☘️ Introduction: Welcome to the Land of Questions (and Guinness)
Planning your first trip to Ireland? You’re not alone in wondering “Do I need to tip?”, “Will it rain?”, and “Is it true Guinness tastes better in Dublin?” (Spoiler: yes.)
At Valhalla Tours, we’ve heard every question — from the practical to the slightly panicked — and we’re here to give you the real answers, minus the tourist fluff.
So grab a pint (or a pen), and let’s tackle the essential Ireland travel tips every visitor should know before landing on the Emerald Isle.
🪙 1. Do You Need to Tip in Ireland?
Yes, but not like you’re in an American rom-com.
- Restaurants: Around 10%–12% is plenty if service isn’t already included.
- Pubs: You don’t tip per drink, but you can “buy one for the barman” — a uniquely Irish gesture that basically means “I appreciate you; have a pint on me later.”
- Taxis: Round up to the nearest euro; you’ll get a smile and maybe a story.
💡 Valhalla Tip: Never leave loose change on the bar. That’s not tipping — that’s confusion.
☔ 2. What’s the Weather Really Like?
Short answer: unpredictable. Long answer: all four seasons in a single afternoon.
You’ll need:
- A waterproof jacket
- Sensible shoes
- A sense of humour
Irish weather changes faster than you can say “another round.” One minute it’s sunshine, the next it’s sideways rain. It’s part of the charm — and an excellent excuse for another pub stop.
👉 Check out our Packing for Ireland Guide for what to bring (and what to leave behind).
🔌 3. What Kind of Plugs Does Ireland Use?
Ireland uses Type G plugs (the same as the UK) — three chunky prongs that look like they were designed to power a castle.
💡 Bring a universal travel adapter and a power bank.
💡 Don’t panic if you forget — you can buy adapters at Dublin Airport or any Tesco.
🚗 4. Is Driving in Ireland Difficult?
It’s… an adventure.
Yes, we drive on the left. Yes, the roads can be narrow. Yes, the sheep think they own the place.
But once you get used to it, it’s one of the most scenic driving experiences on Earth.
Rent something small, take your time, and remember — those roads weren’t built for speed; they were built for storytelling.
👉 Read Road Trip Valhalla for the most epic scenic routes to explore safely.
💶 5. Do You Need Cash, or Do Cards Work Everywhere?
Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it’s smart to carry some cash — especially in rural areas where Wi-Fi is about as reliable as the weather.
Ireland uses the Euro (€), while Northern Ireland uses Pounds (£).
If you’re touring both, make sure your wallet can handle the accent change.
📱 6. Is There Good Wi-Fi in Ireland?
Yes, but not everywhere. Cities and towns have strong connections, but once you wander into the wilds of Connemara or Kerry, it’s you, the wind, and the sheep.
💡 Download your maps offline before you go.
💡 Or better yet — let Valhalla Tours do the navigating for you.
🍽️ 7. What Time Do People Eat in Ireland?
We’re a bit more relaxed about meal times than most.
- Breakfast: Big, fried, and glorious — anytime before noon.
- Lunch: Between 12–2 p.m.
- Dinner: Usually around 6–8 p.m., unless you’re in a pub, in which case time is more of a suggestion.
Don’t be surprised if locals invite you to “stay for one” — which never, ever means just one.
👉 Read A Taste of Ireland for our guide to must-try Irish dishes.
🗣️ 8. Will I Understand the Irish Accent?
Mostly.
Ireland has a wide range of accents — from the musical lilt of Kerry to the quickfire banter of Dublin. If you don’t understand something, smile, nod, and say “Grand.” It works 90% of the time.
💬 Key phrases:
- “Craic” = fun, good times
- “Deadly” = awesome
- “Sure look” = conversation filler, meaning absolutely nothing and everything at once
👉 Visit The Craic Guide for more linguistic enlightenment.
🧳 9. How Long Should You Spend in Ireland?
You can see the highlights in a week, but the soul of Ireland? That takes a lifetime (or at least two pints).
If it’s your first visit, we recommend 7–10 days — enough time to explore Dublin, Galway, the Cliffs of Moher, and maybe a castle or two.
For those who prefer slow travel, Valhalla’s guided tours let you wander, not rush.
👉 Explore Valhalla’s Ireland Tours
🪄 10. What’s the One Thing You Must Do?
That’s easy: talk to people.
Whether it’s a taxi driver, a pub musician, or a granny at the bus stop — the Irish are master storytellers.
Conversations are where the real Ireland lives.
Because in the end, the greatest souvenir you’ll take home isn’t wool or whiskey — it’s a story you’ll tell forever.
⚔️ The Valhalla Way: Answers with a Side of Craic
At Valhalla Tours, we believe travel should be full of laughter, connection, and the occasional surprise rainstorm.
So pack your sense of humour, charge your phone, and leave room in your heart for a few legends.
Welcome to Ireland — you’re going to fit right in.
Splash