Below are some itinerary ideas for those looking to make this event a time to explore more of Ireland. Obviously there are many things to do so we highlighted some of the top items here. If you are looking for some alternate ideas, don't hesitate to reach out to Anthony and Allie for a more custom list of site-seeing.
- If you plan on road tripping around Ireland, consider renting a car to travel at your own convenience (Our fav when we went). Be prepared, they do drive on the opposite side of the road
- Some Credit Cards offer free insurance. Read all the fine print!
- Pack light layers! You can expect any kind of weather any time of the day (Especially rain!)
- Ireland is split up into 2 countries, The Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland. NI is part of the United Kingdom and uses British Pounds (£) and MPH on the roads. ROI uses the Euro (€) and KMH on the roads.
- If you choose to not rent a car and stay in one of the bigger cities; Dublin, Belfast, and Galway have many bus hop-on/hop-off tours that can be taken to landmarks around the country.
- Ireland is the 3rd largest chocolate consumption per capita country in the world. Keep an eye out for any chocolate factories and shops :)
Tipping!
- It is NOT mandatory! Most of the time, there's not even an option to. (Note: If you see a service charge on the bill you do not need to tip.)
- 10% cash tip to tour guides is the industry standard
DO. NOT. TALK. POLITICS.(Irish, American, or the World)
- The Irish have a very different view of the world from most Americans. They have a long history of oppression from the British and most, especially those older generations, will not be the most welcoming to pro-British talk. No matter what your personal beliefs are, it is recommended to keep them to yourself and just enjoy your time in their lovely country.
Dublin:
- So many amazing things to do in Dublin! You can hit the highlights, take day trips, or find local gems throughout the city. Highly recommend visiting The Irish Road Trip - Dublin guide for recommendations of things to do and places to visit!
- Some of our favorites include Jameson Distillery Bow St., Temple Bar, Guinness Factory Tour & a good ol’ fashioned historical pub crawl (Sean’s Bar est. 900A.D.)
Dublin also has some amazing food! A few places we recommend:
- Fish Shop: In Smithfield. Elevated fish and chips. You HAVE to book in advance.
- PHX Bistro: Also in Smithfield. They have a fixed price menu available from 5-9 pm for €39.99
- Boeuf and Frites: In Temple Bar District. Your choice of Steak & Frites or Chicken & Frites. Bottomless fries & good cocktails!
- Take a day trip to the Wicklow Mountains south of Dublin, home to the water source of Guiness! Hike ‘The Spinc’ trail, 9.5km, white route.
Northern Ireland:
- Titanic Museum: Where the Titanic was built. You can also stay at the old headquarters of Harland & Wolff, the Titanic shipbuilders, which has been refurbished into a lovely hotel!
- Black Cab Tour: A historical tour of Belfast in a private cab taught from those that have grown up and lived through it. Especially great for those wanting insight into what life was like during the Troubles.
- Crumlin Road Gaol: If you love history and anything museums, this is one of the top rated attractions in Belfast.
- Belfast Castle: Nestled on the hill overlooking the city it’s a wonderful place to sit, have a pint, and enjoy the nice weather and amazing views. Open to the public with a bar downstairs open until 5 pm. Also you can see the exact spot Allie & Tony got engaged!
- Cathedral Quarter: Home to a number of amazing cathedrals, murals, and a good night life with pubs playing trad music! (Have a pint at the Duke of York for an Insta worthy photo in the alleyway)
- As mentioned above, please keep political talk to a minimum. Belfast was one of the major cities at the heart of hostilities during the Troubles and many people still there have lived through it.
- Causeway Coastal Route: (Recommended for those with a rental car) Incredibly scenic route between Belfast & Derry with plenty of places to stop off for mini hikes during the day including Giant’s Causeway & Dunluce castle! *Allie & Tony’s favorite part of their 2024 trip
- Giants Causeway - natural wonder with hexagonal columns that lead down to the ocean. Local legend says a giant built the pillars and left behind one of his boots! Beautiful on a sunny day but chilly towards the water.
Western Ireland
- Galway: more than just an Ed Sheeran song! Stay on the East side river for the most “walkability” to restaurants and pubs. If you are there Saturday, there is a wonderful market along the streets with an amazing bagel stand! If you have a car, take a day trip to Lough Inagh Viewpoint and Ougherard (a more traditional Irish town).
- Doolin & Cliffs of Moher: We recommend the Doolin Cliff Walk, a highlight of our trip! Led by farmers who have lived there their entire lives. Additionally, there is a boat tour that leaves from the Doolin dock that takes you out directly below the cliffs!
- Ennis: go check out County Clare. This is where Tony’s Irish heritage lies and there is even the O’Dea tower to visit if you want a little off-roading. Stay in the beautiful Old Ground Hotel and make sure to have a meal in Poets Corner Bar and a Guinness in the O’Dea pub.
- Limerick: if you're looking for multiple hikes, this might be the spot for you. This town is known for its many beautiful trails and walks.
Southern Ireland
- Cork: there is an additional Jameson Distillery in Cork, take a tour! Cork is also home to the Blarney Castle (yes, the one where you kiss the rock upside down). Be prepared, there is typically a 2-hour wait for this.
If you are traveling to and from the UK (or Northern Ireland), you must apply for a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). ~$22 (there is an app that takes about 2 minutes to apply). Valid for 2 years or passport expiration.
If you are traveling to any country in the Eurpean Union, you will need to apply for an ETIAS. ~$23. Valid for 3 years or passport expiration.
Wont go into effect until late 2026. Stay updated and we will also update the website when we find out its release.