Celebrate St Patricks Day in Ireland

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland

Ireland is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of St. Patrick’s Day. This festive holiday takes place on March 17th and is celebrated with parades, live music, and traditional Irish food.

Where to Visit

  • Dublin: The capital city is the hub of all St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Ireland. Must-visit spots include:
    • Temple Bar: A lively area filled with bars, restaurants, and street performers.
    • Trinity College Dublin: Home to the famous Book of Kells and the Long Room.
    • Guinness Storehouse: Learn about Ireland’s iconic stout and enjoy a rooftop bar with stunning views.
  • Other cities: Also worth visiting are:
    • Cork: A vibrant city with a lively parade and live music performances.
    • Galway: Known for its traditional Irish music sessions and cozy pubs.

Where to Eat

Ireland is famous for its delicious cuisine, which includes:

  • Traditional Irish food: Try dishes like Irish stew, shepherd’s pie, and boxty (potato pancake) at local restaurants like:
    • The Brazen Head (Dublin): Ireland’s oldest pub, serving up hearty meals.
    • The Fish Shop (Galway): Fresh seafood and delicious fish ’n’ chips.
  • Irish pubs: Enjoy a pint of Guinness and some live music at:
    • O’Donoghue’s (Dublin): A cozy pub with traditional Irish music sessions.
    • Matt the Miller’s (Cork): A lively pub with live music and great food.

Where to Stay

Ireland has plenty of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly B&Bs:

  • Luxury hotels: Try:
    • The Shelbourne Dublin: A 5-star hotel with stunning views of St. Stephen’s Green.
    • The Imperial Hotel (Cork): A luxurious hotel with elegant rooms and a great breakfast buffet.
  • Budget-friendly options: Consider:
    • Hostel Dublin: A fun and affordable hostel in the heart of the city.
    • Abberley House B&B (Galway): A cozy B&B with comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.

Activities and Tips

  • Attend a St. Patrick’s Day parade: Watch colorful floats, marching bands, and street performers as they celebrate Ireland’s patron saint.
  • Take part in live music sessions: Enjoy traditional Irish music at pubs like O’Donoghue’s or Matt the Miller’s.
  • Explore Ireland’s heritage: Visit museums like the National Museum of Ireland or the Kilmainham Gaol to learn about Ireland’s rich history and culture.
  • Get outside: Take a hike in Dublin’s Phoenix Park, visit the Cliffs of Moher, or explore Ireland’s stunning coastline.

Other Things to Know

  • Weather: March can be chilly and rainy, so pack layers and waterproof gear.
  • Transportation: Use public transportation, walk, or bike around cities like Dublin and Cork.
  • Currency: The Euro is the official currency in Ireland. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash for smaller purchases.

Getting There

The best way to get to Ireland depends on your starting location:

  • By air: Fly into Dublin Airport (DUB) or Cork Airport (ORK).
  • By sea: Take a ferry from the UK or other European ports.
  • By land: Drive from the UK, Northern Ireland, or other parts of Europe.

Final Tips

  • Book accommodations and flights in advance: Especially during peak season.
  • Plan ahead for transportation: Research public transportation options and book tickets in advance if needed.
  • Be prepared for crowds: St. Patrick’s Day is a busy time in Ireland, so be patient and flexible when traveling.

I hope you have a fantastic time celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland! Sláinte! (Cheers!)