The Emerald Isle has long been a popular destination, with warm and friendly people that help to make this a great place to explore. But there is more to an Irish trip than a few pints with the locals, as it also has an amazing range of sights and experiences that really make it a special place, from the waterside of the Liffey in Dublin city center to the rugged west coast. There are plenty of things to enjoy as you explore Ireland, and here are a few tips to make sure you make the most of your visit.

 

The Amazing Sights And Attractions That Shouldn't Be Missed

A land of green hills and majestic castles, Ireland is all of the things that are depicted in the stereotypes, but when it comes to beautiful scenery the amazing sheer drops of the Cliffs of Moher are hard to rival. The Ring of Kerry is a tourist hotspot, but certainly with very good reason with stunning mountains, while a trip to the remote monastic settlement on Skellig Michael reveals a part of the interesting religious history of this traditional country. While Galway and Limerick in the West, and Cork in the South West are beautiful cities, the majestic capital Dublin is certainly the urban highlight, with the Guinness Storehouse, Temple Bar and the sights along the Liffey making for a spectacular destination.

Find Amazing Accommodations in Dublin

 

Food And Drink In Ireland

While it may not be one of the leading culinary lights of European cuisine, Irish food is hearty and really does provide a tasty, filling meal, particularly on those cold winter nights, with stews and seafood soups among the most common dishes in the country.

Many dishes will have potatoes as one of the key ingredients, such as the potato pancakes known as boxty, while an Irish Fried Breakfast with white and black pudding is a favorite of visitors as well as locals. Famous for its stout, Guinness is the most famous alcoholic Irish export, but Murphy's and Beamish are popular brands, while there are also some good micro brewery beers and whiskeys such as Bushmill's also worth trying.

 

Safety And Security

While Ireland may be a warm and welcoming destination, it is important to continue to be wary and alert while you are traveling, as it has its fair share of pickpockets and petty criminals in tourist areas. Crime is fairly low compared to other countries in Europe, but it is still wise not to over indulge and share too much of the good spirit in the evenings, as this can leave the solo traveler vulnerable.

 

Getting Around Ireland By Public Transport

The transport network in Ireland is quite good, with the railway system particularly having seen great improvement over the last two decades, with the intercity routes from Dublin being well catered for, with good prices for those who have the foresight to book well in advance. The Irish Bus network is also very good with plenty of intercity services and some local services, with many cities having bus networks that operate quite late into the evening. In Dublin, there is also the 'Luas', a tram system that connects many areas and sights in the city.

 

What To Expect From Hostels And Hotels In Ireland

Hostels are the natural options for those staying in Ireland, and in the cities you will find some stylish boutique options, while out in in the countryside there are some hostels in stunning remote locations. Budget between 10 and 30 Euros per night, depending on the luxuries you would like in your hostel, while rooms in budget hotels usually begin from around 40 Euros upwards per night.