But let’s just be clear, Ireland is an expensive country. Though as I’ve said, it is indeed very possible to enjoy your time in Ireland on a budget. In fact, I think you can even stick to a travel budget of 40 Euros a day.

With a good amount of trip planning and willingness to sacrifice comfort for saving some money, it is possible to make Ireland affordable. Luckily, we’ve gone ahead and done the homework for you. So sit back, relax, and take notes on how to travel Ireland on a budget.

Transportation

Ireland is not a massive country like the US or Russia so it is possible to drive from one end of the country to the other in one day.

I recommend renting the smallest, most affordable yet dependable car possible. Book well in advance to ensure you get the best pricing for your rental car. This is where traveling with a friend or partner comes in handy because you can split the cost of the car and make it even cheaper.

Like anything else, the longer you have the car, the further the daily rate goes down so if you do choose to rent a car, try to have it for at least 5 days or a week.

The second option I’d recommend for transportation would be to cycle across Ireland. This option is considerably cheaper, but definitely more of an adventure and you must have much more time to travel around Ireland.

The final option which is definitely the cheapest way to travel around Ireland is using your own two feet and walking! I know this sound crazy, but according to Google Maps, if you walk from Dublin to Galway, it would only take you 42 hours. You could realistically walk the country in one week.

Of course, this is assuming that you are doing this walk in summer. Along the way, you can discover the charming Irish countryside and stay in smaller towns.

Accommodations

Speaking of where to stay, there are various budget-friendly options you should know about as you’re planning your own trip to Ireland.

The first is to bring your own camping gear and stay in camping sites. This low-cost option involves more planning to make sure you have all of the right equipment but can be extremely rewarding waking up in Ireland’s lush, green hills. There are plenty of camping sites that are specifically designed for travelers with all of the amenities you need including showers.

Be wary of camping outside of these sites, as it is considered illegal. Make sure you get the express consent of landowners before pitching your tent somewhere.

The next option for budget travelers is to stay in hostels. While in major cities such as Dublin, you will pay a premium, outside of these cities, hostels get considerably cheaper. You can expect to pay 15 Euros a night with many including breakfast in the price. A nice bonus part about hostels is that it is easy to meet fellow travelers and maybe you can even hitch a ride to the next town.

Dining

As a traveler that does plenty of sports when I travel, I struggle the most with not spending a fortune on eating out. Luckily, I have found some methods that work anywhere in the world to save some money on food.

The best way for eating in Ireland on a budget is to determine how much you are willing to spend daily on food. For example, maybe you only want to spend 15 Euros a day on food, you have to do your research and look for any restaurant specials you can find.

Something that has helped me tremendously, however, is not eating out at restaurants. I always try to find local markets or grocery stores. In Ireland, large supermarkets such as Tesco, Dunnes, Asda, or Sainsbury’s offer the most affordable food.

I look for any discounts, coupons, or specials that the store currently has. I usually stick to basics such as protein, vegetables, and fruit. I never regularly buy sweets or sodas that don’t add any nutritional value to my meals and just add costs to my budget.

The final piece of advice that I would recommend is to try to cook your own meals whenever possible. Besides being healthier for you, you can save a lot of money by buying the raw ingredients yourself and cooking a nice meal.

If you are traveling with friends or your partner, you can split the costs of the meal to further reduce how much you are spending. If you are staying at a hostel, invite others to have dinner with you and most are more than willing to return the favor the next night.

Sightseeing

Of course, you traveled to Ireland to see the country and there are a ton of places to see! Like many countries, tourism is a massive industry in Ireland and they charge a premium for this service. Have no fear though, if you come prepared and plan ahead, you’ll be able to see everything you want to see without spending a fortune on admission.

One of the best-kept secrets in Ireland’s tourism industry is called the Heritage Card. It costs 90 Euros for two adults and is well worth the cost if you plan on seeing more than 7 historical sites across Ireland. You can easily stop by 8-10 historical sites in a week and each site costs about 13 Euros so the card starts paying for itself quite quickly.

The card works throughout Ireland and looks like a credit card. With the Heritage Card, you’ll have access to over 97 sites within the country. However, be aware that the Cliffs Of Moher is not included on the card and it charges its own rate.

Another little-known piece of advice to take advantage of is that most sites have Wednesdays when entry is free. On these days, each historical site becomes extremely crowded so if you want to go, I’d recommend that you go at the opening of the site to make sure you get in without any problems.

Know any other tips to travel Ireland on a budget? Please feel free to share them below in the comments section!

Suggested next reading: 15 Gorgeous Towns In Ireland You Need To See

The post The Perfect Guide On How To Travel Ireland On A Budget appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Below is a list of 15 of them. Some of them are absolutely amazing and, should you visit Ireland, these towns provide a great chance to discover something unique, authentic and rich in Irish culture.

This side of Ireland simply should not be missed if you want an unforgettable trip. So, let’s go boyo!  Here’s our list of 15 gorgeous towns in Ireland you need to see:

1. Adare

16 km south-west of Limerick, Adare has the reputation of being one of Ireland’s prettiest villages. This is primarily due to the quaint thatched cottages that will make you feel like you’ve gone back in time.

Nearby, in the middle of a park, stands the superb neo-Gothic castle of Adare Manor. For two centuries it was the residence of the Counts of Dunraven, but today it functions as a hotel.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by DreamEscapeLtd (@dreamescapeltd)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Adare Manor Hotel (@theadaremanor)

2. Dingle

Dingle is a small fishing village in the county of Kerry in the south of the country, where you can experience the most authentic Irish pubs and tales of sailors just landed on land.

It is worth exploring both the town and the marvelous surrounding peninsula of rolling green hills—in Ireland there are 40 shades of green—and ruins of ancient castles adding extra sparkle to this enchanting land.

Nearby to Dingle, Conor Pass, one of the highest Irish mountain passes that actually has a road going through it, would be a great addition to any Ireland road trip.

3. Lahinch

If you like surfing then Lahinch is for you. With its own surf schools, seaside atmosphere and hearty local bars, Lahinch will make for an ideal adventurous weekend filled with both relaxation and fun.

Once you’ve come off the waves and dried down there are plenty of great bars (such as O’Looney’s Bar & Restaurant) for a warm evening meal and a great pint of beer. Highly recommended also comes Flanagans Bar.

You’re also only a 15-minute drive away from the Cliffs of Moher—a truly world-famous place of natural beauty located so close to one of the most gorgeous towns in Ireland…how convenient!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @mysticirishgolf

4. Kilkenny

Kilkenny, a medieval town in the southeast of Ireland, is famous all over the world for the production of its exquisite Kilkenny beer.

The marvelous medieval castle and the artisan shops that produce wool, leather and fine wooden artifacts only make the place extra charming.

5. Galway

Although technically a city rather than a town, Galway is the youngest and liveliest city in Ireland—and it deserves a wee mention here.

Consisting of many pubs and traditional Irish music festivals, one can experience the most enjoyable atmosphere.

But if fun in the city is not your sort of thing, then the idyllic county that surrounds the city offers awesome countryside adventures.

You may even want to check out Connemara National Park, a place filled with lakes, mountains and heathland—while it may be around 1.5 hours away by car, it’d make for a great day trip if you want some fresh air and stunning views.

6. Westport

Westport is one of those Irish towns that will remain in your heart: with its steep uphill streets with small pretty squares, the Georgian facades of shops that make up a colorful kaleidoscope, the gurgling river with stone bridges adorned with flowers, the many cozy pubs, and the calm and peaceful atmosphere that will make you feel at home.

Stop by at night to witness Westport’s strong love for traditional music in one of its many pubs, while during the day enjoy its subtler charm as it soothes your soul with the bright colors that adorn many of its humble lodgings.

7. Dalkey

Dalkey is actually one of the most wealthy suburbs in Dublin. Alright, so perhaps you’re wondering why I’ve just mentioned Dublin in this list—hardly a hidden gem, right?

While that might be true, in reality, there are lots of hidden gems around and within Dublin, and Dalkey is just one shining example.

Dalkey was founded as a Viking settlement along (repeat: LONG) time ago and became a lively port during the Medieval era. As a result, it is steeped in history and features, for example, a 10^th Century church and 2 Norman castles.

Located near the sea, Dalkey is extremely picturesque. Is it any wonder why Bono, Enya and Van Morrison all live nearby? You’ll know what we mean if you visit it for yourself.

8. Carlingford

An ancient and picturesque fishing village located between the Cooley Peninsula mountains and the Carlingford Lough, Carlingford is a place rich in history. It still retains its medieval charm despite recently developing an exclusive holiday resort.

Carlingford, truly one of the more gorgeous towns in Ireland with its narrow lanes and small streets, has lots of things to see such as King John’s Castle, its Dominican Friary, and The Mint.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Siobhán Rheinisch (@siobhanrhein)

9. Lismore

A small town on the Blackwater River at the foot of the Knockmealdown Mountains, Lismore is dominated by Lismore Castle, which has been the residence of the Dukes of Devonshire since 1753 and whose gardens are open to the public.

Worth seeing is Saint Laryore Cathedral, Lismore Castle Gardens, Lismore Heritage Center, Lady Louisa’s Walk and Town Walk.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BidEA_ohMG7/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BqI0PmMlNaf/

10. Clonakilty

A pleasant town in the western county of the county, Clonakilty can be taken as a base to explore the peninsulas and beautiful beaches to the south.

The town is distinguished by the traditional music played in many of its clubs and is perhaps best known for being the birthplace of the Republican leader Michael Collins, the remains of whose house are still visible.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by I Love Clonakilty (@i_love_clonakilty)

11. Ardmore

One of the most gorgeous towns in Ireland and a famous seaside resort, Ardmore offers a beautiful beach and some interesting buildings, as well as lively pubs and opportunities for long walks in the hills. On the hill next to the village is a monastery founded in the 5^th Century by St Declan.

(We’re 99% sure the image below is Photoshopped, but nonetheless, we thought this was pretty cool when we searched for “Ardmore” on Instagram!)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Travel | Photography (@lordofthetravellers)

12. Cobh

A port town 23 km south-east of Cork, Cobh is located on an island in Cork Bay. Its colorful 19^th Century houses evoke the ancient prosperity of what was the great port of the transoceanic line of Cork.

It is here that many emigrants embarked under painful conditions to escape famine and find their fortune in America.

Right here the Titanic made its last stop on April 11, 1912, before the unfortunate inaugural cruise in the Atlantic Ocean: the town boarded 113 passengers that day, while one passenger, John Coffey (who had boarded in Southampton, England) decided to leave the ship and thus narrowly escaped death.

13. Carrick-on-Shannon

A small county town of Leitrim, Carrick-on-Shannon is situated in a pretty spot, on a narrow loop of the River Shannon. The town owes much to its ideal geographic position which contributed to its industrial and tourist development.

An important nautical center, Carrick has further benefited from the reopening of the Shannon-Erne Waterway, the waterway connecting it to Northern Ireland.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Carrick On Shannon (@carrick.on.shannon)

14. Howth

A village and outer suburb of Dublin, Howth was where movies such as Sing Street and The Last of the High Kings were filmed. Thanks to Howth Castle, Howth can also claim to have the oldest occupied building in all of Ireland.

Located near the sea (which, of course, offers stunning views) and being so close to Dublin, Howth is a must-see.

15. Kenmare

A medium-sized town located within a fjord, Kenmare is one of the most popular tourist destinations along the Ring of Kerry.

Founded in 1670 by Cromwell’s inspector, William Petty, today it is a lively seaside resort, famous for its handmade lace, the packaging of which dates back to the period of the Great Famine when the nuns of Poor Clare Convent introduced the processing of lace to provide work for women and girls.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BqNUz5VHq3r/

The best thing about all of these gorgeous towns in Ireland is that each one of them has their own history, culture and vibrancy. While visiting these towns, you’ll catch glimpses of the real soul of Ireland in a much more authentic way than if you’d just visited the main tourist areas.

Know of any more gorgeous towns in Ireland not listed here? Please comment below and we will add it to the list!

Suggested next reading: 20 Amazing Places That’ll Make You Want To Visit Ireland

The post 15 Gorgeous Towns In Ireland You Need To See appeared first on Modern Trekker.

The Cliffs Of Moher are one of the more beautiful attractions in Ireland. They are sea cliffs in the Burren region of County Clare Ireland. In Dublin, you can get day trips to The Cliffs of Moher, which is handy if you don’t drive/don’t know your way around Ireland. From the cliffs, you can see the Aran Islands, the Maumturks (mountains) and so much more! With great views and coastal walks, this attraction generates over 1 million visitors per year.

2. Temple Bar

Now before going to temple bar, let me warn you that you will leave with no money because it is SO expensive. Temple Bar is the cultural quarter of Dublin, it’s where all the best pubs and restaurants are situated. I can personally recommend a restaurant there called “Boxty” as the food is phenomenal.

3. Phoenix Park

Phoenix Park was created 356 years ago and has so much history based around it. The park runs for 2.73 square miles. There is so much to do at Phoenix Park, such as Dublin Zoo, the President’s home, Papal Cross, The Wellington Monument. If you take a bus tour you will find out a lot more about the history of the park.

 

A post shared by Mirek (@nocarz40) on Jul 11, 2018 at 1:50am PDT

4. Rock of Cashel

 

A post shared by Markus (@bullet_prooofff) on Aug 30, 2018 at 2:18am PDT

Also called Cashel of the Kings or St. Patrick’s Rock, the Rock of Cashel was the traditional seat for the Kings of Munster for a good number of years before the Norman Invasion. Built on the rock of Cashel is a very well preserved round tower dating from the 1100’s and Cormac’s chapel, the chapel of King Cormac Mac Carthaigh which was consecrated in 1134. Definitely a must for photographers and historians.

5. Ha’Penny Bridge

 

A post shared by dublincityshots (@dublincityshots) on Aug 29, 2018 at 11:00pm PDT

The Ha’Penny Bridge is a pedestrian bridge erected in 1816 over the River Liffey and is made of Cast Iron. Originally the bridge was called “The Wellington Bridge” after the Duke of Wellington, but now the ‘official’ name of the bridge is actually “The Liffey Bridge”, but it’s better known as “The Ha’Penny Bridge”.

6. Blarney Stone

The Blarney Stone is a block of limestone that was built into the battlements of Blarney castle. Situated around 5 miles from Cork, it is said that the stone gives anyone who kisses it “the gift of the gab” (an Irish and British expression meaning that one talks a lot!) The stone currently sits in a tower in Blarney Castle where tourists from all over can kiss it.

7. Kilmainham Gaol

 

A post shared by pics22 (@p_pics22) on Aug 30, 2018 at 9:25pm PDT

A former prison turned museum in Dublin, when it was first built in 1796 it was called “New Gaol” to distinguish it from the old prison it was supposed to replace. There was no segregation in this prison meaning that men, women, and children were put together and cells often had up to 5 people put in them in the cold and the dark. It is now often used in film and television shows to depict prisons.

8. Christ Church Cathedral

Also known as The Cathedral of The Holy Trinity, this cathedral sits in Dublin. Founded in 1030, this cathedral now belongs to the Church Of Ireland and everyone is welcome to join in with their liturgy. It’s just as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside so I definitely recommend a visit. Dublinia is also right next door so you could make a day trip out of it (see tip 12).

9. Guinness Storehouse

 

A post shared by Harriet Allen (@hatti.faye) on Mar 1, 2018 at 2:52pm PST

When you tell people they are going to Dublin the first things they ask is, “Are you going to the Guinness Storehouse”. This is because it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. You can get a tour of the storehouse which has been there since 1759 and even a pint of Guinness at the end.

10. Blarney Castle

 

A post shared by Andy Furnival (@andy_f_23) on Aug 30, 2018 at 6:53am PDT

Home of the Blarney Stone, this castle is a medieval stronghold in Blarney. The castle dates back to before 1200 although the original building was destroyed and the current castle grounds were built in 1446 by Cormac Laidir MacCarthy. A great day out for families and history nerds.

11. Jameson Distillery

An Irish Whisky tourist attraction which was where Jameson Whisky was distilled until 1971, however, it now serves as a visitors center that offers guided tours. Originally known as Bow Street Distillery it was established in 1780. If you’re not a fan of Guinness, definitely give the Jameson Distillery a visit because you’ll get whiskey at the end of the tour.

12. Dublinia

Want to learn more about the Vikings that inhabited Ireland? This is the place to go. It’s a very interactive museum and is fantastic for kids. Situated near Christ Church Cathedral I recommend a visit.

Tickets cost €9.50 for an adult and €6.00 for a child 4 and over. Here’s their website: http://www.dublinia.ie/

13. The National Wax Museum Plus, Dublin

 

A post shared by Sinéad (@sinny22) on Aug 25, 2018 at 5:03am PDT

Situated in Dublin, this wax museum is a must-do. They’ve got wax figures of everyone, from Jedward (you’ll know who I mean if you’re Irish or British) to Oscar Wilde to Freddie Kruger. This is great for kids and adults alike and they even have photo opportunities.

14. Skellig Islands

Previously called “the Skellocks”, the Skellig Islands are two steep and rocky islands. The smaller of the two is Little Skellig which is closed to the public, though is also the home of Ireland’s largest—and actually one of the world’s largest—northern gannet colony. The bigger island is Skellig Michael A.K.A. Great Skellig. On Skellig Michael, there is a sixth-century Catholic Monastery.

15. Dublin Castle

Originally built as a defensive fortification for the Norman city of Dublin, it later became a Royal residence. The castle itself is used for the inauguration of Irish Presidents and hosting official state visits, however, you are free to book a guided tour of the grounds.

16. The Leprechaun Museum

This is a museum dedicated to Irish folklore and mythology. It’s more of a storytelling experience than a history-focused museum, but it’s nonetheless very interesting. Each session lasts around 45 minutes and is great for families with kids 7+.

17. Giant’s Causeway

Giant’s Causeway consists of 40,000 basalt stone columns which were left by a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can get personalized guided tours or follow trails and take in some beautiful coastal scenery.

18. St. Stephen’s Green

A city center park in Dublin. It sits next to Grafton Street, Dublin’s main shopping street. Before 1663, the green was a marshy area used for grazing, in fact, it wasn’t re-opened to the public until 1877. The space is filled with memorials, statues and even a fountain.

19. King John’s Castle

 

A post shared by Mariana @ PopVilla (@thepopvilla) on Aug 29, 2018 at 3:46pm PDT

This is a 13th-century castle on King’s Island in Limerick. The actual site dates back to 922 when the Vikings inhabited the island, though the castle itself wasn’t built until 1200 for King John. It’s known as one of the best preserved Norman castles in the entirety of Europe.

20. Bunratty Castle

 

A post shared by Bunratty Castle & Folk Park (@bunrattycastle) on Feb 10, 2018 at 1:53pm PST

A large 15th-century tower house in County Clare, Ireland. The present structure of the castle was built by the Macnamara family around 1425 and is now a major tourist attraction. It’s famous for its medieval banquets which have been running since 1963.

PS. If you’re finished with Ireland now, to learn about awesome places to visit in Scotland click here!

The post 20 Amazing Places That’ll Make You Want To Visit Ireland appeared first on Modern Trekker.