Pack warm clothing. Northwest Ireland is liable to be cold no matter when you visit. Break-away pants, sweaters, t-shirts and thick socks are an ideal combination, because they'll allow you to layer your outfit, changing when the weather does. Bring an umbrella and other rain protection. Pack sturdy shoes. Northwest Ireland is known for its hill walking. Bring your passport.
Fly into Sligo or Donegal. Donegal has two cafes and wireless access, being larger than the Sligo airport. You can prebook buses or taxis at Donegal. Sligo offers both taxis and a bus that runs to the train station in Sligo. It doesn't operate on Sundays.
Arrange your lodging before you travel. Though Ireland is known for its hospitality, northwest Ireland is more rural than the south of Ireland. Hotels and rooming houses aren't open for business as late as their city counterparts and may not be able to accommodate you if you arrive unannounced.
Visit Sligo and Donegal if you want a taste of the city life. These two areas are the largest in northwest Ireland and are more likely to cater to tourists. They offer more shops, hotels and entertainment than outlying districts do. Sligo was also the home of the poet Yeats. If you want a taste of the Irish country life, stay away from the cities and book a small room at a country inn outside of Sligo or Donegal.
Plan your trip, including the cost of food, attractions and lodging, in Euro. Ireland now operates on the Euro and converting the costs you'll have to pay before your trip will help you avoid any disappointing cash shortages once you're in northwest Ireland.
