Average cost to visit Ireland

Round-trip flights from major US cities to Ireland (typically Dublin) vary widely in price depending on the departure location, season, and airline. A return flight in Economy Class with a full-service carrier like Delta or United typically starts at around $500–$700, which includes one checked bag (up to 50 lbs) and a standard carry-on.

Budget airlines like Aer Lingus, Norse Atlantic, or connections via European low-cost carriers can sometimes offer flights from the East Coast to Ireland for as low as $250–$400, though these often come with extra fees for baggage and seat selection.

Flights tend to be more expensive during the summer months and around major Irish festivals or events (like St. Patrick’s Day or the Galway Races). For the best deals, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), and book several months in advance.

The average cost of a hotel stay in Ireland starts at around $70 per person per night in a basic 2- to 3-star hotel or traditional bed & breakfast. For a more comfortable experience in a 4-star hotel, you can expect to pay $130 or more per night. Luxury accommodations—such as historic castles or upscale 5-star hotels—typically start at $195 per night and up.

In addition to international hotel chains and boutique hotels, Ireland also offers unique stays in family-run guesthouses, manor homes, and authentic Irish castles. Keep in mind that peak travel season in Ireland runs from June through September, when hotel rates are usually higher compared to the off-season.

Most guided tours in Ireland range between $15 and $27 USD per person. This includes popular experiences like pub crawls in Dublin or a guided visit to the Jameson Whiskey Distillery with tasting. If you prefer to explore independently, consider a self-guided visit to the Guinness Storehouse—tickets cost around $28 USD per person.

Boat trips to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher or a breathtaking whale watching tour typically fall between $43 and $65 USD. Meanwhile, scenic hikes through natural wonders like Killarney National Park or the Dingle Peninsula are free to enjoy. Entry to many museums or castles, including Dublin Castle and Kilkenny Castle, is also very affordable, usually around $9 USD per adult.

The cost of a rental car in Ireland starts at around €95 per day (about $100 USD) for a small economy model. Fuel runs about €1.71 per liter (roughly $7.20 per gallon), so having your own car is well worth it if you plan to explore rural or remote areas.

If you’d rather skip driving, Ireland’s rail network links most major cities. A 2½-hour train ticket from Dublin to Cork is about €32 (around $35 USD) when booked in advance; the same trip by bus is closer to €22 (about $24 USD).

Within Dublin itself, public transport is both convenient and affordable. Buses and trams cover the city extensively, with single-ride fares starting at €2 (approximately $2.20 USD). And if you prefer a taxi from the airport to the city center, expect to pay between €20–€30 (about $22–$33 USD).

The cost of eating out in Ireland ranges from about $13 to $33 per person. For a more affordable option and a true taste of local life, head to a neighborhood pub—these classic Irish gathering spots are great for meeting locals and enjoying traditional dishes up close. Typical pub meals like burgers, meat pies, sandwiches, Irish stew, fish and chips, potato pancakes, and bacon with cabbage generally cost between $11 and $22, depending on the dish and the venue.

If you’re looking for a quick bite, street food in Ireland is both tasty and budget-friendly, with prices between $7 and $9 for offerings like pizza, kebabs, tacos, and curries. When it comes to drinks, Ireland’s pub culture is legendary, with options from whiskey and cider to lager, stout, and the iconic Guinness. Expect to pay around $5 to $9 for a pint of beer in most pubs.