Solo Travel Ireland: Ultimate Guide For an Epic Trip

Why solo travel to Ireland? You’ve got friendly Irish people, cute towns with character, a buzzing nightlife, and access to some of the most unique nature in the world. But there’s also Irish history, literature, and culture to explore. You get a balance of nature and culture in Ireland, making it an all-around destination for solo travellers. Perhaps you’ve wanted to solo travel Ireland but don’t know what to expect. So, here’s a guide to solo travel in Ireland from someone who’s done it!

Is Ireland a Good Place to Solo Travel?

Ireland is one of the best places to solo travel in Europe. Irish people are hospitable and friendly, and it’s easy to converse with locals. It’s also a relatively safe country with low crime rates, especially in rural areas. While Dublin and other larger cities have typical urban safety issues like pickpocketing, homelessness, and drugs, it doesn’t affect most tourist’s experiences.

One of the biggest perks is that English is the primary language in Ireland, making it easy for solo travelers to communicate and navigate. Nothing is worse than being stressed about getting around and having to translate.

Public transportation is also straightforward, reliable, and convenient and can get you in and out of the city center easily, primarily by bus. You can get around the country by train, which operates nationwide. Driving is also an option if you prefer to explore at your own pace.

What makes Ireland stand out from other European cities is that it has lots of fun cultural events, live music, nightlife, and its deep history with historical sites, castles, and museums. So, no matter your interests, Ireland has activities to suit them all, and it’s easy to plan a trip that aligns with your personal preferences.

Where to Go Solo Travel in Ireland?

There are dozens of small towns and nature preserves you could visit solo in Ireland, but here are the main four places solo travelers tend to go:

• Dublin: Ireland’s capital, Dublin, is rich in history and culture, with attractions like Trinity College, the Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, and the famous Temple Bar neighborhood. It’s the best starting point for any solo traveler, with plenty of museums, pubs, and live music venues to enjoy. But also because it has Ireland’s largest international airport, Dublin Airport.
• Galway: Known for its artsy, bohemian vibe (and being the famous location of Ed Sheeran’s song Galway Girl), Galway is a lively city in the west with colorful streets, traditional Irish music, and easy access to the stunning landscapes of Connemara and the Aran Islands. It’s a smaller, more intimate city, perfect for exploring on foot and soaking in the local culture.
• Cork: Cork is a vibrant city in the south, famous for its food scene, with the English Market being a must-visit. It’s also a gateway to the scenic beauty of West Cork, including the Beara Peninsula and historic sites like Blarney Castle. Cork offers a mix of urban culture and easy access to the countryside.
• Cliffs of Moher: One of Ireland’s most iconic natural attractions, the Cliffs of Moher are located on the west coast and offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The nearby Burren region also provides unique landscapes and walking trails, making it a perfect spot for solo travelers who love nature and photography.

Is It Easy to Tour Ireland On Your Own?

It’s very easy to tour Ireland on your own. Ireland has an excellent public transportation system, English-speaking locals, and various accommodation options. Buses and trains connect Major cities like Dublin, Galway, and Cork well, so it’s easy to move between destinations.

You can easily plan a cross-country trip to visit multiple cities by yourself. As long as you plan, you can book train tickets ahead of time for a smoother experience.

Double-check that attractions you’re interested in are open when you go and if you need to book tickets in advance. Book of Kells, for example, requires visitors to buy tickets online ahead of time, and they sell out quickly.

I personally didn’t stay in hostels when I solo traveled to Ireland, but there’s a backpacking scene. There are hostels in all the larger cities like Dublin, Limerick, Galway, and some near the Cliffs of Moher. So you can easily meet other solo travellers on your solo trip to Ireland.

And even if you don’t stay in hostels, strangers are friendly, and if you need help, they are more than willing to lend a hand. If you speak English and are comfortable using public transport, the most challenging thing is understanding the Irish accent, haha.

Is There a Lot to Do in Ireland?

There is so much to do in Ireland. Besides the famous attractions, here are some unique Irish experiences to enjoy solo:

• Go to a Traditional Irish Pub: Ireland’s pubs are legendary, with a wall of draft beer, amusing decorations, and a lively atmosphere. They’re all cozy warm, and always have a constant flow of people and alcohol.
• Experience Irish Dancing and Trad Music: You can’t leave Ireland without listening to traditional Irish music, or trad for short. It’s upbeat and lively and usually features a fiddle, flute, and bouzouki (similar to a banjo). You’ll find pubs featuring trad music all over Ireland, and you can usually pop in without buying a drink (if it’s busy).
• Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day: St. Patrick’s Day is huge in Ireland and is always celebrated on March 17th, with parades, street performances, and parties across the country. Dublin’s festival is particularly famous and crowded.
• Attend Gaelic Games: Ireland has a set of traditional Irish sports, which are called the Gaelic Games, which include Gaelic football, hurling, and rounders. The most popular is Gaelic football, which is basically Irish soccer. The games are high-energy and intense, but they give a great insight into Irish sporting culture.

How Much Does a Solo Trip to Ireland Cost?

The cost of a solo trip to Ireland can vary depending on your travel style, but it’s generally on par with other Western European destinations. While Ireland isn’t the cheapest destination in Europe, it’s more affordable than places like Switzerland or Scandinavia, yet pricier than Eastern European countries.

Here’s a table of how much I spent for three days in Dublin:

Item	Price
Airbnb	$145.82
Food	$98.11
Attractions	$39.25
Transportation	$21.80
Total	$304.98
Total Per Day:	$101.66

So, on average, you might spend around $100 to $130 per day, which includes mid-range accommodation, meals, transportation, and some activities.

My flight to Ireland from San Francisco cost USD 397.16, which is cheaper than flying across the U.S.! So, for one week in Ireland solo, you’ll spend around an average of 1200 USD, all-inclusive.

Housing is the most expensive thing in Ireland, especially in the more popular cities. My Airbnb was for two nights and was $64 per night, which was on the lower end for accommodation. Eating out at Dublin restaurants is also expensive, but that’s typical for anywhere. I also had a bus pass and unlimited transportation for the entire stay.

How to Save Money on your Solo Trip in Ireland: You can save money by staying in budget accommodations (or trying to at least), cooking some of your meals or buying meals from the grocery store, and taking advantage of free attractions.

Is Ireland Safe for Solo Travel?

As a whole, Ireland is safe, with low levels of violent crime and friendly people.

It can be less safe in bigger cities, but that’s not unique to Irish cities. You’ll have to be more cautious in any major city, especially at night. Personally, I’ve found that what you need to look out for is drunk people, especially around city centers or pubs.

My Experience: A large group of drunk guys walked by me in Dublin while I was waiting for the bus at night and were outwardly aggressive—pushing each other and making angry remarks—which made me on edge. Otherwise, I felt very safe in Dublin.

Is Dublin Safe for a Solo Female Traveler?

Dublin is like any other major city, if not safer than most. It’s safe for a solo female traveler, but I recommend not walking alone at night, especially in streets with less foot traffic or near busy pubs. Use common solo travel safety tips like use common sense, keep your wits about you when it’s late, and avoid questionable-looking alleyways or streets, and you’ll be fine!

Especially if you’re from the U.S., I’m certain Dublin is much safer than 80% of major American cities. You’ll feel the same safety concerns at home in Dublin but on a smaller extreme.

How to Solo Travel in Ireland

Know Where You Want to Go

With so many incredible towns and places to visit in Ireland, it’s impossible to see them all in one trip, so it’s important to prioritize what you want to experience.

Start by asking yourself what kind of adventure you’re after—are you drawn to the stunning natural landscapes, the rich cultural history, or the vibrant urban life? Your interests will guide your journey, but more importantly, how you get from place to place.

Some places are hard to get to via public transportation, and the country train system will only get you so far. For example, if you’re planning a more nature-focused trip to Ireland, say to the Cliffs of Moher, consider renting a car and driving. It will make your trip a lot smoother and more manageable. In that case, you’ll have to consider whether you’re comfortable driving alone for your trip.

Stay in Hostels or Private Rooms

As a solo traveler, finding affordable accommodation is key, and hotel rooms in Ireland can quickly eat into your budget since they’re usually priced for two. Hostels are an excellent option for meeting people and saving money, but they can also be pricey, especially in the cities. A hostel can easily cost over 85 USD per night, which is crazy! Hotel rooms are even more expensive.

A smart and cost-effective alternative is to stay in a private room in an outer suburb and commute into the city center. For example, in Dublin, I stayed in a Northern suburb Airbnb and took the bus to the city center, which took about 30 minutes.

Not only was it much cheaper, but I also got to experience a more authentic side of local life. Plus, the public transport in Ireland is reliable, making it easy to get where you need to go without breaking the bank.

Take Breaks

This is the number one tip all solo travelers should know: Leave some room in your itinerary for chill days and downtime. On my first solo trip, I quickly learned that it’s not a good idea to walk 20,000+ steps every day without rest. (I.e., I got sick). Not every day needs to be packed with activities where you’re crisscrossing the city to tick off five different sights. That’s just not good travel habits!

Rest is essential for your body to recover so you can keep going, especially if you’re traveling for more than a few days. It might seem counterintuitive to slow down when you’re eager to see and do everything but trust me, you’ll need it to truly enjoy your trip.

How to Combat Loneliness

Loneliness is rarely discussed in solo travel, but it’s something many experience. Feeling lonely, especially on your first solo trip, is entirely normal. The best way to handle it is to reach out and make connections.

Making friends on the road, whether through hostels, group tours, or local meetups, can really help. Even a simple conversation with a fellow traveler or local can lift your spirits and remind you that you’re not alone.

Another great idea is to immerse yourself in the local culture—join a cooking class, attend a live music event, or explore a local market. These activities keep you engaged and help you feel more connected to your surroundings.

Remember, feeling lonely is a natural part of solo travel and doesn’t diminish the experience. In fact, it can make the connections you form even more meaningful. And when you miss home, it’s a sign of your strong bonds, which will be there waiting for you when you return.

How to Make Friends

One of the greatest perks of solo travel is making new friends and connections, but it’s not always easy. A simple and effective way to meet people is by joining a tour or taking a class—whether it’s a day trip or a workshop that aligns with your interests—for example, a pub crawl in Dublin or Galway, a day excursion to a nearby city.

If you’re looking for other ways to connect, consider staying in social accommodations like hostels or attending local events and meetups.

Even something as simple as sitting at a communal table in a café or participating in a local activity can lead to meaningful connections. The key is to put yourself in environments where interaction happens naturally, and soon enough, you’ll find yourself surrounded by like-minded travelers and locals.

Here are 5+ other ways to make friends on your solo travels.

Book Tours or Day Excursions

Famous nature attractions like Killarney National Park, the Ring of Kerry, and Donegall’s west coast can be tricky to see without private transportation. And if you try to use public transport, it can be a headache to make sure you’re on the right bus and doublecheck timetables.

It’s much easier to book tours or day excursions for bigger ticket items that may require more planning or are less accessible solo (without a car). Tours are a fantastic treat for solo travel because it’s a stress-free way to explore without planning every detail.

It’s as simple as picking an activity that interests you, booking in advance, and then just showing up and enjoying the experience. Excursion prices vary widely, typically from $50 to $150 per day, depending on the activity and destination. But it’s a nice way to break up a solo trip, especially if you’re tired.

What to Eat in Ireland

Ireland has a lot of delicious traditional foods that are a must-try for any visitor. Here are some must-eats in Ireland:

• Irish Stew: A hearty and comforting dish, typically made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, slow-cooked to perfection.
• Guinness: Ireland’s iconic stout is found in every pub in Ireland. Pair it with a meal or Irish stew—a classic combination you’ll find in pubs nationwide.
• Keogh’s Crisps (Chips): Ireland’s kettle chips! They’re made from locally grown Irish potatoes and available in a variety of unique flavors like Shamrock & Sour Cream or Cheese and Onion (Tayto’s is also an iconic brand).
• Irish Breakfast: Similar to an English breakfast, it’s a filling meal that typically includes bacon, sausages, fried eggs, black and white pudding, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. It’s often served with a side of baked beans and washed down with a strong cup of tea or coffee.
• Soda bread: A traditional Irish bread with a dense texture and slightly tangy flavor, delicious with butter and jam.
• Boxty: Another Irish staple similar to a Latke, Boxty is a type of potato pancake that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside and is often eaten with a tart apple sauce. There’s also a funny rhyme, “Boxty on the griddle, boxty on the pan; if you can’t make boxty, you’ll never get a man.”

Eating alone is also quite common in Ireland, and no one will bat an eyelash if you eat alone. It’s more opportunity for someone to spark conversation! If you’re not comfortable eating alone, here are some tips to make eating alone less scary when you travel alone.

Are Irish People Nice?

Absolutely! Irish people are famously friendly and welcoming, which is one of the reasons Ireland is such a great destination for solo travelers. Whether you’re asking for directions, striking up a conversation in a pub, or just passing by on the street, you’ll often be met with warmth.

Locals are known for their hospitality and love for chatting, and this friendly atmosphere makes traveling in Ireland feel so safe and inviting.

My Experience: I met some great people in Ireland, from my Airbnb host to a friend of a friend and conversing with strangers at a cafe. They were all so friendly and gave me recommendations on where to go and what to do. Plus, what and where to eat. I also had dinner with a random stranger while waiting for a table at a busy restaurant and connected about our lives.

How to Get Around Ireland

Getting around Ireland is relatively easy, with several options depending on how you want to experience the country. The best option is to take the Irish Rail, which can get you from all the major cities and then some. Irish Rail connects all across the country, including to Northern Ireland.

Fares vary depending on where you’re going, but for short routes, it’s inexpensive, costing less than 3 Euros. From city to city, it starts at around 10 Euros and goes up to 25 Euros. But if you book ahead, you can find cheaper tickets.

All the large cities have great bus systems that will get you to your destination and often have connections to the airport or train station as well. And, conveniently, Ireland’s public transportation system uses the same card—Leap Card—to pay for all methods of transport like the bus, train, DART, etc.

As mentioned, renting a car is your best bet if you want to see many nature spots.

However, be prepared for narrow, winding roads and driving on the left side! You may need an international license to drive in Ireland, depending on your home country. But if you’re not comfortable driving, consider booking a tour instead.

When to Solo Travel Ireland

Irish weather is so rainy that there are jokes about it:

It only rains once a week in Ireland. It rains once for seven days.

Ireland has four seasons: rainy winter, rainy spring, rainy summer, and rainy winter.

So, Ireland is known for its rain, which is a possibility year-round. However, the mild temperatures make it a great destination any time of year:

• Shoulder Seasons Are Best: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal times to visit. During these shoulder seasons, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds, lower prices, and still pleasant weather (with a change of rain).
• Summer for Long Days: Summer is the best season if you enjoy long daylight hours and want to maximize your time exploring. You can expect up to 18 hours of daylight from June to August, perfect for those packed sightseeing days.

Before you plan your trip, make sure you’re aware of major holidays in Ireland so you don’t travel during a really busy or dead time. Big holidays include Easter, Christmas, St. Patty’s Day, New Year’s, and Bank Holidays.

What to Pack for Ireland

Packing for Ireland requires a bit of strategy to prepare for the ever-changing weather. So, here are some travel essentials you shouldn’t forget:

• Raincoat/Poncho: A good raincoat or poncho is a must. With rain being a frequent visitor, you’ll want to stay dry while exploring. It’s beneficial if your raincoat is slightly larger so you can layer up underneath if it’s cold outside.
• Umbrella: A compact umbrella can be a lifesaver, especially during unexpected downpours. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to handle the occasional strong wind.
• Good Walking Shoes: Ireland is where you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, whether through streets or along coastal paths. Comfortable, waterproof (or water-resistant) shoes with good grip are essential.
• Layers: The weather can change quickly, so packing layers is vital. It can be sunny and warm in the morning and gray and cold at noon. Think light sweaters, scarves, long sleeves, and versatile outerwear that can be easily added or removed.
• Daypack: A small, durable backpack or tote bag is handy for carrying your essentials, like water, snacks, and extra layers, especially on day trips or hikes.

Solo Travel Tips for Ireland

Here are some tips to make your solo travel in Ireland better:

• Embrace the Pub Culture: Irish pubs are more than just places to grab a drink—they’re social hubs where you can meet locals and fellow travelers alike. Don’t be shy about conversing with the person next to you at the bar. Many connections in Ireland start over a pint of Guinness!
• Mix Up Your Accommodations: Stay in a mix of hostels, B&Bs, and even the occasional boutique hotel. Hostels and B&Bs are great for meeting other travelers and getting local tips, while a nice hotel stay can give you a well-deserved break and some privacy. Especially if you’re visiting multiple cities in Ireland, it’s a great way to add some variety to your trip.
• Explore Beyond the Tourist Hotspots: While cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway are must-sees, don’t forget to explore smaller towns and rural areas. Places like Dingle, Kinsale, and Connemara offer stunning landscapes, a more relaxed pace, and a more intimate view of Ireland.
• Look Both Ways Before Crossing the Street: Remember that in Ireland, cars drive on the left side of the road. Be sure to look both ways—especially to your right—before crossing the street (for all my right-side-of-the-road driving friends).
• Tips Are Not Required: Tipping in Ireland isn’t mandatory, and while it’s appreciated for good service, especially in restaurants, it’s not expected anywhere. You won’t offend anyone by not tipping in pubs or cafes. 10-15% is the general rule if you have terrific service.
• First Time Flying Alone?: No worries! Ireland airports, like most airports, are very easy to navigate. Everything is in English so it’s easy to get to and from ground transportation to your terminal.

Now You Can Solo Travel Ireland Easily!

That’s all my tips on how to solo travel Ireland! Ireland is a beginner-friendly place to start your solo travel journey, especially because locals are friendly and speak English. There’s a lot of culture and history to learn in Ireland, and it helps that the Irish have so many fun ways of celebrating and having a good time. My favorite experiences include listening to live trad music and having a pint of Guinness, but you’ll be able to form your own favorites soon enough. Happy travels!