Traveling in Ireland

10 Castles in Ireland to Inspire Your Trip

17 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Ireland and castles go hand in hand. With thousands scattered across the island, it can feel like there’s one around every bend in the road. The re...

How to Get from Dublin Airport to Dublin City Centre

13 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Landing at Dublin Airport is often the first stop in your Ireland journey, but one of the first questions many travelers have is how to get into the ...

Group Tours in Ireland: What to Expect and How to Choose the Right Coach Tour

10 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Group tours are one of the most popular ways to experience Ireland – especially for travelers who want to see a lot without worrying about driv...

Buying Souvenirs? Here’s How to Get Some Money Back

03 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

This article is part of my Planning Your Ireland Vacation series — a step-by-step guide that walks you through the entire planning process, answers...

From Fairy Castles to the Hellfire Club: What You’ll Find in the Dublin Mountains

24 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Not far beyond Dublin’s busy streets lies a landscape of forest trails, heather-covered hills, and stories that stretch back thousands of years. Th...

Dublin to Galway (and Why You Might Want to Take the Long Way)

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Two Ways Across Ireland: Direct and Easy, or Scenic and Story-Filled Traveling between Dublin and Galway might look simple on a map – a stra...

Skellig Michael: An Archaeologist Explains What It’s Really Like to Visit Ireland’s Most Extreme Island

10 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Skellig Michael rises straight out of the Atlantic, jagged and dramatic, and according to archaeologist Neil Jackman, it’s every bit as challenging...

Ireland on a Tighter Budget: Smart Ways to Spend Less, Not Miss Out

03 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Planning an Ireland vacation can feel overwhelming when you start adding up the numbers -but a memorable trip doesn’t have to be out of reach. With...

Why So Many Ireland Itineraries Look the Same (and How to Plan One That Doesn’t)

27 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

If you’ve spent any time researching Ireland trips online, you may have noticed a strange pattern: different companies, different websites… and y...

Ireland Vacation Packages: How to Tell a Great Deal from a Costly Mistake

20 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Choosing an Ireland vacation package seems simple enough. You find a deal you like- be it self-drive or guided- and make the purchase. Done. Ireland ...

Dublin – A City Shaped by Writers

13 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Visiting the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI) Dublin didn’t earn its UNESCO City of Literature designation by accident. This is a city shaped...

Dublin Dates to Avoid in 2026

09 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Avoid the worst Dublin crowds by planning your trip around these dates when prices will rise, accommodations will fill, and streets will be swarming ...

Handy Travel Tips for Your Ireland Trip in 2026

06 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

If you're planning a trip to Ireland in 2026 these tips will make planning smoother, help you avoid crowds, and maybe even save you a bit of money. ...

Europe Beyond the Crowds (2026 Travel Tips)

30 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

It's almost the end of 2025 – and you know what that means! 2026 trip planning is getting underway and the Ireland Travel Compass is availab...

Family Travel in Ireland: Your Essential Resource Page

19 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This Quick Tip shares where to find the Family Travel Resource Page on my website — a hub packed with practical articles, kid-friendly recommendati...

Ireland Travel Questions? Here’s Where to Find the Answers.

12 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I’m showing you exactly where to find answers to the most common Ireland travel questions. Over 20...

Don’t Miss These Travel Deals & Discounts for 2026

05 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Several of my travel partners rolled out special offers that run well into the new year — and a few stretch all the way through 2026. From tours an...

Introducing the Ireland Travel Compass

02 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever wished you could access all the information in my brain to create your Ireland travel plans? You’re not alone – every year I...

Hiring a Driver in Ireland: 3 Driver Options Explained

28 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode…I’m breaking down the three main types of driver services in Ireland so you can choose the one th...

An Insiders Tour of Ireland with Jack Kavanagh

25 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What makes Ireland such a special place? Get an Insider's Tour of the Emerald Isle with Jack Kavanagh, author of Always Ireland. Jack shares the 3 thi...

Top 3 County Clare Experiences

21 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

County Clare is filled with spectacular places to explore, but when I think about the places I've returned to multiple times and the ‘wish list' so ...

Best Places to Stay in Ireland: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Trip

18 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Expert advice for finding the best places to stay in Ireland that fit your vacation dreams, budget, and itinerary. The post Best Places to Stay in Ir...

How to Save Money on Car Rental in Ireland (Do’s & Don’ts)

14 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This final installment in my Car Rental in Ireland series brings together money saving tips I’ve shared throughout the series – all in one handy g...

Can You Drive a Rental Car from Ireland to Northern Ireland (and Scotland)?

07 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this part of the Car Rental in Ireland series, we’re looking at one of the most common traveler questions: can you take your rental car into Nort...

The 2025 Ireland Gift Guide: Meaningful Gifts for Irish Travelers and Dreamers

06 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Whether you’re shopping for the Ireland lover in your life or planning your own adventure, these gifts bring a little bit of Ireland right to your d...

Book the Right Flight to Ireland & Beat Jet Lag Like a Pro

04 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Not all flights to Ireland are created equal. The departure time, route, and arrival hour can completely shape your first few days – for better or w...

Do You Need an International Driving Permit in Ireland

31 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Before you hit the road in Ireland, one of the most common questions travelers ask is, “Will my driver’s license work here, or do I need an intern...

Irish Pub Etiquette

28 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Irish Pub Etiquette: How to Order, Tip, and Blend In Like a Local If there’s one place where Irish culture truly comes to life, it’s the local pub...

Ireland Car Rental Pick Up & Return – What to Expect

24 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Whether you’re collecting your car at the airport, in the city, or a more rural area, the pickup and return process in Ireland is straightforward on...

2026 Women’s Ireland Tour: Craft, Culture & Craic

21 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I’m taking you along on my Craft, Culture & Craic women’s tour – a week designed for connection, creativity, and a good dose of...

How to Book the Right Car for Your Ireland Vacation

17 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

You’ve figured out when you need a rental car and have found the best option, but before you book, let’s make sure you’re booking the right vehi...

When to Rent a Car in Ireland (and Why You Don’t Need One in Dublin)

10 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

You’ve got your car rental quotes lined up, but before you hit “book,” let’s make sure you’re not renting a car for longer than you actually...

Lahinch & Beyond: Surfing in Ireland

07 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When most people think of surfing, Ireland probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But along Clare’s Atlantic coast, rolling waves cras...

Comparing Car Rental Quotes in Ireland: How to Read Them Fairly

03 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Quotes can look wildly different at first glance; one bundles taxes and roadside, another separates fees until checkout. This guide walks through how ...

Solo Travel in Ireland: Tips for Female Travelers

30 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

For many women, the idea of traveling solo in Ireland can feel both exciting and a little daunting. The good news is that Ireland is widely considered...

Car Rental Insurance in Ireland Demystified

26 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Car rental insurance can feel overwhelming, and I know it’s not the most exciting topic. But stick with me — I’m going to make this as simple an...

A Giant Adventure Small Group Tour, Spring 2026

23 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In the podcast episode below I’m sharing highlights from A Giant Adventure, one of my small-group tours through Ireland north of Dublin. This journe...

Car Rental in Ireland: Fees & Hidden Costs You Need to Know

19 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome back to my Car Rental in Ireland series. This is Episode 2, where I’m diving into the fees and hidden costs that can really add up when you ...

Dublin to Kilkenny (and why to stay a while in the Medieval City)

16 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The Medieval City of Kilkenny is an easy trip from Dublin – under 2 hours if you travel direct by car – and is a terrific day trip from Dublin by ...

Renting a Car in Ireland: Manual vs Automatic

12 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When you rent a car in Ireland, one of the first choices you’ll face is manual vs automatic. For North American travelers, it’s a question you mig...

Irishisms with Author Denise Deegan

09 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ireland is a terrific introduction to Europe for Americans because the Irish speak English. Kind of. But you're likely to hear quite a few words you w...

Top 3 Dublin Experiences (So Many Tourists Miss These)

05 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The 3 best things to do in Dublin - the museum everyone should visit, a tasty tour, and an amazing castle with fascinating history. The post Top 3 Dub...

How Long Should Your Ireland Vacation Last?

02 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

How long is the 'perfect' Ireland vacation? Everyone has an answer but the scientific study may surprise you. The post How Long Should Your Ireland Va...

Travel Smart: Packing for a Safe Trip to Ireland

29 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When planning a trip to Ireland you’re probably focused on castles, coastlines, and creamy pints – but don’t overlook something far less excitin...

If Walls Could Talk: The Story of a Thatched Cottage in Cork

26 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Step back into Irish history with modern comfort. If your ancestors emigrated from Ireland, you’ve probably wondered about the life they left behind...

Travel Smart: Safety Tips for Getting Around Ireland

22 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Travel days are busy, a little chaotic, and exactly when people tend to misplace things. Whether I’m driving myself or taking the train across the c...

Ireland’s Most Visited Heritage Sites

19 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Learn more about Ireland's top heritage sites in 2024 & tips for visiting + my favorite sites that you should add to your Ireland itinerary. The post ...

Travel Smart: Hotel, Tech & Street Safety in Ireland

15 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When you arrive in Ireland, your focus should be on enjoying the trip – not worrying about your stuff. But once you’re on the ground, the small, e...

Swimming Ireland’s Coastline, One Blue Flag Beach at a Time

12 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

It started with a shared love for sea swimming and a chat at a trade show in San Francisco. Orla Leahy and Biddy Hughes, both seasoned professionals i...

The Beat of Ireland: Ian Gould on the Bodhrán, Trad Music, and Tours

08 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

At Iowa Irish Fest, the music flows as easily as the pints. This year, I sat down with Belfast-born musician Ian Gould, who’s been sharing Irish mus...

Guinness Stories: What You Might Not Know About Ireland’s Iconic Brew

05 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Guinness might be one of the most iconic Irish exports, but did you know it's the number one selling draft beer in the United States? It’s growing a...

Two Free Tools to Help You Find the Best Airfare to Ireland

01 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Want to visit Ireland without blowing your entire vacation budget on airfare?You don’t need insider connections or complicated travel hacks – just...

Flavour Trails in Dublin: Food, Whiskey & Stories You’ll Want to Savor

29 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Dublin is often the first stop on an Ireland itinerary, but too often, visitors rush through it. Gráinne Lawlor wants you to slow down, sit down, and...

Your Invitation to Explore Ireland (with Me)

25 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you’ve ever listened to the podcast and thought, “I wish you’d just take me to Ireland!” well, I’ve got good news. Next spring, from mid-...

Ireland’s Underrated Attractions(how to add them to your itinerary & escape the crowds)

22 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When a new list of “underrated” Irish attractions makes the rounds, I always take a look. Sometimes I nod in agreement. Sometimes I roll my eyes a...

Irish Festival Fun: My 2 Stops + How to Make the Most of Yours

18 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

☘️ I’ll be at Iowa Irish Fest and Kansas City Irish Fest this August, chatting all things Ireland travel—tips, ideas, and maybe a laugh or...

Do You Need Travel Insurance for an Ireland Vacation

15 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

“Do I need travel insurance for an Ireland vacation?” It's a question I receive often, and one that doesn't have the same answer for everyone as i...

3 Dublin Dining Spots Worth Planning Your Day Around

11 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you're wondering where to eat in Dublin, these three picks cover every craving and budget, each one recommended by Gráinne Lawlor of Flavor Trails...

A Golfer’s Guide to Ireland

08 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

A guide to golf in Ireland. Includes descriptions of the 3 course types you'll find plus the best golf courses in Ireland. The post A Golfer’s Guide...

Why Don’t Irish Accommodations Have Air Conditioning?

04 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you're planning a summer trip to Ireland, you might be surprised to discover that air conditioning is not common in most accommodations. Whether yo...

Ireland for Christmas? Advice You NEED Before Booking Your Flights

01 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I received a question from a podcast listener with some questions about Christmas travel in Ireland. While her inquiry about car rental and things the...

What a “Double Room” Really Means in Ireland (and How to Book the Right Bed)

27 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When planning a trip to Ireland, accommodation details matter—and one common source of confusion is hotel room descriptions that don't actually matc...

County Tipperary Beyond the Rock: Make It More Than a Pit Stop

24 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

It’s no surprise that most travelers to Ireland have the Rock of Cashel on their list. It's dramatic, iconic, and completely captivating as it rises...

Booking Newgrange and Kilmainham Gaol with (or without) an OPW Card

20 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If Newgrange and Kilmainham Gaol are on your Ireland itinerary, you’ll need more than interest to visit – you’ll need a timed ticket. These two ...

Ireland Vacation Packing Tips: What to Take & What to Leave Home

17 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Don't overpack for your Ireland vacation! Packing tips including what to take, what to leave home, and how to pack your suitcases. The post Ireland Va...

When Not to Visit Blarney Castle (and How to Time It Right)

13 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Blarney Castle and Gardens is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations – and for good reason. But if you show up at the wrong time, your...

Step Into Morrissey’s: Abbeyleix’s Timeless Irish Pub

10 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Slip off the motorway and into another era with a visit to Morrissey’s Pub in Abbeyleix, County Laois. Established in 1775, this isn’t just a plac...

Should You Accept a Rental Car Upgrade? Here’s How to Decide

06 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

It happens all the time—you walk up to the rental counter in Ireland, share your reservation information, and the agent smiles and says, “We can u...

The 7 Wonders of Ireland

03 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you're wondering which spots the Irish think are worth visiting- wonder no more! The Independent, an Irish publication, polled its readers to find ...

Parking in Irish Cities: What You Need to Know Before You Drive In

30 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Planning to rent a car and explore Ireland’s cities? While having your own transportation gives you flexibility, parking in cities like Dublin, Galw...

Discovering Loop Head Peninsula: Ireland’s Rugged Beauty Without the Crowds

27 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you've ever longed for a corner of Ireland that feels untouched, authentic, and refreshingly uncrowded, set your sights on the Loop Head Peninsula ...

Tips for Ireland Vacations in the Off-Season

20 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

With Ireland's tourism numbers increasing annually it's understandable that many travelers are looking outside the busy summer months to plan their va...

The Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship in Dublin

16 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Step aboard the Jeanie Johnston in Dublin's Docklands & hear stories of those who left Ireland for a better life across the ocean. David Cleary, Head ...

Why ‘Winging It’ Might Not Be the Best Plan for Your Ireland Vacation

13 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Planning your Ireland vacation is a smart way to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience. While the idea of “winging it” might sound temptin...

Arrive in Dublin, Depart from Shannon: Why to Consider this Itinerary Tweak

09 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you're flying to Ireland from North America, chances are you're looking at round-trip tickets into and out of Dublin. It's the most popular route f...

Driving from Dublin to Killarney: Two Scenic Routes, One Incredible Day

06 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The drive from Dublin to Killarney is one of the most popular point-to-point routes in Ireland. It takes about four hours if you're going straight thr...

Lovely Laois

02 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

County Laois (pronounced leash) may not be on your radar when planning your Ireland itinerary, but if you are traveling between Dublin and Kilkenny, C...

Can You Book Flights too Early?

29 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Booking flights can be a nerve-wracking game of ‘now or later.’ That anxiety often leads to early clicks — and higher prices. I use a simple fli...

Old Irish Traditions That Survive in Modern Ireland with Felicity Hayes-McCoy

25 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I am thrilled to welcome author Felicity Hayes-McCoy back to the podcast. It wasn't that long ago when Felicity first joined me on the podcast to talk...

Ireland at Your Own Pace: Smart Tips for a Trip Without the Rush

22 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I fear that I can be a bit like a broken record as I seem to repeat ‘slow down, do less, experience more' like it is a personal Ireland travel mantr...

Day Trips from Dublin (no car required!)

18 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital and home to the country’s busiest airport, is a no-brainer starting (or ending) point for your Irish adventure. T...

Derry Guided Tours

15 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Derry or Londonderry? Learn a bit of the city's history, explore the city walls & murals with Gleann Doherty from Derry Guided Tours. The post Derry G...

Getting the Most Helpful Advice from Travel Forums

10 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I offer a lot of Ireland travel advice. In over 22 years of travel to and through Ireland, I have made dozens (hundreds?) of mistakes and have learned...

When is the Best Time to Visit Irish Gardens?

08 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

I am a huge fan of beautiful gardens! We have visited many gardens throughout the years, and while gardens in Ireland always have something to offer, ...

Experience the Famine Story at Gorta in Northern Ireland

04 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When you think of the Great Famine, your mind likely drifts to the midlands of Ireland. However, a unique and deeply moving famine experience exists i...

On-and-Off the Tourist Path in Ulster

02 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

You've probably heard of the Causeway Coastal Route – it's one of the most scenic drives in the world. But Ulster, Ireland's northernmost province, ...

Mid Ulster – the Heart of Northern Ireland

01 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Is Northern Ireland on your itinerary? Today's guest, Jamese McCloy, is going to give you a dozen reasons to venture off the tourist trail and explore...

A Tasty Trip into County Down at Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen

26 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Do you ‘knead' a taste of Ireland right now? Today's guest has an Irish bread making experience you can try in your own home – or in her thatch co...

Tips to Plan a Memorable Multigenerational Trip to Ireland

25 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast, Jody shares valuable insights and tips for planning multi-generational family trips to Ireland. S...

How to Live & Work in Ireland for a Year

18 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever dreamed of living and working in Ireland? While moving overseas might seem like a daunting challenge, there’s an exciting opportunity ...

Welcome to Horse Country: Ireland’s Equestrian Heartland

11 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When you think of Ireland, you might picture rolling green hills, ancient castles, and lively pub music. But did you know that Ireland is also one of ...

Choosing the Best Mobile Connectivity for Your Ireland Vacation

04 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Best tips for using your mobile phone in Ireland. How to save your data, avoid roaming charges, and find wifi. The post Choosing the Best Mobile Conne...

Cliffs of Moher in 2025: Safety and Tips

25 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland's most popular natural attraction at the edge of the Burren landscape, are experiencing partial trail closures due to nec...

10 Steps to a Perfect Ireland Vacation Itinerary

18 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you want an Ireland vacation filled with exploration, discovery, and loads of craic there is one thing you really must avoid – overfilling your i...

Landed Very Early at Dublin Airport? Here’s What to Do!

11 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This article provides essential tips for travelers arriving at Dublin Airport early in the morning. The post Landed Very Early at Dublin Airport? Her...

Ireland Car Rental CDW Insurance

04 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

So, what is CDW coverage and why do you have to have it? Put very simply, CDW coverage limits your liability for material damage to the vehicle. Basic...

Ireland Rental Car Insurance: What is CDW Coverage and Why Do I Need It?

03 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ireland rental car insurance and CDW coverage leaves many people confused. What you must know before renting a car in Ireland. The post Ireland Rental...

Your Final Night in Ireland: How Close to the Airport Should You Stay?

28 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This article focuses on departures from Dublin and Shannon airports for North American visitors to Ireland. At this time no other Ireland airports off...

Everything You Need to Know About Car Rental in Ireland {2025 Guide}

24 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Renting a car in Ireland is the best way to explore the country. Everything you need to know about car rental in Ireland. Updated for 2023. The post E...

Unveiling the Secrets of County Kerry (get off the tourist trail)

21 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The unique offerings of Tralee, the overlooked attractions in North Kerry, and the best ways to experience the region. The post Unveiling the Secrets...