Car Rental in Ireland | Best Prices Guaranteed

1. What is the cost of car rental in Ireland?

The cost of car hire in Ireland can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the model of car. On average, you could expect to pay between €20 and €60 per day. However, this price can change in peak seasons.

2. What is the most demanded car model for rent in Ireland?

The typical compact car is the most popular choice for the scenic roads of Ireland. Cars such as the Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus are good examples because they offer a balance between size, comfort, performance and fuel efficiency.

3. What are the popular locations for car rentals in Ireland?

Popular locations for car rentals in Ireland include urban areas such as Dublin, Cork, and Galway. However, rentals are also common in tourist destinations like Killarney and the Cliffs of Moher.

4. Is there a 24-hour pick-up and drop-off service?

Most car rental companies offer 24-hour pick-up and drop-off service, particularly at Dublin Airport and Shannon Airport. However, it is recommended to verify this with the individual rental company.

5. Is there a minimum rental period?

The minimum rental period usually depends on the individual car rental company, but it is most often one day.

6. What is the required minimum age to rent a car in Ireland?

The minimum age to rent a car in Ireland is typically 21 years old, however, some rental companies may charge an additional fee for drivers under 25.

7. What documents do I need to rent or drive a car in Ireland?

To rent a car in Ireland, you typically need a valid driver's licence from your home country, credit card, and possibly a passport or identification card.

8. What is the best time of year to visit Ireland by car?

The best time to visit Ireland by car is during the mid-seasons, Spring and Fall, when the weather is most suitable for driving and the tourist crowds are smaller.

9. What are the main airports in Ireland?

The main airports in Ireland are Dublin Airport, Shannon Airport, and Cork Airport.

10. Can I pick-up the car in one city and drop-off in another city in Ireland?

Yes, most car rental companies offer a one-way rental option, but it might include an additional fee depending on the distance between the pick-up and drop-off locations.

1. Dublin: The capital and cultural heart of Ireland, renowned for its vibrant nightlife.
2. Cork: Known for its maritime history, and the beautiful Blarney Castle is nearby.
3. Galway: A city full of rich history, it holds the famous Galway International Oyster Festival.
4. Limerick: A riverside city, noted for King John's Castle and St. Mary's Cathedral.
5. Waterford: Ireland's oldest city, famous for its crystal ware and fascinating Viking history.
6. Derry: A picturesque city where you can enjoy a peaceful drive along Foyle River.
7. Kilkenny: A charming medieval city known for its castle and brewery.

1. Dublin - Galway: 214 km via M4 and M6, around 2.5 hours drive. Roads are in excellent condition with magnificent views of Irish landscape.
2. Dublin - Limerick: 197 km via M7 which takes around 2 hours, offer expressway quality and numerous rest amenities.
3. Cork - Killarney: 86 km via N22, which is less than 1.5 hours drive. The journey offers beautiful sceneries and well-maintained roads.
4. Galway - Limerick: 91 km via M18, approximately a one-hour drive. Well-constructed roads with plenty of dining options and gas stations.
5. Cork - Dublin: 255 km via M8. The journey takes nearly 2.5 hours. A well-developed motorway with areas of natural beauty.
6. Limerick - Belfast: 335 km via M1 takes around 4 hours. High quality roads with scenic views along the journey.
7. Dublin - Belfast: 166 km via M1 taking around 2 hours. Good motorway infrastructure and several tourist stops en route.

1. Which side of the road do they drive on in Ireland?

Like the UK, drivers in Ireland drive on the left side of the road and the driver's seat in the car is on the right side.

2. What is the speed limit in Ireland?

Generally, in the cities the speed limit is 50 km/h, on national roads it's 100 km/h, and on motorways it's 120 km/h. Speed limit signs will be in kilometers per hour (km/h).

3. Do I need an international driver's license in Ireland?

No, foreign licenses are recognised in Ireland. You can drive with a driving license from any state outside the EU/EEA for up to one year. However, it is highly recommended to get an International Driving Permit if your license is not in English.

4. Does Ireland have many speed cameras?

Yes, there are plenty of speed cameras in place across the country to enforce speed limits.

5. Are there any rules I should be aware of when driving in Ireland?

Yes, some rules include: no holding a mobile device while driving, always use your seatbelt, respect the speed limits, and no drink driving. Always drive on the left side of the road.

6. How are road conditions in Ireland?

Most of the major roads in Ireland are in good condition, but there can be narrow and winding roads in rural parts.

7. Are there toll roads in Ireland?

Yes, there are several toll roads in Ireland. Most of them are located around Dublin.

8. Are service stations readily available in Ireland?

Yes, there are plenty service stations across the country where you can refuel your car, take a rest, and buy some snacks or drinks.

9. How strict are the driving laws in Ireland?

The driving laws in Ireland are strictly enforced, particularly those relating to drink driving, speed limits, and the use of mobile phones while driving.

10. Do all cars have a manual transmission in Ireland?

While manual drive cars are common, automatic cars are also available, especially if you're renting a car.

11. What is the minimum age to rent a car in Ireland?

The minimum age to rent a car in Ireland is usually around 21 to 25 years old. This varies by rental company. There may be an additional fee for drivers under 25.

12. Is road rage common in Ireland?

Road rage is not a common occurrence in Ireland, but like anywhere, it can happen. Always drive safely and respectfully.

13. Can tourists drive in Ireland?

Yes, tourists can drive in Ireland, as long as they have a valid driver's license from their home country.

14. Can I turn right on red in Ireland?

Unlike some countries, in Ireland you are not allowed to turn right on red.

15. Are there specific rules for driving in the countryside?

When driving in rural areas or on narrow roads, it's common that you'll have to pull in and wait for oncoming traffic to pass. Also, be aware of farm animals on the road or slow moving farm machinery.

1. Cliffs of Moher: Considered one of Ireland's most iconic and breathtaking attractions, offering unrivalled coastal views.
2. Ring of Kerry: A beautiful 112-mile scenic drive through lush landscapes, picturesque villages and panoramic sea views.
3. The Giant's Causeway: Unique geological wonder featuring over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns.
4. Blarney Castle: Historic castle known for having the famous Blarney Stone which gives the gift of eloquence when kissed.
5. Connemara National Park: Over 2,000 hectares of natural beauty that includes mountains, forests and lakes.
6. Book of Kells: 9th-century manuscript that is a must-see at the Trinity College Library, in Dublin.
7. Guinness Storehouse: Dublin's most popular attraction, learn about the history and making of Guinness.
8. Skellig Michael: A UNESCO World Heritage site, it's an ancient monastic outpost that served as a filming location for Star Wars.

1. The Wild Atlantic Way: Stretching 2,500 kilometers from Donegal to Cork, this route offers breathtaking coastal vistas and passes through charming small towns. Prepare to enjoy the scenery and unique Irish culture.
2. The Ring of Kerry: This popular 179-kilometer drive provides incredible views of mountains, lakes, and the Atlantic Ocean. Starting and ending in Killarney, it takes you through picturesque towns and offers numerous stop-off points.
3. The Causeway Coastal Route: Spanning approximately 195 kilometers between Belfast and Derry-Londonderry, this drive includes stunning cliffside views, the Giant's Causeway, and numerous filming locations for the Game of Thrones series.
4. Sky Road, Connemara: A compact 16-kilometer drive, but packed with scenic beauty. You’ll encounter pristine beaches, sweeping ocean views, and rugged landscapes. The drive starts and ends in Clifden.
5. The Burren Loop: Discover out-of-this-world landscapes in the 155-kilometer Burren loop. Starting and ending in Ballyvaughan, the route also leads you to the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands.
6. The Copper Coast Drive: This route stretches over approximately 50 kilometers along the Waterford coast. It features panoramic sea views, unique geological features, and ancient ruins.