Top 10 Mistakes Tourists Make in Ireland (And How to Avoid Them)
Ireland, with its rolling green hills, charming pubs, poetic landscapes, and ancient ruins, is an enchanting destination for travelers from around the world. But even in a country famed for its hospitality and ease of travel, first-time visitors often stumble into avoidable mistakes.
From renting the wrong kind of car to underestimating rural travel times or struggling with SIM card queues, here’s a guide to the top 10 tourist blunders in Ireland—and exactly how to sidestep them.
1. Renting a Car Without Knowing It’s Manual
The Mistake: Ireland is best explored by car—but many tourists are surprised when handed a manual transmission vehicle.
What to Know:
- Most rental cars in Ireland are manual by default.
- Automatics are available but must be requested in advance—and they cost more.
How to Avoid It:
- Book an automatic online ahead of time if you’re unfamiliar with manual driving.
- Also note: driving is on the left-hand side and roads can be quite narrow in rural areas.
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2. Thinking “Pub Food” Means Fast Food
The Mistake: Assuming Irish pubs serve food on a speedy, American-style schedule.
The Reality:
- Irish pub meals are hearty, freshly prepared, and often made to order.
- Expect longer wait times—especially in countryside pubs or busy towns.
Pro Tip:
- Take the slower pace as part of the Irish charm. Order a pint, relax, and enjoy the live music or banter.
3. Not Accounting for Rural Travel Time
The Mistake: Underestimating how long it takes to drive from town to town, especially in scenic or coastal areas.
What You Should Know:
- Ireland’s scenic routes like the Wild Atlantic Way or the Ring of Kerry are breathtaking—but winding and slow.
- GPS often underestimates actual driving time due to narrow lanes, livestock crossings, and weather.
How to Avoid It:
- Always allow for extra driving time and consider staying overnight near major landmarks.
4. Tipping Confusion
The Mistake: Over- or under-tipping due to unfamiliarity with local customs.
The Irish Way:
- Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated for good service.
- In restaurants, 10–15% is typical if a service charge isn’t already included.
- You don’t need to tip at pubs unless you received table service.
Quick Tip:
- Keep small change handy—or use contactless payments (easier if you’ve already activated a mobile eSIM).
5. Waiting in Line for a Local SIM Card
The Mistake: Wasting time at airports or local phone shops trying to get connected.
Why It’s Frustrating:
- SIM card shops can be crowded, limited in operating hours, or have confusing plan options.
- Many SIMs require ID verification and are locked to certain networks.
The Smart Move:
- Use a Voye Global eSIM for Ireland. It activates via QR code before or after landing—no queues, no paperwork, no fuss.
- You get instant access to mobile data for maps, bookings, and translation apps.
6. Not Checking Driving Routes for Tolls & Restrictions
The Mistake: Getting fined for using toll roads unknowingly or being unaware of road restrictions.
What to Watch For:
- Dublin’s M50 ring road has barrier-free tolls—you must pay online.
- Some small towns restrict car access during peak seasons.
How to Avoid It:
- Use Google Maps with real-time updates (supported by eSIM) to avoid surprises.
- Confirm with rental agencies about toll policies and automatic billing.
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7. Trying to “Do It All” in One Week
The Mistake: Overpacking the itinerary to include Dublin, Galway, Cork, the Cliffs of Moher, Belfast, and the Aran Islands in a 7-day trip.
What Happens:
- You’ll spend more time in transit than actually enjoying Ireland.
- The charm of Ireland lies in the slow moments—farm stops, cliffside walks, storytelling locals.
How to Plan It Better:
- Focus on one region (e.g., West Coast or Northern Ireland).
- Use eSIM-enabled apps to book last-minute day tours or scenic rail rides.
8. Not Packing for Four Seasons in a Day
The Mistake: Expecting consistent weather.
Ireland’s Reality:
- It may rain, shine, blow wind, and go foggy—all in one afternoon.
- Even in summer, a sudden drizzle or drop in temperature is common.
What to Bring:
- Waterproof layers, sturdy shoes, a warm hoodie—even in July.
- Keep weather apps updated via mobile data using your Voye eSIM.
9. Skipping the North (Northern Ireland)
The Mistake: Assuming the Republic of Ireland is all there is.
What You’re Missing:
- Northern Ireland is home to the Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges, and Belfast’s Titanic Quarter.
- It uses GBP instead of EUR, but crossing the border is seamless—no passport check.
Travel Tip:
- Voye’s UK eSIM or regional EU eSIM makes staying connected on both sides of the border hassle-free.
10. Forgetting How Close Ireland Is to Other Countries
The Mistake: Not combining your trip with another destination.
What’s Nearby:
- Scotland: Just a short ferry from Northern Ireland or a 1-hour flight from Dublin.
- Wales & England: Accessible via ferry from Dublin to Holyhead.
- France & Spain: Budget flights via Ryanair or Aer Lingus make multi-country trips affordable.
Smart Travel Hack:
- Use a global eSIM from Voye Global to stay connected across borders without switching SIMs or incurring roaming fees.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Ireland?
- April–June: Blooming countryside, fewer tourists, longer daylight hours.
- September–October: Fall colors, music festivals, and a crisp, cozy atmosphere.
- July–August: Peak season with warmer weather, but also higher prices and more crowds.
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Magical for Christmas markets and stormy coastal scenery—just be ready for shorter days.
Why Choose Voye Global eSIM for Traveling to Ireland?
Whether you’re hiking in the Wicklow Mountains, navigating a medieval alley in Kilkenny, or uploading photos from the Cliffs of Moher, staying connected should be simple. That’s where Ireland eSIM steps in.
- Instant Activation: Download your eSIM before landing—QR code setup takes under 2 minutes.
- Flexible Data Plans: From short stays to month-long adventures.
- Regional Coverage: Explore the UK, Ireland, and beyond on a single plan.
- No Roaming Charges or Hidden Fees.
Skip the SIM card stalls. Let Voye handle your connection while you focus on the scenery.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need an international driver’s license to drive in Ireland?
If your license is in English and from the US, UK, Canada, or EU, you likely don’t need one. Always confirm with your rental provider.
Is internet access reliable in rural Ireland?
Yes, but some remote areas have patchy Wi-Fi. A mobile eSIM ensures you’re always connected.
Is tipping expected in taxis or tours?
It’s not mandatory, but rounding up or a small tip is appreciated.
Can I use my Ireland eSIM in Northern Ireland?
Only if it includes UK coverage. Consider a regional eSIM if you’re crossing borders.
Is Ireland expensive for tourists?
It can be—especially in peak season. Booking trains, accommodations, and data plans in advance helps cut costs.
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