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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
South African citizens must obtain a visa prior to travel to the UK. Check specific requirements on the UK Visas and Immigration website, and for Northern Ireland Irish Immigration website.
VISA INFORMATION
WEATHER
Ireland has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers, cool winters, and frequent rainfall. Weather is often changeable with cloudy skies and occasional sunshine.
- Spring (March to May): Spring in Ireland is fresh and full of promise, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C. Blossoms and greenery return to the countryside, and days gradually grow longer. Rain is still common, but sunshine begins to break through more frequently. It’s a lovely time for scenic drives and coastal walks.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is the warmest and driest time of year, with temperatures averaging between 15°C and 20°C, though occasional heatwaves can push highs up to 25°C or more. The countryside is lush, festivals are in full swing, and long daylight hours (up to 18 hours in the north) allow for extended exploration.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn sees a gradual drop in temperature, ranging from 10°C to 17°C. Landscapes turn golden and crisp, especially in October. It’s a quieter time to travel, with fewer crowds and still-pleasant weather for visiting historical sites and enjoying nature.
- Winter (December to February): Winters are cold and damp, with temperatures averaging 2°C to 8°C. Snow is rare but possible in inland and northern areas. Coastal winds can be brisk, and daylight hours are short. However, the festive atmosphere, cosy pubs, and fewer tourists make this season charming in its own right.
- Best Time to Travel: Summer (June to August) offers the best weather and longest days, ideal for outdoor adventures and sightseeing. Spring and early autumn (April–June and September) are great for mild weather and fewer crowds. Winter is best for those seeking a quieter, cosier experience.
GENERAL INFORMATION
| Country: | Republic of Ireland |
| Capital City: | Dublin |
| International Airports: | Dublin Airport Cork Airport Shannon Airport Knock Airport Belfast Airport |
| Area: | 70,273 km² |
| Population: | 5.127 million (2024 est.) |
| Time Zone: | GMT/UTC, Irish Standard Time (UTC+01:00) |
| Religion: | Predominantly Christian (80%) |
| Language: | English |
| Currency: | Euro |
| Exchange Rate: | Fluctuates; consult local banks for current rates. |
| Credit Card Payment Availability: | Widely accepted in cities. Rural areas may require cash. |
| ATM Accessibility: | Plentiful in cities and larger towns. |
| Dialling Code: | +353 |
TRAVEL TIPS
| Electricity: | 230V/50Hz. Three-pronged plug type. |
| Water: | Safe to drink from the tap throughout Ireland. |
| Business Hours: | Shops usually 9:00 AM – 5:00/6:00 PM. Museums 10:00 AM – 5:00/6:00 PM (some closed on Mondays). |
| Banking Hours: | Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. |
| Photography Restrictions: | Generally allowed in public places For private property or individuals, it’s courteous to ask for permission. |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service, typically around 10%. – For groups of six or more, a service charge may be included in the bill—check before adding an extra tip. – Bartenders are usually paid a living wage, so tipping for drinks at the bar is not expected and might even be considered inappropriate. However, tipping is more appropriate for table service in pubs. |
| Vaccination Requirements: | No specific vaccinations required. |
| Dress Code Restrictions: | Dress codes are generally only encountered at fine dining restaurants and some pubs where formal attire may be required. |
| Peculiar Customs to Observe: | It is a tradition in Ireland to thank the bus driver upon exiting, regardless of the journey’s length. Some Irish people greet magpies to prevent bad luck. |
FESTIVALS
- Cork Midsummer Festival
- Galway International Arts Festival
- Dublin Horse Festival
- Kilkenny Arts Festival
- Puck Fair
- Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival
- St. Patrick’s Day
- Dublin Film Festival
- Listowel Writers’ Week
- Rose of Tralee
- St. Albans International Organ Festival
- Another Love Story
- Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival
- Belfast TradFest
- Belgrade Irish Festival
- Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival
- Chamber Music on Valentia
- Fleadh Cheoil
- Galway Film Fleadh
- Samhain (31 October)
- Tradfest
- Dublin Lunar New Year
- Spraoi International Street Arts Festival
- West Cork Chamber Music
MAP
“The British countryside is a place of enchantment, where every hill and valley tells a story and every season brings its own beauty.”
– Beryl Bainbridge