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IRELAND DESTINATION GUIDE

As the world leader in travel experiences since 1947, we connect you to the real Ireland in a way like no other. It won’t take long to see how the poetically named Emerald Isle got its nickname. As we tour through Ireland, you will be charmed by the savage natural beauty and good-natured locals peppered across the country. Together, we will explore the iconic and the unexpected, Guinness and Grafton Street to Viking legacies. Discovering layer after layer of intriguing Irish history and culture, this small island with a vast and striking countryside is a gem you need to experience. Dramatic coastlines, moving folk music, joyful encounters with strangers. Ireland will stir your soul in ways you could never imagine. Travel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Trafalgar Highlights.
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IRELAND'S HOT AUGUST 2021 DEPARTURES

5 million happy guests and counting

Overall Rating

4.6

Out of 5

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From exploring the rolling hills, to enjoying a pint of Guinness and listening to traditional folk music and Viking tales with the locals, Ireland welcomes you with open arms.

Ireland at a glance
Ireland is a soul-stirring experience, from rugged green hills, dramatic coastline and good-natured locals, to moving folk music, flowing Guinness and Viking legacies. Join your expert Trafalgar Travel Director and discover why the Emerald Isle got its nickname.
Currency
Euro
Winter avg temp
5°C
Summer avg temp
16°C
Time Zone
GMT+1
Capital City
Dublin
Language
Irish, English
Good morning
Maindin mhaith
Good evening
Tráthnóna maith
Ireland Countryside
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Our top 5 things to do in Ireland

Walk through the country’s oldest city and stand on the dramatic Cliffs of Moher. These are just some of the pinch me moments we’ll share with you on our trips to Ireland.

Enjoy Irish folk fun

Soak up Irish folk fun in a Dublin pub, where pints swing and locals sing along, and through a Galway street performance that will have you emptying your pockets into the busker's bucket. When planning a trip to Ireland, we always plan for some spontaneous craic-filled experiences.
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Explore Waterford's History

Step into Ireland’s oldest city that has seen everything from Vikings to Victorians. We will discover the legacy of invaders turned settlers, tree-forged swords, towers that still stand tall and the ancient city walls that tried to keep them out.
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Journey to the magnificent Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are a natural masterpiece reserved for the best tours of Ireland. Beaten by the Atlantic for 350 million years, these unmanicured cliffs stretch as far as the eye can see. Take in the dramatic scene as wild salt wind whips around you.
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Take in Connemara's 'savage beauty'

This romantic and desolate region certainly lives up to the title bestowed upon it by Oscar Wilde. Experience nature unlike anywhere else in the world when you explore the National Park, climb Ireland’s Holy Mountain or stand on the banks of Killary, the country’s largest fjord.
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Walk down Grafton Street in Dublin

The energy on Dublin’s Main Street is electric. Meander freely down the road, exploring bustling cafes and shops, stopping occasionally to be wowed by street artist performance or a musician belting out a tune.
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Best museums in Ireland

Ancient settlers, celebrated authors, iconic brewers. In Dublin, Trafalgar delves into Ireland’s layers of history and becomes acquainted with the people who have called it home through visits to its many museums.
DUBLIN

Books of Kells

See the Book of Kells on display at the Trinity College Library in Dublin. The book is a 9th century Latin manuscript that contains the four Gospels of the life of Jesus Christ. It's the world's most famous medieval manuscript and and you'll also get to explore one of the world's most beautiful libraries.
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DUBLIN

The James Joyce Centre

The Georgian townhouse of the James Joyce Centre will deepen your understanding of one of Ireland's most celebrated writers and the Dublin that inspired him. Peruse art exhibitions, watch documentaries, see a recreation of his living quarters and let Joyce and his works come to life right in front of your eyes.
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DUBLIN

National Museum of Ireland

A museum with so much to inspire you, it spills into three separate buildings around Dublin. Stroll through their halls and admire the hoards of gold buried in Bronze Age Ireland and skeletons of the native giant elk, now extinct.
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Best food in Ireland

Ireland knows comfort. Whether it’s in a pot, on a plate or filling a pint, we'll share their national culinary treasures that will warm your heart and fill your stomach.

Dublin coddle

Discover all the favourite ingredients of Irish cooking in one pot with tender potatoes, sausage and onions, cooked slowly in broth. As you mop up this rich and filling stew with rustic bread, you can’t help but feel content.
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Boxty

It’s no secret the Irish have a special place in their hearts for potatoes. This breakfast potato pancake dish is no exception. Soft, creaminess on the inside. Crisp and buttery on the outside. One plate and you'll fall in love too.
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Guinness

As the old saying goes, Guinness tastes better in Ireland. The beautiful dark brew is not known to travel well, making trips to Ireland incomplete without tasting it from a local tap. Better yet, head to the source and have a pint at the Dublin Storehouse.
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What to pack for Ireland

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A portable charger

Entire days filled with exploration are a wonderful part of Ireland travel. Avoid the dreaded low battery by packing a portable charger so you can still capture the day with plenty of battery power on hand.

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A scarf

Year round you are likely to need something to keep you warm in Ireland. A scarf has the added bonus of being able to protect your face if things get really chilly.

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A water and windproof jacket

An umbrella won’t save you from mist, sea spray or wild Atlantic winds. Pack a water and windproof jacket and you’ll be protected from all weathers.

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Earplugs

While we all like a good craic, some lively towns love weekend shenanigans with a boistrousness that can interrupt sleep. Pack a pair of earplugs to ensure you snooze soundly.

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Waterproof shoes

Rain isn't a rarity here. Heading into the countryside you might find yourself amongst mud and puddles. Bring a pair of gumboots to really feel like a local.

Other things to know before you go

Depending on your nationality, you'll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date here. Some countries also require passports to have 3-6 months left on them before the given expiry date, so be sure to double check this before booking your travels.

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Our Europe & Britain destinations

France

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England

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Ireland

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Croatia

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