Do you need a visa for Ireland in 2026? +
No for EU citizens. The Republic of Ireland is in the EU, a national ID card or valid passport is enough for stays up to 90 days. Ireland is not in the Schengen area but remains visa-free for EU. Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and Japan also get 90 days visa-free. Northern Ireland (UK) now requires a £16 ETA since 2025.
How many days do you need in Ireland? +
7 days minimum for Dublin + south (Kerry, Cork). 10 days is the ideal format for the western Wild Atlantic Way (Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, Dingle, Ring of Kerry). 14 days for a full tour including Northern Ireland and Donegal. A 3-day weekend is enough for Dublin alone.
When to go to Ireland? +
May, June and September are the best months: mild temperatures (15-22 °C), long days (light until 10pm in June), statistically less rain. July-August are fine but busier. March is good for St Patrick's Day in Dublin (17 March). Avoid November-February (rain, wind, very short days).
Do you drive on the left in Ireland? +
Yes, left-hand drive across the whole island (Republic and North). Steering wheel on the right, roundabouts clockwise. Most foreign licences accepted. Rent a compact car (automatic if possible) as rural roads are narrow, especially on the Dingle peninsula, in Connemara and around the Ring of Kerry. €40-60/day in May-June, up to €100/day in July-August.
What weather should I expect in Ireland? +
Oceanic climate: mild and wet year-round. Summer 15-22 °C, winter 5-10 °C. Rain can fall any time, often in short showers (10-20 min) between sunny spells. Bring a waterproof jacket, fleece and good shoes even in summer. The Cliffs of Moher are often in fog: plan 2 visits on 2 different days if your schedule allows.
What's the difference between Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland? +
Two distinct countries on the same island. The Republic of Ireland (Dublin, Cork, Galway) is an independent EU member state, euro currency, visa-free for many. Northern Ireland (Belfast, Derry, Giant's Causeway) is part of the United Kingdom: pound sterling, £16 UK ETA required since 2025 even for transit. No physical border, but payments and mobile coverage may change.
Can you sleep in a castle in Ireland? +
Yes, it's an iconic experience. Around thirty castle-hotels are open: Ashford Castle 5-star (Mayo, ~€700/night), Dromoland Castle (Clare, ~€500), Adare Manor (Limerick, ~€600), Ballyfin Demesne (Laois, ~€1,200). Book 4-6 months ahead for weekends and summer. More accessible: Kilronan Castle (3-star, ~€180) or Cabra Castle (~€200).
How to experience St Patrick's Day in Dublin? +
On 17 March, the official parade runs through Dublin from 12pm to 2:30pm (O'Connell Street to St Patrick's Cathedral). 4-day festival (15-18 March 2026): concerts, food markets, monument projections. Book hotels 4-5 months ahead (prices x2-3). For pubs, packed at Temple Bar, calmer at The Cobblestone (Smithfield) or Mulligan's (Poolbeg Street). Green outfit advised.
