Before you arrive in Ireland, it’s important to find out from a local which myths are rooted in truth and which ones are complete fantasy. Luckily, you’ve got Overland Ireland on your side! We’re leaders for small-group tours of Ireland, so you can trust us to point you in the right direction!
So, let’s jump in and separate fact from fiction. And if any ladies are looking for love, keep an eye out for myth number three!
Our team is here to answer any questions you have about our Ireland tours, so please get in touch if need more information.
Are Myths About Ireland True or False?
Ireland Myth 1
All Irish people have red hair and freckles
The Facts…
This myth isn’t true. Most Irish people have dark hair. The famous song Galway Girl by Steve Earle depicts an image of a beautiful girl; ‘her hair was black and her eyes were blue.’ However, we do have a high population of redheads in Ireland and even have a dedicated festival each year for these fiery gingers!
Ireland Myth 2
Dublin is the capital of Ireland
The Facts…
Technically this is true, but many would argue that Cork is Ireland’s real capital city. This southern city has been named The People’s Republic by locals who have immense pride in their country!
Personally, we love both places and plenty more. There are so many must-sees on a road trip in Ireland, it’s just hard to fit them all in!
Ireland Myth 3
Irish people are ugly
The Facts…
Irish men have been voted among the sexiest in the world! Think Colin Farrell, Pierce Brosnan, Michael Fassbender, and of course Jamie Dornan… Swoon.
Ireland Myth 4
The Fighting Irish – Irish people are always looking for a fight.
The Facts…
While the Notre Dame logo shows a fighting Irishman, it couldn’t be further from the truth. Irish people are among the most laid-back people on the planet. They love a good heated debate and to take the mick out of (tease) each other, but it is always in good spirits.
An Irish person will go out of their way to help you when you visit the Emerald Isle. This is a great way to discover even more myths and facts about Ireland.!
When you’ve finished learning about these myths, move on and find out the answer to the question Why is Ireland a Boring Country?
Ireland Myth 5
Leprechauns do not exist. They are merely characters of folklore and legend.
The Facts…
Leprechauns are officially a protected species in Ireland and recognized by the European Union. There are approximately 360 leprechauns left in Ireland. There used to be millions of them until people stopped believing in them and they died off.
Locals in Carlingford, Co Louth have been campaigning for a designated area for leprechauns for 8 years and it is said that it is in this part of the country that the only leprechaun sightings have been made.
Are you looking for answers to more important questions about the Emerald Isle? We think you might appreciate our insights into the question Is Ireland Worth Seeing if You Only Have a Few Days?
Discover the Real Emerald Isle with Our Ireland Tours!
We hope these myths and facts about Ireland have cleared things up for you! If you’re more prepared for the Emerald Isle than ever, let’s start planning your trip! Browse our range of small-group tours of Ireland for all the inspiration you need.
If you have any questions for the Overland team, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
