Are you a solo traveler who has always dreamed of exploring the Emerald Isle? You’re in the right place! This Ultimate Guide to Solo Traveling in Ireland is filled with the local advice and insights you need to start planning your Irish escapade.
At Overland Ireland, we welcome visitors from all over the world on our small-group tours of Ireland, tailor-made tours of Ireland, and Ireland self-drive tour packages. We’ve helped countless people discover the magic of Ireland, and we’d love to do the same for you!
We know that solo travel is a unique experience, so you can count on us to immerse you in the island of Ireland’s fascinating history, incredible culture, and it’s world-famous natural beauty.
Scroll down to start our guide to solo traveling in Ireland — and if any questions come to mind as you go, please feel free to contact us. The Overland Ireland team is here to help!
Why Visit the Island of Ireland?
The island of Ireland is a land of contrasts, where ancient history meets modern charm. In cities like Dublin, Galway, and Belfast, you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere with lively pubs, eclectic eateries, and world-class attractions. Venture beyond the urban hustle, and you’ll encounter picturesque towns and villages straight out of a storybook, each with its own unique character and charm. Just some of our favorites include Dingle, Kinsale, Killarney, and Westport!
But perhaps the real magic of Ireland lies in its natural wonders. From the towering Cliffs of Moher to the rugged beauty of the Giant’s Causeway, our stunning island is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike along rugged coastal trails, stroll along sweeping beaches, and discover hidden gems tucked away in the lush countryside. With its breathtaking landscapes and friendly locals, Ireland is truly a destination like no other.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our blogs What Makes Ireland Such a Unique Travel Destination? and Is Northern Ireland Worth Visiting?
What is the Best Way for Solo Travelers to Explore Ireland?
When it comes to exploring Ireland solo, our small-group guided tours of Ireland offer the perfect blend of discovery, convenience, and camaraderie. Our shortest excursions are the Magical Southern Ireland Tour and the Spectacular South and West Active Tour of Ireland, both of which last for five days and are fantastic introductions to spectacular, culturally rich regions.
If you have more time to explore, we think you’ll love our longer itineraries — the 10-day Ultimate Ireland Tour and the 11-day Full Irish Active Tour. Both of these tours provide an immersive experience in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, showcasing the very best both countries have to offer along the way.
Perhaps you’re looking for a middle ground? We’ve got you covered! Our amazing Ireland to Island Tour and Emerald Explorer Tour are fun and fascinating trips through southwest and west Ireland.
At Overland, we’re proud to offer a wide range of Ireland tours to suit as many interests, preferences, and schedules as possible. This is why our small-group excursions fall into one of two categories: Relaxed Tours or Active Tours. Relaxed Tours move at a more relaxed pace and are ideal for solo travelers who want a trip packed with personality and authenticity. Active Tours are for the adventurous souls out there, allowing our guests to discover Ireland through activities like hiking, cycling, and kayaking!
Traveling with Overland Ireland means you’ll be in the company of like-minded travelers, led by an expert local guide who knows the ins and outs of the island. Say goodbye to the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads and unreliable public transport – we’ll take care of all the logistics so you can focus on soaking up the sights and experiences.
What’s more, traveling in a small group creates opportunities for connection and community building. Many solo travelers forge lasting friendships on our tours, sharing unforgettable moments and creating memories that last a lifetime. So why go it alone when you can explore Ireland with a ready-made group of friends?
However, if you truly want to embrace the independent spirit, there’s always the road trip option! If you want to hit the open road, we think you’ll love our Ireland self-drive tour packages.
We can also create a custom experience from scratch to suit your unique interests. With our tailor-made tours of Ireland, we can craft an exclusive itinerary centered around connecting with ancestral roots, cultural immersion, adventure sports, wellness retreats, and more!
Why Choose Overland Ireland?
As a solo traveler, you understandably want as much reassurance about a trip as possible before committing to it. At Overland Ireland, we always go above and beyond, and this guide to solo traveling in Ireland isn’t any different! We’ve already introduced our Ireland tours, but we also want you to get to know us better before we meet on the road.
Two avid travelers, Reinier and Clodagh, established Overland back in 2014, so we’re celebrating our 10th anniversary! But our team’s combined experience spans decades, so we know the tourism industry and the island of Ireland like the back of our hand. We have a true passion for showing visitors the very best of our homeland, from its hidden gems to the iconic landmarks.
We designed our small-group tours to offer an authentic and immersive experience, taking you off the beaten path to discover the true spirit of Ireland, but without any compromise in safety. Our team has tested and approved all the accommodations on our trips, we provide our own in-house transportation for the duration of the tour, and we offer 24/7 support!
You can learn even more by heading to our About Us and Trust in Travel pages when you have finished here.
For now, though, we want our previous guests to do the talking! The Overland Ireland Tripadvisor page is filled with hundreds of five-star reviews from all kinds of travelers, including those going solo. Just a handful of our favorites include:
“THE best way to see the Emerald Isle! Accommodations were fantastic and our tour guide could not have been better. It was lovely to travel the countryside in a small group and then be given time to explore major sites like Giants Causeway, Slieve League and Kenmore Abbey. The herding dog demo and black cab tour of Belfast were just some of the highlights. I feel like I got a wonderful overview of the country. I traveled solo and always felt comfortable and welcomed.” — Diana S, July 2023.
“Well planned, organized, scenic trip! Van size was ideal and comfy; just the right amount of travel times and well thought out destinations. I would heartily recommend the tour group as they provide so much personal and valuable communications before the trip. Pat O’Mara, our guide and driver on the trip, was exceptional! So personable and professional – knowledge combined with humor – he made everyone feel comfortable. He is so gracious and accommodating with the perfect balance of levity!! …always checking in with us as to our thoughts or preferences. He guided a group of strangers to becoming a group of friends.” — Bee J, September 2023.
“I had never done a guided tour before much less gone solo. I am a believer now! Super tour guide, super tour buddies, super accommodations, super fun! I was so apprehensive doing this on my own but then everyone made me feel so welcome. Will be back with the Smith family to do this again!!!!” — Reese, August 2023.
Is Ireland Safe for Solo Travelers?
Yes, Ireland is a safe country for solo travelers to explore. Compared to other countries in Europe and North America, Ireland has a low crime rate and frequently ranks as a low-risk destination. Public transport and licensed taxis are also safe.
Ireland is also known for its warm hospitality and friendly locals, making it a welcoming destination for all solo travelers. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation!
However, as with any destination, it’s always important to exercise common sense and take basic precautions to ensure your safety. Avoiding conspicuous displays of wealth and being aware of your surroundings can go a long way in preventing any unwanted attention.
If you ever find yourself in need of assistance, the Irish Police, known as Gardaí or “the Guards,” are readily available in major cities. The emergency number for the Gardaí, Ambulance, and Fire is 999.
When combined with the low crime rate and the security of our small-group Ireland tours, you will almost certainly not encounter any problems during your time in the Emerald Isle.
…And What About Solo Female Travellers?
Absolutely. Ireland is widely considered to be one of the safest European destinations for solo female travelers. Much of what we touched on in the previous section applies here — keep common sense in mind, remain aware of your surroundings, and don’t be afraid to ask the friendly locals for advice or recommendations. For example, if you have any doubts about the safety of a place you’re heading to, consider asking staff members in pubs, restaurants, cafes, or shops if they know it.
You can also let people know where you are going and what time you think you will come back. If your phone works in Ireland, give your number to someone you trust and take theirs too. And be sure to have your accommodation details to hand (name, address, phone number) in case you forget!
The Irish reputation for cheer and goodwill is well-earned! Our hospitality extends to visitors, so you will be welcomed at the drop of a hat. Whether you’re wandering through bustling cities or exploring the countryside, you’ll find that the Irish are always ready to extend a helping hand to visitors.
For the ultimate reassurance, Ireland currently ranks third on the Global Peace Index, behind only Iceland and Denmark.
Again, the likelihood of encountering issues in Ireland is remote. But for the ultimate peace of mind, you can’t beat exploring as part of our small-group Ireland tours.
Local Tips and Advice for Solo Travelers in Ireland
- Embrace the local culture by trying traditional Irish cuisine, such as hearty stews, fresh seafood, and of course, a pint of Guinness. Read our Gastronomic Guide to Ireland to start your culinary journey!
- Remember, a proper Guinness is poured in stages. Don’t be alarmed when your bartender leaves it to settle halfway through — be alarmed if he or she pours it one go!
- Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals — you never know what hidden gems they might recommend or what tales they have to tell.
- Pack for unpredictable weather, even if you’re visiting in summer — Ireland is known for its ever-changing climate, so be prepared for rain or shine. Read our advice on what to pack for a trip to Ireland!
- Consider researching routes to and from your accommodation to popular attractions so you can find a path you’re comfortable with.
- Ireland uses type G plugs with a 230V supply voltage. These have three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern, so most visitors will need an adapter for electrical devices.
- When you hear people talking about the craic and how good it is, they’re referring to the quality of the fun atmosphere only!
Book Your Spot on a Group Tour of Ireland!
We hope our Ultimate Guide to Solo Traveling in Ireland has inspired you to visit the Emerald Isle! If you’re ready to take the first step toward one of our small-group tours of Ireland, tailor-made tours of Ireland, or Ireland self-drive tour packages, browse our options and find out which one is right for you.
If you have any questions for us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch for all the answers you need.
