In association with: Tourism Ireland
The island of Ireland is ready to welcome you back to enjoy its stunning coastal routes, vibrant cities and thousands of years of history
Just a short hop across the Irish Sea lies the island of Ireland, which is ready to welcome your customers back to its shores. From the cities of Belfast in the north and Dublin in the east to the hidden heartlands and coastal driving routes in the west, Ireland is an enticing destination, just a ferry or a short flight away.
For visitors from Great Britain, the Common Travel Area enables British and Irish citizens to travel between the two without a passport and visa restrictions. Some carriers may still require a passport for photo ID, so always check with the travel provider.
Ireland is an enticing destination, just a ferry or a short flight away
Driving is a great way to explore the island, and hiring or taking your own car couldn’t be easier. Those with a valid UK driving licence and insurance will not need an international driving permit or green card.
There are strict health and safety measures in place across the island to reassure holidaymakers, with tourism businesses earning ‘We’re Good to Go’ certification in Northern Ireland and displaying a safety charter in the Republic of Ireland.
Ireland is known for its hospitality, which goes hand in hand with its food and drink scene. There are so many unique foodie experiences to be found across Ireland, including foraging tours in the wilderness, visits to gin and whiskey distilleries, and food festivals. The island of Ireland offers the perfect blend of city, countryside and coastline, and wherever your clients choose to visit, they will be greeted with a warm Irish welcome.
Five of the best destinations in Ireland
1. Northern Ireland: Embrace a Giant Spirit
With famous museums and attractions, first-class golf courses and one of the most scenic driving routes in the world, Northern Ireland has a giant spirit. In the capital, visitors can embark on a touching experience at Titanic Belfast, while the world-renowned Causeway Coastal Route and Giant’s Causeway are musts for those heading to the north coast. Northern Ireland’s shores are also home to atmospheric filming locations for shows including Game of Thrones.
2. Wild Atlantic Way
Winding country lanes with sweeping views of rugged cliffs and roaring sea await visitors to the Wild Atlantic Way, which weaves 1,600 miles around the west coast of Ireland. But it’s not just about the scenery. Quaint villages dot the route, with locals welcoming visitors with open arms. Restaurants serve deliciously fresh cuisine, while traditional music performances are sure to be found in its local pubs.
3. Ireland’s Ancient East
Across the island of Ireland lie regions that are brimming with stories of the past. Ireland’s Ancient East boasts more than 5,000 years of history, which can be seen in its castles, lighthouses, gardens and estates. There’s always a tale to be heard here, whether it’s visiting the Hill of Tara in Meath, the seat of the high kings in the Iron Age, or Spike Island in Cork, once the world’s largest prison.
4. Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands
If your customers can draw themselves away from Ireland’s beautiful coastline, the hidden heartlands are ripe for exploration and provide a glimpse of life in rural Ireland. The 310-mile Beara‑Breifne Way is the country’s longest walking route, connecting rural communities with some jaw-dropping views along the way. The River Shannon and its tributaries break up the rolling hills, and visitors can head out in a kayak or boat to enjoy the total serenity.
5. Dublin: Surprising by Nature
Dublin is a city with a big character. Its main shopping arcades and narrow cobbled lanes are home to historic buildings, traditional pubs and quirky cafes, making for a vibrant city with a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional hospitality. Whether your customers want to visit the popular Guinness Storehouse and head to Temple Bar at night, or head out of the centre to see the Wicklow Mountains, it won’t be long before they discover why Dublin has been named Europe’s friendliest city.
For the latest travel and health advice, visit ireland.com
PICTURES: Tourism Ireland; Chris Hill
