Ireland

There is more to family travel to Ireland than shamrocks and leprechauns. Rolling hills, river valleys, pristine beaches and a rugged coastline offer families much to experience and explore. Hike and bike the Irish countryside or cruise one of Ireland’s waterways and discover a land that has inspired writers and poets for centuries. And if you’re traveling with jaded teens try your hand at caving, hang gliding, rock climbing or scuba diving. Yet don’t be quick to dismiss St. Patrick or Celtic mysticism, an Ireland vacation is as much about stone monuments, castles and Irish lore as it is about nature and the great outdoors. Families interested in discovering the Ireland of yore should include a trip to one or more of the country's islands.

Getting there

Most families traveling to Ireland will arrive by air. Major carriers and European low cost airlines offer a plethora of flights to/from Belfast, Cork, Dublin, Kerry, Knock, Galway and Shannon. Ferries are a valid alternative for families traveling from France and the UK. B&I Line, Sealink Stena Line, Swansea - Cork Ferries, Irish Ferries and P&O Ferries all operate regular car ferry sailings to Ireland.

Who Flies Where
IrishTourist.com
Ireland Interactive
Ferries to Ireland
AFerry

Getting around

The best way to explore Ireland is by car. But there are a few things to consider before you hire a vehicle here. Driving is on the left hand side of the road and cars are right hand drive. And you need to know more than distance to estimate driving times in Ireland. Country roads are often single carriageway or two lane only. Train travel offers an alternative to the car and buses connect areas that are not accessible by train. Families traveling to the islands will want to check sailing times and confirm departures in advance as demand and weather can affect many routes. Air travel will get families with limited time and deep pockets from point A to point B quickly.

Car Rentals
Carrentals.co.uk
Northern Ireland Public Transportation Planner
Translink
Busses
Discover Ireland
Ferries
Discover Ireland
Internal Flights
Aer Arann

Documents required

A passport valid for length of stay is required for all individuals traveling to the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland (part of the United Kingdom) except for residents of the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Switzerland and Norway traveling on a valid national identity card. A visa is not required for tourist stays of up to 90 days. A passport is not required for travel between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Republic of Ireland Passport & Visa Info
Department of Foreign Affairs
United Kingdom Passport & Visa Requirements
Ukvisas

When to travel

The best time of the year to visit Ireland is from April to October. While it is generally warmer and drier in summer (June through August), weather conditions can change frequently during the course of a single and rain, even if only a quick shower, is likely throughout the year. In the peak season, July-August, it can be hot and sunny one day and wet and cold the next. When planning outdoor activities it is important to check the weather forecast daily and plan accordingly.

Weather Forecast & Climate History
Met Éireann
BBC

Travel health & child safety

While there are no specific health risks or vaccinations required for a family holiday in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland (part of the United Kingdom), children should be up-to-date on routine childhood immunizations prior to traveling abroad.

Travel Health Republic of Ireland
MD Travel Health
Travel Heath United Kingdom
MD Travel Health

Currency

Northern Ireland is part of Great Britain and the currency is the British Pound (officially pound sterling). The currency sign or pound sign is the £ and the currency code is the GBP. The currency in the Republic of Ireland is the Euro. The currency sign is the € and the currency code is the EUR.

Foreign Exchange Rates
Oanda

Things to keep in mind

You need to know more than distance to estimate driving times in Ireland.