Complete Ireland Travel Guide

Typical Travel Costs in Ireland

Accommodations

Budget

If you’re traveling on a budget, hostels are an excellent choice. Prices can range from $20 to $40 per night for a dorm bed. Budget hotels and guesthouses typically cost between $50 and $80 per night for a private room. Airbnb options can also be found in this range if you book well in advance.

Mid-Range

For a more comfortable stay, mid-range hotels and bed and breakfasts are widely available. Expect to pay between $80 and $150 per night. These accommodations usually offer better amenities and a more personalized experience. Booking.com and other travel sites often feature competitive rates for these options.

Luxury

If you’re looking for luxury, Ireland boasts numerous high-end hotels and castles that offer exceptional services and amenities. Prices range from $200 to $500 per night or more, depending on the season and location. These places often provide unique experiences that can make your trip unforgettable.

Food

Budget

Eating on a budget is possible, with many cafes, fast food options, and takeaways that offer meals for under $10. A hearty Irish breakfast can cost between $7 and $12. Grocery shopping and cooking your meals is also a viable option for those staying in hostels or Airbnb accommodations.

Mid-Range

Mid-range dining will generally set you back about $15 to $30 per meal. Pubs serve hearty meals like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and Irish stew in this price range. Restaurants offering international cuisine also fit within this budget.

Luxury

For a high-end dining experience, expect to pay $50 to $100 per person at top-tier restaurants. Michelin-starred establishments and exclusive dining experiences can be pricier, often exceeding this range. These venues provide exquisite cuisine and top-notch service.

Transportation

Traveling around Ireland offers multiple options depending on your needs and budget. Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is both reliable and affordable. A one-way bus ticket within a city costs around $2 to $3, while intercity bus fares range from $10 to $30. Train travel is slightly more expensive, with fares usually between $30 to $70 for intercity journeys.

Renting a car provides more flexibility and can cost about $30 to $70 per day, excluding fuel. Fuel prices average about $1.60 per liter, or approximately $6 per gallon. Keep in mind that driving is on the left side of the road.

Taxi and rideshare services like Uber are available in larger cities. Typical taxi fares start at $4 with an additional $1.60 per kilometer. For short rides, you might pay around $10 to $20.

Attractions

Ireland is rich in cultural and historical attractions, many of which are free or low-cost. Museums in Dublin, such as the National Museum of Ireland, often provide free entry. Visiting historic sites like the Cliffs of Moher or the Giant’s Causeway has entrance fees ranging from $5 to $15.

Guided tours and experiences, such as visiting Blarney Castle or taking a distillery tour, generally cost between $15 and $30. Multi-day tours exploring various parts of the country can range from $200 to $600, depending on the duration and inclusions.

Purchasing a Heritage Card from Heritage Ireland, costing around $45, grants you unlimited access to a wide range of heritage sites across the country. This can be a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple attractions.