Common Inquiries

Question

To which airport should I fly?

Answer

We think that flying into Dublin (DUB) is the easiest. They tend to have the most direct flights, and they are the least expensive. This is a major airport with rental car availability, along with public transportation. Another option is the Shannon Airport (SNN). We have not flown through here, but it is worth comparing.

Question

Do I need a passport or visa to go to Ireland?

Answer

You need a valid passport to travel to Ireland, but not a visa (if you're traveling for less than 90 days). Please visit the following website to view Ireland's passport and visa restrictions for the most current information. As of January 2026, your passport must not expire within the duration of your travels. If you plan on traveling to any other country (like Northern Ireland, Scotland, England, etc) in the Schengen region, your passport will need to be valid for 3 months after your planned visit. https://www.ireland.com/en-us/help-and-advice/practical-information/visas-and-passports/#:~:text=and%20passport%20requirements.-,Advice,2

Question

How do I renew my passport?

Answer

Super easy, I just renewed mine online and it took around 3 weeks to arrive in the mail. Visit the following link to follow the steps. You usually just need to upload a new photo, and this can now be taken at home with an iPhone. Directions are on the website. https://uspassportandvisa.org/us-passport/?utm_term=passport%20renewal&utm_campaign=7540-2022-11-09&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22212757347&gbraid=0AAAAA-ylfVtweYZ7hZptQ56RPo6-fcnsL&gclid=Cj0KCQiAvtzLBhCPARIsALwhxdovnKPSGBrYHrVg9PCyGToXJlA2Bj3eDNs77QZyQ65cRNoCY55U0LcaAlWpEALw_wcB

Question

Will my U.S. driver's license work in Ireland?

Answer

Yes, generally, your U.S. driver's license will be valid in Ireland for 12 months as a tourist.

Question

Is driving in Ireland difficult?

Answer

I thought it was slightly challenging for the first few hours, especially after coming off a red-eye flight. There are plenty of reminders to stay on the left side of the road. We found the drivers were respectful from the heart of Dublin to the countryside. After the second day of driving it became much easier. I got used to it so well that when I came back to the U.S., I felt I needed reminders to stay on the right side. -Peter

Question

Will my phone work in Ireland?

Answer

It is best to check with your phone carrier to see if you have international coverage. If you do not, it is very easy to buy an electronic SIM card through Airalo or Saily. These electronic SIM cards are inexpensive, and you can purchase as much data as you need each day. This will let you use WhatsApp (international messaging app), iMessage, FaceTime Audio, and FaceTime as long as you have service. Electronic SIM cards only work on iPhone 11 or newer, and your phone must be "unlocked". Unlocking your phone requires your phone to be paid off through your carrier, and then you have to call them and request that it be unlocked.

Question

What is the time difference in Ireland

Answer

Ireland is 5 hours ahead of the Eastern U.S. time zone. They also do daylight saving time, so in May, they will still be 5 hours ahead of Eastern Daylight Time. Maybe this will change in the future...

Question

What currency does Ireland use?

Answer

Ireland uses the Euro. You can check the conversion rate at any time by searching it on Google. We did not use much cash when we were there; most places accept credit cards. Check with your bank, but I know some banks, like PNC, do not have international ATM fees, so you can take out cash from any ATM in Ireland.

Question

What is the weather in Ireland like in May?

Answer

In Birr, the average high is around 60°F, and the lows are 40°F. They can have rain at any time of the day, any time of the year, so please be prepared if it is chilly and rainy! We recommend a rain jacket and/or umbrella for the weekend. The venue has indoor accommodations with complimentary umbrellas.

Question

How many nights should I plan to stay?

Answer

We have activities planned for two nights, Friday, May 7th (Welcome Party), and Saturday, May 8th (Wedding), so we recommend at least two nights in Birr. We recommend staying in Ireland longer if you can, as there are so many neat places to explore.

Question

Will there be Guinness at the Wedding?

Answer

You bet.