Discover Tailor-Made Ireland Vacations

During the peak summer season from June to August, travellers can expect pleasant temperatures, relatively fine weather, and a wealth of cultural festivals, but also larger tourist crowds at premium attractions such as Blarney Castle or Dublin’s Irish Whiskey Museum, so booking in advance is key.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn provide visitors with similarly pleasant weather but fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to hike through Killarney National Park or wander the cobblestone streets of Dublin.

Winter in Ireland, though still pleasant, can bring wetter weather to much of the country. This is the perfect season for evenings of Celtic music at a cozy pub in Cork or a quiet tour of The Little Museum of Dublin.

“If you’re visiting Ireland between February and September,” says Destination Specialist Edwina Brislane, “you must experience a local hurling or Gaelic football match. These matches aren’t just about sport; they’re community events where locals gather to cheer on their teams with incredible spirit. No player is paid, even at the highest level, which shows just how deeply rooted the love for the game is. And if you happen to be around for a semi-final or final, you’re in for a real treat—expect electric energy and celebrations that spill into the streets.”

Warm and inviting, the Irish themselves are keen to show visitors both aspects of their country, where, for example, the bustling nightclub scene of Dublin sits alongside the mysterious stone walls of Cashel, the place at which Ireland’s ancient kings were crowned. 

“The best way to connect with Ireland is to listen to the Irish, embrace the culture, and immerse yourself in the experience,” says Destination Specialist Edwina Brislane, noting that Goway’s tours of the Emerald Isle highlight “the stories, traditions, and spirit of the people.”

In particular, pub culture is a way of life for the Irish, so be sure to have a pint or two in any of the myriad pubs that dot almost every nook and cranny in Ireland, especially those in small towns and rural areas.

For more on Ireland’s vibrant history and culture, check out our extensive cultural primer.

Locality and seasonality are the cornerstones of Irish cuisine. Traditional dishes such as fish and chips, Irish stew, and simple, budget-friendly colcannon (creamy mashed potatoes mixed with wilted cabbage or kale and flavoured with butter, milk, green onions, or leeks) remain mainstays of Irish menus. 

In recent years, outside influences have also expanded food choices in Ireland, with everything from Chinese to Indian to Italian fare on offer. Drinks-wise, world-famous Guinness stout as well as Irish whiskey and poitín (a once illegal moonshine) are among the libations to try. 

For an Ireland vacation focused on food and drink, consult one of our Destination Specialists to start creating your itinerary.

Ireland can be comfortably explored by rail, car, or bus. If you rent a car, be prepared for left-hand driving. Whatever your chosen mode of transport, Ireland is easy to navigate.

In terms of packing, conditions can change quickly on the island, so warm, layered clothing and some waterproof outerwear are musts, as are comfortable walking shoes. 

In Ireland, tipping is optional and not a cultural norm, but gratuities are welcome for good service, especially in restaurants and for tour guides. In restaurants, tip 10 to 15 percent if no service charge has been added, and consider tipping around €10 for tour guides. For other services like hotels, taxis, and pubs, tipping is less expected, though you can round up a taxi fare for friendly service or leave small tips for hotel housekeeping and porters.

Throughout the country, English is widely spoken, but do learn a few basic phrases in Irish (Gaeilge), such as thank you (go raibh maith agat) or cheers (slainte). The locals will appreciate your effort.