How to get to Ireland?
Are you planning a trip to Ireland soon? Not sure how? Discover our guide on how to go to Ireland.
From the ferry deck, look out over Ireland’s jagged coastline, a landscape like no other. From the sky, the journey begins. Green plains mingling with the mist of mysterious mountains. Deep blue lakes that seem magnetic, Irish peat bogs…
Ireland is revealed little by little through the window. By plane or ferry, arriving and staying in Ireland is a magical experience.
Travelling to Ireland by ferry
Travelling to Ireland by ferry is a popular and scenic option, offering a relaxing start to your journey. Whether you’re coming from the UK or mainland Europe, there are multiple routes to choose from, catering to different preferences and travel styles. This is an excellent option if you prefer not to hire a car.
Taking the ferry to Ireland is also a great alternative for those who are uneasy about flying. Want to bring your pet along? The ferry is a pet-friendly choice! Most ferry operators allow pets, but it’s always best to check their policies in advance to ensure a smooth journey. For cycling enthusiasts eager to explore the Irish countryside, pack your bikes in your car, and you’re ready to go!
Ferries to Ireland from the UK
Several ferry routes connect Ireland to various ports in the UK, making it easy to reach the Emerald Isle from England, Wales, and Scotland. If you’re travelling with your car, this is a great choice as you can drive straight onto the ferry and continue your journey upon arrival in Ireland.
- Holyhead (Wales) – Dublin: Operated by Irish Ferries and Stena Line, this crossing takes about 3 hours and offers a range of onboard services.
- Fishguard (Wales) – Rosslare: A picturesque crossing with Stena Line, taking around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
- Cairnryan (Scotland) – Belfast: This route is served by Stena Line and P&O Ferries, taking roughly 2 hours.
- Liverpool (England) – Belfast: A popular route that takes about 8 hours, with services provided by Stena Line.
Flying to Ireland from abroad
Choosing your airport in Ireland
There are several main airports in Ireland, as well as smaller ones. However, coming from abroad, it is most likely you will land in the main ones:
What companies fly to Ireland?
Fares to Ireland can vary significantly depending on the airline, departure city, and time of year.
Key airlines offering flights from the US and Australia include: Aer Lingus, Air France, Ryanair, easyJet, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, Qantas, and Singapore Airlines.
Prices tend to increase during peak travel periods, such as July and August, with fares sometimes doubling due to high demand, so booking early is essential for securing the best rates. For St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th), it’s advisable to book at least 6 months in advance as this is a very popular time for travel, and ticket prices can be significantly higher. Being flexible with your travel dates and booking in advance can help you find more affordable options, particularly with low-cost carriers like Ryanair and easyJet.
If you’re looking for a unique, tailor-made trip, you can opt for a self-guided tour with Great British Trips. That way, you won’t have to organise anything and you can enjoy your trip to the full. The advantage of working with us? We know the area inside out!
All you have to do is collect your hire car from the airport and get used to driving on the left. The beautiful roads of Ireland are yours to discover!
Our trips to Ireland and beyond
