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Aspiring solo travelers often ask me where their first solo trip should be. Having traveled through a lot of Europe, my suggestion is always the same; for great solo travel experiences, I suggest Ireland! For many reasons, a weekend in Ireland is a perfect destination for your first solo trip.
Dublin is a vibrant city with a low crime rate making it a safe place and a great choice for solo female travel.
Reasons Ireland Is a Good Place for Solo Travel
- My first reason for choosing Ireland for a solo weekend trip is the city sizes are small. Getting around by foot to all the major attractions is doable. I recently spent a four-night getaway in Dublin and took notes of every possible reason why you should go.
- Reason number two to chose Ireland is the friendly locals. Sure, in any city, you may come across some rude and unhappy souls, but generally, the people are a friendly bunch. And ladies, if you fancy the men, that accent is sexy ; )
- The third reason I recommend Ireland for a weekend trip is the country is safe. Again, in any city, there could be some bad areas, but I always felt safe solo traveling in Ireland.
- Reason number four why solo travel in Ireland is great is the comfort food. My favorite part about eating alone is ordering everything I want and not having to share!
- And finally, one of the best reasons Ireland is a good place for solo travel is for your soul! Going anywhere alone gives you time to connect back with yourself. Ireland has some pretty incredible landscapes, the perfect place to go and reflect.
☘️ If you are a native English speaker, Ireland is a great place for a solo vacation, since you don’t have to worry about a language barrier!
❤︎ Grab the FREE Google Map of Dublin! All of the points of interest in this post are included!
Learn How to Make A Downloadable Map: Here
Solo Female Travel in Dublin
Let’s get straight to it! Are you a solo female traveling around Ireland? If you are just spending only a weekend in Ireland, you don’t want to waste time getting lost. I will break down for you all you need to know for this trip to the emerald isle!
Arriving From Dublin Airport Alone
One of the reasons I found Ireland to be a great destination for solo travel, is that Irish people speak English. Assuming your native language is also English. Traveling solo can be stressful if you at times, so it is better to choose a destination where the language is your own.
Some buses and taxis will take you to the city center if you are coming to Dublin by plane. The traffic will determine the cost, but a taxi generally costs between 30 – 40 euros. The bus is a more cost-effective option, but depending on the time of day can take a while.
You can spend 7 euros from the airport to the city center of Dublin by pre-booking your ticket with The Airlink Express. A fantastic option if you want to take the bus.
A smart way to start your weekend trip is by getting the 3-Day City Pass.
With this pass, you will have access to the Dublin Hop-on Hop-off City Tour buses and the Dublin Bus public service buses, Airlink Express.
In Dublin, you want to download the App Free Now. Free Now is the taxi app used in Dublin, and it’s good to have it all set up before you land.
Getting around Dublin by bus or train is very manageable and affordable.
☘️ Quick Tip: If you are ready to fully explore all of Ireland, then check out the afforable rates from Discover Cars! It is the number #1 choice in rental cars company!
Solo-Friendly Neighborhoods in Dublin
What makes a neighborhood in Dublin great? That really depends on what you are into. There was a time in my life when staying in Temple Bar would have been my top choice.
But now, as a solo female traveling in her older years, staying in Temple Bar would be a nightmare. Quaint and quiet streets are music to my ears! I seek out neighborhoods with artisan coffee shops and high-end bistros.
Let me give you a better overview of the neighborhoods so you can make the right choice! If only a weekend in Ireland, make it a great one!
Where to Stay Solo in Dublin?
There are so many neighborhoods in Dublin that are all suitable for a weekend in Ireland. You will want to research ahead and be aware that accommodations in Dublin can be costly.
For this reason, I recommend booking.com and finding a short-term apartment stay. I find the best places when I book months in advance.
What to Expect in the Temple Bar Neighborhood
Temple Bar is your bang-on, party all night into the morning and into the next week, neighborhood. You can find all iconic Irish Bars with Irish music, Irish food, and Irish spirit here. Just consider how lite of a sleeper you are if staying in this neighborhood.
The good times could be heard from the streets and in your hotel room…
Best Hotel In Temple Bar
Temple Bar Hotel
If you solo traveling ladies are looking for my top choice of hotels in the Temple Bar neighborhood, I highly recommend the Temple Bar Hotel.
The Temple Bar Hotel is truly a unique stay in Dublin! Located right in the center of some of Dublin’s most iconic attractions and pubs, this hotel is sure to provide a memorable experience.
The Temple Bar Hotel provides a cozy atmosphere with comfortable rooms adorned with natural wood furnishings and plush carpets. But the real charm comes from the stunning views of Dublin’s streets, rivers, and buildings – you’ll never want to leave!
You can also enjoy a delicious selection of traditional Irish dishes at the hotel’s restaurant. And if that wasn’t enough, Temple Bar Hotel is also home to an impressive collection of Irish whiskey and craft beers.
Why Stay in the St. Stephen’s Green Neighborhood?
The neighborhood of St. Stephen’s Green is very central and within close distance of Temple Bar. The streets are lined with beautiful townhomes of Georgian-style architecture.
Whatever you do, don’t stay on Harcourt Street.
Harcourt Street is the famous street where all the nightclubs are located, and it’s loud AF. I had truly the worst night’s sleep on my first night in Dublin.
Best Hotel in St. Stephen’s Green
Top Recommended Solo in Ireland Hotels in St. Stephens’s Green
The Westbury Hotel
In St. Stephen’s Green neighborhood, my favorite hotel is The Westbury Hotel! It is the perfect spot for you to stay and explore this vibrant Irish capital.
The Westbury offers all the amenities a modern woman needs – from complimentary WiFi in-room to more-than-comfortable beds. And if you’re feeling daring, why not take advantage of their 24-hour room service? Whether it’s afternoon tea or a late-night snack, the Westbury will have your back.
The Number 31
To give you more options in St. Stephens Green, you could consider staying at Number 31 Hotel in Dublin. It is an absolute treat for solo female travelers!
This chic boutique hotel is centrally located and offers everything you need for an unforgettable stay. With its stylish décor, cozy guest rooms, and great amenities, it’s easy to see why this boutique hotel is one of the most popular spots for women traveling alone.
The Kironan House
And for my last suggestion on where to stay in St. Stephen’s Green, check out Kironan House in Dublin. Its an idyllic spot for solo female travelers!
With its cozy accommodations and great amenities, you’ll feel right at home while exploring the Emerald Isle. The rooms offer plenty of space to kick back, relax and enjoy all that this charming city has to offer.
Plus, the staff are super friendly and accommodating, so you can make the most of your experience. With a convenient location close to all the sights and attractions, Kironan House is an ideal spot for solo female travelers looking to explore Dublin in style.
Why Stay in the Christchurch Neighborhood?
Christchurch neighborhood is the area where you might have guessed it, Christchurch Cathedral is located. This is an excellent choice in the neighborhood if you can find a reasonably priced hotel. Since it is so central and less noisy, the desirability drives up the room cost.
I stayed right on the edge of this neighborhood before the canal just across from the Rathmines neighborhood. So I can recommend staying here and walking into the city center.
Wear your most comfortable shoes in Dublin. Transit by bus is available, but my guess is you will find yourself walking from one end of the city to the other. I would say I averaged 25,000 or more steps a day if that gives you an idea.
Staying in Ranelagh, Rathmines, Ballsbridge, and Donnybrook Neighborhoods
If you are ok with taking a very short bus ride to the city center, the neighborhoods mentioned above are great places to stay. You can find terrific restaurants and shops located in these neighborhoods.
Staying in any of these neighborhoods will give you the experience of really living in Dublin. I like to feel like I am part of the culture, rather than a tourist.
Best Solo-Friendly Hotels Outside the City Center of Dublin
Best Travel Backpacks
What to Do On a Weekend In Ireland as a Solo Traveler
If you are spending a short time in Dublin, research what not to miss! Here is a short list of the must-do’s by the day.
Solo Travel Weekend in Ireland | Day 1 Dublin Itinerary
Guinness Factory, Christ Church Cathedral & St. Patricks Cathedral
Start your morning visiting Dublin’s most incredible cathedrals! Christchurch and St. Stephen’s Cathedral are of a short distance from each other, and if the weather is decent, you can walk.
After you have marveled at these magnificent structures, it’s time to move on to the Guinness Factory!
Guinness is a staple of the Irish culture when it comes to picking a pint. The factory’s location is within the current neighborhood you are exploring, so walking there could be an option. Once you arrive, you will pay an entrance fee of 18.50 euros.
This fee will gain you access to the factory Guinness storehouse, a self-guided tour of the brewery, and will get you 1 pint of Guinness in the sky bar.
The factory has several on-site restaurants ranging in price and dining style. I enjoyed a wonderful lunch here on my day trip to the factory.
And if you are looking for another tour to fill your belly and the rest of the day, check out the Irish Food Trail Tour!
☘️ BOOK IRISH FOOD TOUR TICKETS
Weekend in Ireland Solo Travel | Day 2 Dublin Itinerary
In the morning, head over to Trinity College and view the 8th-century books of Kells. It is best to book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines. After a visit to Trinity College, head on to Dublin Castle for picture-taking and sightseeing.
A must-try place for lunch is Fish Shop on Benburb Street. This restaurant on Benburb Street is more casual and is open for lunch. I highly recommend the fish and chips!
After a filling lunch at Fish Shop, continue to the Jameson Distillery for a tour and a taste. The Jameson Distillery offers a few different tour options. The tours all vary in tour times and prices.
GET TICKETS: Jameson Distillery
No trip to Dublin would be complete without a night in the Temple Bar! For a traditional Irish food experience, head on over to The Stags Head.
This place gets very, very busy so… I would go earlier than later. At Stags Head you can expect some live music in addition to all the delicious food!
Or maybe you want to enjoy a traditional Irish House Party Dinner and Show!
Solo Travel Guides for Dublin
Weekend Solo Travel in Ireland | Day 3 Dublin Itinerary
Hopefully, you aren’t feeling too wobbly from your night out in Temple bar and are ready for a bike tour! It’s the best way to see Dublin.
If it has to be your last night, and you want to have a nice dinner, check out Etto or Uno Mas. These restaurants have the same ownership and were the best meals I had in Dublin. I highly recommend getting reservations at least a few weeks in advance. Otherwise, you may miss out!
Best Dublin Bars and Restaurants
I travel to eat, it’s that simple. When I find an outstanding place, I want to share it with the world. Below is a list of places that do it better than the rest! For an excellent dining and drinking experience, be sure to check out these places!
- Circa– Higher-end dining without the suit and tie. This place is a must-try!
- Bread 41 – Bread, lots, and lots of fantastic bread!
- Fumbally – Delicious cafe with lots of fresh food options
- VCC- Bar– Vintage Cocktail Club, need I say more…
- Peruke & Periwig – For a unique, one-of-a-kind dining experience, check this place out.
- The Long Hall – Traditional Irish Bar, come thirsty!
Dublin is becoming more Vegan friendly, and although none of these restaurants are strictly vegan, you are often able to find vegan items on the menus.
Bonus: Day 4 | Day Trip From Dublin Itinerary
If you have more time on your weekend in Ireland and are looking for a day trip from Dublin, I suggest Howth! You can travel to the seaside town of Howth from Dublin in approx 45 mins. There is transportation by bus or by train. I took the bus, and it was effortless and fast.
Howth is a port town on the coast of Ireland and offers spectacular views and a great coastal vibe. I spent around 2 hours walking around and taking pictures. This is a pleasant day trip for all of you photographers, and the photo opportunities are endless.
I had lunch at Mamó Restaurant and was very impressed! This place is classy and small, so book ahead. They serve a seasonal food menu with excellent wine pairings. The staff was very knowledgeable and friendly.
A Weekend in Ireland Day Trip Ideas
Ireland is well connected by train, allowing for many options in alternate destinations. There are a few cities I would recommend checking out if you have the time.
The main train station in Dublin is located in the city center.
Belfast
Belfast is approximately 2 hours 40 mins by train and, depending on traffic, 2 hours by car or bus. The best route would depend on the timetables you are working with. I found that public transport had enough flexibility for me to utilize it.
If you are traveling to Belfast, you will be entering the UK, where you need a currency change to the pound.
I have written a detailed post about visiting How to See Belfast Solo, with many recommendations.
If you are a Game of Thrones fan, there are so many reasons to visit Northern Ireland! Did you know you can visit many of the film locations?? Day tours are often my go-to when I travel alone in Ireland. The best part is I often make new friends!
Here is a GREAT day tour from Dublin to Belfast & Giant’s Causeway.
Kilkenny
Kilkenny is approximately 1 hour 45 mins from Dublin by train and similar times by car/bus. I was impressed with the historic old town of Kilkenny and would suggest visiting.
The medieval castle in the center of the city is impressive and worth a visit.
Best Day Trip From Dublin to Kilkenny – Get Tickets ☘️
Wicklow
Wicklow is the closest to visit from Dublin about an hour away by train/bus/car. This coastal town is a picturesque spot with a charming city center. Spend the day exploring this little village and checking out the local pubs and shops.
If you are into hiking the Wicklow Mountains offer an unforgettable experience.
Galway
A top choice in alternative places to visit in Ireland is always Galway! Galway is located on the west coast of Ireland, not too far from the Cliffs of Moher. The first time I visited Ireland, I also went to Galway.
After you have explored all there is to see in Galway, one of the best things to do is take a day tour! There are so many options from Galway such as:
- Taking a tour of the Cliffs of Moher!
- Connemara Day Trip with a visit to Kylemore Abbey!
- Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise!
From Dublin, it is only about 2 hours away. For the best way to get to Galway, I would recommend taking a direct train. You could always catch a bus or rent a car.
Remember* In Ireland, they drive on the right side of the road…
A Solo Weekend in Ireland Safety Tips
I have been to Ireland five times now. Each time I always felt welcomed and safe in my surroundings. Every city has its areas you should be wary of, and even in good neighborhoods, you want to be vigilant.
Remember not to go overboard at the bars. This can be easy to do in Dublin, as the good times are infectious. Trouble seems to follow the loud and obnoxious, so don’t be that tourist. Keep yourself sober enough to remember your evening, and you will be fine.
I don’t travel with fancy and expensive items, so I recommend you leave the designer labels at home. It is one less thing to worry about in general.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Ireland Solo
When visiting the Republic of Ireland alone, I suggest you visit between the months of May through December. During these months you will have somewhat better weather, but most notably, there will be more things to do.
It becomes the most important thing if you plan to check out small towns in Ireland. During the winter months, a lot of attractions are closed in winter.
Packing for a Solo Trip to Ireland
A great way to ensure you will have an easy breezy solo trip is to pack smart. Below are a few of my must-haves when I visit Ireland!
- Comfortable shoes, leave the heels at home. I bring just one really comfortable pair and something a little less casual but nothing fancy.
- A warm coat with a hood. Bonus points for waterproof
- Leggings. That comfort food doesn’t go down so easy in jeans
- Casual tops and sweaters.
- A journal. When traveling solo, you have the time to write down special moments.
- Don’t forget the umbrella!
- Hat & gloves in winter
Best Packing Accessories
FAQ’s Solo Female Travel to Ireland
Traveling alone in Ireland is very easy! Once you arrive in the city town center, you can see most attractions on foot. Traveling between cities alone in Ireland is possible with the public transit system of buses and trains!
There are many places to travel alone in Ireland! I recommend sticking to the more populated cities that offer the most transportation. Three cities I always recommend are Dublin, Galway, and Cork!
Tammy -Travelling Tam says
Love this! I’ve quite neglected Ireland but I really need to make it back over and see Dublin – ive only been to Cork and Killarney. I’ll be revisiting this!
Nicola Lavin says
I am from Galway and you have described the perfect Dublin weekend.
Krystianna (@VolumesNVoyages) says
I absolutely love Ireland! It’s definitely an easy place to travel around for a weekend. Temple Bar area is one of my favorites. 🙂 Great post – I loved your photos! Ireland has a special place in my heart because I studied abroad in Dublin last spring.
Elsa says
Nice article! Thanks for the inspiration…
Emma says
Ireland is top of the list, and it’s posts like this that really make me want to go even more. There’s so much to do in Ireland, and I’ll definitely take some of your suggestions
Christine says
We got cheated out of our weekend in Dublin years ago thanks to weather delaying our first flight and making us miss the second flight (then we spent 3 days in US airports trying to get to Europe). Your guide reminds me that we need to try to get over there again sometime soon.
Sarah says
I live in Ireland and love travelling around. One place I always struggle with is Dublin city. I never know where to go and other than the main shopping streets, always feel a little unsure. Never been to the Jameson Distillery or Trinity and always eat in chain restaurants because I don’t know any good ones. Loved this post, will for sure save it for the next time I’m visiting the big city 🙂
Sarah | thetalesoftinyboots.com
Francesca says
Dublin is on my bucket list to explore so I’m definitely saving this post to help me plan my trip!
Josy A says
Fab post! You’ve reminded me that although I love Ireland, I need to spend more time actually in Dublin. I have to admit, we normally drive straight through!
p.s. I am with you about Irish accents. So flipping sexy. <3
Laurel says
Beautiful photos! I would like to visit here some day!
Amanda says
Oh I love Ireland! I’ve only been to Dublin so far but I can’t wait to go explore the more remote areas and the coast!
Ghelsea says
I have many friends from Ireland (I live in Toronto and there is a large Irish population) so it’s on my list for sure!
Charlotte Lint says
Such a lovely read! Ireland is so high on my list, especially for a road trip!
Sara says
Great post- really enjoyed all your suggestions and photos! My husband and I stayed in an AirBnB in Temple Bar for a long weekend back in 2016 and did a lot of things on your list! Can’t wait to go back and try out some of your other suggestions 🙂
Camden says
Ireland is on my list and this sounds like the perfect guide! Love that you included day trips from Dublin too!
Khyati says
Great guide! I was supposed to be in Dublin this year, unfortunately, had to cancel all my travel plans. Will refer to all your Ireland guides for when I finally visit.
Cathy says
Aw I love Ireland!! And agree, it’s a great first solo trip :). Love your photos and blog! 🙂
Sharon says
The Brazen Head sounds like a good shout. As do several of the bars you’ve mentioned. Dublin has been on my list for years, and I’ve never quite managed to get there. I’ll be saving this guide for when I do. 🙂
Melissa says
I’ll keep Dublin in mind for my first solo trip! I’m so scared of travelling solo, but I want to do it. Not a lot of friends or family have the time to travel with me so I neeeed to do it to still travel.
sarah says
As an Irish person, I love reading experiences from those who have visited the country. To get me through lockdown I’ve been watching irish travel vlogs – weird I know!
I am glad you loved visiting Ireland solo. I’ve recently written about Travelling to Galway solo as a women, to help other travelers. I received comments from other women who have travelled to Ireland alone for the post and I noticed that you said you’d visited Galway on a previous trip. Were you alone for this too as I’d love to include a comment from yourself if you were interested.
Let me know 🙂
slán agat
Sarah |Tinyboots
cormac says
Thank you for this amazing piece on Ireland; I love your writing style and feel every line of your writing.