Everything You Need To Know For Ireland
Geographical Position And Climate Of Ireland
Ireland is located in the north-west of Europe and is the third-largest island on the continent. It is positioned to the west of Great Britain, from which it is separated by the Irish Sea and the North Channel. To the north, it shares a border with Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom.
The climate of Ireland is classified as oceanic and is significantly influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in mild temperatures year-round. Winters are generally not too cold, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 7°C (39°F to 45°F), while summers are cool, with temperatures averaging around 14°C to 18°C (57°F to 64°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, although the west coast tends to receive more precipitation compared to the east. The country is also known for its substantial amount of cloudy days, and although extreme weather events are rare, heavy rainfall can at times lead to flooding.
Brief History Of Ireland
Ireland’s history is rich and complex, starting with Celtic tribes settling the island around 600 BC. The arrival of St. Patrick in the 5th century AD brought Christianity, which played a significant role in Irish culture. Viking invasions began in the 8th century, leading to the establishment of some of Ireland’s cities, including Dublin.
Normans invaded in the 12th century, marking the beginning of more than 800 years of English rule. The struggle for independence was long and often bloody, with significant events like the 1916 Easter Rising shaping modern Irish history. Finally, the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921 led to the partition of the island, creating the Irish Free State (now the Republic of Ireland) and Northern Ireland, which remained part of the United Kingdom.
Ireland remained neutral during World War II, and in 1949 it was formally declared a republic. The latter half of the 20th century saw the Troubles in Northern Ireland, a period of conflict over its status. The Good Friday Agreement of 1998 was a major step towards peace. Ireland joined the European Union in 1973, and despite economic fluctuations, it has become known for its high standard of living and vibrant culture.
Religion
A very large part of the population is Roman Catholic. There are also Protestant, Jewish and Muslim minorities.
Language
Irish is the official language, but English is also widely spoken.
Ireland, often referred to as the Emerald Isle due to its lush green landscapes, is a prime destination for tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. The country’s rugged coastline features cliffs like the famous Cliffs of Moher, while the Wild Atlantic Way offers a scenic route along the west coast. Ireland’s rich history can be explored through its numerous castles, ancient monuments such as Newgrange, and historic cities.
Places You Must Visit In Ireland
Before You Visit Ireland
Travel to Ireland
Getting to Ireland is convenient with several options available for travelers:
By Air: The most common way to reach Ireland is by air. The country has several international airports, with Dublin Airport being the largest and busiest, offering flights from numerous global destinations. Other significant airports include Shannon Airport, Cork Airport, and Belfast International Airport in Northern Ireland.
By Sea: For those who prefer to travel by water, there are ferry services connecting Ireland with the UK and France. Major ports like Dublin, Rosslare, and Cork provide routes to and from various British and continental ports.
By Road and Rail (from the UK): If you’re already in the UK, you can drive or take a train to a port and then board a ferry to Ireland. This option allows travelers to bring their own vehicle for exploring the island.
By Bus: Some bus companies offer combined bus and ferry tickets from the UK to Ireland, which can be a cost-effective way to travel.
Visas for Ireland
Non-EU/EEA Citizens: If you’re from a country outside the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), you may need a visa to enter Ireland. The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) provides a list of countries whose citizens require visas.
Short Stay Visas: These are typically for tourists, business visitors, or those visiting family and are valid for up to 90 days.
Long Stay Visas: For stays longer than 90 days, such as for work, study, or joining a family member, you will need to apply for a specific type of visa based on your circumstances.
UK Visa Holders: Under the Common Travel Area agreement, UK visa holders might not need an additional visa for Ireland if they meet certain conditions.
Visa Waiver Programme: Ireland has a Visa Waiver Programme that allows nationals of certain countries who have a valid UK visa to enter Ireland without the need for an additional Irish visa.
ETIAS (starting 2023): For non-EU/EEA citizens who can currently enter the Schengen Area without a visa, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will become a requirement for entering Ireland once it is fully part of the program.
Best time to visit Ireland
The best time to visit Ireland largely depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and avoiding crowds. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:
Spring (March to May): This is a great time to visit with milder temperatures, blooming flowers, and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in March. Tourist numbers are lower than in summer.
Summer (June to August): The warmest months of the year offer the best chance for sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher prices.
Autumn (September to November): The crowds start to thin out, and while the temperature drops, the changing colors of the foliage can be quite beautiful. It’s also a good time for cultural events.
Winter (December to February): Winters are cold and days are short, but you’ll find fewer tourists and lower prices. Christmas markets and cozy pubs can make for a festive experience.
Overall, the late spring and early autumn might strike the best balance between pleasant weather and manageable tourist numbers.
Important Information
Capital – Dublin
Territory – 84,421 km2
Currency – Euro
Time zone – UTC
Population – 7,185,600
Demonym – Irish