Ireland Travel Budget - Visit Ireland on a Budget or Travel in Style

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Planning a trip to Ireland doesn't have to be difficult. Known for the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Charles Fort in Kinsale, and Killarney National Park, this country is a very popular destination. Our travel cost guide will help you plan a perfect trip on your ideal budget. We've collected tons of travel cost data from previous travelers, and we're revealing average hotel prices and dining costs along with sightseeing and transportation tips. Now you'll be able to craft a memorable adventure without blowing your budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Ireland?

You should plan to spend around $177 (€169) per day on your vacation in Ireland. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $71 (€67) on meals
  • $26 (€25) on local transportation
  • $141 (€134) on hotels

A one week trip to Ireland for two people costs, on average, $2,479 (€2,366). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $177
    €169
  • One Week Per person
    $1,240
    €1,183
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,479
    €2,366
  • One Month Per person
    $5,313
    €5,070
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,479
    €2,366
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $4,959
    €4,732
  • One Month For a couple
    $10,626
    €10,140
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Ireland cost?

A one week trip to Ireland usually costs around $1,240 (€1,183) for one person and $2,479 (€2,366) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Ireland on average costs around $2,479 (€2,366) for one person and $4,959 (€4,732) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Ireland will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Ireland on average costs around $5,313 (€5,070) for one person and $10,626 (€10,140) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




How much do package tours cost in Ireland?

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Ireland is $277 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.



Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Is Ireland expensive to visit?

Ireland is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Ireland is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Portugal or Belgium.

In Ireland, you'll find accommodation and activities that cater to both budget travelers and those seeking a more lavish experience. Budget accommodation options are available, such as hostels in Dublin, Galway, and Killarney, but there are also luxury hotels that cater to the more affluent customer, along with mid-range hotels for families or couples.

Ireland doesn't have to break the bank if you follow simple tips like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities.

On average, budget travelers spend $74 (€68) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $185 (€169) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $455 (€417) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Ireland.

For more details, see Is Ireland Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Ireland?

The average Ireland trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Ireland travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Ireland cost?

Ireland on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$28
(€27) 		$70
(€67) 		$172
(€164)
Local Transportation 1 $11
(€10) 		$26
(€25) 		$60
(€57)
Food 2 $28
(€27) 		$71
(€67) 		$174
(€166)
Entertainment 1 $8.15
(€7.78) 		$20
(€19) 		$48
(€46)
Alcohol 2 $3-10
(€3-10) 		$8-24
(€8-23) 		$17-52
(€17-50)
From real travelers - How these numbers are calculated
Dingle, Ireland Dingle, Ireland

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to set realistic expectations about your travel budget. While many people consider themselves "budget" travelers, the truth is that most people don't find this shoestring travel style to be enjoyable. Consider what you genuinely appreciate on a trip and think about your previous travel experiences. Do you lean more towards staying in nice resorts, or mid-range hotels, or maybe even hostels? Is dining out in nice restaurants something you prioritize? Your answers will have a big impact on your overall travel budget.

The Truth on Budget Travel

People often say you can visit Ireland for just $74 daily, but unless you're okay with sacrificing many comforts, be ready to shell out a lot more.

Backpackers can typically make that budget work, but it usually requires sleeping in dorm-style hostels, eating at the most affordable restaurants or fast food spots, taking public transit or walking, and sticking to free sights.

Thankfully, Ireland offers a wide variety of hostels, with the largest selection found in Dublin, Galway, and Killarney. Food is a highlight for all types of visitors to Ireland, but budget travelers often dine on street food or cook meals in their hostel, so they may not always experience this aspect of the country.

Is Your Travel Style Average?

If you're on vacation as a couple or with family, you'll likely choose a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the must-see attractions, which often come with entry fees. You'll want to visit the Blarney Castle and Stone in Cork, the Kilkenny Castle, or King John's Castle in Limerick. As most things cost money, it's best to expect a daily budget of about $185 per person.

Ireland has a wide selection of hotels and vacation rentals to fit any travel style. You'll likely be cutting your individual costs by sharing your hotel room with a partner, friends, or your kids. In family-friendly spots like Dublin and Killarney, you'll come across plenty of hotels and restaurants designed with kids in mind. In Carlingford, check out Riverside Lodge B&B, or consider Maranatha Country House in Blarney. For more family and couples options, see our hotel guide for Ireland here.

Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?

To experience a truly luxurious getaway, where everything from the service to the accommodation is elevated, plan for a daily price near $455. This means booking luxury hotels, dining in five-star restaurants, enjoying exclusive excursions, and hiring private drivers. You'll be vacationing among the wealthy in destinations like Dublin and Killarney. Or you could plan an multi-day adventure by booking a higher end tour such as Focus on Ireland - offered by Insight Vacations.

Accommodation Budget in Ireland

Ireland offers hotels with a wide range of prices. You might be surprised at the difference between budget and high-end options, especially during peak season when prices increase significantly. To save, visit in the off-season, and book early for better deals.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Ireland for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $141 (€134). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $70 (€67) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.


  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $70
    €67
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $141
    €134

Hotels in Ireland

Looking for a hotel in Ireland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Ireland

The average hotel room price in Ireland based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $129 in the low season and $241 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Dublin
In Dublin, which is a medium city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $93 in the low season to $397 during the peak season. The Mont ($155) is one of the best hotel options here, and The Alex is also good, and starts at $172. You can expect to pay around $25 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel. As many travelers typically stay for up to five days, ensure you find a cozy place in a good spot if you intend to explore for a while.

Cork
Cork is a medium city that is one of the less touristy places in Ireland. During the peak summer months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Cork, the average hotel price is $142 in the low season and $265 in the busy season. On average, four star hotels will cost $139 to $260. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $23 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include The Montenotte Hotel for $202 and The Kingsley Hotel starting at $163.

Limerick
There's a wide range of hotel prices in Limerick. You can expect to spend anywhere from $81 to $332 depending on your budget and needs. Also, a great hotel option is No 1 Pery Square Hotel & Spa that runs about $193 per night.


Recommended Properties


Local Transportation Budget in Ireland

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $26 (€25) per person, per day, on local transportation in Ireland. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Ireland is significantly more than public transportation.


  • Local Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $26
    €25
Local Transportation Tips

With an outstanding train system, Ireland connects you to almost anywhere in the country. The prices are quite reasonable, and the rides are both fast and comfortable. When rail lines don't reach your destination, long-distance and regional buses can step in.

Many destinations around Ireland have limited options for public transportation unless you're visiting places like the biggest cities. You should plan to rent a car or have a prearranged form of transportation available, such as a tour. However, this may cut into your overall trip budget.

Planning to explore the countryside? You'll likely want to rent a car. Keep in mind that the average car in Europe has a manual transmission, and an automatic will come at a higher price. It's best to make your reservation early, as the cheaper options often sell out fast.

If you're bringing a car to a larger city, be sure to inquire about parking at your hotel beforehand. You may need to pay for parking either at the hotel or at a nearby garage. Finding a spot further from the city could save you some money.


Recommended Services

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Some typical prices for transportation in Ireland are shown below. These are actual costs from previous travelers, and are representative of the amount you'll likely spend on transportation in Ireland. Don't forget that your individual costs will vary based on how you get around, because hired cars such as taxis are often much more expensive than local public transportation.


  • Rental Car for a Day
    €15


Food Budget in Ireland

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Ireland can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Ireland is $71 (€67) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.


  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $71
    €67

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Ireland is about $73 (€67) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $29 to $181 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Ireland are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $13 to $22
  • Lunch: $11 to $37
  • Dinner: $26 to $59
  • Coffee: $7
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $12

Irish Stew: A hearty traditional stew made with lamb (or mutton) and potatoes, carrots, and onions.

Colcannon: A filling dish made with potatoes, kale or cabbage, cream and butter.

Boxty: A potato pancake dish usually made from finely cut potatoes, butter, egg, and flour. It can be served stuffed with something such as a meat.

Popular Culinary Destinations

Ireland is a popular destination for food lovers, offering a wide variety of culinary delights. Travelers often indulge in the local cuisine while visiting as part of their trip. Top cities for dining out include Kinsale, Dublin, and Cork.

Kinsale
Kinsale is one of the best culinary destinations in Ireland. For such a small town, it really has an impressive food scene and many people consider it to be the culinary capital of Ireland. The food scene includes Michelin starred restaurants and local cafes.

Dublin
One of the best culinary spots in Ireland is Dublin. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Cork
Make sure you don't miss the cuisine in Cork. You'll find charming seaside cafes and award winning restaurants. Also make sure you check out the English Market, which is among the best in Ireland.

Kilkenny
Kilkenny is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Connemara
Connemara is well known for its food scene. The area has been influenced by the improving food scene in nearby regions. You'll find everything from fine dining restaurants to food trucks that use local ingredients and recipes. The area has no shortage of seafood, shellfish, and even Connemara lamb.

Food & Dining Tips

In bigger cities like Dublin, Cork, or Galway, dining at nicer restaurants for lunch instead of dinner can help you save money. Many restaurants located in tourist hotspots or business districts offer lunch specials that are often smaller and less expensive than their dinner counterparts. If you know where to look, you might score a full multi-course gourmet meal for a fraction of the price. Then, you can simply have a light dinner later.

If you're spending a week or more in Dublin or Dingle, it's worth considering an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen for families or groups. This way, you can cook meals with budget-friendly groceries instead of constantly dining out.

When dining out with children, look for eateries that have a childrens' menu. It can save you a lot of money since these meals are typically more affordable. Some restaurants might not show the kids' options on the menu, so don't hesitate to ask your waiter first.

Many hotels come with breakfast included in the price, but some add it as an extra fee. The quality and cost of breakfast can change depending on the hotel. Knowing what to expect can assist you in deciding whether the hotel buffet is a worthwhile expense or if a nearby bakery or café would be a better choice.

Make sure to carry a water bottle instead of buying drinks at every opportunity. It's also a great way to help the environment.

If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.

If you want to experience the culture in Ireland, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Private Cooking Class in a Modern Home with Sea Views in Skerries, Dublin for $84 details
  • Killarney Food Tour for $108 details
  • NO DIET CLUB - Best Food Tour in Dublin ! For $61 details
  • Dublin Delicious Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour for $70 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Food?

Below are some standard food costs in Ireland, gathered from real travelers. These prices should give you a general idea of what you can expect to spend on dining and meals. Keep in mind, though, that your own costs may differ depending on your taste in restaurants, travel habits, and menu choices.


  • Lunch Lynam's Pub
    €3.95
  • Fish & Chips Dinner
    €8.12
  • Lunch for Two
    €32


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Ireland

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Ireland typically cost an average of $20 (€19) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.


  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $20
    €19
The Best Sightseeing Destinations

Ireland is an excellent destination, offering a range of amazing spots to explore. Some of the most visited areas are Dublin, Kinsale, and Killarney.

Dublin
Dublin is the capital city of Ireland. It's filled with historic buildings and a laid back atmosphere. There are several nice parks and many good museums around town. Staying true to reputation, the residents in Dublin are friendly and welcoming. It's the perfect city to find a local pub and enjoy a Guinness with a group of locals.

Kinsale
Kinsale is a beautiful seaside town that has brightly colored houses and two impressive forts. The large Charles Fort is to the southeast and the James Fort is smaller and home to the Kinsale Regional Museum.

Killarney
Killarney is a town that is right by Killarney National Park. It's also part of the Ring of Kerry scenic drive and the starting and ending point for the 200 kilometer Kerry Way walking trail. The area offers wonderful natural beauty and many great walking trails.

Howth
Howth is a charming fishing village outside of Dublin. If you want to enjoy the area's beautiful coastline without traveling too far, then this is your place. A highlight of a visit is to wander along the Howth Cliff Walk, but there's also a harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can explore.

Dingle
The Dingle Peninsula is one of the top destinations in Ireland. It is filled with natural beauty and breathtaking coastline. The peninsula has many walking trails and beaches that are fun to explore.

Sightseeing Tips

A nice way to explore destinations in Ireland is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Dublin Panoramic e-Bike Tour with Howth Adventures for $64 details
  • Walking Tour of Dublin’s Viking/Medieval Quarter with a Viking for $27 details
  • Aran Islands Bike Tour with Tea and Scones from Galway for $161 details
  • Discover Connemara Tour by Electric Fat Tyre Bike for $209 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in Ireland. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.


  • St Pauls Cathedral
    €4.50
  • Dublin Writer's Museum
    €6.30
  • Guinness Brewery for Two
    €27
  • Wild Wicklow Tour
    €26


Nightlife Budget in Ireland

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $16 (€15) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Ireland per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.


  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $16
    €15
Popular Nightlife Destinations

Ireland is an exciting destination for nightlife, offering a diverse range of bars, clubs, and parties. Some of the top cities for nightlife enjoyment include Dublin, Cork, and Galway.

Dublin
Dublin is one of the best nightlife destinations in Ireland. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

Cork
Visitors love the nightlife in Cork. It's a university city, so you'll find plenty of students, bars, clubs, and cheap beer. Many pubs also have live music with everything from rock to Irish folk music.

Galway
The nightlife in Galway is quite popular. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

Kilkenny
When the sun goes down, the party picks up in Kilkenny. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Limerick
The nightlife scene is a highlight for many young visitors in Limerick. It's a student town so much of the nightlife scene centers around the student population. There are lively pubs and clubs around town so it's not hard to have a fun night out.

Nightlife Tips

While enjoying the nightlife is often one of the most fun activities while traveling, cutting back on drinking can actually help reduce your travel budget in a big way.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Ireland. A few favorites from other travelers include:

  • Pub Crawl Walking Tour Through the Heart of Irelands Capital for $39 details
  • Drinks on Foot: Dublin Traditional Pub Tour for $30 details
  • Cocktail Masterclass & Distillery Tour Combo for $49 details
  • Private Dublin Pub Tour (Walking Tour) for $239 details

Recommended


Travel Costs Last Updated: Sep 21, 2024
Limerick, Ireland Limerick, Ireland

Budgeting and Travel Tips

  • Ireland is a hot spot for travelers, and as a result, prices can skyrocket when peak season rolls around. Typically, the biggest crowds flock to Ireland during the summer months, and that's when hotels book up fast and accommodation costs shoot through the roof. If you're looking to save some cash, consider planning your trip during the shoulder or off-peak seasons when things are a bit quieter and easier on the wallet.
  • In some destinations, it's pretty common for stay for an entire week or more. Places like Dublin and Dingle are perfect for week-long getaways, and many families, especially those with kids, prefer to book an apartment or vacation rental. This option gives you more space to relax, plus handy amenities like a kitchen, which makes it easier to save a bit of cash while still enjoying a comfortable stay.

Budgeting Challenges

  • For families with younger kids, getting around with a private vehicle or taxi can be a lot easier than navigating public transportation. Just remember, though, it'll be a pricier option.

Galway, Ireland Galway, Ireland
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The Republic of Ireland makes up the majority of the island of Ireland, which is located in northwest Europe. The remainder of the island is taken up by Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom.

This popular country has much appeal to international travelers, in part because of its beautiful landscape and stunning setting, but also because of the welcoming nature of the people that live there. With their charming accents and charismatic personality, it's the people that have put Ireland on the map for many tourists. The country's diversity and compact size make it easy for travelers to navigate. The beauty ranges from the rugged coastline to mountains and pastureland. It offers everything from castles to spas to a relaxing pint of Guinness in a quaint pub. Get yourself lost in the countryside. Pull over at a roadside pub and dine on a basic fish and chips. Chat with the friendly locals, party in Dublin, or take in a local music festival.

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Find a Contiki tour to Europe.

Top Tourist Attractions

Bru na Boinne: A serious of prehistoric monuments and beautiful landscape along the shore of the Boyne. The biggest monuments are Newgrange, Knowth, and Dowth.

The Burren: Stuck between the city of Galway and the Aran Islands, this limestone plateau is as desolate as the moon's landscape.

Glendalough: Beautiful landscape made up of lakes and walking trails where you will find some important early Christian sights, including churches and cathedrals.



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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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