Traveling in Ireland

The Best Time to Visit Ireland

14 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We have visited in every month of the year and I can honestly say that any time you can go to Ireland is a good time to go! Planning your trip is depe...

Hiring a Driver in Ireland {2025 Guide}

11 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Want to tour Ireland at your own pace, but you don't want to drive? You should definitely consider hiring a driver guide in Ireland! A self-drive vaca...

Money Saving Tips for Your Ireland Vacation

07 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

An Ireland vacation doesn't have to break your budget! Use these tips to make your Euro go farther and help you save money in Ireland! In this article...

Essential Travel Tips for Ireland in 2025

31 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

If you're planning to visit Ireland in 2025 you need these Ireland travel tips before you begin booking! Below you'll learn about the new requirement ...

Visit Belleek Pottery in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland

19 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Step into the enchanting world of Belleek Pottery, nestled in the picturesque County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Belleek Pottery is synonymous with I...

Paperwork & Passports: The Documents You Need to Visit Ireland

05 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ireland is actually quite easy, regarding documentation, for visitors from North America, Australia, and the EU to travel to for vacation. This articl...

Last Minute Irish Gifts to Give in 2024

28 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

If you've waited too long to do your shopping and want to give an Irish gift – or even the gift of Ireland – this year, I'm here to help! Give an ...

A Taste of Ireland: Corbett’s Traditional Irish Food Experience

21 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Traditional Irish food with insights into the history, cultural significance of Irish cuisine through a Traditional Irish Food Experience. The post A ...

Waterford, Ireland’s European City of Christmas

14 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Waterford, Ireland has been named the 2024 European City of Christmas. Learn more about Winterval, the largest Christmas Festival in Ireland and get t...

Navigating Ireland: Comparing Costs and Experiences of Hiring a Private Driver vs. Renting a Car

07 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

One of the first decisions you will make as you begin planning your Ireland adventure is transportation – how will you travel from city to country, ...

Halloween, Samhain, and Tlachtga

31 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the enchanting origins of Halloween in Ireland, where the festival of Samhain began over 3,000 years ago. The post Halloween, Samhain, and T...

Ireland Itinerary Inspiration: The Heart of Ireland

17 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Use my recent private tour as inspiration for your own Ireland itinerary. Friends & Family Tour through the ‘Heart of Ireland' – see the itinerary...

A (Brief) History of Corned Beef in Ireland

09 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Is corned beef Irish? Many people will tell you that it isn't – and that was the story I had heard as well. But according to a thesis written in 201...

Musical History Tour of Dublin with Fiona Dalton

03 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Fiona Dalton, the founder of Dalton's Musical History Tours. If you prefer to listen to the podca...

The National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park and the National Famine Way

03 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ireland's history is rich and complex, with the Great Famine being one of the most significant events. The Irish Famine, known as an Gorta Mór, the ...

5 Common Mistakes When Planning an Ireland Vacation

26 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Planning a trip to Ireland is thrilling with so many beautiful places to explore! But if you're not careful, a few common mistakes could get in the wa...

Guide to Eating Well During Your Ireland Vacation

19 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Guide to eating in Ireland. Traditional foods to try + tasty food experiences. How to eat in Ireland with food allergies and picky eaters. The post Gu...

Discover Ireland’s Hidden Charms: Fall and Winter Travel Insights

12 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Are you considering a visit to Ireland in the off-season? It's a terrific time to explore the Emerald Isle! In addition to Ireland's well-known attrac...

Encounters with Irish Mythology – Amazing Irish Experiences

05 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Irish mythology is rich with stories that have been passed down through generations, featuring a mix of heroic tales, tragic love stories, and epic ba...

Can You Collect VAT Refund If You Aren’t Flying Directly Home from Ireland?

29 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Non-EU visitors to Ireland can file a VAT refund at the airport as they leave Ireland. This refund returns the value added tax (aka VAT) applied to so...

Getting Up to Shenanigans in Kilkenny

22 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Known as the medieval capital of Ireland, Kilkenny offers visitors a unique blend of ancient stories, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. As you wa...

Best Ireland Car Rentals for Families & Groups

08 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Renting a car in Ireland can be confusing at the best of times, and when you add in considerations for a family or group, the complexity can increase ...

The Byrne Brothers – Live from Iowa Irish Fest (podcast)

07 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The Byrne Brothers are a family musical act from originally from County Donegal. This multi-talented family travel through the US entertaining crowds ...

Singer/ Songwriter Enda Reilly – Live from Iowa Irish Fest (podcast)

06 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Enda Reilly is a singer and songwriter, winner of the IMRO Christie Hennessey Songwriting Competition, and storyteller. Most geologically interesting ...

Irish Rebel Songs with Davy Holden – Live from Iowa Irish Fest (podcast)

05 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Davy Holden shares his passion for Irish history on his YouTube channel. With over 550 videos it's easy to get sucked in. Davy Holden HistoryTop 10 Ir...

Michael Londra – Live from Iowa Irish Fest (Podcast)

04 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Michael Londra is an Irish Tenor from Wexford, star of Riverdance on Broadway, and host of Ireland with Micheal on PBS. Wexford Highlights Michael rec...

Powerscourt Estate: The Crown Jewel of County Wicklow

01 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Known as the Garden of Ireland, County Wicklow offers an array of stunning landscapes and attractions, but the crown jewel is undoubtedly the Powersco...

Tips for Attending an Irish Festival

25 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Join me live at Iowa Irish Fest in 2024! I'll be in the Tour & Travel Workshop area speaking Saturday about solo women's travel and Sunday on crafting...

The Irish Dance Experience in Galway

18 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Want to learn an Irish jig during your Ireland vacation? The Irish Dance Experience in Galway is the place to go! This article is also available as a ...

Dublin With Kids from Toddler to Teen: Family Friendly Attractions, Activities & Eateries

11 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Dublin is a popular city for most visitors to Ireland, and often the first or final location visited due to its proximity to Ireland's busiest airport...

Here’s How to Do Laundry During Your Ireland Vacation

04 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The trick to packing light for your Ireland vacation is to choose clothes that can be ‘mixed and matched' to create different outfits. See my Irelan...

3 Important Documents to Check BEFORE Your Ireland Vacation

27 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

There is a lot to do as you prepare for your Ireland vacation… Flights. Accommodations. Transportation. Tickets for tours and attractions. What to p...

How Not to Look Like a Tourist in Ireland

20 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tourist: a person who is traveling or visiting a place for pleasure. I'm not sure when ‘looking like a tourist' became taboo, but it is a statement ...

Afternoon Tea in Ireland – Amazing Ireland Experiences

13 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

One of the first things you'll notice in Ireland is that there is always a hot water kettle available for a cup of tea. Every hotel, and most B&Bs, ...

The Easiest Car Rental at Dublin Airport

06 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Traditionally, car rental at Dublin Airport has not been the best way to begin an Ireland vacation (even if you use my tips for a smooth car rental ex...

Visiting Inis Mór and the Aran Islands

30 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Of all the islands off the shores of Ireland, the Aran Islands may be the most well known. About the Aran Islands Located off the west coast of Irelan...

What Must be Booked in Advance in Ireland?

23 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

When planning an Ireland vacation there are a few things that MUST be booked in advance of your trip and not left to chance. From accommodations to at...

The Ultimate Guide to Multigenerational Family Travel in Ireland

20 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Advice for multigenerational Ireland family vacations. Including transportation, accommodations, and activities. The post The Ultimate Guide to Multig...

How Much Touring Can You Do in One Day in Ireland?

16 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tips to declutter your Ireland itinerary to truly experience & enjoy your trip. Free resources to plan your perfect Ireland vacation. The post How Muc...

Cool Facts about Ireland Winter Vacations

15 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tips for amazing Ireland winter vacations in October, November, and December! Plus: Halloween and Christmas Markets. The post Cool Facts about Ireland...

County Limerick: Beyond the Tourist Trail

09 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

County Limerick can often feel 'untouched' by tourists. Medieval towns, ancient history, and tranquil countryside await the curious visitor. The post ...

Birds of Prey Demonstrations and Hawk Walks – Amazing Ireland Experiences

03 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Since my family's first hawk walk, way back in 2015, we have been hooked on these up-close experiences with birds of prey in Ireland. The Sport of Fal...

Tips for Using Your Mobile Phone in Ireland

28 Apr 2024

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 Tips for Using Your Mobile Pho...

Ireland’s Most Visited Heritage Sites(2023)

25 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Learn more about Ireland's top heritage sites in 2023 & tips for visiting + my favorite sites that you should add to your Ireland itinerary. The post ...

Is a Toll Pass Necessary in Ireland?

11 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Your car rental company may offer a toll pass as a helpful addition to your rental car. But is it necessary in Ireland? Get my advice on when to decli...

30+ Driving in Ireland Tips to Help Tourists Safely Navigate the Country

09 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ireland is a stunning country to explore by car, with its rolling hills, dramatic coastline, and charming villages. But driving in Ireland comes with ...

How and When to Get Euros for Your Ireland Vacation

04 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ireland's main currency is the Euro. How to purchase Euros, credit card tips & the main cash app used in Ireland. The post How and When to Get Euros f...

Exploring County Cavan: A Hidden Gem for Outdoor Enthusiasts

28 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to County Cavan, Ireland's natural playground nestled along the border of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. In this picturesque re...

Final Day in Ireland- Spring 2024

15 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Our final day in Ireland was a long one… After a walk into Killarney National Park to visit Muckross Abbey (it had finally stopped raining!) we drov...

Highs and Lows on the Ring of Kerry

14 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This morning did not produce those amazing Ring of Kerry views… In fact, the fog was so thick in places that there were no views at all. But it didn...

Wild Atlantic Way from Lahinch to Sneem

13 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Highlights along the Wild Atlantic Way between Lahinch, County Clare and Sneem, County Kerry. Vandeleur Walled Garden Located in Kilrush, not far from...

Kilkee: County Clare’s Victorian Village

11 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It's our second night in Lahinch. Our day began calm – and even a bit sunny – but now the rain is coming down in buckets, the wind is whistling, a...

Aillwee Burren Experience

10 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

I am writing this from a lovely seaside apartment in Lahinch, County Clare, just south of the Cliffs of Moher. Lahinch is known for its golf links, a ...

The New Book of Kells Experience in Dublin

09 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Hello from Dublin! We arrived just before 5:30 this morning (after a 5:30 am wakeup in the Midwestern US yesterday) and hit the ground running. After ...

Live from Ireland March 9 – 16

07 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

I'm heading back to Ireland tomorrow with my eldest daughter! Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 199 Highlights of the trip Much like I did last fal...

Experiential Travel in Ireland

29 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Experiential travel in Ireland: from craft workshops & cookery schools to farm experiences & food tours, immerse yourself in Irish culture. The post E...

The Story Behind Traveling in Ireland

22 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

I've been bombarded with questions about why I love Ireland so much and how this whole adventure started. So, grab a cuppa, settle in, and let's dive ...

Enchanting Gardens in Ireland – Amazing Irish Experiences

15 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ireland is a country known for stunning landscapes and natural beauty. The abundant rainfall that contributes to the country's '40 shades of green' is...

Ireland’s Top 10 Visitor Attractions in 2024 (and expert tips for visiting)

08 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Wondering about the best places to visit in Ireland in 2024? And, if you are planning on visiting one of these tops spots, you've probably wondered if...

Explore County Cavan from Hawthorn Lodge

01 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

County Cavan is a place that many tourists miss or pass through as they make their way across the northern half of Ireland. Located on the border of t...

Round Towers – Amazing Ireland Experiences

25 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Round towers are an -almost- uniquely Irish structure. (Only 3 ancient round towers exist outside of Ireland.) In Irish they are called cloitheach (cl...

Ireland Shopping Tips – Best Souvenirs & the VAT | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 142

24 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

During your Ireland vacation you'll have dozens of opportunities to purchase Ireland souvenirs and gifts. My advice? Buy items that will keep memories...

Best Family Travel Spots in Ireland

18 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ireland has so much to offer families. I think it is the best country for a first European vacation – there is no (or very little) language barrier,...

VAT Refund Ireland | Shopping Tips for 2024

18 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Turn in your VAT refund before leaving Ireland! Shopping tips to help you get your full refund & how to file your VAT refund Ireland The post VAT Refu...

Touring with an Ireland Driver Guide

14 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

If you are considering touring with an Ireland driver guide then this information is for you! Learn what makes a driver guided tour different than a l...

Barnahown B&B and Adventures in the Galtee Mountains

11 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Enjoy a local Irish experience at Barnahown in Mitchelstown, County Cork. Restored Georgian farmhouse B&B near the Galtee Mountains. The post Barnahow...

2024 Ireland Travel Tips

04 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

If you're planning to visit Ireland in 2024 you need these Ireland travel tips before you begin booking! Get the very best Ireland travel advice from ...

Answers to the Most Often Asked Ireland Vacation Questions

28 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Answers to the most frequently asked Ireland travel questions - and other questions you haven't thought to ask about traveling in Ireland. The post An...

Fun, Free Ireland Itineraries

21 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

4 fun, free Ireland itineraries for your vacation. Each itinerary includes suggestions for accommodations, attractions & dining. The post Fun, Free Ir...

How to Plan Your Ireland Vacation – Step-by-Step

14 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Expert advice to plan your Ireland vacation - step-by-step! Everything to need to know to create an amazing vacation in Ireland! The post How to Plan ...

Why You Should Visit Dublin in January

08 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Should you visit Dublin in January? Yes! Dublin is a terrific city to visit any time of the year and January is one of my favorite months to explore t...

Last Minute Irish Gifts to Give in 2023

07 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

If you've waited too long to do your shopping and want to give an Irish gift – or even the gift of Ireland – this year, I'm here to help! Ireland ...

Autumn Bounty Tour | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 184

23 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Autumn Bounty small group tour of Ireland combines the best of Irish culture, cuisine, and camaraderie; an authentic and immersive experience The post...

Why You Might Want to Pack an Ireland Road Map | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 183

16 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Jett L: We watched your podcasts before we planned our trip to the Republic and Northern Ireland. We drove from Dublin to Dalkey to Belfast to Derry t...

Best Ireland Road Map for Your Vacation

15 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Before my first trip to Ireland, I bought a guidebook that included an Ireland road map. I used it before my trip to get a good idea of where the plac...

How to Have Authentic Irish Experiences | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 182

09 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

The post How to Have Authentic Irish Experiences | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 182 appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Landing in the US After Clearing US Customs in Ireland

02 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Flying direct to the US from Dublin or Shannon airports allows to you clear US customs in Ireland. Here's what to expect when you land in the US - con...

Favorite Irish Recipes for Fall | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 180

31 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Cooler weather and hearty food just go together. So when fall rolls around, the dark sets in earlier, and I crave comfort food, you'll find me turning...

10 Tips for an Authentic Ireland Vacation (plus the #1 thing all travelers should do)

30 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Slow down and discover the Ireland you imagined! 10 things you need to do to achieve an authentic Ireland vacation experience. The post 10 Tips for an...

Ireland Taxi Tips

26 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

At some point during your Ireland vacation you will probably need to hire a taxi. Whether it's to get around in Dublin, back to your accommodation fro...

Easy Irish Words for Your Vacation

24 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

While the main language you will hear in Ireland is English, you'll hear bits of Irish sprinkled into everyday chatter across the country. If you visi...

Things to do in Kinsale, Ireland

05 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

I received a terrific question from Jami Casey. This is actually similar to questions I receive often about how to split a group. So I will answer Jam...

How to Start Planning an Ireland Vacation

30 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

How to Start Planning an Ireland Vacation - all the expert tips to help you decide when to go, what to see, and where to stay. The post How to Start P...

Finding Rooms for 3 (or more) in Ireland

27 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

{Hello from Sligo town – in the county of Sligo. I'll fill you in on the past few days – but first a terrific accommodation question} How to Find ...

Tipping a Private Driver Guide | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 174

24 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Hello from Bushmills – the town, not the distillery (though I was there earlier). I am on day 2 hosting a small group tour for a women's tour compan...

My Ireland Vacation Planner & Journal Offer | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 173

22 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Listen to learn how to receive a special gift if you order the My Ireland Vacation Planner & Journal between September 23 – October 7, 2023. The pos...

Travel Tip: Don’t Forget You’re on Vacation + Killashee House Hotel

21 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

My mom and daughter left this morning and our final day was spent ‘vacationing'. Now, that probably sounds like a ‘duh' statement, because they we...

Hawkeye School of Falconry and Lyrath Estate

19 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

We've spent two days at Lyrath Estate in County Kilkenny. I'll be sharing more about our experience, but first, a wee chat with John Dugan, owner of H...

Waterford Art Glass

17 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

I had the opportunity to speak with Sean Egan, a master engraver with over 35 years of experience. A trained artist at the former Waterford Crystal, S...

How Hard is it to Drive in Ireland?

16 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Recorded live from Faithlegg House Hotel in County Waterford. I'm excited to tell you about this period property, as well as some things to do in the ...

Guinness is from Cashel

13 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Hear the story of how Guinness was accidentally created in Cashel, County Tipperary. Plus the next 'new' Ireland tourism destination. The post Guinnes...

Tipping in Ireland

12 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

I've stayed in my share of castles, but tonight is my first time in a palace. I'm at Cashel Palace and my Garden View Suite has an incredible view of ...

Which City Gaol Should I Visit in Ireland? | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 165

11 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Quick overview of Kilmainham, Cork, and Crumlin Road gaols in Ireland. Plus getting the epic photo in Cobh & Castlemartyr Resort in Cork. The post Wh...

Do I Need to Rent a Car for My Entire Ireland Vacation? | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 164

10 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Hello from the apartment at Cappoquin House & Gardens in County Waterford. I'm going to tell you about my stay here, but first, a listener question. D...

Hurling in Kilkenny

09 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Hello again from Ireland! I missed podcasting the past couple of days. On Thursday I had absolutely no connectivity and Friday night half of my hotel ...

Can I Use 3rd Party Rental Car Insurance in Ireland?

06 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Can you use 3rd party rental car insurance in Ireland? Yes, sometimes. Is it easy and hassle free? Not always. See why. The post Can I Use 3rd Party R...

Hosted by Ollie Gleeson of Ollie’s Tours

04 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In which the podcast is taken over by Ollie Gleeson of Ollies Tours after completing the Cliffs of Moher walk from the cliffs to Doolin. The post Host...

Kilkenny Saturday Market

02 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

While visiting the Kilkenny Saturday Market on The Parade outside Kilkenny Castle I met a charming artist and sat down to have a wee chat. Deirdre McC...

Is it Easy to Use Public Transportation in Dublin?

01 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Tips for using public transportation when arriving in Dublin on the train. How to use taxi, light rail and bus. The post Is it Easy to Use Public Tran...

Is Aer Lingus Business Class Worth the Cost?

30 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

Tips for saving money when booking Aer Lingus Business Class flights. Plus tips on a few sites to visit in Dublin. The post Is Aer Lingus Business Cla...