Almost anywhere in Ireland is more affordable than visiting Dublin, although it’s one of the best places in the world to grab a pint. Although the Irish capital is vibrant and lively and offers plenty of attractions like the Guinness Storehouse, the cost of accommodation alone is almost too much for the budget traveler. Here’s where to go in Ireland for lower accommodation prices and just as much to do and see.
10 Kenmare, County Kerry
Countryside near Kenmare, County Kerry, Ireland
Kenmare is a hidden gem of Europe. Located in the south of County Kerry, Kenmare boasts incredible scenery that is unspoiled by tourism. The town is charming and peaceful yet offers a variety of accommodations and culinary options. Since it’s not as well known as other destinations in Ireland, travelers won’t have to pay the premiums for a bed that they would in Dublin.
9 Belfast, Northern Ireland
City Hall, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast is located in Northern Ireland, not the Republic of Ireland, but as a major city in the region, it offers a more budget-friendly alternative to Dublin. Belfast is known for being the birthplace of the Titanic, and travelers typically visit to see the museum honoring the lost ship.
8 County Mayo
Achill Island, County Mayo, Ireland
County Mayo is one of the most affordable regions in the entire country, making it an ideal choice for a vacation that won’t break the bank. One of the cheapest places to stay in the country is Castlebar. However, other towns like Westport and Belmullet also have affordable hotels, Airbnbs, and Guesthouses.
7 Tully, County Galway
Tully Cross, County Galway, Ireland
Tully is the ideal stop for travelers driving the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route on a budget. This affordable village is located on the Renvyle Peninsula in northwest Connemara and is part of County Galway. More affordable than staying in the town of Galway itself, Tully offers the perfect stop for a night or two when exploring attractions in the area, like the Cliffs of Moher.
6 Donegal, County Donegal
Grianan of Aileach, Carrowreagh, County Donegal, Ireland
Donegal is a charming town located in northwest Ireland, surrounded by gorgeous landscapes. County Donegal is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets and top tourist destinations because of its dramatic limestone cliffs, making it extremely photogenic. As a benefit, staying in the town of Donegal is more affordable than booking a hotel in Dublin.
5 Limerick, County Limerick
Sheep grazing in Limerick
Limerick is a city in the county of the same name, located in the Midwest of the Republic of Ireland. Limerick is the ideal place to vacation in Ireland on a budget, with plenty to see and do. There is the Crescent Shopping Centre, Dolan’s Pub and Restaurant, the Limerick City Gallery of Art, and the Limerick Museum.
4 Cork, County Cork
Cork, County Cork, Ireland, after dark
Cork is the second-largest city in the Republic of Ireland, making it a fun place to plan a vacation without the price tag attached to the capital of Dublin. In fact, the cost of living in Cork is 22{6932ee47e64f4ce8eedbbd5224581f6531cba18a35225771c06e4f1b3f0d9667} cheaper than in Dublin. Fitzgerald’s Park and Cork City Gaol are two of the top attractions to explore here.
3 Waterford, County Waterford
Waterford Southern Ireland
Waterford is the oldest city in the Republic of Ireland, believed to have been established back in 914 AD by the Viking Ragnall. The gorgeous and historic city is one of the most affordable large urban centers in the country. Located south of Kilkenny on the eastern coast of the country, Waterford offers a chance to explore Ireland’s culture, history, and Atlantic coast on a budget.
2 Leitrim, County Leitrim
Derrycarne Woods, County Leitrim, Ireland
Leitrim, in County Leitrim, is the cheapest place to live in the entire Republic of Ireland. This makes it a great option for planning a budget vacation to a destination in the north of Ireland with stunning landscapes. Leitrim is located on the River Shannon and is close to the border of County Roscommon.
1 Gowlan, County Cavan
Sheep in the Irish countryside
Located in County Cavan, Gowlan is a budget-friendly destination for travelers looking to explore the Republic of Ireland’s far north, bordering Northern Ireland. This is an underrated part of the country with exceptional attractions like Cavan Burren Park and Cavan Cathedral.
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