colossal scale of this is difficult to capture in any photograph: really huge waves end up looking like tiny ripples. If you want to explore, there are great hikes in the area, including the so-called “One Man’s Path” a narrow, rocky trail with sheer drops on either side. Just be careful, this should not be attempted if you’re not an experienced hiker – even if it is a great place for getting that perfect Instagram shot!

Wicklow Mountains, County Wicklow

The northern edge of this national park can be reached by taking a €3.30 local bus service from Dublin to Enniskerry, meaning it’s ideal if you want to escape the city for a while. If you’re really keen, you can hike along the so-called “Wicklow Way,” a 130 km interlinked network of roads and paths stretching all the way down through the county. If you don’t feel up to that, you can simply wander along the trail for as long as you like, through fields and glades filled with ferns, wildflowers and shamrocks. One great walk, which takes about an hour each way, is from Knockree hostel to Powerscourt Waterfall, the highest in Ireland. Seeing it this way also allows you to avoid paying the entry fee!

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Copper Coast, County Waterford

If you want a day by the sea, some ice cream or fish and chips, head on down to the scenic little harbour town of Dunmore East. It’s an hour away from Waterford city by bike, or 20 or so minutes by car or bus. The little sheltered cove is gorgeous, with golden sand and deep blue water, overlooked by cliffs on both sides. If you don’t feel like getting your feet wet, sit outside at the Strand Inn, which overlooks the beach, looking out towards Hook Head and its famous lighthouse.

From Dunmore, you can head around the coastline along the so-called “Copper Coast”, which has been designated an UNESCO Geopark. Even if you’re not a geologist, it’s easy to appreciate the beautiful cliffs and seaside villages, such as Stradbally and Tramore, which literally means “big strand”. Here you’ll find a 5 km stretch of golden sand where you can hire surfboards, fish, or go sea kayaking.

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Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry

With sea on three sides and towering green mountains behind, the Dingle peninsula is a spectacular setting for a drive by the sea. We’d recommend you stop off at Inch Beach, a spit of sand that juts out into the bay for miles, with towering dunes full of wildflowers. On the right side, you can see the Dingle Peninsula, to the left the golden shores of the Iveragh Peninsula.

From Inch Beach, you can head along the coastal roads to the colourful little harbour town of Dingle. But, if you’ve got a little time, it’s worth taking a minor detour down to Minard Castle. The roads are a bit narrow and windy, but it’s definitely worth it. You’ll not only be rewarded with the sight of a medieval stone tower, but also a quiet little beach with a clear mountain stream flowing into the bay.

From the colourful town of Dingle, you can head up towards Conor Pass along Spa Road, which snakes away out of sight, tightly hugging the undulating landscape. If you look hard on a clear day, you can even see the rocky pyramid-shaped Skellig Islands jutting out of the sea. If they look familiar, perhaps that’s because they were used as a location in the new Star Wars films!

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Killarney National Park, County Kerry

backpacking ireland, view of lakes and mountains in Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park 📸 : @cochou33

Killarney, is home to one of Ireland’s most beautiful national parks, and its tallest peak, Carrauntoohil. It’s hardly surprising then, that you’ll find some of the best hikes in Ireland here. In fact, the “Kerry Way” signposted route runs through the county, for over 200 km, taking experienced hikers eight days or more to conquer.

However, you don’t have to be a seasoned hiker to enjoy the trail – you can always walk along one of its 20 sections. There’s a walking loop starting in Killarney, which takes in the Victorian stately home, a ruined monastery and old traditional farms. Nearby you’ll find Torc waterfall, which crashes down into a little pool, creating a surrounding mist. If you continue up the steps past the waterfall, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of Killarney’s three lakes.

For a break while you’re driving or hiking round the national park, there’s no better place than The Strawberry Field Pancake Cottage. Renowned for its delicious pancakes, the café rests within Killarney’s isolated countryside. Afterwards, you can head on up to the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow valley, with steep, high sides. It feels incredibly isolated and cut-off, almost like going through a tunnel. Look one way and you’ll see the valley and lakes of Killarney open up in front of you, look back and you see the mountains closing in on each other.

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backpacking ireland - yellow walls of strawberry field pancake cottage

Strawberry Field Pancake Cottage 📸: @iaraanddavid_travel

Aran Islands, County Galway

The Aran Islands are three, isolated rocky pieces of land lying between the edge of Galway Bay and the North Atlantic. They’re pretty inhospitable and rugged, battered by the waves and winds, making the place feel like it’s at the edge of the world. The historic isolation of the islanders means that many of them speak Irish as a native language. In fact, we heard it being spoken on the Ferry, and by locals in the local pub. To get there, you can book a ferry and bus transfer from Galway, or from Doolin, in County Clare.

The two smaller islands, Inisheer ( Inis Oír ), and Inishmaan ( Inis Meáin ), are a little less touristed and easier to get around. However, if you’re visiting Inishmore ( Inis Mór ), the largest island, it’s a good idea to go for a whole day, as there’s a lot to see. It’s still only 14 km (8.7 miles) long: meaning that the best way to get around is renting a bike. Head around the coast and there’s a spot where, if you look hard enough, you can spot the silvery heads of seals bobbing up and down on the water. Continue a little further around the coast and you’ll stumble upon Kilmurvey beach, where the sands are a pristine, dazzling shade of white.

The island is also home to a handful of prehistoric stone forts, with the most well-known being Dún Aonghasa. However, if you don’t want to pay, it’s perhaps better to head to Dún Eochla, which perhaps even more impressive in scale. These historical sights blend in with its natural wonders, such as Poll na Bpeist or “the wormhole”. This natural, perfectly rectangular pool sits atop a bare, rocky clifftop. As calm as it seems, diving into the pool is strongly advised against. Sometimes, the drop down to the water can be about 15 metres, with waves crashing over the clifftops and draining down into the pool.

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Connemara, County Galway

Connemara is another national park, in the west of the country, but it differs a lot to the others. The Wicklow mountains are characterised by rolling valleys and forests, whereas Killarney has huge lakes and dramatic rocky mountains. Connemara national park, on the other hand, feature huge, rounded hills that are curved like a camel’s hump. The roads wind through the misty valleys as you approach the park’s visitor centre, about an hour and a half away from Galway. From here, there are several well-marked walking and hiking routes, each for different abilities. The toughest one leads to the summit of Diamond Hill, going over boardwalk, and rocky slopes, with views of the sea on three sides and golden beaches in the distance. When you reach the summit, you can see all the way down to the Victorian grandeur of Kylemore Abbey.

Kylemore Abbey is a huge 19 th century “castle” – but it’s the setting that really sets it apart. Unlike other, similar places, it is set against the backdrop of a steep mountain slope, with a serene lake stretching out in front. However, the main highlight is provided by the gardens. The manicured flowerbeds contrast beautifully with the surrounding wilderness and the kitchen gardens are full of juicy redcurrants, blackcurrants and raspberries.

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North coast of Northern Ireland, County Antrim and County Derry

The north coast is probably the one of the most well-known and best places to visit in Northern Ireland. It’s known for its white sandy beaches, green fields and of course, the Giant’s Causeway. More recently, it’s gained fame as one of the locations for the acclaimed fantasy series, Game of Thrones. These Game of Thrones locations are worth seeing for the sake of their wild beauty, even if you’re not a fantasy fan. One such place is Ballintoy harbour, a tiny cove at the bottom of a single-track winding road, full of little fishing boats. Another recommended stop is at the Dark Hedges, otherwise known as the “King’s Road”, where ancient trees curve and twist to form an eerie tunnel.

If you want a little adventure, and are a fan of wildlife, catch the boat from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island. During the late spring and summer months, it’s home to a huge colony of birds who nest on its high cliffs, including cute little puffins! If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to see seals relaxing around the harbour. For something a little more daring, head to the notorious Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, where you can test your mettle by walking across a vertical drop above the rough, churning waves. If you’d rather just relax, there’s always the White Rocks beach, near Portrush, with its golden sands and dazzling white limestone cliffs.

The most famous sight around here, the Giant’s Causeway, is also worth seeing. Layers upon layers of hexagonal columns rise up out of the ocean, looking as if they were fashioned by a giant’s hand. the best part is probably the walk, which takes you over the cliffs, giving you a spectacular bird’s eye view. And for those in need of a little refreshment after a tiring day outdoors, the Old Bushmills Distillery is just a few miles away. Founded in 1608, it’s also the oldest continually-operating distillery in the world.

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Mourne Mountains, County Down

This is where you’ll find Northern Ireland’s biggest mountain, Slieve Donard. You can reach it without a car, by taking a bus from Belfast to the seaside town of Newcastle. The route is quite easy to follow, but requires hiking shoes, as it can be a bit muddy in places. The views from the summit, however, are gorgeous, looking out for miles out over the coast. If you’d prefer to do something more gentle, you can also hike to a viewpoint part of the way up the mountain, or just walk along the beautiful seafront promenade with an ice cream.

Those people renting a car should also consider visiting the Silent Valley Reservoir. This huge artificial lake supplies the entire population of Belfast and is hidden away in the narrow space between the mountain slopes. It’s a beautiful and secluded location to sit, relax, or take a walk around.

backpacking ireland, people standing in street in temple bar dublin

Temple Bar, Dublin 📸 : @diogopalhais

If you ask anyone who’s visited Ireland about the best places to see, the Republic of Ireland’s capital is always high on the list. There’s s a lot to see, a lot to do, as well as a lot of visitors! The historical centre is packed to the brim with beautiful buildings and parks, many of which are free.

Free attractions in Dublin:

  • Stephen’s Green: this 17 th century square is filled with trees, ponds and sculptures, and was one of the spots held by the rebels during the 1916 Easter Rising.
  • Merrion Square: another park in a city square, which is home to a famous statue of Oscar Wilde.
  • Phoenix Park: this is the largest urban park in Europe, and home to a herd of deer! Áras an Uachtaráin , the official residence of the President of Ireland is located here, and on Saturdays, you can even book a free guided tour!

Museums and Galleries:

As Ireland’s capital, Dublin is home to many of Ireland’s best public museums and galleries, many of which are free to explore, so take advantage of this!

  • Chester Beattie Library: housed in Dublin Castle, this museum displays beautiful and rare manuscripts from places such as East Asia, the Middle East and North America.
  • Irish Museum of Modern Art: situated in a former hospital, this place has six multi-roomed exhibits, which are constantly changing.
  • National Gallery of Ireland: this fascinating gallery includes medieval, renaissance and modern works, including those of renowned local artists.
  • National Museum of Ireland: this is not really one museum, but four, with three of them located in Dublin – specialising in Archaeology, Natural History and Decorative Arts.

Given its history full of literature, scholarship, conflict and revolution: Dublin is fascinating just to wander around. So, take advantage of a free walking tour, or explore these historical sites for yourself:

  • Statues of O’Connell Street: this busy shopping street is full of statues of famous Irish revolutionaries, labour leaders, parliamentarians and reformers, including Daniel O’Connell, after whom it is named.
  • GPO (General Post Office): this imposing stone building was the main headquarters of those taking part in the Easter rising, an armed insurrection that aimed to create an independent Irish Republic. There is a paid exhibition inside, but you can still visit the post office itself, which has beautiful floors and an ornate ceiling.
  • Trinity College Grounds: you have to pay a steep charge to visit its historical library, which contains the precious medieval manuscript “the Book of Kells”. However, the grounds themselves are free to enter.
  • Famine Memorial: this tribute to the millions of people who died and emigrated during the potato famine of 1845-1849, shows emaciated figures trekking along to the port of Dublin in search of a new life abroad (though many died during their journey).
  • Glasnevin cemetery: this is the resting place for many famous Irish figures, including the musician Luke Kelly, of the Dubliners, and the writer Brendan Behan.

One paid attraction that is worth seeing is Kilmainham Gaol. This cold, grey stone building, located in a quiet suburb, has witnessed many key events in Irish history, including five rebellions. It is where the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were held and then executed. It has held prisoners from the subsequent Irish War of Independence and Irish Civil War. Perhaps the most shocking fact, however, is how some victims of the famine committed crimes simply to be held here and have a roof over their heads.

Going out in Dublin can feel overwhelming, with hordes of tourists flocking into the iconic pubs of the Temple Bar area, which gets extremely crowded and quite rowdy. In terms of iconic bars, O’Donoghue’s near Merrion Square is a good bet. This spot has live music every night and is where the trad band “The Dubliners” started out. Although it’s packed with tourists, the crowd is generally less rowdy. Also worth a visit is the Brazen Head, which claims to be Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 1198.

For somewhere a bit more off the beaten track, head north of the river to the area of Stoneybatter, where you’ll find great pubs and cocktail bars, full of locals. We arrived in the middle of the “Stoneybatter Festival” which takes place in June each year. The events even included Wuffstock, a fancy-dress parade for dogs and their owners!

Find out more about all the free things to do in Dublin in our guide.

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backpacking ireland,, Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny

Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny 📸: @kmitchhodge

Kilkenny, although compact, is worth visiting. Hundreds of years of history is packed into two adjoining streets, known as the Medieval Mile, which stretches from the cathedral at one end and the castle at the other. The space in between is teeming with history: from the Tudor Roche House to the Black Abbey. It’s not all grey, medieval stone though, the town is like a picture postcard snapshot of Ireland – with colourful pubs, restaurants and cafes on cobbled streets.

As well as being a medieval town, Kilkenny is known as being the birthplace of Smithwicks (pronounced Smith-icks), probably the second most well-known Irish beer (after Guinness). You can still visit the old brewery today, where you’ll get the chance taste the beer at different stages of the brewing process and smell the different types of hops used. This will give you all you need to bluff with even the most seasoned of craft beer snobs! Even if you’re not all that interested in this boozy barley beverage, the tour is fascinating simply from a historical point of view: it’s built on the ruins of an abbey that brewed beer until it was closed down by King Henry VIII. In the end, you’ll get the chance to sample a pint, with three different varieties on offer!

In the same way as with its historical sights, Kilkenny’s nightlife packs a big punch for its size, with over 15 bars and pubs within 10-15 minutes’ walk of one-another.  It’s a historic town, so there are tourists, but it’s nowhere near as crowded as central Dublin. Plus, if you’re more of a fan of tea and coffee than beer, don’t fret! Kilkenny has some cute little cafes, including Cakeface patisserie, which serves up delicious baked treats.

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backpacking ireland, cliffs with a house on it in waterford

Waterford 📸: @yaboicarl

Waterford is one of Ireland’s oldest cities, dating back to Viking times. The traces of this history are most evident in the old part of the city, the so-called “Viking Triangle”. In fact, there are six medieval towers scattered around. If it’s a rainy day, why not visit the “Museum of Treasures”? This is actually made up of three separate buildings, each within 3 minutes’ walk of each other: the Viking-built Reginald’s tower, the Medieval Museum and the Bishop’s Palace.

The city itself is incredibly pretty, its main street extending along a stretch of river for about a kilometre and a half. This creates a dazzling effect as the lights from bars, restaurants, and shops are reflected in the water. Step back from here, and you’ll end up on bustling pedestrian streets full of little squares, coffee shops and boutiques.

Given that it’s a relatively small city and not as much of a tourist hotspot as Dublin, it’s easy to wander from one place to the other without getting lost.  We’d recommend a little bar called ‘An Uisce Beatha’, the Irish name for whisky literally translating as “water of life”. This pub hosts a lively, youthful crowd, with free music on most nights.

backpacking ireland, view of cork at night

Cork 📸: @yvesalarie

Cork is the Republic of Ireland’s second city, but sees less backpackers than Dublin and Galway. However, it really shouldn’t, as it’s absolutely full of life, music and history!

Also just outside Cork is Blarney castle, one of the most famous attractions in all of Ireland. It’s a very touristy spot, and entrance costs between €14 and €18 (with online discounts available). Although this may seem like a lot, the castle’s gardens are huge and there’s a lot to see – in fact, you could spend the whole day exploring. The beautiful grounds contain a garden of poisonous plants, a glade filled with huge ferns and a waterfall, as well as a dungeon, where you can crawl through medieval stone passages on your hands and knees.

In the high season, queues for the castle can be huge, but you can avoid this by going on a weekday. Once you get to the top, you can admire the views, and kiss the legendary Blarney stone, which is said to bless you with the gift of the gab. The whole thing might seem like a bit of a silly tourist ritual, but it’s impossible not to get caught up in the atmosphere of the whole thing!

Cork itself is great for going out, with music around every corner and streets full of people. In the Victorian Quarter there’s Sin É, which serves a huge selection of whiskies, gins and beers, as well as having a traditional music session every night. If you want to listen to something a bit different, head down to the Crane Lane Theatre. This consists of three different bars, each with different things going on, as well as the theatre itself. There you can see free gigs (everything from jazz to reggae), DJ nights, and even take a dance lesson. Oh, and if you’re looking for a caffeine rather than alcohol-based pick-me-up, head to Three Fools’ Coffee or Cork Coffee Roasters.

Budget travellers looking for something to do can take a wander around the Campus of University College Cork. Here, you can enjoy the parkland, visit the exhibitions at the Glucksman Institute, and admire the beautiful stained-glass windows of the Great Hall, all without spending a cent. The English Market is also free to enter, but you’ll probably end up spending something! It’s situated in a building that dates back to 1786 and is full of stalls selling fresh meat, fish, vegetables and fresh local baked goods, as well as arts and crafts. There’s even a brightly coloured fountain filled with models of birds!

For something quirky to do, head to the Butter Museum: Cork used to be a centre of the huge Irish butter business, and even had its own Butter Exchange (like a Wall Street for butter). Just around the corner, you will see (or hear) Shandon Church. Here you can pay to climb the tower and have a go at ringing the bells yourself. A little less imposing is Shandon Sweets, a cute family run factory and shop, where you can enjoy some locally-made sugary goodness.

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backpacking ireland, street in galway with bunting

Galway, Ireland 📸 : @mymytudoan

Galway is smaller than Dublin, Belfast and Cork – but is very lively (perhaps, in part, due to its high student population). You can see this in the Latin Quarter – home to many medieval buildings and filled with narrow, cobbled streets onto which partygoers pour onto to at night to enjoy a drink in the open air. We went to the Quays bar, which blasted out cheesy indie and pop hits all night long. We also ended up in a great rock bar called Sally Long’s, after which we headed to the west end to hear some traditional music at the Crane Bar. There was a trad music session in the upstairs room, with everyone crowded around, sitting on stools, listening attentively to around 8 musicians on fiddle, tin whistle, flute and mandolin.

The historic Latin Quarter is also great for exploring during the day, and as you head further down the river, you’ll find another historical landmark, the Spanish Arch. This stone gateway, built in 1584, is connected to the remains of the city walls, and used to house the soldiers who manned the battlements. On the other side of this is the Galway City Museum, which is free to enter, and will give you an insight into what Galway looked like in medieval times. It also houses a full-size “Galway Hooker”: a sailboat designed to withstand the harsh North Atlantic weather.

Although Galway’s medieval buildings date back hundreds of years, the cathedral was only built in the 50s and 60s. It looks much older, but it’s actually the last great stone cathedral to be built in Europe. It’s worth visiting to admire the artwork underneath the dome, consisting of angels and stars set against an emerald green background.

Another thing that’s great about Galway is that if it’s a sunny day, and you don’t feel tramping around the streets or standing indoors, you can easily just head out to the area of Salthill. This is just 20 minutes’ walk from Eyre Square, past the west end and has some beautiful beaches, as well as a diving platform where you take the plunge into the not-so-tropical water of Galway Bay.

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backpacking ireland, belfast city centre street

Belfast 📸 : @kaelihearn

The island’s other capital city, Belfast, is very different to Dublin. It’s a much younger city and is perhaps less “classically beautiful”. However, it’s emerged from its turbulent past to become a great destination and has somewhat of an alternative feel in places. It’s also cheaper for going out than in a lot of cities in the Republic, with a great bar and restaurant scene.

In terms of sights, you’ll be spoilt for choice. A lot of hostels are located around the university, which is made up of beautiful redbrick buildings. Just around the corner, you’ll be able to see the Botanical Gardens, with its ornate Victorian greenhouse, as well as the Ulster Museum. Alternatively, you can visit the exhibitions at the City Hall, and take a tour of this spectacular building, which is full of marble floors and columns, stained glass windows and chandeliers. Best of all, every one of these attractions are completely free!

One of Belfast’s biggest draws in recent years has been the Titanic Museum, a huge shining metal structure, as high as the ship itself, where you can find interactive exhibitions and even a ride guiding you through the history of the shipyards. It may seem quite pricey, but the ticket also includes entrance to the Nomadic, a boat that brought passengers to the Titanic at Cherbourg, France.

If you want to go out somewhere that’s cheap and student friendly, the area around the University and the Dublin Road is a good bet. However, for something slightly more upmarket, the Cathedral Quarter is the place to go. Here you can find “the Harp Bar”, which is all red velvet seats and fancy decorations, or the Dirty Onion, which has an outdoor terrace in a ruined building. There are also cultural venues, such as the MAC and Black Box, which host art exhibitions, theatrical performances and films. Still, if you’d prefer something a little more alternative, it’s just a short walk to the Sunflower Bar, which hosts musical events ranging from ukulele sessions to bluegrass music, and attracts a young, progressive, activist crowd.

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backpacking ireland, view of londonderry from across the river

Derry  📸: @kmitchhodge

Northern Ireland ’s second city is definitely worth a stop, not least because it’s the only fully-intact walled city in all of Ireland. You can still walk round the top of the walls, free of charge, look down over the rest of the city. Within the walls themselves, you’ll find the “Tower Museum”, which takes you through the city’s eventful history, from prehistoric times to the sectarian violence that plagued the city from the 1960s to the 1990s. It’s not all dark and depressing though: you’ll also hear about the city’s cultural heritage, including the band “The Undertones”, who penned the song “Teenage Kicks”.

The history of the Derry (called ‘Londonderry’ in the UK), is very contested, all the way down to the city’s name. It should come as no surprise then, that it has witnessed key events for people on both sides of the Unionist/Nationalist divide. The city saw historic civil rights marches in the 1960s and early 1970s. The predominantly nationalist “Bogside” also witnessed clashes between police and the local residents, as well as the incident known as “Bloody Sunday”.

It’s in the Bogside that you’ll find the Free Derry Museum (which shares its name with a famous mural), a place that recounts the story of this conflict. On the other side there is the Siege Museum, which focuses on 17 th century siege during which the Protestants of Derry held out against an army led by the Catholic King James.

However, there’s more to the city than the dark days of its past, with plenty of cheery, and good value bars and restaurants. One such place is Sandino’s, which is full of posters and memorabilia supporting various progressive causes, and often hosts great live music events. You can also pose with one of the city’s newest murals, a painting of the stars of Derry Girls, a hit comedy series set in the city!

backpacking ireland, Killary Fjord

Unfortunately, in Ireland, the public transport network isn’t as extensive or developed as in other western European countries. However, both buses and trains are relatively affordable, making backpacking on a budget in Ireland easy. There are easy links between a lot of the major towns and cities. But when it comes to more rural spots, provision can be a bit lacking.

Trains in Ireland are modern, comfortable and usually punctual, with good links on the east coast and to Galway. The prices here are reasonable too: an advance ticket between Dublin and Kilkenny can cost as little as €14, with extra discounts available for students. But there’s no direct line from Waterford to Cork, which makes a round trip by train difficult. Travelling by train also needs planning, as they often don’t run as regularly as buses or coaches.

In the west of Ireland, train links are much less developed, and although it’s easy to reach Galway, heading north through the scenic counties of Sligo and Mayo requires a lot of changeovers. It’s even harder to navigate the scenic and isolated county of Donegal, where there are no train connections at all. Indeed, in the past, many rural train stations were shut down in favour of a (short-sighted) transport policy favouring cars. On the other hand, some of these former lines, such as the “Waterford Greenway”, have been repurposed as cycle and walking paths – allowing you to explore the countryside away from the roads. Trains in Northern Ireland are pretty lacking too, and many places in the southwest, such as the beautiful Lakeland county of Fermanagh, have no railway lines at all. Luckily for tourists, in addition to the line from Belfast to Dublin, there’s one that stretches north, linking Belfast to towns on the scenic Causeway coast, such as Portrush and Castlerock. This same line then heads west alongside the sea and finishes in the city of Derry, with the last stretch of the journey overlooking the sea.

One of the easiest ways to get to places is travelling around Ireland by bus. A lot of the services, especially those between more major towns and cities, are comfortable and modern, and have lots of luggage space, as well as occasional internet access. These usually run more regularly than trains and are often just as quick. They also have routes between cities where trains do not, and if you’re travelling up the west coast without a car, buses are a lifesaver. They can reach beautiful rural areas and isolated counties such as Donegal where trains do not. In addition, local bus services will allow you travel to tourist attractions just outside cities. From Dublin, you can catch a bus to Enniskerry and explore the Wicklow Mountains, from Cork, you can head out to the colourful little fishing village of Kinsale.

There are a lot of isolated sights in Ireland that can’t easily be reached by bus or train, and require you to take an organised tour. Some of these go directly from the hostels, and are pretty good value. Another alternative is travelling around Ireland by car for the ultimate Ireland road trip! This will allow you to see ruined churches, abbeys and abandoned stone cottages, as well as letting you stop to get out and appreciate the landscape: something you’ll want to do every five minutes or so! Just be aware that the roads in some rural areas are full of cracks, are narrow, and sometimes even have sheep wandering across them.

backpacking ireland, people sitting in the common area at Gardiner House Hostel in Dublin

Gardiner House Hostel, Dublin

Ireland is a popular place for backpackers, meaning that there’s a wide range of hostels and budget accommodation. Hostels in cities such as Dublin and Galway tend to be bigger, with more going on, but can be quite busy. In the countryside, or smaller towns, such as Kilkenny , you can find cute little places with just a handful of rooms, where it’s easy to get to know other guests!

Hostels in Dublin and Galway are significantly more expensive than other places, with prices soaring on the weekends. However, nightly rates in Dublin can more than double to over €50, the price of a weekend room in Galway is more reasonable at around €30. Strangely, the same is not true of Cork, where prices remain pretty steady.

Where you stay in Dublin depends a lot on what you want to do. Gardiner House Hostel is about 20 minutes’ walk from the city centre, allowing you to avoid the noisiness of the city centre. Another great spot, Abigail’s Hostel , is right in the middle of Temple Bar, hosting nightly pub crawls and surrounded by lively pubs, bars and clubs. There are also a couple of places that are a little closer to the city, but in the quieter areas, such as the Four Courts Hostel . All these places have facilities including storage lockers and fully-equipped kitchens, as well as providing a free breakfast and wifi.

There’s also plenty of choice when it comes to hostels in Galway, with almost all of them being rated above an 8 on the Hostelworld website. Sleepzone is good if you want somewhere central at a reasonable price: it’s five minutes from Kinlay Square Centre, most of the dorms are ensuites and there’s a fantastic kitchen, TV room and outdoor terrace. Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel , which is just around the corner, is another good choice. But if you want something a little quieter and still within walking distance of the city, you can stay at Nest Boutique Hostel , located right beside the beaches of Salthill.

Hostels in Cork are pretty few and far between, with the choice essentially coming down to Kinlay House Cork and Bru Bar & Hostel. Both are located at the northern end of the city centre, close to sights such as the Shandon Bells and the Butter Museum. Both also offer free Wifi and free breakfast. Bru Bar & Hostel , as you might guess from the name, it has its own bar with discounts available for guests! But if you want to relax, go for Kinlay House , you can get access to the pool and gym next door (which includes a jacuzzi and steam room) for €5.

Some of the best hostels we stayed in on our trip were in rural areas, where you can find small, cosy places that feel more like guesthouses. One of those places is Tom’s Cottage , an eco-friendly hostel that’s a 15-minute drive from Waterford. Apart from a couple of houses across the road, there’s nothing but green fields all around, making it the perfect place to relax and recharge. Tom, who runs the hostel, is an incredibly friendly guy, often even inviting guests to hear him play in an Irish trad music band at the local pub.

backpacking ireland, people playing table football in Global Village hostel, Belfast

Global Village, Belfast

When it comes to city hostels, Belfast is really good value. Global Village , Vagabonds and Botanical Backpackers are all rated at 9 or above on Hostelworld. They’re also located in the youthful Queen’s Quarter, nearby Queen’s University Belfast. You can get a bed from about £14 and all of them offer free breakfast, WiFi and a common room to relax and hang out in.

There are also plenty of hostels in the towns and villages in the north coast. Bushmills Youth Hostel is perfectly situated, just 5 minutes’ walk from the Old Bushmills Distillery and a short bus ride from the Giant’s Causeway. The village itself also has plenty of pubs, restaurants and cafés. If you don’t mind being a little more isolated, the Sheep Island View hostel in the village of Ballintoy is a good shout. Its picturesque location overlooks the sea and cliffs, and is only a short walk from a cute little harbour and beach. Outside Belfast and the north coast, there aren’t so many options when it comes to hostels in Northern Ireland . While there’s not many dorms in Derry, Hostel Connect is great value and fantastically located, with beds for as little as £17.30 (€19.26).

Compare all hostels in Ireland

Ireland Backpacking Itinerary

backpacking ireland, road through the mountains in connemara national park

Connemara National Park 📸: @benorloff  

There are endless things to see and explore in Ireland, and you could spend years without having discovered all that it has to offer. However, this being the real world, most people don’t have that much time or money. So, to help you, we’ve put together a few rough travel itineraries. Given how different every backpacker is, we’ve tried to make this relatively flexible. Just bear in mind that it’s not exhaustive and you may want to skip certain places or choose to discover somewhere else entirely.

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Itinerary 1:

Day 1: Dublin

This is where you’ll most likely be arriving into, whether by boat or by plane. Depending on the amount of time you have, you can explore some of the free museums, or Phoenix Park (which doesn’t close, meaning you can go and visit later in the evening to save some time).

Day 2: Kilkenny

The journey here from Dublin is less than two hours by bus or train. This means you’ll have time to explore the medieval sights of the city, whether it’s the castle, cathedral or abbey! If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can always pop into the brewery.

Day 3: Waterford

Again, this Viking city is a short hop by bus or train from Kilkenny. You can either wander around and take in these sights for yourself, take a city tour, or visit one of the city’s museums. If you’re more of a sporty type, you can head out along the Waterford Greenway cycle route!

Day 4: Cork

The easiest way to get here from Waterford is by bus, as the train takes a long and complicated route. Once you’re here, you can head out on a local bus to Blarney to explore the castle and gardens. Or you can choose to stay in the city and ring the bells of Shandon at St. Anne’s Church, as well as visiting the Butter Museum, university campus and English Market.

Day 5: Galway

The bus journey from Cork to Galway takes a little longer, at around two and a half hours. But this will still allow you to explore some of the main sights, such as the Cathedral and Spanish Arch, as well as enjoying the local nightlife.

Day 6: Galway day trip

Galway is a good base for exploring some of the most scenic areas in Ireland. From here, you can take a day trip out to Connemara National Park, or to the Aran Islands. Those of you who have a car can always spend a night in Connemara if you want!

Day 7: Dublin

From Galway you can take a bus or train straight back to Dublin. Spend your afternoon exploring more of the free museums and galleries, wandering around the city centre parks, or heading out to Kilmainham Gaol.

If you’ve got a car, and enjoy the outdoors, you can easily do a day trip out to the Wicklow Mountains instead of spending a second day in Dublin (or skip a destination and go to Killarney national park instead). If you’d rather explore the big city more, you can even catch the bus or train from Cork straight back to Dublin. It’s all up to you!

Even though it’s a small island, for an Ireland itinerary, 14 days isn’t that long. Given that lack of public transport in some places makes things complicated, the guide below sets out separate routes for travelling with and without a car, giving you some alternatives if you want to alter your journey a bit.

Itinerary 2:

By public transport

(See section above)

Day 3:   Waterford

Day 5: Killarney

Take a day trip out through the National Park by bus, a boat trip around the lakes, or visit Ross Castle, which is just a short walk away!

Day 6: Killarney

Take a trip out to see the gorgeous Dingle peninsula, and maybe even go whale watching.

Day 7: Cork

Use your second day in Cork to explore some of the sights of the city, or head out to Blarney, whichever you missed the first-time round!

Day 8: Galway

Day 9: Galway day trip

Day 10: Dublin

(see section above)

Option 1: you can take the bus to Letterkenny, in County Donegal, basing yourself there for two or three nights. You can then take day trips out to places such as Errigal, Slieve League or the Inishowen Peninsula, before heading back to Dublin for another night before you get your flight.

Option 2: you can get the train or bus up to Belfast, stay there a night or two, then head up to the north coast for a night. After this you can head back to Belfast and then to Dublin (if you’re flying home from there).

Option 3: if you don’t want to go that far, you can simply go hiking in the Wicklow mountains, and take some extra time to explore Dublin’s many sights.

Day 1: Kilkenny

Head straight from the airport to this beautiful medieval town.

Day 2: Waterford

(See above)

Day 3: Cork

Use the drive from Cork to see some of the breathtaking Copper Coast, and maybe visit some scenic villages along the way.

Check in and then head off to explore the beautiful Dingle peninsula, stopping off at the beach if it’s a sunny day.

Take a trip around the Ring of Kerry road to see some stunning landscapes, or park up somewhere in the national park to do a hike. It’s also worth making a slight diversion to see the Gap of Dunloe.

Day 7: Galway

Head to Galway, perhaps stopping off at the famous “Cliffs of Moher” along the way. Use the rest of the day to explore the town and its sights!

You can use this day to see the Aran Islands, either driving or taking the bus to the ferry terminal.

Day 9: Connemara

Head out to Connemara and explore the unique mountains. You can take the Connemara Loop route (see below), go hiking, or even do some water sports on Killary Fjord.

Days 10-12:

Option 1: take the car up the West Coast, along the Wild Atlantic Way (see below) to Donegal. There you can visit the cliffs of Slieve League and nearby beaches, then head on up to the Derryveagh Mountains and Glenveagh National Park. You can spend the third day exploring more of Donegal or visit Derry, just over the border.

Option 2: take the car up to Belfast and then spend a couple of days exploring the north coast or go to Derry.

Option 3: head to the Wicklow mountains, and spend a couple of days hiking and exploring, before heading back to Dublin. You can even go back to the city a day earlier, if you want more of a chance to see all its sights properly.

Once you get back to Dublin, you can return your rental car and spend the next couple of days exploring the city.

Day 13: Dublin

Day 14: Dublin

Given its small size, it’s pretty easy to put together a Northern Ireland itinerary. However, if you’d like to visit the west of Northern Ireland as well, transport can be a bit of an issue. To help with this, I’ve put together one itinerary for those with a car, and one for those without a car.

Itinerary 3:

Without a car

Day 1: Belfast

Here you can spend the day exploring the free attractions around the University, including the museum and botanical gardens. Afterwards, why not go out to explore some of the pubs and coffee shops around the Cathedral Quarter? Here, you can find out what exhibitions and events are going on at the MAC or Black Box.

Day 2: north coast

In the morning, take the train to Coleraine. Then, take the train to Portrush, where you can go to the beach, go surfing, or just enjoy an ice cream by the sea. Alternatively, you can head to Bushmills, from where you can take the bus or walk to the Giant’s Causeway, and take a tour of the whiskey distillery.

Day 3: north coast

You can take the bus from either Portrush or Bushmills to Ballycastle, from where you can head off to see the wildlife of Rathlin Island. Another option is to go to Ballintoy harbour, which (as mentioned above) was a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Day 4: Derry

Take the bus from Bushmills or train from Portrush to Coleraine. From there, you can take the train to Derry. You can explore the city walls, cathedral, Guildhall and museums, and have a night out if you’re feeling like it.

Day 5: Belfast

On returning to Belfast you can visit the Titanic Experience museum, as well as taking a tour of the City Hall.

Day 6: head home or take a day trip to the Mournes.

From there, you can head home, or if you want to explore a bit more, take the bus down to Newcastle. You can even walk from the town to the peak of Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland’s highest mountain.

Day 1: north coast

Drive from the airport in Belfast up to a hostel in Bushmills or Portrush. On the way you can visit various scenic spots, some of which have been in the TV series “Game of Thrones”, such as the Dark Hedges and Ballintoy harbour. Later on, you can visit the Giant’s Causeway, and then, if you’re staying in Bushmills, make a stop at the legendary distillery. You can also take the beautifully scenic Antrim coast road (see below) – a scenic, but indirect route.

On your second day, you can visit the seaside town of Portrush, and go for a surfing lesson, or just enjoy a day by the sea. You can also get the ferry from Ballycastle to go and enjoy the wildlife there.

Day 3: Derry

Option 1: head back to Belfast for a couple of days, and see some of the things you missed.

Option 2: go and explore Donegal, just over the border before heading back.

Option 3: continue your Northern Ireland journey, by going to see the beautiful Lakelands of County Fermanagh. From there, you can head back east to Newcastle and the Mournes (see section above), before returning to Belfast.

When you take a car around Ireland, it’s not just a mode of transport. For many people, doing an Ireland road trip is a long-held dream. There are plenty of amazing roads through the breathtaking countryside, so we’ve included a short selection of some great routes that you can include in your itinerary:

Causeway Coastal Route – County Antrim and Derry

This route stretches all the way from Belfast, heading past castles, green forested valleys, little beaches and harbours, as well as Game of Thrones sights. The most scenic part of it is probably “the Antrim Coast Road” which was built in the 19 th century. It runs along a small stretch of ground beneath the foot of the cliffs and the sea, making it a beautiful drive.

Wild Atlantic Way

This 2,500 km signposted route covers the entire length of Ireland’s west coast, from just outside Derry all the way to Kinsale, outside Cork. The website Wild Atlantic Way lets you customise your journey, so you don’t have to tackle the whole thing in one trip:

Ring of Kerry

This road takes you right around Killarney National Park, taking in some of its most remarkable and beautiful sights, such as Moll’s Gap and Torc waterfall. Conveniently, it starts and finishes in the town of Killarney, where there are plenty of hostels.

Connemara Loop

Like the Ring of Kerry, this signposted circuit takes you around the beautiful mountains, lakes and fjords of the Connemara National Park.

(Bonus non-car route) Waterford Greenway

You don’t need to have a car to explore the Irish countryside at your leisure, and the Waterford Greenway is a great example of this. Built along a disused railway line, it cuts through beautiful landscapes on its way from Waterford city to the harbour town of Dungarvan.

backpacking ireland, man standing on mountain in connemara national park

When you’re backpacking around Ireland, you’ll notice that prices can vary widely from place to place. Restaurants, groceries and accommodation in bigger cities tend to cost a lot more than rural areas. Northern Ireland is also generally cheaper, especially when it comes to alcohol. So, if you’re going through Northern Ireland on your way to the Republic, and enjoy the occasional drink, it’s best to stock up on alcohol there and take it with you.

One saving grace is that the costs of travel are quite cheap – both with intercity buses and trains. However, if you’re travelling long distances by rail, it’s worth booking in advance to get a good deal. Also, there are plenty of free attractions. The countryside is full of gorgeous hiking routes, abandoned buildings, and castles and monasteries that are free to explore. In the cities, you can find green parks full of flowers, as well as museums, botanical gardens and scenic university campuses, many of which charge no entrance fee.

When it comes to food, it’s obviously best to stay out of the touristy areas. If you want something cheap, but don’t want to cook, there are supermarkets such as Dunnes and small shops such as Centra, where you can find salad bars full of rice, pasta and veggies, as well as fast food such as pizzas, cooked breakfasts and potato wedges!

Remembering the currency Ireland uses is pretty simple if you remember one thing: the Republic of Ireland uses the Euro, and because Northern Ireland is part of the UK, it uses British Pounds. Even though Northern Irish notes look different, you will still be able to spend English or Scottish notes there without any problems.

Budget for backpacking Ireland

backpacking ireland, view of hills and lake in the irish countryside

When you’re backpacking around Ireland, travel costs per day can be difficult to estimate, depending on where you’re going, what and where you’re eating and where you’re staying. So, I’ve set out a rough guide to potential prices for each activity, at the lower and higher price ends:

Dublin has a reputation for being expensive, and once you get there, you’ll realise it’s not entirely undeserved. However, since it’s the capital, there are plenty of free attractions, which I’ve listed in the section “where to go in Ireland”, above. To help you out some more, I’ve set out some other tips for visiting Dublin on a budget below:

  • Taxis in Dublin are extortionate – and can be about €18 for a 10-15 minute journey. It’s better to either walk or take advantage of the city’s many buses and trams. Another big cost is accommodation.
  • Obviously, hostels are a great place to stay and meet other like-minded people, as well as for saving money, but prices skyrocket on Fridays and Saturdays, so it’s best to go during the week.
  • Food and drink are obviously expensive in Dublin, especially in areas such as Temple Bar- meaning it’s often better to cook in or grab something ready-made from a supermarket.
  • If you want to eat out, remember, the further you go out from the city centre, the less likely you’re going to get stung with high prices. If money’s a little tight, it’s perhaps best to enjoy one nice meal out, rather than going to a string of mediocre places and spending more money overall.

backpacking ireland, two red benches outside Duke of York Pub, Belfast

Duke of York Pub, Belfast 📸 : @kmitchhodge

Traditional Irish food is rich and hearty, perfect for a grey, rainy day. One great thing about food in Ireland is the quality produce: fish from the nearby sea, fresh local fruit and vegetables, cheese from local creameries and freshly baked sweet treats. The best places to look out for fresh local produce are at the markets. Both Belfast (St. George’s Market) and Cork (the English Market) have centuries-old marketplaces serving up fresh fish, fruit and veg and cooked food, alongside arts and crafts.

One of the great delights of Irish cuisine is the bread, specifically soda bread and wheaten (or brown soda, depending on where you’re from). White soda is soft, fluffy and dense, and in the North is often served fried as part of a cooked breakfast. This makes it beautifully crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside: an unhealthy, but vegetarian-friendly treat. There’s also brown soda, or wheaten, which is rich, crumbly and best served with a steaming hot bowl of vegetable soup.

It may be a stereotype – but traditionally, the Irish do eat a lot of potatoes. Many people, especially the older generation, are connoisseurs, knowing all the different varieties. There’s no better way to enjoy these beautiful carbs than in champ: a dish consisting of crunchy spring onions mixed into potatoes with rich butter and milk to make smooth, creamy side. Alternatively, there’s Colcannon, in which flavoursome curly green cabbage is mixed in instead.

When it comes to pub food, the Irish do it really well. Some meals are similar to what you can get in Britain, but with a bit of a twist. The classic example of this is the steak and Guinness pie, ideally with a crumbly buttery crust, the beer adding to the rich, meaty flavour. If this sounds appealing, head to The Pie Maker in Galway, where you can also find chicken and vegetarian pies baked with a delicious spelt-flour crust. If that’s not your thing, try a warming lamb stew, or the most simple Irish dish of all, bacon, potatoes and cabbage.

For Irish snacks, the best place to go is the bakery. Here you’ll find beautiful, soft scones in a variety of flavours, as well as huge array of traybakes. One such delight is Fifteens, which you’ll only be able to find in Northern Ireland. These are delicious, squidgy treats made from 15 cherries, 15 marshmallows, 15 biscuits mixed up with sweetened condensed milk.

Ireland also has soft drinks and crisps you won’t find anywhere else. People are fanatical about Tayto crisps, but there’s a big rivalry here, as the brands are different in the North and South. We’ll leave it up to you to decide which you prefer!

On St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll probably find the usual treats, such as candy floss and chips, being sold around the streets. However, there are no real St. Patrick’s Day food traditions: green beer and milkshakes are both American inventions. If you really want to go traditional, it’s probably best to go with a hearty stew or lamb roast. Up North though, at traditional fairs, there are some odd food traditions. Go to the Auld Lammas Fair in Ballycastle and you’ll find people snacking on “dulse”, a type of edible seaweed, and “yellow man” – a type of honeycomb that’s liable to break your teeth if you’re not careful!

Ireland is pretty renowned for its beer, and Guinness beer is one of its main exports. You can even do a tour of their brewery in Dublin! The pub culture is also very prominent particularly in cities like Dublin and Galway.

Until relatively recently, Ireland was a very rural country and one of the poorest in Europe. It has had a long and turbulent history, characterised by war, colonisation, famine, violent revolution and sectarian tension. However, it also has a long tradition of scholarship, poetry and music. Although it’s now a thoroughly modern country, Ireland’s culture has been shaped by its history. One thing that can’t be denied however, is the warmth and hospitality of its people, perhaps owing itself to the that fact that, in the past tight-knit communities had to rely on each other to get through hardship. Below, I’ll set out some Irish culture facts to help you get by, and hopefully give you a deeper appreciation for the things you’ll come across.

There are some isolated parts of Ireland, particularly in the west, where you can still see traces of the old, slow rural way of life. Many parts of the County Donegal, for example, still feel very cut off from the rest of the world.  Here you can find Doagh Famine Village and Glencolumbkille Folk Village: which both allow you to see the type of two-room white cottages where whole families used to live, scraping a meagre living off the barren land. You can also witness rural life first hand, by visiting the working farms at Muckross House in County Kerry, which still use age-old agricultural techniques. If you’re a dog lover, and want to get a taste of life in the Irish countryside, why not go to see some sheepdog demonstrations at “Away to Me”, which is part of a working farm in southern Donegal?

It is also mostly in the western counties that you’ll find Gaeltachta, areas in which the Irish language is spoken in an everyday context. These include the Aran Islands and Connemara in Galway, as large areas of Donegal and Kerry. Irish shouldn’t be confused with the local dialect of English however, since it’s from a completely different language family. The first time you’ll encounter it will probably be on road signs, all of which are bilingual. In places like Dublin, you’re unlikely to hear it, but go into a pub in certain rural areas in the west, and you’ll hear locals switching seamlessly between English and Irish. But don’t worry, even in Gaeltacht areas, almost everyone speaks English at a native level too. Still, there are summer Irish language courses available in Gaeltacht areas if you’re interested in learning more.

Traditional music is a big part of Irish culture, and typically involves instruments such as the fiddle (violin), tin whistle, flute, banjo, guitar and uillean pipes (a type of Irish bagpipes). The style includes songs that tell tales of lost loves, historical events, misfortune and celebration, coming from a time when stories were passed down through word of mouth. There’s also more instrumental music, which is often played at lively traditional dances called céilis. The music also can be performed in a more casual, informal environment. A group of musicians often gather round a pub table, sipping beer and playing songs together, something that’s known as a session (séisun). This creates a warm and friendly atmosphere, with people in the bar chatting to each other rather than sitting in silence.

backpacking ireland, people listening to live music in an irish pub

Northern Irish culture is similar to the rest of Ireland, and you’ll find traditional music, quaint rural villages and friendly, hospitable people there too. However, the tension surrounding historical events feels much closer. From the late 60s to mid-90s there was conflict arising from tensions between those who identified as Irish and support a united Ireland, and those who identified as British. Today, these tensions have greatly lessened, with both sides, especially young people, freely mixing with one another. In reality, they share most aspects of their culture, yet close links with southwest Scotland have left their mark here. You may hear this in the way people speak, and encounter Scots-language poetry, bagpipe performances and highland dancing.

Another aspect of life in Ireland is Irish Traveller culture. They are a recognised ethnic minority group, making up around 0.5% of the Irish population. They mainly speak English, but also use “Shelta” or “Cant”, a language formed using aspects of both English and Irish. They are traditionally nomadic, setting up camp in “stopping places”. The Travelling Community played a key role in the Irish economy, providing seasonal labour in planting or harvesting crops, as well as trading in certain wares.

Ireland visa

Not only is the Republic of Ireland a member state of the EU, it’s also part of the so-called “common travel area”. This means that British citizens technically don’t need visas or passports to cross the border. However, airport officials will check the ID of visitors travelling by air from the UK . Travelling from the UK by sea doesn’t require any ID, but it’s still best to bring either your passport or driving licence in case you need to prove your nationality at some point.

Northern Ireland is even easier to visit when travelling from the UK, as you won’t have to go through any sort of passport control, with most airlines accepting UK driving licences as a form of ID (to be safe, check your airline’s website before travelling). If you’re a non-UK citizen, it’s best to bring either your passport or national identity card. Crossing the border between Northern Ireland into the Republic of Ireland is even easier, as there are no controls or checkpoints, meaning you won’t need any documents to do so.

Although both the UK (including Northern Ireland) and Republic of Ireland are currently Member States of the EU, they are not part of the “Schengen Zone”, which abolishes internal border controls. This means that you will be subject to passport control when travelling from another EU country. However, if you are an EU citizen, this will only consist of a quick glance at your ID, after which you’ll be waved through. You’ll then have the same rights to travel/stay as in any other Member State, allowing you stay for three months with no further conditions. If you want to stay for longer, you may need to get a job, apply to study, or prove you have sufficient means to support yourself, including health insurance.

Please bear in mind however that the rights and visa requirements applicable to EU citizens travelling to Northern Ireland, as well as the requirements for crossing the Irish/UK border, may change after the Brexit deadline on 31 October 2019.

Visitors to Ireland from outside the UK and EU may not need a visa either. For Australian, Canadian, US and New Zealand citizens, as well as nationals of the other countries listed here who are visiting Ireland, visa requirements are practically non-existent. Citizens of these countries are entitled to visa-free entry for up to 90 days in the Republic of Ireland.

In general, the visa requirements in Northern Ireland are the same as the rest of the UK. Visitors from certain countries, including Australia, New Zealand, the USA or Canada who are flying to Northern Ireland (or elsewhere in the UK) can enter the country and stay for up to 6 months without a visa.  However, they must bring the same documents as you would if applying for a visa. If you are travelling for tourism, this simply constitutes a travel document (i.e. a passport). If the travel document is not in English or Welsh, this must be translated into English. For any further document requirements that may need, please check this page . Also bear in mind however, that if you are already visiting the Republic of Ireland, you can visit Northern Ireland by crossing the border on land without having to go through any checks.

If you want to stay in the Republic of Ireland for a little longer, but are not an EU or UK citizen, there’s a chance you could apply for a working holiday scheme. These schemes are based on two-way agreements between Ireland and other countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA. There are specific requirements for each, and you can find the details under the following links:

New Zealand

There are similar schemes in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK for citizens of Australia, Canada and New Zealand (see more details here), but there is no UK working holiday scheme for US citizens.

So, to sum up, Ireland’s a great destination, with small, but lively cities, in addition to beautiful landscapes. There are plenty of places to go hiking, cycling, and when the weather’s nice, there aren’t many places with nicer beaches. It’s somewhere you can find complete isolation and serenity, or enjoy the atmosphere of a busy pub. It may not the warmest place in the world, but with all this to offer, don’t miss out on what is surely one of Europe’s most scenic, interesting and friendly destinations.

About the Author:

I’m David Irvine, and I’m originally from Northern Ireland. I’ve got a passion for languages, other cultures, and learning about local history. I’m currently based in Glasgow, Scotland, have previously lived and worked in Germany and in Portugal, and love nothing more than showing people around my favourite places, wherever I am. I’m a translator (of German, French and Portuguese), and love adapting travel writing for speakers of different languages. I’m also an occasional scribbler, passionate (geeky) fan of jazz music and amateur dramatics enthusiast. You can follow my travels (along with my partner, Iara) at @iaraanddavid_travel and find out more about my translating/blogging work on my  LinkedIn profile .

Special thanks goes out to my girlfriend, Iara Calton, for helping me research my trip, taking beautiful pictures and putting up with my scatter-brained nature. Thanks too to Allie Mairs and Philip Tallon for their company on the second leg of the journey, especially to Phil, for driving us around for miles!

Keep Reading

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THE 10 BEST Ireland Hiking & Camping Tours

Hiking & camping tours in ireland.

  • Golf Courses
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  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Howth Summit
  • Cliff Path Loop
  • Howth Adventures
  • St Mary's Abbey
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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1. Dublin Coastal Hidden Gem Trek and Drink with Local Guide and Dog

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2. Cliffs Of Moher Hiking Tour from Doolin - Small Group

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3. Dublin Coastal Hike with Howth Adventures

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4. Courtown Woodland Guided Tour

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5. Dublin Hiking Tour with Howth Adventures

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6. Guided Climb of Carrauntoohil with KerryClimbing.ie

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7. Toe Head Clifftop Hike in West Cork

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8. Dublin Epic Pub Crawl: Experience Dublin's pubs and nightlife

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9. Trek the Tombs and Trails in the Dublin Mountains

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10. Sneem Waterfall and Eagles Lake Guided Walk

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11. 2-Day Private Tour in Killarney

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12. Torc mountain & waterfall hike. Killarney. Private guided group. 3½ hours.

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13. 12 Walks for Christmas Activity

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Home » Europe » Best Ireland Holidays for 2024: The Best Tour Packages and Day Tours

Best Ireland Holidays for 2024: The Best Tour Packages and Day Tours

Ireland is a melting pot of heart-pounding natural sights and charming cities humming with culture. What’s more, the hospitality of the Irish is almost as legendary as the country’s Celtic mythology. The best trips to Ireland give you the chance to experience the works.

Planning to travel to Ireland for your next adventure? Great, then the next question is exactly how to get around the Emerald Isle? Although Ireland is easy to get around independently, it’s also one of those places that’s a heck of a lot of fun to explore as a group. An organised Ireland vacation also means you get insider info from your guide on the best places to eat and where to grab a lovely pint of stout. Besides, at the end of the day, it just saves you so much hassle of planning everything yourself. Sometimes, a budget Ireland tour can work out cheaper in the long run as well.

That’s why we’ve put together a guide to the best trips to Ireland that take you around all the highlights. Our friends at GAdventures and Intrepid have three tours that are suited to adventurous wanderers. If you don’t fancy a multi-day group tour, then scroll down to the best Ireland day tours instead.

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Best Tours to Ireland

  • Overall Best Ireland Trip – Highlights of Ireland – Plus 

Best Ireland Trip for Solo Travellers – Northern & Southern Ireland

Best ireland trip for couples – iconic ireland, best day tours from dublin, best day tours from galway, quick guide to visiting ireland, final thoughts on the best trips to ireland .

As much as we love Dublin , it would be a crime to book a vacation in Ireland and not explore the rest of the country. The best trips to Ireland factor in time to hang out in the energetic capital, plus a wander on the wilder western coast. 

One of the best things about travelling in Ireland is that distances aren’t as immense as in larger countries, say Australia, Thailand and the US. The longest drives you’re looking at in the itineraries we’ve sourced are the 4-hour drives between Dublin and Killarney, Galway and Derry.

Essentially, what you’re looking for is a tour that takes you to the hotspots and works with your budget. And now, let’s take a look at the best Ireland tours.

backpacking tours ireland

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Overall Best Ireland Trip – Highlights of Ireland – Plus  

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  • Price: From $1,900 USD (usually $2,240 USD)
  • Group Size: Max 12
  • Fitness Required: Average
  • Accommodation: Hotels/guesthouses. Solo travellers have the option to book a private room.
  • Meals: 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch
  • Service Level: Standard (comfortable but not luxury)

This 9-day adventure packs in all of Ireland’s finest natural landmarks. It even adds a few extra days to explore neighbouring Northern Ireland. If you’re not already aware, Northern Ireland is a part of the UK -along with Scotland, Wales and England. Ireland, or more formally – the Republic of Ireland, is an independent country. From a travelling perspective, the main thing you need to know is that you’ll need to budget with Euros for Ireland and sterling for Northern Ireland and will need a separate visa to enter the UK.

But now, back to the Highlands of Ireland trip. What we love about this one is that it allows a decent chunk of time for exploring cities on your own. This is great if you’re feeling daunted at the thought of spending all your time parading around as part of an organised tour. Important tour inclusions to note include entry to Giant’s Causeway and a tour of the Old Bushmills Distillery – the oldest in Ireland. This itinerary offers a great balance of city culture and outdoor exploration, plus some gentle hiking suitable for all abilities. 

The Highlights of Ireland – Plus tour is also the cheapest option that we’ve found for seeing the best of Ireland, particularly with the number of admission tickets the tour includes. 

The Dublin Mountains

Who is this tour best for?

25-40-year-olds, solo travellers, couples. Those who want to mix up guided activities with free time. Anyone who wishes to experience both rural and urban Ireland. 

  • Only breakfasts and one lunch are included, so you’ll need to budget for all other meals (and booze).
  • You’ll visit major tourist destinations and cities rather than ‘off the beaten track’ spots.

Northern and Southern Ireland Holidays

  • Days: 8 days
  • Price: From $2,360 USD
  • Accommodation: Hostels and hotels. Twin-share rooms. Solo travellers have the option to book a private room.
  • Meals: 7 breakfasts

This trip by Intrepid is similar to GAdventures’ above itinerary, but your start and finish cities are reversed. We recommend checking out which option gives you the best deal on your flights and going from there. 

Again, you get the chance to see the best of both sides of the border. From the towering basalt columns that form the Giant’s Causeway to the windswept Aran Islands, the scenery on this tour will make your heart sing. Pubs take priority on this itinerary, so expect to spend many an evening nursing a Guinness while tapping your feet along to traditional Irish music. Due to how sociable this tour is, we recommend it to solo backpackers who want to share the experience with some new travel buddies. 

Note that while the tour begins in Belfast and ends in Dublin, little time is reserved to explore the two cities. You might want to book in a few extra days at either end of the tour dates.

Northern and Southern Ireland Tours

Solo travellers, photographers, couples. Anyone who wants to experience rural and urban Ireland as well as squeeze in a visit Northern Ireland. 

  • Again, you’ll need to budget for your meals besides breakfast.
  • The tour covers a lot of ground at a fast pace, so at times you may feel rushed.

Iconic Ireland Holidays

  • Price: From $2,890 USD
  • Group Size: Max 16
  • Accommodation: Hotels/guesthouses. Option to book a private room (solo travellers).
  • Meals: 8 breakfasts, 1 dinner
  • Service level: Upgraded/standard (quality accommodation but not luxury)

Unlike the first two trips to Ireland, the Iconic Ireland tour by GAdventures stays exclusively within the Republic of Ireland. Spread over 9 days, this one has slightly less travelling and is a good option if you prefer to travel slow.

The sights you will see are in keeping with the first two itineraries, with the addition of Cork. This bonnie city is a lovely blend of romantic waterfront views, snug pubs, and artisan coffee shops. You’ll explore ancient castles, seaside villages, and historic churches as you connect with Ireland’s fascinating culture. 

Another highlight of this trip is the chance to take a cruise along the Cliffs of Moher. This is a great opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers to get some memorable shots. Some further special touches on this tour include a dinner accompanied by storytelling and a whiskey and chocolate tasting.

The perfect recipe for romance and the best Ireland tour package for couples who aren’t afraid to make a few new travel buddies on the journey.

Best Hostels in Galway

Couples, honeymooners, 25-40-year-olds, families. Those who are fascinated by Irish culture, cuisine, and tradition. Wildlife enthusiasts. 

  • More expensive than the other two options.
  • The itinerary misses out Giant’s Causeway and Belfast.

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Even if you decide not to book a multi-day tour in Ireland, you might still fancy a day trip from Dublin . This is less of a commitment yet gives you the chance to experience something memorable and special. 

We’ve put together our favourite day tours from Dublin and Galway. However, due to Ireland’s modest size, it’s even possible to visit destinations along the West Coast as a day trip from Dublin.

Without further ado, here are the best day trips from Dublin and Galway.

Giant’s Causeway and Rope Bridge Tour from Dublin 

backpacking Ireland

Company: Travelade

This day trip takes you over the border and into Northern Ireland, part of the UK. But at least there’s no need to worry about visas and immigrations queues, phew. 

Anyway, the spectacular columns that form the Giant’s Causeway were the result of a volcanic fissure eruption. A haven for photographers, they look as if they should be in a fantasy movie. Oh wait, they already were! That’s right, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll have seen these in the hit TV show. When the weather is agreeable, you can walk across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Known for being one of the scariest bridges in the world, this sways 30m above the roaring sea. 

You’ll spend around 1.5 hours at the Giant’s Causeway, which allows plenty of time for photos. Besides seeing Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, this trip includes a whistlestop detour to Belfast. Plus, on the way home, you’ll drop into a couple of other spots, including the Dark Hedges and the ruins of Dunluce Castle. 

The Whiskey Trail Dublin

The Whiskey Trail Dublin Ireland Holidays

No vacation in Ireland can be complete without a pub crawl of some kind. The Whiskey Trail Dublin gives you the chance to class things up a little and escape the typical backpacker bar hop.

This tour gives you a chance to experience the authentic, fiery flavours of Irish whiskey while you get the inside scoop on Dublin’s nightlife. This 2.5-hour tour with a real-life Dubliner means you get to drink at the places where the locals hang out. Your guide will also tell you all there is to know about the water of life along the way, as you leisurely hop from pub to pub. 

Choose the afternoon option (2 pm) or go with the evening slot (6 pm) to kickstart a night on the town. What can we say, Irish evenings can nip you to your bones and sometimes the hard stuff is the best way to warm up!

The Dublin Mountains Tombs & Trails

The Dublin Mountains Tombs and Trails Ireland Holidays

Company: Airbnb Experiences

Fancy getting off the beaten track during your Dublin vacation? How about ditching the city for a day of hiking through the verdant mountains just a short drive out of town? This day trip from Dublin takes you to Dundrum, where your knowledgeable guide will lead you on a hiking trail through an evergreen forest. The complete Dublin Mountains Way is a lengthy trek of 46km. However, this day trip just takes you along a shorter stretch that gives some of the best panoramas. 

Along the way, you’ll learn about Celtic mythology, Gaelic history, and discover ancient tombs. Depending on the season, you might get to forage for berries before calling into a secret location for a rustic lunch.

This tour lasts approximately six hours, and transport to and from Dublin is by local bus. 

Glendalough: Full-day Wicklow Mountains Hike & Drive

Wicklow Mountains Hike and Drive Ireland Holidays

Company: Get Your Guide

This full-day tour gives you the chance to experience the luscious landscapes of the ‘Garden of Ireland.’ The Wicklow National Park features untouched scenes of rivers, lakes and mountain vistas. This day trip from Dublin also includes a tour of the 6th-century Glendalough monastery and a visit to see the famous Guinness estate. With such a mix of sights, this is the best Dublin tour package for photographers looking for a day out to get snap happy. 

This day trip from Dublin also includes a tour of the 6th-century Glendalough monastery and a visit to see the famous Guinness estate. In between taking photos and hiking, you can sit back and relax as your tour guide drives you along some of the most enchanting, scenic routes in Ireland. In fact, it’s worth noting that hiking isn’t a major part of the excursion; you should expect to hike for 1.5-2 hours. 

Transport is via a private minibus and the day trip lasts 8 hours. 

Over on Ireland’s wild, West Coast, you have the awesome city of Galway. This is the perfect base for any adventurous outdoor activities you want to do whilst on vacation in Ireland. 

Connemara Coastal Kayaking

Connemara Coastal Kayaking Ireland Holidays

You’ll feel like a true Celt when you take to the sea for a spot of kayaking in the Atlantic Ocean. We will say that if you are planning an Ireland winter tour, this trip is best suited to those with some sea kayaking experience – or at least with a good level of fitness. This strip of coastline is rough, particularly outside of the summer months; you do need a bit of strength to chop through the waves. But we think this adds to the adventure of this trip!

As you paddle, you can admire the jawdropping scenery of the rugged West Coast. You’ll glide through caves and have the opportunity to plunge in for a swim if you dare. Keep your eyes peeled for a seal – and possibly even a dolphin or two. 

This sea kayaking adventure takes 2.5 hours and is led by a professional kayak guide. Novice kayakers and children are welcome, and you have the choice between a single or a tandem kayak. All participants receive a wetsuit, too, regardless of the weather.

Burren Guided Walk

Burren Guided Walk Ireland Holidays

Located in County Clare, the Burren is one of Ireland’s most beloved national parks. Here, you will find a cocktail of alpine, arctic and sub-tropical plants side by side among the limestone karst. The Burren is one of the most geologically fascinating places in Ireland. Your guide is a geologist who will tell you all you could possibly want to know about the flora and fauna of this unique landscape. 

This guided walk is a short 5.5 km but requires a moderate level of fitness due to the nature of the terrain. After all, the Burren comes from the Irish term ‘Boíreann,’ which means ‘rocky place.’ You should allow 3-5 hours for the hike. 

Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher Tour with Cruise

Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Tour Ireland Holidays

Not that we’re biased, but we think a stop along the Wild Atlantic Way is what marks one of the best tours in Ireland. If you’re not biting the bullet and signing up for a full multi-day tour, then at least make sure you schedule a day trip. 

The Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher are two of the most impressive sights you’ll clap eyes on while in the country. This boat cruise gets you up nice and close with the iconic cliffs and allows sweeping views across the wild Atlantic Ocean. 

Galway is the perfect base from which to explore these natural attractions. This tour takes a full day (10 hours). However, if you’re based in Dublin for your vacation, you can book this day trip from Dublin to the Wild Atlantic Way.

Galway Inishbofin Island Day Trip

Galway Inishbofin Island Trip Ireland Holidays

Company: Klook

Inishbofin Island is a small island off the coast of beautiful Connemara, so you’ll need your sea legs for this outing.

Before you hop aboard your trusty vessel, you will take in the diverse landscapes of Connemara. Mountains, bogs, lakes, heathland – this is Ireland at its purest. Keep your eyes peeled for friendly Connemara ponies, a breed unique to Ireland. After some local grub and a craft brew in the picturesque fishing village of Cleggan, you’ll sail away to Inishbofin. 

The island itself features a number of historic ruins, as well as some dramatic cliffs and blowholes. It’s a feast for the eyes and an opportunity to experience the raw beauty of Ireland.

Allow 12 hours for this day trip, with all transportation to and from Galway provided. 

Best Time to Visit Ireland 

Ireland is one of those places you can visit year-round due to its mild, northern European climate. However, it’s worth noting that winters can be cold and very wet – with the most rainfall coming during December/January. If you do plan a trip to Ireland in winter, you’ll want to bring plenty of woollies and waterproofs. You might spot a dusting of snow on the mountains during winter, but it rarely reaches the lowlands. 

During spring/summer, Ireland receives glorious sunshine and 16-18 hours of sunlight. Average summer temperatures linger around 16-20°C, and the driest month is usually June. Personally, we love the shoulder seasons of March-May (spring) and September-November (autumn) when the weather is pleasant for hiking and the cities are less crowded. 

Travel Insurance for your Ireland Trip

If you do book one of our recommended multi-day tours to Ireland, one requirement is that you take out travel insurance for Ireland. However, even if you don’t book an organised tour, insurance is still something you should at least look into, particularly if you’re planning on hiking. Those emergency helicopters don’t come cheap if you take a tumble!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

backpacking tours ireland

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What to Pack for Ireland

backpacking ireland

When it comes to what to pack for trips to Ireland, the good news is you don’t need anything too technical. Most of the hiking is moderate and there’s no whopping peaks or glacial trekking to factor in. One thing we will say is to prepare for all kinds of weather, as the climate is mild yet temperamental. Bring layers for a spring/summer Ireland vacation, and warm clothes for an autumn/winter visit. 

  • Waterproof jacket (regardless of the time of year you visit)
  • Warm, knitted jumpers and/or thermals (for an Ireland winter tour)
  • Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
  • Comfy trainers or pumps (for exploring cities)
  • Thick socks 
  • Camera 
  • Warm pyjamas
  • Universal adaptor 
  • Hat, scarf and gloves (winter)
  • First Aid Kit 
  • Reusable water bottle (you can drink the tap water everywhere in Ireland)

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Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

And there you have it, that’s all we have to say about the best trips to Ireland. If the Emerald Isle wasn’t already on the top of your travel wishlist, we hope it is now.

We know that organised tours aren’t every traveller’s cup of tea. But, as we say – these trips do have plenty of benefits that can’t be discounted. You can make new friends and connect with the country through the eyes of your local guide. Ireland is an easy country to explore independently, but it isn’t cheap and sometimes a tour actually works out cheaper. Especially when you get tours and admission tickets included. 

If you’re mulling over the decision, we vote the Highlights of Ireland – Plus trip as the best overall trip to Ireland. Especially at the current price – it’s number one Ireland budget tour at the time of writing.

Whichever trip you choose, may the luck of the Irish be with you! Oh, and go easy on the Guinness before you fly back home. 

backpacking Ireland

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

Sophie Steinebach

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The Backpacking Site

Backpacking Ireland

Looking for important travel information while backpacking in Ireland? Here you will find information on working in Ireland, entry visas, Ireland hostels , and much more.

Table of Contents

Facts About Ireland

Things to do in ireland, entry visa requirements for ireland.

  • Work Permits and Backpacker Jobs in Ireland
  • Ireland Hostels & Budget Accommodation 

Ireland is a popular tourist destination due to its relaxed culture, historic traditions, and of course, its love of Guinness. American travellers particularly fall in love with the people of Ireland and their charming and unique accent.

In light of the divergent modern histories of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, making generalisations about Irish culture is tricky. However, although there are still occasional outbreaks of violence in Northern Ireland most of these are between organised criminal groups and centred in very specific areas of Belfast. Indeed, visitors to Northern Ireland will be surprised at the reality of the country, with Belfast still a perfectly safe city for people to explore.

  • Currency: Euro
  • Time Zone: GMT
  • Language: English
  • Telephone Services: Country code +353, International Access number 16
  • Emergency Numbers: 112 for all services

Climate in Ireland

The climate in Ireland is very similar to that of mainland Britain, you can expect a reasonable amount of rain all seasons round and none of the seasons are particularly extreme.

Dublin is the capital city and thriving hub of the Republic of Ireland, famed for its welcoming nature and extremely popular with tourists historically. As well as the obligatory Guinness dispensing pubs filled with traditional live music, Dublin has a thoroughly refined cultural side, with attractions such as the Dublin Writers Museum, the James Joyce Museum and the Shaw Birthplace.

The Republic of Ireland is also packed with architectural wonders. Located just outside Dublin is Malahide Castle, a beautifully restored castle dating from 1185. With over 250 acres of adjoining parklands and the nearby Fry Model Railway, there is plenty to keep you occupied for a day.

Aran Islands

Other highlights include a ferry hop over to the Aran Islands which gives you a taste of what Ireland must have been like before the general population migration to big cities. Finally, no trip could be complete without an expedition to Blarney Castle, home of the famous Blarney Stone which is said to give the ‘gift of the gab’ to all who kiss it. The Castle itself is a fabulous stop-off for those visitors taking in Cork or Killarney.

Unique Activities in Ireland

Since popular places in Ireland can get crowded during tourist season, it is wise to reserve tickets and activities ahead of time. GetYourGuide sells entrance tickets to museums and landmarks at face value so you can avoid the lines and save that precious time for more exploring.

Viator is another popular travel website that helps you book things to do in Ireland. They work directly with local tour operators in Ireland, so you won’t have to scour the internet or roam around town trying to find the best deal.

If you know your schedule ahead of time, a great insider tip is to buy tickets for major tourist attractions ahead of time. Tiqets has entrance tickets and skip-the-line passes for major attractions in Ireland which can be a worthwhile cost for mega attractions during peak tourist season.

How to Find Cheap Flights to Ireland

If you’re flying to Ireland or plan to take short flights within the country, we recommend using a few different flight comparison search engines. Kiwi is a new favourite among travellers. On average, we have found the cheapest flights to Ireland with them compared to the other websites out there.

Of course, it is always worth checking Skyscanner to guarantee you’re getting the best deal. Both websites offer great flexible search options, allowing you to search the whole country of Ireland to find the cheapest airport to fly into, and also see prices for a full month if you’re flexible on travel dates.

Another way to travel to Ireland on a budget would be to take a ferry. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Ireland is divided from England in the east by the Irish Sea and St. George’s Channel. It is through this route, with ferry tickets to Ireland in hand, that tourists often arrive in Dublin.

How to Travel Around Ireland on a Budget

Train and long-distance bus are the standard modes of transport for how to get around Ireland . Buses are the more economical option, nevertheless, they are well-equipped with the usual modern conveniences that expect when travelling in Europe. Train travel, on the other hand, is the fastest way between two cities in Ireland , and the train stations are conveniently located right in the center of town.

Certain routes are better suited to one mode of transport than the other. To compare your options for journeys from A to B, you can try Omio . They compare trains, buses (and even flights) so you can decide for yourself the tradeoff between cost and travel time.

Train travel in Ireland

Rail services operate between Ireland’s major towns, with Dublin acting as a hub for most routes. A Britrail pass covers the UK as well so it is quite economical. However, if you want to get off the beaten track a little, buses cover a larger area and, although quite expensive, the standard of service is generally good.

Driving in Ireland

By far the best way to travel, however, is by rented car. It gives you flexibility and the ability to enjoy going off the typical highways to experience undiscovered Ireland. If you decide you want to rent a car, you can use DiscoverCars to compare offers from the major car rental agencies in the region.

Backpacking Tours in Ireland

Though part of the fun of backpacking Ireland is exploring on your own, there are situations, especially when venturing off the tourist trail, when it does make sense to go with a guide or a small group. 

The most popular option for a social travel experience is Contiki tours. Contiki trips offer more than just transportation, they are organized social group travel for travelers aged 18-35. Whether you’re traveling by yourself or going with a group of friends, Contiki tours are perfect for people looking to have a blast, meet new friends, and form lifelong memories. They offer tours that travel primarily in Ireland or longer tours that cover other nearby places.

G Adventures is another great option for organized travel, but with a smaller group. It’s a great choice for anyone backpacking Ireland alone who would like to meet up with like-minded travellers. It’s also a practical option for exploring places where you need an experienced guide, like a long hiking adventure or visiting a place well off the beaten path. You can choose from different styles of small group tours like active, wellness, hiking trips, 18-30somethings, and more.

Health and Safety in Ireland

The health service in Ireland is very good, with modern equipment and highly skilled staff. Provided you have travel insurance , you will be sure to get a very high standard of care. All food and drinking water should be considered safe and there are no special health precautions that you should take beyond that which you take at home.

As with travel to all other countries abroad, it is vital that you get travel insurance before you leave. Even for short trips, our go-to travel insurance provider is World Nomads , which is also recommended by Lonely Planet, HostelWorld , and other major travel companies.

EU nationals do not require a passport as long as they carry an ID card (a driver’s licence will suffice for Brits). EU nationals also do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. Visas for longer stays are normally granted to EU or US citizens without too much bother; you can contact the Irish Embassy for details.

Visa requirements for Ireland can vary widely depending on your country of origin and can change over time. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, be sure to check the latest visa requirements while you’re still planning your trip.

Foreigner Work Permits and Backpacker Jobs in Ireland

Working in Ireland during your gap year or time abroad has many advantages: cheap travel from the UK, familiarity with the language, and no need for a work permit if you are an EU national. Since language should be no barrier for those from the UK, going from place to place enquiring about casual work, in bars, restaurants and the like, as well as consulting local job papers, notice boards, and writing to hotels and bars could land you some temporary employment.

Au pair in Ireland

Most au pairs in Ireland, as well as the UK, are Europeans who usually want to improve their English. Popular areas to find au pair work are in places such as Dublin and Cork. Au pairs receive around €50 (approx. €35) a week for working up to 35 hours. Inter-S jours is an au pair recruitment agency and places men and women in six to 18-month au pair positions.

Seasonal work in Ireland

Try Dublin, Cork, and Kerry as well as other large tourist-populated areas for work in pubs, bars, restaurants, and hotels. Some hotel jobs can pay up to €230 (approx. €160) per week and accommodation is sometimes provided. Jobs at activity centres are also worth investigating, for example, the Blessington Adventure Centre, which specialises in water sports activities, the Atlantic Adventure Centre in Lecanvey, and Neptune Adventure in Baltray, to name but a few. There is no guarantee of finding a job at any of these places but it is always worth contacting them to find out. See the Irish Tourist Board website for more details of tourist areas with possible job opportunities.

Internships in Ireland

Dublin Internships is a company that organises ten to fifteen-week internships for students. Internships give you a chance to experience a job that might set you up for a future career, and will always look good on a CV.

Visit the Dublin Internships website to find out more information and to apply for an internship position. Applications should be made three months before you want to start an internship. 15-week programmes begin either at the beginning of the autumn or spring semester, and 10-week internships take place during the summer.

Volunteering in Ireland

If you are intending to stay in Ireland for a whole year, want something to last for the entire duration, and earning money is not your first priority, there are many opportunities for volunteer programmes. Camphill Communities runs projects across the world in communities for adults with special needs. Work includes assisting a few residents on a day-to-day basis, and accommodation is provided for volunteers who are asked to work for at least one year.

Careforce also runs one year projects for volunteers who work as Christian volunteers and again provide accommodation, food, and pocket money. If you are more interested in environmental projects, Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland (CVNI) require volunteers for at least six months at a time, to help with conservation work such as tree-planting, and general management of the environment. Accommodation is sometimes, but not always, provided by CVNI.

Agriculture and Farming jobs in Ireland

If outdoor type of work appeals to you, WWOOF is a voluntary organisation that provides work on organic farms and includes board and accommodation for a membership of €10 per year, check their website for more information.

Ireland Hostels & Budget Accommodation

backpacking tours ireland

All types of accommodation are on offer, from youth hostels and B&B’s right up to high-class hotels. The best value for money are the small family run B&B’s which offer a much better standard of accommodation than youth hostels for a negligible extra charge. You will be able to find literally hundreds of B&B’s and hostels online which will accept reservations.

We have had good experiences finding hostels in Ireland on HostelWorld . They have the largest inventory of hostels worldwide, and with over 10 million reviews and ratings from other travellers, you know exactly what to expect.

Another good way to find accommodation in Ireland is by checking booking.com . You’ll find hotels, homestays, hostels, and other unique accommodations. They have the most reviews and advanced filtering of any accommodation-booking site, so you’ll be sure to find a great place in your budget. Many of the places on booking.com also offer free cancellation, which takes the pressure off the planning phase of your trip to Ireland.

If you are backpacking with another travel companion, we highly recommend booking a rental via VRBO . With a vacation rental in Ireland, you’ll have more space, your own kitchen, and you’ll get a better feel for how the locals live. Plus, the cost of a vacation rental can be split among your group, oftentimes making it cheaper than doing individual hotel rooms. 

If you’re looking to save even more money while backpacking in Ireland, there are plenty of creative ways to get free accommodation in exchange for work . For example, one of our favorite ways to stay in amazing locations for free is by signing up as a petsitter with Trusted Housesitters . The site connects responsible animal lovers with petsitting opportunities in Ireland and all over the world. It’s a win-win for both sides – travellers can stay in amazing locations for free, and homeowners can rest easy knowing that someone is watching over their place.

And lastly, CouchSurfing is a great community that connects travellers with local hosts in Ireland. You can stay for free with verified hosts, who will usually take some time to show you around the local spots.

Useful Links for Backpacking in Ireland

  • Eurail – Rail Passes for travellers who plan on doing lots of train travel in a short period of time. Single-Country passes for Ireland as well as Multi-Country passes available
  • Omio – Train, bus, and flight search for Ireland and all of Europe. Offers online booking and mobile tickets
  • DiscoverCars – The world’s leading rental car search engines to rent a car in Ireland 
  • Kiwi and Skyscanner – Flight comparison search engines to find the cheapest flights to Ireland and within the country
  • GetYourGuide and Viator – a collection of local tours and activities in Ireland . Also offers Skip the Line tickets for crowded attractions
  • Tiqets – Website selling entrance tickets and skip the line tickets for major tourist attractions in Ireland
  • GAdventures – guided small group tours in Ireland , great for solo travellers or for those interested in a more adventurous trip which would require a guide
  • HostelWorld – #1 hostel search website to find accommodation while backpacking Ireland. Thousands of hostels and millions of reviews from fellow travellers
  • Booking.com – commonly used booking site for accommodation in Ireland . Find hostels, hotels, and other unique accommodation in Ireland with advanced filtering and millions of reviews
  • World Nomads Travel Insurance – Comprehensive travel insurance for long and short trips when backpacking Ireland

There you have it, the ultimate Ireland backpacking guide. We hope you have found all the information you need for  backpacking around Ireland .

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A guide for backpacking around Ireland. Get important travelers information when it comes to Ireland including visa requirements, employment opportunities as well as Ireland hostels.

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