Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Ireland. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. Passport must remain valid the entire length of the stay. A visa is not required.
US Embassy/Consulate
[353] (1) 668-8777; US Embassy in Dublin, 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, Ireland; ACSDublin@state.gov; https://ie.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
353
Local Emergency Phone
112, 999
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Ireland: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Temperate maritime; modified by North Atlantic Current; mild winters, cool summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time
Currency (Code)
Euros (EUR)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): G
Major Languages
English (the language generally used), Irish (Gaelic or Gaeilge)
Major Religions
Roman Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, Muslim
Time Difference
UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time); daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October
Potable Water
Yes
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Cliffs of Moher; Dublin (includes Dublin Castle, Trinity College & Book of Kells, Grafton Street, Kilmainham Gaol); Killarney National Park & Muckross House & Gardens; Ring of Kerry; Kilkenny Castle; Blarney Castle; Bru na Boinne; Powerscourt Estate
Major Sports
Soccer, golf, rugby
Cultural Practices
Irish people have the reputation of being very friendly and easy-going. Small talk is an important part of everyday life even among strangers. Being polite is also very important: people use 'please' and 'thank you' often and they use indirect ways to ask for something.
Tipping Guidelines
In restaurants, tip 10-15% of the bill if no service charge is included. Leave 1-2 euros at bars. Taxi drivers do not expect tips and many drivers often round down the bill, especially on longer fares, but you may round up the fare. Tip bellhops 1-2 euros per bag and leave housekeeping 1-2 euros per night.
Souvenirs
Hand-woven wool and other knitwear, pottery, crystal; silver and gold Claddagh, Celtic cross, and trinity knot jewelry; liquor, shamrock-themed items
Traditional Cuisine
Irish Stew — mutton stew with potatoes, onions, carrots, and parsley
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, October 31, 2023
