Information about Ireland

Geography and history Regions and resorts Nature Climate Transport Money and shopping Attractions Tourism Accommodation Kitchen Culture Weather Map

Geography and history Ireland

The Republic of Ireland is located on a stunning island in the North Atlantic Ocean. It sits just to the west of Great Britain and shares the same general latitude. Several bodies of water separate the two islands, including the North Channel and the Irish Sea. To the south, you will find the Celtic Sea washing against the rugged coastline. The northern part of the island, known as Northern Ireland, is actually part of the United Kingdom.

The landscape is mostly defined by rolling hills and vast, open plains. You will see plenty of lakes and small rivers winding through the green countryside. Many of the lower areas are covered in peat bogs, which are a very common sight here. While the coastlines are often quite mountainous, the peaks are not actually that tall. The highest point on the entire island is just over a kilometer above the sea.

People have been living on this island for an incredibly long time, nearly ten thousand years. Around four thousand years before our era, the inhabitants began to focus on farming. The Celts arrived much later, about three centuries before the start of the common era. They brought with them advanced skills in metalworking and better ways to grow food. Their arrival marked a huge shift in the island's early development and culture.

The Celts created a social structure that influenced the land for many generations. Later on, Christian missionaries arrived to share their faith with the local people. Saint Patrick is the most famous of these figures and is still deeply honored today. These early Christians also brought the gift of writing and literature to the island. This was a massive turning point for the intellectual history of the Irish people.

Between the eighth and eleventh centuries, the population had to deal with frequent Viking raids. These Norse explorers mostly focused on looting and didn't leave many positive marks behind. Their legacy is often remembered through the stories of the destruction they caused. After the Vikings, the English began their long campaign to take over the island. By the twelfth century, they had managed to gain full control.

The Irish people spent the next nine hundred years resisting English rule in various ways. Even though the English held the power, they couldn't change the heart of the people. For instance, they tried to convert everyone to Protestantism but ultimately failed. Most of the population remained loyal to the Catholic Church, which is still true today. This religious identity became a vital part of what it means to be Irish.

Independence was finally won in 1922 after a period of intense rebellion and civil war. The new Irish Free State was formed from twenty-six of the island's counties. The remaining northern part, often called Ulster, stayed under British authority. Today, the country is growing very quickly and has a very modern feel to it. Fewer young people feel the need to move away for work than in the past.

Regions and resorts Ireland

Nature Ireland

Ireland is famous for its endless green meadows, which is why people call it the Emerald Isle. These lush fields cover a huge portion of the entire country. You can also find beautiful forests filled with a mix of broadleaf and evergreen trees. There are nearly four thousand different types of plants thriving across the island today. Most of these species are typical for a mild and temperate climate.

Surprisingly, you can also spot some subtropical plants growing in certain areas. About half of the plant species found here are flowering plants that bloom beautifully. It is quite amazing to see flowers from the arctic tundra growing near delicate orchids. In the springtime, you will see primroses popping up all over the place. During the summer, buttercups and cornflowers add splashes of color to the landscape.

The local weather is absolutely perfect for things like rhododendrons and various mosses. There are hundreds of types of mosses and ferns covering the damp ground. Today, forests take up about twelve percent of the land across the island. You can find several types of pine trees along with sturdy oaks and birches. Willow and alder trees are also very common, especially near the water.

The marshy peat bogs have their own unique plants like heather and cranberries. If you head up into the mountains, you will find plenty of blueberries and blackberries. There is a specific spot on the west coast that has incredible natural diversity. In that one small area, you can find nearly nine hundred different plant types. It is a true paradise for anyone who loves nature and botany.

The waters surrounding the island are absolutely teeming with all kinds of fish. Local fishermen regularly catch plenty of cod, herring, and even mackerel. The freshwater rivers and lakes are also full of life, including trout and char. On land, there are twenty-six different species of mammals that call the island home. The red fox and the stoat are the main predators in this environment.

Red deer are the largest animals you will see roaming through the countryside. Hares, martens, and hedgehogs are also very common residents of the fields and woods. If you look out toward the ocean, you might see whales or playful dolphins. Even seals and the occasional walrus show up along the rocky coastline. There are even five different types of sea turtles that visit these waters.

Birds are incredibly diverse here, with about four hundred species recorded over the years. Most of them are migratory birds that pass through during different seasons. However, some birds choose to spend their entire winter in the mild Irish climate. The Greenland white-fronted goose is a perfect example of a regular winter guest. Interestingly, the only reptile you will find is a small, common lizard.

Climate Ireland

The weather in Ireland is pretty much what you would expect for its northern location. It has a temperate climate that stays relatively mild throughout the whole year. This is mostly because the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean surround the island. The Gulf Stream plays a huge role by bringing warm water from tropical regions. This current keeps the air from getting as cold as it does in other places.

Winters are usually quite soft, with daytime temperatures staying well above freezing. You might see a little bit of frost at night, but it rarely gets truly bitter. The Atlantic influence also keeps the summers feeling very fresh and cool. Usually, summer temperatures hover around fifteen degrees Celsius on average. However, it can get much warmer in the capital city during a good summer.

Sometimes the air in Dublin can climb up to thirty degrees during the peak of the season. The winds usually blow in from the west or the southwest across the ocean. These winds bring a fair amount of rain to the western and northern coasts. The center of the country and the east coast tend to be much drier. Total rainfall can reach two thousand millimeters in the wettest parts of the island.

Snow does fall a few times during the winter months, but it rarely sticks around. Most of the time, winter weather just means chilly winds and some thick fog. Truly snowy winters with deep drifts only happen about once every ten years or so. A hundred years ago, the winters were much harsher than they are today. In those days, people had to deal with massive snowbanks that were several meters high.

By the time March arrives, the air starts to feel much warmer and more pleasant. You should expect some heavy rain showers during the spring months, though. In the summer, the days are very long and the air stays comfortably warm. One interesting thing about Ireland is the timing of its white nights. They actually happen in August rather than June, and it stays light until midnight.

The most famous thing about Irish weather is how incredibly fast it can change. You might see rain and sunshine cycle through several times in a single afternoon. This instability is a direct result of being so close to the open Atlantic Ocean. While storms are common at sea, the mountains help protect the inland areas. They act as a natural shield against the strongest winds coming off the water.

The climate in Northern Ireland feels a bit different from the rest of the island. This region often deals with lower air pressure and has fewer sunny days overall. Storms with heavy rain and strong winds are much more frequent in the north. In fact, one of the strongest winds ever recorded there reached over three hundred kilometers per hour. It is a much more rugged and wild weather environment.

Transport in Ireland

Even though Ireland is a relatively small country, it has a very modern transport system. You can get around easily using planes, trains, buses, or even various boats. All the major cities are well-connected, making travel pretty simple for both locals and tourists. For such a small nation, the aviation infrastructure is actually quite impressive. There are ten international airports serving flights from almost every part of the world.

While you won't find direct flights from South America or Australia, most other places are covered. There are also plenty of local flights between the biggest cities if you need to save time. The train network is another reliable way to see the beautiful countryside. It is modern and uses fast locomotives to get people where they need to go. We can actually thank the shared history with Britain for much of this layout.

The main rail lines were built long ago when Ireland was still part of the United Kingdom. Today, these tracks connect all the major towns and larger urban centers. You can choose between first-class and second-class carriages on most of the express trains. Since the sea is everywhere, water transport is also a big part of daily life. Ferries run regularly to Great Britain, France, and the Isle of Man.

Most of these large ferries depart from Dublin or other major ports along the coast. You will also see many smaller pleasure boats offering scenic trips for visitors. These are great for seeing the famous cliffs and bays from a different perspective. Public transport within the cities is also very well-organized for everyone. You have a wide choice of buses, trams, and suburban trains.

Buses are especially useful because they reach almost every small corner of the country. Taxis are available everywhere, but they can be quite expensive to use for long trips. Expect to pay about one and a half euros for every kilometer you travel. There is also an extra fee just for calling a taxi to come to your location. Many people find it better to rent a car if they have a valid license.

To rent a car, you will need insurance and a couple of credit cards for the deposit. Just remember that people drive on the left side of the road here. Road signs usually show distances in both miles and kilometers, which can be a bit confusing. If you want something unique, you can even rent a barge to travel the rivers. Many locals also love cycling, and horses are still used for some rural trails.

Money and shopping in Ireland

Ireland is a full member of the European Union, so they use the Euro as their currency. You can use your Visa or Mastercard almost anywhere without any major issues. However, American Express is not always accepted, so it is good to have a backup card. It is usually cheaper to withdraw some cash from an ATM before you start your shopping. Prices in Ireland are very similar to what you would find in Britain.

This means that staying in the country can be a bit expensive for many visitors. A quick meal at a fast-food spot will usually cost you around ten euros. If you want to sit down in a nice cafe, expect to pay about twenty euros. A bottle of water is usually around one and a half euros at the local shop. A takeaway coffee will set you back about three euros on average.

Most travelers want to bring home a piece of Ireland to remember their special trip. You could go with a simple lucky shamrock keychain or a fun leprechaun magnet. Но there are much more meaningful and useful things you can buy if you look. Hand-knit sweaters with traditional patterns are a very popular choice for many people. These patterns aren't just for decoration; they actually have deep historical meanings.

The designs represent things like fishing nets, seaweed, or paths leading to the shore. For generations, these patterns were thought to bring good luck and protection to fishermen. You can find machine-made versions quite easily and they are much more affordable. But for something truly special, look for a hand-knit sweater from the Aran Islands. These are made from pure wool by skilled craftswomen and are very high quality.

They are quite expensive, but they are incredibly warm and will last for a lifetime. If you enjoy a good drink, a bottle of Irish whiskey is a classic gift. The locals have a long history with this spirit and really know how to make it. Centuries ago, whiskey was actually sold in pharmacies as a cure for the common cold. While it might not cure a cold, it definitely helps lift your spirits.

For those who prefer something sweeter, Baileys Irish Cream is a fantastic gift choice. And of course, no trip is complete without mentioning the famous Guinness stout. Another beautiful souvenir is the Claddagh ring, which symbolizes love and loyalty. It features a heart held by two hands with a crown sitting on top. The heart represents love, the crown is for loyalty, and the hands signify friendship.

There is a touching story about an Irishman named Joyce who first designed this ring. He was captured and sold into slavery but never forgot his true love back home. Other great options include stylish pewter mugs or high-quality local crystal. The Waterford brand is particularly famous around the world for its amazing craftsmanship. These items are perfect for anyone looking for an elegant reminder of their journey.

Main attractions Ireland

Ireland is a land that has been lived in since ancient times, and it is full of legends about wonders and mysteries. The countryside is dotted with stunning old estates, medieval fortresses, and natural landscapes that really stay with you. It feels like every corner of this island has a story to tell from a very long time ago.

In the heart of Dublin, you will find the castle of King John, which was built all the way back in the 13th century. From the outside, it looks almost exactly as it did when it was first finished, giving you a real sense of what English architecture was like in that era. Nowadays, the government of the Republic of Ireland uses the building for meetings and big conferences.

The castle is open to the public, and you can take a walk through it for an entry fee of about 10 euros. Once you have finished looking around, there is a cozy little coffee shop located right in the basement of the castle. It is a nice spot to grab a quick snack before heading back out into the city.

If you want to see something even older, you should head over to Waterford to visit the Rock of Cashel. People say this place was started as far back as the 4th century. According to the local legends, Saint Patrick himself used to preach to the people right on this very spot.

This massive stone complex includes a fortress, several cathedrals, and various other ancient buildings. There is a museum on the grounds where you can learn more about the long history of the area. You do have to pay a fee to get inside and explore the ruins properly.

Back in the capital city, there is a museum entirely dedicated to the world-famous Irish whiskey. During the visit, they will show you exactly how the drink is made from start to finish. Of course, the part many people look forward to is the tasting session where you can try the products yourself.

You can also take a bus tour out to the Cliffs of Moher, which are absolutely stunning to see in person. Beyond the incredible views of the ocean, the area is home to hidden caves and very old burial sites. All of this is located in County Clare, and the whole trip usually costs around 50 euros.

Another landmark from the 13th century in Dublin is Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. It is a very beautiful example of Gothic architecture that really stands out in the city. While the organ and the interior decorations were added later on, they only make the cathedral look more impressive than it already was.

You are welcome to look at the cathedral from both the inside and the outside for free. However, if you want a guided tour to hear all the historical details, there is a fee for that service. It is a very peaceful place that holds a lot of the city's spiritual history.

Don't forget to check out the ancient Cong Abbey, which was built in the 11th century. It actually looks more like a fortress than a traditional monastery because of its heavy stone construction. There aren't any formal tours here, but it is definitely worth stopping by to see such an old structure.

The best way to get to the abbey is by renting a car and driving through the scenic countryside. If you head to the west coast, you can visit the Burren National Park without paying any entrance fee. It is a unique place where about 800 different types of plants grow in a relatively small area.

Besides the botanical variety, the park offers a very rugged and wild landscape that looks almost otherworldly. There are marked trails for walking, but you need to make sure you dress warmly because the wind is very strong there. It is usually best to visit during the warmer months of the year.

Another free and really interesting activity is a visit to the National Botanic Gardens in Dublin. You can go there any day of the week to see the vast collection of plants from all over the world. It covers about 25 hectares and is located right in the middle of the city.

While you are in the capital, you should also make time for the Leprechaun Museum and the Garden of Remembrance. There is the famous statue of Molly Malone and the massive Phoenix Park, which even has its own zoo. You will also find a maritime museum and plenty of medieval churches with fascinating stories to share.

Tourism in Ireland

Ireland is not the kind of place that most people think of when they want a typical beach vacation. You won't be spending your days soaking up the hot sun or lying on white sandy beaches here. The Atlantic ocean in this part of the world is much more suitable for seals than for someone looking for a luxury swim.

However, this country is perfect for those who want to see something different and avoid the usual tourist traps. It is a place where you can find unique spots that haven't been overcrowded yet. You can really feel the local atmosphere, listen to old legends, and meet the locals, who are very vibrant people.

One surprising thing is that getting a visa for Ireland can actually be easier than for many other countries in the European Union. You can usually handle the whole process through a travel agency without much trouble at all. You won't have to travel to the embassy yourself or worry about translating every single document into English.

Most of the people living in Ireland speak English as their primary language. They don't just use it to talk to tourists, as it is how they communicate with each other every single day. This makes it very easy to get around and have conversations with the people you meet.

For people who enjoy beer, Ireland is like a dream come true because you can get the freshest Guinness right there. The main brewery is located in the middle of Dublin, so the quality is always top-notch. But if Guinness isn't your thing, the locals have plenty of other options that they enjoy just as much.

You can easily find brands like Heineken, Carlsberg, or Budweiser in almost any local shop or pub. It is also a good idea to try the local cider while you are visiting the area. Just remember that beer and cider are served in pints, which is a bit more than half a liter, while everything else is in liters.

While the drinks are a nice bonus, the real reason people come here is for the sights, both natural and man-made. You can generally split the tourism into three main areas, which are the capital city of Dublin, the West Coast, and the southern part of the country. Dublin is famous for its history, but it also has a great nightlife with bars and theaters.

The West Coast is where you will find a lot of the old castles, cathedrals, and interesting museums. This area is also home to the city of Galway, which is famous for its lively pubs and music clubs. Nearby, you have the stunning Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, where old traditions are still very much alive.

If you head to the south, there is a beautiful national park with views that are just as impressive as the famous cliffs. Ireland is also a fantastic destination for anyone who likes to stay active while they are on holiday. You can go horseback riding, take long hikes, or join a group for a cycling tour across the hills.

People who love the water will find some great spots for surfing with really good waves. If you are into diving, there are even two fjords where you can explore old shipwrecks underwater. There is always something to do, whether you want to learn about history or just spend time being active in nature.

Accommodation in Ireland

When you look for a place to stay in Ireland, you might notice that there aren't any five-star hotels at all. The ranking system for hotels and guest houses here usually goes from one star up to four stars. Every year, the local Hotel Federation comes by to inspect these places and make sure they are meeting the right standards.

A lot of travelers end up staying in family-run hotels, which are often the most affordable and comfortable choice. You can find these types of places in almost every town or city across the country. Besides a bed for the night, they offer a very cozy atmosphere and some great home-cooked food.

If the hotel includes breakfast, you can expect a very big meal to start your day. It usually involves things like sausages, fried eggs, salad, and maybe something sweet to finish it off. Sometimes they even set up a buffet so you can pick out exactly what you want to eat.

You might see a shamrock symbol on some of these family hotels, but that doesn't necessarily mean it is better than the others. That symbol just means the place has been officially certified by the government for the services they provide. You can still find amazing service in places that don't have that specific mark.

Hostels and youth hotels are another great option if you are looking to save some money during your trip. Don't let the word youth throw you off, because people of all ages are welcome to stay there. These places are actually very convenient for families who are traveling together on a budget.

In many cases, a family can get their own private room so they don't have to share with strangers. This doesn't mean you will just be sleeping in bunk beds, as many rooms are set up to be quite comfortable. It is a very cheap way to stay in a city without giving up too much comfort.

If you are looking for something a bit more special, there are romantic hotels located out in the countryside. Some of these are even built inside old castles, though they can be quite expensive to stay in. These high-end places often have their own pools, golf courses, and even spa services for guests.

Even if you choose one of the more budget-friendly hotels, you will still get a room with its own bathroom and hot water. One thing that surprises many visitors is the way the sinks are set up in some places. Instead of one faucet that mixes the water, you often have one tap for hot water and a completely separate one for cold.

Most hotels will also have their own pub right on the premises where you can go to get a meal and a drink. If you are traveling with your whole family, it is a good idea to look for a place that has a playground. Many hotels also offer dedicated playrooms to keep the children entertained while you relax.

Kitchen and dishes Ireland

Irish people have a real love for meat, vegetables, and different kinds of bread. Potatoes and cabbage are basically the foundation of their entire diet and appear in many different forms on the plate. The food in Ireland isn't really what you would call fancy or delicate, but it is definitely filling and hearty.

Because the climate can be quite cold and damp, the locals prefer meals that give them plenty of energy. This explains why there is such a strong focus on meat and fish that is high in healthy fats. Most people start their morning with a very heavy and high-calorie breakfast to keep them going through the day.

A typical breakfast includes things like eggs, bacon, sausages, and sometimes a side of beans for extra protein. They usually serve it with toast and a very traditional dish called black pudding. It is essentially a blood sausage made with grains, though sometimes it can have cheese or herbs mixed in.

Mushrooms are also a very common part of the diet, and you can find them on the menu in almost any cafe. Even in the old days, people in Ireland ate things that we might consider delicacies today, like lobsters and oysters. For ordinary people back then, these were just normal, everyday foods they caught themselves from the sea.

Today, seafood is still very popular and is often served as a snack to go along with beer during festivals. However, meat was not always so easy for the common people to get their hands on in the past. It was usually reserved for the wealthy, while everyone else had to make do with organ meats.

If someone managed to catch a rabbit or a bird, they would often cook it right in an open fire after covering it in clay. One of the most famous meat dishes you will find today is the classic Irish stew. There are many different ways to make it, and almost every family has its own secret recipe.

The stew is usually made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, onions, and some fresh herbs all simmered together for a long time. It is a perfect dish for the winter because it is very warm and has a lot of calories. Potatoes became a staple in the 16th century and quickly became the most important food for the poor.

When the potato crops failed in the past, it led to some very difficult times and even famines. Because of this history, there are many traditional potato dishes like boxty, which are potato pancakes. You might also try champ, which is mashed potatoes with milk, or colcannon, which includes cabbage.

Another popular and quick meal is fried fish served with a side of thick-cut chips. If you want something a bit different, you can try some of the local seaweed, which can be eaten raw or fried. It is surprisingly tasty and has been part of the coastal diet for a very long time.

The bread in Ireland is often made using soda instead of yeast, and they use soft wheat flour for it. They also make a famous dark cake using Guinness beer, cream, orange juice, and a bit of whiskey. This cake can be stored for a long time and is often made a week before it is actually eaten.

Culture and traditions Ireland

If you look at very old books, the Irish were often described as being quick to anger or having very explosive personalities. That is not really what you will find if you visit the country today. Most people you meet are very well-educated, polite, and incredibly welcoming to those who come to visit.

In fact, the Irish are known for being some of the most hospitable and friendly people in the entire world. They often treat guests and tourists as if they were members of their own family. They are also very religious, so it is generally a good idea to avoid making jokes about faith when you are talking to them.

The only group that they historically haven't gotten along with very well is the English. Aside from that, they are very open and love to share their culture with others. Irish dancing is a huge part of their national identity, and you will see it at almost any big celebration or gathering.

People in Ireland really know how to celebrate, and they do it with a lot of energy and excitement. Another thing they love is going to local fairs, which attract all sorts of performers like actors and musicians. These events usually go on until late at night with everyone having a great time together.

In some ways, the Irish are quite similar to many other cultures, especially when it comes to how much they love the New Year. It is a tradition in many homes to leave the doors unlocked before the clock strikes midnight. This is a sign that anyone who walks through the door is a welcome guest for the holiday.

Birthdays are handled a little differently than in some other places, though. Instead of the person whose birthday it is paying for everything, the guests are the ones who treat the birthday person. It is a nice way to show someone they are appreciated on their special day of the year.

Irish people also tend to prefer going to a pub rather than inviting people over to their houses. In the pub, there is a tradition of rounds, where each person takes a turn paying for a drink for everyone in the group. The pub is more than just a place to drink, as it is where people meet to talk.

When you are talking to a local, you can pretty much bring up any topic you want, except for religion or England. It is also worth noting that they aren't very big on hugging, so it's best to keep a bit of personal space. They can also be very passionate when they are defending their own point of view.

Even when talking to foreigners, an Irishman will stick to his guns if he thinks he is right about something. Interestingly, the modern national costume for men looks quite a bit like what you would see in Scotland. They wear kilts, but the patterns are usually green rather than the red ones you see across the sea.

The very old traditional clothing actually consisted of long linen shirts and thick wool cloaks with big hoods. If you meet someone and they nod while raising their index finger and shaking your hand, that is just their way of saying hello. They also love to joke around and poke fun at people they like.

If an Irishman starts teasing you, it usually means he actually enjoys your company and feels comfortable with you. Just remember not to ask them if they have ever seen a leprechaun, as they find that a bit annoying. It is also not a good idea to turn down a drink or criticize the country.