trip cost ireland

How Much Does A Trip To Ireland Cost? A Guide With Examples

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

If you’re wondering how much is a trip to Ireland, we’ll cut to the chase!

The average trip to Ireland cost, based on a 5-day trip for two people flying from the USA in June is:    

• Budget: €2,523/$2,679 (or €1,261/$1,340 per person)
• Mid-range: €4,281/$4,545 (or €2,141/$2,273 per person)
• Luxury: €6,641/$7,051 (or €3,321/$3,525 per person)

In the guide below, you’ll find both the avoidable and unavoidable costs you need to consider along with several detailed examples of real-life trips .

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about how much a trip to Ireland costs

Click to enlarge

There are several factors to consider when trying to determine how much for a trip to Ireland. Take 20 seconds to read the points below as they’ll get you up-to-speed quickly:

1. You can spend anywhere from €89/$95 to €150/$159 per day

There really is no average cost of a trip to Ireland – every trip and every traveller is different. For example, some of our younger readers might be happy to stay in a hostel while some of our older readers won’t. Some people prefer to take organised tours while others like to rent a car and go it alone. All of this impacts your Ireland trip cost massively.

2. You’ll have avoidable and unavoidable costs

Flights, accommodation and food are all unavoidable costs . Now, the cost of each can go up and down depending on 1, the time of year you visit and 2, whether you choose budget, mid-level or luxury options. Some avoidable costs are the likes of drinks in pubs, souvenirs and car rental.

3. What you spend ultimately comes down to you

As is the case with any country, you can do Ireland on a budget if you need to. You just need to be careful when planning your trip to Ireland to make sure you stick within the budget you have to play with.

4. Always add a safety buffer

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of how much you can expect to spend in Ireland. However, please note that it’s always worth adding a buffer of 10-15% to your overall budget just to be safe. Unexpected costs will always arise.

The main things to consider when trying to estimate an Ireland trip cost

Many different variables come into play when trying to figure out a trip to Ireland cost.

Below, we’re going to show you costs for the likes of flights, public transport etc. We’ll use Dublin prices, as it’s one of the most expensive parts of the country.

1. Trip to Ireland cost #1: Flights

The first thing to consider when coming up with an average cost of a trip to Ireland is the price of flying into one of the airports in Ireland .

The cost of flights will vary depending on where you’re flying from, when you fly, the type of seat you book, baggage, etc. Here are some sample prices:

Example 1: Flying from JFK in the USA

• December : From €515/$546
• March : From €415/$440
• June : From €585/$621

Example 2: Flying from Frankfurt in Europe

• December : From €124/$132
• March : From €134/$142
• June : From €127/$145

2. Trip to Ireland cost #2: Accommodation

Your choice of accommodation can have a massive impact on the overall cost of your trip to Ireland. For this section, we’ll be looking at accommodation prices in Dublin.

We’ll use a Friday night and the price will be based on two people sharing. Please note that prices are likely to change – you can browse the latest prices here (affiliate link):

• December : From €66/$70 per night
• March : From €93/$99 per night
• June : From €104/$110 per night

2. Mid-range

• December : From €197/$208 per night
• March : From €174/$185 per night
• June : From €254/$270 per night
• December : From €527/$559 per night
• March : From €548/$582 per night
• June : From €418/$444 per night

3. Trip to Ireland cost #3: Food and drink

Photos via Monk’s on FB

The cost of food and drink is another unavoidable element that can have an enormous impact on the cost for a trip to Ireland.

Location plays a role. For example, the price of a pint of Guinness in rural Donegal will be considerably cheaper than Dublin City.

The type of establishment also has a big impact (e.g. having lunch in a cafe vs a restaurant). Here are some sample costs based on Dublin prices:

1. Breakfast: Between €10/$10.60 and €15/$15.92

If you have breakfast included in your accommodation, happy days. If not, you can expect to pay between €10/$10.60 and €15/$15.92 in a pub or cafe.

2. Lunch: Between €15/$15.92 and €20/$21.22

Lunch (e.g. soup and a sandwich or an Irish stew) can cost between €15/$15.92 and €20/$21.22. If you’re looking to keep your Ireland trip cost down, buy items to make a packed lunch in a shop/store.

3. Dinner: Between €15/$15.92 to €25/$26.53

The cost of dinner varies  hugely . If you opt for pub grub or a mid-range restaurant, allow between €15/$15.92 to €25/$26.53 for a drink and a main course. If you’re opting for higher-end restaurants, allow €60/$63.67 to €106.11 p/p.

4. Drinks:  €5.50/$5.84 to €8/$8.49

Drinking every night can see the cost of a trip of Ireland skyrocket. In Dublin, you’ll now pay a minimum of €5.50/$5.84 for a Guinness, €8/$8.49 for a glass of wine and €8/$8.49 for a low-end whiskey.

4. Trip to Ireland cost #4: How you’ll get around

There are several different ways of getting around Ireland (from rental car to private group tours) and they vary a fair bit in terms of price.

How you get around will not only effect the cost of a trip to Ireland but it’ll have a profound effect on your overall experience. Here’s an overview:

1. Rental car

Renting a car in Ireland can be costly but it gives you  a lot  of flexibility. There are a number of costs to consider with a rental and driving in Ireland in general.

Below, you’ll find prices for a 5-day trip in April 2024. The prices are for an economy car that seats four and that has an automatic transmission (note: prices may change so see latest rental costs here ):

• Cost of the rental : €403/$428
• Insurance : €51/$54
• Fuel : €144/$153 (€1.80 per litre for a 1,000 km trip)
• Tolls : Allow €17/$18

Buses tend to come in two forms – the ones that operate within a county, e.g. Galway, and ones that travel between counties. Here are some price examples:

• The Dublin Leap Visitor Card : Get unlimited travel in Dublin. 3 days costs €16/$17
• Dublin Bus Fares : From €1.70/$1.81 to €3/$3.19
• Dublin to Sligo : €21/$22.30 (single), €29.50/$31.33 (return)
• Cork to Galway : €21/$22.30 (single), €34/$36.11 (return)

If you’re exploring Ireland without a car , the chances are you’ll take a train or three. Here are some sample prices:

• Dublin to Belfast : From €16/$17
• Dublin to Cork : From €21/$22.30
• Dublin to Galway : From €14/$14.87

4. Organised tours

Organised tour prices vary massively . We have seen several 5-day tours for this year that cost in the region of €1,155/$1,227.

This includes your transport, 5 nights in high end hotels, numerous paid attractions, 3 dinners and 1 lunch. You’ll need to add in your flights, other meals, any drinks and tips .

5. Trip to Ireland cost #5: Attractions

Photos via Shutterstock

There’s plenty of things to do in Ireland and, while there are endless places that are free to visit, other attractions will have an admission fee.

This varies quite a lot depending on the attraction. But, to give you a rough idea of what to expect, we’ll go over some of the more popular places below.

1. State owned attractions

Some of the most popular attractions in Ireland are run by the state and, in general, prices tend to be reasonable.

The likes of Dublin Castle , the Rock of Cashel and Kilmainham Gaol are all good value at €8/$8.49 for an adult ticket.

2. Privately owned attractions

There are a number of other privately owned attractions that are well worth a visit on your trip to Ireland. Tickets for these tend to be more expensive.

An adult ticket for Kylemore Abbey , for example, costs €16/$16.97 while admission to the  Guinness Storehouse costs €26/$27.57.

3. Organised full and 1/2 day tours

You can find countless organised day trips throughout Ireland. They typically offer a comfortable coach journey that takes in a clatter of attractions before dropping you back where you started.

For example, you could be staying in Dublin and you take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher or the Causeway Coast . Expect to pay from €75/$78.47 for these tours ( browse prices here ).

6. Trip to Ireland cost #6: Travel insurance

The second last variable in your trip to Ireland cost is travel insurance. There are any number of things that can cause you to cancel your trip altogether, but it’s also worth covering yourself for any issues that might happen while you’re away.

A decent travel insurance policy will give you peace of mind and ensure that should the worst happen, you’ll be protected. For shorter trips, you can easily find travel insurance for less than €20/$21.21 (covering two people), with an excess of around €100/$ to €150/$.

Annual cover typically starts at around €30/$31.81 but can cost more than €100/$106.05 depending on the level of cover and the amount of excess you’re willing to pay.

7. Trip to Ireland cost #7: Souvenirs

Now, if you’re trying to cut the cost of your Ireland vacation cost, avoid souvenirs altogether.

However, if you want to bring a bit of Ireland home with you, here are some examples using Carroll’s Irish Gift prices:

• Claddagh ring : From €15/$15.91
• Magnets : From €5/$15.91
• Aran jumper : From €49/$51.96

8. Trip to Ireland cost #8: Safety buffer

As mentioned earlier, there is no ‘average cost of a trip to Ireland’. Unfortunately, many travel blogs claim otherwise. The result is that people very often underestimate their Ireland vacation cost.

It’s for that reason that we’d  always  recommend adding 15% to whatever figure you come up with.

For example, if you estimate your Ireland trip cost will work out around €3,000/$3,181 add an additional €450/$477 on top to cover unexpected costs.

Calculating the average cost of a trip to Ireland for 2 people and solo travellers

Now that we’ve got an idea of how much you can expect each of the major elements to cost, we can calculate the average cost of a trip to Ireland for 2 people and solo travellers flying from the US.

Of course, everyone will have different experiences, so the following budgets are a rough guideline only. These examples use a departure date of June (peak season).

1. Budget trip for one person:

• Flights from JFK : €415/$440
• Public transport : €122/$130*
• Accommodation : €520/$552**
• Food : €40/$42 per day
• Drinks : None
• Tours/attractions : €80/$85***
• Travel Insurance : €20/$21.21

TOTAL trip to Ireland cost with 15% buffer: €1,561 / $1,658

* Two train journeys at €21/$22.30 each and five bus journeys at an average of €16/$17 each ** €104/$110 per night average *** 5 state run attractions at €8 each and one ½ day tour at €40

2. Budget trip for two people:

• Flights from JFK : €830/$880
• Public transport : €244/$260*
• Food : €80/$84 per day
• Tours/attractions : €160/$170***
• Travel Insurance : €40/$42.42

TOTAL cost of a trip to Ireland for 2 with a 15% buffer: €2,523/$2,679 (or €1,261/$1,340 per person)

* Train journeys at €21/$22.30 each and five bus journeys at an average of €16/$17 each ** €104/$110 per night average *** 5 state run attractions at €8 each and one ½ day tour at €40

3. Mid-range trip for one person:

• Flights from JFK: €415/$440
• Economy rental car: €403/$428
• Rental car insurance: €51/$54
• Fuel: €144/$153
• Tolls: Allow €17/$18
• Accommodation: €1,270/$1,350
• Food: €60/$64 per day
• Drinks: €81/$86**
• Tours: €104/$110
• Travel Insurance: €20/$21.21

TOTAL Ireland vacation cost with 15% buffer: €3,226 / $3,426

* €254/$270 per night ** Based on the person having 2 pints of Guinness at a cost of €5.50/$5.84 each and 2 whiskies at a cost of €8/$8.50 each on three nights of the trip *** 5 state run attractions at €8/$8.50 each and 4 privately run attractions at an average of €16/$16.99 each

4. Mid-range trip for two people:

• Flights from JFK: €830/$880
• Accommodation: €1,270/$1,350*
• Food: €120/$128 per day
• Drinks: €160/$172**
• Tours: €208/$220
• Travel Insurance: €40/$42.42

TOTAL Ireland vacation cost with 15% buffer: €4,281 / $4,545 (or €2,141 / $2,273 per person)

* €254/$270 per night ** Based on the couple having 2 pints of Guinness at a cost of €5.50/$5.84 each and 2 whiskies at a cost of €8/$8.50 each on three nights of the trip *** 5 state run attractions at €8/$8.50 each and 4 privately run attractions at an average of €16/$16.99 each

5. Luxury trip for one person:

• Flights from JFK: €599/$564*
• Large rental car: €603/$640
• Rental car insurance : €71/$75
• Fuel: €224/$238
• Accommodation: €2,090/$2,220**
• Food: €145/$154 per day***
• Drinks: €240/$225****
• Tours: €234/$248*****

TOTAL cost of trip with 15% buffer: €5,546/$5,888

* Includes large carry on bags and extra legroom seat ** €418/$444 per night *** All meals eaten out allowing €20/$21 for breakfast, €35/$37 for lunch and dinner in a high end restaurant at an average cost of €90/$96 per meal **** Allowing for a bottle of wine on three evenings at a cost of €80/$85 per bottle ***** 5 state run attractions at €8/$8.50 each, 4 privately run attractions at an average of €16/$16.99 each and 2 experiences (e.g. private whiskey tasting) at an average of €65 each

6. Luxury trip for two people:

• Flights from JFK: €1,198/$1,128*
• Rental car insurance: €71/$75
• Food: €290/$308 per day***
• Drinks: €480/$450****
• Tours: €468/$496*****

TOTAL cost of trip with 15% buffer: €6,641 / $7,051 (or €3,321 / $3,525 per person)

* Includes large carry on bags and extra legroom seat ** €418/$444 per night *** All meals eaten out allowing €20/$21 for breakfast, €35/$37 for lunch and dinner in a high end restaurant at an average cost of €90/$96 per meal **** Allowing for 2 bottles of wine on three evenings at a cost of €80/$85 per bottle *** 5 state run attractions at €8/$8.50 each, 4 privately run attractions at an average of €16/$16.99 each and 2 experiences (e.g. private whiskey tasting) at an average of €65 each

FAQs about a trip to Ireland cost

We get emails and DMs asking how much does a trip to Ireland cost constantly , and it can be a tricky question to answer as there are so many variables to consider.

I’m going to pop in the most common Ireland trip cost questions that we receive below, but shout in the comments if you have one we haven’t tackled.

How much does the average trip to Ireland cost?

How much does it cost to go to ireland for a week, what is the cheapest month to go to ireland, how much does a weekend in ireland cost.

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

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Saturday 21st of January 2023

Hello Kieth, When was your Example A budget created? We are headed to Ireland May of 2023 and wondering how accurate those figures are. They look on the low side. Kelly

Keith O'Hara

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Hey Kelly - This was all done at the end of last year and I know Andy, one of our senior writers here, put a lot of time into the research of each of the workings. You can click into the google sheet that shows the calculations, also. Shout if there's anything you need!

Thursday 19th of January 2023

Do you have a 14 day recommendation that included N. Ireland. We are traveling end of August.

Hey Debra - if head into

and scroll down to the itineraries starting from Belfast you'll find plenty of 14-day road trips to choose from!

Cost of a Trip to Ireland & the Cheapest Time to Visit Ireland

The average price of a 7-day trip to Ireland is $1,305 for a solo traveler, $2,014 for a couple, and $2,987 for a family of 4 . Ireland hotels range from $56 to $310 per night with an average of $99, while most vacation rentals will cost $160 to $490 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Ireland (from all airports) are between $545 and $1,593 per person for economy flights and $1,711 to $5,002 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $42 to $85 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Ireland

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Ireland and stay in a Ireland hotel:

• January 1st to April 1st
• September 17th to December 16th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Ireland is usually late January and early February .

Average Ireland Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Ireland for a week is $1,029-$2,597 ($147-$371 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $42 to $85 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $309 to $1,390 for economy

Lodging : $71 to $91 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $84 to $102 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Ireland for a week is $1,638-$4,575 ($234-$654 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $85 to $169 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $617 to $2,780 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Ireland for a week is $3,167-$9,013 ($452-$1,288 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $169 to $338 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,234 to $5,561 for economy

Lodging : $143 to $181 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $125 to $154 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Ireland

How cheap can you make a vacation to Ireland? The cheapest trip to Ireland is about $105 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $20 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $47.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Ireland for a week is $738-$2,506 ($105-$358 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $21 to $42 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $47 to $56 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $106 to $137 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Ireland for a week is $1,193-$4,190 ($170-$599 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $42 to $84 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Ireland for a week is $2,386-$7,974 ($341-$1,139 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $84 to $169 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $94 to $111 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $159 to $205 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is possible but not easy to travel to Ireland cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Ireland Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Ireland.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Ireland for a week is $2,062-$10,496 ($295-$1,499 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $84 to $169 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $766 to $3,457 for first class

Lodging : $118 to $310 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $486 to $976 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Ireland for a week is $3,417-$15,144 ($488-$2,163 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $168 to $339 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,533 to $6,915 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Ireland for a week is $6,847-$27,365 ($978-$3,909 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $337 to $678 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $3,066 to $13,829 for first class

Lodging : $237 to $620 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $730 to $1,465 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Ireland Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Ireland is about average than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Ireland due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Ireland Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Ireland hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Ireland.

Flight Costs to Ireland

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,593 average in early to mid July to a low of $545 in late January and early February. Median flight price is $709. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Ireland our data includes thousands of originating airports, and hundreds of airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Monday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Monday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Ireland, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $1,048, so you can easily save about 192% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Ireland can easily cost $317 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $21 per person. Private tours can cost $633 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Ireland Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Birr, Ireland
• Portumna, Ireland
• Ballinasloe, Ireland
• Athlone, Ireland
• Nenagh, Ireland
• Roscrea, Ireland
• Kinnitty, Ireland
• Moate, Ireland
• Roscommon, Ireland
• Loughrea, Ireland

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• William F Hayden Green Mountain Park, the United States
• Kyoto, Japan
• Johor Bahru, Malaysia

The Cost of Travel in Ireland (2024): A Detailed Budget Breakdown

Ireland was one of the first countries I ever added to my travel bucket list.

Perhaps it was the hopeless romantic in me thinking I’d meet a handsome man, like in P.S. I Love You , or maybe it was the sheer number of beautiful photos that left me captivated. 

Either way, I was deeply drawn to Ireland’s culture and natural landscapes from a young age. So much so that I was determined to get there as soon as I possibly could, so when the opportunity arose for me to study abroad in Ireland, I was filling in my application form within minutes.

Yes, I achieved my lifelong goal of visiting Ireland and before I knew it, I was taking my first steps in this beautiful country, pinching myself that I was actually living there now.

I didn’t want to squander that opportunity, which is why I spent almost every weekend exploring the Emerald Isle from top to bottom. It wasn’t a surprise to discover that travelling across Ireland didn’t come cheap, but I wouldn’t say it was overly expensive either. I averaged around €156/$ 170 per day while I was travelling across the country, with most of that money being spent on accommodation and food.

One of the best ways to see Ireland and save money is to rent a car and drive around at your own pace, but I joined plenty of bus tours, too. Taking tours cost more, but it meant I didn’t have to worry about driving or navigation either. In the end, these were some of my favorite weekends — and definitely worth the money. 

Whether it was driving along the winding, postcard-worthy clifftop roads that had me feeling like I was on the edge of the world or drinking with locals in a teeny-tiny pub in Dublin, Ireland was all that I dreamed it to be and more.

After my most recent trip last year, I decided to finally sit down and share exactly how much you can expect to spend while travelling in Ireland, so let’s get started.

What’s Included in this Post 

This budget breakdown covers how much I spent on accommodation, transportation, activities, and food while I travelled around the country.

I’ve not included my flights into and out of Ireland as this is going to vary significantly based on where you’ll be arriving from.

The amounts in this guide are listed in Euros and U.S. dollars, simply because the vast majority of readers of this site are from the U.S. and close to a million Americans visit Ireland each year.

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Ireland

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Couchsurfing  exists in Ireland and allows you to stay with a local for free , usually sleeping on their sofa and enjoying a local’s insight into life in their country. It’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget’s tight, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can browse through the 80,000+ Irish hosts on  the Couchsurfing site .

Housesitting  is a great option for  free  accommodation. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees: you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you  do  have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. I have friends who have housesat in castles before! For free!  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

I will make a quick note, however, that post-pandemic, the cost of hostels in Dublin is obnoxiously high. As in, while looking for a hostel in the city for July 2023, the cheapest price I could find was €100 for a dorm bed or €200 for a private room .

Yes, really. It’s something I’ve encountered in numerous countries since the pandemic, but it did seem to be particularly bad in Dublin.

Away from the capital and outside the peak summer travel season, though, hostels in Ireland  are more sensibly priced. You can expect to spend around  €40 a night for a dorm bed  for a well-reviewed hostel in Ireland, with the price increasing to slightly about  €60 a night  for the absolute best of the best.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you can expect to spend around  €120 a night  for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with a friend or partner, there’s not always a lot in it compared to two dorm beds. €150-190 a night  will get you an exceptionally well-reviewed private room in a hostel or hotel.

I use  HostelWorld  to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And, of course, there are always hotels, which are usually priced about the same as a private room in a hostel, but typically have a few more comforts. You’ll pay  €120-200 a night  for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location, depending on where you are and when you’re traveling. I always use  Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices.

The Cost of Accommodation in Ireland 

There’s lots of wonderful places to stay in Ireland — from B&Bs to castles to hotels and hostels. 

If you’re even toying with the idea of staying in a castle (I know: the ultimate fairy-tale dream) then you’re looking at around $200-$600 a night for the higher-end, luxury versions. Honestly, I think Ireland is a fantastic place to splurge on accommodation if you can afford to. 

I always like to share the accommodation I stayed in on my travels, as well as recommend alternatives when mine weren’t so wonderful. Everywhere I recommend below has excellent reviews and offers great value for money.

Here’s my list of my favourite accommodation options in Ireland:

Dublin: Staycity Aparthotels Mark Street ( €180 a night )

Dublin is unbelievably expensive right now, so I really felt like I lucked out when I discovered this modern hotel. Not only is it in the best location in town — within walking distance of Temple Bar and all the main tourist attractions — but the staff are wonderful and the rooms comfortable. The heating and air conditioning worked well, the rooms were silent, and it felt as though we were staying in a brand new hotel. It’s one of the cheapest accommodation options in Dublin while also being one of the best reviewed. I wouldn’t consider staying anywhere else!

Galway: The Stop B&B ( €219 a night )

As far as I’m concerned, Galway is a must-visit destination on any trip to Ireland. Its lively atmosphere, vibrant street busking, and brightly colored buildings make it one of my favorite cities: it’s one of the places I always revisit whenever I’m in the country. I stay at the Stop B&B when I do: it’s easily one of the best-rated options in town that’s still in a great location a few minute’s walk from the city centre. The rooms are absolutely spotless, stylish and modern without feeling generic, and Russell (the host) couldn’t have been more welcoming. Shoutout to the delicious included breakfast as well: it was better than what I had in most restaurants!

Cork : Hotel Isaacs Cork City ( €169 a night )

I really enjoyed my stay at Hotel Isaacs for the couple of nights I spent in Cork. It’s one of the more affordable hotels in the city, but is still in an ideal location, just a five minute walk from the centre and ten minutes from the bus and train stations. It’s nice and quiet despite being right in the heart of things, and my room was bigger than many I’ve stayed in in Ireland. There’s a good onsite bar but in the end I didn’t spend much time there: the staff’s recommendations for traditional pubs nearby were so good that I spent my evenings there instead!

Dingle : Murphy’s Pub and Bed & Breakfast ( €135 a night )

The stunning Dingle Peninsula is one of the most beautiful parts of the country; I don’t think I’ve ever seen such vibrant shades of green anywhere else on the planet! You’ll need at least a couple of days to fully explore the area, and I’d recommend staying at the delightful Murphy’s Pub in Dingle overnight while you do. Right in the middle of town and on the waterfront, you couldn’t ask for a better location to explore the town from. Not that you even have to leave the building if you don’t want to: one of the big benefits of staying in a pub is only having to walk a few steps to dinner, and that’s equally true here! My room was large, spotless, and very quiet considering it’s above the bar, and the included breakfast was super-tasty and set me up for the rest of the day. I really enjoyed my stay at this cozy family-run pub: I just wish I’d had another night there!

Belfast (Northern Ireland) : Citi North Guesthouse ( €94 a night )

Belfast is one of the most interesting cities I have been to. It’s deeply cultured, rooted in history and close to some of the most stunning natural landscapes I’ve ever seen. And if you’re planning a stint in Belfast, you need to stay at Citi North. Not only is it one of the most inexpensive guesthouses in town, but it also offers up one of the best breakfasts in the city — included in the price, of course. And it’s the small touches that really make the difference here, whether it’s having your bed made up and linens replaced while you’re busy hitting the streets of Belfast, receiving local recommendations on how to make the most of your vacation, or sleeping on a bed so comfortable that it feels like lounging on a cloud. It’s also in particularly handy location for boarding the  hop on hop off tour  or meeting up with one of the  black taxi tours .

The Cost of Transportation in Ireland 

Transportation around Ireland isn’t just a way of getting around, it’s an attraction in and of itself. For the most part, I used buses to get around the country when I hadn’t rented a car.

Bus and Train — The bus will probably be your main way of getting around if you don’t have a driver’s license. I found the bus system in Ireland to be very reliable and easy. and it covers pretty much anywhere you’re likely to want to go. The buses are quite comfortable and modern, they almost always leave on time, and most even have free Wi-Fi on board! And because Ireland is a pretty small island, the costs are actually quite reasonable. 

The main bus companies are Bus Éireann, Citylink, Aircoach, and Go Bus. Bus Éireann is the biggest and best of them, with reasonable prices and routes that cover the entire country. Plus, WiFi, power sockets, and comfy seats!

If trains are more your thing, they can also be a good way of getting around, especially on routes that go mostly along the coast: there are some epic views to be had! Tickets do tend to cost a bit more than the equivalent bus trip, though, and the trains don’t run as often as the buses or to as many places.

That said, shorter trips are still quite cheap: I paid €8.35 for a walk-up ticket from Enniscorthy to Rosslare, which wasn’t a lot more than the bus.

You can buy tickets on the day from self-service machines and ticket counters, or in discounted advance tickets from the Irish Rail website . You just collect your ticket from the machine when you get to the station.

Here are some of the typical bus and train route cost breakdowns, booked a few days in advance: 

• Bus from Dublin to Galway: €15/$17
• Bus from Dublin to Cork:  €15/$17
• Bus from Dublin to Belfast: €11.50/$14
• Train from Cork to Killarney: €12/$13
• Train from Killarney to Galway: €17.33/$19

City Travel — This mostly pertains to getting around Dublin. I found the city centre to be compact enough that you could easily walk places (if you’re wearing comfortable shoes of course!). Unlike most European cities, Dublin doesn’t have an underground system, so your best bet is to use the extensive public bus network. 

If you’ll be using public transport a lot, pick up a LEAP card: you can buy and top up at ticket offices and most convenience stores. You’ll save up to 30% on the regular single ticket cash price, although note that the card has a €5 deposit and €5 minimum topup.

With your card, you’ll pay a €2 for most bus trips in Dublin, with a daily cap of €5.60 . You can also use your LEAP card towards the train, tram, or Dublin bike rental. It’s worthwhile if you’re traveling beyond Dublin as well: you can use it in other cities like Limerick, Galway, and Cork. 

Car Rental — Like I said earlier, if you have a driver’s license and you’re comfortable driving on the left side of the road, then this is by far one of the most cost-effective and flexible options. Renting a car and driving around Ireland is one of the best ways to explore the vast countryside on your own timetable. Prices start at €26 ($28) per day for a simple, economy car. This is a great option if you’re traveling with friends or a partner because you can split both the costs of the rental and gas. 

Keep in mind that car rental prices do change depending on the time of year and how high the demand is. Typically the further you book out, the better prices there will be. I always use RentalCars.com to find the best deals for car rentals, as they always seem to find cheaper options than I can score by going direct.

The Cost of Food in Ireland 

Irish food feels like coming home. It just invites a feeling of sitting by the fireplace in a cozy cottage on the water, surrounded by friends and family. Whether it’s seafood chowder, cottage pie, or classic fish and chips, hearty, feel-good food is everywhere in this country. If you’re eating out for all your meals, though, you’re definitely going to notice a dent in your budget. 

If you want to start your day off with a lot of food, look no further than the traditional Irish Breakfast. Similar to the Full English from across the channel, you’ll end up with some combination of bacon, sausages, baked beans, eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes, black and white pudding, and toast. You’ll pay around €15 ($16.50) for it, although it’s not uncommon to see half-sized versions on the menu for those who’d like to save a bit of money (and their arteries).

You don’t have to go the traditional route, though, at least not when you’re in a major city. Especially in Dublin, but elsewhere as well, there are plenty of brunch-style cafes with a wide range of healthier options. I’ve had everything from shakshuka and granola bowls to salmon and eggs and the ubiquitous avocado on toast, paying €12-15 ($13-16.50) each time.

Pub meals typically offer the best value, especially outside the tourist areas of major cities. There, it’s not hard to find a delicious, filling meal of rich Irish stew and soda bread, fresh fish and chips, or tasty burgers for around €15-20 ($16.50-22) per person. A similar meal at a more upscale restaurant will be more like €20-25 ($22-27) . 

It’s worth looking out for restaurants that offer lunchtime or early bird specials. Often during the middle of the week, at certain times before the dinner rush, restaurants will offer full meals at a discounted rate. 

If you’re staying at accommodation with shared kitchens, this is a fantastic way to save money on food. When I spent money on groceries, I usually paid around €60 ($65) per week, or €8.50 ($9.50) per day for basic things like pasta and vegetables. 

If the place you’re staying at includes a free breakfast, I’d definitely suggest taking advantage of it. Especially if it’s a cooked breakfast, but even if it’s a lighter continental option, it often means you can get by with something small like a sandwich or wrap for lunch while you’re out exploring, and then opt to cook dinner in the evenings. Then you’ll average around €20 ($24) per day. 

Fancy a pint of Guinness or my personal favorite, Smithwick’s Irish Red? You’re looking at around €6 for every additional bevvy that you tack on, which you’ll be tempted to do at many points! I’d suggest going easy on the drinks in Temple Bar and other major tourist spots, though: prices there can be a lot higher than elsewhere! 

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in Ireland 

The activities in Ireland are so much fun! The rich history, incredible landscapes and quirky attractions will make memories to last a lifetime. I found most activities and entrance fees to be reasonably priced, at least compared to some other places in Europe. 

Without a doubt, my favorite experiences were taking a tour of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula Tour. These are spectacular drives, with incredibly lush mountains and ocean views that I couldn’t tear my eyes away from. I went with Paddywagon for my tours, and felt very taken care of. All I needed to do was sit back and enjoy the drive: it was nice to be able to just gaze out the window and let someone else do the driving! They made sure to stop frequently so we could get out, take pictures, and see everything up close. 

I also enjoyed seeing the Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway, experiencing the Guinness Storehouse and kissing the Blarney Stone. When I think about my time in Ireland, these are always the first activities that come to mind. 

Unless you’re a huge history buff, I personally thought that seeing The Book of Kells in Dublin was overrated and overpriced. But everything else is worth it!

Here’s a breakdown of some of the costs you might expect for the top attractions in Ireland: 

• Blarney Castle and Stone: €22/$24 (online discount)
• Guinness storehouse in Dublin: €20/$22 (online only)
• Cliffs of Moher: free
• The Book of Kells and Trinity College Dublin: €25/$27
• Giant’s Causeway: free
• Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge: €15.50/$17
• Connemara National Park: free
• 3-day tour of southern Ireland (Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, Cliffs of Moher, and Galway): €389/$422 (including accommodations, entrance fees, and breakfasts)  

If you’re like me, and love to make the most of time, then tours are really a great way to experience a country. I recommend hoping over to Get Your Guide for a range of activities and tours, like the Wild Wicklow Day Tour from Dublin ( €30/$33 ), Tour of Connemara National Park ( €35/$38 ), Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher Cruise ( €70/$76 ), or a Game of Thrones studio tour ( €34.50/$38) . 

The Cost of Travel Insurance in Ireland

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Ireland. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re way cheaper than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Ireland? 

It’s time to tally up all of my expenses to see my total travel costs!

• Accommodation: €159/$172 per day between two (€79.50/$86 each)
• Transportation: € 20/$22 per day
• Food: € 34/$37 per day
• Activities/Entrance Fees: € 23/$25 per day

Average amount spent in Ireland: € 156.50/ $170 a day!

What do you think? Are the costs to travel in Ireland about what you expected, or is it more or less expensive? Let me know!

Author bio: Born and raised in Toronto, Lydia has found “home” throughout her travels around the world. She’s a passionate storyteller and writer and you can usually find her dreaming about new adventures or having a deep conversation with a friend.

Related Articles on Ireland 💰 The Cost of Travel in Dublin: A 2024 Budget Breakdown ☘️ The Absolute Best Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Hi Lauren- thanks for this info. You want to check your math on these $ to pound conversions above; many are reversed (or leftover from when this was originally written perhaps and the pound was higher than the dollar?)

Hi LeeAnn! There aren’t any pound amounts in this article — do you mean Euros? I’ve double checked all the numbers and the exchange rate is still accurate as of today. The only thing I can think of is that you’re interpreting my Euro (€) prices as pounds (£)!

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Meet Lauren Juliff

Is Ireland Expensive? Trip to Ireland Cost Guide in 2024

Last Updated on December 12, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Is Ireland expensive? How much will a trip to Ireland cost? As one of the most popular places to visit on this side of the Atlantic and, for many, their first sojourn into Europe, Ireland isn’t always considered to be the best destination for budget travellers.

Especially considering that its capital city of Dublin is an expensive city and one of the priciest urban areas in Europe.

But that doesn’t mean that a trip to the Emerald Isle isn’t attainable for those travelling on a shoestring budget. So if you’re wondering how much an Ireland trip will cost and want to be able to adequately budget your trip, read on to get a breakdown of the prices in this beautiful country.

Table of Contents

Ireland Trip Cost Guide

So how expensive is Ireland? Not including the cost of flights, you’ll need to budget for the cost of food, cost of transport in Ireland and other things like accommodation, activities and entertainment.

Travellers to Ireland may find it to be more expensive than other places in Western Europe, with an average trip cost being approximately €90 to €175 per person per day (around $96-188 USD) assuming you are splitting costs between two people.

You can expect to spend at the lower end if travelling on a tight budget or at the higher end if you have an upper mid-range budget.

Accommodation Prices

The first, and often biggest, aspect of an Ireland trip cost that you need to consider is the price of accommodation. The cost of accommodation in Ireland is probably going to take the biggest chunk out of your overall daily budget.

On average, you should expect to spend around €30-40 per person per night if you are a solo traveller staying in hostels or a couple splitting a private room on Airbnb. This will increase to around €50-75 per person per night if you plan to stay in mid-range B&Bs or hotels during your Ireland trip. Assume a double room to cost you around €100-150 on average, depending on where you’re staying.

What you will find is that prices can vary drastically depending on where you are in the country. Dublin is by far the most expensive when it comes to accommodation costs, especially if you want to be centrally located.

Other urban areas like Cork and Galway also, not surprisingly, tend to cost more than in the Irish countryside. In general, accommodation costs also tend to be higher in Northern Ireland vs the Republic of Ireland.

If you’re going the typical budget backpacker route when you’re travelling in Ireland, you are in luck as the Emerald Isle has quite a well-established hostel scene. There are myriad hostel options in Irish cities and you can normally find one or two in smaller towns.

If you’re planning on staying in hostels while travelling, don’t expect to pay any less than around €35-40 per night for the cheapest dorm bed in cities and around €30 per night in more rural locations.

If you have a little more to spend than that of a typical budget backpacker, then consider staying in a B&B or guesthouse. These are ubiquitous throughout Ireland and can be a great option if you’re travelling on a mid-range budget. These can average around €100-150 per night, depending on the season and the location.

We booked a couple of good-value rooms through Booking.com including The Stop B&B in Galway and Errisbeg House in Roundstone . 

Transport Prices

Another major factor in your total trip to Ireland cost is going to be the price of transportation. While there are a few different ways to get around Ireland, outside of the big cities, Ireland is a country that is really best seen by car.

Public transport exists, but it’s pricey and it can be infrequent, especially if you want to spend some time in more rural areas and want to get a bit off the beaten path, for instance, if you’re keen to wander around Donegal, where there are absolutely no train routes.

So, if you want to travel independently or want to experience the delights of popular routes like the Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula drive , your best option for transport in Ireland will be to hire a car.

You can expect your average price for renting a car in Ireland to be around €30-40 per day, so around €15-20 per person per day if splitting costs between two.

You’ll also need to add some buffer to this to fact in the cost of fuel prices. Ireland is expensive when it comes to petrol prices, averaging about €1.80 per litre of unleaded in December of 2023. Luckily, most newer cars these days are quite fuel-efficient so you may not need to fill up all that often.

There are a few other costs you need to consider when renting a car in Ireland . First off, as with many places in the world, it can be significantly cheaper if hire a manual transmission than an automatic. So, if you can drive stick, it will definitely save you a few euros along the way.

Another way to save money when renting a car is to forgo the excess insurance that the car hire company will push and opt for an independent policy. We suggest using iCarHireInsurance whose prices can be less than major rental companies.

In cities, public transport is always an option and generally preferable to driving when you’re sightseeing. However, most urban centres in Ireland — including Dublin, Galway, and Cork — are very compact and all of the main sites are accessible on foot.

If you’re looking to save on any transport costs, I would recommend walking everywhere that you can. In Dublin, you can also rely on the bus to get around if distances are too far.

You can save money on your overall trip cost by only renting a car when visiting rural areas and not as soon as you arrive if you’re planning on spending some nights in major cities like Dublin.

Food Prices

The third thing that needs to be considered in the cost of a trip to Ireland is the cost of food.

Over the past decade or so, Ireland has seen something of a food revolution where innovative chefs have reimagined the local cuisine and the results are something spectacular.

Everywhere from fine-dining establishments to local, neighbourhood pubs serve up fantastic Irish cuisine that you could never have imagined. But how much does a typical meal cost?

Well, if you’re travelling on a super tight budget and staying in a hostel or Airbnb with self-catering facilities, one of the easiest ways to cut back on your Ireland vacation cost is to cook for yourself.

Irish grocery prices are affordable and on par with those that you might find elsewhere in Western Europe, the UK, etc. In this case, you can probably get by on around €15-20 per person per day on food.

If you’re not looking to cook for yourself, there are obviously numerous options for food in Ireland. Street and fast food are widely available throughout the country and can be the cheapest, if not always the healthiest, option for those who are trying to keep their Ireland trip cost to a minimum.

For those looking for a sit-down meal at a mid-range restaurant or pub, you can expect to pay somewhere around €15-20 for a main meal. If your tastes are a little more high-end or you feel like a splurge, expect a nicer, three-course dinner meal to cost about €30-40 per person.

If you do want to take advantage of one of Ireland’s fine dining establishments but don’t have the kind of money to blow on a ten-course tasting menu, many of the best Irish restaurants offer fixed lunch, early dinner, or weeknight menus where you can experience the phenomenal Irish food revolution at a more affordable price.

On average, I would suggest allocating around €25-40 per person per day if you want to have a mix of cooking for yourself and some mid-range meals.

Activity Prices

Now that we’ve covered the most basic aspects of your trip to Ireland , it’s time to focus on how much it costs to actually do things on the Emerald Isle. Well, depending on your preferences and general travel style, it is entirely possible to spend a day visiting museums and sightseeing in Ireland without spending anything.

Most public museums in Ireland are free of charge to enter. The only time you’re likely to have to pay entry at a museum is if it is privately owned or there is a special, limited-time exhibit. Even attractions like the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland can actually be visited completely free of charge, provided you don’t park at the visitor’s centre!

It is also completely free to experience Ireland’s spectacular natural scenery. Hiking and hill walking are two of the best things to do in Ireland and it costs nothing to do.

If you’re interested in visiting historical sites, castles, or ruins in Ireland , oftentimes these places do charge an admission fee. Generally speaking, a full-price adult ticket to one of these sites costs around €10-20 depending on the site, but there are almost always discounts available for seniors and students with a valid ID.

Entertainment Prices

What is a trip to Ireland without the occasional pint or dram of Irish whiskey? Well, it’s important to factor the cost of this into your budget.

Well, unfortunately, liquor prices in Ireland aren’t exactly cheap and if you’re planning on sticking to a tight budget on your holiday, I would recommend keeping pub drinking to a minimum.

The average price for a pint at a pub or restaurant in Ireland is around €4-6, and a basic cocktail such as a gin and tonic averages about €10-12 depending on where you are.

As usual, most liquor prices are going to be more expensive in the bigger cities and in places that are more frequented by tourists. Even in Dublin, you can see a massive difference in prices between bars and pubs in heavily touristed areas compared to those that are more frequented by locals.

A good tip if you’re trying to visit Dublin on a budget is to avoid drinking in the Temple Bar neighbourhood altogether, as prices here are incredibly inflated.

As always, however, it is infinitely less expensive to buy your booze at the supermarket or liquor store or not to drink at all.

In general, if you want to have a few beers at the pub in the evenings during your trip to Ireland but don’t plan on binge drinking or ordering anything top shelf, then plan to budget about €5-15 per person per day on entertainment while in Ireland.

Average Trip to Ireland Cost

So how much does it cost to go to Ireland in 2024? While it is possible to travel and an incredibly tight budget while in Ireland for the purposes of this section, I’ve averaged all of the costs so you can have an idea of how much you might spend per day while travelling in Ireland. This is assuming costs such as accommodation and car hire are split between two people.

Accommodation:  €30 – 75/night

Transport:  €25 – 30/day

Food:  €25 – 40/day

Activities:  €5 – 15/day

Entertainment:  €5 – 15/day

This means that you can expect an average trip to cost roughly €90 to €175 per person per day with obviously the lower end being appropriate if travelling on a tight budget and the higher end if you’re on an upper mid-range budget.

Obviously, it is possible to cut costs more and spend less per day and it is certainly possible to spend more. This doesn’t factor in any pre-trip expenses such as airfares or ensuring you have the right gear for your Ireland trip such as comfortable shoes and a waterproof jacket.

Another thing to consider when determining your overall Ireland trip budget is travel insurance. World Nomads   offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

If you’re travelling on a tight budget then SafetyWing is an alternative option that offers travel medical insurance policies. Click here to get a quote from SafetyWing.

Travelling in Ireland doesn’t have to be an incredibly expensive experience and it’s entirely possible to stick to a tight budget. If you’re smart about where and how you spend your money, your Ireland trip cost shouldn’t be exorbitant. 

Are you planning a trip to Ireland? Have questions about the prices? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

My wife and I are planning a 2 week trip to Ireland. The hope is to fly into Dublin for a few days. Then rent a car and just wonder around for the balance of the time. It is a small island compared to where we live in California. I am expecting a fun laid back time. Am I wrong?

You will definitely be able to cover a lot of ground in 2 weeks, but don’t expect to be able to travel distances as quickly as you can in California – especially in rural areas 🙂 For a truly laid-back trip, don’t pack too much into your itinerary and really just concentrate on a few areas. Hope you have a lovely trip!

HI I am enjoyinging reading your blog we are looking to go to london scotland and ireland in july. We are attending a wedding in ireland and I am feeling like I dont know where to start in planning the trip. Thank you

Hi Donna! Sounds like you’re starting to plan a great adventure – I understand that it can get a bit overwhelming! Our London-Scotland-Ireland itinerary is a great place to start and to get some inspiration 🙂

I’m planning a trip to Ireland next year. I would like to know more about the planning of this trip. I would like to travel to see the country side of my ancestors. Thank you for your time.

I am a widow and would love to go to Ireland. Want home base to take day trips without having to change hotels often. What would you recommend?

Hi Brenda – depending on what you want to see and do in Ireland, a base in either Dublin or Galway could be good choices 🙂

Thanks for the info. My wife and I are going back for our 2nd trip. The first having been cut short due to the COVID outbreak. I must agree that the best way to see Ireland is a self driving tour. Just be prepared for some narrow roads. A lot of the cross country roads can be 1 Lane and you need to keep an eye out for oncoming traffic and a place to get out of the way. A beautiful country to see no matter what budget you have.

Thanks for your comment, Nathon! Hope you have a great 2nd trip to Ireland 🙂

Thanks Maggie! You took the initial confusion out of where to start with organizing plans and budget. Off and running….Cheers!

Happy I could help, Sean! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

Your article, How Much Will A Trip to Ireland, was very helpful. I am delighted to have found it. It has provided my husband and I with information that is valuable.

Happy you found this helpful!

Good day Maggie, The information was very helpful, and I’m planning my trip, and the cliffs of Moher is a must see. Thank you

Happy I could help, Gwendoline!

Thank you for your article, it was very informative to my husband & I. We will soon be celebrating our 25 anniversary in July & are planning a trip there in the same month. We are looking forward to visiting Ireland & experiencing the beauty of the green isle. We are searching for more tips for our trip, any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Again, thank you so much,

Hi Maggie! Thanks for your comment and I’m glad you found this article helpful! I hope you both have a fantastic trip to Ireland…if you have any more questions at all, feel free to send me an email! I would be happy to answer them 🙂

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Ireland Trip Cost: Pricing for Flights, Food & Accommodation

Plan your Ireland trip with a budget in mind. Get insights on flights, food, & accommodation costs for an unforgettable yet affordable Irish vacation.

Ireland is the poster for lush rolling landscapes contrasting beautifully against rugged mountain peaks. The Island has a strong folk culture, and Halloween can be traced back to Celtic tradition. Its over 30,000 castles and ruins that are popular filming locations offer tourists everything they'll need to enjoy an eventful holiday.

It costs a solo traveler an average of $1400 for a 1-week fun trip to Ireland. The average flight fare to Ireland costs $600, depending on activities and lifestyle; the average daily budget is $127. The daily budget includes $50 for accommodation, $32 for meals, $20 for transportation, and $25 for activities and random spending.

The Island of Ireland is an affordable travel destination with a lot to offer. The rest of the article has a detailed breakdown of the costs of traveling to Ireland. You'll also find useful tips for traveling on a budget. 

How Much Money Should You Take On A Trip To Ireland?

Ireland is a small country, and the cost of accommodation, food, transportation, and activities are reasonable. Based on the experiences of past travelers, an estimated $1400 guarantees fun and comfortable stay in Ireland .

Flight fares are reasonably priced, and an average round-trip ticket to Ireland is $600. With a daily spending budget of $127, you can afford a regular mid-range hotel, food, and transportation. 

The estimate also relies heavily on public transport rather than car rentals. So, you can expect to spend more if you prefer the more comfortable car rental services over public transport. 

Sightseeing activities are almost free, thanks to Ireland's picturesque natural beauty. However, some popular tours and activities can drive up your budget.

Ireland caters to both the budget traveler and the luxury getaway, and there's no limit to your budget. Generally, first-class tickets cost between $800-$3000, while vacation rentals cost $400-$800 per night. 

Traveling To Ireland On A Tight Budget

It is possible to travel to Ireland cheaply; after all, it is small, and most of its charm is free. If you are willing to take a few minor inconveniences, then you can travel to Ireland with a budget of $700

Some past travelers have found $300 flight tickets for a round-trip to Ireland. You can find even cheaper flight deals if you are willing to take standby flights and make stopovers. 

You can find cheap vacation rentals outside the city center for as low as $20 per night. These vacation rentals usually sell out quickly, and your best bet is to book for them way ahead. You can also find good 1 to 2-star hotels at an average of $20-$40 per night .

Since sightseeing activities are free, your daily food and transportation expenses should be around $20-$40. This budget is possible if you avoid fine dining and rely heavily on public transportation. 

Basic Expenses On A Trip To Ireland

The Island of Ireland is made up of two countries: the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Although it is not a big country, there's much to do and see. Here's a detailed cost breakdown of the expenses you should expect on your trip.

1. Flight Tickets

Flight Tickets are usually one of the most significant aspects of any journey. Airfares to Ireland depend on several factors, such as season, your take-off location, and booking in advance.

The average flight ticket from North America to Ireland is $600. This airfare is cheaper than other destinations because there's a high volume of flights to Ireland . In addition, cheap airlines such as Ryanair are based in Dublin, and travelers can get even cheaper flight deals.

December (Christmas holidays), Summer months, and St. Patrick's Day (March) are peak seasons in Ireland. Flight tickets to Ireland during this period usually see a hike in prices. 

International airports such as Dublin airport are usually the point of entry. However, you can find cheaper flight deals on flights to smaller airports like Cork and Belfast.

2. Accommodation

The accommodation type, location, and season can affect prices drastically. Ireland offers accommodation for every budget, including hostels, Irish B&Bs, mid-range, and luxury hotels. 

Hostels are always the best option for a solo traveler or backpacker on a tight budget. The cheapest option is getting a bed in a dorm for $20 or a private room for $50. Most hostels offer discounts and are a great way to meet other travelers to travel with and bills.

Irish Bed and Breakfasts are famous for their hospitality. B&Bs are travelers' most common accommodation style, costing $100 daily. Although their locations aren't always centralized, the cozy rooms, warm meals, and friendly owners make up for that.

Hotels are available in a variety of styles depending on your budget. Mid-range hotels are easy to find everywhere, have fair prices, and the rooms usually meet quality standards. The average price of a mid-range hotel is $50 per day.

Luxury hotels in Ireland offer a unique experience you can't find elsewhere. There are several 4 to 5-star hotels in the city that cost an average of $150-$200. However, the Irish castle hotels in the countryside are unique and cost an average of $200-$600 per night.

Airbnb and vacation rentals are becoming a popular accommodation style for many travelers. The average price of an Airbnb Ireland is $40-$50 per day, while vacation rentals go for $40-$200 per day. Many travelers choose this option because most prices are reasonable, and you can save money on food by cookin g.

Remember that these accommodation prices will often be higher in big cities like Dublin. When choosing accommodation, look for a central area outside the cities. 

3. Transportation

Your transportation cost depends on whether you use public transit or car rentals. Using buses or trains for your day trip is usually cheaper than renting a car. However, both means of transportation have their perks.

Buses in Ireland travel around the whole country, making it an easy and affordable way to visit the countryside. The most popular bus is the Bus Eirean which costs an average of $14-$17 and stops in smaller towns. However, the open road tourist travel pass offers an unlimited 3-day pass on Bus Eireann for $72 .

Most travelers often assume wrongly that the train is the best option for travel. Although the trains are more comfortable, they are usually slower than buses and cost more. The average train ticket is $14-$23, or you can get a 4-day Trekker rail pass for $125.

Often touted as the best way to see the country, renting a car comes with many challenges. First, cars are mainly manual and cost $38 per day, or you can pay a higher fee for an automatic. Secondly, country roads are long, winding, and difficult to navigate, especially considering Ireland drives on the left side.

4. Food & Drinks

Meals are reasonably priced, but it is easy to raise food bills if care is not taken. Like most places, breakfast is usually cheaper than lunch and dinner, and most accommodations provide it.  Considering Ireland's entertaining food and drink culture, add a little extra cash to your food budget for safety . 

The average daily meal prices include $10 for breakfast, $12-$18 for lunch, and $21 for dinner. Alcohol is an easy way to break your budget in Ireland. Ireland's pub culture is fascinating, and one can readily spend up to $20 daily on alcohol alone.

5. Attractions & Activities

Ireland's natural beauty, heritage, and historical sites make sightseeing easy and free. However, on average, significant attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher or Giant's causeway cost $15. Even these can be visited for free by travelers who are good hikers.

Dublin is the most expensive city in Ireland, but you can visit many sites and attractions with the Dublin pass. A 2-day pass for $87 guarantees over 35 attractions such as the Guinness storehouse, distilleries, the Dublin castle, etc .

Many companies offer day tours outside the city center for an average of $60-$80. Day tours are usually fun with exciting history and Irish folklore.

6. Travel Insurance And Random Spending

Travel insurance is vital when traveling to cover unforeseen circumstances such as passport loss, medical emergencies, etc. Always compare quotes from different agencies and choose the plan that covers all.

Ireland is a land of souvenirs and paraphernalia. You don't want to finish your vacation in this country without creating good memories. There are so much you can buy and take home. 

It would be best to budget $100-$200 for shopping. Some popular items are Waterford crystal, Alan wool sweaters, blankets, etc .

How To Save Money On A Trip To Ireland

Although items are reasonably priced in Ireland, several costs can add up to increase your budget. For example, most sightseeing locations are free, but you'll still need to pay for most of the popular attractions. 

Thankfully, you can still cut costs if you know the right hacks. You just need a few adjustments here and there, and you'll be good to go. Here's how you can save money on your trip to Ireland.

1. Travel During The Shoulder Season

Summer months, Christmas holidays, and March (around St Patrick's Day) are peak seasons. Flight fares around this period are usually expensive, even in winter, which is technically an off-peak season. 

Hotels and accommodations can also go off the roof because of the high demand during these seasons. They can eat significantly into your budget if you fail to plan properly. 

The best prices are usually in Spring (April, May) and Fall (September, October). Apart from lower prices, you will enjoy the site and attractions with fewer crowds and pleasant weather .

2. Book In Advance

Whether accommodation or flight tickets, booking in advance has helped a lot of travelers save money. The earlier you Book, the cheaper your flight tickets. Besides, it could also be an opportunity to cash in on discounts and other promotions.

Book your flights 1-3 months before your journey to save yourself a considerable amount of money. Remember to clear your browser cookies because websites can tell you just checked flight prices, increasing the cost .

Booking your accommodation in advance can also guarantee a cheaper deal. If you are staying in Dublin for a few days, remember that weekdays are always more affordable than weekends.

3. Save Money On Food

Some restaurants offer early bird specials, and you can eat full meals at a discounted price. Also, look for restaurants outside tourist hot spots to get heart-full meals at reasonable prices.

There are hostels all over Ireland, whether in big cities or small towns. Groceries are affordable, and many hostels and private rooms come with cooking facilities you can take advantage of. This is especially an excellent idea for people traveling in groups . 

Stroll to the local markets to stock up on groceries and foodstuffs. It could also be an opportunity to see places and interact with locals. Most accommodations come with a full Irish breakfast that keeps you full until lunch; save money by making dinner.

4. Travel In Groups

The most significant case for traveling in groups is the sheer amount of money you save from splitting bills. Since most accommodations come with a double bed, it is cheaper to split costs when traveling with another person.

You can also limit your transportation cost by traveling with a group. This way, you split the cost of car rentals and gas, and take free, self-guided tours.

Just be sure your co-travelers are like-minded and share similar interests. If you don't know anybody traveling, you can hook up with other travelers on forums and tourist sites . 

5. Consider House-Sitting

House-sitting is perfect for long-term travelers who don't have to worry about travel dates. You get free accommodation by taking care of someone's house and pets while they are away.

This way, you can enjoy your stay without paying for accommodation or utilities. You can even earn some money on the side and build a solid relationship with your employer .

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What Does a Trip to Ireland Cost? A Full Rundown

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Have you always wanted to visit Ireland, but are wondering what a trip to this gorgeous country would cost? Recently, my husband, Aaron, and I did our own 10-day road trip around the Emerald Isle. Since we are nerds (accountant and engineer), we tracked all of our expenses in a beautiful spreadsheet, which I am sharing below today.

This trip of ours was supposed to happen in 2020, but, well…. you know the rest. Originally, it was planned as one week in October, covering only the Republic of Ireland. One and a half years later, we rescheduled our Ireland trip for March of 2022, now enhanced with three more days and time in Northern Ireland . You can imagine how excited we were to finally go!

Inevitably, some of your expenses will not be the same as ours. For example, if you don’t need to board any pets, then you are already $600 under our budget. There are plenty more nuances to discuss, so let’s not waste any time, and jump right into it!

Here is our actual Ireland Trip Cost (in USD):

The above shows actual expenses paid over ten days in Ireland for two people. Our budget was not on a shoestring, but was not luxurious either.

With this being a 10-day itinerary with lots of moving around, my spreadsheet is pretty lengthy. To make it fit nicely for you above, I had to condense some of the line items. No worries though – I am going to break everything into more detail below.

While there are many factors that will make our actual expenses higher or lower than yours will be, for each category I will suggest ways to cut costs and where to splurge. After all, when doing such an epic Ireland road trip, one must occasionally treat thyself.

Travel Savvy Tip

Don’t look at this budget as a lump sum! That’s the quickest way to get intimidated and assume Ireland is unattainable. The truth is, you won’t pay the full amount at once. You’ll buy your flight, lodging, and rental car right away, and then likely pay nothing for a few months.

Once it gets closer to your trip, you’ll start looking at tours you may want to do, as well as make restaurant reservations. When you get back home from your trip, you’ll pay off any remaining vacay expenses you’ve incurred.

Breaking it into chunks like this is a much more approachable way to afford the cost of a trip to Ireland!

Ireland Trip Cost Breakdown:

Although traveling to Europe from the US can be pricey, Dublin is often one of the cheaper airports to fly into. Additionally, if you plan to travel elsewhere within Europe after Ireland, you can often find many budget flights on carriers like Ryanair.

We paid $753.57 for my flight and used credit card rewards points to cover the full amount of Aaron’s flight. This isn’t necessarily the cheapest price possible, but we weren’t able to be too flexible with Aaron’s limited vacation days . To find the best flight deals, I recommend comparing prices on Google Flights or Skyscanner , and avoid traveling during the summer months.

When flying United, we also pay extra for an Economy ticket, rather than the bare bones Basic Economy fares. This allows us to have flexibility with changing our travel plans when needed, as well as better overall customer service.

Solo travelers should budget around $700 on average for airfare. However, you can find even cheaper prices by following the below tips to avoid overpaying for flights :

• Be flexible with your travel days, as weekend flights can be crazy expensive. Play around with searching different departure and arrival days, and you’ll be amazed what a difference that can make.
• Travel during the low season (November through March), when there is an overall drop in prices.
• Last but not least, the tip that has helped me the most:  Sign up for a credit card with travel rewards points. We’ve gotten countless free flights thanks to our cards, simply due to points earned on every day purchases. We’ve had great experiences using both the  Capital One Venture  and the  Chase Sapphire Reserve .

Transportation

To road trip around Ireland, a rental car is a necessity. Rates will vary by the time of year and type of car. Generally, the smaller the car the better for navigating Ireland’s tight, winding roads. As you can see, we paid $210.05 for gas, as rates were very expensive during our trip.

You can also expect to pay for parking in cities like Kilkenny and Kinsale, as well as tolls when taking highways. Surprisingly, our route between Dingle and the Cliffs of Moher included a car ferry to cross a waterway, which was a hair shorter than circumventing it instead. The route on Google Map said “tolls”, which apparently meant the ferry toll, so watch out for that!

Be aware of your speed when driving around Ireland! A camera caught us driving nine kilometers over the speed limit, which we realized after receiving an 80 euro speeding ticket in the mail.

Public Transportation

In Dublin, a rental car will be more of a pain than anything else. Therefore, we ditched ours in favor of the city’s good walkability and bus connectivity. We didn’t use the taxi much, except for getting to and from the airport and one other time to go to Teeling Distillery.

Otherwise, in Dublin we paid $13.22 for one roundtrip bus ride, before realizing we’d be better off spending $33.23 on a Leap Visitor Card for the rest of our stay. At 16 euros a piece, these cards allowed us unlimited bus rides for 72 hours. We picked ours up at a Spar convenience store in Dublin.

Even if you are bus illiterate like me, rest assured that you can easily figure out the routes using Google Maps. Buses leave frequently and can take you just about anywhere in the city, so the card is totally worth it.

Doing a road trip around Ireland can make booking lodging trickier and a bit more expensive, since you have to move around so much. Over eleven days, we spent $1,801.51. While we tried to stay budget conscious, sometimes we splurged a little.

I couldn’t get out of my head the idea of staying in a cozy little cottage during March in Ireland, when the weather is still chilly at night. So when I stumbled upon the cutest stays on Airbnb, I couldn’t say no. We ended up booking three cottages at different spots around Ireland, which were a little on the pricey side.

That said, it is generally easy to find inexpensive bed and breakfasts, inns, and guesthouses all over Ireland. If hostels are more your thing, they are harder to come by in rural areas, but are more common in cities like Dublin and Galway. For reference, below is a list of everywhere we stayed during our Ireland road trip, along with what we paid.

• Kilmore Guesthouse – Kilkenny: 1 night at $112.93
• Seaside Cottage – Kilbrittain: 1 night at $216.29
• Rockcrest House – Kenmare: 1 night at $109.05
• Dingle Cottage – Dingle: 2 nights at $286.26
• Sli Na Mara – Galway: 1 night at $132.19
• Portrush Cottage – Portrush: 2 nights at $337.17
• Number 31 – Dublin: 3 nights at $607.62

Solo travelers booking the above stays and traveling in March will spend a similar total to us. However, many individuals won’t opt for cottage rentals, preferring hostels or simple rooms instead. Therefore, the total lodging cost for a solo Ireland trip may be much lower.

Eating in during your trip is a good way of keeping food costs down. However, as you can see from what we spent on groceries, we didn’t take advantage of this much.

The little bit we did spend on groceries was primarily on Irish brown bread, butter, and jam. In fact, this simple breakfast was kind of an obsession for us during much of the trip. Otherwise, we tried to stay in hotels or inns with breakfast included.

Solo travelers who are as averse to buying groceries as my husband and I will spend a little less than the above total.

Food & Drink

Aaron and I ate rather well during our Ireland trip, which is evident from what we spent at restaurants and pubs. We also love going to cafes while traveling, and stopped in for cappuccinos once or twice a day.

The food in Ireland really surprised me, as I expected it to be heavy and bland, but it really wasn’t! Throughout our road trip, Aaron and I were able to find everything from Thai, seafood, vegan, to French cuisine – you name it.

I did not find Ireland to be an especially pricey destination for dining, especially when sticking to cafes and pub food. The problem is, Aaron and I aren’t very disciplined with this, and food is always a splurge area for us. I suppose we could have cut down on the cappuccinos though.

If I had to choose a favorite meal from the entire trip, it was the Indian food we ate at Pickle in Dublin. Between their “duck two ways” and flavorful curries, everything we consumed was heavenly.

Solo travelers will likely spend less than half of our above total. As an occasional solo traveler myself, I hardly drink when I’m alone and typically opt for simple dinners like sandwiches and salads.

On our Ireland trip, the cost of doing activities was very reasonable. You can see the full list of everything we spent over ten days below, which for two people added up to $312.15. Outside of Dublin, most sights we visited were either free or had just a small fee.

Dublin activities tended to be more expensive; the Book of Kells and Teeling Distillery Tour were by far the most expensive experiences. If you can only do one, I recommend seeing the Book of Kells: it’s essentially a treasure that dates back to the 9th century. Of course, if tasting whiskey in Dublin is high on your list, you should know that we left with three bottles from Teeling.

You could also add a little color to your Dublin adventures with this Literary Pub Tour . It was one of the pricier things we did, but I personally love using literature as a reason to explore new pubs.

As for everything else on this list, there is nothing I recommend skipping. However, if you can’t fit it all, then prioritize the following: the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, and Cliffs of Moher.

Ireland Trip Cost: Miscellaneous Expenses

• Shopping: $203.04 Chances are you’ll want to leave Ireland with a memento from your trip. Just be careful that you don’t blow your budget! Our purchase consisted of Teeling whiskey, a souvenir Starbucks mug, and a book about Kinsale by the guide from our walking tour.
• Cell Phone: $110 You may need an international plan to make sure your phone works during your trip. Under Verizon, I pay $10 for every day I use cellular data abroad. It’s a bit pricey, but worth it for how often I rely on my phone for Google Maps and last minute restaurant searches. Aaron keeps his phone on airplane mode so that we only pay for my phone.
• Pet Boarding: $660.36 While it’s ideal to have a friend or family member watch your pet for free, that isn’t always possible. When Aaron and I travel together, we always pay to board our dog in a cozy little “suite” at his vet office.
• Tips: $11.02 Tipping isn’t a huge practice Ireland. When receiving table service at a restaurant, 10-15% is the norm, but not if you’re simply ordering drinks from the bar. If a hotel porter carries your bags, 1-2 euros will suffice. With taxi drivers, it’s common to simply round up to the nearest euro.

There you have it – a comprehensive guide to the actual cost of our trip to Ireland. You should now have a good idea of what you can expect to spend on a ten day Ireland road trip. All that’s left is to start booking your trip, while dreaming of dramatic coastlines, fairy tale castles, and pubs galore.

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How Much Does a Trip to Ireland Cost (On Any Budget)?

Figuring out how much a trip to Ireland costs is a bit of a perplexing question simply because of the wide variance of pricing across the country.

In Dublin, for example, accommodations are dramatically more expensive than the countryside… but to explore the countryside, a rental car is really the way to go, which drives up costs.

Food is generally reasonably priced, but order a few too many pints of Guinness, and you may find yourself spending more than expected.

Sightseeing can cost almost nothing thanks to the absolutely gorgeous countryside that is free to visit, but add in visits to some of Ireland’s most popular attractions or tours, and the costs can easily add up.

From a basic Ireland travel budget to what to expect when planning a luxury getaway, here’s how much a trip to Ireland costs.

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Table of Contents

How to Use This Trip to Ireland Cost Guide

About flying into ireland, budget trip to ireland cost: $60-80/day, mid-range trip to ireland cost: $100-$120/day, luxury trip to ireland cost: $200/day & up.

Obviously, every traveler and the cost of every trip to Ireland is unique, but we’ve put this Ireland budget guide together to offer a rough estimate of what travelers can expect to spend at various price points on a trip to Ireland.

All of these estimates for the price of a trip to Ireland are given in USD unless otherwise stated, and are for one person.

This Ireland travel budget estimates also assume you are traveling during the summer high season or the shoulder season (late spring, early fall).

We have intentionally excluded the cost of getting to Ireland from this Ireland budget guide, simply because the price varies so dramatically based on where you are coming from.

However, the good news is that for travelers both from North America and Europe, Ireland can be one of the cheapest places to fly into, which already gives an Ireland travel budget a leg up over many other nearby destinations.

This is helped by the fact that the budget airline Ryanair is based in Dublin, and many east-coast USA airport hubs, like Boston, have a huge volume of flights to Dublin.

However, don’t only check prices for flights to Dublin: while the vast majority of international flights do land in the capital, double-check prices for flights to Cork, Shannon, and Belfast as well–you never know when you’ll find a great deal.

Ireland is a difficult country to travel in on a very small budget, but it is possible to limit expenses in some areas to limit the overall cost of your trip to Ireland.

This is a rough sketch of what a budget trip to Ireland will cost and feel like.

Keep in mind that this is a budget trip in the sense of a traveler who is visiting Ireland as a standalone destination or as part of a defined trip. Shoestring backpackers who would like to cut costs by couchsurfing, avoiding all paid attractions, etc, will, of course, be able to get by on less, but that is not how we would recommend seeing Ireland!

Accommodation

Accommodation in Ireland can be pricey by budget standards, with dorm rooms in hostels starting around $20 USD/person/night.

If you’re traveling with at least one other person, it can often be easier to split a budget private room than to deal with a dorm for similar money.

Dublin is by far the most expensive place to stay in Ireland, so if you’re looking to cut costs, limit your nights in the capital city!

Transportation

Transportation is another area that’s hard to manage on a budget for a trip to Ireland, as renting a car is absolutely the best way to see the country, and while expensive by budget standards, allows you to cut your expenses in other areas (food, sightseeing, lodging) much more easily.

Honestly, the best way to limit your transportation costs in Ireland is simply to travel with a group and split the cost of a car, rental insurance, and gas.

If you can’t or don’t want to drive and are traveling on a budget, the next-best option is to use Ireland’s bus system to travel throughout the country, and ideally limit your travels to a smaller geographic area to save costs.

Check rental car prices for your trip to Ireland with  Discover Cars  today!

While eating out in Ireland can get pricey–especially if you are a fan of Irish beer or whiskey–there are plenty of ways to save.

Groceries are affordable and many small hostels and private rooms in homes that you can rent include cooking facilities.

In addition, when pricing out lodging, be sure to account for the fact that a place that serves a full Irish breakfast included in the rate is absolutely worth paying a bit more for–we found they kept us full well into the afternoon.

Tours & Attractions

Major attractions like the Cliffs of Moher, the Guinness Factory, and the Giant’s Causeway do cost a bit to visit–often $10-15 USD for a ticket–there are also enough free places to visit in Ireland that there’s no real reason to pay for attractions if you’re traveling on a strict budget.

Even highlights like the Cliffs of Moher and Giant’s Causeway can technically be visited for free if you’re willing to hike a couple of miles rather than visiting from the built-up visitor’s center, so if you’re a hiker, it’s easy to keep your trip to Ireland cost down for this category.

While budget travel in Ireland can be a bit tricky, traveling on a mid-range budget can be very, very simple–and honestly, sometimes more affordable than you might think!

Especially in the countryside, there is a plethora of small inns and bed & breakfasts in Ireland that cost well under $100 USD/night, even for incredibly quaint and well-reviewed places that include a breakfast fit for royalty.

Though you won’t want to splash out every night, when calculating your trip to Ireland cost on a mid-range budget, you’ll likely find you have room to splurge on 1-2 nights in a castle, as well–and the experience is worth every penny.

Like budget travelers, mid-range travelers will want to avoid too many nights in Dublin to keep accommodation costs down, but the most charming parts of Ireland are outside the capital anyway.

On a mid-range budget, renting a small car to travel around Ireland is absolutely, 100%, the way to go–road tripping in Ireland is a complete delight and the best way to see the country.

To keep costs lower, rent the smallest car possible (honestly, you’ll want to do this regardless of your Ireland travel budget–Ireland’s roads are tiny), and split the costs with at least one other person if you can.

On a mid-range budget, food in Ireland will generally look like an included full Irish breakfast at your bed & breakfast of choice, perhaps a light meal or something prepared at home for one other meal, and one meal out per day.

Honestly, the meals in Ireland are often so heavy we were usually comfortable with one included breakfast, one large dinner, and some other small snacks and treats rather than a full third meal.

When calculating your trip to Ireland cost, be sure to include a small portion for tours and attractions like visiting the Cliffs of Moher from the visitor’s center, taking a ferry to a few islands, and taking the occasional interesting tour–we loved our tour of Belleek Castle , for example, and touring the Trinity College Long Room is practically a must.

You likely won’t need to set aside a huge portion of your budget for this, as some of the best things about visiting Ireland, on a budget or not, are free.

Like most destinations, there’s no limit to how much a trip to Ireland costs on a luxury budget–here are a few examples to get you inspired to plan your epic getaway.

Want to stay in a castle every night for your trip to Ireland? On a luxury budget, you sure can!

That being said, we do recommend staying in a luxurious countryside bed & breakfast or inn at least once to mix up your experience in Ireland.

While you can certainly rent a more luxurious and higher-end car on your trip to Ireland with a luxury budget than a smaller one, we still highly recommend sticking to the tiniest vehicle that can comfortably fit your party in–the roads can be quite narrow, and difficult driving can detract from your Ireland travel experience!

With a luxury budget, there’s no shortage to the phenomenal food you can eat in Ireland.

Here are a few food experiences to consider: a detailed food tour through a region, touring both the Guinness Factory and Jameson Distillery, dining in a Michelin Star-rated restaurant or two, and eating out for every meal.

When estimating your trip to Ireland cost on a luxury budget, you’ll want to set aside funds for at least a few unique experiences: think private horseback rides through the countryside, tours of islands, themed tours like Game of Thrones experiences, spa days housed in elaborate castles, and if it’s your hobby of choice, plenty of golf with some of the best views imaginable.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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What Does a Trip to Ireland Cost? 2024 Ireland Trip Budget

I have traveled to Ireland multiple times and I’ve managed to see many of the highlights of this charming island nation, including bustling Dublin , the Ancient East, the Dingle and Kerry Peninsulas, the stunning Cliffs of Moher, and the beauty of Northern Ireland . I’ve also helped many families plan trips to Ireland back in my days of a travel advisor. Needless to say, all this trip research, both personal and professional, has helped me wrap my head around how much a trip to Ireland costs for a family.

Below is an outline of an Ireland trip budget that families can use when planning their visit to Ireland. This Ireland trip budget includes the average cost of flights , approximate cost of accommodations in Ireland for families, how much to expect to pay for a rental car or driver , cost of activities and experiences , food costs , and tips on when to go to save money. Fortunately, with the right planning, travel in Ireland can be more affordable than other European destinations.

How Much Does a Trip to Ireland Cost?

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission.

I have based this Ireland vacation budget on the pricing for two adults and two children between the ages of 6-11, traveling from the United States in the summer months , and spending nine nights in Ireland.

For purposes of this post, I used a typical family vacation itinerary to Ireland that focuses on exploring Dublin and western Ireland. This budget is based on spending three nights in Dublin, three nights in Killarney (southwest Ireland), and three nights in Galway (due west of Dublin).

The bottom line is that a nine night trip to Ireland for a family with two adults and two young children in the summer costs an average of $9,140 or $254 per person, per day. But read on to see the budget breakdown and tips and ideas for savings that I used when planning my trips to Ireland, and I’ve also made recommendations on what I think is worth splurging on based on personal experience and feedback from clients.

You can easily swap Western Ireland for Southern Ireland or focus on Northern Ireland . These changes would only have a small impact on cost, as prices across Ireland and Northern Ireland are fairly consistent. Ireland’s currency is the Euro (though Northern Ireland uses Great British Pounds). I have converted all prices to U.S. dollars in this post.

Ireland Airfare Costs

Airfare is one of the biggest areas of cost savings for a trip to Ireland when compared to other European destinations. In fact, many people end up taking a vacation to Ireland solely because they snagged a great deal on airfare. But before you book that flight, here are a few things to be aware of.

Some of the best deals on airfare to Ireland come from budget airlines, like Play Airlines or Norse Airlines. The national carrier of Aer Lingus is a good “happy medium” to consider.

You can also look at flights in and out of Shannon Airport. Shannon is located on the west coast of Ireland and has many arrivals and departures to the US daily. Shannon is only a one-to-three hour drive from many of the major countryside regions that people want to visit, like Killarney, Limerick, Galway, and Connemara.

Utilizing this airport saves you from backtracking to Dublin at the end of the trip to fly home (and can ultimately save you money in another night of accommodation, another day of car rental, etc.) It is also much easier to deal with than Dublin, but you can still pre-clear U.S. immigration.

In the summer months, families can expect to pay about $500-900 per person in the summer. In the shoulder season of spring and fall, you may find deals for less from major U.S. hubs (just avoid the St. Patrick’s Day and Easter holidays). Another huge budget saver: consider visiting in winter.

Irish weather is often cold and wet year-round, but it rarely gets below freezing there. Meaning if you dress properly, you can still enjoy the outdoors even in winter, when flight prices drop.

When looking for airfare deals, I highly recommend signing up for a membership to  Going , which will send you airfare deal alerts for the cities that you are interested in.

Total airfare cost: $2,700 ($675 per person)

Irish Accommodations Cost

A trip to Ireland is a time to forego the nondescript corporate hotel chain in favor of friendly accommodation options that immerse your family in Irish hospitality. Consider booking a stay in a rural bed and breakfast , a farm stay, or a cozy cottage rental.

In general, basic four-star accommodation in Ireland is around $200-350 per night in the summer months, and that includes properties in central Dublin. The caveat is you must plan ahead: most properties have a limited number of rooms that can comfortably sleep four, and these are often booked months in advance.

Once those are gone, you’ll have to book two rooms, doubling your accommodation costs. I’ve helped many clients in the spring for summer travel who had to pay $400-500 each night at a hotel that was half that amount a few months earlier because of this.

If you do opt for a more rustic experience, even if just for a night or two, you can easily find options in the three-star quality range for around $100-150 a night. Rooms will be basic, but clean. On-site amenities will be limited (probably just a small breakfast room and very limited front desk staff), but the service is typically still very friendly.

If your budget is flexible, do consider splurging on a night or two in a five-star castle hotel , like Adare Manor , Ashford Castle , or Dromoland Castle . Summer prices for a family room at these properties range from $1,000-$2,000 per night, so it does come with a hefty price tag but the experience is so memorable.

That said, one of my favorite money-saving tips is that the premier castle hotels (like those mentioned above) often have more budget-friendly sister properties on site. Like the Inn at Dromoland Castle and the Lodge at Ashford Castle , where you can still get a taste of the experience but for hundreds of dollars less per night. Guests at these properties are typically still allowed to utilize many of the on-site amenities at the castle (be advised that many activities are an extra cost, though).

Total Accommodation cost: $3,150 ($350 x 9 nights)

Car Rental/Transportation Costs

Driving in Ireland is intimidating, but I also find it one of the best ways to explore the country as it allows you to go at your own pace and make some hidden discoveries of your own. With children, it also means you have the flexibility to stop when you want, or let the kids sleep off some jetlag in the backseat on longer travel days.

Do expect to pay a bit of a premium for an automatic car, and be sure to reserve one well in advance as manual cars are more prevalent in Ireland. But the ease of an automatic is definitely worth it.

Check in with your credit card company to determine what level of insurance coverage they provide on car rental bookings abroad. The odds that you’ll have a little fender bender with a stone wall on a narrow road isn’t that rare for American drivers!

If you’re not comfortable driving on the opposite side of the narrow, twisty roads, then consider booking a private driver. This can easily start at $700 per day so you’ll need to budget accordingly. One way to keep costs down is to utilize public transportation for your point A to point B travel journeys.

Another cost-saving tip: don’t pick up your rental car until the day you depart Dublin. Dublin is relatively small geographically, so you can easily explore on foot and through a few taxi rides during your time there.

Check rates on Car Rentals in Ireland  from Auto Europe

Total transportation cost: $1,000 (including 6 days of car rental and a few taxis/public transportation services)

Food Costs in Ireland

Nearly all hotels include a hearty Irish breakfast in the cost of accommodation, so I encourage families to fuel up on that meal. A light lunch could easily be $10 per person each day at casual spots, allowing you to splurge on a heartier and nicer dinner.

Take full advantage of the local food movement that is revolutionizing Irish cuisine. Allocate $20-30 per person for dinner, more if you indulge in a fine dining restaurant (particularly in hotels.) In general, budget around  $160-175 each day, possibly more if you know your family prefers more upscale dining.

Total food cost: $1,440

Tours and Activities

This is the most challenging aspect of budgeting for a trip to Ireland, in part because it’s so personal to each family and their travel style. In general, activity costs will be a bit higher while in Dublin, when you want to do more sightseeing and will likely pay more in entrance fees. (Find out 5 free things to do in Dublin .) I would highly recommend a visit to the EPIC Museum, Trinity College’s Book of Kells exhibition, and maybe a tour of the Guinness Storehouse. (See my 3 day Dublin itinerary .)

Fortunately, activities in rural Ireland are practically free, especially if your family loves the great outdoors. Plan to do a lot of hiking, some castle visits, etc. Entrance fees to major sites will be less than $20 per person, and many are free or only charge for parking.

If you do want to splurge on a few special experiences , I’d suggest a falconry course, an archery lesson, or maybe an Irish dancing class. For private experiences, expect to pay $250-$550 for these half-day activities.

Total Activity cost: $850

Total Cost of a Trip to Ireland: $9,140 (for a family of four for nine days)

This is below the per day budget that is the norm for families traveling at a four-star level in other parts of Europe, which is why I feel Ireland is more of a bargain compared to mainland Europe.

And I also think families can travel to Ireland for under $8,000 in total if they fly a budget airline and do more basic accommodations and fewer pricier activities. That said, if you want to travel in luxury, with castle stays and private drivers throughout, it’s easy for the total cost to rise well above $10,000.

Still undecided where to go? We also have budget breakdowns for London , Paris , Italy , Portugal , Greece , Japan , Morocco , and Iceland .

Visiting Ireland? You may also be interested in…

• 3 Days in Dublin
• Stops on the Coastal Causeway in Northern Ireland
• Game of Thrones sites in Northern Ireland
• Things to do in Waterford, Ireland
• Ireland travel tips

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: December 1, 2023

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Ireland Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 1, 2024

I love backpacking around Ireland for the rolling green hills, historic castles, beautiful seaside landscapes, and all the Guinness and Jameson you can drink. The Emerald Isle is an enchanting postcard-perfect destination with tons to see and do whether you’re in the Dublin for a long weekend or plan to spend several weeks backpacking across the country.

While millions of people visit Ireland each year, most of them stick to Dublin , see the main sights, drink a few pints, and head on their way.

But there is so much more to traveling here — especially if you have time to rent a car and get off the beaten path. Ireland is the perfect road trip country. Seriously. Drive around! And make plenty of stops along the way. You’ll find cool little towns and tons of ruins and castles, some of which are rumored to be haunted.

Anyone who has spent time in Ireland will agree that it’s a magical land full of wonder, history, nature and plenty of post-travel tales. No one ever leaves Ireland unhappy.

This Ireland travel guide can help you make the most out of your time on the Emerald Isle and ensure you have fun without breaking the bank.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Ireland

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in ireland.

1. Have fun in Dublin

Dublin is synonymous with fun. The capital of the Republic of Ireland and its largest city, Dublin offers so much to explore . The city’s 18th century Georgian architecture is some of the best in Europe. Take a walk through history with a visit to Dublin Castle, be awe-struck by St. Patrick’s Cathedral’s medieval architecture, which was completed in 1260, tour Trinity College for a look inside one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions and while you’re there check out the iconic Book of Kells (an illuminated manuscript) from 800 CE. Literature lovers can stroll around the city on a self-guided literary tour. Fans of Ireland’s most famous export (Guinness) will find no shortage of pubs that claim to pour the city’s best pint but go directly to the source with a tour of the Guinness Storehouse (admission starts at 24 EUR). At night there’s bountiful live music in small pubs or larger clubs, one of the many ways to experience Irish“craic,” the nation’s word for that fun feeling you have with friends.

2. Admire the Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher stretch for 8 kilometers (5 miles) along the Atlantic coast in County Clare. They offer some of the most incredible views in all of Ireland. On a clear day you can see as far as Aran Islands in one direction, and Galway Bay in the other. The cliff’s name comes from the Gaelic word Mothar which means “ruins of a fort” and O’Brien’s tower, which now sits atop the cliffs, was constructed using the original fort’s stone in 1835. The cliffs reach a height of 214 meters (702 feet) and are home to a wide variety of birds. If you visit in late spring, you’ll probably see a colony of colorful puffins. Save this activity for a sunny day because there isn’t much to see when the cliffs are shrouded in Ireland’s famous mist. Admission is 10 EUR. If you’re short on time, take a day tour (they usually have a few stops, including Galway). Coming from Galway, it’s about a 90-minute drive. From Dublin, it’s more than three hours by car or bus.

3. See the Giant’s Causeway

Cross the border into Northern Ireland to visit the famous Giant’s Causeway , a natural geological phenomenon composed of over 40,000 basalt pillars that look like a staircase for giants. They formed between 50 and 60 million years ago during the Paleocene Epoch due to intense volcanic activity in the area. The tallest of the columns are around 12 meters (39 feet) high and 28 meters (92 feet) thick. The name is also said to have come from an Irish legend where a giant named Finn McCool created a path across the Irish Sea face down his arch enemy, the Scottish giant Benandonner. The pillars are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and named one of the top four natural wonders in The United Kingdom. It’s a protected nature reserve, however you can walk across the rocks using one of the four marked trails. Maps are available at the visitor center. Admission is free, but if you arrive by car you need to pay for parking, though it includes a guided tour.

4. Drive along the Ring of Kerry

This is one of the most well-trodden tourist trails in Ireland for a reason. Stretching almost 200 kilometers (125 miles), the Ring of Kerry is a scenic route that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula on the west coast of Ireland. It’s the ultimate Irish road trip along winding coastal roads, lush green pastures, and rolling hills. You’ll pass by lakes, small mountains, historical forts, and an ancient druid stone circle. Stop for a few of the highlights along the route. Ross Castle, built in the 15th century is open to guided tours. Lough Leane consists of a series of small lakes surrounded by dense forest and ancient castle ruins scattered in the area. You could spend the whole day in Killarney National Park with its lakes, walking trails and waterfalls. Staigue stone fort is a circular stone ruin likely built in the Iron Age. Driving the entire route takes 3.5 to 4 hours nonstop, but plan for an all-day adventure with stops. If you don’t have a vehicle you can take a day tour from Killarney . And if you want to challenge yourself, trek the 215-kilometer (135-mile) Kerry Way on foot!

5. Wander Galway

Other things to see and do in ireland, 1. spend time in cork.

Cork is a buzzing city nestled on Ireland’s southern coast. Originally a maritime hub, Cork is now a cosmopolitan university city filled with cheap eats and a lively nightlife. Head to the English Market in the morning for baked goods or fresh produce – it’s one of the oldest covered markets in Europe. Joind the hundreds of thousands of people that come here each year to kiss the Blarney Stone for good luck. There’s plenty of opportunity to hike around Gougane Barra, and to enjoy the coastal landscape around Mizen Head where you’ll find a suspension bridge with views of towering cliffs and the Atlantic. Surfing and whale watching are also popular here as minke whales, fin whales, and humpback whales are commonly seen along the coast (expect to pay around 55 EUR for a whale watching tour).

2. Party on St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick is Ireland’s patron saint. As the legend goes, he drove all the snakes out of the country. Whether you believe the legend or not, this is the biggest party of the year in which everyone is Irish. The biggest parade takes place in Dublin. It’s one of the biggest parties in the world so be sure to book your stay in advance as everything sells out quickly!

3. Kiss the Blarney Stone

Blarney Castle sits just outside Cork. Built in the 15th century, visitors flock here to see the Stone, which is made of Carboniferous limestone and is built into the castle itself. The stone was set in 1446 and it is said to bestow eloquence on all those who kiss it (“blarney” has come to mean “flattering speech”). Expect a long line during summer months or other peak travel times. Admission is 18 EUR (16 EUR if you buy your ticket online).

4. See historic castles

Ireland is steeped in history and the entire country is covered in castles (there are some 30,000 castles and castle ruins here). For fans of ruins, don’t miss the crumbling charm of Dunluce Castle or the majestic half-standing Rock of Cashel with soaring archways. The impeccably preserved Cahir Castle in Tipperary is also one of the largest. If it’s within your budget, attend a medieval banquet at the Bunratty Castle in Clare or book a room at the beautifully restored Ashford Castle in County Mayo. If you’re just on a quick trip to Dublin, take the 30-minute train outside the city to Malahide Castle. If you plan on visiting a lot of castles, get the Heritage Card. It’s 40 EUR and provides free entry into tons of Ireland’s castles and will save you a ton.

5. Hike in Connemara

This national park in County Galway covers more than 30 square kilometers (12 square miles), offering scenic views and great hiking. Most people come here for hiking and forest bike riding, though there are a few castles within the park as well as an old mining area and a heritage and history center. There are also tons of wildlife to spot, such as rabbits, foxes, stoats, hawks, falcons, and herds of Connemara ponies. There are several trails that range from short loops on flat land, to more strenuous mixed-terrain paths that offer elevated views. Admission is free and day tours are available . There are no campsites, but wild camping is allowed – just come prepared with all the necessary gear.

6. Wander the John F. Kennedy Arboretum

Located in County Wexford 30 minutes west of Waterford, this garden is home to over 4,500 species of trees and shrubs. There are several tea rooms, a visitors’ center, and a picnic area here too. The arboretum gets its name from the fact that JFK’s great-grandfather was born nearby, and the President visited in 1963. The arboretum opened five years later in his honor, paid for by donations from Irish Americans. Admission is free.

7. Explore the Aran Islands

Located in Galway Bay, only 1,200 people call these islands home. Here, Irish is the primary language (though many also speak English). You can get around by bus, bike, or carriage as you see the various heritage sights, ruins, castles, and scenic landscapes. Tobar Einne and O’Brien’s Castle are two of the most popular attractions. On Inis More (Inishmore) you can visit Dun Aengus, a Bronze Age and Iron Age fort hugging the coast, and the Seven Churches ruins featuring a large complex of partially-preserved structures and graveyards with traditional Irish Cross stones. Inis Mor is the largest of the islands and the most accessible. You can take a bus from Galway and hop on the ferry from Rossaveal (30 EUR).

8. Go back in time at Ulster Museum

Head into Northern Ireland for a day trip and visit the Ulster Museum. It has a vast and diverse collection of all kinds of artifacts and artwork, ranging from rare paintings, archeology and local history to wildlife and dinosaurs to relics from the Spanish Armada and Egyptian mummies. The museum is located within a large botanical garden. It’s the biggest museum in Northern Ireland. Admission is free. You can reach Belfast from Dublin in less than two hours by car.

9. See Newgrange

Located 45 minutes north of Dublin by car, Newgrange is a prehistoric burial mound that dates back over 5,200 years (which makes it older than both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids). Human remains, as well as other artifacts, were found in the massive tomb, which is composed of a ring of stone topped by earth. Inside are several burial chambers and passageways. Every year on the Winter Solstice, a beam of light streams down the perfectly aligned entrance passage to illuminate the interior chamber. Admission is 10 EUR.

10. Visit Killarney

Killarney is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations thanks to its undeniable medieval charm. Located in the southwest of the country, you can visit Muckross Abbey (a 15th-century Franciscan friary on rolling green hills inside Killarney National Park), Ross Castle (which also dates to the 15th century), or wander around the town itself, which looks like a quaint village with small shops and colorful buildings. Some of the other best things to do in Killarney include renting a bike to cycle around Killarney National Park or relaxing at one of the nearby lakes. This is also the traditional starting point for exploring the Ring of Kerry.

11. Learn about (and sample some) whiskey

If you’re a whiskey fan, take a tour of the Jameson Distillery in Cork and see how Irish whiskey is made. Jameson is one of the oldest whiskey companies in Ireland and is the best-selling Irish whiskey in the world. On a tour, you’ll visit the main buildings and learn how their whiskey is made, what sets Irish whiskey apart from other types, and how the company got started as a small family distillery. There are several different tours, but the Jameson Distillery Experience tour is the best value at 23 EUR. It’s 75-minutes and includes a whiskey sample

For more information on specific cities in Ireland, check out these guides:

• Cork Travel Guide
• Dublin Travel Guide
• Galway Travel Guide

Ireland Travel Costs

Accommodation – There’s no shortage of choices on where to stay in Ireland. Hostels are common across the country, especially in cities, and you’ll find privately run cozy hostels and larger chains. For those biking or backpacking across the country, you’re in luck. There are a number of hostels and budget hotels in rural areas that see a lot of active travelers on foot or bike. There’s also a wide variety of mid-price chains across Ireland if you’d like to upgrade for a few nights. Summer is peak season, so book ahead.

Prices average 28-40 EUR per night for a hostel dorm room with 4-8 beds. You can find private rooms that sleep two ranging from 60-100 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also include self-catering facilities.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot for two people without electricity can be found for around 12-15 EUR per night.

Budget hotels average 90-130 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and some also include an Irish breakfast (toast, eggs, sausage, and beans).

Airbnb is available all around the country with private rooms starting at 40 EUR per night. Full apartments with a kitchen average of 100 EUR per night. Expect to pay double (or more) if you don’t book in advance.

Food – Ireland is very much a “meat and potatoes” country. Potatoes have been a common staple since the 18th century, along with seafood (it’s an island after all!). Cod, salmon, and oysters are some of the most popular seafood options, with other staple dishes being shepherd’s pie, black pudding, bacon and cabbage, fish and chips, and meat stews. You’ll find plenty of budget eats and street food, especially in larger urban areas, including takeaway fish and chips and a wide range of food trucks in Dublin. Vegan meals are bit harder to find. There are a few choices for budget to moderately-priced restaurants that offer vegan and vegetarian fare in Dublin, Cork, and Galway. There are also more modern Irish restaurants popping up, especially in Dublin, but expect to pay up.

A traditional meal costs around 15 EUR. For a multi-course meal with a drink, expect to pay at least 30 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) starts at 9 EUR for a combo meal.

Pizza costs 7-10 EUR for a medium while Chinese food costs around 9-12 EUR for a main dish. Fish and chips can be found for as little as 6 EUR.

Beer is around 5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3.50 EUR. Bottled water is 1.50 EUR.

If you want to cook your meals, expect to pay 40-60 EUR per week for groceries that include basic staples like pasta, rice, produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Ireland Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 65 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation, and do free and cheap activities like free walking tours or visiting castles. If you plan on drinking, add 5-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 140 EUR per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for most meals at cheap fast food places, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting the Cliffs of Moher.

On a “luxury” budget of at least 240 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car for day trips, and do as many tours and excursions as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Ireland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It’s easy to break the bank in Ireland as all those pub visits can add up fast. To help you save without sacrificing your trip, here are some money-saving tips for Ireland:

• Ask for student discounts – A valid student ID can get you discounts of up to 50% on many attractions, museums, and buses throughout the country. If you have a valid student ID, always ask for discounts. Take note, these discounts most often apply to anyone under 26 with a student ID.
• Drink less – Ireland’s strong pub culture can hit your wallet hard. Temper the cost by visiting happy hours, drinking at home, or skipping drinks altogether.
• Eat the pub food – Eat at the pubs for hearty local Irish food that won’t destroy your wallet. It’s not healthy, but it’s affordable.
• Get an OPW Heritage Card – If you love to tour heritage sites, pick up this card. It provides free access to most of the castles throughout the country. The card is 40 EUR.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place and show you around their city. You not only get to save money but you make a new friend in the process!
• Eat early – Many restaurants have budget dinner options if you eat early (usually before 6pm). You won’t have as much variety since it’s a set menu, but it will be much cheaper!
• Cook your meals – Staying in a hostel will help you make new travel buddies, and they’ll likely have a kitchen. The biggest grocery chain is Tesco, which has large super stores and smaller city shops for basics. Don’t snooze on Aldi or Lidl. These discount grocers carry everything you’d need for a meal, and have aisles with deeply-discounted merch.
• Take free walking tour – Some of the bigger cities in Ireland (like Dublin and Galway) have free walking tours available. They’re the best way to see the main highlights on a budget. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Ireland

Ireland has plenty of fun, social hostels. Here are my suggested places to stay if you’re on a budget:

• Generator Hostel (Dublin)
• Jacobs Inn (Dublin)
• Galway City Hostel (Galway)
• The Nest Boutique Hostel (Galway)
• Sheilas Cork Hostel (Cork)
• An Oige Youth Hostel (Killarney)
• The Hideout Hostel (Dingle)

How to Get Around Ireland

Public transportation – Public transportation in Ireland is clean, safe, and reliable. Bus trips around Dublin cost about 3 EUR while Galway tickets are 2.20 EUR and tickets in Belfast are 1.60 GBP if you head into Northern Ireland.

With a LEAP card (a card you can top up to use on the country’s public transportation), you can use all public transportation options for reduced prices (up to 31% off compared to cash tickets). You can even use it for DublinBikes self-service bicycle rentals.

A day pass on public transportation costs 8-10 EUR.

Bus – Ireland is a small island so you won’t find too many routes that are longer than a few hours. That means that prices are pretty reasonable. The 2.5-hour trip from Dublin to Belfast in Northern Ireland costs around 20 EUR. A bus from Dublin to Galway takes about 2.5 hours and costs between 12-25 EUR.

Bus Éireann is the main coach service, while Translink serves the North (and includes Ulsterbus and Goldline). You can search their website for the best deals and for route schedules. If you book early, you’ll get the lowest ticket prices.

There’s a really handy journey planning website that can help you plan your route (but you can’t buy tickets there).

Train – Irish Rail is the main train service provider in Ireland. While the train is more expensive than the bus, it’s still quite affordable. Cork to Dublin takes around 2.5 hours and costs 20-30 EUR while Galway to Dublin costs 17-25 EUR and takes about the same amount of time.

Bus & train passes – Ireland has several rail and bus passes that might make sense for you depending on your itinerary and budget:

• Irish Explorer – Five days of unlimited Irish Rail travel within 15 consecutive days for 128 EUR.
• Sunday Day Tracker – This deal is for one day of unlimited travel (Sundays only) on Translink buses and trains in the North. It costs 3.50 EUR
• Trekker Four Day – Unlimited travel on Irish Rail within a four-day period for 88 EUR.

Car Rental – Renting a car in Ireland is affordable, with prices starting around 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Renting a car is the best way to get around the country too. Renters need to be at least 21 years old. Just keep in mind that most rentals are manuals and that they drive on the left.

When to Go to Ireland

Ireland’s temperate climate makes it a good destination to visit year-round, keeping in mind that you’re guaranteed to encounter rain no matter when you visit.

The summer months (June-August) are the warmest and the sunniest so this is when the country is at its liveliest. Keep in mind that this is peak season so you’ll compete for accommodation in the larger cities. And lines will be longer for attractions like museums or castles. Prices are a little inflated too. Average temperatures hover between 13-20°C (56-68°F) but can climb to 25°C (77°F) or more. Be warned, if you go for a swim at one of the beaches, the water will be cold. Ocean temperatures won’t be over 18°C (65°F) on a warm day! They’ll likely be a little cooler.

Winters can be drizzly with short daylight hours, but temperatures rarely fall below freezing. Dress warmly and be prepared for lots of indoor activities if you visit during this time. If you visit around Christmas, the festive lights and Christmas markets make for a warmer atmosphere. The pubs will be more celebratory, too.

Saint Patrick’s Day in March is huge all around the country. During this time, hostels and hotels fill up quickly, and prices spike. Temperatures are still mild and Ireland is just as beautiful as ever but you’ll need to book your accommodation in advance.

Overall, the shoulder seasons (March-May and September-October) are my favorite times to visit. Aside from St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll find prices to be a little lower and the country to be less busy. The weather is decent enough for exploring too. Just bring an umbrella! September is an especially fun time to see Ireland. The weather is still warm-ish but the larger crowds, especially those traveling with children, have cleared out. You might feel like you’re the only tourist at a castle or on a hike.

How to Stay Safe in Ireland

Ireland is very safe and the risk of experiencing violent crime here is low. That said, scams and pick-pocketing can occur in high-traffic areas, especially around tourist attractions like Temple Bar in Dublin. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

If you rent a car, don’t leave valuables inside the vehicle overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Be alert when driving, especially on twisty country roads or roundabouts (traffic circles). Most roads are paved and in good condition, but if you are used to driving on the other side (they drive on the left in Ireland) a steep curve may surprise you.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, or venture into unknown areas after dark, etc.). For tips, use one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web as they’ll be able to provide better advice than I can.

When camping, understand designated sites from wild spots. Wild camping is generally accepted, but keep in mind that much of the remote land you see is probably private property. Camp sites are well kept, but when opting for parks or remote areas, you may not have cell service.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 or 999 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Ireland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Ireland Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Ireland and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Dublin

The Best Walking Tours in Dublin

The 5 Best Hostels in Dublin

Where to Stay in Dublin: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Tour Companies in Ireland

My Love Note to the Irish

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How Much Does a Trip to Ireland Cost?

• Post author: colette
• Post published: January 19, 2022
• Post category: Money-Saving Tips / Planning
• Post comments: 2 Comments

Are you dreaming of visiting Ireland? Is the cost of a vacation to the Emerald Isle a mystery to you?

Planning a vacation to the Emerald Isle depends on what you want to see, what time of year you’d like to visit , the type of accommodation you prefer, your interests, and how much money you are willing to spend.

Below is a step-by-step guide to budgeting for your vacation to Ireland and what the major costs will be.

Table of Contents

The Cost of Flights to Ireland

This will likely be the most expensive part of your trip. However, the price of your airfare will depend on when you travel to Ireland.

To get an idea of how much you could be paying for airfare to Ireland, it’s best to first check on search engine tools like Google Flights , Hopper , Momondo , Skyscanner , Airfarewatchdog , and/or Kayak , which are all useful first steps in your initial research.

When using Google Flights to do your research, you will need a Google account (a Gmail address).

Choose your departing city, the dates you’d like to leave, and let Google Flights do the rest. Be sure to click on the alerts button so that you are notified of changes over time.

In my opinion, Google Flights is among the best and it’s free to use. However, if you really want to compare prices before you buy, you could check the other search engines mentioned above to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.

The Cost of Accommodation in Ir eland

At one time, B&Bs were the preferred choice for tourists to Ireland, but today, there is a range of options available to suit every budget.

They include the traditional Irish B&Bs, hotels, rental properties (including AirBnbs), glamping sites, and more.

According to B&B Ireland , the average B&B costs about €34 per person per night. That’s about $38.

Staying in a B&B is a great way to immerse yourself in the Irish culture. Rates will of course depend on the season and where exactly the B&B is located.

Accommodation in Dublin and other major cities is naturally more expensive than comparable properties in Ireland’s countryside.

Irish Hotels (3-star rating: $100 to $140 on average a night)

Irish hotels, like their international counterparts, are rated using a star system. They range from 5-star establishments right down to 1-star hotels.

If you’re watching your budget, I’d suggest 3-star and/or 4-star hotels (in Europe, 4-star hotels are considered “luxury,” but they often have good deals).

Three-star hotels range from small, family-run accommodation to larger, more modern hotels. All have private bathrooms with shower facilities. Restaurants are usually part of the hotel and offer high-quality fare.

Irish B&Bs (the average price per person for a B&B in Ireland is between €32 and €38 (£27.25-£32.36/$36-$43) per person sharing, but it depends on the season)

Irish B&Bs, otherwise known as guesthouses, are rated from 1 star to 5 stars. Depending on their size and what they offer, they can be classified as “townhouses,” “country homes,” “farmhouses,” and “historic houses.”

Again, I’d recommend that you look for a 3-star B&B if budget is a concern, although some higher than that will give good value at decent rates.

According to B&B Ireland, 5-star properties are typically equipped with more spacious and luxurious bedrooms, but 3-star guesthouses in Ireland can provide equal value, even if they’re smaller.

All of Ireland’s 3-star guesthouses come with private bathrooms that are equipped with showers, in addition to a guest lounge and breakfast served each morning. Restaurant facilities are available in some 3-star accommodations.

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The Cost of Transportation in Ireland

Your transportation costs in Ireland will depend on whether you rent a car or not. It’s that simple.

Renting a car in Ireland is useful if you really want to get a feel for Ireland, especially the places that might be more difficult to get to by public transportation.

If it seems like it is too expensive, then there are plenty of buses and trains that will get you to Ireland’s main towns and cities.

Car Rental (average cost up to $ 30/day)

Renting a car in Ireland can be expensive, especially during the peak season. Renting a car in the “shoulder season,” which is the period from mid-April through May and again in late September through October, is cheaper.

I have had great success with Sixt when renting a car in Ireland, but there are other car rental companies available too.

To be honest, I’d recommend that you do some comparison shopping with a tool like Discover Cars , Rentalcars.com , or AutoEurope.com .

If you can drive a standard car, that will bring your rate down. More details on renting a car in Ireland can be found on the Ireland on a Budget website.

Private Drivers

If you can afford it, hiring your own driver to take you from the airport to where you are staying in Ireland and then show you some of the sights is well worth it.

This service is especially useful if, for instance, you decide to rent a property in a certain part of Ireland but don’t want the bother of driving a car to see the tourist attractions in the region.

Private drivers in Ireland often come as part of a larger tour company that offers private tours of Ireland, so keep this in mind when considering this form of transportation.

It can also be quite economical since you can share the cost among several people if you’re part of a larger group touring Ireland.

Henry Doohan, the Donegal tour guide and experienced driver, is the ideal choice if you’re vacationing in County Donegal.

Doohan is an Ireland on a Budget Tourism Ambassador .

Most private drivers/private driving companies don’t disclose their rates online, so it is best to check yourself.

If you decide to go for a private tour of Ireland, then the driving service will be part of the overall cost of the tour.

Trains and Buses in Ireland

Ireland has a pretty good public transportation system if you are interested in seeing the various tourist attractions outside of Dublin.

In fact, it has improved immensely over the years and to be honest, you’ll be able to get around Ireland without renting a car if cost is a concern.

Irish Rail is Ireland’s national rail network. Its main hub is in Dublin, where you can get trains to various parts of Ireland.

A popular route is the Dublin to Belfast line, which is jointly operated by Irish Rail and Translink. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and round-trip fares cost around €20.

Bus transportation across Ireland is good, with most towns accessible on buses operated by Bus Eireann.

A 10-journey travel pass is particularly useful for tourists who are interested in traveling across Ireland this way. The pass is valid for 10 journeys between various points, which must take place within 7 consecutive days.

You can find more information on the Bus Eireann website.

Other bus companies in Ireland include Go Bus , which operates up to 20 daily return routes from Dublin City Center, Dublin Airport, Cork, Galway, and Ballina, Co. Mayo, with fares as low as €13 one way ($15).

Others include Aircoach , with economical fares across the country. Some examples include a one-way ticket from Dublin to Cork for €14 ($16) and a one-way ticket to Belfast for €12 ($13).

Get Wifi in Ireland with Wifi Candy

Local Transportation and Taxis

Getting around most big cities in Ireland, including Dublin, via public transportation is relatively easy.

Each city has its own bus network, and in Dublin, you can avail of the Dublin Bus system, the DART , the city’s electric rail system, and the Luas , the city’s tram system.

Short adult fares (1-3 stops) on Dublin Bus are €2.15/$2.43 and long fares (up to 90 minutes of travel) are €3.30/$3.74.

An adult all-day rail fare on the DART is €12.15/$13.75 (family tickets can be purchased for €20). These tickets are for unlimited travel within Dublin’s Short Hop Zone (runs from Balbriggan, north of the city center, to Kilcoole in Co. Wicklow, south of the city center).

A single adult ticket for use on the Luas tram costs between €2.10 to €3.20 ($2.38 to $3.62). Tickets must be purchased at a machine since they are not available on the trams.

Taxis are easily accessible in Dublin and around the country.

The initial charge in Dublin during the day is €3.80 ($4.30), with an additional €1.14-€1.50 per kilometer (roughly $1.30-$1.70).

The night tariff is €4.20, with an additional €1.45-€1.80 per kilometer (roughly $1.65-$2.05). Uber is not available in Ireland.

Food Costs in Ireland

Ireland is not instantly known for its food like, say, France or Italy, but these days you can get the best of fare in restaurants across Ireland, and in unexpected places, too.

For food that you’ll need in a hurry, there are plenty of options, from cafes to convenience stores, even in gas stations (known as filling stations in Ireland).

Grab a coffee and a scone for less than €5 in places outside of Dublin and maybe up to €7 around the city.

A full Irish breakfast in such places will set you back around €10. That usually includes rashers, sausages, eggs, black and white pudding, roasted tomato, and mushrooms.

While going out to dinner can be expensive in Ireland, Early Bird specials will give you the most bang for your buck.

Another way to save on eating out in Ireland is to make the most of your accommodation’s breakfast (quite often it’s a full Irish, so that should keep you going for many hours).

If you are renting, you may opt to cook your own meals while you’re vacationing in Ireland, or you might even combine some sightseeing activities with a food tour.

Food trucks are becoming popular in Ireland, not just among the locals but with tourists too. You’ll find a rundown of the Top 20 food trucks in Ireland, which are generally great value for money.

If you’re missing the Irish food back in Ireland, Food Ireland based here in the United States has a variety of items to sink your teeth into.

Read More: The Best Food in Ireland: Discover What’s Available in Donegal, Sligo, and Leitrim

Tours and Other Activities

The reason you’ve chosen Ireland is to see its amazing scenery and tourist attractions.

There is of course an admission price to many of them, but some are also free.

Among them are the many museums and galleries in Dublin that do not charge admission, as well as other free attractions like the Andrew Jackson Ancestral Home in Co. Antrim, Duckett’s Grove Walled Gardens in Co. Carlow, and the Crawford Art Gallery in Cork City, just to name a few.

Many visitors also like to combine whiskey tours , boat trips, river cruises , and golf outings into their vacation in Ireland.

Below you’ll get an idea of how much you can expect to spend at the various attractions in Ireland and on various tours.

• Museum/Tourist Attraction Tickets: €10 to €15 ($11-$17) per adult (some will be slightly more expensive)
• One-Day Group Tours: Most under €60 ($70) – including tours of the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin , Glendalough Monastic Site , and Newgrange in Co. Meath.
• Multi-Day Group Tours: Between $300 and $900 depending on the provider (includes transportation, accommodation, and daily breakfast)

Travel Insurance

Prior to the pandemic, most tourists might not have given travel insurance a thought. In fact, the main reason for getting insurance is to cover medical emergencies.

Before you go abroad, you should check to see if your current health insurance policy provides coverage if you get sick and end up in a hospital in Ireland.

While some health insurance companies pay “customary and reasonable” hospital costs abroad, very few of them will cover your medical evacuation back to the United States, if that is required.

U.S. residents who have Medicaid and Medicare insurance policies will not be covered overseas.

Medicare recipients must take out additional health insurance called Medigap to cover them if something should happen while traveling abroad.

Find out more about your travel insurance options at Travel Master.

Other Expenses

While there will always be additional expenses that will crop up on vacation, perhaps the expense that many people have questions about is how to pay for Wifi in Ireland.

Free Wifi is available in most public places in Ireland, including airports, shops, restaurants, and bars.

Sometimes you may have to ask for the Wifi password, but most establishments will have no problem giving you this information. Be sure to turn the data option off on your phone while you do this.

There will be times when you’ll want to stay connected as you travel around Ireland. There are a few ways that you can get around this, including the following:

• Sign up for an international mobile usage plan from your carrier but read the fine print before signing on as this can be expensive.
• Purchase a new Sim card for your phone (provided it is unlocked beforehand) from any Tesco supermarket in Ireland (both north and south of the border) or at Dublin airport (WH Smith bookstore in Terminal 1 or in the Spar shop in Terminal 2). Your purchase will also include a mobile usage plan for the duration of your stay in the country. Alternatively, some newer phones will accommodate an e-SIM. Find out more about that at Airalo .
• Rent a personal WiFi device from  Wi-Fi Candy . The rates are quite reasonable, and you get unlimited data usage as well.
• Purchase a cheap prepaid phone from Tesco to use while you’re on vacation in Ireland.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Many first-time visitors to Ireland want to bring back a keepsake from their adventure or give someone an authentic Irish gift.

There are many places where you can buy souvenirs, including the various gift shops around Ireland, the duty-free areas of Dublin and Shannon airports, as well as popular tourist attractions like the Bunratty Folk Park , a short distance from Shannon.

Expect to pay anywhere from $10 for a beautiful Irish-themed bookmark, $17 for Trinity Knot earrings, and approximately $100 or more for an authentic Aran sweater at the duty-free.

If you’re looking for other gifts that are distinctly Irish, I’d suggest that you combine your love of Irish-made goods with a sightseeing activity.

I will say that many of these items are pricey, but totally worth it if you want something that is genuinely Irish.

A visit to the famous Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre in Waterford is a must.

There you’ll see artisans turn their finely tuned techniques and imagination into the world’s most beautiful crystal. Afterward, you can choose from a stunning collection of crystal gifts, from glasses, decanters, ornaments, and much more.

Expect to pay up to $300 for a Waterford Crystal decanter, around $230 for a set of 6 wine glasses, and $150 or so for a crystal

Take a look at the company’s USA online outlet store for lower prices on various items.

Belleek China is another beautiful Irish gift that you might want to purchase in Ireland as a reminder of your visit.

You can find Belleek products in stores across the country, but you can also visit the Belleek Pottery Museum in Belleek, Fermanagh , which contains pieces dating back to the pottery firm’s establishment in 1857.

The neo-Georgian building is home to Ireland’s oldest fine china pottery factory, which produces more than 100,000 pieces of pottery each year.

An onsite store has a variety of items that are made in the factory, but you can also purchase this magnificent pottery online .

Expect to pay around $230 for a classic Belleek Pottery tea set, up to $350 for a classic Belleek Pottery basket, or as little as $30 for a Belleek Pottery mug.

Other attractions where you’ll find authentic Irish gifts being made include the Claddagh Legend Visitor Centre at the Claddagh Jewellers in Galway City, where you can watch the jeweler at work making the famous Claddagh rings, wool blankets and other authentic products at the Foxford Woollen Mills in Foxford, Co. Mayo, and beautiful silverware and jewelry being made at the Newbridge Silverware Factory in Newbridge, Co. Kildare, among others.

Other popular items that tourists often look for when in Ireland include authentic Aran sweaters, Irish linen, Donegal tweed, and Connemara marble, to name a few.

Food, especially Irish chocolate, makes for a less expensive gift.

You’ll find a variety of Irish brands in the airport duty-free and elsewhere around Ireland.

They include Lily O’Brien’s , Butler’s Chocolate (there’s a café in Dublin Airport that serves up all sorts of yummy Butler Chocolate treats!), Skelligs Chocolate (you can take a tour of their Co. Kerry factory and watch their delicious chocolate being made), and The Chocolate Garden of Ireland (tours are also available).

Season & Location a Factor in Cost

As noted before, the shoulder season (mid-April through May and late September through October) is the cheapest time to visit Ireland. Prices for everything during the summer months will go up.

The places you visit in Ireland will also impact your wallet. For example, Dublin (like many other major European cities) will be more expensive than say Sligo, which means that you’ll need to factor all of that into your Ireland itinerary .

I suggest spending two days max in Dublin and then heading out to the rest of the country to explore. If you’re part of a tour, there’s a good chance that is exactly what many of them will also do.

Are you concerned about the cost of an Ireland vacation? If so, I hope that some of the tips above will put your mind at ease and encourage you to visit the Emerald Isle sometime soon. Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Read More: Planning a Trip to Ireland in 2023? Tips and Advice to Get You There Safely

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This post has 2 comments.

Very nice blurb. Do you run a website or a subscrption? I have a Scot relative who at the end of the Highland wars said, “I will fight no more.” He moved to somewhere in what is now Northern Ireland and became known as Thomas the Meek. Thus started the Irish Meek line through to my mother.

Yes I believe Ireland is way too expensive for me and for anyone in my entire whole family!!!!

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How much does a trip to Ireland cost?

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• Ireland travel costs

If you’re planning on travelling to Ireland, you’re probably wondering how much you need to budget for your trip. While your travel costs will depend on your travel style, generally speaking Ireland is best for travellers with some spending money.

Accommodation costs are generally on the high side and food and drinks are relatively expensive. Many of Ireland’s best attractions are very affordable or even free and, while some activities could set you back a fair amount, there’s plenty to do at lower price points too.

How much should I budget for a trip to Ireland?

A reasonable budget for two for a week in Ireland is around €1,825 .

The above cost is based on staying in good, mid-range accommodation and having a few meals out per week, while preparing some yourself . It makes allowances for a couple of sightseeing activities, but doesn’t take into account expensive activities like adventure sports or private tours.

Generally speaking, the longer you travel, the cheaper it costs per day, while fly-in, fly-out trips can be more expensive.

How much does accommodation cost?

You can expect to spend between €110-€160 a night, per couple, on accommodation in Ireland. This will get you a private room with your own bathroom in a 3-4-star hotel or apartment rental.

Hostels are, of course, cheaper, but a private room with a shared bathroom will still cost around €100 per night. A bed in a dorm room also averages around €30 per night, per person, although there are definitely cheaper options out there.

How much should I budget for food and drinks in Ireland?

Budget to spend around €550 for two for a week in Ireland. This assumes you’re cooking some of the time and drinking some alcohol.

If you enjoy eating out, you can expect to pay around €60 for a nice dinner for two, including an alcoholic drink. A meal at a pub is likely to be around €40 for two, with cheaper meals available (especially for lunch) for around €15 each.

Assuming that you’ll be eating out some of the time, budget at least €50 a week for groceries. If you enjoy a few drinks, you’ll need to increase this amount – beer costs around €6 for a 500ml bottle and good bottle of wine is around €12 , from a shop, although there are cheaper options available. Milk typically costs around €1.2 for a two-litre bottle and you can expect to pay around €3.5 for a cappuccino from a local café.

How much does it cost to get around Ireland?

Getting around Ireland is easiest with a train. Transport costs fluctuate depending how much you travel, but budgeting around €240 for two per week is a good starting point. This should allow you to take a couple of intercity train routes. If you’re planning on doing any tours or using hop-on hop-off buses, you’ll need to up your budget a bit.

What should I expect to spend on activities?

A lot of the best things to do in Ireland are free. However, there definitely are some attractions that cost money – entry fees to a museum or an art gallery are usually around €8 - €20 per person. If you want to do organised day trips or join smaller tour groups to learn more about some of the sites, budget around €100 per activity per person.

Ireland is a beautiful destination to visit and although it’s not cheap, it’s definitely possible to travel there for less. Cooking your own meals, carefully selecting accommodation or limiting meals out will definitely help you to reduce your travel costs. Slow travel is another great way to help your budget to stretch further, while exploring a place in more depth.

Travelling through Ireland is definitely possible on a budget – just pick your priorities and compromise on the rest or consider travelling in the off-season and avoiding school holidays to cut down on costs. And, if you’re on the luxury end of the scale or wanting to treat yourself, the sky’s the limit.

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Last Updated 13 March 2022

How Much Does a 7 Day Trip to Ireland Cost?

Planning on visiting Ireland ? Wondering how much does a trip to Ireland cost?

Ireland is one of the most popular destinations in Europe , known its amazing landscape, friendly people, culture and pubs . The Emerald Isle has so much to offer!

Depending on where you choose to go in Ireland, It is also a country that can break the bank very quickly. BUT keep reading because this doesn’t have to be the case because there are plenty of ways to visit Ireland affordably.

Most Ireland visitors head to popular cities like Dublin , Cork, and Galway, which are also more expensive, there are amazing lesser-known towns in counties like Donegal, Wicklow and Limerick.

This guide is based on the costs for a single person and I’m going to suggest an itinerary of 7 days in Ireland . Of course, you can spend much longer here (there are many things to see and do), so you can still use this guide to help you budget accordingly. If you are travelling as a couple, make sure to double these estimates (except for hotels).

More Guides to Irish Town and Cities

• Birthplace of Halloween: Wexford
• Ring of Kerry in Two Days
• Guide to exploring Ireland during St Patricks Day
• Home of the Vikings: Waterford

Below are some guidelines to help you estimate your daily travel costs in Ireland.

Average Daily Cost for visiting Ireland

With so many landmarks in Ireland , the average traveler spends about 150 – 200 € per day in Ireland. Those traveling on a smaller budget spend an average of around €80 -100 a day.

Most of the costs will be towards lodging and activities, but don’t forget to budget extra for those “non-essentials.”

Ireland Attractions and Museum Prices

There is never a shortage of things to do and see in Ireland. You can easily spend a few weeks and not see everything. You might be able to save some money by using the Dublin Pass – It grants you free access to over 30 top attractions, museums, and monuments, including the famous Dublin Castle, the Dublin hop-on hop-off bus tour, the Irish Emigration Museum, and many more! ( https://flathatnews.com/ )

Dublin Attractions and Museum Prices

• Guinness Storehouse: €25
• The Book of Kells: €13
• Hugh Lane: Free
• Dublin Castle: €9
• Jameson Distillery Bow St: €25
• St Patrick’s Cathedral: €10
• Dublin Zoo: €20
• National Gallery of Ireland: Free

Cork Attractions and Museum Price

• Blarney Castle & Gardens: €18
• Fota Wildlife Park: €17
• Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne’s Church: €10
• Butter Museum: €4

The Cheapest Times to Visit Ireland

Late May to August is one of the best times to visit Ireland in terms of weather. These months have less rain and more sunshine. The cheapest season to visit Ireland is in Winter, prices for activities stay the same but accommodation prices slightly decrease.

Is Ireland Expensive to Visit

Ireland Trip Cost: Transportation

NB: The legal age to rent a vehicle in Ireland is 25!

Ireland might seem like a small country but a surprisingly large amount of visitors don’t seem to realize how far apart each major city is. However, this will become immediately apparent as soon as you leave the airport (any of them) and realize it takes at least an hour to get to Dublin. So basically, you’re going to be spending some money on transportation unless you are keen to walk about 20 miles each day.

Unlike most popular European countries and cities like Venice or Montecarlo , Ireland is not super walkable! Depending on which county you choose to visit, you may find yourself only using public transportation at least twice a day. For this reason, I recommend renting a car if you’re going to leave Dublin.

Dublin has an okayish public transport system – avoid the meter taxis as they are ridiculously expensive and no, unfortunately, there is no uber! When exploring Dublin , I recommend purchasing a leap card and loading money on it, the card can be used on the buses, tram (the Luas), or trains.

If you leave Dublin, you should consider renting a car as each county has different bus schedules and trains. The most popular bus company that travels from Dublin to major parts of the country is Bus Éireann when you arrive at your destination, you will find smaller bus companies who service the areas.

Airfare from Johannesburg to Dublin: $657 (Return)

Major Airlines serving Ireland include Aer Lingus (the national airline of Ireland), American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and more.

I booked my flight with Emirates and traveled from Johannesburg to Dubai (8 hours) then Dubai to Dublin (7 hours, 52 minutes). It’s faster and sometimes cheaper to fly to London , then get a connecting flight to Dubin, the reason I chose not to do that was that South Africans need a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) for London and I didnt want to spend $45 (R743) to pass through an airport.

Booking your flight to Ireland in advance always helps as does making sure you avoid high season (think St. Patrick’s Day in March or Christmas time). There are five international airports in Ireland making it easy to compare flights offered by different airlines.

• Dublin Airport – North of Dublin City on the east coast
• Cork Airport – Just south of Cork City on the south coast
• Shannon Airport – North of Limerick City on the west coast
• Knock Airport (Ireland West Airport) – in County Mayo in the North West
• Belfast Airport (Northern Ireland) – west of Belfast City in the North East

Ireland Hotel, Hostel, and Airbnb Prices

You should budget about €150/night per person for a decent hotel in Ireland. If you’re a backpacker and choose to stay in a hostel, prices for a bed in a shared dorm room range from €20-€40/night.

If you want a private room, expect to pay €50-€100. Check out the latest prices at Booking.com as accommodation prices are always fluctuating.

The cost of accommodation for my trip to Ireland was $337 for two nights at Herbert Park Hotel in Dublin 4, $240 for 2 nights at an Airbnb in Cork, $102 for one night at The Heights Hotel Killarney , $103 for one night at Cul Cottage in Valentina Island.

Cost of Food in Ireland

Food in Ireland is not cheap with lunch prices ranging from $15 to $30 per person. If you want to save money on food costs in Ireland.

I recommend buying sandwiches or salads from Delis inside Convenience Stores like Spar or Londis or eating at Pubs and not stand-alone restaurants as they tend to be pricer.

The average cost of a pint of Guinness is €4.50-€10. In fact, the price of Guinness is cheaper outside of Ireland .

Ireland Trip Cost: Activities

Now that we’ve covered such basic needs as food, shelter, and transportation, it’s time to cover the cost of actually doing things in Ireland.

There are many spectacular coasts and countrysides, museums, and castles to visit in Ireland . My 7-day Ireland Itinerary included stops in Dublin, Kilkenny, Wicklow, Cork, Donegal, and Belfast.

Travel Insurance for Ireland Travel

Use travel insurance while visiting Ireland so you are covered for theft and medical expenses.

My total trip to Ireland cost:

• Airfare: $657 | (R10,950)
• Accommodation: $782 | (R13,030)
• Transport within Ireland: $450 (car rental and petrol for 7 days) | (R7,500)
• Activities: $364 | (R6,067)
• Travel Insurance: $40 | (R667)
• Total: $2253 | (R38,214)

Ireland is generally an expensive country to live and visit, hence I recommend that you do the proper research on how to adequately budget.

If you are smart about where you spend your money and how you travel, your trip to Ireland costs can be minimal. If I didn’t only stay at 4-5 star hotels, my costs for accommodation could’ve been less.

So how much money should you factor into your total Ireland trip cost? Well, that is honestly entirely up to you!

Are you planning a budget-friendly trip to Ireland? Here are some tips:

• What to pack for a trip to Ireland
• 10 Irish Laws Tourists Should Know
• Exploring Ireland in 7 Days
• How to move to Ireland

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a booking after clicking on a link, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you!

5 thoughts on “How Much Does a 7 Day Trip to Ireland Cost?”

Really good guide about visiting Ireland. Prices have gone up quite a bit since I last was there. It’s such a beautiful country though, I can’t wait to go back.

Love this!! Always so helpful to know cost when traveling!! Thank you for sharing <3

Thanks a lot for providing such insightful and valuable information. It’s is indeed useful for anyone planning an Ireland trip. ?

This is such a great breakdown. I have never really thought about the total cost! I love that yuo added a list of the different times of year. Great idea!

Thank you so much dear for sharing some light on this topic! Wow I did it think that it was so expensive, at least for me 😀

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Trip to Ireland Cost in 2024: The Complete Guide

by Writer ER

February 24, 2023

Ireland's dramatic coastline

Trip to Ireland Cost #1: Flights ✈️

• 🌈 Due to Ireland's famed misty and rainy weather, the summer months are the high season for travelers, with June and July being especially popular. This makes flying to Ireland more expensive in the summer 💲 , with a return flight in economy from New York to Dublin averaging around US$1,200 , with some cheaper options found at around US$900 👍 .
• ⛄️ Winter is the low season, with February considered the cheapest month to go, as it can be quite cold and wet but it's not Christmas. In the winter, economy flights from New York to Dublin drop down to averages of around US$600 return, with some cheaper options found at around US$400.
• 🎇 Another aspect to consider is the local customs, with flights naturally increasing with festivities such as Christmas, New Year, and of course, St Patrick's Day .

Cheap Flight from San Francisco to Ireland

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Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

Cheap Flight from Los Angeles to Ireland

Trip to Ireland Cost #2: Hotels 🏨

🏨 accommodation in dublin (based on two people for one night).

Staying in metropolitan Dublin means access to more options, from hostels to luxury suites. However, demand is high, making trip to Ireland costs higher here than in some less frequented cities.

• The Morrison Dublin is a central, five-star hotel with newly refurbished rooms, a fitness center, gourmet restaurants, and stunning views straight over the river.

The Morrison Dublin, Curio Collection by Hilton

Check Availability

• A slightly lower cost central option, the Wren Urban Nest is perfect for non-smokers looking for modern yet comfortable accommodation in the heart of Dublin. An easy walk to Trinity College and local cafés and pubs.

Wren Urban Nest

• This four-star hotel is award-winning and lower cost due to its proximity to the airport. It's a great option for those looking to reduce their trip to Ireland costs, or for those flying in for meetings or renting a car and heading straight out to explore Ireland. The center of Dublin is a quick 20 min drive away.Hyde Hotel, Galway.

👉 Source: Trip.com

🏨 Accommodation outside Dublin (based on two people for one night)

• A cozy country house set on spacious grounds with options to go out on horseback. This homestead hotel offers beautiful four-poster beds and rugs in the bedrooms, as well as a large and luminous dining room and garden.

Carrygerry Country House

• This hotel in central Cork offers comfort and contemporary design right on the river at a relatively low price. You can grab breakfast in the hotel restaurant or walk straight into town and down to the famous English food Market, which is only 10 min away.

Jurys Inn Cork

• This hotel in Galway offers spacious and elegant rooms in soft pastel colors and has the highlights of an art-deco gin bar and tasteful dining spaces. It is central too, making it a great place to walk down the cobbled streets, stroll into colorful shops and stone-clad houses, venture out from the harbor by boat, or explore the surrounding landscapes and castles by car.

Hyde Hotel (Formerly the Forster Court Hotel)

• For a real getaway, in Castlemartyr you can stay in a 17th century manor house on a 220-acre estate with its own ruined 800-year-old castle. It has 10 treatment rooms, an indoor swimming pool, a golf course, an award-winning restaurant, and so much more. With prices not that far off some city hotels, how could we not include this one in the listing for your trip to Ireland costs?

Castlemartyr Resort Hotel

Airport pickup service

Swimming pool

Trip to Ireland Cost #3: Transport

• City buses: A standard 90 min adult fare on a Dublin city bus is just over US$2, while in Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford, a standard adult single fare is just under US$1.50.
• City trams: In Ireland, standard tram fares depend on the zones. For adults, the cost ranges between US$1.80 and US$2.70, while for children, it costs between US$0.85 and US$1.05.
• Long distance coach: The price of coaches between cities varies depending on availability and distance, but the prices are very reasonable. To give an example, the coach from Dublin to Cork (a journey of 3 hours) starts from only US$16.
• Long distance rail: Train tickets in Ireland are also very reasonably priced, with variations depending on times and availability. To use the same example, the train from Dublin to Cork starts from only US$16 if leaving early in the morning and rises to US$20 or more if booked for more usual times.
• Car rental: You can rent a small car for as little as US$100 for a week during low season, or a little over US$300 for the same duration in high season. This trip to Ireland cost does go up with the size of the car, but if traveling with family, you'll be thankful for the extra space.

Trip to Ireland Cost #4: Food

• Pub meal: Pubs are the heart and soul of Ireland, but they are not just for drinking and music. These warm and traditional settings are the staple of a good meal out, boasting hearty and warming dishes such as the renowned one-pot Irish coddled pork stew, filling and spiced black and white pudding dishes, colcannon and champ (or cabbage, kale, and mash potato with spring onion in English), or seafood chowder. Eating a meal like this in a pub will cost around US$15-17, while oysters and more meat-heavy dishes, such as a steak or ribs, will cost US$25-30 or more.
• Light bites: When exploring, we often just want a quick bite. Trip to Ireland costs for a sandwich or soup, or a fry-up of bacon, eggs, and soda bread will cost about US$6-14, with fry-ups being toward the higher end.
• Food markets: Food markets are perfect for sampling lots of different foods. You'll find food prices here are similar to or lower than in the pubs, but they can be higher if buying local, organic produce.

Trip to Ireland Cost #5: Sightseeing

📷 trip to ireland costs for dublin sightseeing.

The first stop on many Ireland trips is Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland. A low but important trip to Ireland cost is the hop-on hop-off city sightseeing bus tour in Dublin . From only US$30 pp, you'll have access to all the sights easily while enjoying an audio guide and the view from the open top bus. Use the bus to visit:

• The visit to the Guinness storehouse and brewery in Dublin is exciting from start to finish. Step into a giant beer glass to learn about the history and process behind the nation's signature and world-famous drink and finish with a complimentary pint and bird's eye view of the city from the seventh floor. Be sure to take part in a Guinness tasting session to set you up for a fun day.
• Trinity College Dublin is the oldest and best in the country and has served as the set for many movies, from Transformers to Ripper Street. Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, its library is Ireland's oldest and houses the culturally precious Book of Kells and the Book of Durrow. Step through the doors of this historic institution to feel like a student at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
• National museums in Ireland are free, meaning you can learn about the history and culture of the country without adding a penny to your trip to Ireland cost. Visit the National Museum of Ireland for a walk into the archeology and natural history of the land, or head to the National Gallery for Irish art and culture. For something a little different, head to the Little Museum of Dublin, which will teach you about regular life in Dublin during the 18 th century for a cost from US$19.
• The Kilmainham Gaol, or jail, was opened in 1796 and has housed some of the most important prisoners from Ireland's recent past. It is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Ireland's struggle for independence and politically turbulent history. Following a guide, visitors will learn about the lives of ordinary criminals and political prisoners from the 1798 rebellion, the 1916 Easter Rising, the Anglo-Irish War, and the Irish Civil War. Make sure to book in advance as its places get filled quickly!

Ireland Attraction - St Patrick's Cathedral

📷 Trip to Ireland costs for day trips outside of Dublin

• Blarney Castle in Tipperary is considered one of the most important in Ireland. In charming Irish fashion, the castle offers visitors the opportunity to obtain the "gift of the gab," or the ability to charm and smooth talk your way into, or out, of anything, if they can bend over backward to kiss the Blarney stone. This trip also takes you to visit the striking Rock Cashel church that sits on a hill and overlooks rolling fields that look as though they haven't changed in hundreds of years. Finally, the trip passes through the city of Cork, where you can't miss the English food market (established in 1788) or the local Irish whisky.
• The cliffs of Moher and their sheer drop into the Atlantic Ocean are some of the most dramatic views in Ireland and are a main stop for any visitor. You can visit them on a day trip that also includes part of the longest coastal road in the world, the Wild Atlantic Way, as well as the lunar landscapes and black limestone cliffs of Burren. An alternative trip at a similar cost, if you're interested in seeing the cliffs of Moher from below, takes you to the ancient sites and stone houses of the Aran islands by ferry and then guides you on a cruise around the foot of the cliffs on the return journey.
• Ireland's history goes back 10,000 years, and this tour will take you to its oldest surviving structures located in the Boyne Valley. You'll visit the UNESCO world heritage site of Newgrange and learn how these ancient burial chambers are lined up with the sun, in accordance with Pagan traditions. You'll also visit the ancient high seat of the Celtic Kings, known as the Hill of Tara, where 142 Irish kings are said to have held their reign. Finally, you'll take a step into a more recent past to visit the castles of Slane and Trim, historical locations used for the filming of a U2 album and the Braveheart movie, respectively.

The Cliffs of Moher

Trip to Ireland Cost #6: Souvenirs

• Aran fisherman's sweater or cardigan: Aran yarn is thick and slightly itchy, but expertly knitted together, it becomes a very warm, long-lasting sweater or cardigan traditionally worn by the fishermen of the Aran Islands. Irish Aran sweaters cost from US$60 to US$ 170, depending on the style and knit. There are also lower cost options, such as scarves, hats, baby blankets, and throws.
• Claddagh ring: The modern form of the Claddagh ring has been part of Irish culture since the 17 th century and you'll see it worn by many Irish (and non-Irish) women and men, and girls and boys. The ring is traditionally made from silver and represents love, loyalty, and friendship. It is the perfect gift to take home for those special to you, as it is said that it is bad luck to buy one for yourself. A silver Claddagh ring costs around US$50-100, but it can be more expensive if using gems or pure gold, or as little as US$15 if only silver plated.
• Connemara marble: Connemara marble is known as the "Irish gemstone" thanks to its unique green coloring and the fact that it is only found in Ireland. The marble is often added to jewelry, such as Celtic silver earrings with Connemara marble gems, Connemara marble pendants on necklaces, and striking Connemara brooches. The cost of Connemara jewelry depends on the level of work, the coloring of the marble, and the other components, however, you can find prices from as little as US$40 for earrings or into the thousands of dollars for something truly unique.
• Irish tartan: Many believe that tartan is exclusively from Scotland, but as a Celtic country, Ireland also has its own tartans (although they do not have as much history as the tartans of Scotland). You can buy Irish tartans belonging to names and areas of Ireland, so if you have Irish heritage, buying your clan's tartan can mean taking a bit of your own ancestral heritage home with you. If you don't have Irish heritage but love the styles and fabrics, that's fine too. You can add tartan to your trip to Ireland costs from around US$30 up, depending on if you are buying a pocket square, sash, cap, blanket, or something else. Better quality tartans will of course cost more.
• A book of Irish poetry or fiction: Ireland is famous for smooth talking, dramatic landscapes, and a turbulent history, so it is hardly surprising that it has birthed some of the world's best writers and poets — including Oscar Wilde. Take home a book of poetry or a story and keep learning about Ireland even after you've left. Irish literature will vary in price, but a copy of James Joyce's renowned "The Dubliners" will cost about US$10-15 while a copy of Irish poetry and folklore will cost about US$15-20.
• Guinness memorabilia: One of the cheaper souvenir options, Guinness memorabilia (and especially the old advertising billboards and cards), are witty and fun, as well as lightweight, making them an easy gift to bring back on the plane. Guinness memorabilia can be found across Ireland for as little as US$3 or less, but in the Guinness storehouse, you'll find items such as personalized Guinness glasses and pint sets from around US$15.

Trip to Ireland Cost #7: Keeping in Touch

Staying in touch while abroad is easy these days. If you need a local sim card, it does not have to be a high trip to Ireland cost. Find sim cards with unlimited data from Three for just over US$21 for one month . Other options include pre-paid sims with Vodafone and Eir.

Trip to Ireland Cost #8: Document Preparation

Traveling to Ireland means leaving your home and heading off to new lands with different laws and governing bodies. So, you'll need to be armed with the right documents, from passports to visas.

• For US citizens, passports must remain valid for the whole duration of the stay (max 90 days without a visa). A new US passport for your trip to Ireland costs between US$130 and US$195, depending on the requirements. If you need an expedited service, add a fee of US$80 for fast track and postage.

Passport fees for US citizens. (Source: US Department of State)

Trip to Ireland Cost #9: Travel Insurance

When planning out your trip to Ireland costs, you should factor in travel insurance. This cost will range depending on your age and health, as well as your plans and itinerary ­– if you intend on doing any extreme sports (or just drinking too much of the local booze), you may want to consider adding on some extra cover.

Since your travel insurance costs will vary depending on your individual preferences and situation, it is impossible to give an exact price. With this in mind, here are some example travel insurance prices based on our research of trip to Ireland costs in 2023:

US$80 for a 10-day trip / US$119 for a 30-day trip / US$169 for a 364-day trip:

• Emergency medical and hospitalization costs - US$50,000
• 24-hour accidental death - US$25,000 (body repatriation - US$1 million)
• Trip delay – US$2,000 plus accommodation
• Trip interruption – US$7,500
• 24/7 Emergency Assistance – Included

US passports. (Source: Photo by Global Residence Index on Unsplash)

Average Trip to Ireland Costs: 2- and 3-Night Holidays

Trip to ireland cost for 3 days, 2 nights – around us$,1500 per person (based on two people).

• Return flights: As we've seen, flight prices to Ireland vary massively depending on the season. For this example, we'll choose to fly economy during a weekend in September. Direct flights in economy from New York City to Dublin cost US$806 per person. Total cost US$1,612.
• Travel Insurance: It may only be a short trip, but considering possible flight delays, cancellations, theft, and general health, basic travel insurance is always a good idea. Total cost US$23.
• Keeping in touch: It is unlikely that your phone won't work in Dublin and there is certainly no shortage of Wi-Fi, however, should you need to purchase a local sim card, set aside a total of US$21 .
• Hotel: It's a short trip, so the likelihood is that we'll stay in Dublin and do a day trip or two. So, booking 2 nights in the Wren Urban Nest Hotel in Dublin for the same dates comes to $599 without breakfast. Total cost US$599.
• Dublin trips: Visiting Dublin will be largely free as you can easily walk around and see the museums. However, if we include the hop-on hop-off bus (US$30 pp), Guinness storehouse (US$27 pp), the Little Museum of Dublin (US$19 pp), and the Kilmainham Gaol (US$8.50 pp), that takes the total Dublin costs to US$169 .
• Day excursions: Considering that this is a short trip, there will probably only be time for one day excursion. Being that Blarney castle is one of the most important in Ireland and Cork is the second city, offering a wealth of history and cuisine, this seems the obvious choice. Additionally, it isn't too much driving. This trip costs US$76 pp, taking the total for two people to US$152 .
• Food: The hotel does not include breakfast, so this will have to be factored in too. So, for three days, we would need 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners, plus snacks and drinks. If we consider dinners at the price of pub meals and lunches and breakfasts at the price of light bites, this comes to a minimum of US$162 for two people, plus snacks and drinks. An average pint of Guinness in Ireland costs US$6, so if we consider quite a few of those (let's be realistic) plus coffees, water, soft drinks, and snacks, two people will easily spend a total of US$250-300 on food and drink over three days.
• Souvenirs: Finally, you may want to take some souvenirs home. Perhaps something special like Connemara marble jewelry for yourself, a book of Irish poetry for your partner, and some fun memorabilia for family and friends. If this is the case, it would be wise to set aside a total of about US$100-150 for souvenirs. This trip to Ireland cost will vary depending on your tastes and how many souvenirs you want to buy.

👉 In total, the trip to Ireland cost for three days and two nights, for two people, would come to about US$1,500 per person .

Barrels of Guinness in Dublin. (Source: Photo by Jessica Johnston on Unsplash)

Trip to Ireland cost for 4 days, 3 nights – Around US$1,600 per person (based on two people)

• Return flights: Total cost US$1,612.
• Travel Insurance: With no change for an extra day, the total cost stays at US$23.
• Keeping in touch: Total of US$21 .
• Hotel: It's a short trip, so the likelihood is that we'll stay in Dublin and do a day trip or two. So, booking 2 nights in the Wren Urban Nest hotel in Dublin for the same dates comes to $599 without breakfast. Total cost US$599.
• Dublin trips: Visiting Dublin will be similar, so the total cost stays at US$169 .
• Day excursions: The average day trip costs US$75-80 pp, so we could add another day excursion on. Taking the total cost to around US$300 . Alternatively, you may choose to rent a car, however, we would then need to consider fuel costs (nearly US$5 a gallon today), as well as entry tickets. For two days of driving plus the car hire, the price may not be so dissimilar, although it will likely be a little less.
• Food: If adding on another day, we can add 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, and a few more snacks and drinks. Using the same calculations as above, that gives us an additional US$54 for food plus another US$40 for snacks and drinks (so say an additional US$100). This takes us to a total of US$350-400.
• Souvenirs: No change here, so we'll keep a total of about US$100-150 for souvenirs.

👉 In total, the trip to Ireland cost for four days and three nights, for two people, would come to about US$1,600 per person.

Average Trip to Ireland Costs: Families, Couples, and Singles

Galway Cathedral

Trip to Ireland costs for families: some things to keep in mind

• Hotels: Look for hotels that offer family rooms. Depending on your budget and the children's age, you can find large rooms with sofa beds, interconnecting rooms, or two rooms that are next door to each other. Another great option is to consider aparthotels, as these will usually offer enough beds for a family, as well as a kitchen and sitting room – great for saving money on food or relaxing if the weather takes a turn.
• Day trips: When traveling as a family, it is definitely worth considering hiring a car. This will give you greater flexibility and will keep costs down as you won't need to pay for coach trips for everyone.
• Tickets: Many attractions will offer family tickets with discounts.

Trip to Ireland costs for singles: some things to keep in mind

• Hotels: Traveling alone means you can't split the cost of a hotel. Depending on your budget, you could consider hostels to bring the price down – these are also a great way of meeting people.
• Day trips: Depending on how long you're traveling for, you may want to consider taking coaches and trains to the next cities and towns. Traveling solo means you have more flexibility, so you can explore without as much structure. This is a great way to keep costs down and meet more locals.

Saving Money on Your Trip to Ireland Costs

• Flights: Travel out of season to keep costs down (spring and autumn are best).
• Hotels: Stay a little out from the center and take a bus or tram, or bike or walk into town to explore. If being central is important, consider hostels.
• Transport: Check if your hotel has free bicycles and explore the city that way. For long distances, jump on a coach or train instead of a guided tour.
• Food: If you can, share dishes so that you can try more for less. You also don't need to eat a big pub meal every night, consider soups and sandwiches in cafés, buy some supplies from a supermarket (definitely buy soda bread!), or even treat yourself to some fast food.
• Souvenirs: Don't buy from the tourist areas.
• Sightseeing: Some things just aren't worth skipping, but remember that most national museums, churches, historic libraries, castle grounds, and of course the landscapes, are all free in Ireland. Additionally, you can save money on castles and other cultural and historical sites by buying a heritage card from the Office of Public Works. They only cost around US$25 and will get you in to many places for the whole year.
• Travel insurance: Choose a basic package, ensuring it covers medical costs.

Ha'penny Bridge

Tips for Your Trip to Ireland

Must-knows:.

• Pack for all weather, as Ireland is notorious for being sunny one moment and rainy and windy the next.
• If you rent a car, be sure to drive on the left side of the road. You will also find that manual transmissions are much more common than automatics.
• Make sure you know the difference between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. It is also best to avoid topics of conversation that revolve around politics with the United Kingdom, and the relationship between Catholicism and Protestantism.
• There is no need to tip your bartender, the taxi driver, or anyone else when in Ireland. Establishments that have tips will usually include them on the bill. If you want to add a tip for exceptional service, however, you can of course do that.

How to see the local side:

• Go and watch a Gaelic football match.
• Head to a local pub that is hosting a "jam session" and you will find an amazing atmosphere with Irish music sung and played spontaneously and with great talent and fun.
• Go and take an Irish dancing class. You'll have fun, learn about the culture, and get a workout!
• The locals will absolutely love it if you learn a few words before you head over the water.

Trip to Ireland - FAQ

What is the basic information about ireland.

Ireland is an island (believe it or not!), located in the far west of Europe. However, 20% of the Republic of Ireland’s territory belongs to the United Kingdom and is called Northern Ireland.

What language do they speak in Ireland?

The main language spoken in Ireland is English, however, the Irish Gaelic language is also spoken with great pride.

What currency is used in Ireland?

Ireland is part of the European Union and has used the euro since 2002.

What is the most Irish thing to say?

The Irish are renowned for their sayings and happy-go-lucky attitude. For example, "Top of the mornin' to ya!" means "good morning!"

What is Ireland's national dish?

Ireland's national dish is an Irish stew. The broth varies from place to place, but many often add a splash of Guinness to add a very Irish flavor.

Trip to Ireland cost

• 1. Trip to Ireland Cost #1: Flights✈️
• 2. Trip to Ireland Cost #2: Hotels🏨
• 3. Trip to Ireland Cost #3: Transport
• 4. Trip to Ireland Cost #4: Food
• 5. Trip to Ireland Cost #5: Sightseeing
• 6. Trip to Ireland Cost #6: Souvenirs
• 7. Trip to Ireland Cost #7: Keeping in Touch
• 8. Trip to Ireland Cost #8: Document Preparation
• 9. Trip to Ireland Cost #9: Travel Insurance
• 10. Average Trip to Ireland Costs: 2- and 3-Night Holidays
• 11. Average Trip to Ireland Costs: Families, Couples, and Singles
• 12. Saving Money on Your Trip to Ireland Costs
• 13. Tips for Your Trip to Ireland
• 14. Trip to Ireland - FAQ

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How much does a trip to Dublin Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Dublin?

How much does a weekend trip to dublin cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Dublin cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Dublin cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Dublin

Typically, the daily expenses for a trip to Dublin for one person fall between $60 and $422, while for two people, it can range from $120 to $844. These price ranges are based on the average daily cost of $156 (€143) which is calculated from the expenses of previous travelers. These numbers include expenses for food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on your overall travel style, level of luxury, and the activities you choose. If you book standard hotels, eat at typical restaurants, and take in the main attractions, your budget should stay close to this average cost. Below, we provide a breakdown of travel expenses by category, as well as a general price range for accommodation and activities for your visit. Please bear in mind that individual attractions and hotels may vary in price, although they generally adhere to the price ranges discussed in this article.

If you're considering an independent trip to Dublin, it's helpful to have an idea of the amount of money you'll need. For budget travelers, planning to spend around $60 (€55) per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities. For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $156 (€143) per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $422 (€387), which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options. It's worth noting that these price ranges are based on extensive travel cost data for Dublin from fellow travelers, as well as insights from travel companies regarding hotel and tour prices. For further details on travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Dublin .

Travelers spend, on average, $468 per person on a three-day trip to Dublin. This includes sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. You can stick close to this average price by staying at mid-range hotels and eating at mid-level restaurants, while also paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. If you wish to travel cheaper, it's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities. It's also common for many visitors to have a much higher travel budget, as many high-end hotels and restaurants can be found around town.

How much does a five day trip to Dublin cost?

With five days in Dublin, you can expect to spend about $780 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Dublin cost?

Most visitors spend between $421 and $2,952 for a one week trip to Dublin, with the average being $1,093 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Dublin. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hostel Prices in Dublin

With more than 10 hostels in Dublin, the average price is $27 per night for a dorm bed. The cheapest hostel costs $16 and the most expensive is $66. Usually popular with younger travelers, hostels are a great way to save money while also being social. But not all hostels are the same, and we've analyzed the prices of both dorms and private rooms to find the average prices and best places to stay. You can see more details about the hostel prices in Dublin here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Dublin.

• $23 for a dorm bed at Jacobs Inn in Dublin more details
• $23 for a dorm bed at Abigails Hostel in Dublin more details
• $28 for a dorm bed at Abbey Court in Dublin more details

Hotel Prices in Dublin

The average price for a hotel room in Dublin is $131 per night. This average is based on our detailed analysis of available hotels in the area. If you want to save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by location and amenities. You can see more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Dublin here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Should you do a tour in Dublin?

You'll find a wide range of guided tours in Dublin and many visitors enjoy the convenience of having an expert guide leading them through the chosen activity. Tours range in price from $21 for the 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour from Dublin to $270 for the Fire and Water Tour of Ireland’s Ancient East .

• Medieval Dublin Walking Private Guided Tour Viator $ 177
• Medieval Dublin Walking Private Guided Tour: $177
• The Fantastic Walking Tour of Dublin: $206
• Walking tour in Merrion Square Park with a pint of Guinness Dublin Rogues Tour : $38
• Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle and Ennis Shared Tour with Guide: $92
• Celtic Tweed Guided Tour. : $28
• Private Dublin City Sightseeing Tour with Transport ( 1-8 People): $160
• Dublin Family Adventure: Cherished Memories in Every Photo: $55
• 3 Hour Tour Freemasons and Templars Secret Societies: $20

More for Dublin

If you're planning a trip to Dublin, Ireland, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Is Ireland Expensive? What You Need To Know (2024)

Categories Travel Guides

Is Ireland expensive? 

With its rolling green hills, rugged coastline, and rich cultural heritage, Ireland is a destination that never fails to captivate and enchant travelers. From exploring ancient castles and historic sites to savoring traditional Irish cuisine and enjoying live music and dance performances, there is no shortage of experiences to be had in this beautiful country.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Ireland is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

When planning your next adventure, it’s crucial to factor in all the expenses that come with it. Just like any other travel destination, it’s essential to consider the costs associated with your trip to ensure that you have a smooth and enjoyable experience without any financial surprises.

Today, we’ll learn more about the essential expenses you’ll encounter when traveling to the Emerald Isle . We’ll cover everything from accommodation and transportation to food and attractions, giving you a comprehensive overview of what to expect.

Things you'll find in this article

Is Ireland Expensive?

Cost of vacation in ireland, average solo traveler costs, average couple’s trip costs, average family vacation costs, average cost of living in ireland, ireland versus scotland, ireland versus denmark, ireland versus new zealand, 1. travel during the low season., 2. use public transportation., 3. explore unconventional lodging options., 4. eat like a local., 5. check out free attractions and events..

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When it comes to the cost of living, Ireland can be considered relatively expensive compared to other European countries. However, the expenses can vary depending on the region and the type of lifestyle you lead. It is important to note that Ireland offers a high standard of living with great healthcare, education, and social services. Additionally, the country’s natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly people make it a worthwhile destination to visit or live in.

When traveling in Ireland, the expenses can fluctuate significantly based on your preferred mode of travel and financial plan. By opting for budget hostels and preparing your meals, you can effectively cut down on your travel expenses and save a considerable amount of money. This approach can prove to be a cost-effective alternative to staying in high-end hotels and dining out at restaurants daily.

Discovering the allure of the Emerald Isle may not come at a bargain, but with strategic planning and financial management, it is feasible to relish the splendor and charisma of Ireland without exceeding your budget.

The cost of an Irish vacation can fluctuate based on several factors, including the duration of your trip, the season you choose to visit, and the activities you intend to participate in.

Ireland’s peak tourist season falls between June and August, resulting in increased prices for accommodation, tours, and attractions. Save money by traveling during the shoulder seasons (April to May or September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner.

Accommodation options vary from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Consider staying in a hostel for an affordable lodging option, with dorm beds typically priced at €20-€30 per night. Alternatively, mid-range hotels can range from €60-€150 per night. Luxury accommodations typically cost more than €200 per night.

Food and drink expenses in Ireland are subject to variation based on the location and type of cuisine. Meals at pubs or cafes usually range from €10 to €15, whereas a fancy restaurant meal can cost over $30 per person. Ireland is famous for its beer and whiskey. A pint of beer costs around €4-€8, while a cocktail costs around €8-€12.

Renting a car is a popular mode of transportation for exploring the countryside, but it can be costly, with daily rates starting at approximately €40. Public transportation, such as buses and trains, offers a cost-effective and efficient alternative. Single journey prices start at approximately €2.

Please note that entrance fees and tour charges are applicable if you intend to engage in any sightseeing activities. Attraction prices range from €10-€20 for places like museums or historical sites, while guided tours or outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking can cost €50 or more.

Average Expenses During an Ireland Trip

The average cost of a week in Ireland for one person is €1,029-€2,597 (€147-€371 a day).

Food, transportation, and sightseeing: €40 to ]€85 per day for one person.

Economy flights range from €300 to €1,350.

Lodging: A 2- or 3-star hotel room costs €71 to €91 per night, while a 1-bed vacation rental is €84 to €102 per night.

The average cost of a week in Ireland for a couple is €1,635-€4,565 each week.

Food, transportation, and sightseeing: €85 to €169 per day for two persons.

Economy flights range from €617 to €2,780.

Lodging: A 2- or 3-star hotel room costs €71 to €91 per night, while a 1-bed vacation rental is €84 to $102 per night.

The average cost of a week’s vacation in Ireland for four people is €3,167-€9,013 per week.

Food, transportation, and sightseeing: €169 to €338 per day for four persons.

Economy flights range from €1,234 to €5,561.

Accommodation costs between €143 and €181 per night for two 2- or 3-star hotel rooms, or between €125 and €154 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental.

Emerald Isle is a flourishing land with exceptional living standards. Ireland’s cost of living is typically higher than other nations. The cost of living in Ireland varies from €2,000 to €2,500 based on your location, lifestyle, and spending habits.

Ireland’s urban areas, such as Dublin and Cork, bear a heavy financial load due to the high rental and property prices. City center one-bedroom apartments range from €1,100 to €2,200 monthly, based on location and quality. Explore the suburbs for cheaper rent options, with rates ranging from €750 to €1,500 per month.

Ireland’s food and beverage costs are higher than most countries. Indulging in restaurant dining can burn a hole in your pocket, with a moderate meal costing around €30-€40 per person and a fancy three-course meal at a high-end restaurant setting you back €60-€90 per person. Grocery shopping in this country can be costly due to higher prices on basic items like bread, milk, and eggs compared to other European countries.

Getting around Ireland can be a variable cost depending on your location and mode of transportation. Buses and trains are cost-effective and reliable modes of public transportation, with fares starting at approximately €3 per trip. Getting around can be expensive with taxis and ride-hailing services. Hop on for €3.00 and add €1.30 per kilometer.

Ireland living means added expenses like healthcare. Government coverage is not enough, private health insurance is a must. The cost of monthly utilities like electricity, gas, and internet are also expenses that must be considered.

● Rent (studio/small 1 bedroom for solo) €1,000 ● Utilities (Electricity, gas, water, cell phone/internet) €150 ● Food (groceries + eating out) €550 ● Sports (Gym) and Entertainment (movies, bars, tours) €160 ● Transport €120

Comparing Ireland to Other Countries

Ireland and Scotland boast breathtaking landscapes and distinct cultural identities. Travel costs vary depending on the destination.

Fly into Ireland via Dublin, Shannon, or Cork airports, or Scotland via Glasgow, Edinburgh, or Aberdeen airports. Both countries boast impressive land transportation systems, including top-notch road networks and reliable public transit options like buses and trains.

Ireland’s destinations are closer together than Scotland’s, making travel around Ireland easier and faster. Scotland boasts some truly remote and hard-to-reach areas.

Scotland is a more cost-effective option compared to Ireland. Ireland’s major tourist areas, such as Dublin, tend to have higher prices for accommodation, food, and drink. Prices may fluctuate based on season and location.

Scotland can be more affordable, particularly if you avoid peak tourist season and opt for budget-friendly accommodation and dining options. Edinburgh Festival season may come with a higher price tag.

Both nations are must-visits and provide distinct experiences. Your budget and travel preferences are the deciding factors.

Discovering Ireland and Denmark is a treat, yet there are variances in travel and expenses.

Dublin and Copenhagen boast modern airports, facilitating air travel between the two nations. Denmark is a train ride away from neighboring countries, while Ireland’s island location makes land transportation more difficult.

Denmark boasts a robust public transportation system, including buses, trains, and Copenhagen’s metro. While Ireland boasts a reliable system of buses and trains, reaching certain rural areas can prove challenging.

Denmark is a pricey European country, with higher costs for food, lodging, and transportation compared to Ireland. However, you can explore Denmark on a budget with affordable options like hostels and street food.

Ireland is cheaper than Denmark, but prices fluctuate with season and place. Urban centers like Dublin tend to be pricier than rural regions, and tourist hotspots can also come with a higher price tag.

Both countries provide distinct experiences that are worth exploring. Budget and travel style aside, Ireland may be a more affordable option than Denmark.

Discovering Ireland and New Zealand is a treat for any traveler, yet their travel experiences and expenses differ greatly.

New Zealand is a remote destination that requires a lengthy flight to access. Ireland is easily reachable from both Europe and the Americas. While both countries boast modern airports and good transportation infrastructure, New Zealand’s breathtaking scenery is a major draw for visitors who often opt to rent a car and explore.

Compared to Ireland, New Zealand is pricier for travel, particularly for transportation, food, and lodging. Prices may fluctuate based on season and location. Exploring popular destinations such as Queenstown and Auckland can be quite expensive.

Compared to New Zealand, Ireland offers more affordable options for accommodation and dining without compromising on quality. Dublin’s tourist hotspots may come with a premium price tag.

Both nations provide distinct experiences that are worth exploring. New Zealand’s natural beauty is unmatched, despite being pricier than Ireland’s.

Tips for Saving Money in Ireland

Ireland beckons with breathtaking scenery, a storied past, and singular traditions, making it a sought-after spot for travelers. Albeit a popular destination, visiting during peak tourist season can be costly. Discover multiple ways to save money while traveling to Ireland. Discover how to enjoy a high-quality trip to Ireland without breaking the bank by following these tips.

In Ireland, the peak season for vacations is from June to August , along with the weeks surrounding St. Patrick’s Day , and during this time, flights, accommodation, and car rentals tend to be pricier. Travel smart and save big by booking your trip during the shoulder seasons of April, May, or September.

Don’t worry about the weather when visiting Ireland, as it’s not the main attraction. September and July share a similar likelihood of sunshine, as do August and April for rainfall. Ireland’s weather is unpredictable.

Experience the bliss of less crowded attractions, restaurants, and other places you visit. Enjoy the calmness and shorter lines.

Explore like a local. Hop on public transportation to save some cash. Ordering a cab is a convenient way to travel from A to B without any hassle. Explore anywhere on a budget by taking buses and trains. Hop on the Airlink bus from the Airport to Dublin city for just €7 (€12 return). It departs from terminals 1 and 2, saving you at least €20 compared to a taxi.

Take a stroll if you can. Embrace your legs, they are your natural gift. Explore the city on foot – Irish cities are compact and easily navigable. If the sky stays clear, take a leisurely stroll and savor the sights along the way.

Slow and steady wins the race to uncover hidden gems. Explore the city worry-free with complimentary walking tours offered by most hostels. Simply inquire at reception and join in on the fun. Discover the city and mingle with globetrotters.

Consider alternative lodging options during your travels instead of sticking to hotels.

For a family or group staying three nights or more, check out Airbnb’s amazing accommodations in Dublin , Kerry, and Galway . Traveling with a group of 4 or more? Save big on hotels without sacrificing convenience. You’ll have enough left over to enjoy breakfast at a nearby cafe instead of cooking it yourself.

Explore B&Bs beyond the typical spots. Don’t overlook them if you haven’t experienced them yet. Avoid pricey and impersonal ones in town centers.

Discover the charm and affordability of Ireland’s hidden gem accommodations – farm or country house B&Bs just a few miles away.

Check out the hotel rates here.

Culinary customs vary globally. The Irish are very proud of their breakfast and it’s very important to them. Scrumptious breakfast abounds and an Irish breakfast will satiate you for a spell. Indulge in a homemade soup or sandwich during lunchtime at most restaurants if you’re still hungry. In the mood for a quick meal? Hop over to the nearest grocery store and snag a bread roll with your desired fillings.

Savor the “early bird” dinner at most restaurants between 6:30 and 8:00 pm. Indulge in a delectable 3-course feast for just 25 Euro. The food quality remains consistent as it is mostly selected from the restaurant’s a-la-carte menu. Don’t miss the deadline, order by 8.00 pm.

Why not try cooking your own meals in Ireland to save some cash? Many accommodations offer kitchen facilities, and there are plenty of grocery stores and markets where you can buy ingredients.

Discover Ireland’s free wonders: hike scenic trails , wander charming towns , and explore museums and parks without spending a penny.

Historic sites owned by the Irish Heritage organisation offer free admission to their properties on the first Wednesday of each month. Explore the Heritage Ireland website for a list of free Wednesday sites to plan your visit.

Visit during Ireland’s Annual Culture Night, which is usually in late September (low season). There are lots of free events and live performances for all ages and tastes. Dublin’s evening hours offer free admission to many tourist sites that typically charge. If you are flexible with your travel schedule, then this is a great way to have a cheap holiday

It is possible to have a vacation in Ireland that is memorable without breaking the bank with some careful planning and budgeting. The cost of a vacation in Ireland can vary depending on your travel style and budget, but it is possible to do so.

In a similar vein, the cost of living in Ireland can be quite high, but this mostly relies on the individual’s lifestyle and how they choose to spend their money. It is feasible to live a comfortable life in Ireland without completely emptying one’s financial account if one makes a detailed budget and plans ahead.

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

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• Travel Destinations

How Much Does It Cost To Have A Vacation In Ireland

Published: November 30, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Carry Clinton

• Budget Travel
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Ireland, with its rich history, lush landscapes, friendly locals, and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for many travelers. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, Ireland offers a plethora of experiences that will leave you in awe. However, before embarking on your Irish adventure, it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved.

In this article, we will explore the various expenses you can expect when planning a vacation in Ireland. From accommodation and transportation costs to food and drink expenses, sightseeing fees, and even shopping, we will cover all aspects of your trip. Additionally, we will provide tips on how to save money without compromising the quality of your experience.

It’s important to note that the cost of a vacation in Ireland can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, the duration of your stay, the type of accommodation you choose, and your personal preferences. However, by having a general understanding of the expenses involved, you can better plan and budget for your trip.

So, whether you’re planning to explore the vibrant streets of Dublin, marvel at the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, or venture into the picturesque countryside of County Kerry, let’s dive into the details of how much it costs to have a vacation in Ireland.

Accommodation Costs

When it comes to choosing accommodation in Ireland, you’ll find a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels and self-catering cottages, there is something for everyone.

In major cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway, the cost of accommodation can vary significantly. On average, you can expect to pay around $100 to $200 per night for a mid-range hotel or guesthouse. Prices may increase during peak tourist seasons, so it’s advisable to book in advance to secure the best rates.

If you’re traveling on a budget, consider staying in hostels or budget hotels, where prices can range from $20 to $50 per night. These accommodations typically offer dormitory-style rooms or private rooms with shared facilities.

For those seeking a unique experience, Ireland also offers a variety of charming bed and breakfast establishments. These family-run establishments provide cozy rooms, warm hospitality, and a hearty Irish breakfast to start your day. Prices for bed and breakfast accommodations can range from $50 to $100 per night.

If you prefer more space and independence, renting a self-catering cottage or apartment can be a great option. These accommodations are particularly popular in rural areas, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the Irish countryside. Prices for self-catering accommodations vary depending on the location, size, and amenities provided, but you can anticipate costs ranging from $150 to $300 per night.

Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the time of year, with summer months typically being more expensive due to higher demand. Additionally, if you’re traveling with a group or family, renting a vacation home or cottage may offer cost savings compared to booking individual hotel rooms.

To save money on accommodation, consider booking during shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when rates may be lower. Additionally, look for accommodation options outside of major tourist areas, as prices tend to be more affordable in smaller towns and villages.

Overall, with a wide range of options available, you can find accommodation in Ireland to suit every budget, whether you’re looking for luxury or a cozy, affordable stay.

Transportation Costs

Getting around Ireland is relatively easy, thanks to its well-connected transportation network. While the country offers various modes of transportation, the most popular options for travelers are renting a car, taking public transportation, or joining guided tours.

If you prefer the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car can be a convenient option. However, it’s important to consider the additional costs associated with car rentals, such as fuel, tolls, parking fees, and insurance. On average, you can expect to pay around $40 to $100 per day for a standard car rental, depending on the type of vehicle and the rental agency. It’s advisable to book in advance to secure the best rates.

If driving isn’t your preference or you prefer a more eco-friendly option, Ireland has an extensive public transportation system. Buses and trains operate throughout the country, connecting major cities, towns, and tourist destinations. Public transportation costs are generally affordable, with bus fares starting at around $2 for short distances and train fares ranging from $10 to $50 depending on the route and class of ticket.

An alternative to navigating public transportation independently is joining guided tours. These tours offer hassle-free transportation, along with the expertise of local guides who provide insights into Irish history, culture, and landmarks. Prices for guided tours vary depending on the duration and itinerary, ranging from around $50 for a half-day tour to several hundred dollars for multi-day excursions.

It’s important to note that if you plan on visiting more remote areas or exploring the rugged countryside, having a car may be more convenient. Public transportation options can be limited in these areas, and guided tours may not cover every location you wish to visit.

When considering transportation costs, also be mindful of the distance between destinations. While Ireland isn’t a large country, traveling from one end to the other can still take several hours by car or public transportation. Plan your itinerary accordingly and factor in travel time to avoid feeling rushed during your vacation.

To save money on transportation, consider using a combination of public transportation and guided tours. This way, you can enjoy the convenience of a guided tour for certain destinations or sights while utilizing public transportation for shorter distances or less touristy areas.

Overall, transportation costs in Ireland can vary depending on your preferred mode of travel, but with careful planning, you can find affordable options that suit your needs and budget.

Food and Drink Expenses

One of the most enjoyable aspects of traveling is indulging in the local cuisine, and Ireland offers a delightful array of food and drink options that will tantalize your taste buds. When it comes to dining out and enjoying traditional Irish fare, there are options available for every budget.

In major cities and popular tourist areas, you’ll find a wide range of restaurants offering diverse cuisines, from traditional Irish dishes to international flavors. Dining at a mid-range restaurant in Ireland can cost around $15 to $30 per person for a main course. If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, prices can range from $30 to $50 or more per person.

For those on a tighter budget, there are plenty of affordable options available, such as fast-food chains, cafés, and casual eateries. A meal at a fast-food restaurant can cost around $8 to $12 per person, while a sandwich or a hearty Irish breakfast at a café can range from $5 to $10.

If you’re interested in experiencing traditional Irish pubs, you’ll be delighted to find a vibrant pub culture throughout the country. Pubs are not just for drinks but also offer hearty pub grub, including classics like fish and chips, Irish stew, and Guinness pie. Prices for pub meals typically range from $10 to $20 per dish.

When it comes to drinks, Ireland is known for its world-famous Guinness beer, as well as a wide selection of other local brews and spirits. A pint of beer in a pub can cost around $5 to $7, depending on the location and brand. Non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, tea, and soft drinks range from $2 to $5.

Exploring local markets and grocery stores can also be an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers. You can pick up fresh produce, snacks, and local specialties at reasonable prices. If you have access to a kitchen in your accommodation, you can prepare your own meals, saving even more on dining expenses.

When budgeting for food and drink expenses, it’s also important to consider gratuity. Tipping in Ireland is not as customary as in some other countries, but it is appreciated for good service. A typical tip is around 10% of the bill, but it’s entirely at your discretion.

To save money on food and drink expenses, consider a mix of dining out and self-catering. Try the local pub scene for authentic Irish dishes and opt for casual establishments and market visits to keep costs down. Also, check out lunchtime specials or early bird menus at restaurants, as they often offer discounted prices.

Overall, experiencing the delicious cuisine and drink offerings of Ireland can be done within a wide range of budgets, allowing you to savor the flavors of the Emerald Isle without breaking the bank.

Sightseeing Expenses

Ireland is a country rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural landmarks, offering a plethora of attractions and sights to explore. From ancient castles and historic sites to stunning landscapes and iconic landmarks, there’s something to captivate every visitor.

When it comes to sightseeing expenses in Ireland, the costs can vary depending on the specific attractions and activities you choose. Some attractions may have entrance fees, while others may be free or offer discounted rates for certain groups or times of the year.

For historical sites and landmarks, such as the magnificent Rock of Cashel or the imposing Blarney Castle, you can expect to pay entrance fees ranging from $5 to $15 per person. Some attractions may offer audio guides or guided tours for an additional fee, providing you with valuable insights and a more immersive experience.

Natural wonders like the Cliffs of Moher or the Giant’s Causeway often have designated visitor centers where you can learn about the geological significance of these formations. Entrance fees for these attractions usually range from $10 to $20 per person, which may include access to walking trails, observation points, and informative exhibits.

Ireland is also known for its vibrant music and cultural festivals. The cost of attending these festivals can vary depending on the event’s duration, location, and popularity. Prices for tickets can range from $20 for a day pass to several hundred dollars for multi-day festivals. However, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and talented performers at these events is well worth the investment.

Many cities in Ireland offer walking tours or guided tours, allowing you to explore the local history, architecture, and hidden gems with the expertise of a knowledgeable guide. Prices for these tours vary but can range from $10 to $30 per person, depending on the duration and scope of the tour.

To save money on sightseeing expenses, research ahead of time to find discounted rates or special offers for attractions. Some attractions may offer discounted tickets when purchased online in advance or in combination with other nearby sites. Additionally, consider exploring the natural beauty of Ireland through hiking trails and scenic drives, which often come at no cost.

Overall, while sightseeing expenses can add up, the experiences and memories gained from exploring Ireland’s awe-inspiring attractions are priceless. With proper planning and budgeting, you can create an itinerary that allows you to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

Additional Activities and Entertainment Costs

In addition to the popular sightseeing attractions, Ireland offers a plethora of additional activities and entertainment options to enhance your vacation experience. From cultural performances and outdoor adventures to unique experiences, there’s always something exciting to do in the Emerald Isle.

If you’re a fan of traditional Irish music and dance, attending a live performance is a must. Many pubs and venues throughout the country offer nightly sessions of traditional music, where you can immerse yourself in the lively rhythms and melodies. Some establishments may charge a small admission fee, typically around $5 to $10.

Theater enthusiasts can explore the vibrant performing arts scene in cities like Dublin and Galway. From classic plays to contemporary productions, Ireland has a rich theatrical heritage. Ticket prices for theater performances can range from $20 to $60, depending on the production and seating category.

Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted to discover the abundance of outdoor activities available in Ireland’s stunning landscapes. Whether it’s hiking in the Wicklow Mountains, cycling along the Wild Atlantic Way, or kayaking in the lakes of Killarney, there are numerous opportunities for adventure. Prices for organized outdoor activities can vary depending on the duration and complexity of the excursion, ranging from $30 for a guided hike to $100 for a full-day adventure.

For those interested in history and culture, Ireland is home to various museums and heritage sites that provide educational and engaging experiences. Entrance fees for museums generally range from $5 to $15, depending on the size and popularity of the institution. Some museums, like the National Museum of Ireland, offer free admission, allowing visitors to delve into the country’s history without a financial burden.

For families traveling with children, Ireland offers several family-friendly attractions and theme parks that provide fun-filled entertainment. Prices for these attractions can vary, but generally range from $15 to $30 per person, with discounts available for group bookings or online ticket purchases.

In addition to the specific activities mentioned above, keep an eye out for seasonal events, festivals, and markets happening during your visit. These events often showcase local artisans, musicians, and culinary delights, creating a vibrant atmosphere and providing unique experiences. The costs for attending these events can vary widely, so it’s best to check their websites or event listings for up-to-date information.

To save money on additional activities and entertainment, consider researching discounts and special offers available for certain attractions or events. Additionally, keep an eye out for free community events or street performances, as they can provide a glimpse into the local culture without any cost.

Overall, the additional activities and entertainment options in Ireland offer a chance to immerse yourself in the country’s vibrant culture, explore its stunning landscapes, and create unforgettable memories.

Shopping Expenses

Shopping in Ireland can be a delightful experience, with a wide range of unique products, traditional crafts, and renowned brands to choose from. Whether you’re looking for fashion, jewelry, souvenirs, or local specialties, there are shopping options to suit every taste and budget.

If you’re interested in Irish crafts and artisanal products, visiting local craft markets and shops is a must. Here, you can find beautifully crafted items such as handmade jewelry, traditional woolens, pottery, and unique souvenirs. Prices for these items will vary depending on the craftsmanship and materials used, but expect to spend around $10 to $50 for small keepsakes and upwards of $100 for more intricate or high-quality pieces.

Ireland is also famous for its traditional Irish whiskey and beer. If you’re a fan of these beverages, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to purchase your favorite brands or explore new varieties. Prices for whiskey can range from $30 for a standard bottle to several hundred dollars for premium, aged selections. Beer and cider options are also available at various price points, depending on the brand and size of the bottle or can.

For fashion enthusiasts, Ireland offers a blend of international brands and local designers. Dublin, in particular, is known for its shopping streets, including Grafton Street and Henry Street, where you’ll find a mix of high street fashion, department stores, and designer boutiques. Prices for clothing can vary widely, depending on the brand and style, but expect to spend around $50 to $200 for a typical item of clothing.

When it comes to grocery shopping, Ireland has a wide range of supermarkets and convenience stores that offer everyday essentials as well as local products. Prices for groceries can vary depending on the store and the products you purchase, but as a rough estimate, expect to spend around $50 to $100 per week on groceries for a single person.

Remember to factor in value-added tax (VAT) when considering shopping expenses. The standard VAT rate in Ireland is 23%, and it is typically already included in the displayed prices. However, some stores may offer a tax-free shopping option for tourists, allowing you to claim back the VAT at the airport when departing the country. Make sure to inquire about this option and keep the necessary receipts.

To save money on shopping expenses, consider exploring smaller local shops and markets for unique and affordable finds. Additionally, keep an eye out for sales, especially during the summer and winter seasons, when many stores offer discounts on clothing, accessories, and other items.

Overall, shopping in Ireland offers a chance to discover unique products, support local artisans, and take home a piece of Irish culture and craftsmanship. With a bit of planning and budgeting, you can find something special within your desired price range.

Travel Insurance Costs

When planning a vacation in Ireland, it’s essential to consider travel insurance to protect yourself and your belongings in case of unexpected events. Travel insurance provides coverage for a range of situations, including medical emergencies, trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen baggage, and personal liability.

The cost of travel insurance for your trip to Ireland will depend on various factors, including your age, duration of travel, coverage limits, and the level of protection you choose. On average, travel insurance can cost around 5% to 10% of the total trip cost.

When determining the coverage you need, consider factors such as medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, and lost or stolen belongings. It’s important to read the policy details carefully to understand what is covered and any exclusions or limitations.

For medical coverage, ensure that the policy includes emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation to your home country if needed. Medical costs can be significant, so it’s crucial to have adequate coverage to protect yourself in case of illness or injury during your trip.

Trip cancellation or interruption coverage is essential in case you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a personal emergency or a family member’s illness. This coverage can reimburse you for non-refundable trip expenses, including flights, accommodations, and prepaid activities.

Lost or stolen baggage coverage can help reimburse you for the value of your belongings if they are lost, stolen, or damaged during your trip. It’s important to check the coverage limits and any restrictions on valuable items, such as electronics or jewelry.

When purchasing travel insurance, it’s advisable to compare quotes from different insurance providers to ensure you get the best coverage at a competitive price. Consider factors such as the reputation of the insurance company, customer reviews, and the level of customer service provided.

Travel insurance may also offer additional benefits, such as 24/7 emergency assistance, travel delay coverage, and coverage for rental car accidents. Evaluate your specific needs and priorities to select a policy that suits your requirements.

Finally, keep in mind that some credit cards and insurance policies may offer travel insurance as a benefit. Check with your credit card provider or existing insurance provider to see if you already have some level of coverage, as this may help reduce your overall travel insurance costs.

While travel insurance adds to the overall cost of your trip, it provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen events. Investing in travel insurance ensures that you can enjoy your vacation in Ireland without worrying about the potential risks and expenses that can arise.

Miscellaneous Expenses

When planning a vacation in Ireland, it’s important to budget for miscellaneous expenses that may arise during your trip. These expenses can include various items and services that are not specifically categorized under accommodation, transportation, food, sightseeing, or shopping, but are still important to consider.

One common miscellaneous expense is the cost of internet and communication services. Most hotels and accommodations offer Wi-Fi, but some may charge an additional fee for access or provide it at a limited speed. If you plan on using your mobile phone for calls, texts, or data, check with your service provider to understand their international roaming charges or consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable options.

Another expense to consider is tipping. While not as customary as in some other countries, tipping is appreciated for good service in Ireland. In restaurants, it’s customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the bill, although it’s at your discretion. Additionally, if you use services such as taxis or tour guides, a small tip is often expected as well.

Public restrooms in Ireland may charge a small fee for use, typically around $0.50 to $1. It’s a good idea to carry some change with you for these situations. Some cafes and restaurants may also charge for using their restroom facilities if you’re not a paying customer.

If you plan on renting a car, keep in mind that parking fees may apply in cities or popular tourist areas. Parking costs can vary depending on the location and duration of parking, so it’s worth researching ahead of time to understand the rates and availability of parking options.

If you require medication during your trip, ensure you budget for the cost of prescriptions or over-the-counter medications that you may need. It’s advisable to bring an adequate supply of any essential medication with you, as well as necessary documentation or prescriptions to ensure smooth travel and avoid any potential medical expenses abroad.

In the case of emergencies, it’s recommended to have some emergency cash on hand for unexpected expenses or situations where credit cards may not be accepted. While Ireland is generally a safe country, it’s always wise to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your trip.

Lastly, it’s important to account for any personal expenses, such as souvenirs, spa treatments, or additional activities not covered in the previous sections. Having a designated budget for these discretionary expenses allows you to enjoy memorable experiences or bring home mementos of your trip without exceeding your planned expenditure.

By considering these miscellaneous expenses and incorporating them into your overall budget, you can have a more accurate understanding of the total cost of your vacation in Ireland. Proper planning and allocation of funds will help you make the most of your trip while ensuring financial peace of mind.

Planning a vacation in Ireland offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in a country rich with history, culture, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. Understanding the various costs involved in your trip allows for better budgeting and ensures you can make the most of your time in the Emerald Isle.

Accommodation costs in Ireland can vary depending on location, type of accommodation, and the time of year. From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels and self-catering cottages, there are options to suit every budget and preference.

Transportation costs can be managed by choosing between renting a car, utilizing public transportation, or joining guided tours. Consider the distances between destinations and the convenience each option provides for your planned activities.

Food and drink expenses offer a chance to savor traditional Irish cuisine, whether dining in cozy pubs, trying local specialties, or exploring the vibrant food scene in major cities. From budget-friendly options to indulgent dining experiences, there’s something for every palate and budget.

When it comes to sightseeing, Ireland’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural landmarks await. Be prepared to budget for entrance fees to attractions, guided tours, and the occasional cultural performance.

Additional activities and entertainment costs provide opportunities for unique experiences, from traditional music sessions to outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions. Plan and budget for these activities based on your specific interests and preferences.

Shopping in Ireland allows you to bring home cherished souvenirs, traditional crafts, and locally produced goods. Set aside a budget for shopping, taking into account the cost of the items you wish to purchase.

Travel insurance is an important consideration to protect yourself from unforeseen circumstances during your trip. Determine the coverage that best suits your needs and budget for the cost of insurance accordingly.

Lastly, don’t forget to account for miscellaneous expenses such as internet and communication services, tipping, public restroom fees, parking, medication costs, and personal discretionary expenses.

In conclusion, by considering and budgeting for the various costs associated with your vacation in Ireland, you can make informed decisions and fully enjoy the wonders this captivating country has to offer. Whether you’re exploring ancient castles, indulging in traditional Irish fare, or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture, Ireland promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

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6 Day Ireland Budget Breakdown: How Much Does a Trip to Dublin Cost?

How expensive is Dublin to visit? If you’re planning a trip to Dublin and you’re unsure of how much to budget, you’re in the right place. Welcome to The Thought Card, a travel and personal finance blog and podcast empowering you to make informed financial decisions so that you can travel more, pay off debt and build wealth. Woohoo! One of the things that I do regularly on my blog is detail all of my expenses at each destination I visit so that other travelers can create a realistic travel budget that covers all of their expenses.

Your Ireland trip costs may look different from mines based on interests but use this Dublin travel cost breakdown as a guide – think of it as a starting point. Since I’ve visited Dublin recently, you’re getting information from someone who has been there. My hope is that you can cut your research time in half with all this information and get excited about heading to Emerald Isle – the country with the greenest countryside I’ve ever seen! 

How much does it cost to visit Dublin for a week?

Is Dublin expensive to visit? If so, how expensive?

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details.

6 Day Dublin Cost Breakdown

Table of Contents

Total Airfare from NYC to Dublin: $334.86 USD

Total lodging: $195.85 usd, total transportation cost: $32.96 usd, how much does the average pint of guinness cost in dublin, total activities cost: $168 usd, read more .

I booked my round-trip flight from New York City to Dublin eight months before departure with Delta Air Lines. As a  Platinum Delta SkyMiles credit card   member , my first checked bag was free.

During the flight, we were given complimentary food and drinks as well as an eye mask and headphones.

I booked 5 nights at Abbey Court Hostel   and stayed in a 4-bed female dorm with an ensuite bathroom. On average I spent 40,00 € per night. My room was clean and comfortable and the ensuite bathroom was compact. Although linens were provided (sheets and a thick blanket), towels were not – so don’t forget to bring yours. There were also storage cages underneath the bunk beds and each bed had a personal light and two outlet plugs. Overall I had a great time at Abbey and I would stay again next time I’m in Dublin.

Abbey Court Hostel is centrally located right next to O’Connell’s Street, one of the main streets in Dublin. The hostel is only a few minutes away from Temple Bar and attractions like the Spire, Trinity College and more. You can even walk to Guinness Storehouse which takes approximately 30 minutes.

Abbey Court Hostel’s hallways are decorated with colorful wall art from cartoon characters to world leaders like Hillary Clinton and President Barack Obama. My favorites were the illustrations of hip-hop legends Biggie Smalls and Tupac Shakur.

For financially savvy travelers looking for a great value, Abbey Court offers free breakfast which includes toast, cheese, cereal, coffee, fruit, and mini pancakes.

However, if you prefer to stay at a hotel in Dublin , there are plenty of options to choose from. 

From Dublin Airport, I took the Dublin Aircoach (Route 700) to the city center. You can also take the public bus (No. 17) or the Airlink Express Bus.

Right outside the airport terminals (exit baggage claim and follow the signs), Aircoach was easy to find, however, you’ll need cash to purchase your ticket at the counter.

Depending on where you’re getting off, prices range from 6,00-7,00 € for adults one-way or 10,00-12,00 € for adults round-trip.

Since I was staying at Abbey Court Hostel, I got off at O’Connell Street, right near the Spire. My round-trip tickets from Dublin Airport to the city center cost 12,00 €.

Although WiFi is complimentary on the Dublin Aircoach bus, there were no outlets to charge electronics.

I also spent $19 USD to get from the JFK airport to Grand Central Terminal in New York City. 

Dublin Total Food & Drink Costs: $116 USD

I spent a total of $116 on food and drinks during my 6-day trip to Dublin. 

What’s the average meal cost in Dublin? How much to budget for food in Dublin?

I suggest budgeting between $10-$15 USD for lunch and $15-$20 USD for dinner so roughly about 9,00-18,00 € per meal. 

The average pint in Dublin costs 5,50 € or $7 USD.

Be aware that some touristy spots, especially in Temple Bar, raise prices throughout the night. It’s best to avoid these places especially if you’re on a tight budget.

There are plenty of fun  things to do in Dublin – here’s how much I spent on activities. 

• Natural History Museum: Free
• Free Dublin walking tour with FreeTours.com: 10,00 € in tips (optional)
• Premium Irish Whiskey Tour at Irish Whiskey Museum : 20,00 €
• Guinness Storehouse: 20,00 €
• Wild Rover Belfast Titanic and Giant’s Causeway Tour : 60,00 €
• Cliffs of Moher and Galway City Tour: 40,00 €

Gifts/Souvenirs: $40 USD

• (2) Guinness Pint Glasses: 11,00 €
• (2) Bushmills Whiskey (Duty-free): 26,00 €

Final Thoughts

How much does it cost to go to Ireland? How expensive is Dublin?

Overall I spent $888 USD during my 6 day trip to Dublin, Ireland. Although my stay wasn’t luxurious (I stayed at a hostel), I didn’t necessarily travel on the cheap either. I partied some nights and did plenty of day trips which included one day trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway and another to Belfast and Giants Causeway. 

• Airfare: $335 USD
• Hostel: $196 USD
• Transportation: $33 USD
• Food: $116 USD
• Activities: $168 USD
• Souvenirs: $40 USD 

Total cost for 6 day trip to Ireland: $888

Bus tours were the most expensive activities in my Ireland budget but they were well worth it because they saved me from itemizing expenses like gas and a car rental. Nevertheless there are a ton of free things to do in Dublin so you can offset your expenses by joining free walking tours, visiting the National museums or parks like St Stephen’s Green.

Groceries also helped me save on snacks for day trips and kept my alcohol costs low.

If you decide to visit Northern Ireland, don’t forget that British Sterling is the official currency (£) and not Euros.

Helpful Tip: I recommend carrying a small amount of cash with you during your trip to Dublin since some establishments only accept cash. If you don’t have a chance to exchange Euros at your local bank at home, for the best exchange rates withdraw cash from any ATM at the airport.

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How to House Sit in Ireland

Danielle Desir Corbett paid off $63,000 of student loan debt in 4 years, bought a house at 27, and has traveled to 27 countries, including her favorites, Iceland, China, and Bermuda. Go here to learn Danielle’s incredible story, from struggling financially and in debt to finding creative ways to earn more and live on her terms. Listen to The Thought Card Podcast , where Danielle shares how you can creatively travel more and build wealth regardless of your current financial situation. Reach out to Danielle by contacting: thethoughtcard (at) gmail (dot) com.

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Very much excited to visit after seeing these scenarios!!

Ireland is a gem!

Sweet price on NYC to Dublin. Well done. Amazing how much ground we cover at a minimum price these days. Just takes a little bit of digging to find the genuine gems.

Very true and since I’m not in a rush, I’ve got time to dig for the best deals!

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Doing Ireland on the cheap - how to see it all and save a fortune

Everything you need to know for planning a low-cost dream trip to ireland: from airfare to car rentals and accommodation, we've got you covered..

Planning a budget vacation to Ireland this year is not only possible, but it's also the best way to get to know the Emerald Isle.

As you might suspect, Dublin is the most expensive place in Ireland for hotels and dining, so travelers on a very strict budget would be wise to spend most of their time outside the capital , but that’s not to say that the capital is not to be experienced. Still, there's plenty to see all around the island of Ireland .

Read more:  Mayo and the Cliffs of Moher tours

Here are my best budget tips for a vacation to Ireland this year:

Getting to ireland.

Budgeting for your vacation begins with your flight over - be sure to take advantage of discounted airfares that require advance booking.

If you are looking for the authentic Irish start to your holiday then why not fly Irish? Aer Lingus offer a wonderful warm Irish welcome to all passengers. With the new Saver   fare you can make a round trip to Ireland for a competitive $396 -615 anytime from November 1st 2017 to March 31st 2018.     

Getting Around

Car rental after flights may be your biggest single expense.

A great website to check out for renting a car for under $20 a day is rentalcars.com . This website is very fairly priced and offers a range of cars for you to collect at Dublin airport and take off on the vacation of a life time.

Public transportation is a great option for major towns and cities like Cork and Belfast. Train service has improved dramatically in recent years, as has the bus service.

Be sure to have a planned itinerary before arriving in Ireland so you know if you will need a car or not.

Travel by rail or bus becomes even cheaper with the Trekker Pass or 'Explorer Travel Ticket', good for unlimited travel for 5 or 8 days throughout the Republic. A six day unlimited train/bus pass is about $180.

In Northern Ireland, the Freedom of Northern Ireland pass is a recommended money-saver.

For itineraries that encompass both the Republic and Northern Ireland, there's the umbrella Emerald Card, good on both sides of the border.

These passes are available from booking offices of Iarnrod Eireann and the main Dublin Tourism Office.

Read more:  Northern Ireland and Game of Thrones tours

Accommodations

Try to avoid traveling alone where possible to minimize your costs and, also, to improve your personal safety. Hostels are Ireland's best budget option and they're as diverse as the people who run them. Many have private rooms at about half the rate you'd pay in the average B&B. Many have self-catering kitchens where you can save by preparing your own meals, and an increasing number have their own reasonably priced restaurants.

Another great site to check out is B&B Ireland for insights into a real Irish home. You can get a fine place for about $40 per night per person sharing, including breakfast.

Tourism Ireland publishes an illustrated booklet Discover Ireland Holiday Breaks, which catalogs discount packages that sometimes offer substantial savings. Some apply to low-season months only, and all require stays of more than one day.

Check out this website for the best value on hostels.

Reclaim the VAT

Did you know that you can save more than $17 for every hundred dollars you spend on goods in Ireland? If you export these goods to a destination outside the European Union you can reclaim the high Value Added Tax which will save you a fair amount.

Read more:  Kerry and the Wild Atlantic Way tours

The Heritage card

Consider investing in the Heritage card if you are planning to visit several of the state-owned sites like Newgrange or Glendalough. This card will give you "free" entry to all sites for one payment!

Now that you have a plan in place for how to budget while exploring Ireland , check out IrishCentral's top ten things to do in Ireland on a budget  and even more travel tips for your next trip.

Watch this amazing video of how a french couple fell in love with the wild Atlantic ways of Ireland on their road trip through Connemara.

Just think this could be you, so get booking that dream vacation to Ireland now!

Unexpected Momentum - Roadtrip in Connemara from Jeremy Janin on Vimeo .

Trip Total:  Approx. USD$1,300-1,500.

*Originally published in May 2014. 

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Cost-of-living crisis hits Ireland’s ranking as place for private businesses to thrive

State listed ninth among 33 economies in europe, middle east and africa by pwc.

PwC partner Colm O’Callaghan says Ireland’s fall in the Private Business Attractiveness Index from seventh to ninth place 'reflects the intense pressure that some private businesses are under'.

Ireland has slipped two places in a ranking of countries where private businesses thrive, with a significant fall in the “macroeconomics” category due to the cost-of-living crisis.

The State was ranked ninth among 33 major economies in Europe, the Middle East,and Africa in the latest PwC Private Business Attractiveness Index, up from 14th place two years ago, but down from seventh position last year.

Ireland fell from first place to sixth in its ranking for macroeconomics. “Much of this significant slip in ranking for the macroeconomic metric stemmed from the costs-of-living crisis,” the report said.

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It also pointed to cost increases in the private businesses sector. “In this regard, Ireland ranked 30 out of 33 for the cost of electricity and 29 out of 33 for the cost of living metrics leading to an impact on our overall macroeconomic standing,” PwC said.

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Ireland scored 13th and eighth respectively for “sustainability and climate” and “social, responsibility and governance”.

PwC partner Colm O’Callaghan said Ireland’s fall in the index “reflects the intense pressure that some private businesses are under and the urgent need for continued supports for this important sector of our economy”.

“Over the last few years, private businesses had to deal with the pandemic, then a period of steep inflation, high interest rates, electricity price increases and other cost pressures often while working with restrained cash flows,” he said.

[  Retail sales slump 2% as cost-of-living challenge keeps spending tight  ]

“As it stands, private businesses are facing even more cost pressures from an increased minimum wage, pension auto enrolment and employer PRSI hikes all coming together.”

Mr O’Callaghan said it was welcome that the Government had cut the interest rate on tax debt frozen since the pandemic to zero, and that Revenue had indicated it would take a flexible approach to repayments.

However, he added that “new or creative long-term solutions may still, nevertheless, be ultimately needed to help businesses service or repay the debt due while continuing to grow”.

Elsewhere, Ireland improved one position to sixth place in the “start-up ecosystem” category, while it also improved its ranking to ninth place from 12th last year for “education, skills and talent”.

The country was ranked 10th for “tax and regulatory environment”, up from 11th place last year. However, there was a marked improvement from 20th position in 2021.

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PwC partner Nicola Quinn said Ireland must take a “whole of government approach” to attracting and retaining private business. “We need to continue to prioritise supports to help these businesses meet the increased costs of doing business in Ireland,” she said.

“We also need to look at additional tax incentives to encourage digital transformation, investment in SMEs and energy transition.

“We welcome the Government consultation on simplifying Ireland’s business tax regime and it is vital that measures to implement this are brought forward in the next budget.”

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Colin Gleeson

Colin Gleeson is an Irish Times reporter

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