Planning a trip to Ireland from the USA or Canada? Whether you’re traveling for an intimate elopement, destination wedding, honeymoon, or unforgettable vacation, there are a few important things to know before you arrive.
From passports and travel requirements to weather, airports, transportation, and driving in Ireland, this guide covers the most common questions North American couples and travelers search for when planning their Irish adventure.
At Eloping in Ireland, we help international couples every day with planning not only their wedding but also their entire Ireland experience, making the process simple, stress-free, and exciting from the moment you book your flights.
Do Americans and Canadians Need a Visa to Visit Ireland?
Good news — most visitors from the United States and Canada do not need a tourist visa to visit Ireland for short stays.
Republic of Ireland (Dublin, Galway, Cork, etc.)
U.S. and Canadian citizens can usually visit Ireland for up to 90 days without applying for a visa in advance.
You will generally need:
- A valid passport
- Proof of onward travel or return flights
- Accommodation details if requested by immigration
Getting Married in Ireland
If you plan to legally marry in Ireland, there is no special “marriage visa” required for most North American visitors.
However, couples must complete the Irish marriage notification process before their wedding day. The good news is that this can mostly be done remotely before traveling to Ireland.
At Eloping in Ireland, we guide couples through the entire legal marriage process step-by-step to make it easy and stress-free.
Important: ETA Required for Northern Ireland
If you plan to visit Northern Ireland during your trip (including locations such as Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway, or Dunluce Castle), many international visitors now require a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization).
This applies because Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, not the Republic of Ireland.
Travelers should always check the latest UK government requirements before traveling, as ETA rules can change depending on nationality.
Popular Northern Ireland wedding and tourism locations include:
- The Giant’s Causeway
- Dunluce Castle
- Belfast
- The Dark Hedges
- Causeway Coastal Route
Best Airports to Fly Into in Ireland
Ireland has several international airports that are easily accessible from North America.
Dublin Airport (DUB)
Best for:
- Dublin city
- Wicklow
- Kilkenny
- Most international flights
Dublin Airport has the largest number of direct flights from the USA and Canada.
Common routes include:
- New York to Dublin
- Boston to Dublin
- Chicago to Dublin
- Toronto to Dublin
Shannon Airport (SNN)
Best for:
- Cliffs of Moher
- Doolin
- Galway
- West Coast elopements
Shannon is one of the best airports for couples eloping on Ireland’s west coast because it is much closer to many popular scenic wedding locations.
Cork Airport (ORK)
Best for:
- Southern Ireland
- Kinsale
- Cork city
- Kerry region
Belfast Airports (Northern Ireland)
Best for:
- Dunluce Castle
- Giant’s Causeway
- Causeway Coast
There are two airports in Belfast:
- Belfast International Airport
- George Best Belfast City Airport
Ireland Weather by Month (Including Rainfall & Daylight Hours)
Ireland’s weather is mild year-round, but it can also be very changeable — locals often joke that you can experience four seasons in one day. For couples planning an elopement, destination wedding, or vacation in Ireland, understanding the weather, rainfall, and daylight hours can really help when choosing the perfect time to visit.
January
- Average temperature: 41–46°F
- Rainfall: One of the wettest months
- Sunrise: Around 8:40 AM
- Sunset: Around 4:30 PM
February
- Average temperature: 41–48°F
- Rainfall: Wet but slightly drier than January
- Sunrise: Around 7:50 AM
- Sunset: Around 5:40 PM
March
- Average temperature: 43–52°F
- Rainfall: Moderate rainfall
- Sunrise: Around 7:00 AM
- Sunset: Around 6:30 PM
April
- Average temperature: 45–55°F
- Rainfall: One of the driest months
- Sunrise: Around 6:20 AM
- Sunset: Around 8:15 PM
May
- Average temperature: 50–61°F
- Rainfall: Usually dry and sunny by Irish standards
- Sunrise: Around 5:20 AM
- Sunset: Around 9:10 PM
June
- Average temperature: 55–66°F
- Rainfall: Moderate rainfall with long bright days
- Sunrise: Around 4:55 AM
- Sunset: Around 9:55 PM
July
- Average temperature: 57–68°F
- Rainfall: Moderate rainfall
- Sunrise: Around 5:10 AM
- Sunset: Around 9:45 PM
August
- Average temperature: 57–68°F
- Rainfall: Slightly wetter than early summer
- Sunrise: Around 6:00 AM
- Sunset: Around 8:50 PM
September
- Average temperature: 54–64°F
- Rainfall: Moderate rainfall
- Sunrise: Around 6:50 AM
- Sunset: Around 7:45 PM
October
- Average temperature: 50–59°F
- Rainfall: Wetter autumn conditions begin
- Sunrise: Around 7:40 AM
- Sunset: Around 6:30 PM
November
- Average temperature: 45–52°F
- Rainfall: One of the wettest months
- Sunrise: Around 7:30 AM
- Sunset: Around 4:45 PM
December
- Average temperature: 41–48°F
- Rainfall: Very wet and unpredictable
- Sunrise: Around 8:30 AM
- Sunset: Around 4:10 PM
What is the Best Month to Visit Ireland?
This really depends on the type of experience you want:
- May–September: Warmer weather, longer days, greener landscapes, and ideal for outdoor weddings and road trips.
- April & October: Often quieter with fewer tourists while still offering beautiful scenery.
- November–February: Perfect for cozy castle stays, Irish pubs, dramatic coastal scenery, and winter weddings.
Does It Rain All Day in Ireland?
One of the biggest misconceptions about Ireland is that it constantly pours rain all day. In reality, Irish weather often changes quickly throughout the day. Many rainy periods are light showers or mist rather than heavy rain, and dramatic skies can actually make for incredible wedding photos.
For outdoor weddings and elopements, we always help couples create weather backup plans and flexible timelines so they can fully enjoy the experience no matter the conditions.
Should You Rent a Car in Ireland?
For most couples and visitors, renting a car in Ireland is highly recommended.
Ireland’s scenic routes, coastal drives, and hidden gems are best explored with the flexibility of your own vehicle.
Why Renting a Car is Worth It
- Easier access to rural wedding locations
- Freedom to explore hidden beaches, castles, and villages
- More flexibility for your honeymoon or road trip
- Public transport can be limited in remote areas
Where to Rent a Car
The easiest place to rent a vehicle is usually directly at the airport.
Major rental companies operate from:
- Dublin Airport
- Shannon Airport
- Cork Airport
- Belfast Airports
If you would prefer not to drive yourself, we can also help arrange private chauffeurs, airport collections, and guest transportation throughout Ireland.
Driving in Ireland: What Americans Should Know
Driving in Ireland is very different from North America.
Important Things to Remember
- Irish people drive on the left side of the road
- Most rental cars are manual transmission unless you specifically request automatic
- Rural roads can be narrow
- Roundabouts are extremely common
Many North American visitors adjust surprisingly quickly after the first day or two.
If you would rather avoid driving, private chauffeur services are also very popular for weddings and vacations.
At Eloping in Ireland, we can help arrange:
- Airport transfers
- Private chauffeurs
- Wedding transportation
- Day tours
- Guest transportation
What Should You Pack for Ireland?
The key to Ireland is layers.
Even during summer, temperatures can change quickly throughout the day.
Recommended Packing List
- Waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes or boots
- Warm layers
- Portable umbrella
- Travel adapter (Ireland uses Type G plugs)
- Power bank for phones/cameras
For weddings and elopements:
- Garment bags for wedding attire
- Extra shoes for outdoor locations
- Hair and makeup touch-up items
- Weather-friendly wedding accessories
Currency in Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Uses the Euro (€)
Northern Ireland
Uses Pound Sterling (£)
Most places accept credit cards and contactless payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Mobile Phones & Internet
Most U.S. and Canadian phones work in Ireland, but roaming charges can sometimes be expensive.
Many travelers choose:
- International phone plans
- eSIM packages
- Local prepaid SIM cards
WiFi is widely available throughout Ireland.
Tipping in Ireland
Tipping culture in Ireland is different from the United States and Canada.
Restaurants & Pubs
- Around 10–15% is appreciated in restaurants if service is good
- Tipping in pubs is not always expected, especially when ordering drinks at the bar
Chauffeurs & Tour Guides
Small tips are appreciated but not mandatory.
Unlike North America, tipping is generally seen as a bonus rather than an obligation.
Electricity & Plug Adapters
Ireland uses:
- Type G plugs (same as the UK)
- 230V voltage
Most North American visitors will need:
- A travel adapter
- Possibly a voltage converter for certain appliances
Most modern phone and laptop chargers work automatically with dual voltage.
How Long Should You Stay in Ireland?
Most international couples visiting Ireland for a wedding or elopement stay between:
- 7–14 days
This gives enough time for:
- Wedding preparations
- Exploring Ireland
- Relaxing honeymoon time
- Meeting the Registrar if legally marrying in Ireland
Popular Places Americans Love Visiting in Ireland
Some of the most searched and visited destinations include:
- Cliffs of Moher
- Galway
- Dingle
- Killarney
- Dublin
- Giant’s Causeway
- Belfast
- Connemara
- Wicklow Mountains
- Irish castles and manor houses
Common Questions Americans Ask Before Visiting Ireland
Is Ireland Expensive?
Ireland can be more expensive than some U.S. destinations, especially in tourist areas during summer. However, there are accommodation and travel options for nearly every budget.
Can You Drink the Tap Water in Ireland?
Yes — tap water throughout Ireland is generally safe to drink.
Is Ireland Safe?
Ireland is considered one of the safest countries in Europe for tourists and international travelers.
Will My U.S. Driver’s License Work in Ireland?
Yes — visitors from the USA and Canada can usually drive in Ireland using their regular valid driver’s license for short-term visits.
We Can Help You Plan More Than Just Your Wedding
At Eloping in Ireland, we don’t just help couples plan incredible elopements and destination weddings — we also help make your entire Ireland trip easier.
We can assist with:
- Travel advice
- Airport recommendations
- Accommodation suggestions
- Chauffeurs and transportation
- Local tips and hidden gems
- Ireland honeymoon planning
- Restaurant and pub recommendations
- Activities and sightseeing ideas
Whether you’re planning a romantic Irish elopement or the vacation of a lifetime, we’re here to help make it seamless, relaxed, and unforgettable.
You can get in touch with us here to start exploring your options.
