Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Traveling in Ireland

Galway is a popular place to stay in western Ireland, but just how much can you comfortably explore when you use Galway City as your base?
→ See the video of this episode: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/galway-base-explore-ireland/planning-your-irish-vacation/itineraries/
→ Get the Ireland Travel Compass: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass

We'll look at the day-trip possibilities around Galway, what you can realistically fit into a day, and how to decide when a destination is simply too far away to make sense as a day trip.
This episode is part of my series exploring the best places to stay in Ireland for multiple day trips, helping you choose a base based on what you actually want to see and experience.
Locations highlighted:
- Connemara
- Aran Islands
- Burren
- Athlone

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass
- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5

When comparing flights to Ireland, it's tempting to focus on the lowest fare or shortest total travel time. But there's another detail worth considering: whether your connection happens before or after your overnight transatlantic flight.
Full article & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/booking-flights-to-ireland-europe-layovers/ireland-travel-tips/

Resources mentioned in the podcast:
- https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/TRIP
- https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/FAQ

I generally recommend connecting in the North America and flying directly to Ireland from there, rather than flying overnight to London, Amsterdam, or Paris and making another connection.
In this episode, I explain why that choice can make your journey easier and help you enjoy more of your first day in Ireland.
What you'll learn:
• Why I prefer North American connections when flying to Ireland
• What travelers should know about connecting through London Heathrow
• How a European layover can affect your first day in Ireland
• What happened when a canceled flight nearly sent my young daughters and me through Paris
• When a European connection might actually be worth considering
The cheapest flight isn't always the best flight. Think about how you'll feel when you arrive, not just how much you'll spend getting there.

More Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass
- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5

This is part of my series exploring the best places to stay in Ireland for day trips. This time we're using Dublin as our base to see just how many places you can comfortably explore without changing accommodations.
See the video & article at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dublin-base-explore-ireland/planning-your-irish-vacation/itineraries/

Using my Ireland Travel Compass, I'll show you day trip options around Dublin, what falls within a reasonable travel radius, and places you may not have considered when planning your Ireland itinerary.

Destinations recommended in this video:
• Boyne Valley
• Athlone
• Kilkenny
• Wicklow
• Belfast

And what about those popular day tours from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher and Giant's Causeway? Yes, they can be done. We'll look at why possible doesn't necessarily mean recommended, especially when you consider how much of your day will be spent getting there and back.

Everything I'm using to explore these locations is inside my Ireland Travel Compass. The interactive planning map includes hundreds of places to see, things to do, and experiences around Ireland, along with the tools and advice to help you build a realistic itinerary.

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass
- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5

Kinsale may sit at the beginning or the end of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, depending on how you travel it, but this colorful County Cork town deserves more than a quick stop.
Fáilte Ireland certified guide Clodagh FitzGerald shares a local’s perspective on Kinsale, from the history of Charles Fort and James Fort to harbour adventures, coastal walks, great food, and some of the best places to explore nearby.

Highlights include:
Why Kinsale deserves more time than a quick day trip
Charles Fort, James Fort, and the Old Head Signal Tower
Walking tours, harbour cruises, kayaking, and other ways to explore
Where to eat and stay in Kinsale
Day trips to Cork City, Cobh, West Cork, and beyond

Clodagh also shares an important Ireland itinerary tip: don’t over-plan. Quality beats quantity when you’re trying to enjoy Ireland rather than simply check places off a list.

The post Exploring Kinsale, Ireland: Food, Forts & Coastal Adventures appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

This is the first in my series exploring the best places to base yourself for day trips in Ireland.

Full article with video & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/central-base-ireland-day-trips/planning-your-irish-vacation/itineraries/

We’re starting in the center of the country to answer a question I hear all the time: can you stay in one central location and tour all of Ireland? I’ll show you why it can work for some trips... and why one central base may not be as convenient as it sounds.
Using Athlone as our base, I’ll take you into my Ireland Travel Compass to see what you can realistically reach on a day trip. Dublin and Galway look quite manageable. Westport, the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara make for much longer days. And once you start considering places like the Giant’s Causeway or Dingle, the reality of all that driving becomes very clear.
The goal isn’t simply to find a central place to stay. It’s to choose a base that works for what you actually want to see and how much time you’re comfortable spending in the car.
Throughout this series, I’ll use the Ireland Travel Compass to explore different bases around Ireland, what you can comfortably reach from each, what might be pushing it for a day trip, and experiences nearby that you may not have considered.
Learn more about the Ireland Travel Compass: IrelandFamilyVacations.com/compassyt

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass
- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5

Do you actually need a Leap Card when visiting Dublin or traveling around Ireland? Maybe, but the Leap Visitor Card isn't automatically the best choice just because you're a visitor.

Dublin city centre is compact and very walkable, and I rarely use public transportation when I'm exploring the city. Depending on your plans, individual fares or a Standard Leap Card may cost less than a Visitor Leap Card.

Full article for indepth info & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/leap-card-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/

In this episode I'll explain:
• The difference between a Standard Leap Card and Leap Visitor Card
• How much the Leap Visitor Card costs
• Whether a Leap Card can actually save you money
• Where you can use a Leap Card in Dublin and around Ireland
• Where Leap Cards aren't accepted
• Why you may not need a Leap Card at all
• How and where to purchase one

Planning to take the DART to Howth? I'll also show you a real-world fare comparison that may make you rethink the €8 one-day Visitor Card.

Additional information mentioned in the episode:
- How to get around Ireland: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/travel-ireland-bus-car-train/planning-your-irish-vacation/
- How to use your mobile phone in Ireland: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/tips-using-mobile-phone-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/
- WifiCandy: IrelandfamilyVacations.com/wifi (use code IFV10 for discount_
- Ireland Itinerary Review: irelandfamilyvacations.com/review

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass
- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5

What's the best way to get around Ireland? It depends on your itinerary, budget, travel style, and how much flexibility you want.

Fill article & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/travel-ireland-bus-car-train/planning-your-irish-vacation/

In this video, I break down the pros and cons of traveling around Ireland by train, bus, rental car, private driver guide, and even boat. We'll look at where each option works well, where it can make your trip more difficult, and why you don't have to choose just one.

Mixing and matching transportation can often make the most sense. You might explore Dublin without a car, take a train to another city, rent a car for the countryside, or hire a private driver guide for a day.

Before deciding how you'll travel around Ireland, figure out what you want your trip to look like... then choose the transportation that fits it.

Topics covered:
- Train travel in Ireland
- Bus travel in Ireland
- Renting a car in Ireland
- Private driver guides in Ireland
- Mixing transportation options in Ireland

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass
- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5

In this episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast, Jody chats with Caroilín Callery, founder of the National Famine Way, and Edel McWeeney Moran, Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Manager, about the Global Irish Famine Way and the Bronze Shoes connecting Ireland's Famine emigration story with communities around the world.

Full article & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/global-irish-famine-way/attractions/

Episode highlights:
• How the National Famine Way grew from the story of 1,490 people who left Strokestown in 1847
• Why the Bronze Shoes have become such a powerful symbol for the Irish diaspora
• How the Global Irish Famine Way expanded into Canada and is now growing in the United States
• How local communities and historians are uncovering overlooked Famine stories
• How travelers can experience the National Famine Way and take part in the 180th anniversary events in May 2027

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass
- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5

Ireland's history isn't only castles and green landscapes. Famine, conflict, ancient beliefs, emigration, ghost stories, and traditions surrounding death are woven through the places travelers visit today.

Full article & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dark-tourism-in-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/

Luisa Golz, Director of Sales at Desmond Tours, completed her PhD research on festivals with dark themes. She joins Jody to explain what dark tourism actually means, why travelers are drawn to these places, and how Ireland's darker history can add depth to a trip without turning the entire vacation into doom and gloom.
Highlights:
• What "dark tourism" actually means — and why you may already be doing it
• Why famine ships, workhouses, and memorials can create such powerful travel experiences
• How Samhain, Halloween, folklore, and "thin places" fit into Ireland's darker traditions
• How to visit places associated with tragedy respectfully

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass
- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5

Credit card rental car coverage can be a useful way to reduce the cost of renting a car in Ireland, but not every card covers Ireland—and even cards that do can have very different limits, exclusions, and requirements.

Full article & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/credit-card-car-rental-insurance-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/

I explain what you need to check before declining the rental company's CDW, including proof-of-coverage requirements, credit card holds, vehicle and rental-length restrictions, and what your coverage does—and doesn't—protect.

You'll also learn what can happen financially if the rental car is damaged, why it's worth reading the claims requirements before you leave home, and why detailed photos at pickup and return can be valuable when you're relying on credit card coverage.

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass
- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5

The Ring of Kerry gets most of the attention on Ireland's southwest coast. The Ring of Beara, right next to it, gets far less — despite having its own mountain pass, its own islands, and the only cable car in Ireland.

Show notes & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/beara-peninsula-cork-kerry-coastal-drive-guide/ireland-travel-tips/

Jody talks with Tessa Dennison, publisher of Best of Beara magazine and book, about what makes the Beara Peninsula worth the detour: where to base your trip, the drive over the Healy Pass, the ferry to Bere Island, and a handful of villages most visitors never see.

Highlights:
- Why the Beara Peninsula gets overlooked despite sitting next to two famous coastal drives
- Where to base your trip: Kenmare, Glengarriff, and Bantry
- Driving the Healy Pass and riding Ireland's only cable car to Dursey Island
- Eyeries, the Ballycrovane Ogham Stone, and the ferry to Bere Island
- Tessa's top tips: water-based activities, slowing down, and building in extra time

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass
- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5

Renting a car in Ireland after age 75 is absolutely possible, but not every rental company follows the same policies. Knowing what documentation you may need before you arrive can save time, stress, and unexpected surprises at the rental counter.

See the video episode & more information at IrelandFamilyVacations.com/drive75

In this episode, I explain where to find senior driver policies on rental company websites, compare companies with no additional requirements to those that ask for insurance or medical documentation, and share practical tips to help you choose the right rental company for your Ireland vacation.

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass
- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5

RVing in Ireland is different from other places - and getting the basics wrong can turn a dream trip into a stressful one.

Jody talks with Sandra Willis, chief explorer at Motorhome Roots Ireland, about what it actually takes to travel Ireland by motorhome or camper van: choosing the right vehicle size, where you're allowed to park overnight, the apps worth downloading, and the one mistake she sees travelers make again and again.

Visit the full article with helpful links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/motorhome-travel-in-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/

Highlights:
- Why bigger isn't always better when it comes to motorhome size in Ireland
- The real rules around campsites, aires, and pub car park overnight stays
- The apps Sandra actually uses to find places to park
- The most common mistake travelers make — and how to avoid it
- Sandra's own story, from a canal boat in England to Motorhome Roots Ireland
- Three of Sandra's favorite motorhome spots: Enniskillen, Donegal, and Carrick-on-Shannon

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass

Have you decided to rely on your credit card or third-party rental car insurance for your Ireland trip?

Before you do, it's important to understand what happens if you actually need to file a claim.

In this episode I share my personal experience after damaging a rental car in Ireland and walk you through the reimbursement process, from the €1,630 damage charge and required paperwork to the two-month insurance claim that followed. The insurance paid the claim, but the process completely changed how I choose rental car coverage today.

You'll learn:
- What happens after a rental car accident in Ireland
- How credit card and third-party rental car insurance claims work
- Which documents you'll need to keep
- Why reimbursement insurance can take time
- Why I now choose inclusive rental car coverage

If you're still deciding which type of rental car insurance is right for your trip, be sure to use the resources below for answers to your car rental & driving questions.

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass

Abbeyleix, in the heart of County Laois, is an ideal base for exploring Ireland's Ancient East while enjoying the charm of a welcoming Georgian market town.

Full show notes and links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/abbeyleix-slow-travel-ireland/attractions/

In this conversation, Preston House owner Ross McDonald shares what makes Abbeyleix so special - from its fascinating history and thriving community to the nearby attractions that make it worth staying for a few days instead of simply passing through.

Highlights
- Why Abbeyleix is an ideal base for exploring Ireland's Ancient East
- The story behind Abbeyleix's Georgian streetscape
- Ross's favorite nearby places to visit
- What it's like to stay at Preston House
- How Abbeyleix has become a destination in its own right

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass

Landing at Dublin Airport doesn't mean you need to get behind the wheel immediately.
If your Ireland vacation begins in Galway, Cork, Killarney, Kilkenny, or another destination beyond Dublin, driving after an overnight flight may not be the safest choice.

Full show notes + video: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dublin-airport-transportation/ireland-travel-tips/

In this episode I'll explain:
• Why I recommend limiting arrival-day driving to about 90 minutes
• When it makes sense to hire a private driver
• Why a direct airport coach is often the easiest option
• When taking the train is worth considering

I'll also share my recommendations for reaching popular destinations, including Galway, Cork, Killarney, and Kilkenny, so you can choose the transportation that best fits your budget, travel style, and energy level.

The Ring of Kerry is famous for breathtaking scenery—but there's another side of this iconic route that's worth discovering.
This conversation with Kerry whiskey expert Neil Saad explores the region's growing craft whiskey scene, local distilleries, fascinating history, and the pubs where visitors can experience authentic Irish hospitality.

Full show notes & links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ring-of-kerry-whiskey-tours/attractions/

Highlights
- Explore Skellig Six18 Distillery near Cahersiveen
- Discover the Spirit of the Sea Experience in Portmagee
- Learn why Kerry has become a destination for whiskey lovers
- Find the best whiskey pubs in Killarney, Tralee, and Killorglin
- Get practical tips for adding whiskey experiences to your Ring of Kerry itinerary

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass

Thinking about tracing your Irish ancestry but not sure where to begin?

Full show notes & links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/irish-genealogy-research-family-roots-ireland/random-bits/

Genealogist Chris Lucia shares practical advice for researching Irish family history, avoiding common mistakes, and uncovering the stories behind the names on your family tree. From surviving Irish records to planning a heritage trip, this conversation offers realistic guidance for anyone hoping to connect with their Irish roots.

Highlights
• Why Irish genealogy can be challenging—and why it's still worth pursuing
• The best places to begin your family history research
• Irish records and resources that can help break through research barriers
• Tips for planning an ancestry-focused trip to Ireland
• When it makes sense to hire a professional genealogist

Ireland Travel Resources:
• Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
• DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass

Looking for a quieter side of Ireland? County Cavan offers peaceful lakes, ancient history, forest walks, and outdoor adventures that encourage travelers to slow down and truly experience the landscape.
Full show notes and links at:

Jody chats with Sean Thornton of Cavan Adventure Centre about why Ireland's Lakeland County deserves a place on your itinerary. From paddling to Clough Oughter Castle to disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with nature, this conversation highlights a side of Ireland many visitors miss.

Highlights
Why County Cavan is perfect for slow travel
The fascinating history of Clough Oughter Castle
Kayaking through the waterways of Lough Oughter
Forest walks, wellness experiences, and outdoor activities
Sean's top recommendations for visitors to Cavan

Exploring Ireland’s Boyne Valley and Westmeath reveals far more than famous castles and ancient monuments. From prehistoric cairns to quiet abbeys and welcoming farm stays, this region rewards travelers who slow down and venture beyond the busiest tourist stops.

View full show notes and links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/boyne-valley-westmeath-travel-tips/attractions/

Richard Ball of Johnsfort - Ireland at Your Leisure, shares favorite places across Meath and Westmeath, including overlooked historic sites, scenic countryside, and memorable local experiences visitors often miss.

Highlights include:
- Loughcrew Cairns and panoramic countryside views
- Trim Castle and Norman history
- Fore Abbey and its unique Seven Wonders pub
- Tullynally Castle’s “upstairs downstairs” experience
- Staying at a boutique Irish farm stay in Westmeath

Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-car-rental-driving-guide/
- Ireland Travel Compass: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/the-ireland-travel-compass/

Kilkenny is often treated as a quick stop between Dublin and Cork, but travelers who spend even a day or two here quickly realize how much they would have missed by rushing through. From medieval streets and castle walks to live music and hurling experiences, Kilkenny combines history, culture, and fun in a way few...

The post Why Kilkenny Deserves More Than a Quick Stop on Your Ireland Itinerary appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Five weeks on the road across Ireland brings plenty of unforgettable moments — and a few lessons learned the hard way. From airport advice and overlooked historic sites to island adventures and incredible local experiences, this trip delivered a little bit of everything. For travelers planning their own Ireland itinerary, these are the stops, stays,...

The post Ireland Travel Lessons From Five Weeks Around the Country appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

There are places in Ireland that ask travelers to slow down, look around, and settle into the rhythm of a place instead of rushing through a checklist. Clare Island and Clew Bay in County Mayo are exactly that kind of destination. Just off the coast near Westport, Clare Island offers dramatic landscapes, deep history, welcoming...

The post Clare Island and Clew Bay: Slow Travel, Island Stories, and a Different Side of County Mayo appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

The Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry captures hearts quickly – but the real magic reveals itself when visitors slow down, look closer, and step just slightly off the main path. Dingle Peninsula travel tips: how to experience it beyond the highlights The Dingle Peninsula is often at the top of Ireland itineraries – and for...

The post Dingle Peninsula Secrets: How to Experience Ireland’s Most Beloved Coast Like a Local appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

A chance meeting in Dublin led to a lively catch-up about how travel in Ireland is changing – and how visitors can experience so much more than the usual highlights. Custom Food and Whiskey Tours in Ireland What started as a Dublin food tour has grown into something much bigger. Gráinne, owner of Flavour Trails,...

The post Explore Ireland Differently: Bespoke Food, Whiskey & Cultural Tours appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Ireland’s world-famous golf courses may top the bucket list, but some of the most memorable experiences happen well beyond the marquee names – especially when you pair great golf with Irish whiskey and local connection. This article is based on podcast episode 336 featuring David Hayes, owner of Dunes & Drams, a bespoke tour company...

The post Ireland Golf Trips Beyond the Big Names: Where to Play, Sip, and Slow Down appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Standing on Ireland’s wild Atlantic edge is always unforgettable, but if you’re planning to walk the Cliffs of Moher coastal trail, a few important updates will shape how you experience it. Cliffs of Moher Coastal Trail Update: What’s Open and What’s Not The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre is fully open, and the Cliffs of...

The post Cliffs of Moher Coastal Trail Update: What Travelers Need to Know Right Now appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Westport has long been one of those places travelers stumble upon and wish they’d planned more time for. With new developments at Westport Estate and a new luxury hotel, it’s quickly becoming a destination worth lingering in. Top Reasons to Base Yourself in Westport, County Mayo Set along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Mayo,...

The post Discover Westport Ireland: A Perfect Base for Your Wild Atlantic Way Trip appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Just after Easter, Jody is heading back to Ireland—and this trip is filled with experiences, stays, and a few surprises that might inspire your own plans. Ireland trip preview: tours, experiences, and places to stay This upcoming visit blends guided tours, hands-on experiences, and independent exploring across Ireland—from the Causeway Coast to the southeast, with...

The post A Look Ahead to My Ireland Trip: Tours, Experiences & Stays to Inspire You appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Cruise stops in Ireland can feel like a whirlwind – but with the right plan, even a few hours can turn into an unforgettable experience. With more cruise ships arriving at Irish ports each year, travelers have more options than ever when it comes to shore excursions. But not all tours, or tour providers, are...

The post Ireland Cruise Excursions: How to Make the Most of Your Day in Port appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Ireland and castles go hand in hand. With thousands scattered across the island, it can feel like there’s one around every bend in the road. The real challenge isn’t finding castles in Ireland — it’s deciding which ones to add to your itinerary. This article is based on the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 331....

The post 10 Castles in Ireland to Inspire Your Trip appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Landing at Dublin Airport is often the first stop in your Ireland journey, but one of the first questions many travelers have is how to get into the city centre. A lot of people immediately look for the cheapest option. That makes sense, but the cheapest option may not always be the best choice depending...

The post How to Get from Dublin Airport to Dublin City Centre appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Group tours are one of the most popular ways to experience Ireland – especially for travelers who want to see a lot without worrying about driving, directions, or logistics. Nearly half of overseas visitors explore Ireland this way, which means coaches crisscross the island daily, bringing travelers to castles, coastlines, and charming towns. But what...

The post Group Tours in Ireland: What to Expect and How to Choose the Right Coach Tour appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

This article is part of my Planning Your Ireland Vacation series — a step-by-step guide that walks you through the entire planning process, answers common questions, and helps you move forward with clarity. If you’d like to follow the full series in order, you’ll find it at:IrelandFamilyVacations.com/planning During your Ireland vacation you’ll have dozens of...

The post Buying Souvenirs? Here’s How to Get Some Money Back appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Not far beyond Dublin’s busy streets lies a landscape of forest trails, heather-covered hills, and stories that stretch back thousands of years. The Dublin Mountains are closer than most visitors realize – and packed with history, mythology, and unforgettable views. This article is based on podcast episode 327 featuring Ben Shorten, owner of My Bike...

The post From Fairy Castles to the Hellfire Club: What You’ll Find in the Dublin Mountains appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Two Ways Across Ireland: Direct and Easy, or Scenic and Story-Filled Traveling between Dublin and Galway might look simple on a map – a straight shot from east to west. And it can be. But this is Ireland, and sometimes the best part of the journey is what happens when you detour off the motorway....

The post Dublin to Galway (and Why You Might Want to Take the Long Way) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Skellig Michael rises straight out of the Atlantic, jagged and dramatic, and according to archaeologist Neil Jackman, it’s every bit as challenging as it looks. Visiting this remote Kerry island can be an extraordinary experience – but only if travelers understand what’s involved before they try. Visiting Skellig Michael: What Travelers Need to Know This...

The post Skellig Michael: An Archaeologist Explains What It’s Really Like to Visit Ireland’s Most Extreme Island appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Planning an Ireland vacation can feel overwhelming when you start adding up the numbers -but a memorable trip doesn’t have to be out of reach. With smart choices and a few intentional trade-offs, travelers can enjoy Ireland fully without overspending. This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 324. Use the...

The post Ireland on a Tighter Budget: Smart Ways to Spend Less, Not Miss Out appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

If you’ve spent any time researching Ireland trips online, you may have noticed a strange pattern: different companies, different websites… and yet the itineraries feel almost identical. There’s a reason for that, and it goes back much further than modern travel trends. Why Ireland itineraries follow the same routes Ireland’s most familiar travel routes weren’t...

The post Why So Many Ireland Itineraries Look the Same (and How to Plan One That Doesn’t) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Choosing an Ireland vacation package seems simple enough. You find a deal you like- be it self-drive or guided- and make the purchase. Done. Ireland vacation booked and ready. But it may not be so simple. Airline transfers, car rental, accommodations… they all play a role in the success of your vacation to Ireland. This article...

The post Ireland Vacation Packages: How to Tell a Great Deal from a Costly Mistake appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Visiting the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI) Dublin didn’t earn its UNESCO City of Literature designation by accident. This is a city shaped – physically, culturally, and emotionally – by writers. Their words echo through streets, pubs, libraries, and public spaces, forming part of everyday life rather than sitting quietly on a shelf. One of...

The post Dublin – A City Shaped by Writers appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Avoid the worst Dublin crowds by planning your trip around these dates when prices will rise, accommodations will fill, and streets will be swarming with people. Get all the tips you need to plan your Ireland vacation in 2026. Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 321

The post Dublin Dates to Avoid in 2026 appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland in 2026 these tips will make planning smoother, help you avoid crowds, and maybe even save you a bit of money. Probably the most important tips are when NOT to be in Dublin, but there are some updates to European entry & exit systems that you need to...

The post Handy Travel Tips for Your Ireland Trip in 2026 appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

It’s almost the end of 2025 – and you know what that means! 2026 trip planning is getting underway and the Ireland Travel Compass is available for presale! Learn more here and get on the presale list at IrelandFamilyVacations.com/compass 2026 Traveling in Ireland Podcast Preview I also have so many amazing podcast episodes lined up...

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This Quick Tip shares where to find the Family Travel Resource Page on my website — a hub packed with practical articles, kid-friendly recommendations, and free itineraries designed to help families of all ages plan a smoother, happier Ireland trip. If you’re traveling with little ones, teens, or a full multigenerational crew, this page saves...

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In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I’m showing you exactly where to find answers to the most common Ireland travel questions. Over 20 years of traveler questions — and my own “learned the hard way” experiences — are organized on my FAQ page to help you plan with confidence. From safety and seasons...

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Several of my travel partners rolled out special offers that run well into the new year — and a few stretch all the way through 2026. From tours and tastings to stays and savings, these are the deals worth grabbing while they last. 📍 See everything mentioned here + more gift ideas: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/gifts Unforgettable Experiences...

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In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode…I’m breaking down the three main types of driver services in Ireland so you can choose the one that fits your style, budget, and itinerary. From full-service, white-glove driver-guided tours to flexible private drivers to simple point-to-point transfers, you’ll learn what each option includes and when they make...

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What makes Ireland such a special place? Get an Insider’s Tour of the Emerald Isle with Jack Kavanagh, author of Always Ireland. Jack shares the 3 things he believes make Ireland so appealing to Americans, his advice for people planning a trip, and 3 places he thinks people shouldn’t miss. Traveling in Ireland podcast episode...

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County Clare is filled with spectacular places to explore, but when I think about the places I’ve returned to multiple times and the ‘wish list’ so many people have for their Ireland vacation, these are my top 3 recommendations: the Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle, and an evening of live trad music. Together they offer...

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