Ireland is packed with some of the most jaw-dropping hiking trails you’ll ever see. Think dramatic coastal cliffs, rolling green hills, and those charming ancient stone walls you’ve probably seen in postcards. Whether you’re itching to explore the rugged Wild Atlantic Way or soak in the magic of the Ring of Kerry, this guide has got you covered! 

We’ll dish out all the tips you need - from the best times to visit to secret spots most tourists miss. Along the way, you’ll experience that famous Irish hospitality, try some seriously good traditional food, and who knows, maybe even discover a bit about your own Irish roots. Ready to plan your dream Irish adventure? Let’s go! 

This article was created in partnership with Tourism Ireland.

Best Time to Visit Ireland for Hiking 

Ireland's temperate climate means you can hike year-round, but some seasons offer better conditions than others. May through September provides the most reliable weather, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, perfect for exploring the countryside. 

Summer months (June to August) bring the warmest temperatures, typically ranging from 60-70°F (15-20°C). However, this is also peak tourist season, so popular trails can get crowded. Spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) offer a sweet spot with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. 

Winter hiking has its own charm, with dramatic stormy coastlines and cozy pub stops. However, Macs Adventure doesn't offer trips to Ireland in winter due to the challenging weather, as well as accommodation and route closures during the off-season. 

For detailed seasonal information and month-by-month recommendations, check out our comprehensive guide to the best time to visit Ireland. 

Republic of Ireland vs. Northern Ireland: What You Need to Know 

Ireland is split into two unique regions, and this can spice up your travel plans! Most of the island - about 80% - is the Republic of Ireland, an independent country where the Euro is king. Then there’s Northern Ireland, part of the UK, where you’ll be spending the British Pound instead.  

Good news? You can go between the two with no hassle at all - no border checks, no stress. Just cross from one to the other and enjoy exploring the whole island. Keep an eye out for little differences, like road signs, currency, and even some quirky cultural twists.  

Best Hikes in Ireland: A Hiker's Paradise 

Ireland is a hiker’s paradise, with trails for everyone -from breezy coastal strolls to heart-pumping mountain climbs. Love ocean views and cute villages? The Dingle Way has you covered. Want to soak up Ireland’s most iconic sights? The Kerry Way will take you through the jaw-dropping landscapes of the Ring of Kerry.  

For coastal fans, the Causeway Coast Way in Northern Ireland is a must. Think Giant’s Causeway, cliff-top paths, and endless photo ops. And if you're into mountains, head to the Wicklow Way - nicknamed the "Garden of Ireland" - just a hop from Dublin, or explore Killarney National Park, where you’ll get epic views of Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s tallest peak.  

Each region has its own vibe, from the unique limestone of the Burren to the untouched beauty of Connemara.  

Check out our ultimate guide to the best hikes in Ireland for detailed routes, tips, and everything you need to hit the trails! 

Getting to Ireland from North America 

The easiest way to get to Ireland from North America? Hop on a flight! There are direct flights to Dublin from loads of major cities, so you’ll be sipping Guinness in no time. 

United States: 

• Atlanta, GA - Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) 
• Boston, MA - Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)  
• Charlotte, NC - Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) 
• Chicago, IL - Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)  
• Cleveland, OH - Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)  
• Dallas, TX - Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)  
• Denver, CO - Denver International Airport (DEN)  
• Detroit, MI - Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)  
• Hartford, CT - Bradley International Airport (BDL)  
• Indianapolis, IN - Indianapolis International Airport (IND)  
• Los Angeles, CA - Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)  
• Minneapolis, MN - Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)  
• Nashville, TN - Nashville International Airport (BNA)  
• New York, NY - John F. Kennedy International Airport/Newark Liberty International Airport (JFK/EWR)  
• Orlando, FL - Orlando International Airport (MCO)  
• Philadelphia, PA - Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)  
• San Francisco, CA - San Francisco International Airport (SFO)  
• Seattle, WA - Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)  
• Washington DC, DC - Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)  

Canada: 

• Calgary International Airport (YYC) 
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) 
• Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) 
• St John's International Airport (YYT) 
• Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) 
• Vancouver International Airport (YVR) 

Dublin Airport is your main hub - it’s the country’s biggest international gateway with great connections to wherever you’re headed, whether by bus, train, or even a domestic flight. But if you’re starting your adventure in the west, Shannon Airport or Kerry Airport might be a handier option. Bonus: Shannon has direct flights from some major US cities, so you can skip the extra travel time and dive right into exploring! 

• Boston, MA - Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)  
• Chicago, IL - Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) 
• New York, NY - John F. Kennedy International Airport/Newark Liberty International Airport (JFK/EWR)  

Flights are usually 6-8 hours from the East Coast and about 10-11 hours from the West Coast. During the summer, you can snag seasonal direct routes with some airlines, but for year-round travel, you’ll likely have a quick stop at a European hub. Either way, adventure is just a flight away! 

What to Pack for Your Irish Hiking Adventure 

Get ready for some weather surprises! Sunny mornings can easily turn into rainy afternoons, so waterproof layers are your best friend. Bring along a trusty rain jacket, waterproof pants, and sturdy hiking boots to keep yourself dry and comfy.  

Think layers - start with a moisture-wicking base, add a cozy mid-layer, and top it off with a weatherproof shell. Oh, and don’t forget a warm hat and gloves. Yes, even in summer. The mountains love keeping things unpredictable. Happy adventuring! 

Essential items include: 

• Waterproof hiking boots 
• Rain jacket and pants  
• Warm layers and fleece 
• Quick-dry hiking pants 
• Moisture-wicking shirts 
• Warm hat and gloves 
• Sunscreen and sunglasses 
• Small daypack 

For a complete packing checklist and gear recommendations, explore our detailed guide on what to pack for a self-guided hiking vacation. 

Things to Do in Ireland Beyond Hiking 

Ireland is packed with history, culture, and plenty to explore between your trail adventures. Start in Dublin with a visit to Trinity College to see the famous Book of Kells, or swing by the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's most iconic brew (and maybe enjoy a pint while you're at it).  

For a journey back in time, check out ancient sites like Newgrange, which is even older than Stonehenge! If you're craving jaw-dropping views, the Cliffs of Moher will blow you away, and the Ring of Kerry offers stunning scenery perfect for a leisurely drive with stops along the way.  

Make sure to add these must-sees to your list: 

• Giant's Causeway and the daring Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge  
• Blarney Castle - kiss the famous Blarney Stone for a bit of luck!  
• The medieval charm of Kilkenny city  
• The otherworldly monastery of Skellig Michael (hello, Star Wars fans!)  
• Traditional music sessions in Dublin’s lively Temple Bar  
• The historic and impressive Rock of Cashel  

Ireland’s got something for everyone - get ready to soak it all in! 

What to Eat and Drink in Ireland 

Irish cuisine is so much more than the old stereotypes - it’s a delicious mix of hearty tradition and modern foodie flair! Take the classic Irish stew, for example. Made with tender lamb, potatoes, and veggies, it’s the ultimate comfort food after a long hike.  

By the coast? You can’t miss the fresh seafood. Grab some crispy fish and chips in a cute seaside village or treat yourself to oysters in Galway - so good! And let’s talk about the full Irish breakfast. With black pudding, white pudding, sausages, and eggs, it’s basically the breakfast of champions (and perfect for fueling up before an adventure).  

Now, onto drinks - Irish whiskey is a whole world of its own. Beyond the big names, you’ll find amazing options like the smooth Jameson or the smoky Connemara. An Irish coffee is a must. Invented in Shannon - it’s like a warm, boozy hug in a mug. And don't forget the iconic "black stuff", Guinness! Cheers to good food and great adventures! 

Don't miss trying: 

• Traditional Irish stew 
• Fresh Dublin Bay prawns  
• Boxty (potato pancakes) 
• Soda bread with Irish butter 
• Colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage) 
• Local craft beers and ciders 

Essential Ireland Travel Tips 

Currency: The Republic of Ireland uses Euros, while Northern Ireland uses British Pounds. Most businesses accept cards, but carry some cash for small purchases, tips and honesty boxes. 

Tipping: Speaking of tips, round up taxi fares and leave 10-15% in restaurants if service charge isn't included. Pub service doesn't require tipping, but offering to buy your bartender a drink is appreciated. 

Useful Irish Phrases: 

• "Sláinte" (SLAHN-che) - Cheers/Good health 
• "Go raibh maith agat" (GUH-rev MAH uh-gut) - Thank you 
• "Céad míle fáilte" (kay-ed MEE-leh FALL-che) - A hundred thousand welcomes 

Practical Information: 

• Tap water is safe to drink throughout Ireland 
• Electrical outlets use Type G plugs (three-pin UK style) 
• Emergency number: 112 or 999 
• Driving is on the left side of the road 

What’s “The Craic” All About?  

If you’ve ever heard someone mention “the craic” in Ireland, they’re talking about all the good stuff - fun, laughs, and great conversations. Having “good craic” is all about enjoying the moment with good company and lively chats. It’s the heart and soul of the Irish social vibe! 

Irish Hospitality at Its Best:  

They don’t call Ireland one of the friendliest places on earth for nothing! Whether you’re strolling through Dublin or wandering a quiet countryside village, you’re bound to find locals ready to help. Need directions? A recommendation? Or just a friendly chat? They’ve got you covered with a big smile and plenty of warmth. That’s just how they roll! 

Discover Your Irish Ancestry 

Ever feel like Ireland is calling your name? It might just be your roots! With so many people across the globe tracing their heritage back to the Emerald Isle, there’s no better time to dig into your Irish ancestry.  

Genealogy is booming, and Ireland is full of treasures to help you uncover your family history. From church records and census data to charming local historical societies, there’s a wealth of information waiting to connect you to your past.  

But why stop at the research? Turn your ancestry journey into an adventure with one of these top trips that dive deep into Irish history and culture. Whether you're walking in your ancestors' footsteps or exploring the iconic landscapes they called home, these trips will bring your heritage to life.  

Ready to discover where your story began? Check out our fun guide to exploring your Irish roots. Sláinte! 

Start Planning Your Irish Adventure 

Ireland is the ultimate playground for hikers, blending jaw-dropping natural beauty, a rich culture, and that famous Irish charm. Picture this: dramatic coastlines out west, rolling green hills in the east, and plenty of adventures in between. Every corner has something special to offer - whether it's stunning landscapes or hidden cultural gems.  

The best part? Ireland's small size means you can easily explore multiple regions in one trip. Getting around is a breeze with great infrastructure, so you can hop from mountain trails to coastal paths, easy peasy. Whether you're up for a challenging hike, a relaxing seaside stroll, or soaking up some Irish history along the way, Ireland guarantees experiences you'll be talking about long after your boots are back home. 

Why Choose Macs Adventure for Your Irish Journey 

At Macs Adventure, we’ve been helping people discover the magic of Ireland on foot for over 20 years. Our self-guided hiking trips take you off the beaten path to uncover Ireland’s best-kept secrets - from hidden coastal trails to mountain routes only the locals know about.  

Forget the stress - we’ve got all the details covered! From cozy, hand-picked accommodations to luggage transfers, we make sure you can just relax and soak up the epic views (and maybe a pint or two). With our easy-to-follow route guides and 24/7 support, you’ll have everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable adventure.  

With over 24,000 glowing reviews and a Feefo Platinum Service Award under our belt, you know you’re in good hands. So, what do you say? Ready to explore Ireland your way? Let’s make it happen!