WHY We Recommend Visiting IRELAND and HOW To Do It
Visiting Ireland is more than just a trip, it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impact. From the warmth of the people to the rich history, rolling green landscapes, and lively pubs, Ireland has a way of settling into your heart long after you’ve left.
We’re excited to share why we believe Ireland deserves a place on your travel list and how to go about doing it.
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Why We Think Ireland Deserves a Spot on Your Travel List
We believe Ireland absolutely deserves a spot on your travel list. With its breathtaking landscapes and magnetic energy, this incredible country will capture your heart the moment you arrive.
We experienced Ireland with all five senses, which made the journey unforgettable. We saw the endless shades of green that make the countryside feel like a dream. We listened to waves crashing below towering cliffs and energetic music drifting from lively pubs. We tasted the richness of a perfectly poured Guinness and the smooth complexity of aged Irish whiskey. We breathed in the scent of rain-soaked earth, sea air, and smoky peat fires. We felt the cool mist on our faces along the coast, the texture of ancient stone walls, and the warmth of a wool sweater from a local shop.
Our Ireland Experiences
We had so many incredible experiences while exploring Ireland. Moments that made us smile, laugh, and just stand in awe of the beauty around us. What you’ll read below is just a glimpse into the experiences that made this trip so special for us. And while we packed a lot in, there’s still so much more we’re excited to see next time we go back!
Guinness Storehouse Experience
When thinking of Ireland, what better thought than Guinness. We started our day with a refreshing morning walk through Dublin, winding our way toward one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Guinness Storehouse.
The self-guided tour at the Guinness Storehouse was an unforgettable journey through the rich history and heritage of Ireland’s most iconic stout. From the moment we stepped inside, we were immersed in the story of Guinness, from its humble beginnings in 1759 at St. James’s Gate Brewery to its evolution into a globally celebrated brand recognized around the world.
The highlight, of course, was reaching the top floor, the Gravity Bar, where we enjoyed a perfectly poured pint while taking in panoramic views of Dublin’s skyline.
You might find Guinness in the U.S., but you won’t feel Guinness until you have one in Ireland, fresh, creamy, and straight from the source.
We were lucky to get in for a tour, as this is a popular experience! Definitely book ahead so you don’t miss out. You can book tickets HERE.
Experiencing Howth
🚆Howth is amazing! We took the train from Dublin, which made for an easy and scenic little adventure, and perfect for a day trip. The below details what we did in this area:
🥾 Hiking the Howth Cliff Walk
Once in Howth, we set out on the incredible cliff walk to the Baily Lighthouse. While it’s a fairly long hike to reach the lighthouse itself, you don’t need to go far at all to enjoy absolutely stunning views of the cliffs and coastline. There are different routes to choose from.
The trail is well-marked and it helps to wear comfortable footwear.
🍺 A Cozy Pub Break After our hike, we stumbled upon a charming little pub at Howth Harbour called O’Connell’s. This cozy spot was the perfect place to warm up and unwind after the cliff walk. With its rustic interior and friendly vibe, it was a comfortable place to relax. We enjoyed a lovely pint of Guinness while gazing out at the harbour. The views were absolutely stunning with the distant silhouette of Howth Head. It was the perfect place to soak in the beauty of Howth while savoring a true taste of Irish culture.
🛍️ Exploring Howth Market Next, we wandered through the colorful Howth Market. It was full of local fares, crafts, and treats. We couldn’t resist trying a cupcake for dessert. It was tough to choose just one with so many delicious options!
🏰 Strolling to Howth Castle To walk off lunch and our cupcake dessert, we made our way up to Howth Castle. It was a short and easy walk from the market, (which is also close to the train station), and worth the walk for the beauty and atmosphere.
🏌️ Views at Deer Park Golf Club We continued on to Deer Park Golf Club, where the grounds were incredibly vibrant and peaceful. There’s also a lovely café bar with great views. The Deer Park Hotel Golf & Spa looks like it would be a beautiful place to stay for a holiday that included a round of golf.
We highly recommend adding Howth to your itinerary when visiting Ireland. With its stunning coastal views, charming harbor, and fun market, it’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Dublin.
Teeling Distillery Tour and Irish Whiskey Tasting
While strolling through Dublin, we stumbled upon the fascinating Teeling Distillery. Since no trip to Dublin would be complete without delving into its rich whiskey heritage, we couldn’t resist stopping for a tour and a sip.
We took a guided tour through the working distillery, learning about their innovative take on traditional Irish whiskey-making. The tour ended with a tasting of a few of their signature whiskeys, each one rich, smooth, and full of character.
Experiencing Bray
🥾 Hiking at Bray Head
Hiking in Bray was absolutely breathtaking. We took the train down from Dublin, which was super simple and scenic. The great thing about Bray Head is that you can hike as far or as little as you like, and still be rewarded with stunning coastal views.
✝️ The Cross on Bray Head
One of the highlights of the Bray Head hike was reaching the large cross at the summit. The view from the top was absolutely stunning, with panoramic views of the coastline and the Irish Sea making the climb totally worth it.
🌊 Post-Hike at Bray Beach
We finished up our hike at Bray Beach, where we were greeted with another stunning view of Ireland’s coastline. The water was chilly, but the scenery more than made up for it.
As we walked along the beach, we stumbled upon a wonderful little restaurant tucked right by the water. With ocean views and a cozy atmosphere, it was the ideal place to rest our feet and enjoy a delicious meal.
Bray truly surprised us with its charm, variety, and natural beauty. From coastal trails to beachside dining, there’s so much diversity packed into this seaside town that is an easy train ride from Dublin. We think Bray deserves a spot on your Ireland itinerary.
GUIDED TOUR: Dublin to Dunluce Castle, Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges & Belfast
Because of the distance covered, we chose to take this wonderful tour.
Dunluce Castle is one of Northern Ireland’s most stunning ruins, perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the Atlantic. Along the Causeway Coastal Route, it offers breathtaking views and a rich, mysterious history dating back to the 1500s.
Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The unique, hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity were as impressive as we’d imagined. The natural wonder felt almost otherworldly, especially as we carefully climbed across the rocks, feeling the cool sea breeze against our faces. It was a perfect blend of nature’s artistry and the incredible stories behind its creation, especially the Irish myth of giants that shaped the land.
Dark Hedges is a stunning avenue of beech trees that seem to form an enchanted tunnel. This place was straight out of a fantasy novel (or Game of Thrones, for any fans!). The towering trees have stood for centuries, their twisted trunks creating a mysterious and almost magical pathway. We took a leisurely walk, marveling at the dramatic scene around us, feeling as though we had stepped into another world.
Belfast is a city in Northern Ireland, which, fun fact, is actually part of the United Kingdom. Another fun fact, did you know this is where the Titanic was built? The city’s shipbuilding history is a big part of its identity, and there’s even a world-class Titanic Museum located in the very shipyard where the vessel was constructed. While we didn’t have time to visit the museum on this trip, it’s definitely on our list for next time.
We highly recommend taking this tour, or a similar one, if you want to explore more of what Ireland has to offer beyond Dublin. It was a full-day adventure, so be prepared for an early start and a packed itinerary, but every stop was well worth it.
You can explore different tour options HERE to find the one that best fits your adventuresome spirit!
DUBLIN: We spent a good chunk of our trip exploring Dublin, and honestly, it was amazing! This city has such an infectious energy, blending rich history with a modern, creative spirit that makes it impossible not to fall in love. We were here for seven days, and still felt like we’d only scratched the surface.
From wandering the cobblestone streets of Temple Bar to marveling at the elegant architecture of Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, every corner had something to discover.
We even came across a National Leprechaun Museum.
The pubs? Let’s just say we may have found a new favorite on nearly every block. Each with its own unique character, live music, and of course, great pints and even better conversation.
We loved the different names and the different stories of the pubs we found. The Bull & Castle, The Brazen Head, Nancy’s Hands, and Peter’s Pub to name a few.
There’s so much we experienced, that we honestly might need to write a whole separate story just to share all the fun, flavor, and unforgettable moments we packed into our week in Dublin.
Now that you are inspired and excited, we wanted to share some more details to help you plan for your own amazing trip!
HOW We Prepared For Our Trip To Ireland
Below you’ll find tips and guidance that will help you plan your own unforgettable journey through Ireland.
Travel Documentation Needed for Ireland and Northern Ireland
Passports
- A valid passport is required for entry into Ireland.
- We confirmed that our passports:
- Will not expire during our stay.
- Have at least one or two blank pages available for stamps.
- Are signed (this is an often-overlooked but important requirement).
- We also keep photocopies of our passports saved securely, both digitally and in printed form, just in case.
Visa Requirements for Ireland
- U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit the Republic of Ireland for tourism or short stays (less than 90 days).
Northern Ireland – Additional Requirements
If you plan to include Northern Ireland in your travel plans, be aware that different rules apply, as it is part of the United Kingdom.
- Starting April 2, 2025, all U.S. travelers entering Northern Ireland, even if arriving through the Republic of Ireland, will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) linked to a valid passport.
- This requirement applies whether you’re flying directly into Northern Ireland or crossing the border by land from the Republic of Ireland.
- The ETA is part of a new UK-wide system and is valid for 2 years, allowing multiple entries into any part of the UK during that time.
- The application process is quick and straightforward, typically taking about 10 minutes, with most decisions made within three working days.
- You can apply through the official UK government website: Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or via the UK ETA app.
Note: The Republic of Ireland is not part of the United Kingdom, so the ETA does not apply unless you are entering Northern Ireland.
Travel Insurance
- We checked with our U.S. health insurance provider and confirmed that we were not covered internationally in Ireland.
- For peace of mind, we recommend purchasing supplemental travel insurance. You can purchase a policy [HERE].
Packing for Ireland
What to Pack
- The first step in preparing to pack for your trip is to check the 10-day weather forecast for your destination. Knowing what kind of weather to expect where you’ll be staying and exploring helps you pack with confidence and avoid overpacking.
- We always use the forecast as our guide and pack accordingly. It makes a big difference!
- To make sure you don’t forget any essentials, we’ve got a helpful packing story you can check out. We’ll include the link at the end of this story.
💡 Travel Tip: Pack for a chance of rain! Ireland’s weather is famously unpredictable, so remember a light rain jacket and maybe an extra layer. You’ll be glad you did when the skies go from sunshine to mist and back again in under an hour.
Things to Remember
- Don’t forget your electronics and gadgets, and their cords! There’s nothing worse than having your device… and no way to charge it.
- Remember that you’ll need a universal power plug adapter that works in Ireland. [You can grab the one we love right HERE.] It’s a total lifesaver because it lets you charge multiple devices at once and works in most countries, making it a great investment for future trips too.
- And for those long travel days? Pack an extra power supply (like a portable charger or power bank) so your phone stays charged up while you’re out exploring. No one wants to miss the perfect photo, or get lost without GPS!
Staying Connected with Your Cell Phone
- Using eSIM.sm for Cell Phone Connectivity If you want to use your cell phone in Ireland without high roaming fees, eSIM.sm is an affordable and easy solution. It installs directly onto your phone, no physical SIM card needed, and works in Ireland.
- You can choose from a variety of plans and follow simple instructions to set it up before your trip or upon arrival.
How We Got To Ireland
We traveled to Dublin, Ireland (DUB) on United Airlines.
👉 Book United Airlines Flights Here
If you’re not loyal to a specific airline yet, we recommend comparing fares across multiple carriers to find the best deal.
👉 Search All Airline Flights Here
Where We Stayed In Ireland
We stayed at The Morrison Dublin, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton. We enjoyed this property as it was an easy walk to Dublin’s lively attractions, restaurants, and shops. It’s also conveniently close to the Luas light rail, which makes getting around the city a breeze.
You can check out this Hilton property and other hotel options HERE.
How We Got Around Ireland
We explored Ireland using a mix of transportation methods, each one adding its own little adventure to the journey.
🚘 Uber
We started with Uber, which was super convenient for getting from the airport to our hotel. It was easy to request, and we didn’t have to worry about navigating.
💡 Travel Tip: Download the App before leaving home and have all your details and payment information already set up, as you pay through the secure app.
🚈 Public Transport
The Luas (pronounced ‘Lewis’) is Dublin’s light rail system, and it’s a great way to get around.
The DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) is perfect for scenic trips along the coast. If you’re planning a day trip to places like Howth or Dalkey, hop on the DART for stunning views of Dublin Bay.
💡 Travel Tip: Grab a Leap Visitor Card; it gives you unlimited travel on buses, Luas, and DART within the city, and it’s way more convenient (and cost-effective) than paying for individual fares.
🚶 Walking
We absolutely love exploring a city on foot. It’s hands-down our favorite way to soak it all in. Walking lets you notice the little things: the architecture, the street art, and of course, the countless pubs where you can pop in for a perfectly poured pint of Guinness.
Dublin was made for wandering. The city feels vibrant and alive, and we clearly weren’t the only ones who thought so, as there were plenty of fellow explorers out enjoying the streets right alongside us.
🚌 Tour Company
Because we wanted to cover more ground and see some of Ireland’s beauty beyond Dublin, we opted for a guided tour. It was a great way to visit top sites outside the city without the hassle of renting a car or figuring out logistics. This was also a fantastic way to get out of Ireland and experience Northern Ireland! Check out the different tour options HERE.
How We Documented Our Trip
Polarsteps
We love using this amazing app that makes it easy to share our adventures with friends and family back home. The best part? You can create a beautiful hard copy book of your journey once you return! While your trip memories stay saved in the app, the printed book is an affordable and tangible way to relive and share your experiences. Download the Polarstep App by clicking HERE.
Use Your Phone and TAKE Pictures
Take as many pictures as you can with your phone. It’s always easier to delete a photo later than to wish you had captured a moment you missed. Photos not only help you relive your trip, but they also let you hold on to the feelings, sights, and experiences long after you’ve returned.
Mindset Matters: Shaping Your Travel Experience to Ireland
We have learned that managing our thoughts while traveling makes all the difference in how we experience a destination. It’s not just about where you go, it’s about how you think while you’re there.
Travel rarely goes perfectly according to plan, but when you approach your trip with an open mind and a willingness to adapt, everything shifts. Being present, curious, and flexible allows you to turn unexpected moments into memorable ones.
So as you prepare for your trip to Ireland (or anywhere else!), remember this: your thoughts shape your experience. Be intentional with them, and you’ll set yourself up for your best adventure yet.
Final Thoughts: Why We Loved Traveling to Ireland
Ireland completely stole our hearts. From the moment we arrived, we were swept up in its charm, the stunning landscapes, the rich culture, the music echoing from cozy pubs, and the welcoming spirit of the people. Every day brought a new adventure, a new story, and a deeper appreciation for this incredible country.
What made it even more special was the feeling of connection, whether to the land, the history, or the simple joy of sharing a pint with a stranger who felt like a friend.
Traveling to Ireland wasn’t just a birthday destination, it was an experience that fed our curiosity, lifted our spirits, and reminded us why we love to explore the world. We can’t wait to return, and we truly hope it finds a spot on your travel list too.
Additional Story: As promised, we’re sharing another helpful story to assist you in packing for your Ireland adventure. You can read it by clicking [here].