Obtain a passport. All U.S. citizens need a passport to travel to Ireland. Passports can be obtained through the post office. To find a post office that issues passports near you, visit the U.S. Department of State website Iafdb.travel.state.gov. If you are traveling in two weeks or less, you must apply at one of the U.S. regional passport centers. You can find a regional passport center online at Travel.state.gov. To apply for a passport, you must have a DS-11 passport application, a birth certificate or evidence of citizenship, government-issued photo identification and two passport photos.
Book a flight. The Irish cities of Kerry, Knock, Dublin and Belfast have airports that receive international, long-haul flights from the United States. Cork, Derry, Galway and Shannon have smaller airports, but receive international flights from the United Kingdom and continental Europe. You must pay the airline upon reserving your flight. Some airlines may request your passport information, so have your passport on hand.
Reserve your accommodation. Reservations should be made in advance, especially during high season. In low season, it may be possible to simply walk in and find an accommodation available. Hostels, bed and breakfasts, motels and hotels dot Ireland. Some hostels in smaller towns are family run establishments and are quite nice. If you plan to stay in one place for a longer period of time, a condo or villa may be best for you. Although they may be a little more expensive, some of the cost can be offset by making your own meals instead of dining out. Some castles also provide accommodation, if you're interested in staying in a historic place.
Plan your activities. Many destination guides, such as Frommer's, Lonely Planet and Fodor's provide detailed information about local sites and activities. With Ireland's rich history comes ancient castles and towns that are definitely worth exploring. The Emerald Isle also boasts long, beautiful coastlines and rural townships with activities such as horseback riding.
Exchange currency. Ireland uses the Euro and many U.S. banks offer currency exchange services. If your bank does not offer these services, it is possible to exchange cash at international airports in Ireland and London. If your ATM card has a Star or Cirrus symbol, you can also withdraw cash from ATMs in Ireland carrying the same symbols. Traveler's checks are accepted at many places, but not everywhere. Visa credit cards are also widely accepted. If you plan to travel to Northern Ireland, be aware that Northern Ireland uses the British Pound.
Rent a car. Several international rental car companies such as Dollar, Hertz and Budget operate in Ireland. Reserve your car on their websites in advance, or in low seasons, rent upon arrival at the airport. You will be asked to present your driver's license and passport. Driving is the easiest way to travel in Ireland and allows you to stop at will and travel at your own pace. Purchase a map at the car rental counter.
Travel by train. Trains operate regularly throughout Ireland. Most of these trains travel to major cities. Travel to smaller towns may cost a little more, and rural areas may have fewer or no services. Use the bus to get from the train station to your destination within the city.
Fly. Airports throughout Ireland have regular, regional flights. Flying may be a good idea if you have limited time and would like to visit the north of Ireland and the south.
