The cost of visiting Ireland depends on factors like travel style, season, and activities. Below is a breakdown of expenses for a trip to Ireland, covering budget, mid-range, and luxury travel.
Estimated Cost for a Trip to Ireland
1. Flights to Ireland
- From the U.S.: $500 – $1,200 (round-trip)
- From the UK: £30 – £150 (budget airlines like Ryanair)
- From Europe: €50 – €250
- From Australia: $1,200 – $2,000
Tip: Book flights in advance (3-6 months) for the best deals.
2. Accommodation Costs (Per Night)
- Budget (Hostels, B&Bs, Budget Hotels): €25 – €80 ($30 – $85)
- Mid-Range (3-4 Star Hotels, Boutique Stays): €100 – €200 ($110 – $220)
- Luxury (5-Star Hotels, Castles, Resorts): €250+ ($270+)
Tip: Stay in B&Bs for an authentic Irish experience at a lower cost.
3. Transportation Costs
- Car Rental: €40 – €100 per day ($45 – $110) + fuel (€1.60 – €1.90 per liter)
- Public Transport: €5 – €30 per ride (Dublin Bus, Luas tram, trains)
- Intercity Buses/Trains: €15 – €60 ($17 – $65) per trip
- Taxis: €15 – €40 per ride in cities
Tip: Renting a car is the best way to explore the countryside, but use buses/trains in major cities.
4. Food & Drink Costs
- Budget (€10 – €20 per meal): Street food, cafés, and pub grub (fish & chips, Irish stew)
- Mid-Range (€25 – €50 per meal): Sit-down meals at casual restaurants
- Luxury (€60+ per meal): Fine dining or Michelin-starred restaurants
- Pint of Guinness: €5 – €7 ($6 – $8)
- Whiskey Tasting: €20 – €50 ($22 – $55)
Tip: Enjoy lunch specials at restaurants to save money.
5. Attractions & Activities
- Free: Cliffs of Moher viewpoints, Giant’s Causeway, national parks
- Museums & Castles: €10 – €20 ($12 – $22) per entry
- Guided Tours: €40 – €120 ($45 – $130) for city tours, Game of Thrones, or Causeway tours
- Adventure Activities: €50 – €150 ($55 – $165) for kayaking, horseback riding, or golf
Tip: Buy heritage passes for discounts on castles and attractions.
Sample Budgets for Different Travel Styles (Per Day)
| Travel Style | Budget (€) | Budget ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Backpacker (Hostels, public transport, street food) | €50 – €80 | $55 – $85 |
| Mid-Range (Hotels, rental car, restaurants) | €150 – €250 | $165 – $275 |
| Luxury (5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours) | €300+ | $330+ |
Total Cost for a 7-Day Trip to Ireland
| Travel Style | Budget (€) | Budget ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Backpacker | €350 – €600 | $380 – $660 |
| Mid-Range | €1,200 – €1,800 | $1,320 – $1,980 |
| Luxury | €2,500+ | $2,750+ |
Ways to Save Money in Ireland
Visit outside peak season (April-May & September-October) for lower prices. Use public transport instead of renting a car if staying in cities. Book accommodation early for better rates. Stay in smaller towns instead of Dublin for cheaper lodging. Take advantage of free attractions like parks, beaches, and historic sites.
Is Ireland Expensive to Visit?
Ireland can be affordable for budget travelers but can also be luxurious for those seeking premium experiences. Planning wisely and choosing budget-friendly options will help make your trip cost-effective.
Would you like a customized itinerary based on your budget? 
