Essential Websites for Planning a Trip to Ireland & Northern Ireland

Planning a trip to Ireland or Northern Ireland can feel overwhelming—there are thousands of websites out there to help with every aspect of your journey. But don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work for you! Here’s a curated list of some of the best websites to make your travel planning a breeze, covering everything from accommodation and transportation to unique local experiences and regional guides. Dive in and get ready to discover the charm of the Emerald Isle!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking on the link on my website. Please email me if you have questions about the companies listed below. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have.

Accommodation: Find Your Perfect Stay

Finding the right accommodation can make or break your travel experience. These websites will help you choose from a range of options, including hotels, B&Bs, and unique stays:

• Booking.com: One of the most popular platforms for hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering stays.
• Agoda: Another option for finding hotels and vacation rentals.
• Hotels.com: Provides a user-friendly experience with a rewards program that offers a free night after 10 stays, perfect for frequent travelers.
• Airbnb:Find unique homes, cottages, and cabins for a more private and personalized stay.
• VRBO: Ideal for larger groups or families, VRBO specializes in private homes and vacation rentals with plenty of space.
• B&B Ireland: Your go-to for traditional Irish bed and breakfast stays.
• Former Glory: Find historic homes and estates for a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Hostelworld:Budget-friendly options for backpackers and solo travelers looking for social and affordable accommodations.
• HI Hostels: Another great choice for affordable accommodations, with a focus on sustainable travel and community-focused stays.
• Ireland’s Blue Book: A curated collection of historic houses, luxury manors, and boutique hotels.
• Unusual Hotels of the World: Discover quirky and unique accommodations like treehouses, lighthouses, and more for a one-of-a-kind stay.

Transport & Travel Planning: Get Around with Ease

Navigating Ireland and Northern Ireland is easy with these tools and resources:

• Google Maps:An essential app for road navigation, points of interest, and real-time traffic updates.
• Waze: Another helpful navigation tool that relies on user input for traffic alerts and route optimization.
• AA Routeplanner Ireland: A tool for planning driving routes with detailed maps, particularly useful for self-drive trips.
• Transport for Ireland (TFI): Provides schedules and routes for buses, trains, and trams, helping travelers navigate Ireland’s public transportation system.
• Irish Rail:Information on train services across Ireland, connecting major cities and scenic routes.
• Bus Éireann:Nationwide bus service covering intercity travel and rural destinations across Ireland.
• Translink: The main provider for buses and trains in Northern Ireland, offering easy access to major sites.
• AutoEurope:A rental car comparison site for affordable and reliable car rentals in Ireland.
• Discover Cars:Another rental platform offering a variety of vehicle options for exploring Ireland at your own pace.
• Rentalcars.com: A global car rental service that partners with multiple providers to offer a wide range of vehicles and deals.
• Welcome Pickups: A convenient option for arranging airport transfers with local drivers and guaranteed pickups.
• Rome2rio: Discover the best ways to get from point A to B using multiple modes of transportation.
• Eurail: Plan your train travel across Europe, including routes to Ireland
• Tripadvisor Ireland Forums: Connect with fellow travelers for advice, recommendations, and firsthand tips about Ireland.
• SeatGuru: Find the best seats on flights, compare airline options, and review flight amenities.

Budget Travel: Save Money on Your Trip

Traveling on a budget? Check out these resources for affordable travel:

• Going:Sign up for flight deals and discounts, with alerts for the best prices on flights to Ireland.
• Google Flights:Compare flight prices and monitor price trends for the best time to book your flights.
• Kayak: A flight comparison tool that searches multiple airlines to find the most affordable options.
• Momondo:Discover low-cost flights by comparing prices across airlines, with flexible search options.
• Skyscanner: A well-known platform for finding cheap flights, hotels, and car rentals, offering price alerts and flexible dates.
• Airfarewatchdog: Sign up for alerts on discounted flights to help save on airfare to and within Ireland.
• Ireland Discounts:
  • Heritage Card: Purchase a Heritage Card for access to many of Ireland’s heritage sites, including castles, historic homes, and parks.
  • Dublin Visitor Card: Free transport and discounts for attractions in Dublin.
  • Belfast Visitor Card: Discounts for attractions and transport in Belfast.

Local Experiences: Discover Ireland’s Hidden Gems

Make the most of your time in Ireland and Northern Ireland with these resources for unique local experiences:

• Atlas Obscura: Discover offbeat and lesser-known attractions.
• Abarta Heritage: Explore Ireland’s history through audio guides and immersive storytelling experiences.
• Ireland Travel Kit: A curated list of off-beat and unique locations.
• Withlocals:Connect with locals who offer private tours, food experiences, and cultural insights across Ireland.
• Eatwith: Book dining experiences with locals, from home-cooked meals to unique food tours.
• Freetour.com:Find free or low-cost walking tours in Ireland’s main cities and historical areas.
• Walks: A guide to popular walking tours throughout Ireland, featuring expert-led explorations of major landmarks.
• Intrepid Travel: Join small group tours that offer a deeper insight into Ireland’s culture.
• GetYourGuide: Book guided tours and unique experiences in Ireland.
• GoIrishTours: Plan tailored tours around Ireland, including multi-day packages.

Outdoor Activities: Explore Ireland’s Natural Beauty

Ireland’s lush landscapes and coastal paths are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. These websites can help plan your adventures:

• AllTrails: Discover a variety of hiking trails, from beginner to advanced, with maps, trail details, and user reviews.
• MountainViews.ie: Find hiking trails and mountain routes across Ireland, ideal for adventurers looking for scenic viewpoints.
• Leave No Trace Ireland: Learn best practices for responsible outdoor travel, with tips for preserving Ireland’s natural beauty.

Regional Tourism: Find Local Gems

To get a more localized experience, explore these regional tourism websites:

• Discover Ireland: Ireland’s official tourism website, covering events, attractions, and itineraries.
• Discover Northern Ireland: Find out what Northern Ireland has to offer, from the Giant’s Causeway to city life in Belfast.
• Visit Dublin: A guide to the best of Dublin’s attractions, dining, and nightlife.
• Visit Belfast: A guide to the best of Belfast’s attractions, dining, and nightlife.
• Connemara:Explore the beauty of Connemara with information on local sights and outdoor activities.
• Ring of Kerry:Your guide to one of Ireland’s most scenic drives, featuring natural attractions, historic sites, and charming towns.
• Inishowen: Discover Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula, known for its rugged landscapes and scenic coastal routes.
• Southeast Ireland: Uncover the rich history, scenic routes, and unique attractions in Ireland’s southeast region.
• The Midlands: A guide to the Midlands, where you’ll find historical sites, lakes, and cultural landmarks.

Culture, History & Genealogy

Dive into Ireland’s rich history, archaeology, and even trace your roots:

• Irish Archaeology Blog: A blog covering archaeological sites and historical landmarks across Ireland.
• National Museum of Ireland: Explore Ireland’s history, culture, and special events.
• Irish Genealogy: A resource for those interested in tracing their ancestry.

Travel Insurance & Safety: Stay Protected

Stay safe and secure during your travels with these insurance and safety resources:

• World Nomads:Offers comprehensive travel insurance for adventurers and travelers with flexible plans.
• SafetyWing:Known for affordable travel insurance options, especially for long-term and digital nomad travelers.
• Squaremouth: Compare travel insurance plans with filters for emergency coverage, medical, and more.
• InsureMyTrip: A comparison tool for travel insurance, allowing you to choose the best coverage for your needs.
• Medjet: Provides emergency medical evacuation services, especially for international travelers.

Travel Guides: Plan Like a Pro

For in-depth information and trip ideas, turn to these trusted travel guide sources:

• Lonely Planet:Detailed guides with recommendations, itineraries, and essential tips for traveling through Ireland.
• Rough Guides:In-depth insights and practical tips, with a focus on cultural understanding and local highlights.
• DK Eyewitness Guides:Visually rich guides with detailed maps, images, and information on Ireland’s top sites.
• Rick Steves Guides: Ireland travel tips from a local perspective, including cultural insights and budget-friendly recommendations.
• Wikitravel Ireland & Northern Ireland: User-contributed travel tips, itineraries, and advice on traveling in Ireland.

Tech Tools: Make Travel Easier

Stay connected and organized with these tech tools:

• XE: A currency converter that helps you stay on top of exchange rates.
• Google Images: Use for visual trip inspiration, finding must-visit sites, and understanding popular attractions.
• WhatsApp:Keep in touch with friends, family, and local contacts easily with free messaging and calling.
• Skype: A popular option for international calls and video chats while abroad.
• PackPoint: Create custom packing lists to ensure you have everything you need.

Planning a trip to Ireland or Northern Ireland is a breeze with these resources. Whether you’re looking for the best hiking trails, unique accommodations, or insights into the local culture, this list of websites has you covered. Start planning your dream trip today and uncover the charm and beauty of the Emerald Isle!