I was both excited and concerned when I first purchased my ticket to Ireland. Ireland is well-known for its verdant scenery, welcoming bars, and friendly people, but I was only concerned about one thing: money.
Could I truly see the best of this magical nation without spending all of my money?
I discovered that the answer is yes. Budget travel to Ireland is just about making better travel choices rather than skipping out.
Allow me to explain how I was able to enjoy Ireland’s culture, see its top attractions, and yet have money left over.
Before I left Ireland, I was worried about how I would share a part of it with my loved ones back home. In tourist-heavy places, souvenirs can occasionally be expensive, and I didn’t want to go over budget. Fortunately, I came upon ShamrockGift. In the end, it saved my life.
After my trip, I was able to order genuine Irish gifts online rather than hurrying to buy anything at the airport gift store, where the costs are never friendly to the wallet. There were affordable mugs, jewelry, sweaters, and even traditional Celtic mementos. It seemed like a wise move because I could give my loved ones thoughtful presents as a surprise without worrying about packing too much stuff or going over budget.
Ireland makes it surprisingly easy to travel about on a budget, even if transportation is sometimes the largest price. Most of the nation is connected by buses and trains, and you can get some fantastic bargains if you make your reservations in advance. For instance, if you book in advance, Irish Rail and Bus Éireann frequently provide cheaper online rates.
Renting a car can seem like a luxury if you intend to travel outside of the cities, but it doesn’t have to be. I shared the rental expenses with a fellow traveler I met at my hostel. All of a sudden, the goal of traveling the Wild Atlantic Way—those breathtaking coastal routes—was entirely achievable. One of the simplest methods to extend your budget in this situation is to share expenses.
There are plenty of hotels in Ireland, but avoid the large chains if you’re watching your money. Try hostels or bed-and-breakfasts instead. The B&Bs are especially unique because they are typically owned by locals and provide substantial breakfasts (think eggs, soda bread, sausages, and tea) as part of the package. That not only saves you money on a meal, but it also allows you to meet locals who are the most knowledgeable.
I stayed in a clean, friendly hostel in the heart of Dublin that was a lot less expensive than a hotel. I spent a small amount of money at a family-run inn in the country, and it ended up being one of my favorite experiences.
What’s wonderful about Ireland is that a lot of its most amazing experiences are completely free. It costs nothing to stroll down Dublin’s River Liffey, hear traditional music performed by buskers, or explore Galway’s streets. The Cliffs of Moher, the Giant’s Causeway, and the untamed landscapes of Connemara are examples of Ireland’s natural beauties that will leave you speechless without costing you a dime.
Free admission is available to museums even in urban areas, such as Dublin’s Chester Beatty Library and Ireland’s National Gallery. Without ever considering my budget, I spent whole afternoons perusing the exhibits.
There is more to Irish food than potatoes, even though I did eat a lot of them. Aim for pub fare and informal cafés rather than sit-down restaurants if you want to cut costs when dining in Ireland. The majority of pubs provide satisfying, tasty, and reasonably priced hearty meals, such as sandwiches, stews, and soups.
One more piece of advice? Seek out “early bird” menus, as many eateries provide these prior to the evening rush. The cuisine will be of the same caliber, but it will cost a lot less. A budget traveler’s best buddy is a grocery store. I frequently bought fruit, cheese, and fresh bread for inexpensive, quick meals in between tours.
In retrospect, I’m shocked by how much money I was able to save in Ireland. Those that arrive with an open mind and a little preparation appear to be rewarded by the nation itself. I never felt like I was missing out; in fact, some of my fondest experiences came from the most basic (and least expensive) activities, like wandering through foggy hills, conversing with locals in a bar, or lounging by a fire after a day of exploration.
Luxury hotels and pricey tours aren’t the only things that come with visiting Ireland. It may have to do with connection, authenticity, and enjoying the location’s magic without going over budget.
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