Plenty of people dream of a European holiday. Europe is packed full of historical landmarks, stunning natural beauty, cuisine that differs from country to country, and attractions that capture attention. Unfortunately, a limiting factor for many tourists dreaming of a European getaway is the budget. The fact is that Europe can be expensive to visit. We’re here to challenge that belief, specifically in relation to Ireland.
Known as the Emerald Isle thanks to its rolling lush green hills, Ireland is as welcoming as it gets. With historical landmarks dating back thousands of years, you’ll get a true European experience here. Before you cross the country off your list because of budget concerns, here are some useful money-saving tips. This travel guide will help you see more and spend less when visiting Ireland on a limited budget.
Get More Bang for Your Buck with a Scenic Train Ride
If you plan to visit more than one city or town while in Ireland, consider travelling by train. Rail tends to be one of the most affordable modes of travel, and it doubles as a sightseeing adventure. You can gaze out the window at the countryside as it passes. Some journeys will be longer than others, but the train ride is very relaxing and laid-back.
As a general practice, most trains begin or end their journey in Dublin. This makes sense since Dublin is the most populous city in Ireland. If you plan on flying in or out of Dublin, you can factor your train journey into the itinerary.
Another great way to save money on train travel is by purchasing tickets online. The best fares are offered online, with savings of up to 50% compared to purchasing the ticket in person.
Self-Guided Walking Tours Won’t Cost You a Thing
Guided group or private tours are a fabulous way to explore a destination that’s new to you, but they can be pricey. If you’re mindful of your budget, why not plan your own walking tour of Ireland and save a lot of money in the process? With so many online tools, you can easily plot a walking route to multiple attractions and historical sites. You can also find sample walking tour itineraries online that you can use as a loose template.
Self-guided walking tours are usually easier to plan in larger cities, where points of interest are closer together. In smaller towns or villages, there may be fewer sights to visit, and some may not be reachable on foot.
Consider Staying at an Affordable Hotel
As you add up the costs of your holiday, accommodations tend to be one of the most expensive items. Any big city will be more expensive than small towns, and that’s certainly the case in Ireland. If you stay outside the city, you’ll need to pay for transportation to and from. There is also the time factor involved.
A great compromise is to look at boutique hotels in the city. You’ll enjoy all the advantages of a central location, including the ability to walk to sights and landmarks.
Eat Where the Locals Do and Avoid the Tourist Traps
This particular tip is something that travel experts are always quick to share with budget-conscious travelers: always eat where the locals do. No matter which town or city you visit, there will be the typical restaurants and pubs that appeal to tourists, and then there will be lesser-known locations. These lesser-known eateries tend to appeal to locals and offer authentic Irish cuisine at affordable prices.
Savvy travelers recommend asking the front desk of your hotel or hostel where locals typically dine. Make sure you are clear that you don’t want to eat at a typical tourist location; rather, you’re looking for authentic cuisine.
Skip the Souvenir Shops and Save Your Money
There’s no better way to save money than by skipping the typical tourist traps known as souvenir shops. These shops are designed to grab your attention and entice you to buy all kinds of knick-knacks. Souvenirs are often overpriced, low-quality, and impractical. Will you ever use the item once you return home, or will it end up in a bin alongside other forgotten souvenirs? Your next trip may be a good time to break that habit.
Prioritize Affordable Attractions and Activities
Ireland is known for having world-class attractions and activities, but the fact is that many have admission fees tied to them. This is why research is important—it allows you to discover discounts, promotions, and free admission opportunities. Sometimes, these discounts are tied to a particular day of the week or specific time of the day. Discounts may also be available when you purchase tickets and make reservations online.
Considering visiting one of Ireland’s traditional gambling houses but don’t think it’s in your budget? You can still enjoy some punting thrills online with the latest slot websites on casinos.com. Sometimes, it just takes a little creativity to come up with budget-friendly alternatives.
Don’t Let a Tight Budget Stop You from Traveling to Ireland
By following these tips, you’ll save significant money while exploring Ireland. Being on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your enjoyment of Ireland. With a bit of planning and some savvy strategies, you’ll be able to see more of Ireland while spending less than you thought.
