Ireland flights and travel guide

The little island to the west of the UK needs little introduction. From its ancient ruins that stand against a (usually) grey sky and fabled beauty spots to its ultra-modern cities - not to mention the strong ties that exist between the two countries - Ireland is an unbeatable destination.

Given the family and business connections that link the UK and Ireland it's not surprising that London-Dublin should be the busiest international air route. Cheap flights to Ireland are available on more than 70 routes.

Dublin, the capital, may not have the "must-see-before-you-die" monuments, but it is affluent, cosmopolitan and very buzzy. It has a rich literary heritage, cosy (and smoke free) pubs, elegant Georgian streets and a local population who love to "have the craic".

Outside Dublin, Ireland has a wealth of attractions - fishing in the lakes and in the coastal waters, hiking the Connemara Way, Wicklow Gap or Ring of Kerry, surfing off the coast of Antrim, Donegal, Clare or Kerry.

The Atlantic thunders on the west coast and the Irish Sea is to the east, giving up some of the best seafood in the world. Its farms produce the meat and vegetables for the simple and hearty Irish cuisine.

Search and compare: cheap flights to Ireland

Back to top

Ireland Climate

Back to top

When to Fly to Ireland

Peak Season:
The peak season for flights to Ireland is summer with its warm weather and long, sunlit days (6am to past 10pm). All rates are at their highest, festivals are in full swing, and all attractions are open. Dublin is busy year-round and doesn’t have a low season. The amount of competition on UK-Ireland routes means that there are usually plenty of cheap flights to Ireland.

Shoulder Season:
Spring and autumn are great times to visit Ireland. The weather is usually fairly good and most of the crowds have left.

Off Season:
Except for Dublin, winter prices tend to be the lowest. However, seasonal hotels, restaurants, accommodations, and attractions usually close from early or mid-November until mid-March or Easter.

Back to top

Getting Around Ireland

Public transport (buses and trains) is great if you are travelling from, say, Dublin to Cork or Galway, but it can be tricky getting around within counties.

Bus Eireann is the national bus company and there are lots of private coach companies that offer good, well-connected services between the cities. In general, it is cheaper to take a bus than a train.

Renting a car is a good option and rental companies are represented at all the major airports, but shop around for the best deals. If you are pushed for time, you could fly between cities. Aer Arann for example flies from Dublin to Cork, Galway, Donegal, Kerry and Sligo. Ryanair also flies from Dublin to Cork.

Back to top

Ireland Airports

Back to top

Passport/Visa

Back to top

Entry Requirements

Back to top