Dia Duit, I'm Laura
Let me be your local guide.
I’m lucky enough to say I’ve travelled around Ireland time and time again, and this page is here to make planning your trip feel a whole lot easier.
Think of it as your Ireland travel planning library designed to help you figure things out for your trip, stop second-guessing yourself along the way, and feel confident before you arrive.
You’ll find practical guides, must know tips, and honest answers to the things most people only realise once they’re already here.
Everything is neatly organised below so you can jump straight to what you need. And If you do get stuck or want a bit of real-time reassurance, my Ireland Facebook community is there for questions and sanity checks.
QUICK TIPS for IRELAND
AVOID HIGH ROAMING CHARGES
Airalo eSIMs work seamlessly across Ireland with quick, affordable data plans. Use code IRELAND10 for 10% off your plan (ROI Deals & ROI & NI Plans)
AIRPORT TRANSFER MADE EASY
Welcome Pickups is my go-to for reliable rides from the airport straight to your accommodation. I'd advise booking in advance for peace of mind.
DISCOVER UNIQUE activities
Check out GetYourGuide & Viator for unique things to do, like a DIY Claddagh Ring Workshop or a street food walking tour with a local.
DON’T SKIP INSURANCE!!
I can't stress this enough, but travel insurance is an absolute must! Thankfully, VisitorsCoverage is great for comparing affordable, trusted insurance plans to find one that actually suits your needs.
AVOID OVERPAYING FOR CAR RENTALS
Before booking your rental, I'd advise checking out comparison tools like DiscoverCars to ensure you're getting the best deal on the market.
NEED A LAST MINUTE PACKING FIX?
You'd be surprised how many visitors regret not packing waterproof trousers (like these) or a universal travel adapter (like this). That's why I created this Amazon essentials list for those last minute packing needs.
EXPLORE IRELAND
Tired of seeing the same generic locations in every Ireland Travel guide? I have just the thing for you!
As a local, I’ve handpicked hundreds of Google Maps pins across Ireland, featuring hidden gems, my favourite must-see's and pull-ins that most drive past.
Add them to your own Google Maps by signing up below.
Explore Dublin
Arriving in Dublin and not sure where to start? It’s the small, practical things that tend to catch people out…
The Dublin App is designed to give you clear, easy access to the information you actually need, all in one place.
✔️ An interactive map showing key locations across the city, from top attractions to everyday essentials
✔️ Live location and directions so you can navigate Dublin with confidence
✔️ Practical information like ATMs, public restrooms, pharmacies, and where to find what you need
✔️ Guidance on getting to and from the airport and using public transport
✔️ Quick access to booking links and useful resources while you’re on the go
It’s everything you don’t realise you need… until you’re standing in the middle of the city trying to figure it out.
TOP TOURS & ATTRACTIONS in DUBLIN
Guinness Storehouse
⭐️ 4.6 stars | ⏰ 1 day | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €30 | Book Online
A self guided visit through the Guinness Storehouse, set inside the working brewery at St James’s Gate. You follow the story of how Guinness is made, the ads, the history, and finish with a pint in the Gravity Bar. It’s one of those Dublin classics people genuinely enjoy, even if you’re not a big stout drinker.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
Jameson Distillery Bow St.
⭐️ 4.7 stars | ⏰ 1 hour | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €40 | Book Online
A whiskey tasting at the Jameson Distillery on Bow Street, led by a brand ambassador, with a few premium pours and a bit of behind the scenes storytelling. It’s a good shout if you want something focused and small group, rather than a full visitor trail. Ideal for whiskey fans who like to take their time with it.
Forge Your Own Claddagh Ring Workshop
⭐️ 4.9 stars | ⏰ 2 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book required | 💶 From €130 | Book Online
A jewellery making workshop where you forge your own sterling silver Claddagh ring with a goldsmith guiding you through it. You’ll leave with a proper Irish keepsake that you’ve actually made yourself. Worth it if you want a hands on memory, not just another shopping bag.
The Little Museum of Dublin
⭐️ 4.9 stars | ⏰ 1 hour | 🎟️ Pre-book required | 💶 From €18 | Book Online
A small museum in a Georgian townhouse on St Stephen’s Green, built around a short guided tour that’s genuinely funny and full of Dublin stories. You’ll get a quick, human version of the city’s past, not a textbook. Ideal if you want something light but still meaningful.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
⭐️ 4.6 stars | ⏰ 1 day | 🎟️ Not required | 💶 From €17 | Book Online
An indoor, interactive museum about Irish emigration, set in the Docklands. It’s hands on, story led, and a great option if you want Irish history without a long lecture. Easy to pair with a walk around the Docklands or the Jeanie Johnston nearby.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
Silver Ring Workshop
⭐️ 4.9 stars | ⏰ 2 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €86 | Book Online
A hands on jewellery workshop where you make your own sterling silver ring with a tutor guiding you through each step. You’ll cut, shape, solder, texture, and finish it, then leave with a ring you actually made. A lovely one if you want a proper souvenir that isn’t just another magnet.
Jameson Distillery Bow St.
⭐️ 4.7 stars | ⏰ 45 minutes | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €31 | Book Online
The classic Jameson visitor experience on Bow Street, with a guided walk through the distillery story and a comparative whiskey tasting at the end. It’s a solid choice if you want something easy, central, and well run. Good for first time whiskey drinkers as well as fans.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
Kellogg's Skyline Croke Park
⭐️ 4.8 stars | ⏰ 1.5 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €24 | Book Online
A rooftop walkway experience at Croke Park with big views over Dublin, plus access to the GAA Museum. It’s part stadium story, part best view in the city, and it’s great if you like something a little more active. You’ll be climbing steps, so it’s not ideal if heights or steep stairs aren’t your thing.
Vintage Tea Trips
⭐️ 4.8 stars | ⏰ 75 minutes | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €57 | Book Online
Afternoon tea served on a vintage double decker bus while you drive past Dublin’s main sights. It’s a fun, low effort way to see the city if the weather is doing its usual thing. You get sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats, with tea and coffee included.
Guinness Storehouse Connoisseur Experience
⭐️ 4.8 stars | ⏰ 1 hour | 🎟️ Pre-book required | 💶 From €95 | Book Online
A small group tasting inside the Guinness Storehouse, led by a trained Guinness host, with several Guinness styles to try and a bit more detail than the standard visit. It’s for people who actually want to taste and learn, not just grab a pint and a photo. You still finish with the views from the Gravity Bar.
Jameson Cocktail Class
⭐️ 5 stars | ⏰ 1 hour | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €60 | Book Online
A one hour cocktail making class at the Jameson Distillery where you learn how to mix a few whiskey classics and drink what you make. It’s quick, fun, and a handy rainy day plan. Best for people who want an activity, not just another tasting.
Croke Park Stadium Tour
⭐️ 4.7 stars | ⏰ 1.5 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €18 | Book Online
A behind the scenes tour of Croke Park, with time in areas you wouldn’t normally see plus entry to the GAA Museum. Even if you’re not into sport, it’s a good window into a big piece of modern Irish culture. You’ll do a bit of walking and steps around the stadium.
Big Bus Dublin
⭐️ 4.4 stars | ⏰ 1 to 3 days | 🎟️ Pre-book required | 💶 From €34 | Book Online
An open top bus that loops around the main Dublin sights, so you can hop on and off when it suits. It’s handy if you’re short on time, travelling with someone who can’t walk loads, or you just want an easy overview on day one. It also helps you get your bearings fast.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
River Liffey Cruise
⭐️ 4.4 stars | ⏰ 45 minutes | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €23 | Book Online
A quick sightseeing cruise on the River Liffey that gives you a different view of the city, especially around the Docklands. It’s a nice reset if you’ve been walking all day and want something easy. You’ll get live commentary as you go.
Dublinia
⭐️ 4.7 stars | ⏰ 1 day | 🎟️ Not required | 💶 From €18 | Book Online
A hands on museum beside Christ Church that brings Viking and medieval Dublin to life with recreated streets, rooms, and practical context that actually makes the old city make sense. It’s great if you want something more interactive than a traditional museum.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
Dublin Street Food Tour w/ Local Guide
⭐️ 4.9 stars | ⏰ 3 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €28 | Book Online
A guided walk through the city with stops at a few local food spots along the way. You’ll get recommendations on what to try, but you pay for your own food and drinks as you go. Good if you want a bit of structure without committing to a full sit down meal.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour
⭐️ 4.9 stars | ⏰ 2 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book required | 💶 From €24 | Book Online
A city centre walking tour that mixes the big Dublin landmarks with a few quieter corners, so you get the main story without feeling like you’re being marched around a checklist. Great early in your trip if you want a clear sense of the city. You’ll cover a good bit of ground, so comfy shoes matter.
Mythology, Folklore & Legends Walking Tour
⭐️ 4.9 stars | ⏰ 2 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book required | 💶 From €24 | Book Online
A walking tour focused on Irish mythology, folklore, and the stories that sit underneath the city. You’ll hear about banshees, fairies, and the old beliefs, plus a bit of the darker side of Georgian Dublin. A great one if you’ve done the history already and want something different.
Dublin City Walking Tour
⭐️ 4.7 stars | ⏰ 105 minutes | 🎟️ Pre-book required | 💶 From €19 | Book Online
A guided walk through the city centre that hits the big landmarks and gives you the context that makes Dublin feel less like a list of buildings. Great on your first day if you want to get your bearings and pick up local tips on where to eat and wander. You’ll be on your feet the whole time, so comfy shoes help.
Historical Walking Tours of Dublin
⭐️ 4.7 stars | ⏰ 2 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book required | 💶 From €19 | Book Online
A focused history walk through the city centre with guides who really know their stuff. It covers the big turning points like the Rising and independence, but in a way that actually sticks. Good if you want context for what you’re seeing, not just facts at you.
Trinity College Walking Tour
⭐️ 4.3 stars | ⏰ 45 minutes | 🎟️ Pre-book required | 💶 From €17 | Book Online
A short guided walk around Trinity College with a student guide, covering the main squares, stories, and a bit of campus life. It’s a nice add on if you’re already in the area and want context beyond just taking photos. This one is outdoors and doesn’t include the Book of Kells.
Delicious Dublin Food Tours
⭐️ 4.9 stars | ⏰ 3 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €90 | Book Online
A guided food focused walk in the city centre with a set of tastings included, so you can try a mix of Irish classics and modern spots without booking a stack of restaurants. It’s a great way to get your bearings on what to eat in Dublin. Come hungry, you’ll be well fed.
Traditional Pubs Walking Tour w/ a Local
⭐️ 5 stars | ⏰ 3 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €28 | Book Online
A guided walk to a handful of traditional pubs, focused on the pub culture rather than the touristy highlight reel. You’ll get stories and context from a local guide, and you’ll see what a proper Dublin pub feels like. Drinks aren’t included, so plan to spend a bit extra on the night.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
GPO Museum
⭐️ 4.5 stars | ⏰ 1 day | 🎟️ Not required | 💶 From €15 | Book Online
A compact museum inside the General Post Office that focuses on the 1916 Easter Rising and the events that shaped modern Ireland. It’s multimedia, easy to follow, and doesn’t require a big time commitment. Handy if you’re already on O’Connell Street.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship
⭐️ 4.8 stars | ⏰ 50 minutes | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €15 | Book Online
A guided visit on board a replica famine era ship in the Docklands, focused on what the voyage was like for people leaving Ireland during the famine. It’s short, impactful, and easy to fit into a half day around EPIC. You’ll go above deck and below into the cramped living quarters.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
St Patrick's Cathedral
⭐️ 4.5 stars | ⏰ 1 day | 🎟️ Not required | 💶 From €12 | Book Online
Ireland’s largest cathedral, right in the city centre, with a proper sense of history once you step inside. You can wander at your own pace and take in the architecture, the stories, and the Jonathan Swift connection. It’s an easy, classic Dublin stop that doesn’t take up your whole day.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
Christ Church Cathedral
⭐️ 4.6 stars | ⏰ 1 day | 🎟️ Not required | 💶 From €12 | Book Online
Dublin’s oldest cathedral, with a gorgeous main space and a large underground crypt that’s packed with curiosities. It’s right beside Dublinia, so you can do both back to back without trekking across town. If you like medieval Dublin, this is the one.
Included on the Dublin City Pass.
Kilmainham Gaol
One of the most important historical sites in Ireland, this former prison held many of the leaders of Ireland's independence movement before their execution following the 1916 Easter Rising. A deeply moving and highly informative guided tour, widely regarded as the best historical experience in Dublin.
💡 Local Tip: tickets are released exactly 28 days in advance and sell out frequently. Set yourself a reminder so you're ready to book the moment they go live. Also available on the OPW Heritage Card.
Dublin Trad Music Pubs
⭐️ 5 stars | ⏰ 3 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €65 | Book Online
A small group night out that brings you to real traditional music sessions in a few different pubs, led by a local musician. It’s for people who want the real thing, not the staged show version. Drinks are included, but there’s a good bit of walking between pubs.
Craic Den Comedy Club
⭐️ 4.8 stars | ⏰ 2 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €15 | Book Online
A central Dublin comedy club night with a rotating line up of Irish and international stand up. It’s an easy evening plan if you want a break from pubs but still want a bit of craic. Expect a small room, a lively crowd, and plenty of crowd work.
Irish Music and Dance Dinner Show
⭐️ 4.5 stars | ⏰ 2 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €71 | Book Online
A set dinner with live Irish music and dance in the heart of Temple Bar, in a venue with views over the Liffey and the Ha’penny Bridge. It’s a tidy all in one night if you want food and a show without organising anything. Expect it to feel lively and very central Dublin.
In Stitches Comedy Club
⭐️ 4.5 stars | ⏰ 2 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €15 | Book Online
A stand-up comedy night in a proper Dublin pub setting in Temple Bar, with a mix of Irish and international comedians. It’s a simple, low-effort evening plan when you want something fun after a day of sightseeing. Expect a lively crowd and a cosy room.
The Irish House Party
⭐️ 4.8 stars | ⏰ 1 day | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €35 | Book Online
An evening of live Irish music and dancing in a Georgian townhouse setting. It’s a good option if you want a show that feels up close and social, rather than a big theatre vibe. Dinner is optional, so you can choose whether you want it as a full night out or just the performance.
Ireland’s Eye Landing Tour
⭐️ 4.6 stars | ⏰ 2 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €30 | Book Online
A short ferry trip from Howth out to Ireland’s Eye, with time to wander the island at your own pace before getting the boat back. It’s a great half day if you want sea air, birds, and a break from the city. Weather decides the vibe, so bring a layer.
Howth Hiking/Walking Tour w/ A Local
⭐️ 4.9 stars | ⏰ 3 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book required | 💶 From €39 | Book Online
A guided hike around Howth with coastal views, local stories, and a route that takes you off the obvious path. It’s a great option if you want a proper stretch of the legs and a break from the city streets. Wear decent footwear, the ground can be wet and uneven.
Howth Beer and Seafood Tour
⭐️ 5 stars | ⏰ 3 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €99 | Book Online
A guided food and drink crawl around Howth, mixing local seafood with craft beer stops. You’ll try a few places you’d never pick on your own, and you’ll finish properly fed. Best suited to hungry people who like a bit of chat and storytelling with their lunch.
Howth Sunset Cruise
⭐️ 4.6 stars | ⏰ 1 hour | 🎟️ Pre-book recommended | 💶 From €26 | Book Online
A one hour boat trip from Howth timed for sunset, with views back towards Dublin Bay and along the cliffs. It’s a lovely, simple plan if you’re staying out on the coast for the evening. Bring a warm layer, it cools down fast once you’re on the water.
Howth Hike (Pints and Puppies)
⭐️ 5 stars | ⏰ 3.5 hours | 🎟️ Pre-book required | 💶 From €47 | Book Online
A guided coastal walk in Howth with a local guide and their dog, mixing cliff views with stories and a relaxed pub stop at the end for a pint. It’s a good one if you want fresh air and something a bit more social than a standard hike. You’ll be on uneven trails, so proper shoes are worth it.
DISCOVER IRELAND
Feeling overwhelmed planning your trip to Ireland? I have just the thing for you!
As a local, I offer 1:1 Ireland travel planning calls, where we go through your trip together.
Discussing any potential mishaps, planning oversights and questions you may have.
The call is completely personalised to your trip, giving you the clarity, confidence and a solid plan to move forward with.
⚠️ Please note: During Ireland's tourism season, travel planning calls can book out several weeks in advance. Last-minute trip planning may not be possible ⚠️
Drive in Ireland
Feeling nervous about driving in Ireland? You’re not the only one… and you don’t have to figure it out alone.
The Ireland Driving Toolkit is a practical guide with clear local advice and no guesswork.
✔️ Custom Google Maps with petrol stations and toll roads mapped out.
✔️ Cheat sheets for roundabouts, road signs and km to miles.
✔️ Straightforward tips on tolls, navigation and what to expect on different road types.
Plus, the small local details most guides skip, but make all the difference once you’re here.
