Sample Ireland Self Drive

Set at the western side of the United Kingdom, with the Celtic Sea to the south and the North Atlantic Ocean to the west, the island of Ireland (and Northern Ireland) has many treasures packed into its compact territory. Its magnificent natural landscapes are strewn with spectacular Nordic castles and gorgeous Georgian country houses. Its vibrant heritage includes a lively traditional dance and music culture, a rich literary tradition, and some of the world’s cosiest pubs. The bustling capital of Dublin offers up an exciting nightlife scene, stately architecture and quaint riverside charm, while beyond the cities, the countryside boasts vast areas of unspoilt wilderness. Add the country’s famously hospitable and humourous locals and it’s no wonder that Ireland appeals to travellers of all ages and from all walks of life.

Currency 

Local currency: Euro 
Symbol: € 
ISO code: EUR 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 
Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: Aer Lingus, Ryanair 
International Airports: Dublin Airport, Cork Airport, Shannon Airport 
Domestic Airports: Donegal Airport, Kerry Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: No 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Irish cuisine is known for its hearty dishes and use of fresh, local ingredients. Highlights include Irish stew, seafood chowder, soda bread, and of course, the famous Irish breakfast. Traditional Irish pubs are abundant, offering a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of beers, including Guinness and Smithwick's. 
Tipping: 10-15% 

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: 9°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 18°C 
Average lows: 10°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 8°C 
Average lows: 3°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Ireland is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild and festivals are in full swing. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes