Ireland Travel Guide

Land of legends and endless green fields, Ireland enchants with wild landscapes, soaring cliffs, and misty villages. From Dublin to Galway, each city reveals the Irish spirit through its cozy pubs, traditional music, and medieval streets. Between the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry, your journey promises breathtaking views.

Top cities to visit

  • Gothic-style St. Patrick’s Cathedral in grey stone, surrounded by lush green lawns under a bright sky, Dublin.

    Dublin

    Dublin buzzes with the energy of Temple Bar, lively pubs, traditional music, soccer matches, and the simple joy of a pint of Guinness. But the city also offers rich culture and history: Trinity College with its prestigious library housing the Book of Kells, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle, and the iconic Guinness Storehouse.
  • Cityscape of Belfast, Northern Ireland, showing the Victorian Custom House along the River Lagan and a red boat docked nearby.

    Belfast

    As the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast blends traditional charm with modern energy. The Titanic Quarter reflects its maritime past, whereas the Cathedral Quarter brings the city to life with lively pubs and street art. To the south, the Queen’s Quarter delights with its university, botanical gardens, cafés, and arts centres.
  • Colourful houses in Galway, Ireland, lined along the water and perfectly reflected under a soft pastel sky.

    Galway

    Galway is a vibrant, bohemian city on Ireland’s west coast. It is known for its lively atmosphere, especially in the Latin Quarter, with colourful pubs, traditional music, and cultural festivals. Galway is also the perfect starting point to explore Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Aran Islands.
  • Colourful houses in Cork along the river, lined behind lush green trees, reflected in the water under a grey sky.

    Cork

    Cork, located on an island in the heart of the River Lee, reveals a city centre blending historic streets, elegant avenues, and lively quays. From the colourful houses of the Shandon Quarter to Oliver Plunkett Street and the English Market, the city offers pubs, cafés, Victorian architecture, and one of the country’s best food scenes.
  • The River Nore in Kilkenny, Ireland, lined with buildings and walkways, crossed by a bridge under a cloudy sky.

    Kilkenny

    Just outside Dublin, Kilkenny is a perfectly preserved medieval gem. Its Medieval Mile—a walking route connecting the castle to St. Canice’s Cathedral—is lined with stone houses that transport you back to the age of knights. Pubs and traditional music complete the experience, creating the perfect Irish getaway.
  • Gothic-style St. Patrick’s Cathedral in grey stone, surrounded by lush green lawns under a bright sky, Dublin.

    Dublin

    Dublin buzzes with the energy of Temple Bar, lively pubs, traditional music, soccer matches, and the simple joy of a pint of Guinness. But the city also offers rich culture and history: Trinity College with its prestigious library housing the Book of Kells, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle, and the iconic Guinness Storehouse.
  • Cityscape of Belfast, Northern Ireland, showing the Victorian Custom House along the River Lagan and a red boat docked nearby.

    Belfast

    As the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast blends traditional charm with modern energy. The Titanic Quarter reflects its maritime past, whereas the Cathedral Quarter brings the city to life with lively pubs and street art. To the south, the Queen’s Quarter delights with its university, botanical gardens, cafés, and arts centres.
  • Colourful houses in Galway, Ireland, lined along the water and perfectly reflected under a soft pastel sky.

    Galway

    Galway is a vibrant, bohemian city on Ireland’s west coast. It is known for its lively atmosphere, especially in the Latin Quarter, with colourful pubs, traditional music, and cultural festivals. Galway is also the perfect starting point to explore Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Aran Islands.
  • Colourful houses in Cork along the river, lined behind lush green trees, reflected in the water under a grey sky.

    Cork

    Cork, located on an island in the heart of the River Lee, reveals a city centre blending historic streets, elegant avenues, and lively quays. From the colourful houses of the Shandon Quarter to Oliver Plunkett Street and the English Market, the city offers pubs, cafés, Victorian architecture, and one of the country’s best food scenes.
  • The River Nore in Kilkenny, Ireland, lined with buildings and walkways, crossed by a bridge under a cloudy sky.

    Kilkenny

    Just outside Dublin, Kilkenny is a perfectly preserved medieval gem. Its Medieval Mile—a walking route connecting the castle to St. Canice’s Cathedral—is lined with stone houses that transport you back to the age of knights. Pubs and traditional music complete the experience, creating the perfect Irish getaway.

Useful information

Official language(s)

In Ireland, both English and Irish (Gaelic) are official languages. 

English is widely spoken in daily life, though the lilting accents in some regions may take a little getting used to, and Gaelic expressions are commonly heard.

Flight duration

Direct flight: 6 to 7 hours
Connecting flights: 8h to 12h (depending on connection times) 

Time zone difference

Ireland time zone: UTC +0 (winter) and UTC +1 (summer)
5h ahead of Quebec (EST) 
5h ahead of Quebec (EDT) 

Note: During the short period in spring when Quebec switches to daylight saving time, before Ireland also moves to daylight saving time (late March), the time difference is only 4 hours.

Currency

British Pound (GBP) and Euro (EUR) 

The euro is used in the Republic of Ireland, whereas the British pound is in circulation in Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases, but it is useful to have some cash on hand for rural shops, tips, or parking.

Tips

Tips are not mandatory but are appreciated. In restaurants, it is common to leave 10–15% if service is not included. In pubs, it is not necessary to tip for every order.

Safety

Ireland is a safe destination. It is recommended to follow normal safety precautions. 

Before any foreign trip, visit the Government of Canada’s United Kingdom Travel Advice page to find out about the current situation in the country.

Top things to do and see

  • Visit the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin where the famous dark beer is brewed.

  • Admire the stunning landscape of the Cliffs of Moher.

  • Drive the scenic Ring of Kerry.

  • Marvel at the Slieve League Cliffs.

  • Discover Trinity College and the Book of Kells, the famous medieval manuscript.

Hidden gems to discover

  • Derry

    Derry, in Northern Ireland, is famous for its 17th-century city walls, the Peace Bridge, and the political murals of the Bogside. Beyond its rich history, the city invites you to enjoy its pubs, the spectacular Halloween festival, and scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way and Causeway Coastal Route.

  • Achill Island

    As Ireland's largest island, Achill reveals striking landscapes: the sheer cliffs of Croaghaun, the wild Keem Bay beach, scenic coastal trails, rolling green hills, and an abandoned stone village. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, it invites visitors to discover the raw beauty of Ireland.

  • Rock of Cashel

    Rising above the Irish countryside in County Tipperary, the Rock of Cashel looks straight out of a fairy tale. This ancient fortified medieval site, steeped in history, invites you to journey back to the age of kings and knights, set against lush, breathtaking landscapes.

  • Cobh

    Situated on the Atlantic coast, Cobh enchants with its colourful terraced houses, lively harbour, and majestic neo-Gothic cathedral. As the Titanic's last port of call, the town blends maritime history with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, offering a picturesque and moving stopover.

  • Glenveagh National Park

    Located in Donegal, Glenveagh National Park is home to some of Ireland's most stunning landscapes. With mountains, lakes, and wild nature, it also features Glenveagh Castle. Popular for hiking and wildlife watching, the park offers an authentic immersion in the heart of Ireland.

  • Derry

    Derry, in Northern Ireland, is famous for its 17th-century city walls, the Peace Bridge, and the political murals of the Bogside. Beyond its rich history, the city invites you to enjoy its pubs, the spectacular Halloween festival, and scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way and Causeway Coastal Route.

  • Achill Island

    As Ireland's largest island, Achill reveals striking landscapes: the sheer cliffs of Croaghaun, the wild Keem Bay beach, scenic coastal trails, rolling green hills, and an abandoned stone village. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, it invites visitors to discover the raw beauty of Ireland.

  • Rock of Cashel

    Rising above the Irish countryside in County Tipperary, the Rock of Cashel looks straight out of a fairy tale. This ancient fortified medieval site, steeped in history, invites you to journey back to the age of kings and knights, set against lush, breathtaking landscapes.

  • Cobh

    Situated on the Atlantic coast, Cobh enchants with its colourful terraced houses, lively harbour, and majestic neo-Gothic cathedral. As the Titanic's last port of call, the town blends maritime history with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, offering a picturesque and moving stopover.

  • Glenveagh National Park

    Located in Donegal, Glenveagh National Park is home to some of Ireland's most stunning landscapes. With mountains, lakes, and wild nature, it also features Glenveagh Castle. Popular for hiking and wildlife watching, the park offers an authentic immersion in the heart of Ireland.

Highlights

  • Charming, picturesque villages with authentic character.
  • Breathtaking green and wild landscapes.
  • Warm and friendly hospitality of the Irish people.

Keep in mind

  • Rural roads can be narrow, winding, and in poor condition.
  • The cost of living is relatively high, especially in Dublin.
  • Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.
Top pick

“I was charmed by the friendliness and festive spirit of the Irish—they are always warm and welcoming. In Dublin’s pubs, conversations with locals happen naturally. With over 1,000 pubs, each has its own unique character, and all proudly serve the best Guinness in town!”

Yann BrissonTravel Counsellor, Gatineau Travel Centre

Local food and gastronomy

  • Irish Stew

    Irish stew is a traditional dish that is both simple and comforting. Chunks of lamb or mutton are slowly simmered in a fragrant broth with potatoes, carrots, onions, and parsley. Served hot, it can be enjoyed in both pubs and Irish homes.

  • Boxty

    Boxty is an Irish specialty made from potatoes, flour, milk, and eggs, seasoned with salt and pepper. Pan-fried, it becomes crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It pairs perfectly with meat dishes or can be enjoyed on its own with butter or cream.

  • Colcannon

    Colcannon is a delicious, creamy mashed potato dish mixed with sautéed cabbage, butter, cream, and often green onions or leeks. Rich and comforting, this classic of Irish cuisine is enjoyed hot in a warm, convivial setting.

  • Scones

    There's nothing like a warm scone, split in half and generously spread with butter and jam, to start the day. This classic Irish pastry has a golden, slightly crisp and crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. It pairs perfectly with a steaming cup of tea.

  • Irish coffee

    Beneath a smooth layer of cream, Irish coffee blends the bold aroma of black coffee, the warmth of Irish whiskey, and the sweetness of brown sugar in perfect balance. With every sip, the contrast of heat, bitterness, and velvety texture creates a warm and comforting experience.

  • Irish Stew

    Irish stew is a traditional dish that is both simple and comforting. Chunks of lamb or mutton are slowly simmered in a fragrant broth with potatoes, carrots, onions, and parsley. Served hot, it can be enjoyed in both pubs and Irish homes.

  • Boxty

    Boxty is an Irish specialty made from potatoes, flour, milk, and eggs, seasoned with salt and pepper. Pan-fried, it becomes crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It pairs perfectly with meat dishes or can be enjoyed on its own with butter or cream.

  • Colcannon

    Colcannon is a delicious, creamy mashed potato dish mixed with sautéed cabbage, butter, cream, and often green onions or leeks. Rich and comforting, this classic of Irish cuisine is enjoyed hot in a warm, convivial setting.

  • Scones

    There's nothing like a warm scone, split in half and generously spread with butter and jam, to start the day. This classic Irish pastry has a golden, slightly crisp and crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. It pairs perfectly with a steaming cup of tea.

  • Irish coffee

    Beneath a smooth layer of cream, Irish coffee blends the bold aroma of black coffee, the warmth of Irish whiskey, and the sweetness of brown sugar in perfect balance. With every sip, the contrast of heat, bitterness, and velvety texture creates a warm and comforting experience.

Good to know

  • Summer days are very long. In June, the sun sets after 10 p.m.
  • At pubs, if someone buys you a drink, it is customary to return the favour-buying a round is part of the tradition. You might find it challenging to keep up with the locals' pace.
  • In Ireland, the weather can change quickly and frequently. Wind, rain, and sun can all occur within the same hour, so it is best to dress in layers and be prepared.

What to bring back?

  • An Aran-style sweater

  • A tweed cap

  • Irish whiskey

  • A Claddagh ring, symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship

  • An Aran-style sweater

  • A tweed cap

  • Irish whiskey

  • A Claddagh ring, symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship

  • An Aran-style sweater

  • A tweed cap

  • Irish whiskey

  • A Claddagh ring, symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship

Frequently asked questions

The best time to visit Ireland is from May to September, when the days are long and the landscapes are lush and green. Spring (May and June) is flowery and pleasant; summer (July and August) is busier, livelier, and warmer; whereas autumn (September and October) offers peace and beautiful colours. Winter (November to March) is less recommended because of cooler temperatures and shorter days; some tourist sites are closed, but you can still enjoy pubs and experience St. Patrick's Day festivities.

Driving is the best way to explore Ireland, especially for scenic routes like the Wild Atlantic Way and for discovering more remote sites at your own pace. However, keep in mind that driving is on the left, and rural roads are often very narrow. The train and bus network is also a good option for connecting major cities, but it remains limited in rural areas.

7 to 14 days

A 7- to 10-day trip allows you to see the must-see highlights, such as Dublin, Galway, the Cliffs of Moher, and Connemara. For a more complete itinerary including Donegal and Northern Ireland, 10 to 14 days is ideal to fully enjoy the landscapes and the local atmosphere.

  • St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, across the country (especially in Dublin). This national holiday honours Saint Patrick, Ireland's patron saint. Expect spectacular parades, concerts, traditional dancing, and a lively, friendly atmosphere where green takes centre stage.
  • Galway International Arts Festival, in July, in Galway. One of Ireland's largest cultural events, it features a diverse program including theatre, music, visual arts, street performances, and international acts, attracting artists and visitors from around the world.

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