Ireland is often said to be notoriously expensive. However, here are five places to visit on a budget in Ireland.
You may have heard horror stories about how expensive it is in Ireland. From the rising cost of rent to the price of a pint, the Emerald Isle is often touted as one of the priciest places in Europe.
Truth be told, however, it’s really just Dublin that will leave you feeling like you’ve got holes in your pockets. Even then, it’s completely possible to visit the capital city on a budget!
So, if you’re visiting Ireland but don’t want to splash the big money, don’t fret. We are here with five places to visit in Ireland on a budget.
5. Waterford – discover the sunny southeast
Located in the southeast of Ireland, just two hours south of Dublin, is the historic city of Waterford. This fantastic city has everything you could wish for when backpacking Ireland.
From fascinating history to breathtaking scenery, magnificent coastal stretches to Irish culture and craic, Waterford really does have it all and it is one of the cheapest cities to visit in Ireland.
If you’re travelling on a budget, the city and wider county offer some great free and cheap things to do. Our favourites include the Waterford Greenway, the Viking Triangle, and the Comeragh Drive. Plus, food and drink are pretty reasonably priced here, too!
4. Donegal – head northwest for breathtaking beauty
One of the most scenic counties in Ireland, County Donegal is relatively cheap to visit simply for the fact that the majority of the attractions here are outdoors.
Home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland, rugged stretches of coastline, and the stunning Glenveagh National Park, most of your time here will be spent enjoying the nature that surrounds you.
Food and drink are relatively inexpensive throughout most of the county. However, if you choose to visit bars and restaurants in Donegal’s more touristy towns, you may be hit with higher costs.
Still, Donegal is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit on a budget in Ireland.
3. Belfast – a cheaper alternative to Dublin
It is no secret that Ireland’s capital city, Dublin, is an expensive place to visit. A rival to the likes of London and Paris, the city is often ranked among the most expensive places to live in and visit in Europe.
However, if you want to soak up that Irish city atmosphere at half the price, we recommend heading two hours north up the M1 to Belfast, the capital city of…