Ireland
Quick Tips:
Visa Requirements: If you're from the US there is no need for a Visa (always double-check that as it can change).
Parking in Dublin: If you plan to stay in Dublin and have a rental car be sure to get a hotel with parking.
Rental Car: Driving in Ireland in a right-hand drive vehicle and on the opposite side (to the US) is no small thing... but it's possible if you're brave. When renting a car if you choose to use your credit card's coverage you need to come ready with a letter stating you have coverage in Ireland. Also, be aware that the rental company will accept this but put a 5,000 Euro hold on your card for incidentals. You can instead opt for the rental company's insurance but that will add hundreds of dollars to your bill. So, choose which of these options works best for you.
Ireland must see, eat, and do.
Dublin is a beautiful and busy city… if it's your first-time visiting Ireland and you’re brave enough to rent a car then the best advice I can give you is to find a hotel that includes parking and is outside of the city center.
Dublin:
Hotel: Waterloo Townhouse & Suites
Address: 10 Waterloo Rd, Dublin 4, D04 T651, Ireland
Why:
Parking (it's tight but it's perfect- get the absolute smallest car you can for the roads and parking).
It's outside of the city center, you can park your car and walk to dinner ect.
Room was great and the people here were very helpful.
Dinner: A short 3 min walk to dinner from the above hotel.
Searson's: Fantastic food and great atmosphere. It's busy so eat at the bar if you need to (we did).
Address: 42-44 Baggot Street Upper, Dublin 4, D04 V210, Ireland
Waterloo Townhouse & Suites
Searson's, Shepards Pie
Searson's, Fish & Chips
We got Ubers into the city and around it to save on parking and left the rental car at the hotel.
Dublin's 1st stop: Trinity College to visit the “Old Library” and the “Book to Kels”, highly recommend both. The school's grounds are beautiful, and the library is breathtaking.
You need to book tickets to the library online, there is a QR code at the door.
Lunch/Brunch: Lemon Crêpe & Coffee Co.
This place looks unassuming but was amazing.
Trinity College
Old Library
Old Library
Lemon Crêpe & Coffee Co
Dublin's 2nd stop: St. Patrick's Cathedral
An incredible place to spend an afternoon exploring. Make sure to opt in for the free audio guide.
Dublin's 3rd stop: Guinness Factory
This was my second time here and I'd skip this completely if my husband hadn't been before. This place is so expensive and is not worth the hype. If you want to go on a tour, go to the Jameson Distillery.
St. Patrick's Cathedral
St. Patrick's Cathedral
St. Patrick's Cathedral