IRELAND - TRAVEL GUIDES

“If you could keep voices like flowers
Thered be shamrock all over the world
If you could drink dreams like Irish streams
Then the world would be high as the mountain of morn..."
- John Lennon, "The Luck of the Irish" (song)

TRAVELING TO IRELAND:

We love Ireland for its brilliantly green countryside, ragged coastlines, scenic castles, lively pubs, and the character of its people.  Dublin is an amazing city, but we highly recommend also finding a way to explore the rest of the country.  Here are our recommendations on the best travel books for those visiting Ireland.

A5 RECOMMENDATIONS

Back Roads Ireland, a DK Eyewitness Travel Guide

One of the best ways to travel in Ireland is to drive, and the best travel guide for those driving is Back Roads Ireland by DK Eyewitness Travel.  There are 25 themed drives, each with tips on what to see along the way.  Discover ancient stone circles, medieval castles, islands, beaches, small towns and typical cozy pubs.  This book provides great insight on how to ensure an authentic travel experience.

Rick Steves: Ireland

One of the better choices for a comprehensive guidebook for Ireland is Rick Steves Ireland.  The Rick Steves series sets itself apart by providing not just in-depth travel information but very specific recommendations on what best to see and do, with a real focus on experiencing authentically with the Irish culture.  This book is also a good resource for finding reasonably priced lodging and restaurants, especially given that the guides are updated every year.

Lonely Planet: Ireland

Fans of Lonely Planet don't need to worry... the esteemed travel guide publisher of course has created a very comprehensive and informative guidebook for Ireland.  This book is especially good for budget travelers, although Lonely Planet now does list a wide range of both popular and hard-to-find travel recommendations for all budgets.  They also have a specific guide for those who are just traveling to Dublin. 

111 Places in Dublin

Dublin is an eccentric city with a lot of history and a ton to see and do.  Those who want to experience Dublin like a local will like the 111 Places That You Must Not Miss guide.  Written by newspaper columnist Frank McNally, 111 Places provides insider-type ideas not found in other travel guides, with recommendations on hard-to-find restaurants and bars, interesting architecture, cool small museums, and more.  

Round Ireland with a Fridge, by Tony Hawks

Round Ireland with a Fridge is a story of a quest by English comedian Tony Hawks to fulfill a bet he lost (after a night at the pub of course) by taking a trip around the coast of Ireland with a refrigerator as a traveling companion.  Yes, it is a silly premise, but the real story is how the Irish people welcome Hawks to the country and get behind the idea.  Click here for our review of Round Ireland with a Fridge.