Ireland Travel Tourism Guide

Ireland Travel Guide for Indian Tourists: Discover the Emerald Isle

Ireland, the Emerald Isle, invites Indian travellers on a magical journey filled with rich history, breath taking landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the bustling charm of Dublin’s streets to the serene beauty of the Ring of Kerry, this destination offers the perfect blend of experiences for every kind of tourism lover. Whether you're planning a cultural trip or a scenic escape, this travel guide will help you craft the perfect itinerary. With specially curated Ireland tour package from India, your travel becomes seamless, your trip unforgettable, and your memories everlasting.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June-August): Ideal for outdoor activities with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C.
• Autumn (September-November): Mild weather and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring the countryside.
• Winter (December-February): Cold temperatures and shorter days; suitable for those seeking a quiet retreat.​

Top Places to Visit

Dublin

• Trinity College & The Book of Kells: Ireland's oldest university and home to the famous illuminated manuscript.
• St. Patrick's Cathedral: The largest cathedral in Ireland, dedicated to the country's patron saint.
• Temple Bar: Dublin's cultural quarter, known for its lively pubs and cobblestone streets.​

Galway

• Spanish Arch: A historic landmark and part of the city's medieval walls.
• Eyre Square: A central public park surrounded by shops and restaurants.
• Galway Bay: Offers scenic views and opportunities for water activities.​

Killarney

• Killarney National Park: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve featuring lakes, mountains, and woodlands.
• Ladies View: A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Ross Castle: A 15th-century castle located on the edge of Lough Leane.​

Cork

• Blarney Castle: Home to the famous Blarney Stone; kissing it is said to grant the gift of eloquence.
• English Market: A covered food market offering a variety of local produce.
• St. Patrick's Street: Cork's main shopping street, known for its vibrant atmosphere. ​

Major Events & Public Holidays

• St. Patrick's Day (March 17): Celebrates Ireland's patron saint with parades and festivities.
• Galway International Arts Festival (July): A celebration of music, theatre, and visual arts.
• Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival (September): A culinary event showcasing Ireland's seafood. ​

Indian Food Availability

• Dublin: Tamarind, the Kashmir, and Doolally Taproom.
• Cork: Ananda and Tandoori Nights.
• Galway: Taj Mahal and Jaipur.​

These establishments offer a range of Indian dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring a taste of home while abroad.​

Visa Information for Indian Citizens

• Tourist Visa: Required for Indian passport holders.
• Application Process: Submit an online application through the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS).
• Documents Needed:
  • Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Travel itinerary
  • Financial statements
  • Travel insurance
• Processing Time: Approximately 8-10 weeks.​

Destination Suitability

• Families: Ideal for exploring castles, parks, and cultural sites.
• Honeymooners: Romantic settings in Killarney and Galway.
• Seniors: Relaxed pace with scenic drives and cultural experiences.
• Solo Travelers: Safe environment with rich history and friendly locals.​

Group Tour or Private Tour?

• Group Tours: Cost-effective and sociable; suitable for first-time visitors.
• Private Tours: Tailored experiences with flexibility; ideal for those seeking personalized itineraries.​

How to Reach & Public Transport

• Flights from India: No direct flights; connect via Middle Eastern or European hubs.
• Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa.
• Public Transport:
  • Dublin: DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit), Luas (tram system), and buses.
  • Cork: Bus Éireann services.
  • Galway: City buses and taxis.
• City Passes: Dublin Pass offers entry to major attractions and unlimited public transport.​

Road Rules & Driving License

• Driving Side: Left-hand side of the road.
• License Requirements:
  • Indian tourists need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with a valid Indian driving license.
• Rules to Remember:
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless you use a hands-free system.
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced: usually 50 km/h in towns, 80–100 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways.

Driving & Car Rental in Ireland

• Car Rental Companies: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Enterprise are widely available.
• Eligibility:
  • Minimum age: 21-25 years depending on the company.
  • IDP required for Indian citizens.
• Tips:
  • Opt for automatic cars unless you're comfortable with manual gear.
  • Consider full insurance for peace of mind.
• Scenic Routes: Don’t miss the Wild Atlantic Way or the Ring of Kerry for spectacular drives.

Tour Cost Estimation (Per Person for 7-10 Days)

• Budget(₹90,000 – ₹1,20,000)Hostels, public transport, budget meals
• Mid-Range(₹1,50,000 – ₹2,50,000)3-star hotels, guided tours, local flights
• Luxury(₹2,75,000+)4–5-star hotels, private chauffeurs, fine dining

Cost Saving Tips:

• Book flights and hotels early for better rates.
• Use public transport passes.
• Dine at Indian restaurants with set menus or local cafes.

What to Pack for Ireland

• Clothing: Layered clothing -weather can change quickly, Waterproof jackets and umbrellas, Comfortable walking shoes.
• Electronics: Universal travel adapter (Ireland uses 3-pin UK-style plugs), Power bank and SIM card (or eSIM).
• Documents: Passport, visa, travel insurance, IDP (if driving).
• Health Kit: Basic medicines, cold-weather skincare, and hand sanitizer.

Culture & Etiquette in Ireland

• Politeness: Irish people are known for being friendly and polite-always greet with a smile and say “please” and “thank you.”
• Tipping: 10-15% is customary in restaurants.
• Queueing: Very important! Always stand in line and wait your turn.
• Religious & Cultural Sites: Dress modestly and maintain silence in cathedrals or during mass.
• Drinking Culture: Pubs are cultural hubs, but excessive drinking is frowned upon-be responsible.

Themes and Special Interests

• Adventure Travel: Hiking in Connemara National Park, kayaking in the Lakes of Killarney for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
• Honeymoon Packages: Castle stays in County Clare, romantic road trips through the Ring of Kerry for couples seeking timeless charm.
• Shopping Tours: Grafton Street in Dublin for Irish woollens, local crafts, and memorable souvenirs.
• Family-Friendly: Delightful activities like Dublin Zoo, Bunratty Folk Park, Galway aquariums, Killarney jaunting cars, and Irish fairy trails perfect for both kids and adults.
• Budget: Affordable experiences like hostels in Galway, public transport in Dublin, scenic free hikes in Howth, local food markets, and group bus tours ideal for economical trips.
• Luxury: Indulgent stays in heritage Irish manors, private castle rentals, fine dining in Cork, luxury spas in Killarney, and personal chauffeur-driven tours for an elite experience.
• Religious Tours: Visit early Christian sites like Glendalough and the Rock of Cashel for spiritual enrichment.

Why Book with Us

• Tailored Ireland Tour Packages from India
• Indian Food Options and Custom Itineraries
• Visa Assistance and Documentation Support
• Multi-city Packages (Dublin, Galway, Cork, Killarney)
• 24x7 Indian Language Support
• Budget to Luxury Options for All Kinds of Travelers

Whether you're looking for a romantic honeymoon, a cultural deep dive, or a scenic self-drive adventure, we craft Ireland tour packages from India that are thoughtfully designed around your preferences. Let us take care of the logistics so you can focus on experiencing the magic of the Emerald Isle.