Traveling in Ireland

When planning a trip to Ireland, accommodation details matter—and one common source of confusion is hotel room descriptions that don't actually match the bed size. While the terms may sound familiar, what you get can be very different from what you're expecting. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/359842634_10159100207596244_7484398148848285487_n-598x1024.jpg]based on the IKEA Ireland mattress guide Learn more about accommodations in Ireland- from bed & breakfasts to luxury castles. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-vacation-bandb-rentals/ireland-travel-tips/] In North America, we know our twin, full, queen, and king beds. But in Ireland, those labels change a bit: a single equals a twin, a double matches a full, a king is often closer to a queen, and a super king- well, in the US we might call that a ‘California King'. WHY A DOUBLE ROOM DOESN'T ALWAYS = A DOUBLE BED The real trouble starts when hotels use the word “double.” In Ireland, “double room” might describe a room for two people, not necessarily a room with a double bed. You might find yourself with anything from a full-sized mattress to a king, or even two twins pushed together. A few examples from real hotels: * Castle Hotel Dublin [https://booking.stay22.com/hei/sSDOHaUQVm]: Their “double” room includes a double bed (full size), which is what you may expect, based on the room name. * Butler House Kilkenny [https://booking.stay22.com/hei/DACcpppK1E]: “Double” here can mean a king or queen bed, so reading the full room description is key. * Morgan Hotel Dublin [https://expedia.stay22.com/hei/2eMRvOu6sv]: Rooms are named things like “Signature” and “Deluxe,” so you’ll need to dig into the details to see if you’re getting a king, two twins, or a mix. Moral of the story? Always check the room description and photos before you book. And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to email the hotel directly to confirm bed size. Room at The Morgan Hotel Dublin [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Morgan-Hotel-1024px-1024x768.jpg]Queen bed at The Morgan Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 275 The post What a “Double Room” Really Means in Ireland (and How to Book the Right Bed) [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/bed-sizes-in-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

It’s no surprise that most travelers to Ireland have the Rock of Cashel [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/visit-rock-of-cashel-ireland/attractions/] on their list. It's dramatic, iconic, and completely captivating as it rises unexpectedly from the landscape. But if that’s the only stop you make in County Tipperary, you're missing so much. Photographer and tour guide John Cash knows the county inside and out—and he’s quick to share that while Cashel is impressive, it’s only the beginning. Rock_of_Cashel_Ireland_photo_credit_Jody_Halsted_IrelandFamilyVacations.com [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Rock-of-Cashel-1024x771.jpg]The Rock of Cashel This article is based on podcast episode 274 featuring John Cash, professional photographer, historian, and tour guide. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links. WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE ROCK OF CASHEL Yes, it's breathtaking from the road – but the true magic happens when you dig into the history. Cormac’s Chapel, with its centuries-old frescoes, is now limited to small groups to preserve the delicate interior. Time your visit right and you may be among the few allowed inside. Don’t skip the Vicar’s Choral, either – it’s been beautifully refurbished and adds even more dimension to your visit. For those who prefer a self-guided option, QR codes around the site make it easy to learn on your own. And if you have time, explore Cashel town itself. You’ll find charming shops, great places to eat, and remnants of medieval walls that make it worth a wander. The Rock of Cashel & many other locations mentioned in this episode are OPW Heritage sites. Learn how the OPW Heritage Card can help you save money in Ireland! [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/opw-pass-ireland-attractions/attractions/] If you're looking for a stay you won't soon forget, consider Cashel Palace. The Palladian Manor sits directly below the Rock of Cashel (it even has its own private gated walkway to the majestic site) and features luxurious rooms, an amazing spa, and two delicious restaurants. EXPLORING TIPPERARY BEYOND ‘THE ROCK' Once you’ve explored Cashel, it’s time to widen the lens. County Tipperary is rich with castles, sacred landscapes, family-friendly adventures, and that slower pace that makes Ireland unforgettable. Whether you’re into history, scenery, or simply discovering places most travelers rush past, Tipperary rewards the curious. Cahir_Castle_Tipperary_Ireland_photo_Credit_Jody_Halsted_IrelandFamilyVacations.com [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Cahir-Castle-1024x771.jpg]Cahir Castle CAHIR CASTLE: UNDERRATED AND ABSOLUTELY WORTH IT Just ten miles down the road, Cahir Castle [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/cahir-castle-tipperary-favorite-castle-ireland/attractions/] sits gracefully along the River Suir. While it has Hollywood connections – filming took place here for Excalibur, The Last Duel, and The Green Knight – it's the hands-on experience that makes it shine. You can climb towers, dip into dungeons, and walk the same grounds the Butler family once ruled. Don’t miss the path to the Swiss Cottage, a storybook lodge built as a riverside retreat. Wildflowers, ducks, dragonflies… this riverside walk offers nature, history, and kid-friendly charm. And, if the day is fine, grab a sandwich from the River House Café and picnic in the castle park. You’ll feel like you’ve discovered something extraordinary – because you have. WHAT MAKES TIPPERARY A SMART BASE Tipperary’s location in the heart of Ireland makes it an ideal base if you want flexibility. Within two hours you can reach the Cliffs of Moher, Kinsale, or even the shores of the Shannon. But the county itself offers enough variety that you might not want to go anywhere else. Bridge_Athassel_Priory_Tipperary_Ireland_photo_credit_Jody_Halsted_IrelandFamilyVacations.com [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Bridge-to-Athassel-Priory-Tipperary-1024x703.jpg]Athassel Priory A DAY (OR TWO) IN TIPPERARY Planning to stay overnight? You’ll want to prioritize: * The Glen of Aherlow [https://www.aherlow.com/]: Nestled between mountain ranges, it offers lush views, sacred wells, and stories that stretch from pagan times to early Christianity. * Mitchelstown Caves [https://mitchelstowncave.com/]: Right on the Cork border and spectacular. They even host concerts in the cavern's natural amphitheater. * Horse Country [https://horsecountry.ie/]: Home to three racecourses, Tipperary’s equine heritage runs deep. Pony trekking in the Glen is a unique way to experience the landscape. * Get the FREE Horse Country Itinerary! [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/product/horse-country-itinerary/] * The Vee: [https://www.knockmealdownactive.com/see-do/the-vee/] A glacial valley drive that rewards you with unforgettable views, particularly at sunset. (Fun fact: this is where I had my one and only car accident in Ireland. Narrow road + large truck coming down the hill= me in the wall. Luckily no one was injured and the car had coverage.) county road in County Clare, Ireland [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/20141029_153918-edit-1024px.jpg]https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-car-rental-driving-guide/ COMPLETE GUIDE [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-car-rental-driving-guide/] to renting a car & driving in Ireland [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-car-rental-driving-guide/] CONNECT WITH JOHN John Cash is not only a knowledgeable guide and talented photographer, he’s also incredibly generous with his insights. Whether you’re looking for a guided tour in Tipperary or just need a few pointers for your trip, he’s happy to help. 📧 Email: johncashgip@gmail.com 📘 Facebook: Love Tipperary [https://www.facebook.com/luvtipperary] 📸 Instagram: @johncashgip [https://www.instagram.com/johncashgip] Drop him a message, follow his work, and let him know you heard about him here. Vee_Gap_Tipperary_Waterford_Ireland_photo_credit_Jody_Halsted_IrelandFamilyVacations.com [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Vee-Pass-between-Tipperary-and-Waterford-1024x546.jpg]The Vee Gap between Tipperary and Waterford A PHOTOGRAPHER’S FAVORITE SPOTS IN TIPPERARY John shared a few of his go-to places when he wants that jaw-dropping photo or just a quiet moment: * The Clare Glens [https://visitballyhoura.com/explore/nature-loop-walk-clare-glens-murroe]: Peaceful waterfalls, deep pools, and hidden trails. * Baurnadomeeny Wedge Tomb [https://monumentalireland.ie/baurnadomeeny-wedge-tomb-diarmuid-grainnes-bed/], near Rearcross: Ancient burial sites, stone-age structures, and the legends of Diarmuid and Gráinne. * Garykennedy [https://discoverloughderg.ie/project/garrykennedy/]: A lakeside village where ancient family names like Kennedy and Larkin still echo through pub signs and stories. If you're someone who chases that “feeling” of Ireland – mist over hills, history layered in stone, and the kind of beauty that doesn’t need a filter – you’ll find it here. THE MAGIC’S IN THE WANDERING Ireland's beauty is more than a checklist of big-name stops. It's found in the smaller places where stories still matter, names still mean something, and the people still take time for a chat. Take your time in Tipperary and you’ll come home with more than just pictures. The post County Tipperary Beyond the Rock: Make It More Than a Pit Stop [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/exploring-county-tipperary/regions-and-counties/south-east-ireland/tipperary/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

If Newgrange and Kilmainham Gaol are on your Ireland itinerary, you’ll need more than interest to visit – you’ll need a timed ticket. These two OPW-managed sites are incredibly popular, and both strongly recommend advance booking. The good news? Even if you don’t have your OPW Heritage Card yet, you can still reserve your spot. Not sure what an OPW Heritage Card is or why you should have it? Learn why the OPW Heritage Card is the Best Deal in Irish History [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/opw-pass-ireland-attractions/attractions/] Here’s what to know: * Newgrange (Brú na Bóinne) opens booking 30 days in advance at midnight Irish time. Set a reminder to snag your spot—especially during summer. * Kilmainham Gaol opens 28 days ahead at midnight Irish time, and tickets vanish almost immediately. Whether you're using your OPW Heritage Card or paying per site, the process is nearly identical. Just visit HeritageIreland.ie [https://heritageireland.ie], find your site, click “Book Online,” and follow the prompts. Choose “Heritage Card holder” if you plan to have one, and you’ll bypass payment. Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 273 The post Booking Newgrange and Kilmainham Gaol with (or without) an OPW Card [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/book-newgrange-kilmainahm-opw-heritage/attractions/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

When it comes to packing for your Ireland vacation it is easy to pack way more than you will need. The old adage of ‘lay out everything you think you need then leave half of it at home' stands true. Not only does it lighten your load but realizing you've been lugging around a bunch of unnecessary items when you're trying to find space to pack souvenirs is frustrating. rental car and too much luggage [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/too-much-luggage.jpg]The face you make when the luggage doesn't fit in your rental car This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 272. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links. IRELAND VACATION PACKING TIPS Deciding what is necessary and what can be left at home can be difficult. Once you've determined what clothes you need for an Ireland vacation [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-vacation-clothing-tips/ireland-travel-tips/#IrelandPackingList], the next step is to determine what you use daily, what you can't be without, and how to make it all fit in your luggage (and maybe in your rental car). TOILETRIES Large bottles of hair products, cleansers, and creams take up lots of space in your luggage (and they are heavy!). When possible, downsize your products into refillable bottles [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/product/tsa-approved-travel-bottles/] or purchase travel size items. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/61VCFSNgBL._SL1500_-1024x1024.jpg]https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/product/tsa-approved-travel-bottles/TSA Approved refillable bottles If you are checking a suitcase pack only the necessities into your carry-on bag, remembering that all liquids must fit into a single quart size clear bag. Packing items in your checked luggage? Put anything that could cause a mess into a sealed plastic bag or leak-proof toiletry case in case the change in air pressure causes a spill. MEDICATIONS Essential medications should never be put into checked baggage. If a medication is prescribed by your doctor keep it in the original packaging with both the doctor's and traveler's names on the label. Bring enough medicine to last your entire stay in Ireland. You may wish to bring a letter or prescription from your doctor in case you need to consult a pharmacist during your trip. If you take over-the-counter medications daily you may wish to bring these with you, though many can be found in Ireland under a different name. Most towns and villages have a pharmacy with helpful staff who can offer advice or help you choose the correct product. Sleep apnea (CPAP) machines may be carried on and do not count as an additional item. Be sure to check with your airline to confirm your machine is allowed to fly. MAKEUP I recommend simplifying your makeup routine for your trip. Tinted moisturizer, mascara and a lip color will get you through most days. If you need to bring more try to pare it down to just the essentials – there's no need to bring your full makeup kit. JEWELRY Bring simple pieces that can be worn with both casual and dressy clothing. Do not bring large, flashy, expensive jewelry. Never put jewelry in your checked bag. ELECTRONICS Before you pack all your gadgets think about what you will really use – and what will just weigh you down. Then consider the electricity in Ireland. ELECTRICAL ADAPTERS VS CONVERTERS FOR IRELAND TRAVEL Quick overview: an adapter changes the outlet configuration so your power plugs fit the wall socket in the country you are visiting (in this case, Ireland). A converter changes the electricity so you can use your non-dual voltage electronics in a foreign country. Ireland plugs are type G (the same as the UK) with a standard voltage of 230V. Any dual voltage electronics you bring to Ireland will require an adapter. I recommend an adapter with multiple outlets [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/product/us-to-ireland-travel-adapter/], including standard, USB, and USBC, for charging. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PXL_20241008_162312218.MP_-scaled.jpg] If your electronics are not dual voltage you will need to invest in a converter [https://www.amazon.com/Voltage-Converter-Key-Power-International/dp/B09BDVQYZP?crid=153FX7HVWUYVH&keywords=travel+converter+Ireland&qid=1670614701&sprefix=travel+converter+ireland%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-13&linkCode=ll1&tag=trustedvacationitems-20&linkId=53384db27b4dc1a0c9cb080cab370ea0&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl]. Converters are bulkier than adapters and usually have multiple pieces. Do not confuse an adapter with a converter – you will melt your electronics. If you opt to purchase a converter be sure it is equipped for the country you are traveling to and is compatible with the electronic you plan to use it with. COMPUTERS Evaluate how much you need your computer. Unless you are working remotely can you get by without it for the duration of your vacation? If you do bring your computer don't forget your charging cord. Consider cloud storage instead of bringing an external drive or purchase a small thumb drive. This one has 1T of storage and has both USB and USBC compatibility. [https://www.amazon.com/External-Storage-Compatible-Android-Computer/dp/B0BBZXM47V?crid=3I18XXP9CJKLZ&keywords=external+computer+drive&qid=1670612808&sprefix=external+computer+drive%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExTTJWOEYzOUlMWFJRJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMTU3Njk2MzVITkZRUVhDWFlJSCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMjcxOTgzMzFEVFlGOUNKSFc3TiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU%3D&linkCode=ll1&tag=trustedvacationitems-20&linkId=235e9a862c9ae114f810bfbb5cdaf88f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl] CAMERAS If you enjoy taking photos with more than the camera on your phone, don't bring every lens in your kit. I find that a couple of lenses can handle most photos. I find that one lens that is good for portraits with a bit of zoom and one landscape lens work well for me. If you have a GoPro it does come in handy as a dash cam – but only if you have the space for it. Unless you are a professional photographer, I recommend leaving your drone at home. They are bulky, are restricted in many places, and can be easily lost or damaged if you fly them at the coast (those winds can be strong!). Drone laws in Ireland [https://drone-laws.com/drone-laws-in-ireland/] Don't forget charging cords, batteries, and SD cards for your cameras and recording equipment. Reminder: spare lithium batteries must be packed in your carry-on bag. They are not allowed in checked luggage. HAIR STYLING TOOLS Trust me – you won't style your hair as often as you think you will. If you bring a curling or straightening iron be sure it is a dual voltage appliance. Look for a tag that shows 110/120v to 220/240v or states ‘dual voltage'. Do not pack a hair dryer for your Ireland vacation. They take a lot of space and most accommodations will have them available for your use. BOOKS I love to read, but books are heavy! Ireland travel books on my shelf [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Ireland-Travel-Books.jpg]https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/product-category/maps-books/ Instead of taking every guidebook snap a photo of the information you want and put it into a digital folder for reference. Or purchase the digital copy. If you're a voracious reader like me use a Kindle [https://www.amazon.com/Kindle-Paperwhite-16-GB-adjustable/dp/B09TMN58KL?crid=1NQGV0YW3JIR3&keywords=kindle&qid=1670617418&sprefix=kindle%2Caps%2C140&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=trustedvacationitems-20&linkId=c6bacc177f603d28f1e6fa32baac19ae&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl] or the Kindle app on your smartphone or tablet (and don't forget a charger). MONEY I don't know why you would, but if you travel to Ireland with €10,000 or more in cash you must declare it on arrival. Never put cash in your checked bag. Related: How & When Should I Get Euros? [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-trvel-tip-euros/ireland-travel-tips/] HOW TO PACK FOR YOUR TRIP TO IRELAND No matter if you travel carry-on or check a bag, organization is key when packing your suitcase. I like to pack outfits together- especially when packing for children- so I know I have everything I need. LUGGAGE When choosing luggage for your Ireland vacation I advise planning to travel carry-on only. If you can't make that work (I totally understand) and are checking a bag, I recommend packing at least one outfit, an extra pair of shoes, and any toiletries you might need, into your carry-on. Just in case your bag doesn't arrive at the airport when you do. If you are traveling with family pack a few outfits for each person in each checked bag. Then, if one gets lost, there will still be clothes for everyone. And make sure everyone has their own carry-on (see above). I do recommend taking as few bags as possible. Our family of 4 usually packs one personal bag and one carry-on per person plus one large, checked bag that we all use. (We will use two large, checked bags if I stay in Ireland longer to lead a tour.) The type of luggage you buy is very much personal preference. I like hard sided luggage to check and soft sided for carry-on. Any luggage locks [https://www.amazon.com/TSA-Luggage-Locks-Pack-Combination/dp/B01FUGQWX2?asc_contentid=amzn1.osa.200a6c22-65d8-416f-9cbd-7f5d7e52fad0.ATVPDKIKX0DER.en_US&asc_contenttype=article&ascsubtag=amzn1.osa.200a6c22-65d8-416f-9cbd-7f5d7e52fad0.ATVPDKIKX0DER.en_US&content-id=amzn1.sym.01243ef6-1f4d-40e2-ad34-d02b1375dcf1%3Aamzn1.sym.01243ef6-1f4d-40e2-ad34-d02b1375dcf1&crid=35W4ETKHYC8AO&cv_ct_cx=tsa%2Blocks&cv_ct_id=amzn1.osa.200a6c22-65d8-416f-9cbd-7f5d7e52fad0.ATVPDKIKX0DER.en_US&cv_ct_pg=search&cv_ct_we=asin&cv_ct_wn=osp-single-source-pecos-desktop&keywords=tsa%2Blocks&pd_rd_i=B01FUGQWX2&pd_rd_r=ed29c758-bef0-4b80-a1a1-e9a6ed43918a&pd_rd_w=Z2lvO&pd_rd_wg=qeqVY&pf_rd_p=01243ef6-1f4d-40e2-ad34-d02b1375dcf1&pf_rd_r=TPCBQX3Y14NBKFNC3SCT&qid=1670618395&sprefix=tsa%2Blocks%2Caps%2C158&sr=1-1-c26ac7f6-b43f-4741-a772-17cad7536576&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=trustedvacationitems-20&linkId=fc94fddf48430b11407f69bee6ec844a&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl], built in or attached, need to be TSA approved. If the TSA can not access your luggage they will cut the lock or hold your luggage until you can open it for them. Related: Carry-On Necessities for Your Flight to Ireland [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/carry-necessities-flight-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/] The post Ireland Vacation Packing Tips: What to Take & What to Leave Home [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-vacation-packing-tips/ireland-travel-tips/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

Blarney Castle and Gardens is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations – and for good reason. But if you show up at the wrong time, your magical visit can quickly turn into a crowded, stressful experience. Here’s a quick planning tip that can make all the difference. HOW CRUISE SHIP SCHEDULES CAN MAKE OR BREAK YOUR BLARNEY CASTLE DAY Most travelers don’t realize this, but Blarney Castle can get especially busy when cruise ships dock nearby. The ports of Cobh, Ringaskiddy, and the Port of Cork all welcome cruise ships during the warmer months. And many of those passengers head to Blarney. That means hundreds of extra visitors descending on the site in a single day. HOW TO CHECK CRUISE SHIP SCHEDULES The best way to avoid those crowds? Check the cruise ship schedules before you plan your visit. The Port of Cork website lists upcoming cruise arrivals, and it’s a tool I use regularly when helping clients fine-tune their Ireland itineraries. Here’s how to use it: 1. Visit the Port of Cork website [https://www.portofcork.ie] and click on “Cruise Schedule.” 2. Scroll through the schedule by date to see which ships will be in port. 3. Pay attention to the passenger capacity and docking times. Ships carrying 2,000+ passengers can have a big impact! DOUBLE-CHECK FOR ACCURACY Sometimes cruise schedules differ between sources. I’ve found small discrepancies between what’s listed on the Port of Cork site and other tools (even AI ones like ChatGPT). If there’s any doubt, I recommend trusting the Port of Cork site for the most current updates, since itineraries can change with weather or port availability. ALREADY HAVE YOUR BLARNEY CASTLE VISIT PLANNED? If your itinerary is already set and you discover a cruise ship will be in port, don’t panic. You can still avoid the worst of the crowds with smart timing. Try one of these strategies: * Arrive early. If the ship docks at 8:00 AM, cruise passengers won’t disembark and reach Blarney instantly. Be there when the castle opens to get ahead. * Visit later in the day. Ships usually depart in the late afternoon. Plan your visit for after 2:30 or 3:00 PM – many cruise passengers will already be heading back to the ship. BONUS TIP: USE THIS FOR OTHER ATTRACTIONS TOO Cruise crowds don’t just impact Blarney. If you're visiting other popular sites like the Jameson Distillery in Midleton, it's worth checking schedules there, too. While those tours are booked by time slots and may not feel as crowded, it’s still helpful to know when to expect a surge in visitors (or understand why no bookings are available). WHY THIS SIMPLE TIP MATTERS A little planning goes a long way when it comes to enjoying top tourist spots in Ireland. By checking cruise ship schedules, you can avoid the busiest times at Blarney Castle and make sure your visit is every bit as memorable as you hoped. Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 271 The post When Not to Visit Blarney Castle (and How to Time It Right) [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/plan-blarney-castle-visit/ireland-travel-tips/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].