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Exceptional Advice for a Magical Ireland Vacation
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Landed Very Early at Dublin Airport? Here’s What to Do!
Feb 11, 202500:11:44Tap to summarizeFlights to Ireland from North America are overnight, which means you'll arrive in Ireland in the morning, leaving a nearly full day for exploration!If you've rented a car and are ready to hit the road, I highly recommend a good breakfast to fuel you for the day ahead (your body ‘s fuel is food or sleep and since you're a bit jet lagged your body will be craving more than airline food to keep it moving).Irish breakfastNeed jet lag tips? Find them here!There are some very good options in the Arrivals Hall at Dublin Airport. Other than gas stations that is all that may be available before 9am.But what should you do if your first stop is Dublin?This article is also available as a podcast. Scroll to the bottom of the page to listen.Early Morning Arrival in Dublin – Here's What To DoIf your first stop in Ireland is a day or two in Dublin you've made a good choice! You can adjust to the time difference without needing to drive and the city is terrific for walking and staving off tiredness.But what about your luggage? And what should you do so early in the morning?I loved my room at The Morgan HotelEarly Check-In in Dublin HotelsYou can always request early check in at your Dublin hotel, but it is never guaranteed.If you must have a hotel room that you can check in to upon arrival you need to book for the evening prior – and be sure to let the hotel know you will be checking in late. This is the only way to guarantee your room will be ready when you roll in between 7am – 1pm.If you don't want to spend money on the extra night's accommodation, most hotels will hold your bags in a secure space so you can jump right in to everything the city has to offer.Can't Drop Your Bags at a Hotel?If you're staying someplace that won't hold your bags there are spots across the city that will do so for a fee. Your bags will be stored securely and are insured.Bounce is one company that offers bag storage across Dublin. Prebooking is not required.The extensive Breakfast Buffet at The Morgan HotelEat a Good MealJust like my recommendation for those heading out in a car, you should find someplace for your first Irish breakfast. At 7am the nearest breakfast spot may well be the hotel but as the morning progresses more spots will open up.A few spots to keep in mindKeogh's Cafe on Trinity Street (6:30am except Sundays) Taste Food Company on South William Street (7am) Bewley's Cafe on Grafton St (7am) Stage Door Cafe on Essex St in Temple Bar (8am) Goose on the Loose on Kevin St (8am M-F) The Bakehouse on Bachelors Walk (9am)Ha'Penny Bridge Get MovingMany sites and attractions won't open until 9 or 10am, but there is still plenty to occupy your time in Dublin before then! I think Dublin has a different feel in the morning before people begin coming in to work and the tourists are awake. It's perfectly peaceful. Consider these activities:Wander through Temple Bar before the crowds arrive Grab a cuppa and stroll through St. Stephen's Green Hop aboard a city bus and head to Phoenix Park Shoot early morning photos on Ha'Penny Bridge and stroll along the Liffey Just stroll along the city streets and get your bearingsAverage check-in time at Dublin hotels is 4pm. If you're room is ready before then – and you have left contact information with the hotel, they will let you know.But I think the best game plan for your first day in Ireland is to eat well and stay active. Go to bed around 8pm (unless you've gotten a major second wind) and set an alarm for no later than 9am the next day. This will get you onto ‘Irish time' quickly and help alleviate jet lag during your vacation.Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 248The post Landed Very Early at Dublin Airport? Here’s What to Do! appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.
Transcribe →Ireland Car Rental CDW Insurance
Feb 4, 202500:19:30Tap to summarizeSo, what is CDW coverage and why do you have to have it? Put very simply, CDW coverage limits your liability for material damage to the vehicle. Basic CDW is included in your rental agreement. This coverage limits your liability for damage to the vehicle. But it does not completely cover it. The amount over and above the basic CDW coverage is the ‘excess', which usually begins around €2500 and rises based on vehicle make and model. If there is damage to the car ‘in excess' of the basic CDW, you will be responsible for that amount.The post Ireland Car Rental CDW Insurance appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.
Transcribe →Your Final Night in Ireland: How Close to the Airport Should You Stay?
Jan 28, 202500:12:15Tap to summarizeThis article focuses on departures from Dublin and Shannon airports for North American visitors to Ireland. At this time no other Ireland airports offer direct flights to North America.How far can you stay from the airport the night before you leave Ireland and still have a relaxed morning and a (mostly) stress-free departure?A few factors go into this answer:Which airport are you departing from? Do you need to return a rental car? How many people are traveling? What time does your flight depart?How Close Should You Stay to Dublin Airport the Night Before You Leave Ireland?I'm going to begin with Dublin Airport as that is the airport most visitors to Ireland use.Returning to the US from Dublin AirportUnderstanding what time you need to arrive at the airport is the most important factor to determining how close you should stay to the airport the night before your departure.If you've even gently perused my Dublin Airport tips article you know that airlines recommend that you allow yourself a minimum of 3 hours to check in for your flight, clear security, return your VAT (and possibly do a bit of shopping), and pass through US Preclearance and US Customs.And though you probably don't have to give yourself that much time, I think it is still a very good guideline.If you plan to return your rental car that morning, I would add an additional 30 minutes to your airport arrival time to allow for the rental car check-in and shuttle back to the terminal.Tip: If you will be returning your car off site, I recommend dropping off travel companions and luggage at the airport before returning the car.check-in crowds at Dublin AirportIf you are traveling with children or a large group, you may want to add an additional 30 minutes as more people can often equal more time to get through each checkpoint.Once you have a good idea of how much time you may need at the airport, subtract those hours from your flight departure time.Ireland Family Vacations is committed to remaining an ad-free resource and is supported through partnerships with trusted travel brands. We may earn income from purchases made via affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn commission from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. See why this is important.I recommend:Departure before 11 am – stay in an airport hotel or nearby villages of Malahide or SwordsAirport hotels Malahide Swords Departure between 11 am and 2 pm – you could stay a bit further out, between 30-45 minutes from the airport. I don't recommend much further because you never know what traffic will be like. Dublin city centre County Kildare Enniskerry/ Powerscourt, Wicklow Trim/ Navan, County Meath <li...
Transcribe →Unveiling the Secrets of County Kerry (get off the tourist trail)
Jan 21, 202500:29:25Tap to summarizeWhen planning a trip to Ireland, County Kerry often tops the list of must-visit destinations. While many travelers flock to the well-known spots like Killarney and Dingle, there are plenty of spots, from Tralee to North Kerry, that may not be on your radar.Carrigafoyle CastleThis article is based on a podcast episode featuring Neil Saad, owner of Kingdom Whiskey Tasting Events. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.The ‘Hidden' County KerryIn this article, we delve into the lesser-known town of Tralee, unveil the wonders of North Kerry, and discover the unique experiences that await you in this enchanting part of Ireland.Tralee: A Town Waiting to be DiscoveredAs the largest town and the capital of County Kerry, Tralee offers a unique blend of traditional Irish culture and modern amenities. It's a place where you can enjoy top-class hotels, lively Irish pubs, and a diverse range of international cuisine.Tralee is not just a stopover; it's a hub for exploring the entire county. From here, you can easily access the Dingle Peninsula, Killarney National Park, and the famous Ring of Kerry. But don't rush through your visit. Take the time to immerse yourself in the culture, meet the friendly locals, and experience the authentic Irish atmosphere that Tralee has to offer.Rattoo Round TowerThe Hidden Treasures of North KerryBeyond the well-trodden paths of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula lies North Kerry—a rural haven brimming with undiscovered beauty. From the vast stretches of Banner Beach to the quaint port village of Fenit, North Kerry is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered. Consider adding places like Ardfert with its ancient cathedrals and the isolated Rattoo round tower to your explorations. If you are following the Wild Atlantic Way to the Shannon Ferry, coastal points like Ballybunion and Carrigafoyle Castle are well off the trail of most tourists.Local Distillers in KerryKingdom Whiskey TastingFor a truly unique experience in County Kerry, indulge in a whiskey tasting event with Kingdom Whiskey Tasting . This mobile event company offers an immersive and educational journey into the world of whiskey. Unlike a typical tasting, these events are rich with stories, history, and insights into the production process. You'll discover the local brands and the passionate people behind them, all while savoring the flavors of Kerry's finest spirits.Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur or a curious traveler, these tastings are designed to be enjoyable for everyone. With the flexibility to host events in various locations across the county, you can tailor your experience to suit your preferences. It's a chance to connect with the local culture and enjoy a memorable evening of storytelling and spirits.Learn more about Kingdom Whiskey Tasting Events on their website or follow the craic on Facebook and Instagram...
Transcribe →The Best Time to Visit Ireland
Jan 14, 202500:24:45Tap to summarizeWe have visited in every month of the year and I can honestly say that any time you can go to Ireland is a good time to go!Planning your trip is dependent on your own schedule and the experiences you want to have, but trust me when I say that you can have an amazing Ireland vacation any month of the year.Below you will see a breakdown of what you can expect in Ireland, month by month, followed by recommendations on the best time to visit Ireland for specific areas and activities.The Holy Mountain of Croagh Patrick after a snow stormThis article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the bottom of the page to listen.When is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?There is no bad time to visit Ireland!My Favorite Month to Visit IrelandMy favorite time to visit Ireland is mid to late September. Why? It's not as busy as summer, the weather is still quite good, and prices are beginning to drop a bit for flights and accommodation.Visiting Ireland in January January in Ireland is the perfect time for a city break! Prices for everything from airfare to accommodations is less, and crowds are minimal. Most attractions and tours are open year round in Ireland's cities, though they may have shorter hours. Shorter days mean longer nights, so you can expect lively pubs in the afternoon and evenings. Ireland has a very temperate climate so even the coldest days don't often dip below freezing. Related Article: Visiting Ireland in January- What You Can Really ExpectVisiting Ireland in FebruaryFebruary is the cheapest month to fly to Ireland. In my experience February has the harshest weather of any month in Ireland as the country transitions from winter to spring. Much like January, February is a great time to focus on Irish cities.Carraigafoyle Castle, KerryVisiting Ireland in MarchIrish tourism gets a great boost in March due to St. Patrick's Day. You'll find many rural areas begin their tourism season around this time, though some may operate on shorter hours or limited days until the busier summer season. Weather in March can be varied, so you want to be sure to pack for any and all types of weather. Related Article: Ireland vacation Clothing You Shouldn't Leave Home WithoutVisiting Ireland in AprilYou'll find a little lull in tourists in April as the St. Patrick's Day revelers have departed and the busier travel season has not yet begun. Most tourism sites and attractions are open and ready for visitors, though hours may still be limited to specific days of the week. April weather is quite similar to March, though temperatures are on the rise.Visiting Ireland in MayMay is shoulder-season in Ireland and tourism begins its summer rise this month. Temperatures remain more consistent, in the mid-to-high 60s (Fahrenheit), and the longer days offer more time for exploration.Visiting Ireland in JuneThe busy summer season begins in June as school ends in America and families begin to travel in Ireland. You'll find the streets in Dublin and Galway filling with crowds and prices on everything from airfare and accommodations to car rental begin to rise.June weather can be quite pleasant, though there is always the possibility of cold rain and whipping winds, so don't forget a rain jacket and layers when packing!Beyond the Trees AvondaleVisiting Ireland in July and AugustWelcome to the ‘high season' of Irish tourism. School is out in Ireland and across Europe so this is when most families tend to visit Ireland. The most popular destinations across Ireland will be busy and lines at the most popular attractions can be long. Book as much in advance as possible to avoid disappointment. The good news about visiting Ireland in the summer months is that the daylight hours are incredibly long! The sun will rise before 5am and set after 10pm, with hours of twilight on either end. If you want to see as much as possible while in Ireland this is your best opportunity. It is best to remember that, while these are Ireland's warmest months, the temperature doesn't usually rise over 70 degrees Fahrenheit on average.Visiting Ireland in SeptemberAs I said above, this is my favorite month to visit Ireland. Crowds are beginning to diminish, the days are still long, and you're likely to have nice weather.All attractions are still open and you'll still be able to enjoy beautiful gardens and bright flowers around the country.Visiting Ireland in OctoberAs fall shoulder season comes to an end the cooler days are a terrific time to visit Ireland! Temperatures will hover in the mid-50s, on average, and the days begin to shorten.Harvest is in full swing in most of the country so you'll find plenty of festivals leading up to Samhain, the Celtic festival that is at the root of Halloween.<img decoding="async" width="1024" height="684" src="https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Winterval17-03-1024x684.jpg" alt="Ireland Christmas Fest...
Transcribe →Money Saving Tips for Your Ireland Vacation
Jan 7, 202500:27:28Tap to summarizeAn Ireland vacation doesn't have to break your budget! Use these tips to make your Euro go farther and help you save money in Ireland!In this article you'll learn eight essential tips for saving money while traveling in Ireland. From budgeting and timing your trip to finding the best flight deals and transportation options, this practical advice helps travelers maximize their experience without overspending. You'll learn the importance of planning, gain insight on accommodations, dining, attractions, and smart shopping strategies, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the beauty of Ireland without breaking the bank.This article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the bottom of the page to listen.Money Savings Tips for Ireland VacationsOne of the most powerful tools you can have to save money in Ireland is a plan! Use the ‘My Ireland Vacation Planner & Journal‘ to follow the exact steps I use to plan my own Ireland travels and tours. Save 10% with code tips10.Tip #1: Create a BudgetPerhaps the smartest thing you can do if you wish to save money on your Ireland vacation is create a budget. It's not fun, or sexy, but it will help you to understand where you money is being spent and help you to allot your funds into the things that matter.If you prefer adventure you may want to put more money into activities and tours and less into accommodations. Alternately, if you crave a luxury stay you will know how much money you have to put toward those accommodations.Your budget should include line items for flights, accommodations, meals, attractions, transportation, and souvenirs.Get my tips for planning an Ireland vacation budget plus a free simple budget download.Croagh Patrick looking beautiful in its snowy white cap (January)Tip # 2: When You Travel Makes a DifferenceTraveling during the busy, or ‘high season' always costs more. If you are serious about saving money look to the less popular shoulder seasons for your vacation. Remember – Ireland doesn't have huge weather fluctuations so traveling in early May or late September are likely to be just as nice as traveling in mid-July. Some of my favorite Ireland vacations have taken place in November and January! More information: read When is the Best Time to Visit Ireland Tip # 3: Monitor Flights to Find the Best Prices No offense to travel hackers, but I just don't have the time or patience for the airline or credit card miles game, nor am I willing to put up with multiple layovers to save a few dollars. Once I know my travel dates, I just use a few tools to do very simple flight monitoring. I check every route and airport that I could conceivably use and set flight alerts. Then I watch those routes to understand what the average price is so that when a deal comes up I am ready to grab my tickets. Learn my flight monitoring tricks and tools in the article Booking Your Flight to Ireland.Even tour buses cross the river on Shannon FerriesTip #4: Save Money on Transportation in IrelandIf you plan to self-drive book your car rental early to obtain the best rates (supply and demand during the busy summer months drives costs up as the dates get closer).Rent a manual transmission vehicle – but only if you know how to drive one! Ireland is NOT the place to learn to drive a stick shift! Rent the smallest vehicle you (and your family/ group) will be comfortable in. DO NOT skimp on a car that is too small – you will pay more to upgrade at the rental lot (if there is even availability to do so!). Don't rent a car for longer than you need. You do not need a car in Dublin – the city is very compact and walkable, and you will just be paying more to park it. Compare costs for one-way rentals and consider taking the bus or train to Galway, Limerick, or even Killarney and returning to Dublin at the end of your travels. If your credit card has car rental coverage in Ireland (most do not) you can certainly use that instead of purchasing CDW. Just understand that the rental company will place a large hold on your credit card. If you don't have credit card coverage DO NOT refuse CDW Excess to save a few dollars. In the long run it could cost you thousands. Use a comparison tool like Auto Europe or Discover Cars <rect fill="wh...
Transcribe →Essential Travel Tips for Ireland in 2025
Dec 31, 202400:24:14Tap to summarizeIf you're planning to visit Ireland in 2025 you need these Ireland travel tips before you begin booking!Below you'll learn about the new requirement for visiting Northern Ireland (and the UK), the days I recommend you NOT be in Dublin, and what's new in 2025.You'll also get handy tips on booking everything from accommodations to attractions.CLICK HERE to save this to your Ireland vacation planning board on Pinterest.Jody Halsted – Ireland Family Vacations and the Traveling in Ireland podcast.In case you're wondering why you would want to get your Ireland travel advice from me…My name is Jody Halsted, and I am an Ireland destination specialist. I have been traveling to and through Ireland for over 22 years (!!), publish Ireland Family Vacations, host the Traveling in Ireland podcast, assist hundreds of travelers with their Ireland vacations each year and, occasionally, I also host small group tours through Ireland.That's a lot! But Ireland travel is my passion; and my goal -100% – is to help you have an amazing Ireland vacation. And I have quite a few ways to do that.My website, Ireland Family Vacations, is a complete resource for Ireland vacation planning – filled with information on what to do & see as well as handy tips for planning your trip and free itineraries to get your plans in motion quickly. (Don't let the name fool you! I travel through Ireland solo, with my husband, with my family, and hosting small group tours. Whatever your group size or dynamic I am able to assist!)My itinerary personalization, vacation coaching, and custom itinerary creation services help you maximize your Ireland experience, and my small group guided tours are designed to not only deliver the ‘authentic' Ireland of your dreams but also introduce you to the people and hidden places that make the country so very magical.If you love the process of planning your trip the My Ireland Vacation Planner & Journal walks you step-by-step through my expert process, from when to visit and how long the perfect vacation lasts, to what to see, where to stay, and even what to eat.On a more personal note, I have 2 teenage daughters who have been traveling through Ireland with me since before they could toddle, one very supportive husband (who loves it when I plan other people's vacations because it means I'm not planning my own), and one large, very fluffy, dog who prefers we stay in the US and travel by RV so she can come along. My family at Malahide Castle.. By Aoife for Flytographer; Dublin, Ireland. All rights reserved.Now that you know all about me, let's jump into what you need to know as you consider planning an Ireland vacation in 2025!This article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the bottom of the page to listen.2025 Ireland Travel Tips You NeedIreland Travel Rules & RegulationsThere are currently no health restrictions in place for North Americans traveling to or from Ireland. But we all know how quickly that can change. Bookmark these sites for travel updates:current rules for traveling to Ireland are here current rules for returning to the US after international travel are here current rules for Canadians returning home can be found hereVintage Tea Trips in DublinIn Case of CancellationRead and understand cancellation policies before booking.If booking with a credit card be aware of the cancellation coverage you may have with that card.I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance if you book tickets our tours that don't allow 100% refund if cancelled.2025 Will Be (another) Busy Year ...
Transcribe →Visit Belleek Pottery in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland
Dec 19, 202400:25:13Tap to summarizeStep into the enchanting world of Belleek Pottery, nestled in the picturesque County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Belleek Pottery is synonymous with Irish craftsmanship. Whether it's a beautiful white vase decorated with shamrocks or one of the delicate woven baskets, Belleek is instantly recognizable.early BelleekThis article is based on a podcast episode featuring Patricia McCauley, Manager at the Belleek Visitor Centre in Fermanagh. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.Exploring Belleek Pottery and County FermanaghIf you're a pottery enthusiast or a curious traveler, a visit to Belleek promises to unveil the allure of one of Ireland's most cherished treasures.Castle Caldwell gates – now Castle Caldwell Forest ParkThe Origins of Belleek Pottery: A Tale of Discovery and CraftsmanshipBelleek Pottery's story begins with a serendipitous discovery by John Caldwell Bloomfield, an amateur mineralogist, and he did a survey and discovered the feldspar, the kaolin, all the different ingredients which went to making pottery, on the Castle Caldwell estate on Lough Erne.William Armstrong, who had expertise in ceramics and who was also an architect, joined him and David McBurney, was the financial guy from Dublin.Situated on the banks of the River Erne, this purpose-built factory, established in 1857, continues to produce the renowned Parian china, celebrated for its creamy translucence and delicate beauty.The Belleek Visitor Centre: A Journey into TraditionThe Belleek Visitor Centre offers a unique glimpse into the heart of the pottery-making process. Visitors can engage in guided tours, meeting the skilled craftspeople who bring each piece to life. Belleek Pottery factory & visitors centre – image provided by Belleek PotteryVisitor Experience and ToursAt the visitor centre, you’ll find a range of options to explore and enjoy. There is a lovely tearoom serving light meals or sweet treats, and a museum featuring pieces dating back to 1857. There’s also a showroom and an audio-visual presentation available in multiple languages.early Belleek stonewareThe highlight for most visitors is the guided tour, which runs Monday to Friday. This 30-minute tour takes you into the heart of the pottery factory, where you can meet the craftspeople, see their work up close, and learn about the production process.You can also enhance your visit with additional options. Start your morning with the guided tour followed by tea or coffee and scones, served on Belleek tableware with views of the River Erne. Or choose an afternoon tea package, which includes the tour and a relaxing tea experience.hands on Belleek Pottery experience – image provided by Belleek PotteryFor a more interactive visit, the hands-on experience lets you join the guided tour and then work with a craftsperson to paint your own pottery piece.Book into your Belleek experience online at Belleekpottery.ie or follow on Facebook and Instagram<svg width="24" height="24" style="height:16px; width:16px; fill:#000000; stroke:#000000; display:inline-block;" viewBox="0 0 24 24" version="1...
Transcribe →