dublin safe to travel

Is Dublin Safe to Visit? A Local’s Perspective on Safety for 2024

Is Dublin safe to visit for tourists?

It’s a question that lingers in the minds of many first-time visitors, especially in more recent years.

Visiting and navigating a new city can be daunting, especially when safety concerns arise. Are there areas you should avoid? What is it like being in Dublin at night? Which are the safe areas in Dublin to book your accommodation?

These are all legitimate questions and if this is your first time visiting Dublin, or you are returning after a long period of time, fear not. I am going to answer these questions and more using my local knowledge of the city.

I am a Dubliner who has both lived in Dublin and visited the city as a tourist, and I’ve put together this guide to address safety in Dublin to put your mind at ease and give you all the answers and tools to enjoy every moment of the Irish capital.

Incidents like the recent violence in which rioting and looting took place in Dublin are extremely rare and are always a shock to us Dubliners, as well as the very rare incidents involving tourists during the summer of 2023.

My guide to safety in Dublin includes :

• The answer to the question “Is Dublin safe to visit for tourists?”.
• What the locals have to say about safety in Dublin.
• Good places to stay in Dublin, and places to avoid.
• Tips for staying safe in Dublin.

Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Dublin?

Questions about specific areas of dublin, 13 travel insurance.

*This post contains affiliate links, which may include Amazon affiliate links. To read more about affiliate links, please visit my Disclosure Policy page.

Now, the reason many people are wondering how safe is Dublin is due to some recent incidents involving attacks on tourists during the summer of 2023 and rioting and looting in the city centre in November of 2023 (mentioned further below). Despite these isolated incidents, Dublin is generally a safe city to visit, whether it is your first visit or tenth visit.

That said, as with all major cities, you cannot go around with a lackadaisy attitude. Petty crime does exist and can happen to anyone.

Ask yourself: Would I wander the dark lanes of Paris at night? Would I walk around London or go on the Underground with my bag open, a big camera around my neck and dripping in jewellery?

If the answer is no way, then it is the same in Dublin.

For the most part, Dublin is a safe destination for travellers.

But to answer any questions or concerns you might have, I’ve put together this guide to help you learn what to do and what not to do in the city, give you the low down on where is best to stay in the city centre and where to avoid, and give you some tips to help keep you as safe as possible in the land of the leprechauns.

I will answer every question related to safety in Dublin in greater detail, as well as share my own thoughts and experiences where staying safe in Dublin as a visitor is concerned.

Is Dublin Safe?

At the time of writing this post in October 2023, Ireland scored 1.312 on the Global Peace Index and was ranked #3 behind Iceland and Denmark. This score is a combination of many factors including the level of societal safety and security.

Ireland has regularly featured in the top 10 on the Global Peace Index.

However, you must remember that Ireland is a small country compared to others around the world, and outside of Dublin and its suburbs lies a rural country that is less populated than the capital.

Most crime occurs in the cities and in particular in Dublin, due mainly to the fact it is home to a quarter of the population of the Republic of Ireland.

But fear not, most Dubliners are honest and friendly people (even those of us from Tallaght), and armed with the tips below and some common sense, it can be an amazing city to visit in Ireland.

What the locals have to say

While conducting research for this article, I spoke to the local tour guide, Alan Byrne of AB Tours in Dublin about some incidents involving tourists during the summer 2023, and here is what he said:

“I think a lot of it (Dublin being unsafe for tourists) is sensationalised compared to the reality. I live right in the city centre, close to several drug treatment shelters. I’m out on the streets every day, all over Dublin with groups of visitors. Many of the commentators are probably getting their information from TV, radio, or social media. There have been virtually no incidents on any of my tours over the last few years apart from one attempted pickpocketing from a backpack. Thankfully that was spotted in time and the person fled empty handed. If you look at crime statistics, they are all down over the last few years and I certainly felt less safe in Dublin 20 years ago. However, some of my guiding colleagues have noticed a small increase in people harassing their clients lately. Speaking anecdotally, there is a slight edginess to the city increasing again. Some teenagers have been getting braver in their actions, but it usually boils down to an intimidating presence rather than much activity. I think this is probably a consequence of the Covid years, whereby the streets were largely vacated, and teenagers could run amok. Some of the laneways in Temple Bar, such as the Icon Walk or Love Lane (pictured) were decorated to promote ‘soft policing’ and gently discourage petty drug dealing. Sadly, these lanes have fallen back into their old ways since the lockdowns. So, I would say to people that Dublin is comparatively safe. I’ve lived in the city for over 10 years and have never seen a knife in public, let alone a gun. I can count the troublesome incidents that have disrupted my tours on one hand. If you compare it with any major city, it ranks as very safe, although caution should be exercised wherever you travel.” Alan Byrne, AB Tours Dublin

Things to Know about Safety in Dublin

Is Dublin, Ireland safe? For the most part, yes, as with all cities.

• As mentioned, Ireland is regularly featured in the top ten countries on the Global Peace Index.
• Ireland has been classified as a Level 1 t hreat location (exercise normal precautions) by the US Department of State, but after recent assaults the US Department of State issued a security alert for Dublin, advising visitors to exercise Security Awareness.
• A study in 2019 (pre-pandemic) revealed that 98% of tourists felt safe and secure during their visit to Ireland.

That said, there are certain areas that even the locals will tell you to avoid and certain ones they are comfortable frequenting.

As the US Department of State mentioned in their security alert for the city, being aware of your surroundings, using common sense, avoiding being intoxicated in the city centre, and avoiding walking alone at night are all things visitors can do to remain as safe as possible in the city.

Travel Advisories

Most countries have set Ireland as a low-level threat location, advising their citizens to practise normal safety and security precautions when visiting the island.

For example, for Canadian visitors, the government of Canada has set Ireland as a country to take normal security precautions .

Likewise, those travelling from New Zealand have also been advised to exercise normal safety and security precautions while in Ireland.

The US Department of State has set Ireland as a Level 1 threat location but did issue a security alert for Dublin in July 2023, making it a medium threat location and strongly advising US visitors to exercise security awareness when visiting the Irish capital. You can read a Guardian news article about this advisory here .

Crime in Dublin

Most crime in Dublin related to tourists is petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft.

But in recent months there have been some serious assaults on tourists, with one American tourist seriously injured after an assault on O’Connell Street, and in the Temple Bar area of the city, a group of British tourists were assaulted at night.

Both attacks occurred shortly after 10pm at night. Following these, the Irish government increased police presence on the streets of Dublin to try and ensure visitor safety.

These types of violent crimes on tourists are not a regular occurrence, but visitors to the city should be aware that the top five common crimes committed in Ireland (not just Dublin) include violent crimes such as theft and assault, drug abuse (and related crimes), possession of weapons, and public order offences.

Petty crimes such as theft and pickpocketing are more prevalent with tourist crime, and the worst of the violent crimes tend to occur in the rougher areas of suburban Dublin.

You can find the latest crime statistics by clicking here .

Another recent incident that shocked the country occurred following a stabbing incident involving a teacher and school children on Parnell Square in Dublin City Centre.

The subsequent riots and loot i ng were horrendous but you should be aware that these are extremely rare and something I have not experienced or seen in Dublin in my lifetime until now.

Petty Theft

Petty theft is one of the crimes most related to tourist incidents in Dublin. The theft of cell phones, theft of wallets/bags, and pickpocketing on busy streets and on busy public transport are the main types of crimes tourists may fall victim to.

That said, these types of crimes can occur in any city around the world and to visitors and locals alike.

In my early teens I was a victim of pickpocketing and because of my naivety had my purse stolen from my pocket which included a small watch given to me by an uncle. So, even locals can be victims in Dublin.

Substance-Related Crimes

Substance-related crimes can also be one type that involves tourists.

Tourists can become victims of petty crime if they are very intoxicated, making them easy targets for petty criminals on the streets of the city centre.

Tourists can become victims when those with a substance-related addiction turn to petty crime to feed their habit.

Avoiding Bad Areas

There are certain areas of Dublin that visitors should avoid, others where you should avoid walking alone late at night, and some areas where both tourists and locals generally feel safe.

One of the biggest factors in staying safe in Dublin is to avoid certain areas of Dublin, keep your wits about you in others, and avoid walking alone in Dublin at night.

I discuss this in greater detail below but suffice to say, there are some areas of Dublin I wouldn’t venture to as I don’t know them well.

Important emergency numbers in Dublin

Should you be the unfortunate victim of a crime in Dublin, the emergency numbers to be aware of are:

• 112 for the emergency services.
• 999, while this is the UK emergency services number it can still route you to the Irish emergency services if you forget number 112.

The service you will require will be the police or Gardai, and an ambulance if you have been injured.

Common Scams in Dublin

Like all major cities around the world, Dublin has a few scams that visitors need to be aware of.

• Taxis : while 99% of taxis in the city are reputable and licenced, there are some fake taxis in operation whose sole purpose is to take advantage of tourists. They will either charge you far more for your fare than it should be, or worst, rob tourists of their money. If you need a taxi in the city, hail one at a taxi rank, get your accommodation to call one from one of the firms they use, or download the FREENOW app and check the car has a number on the roof and the driver’s license details are displayed in the car.
• Fake Tourist Guides : like other cities, there are some fake guides in operation who will try to sell tours to tourists that don’t exist or offer to show them places themselves for a high fee. Do not fall victim to these people. I recommend booking your guided tours via Viator or Get Your Guide .
• Pickpockets : people bumping into you may not be coincident. Pickpockets in the city often operate by ‘accidentally’ bumping into people while pickpocketing them or their bags. Keep all valuables in an anti-theft bag such as the Pacsafe cross-over bag or the Pacsafe Venturesafe backpack that I myself use in Dublin.

Hazardous Weather & Natural Disasters

Ireland does not suffer from natural disasters. The worst it experiences is severe weather such as gales during winter but even those are not a daily occurrence.

While yes, it does snow in Ireland , Dublin does not experience the worst of it. Apart from occasional heavy snowfall, Dublin usually gets a small flurry of snow before it melts and clears.

When it comes to the safety of tourists in Dublin, natural disasters and hazardous weather are not something you typically need to be worried about.

A common question I see asked by first-time visitors to Ireland is whether you can drink tap water in Dublin.

The answer is yes, the tap water in Dublin is safe to drink. I love drinking tap water in my family’s house in Dublin as it is soft water and free from the minerals and salts you find in hard and semi-hard water (the scientist in me is coming out now), unlike our tap water at home in Portugal.

Dublin tap water comes from a range of sources but the biggest source is the Ballymore Eustace water treatment plant which supplies over 50% of the city and suburbs water . Its water source is the Poulaphuca Lake along the River Liffey.  

Where to stay in Dublin/Areas to avoid in Dublin

One thing that visitors to the Irish capital always ask is what are the safest areas in Dublin and what aren’t. It is natural to wonder where you should stay or visit and where you should avoid.

As promised, here are my thoughts on some of the better and safest areas of Dublin to stay in and to visit, and areas to avoid, both from a visitor’s and local’s point of view.

Where to stay in Dublin

Location matters when it comes to safety. Dublin has some lovely areas that are clean and safe and ideal for tourists visiting the city.

Merrion Square

The area around Merrion Square is a nice area of Dublin to stay.

Located at the back of Trinity College, it is where you will find the Natural History Museum and National Gallery of Ireland as well as the entrance to the government buildings.

There is a Georgian park in the centre and several hotels nearby such as The Davenport, The Mont, and The Alex, which I have personally stayed in and would stay in again.

Temple Bar is considered safe for tourists in Dublin. This area runs between the southside quays and Dame Street and has lots of bars, cafes, restaurants, and hotels to choose from.

Despite the recent incident in the area involving tourists, Temple Bar remains a popular part of the city for tourists and locals alike.

Hotels here include The Morgan, The Hard Rock Hotel, The Clarence (owned by U2), Fitzsimmons and Kinlay House. The Westbury, a 5-star Dublin hotel is located on Westmoreland Street, on the edge of Temple Bar.

This area is in the heart of the city, but you should stay alert and aware, especially if returning to your hotel late at night.

Grafton Street and St Stephen’s Green

So long as you keep your wits about you on busy days, staying near Grafton Street or St Stephen’s Green can be a good option.

Hotels near here are centrally located and leave you within walking distance of most attractions. This is the southside of the city which is generally thought of as the safer side of the city (but there are still some areas that tourists should avoid as there is not much for them there).

There are a few hotels off Grafton Street along side streets including The Westbury Hotel, and the famous Shelbourne Hotel along St Stephen’s Green. I’ve personally stayed in The Grafton opposite The Hairy Lemon pub, and it was a great, centrally located hotel.

Portobello is another area that is considered safe for accommodation for tourists.

It is the area sandwiched between part of Kevin Street, New Street, Camden Street and Portobello Road along the Grand Canal.

Hotels in this area can work out cheaper than the very centre of Dublin and most will be less than a 30-minute walk to Trinity College gates. Hotels here include the Camden Court Hotel, the Maldron Kevin Street, and Keavan’s Port Hotel.

Previously, this area of Dublin was a rough part of the city.

However, in recent years it has been regenerated and is home to the likes of the Old Jameson Distillery. It also has several hotels in the area. It is walkable to the very centre of Dublin, or you can take the Luas Red Line.

Would I choose to stay in this area of Dublin? No, but that is because I still know it as a rough part of the city and do not know it at all these days.

Outside of the city centre, the following locations are considered safe, and I would be more than happy to stay in these areas or recommend them to tourists:

• Howth – a fishing village on the northside at the end of the DART line.
• Malahide – a well-to-do area with a castle, this is considered a posh end of northside Dublin.
• Killiney and Dalkey – located along the DART and with good bus links to the city, these areas are considered clean, posh, and safe for locals and tourists alike.
• Ballsbridge – not too far from the city centre and with good bus links to the city centre, this area is another safe option for visitors to Ireland.
• Castleknock – located on the northside of Dublin, this is another area considered up-market and safe but does require a taxi or taking public transport into the city centre. Castleknock Hotel is one of Ireland’s castle hotels located in the area.

Areas to avoid in Dublin

If you are wondering are there any dangerous areas in Dublin, the answer is yes. Like all capital cities in the world, there are the good and the bad. These are areas that do not have a lot to offer tourists and therefore there is no reason for tourists to stay here.

Upper O’Connell Street, Parnell Square and Mountjoy Square

Upper O’Connell and the Parnell Square area of the northside of Dublin is not considered a very safe area for tourists.

While The Gresham Hotel, a 4-star Dublin hotel, is located along Upper O’Connell Street, the area is generally not considered a part of Dublin that tourists should frequent, especially at night. The ‘safe’ part tends to stop at the intersection with Henry Street.

Personally, I avoid Parnell Square. The Hugh Lane Gallery is located on it, and I would only visit this during the day and return to Lower O’Connell Street quickly afterwards.

Beware of Talbot Street, Gardiner Street (with Mountjoy Square along it) and Lower Abbey Street. While accommodation prices along these streets can look appealing, I would not stay on any of these streets.

I only go to Lower Abbey Street during the day when I need to get the Luas Red Line back to my family’s home in the suburbs.

Certain Quays

There are a few quays along the river Liffey which are ok and generally safe during the day such as Custom House Quay, Eden Quay, Aston Quay, Wood Quay, Essex Quay, Wellington Quay, Ormond Quay Upper, Bachelor’s Quay, George’s Quay, and Burgh Quay.

I would avoid walking along the following quays, especially at night:

• Usher’s Island
• Usher’s Quay
• Merchant’s Quay (beware even in daylight)
• Ormond Quay Upper
• City Quay (fine in daylight)
• Sir John Rogerson’s Quay
• North Wall Quay

While some hotels along the Quays are fine such as the Hilton Garden Inn beside the Jeanie Johnston (Custom House Quay), the Spencer further on, or The Clarence on Wellington Quay, I would not personally stay on or off any of the other quays.

Thomas Street and James’ Street

Thomas Street, including around the Guinness Brewery on James’ Street, is not considered a safe area of Dublin for tourists to stay in.

The same can be said for areas that are close to these two streets including Oliver Bond Street.

Other than the Guinness Storehouse, there are no other attractions for tourists so they should try to avoid staying in these areas and get public transport, a taxi, or the hop on hop off bus to visit the Guinness Storehouse.

Pearse Street/Tara Street

The areas around these streets are known for high crime rates and unsavoury characters. I would not recommend that tourists stay in and around this area.

Sherrif Street

This area has a bad reputation among many Dubliners and has no attractions for tourists, meaning there is no reason for them to be there. Therefore, I would not recommend that tourists find accommodation here or in the surrounding area.

Outside of the city centre, the following locations are considered unsafe for tourists, and I would not recommend you look at accommodation in these areas:

• Tallaght (the area of Dublin I grew up in)
• West Dublin including Blanchardstown (the area my husband grew up in)
• Ballyfermot

Is Tallaght safe?

No, Tallaght is not a safe area for tourists to visit or stay in. Crime rates are high and drugs and anti-social behaviour is common. Despite this being the area of Dublin I grew up in and where some of my family remain, I strongly recommend visitors avoid this area of Dublin. There are no tourist attractions here so no need for tourists to visit it.

Is O’Connell Street, Dublin safe?

Lower O’Connell Street is generally considered safe and the entire street now has a stronger police presence after an incident in July involving a tourist. That said, you need to use common sense and avoid walking the Upper section late at night.

Is Temple Bar safe?

The Temple Bar area of Dublin is considered a safe area of Dublin.

However, there was an assault on a group of tourists in the area in July 2023 that made the news. This occurred after 10pm at night and is not typically a common occurrence.

That said, you should be careful in the area, keep your belongings close and hidden away, and not walk around late at night alone or down dark alleys alone.

Is the Liberties area of Dublin safe?

If you had asked me this a few months ago I would have said no. But, during my time with AB Tours, Alan told me that this area of Dublin, like Smithfield, is being regenerated and is home to two distilleries in Dublin, the Teeling Distillery, and the Liberties Distillery. Guinness Storehouse is also located in this area.

So, it is very much your decision whether you want to stay in this part of Dublin. That said, I would not walk around it late at night, especially south of Thomas and James’ Street.

Is Smithfield Dublin safe?

Like the Liberties, I would have said no a few years ago but with the regeneration of this part of the city, it is safer to stay in than before.

Is Kilmainham Dublin safe?

Personally, I would say no. Despite Kilmainham Gaol being located there and yes, you should visit it, I would not stay in this area of Dublin, nor walk around it late at night. Crime does occur here, and my sisters and I narrowly avoided being caught up in an incident when we parked in the Hilton to visit the Gaol in 2022.

Is Dublin safe for solo travelers?

If you are wondering is Dublin safe to travel alone, the answer is yes.

But, as with all major cities, you need to keep in mind the safety tips I’ve outlined below, not walk around Dublin at night alone, especially in the areas I’ve mentioned above. Use common sense and avoid the rough areas.

Is Dublin safe for tourists?

Yes, overall Dublin is a safe city for tourists to visit so long as you use the tips outlined in this article, use common sense, and don’t wander off the main tourist’s trail and down dark alleys.

Is Dublin safe for solo female travel?

Yes. At the time of writing this article, I have just returned from a weekend in Dublin solo.

I walked the length and breadth of the city alone in the day, visited 4 museums over the course of 2 days, ate alone in The Brazen Head, enjoyed ice cream from Murphy’s on my own and waited for my sister on Dawson Street in the evening.

I travelled to and from the suburbs on the Luas Red Line on both days. That said, when I left my sister at 8pm after dinner one Friday evening to return to the suburbs, I got a taxi as I would not travel on the Luas after dark.

13 Top tips for how to stay safe in Dublin

1 use common sense.

Just as you would in any major city around the world or at home, using common sense is an absolute must when visiting Dublin. How safe is Dublin, Ireland very much depends on the actions of the travellers and visitors to the city itself.

Avoid having flash items on display. Keep your bag closed and close to you at all times in pubs and restaurants and keep your valuables secure, just as you would at home.

Only carry minimum cash with you and one card, leave everything else behind in your hotel or accommodation.

2 Don’t stray off the beaten path

Beware of taking shortcuts through alleys and empty lanes in Dublin. Muggings and petty crime often happen in places such as these, so stick to the main streets as much as possible.

3 Don’t wander Dublin alone at night

If you’re asking yourself is Dublin safe to walk at night, it depends on the circumstances. If you are in a group, it is not late at night and you are not in an area you should avoid, then you should be safe.

Alone, in a rough area and late at night are to be avoided.

Tourists are most vulnerable in the dark and at times there can be scuffles and fights outside pubs at kicking out times. Take extra care.

4 Always remain alert and aware

You should always stay aware in crowded areas of Dublin which can include Temple Bar, Grafton Street and Henry Street, the two pedestrianised shopping streets in Dublin.

These areas can get crowded, particularly during summer or weekends, so always stay alert and aware.

Be aware of pickpocket techniques which include distraction or bumping into you and keep your wits about you.

Use anti-theft bags as already mentioned, such as the Pacsafe brand, to keep what valuables you are carrying safe and secure.

5 Stay aware when using public transportation

When you are traversing the city centre, or have opted to get around Dublin, Ireland without a car , stay aware when using public transport. This goes for buses, DART trains and Luas trams alike.

6 Visit Temple Bar early in the evening

To avoid the worst of the risks, it is best to visit Temple Bar during the day or in the early evening, avoiding the worst of the intoxicated or argumentative people.

7 Drink responsibly

Hand in hand with visiting Temple Bar is to ensure you drink responsibly. Do not get so drunk that you cannot walk straight or find your way around as this will only create a target on your back for the unsavoury elements in the city.

When using taxis, only get into one that is clearly licensed. These have their number displayed on the plate above their roof and the same number displayed on their badge in the car.

All real taxis in the city are regulated and need to display both parts. Any ‘taxi’ without these two are fake and you should avoid getting into the car.

You can use the FreeNow app to find a taxi, and it works similarly to Uber. Know that if you choose to find a cab using Uber, it will be a licensed taxi that must work to the clock meter in the car.

If you have a car and need to park, make sure to use regulated car parks and avoid leaving anything in the car. Anything left on display or valuables in the trunk could attract unwanted attention and result in the car being broken into.

And like walking, avoid parking in dark alleys or lanes.

10 Invest in a money belt or use a bum bag/anti-theft bag

As mentioned already in this post, it is advisable to invest in a bag that hides your valuables while out and about and is anti-theft. I have used the Pacsafe brand for years when travelling and at home.

I prefer the Venturesafe backpack while travelling and the Metrosafe bag at home.

And if you want to keep your money and cards super safe, invest in a money belt to hide underneath your clothes.

11 Politics can be a touchy subject

To avoid arguments, avoid discussing Irish politics. The history behind Irish politics and the difference between Ireland and Northern Ireland can cause serious divides among the Irish and has even split families. So, don’t start on politics.

12 Prepare for Dublin’s Traffic

Whether you are exploring on foot, bicycle, or public transport, prepare yourself for a city whose traffic can get gridlocked, even outside of peak times.

The city streets are busy and certain ones have been pedestrianised or made one-way streets.

Cars, taxis, bikes, buses, and trams all share the same roads and during busy times, pedestrians should take extra care.

Do not travel to Ireland without some form of travel insurance. Just because you haven’t needed to use travel insurance in the past, does not mean you won’t have to this time.

We all hope it won’t be needed but you never know, and it is far easier and comforting to know you have travel insurance behind you, rather than worrying how on earth you are going to pay medical bills or extra unforeseen travel costs.

FAQs About Safety in Dublin

During the day, Dublin is safe to walk around, if you do not venture down empty and dark alleys and avoid having flashy things on display. That said, visitors should take extra precautions when walking at night such as using anti-theft bags, refrain from becoming too intoxicated, stay in groups and stick to well-lit streets where there are plenty of other people.

Is Dublin, Ireland safe for tourists at night is a question asked all the time. Generally speaking, yes, it is a safe city at night so long as tourists use common sense, don’t stray off the beaten path and stay in groups.

For the most part, yes, Dublin is safe to walk in at night but everyone, locals and tourists alike, should stick to well-lit streets, don’t walk alone and use common sense like keeping valuables and personal belongings in anti-theft bags.

Some tourists worry is Dublin safe to walk at night and this very much depends on the area they are visiting. Certain areas are ones that tourists should avoid, even in the day, while others such as Temple Bar, around Grafton Street and Merrion Square are quite safe to walk at night. That said, do it with at least one other person and stay aware.

The question “is Dublin, Ireland a safe place to visit?” is asked all the time, especially by first-time visitors. The answer is yes, if you employ common sense and follow the tips outlined in this post.

Ireland is considered a safe country to visit and in 2023 was ranked #3 on the Global Peace Index. Safety in Ireland is also a big priority for the Irish government, especially where the capital city is concerned.

The Irish Police Force is called An Garda Siochána which translates to Guardians of the Peace. The Gardaí are what they are collectively known as, and they provide local and national law enforcement services.

Asking yourself is Dublin a safe city to visit alone? Dublin is considered a very safe city and solo travellers can enjoy the city as any other traveller would. Just use common sense, especially at night.

During the day, Dublin public transportation is safe. During peak times, buses and Luas trams can become very busy and you should exercise extra precautions if travelling during this time. At night, some services are safe, but others may not be, and it is recommended to take a licensed taxi after dark to avoid any risks.

When comparing cities in Europe, some people ask is Dublin dangerous for tourists. Dublin is considered a safer city than London and many other European cities.

Is it safe in Dublin for English visitors? Yes, the city welcomes visitors from every nation across the world including those from England and Great Britain.

If you are wondering is Dublin safe to visit for American tourists, then the answer is yes. American tourists are welcomed every day in establishments across Dublin.

Is it safe to visit Dublin if you are a student? Yes, Dublin has a large student community, even in the city centre where you will find Trinity College. There are other universities dotted around the suburbs including UCD in Belfield.

Wondering is Dublin a safe place to visit if you are part of the LGBTQ+ community? Yes, Dublin is safe to visit. Each year in June, Dublin holds a large Pride event and there are LGBTQ+-friendly pubs and clubs in the city including The George on South Great George’s Street.

Dublin is an extremely friendly city where most people are met with the smile and the thousand welcomes (Céad Míle Fáilte) that we Irish are known for.

Is it safe to go to Dublin if you are an international student? Yes, Dublin has been ranked consistently in the top 10 of the Global Peace Index which includes societal safety and security and is a safe city for international students so long as they employ common sense and the tips outlined in this article. The city has a large community of international students studying courses in the likes of Trinity and UCD.

If you are wondering, is it safe to travel to Dublin as a solo female traveller, then yes. So long as you stay aware, avoid rough parts of the city, and avoid walking alone at night, then Dublin is a safe city for solo female travel.

This very much depends on location. Some locations are very safe to live in Dublin, while others are not or come with the added risk of crime. The same locations mentioned in this article for tourists to stay in are also considered safe places to live.

Yes, Ireland is LGBTQ+ friendly and Dublin has several pubs and clubs for the LGBTQ+ community.

If you are wondering how safe is Dublin at night, then overall Dublin is a safe city to go out at night provided you don’t get too drunk, avoid rough areas of the city, and keep your wits about you, just as you would in other cities around the world.

Final thoughts on is Dublin a safe city to visit

How safe is Dublin for tourists depends on several factors.

Location plays a huge part in visitor safety when it comes to accommodation and places to visit and walk around.

There are even certain areas of both the city centre and suburbs that locals will avoid if they can.

But, by using common sense and the tips outlined in this article, tourists can remain as safe as possible while enjoying the Irish capital to the full.

Dublin is like any other major city across the globe. There are good sides and bad sides to the city and if you remember all the things you would and wouldn’t do in other cities, you can rest assured you will be doing everything in your power to remain safe in the city.

Learn more about visiting Dublin:

• How to Get Around Dublin
• Underground Donut Tour of Dublin: Review
• AB Tours of Dublin: Review
• Best Food Tours of Dublin
• Best Walking Tours of Dublin
• Best Whiskey Tours of Dublin
• Best Cliffs of Moher Tours from Dublin
• Best Day Trips from Dublin
• 3 Day Dublin Itinerary
• 1-Day Dublin Itinerary
• Best Time to Visit Dublin

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by Cath Jordan

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13 useful things to know before you visit Dublin

Apr 15, 2024 • 10 min read

These local tips on packing, transport and etiquette can help you plan the perfect visit to Dublin © maydays / Getty Images

As a born and bred Dubliner, I’ve spent most of my life trying to make sense of my hometown.

In one way it’s a cinch to figure out: you’ll get your bearings pretty quickly and realize that you can explore most of it on foot. But it’s not just its size that makes it such a great walking city. It’s the nature of life here that makes it the ideal flaneur destination, where you amble and devote yourself to the art of observing life around you.

Spend a few days in Dublin and you’ll soon appreciate that there is much going on in this busy little town, and that to really understand the place you’ll have to move here and spend the rest of your days figuring out its wonderful idiosyncrasies and multilayered sense of humour.

In the meantime, though, here are a few local tips that will smooth your introduction to a city that has the power to grab your imagination and not let it go.

1. Plan on having at least three days in Dublin

Dublin might be a small capital city, but it’ll demand as much time from you as you’re willing to give. You’ll need at least three days to even make a dent in the place: one day to explore even just a couple of the main sights, such as Trinity College and the Guinness Storehouse . You’ll need another day to visit some of the city’s other brilliant attractions, like the Little Museum of Dublin , the Chester Beatty and just one branch of the National Museum of Ireland . And a third day to sample some whiskey and visit either of the city’s iconic cathedrals .

A couple of days more will give you a chance to stretch your legs and explore more of the city – such as the historic General Post Office and 14 Henrietta St on the northside. But you’ll have to build in some leisure time – after all there are 800 pubs in the city , a fine selection of music venues and a handful of great theatres. And what about going further afield, on a day trip to Howth , for instance, or beyond?

Planning on some beers while you're in Dublin? Here's our guide to the locals' favorite traditional pubs

2. Dublin is a casual kind of place so pack accordingly

You can wear pretty much whatever you want in Dublin, and smart casual is the most you’ll need for fancy dinners, the theater or the concert hall. Even most work places like to keep it casual as there’s a general perception in the city that dressing up is only for that special occasion, which work rarely is.

Irish summers are warm but rarely hot, so you'll want an extra layer for when the temperatures cool, especially in the evening when the disappearing sun can make that day’s warmth feel like a distant memory.

Ultimately, the ever-changeable weather will determine your outfits, but a light waterproof jacket (preferably with a hood, unless you’re carrying an umbrella) and waterproof shoes should never be beyond reach, for the almost inevitable rain.

Plan your packing with our seasonal guide to Dublin through the year

3. Take advantage of discount cards

There is a range of discount cards that will save you money on attractions and transport. The GoCity All-Inclusive Pass (1–5 days, €79–164) gives you free entry to a bunch of top attractions, including the Guinness Storehouse, EPIC The Heritage Museum, the Jameson Distillery Bow Street, and the Big Bus Hop On, Hop Off tour. For 25% off six of those attractions, there’s the DoDublin Days Out Card (€55).

As well as the Leap Card (see below), there are good discounts to be had with the DoDublin Freedom Ticket (€48), a 72-hour travel pass that covers all public transport as well as a hop on, hop off tour.

4. Get a Leap card for use on public transport

If you’re planning on using public transport in Dublin, be sure to get a Leap Card first, as it’s cheaper and more convenient than paying for fares directly. This green plastic card is available from most newsagents and can be used on all forms of transport in the city, including buses, DART, the Luas light rail system and commuter trains throughout the county. The Leap Visitor Card (1/3/7 days, €8/€16/€32) provides unlimited travel on public transport. It can be purchased in the city and at Dublin Airport, or ordered online and delivered to your home in advance of your trip.

To use the card, just tap your card on the machine as you get on: for Luas, rail and DART services you will also need to tap off when you get off (but not for buses).

You top up the card with any amount you want (there’s a minimum of €5) at newsagents, any Luas, DART and commuter rail machines, or by downloading the Leap Top-Up App onto any NFC-enabled iPhone or Android phone: hold the card to the back of the phone and you can top up, collect pre-paid tickets and check your balance.

If you’re using a regular Leap card, rather than the Visitor Card, the TFI 90 Minute Fare applies to journeys made by Dublin Bus, Luas and most Dart trains. Any journey less than 90 minutes (including transfer times) costs €2.

Here's more useful transportation information for Dublin

5. Uber is not the best taxi option in Dublin

There are plenty of taxis in Dublin, but they can be tough to find late at night, especially at weekends when thousands of Dubliners are looking to head home to the suburbs after a night out in the city. Uber does exist in Dublin, but it’s oddly expensive; by far the most popular taxi hailing app is Freenow , which most of the city’s taxis are connected to. There are taxi ranks in the city center, but hailing them through the app is the preferred (and most convenient) option for most.

6. Get to grips with Dublin’s dining habits

Dubliners rarely eat breakfast out, so you might struggle to find a decent spot for breakfast that opens before 9am or 9:30am. The good news is that a decent cup of coffee is a non-negotiable, so there are plenty of places open by 8am to cater for caffeinated employees.

Discounted lunch specials are common, especially in the busy city center. Book tables at popular restaurants at least a few days in advance if you want to avoid disappointment or dodge the 5:30pm seating nobody else wants. For the really fancy spots including those with Michelin stars, you’ll have to plan well in advance. Some (like Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud ) will accommodate reservations no more than a month in advance, but a place like Chapter One opens its reservations list three months in advance, and then only for blocks of two months. Most tables are nabbed up pretty quickly, but if you miss out you can join the online waitlist.

7. Many of the city’s museums are free to visit

Most of the city’s larger cultural institutions are free to visit, including the three branches of the National Museum of Ireland, the National Gallery , the Chester Beatty and the Dublin City Gallery-the Hugh Lane – although there is a charge for some of the exhibitions. There are free tickets for the tours of Áras an Uachtharáin , the official residence of the Irish president in Phoenix Park and there is no charge to visit the Irish Museum of Modern Art in Kilmainham.

Smaller, privately owned museums charge a fee, but it’s rarely more than €10, and you won’t need to book your ticket in advance.

Traveling to Dublin on a budget? Here are some other free experiences to consider

8. Bottled water is a needless extravagance

In most restaurants in Dublin you’ll be offered the choice of water – still or sparkling. Unless you have a particular fondness for a specific brand of bottled water, you should always opt for tap as the city’s supply is perfectly safe, free and generally excellent. Some restaurants operate their own in-house filtration system, so for a minimal cost (usually €1–2) you have your choice of still or sparkling tap water. Same goes for filling your water bottle: tap water is fine and you don’t need to buy pricey and environmentally unfriendly plastic bottles to replenish your supply.

9. In the pub, it’s all about the rounds system

Dubliners, like the rest of the Irish, put great store in conviviality and a generous spirit. And both of these qualities are embodied in the rounds system, whereby if someone buys you a drink, you are obliged to buy them one in return. Getting sucked into the rounds system is a great way of getting to know Dubliners: strike up a conversation and, at the appropriate moment (ie when they’re just about to finish their drink), ask what they’re "having" – and before you know it you’re multiple drinks and conversations deep into a blossoming friendship.

Needless to say, you don’t have to take part in buying rounds, but if you want to understand the social glue that binds people together in Dublin, there aren't many better ways than having a few drinks with them.

10. Dublin's nightlife is expensive

Dubliners love a good night out, but the city is a pretty expensive place to party in. The capital is notorious for the price of the pint of beer, which is higher than anywhere else in Ireland. As a result, many Dubliners will do pre-drinks at home before heading out, usually between 9 and 10pm.

Happy hour promotions are illegal in Ireland; expect to pay anything from €7–10 for a pint in the city center, but keep an eye out on pubs that sneakily raise the price of a pint later in the night, presumably when punters are too drunk to notice. It’s illegal to charge a price other than what is indicated; if it happens, your best reaction is to complain and leave.

Licensing laws are stricter in Dublin than almost any other European capital. Pubs can serve alcohol until 11:30pm Monday to Thursday, to 12:30am Friday and Saturday, and to 11pm on Sunday. Many premises apply for special exemption orders, which allows them to serve until 2:30am – usually from Thursday to Saturday nights. Nightclubs usually go until 3am, but in a lot of venues there’s barely a distinction between a huge pub that turns up the music really loudly and a dedicated club for dancing.

11. Learn to take a "slagging" among friends

Dubliners are, for the most part, an informal and easy-going lot who don't stand on excessive ceremony and generally prefer not to make too much fuss. That doesn't mean that they don't abide by certain rules, or that there isn't a preferred way of doing things in the city, though. But the transgressions of the unknowing are both forgiven and often enjoyed – the accidental faux pas is a great source of entertainment in a city that has made "slagging", or teasing, a veritable art form.

Indeed, slagging is a far more reliable indicator of the strength of friendship than virtually any kind of compliment: a fast, self-deprecating wit and an ability to take a joke in good spirits will win you plenty of friends. Mind you, even slagging has its hidden codes, and is only acceptable among friends: it wouldn't do at all to follow an introduction to someone by making fun of them!

12. LGBTIQ+ travelers are welcome in Dublin

Dublin has a pretty vibrant LGBTIQ+ scene, with some well-established bars and club nights as well as activities including hiking and sea swimming. The best-known gay bar in town is the George on South Great George’s St, followed by Pantibar , which is owned by renowned activist and drag queen Rory O’Neill, aka Panti Bliss. June’s Pride Festival is the second-biggest celebration in the city after St Patrick’s Day, a raucous festival of color and fun that runs over five days. August sees GAZE International LGBTQIA Film Festival , Ireland’s only dedicated film festival, while the International Gay Theatre Festival usually takes place in May.

13. Dublin is generally a safe city with good health care

Health and safety should not be an issue during a visit to Dublin. Pharmacies selling basic medication are easy to come by, and crime is not a major concern. Taking normal precautions (eg keeping an eye on belongings in crowds) should be sufficient. O'Connell St and the streets immediately around it can get a little shady after dark, so keep your wits about you.

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Is Dublin Safe? A Local’s Guide to Navigating Dublin Streets

Ireland Travel Planning contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. Ireland Travel Planning also uses both personal and paid stock photos to illustate posts

So, you’re planning a trip to Ireland’s capital city. And like most destinations, you find yourself asking ‘Is Dublin Safe?’. Dublin is a vibrant city, home to an interesting history, bustling pubs and endless attractions. But like any other major city, it has its pros and cons. And that’s what we are going to discuss today.

Let’s dive into Dublin’s safety for all walks of life, at night and how to be more safety conscious while visiting the capital of the Emerald Isle. But, before we dive in, I want to mention, that I am an Irish girl born and raised. Therefore, I will do my best to give you some insider knowledge on staying safe while visiting Dublin.

Is Dublin Safe?

Generally, yes as far as capital cities go Dublin is a relatively safe place to visit. It gives off the impression of a really big town rather than a major capital city.

Locals are known for being extremely helpful, and for their warmth and friendliness. So, if you do find yourself feeling a little uneasy don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Just be warned, we Irish love to talk so you may find yourself with a new friend or in a lengthy conversation with a stranger.

Now, while Dublin is considered relatively safe, it is as always important to remain aware of your surroundings especially as night falls. Let’s dive a little deeper into safety and when to be a little more vigilant.

Part 1: General Safety in Dublin

First, let’s talk about general safety in Dublin, in this section, we will cover Dublin Crime rates, safety in Dublin vs. other major European cities and the types of crimes you may come across.

Crime in Dublin : Is it common?

As mentioned above, Dublin tends to have a relatively low crime rate compared to other major cities. Yes, like any city, it does have crime. But the good news is, that violent crime is relatively low.

Generally, crime includes small offences such as pickpocketing or minor theft, this can be more evident in crowded places. So, in this case, it is important to stay mindful of your surroundings, Always keep your belongings close by and don’t leave any valuables out of sight.

I see great value in trusting your instincts, if you find yourself in an area or situation that doesn’t feel quite right, it’s okay to leave. Your safety should always come first. But don’t let this worry you too much. Many visitors and locals go about their day-to-day lives without experiencing any issues.

Dublin Safety Compared to Other European Cities

Dublin’s safety compared to other European cities is pretty much on the positive side. Many visitors find Dublin to be one of the friendlier and safer cities in Europe .

Let’s compare to say Lisbon or Rome , you’d find that pickpocketing rates are significantly lower in Dublin. I’m not saying it doesn’t happen but it is less likely. In Dublin, you can generally relax a bit more, much like in the likes of Budapest or Prague.

But like anywhere it is important to stay alert and make smart choices. That way you get to spend more time enjoying the city than worrying about a crime that could have possibly been prevented.

Dublin vs. London Safety

Okay, so with London being the closest capital city to Dublin (and no Dublin is NOT in the UK ) is common for people to compare. And Yes, Dublin is considerably safer than London but we also need to think about the size and population of both cities.

In Dublin, crime is significantly lower, but that does not make London unsafe. While visiting both cities tourists should still remain vigilant of their belongings as pickpocketing is the most likely crime.

Part 2: Safe & Rough Areas in Dublin

Let’s now take a closer look at Dublin’s safety, district by district. Each neighbourhood has its own unique character, and safety can vary from one to another.

This section will give you a good idea of what to expect when you’re navigating the charming streets of Dublin.

Is North Dublin Safe?

Now, one thing Irish people will tell you is that there tends to be a friendly bit of rivalry between North and South Dublin. The Northside tends to be considered a ‘rougher’ part of the county. And with that stereotype, you may presume that North Dublin would see more crimes. And yes to an extent you may come across more ‘rougher’ looking characters but generally, these people are harmless. In fact, some of the nicest people come from North Dublin.

In terms of safety, North Dublin is an okay place to be, it is bursting with people, and the more people in an area the more likelihood of a crime being committed but that’s a rule of thumb in any country. North Dublin is no less safe than any other part of the county.

Is South Dublin Safe?

Now, let’s continue with the friendly rivalry of North and South Dublin. If North Dublin is considered ‘rough’ then it’s easy to presume that South Dublin is considered the ‘posh’ side of the city. And this is true to some extent.

We Irish joke that only the rich and well-off people live in the Southside of Dublin. And while this is true in certain areas of South Dublin, in other places of the county you will find your typical working-class families.

Safety in South Dublin nearly mirrors that in North Dublin. It all comes down to what area you are in. And if I am being honest it is generally safe in most places. So, as always keep your wits about you and enjoy exploring the vibrant city.

Is Temple Bar Safe?

Temple Bar is the main place you will find tourists hanging out in Ireland. In fact, don’t be surprised if you don’t hear any Irish accents while you’re there. Irish people typically use it as a pass-by to get from one end of the city to another. We rarely stop for a pint and a chat.

And like in most cities, the place with the most tourists tends to be targeted for crimes, but if I am being honest I never really hear of crime in the temple bar area. Unless they are talking about late-night fights caused by people consuming a little bit too much alcohol.

However, with that being said I would be conscious of pickpocketing in this area. It is probably the most likely place for a crime like that to happen.

Are Dublin Suburbs Safe?

Crime rates in the suburbs tend to be significantly lower than in the city centre. And like most cities, Dublin does have it’s neighbourhoods that tend to be a little rougher along the edges but with that being said these places tend to be outside the city areas. And it’s less likely to see tourists staying here as they are too far away from the major attractions. The crimes in these areas also do not tend to target tourists.

In most Dublin suburbs you will find a feeling of community. People like to help each other out. We are generally a very friendly nation. So, if you do find you got on a bus in the wrong direction don’t sweat someone will be more than happy to help you find your way back into the city.

Part 3: Transport Safety in Dublin

When it comes to getting around in Dublin, safety is a top priority whether you’re on foot, cycling, or using public transportation. The city is well-designed for all modes of transport and has implemented various measures to ensure a safe and smooth journey for everyone.

How safe are the buses and trains in Dublin?

Dublin has three main modes of transport, Dublin Bus, the Luas and the DART line. Generally speaking, all of these services are regarded as safe. Of course, they can not control who gets on and off but typically if there is an incident the guards (Irish Police) are called straight away.

A lot of our newer buses and trains are fitted with CCTV as an extra safety precaution and our transport tends to be rather busy. So, if anyone was to commit a crime they would have a whole carriage or busloads of people to answer to.

With that being said, a busy train or bus opens more opportunities for pickpocketing, so, as always make sure to watch your belongings.

Is it Safe to Drive in Dublin?

If I am being honest, I do not recommend tourists to drive while visiting Dublin. A car is very much needed to get around most of Ireland but Dublin is an exception. The government are making it increasingly harder for cars to enter the city, with many streets becoming a one-way system and losing the ability to turn right. There have been many times I have driven in Dublin City only to find myself driving around in a loop. Lost and confused. It’s not fun.

Besides parking in the city is extremely expensive and it can be hard to actually find a space when it is busy.

But, driving in Dublin is safe, so if you do want to rent a car on your visit know that the roads tend to be rather safe to drive on.

Is it safe to Walk in Dublin?

Dublin is an extremely walkable city. To be honest, there is never really a reason to get public transport if you have a moderate level of fitness. Most of the attractions are located in walking distance of each other. With the exception of the few located on the coast.

Walking around Dublin also tends to be very safe. There are dedicated footpaths for pedestrians and traffic lights to aid those trying to cross busy streets.

Now, I must admit, Irish people are quite the fan of jaywalking. I’m not sure if it is actually illegal here but it is definitely not a rule that is enforced. So, while you may see plenty of traffic lights located throughout the city don’t be surprised when the Irish don’t use them. I’m not saying it’s a good practice but it is the reality.

Part 4: Is Dublin Safe For Tourists?

Tourist scams to avoid in dublin.

While Dublin is a heartwarmingly friendly city, it’s always important to stay alert, especially as a tourist. Sometimes, you might come across people trying to sell you overpriced souvenirs, claiming they are ‘authentic’ or ‘handmade’.

Or, perhaps you may be offered a ‘free tour’ only to have to leave a hefty tip. I recommend checking out the official ‘free tours’ online before going to a meeting point.

A scam I notice quite often in other European cities is the ‘friendship bracelet’ scam where a friendly stranger ties a bracelet around your wrist and then insists you pay for it. I haven’t ever seen this in Dublin, now perhaps this is because I SCREAM Irish with my pale skin but either way I don’t think it is as common as in the likes of Paris or Rome.

Sadly, one crime that is becoming more common in Dublin is people riding bikes and driving by swiping a mobile phone out of standerbys hands. This is something I recommend you are on the lookout for.

Oh! and taxis. They should ALWAYS accept cards. I recommend asking before getting in. If they insist it is cash only I recommend finding another driver.

Best Practices for Staying Safe as a Tourist in Dublin

• Stick to well-lit areas when walking alone at night
• Remember the power of safety in numbers
• Don’t let your drink out of your hand while in the pub
• Use taxi apps rather than hailing one off the street
• Always be mindful of your belongings and don’t leave them lying around

Part 5: Homeless Crisis in Dublin

So, as an Irish girl born and bred, my experience in Dublin is very different to that of a tourist. However, with that being said I have seen many friends come and go and only had lovely things to say about Dublin.

One thing I will mention is Ireland is in the middle of a massive homeless crisis. With more and more people having no choice but to live on the streets. This is a sad reality that our country is facing.

Seeing many homeless people can be quite intimidating for those travelling alone, but 90% of the time these people mean no harm. To be honest my heart breaks for them.

I recommend only donating money to designated homeless charities, that way you know the money is being used to buy warm clothes, food and shelter for those who need it.

If you do feel unsafe at any point I recommend bringing it to the attention of a passerby or finding the nearest Garda Station (Police Station).

Part 6: Is Dublin Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

I have solo travelled across most of Europe, so I know exactly how it feels to feel unsafe as a female alone in a big city. In this section of this post, I want to assure you that Dublin is a considerably safe city for solo female travellers to visit.

Just like any major city, it’s important to take a few precautions. So, let’s talk about some practical tips that can help keep your solo adventure in Ireland safe, enjoyable, and an unforgettable experience.

• Keep your belongings close: A small backpack or cross-body bag is a smart choice as it allows you to keep an eye on your stuff and know that it is always close by.
• Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Trust your gut. If a place or person makes you uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to remove yourself from the situation. Your safety is more important than anything else.
• Use earphones when using Google Maps: When navigating the streets of a new city alone Google Maps can become one’s best friend. But, looking down at your phone at maps makes it obvious that you are alone. Instead, have the map instructions play through your earphones and walk with confidence.
• Don’t tell others you are a solo traveller: Be mindful of who you tell you are travelling alone. It is ok to make up white lies like ‘I’m waiting for my boyfriend’ or ‘My friend is back at the hostel’.
• Share Your Location: Sharing your location with a family member or friend is always a good idea when you are travelling alone.

Remember, safety always comes first. But don’t let it dampen your spirit of adventure! Ireland is a wonderful country with lots to offer. Enjoy every moment of your visit.

Part 7: Food and Drink Safety in Dublin

When it comes to food and drink safety in Ireland, it’s pretty straightforward. The standard of food safety is generally high, so you can indulge in the local cuisine without much worry.

From delicious seafood dishes to traditional Irish stews, there’s a lot to savour here. Stick with the places that appear clean and observe good food handling practices. And as a side note, familarise yourself with Ireland’s Tipping etiquette before you go. It is quite different to the likes of the States.

As for water, it’s safe to drink straight from the tap. However, if you’re more comfortable with bottled water, that’s easily available too.

Top Places to eat breakfast and brunch in Dublin

• Bibi’s Café: Nestled in the heart of Dublin, Bibi’s Café offers a cosy atmosphere and delectable brunch options. From their famous poached eggs on avocado toast to their divine homemade granola, you’re sure to start your day on a high note.
• Tang: For a healthy twist on brunch, Tang is the place to be. Their menu, inspired by flavours from the Middle East and Mediterranean, includes dishes like the sweet potato falafel or the acai bowl.
• The Woollen Mills: This spot is a must-visit for brunch lovers. The Woollen Mills is famed for its bottomless brunch option. With a free-flowing supply of prosecco and a menu filled with hearty dishes like the full Irish breakfast or the roasted mushroom sandwich, you’re guaranteed a memorable experience. Remember, moderation is key, so enjoy responsibly!

Top Places to Each Lunch in Dublin

• Elephant & Castle: Get ready to tantalize your taste buds at Elephant & Castle. This place is a local favourite, best known for its mouth-watering chicken wings. But don’t stop there; their wide-ranging menu is packed with hearty dishes, perfect for a midday meal.
• Mad Egg: If you’re a fan of chicken, then Mad Egg is the place for you in Dublin. Their free-range chicken dishes, especially the DIY Cheesy, are a must-try. The relaxed and casual atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a laid-back lunch.
• Fade Street Social: Rounding off our top three lunch spots in Dublin is Fade Street Social. This restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its innovative and contemporary Irish cuisine. Whether you opt for the wood-fired flatbreads or the slow-cooked lamb shoulder, your taste buds are in for a treat. Enjoy your lunch in their stylish, modern setting.

Top Place to Eat Dinner in Dublin

• Pablo’s Tortas: When it comes to Mexican cuisine in Dublin, Pablo’s Tortas is a top contender. Known for its authentic flavours and vibrant atmosphere, this is the spot for classic nachos, enchiladas, and of course, their namesake tortas. The colourful interior adds to the overall lively experience, making it a fantastic choice for a fun dinner outing.
• Il Vicoletto: For a taste of Italy in the heart of Dublin, head to Il Vicoletto. This cosy restaurant offers a menu filled with traditional Italian dishes, from hearty pasta to exquisite tiramisu. The warm and inviting ambience truly captures the essence of Italian dining, making it a perfect place for a romantic dinner or a memorable meal with friends.
• The Brazen Head: Looking for some traditional Irish pub grub? Look no further than The Brazen Head. As Ireland’s oldest pub, it serves up a variety of classic Irish dishes, including the much-loved shepherd’s pie and Irish stew accompanied by live traditional Irish music. The Brazen Head offers a truly Irish dining experience that is sure to make your evening unforgettable.

When in Dublin, you may also find yourself booking apartments rather than hotels, this a great way to keep costs down as Dublin tends to be quite an expensive city . It allows you to cook your own meals, and pick of a range of stacks for your stay. Unfortunately, we do not have Walmart in Ireland, but we do have a range of supermarkets to choose from.

It is also common for tourists to take part in food tours when exploring Dublin, I recommend only booking ones that are highly rated to avoid any safety concerns.

Part 8: Is it Safe at Night in Dublin?

After exploring the culinary delights of Dublin, you might be wondering what the city has to offer when the sun goes down.

Dublin has quite an impressive nightlife scene with some places now staying open to 6am. Now, before we dive into where to dance the night away in Ireland’s capital. Lets discuss nighttime safety.

Is Dublin Safe at Night?

Generally, Dublin is quite a safe city at night time. Most of the city is well lit and the nightlife tends to be around the same three or four streets. Dublin has also introduced some 24-hour transport although this is limited to certain areas.

Now, I must admit taxi’s are becoming harder and harder to get with the increase of people staying out late in Dublin but the limited number of taxi drivers. Unfortunely, Dublin does not have uber. If you are female and or travelling alone in general I do not recommend hailing a taxi off the street. Instead, I recommend downloading our taxi app Free Now .

Tips for Staying Safe at Night in Dublin

• Keep your belongings secure. Don’t leave your bags or wallets unattended. It’s better to keep them close and secure.
• Know your limits. Enjoy your drinks, but remember not to drink too much.
• Watch your drinks. It sounds like common sense, but it’s worth repeating. Be sure no one can tamper with your drinks. If you do leave your drink unattended, it’s better to get a new one.
• Trust your instincts. If a situation or a place feels uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your gut and remove yourself from that environment.

Things to do in Dublin at Night

When the sun goes down, Dublin really comes to life. Let’s explore some of the best that Dublin’s nightlife has to offer:

• Nolita’s: This is not a club, yet, has a club-like vibe but in a bar. Let me explain. The decor, atmosphere, and cocktails at Nolita are inspired by New York City. They have a decent-sized dance floor and the tunes are always great!
• Copper Face Jack’s: If you’re looking for a crazy night on the town then make your way to the iconic ‘Coppers’, aka Copper Face Jack’s . This is known as the place to go if you are looking for a messy night out.
• Dicey’s Garden Bar: If you are looking for drink deals then Dicey’s is the spot for you. This club tends to attract a younger crowd.
• Workman’s Club: Known for its great music scene, The Workman’s Club regularly hosts live bands and DJ sets. They have 3 floors with different music vibes on each.
• Comedy Gigs: If you’re not looking for a big night out on the town then why not check out Dublin’s thriving comedy scene? Check out local venues like Laughter Lounge or The International Comedy Club for a laughter-filled evening.
• The Camden: A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, The Camden is known for its live music and energetic atmosphere. This is a spot that tends to attract a slightly older crowd.

Or, if you are not a big ‘night out’ kind of person I highly recommend saying some time to watch the sunset in Dublin , there is a range of stunning places that you can visit. From hidden gems such as Howth, home to one of my favourite cliffs in Ireland , to stunning Dublin walks such as the Poolbeg Lighthouse.

Part 9: Safety for Different Types of People day and night

Dublin is a city that embraces diversity, making it a great destination for all types of travellers. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, exploring with a group, or travelling with family, the city has so much to offer both day and night.

Is Dublin Safe for Families?

Yes, Dublin is more than safe for families to explore. In fact, they city has so much to see and do for children. Below are some of my favourites.

• Dublin Zoo: Nestled in Phoenix Park, you’ll find over 400 animals here! The African Savanna and Asian forest zones are sure to wow the little ones.
• Viking Splash Tour: Explore Ireland’s Viking past in one of the most unique vechical. Yes, the splash is a bit of a giveaway but it does go in the water – It’s a real adventure for the little ones.
• Dublin Under Sail: Hop aboard a traditional Irish Tall ship. Learn how to put up the sails and see Dublin Bay from a whole new perspective. It is a true off-the-beaten-path experience in Dublin.
• Kayaking on the Liffey: Ever wanted to see Dublin from the water? Now’s your chance. Grab a kayak and paddle through the city. You’ll glide under historic bridges and past some of Dublin’s most famous sights. It’s an adventure your kids won’t forget!
• EPIC Museum: This isn’t your typical museum. The EPIC Museum is all about the history of the Irish diaspora. But don’t worry, it’s interactive and fun, so your kids won’t even notice they are learning. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Irish history.
• Dublinia: Step back in time and explore Viking and Medieval Dublin at this interactive museum. You can even climb a medieval tower for stunning views of the city. This is one of the top tourist attractions for kids in Dublin.

Is Dublin Safe for People With Disabilities?

Safety Measures for People with Disabilities: Accessibility and Safety in Dublin

Dublin is a city that prides itself on being inclusive and welcoming to people of all abilities. That’s why there are plenty of options for accessible and safe activities.

• The National Wax Museum Plus: Explore the world of Irish legends, history, music and pop culture at this interactive museum! The museum is fully accessible and offers discounts for visitors with disabilities.
• The Ark Dublin: This cultural centre is specifically designed for children and families, with a focus on inclusivity and accessibility. They offer sensory-friendly performances and workshops for children with special needs.
• Phoenix Park: Take a stroll through one of Europe’s largest urban parks, where you can visit the Dublin Zoo, picnic on the grounds, or rent a wheelchair-accessible bike to explore the park.
• Glasnevin Cemetery Museum: Learn about Irish history and famous figures at this cemetery, which offers accessible tours for visitors with disabilities.
• EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum: This museum tells the story of 10 million Irish people who left their home country for a new life. It offers wheelchair accessibility and discounts for visitors with disabilities.

Overall, Dublin is committed to making its attractions and activities accessible and safe for people of all abilities. So don’t hesitate to visit this vibrant city and explore its rich history and culture! End of Section.

Is Dublin Safe for Members of the LGBTQ+ Community?

Yes, Dublin is very welcoming of those from the LGBTQ+ community. We pride ourselves in having an accepting and inclusive atmosphere in our city. Unfortunely, like in all places, you will have people who discriminate but generally, this is not tolerated with 99% of the Dublin population. If someone is seen being discriminative towards those from the LGBTQ+ community most people would speak out against it. If you are feeling threatened while visiting Dublin it is important to bring it to the attention of the guards (Irish Police).

Things to do for people in the LGBTQ+ Community in Dublin?

• The George: This is one of the oldest LGBTQ+ bars in Dublin, and it’s a must-visit! With their super friendly staff and fun drag shows, there’s always something happening here to keep you entertained.
• PantiBar: Owned by the fabulous Panti Bliss, one of Ireland’s most famous drag queens, this is another great spot for drinks and fun.
• Dublin Pride: If you’re visiting in June, you definitely don’t want to miss the Dublin Pride Parade. It’s a fantastic celebration of love and equality, and everyone is welcome!
• Outhouse: This is a community and resource centre for LGBTQ+ people. They offer a café, a library, and also run various events and support groups.
• Mother Club: This is a popular club for the LGBTQ+ community. They host regular parties with great music and a vibrant atmosphere.

Is Dublin Safe for non-English Speakers?

English is the first language of most of the Dublin population. However, with that being said, that does not make the city unsafe for those who don’t speak English. Irish people are very friendly and are happy to help in any way that they can. Dublin is also a multicultural city with people living there from all over the world. So, there are high chance you may come across more than one person who speaks the same language as you.

Resources for Non-English Speaking Tourists in Dublin

For those whose first language isn’t English, don’t worry! Dublin still has resources to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable.

• Tourist Information Centres: These centres have multi-lingual staff who can provide guidance and answer all your queries. There’s one right in the city centre on Suffolk Street.
• Guided Tours: Many guided tours in Dublin offer services in multiple languages. Make sure to check your language is offered beforehand!
• Language Apps: Apps like Google Translate can be your best friend during your stay. They can quickly translate English words into your language. The app also has a picture section which allows you to take a picture of a menu and translate it into your chosen language.
• Multi-language Brochures: Most of the city’s major attractions provide brochures in various languages.

Is Dublin a safe base for exploring Ireland?

Yes, Dublin is a safe place to base yourself while travelling to Ireland. However, I don’t entirely recommend it! If you are stuck for time on your trip then Dublin may be a good place to have base as it is easy to take day trips to the likes of Glendalough in Wicklow and the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare.

It is harder to discover some of the countries hidden gems , such as the stunning Skellig Ring in County Kerry or the crystal clear beaches of Connemara . Honestly, I recommend spending a minimum of one week in Ireland , and basing yourself in at least one town on the west coast.

Is Ireland Safe in General?

Yes, Ireland is a rather safe country in general. It is also quite a small country , so the safety levels stay consistent throughout. There is not one county or area that is less safe than the others. With the exception of petty crimes in some more built up places.

We Irish tend to be extremely friendly and go out of our way to help those visiting our country for the first time. We pride ourselves in making others feel welcome and want nothing more than for you to enjoy your visit to our country.

• Overview of Safety in Ireland: Ireland, as a whole, is known for its friendly people and safe environment. Despite the occasional rainy weather, it’s overall a delightful place to visit.
• Crime Rate: The crime rate is relatively low compared to other countries, but it’s always good to stay vigilant, just like anywhere else.
• Rural vs. Urban Safety: Whether you’re in an urban city or the rural countryside, you’ll find that both have their distinct safety considerations.
• Emergency Services: Ireland’s emergency services are easily accessible and quick to respond, providing an extra layer of security for visitors and locals alike.
• Natural Hazards: Ireland’s natural beauty is stunning, we have a range of coastal attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher , the Giants Causeway and Hidden Gems such as Croaghuan on Achill Island ( Ireland Highest Sea Cliffs ). However, with these amazing attractions comes an element of risk, it’s essential to be aware of natural hazards, such as coastal cliffs and changing weather conditions. I also reccomend making sure you really study my Ireland packing guide before visiting. The last thing you want is to be cold and wet on the side of a mountain.
• Cultural Etiquette: Understanding local customs and etiquette can prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smooth. We are an extremely sarcastic nation and this can come across as rude to those who do not understand our sense of humour. Basically, if we are sarcastic towards you it means we like you. I know it’s confusing.

Part 11: Top Safety Tips for Dublin

• Staying Safe in Crowded Areas: Dublin can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist season. Always keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid showing off expensive items in public.
• Night-time Safety: Stick to well-lit areas at night and try to walk in groups. Dublin is generally safe, but it’s always better to be cautious.
• Public Transportation: Dublin’s public transportation is generally safe; however, do keep an eye on your belongings during rush hour.
• Respectful Interaction: Dubliners are friendly and welcoming. When interacting, remember to be respectful and mindful of cultural norms.
• Emergencies: In case of an emergency, dial 112 or 999 from any phone. These numbers will connect you to the police, ambulance, or fire brigade services.
• Road Safety: If you plan to drive, remember that in Ireland, they drive on the left side of the road. Always wear your seatbelt, and respect the speed limits.
• Alcohol Consumption: The legal drinking age in Dublin is 18. Drink responsibly and always plan your journey home in advance.
• Scammer Awareness: While not common, be aware of any potential scammers or pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas. Stay vigilant and keep your belongings secure.

I hope this answers your question on ‘Is Dublin Safe?’

To conclude, 99% of the time Dublin is a safe and enjoyable place to visit. It is important to always have your wits about you. But generally speaking, you will be in safe hands when visiting Ireland’s capital city. I hope these Ireland travel tips helped those of you would are currently planning your trip to Dublin , whether you plan to stay for two days or four. One thing is for certain, Dublin is more than likely going to be a safe and enjoyable place when you arrive.

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Is Dublin Safe? Local Safety Tips + Areas To Avoid [ 2024 Update]

Is Dublin safe? The general answer is yes, but as with any destination, there are always things you should look out for to ensure your safety.

It is important to find out how safe a location is before visiting so you can save yourself from finding out the hard way. 

Ger grew up near Dublin and often spent time there, so has lots of experience with this infamous city!

Dublin is a beautiful place with friendly people, but crimes still occur.

There are places and situations to avoid and this article will give you all the information you need to know to ensure you stay safe and enjoy your visit to the beautiful city of Dublin.

Affiliate Link Disclosure

The links on this page may be affiliate links, from which I earn a small commission if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA COST to you. Hope you find the information here useful. Thanks!

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Dublin’s Safety Ranking

Ireland is the third most peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index . 

However, Dublin should be considered a little bit differently as most of Ireland is quiet countryside and small towns, while Dublin is a large city.

Larger cities are more densely populated and there is more crime in these areas as a result.

Don’t let this deter you as Dublin has low levels of crime, and incidents of violent crime are rare. 

Dublin consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the world.

Is Dublin A Safe Place To Visit?

For Dublin Ireland, safety is one of its greatest attractions for tourists and people looking for a new place to live.

As the capital of one of the safest countries in the world, Dublin is a relatively safe city.

Some areas are more prone to crime than others but it is easy to avoid these areas if you stick to the common tourist destinations.

Photo Credit: pixaby stock photos

Is Dublin A Safe City To Live In?

If you’re wondering, is Dublin really safe to live in? It is a very safe city to live in compared to other European cities. 

However, it is not as safe as other parts of Ireland as it is more densely populated. Thefts and burglaries occur more often in Dublin city than in other parts of Ireland.

Is Dublin Safe Compared To Other Cities?

If you’re wondering is Dublin safer than London and other large cities, it is far safer than many other capital cities. 

Although Dublin city is not as safe as other cities in Ireland this is because the population density in Dublin is much higher. Despite this, Dublin is still safer than other capital cities in Europe.

The most common crimes in Dublin are petty theft and burglaries and the number of crimes reported to police in Ireland is much lower than many other countries.

Is Dublin 1 safe?

Yes, this is a very popular tourist area that is regularly patrolled by police. It is located in the city centre and attractions such as O’Connell Street and the Spire can be found here.

Is Dublin 5 safe?

Dublin 5 is located in the North East of Dublin City. It is a safe area and the Van Gogh Exhibition is located here.

Is Dublin 7 safe?

Dublin 7 is North West of the city centre. It is a safe area and includes neighbourhoods such as Stoneybatter, Cabra and Smithfield.

Is Smithfield Dublin safe?

Yes, Dublin 7, including Smithfield, is a safe area. This is where the Old Jameson Distillery is located.

Is Dublin 8 safe?

Dublin 8 is to the West of Dublin 2 and includes areas such as Kilmainham, Portobello and Merchants Quay. 

This is a safe area with many popular attractions such as Phoenix Park and Kilmainham Gaol .

Is Portobello Dublin safe?

Yes, Portobello is a friendly and vibrant area that is safe for tourists. It is also less than ten minutes walk from the city centre.

Is Fairview Dublin safe?

Fairview is located in Dublin 3, close to Croke Park. It is a safe and quiet community-centred neighbourhood. You can visit Fairview Park here.

Is Whitehall Dublin safe?

Whitehall is located in Dublin 9, this is a quiet residential area with many popular tourist attractions. You can visit Glasnevin Cemetery and the Botanic Gardens here.

Is Dublin City Centre safe?

Yes, Dublin city Centre is safe.

The city centre is the busiest area and most popular with tourists. However, as it is so busy, pickpockets could target people in this area but it’s not very common.

So keep valuables secure and keep your wits about you and you will be fine.

Is East Wall Dublin safe?

East Wall is situated in Dublin 3, very close to the city centre. It is a safe area and you can visit Fairview Park and Clontarf Promenade from here.

Is The Liberties Dublin safe?

Yes, The Liberties is a safe area. It is located in Dublin 8.It is a popular area for tourists to visit as attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse and Christ Church Cathedral are located here.

Dublin Unsafe Areas

Is dublin 15 safe.

Dublin 15 is located to the West of Phoenix Park.

You can find Blanchardstown Shopping Centre in this area but I wouldn’t recommend tourists visit this area as it is mostly residential and has quite a high crime rate.

Is Talbot Street Dublin safe?

Talbot Street is located between Connolly Station and O’Connell Street.

It’s not exactly an unsafe area as it’s in such a busy location but it’s not very clean and you’re very likely to pass a lot of homeless people on this street.

You should have no issues during the day, but it would be best to avoid this street at night.

Is Shankill Dublin safe?

Shankill is located in the South of Dublin, close to Bray. This area has seen a rise in crime in recent years, but it is not an especially dangerous area.

In any case, it is quite far from any of the usual tourist spots so tourists will usually avoid this area anyway.

Is Ballymun Dublin safe?

Ballymun is known to be one of Dublins rough areas. It has some nice attractions but it falls a bit short due to its crime rates.

Is Tallaght Dublin safe?

Tallaght is considered one of the most dangerous areas in Dublin. This is an area to avoid as there’s not much to see here and the crime rate is quite high.

How To Stay Safe In Dublin

Keep your valuables secure, do not walk in dimly lit areas by yourself at night, keep your wits about you, and have your phone with you at all times.

Is Dublin Safe For Tourists ?

Dublin is a relatively safe city to visit. Like any trip, you need to use common sense to stay out of trouble and keep safe.

Is Dublin Safe For Students?

Ireland is a very safe and welcoming country. Thousands of international students come to study in Ireland each year.

Is Dublin Safe For Families?

Dublin is very safe for families. As most family activities occur during the day, you will almost certainly avoid any unsafe situations.

Is Dublin Safe At Night ?

Yes, but more crimes occur at night so you should avoid visiting the less popular areas if possible.Also, if you’re staying out late it’s better to be with a friend or family than wander the city alone.

Is Dublin Safe To Walk Around?

Yes, it is safe to walk around Dublin, especially around the most popular tourist destinations.

Public transport is pretty good in Dublin but you can visit a lot of the main tourist destinations on foot and take in the local atmosphere.

Is Public Transport In Dublin Safe?

Public Transport in Dublin is very safe.I would not recommend renting a car in Dublin as there is often a lot of traffic and it’s better to walk or take public transport than get involved with frustrated drivers.

Are Taxis Safe In Dublin?

Yes, taxis are generally safe to take in Dublin. Taxis are a popular mode of transport in Dublin, especially at night.

There are many different taxi companies in Dublin. The easiest way to ensure you stay safe and get a registered taxi is by using the ‘ Free Now ’ app.

You just enter your location, where you want to go and select how many seats are required.

You will be provided with the next available driver and the app will show you the make and model of the vehicle and the driver’s details.

Also, many taxi drivers ask for cash only but ‘ from 01 September 2022, every taxi in Ireland must accept credit and debit card payments (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) as well as cash – it’s the passenger’s choice. 

Drivers may not charge surcharges on any card payments.’

Is Dublin safe to travel alone?

Yes, it is safe to travel alone but you will have to use common sense and avoid unsafe areas as you would in any city.

How Safe Is Ireland?

If you’re wondering how safe is Ireland to visit, petty crime is common, particularly in urban areas and places popular with tourists.

There’s a moderate risk of serious violent crime.

You have to be aware of these types of crimes in every country but overall, Ireland is one of the safest countries in the world.

Are The People In Ireland Friendly?

Ireland is one of the most friendly countries in the world. Irish people are known for their hospitality and kindness. 

Is It Safe To Eat The Food In Ireland?

Yes, it is safe to eat the food in Ireland. The quality of food in Ireland is very high. The high standard of food safety and hygiene is ensured by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI).

Is It Safe To Drink The Water In Ireland?

Yes, it is safe to drink the water in Ireland. This is ensured by Irish Water , Ireland’s national water utility responsible for providing water throughout Ireland.

Is It Safe To Drive In Ireland?

Ireland is one of the safest countries in the European Union for driving according to the Road Safety Authority.

However, for tourists, it is worth noting that many roads in Ireland are quite narrow, especially in the countryside, and may be difficult to get used to.

Is Ireland Safe At Night?

Ireland is safe at night. Crime in Ireland for tourists is uncommon but most crimes are committed at night and often fueled by alcohol so it’s best to avoid roaming the streets late at night.

Common Crimes In Dublin

Pickpocketing and petty theft are the most common crimes in Dublin. Tourists are often the target of these crimes so it’s necessary to stay alert and keep valuables secure.

Avoid flashing valuable items in crowded places such as public transport, busy streets and markets.

Here are some anti-theft products that could help deter criminals:

• Luggage Locks for your backpack
• Anti Theft Backpack
• Anti Theft Crossbody Sling Bag

Drug Crime In Dublin

One of the most common problems in Dublin is drug crime. There is a high rate of drug abuse, especially in the inner city.

The city has made a lot of progress in dealing with this issue through support and policing.

This issue doesn’t generally affect tourists but it’s good to keep in mind.

Tips To Keep Safe In Dublin

• Stay in well-lit areas at night.
• Keep valuables secure and avoid flashing expensive items.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Use public transport or licensed taxis if you need to travel through unsafe areas, especially at night.

FAQs on Is Dublin Safe ?

Is dublin safe to walk around at night.

Yes, Dublin is safe to walk around at night. Most areas in Dublin, especially popular tourist areas are well-lit and busy meaning it is safe to travel Dublin at night.

You still need to use common sense, secure your valuables and stay out of unsafe areas to ensure your safety.

Is Dublin Safe For English People?

Yes, without a doubt, Dublin is safe for English people. Ireland has had a strong connection with England throughout history with similar customs and traditions. Dublin is also one of the safest cities in general.

Many Irish people move to England to work and vice-versa. This connection makes Dublin very welcoming to English people. 

How Safe Is Dublin For Tourists?

Dublin is quite safe for tourists. While crimes still occur in Dublin, it is very safe if you use common sense, stay away from unsafe areas such as Ballymun and Tallaght, and avoid staying out too late.

The main tourist attractions are mostly close to each other and are in the safest areas of the city.

Is Crime Rate High In Dublin?

If you’re wondering about the crime rate in Dublin, Ireland, it had the highest crime rate for attempts or threats to murder, assaults, and harassment, at 481 per 100,000 people.

This means Dublin has the highest crime rate in Ireland, but this is expected as it is the most populated area in Ireland.

Final verdict:

If you’re looking for safety, Dublin is a great choice. 

It is very safe compared to many other cities but you still have to keep your wits about you to ensure your safety.

Undertake the safety measures above and you will see for yourself just how friendly Dublin is.

You have been equipped with the knowledge of safe places to visit, things to avoid and how to stay safe in Dublin so now you’re ready to visit one of the most popular cities in Europe.

Now that you know how safe Dublin is, there’s nothing stopping you from planning the trip of a lifetime!

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Travelling to Ireland

Getting there, travel restrictions, identity and visa requirements for entering ireland, what you can bring with you, getting around and public transport, healthcare in ireland, practical tips, more information.

Getting to Ireland is easier than ever with direct flights to major and regional airports and ferries arriving at several ports of entry.

Always make sure your passport is in date well in advance of travelling.

Since 6 March 2022, there are no COVID-19 restrictions for travel to Ireland.

You should follow public health advice if you develop symptoms of COVID-19.

You can find out about what documents you will need to travel Ireland .

You may need to apply for a visa if you are travelling to Ireland and you are not a citizen of the UK, Switzerland, or a country in the European Economic Area (the EU plus Norway, Iceland, and Lichtenstein).

You can check to see if you need a visa .

You must keep to the specific allowances if you want to bring alcohol, tobacco, or other goods into Ireland. If you are from a non-EU country, you must complete a cash declaration if you intend to bring over €10,000 in cash into the country. More information is available on customs regulations for travellers to Ireland .

It is easy to get around, whether you use public transport or rent a car in Ireland.

Public transport includes buses, rail, the Luas tram system, taxis, hackneys, and limousines.

You can also find out how to get to and from Dublin Airport .

Renting a car in Ireland can be a useful way to travel. You must have a valid driving licence to drive in Ireland. If you have a valid full foreign driving licence, you can use this for up to 12 months while visiting Ireland.

Read more information about getting around in Ireland .

It is always advisable to take out travel insurance before travelling.

If you are visiting Ireland, you may be entitled to health services that are free or subsidised, depending on your circumstances. Read more about health services for visitors to Ireland .

If you are visiting Ireland from the EU/EEA and Switzerland, you can use a valid European Health Insurance Card from your home country to access healthcare.

Ireland uses the Euro. Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some smaller amounts of cash is advisable.

Irish and English are the official languages. You can most often hear Irish in rural Gaeltacht areas .

Things to do in Ireland

You can get more information about things to do in Ireland from discoverireland.ie . You can find out about the walking trails in our page on walking and rambling .

Driving in Ireland

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has helpful advice for tourists driving on the roads in Ireland .

Travelling with pets

You can get information about bringing your pet to Ireland .

Contact details for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

The Irish government website DFA.ie has information about visas, passports and contact details for embassies.

Emergency services

The emergency services telephone number is 999 or 112.

Reporting a crime

Information is available about reporting a crime . There is also help available from the Irish Tourist Assistance service if you are a victim of a crime.

Irish weather

You can check the Irish weather forecast on MET éireann , the Irish meteorological service.

Related documents

• Travelling from Ireland for healthcare in Europe Introduction to the options for Irish residents who want to access healthcare in other countries in Europe. 1359.1775
• Customs regulations for travellers to Ireland Find out about the important rules in place regarding customs regulations for people travelling to Ireland. 1211.5786
• Returning to Ireland to care for a family member This page includes information on returning to Ireland to care for a family member. 995.6478

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Is Dublin Safe? A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers and Residents

Are you trying to figure out if Dublin is the perfect spot for your next escapade or maybe even the place where you put down roots? I totally get that curiosity because safety can make or break a decision.

So, with Ireland proudly holding a spot as one of the top-10 safest countries globally, I did some digging to bring clarity to your questions. In this guide, we’re going to look at all things safety – tips on staying secure , understanding any potential risks , and how you can soak up everything Dublin has to offer without an ounce of stress.

Stick with me here; let’s ensure your Irish experience is as carefree as it should be!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Dublin is often seen as a safe city for tourists and locals, ranking in the top 10 of the Global Peace Index .
• Watch out for pickpocketing and scams , especially in crowded areas, and stay informed about travel advisories .
• Always wear face coverings in public places, fill out a Passenger Locator Form before arriving, and check if you need a COVID test based on where you’re coming from.
• Use common sense : keep an eye on your stuff, stick to tourist spots at night, be careful crossing streets.
• Petty theft like pickpocketing is common; watch your belongings closely and don’t flash cash or expensive items.

Understanding Safety in Dublin

When it comes to safety in Dublin, there are a few things to consider. While the city is generally safe for tourists and residents alike, it’s important to be aware of any travel advisories and current Covid-19 safety measures in place.

Understanding the perception of tourists and being cautious in certain areas can help ensure a safe visit to Dublin.

Dublin has a good reputation for safety, but like any city, it’s not perfect. The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs gives Ireland a Level 1 safety rating which means it’s pretty safe for American tourists.

Still, theft and pickpocketing happen here just like they would in any busy area with lots of people. You should watch your stuff and stay alert.

Even though Dublin ranks as one of the top-10 safest countries on the Global Peace Index , don’t let your guard down completely. Some spots are less safe than others . Know where you’re going and be smart about how you act there.

Stay sharp especially if you’re out alone at night or in areas that are known to be a bit risky .

Perception of tourists

Tourists often perceive Dublin as a safe and welcoming city due to its friendly locals and vibrant atmosphere . However, it’s important for visitors to be mindful of their surroundings and take necessary precautions, especially in crowded tourist areas where pickpocketing can occur .

Despite being generally safe, tourists should also be aware of potential scams targeting them , such as fake petitions or unsolicited assistance with ATMs. Overall, while Dublin is considered safe for travelers , remaining vigilant and informed about safety measures is crucial when exploring the city.

Travel advisories

While the perception of tourists in Dublin is generally positive, it’s important to be aware of travel advisories to ensure a safe visit. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Stay updated on any travel advisories issued by your home country before visiting Dublin.
• Make sure to check for any specific safety recommendations or warnings for tourists in Dublin.
• Keep an eye on official government travel websites for the latest information and advice regarding travel to Ireland.
• Register with your embassy or consulate upon arrival in Dublin so that you can be easily located in case of emergencies.
• Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and procedures in case you need assistance during your visit.

Covid-19 safety measures

I’ll walk you through the Covid-19 safety measures:

• All travelers are required to fill out a Passenger Locator Form before arriving in Ireland, providing contact details and travel information.
• Visitors from certain countries may be required to present a negative Covid – 19 test result upon arrival, so be sure to verify this based on your place of departure.
• Face coverings are mandatory in indoor public settings and on public transportation, so make sure to have them readily available.
• It’s important to maintain social distancing of at least 2 meters (6 feet) from others who are not in your travel group.
• Many venues and attractions have capacity limitations and may require advanced reservations, so plan ahead for your visits.
• Stay updated on the latest guidelines from the Irish government regarding Covid – 19 protocols during your stay.

Staying Safe in Dublin

Always be aware of your surroundings, stick to tourist areas, and use common sense to stay safe in Dublin. To learn more about potential risks in Dublin and how to avoid them, keep reading!

Using common sense

Exercise vigilance and caution at all times.

Stay alert to your surroundings , including crowded areas and public transportation.

Avoid displaying valuable items openly or carrying large amounts of cash while out exploring the city.

Sticking to tourist areas

While using common sense is crucial, sticking to tourist areas in Dublin adds an extra layer of safety . These areas are well-monitored and frequented by other tourists, reducing the likelihood of encountering risky situations.

When exploring outside these zones, it’s advisable to research unfamiliar locations beforehand and seek guidance from locals or trusted sources . Additionally, staying in well-lit and populated areas can contribute to a more secure experience during your visit.

Remembering how sticking to known tourist spots adds protection keeps you safe from potential risks. Consider these simple tips when moving around Dublin for a more enjoyable trip!

Being aware of surroundings

When in Dublin, it’s important to stay alert and be mindful of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas to prevent theft or pickpocketing . Be cautious at ATMs and avoid displaying large amounts of cash.

It’s advisable to stay informed about the local news and any potential safety concerns in specific neighborhoods. Additionally, sticking to well-lit and populated areas can contribute greatly to personal safety.

Remember, being aware of your surroundings is key to staying safe while exploring Dublin. Stay vigilant and trust your instincts if something feels off. By staying alert and attentive, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this vibrant city.

Preparing for traffic

Before traveling in Dublin, familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules and road signs . Watch out for cars driving on the left-hand side of the road , which may be different from what you’re used to.

Be cautious when crossing streets and always use designated crosswalks . Keep an eye out for cyclists and buses, especially when walking in crowded areas. Additionally, take note that public transportation networks are well-established and accessible throughout the city.

When exploring Dublin, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in high-traffic areas . Understanding basic traffic laws and being alert can help ensure a safe travel experience around the city.

Avoiding political discussions

When in Dublin, it’s best to avoid political discussions , as they can be divisive and sensitive . Stay focused on enjoying the beauty and culture of the city instead. Remember that Ireland has a complex history , and engaging in political conversations may lead to misunderstandings or discomfort for both locals and fellow travelers.

Let’s delve into other essential tips for staying safe in Dublin .

Being cautious on public transportation

When using public transportation in Dublin, stay alert and be mindful of your belongings at all times to avoid falling victim to pickpocketing or theft .

Ireland’s overall safety may be high, but it’s essential to exercise caution , especially during peak tourist seasons when buses and trains can get crowded.

Potential Risks in Dublin

Petty theft is a concern in Dublin, particularly in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Common scams targeting tourists and transportation risks are also potential risks to be aware of while visiting the city.

Petty theft

Petty theft is a common concern in Dublin, with pickpocketing being the most prevalent form of thievery. It’s essential to safeguard your belongings , especially in crowded tourist areas and public transportation .

Always keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables secure to avoid falling victim to these petty crimes.

Being aware of your surroundings and taking simple precautions can go a long way in preventing theft. Avoid leaving bags unattended and be cautious when approached by strangers. Stay vigilant while enjoying the city’s attractions and follow safety tips to minimize the risk of petty theft during your visit to Dublin.

Common scams

Ireland is generally safe, but travelers should be aware of common scams to stay safe. Here are some common scams in Dublin:

• Fake petitions : Scammers may approach you asking for signatures or donations for fake causes.
• Distraction techniques : Beware of individuals trying to distract you with a map, spilled drink, or a seemingly accidental bump.
• Card skimming : Be cautious when using ATMs and card readers to avoid falling victim to card skimming devices.
• Overcharging : Some establishments may overcharge unsuspecting tourists for goods and services.
• Phony officials : Be wary of individuals posing as police officers or other officials asking for personal information or money.
• Bogus ticket sellers : Avoid purchasing tickets from unauthorized vendors, especially near tourist attractions.
• Charitable giving scams : Exercise caution before donating money to individuals claiming to be collecting on behalf of charities.

Transportation risks

As we move on to discussing transportation risks in Dublin, it’s essential for travelers to be alert. Traffic can be a challenge, so always watch out when crossing the road and use designated pedestrian crossings for safety.

Additionally, pickpocketing is common on public transportation, so keep your belongings close and secure at all times.

Furthermore, it’s important to note that some taxi drivers may take advantage of tourists by overcharging. Stick to official taxi ranks or reputable ride-hailing services and ensure the driver uses the meter for a fair fare.

In conclusion, Dublin is generally a safe city for travelers and residents. The practical safety tips provided are easy to implement and efficient in ensuring a secure experience. How can you apply these strategies to enhance your safety while exploring Dublin? By remaining vigilant and being aware of your surroundings , you can significantly improve your travel experience.

Remember, taking necessary precautions can lead to a worry-free visit to this vibrant city. Consider these insights as you plan your next adventure in Dublin!

Hello! I’m Ryan Nelson, the heart and soul behind IrishGraves.com. Born in New York City with a rich blend of Irish and Scottish heritage, I’ve always felt a deep pull towards exploring my roots and understanding the cultures that shape me. This passion ignited my journey to Ireland, a land of breathtaking landscapes, profound history, and vibrant culture, leading to the creation of IrishGraves.com.

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Is Dublin Safe? BEST Safety Tips for Travelers in 2024

Traveling or moving abroad to a new country always poses risks. When wondering if Dublin is safe as a tourist or expat, you have to take into consideration the inherent risk of traveling anywhere. However, as a solo female traveler and expat living in Dublin, Ireland I always felt incredibly safe traveling on public transportation, in taxis, and walking around the cities both during the day and at night.

The safety of a country is partially based on your perception and biases from what you are used to, in addition to your own actions and diligence as well as the unique situations each person finds themselves in. When reading this article, keep in mind that safety for each person is different, and use your own best judgment for your particular situation.

Jump to… • Is Ireland Safe? • Is Ireland More or Less Safe than the United States? • Rate of Crime Statistics in Ireland • Do You Need Insurance to Visit Ireland? • So, Is Dublin Safe? Are There Any Threats of Danger? • Is Dublin Safe to Walk in at Night? • Are Taxis and Ubers Safe to Take in Dublin?  • Is Public Transportation Safe in Dublin? Driving in Dublin? • Is Dublin Safe to Live In for Expats? • Are There Bad Areas to Avoid in Dublin? • Is Dublin Safe for Students? • Is Dublin Safe for Solo Female Travelers? LGBTQ Community? • Tips for Staying Safe in Dublin, Ireland

Is Ireland Safe? (From a Solo Female Expat)

The Republic of Ireland as a whole is a very safe country. However, that is taking into account a mix of the cities and the countryside villages. You will of course run into more crime and safety concerns in the bigger cities than if you are exclusively out in nature or in the smaller cities of Ireland.

According to the 2021 Global Peace Index , (and this article that Condé Nast Traveller just posted) Ireland is ranked as the 8th most peaceful country. Like most countries, overall the more affluent areas in Ireland have fewer personal and safety crimes, and the less wealthy areas see more crime.

Though the 2022 statistics are still under review, as of now it appears that most crime and safety (i.e. theft, homicide, robbery, use of drugs, and use of weaponry) have DROPPED in Ireland since the previous year. The only major increase has been related to fraud and deception.

NOTE: Unless otherwise stated, all statistics I reference come from the most recently released statistics from Ireland’s Central Statistics Office .

Is Ireland More or Less Safe than the United States?

Having lived in both the U.S. and Ireland, I have personally felt much safer in Dublin than in Los Angeles or other large U.S. cities. Though the more rural areas of both countries feel very similar safety-wise.

According to NationMaster , the United States has 146 times more crime (as a whole) than Ireland and the U.S. has 241 times more violent crime than Ireland.

Additionally, on the Global Peace Index, the U.S. is ranked far lower at 122.

Unfortunately, gun violence is a real threat in the U.S. that most people living there are very aware of on a frequent basis. While living in Dublin, I didn’t have to worry about gun violence or mass shootings nearly as often as I would while living in America. 

Rate of Crime Statistic in Ireland

In Ireland, 10% of people aged 18 or over said they were a victim of a violent or non-violent theft (or attempted theft), an assault, or fraud ( Central Statistics Office) . In comparison to many countries, this percentage is fairly low.

Discrimination Safety Statistics in Ireland

The rate of personal crime was marginally higher among males (10%) than females (9%), and considerably higher among persons aged 18-29 (14%) than persons in older age groups (5% of persons aged 60 or above) ( Central Statistics Office) . The younger age group is more likely out at pubs or drinking more heavily at night, which can more often lead to unsafe circumstances.

People from very affluent areas (14%) reported being victims of personal crime more than people in more disadvantaged areas ( Central Statistics Office) . As a whole, affluent areas in Ireland are safer, but there is more theft and personal crime in affluent homes.

Only 7% of all crimes were believed to be based on discrimination. 4% of victims believed the crime was motivated by race, religion, or ethnicity, 3% stated that they felt the crime was motivated by gender, and 2% said they felt that age was a motivating factor in the crime ( Central Statistics Office) .

Do You Need Insurance to Visit Ireland?

You are NOT required to show proof of insurance when visiting Ireland, but it is highly recommended. Any time you travel you should always have insurance to cover you in case of an emergency.

I use and recommend SafetyWing for medical and travel insurance. It is affordable, reliable, and flexible insurance that is specifically designed for digital nomads who will be traveling long-term, though it mostly covers emergency situations which is perfect for short-term travelers as well.

For an idea of how much insurance will cost you while living abroad, use the tool below. Or, to purchase insurance directly from SafetyWing, CLICK HERE.

Is Dublin, Ireland Safe?

As far as big cities and European capitals go, YES Dublin, Ireland is very safe for tourists and expats . It is still a big city, so there will still be crime, but the crime you may experience in Dublin is mostly petty theft. The rate of crime is higher in Dublin than anywhere else in Ireland, so exercise more caution while you are in the city over the rest of the country, but there is not much need to fear for your safety.

Is Dublin Safe for Travel in 2022-2023?

Yes! Dulin is safe to travel in right now. In fact, Condé Nast Traveller just named Ireland the number 8th safest country in the WORLD. 

Dublin is a popular tourist destination for a variety of reasons: its rich history, its vibrant culture, and its friendly people. However, some travelers may be concerned about safety, particularly in light of the recent increase in terrorist activity in Europe.

While it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when traveling, Dublin is generally a safe city. The Irish government has made security a top priority in recent years, and there is a heavy police presence in the city center.

In addition, most hotels and businesses have security measures in place to protect guests and customers. With a little planning and common sense, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Dublin.

Is Dublin a Dangerous City at All?

No, Dublin is not a dangerous city. There are no real natural threats such as dangerous animals or natural disasters and weather. There is not much danger in Dublin from people either, other than petty crime. I never felt like I was in danger while living in and exploring Dublin!

Is There a Risk of Terrorism in Dublin?

Dublin is one of the safest cities in the world, and there has not been a threat of terrorism in recent years. The Irish government has been very successful in combating terrorist activity, and there has not been a serious incident in over a decade.

Dublin is a welcoming and safe city for visitors, and there is no need to be concerned about terrorism. However, as with any major city, it is always advisable to take basic precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and not leaving valuables unsecured in public places. 

Is There Any Risk of Natural Disaster in Dublin, Ireland?

Dublin is very safe from natural disasters. The country is not located in an area prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, or other catastrophic weather events. As a result, Dublin tourists and residents can rest assured that they are unlikely to experience any type of natural disaster.

However, it is still important to be prepared for emergencies, as no place is completely safe from all risks. Therefore, Dubliners should familiarize themselves with the city’s emergency procedures and have a plan in place in case of any unforeseen event.

There may be some threat of flooding, though very minimal and Ireland is well prepared for heavy rain. While I lived in Dublin, there was one hurricane that minimally threatened Ireland. Dublin was not in an area that was really of concern, though schools and some businesses did still shut down just in case. All we got in Dublin was rain and some serious wind that delayed flights for a few hours. Dublin responded very quickly and efficiently, even though the threat of actual disaster was very low.

Rate of Crime Statistic in Dublin

The Dublin region had the highest reported rate of victimization (13%) for personal crime, compared to victimization rates of between 8% and 10% for personal crime in the rest of Ireland ( Central Statistics Office) .

However, over two-thirds (68%) of persons aged 18 and over said that they felt the Gardaí (the Irish police) were “very effective” (17%) or “quite effective” (51%) at tackling crime in their local area.

Is Dublin Safe to Walk in?

While it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when traveling to any new place, Dublin is generally a safe city for tourists to walk in , at any time of day or night. The crime rate is low and most visitors feel comfortable walking around during daylight hours.

Of course, as with any large city, there are areas that are best avoided at night, but overall Dublin is a safe place to explore on foot.  Just use your common sense and you’ll have a great time.

Is It Safe in Dublin at Night? Tips for Walking in Dublin at Night 

I found Dublin relatively safe to walk around in at night. Now, as a young female, I always tried to stick to a group and not walk around Dublin at night by myself. There were plenty of times, especially in the winter when the sun set early, that it would be dark by the time I walked home from class and I never had any troubles.

75% of people aged 18 and over said they felt “very safe” or “fairly safe” walking around Dublin at night. This feeling of safety was considerably lower for females (64%) than for males (87%) ( Central Statistics Office) .

The biggest thing to worry about at night in Dublin is drunk and homeless people, drunk people being more of the issue. There were a handful of times I encountered some interesting characters while trying to get home, as you will in every big city. Stay in well-lit areas that have some other people around and this is almost never a major issue.

Are Taxis and Ubers Safe to Take in Dublin?

Yes, taxis are generally safe to take in Dublin and quite plentiful around the city of Dublin. Taxi scams are prevalent in major cities around the world, and it does happen rarely in Dublin. Keep in mind that private cars for hire are not allowed in Ireland, so you will be calling a taxi if you use the Uber app .

Using a rideshare app can be a good idea because your ride is tracked. Or, have your hotel call your taxi so you know it is coming from a reputable source. Always pay attention to markings and the inside of your taxi and use your best judgment on safety.

Is Public Transportation Safe in Dublin?

Public transportation is also fairly safe and reliable to use, especially from Dublin city centre. I would avoid taking public transportation or being at the train station later in the night when possible and opt for a taxi over public transportation and walking when it is very late at night.

Beyond the odd (but harmless) character, I never had any issues or concerns with Dublin public transportation. Especially if there are a few other passengers on board, you are not likely to run into any problems.

Is Dublin Safe to Drive In?

Yes, it’s safe to drive in Dublin, but public transportation is often more reliable and efficient. Walking is also a great way to get around the city, and it’s often the best option when exploring everything Dublin has to offer.

I don’t recommend renting a car or driving in Dublin if you don’t have to. The roads are crowded and parking can be a nightmare and expensive. Everything in Dublin is close enough that taking either public transportation, walking between sites, or taking a taxi is generally quicker and more affordable.

As a traveler to Dublin, driving can be a bit dangerous if you aren’t familiar with driving on the left side of the road or with a stick-shift car. Additionally, the different rules of the road can be confusing and cause you to be a bit more distracted with driving.

While drivers in Dublin are generally courteous and follow the rules of the road, pedestrians should exercise caution when crossing streets and be aware of their surroundings at all times. With a little planning and common sense, visitors to Dublin can safely enjoy all that the city has to offer.

As a whole, I always say don’t rent a car if you are just staying in Dublin or going between the major cities. Only rent a car if you are exploring the countryside and have time to become familiar with the Irish roads!

Prefer to drive your own car rather than risk a taxi or public transportation? My go-to car rental service in Ireland is Discover Cars . They compare prices across the leading car rental services to find you the lowest prices and best deals. 🚗 CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR YOUR RENTAL CAR

Is Dublin Safe for Foreigners and to Live In as Expats?

Again, I never had any safety concerns while living in Dublin as an expat and found it a very safe city to live in. As far as European countries go, Ireland as a whole feels extremely safe, and Irish people and incredibly friendly. However, if you are concerned about the safety as an expat in Dublin, there are so many wonderful cities across Ireland to look into instead.

Households in the Dublin region were the most likely to be victims of household crime over other parts of Ireland, with 6% of Dublin households saying they had suffered a burglary or theft. 5% of Dublin households were victims of burglary and 3% were victims of vandalism ( Central Statistics Office) . A very low percentage for a large city.

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Are There Bad Areas to Avoid in Dublin?

Every major city will have bad areas where crime happens more frequently, often in the less affluent neighborhoods. As is true anywhere, be extra cautious anywhere crowded or considered “touristy” (i.e. Temple Bar, Grafton Street, etc.) because there is a higher likelihood of pickpockets and petty crime and theft.

I found that just north of the river and the farther west you go from the city center has more areas that feel unsafe. Though nothing ever happened to me even here.

Ireland’s most crime-ridden district is around the Pearse Street Garda station in Dublin’s south side inner city. However, it’s good to keep in mind that this is probably due to the high concentration of university students and drinking that likely occurs on and around the campus where some students live and thus creates a higher crime rate. I never felt unsafe on Pearse Street, but you might want to avoid it if you can and exercise higher caution in this part of Dublin.

Tallaght & Blanchardstown (right below Tallaght) are also known to be less safe. However, this is more of a concern for expats looking at the best neighborhoods to live in as opposed to tourists, as both areas are outside of the Dublin city center.

What Are the Safest Neighborhoods in Dublin?

Dublin City Center (near all the popular tourist areas such as Dublin Castle and Trinity College) is a very safe part of Dublin for both tourists and those living in the city. Portobello and Smithfield are some of the best places and very safe parts of Dublin. Portobello, in particular, is a good place to stay, as it’s close to the city center but it’s also becoming very trendy with the bars, clubs, and restaurants in the area.

Is Dublin Safe for Students?

According to World Scholars Hub , Ireland is the #7 safest country to study abroad in 2022, with low crime rates.

I was a student while I lived in Dublin and had the most amazing time! The people were friendly, so I quickly made friends to explore the city with. Campus ( Trinity College Dublin ) always felt very safe as it was constantly crowded with students, scholars, and even tourists. The main streets are always well lit and I had no problems getting home to my student accommodation from campus at any time of the day.

Is Dublin Safe for Solo Travelers?

Safety for solo travelers is a question that is often asked by those considering a trip to the Irish capital. The answer is yes, Dublin is safe for solo travelers.

Of course, as with any city, there are certain areas that are best avoided late at night time, but overall Dublin is a friendly and welcoming place. In addition, the city is well-equipped with security cameras and other safety features, so you can rest assured that you’ll be safe during your stay. So if you’re thinking about visiting Dublin, don’t let concerns about safety stop you from enjoying all that this vibrant city has to offer!

Is Dublin Safe for Female Travelers?

As a solo female traveler myself, I can confidently recommend Dublin as one of the safer cities for female travelers. Ireland is one of the safest countries for solo female travelers and is actually ranked as the 3rd safest in the world according to this Women’s Danger Index .

As always, we know to stay extra aware when traveling alone as women, and Dublin is no exception. As far as large cities go, this is one you could do by yourself and stay safe.

Is Dublin Safe for the LGBTQ+ Community?

Dublin has a very strong LGBTQ community. Ireland was actually the first country to legalize gay marriage by popular vote, and they are very proud of it! There are LGBTQ bars and clubs around town that create a safe space for everyone to express themselves. 

My best friend when I lived in Dublin was strongly involved in the LGBTQ+ community in Dublin and was constantly attending club meetings at the university (Trinity College) as well as around town. So, there are certainly plenty of ways to get involved in LGBTQ+ communities and events around Dublin.

One of Ireland’s oldest and biggest gay bars is The George, right in the middle of Dublin’s city center. It’s a fantastic club that hosts drag nights, karaoke, dancing, and more. 

Dublin Safety and COVID-19

At the moment, over 80% of Ireland is fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Since a big spike in cases in January 2022, cases have been far lower and staying relatively low. However, information on the pandemic changes quickly, and I recommend you stay up to date with the CDC recommendations and health information from the government of Ireland directly.

Tips for Staying Safe in Dublin, Ireland

• Stay in a group whenever possible
• Don’t walk alone at night
• Have your phone out and open when riding in a taxi in case you feel unsafe
• Stay on the well-lit main streets at night
• Carry pepper spray at night
• Have a general idea of the city and where you are at all times (stay aware of your surroundings)
• Don’t flash large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry/items
• Wear a cross-body (or under the clothes) purse
• Keep your phone in your purse or front pocket instead of your back pocket
• Take a taxi home from the pubs/clubs instead of walking

Are There Any Issues with Food Safety in Dublin?

No, there are no issues with food safety in Dublin. Dublin is a great place to find excellent restaurants and delicious meals! The food is fresh, the restaurants are plentiful, and the people serving are friendly. I have never had any issues with food safety in Dublin. I would definitely recommend it as a place to eat!

Is It Safe to Drink the Water in Dublin?

When traveling to a new country, it’s always important to ask if it’s safe to drink the water. The water in Dublin IS safe to drink and there have been no problems with the quality of the water supply in recent years. There are occasional boil-water notices that are issued as a precautionary measure, but these are usually lifted within a day or two. So, if you’re wondering is it safe to drink the water in Ireland? The answer is yes!

Is Dublin or London Safer?

I personally felt safer in Dublin, partially because the city is smaller so I knew the areas to avoid better. Dublin is marginally safer than London according to statistics as well.

The level of crime in Dublin is rated as “moderate” (57.40) whereas in London it is rated as “high” (62.58) ( Numbeo ). But both have fairly comparable crime levels.

While Ireland was the 8th most peaceful country in the world, the UK comes in at 33rd, which is not far in the grand scheme.

So, Is Dublin Safe?

Yes, Dublin, Ireland is a very safe city to visit and live in. Many of the tips for staying safe in Dublin are the same as you would find for any tourist or any person in a big city. Above all else, stay aware and use your common sense and best judgment to stay out of trouble and avoid any safety concerns.

Looking for resources to use for your next trip or move abroad? CLICK HERE for my favorite travel and expat tools!

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☘️ FAQs About Ireland ☘️ ✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to Ireland? 1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible 2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal ❗ Is Travel Insurance Required in Ireland? No, it’s not. However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing . >>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO ☔️  When Is the Best Time to Visit Ireland? Summer (June-August) – is the warmest and rains the least but you will have the most crowds. Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have more rain but you will beat the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers ( spring )/greenery (fall). 🏠 Where Should You Stay in Ireland? Hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and house sitting are all available in Ireland for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are: • Booking.com • Hostelworld • Vrbo (usually better options than Airbnb in Ireland) • Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay) ☘️ Where Can You Find Tours? I found incredible tours in Ireland >>>HERE for private and guided group tours of both the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests. 🚘 Should You Rent a Car in Ireland? I always tell my friends and family to  rent a car  in Ireland so that they don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! However, if you plan to stay only in the cities, then you should be fine getting by with buses and walking. >>> What to know about driving in Ireland >>> The best car rental in Ireland 🍻 Make sure to try out the pubs ! Even if you don’t drink, the atmosphere, live music, and friendly people are very uniquely Irish.

Janelle Axton is a travel consultant and owner of Make the Trip Matter, a service dedicated to helping people create a lifestyle around frequent travel and extended time abroad. She grew up in California and spent time living abroad in Ireland in addition to traveling to over 25 countries.

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Is Dublin Safe for Tourists? Staying Safe in the Irish Capital in 2024

Is Dublin safe for travel? How safe is Dublin overall? Are there any areas of Dublin that I should avoid?

For many, a trip to Ireland is a bucket list vacation that sits on a pedestal above most others. Rolling countrysides speckled with roaming sheep meets lively pubs, traditional folk music, and impressive historical castles. Since most Irish road trips start in the capital, many are left wondering… “is Dublin safe?”

And we’re here to tell you that your question is 100% valid! In this post, we’ll answer 18+ of your burning questions regarding safety in Ireland so you can be fully confident in your decision to visit Ireland’s east coast.

You’ll have everything you need to know before visiting both the capital of Dublin and the country of Ireland, so you can start planning your Ireland itinerary without worry!

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Is Dublin Safe to Visit?

Overall, Dublin is a safe place to visit, but it’s not as safe as other cities and small towns across Ireland . The people are kind and hospitable, though not as much as you’ll find in the Irish countryside which you’ll notice is a popular trend throughout much of Europe.

✔️ Did you know that Ireland scored a Global Peace Index of 1.31 in 2023 and continues to remain on the world’s top 10 safest countries list?

On a recent visit to Ireland, I decided to ask some locals what they thought of Dublin and how safe they felt it was. Ignoring what you can read online and generalized statistics, I found that the majority of locals weren’t very big fans of the city.

The risk of violent behavior and crimes increases late at night, especially in residential neighborhoods and overall drunkenness is a large issue in the city.

You’ll need to be wary of your drinks, who is around you (most importantly if you plan on hopping between the bars, pubs, and nightclubs), and have plans for safe transportation to and from your accommodation.

While pubs and all that come with them are still increasingly popular throughout rural Ireland, people tend to be kinder and less, well… disheveled than they are in the cities such as Dublin and Cork .

From what I found, most locals prefer smaller towns and villages than they do Dublin owing to its increased risk of crime and general undesirable activities. Some disagreed and found the capital city to be an integral part of Ireland’s culture and heritage, but this was the minority.

Areas to Avoid in Dublin

Dynamics are constantly changing so it’s not possible to say that one neighborhood is for sure safe and another neighborhood is for sure unsafe. That being said, if you are planning to live in Dublin and are wondering what the bad areas of Dublin to avoid are, keep reading.

You can research all the statistics you want about each area of Dublin, however, statistics only offer a very limited perspective and are bound to range greatly over time.

Instead, your best bet is to avoid the more dangerous areas below that I have mentioned owing to their ongoing safety concerns, but to still be vigilant in all areas of Dublin.

Though it’s where all the hip bars and trendy restaurants are, the Dublin city centre houses the most people and therefore has higher crime rates than most neighborhoods. Your main safety concerns here will be petty theft, pickpockets, and date rape drugs.

✔️ Pearse Street also poses some of the highest crime risks in the city with the majority of crimes taking place here in past years. The train station (particularly Connolly Railway Station) poses an exceptionally high risk.

✔️ Grafton Street is a well-known area in Dublin for both tourists and pickpocketers. If you must travel through this street, day or night, keep your belongings on the front of your person and be vigilant of your surroundings.

✔️ Sheriff Street on the northern side of Dublin is also known for its crime linked to gangs and drug abuse.

✔️ Areas to avoid living that are outside of the main city of Dublin but still inside the district of Dublin include Tallaght , Darndale , and Blanchardstown .

These areas are typically of no interest to tourists and are made up of low-income housing and residential neighborhoods which pose a general threat of insecurity and uneasiness for most.

Crime rates in these areas are generally higher than most other areas in Dublin and are usually in the realm of property crimes.

Dublin Ireland Safety Tips

Whether this is your first visit to Ireland or your 10th, there are a few precautions I recommend taking on your next visit to Dublin or Ireland as a whole.

☘️ Avoid flashing your valuables (i.e. jewelry, phone, wallet) in public. This gives pickpocketers too much insight into what you’re carrying on your person and where you’re hiding it. This makes you an easy target!

☘️ If you are renting a car (I have a great Irish road trip itinerary here ), always fill up on gas and ensure you have a spare tire with the proper tools for installing it. The roads in the countryside can be bumpy, to say the least, so you’ll want to be prepared for anything.

☘️ Be mindful of your drink. This mainly goes for the cities of Cork, Dublin, and Galway, but as I mentioned before, date rape drugs are found in Ireland as they are in all cities across Europe.

☘️ Always have a map with you . This can be in the form of a paper map or a downloaded Google map, but there are a lot of places in Ireland with poor cellphone reception and no internet service. If you miss a turn on the way to your Airbnb, you’ll want to have access to a map even if you don’t have service.

☘️ Even though the Irish can seem like they’re overwhelmingly pleasant and kind, they still have their own bad bunch of people wandering around, so don’t go trusting everyone you meet just because they have a cool accent… stay sharp and limit your alcohol intake if you don’t have someone you personally know and trust watching over you.

☘️ Avoid walking through poorly lit areas. Especially if you’ll be walking back to your accommodation alone, stay in well lit areas with a large population of tourists. Avoid any shortcuts through dark streets or residential neighborhoods.

FAQ: Is Dublin Safe?

Now, I’m going to be answering some essential questions for your trip to Dublin. This should help settle some of your concerns while simultaneously inform you on what to look out for.

Is Dublin Safe to Walk Around?

Just like most cities in Europe, and around the world for that matter, it is safe to walk around Dublin . However, that’s not to say that Dublin doesn’t carry its own set of unique challenges, especially since it is such a large city.

Even during the day, you’ll want to keep your wits about you. Don’t leave your belongings unattended (pickpockets most often happen in popular tourist spots and occur most frequently to unassuming tourists), don’t flash your valuables (i.e. jewelry, phones, wallets, etc.), and try to travel in a group when possible.

Dublin, Ireland is no stranger to petty theft and drunken madness… even during the day. So, while Dublin is safe to walk around, you should still take the basic precautions you normally would in any city across Europe.

Is Dublin Safe at Night?

For the most part, Dublin is safe to walk around at night , however, fights are common among intoxicated individuals and wandering down unfamiliar roads that aren’t well lit is never recommended.

While violent crime rates remain low all around Ireland in comparison to most other popular European capital cities, there are still the occasional occurrences that cause people to wonder “is Dublin safe?” in the first place.

Most violent outbreaks are fueled by the high consumption of alcohol taking place around the city, night after night, throughout the year.

If you plan on indulging in a wild night out in Dublin, be sure to only follow people that you know well, don’t leave your drinks unattended, always watch the bartender pour or open your drink, and arrange your transportation home through your hotel, with the bartender, or via a trusted rideshare app such as Uber.

I also don’t recommend using rideshare apps in Dublin alone, whether you’re male or female, especially at night. Always travel in pairs, and if that isn’t possible, then have your hotel arrange for one of their taxi drivers to pick you up.

Is Dublin City Center Safe at Night?

For the most part, Dublin city center is safe at night. The biggest concern that tourists need to be wary of is pickpocketing and petty crimes.

From both personal experience and statistics , smaller crimes are less likely to take place where people are watching. For example, walking through lit areas versus dark side streets is going to be safer.

Dublin is a capital city of a popular European country so it’s important to always keep your wits about you, regardless of the safety ratings, but overall Dublin city center is safe at night.

Is It Safe for English to Visit Dublin?

Yes, Dublin is safe for British nationals to visit . The people of Ireland are extremely hospitable and welcoming- in fact, they are some of the kindest people I have ever met in the world!

Dublin is safe for those coming from the U.K., despite the continuous tiffs among different sport rivalries teams and so forth.

If you don’t visit looking for trouble, it’s on the rare occasion that you’ll find any.

Is Dublin Safe for Tourists?

Dublin is safe for tourists overall, and thanks to the Irish police force many risks are mitigated. The risks for foreigners are generally the same for all tourists visiting the country, with pickpocketing and petty crimes being the biggest concern. Hate crimes are especially rare and terrorist attacks are uncommon.

That’s not to say that they have never happened or will never happen, but your risk of falling victim to one of these threats is exceptionally low while in Ireland.

Dublin is safe for tourists regardless of which continent you’re visiting from, you’ll be welcome in Dublin.

Is Dublin Safe for American Tourists?

Yes, Dublin is safe for American tourists . In fact, according to the 2022 U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs , Ireland overall received a Level 1 Travel Advisory which is the safest rating a country can receive.

Dublin, of course, is a capital city so you’ll still want to exercise normal safety precautions, regardless of where you’re from.

Is Dublin a Friendly City?

Dublin is a friendly city renowned for its lively and hospitable atmosphere. The locals, or ‘Dubliners’ as they’re known, are famously welcoming and always keen to share a bit of their vibrant culture and history.

Whether you’re lost and need directions, curious about a historical site, or simply in the mood for a chat at a local pub, you’ll find Dubliners more than happy to help ( for the most part ).

Is Dublin Safe for International Students?

Students roam freely across the city each and every day without issue. Dublin is safe for students, generally speaking, however, there are some precautions that should always be taken.

Dublin is home to the infamous Trinity College as well as numerous others including the International School of Dublin, St. Mary’s College, Griffith College, Dublin City University, among others.

First, students should walk between classes and buildings together, when possible. When returning to the city of Dublin, keep valuables secure and out of sight and try to avoid traveling after dark on the public metro, if possible.

Dublin is safe for students, however, just like anywhere, simple precautionary steps are best to be taken to deter pickpockets, muggings, and so forth.

Is Dublin Safe for Solo Female Travel?

Dublin is typically safe for solo female travelers as well as anyone traveling alone . If you’re seeking a solo trip (whether you’re male or female), then Dublin can make a great option.

However, as I have said before, even though Dublin is safe for solo travelers, there are a few precautions I would recommend taking on your trip to any city, not just Dublin.

First, if you plan on being on a budget and staying in cheap hostels, try to splurge for a private room when you can . This will reduce your risk of falling victim to theft or sexual harassment which is more common in shared dormitories. YES, this goes for males and females!

Also, keep all of your valuables deep inside your backpack or luggage . Never put anything in the outer pockets where they can be easily removed.

Try to avoid traveling alone at night , especially on public transportation, and be especially careful in the main tourist areas. Date rape drugs are not uncommon in any European city, so be mindful of this if you plan on hitting up the local bars and nightclubs in Dublin.

Lastly, just keep your wits about you . If someone gives you an uneasy feeling, always trust your gut. Plan your transportation to your accommodation ahead of time and never trust people you just met.

Traveling solo is an exciting way of learning more about yourself and recognizing your strengths and weaknesses, and it’s also completely freeing! Dublin is safe for solo travelers , but I always recommend taking precautions while traveling alone in any city.

Is Dublin Safe to Live?

Dublin is generally a safe city to live in. Like any major metropolitan area, there are neighborhoods with varying levels of safety, but overall, the city boasts a fairly low crime rate.

Dubliners are known for their friendly disposition, and the city has a vibrant community atmosphere. Additionally, public services such as transport and healthcare are reliable and efficient.

Nevertheless, it’s always good practice to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions, just as you would in any other city.

Is Dublin Unsafe?

The short answer to this is… there is no short answer. Dublin is a city just like thousands of others around the world.

While Dublin, for the most part, seems to be far safer than others that we have visited, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its own fair share of safety issues.

So, Dublin is NOT unsafe… however, we can’t just say “Dublin IS safe” either. Petty theft, pickpockets, and muggings do occur in Dublin.

Pickpockets aren’t as common as they are in Barcelona and muggings don’t occur as frequently as they do in London or Paris , but the threat is still there nevertheless.

Dublin is a very safe city generally speaking, however, violent and petty crimes alike do still exist just as they do in any city around the world. Overall, Dublin has a low crime rate in safe neighborhoods, but be wary when on the outskirts of town.

Take the proper safety precautions and keep your wits about you as you would normally and you’re bound to have an amazing and safe visit to the Irish capital!

Is Dublin or London Safer?

Dublin is not necessarily safer than London . Although London’s crime rate has skyrocketed in recent years with over 650 cases of crime being reported per 1,000 people ( CrimeRate ) and Dublin’s crime rate has remained around 480 reported cases per 1,000 people in recent years, these numbers cannot accurately portray that one is safer than the other.

This is because there is a massive difference in population ( London has a population of around 9 million whereas Dublin’s population is only about 1.5 million in 2023).

Thus, with reported crimes in Dublin not being much lower than those reported in London , one could argue, statistically, that Dublin is actually the less safe city.

Both of these popular capital cities have their good areas, their areas to avoid, and the potential for serious crime including terrorist attacks, etc.

But, this is true of cities all over the world, and you shouldn’t avoid these cities altogether with the hopes of staying safe. Life isn’t meant to be lived in one place and there are far more positive outcomes you have the potential of experiencing than negative ones.

Is Dublin Safe in 2024?

With the pandemic making a fierce comeback this winter, traveling through Dublin is becoming less safe due to massive spikes in Covid cases.

Although vaccines are readily available and Ireland has had some of the strictest and longest lockdowns across Europe, cases continue to spike during the cold winter months.

If you are hoping to visit Ireland soon, I would recommend waiting until the spring or early summer months when cases are likely to fall again with the influx of warmer weather like we saw in previous years.

Unfortunately, the pandemic has also brought along spikes in business closures and job loss, so pickpockets and crime rates have increased as in many cities around the world.

If you do plan on visiting Ireland soon, keep this in mind while wandering the Temple Bar district and other popular tourist spots.

Is Fairview Dublin Safe?

No, Fairview Dublin isn’t very safe for tourists.

While Fairview itself is beautiful, and some would even say an up-and-coming and favorable place to reside, the surrounding areas are on the rougher side and the area has become well known for marijuana distribution along with other drugs.

Nearby Fairview Park may look inviting, but come nighttime this is where a large population of homeless individuals congregate. In the past, extreme violence (including homicide) has been reported in this area.

Gang violence has also been reported in the Fairview area in recent years, so if it’s not an area that you feel like you have to see, then skipping it altogether shouldn’t negatively affect your trip.

Is Public Transportation Safe in Dublin?

Public transportation poses a particular safety threat as it does in most cities. Pickpockets and muggings are far more common on metros and in train stations, especially after dark, and traveling on them should not be done without care.

Use common sense everywhere you go and you should be fine.

Crime rates on public transportation in Dublin are similar to that of many cities in Europe. It’s always best to travel with someone, always keep your belongings directly on your lap ( never under your feet or in the overhead storage areas), and avoid traveling on them after dark altogether.

In and around the train station near Pearse Street in Dublin is of particular concern with incidents occurring here quite often.

If you plan on taking public transportation around the city, be sure to follow the tips that I have listed and opt for an Uber or reputable taxi service to get you around after dark.

If you must walk, try to walk with a buddy and stay in well-lit, densely-populated areas. Avoid walking down side streets, taking shortcuts, or walking through residential neighborhoods.

Other Popular Questions Regarding Safety in Ireland

These are some of the most popular questions regarding safety in Ireland that you have asked. If you’re still wondering, “ is Dublin safe? “, then I recommend thinking through your worries and validating them… this always helps me!

If you’re worried about pickpockets and crime, consider where you live. Do pickpockets and crime happen there? They probably do. I’ve lived in Boston, MA and Fairbanks, AK , so I’ve had crime happening all around me but luckily, I’ve never fallen victim to it.

I’ve backpacked across over a dozen countries in Europe, and I’ve never fallen victim to pickpockets. That doesn’t mean it isn’t happening around me, but the chances of falling victim of crime is very low (especially in Dublin) if you are taking all the right precautions that I have mentioned.

Your worries are likely valid, but put them in perspective before worrying too much about “is Dublin safe?”!

Is Ireland Safe to Visit?

Ireland is one of the safest countries in Europe to visit . Crime rates remain relatively low in comparison to many other European countries, and I can personally say that I felt incredibly safe while roaming both the city streets of Galway and the countryside roads of Dingle and Adare.

The people are some of the kindest I’ve ever met and everyone is happy to see you. The majority of crimes stem from the use of drugs and alcohol in the cities after dark, making this one of the most dangerous times to be out wandering around.

Even still, you’re safer in the cities of Galway and Dublin than many other cities around the world, so don’t worry too much.

Ireland is an extremely safe country and you can easily visit with the confidence that you’ll experience a safe and enjoyable trip!

Is Ireland Safe for American Tourists?

Ireland is generally considered one of the safest countries to visit for American tourists. The Irish are known for their friendly and helpful nature, which makes the country a particularly inviting destination for American tourists.

Crime rates are comparatively low, but like any destination, it’s always sensible to take basic precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Is Ireland LGBTQ+ Friendly? 

Overall, Ireland is LGBTQ+ friendly . They host a massive pride parade in Limerick each July and legalized same-sex marriage back in 1993 when they elected a gay Prime Minister.

Ireland is slowly working its way up the ladder as becoming a very LGBTQ+ supportive country, however, there is still a large portion of individuals who are against this notion.

Unfortunately, not everyone is in support of this amazing community. You will likely be very safe traveling through Ireland with your partner, but the risk of hate crimes can be found everywhere in the world.

Though you will constantly be faced with this challenge and you should always be vigilant about your safety, just be you! The world can change .

Is Ireland Safe from Natural Disasters?

Ireland is relatively safe from major natural disasters. The country’s geographical location protects it from severe weather phenomena such as hurricanes and earthquakes, which are common in other parts of the world.

Flooding can occasionally occur, especially in coastal regions or along riverbanks during heavy rainfall (this happened to us when we visited in May), but typically these incidents are manageable and the infrastructure is well-equipped to handle such situations.

Overall, the risk of natural disasters in Ireland is quite low, making it a safe destination for both visitors and residents.

Is it Safe to Eat the Food in Ireland?

Unless you have an overly sensitive stomach when it comes to trying new foods, the food in Ireland is perfectly safe to eat ! It mainly consists of different variations of meat, potatoes, sauces, and pastries.

There is no doubting that Irish cuisine is very rich in flavor and high in fats and salt content, so if your diet requires you to eat a certain way all the time, you may want to pack yourself some meal replacement bars.

The food in Ireland is absolutely delicious (at least I found it to be) and uncomparably filling and sure to put you to sleep! It isn’t the healthiest to say the least, but it is very nice to indulge on your vacation in rich beef stews and scones with freshly made strawberry jam.

The food in Ireland is very safe to eat, although it isn’t very healthy and you may need to plan ahead if you have specific dietary requirements. If you don’t, however, these 10 Outstanding Dublin Food Tours can be phenomenal additions to your itinerary!

Is it Safe to Drink the Water in Ireland?

The water coming from the mains (what they call the main water lines) in Ireland, especially in Dublin, is very safe to drink .

The Environmental Protection Agency of Ireland was able to provide evidence that 99.9% of water samples in an annual study were able to comply with bacterial standards and 99.6% of those samples were also able to comply with the necessary chemical standards.

We found the water in Ireland to taste perfectly clean and it ran beautifully clear out of the faucet everywhere we visited. We never had any issues with eating the produce that was washed in the water, bathing, brushing our teeth, and so forth.

The water in Ireland is very clean and safe to drink , however, if you have any doubts or concerns I suggest purchasing a 2-stage filtered reusable water bottle . I take my LifeStraw with me to every country I visit, and I’ve never had a problem with the water since using it!

Is it Safe to Drive in Ireland?

You will surely read mixed reviews on this topic, but we found driving in Ireland to be just fine. Coming from the United States, where we drive on the right-hand side of the road and sit on the left-hand side of the car, we got completely flipped around on our trip to Ireland.

The locals do drive fast in Ireland, however, if you’re used to this then you’ll be just fine. The biggest concern when driving in Ireland is the large amount of alcohol being consumed day and night throughout the country.

Drinking and driving is illegal in Ireland, however, it happens often. Driving in Ireland isn’t much of a problem for most (though you are likely to go the wrong way around a rotary at least once if you are a Westerner), but the alcohol issue is a bigger concern.

Do your best to avoid driving through the cities where drinking and driving is most prevalent, never drink and drive yourself, wear your seatbelt, and pay attention while driving, especially at night.

If you’re wondering “is Dublin safe to drive through”, the answer is kind of, but you won’t want to. Driving in Dublin is a nightmare… lots of pedestrians, one-way streets, a serious lack of parking, and lots of lights and busy streets.

Dublin is easily navigatable via walking, biking, or taking the metro. Avoid renting a car in Dublin and instead, opt to see the city via self-guided or fully-guided walking tours!

Other Helpful Ireland Resources

☘️ 19 Perfect Day Trips from Dublin ☘️ 27 Authentic Souvenirs from Ireland to Bring Home ☘️ 9 BEST Rated Cliffs of Moher Tours from Dublin ☘️ 9 BEST Tours from Galway to Cliffs of Moher 2024 ☘️ Guinness Tour Dublin: The BEST 5 Tours in 2024 ☘️ The Ultimate Ireland Packing List: 22 Important Items You’ll Need ☘️ 9 Top-Rated Giant’s Causeway Tours in Ireland ☘️ Is Donegal in Northern or Southern Ireland? Everything You Need to Know ☘️ How to Easily Format your Ireland Address with Examples ☘️ Does it Snow in Ireland: The Ultimate Guide to Winter in Ireland ☘️ Is Dublin in the UK? EU or Northern Ireland? ☘️ Aldi in Northern Ireland: Plans for 2024 ☘️ Jameson Tour in Dublin: 5 BEST Tours in 2024 ☘️ 7 BEST Blarney Castle Tours from Cork & Dublin 2024 ☘️ Dublin Postal Codes & Zip Codes in 2024 (Map & Diagram!)

Dublin is safe for the majority of travelers that visit. Tens of thousands of tourists come to this iconic major city year after year without issue and you shouldn’t be afraid to join them!

Whether it’s your first time visiting Dublin or your 10th, following basic safety precautions is the best way to prevent a problem.

Hopefully, in this post I have thoroughly answered the question of “ is Dublin safe ?” and you can confidently start planning your amazing trip to Ireland.

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Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

Your Ireland Travel Guide

• Ireland Facts
• Things To Do
• Travel Tips
• Is Dublin Safe for Tourists?

With over 9 million visitors per year pouring into Ireland there is no doubt that it has become a popular tourist destination. Many tourists come to see the beautiful scenery, the coastal drives, experience the rich history, or simply to discover their own heritage. 

Many of the visitors to Ireland shores will head for the capital city of Dublin . This historic and amazing city houses treasures such as Trinity College, The Book of Kells and is home to some of the oldest pubs in Ireland.

Dublin is safe and welcoming to visitors but as with most cities, it is wise to take some simple precautions to ensure that you don’t run into any issues. If you are planning a trip to Ireland soon and Dublin is on your lists of places to see then read on for tips to keep you and your family safe during your travels. 

Is Dublin a safe city? 

The answer is generally yes. Ireland has a tradition of being friendly and welcoming to tourists and Dublin does its best to uphold the tradition.

Don’t be surprised if the local Irish folks stop you for a chat or offer to buy you a pint if you happen to be patronizing one of the many local pubs.  

As with most larger cities, there is an element of crime in Dublin but it tends to be of the non-violent variety such as car theft or pickpocketing.

If you are a tourist you may look a bit out of place so it is best not to tempt fate. Try and travel in a group or with one or 2 family members. If it is later on a night then pay for a cab ride or Uber to get you back to the hotel. 

Some parts of the city are riskier than others, especially to the northern areas so check the areas that you are planning to visit to make sure that you do not inadvertently stray into any not so nice parts and limit the amount of cash and valuables that you are carrying with you. 

Is Dublin safe to travel alone? 

This can depend greatly on who you are and where you are. For example, if you are a local Irish person that’s familiar with the areas then you will be relatively safe. If you are a tourist and an obvious one, you may be at greater risk in some parts of the city.

In the more populated areas of the town, you will be safe walking around shopping or going from pub to pub. Using public transportation will also be a pretty safe option for getting to where you want to go.

If you are heading a little further out of the city or to less desirable parts of it then traveling alone may not be the safest bet. 

Stick to the daylight hours if possible or use taxis or Uber to travel in and out of these areas to limit your exposure. Try to blend in and not look too touristy and again consider the amount of cash you need to have on your person and only carry what you need. 

Is Dublin safe for a solo female?

In Irish culture, women are generally free to come and go as they please. There is no stigma attached to a woman going out on a night by herself or even popping in the local pub for a drink alone. 

The culture of Ireland places importance on treating people correctly and being hospitable. Meaning that if a solo woman encountered harassing behavior the chances are that someone would step-in. 

Women are commonly treated as equals or one of the boys even in pubs and bars and should any woman be the recipient of an unwanted behavior or uninvited male attention this is quite commonly regarded as rude or inappropriate by way of traditional Irish values. 

Over the years many newcomers have arrived and made Ireland their home who may not share the same views or have as much respect for women but the local Irish definitely are a chivalrous lot so a woman alone should not fear for her safety.

Some common-sense rules apply the same as they would in any other large city. If traveling home late at night, opt for a taxi rather than walk and avoid any remote or unlit area to reduce any risk. 

Is North Dublin safe?

If you read any number of articles on the internet they will most likely tell you that South Dublin is nice and North Dublin is not so nice. This is in fact quite a general view. The areas are varied and neighborhoods in both regions can vary in terms of pleasantness and safety for visitors.

In plain English, there are good and bad areas in both North and South Dublin. North Dublin does have a bit more of a stigma so if you are concerned about traveling to that part of the city then do a bit of research before you decide to travel.

Many of the North Dublin neighborhoods have a reputation for being a bit rough but that said there are several that have cleaned up over the years. The once much-maligned neighborhood of Finglas, for example, has had a renaissance in recent years and become a desirable place to live. It is now touted as a large suburb with a village feel.

Is Temple Bar Dublin safe?

Temple Bar is a hotspot for Dublin’s locals and tourists in the past few years. This lively area contains some of the best bars, restaurants, live music, and the best restaurants in all of Dublin. It has become somewhat of the cultural capital of the city. 

Situated on the River Liffey south bank this popular area is a few blocks of winding, cobbled streets with boutiques, bars and eateries crammed in. This is also the area that attracts musicians and artsy types with a total of 3 theaters in the area it is a great place to see a show.

By day you can stroll around and enjoy the markets, buskers, and museums in the area. There is a the National Photography Museum and the Film Institute that people may visit. Or just sit at one of the many cafes and enjoy a drink and a snack while watching the world go by.

After dark Temple Bar becomes Dublin’s main party area with people coming out to enjoy the bars and music on offer. In the early evening, many families with children can be seen walking about the area. 

Due to all this activity and a large number of people in evidence, no matter what time of the day or night it may be, this serves to keep the Temple Bar area one of the safest in the city.

Due to the sheer volume of folks and the popularity of the area, there is usually a visible police presence there which serves to keep Temple Bar even safer still. 

Are there any Area’s to avoid?

While it may not be necessary to avoid there are some areas where it may be prudent to not go to them unless you absolutely have to.

Some areas of Dublin that are in transition or have been experiencing some gentrification over the past few years.

The best thing to do if you are traveling alone or feel unsafe is to ask around once you are in Dublin and see if there are areas you should avoid.

As with most large European cities, it is wise to use your own judgment and common sense when visiting different areas and neighborhoods, especially if you are to be out after dark.

There is always increased safety in numbers so traveling in small groups where possible is always advisable. 

As mentioned earlier, the vast majority of crime in Dublin is non-violent but keep a sharp lookout for pick-pockets especially if you are in a busy area or attending large events filled with crowds such as concerts or similar events.

Many tourists have returned home to find that they are minus cash or credit cards so place wallets carefully and be extra vigilant. 

Should you be going to any parts of the city that you are not familiar with try and read up on the location first or ask your hotel’s concierge or reception staff to provide you with some information and guidance before setting out to get a feel for the location you are visiting. 

The basic safety rules and common sense apply when traveling around, but all in all, Dublin is a very safe city for tourists to spend time in. 

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Before you travel.

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

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• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

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Is Dublin Safe? What You Need To Know (2024)

Categories Travel Guides

Is Dublin safe? This question has been on the minds of many travelers, considering the recent global events and concerns about safety in major cities. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of the current safety situation in the vibrant and iconic capital of Ireland.

Dublin, Ireland’s dynamic capital, is a welcoming and exciting destination thanks to its fascinating history, unique culture, and friendly locals. This is a city that has something for everyone, from its historic buildings like Trinity College and Dublin Castle to its lively pubs and picturesque streets.

Nonetheless, Dublin has its fair share of safety concerns that locals and tourists alike should be aware of.

In this guide, we’ll learn more about the issue of safety in Dublin, and look into some tips for a risk-free trip to this beautiful metropolis.

Things you'll find in this article

Is Dublin Safe?

Public transportation, pickpockets, night safety, safe neighborhoods, dublin city center, blanchardstown, pearse street, west dublin, safety tips.

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Yes! Despite its reputation as the least safe area in Ireland, Dublin is nevertheless a relatively safe location to visit. Plus, Ireland consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world.

The vast majority of locals are warm and welcoming, eager to help visitors feel at home during their stay. Most people want to lend a hand when they see that it is needed.

You shouldn’t be concerned about traveling to the city. Still, it’s necessary to take measures to protect your safety as you embark on any trip.

Safety Concerns In Dublin

Road congestion is a common problem in Dublin because of the city’s size and population. There are more vehicles on the roads during rush hour, and impatience can lead to accidents. Please be cautious when walking, driving, or bicycling near roads, and always look both ways before crossing.

Taxi fraud is an issue in some large cities, even Dublin, so be sure to only get into a legitimate cab. Taxi drivers are required to prominently display their licenses and identification cards, and their vehicles are easily distinguished by their distinctive yellow roof plates.

Pickpockets in Dublin target American visitors more than any other nationality. Keep your belongings to a minimum and your senses on high when you’re out and about in the busier parts of town.

Visitors, whether those going to sights alone or in large groups, should be on high alert. The areas, notably in the direction of Grafton Street, Connolly Railway Station, and Heuston Station, are home to a disproportionate number of crooks.

Dublin has not experienced significant terrorist incidents in recent years. The city has a generally low threat level when it comes to terrorism, and the Irish government has implemented robust security measures to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.

However, it is always advisable to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and adhere to any local guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Dublin.

Safety for Solo/Female Travelers

Dublin is a great place to test the waters of solo travel. There is a lot to do in this exciting city, and the locals are always prepared to lend a hand if you run into trouble.

When exploring a new area at night, especially if you’re traveling solo, it’s important to take extra precautions. For your protection, stick to well-lit locations.

If you’re a woman traveling alone, you’ll be happy to know that Ireland ranks first on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index as one of the safest nations in the world.

As long as you exercise the same level of caution abroad as you would at home, visiting Ireland is a risk-free experience for solo female travelers.

Don’t go wandering about at night in sketchy neighborhoods, and never, ever accept food or drink from strangers. If a woman is traveling alone, she should never reveal her accommodations to an unknown person.

Dublin is rather safe after dark, but it’s always important to remain cautious.

The evening hours are prime time for a night out on the town. Still, there are infrequent but real incidents of physical violence that might occur when people have been drinking heavily and their tempers flare. You should avoid getting into any form of altercation at all costs.

If something were to happen to you, walking in well-lit areas where people might see you would be your best bet. Staying in groups is also safer than walking alone at night. More people means more protection.

Some parts of Dublin are indeed a lot safer than others. If you want to know where to stay to guarantee a peaceful and secure holiday, here are some of the safest areas in Dublin.

In and around Dublin’s downtown area, you may pick from a wide variety of high-quality hotels and other lodging options. The area is also close to the city’s major points of interest such as Trinity College , Temple Bar and St. Stephen’s Green. You also won’t have to worry about getting lost on a deserted street because of the constant foot traffic in these locations.

Another fantastic Dublin neighborhood is Portobello. This neighborhood is bustling and welcoming, and it’s only a ten-minute stroll from the heart of town. You shouldn’t feel unsafe while visiting here because of its reputation for visitor safety.

Smithfield is another excellent neighborhood in Dublin. Thanks to extensive revitalization in recent years, Smithfield is now home to more reasonably priced lodging options and a thriving café scene, all within easy walking distance from the city center.

Places to Avoid

When compared to other major cities, Dublin is a safe destination. Some places, however, have much greater crime rates than others due to factors including more drug-related violence, alcohol-fueled violence, and other minor offenses.

Ballymun boasts several beautiful landmarks. However, it falls a little short because of its high crime rates. Gangs congregate there and regularly commit vandalism. If you are a tourist who values their safety, you might want to steer clear of Ballymun.

The Blanchardstown shopping district is a must-visit. However, the crime rate is quite high there. Between 2003 and 2019, police in this area dealt with 95,371 incidents, as reported by the Central Statistics Office.

Many Dubliners consider Tallaght to be among the city’s most dangerous neighborhoods. One hundred thousand crimes were reported in Tallaght between 2003 and 2019. Because of this, you should probably refrain from doing it or do it with extreme caution.

The crime rate is especially high on Pearse Street. In addition to hijacking, extortion, and robbery, they also have the highest rates of fraud, attempted murder, and public order offenses in the country.

Finglas, Clondalkin, Lucan, and Blanchardstown make up Dublin West, another area of the city with a high crime rate. This has resulted in certain route adjustments for city buses that serve this area.

1. Do not venture out at night or in deserted areas. When going anywhere, you should always go in pairs. The city center is usually patrolled by Garda, so you can go to them if you feel unsafe.

If there is no Garda in sight, you can always ask for assistance in a nearby store. Dial either 999 or 122 to reach the emergency services in an urgent situation.

2. Never let your guard down.

Keep your wits about you, especially when at night. It’s a little too simple to fall under the spell of a city like Dublin. With only a few truly distinctive attractions, tourists are best served by sticking to the well-trodden paths. Pickpockets prey on tourists, especially those in popular areas.

3. When on public transportation or sitting down at a café or restaurant, it is especially important to keep all of your belongings close at hand and your valuables safe. Pickpockets prey on tourists in every major city.

Be cautious, use good judgment, and avoid getting drunk whenever possible in the city.

4. Get familiar with Dublin’s important emergency numbers.

In Dublin, help is never far away if you are a victim of a crime or a witness. You’ll find that many stores have their security personnel, and the police are always close by if you need them. Keep your embassy’s contact information handy in case of need when abroad.

● Ambulance and Fire Brigade: 112 or 999 ● Tourist Assistance Service: 1890-365-700 ● Samaritan: 353-116-123 ● Store Street Garda Station: 00 353 (1) 661 0562 ● Garda: 00 353 (1) 666 9000

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 60 countries for the past 12 years. I also lived in 4 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia, Africa and now in Europe. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

Is Dublin safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide

Dublin is a very large city on Ireland's East Coast, situated right by the mouth of the River Liffey. The city was established by the Vikings back in 841 AD but quickly expanded to become the second biggest city in the entire British Empire by the 17th century. It has a fantastic history with plenty of cultural traditions and landmarks that make it a popular place for sightseeing, like Dublin Castle and fabulous brew and food festivals.

Both new and inexperienced travelers like to vacation in Dublin, and it is a great place for families as well. In a year the city can see up to 6 million tourists with peak tourism occurring between June and early September. This is a good time to travel because the days are longer, so you can expect increased crowds during most of the summer. On top of that, over 1.2 million people live in metro Dublin.

Safety should be your priority when visiting a new place, so there is some research that you should do before visiting Dublin. This includes protecting your belongings. To keep your valuables secure when seeing sights like the Irish Whiskey Museum or Kilmainham Gaol , leave them in a suitcase facility in Dublin . Bounce has locations all over the city and each one is carefully vetted to make sure it reaches our standards of quality.

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Is Dublin safe to visit right now?

If you're traveling for the first time, reading up on Dublin safety is a good place to start. This is a safe city with plenty to do and currently, it does not have any active travel advisories. Take normal precautions when traveling here but since Ireland has a Global Peace Index rating of 8 you can definitely feel safe in the country. Before you take off to Ireland, check the travel restrictions put in place by your government since they may change over time.

The overall risk of visiting Ireland, and more specifically Dublin, is very low. That doesn't mean that there isn't crime here, and as a tourist, you'll have to look out for pickpockets, but scams, muggings and natural disasters are not threats here. This is an informative safety guide, but to be the best prepared, research a few resources, whether a seasoned traveler or not.

Top petty crimes and scams in Dublin affecting tourists

The most important step to avoiding crime is being aware of it. Here are some things to look out for as a tourist in Dublin.

Transportation risk

Dublin is a pretty big city with lots of people, and that means that roads can sometimes get busy. Rush hour brings an even greater number of cars to the streets, and when people get impatient it can sometimes cause accidents. We urge you to be watchful of your surroundings when driving or cycling near roads and to check both ways before crossing the street.

Some major cities experience taxi fraud and you should always make sure that you're getting into a licensed vehicle. Taxi drivers should have a license and ID on display and will always be driving an easily identifiable car with a yellow plated roof.

Petty theft

It seems like pickpockets are in every other major city, not just Dublin, so you should protect yourself from them no matter where you go. They most often frequent the crowded areas around the Dublin City Centre, like Grafton Street , as well as train stations and tourist attractions, like Temple Bar.

The best way to protect your valuables at home, but items that you need to carry on you, like smartphones, wallets and passports, will need to be secured in a secure pocket of your bag or in a money belt where you can see them at all times.

Is Dublin safe to visit alone

So how safe is Dublin if you want to travel but have no one to go with? Dublin, Ireland is a very safe city even for solo travelers and can be a good introduction to traveling alone. This vibrant city has friendly locals that are willing to help you if needed, plus there is so much to do here. Any time you're visiting somewhere new alone you'll need to be a bit more careful when walking around, especially in the evening. Stick to well lit areas for extra safety.

Good news for all of you solo female travelers, Ireland is one of the safest countries and is in 1st place on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index . This makes Ireland safe for women to explore on their own and as long as you take the same precautions that you would at home, you'll have a safe trip.

Safest neighborhoods in Dublin

You'll have plenty of things to add to your travel itinerary when visiting the Irish capital city, here are a couple of places that are great to visit.

Smithfield is safe, exciting, and close to the City Centre of Dublin. It's the spot to go to for bistros and breweries as well as seasonal food markets.

Dublin City Centre

With close proximity to Grafton Street, Temple Bar, St Stephen's Green and Trinity College, you'll definitely be spending a lot of your time in Dublin City Centre.

Portobello is a safe spot for tourists and has low crime rates. You'll enjoy the Grand Canal and shopping along South Richmond Street.

Is Dublin public transportation safe?

The public transport system in Dublin is safe, efficient and convenient. The only thing to look out for while using Dublin's public transportation is pickpocketing, especially around the Connolly Railway station or any other big train station.

Keep a hand on your bags at all times and you'll be fine. Be more aware of things around you at night and consider taking a taxi if it is very late. That being said, if you display respectful behavior, people will probably do the same, and most rides on public transit will be uneventful.

Important emergency numbers in Dublin

If you are ever in need of help while in Dublin, assistance will never be far away. You'll see that many shops have their own security guards, and the local police force is always around to help, too. When traveling, having your embassy number at hand is good practice.

• Irish Police Force, Fire Brigade, Ambulance: 112 or 999
• Tourist Assistance Service: 1890-365-700
• Samaritan: 353-116-123
• Store Street Garda Station: 00 353 (1) 661 0562
• Pearse Street Garda: 00 353 (1) 666 9000

Learning about safety in Dublin

Friendly citizens, great landmarks, and an undeniable charm make Dublin one of the best European capitals. This lovely city does not experience a lot of crime, making Dublin safe for tourists and an attractive vacation destination for everyone.

Now that you know how to be safe in Dublin you're about ready to take off and see the attractions and landmarks for yourself. For information on Dublin's charming neighborhoods, read Where to Stay in Dublin: The Ultimate Guide . Be at ease with the transportation system after you learn How to Get Around Dublin .

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Luckily, Ireland isn't a big country. Just about anywhere on the island of Ireland, including Northern Ireland, is reachable in just a few hours from Dublin. Whether you choose to travel by car, long-distance bus, or train, you'll be able to access some truly incredible locations on weekend breaks from Dublin.

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Is Ireland Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Ireland : Safety by City

Ireland is an island located in north-western Europe which has been politically divided in 1920 into two parts: Ireland (that takes up the majority of the island) and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom.

Though it was a relatively poor country during the 20th century, Ireland, along with the United Kingdom, joined the European Community in 1973, experiencing a sudden economic boost (known as “the Celtic Tiger”) that lead to Ireland becoming one of the richest countries in Europe.

However, the global banking crisis hit Ireland as well which caused high levels of unemployment consequently, which lasted until Ireland gradually started getting back on its feet during the past couple of years.

Ireland is mostly known for its many natural wonders.

There is plenty to see in this country: from its coastline to gorgeous and well-known lakes and green landscapes to lose yourself in, to wild mountains, this country offers its visitors an abundance of adventure and broad scope of activities to choose from.

• Warnings & Dangers in Ireland

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Ireland is overall, very safe and you will probably encounter no problems when traveling there. Still, do not let your guard down and be vigilant at all times.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Transportation is very safe and reliable in Ireland. Still, take precautionary measures when driving in rural areas, because road safety is low there, especially in Louth county, as this city has the highest level of road offenses.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Since Ireland is a popular tourist destination, it is expected that pickpockets operate in larger cities. Petty theft is the most common form of crime in Ireland, but following basic precaution rules, should take care of this issue.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

There are almost no threats of natural disasters in Ireland, apart from occasional flooding during spring.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Although there are areas that should be avoided at night, especially around streets with pubs and bars, Ireland is relatively safe when it comes to mugging or kidnapping, though precaution is still advised. Be wary of overly friendly people willing to give you directions, since they may lead you into a secluded area and steal from you.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Even though there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Ireland's recent history, there is a heightened threat for residents of north-western Europe, so extreme precaution is recommended.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

There is no risk of getting scammed in Ireland, but still be careful when receiving change, check it twice, negotiate everything in advance and be wary of people offering you unwanted help, directions, etc.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Even though Ireland is pretty safe for women traveling solo, sexually motivated assaults are on the rise in Dublin and it is advised that unaccompanied women take extra precaution measures, especially after dark.

• So... How Safe Is Ireland Really?

Ireland is a very safe country to visit.

Compared to other European countries, crime is relatively low and the crime that does happen is mostly fueled by alcohol, so you should avoid roaming along Ireland’s streets late at night.

If it’s completely necessary, better take a taxi to drive you home in order to avoid intoxicated people willing to start a fight.

Also, be careful when you’re asking for directions.

If you stumble into an overly friendly passenger who volunteers to show you directions, you might get lead into a secluded street and get mugged, sometimes with a weapon.

Pickpockets also operate, like in any tourist destination, but they usually rally in larger cities, and around crowded places such as railway and train stations or popular tourist landmarks.

Be careful with your belongings when in larger cities, keep your valuables in a safe place in your accommodation and never leave anything of value in plain sight.

Roads in Ireland are mainly well maintained, so much so that they earned Ireland a reputation of a country with some of the safest roads in Europe.

However, this doesn’t apply to rural areas, whose roads are riddled with potholes, many of which can go unfixed for weeks.

Many roads in the country are also narrow and winding, and extreme caution is advised when driving along Ireland’s countryside.

• How Does Ireland Compare?
• Useful Information

Many countries do need a visa in order to enter Ireland. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your intended date of departure from Ireland. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

The official currency in Ireland is the euro. Ireland is pretty expensive as the rest of north-western Europe, so plan on spending around 150 euro per day, including accommodation.

Ireland has a temperate maritime climate, thanks to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the presence of the Gulf Stream; otherwise, it would have the same extreme temperatures as other countries at that latitude. Ireland receives a lot of precipitation yearly, which makes it so popularly green all over. Winter in Ireland is characterized by clouds and rain with the occasional sunny spell.

Dublin Airport is an international airport serving Dublin and the busiest and biggest airport in Ireland. It is located 10 km north of Dublin in Collinstown, Fingal.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Ireland, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Ireland Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Ireland - Safety by City

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30 Reviews on Ireland

This country should feature on your bucket list. several times..

Ireland is a very safe, modern & vibrant country. There’s far more to it than Dublin. Head south. See Cork & Kerry. Go west, see Galway. People are friendly. Quality Police service too. Medical services are far cheaper than U.S. and easily as good (if not better). Highly recommend, I would move there if I could get a visa.

Enjoy being helped out

Do not be over suspicious of people volunteering to help you. The Irish are friendly and like to show off their knowledge so will often go to your aid, even in Dublin, if they see you reading a map or looking lost. Use your judgement. Central Dublin can be dodgy but most of the rest of the country is very safe.

Very safe country. Make sure you spend some time in Galway, Clare, Kerry and Cork. The small gems of Ireland are the best spots around Ireland, with friendly people and a welcoming atmosphere. Hope Ireland stays this way

Easy to get around and see lots.

Stayed in Dublin near RED Cow Luas stop . Easy to go anywhere in Dublin on the Luas ( electric tram line ) and buses all over Ireland from RED Cow . Bought a 7 day unlimited ride pass that I used on Luas , city buses and DART train that runs along Dublin coast on Irish sea. Enjoyed my 10 day trip and would love to go back. Experienced solo traveller.

Amazing Isle. Recommend heading west to Connemara. Amazing views 🌅

Ireland is an amazing country and everyone should experience the treasures this isle contains. Dublin is the most popular being the capital. However, if your looking to encounter the real Irish experience I recommend going west to Galway ☘️ You cannot miss medieval city walls of Galway with its Spanish Arch or huge and impressive Cathedral. Nearby Galway you then can explore Connemara National Park, which boasts the beautiful mountains, vast marshes, forests and heaths. The only crime here is how good the Guinness tastes!! 🇮🇪🇨🇦

A special place

Wonderful country… Very friendly people who genuinely come across as very happy. This is a country which has gone from extremely religious to very progressive. Dublin is nice but it is a city, the real Ireland is places like West Cork by the sea, or Kerry, Galway, Donegal etc. – this is the true Irish experience. I really like it in Ireland – I would love to come back.

Mayo to Donegal on the west coast is absolutely beautiful. Less advertised than Cork and Kerry but also less commercialized.

Disgraceful

This article is obviously written by someone who has never been to Ireland. I’m both offended and shocked at what is described here. Of the many inaccuracies detailed the idea that our friendliness is taken as a set up for a mugging is ridiculous and untrue, is it possible sure as it would be anywhere you come across a bad person, is it probable ? No, I’ve never even heard of it happening here. Most notably your assumption that basically all crime is alcohol fuelled is a cultural stereotype and nothing more. It comes off as ignorant and based off an outdated notion of drinking fighting Irish people. We are a nation of scholars and poets, of world class golfers and exceptionally friendly people. Do not be afraid of that which makes our nation great. Visiting Ireland you are very unlikely to encounter any crime, check newspaper articles online for your destination and you’ll get a clear picture of that area. There are areas where crime does occur, usually in larger cities but online news will inform you and you can be informed about any trouble spots. Whoever wrote the article has absolutely no idea about Ireland take it from me, 38 year old Irish born and resident.

Home sweet home

As I’m reading I’m thinking who are you….??? The Irish are admired world wide for their friendly energy hard work ethics and the welcoming smiles. The magic is in our moral and ethical value of life ,and this is what draws visitors to our shore. They always leave feeling they have been home and leave with a heartful of Irish Soul…. No one fault its beauty and the warmth of its entirety.

Travelled Ireland as a solo female

Sharon, I travelled to your Beautiful country (and a country of my ancestry) as a single female traveler in my 30’s. It was my first time traveling alone and I spent 10 days driving my little rental car (on the opposite side of the road for me) from Shannon up through Ennis and Galway, went to Inishmore Island, back on mainland, a bit more north, I just let the smaller roads take me where they may, across toward Dublin, then down the coast to Waterford, Cork and ended around that area taking the ferry across. I encountered many, many things on that trip and not one of them was negative! Beautiful scenery, helpful, friendly people, and I never felt unsafe! I fell in love with Ireland on that trip and tell every person I encounter that it’s absolutely amazing and a must experience destination! I now have a family and hope to bring my husband and 2 daughters as soon as Covid and health safety allows. This article does not paint an Irish picture, just a “travel anywhere for dummies” picture. ❤

Not Perfect

I was born in Ireland and lived there until I was 35 years old. I take objection to Sharon’s response. True, Ireland is a beautiful country, safe, friendly but I would like add that one needs to be careful around the pubs after closing especially in the center of Galway. Fights do break out and the A&E can get a bit over crowded at the weekends after the pub closing. It is a great country but not a perfect country.

Proud to live in this beautiful place....

Thank you for writing that piece Sharon. As we say in Ireland you hit the nail on the head…in that what you say is true. Ireland is a magical place…people are so genuinely friendly and yes we will offer assistance with a smile if you ask for help or if we see you need help. The overdrinking tale also annoys me. I am a non drinker andnot the only one. We have amazing pubs with atmosphere..history and music sessions and food but we are not a nation of alcoholics. Visit our country and put East Cork on you itenerary. Cork city is gorgeous and so much to visit and see in East Cork.

Yeah like sexual assualts in Dublin?.? I haven’t seen one in my whole life the real safety index is 97 not 83.

What a load of rubbish, terrorism in Ireland? We are probably the least likely country in the world to experience terrorism.

I’m tipp man proud of irl what ,load bollks

As a 40 year old Paddy folks tbqh unless you are a member of either the Kinahan or Hutch family you have feck all to worry about.

Irish people are overly friendly by nature so please do not be wary!

Do not believe what you read about Ireland in this article. It is easiest one of the safest countries in the world. There is little to zero chance of terrorism in Ireland and the idea that there is a medium risk of kidnapping is laughable! There is NO kidnapping in Ireland!!

DO NOT Be wary of overly friendly people willing to give you direction – Irish people LOVE helping tourists out and LOVE talking so I’d be more worried if no one offered to help you! Random strangers will most definitely strike up a conversation. We are very proud of our country and a friendly nation so it is completely normal for people to be overly friendly and genuine.

Obviously there is the usual petty crime so as with any travel, keep your wits about you and know where you’re going but take this review with a pinch of salt, it is a very safe country.

Some truth in the above article – and some nonsense too. The most salient point is the inherent danger of rural driving. Yes the Irish are very friendly, yes the ‘friendly directions could get you mugged’ is nonsense. But the standard of driving is atrocious and you need to be very cautious. You haven’t lived till you see how the Irish negotiate and indicate at a roundabout. Clueless. I speak from personal experience – having lived here for 5 years – and the comparative experience of driving all over the world – from the US, across Europe, the Middle East and on to the Far East. The last time I heard reference to it on the news something like 125,000 people were driving the roads of Ireland who shouldn’t be – and that’s a lot in a country of 4 million people. That’s dodgy cars, people who failed their test and are uninsured or banned following other motoring offences. And alcohol. They care not a jot and readily get back on the roads. There are clowns to the left of you – clowns to the right and the Irish state lacks the resources and the police the manpower to do anything about it! And the tame courts do precious little. You can disagree all you like – but it’s true. Be afraid!

This is complete nonsense! Ireland has the second lowest traffic accident death rate in Europe at 29 per million, beaten only by the UK at 28 per million.

Dodgy cars? What country did you think you were in because it doesn’t sound like the Ireland I live in… We have a National Car Test has been operating since 2000, ‘the NCT is a compulsory vehicle inspection programme in Ireland. The primary aim of this programme which falls under the EU Directive 2014/45, is to improve road safety…’ also ‘The National Car Test is a mandatory check to make sure that vehicles are safe to be on Ireland’s roads. Cars which are less than 3 years old do not require a test. Cars which are between 4 and 9 years old are required to be tested every two years. Cars which are between 10 and 29 years old are required to be tested every year.’

Silly billy

Your Def from a country not too far from us who has a superiority complex. It just leaks out of you. We have the strictest drink driving limits in the world and its an immediate 3 month ban if your caught. The standard of driving could be better, but that’s true everywhere.

Safe except Louth

Very good country with lots to do and very diverse. Drogheda is very dangerous, however, being as bad as areas like Macaresh in my opinion. Felt very unsafe as a woman in broad daylight! I personally feel Cork is the safest with effectively no crime. Dublin city bad for crime and Galway near to none

Ignore this scaremongering

There have been several times where I have been helping a lost tourist and said, “You know what it’s on my way, sure I’ll walk with you and make sure you get there” and according to this ridiculous article that means they should be scared I want to take them to an alley and rob them, possibly with a weapon?! The person that wrote this clearly has never been to Ireland, this is apparent. Anybody considering going to Ireland definitely do not pay attention to this scaremongering. You will meet the warmest, friendliest and most helpful people and have a wonderful experience. Enjoy!

Travel in Ireland

I lived in Ireland in the mid 1990s returning nearly every year until recently. Having traveled to many other parts of the world, including living in two other countries, I can say that there is no other place I would rather be than Ireland. It is the about as safe a place for travelers, especially women and young people, that I can imagine. That includes the cities, which are far safer than American cities (there are practically no guns). The people are naturally very friendly and helpful, especially if they see someone in trouble. The Garda Síochána (the National police service) is highly professional and, in my opinion, is better than most American police. Violent crime is very rare. About the worst thing that I can imagine happening to a traveler there is that you might get pickpocketed or something like that. I cannot wait until the pandemic is over so I can visit again.

Nothings wrong with it so go if you feel lucky

Its very safe no country is perfect though so i wouldn’t be surprised if i saw someone stealing a box of cheerios. Everyone i’ve ever met was nice there and its extremely big and beautiful so Ireland you’re alright in my book. Plus all forms of corporal punishment are illegal there so hey maybe there will be nicer kids in the future there. Who knows?

I have lived in Ireland all my life (40 years old). Growing up we never locked the door to our house. Was always open and no fear of being robbed. When i was younger after going to a nightclub, i would walk home 30 minutes at 3am in the dark on my own and come home to the door unlocked, was always completely safe and would never have considered a risk! I work in the ‘police force’ here. Due to huge levels of immigration to Ireland from poorer countries crime levels are rising. a lot more petty theft and some sexual assaults on females especially in Dublin. I do lock my door now and wouldn’t recommend a female to walk alone late at night However still an extremely safe country.

Im Paranoid so Help Me Out

never been want to go stuff on line scares me where the best places to go and things to see

A very acceptable school trip still things can happen in any country

Been to dublin on a school trip. It was quite a trip. Plus i didn’t experience any crime. I wouldn’t leave crime out in any country though. Its overall pretty safe depending on your experiences and how you handle certain situations. Still its worth going to learn about it or even taking a tour of the colleges. I’m just saying what i’ve been through. Theres no reason to avoid it unless you want to.

I lived in Ireland in the early 80’s. my parents were from there and it was their second attempt at moving back, with 3 narrowback children in tow. I loved living there and i would defend Ireland against any un just descriptions of Her.I was lucky to be a teenager when i got there and left at age 20 due to economic issues that plagued Ireland in the 1980’s.I hitchhiked all over the place and never had an issue ! though i did live in west Kerry ! to those not in the know its very Rural ! I loved it then and now ! Dublin i have only been to 1x and its a city like any other ( better due to irish history imo) . just be be aware dont talk politics or stereotypes and DONT say your IRISH ! even i dont do that and i’m a dual citizen and lived/went to school there!

The safest country in the world

bro I have to tell this to you this is the best place to visit it’s so safe like its beautiful if anyone questions this I am questioning your sanity as a person who lives in Wexford near the hook lighthouse

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Travel Advisory August 28, 2024

Ireland - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Ireland.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Ireland.

If you decide to travel to Ireland:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  X/Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Ireland.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for the duration of your stay in Ireland

Must have at least one page

No visa required. U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days.

10,000 Euros or equivalent

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Dublin 42 Elgin Rd Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Ireland Telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777 Emergency after-hours telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Ireland for information on U.S.-Ireland relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Embassy of Ireland’ s website for the most current visa information.

• You must have a valid passport to enter Ireland. U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days.
• There is no minimum passport validity requirement for U.S. citizens entering Ireland. We recommend you have a passport that is valid for the duration of your stay, evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay in Ireland, and a return airline ticket.
• An increased number of U.S. citizens have been refused entry to Ireland or granted a limited stay because they failed to sufficiently demonstrate their travel intent to Irish immigration officials at the port of entry . You may be asked to provide evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay in Ireland regardless of your purpose of travel. For any travel other than tourism, please ensure you obtain the appropriate documentation prior to travel. You can find more information at the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service website or by contacting your nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate in the United States .

We cannot intervene on your behalf when applying for a visa or residency permit, nor can we assist if you are denied entry into Ireland.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.

• Ireland is not a full member of the Schengen Area, which means that if you travel to Ireland from the Schengen Area, you are required to show your passport.
• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country.
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Ireland or for foreign residents of Ireland.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism : Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Crime : Although Ireland has a low rate of violent crime, you should always follow common sense personal security practices and maintain awareness of your surroundings when traveling.

• Rates of theft and petty crime have risen in recent years, and thieves often target tourists. In rare cases, these crimes involve physical assault or violence, more commonly in Dublin city center and in popular tourist areas.
• Rental cars are frequently targeted. They are easily identifiable by the rental company stickers on the rear window of the vehicle. If possible, remove these stickers and always lock your car when leaving it unattended. Do not leave valuables unattended in vehicles. When visiting city center areas, park your car in a secure car park and retain the parking ticket on your person.
• Keep car doors locked while driving. Don’t leave luggage or valuables visible inside a parked car and don’t leave luggage on a roof rack. When picking up and dropping off your rental car, do not leave the keys in the ignition while loading or unloading luggage.
• When using ATMs, protect your PIN at all times and look closely at ATMs for evidence of tampering before use. Criminals may use small electronic devices attached to the outside of ATMs called “skimmers” to steal the ATM or credit card data.
• In busy areas, thieves use distraction techniques at ATMs, such as waiting until the PIN has been entered and then pointing to money on the ground or asking for loose change. While the ATM user is distracted, another person will quickly withdraw cash and leave. If you are distracted in any way, cancel the transaction immediately.
• When using credit cards to pay at restaurants, a portable card reader should be brought to your table. Restaurant staff should not take your card elsewhere to process a charge.

International Financial Scams : See the Department of State and FBI pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:

• Report crimes to the local police at 999 or 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(353) (1) 668-8777.
• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.
• Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys .
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide information on victims compensation programs in Ireland:
• The Irish Tourist Assistance Service (ITAS) is a free nationwide service offering support and assistance to tourists who are victimized while visiting Ireland. If you are a tourist victim of crime, report the incident to the nearest Garda (Irish police) station, and they will help you contact ITAS.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism : The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our webpage on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website .

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Currency in Ireland:  The currency used in Ireland is the Euro. U.S. dollars are not legal tender in Ireland and are not an accepted form of payment. There are limited locations to exchange U.S. dollars when in Ireland, should you travel with cash.  Payment by credit card and Apple pay is widely accepted throughout Ireland. However, it is important to note that not all U.S credit cards are universally accepted. Most Irish banks will not accept U.S. $100 bills. Many Irish financial institutions no longer accept or cash traveler’s checks. ATMs are widely available, but some, particularly in rural areas, may not accept debit cards from U.S. banks.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQIA+ Travelers : There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQIA+ events in Ireland.

See our LGBTQIA+ Travel Information page and section 6 of the Department of State’s Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Ireland prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. However, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation different from what is offered in the United States.

• Government Buildings : Irish law requires access to government buildings for persons with disabilities, and this requirement is enforced. Under Irish law, public service providers should ensure the service is accessible to those with mobility, sensory, and/or cognitive impairments.
• Parking : On-street parking, public building parking lots, and internal parking lots always have a certain number of disabled spaces available. A permit is required to use these spaces, and information on applying for the permit can be found on the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland website . Local authorities and commercial premises, such as shopping outlets, have no legal obligation to provide external disabled parking facilities for their customers.
• Buses and Trains : The majority of buses and trains in the main city areas of Ireland are now equipped for those with limited mobility, sight, or hearing disabilities, although some train stations and pathways may not be as easily accessible.
• Mainline and Suburban Trains : Portable ramps permit boarding from platforms to the carriages. These ramps are available at all terminal points and major junctions and stations that have staff on duty. They are also available on some trains. Travelers are advised to contact Irish Rail in advance to ensure such facilities are available. The website for Dublin Bus provides information on its travel assistance scheme. Regional and intercity bus services are provided by Bus Eireann
• Private Businesses : Accessibility in private businesses – such as hotels, bed and breakfasts, shops, and restaurants – varies widely. Travelers should inquire about accessibility issues with businesses before making reservations.
• Disability Allowance : People who live in Ireland and meet the medical conditions for a disability allowance may apply for free travel passes; there is also a blind/invalidity pension from the Irish Department of Social Protection for those who qualify.

Students : See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

As of March 6, 2022, the Government of Ireland removed all COVID-19 related travel restrictions to enter Ireland. Non-Irish citizens no longer need to complete a passenger locator form or provide proof of vaccination, or a COVID-19 test.

Patients who do not receive benefits from Ireland’s Department of Social Protection are expected to pay all costs up-front at the time of treatment and apply for reimbursement from their insurance provider later.

• Modern medical facilities and highly skilled medical practitioners are available in Ireland.
• Expect long waits for access to medical specialists and admissions to hospitals for non-life-threatening medical conditions. It is not unusual for emergency room services to be very busy or for post-treatment admissions to include a long wait (sometimes overnight) on a gurney in a hallway.
• We advise you carry your medical history, along with a detailed list of any medication you currently take (including dosage and brand name) in your wallet or purse and luggage.
• Most types of over-the-counter medications are available, but many U.S. brands are not. Some medications available over the counter in the United States may require a prescription in Ireland.
• Irish pharmacists may not be able to dispense medication prescribed by U.S. physicians and may direct you to obtain a prescription from an Irish doctor.
• A list of Irish general practitioners in each area of Ireland may be obtained from the website of the Irish College of General Practitioners .
• Ambulance services are widely available.

For emergency services in Ireland dial 112 or 999.

The Department of State does not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Government of Ireland to ensure the medication is legal in Ireland.

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Pharmaceuticals :

• Visitors to Ireland may bring up to 3 months’ supply of prescription medicines with them for their own personal use. We recommend that travelers bring the prescription medicines in their original packaging, with their name clearly displayed. This should be accompanied by their prescription or a copy of it, and/or a letter from their doctor and/or dispensing pharmacist outlining their condition and stating that the medicines are for their own personal use. This information should be inside the package in which the medication is being transported, as a means of proving the legitimacy of consignment for importation to Ireland. It should be noted that the Irish Customs Authority has the final say in all such matters.
• Schengen residents are required to have an Article 75 Schengen Certificate for prescribed narcotics and/or psychotropic substances on entry into Ireland if travelling from a Schengen area country.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Water Quality

Tap water quality is potable and contains fluoride

Air Quality

Air quality is good. Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates

General Health

Colds and other upper respiratory infections are common, but no more so than in comparable climates of the U.S. However, due to the damp climate, common cold symptoms may last longer than expected and mold can be an issue in buildings.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Cars drive on the left side of the road in Ireland . If you do not have experience driving on the left, you should be especially cautious as tourists driving on the incorrect side of the road are the cause of serious accidents each year.
• Road conditions are generally good, but once you exit the main highways, roads are likely to be narrow, uneven, and winding . Roads are more dangerous during the summer and on holiday weekends. Drivers should be attentive to cyclists and pedestrians, particularly in urban areas.
• Most intersections in Ireland use circular “roundabouts” instead of traffic lights, and it is important that drivers pay close attention to signs and yield the right of way to those already in the roundabout.
• Most rental cars in Ireland have manual transmissions ; it can be difficult to find automatic transmission rental cars.

Traffic Laws : Police periodically set up roadblocks to check for drunk drivers. Penalties for driving under the influence can be severe .

• At stoplights, turning on a red light is illegal ; you must wait for either a full green (any direction turn permitted) or directional green light (which could be straight, left, or right) before proceeding with caution.
• You may use your existing U.S. driver’s license in Ireland for a temporary stay, up to one year . Some insurance and car rental companies may request an International Driving Permit in addition to your existing driver’s license. To apply for an International Driving Permit, please contact the American Automobile Association . You are required to apply for an Irish driver’s license if you become a resident of Ireland.
• Travelers planning to drive to Northern Ireland are subject to UK traffic laws while in Northern Ireland . Traffic signs may be different than in the Republic of Ireland. Consult the United Kingdom Country Information page for more information on traffic laws in Northern Ireland.

Public Transportation :

• Intercity bus and train services are generally good. Most large towns and cities are connected by rail or bus. Train and bus services are more limited in rural areas between small towns.
• City bus services are generally adequate, although many buses are crowded, frequently run late, and lines do not necessarily link easily. Pay close attention to bus stop locations in both directions, as the drop-off and pick-up locations could be several blocks away from each other.
• You can review available train, tram, and bus services through the National Transport Authority’s website www.transportforireland.ie .
• Taxis are widely available in Dublin city center. Taxi rates vary by time of day and location. Ask your hotel for the number of a call-dispatched taxi service if you plan to be out during less busy times. Outside of Dublin, taxis are fewer, and it will likely be necessary to call a taxi company or use one of the several available rideshare apps operating in Ireland.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of the Irish Tourism Board and the website for the National Roads Authority of Ireland , which is responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight : The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Ireland’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Ireland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Ireland should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Ireland . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report. 

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Ireland travel advice

Latest updates: Entry and exit requirements – added information on temporary entry under CETA

Last updated: August 30, 2024 14:47 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, ireland - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Ireland.

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Petty crime

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs. Tourists are frequently targeted.

Organized groups of thieves often use distraction techniques and are particularly active:

• at tourist sites and attractions
• in hotels, restaurants and bars
• on public transportation
• at airports and railway stations

While you’re in Ireland:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID in the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original when you are out
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• avoid deserted streets at night
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas and when withdrawing cash from ATM

Car theft and break-ins occur, particularly in tourist areas in Dublin and surrounding areas. Rental vehicles are a target of choice.

• Familiarize yourself with your route before starting the trip
• Keep your windows and doors locked at all times
• Keep your belongings out of reach
• Use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• Never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk

Violent crime

Violent crime, although rare, may occur in larger cities.

If you are the victim of a crime, you must report the incident to the nearest An Garda Síochána station, Ireland’s National Police Service. The Garda can then refer you to the Irish Tourist Assistance Service (ITAS) for further assistance.

You may file a preliminary complaint online for theft of belongings. This could help speed up the process at the police station.

The ITAS offers support and assistance to tourists who become victims of crime while in Ireland. The service can:

• arrange accommodation, transportation and meals
• liaise with many companies, such as travel insurance and financial institutions
• liaise with the local police and the Embassy of Canada

Useful links

• Victim services - An Garda Síochána
• Declare a theft - An Garda Síochána
• Assistance for victims of crime - The Irish Tourist Assistance Service

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
• never save your debit or credit card’s details in unknown laptops or computer devices

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known over the internet
• Never click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details

Romance scams

If you’re travelling to Ireland to meet someone you’ve otherwise only met online, you may be the victim of a scam. Be wary of attempts at fraud by persons who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet.

• Report a cybercrime - An Garda Síochána
• Information on cybercrime - Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau
• More about overseas fraud

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations and strikes occur regularly. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Violent demonstrations occurred in Dublin in November 2023 and led to acts of vandalism, arson, and clashes between demonstrators and police.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking, may lead to safety concerns if they are not well-organized. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

If you intend to go walking, biking or hiking in remote areas:

• never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• do not venture off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be doing it before setting out
• Walking safety - Ordnance Survey Ireland
• Hiking advice - Mountaineering Ireland

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are generally good. Some roads can be uneven, narrow and winding, particularly in rural areas. These may become hazardous during severe weather conditions.

Roundabouts are common.

• Use caution when entering a traffic circle
• Reduce speed on narrow, uneven country roads

AA Road travel advice and route planning - Ireland’s Roadwatch Newsroom

Public transportation

Taxis are generally safe.

Negotiate fares in advance or insist that the driver use the meter as rates can vary based on the time of day and location.

Buses and trains

Intercity bus and train services networks are extensive and reliable.

They are occasionally affected by overcrowding and traffic congestion.

Strike actions may also cause disruptions.

Cycling is a common transportation option in Ireland, particularly in Dublin. If you do cycle, pay attention to traffic regulations and vehicles.

• Cycling advice - Dublin Cycling Campaign
• Safety tips - Irish Cycle 

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Irish authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Regional travel

Ireland is a member of the European Union, but it’s not part of the Schengen area.

You must have a valid passport to travel between Ireland and other European countries.

If you plan to travel to the United Kingdom, including Northern Ireland, make sure you meet the  entry/exit requirements for the United Kingdom .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Ireland.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Student visa: not required Work permit: required, except for the Student Work Abroad Program

• Visas for Ireland  – Department of Foreign Affairs of Ireland
• Visas and residence  – Irish Immigration services
• Student Work Abroad Program
• Guide to temporary entry into Ireland under CETA

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

You may be denied entry if you're unable to do so or if custom officials suspect that you intend to seek any type of employment while entering as a visitor.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent. Service is available throughout the country.

Upfront payment may be required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Ireland are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Ireland to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Ireland authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Ireland.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Ireland, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Ireland.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Ireland, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Irish court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Ireland to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Traffic drives on the left.

Turning at a red light is prohibited.

You can drive with a valid Canadian driver’s licence for up to 12 months in Ireland. If you plan to stay longer, you must obtain an Irish licence.

You should carry an International Driving Permit.

• More about the International Driving Permit
• Driving in Ireland - European Commission
• How to obtain a driver licence in Ireland - National Driver Licence Service

The currency of Ireland is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Storms and flooding

Ireland is subject to seasonal storms, windstorms and severe weather. Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides. High winds can damage power lines and cause power disruptions.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Telecommunications may be disrupted. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Weather forecast - Met Éireann, Irish Meteorological Service
• Flood information - Office of Public Works of Ireland
• Be winter ready - Office of Emergency Planning
• Being prepared - Office of Emergency Planning

Forest fires may occur. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a significant fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
• follow the advice of local authorities

Local services

Dial 112 or 999 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Ireland, in Dublin, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Hurricane Helene

Learn how the U.S. government is responding to Hurricane Helene. Find resources to help you recover from the disaster.

Disaster recovery

• Find the latest Hurricane Helene information from FEMA , including post-storm safety tips and how to find shelters. This includes links to local information for those in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

Financial assistance

• Find out if you qualify for disaster financial assistance. You could get unemployment benefits, help buying groceries, and more.
• Read the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) statement on safety and enforcement during Hurricane Helene . The information is available in multiple languages.
• The U.S. Census Bureau's Hurricane Helene page offers safety information, news on emergency declarations, and more.
• Mental health - Call or text the  Disaster Distress Helpline  at 1-800-985-5990. The national hotline provides free 24/7, crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. Deaf and hard of hearing ASL callers can use a videophone or  ASL Now .
• Georgia beneficiaries
• Florida beneficiaries
• North Carolina beneficiaries
• Naval Hospital Jacksonville  
• Naval Hospital Pensacola 
• Eisenhower Army Medical Center  
• Lyster Army Health Clinic
• Winn Army Health Clinic
• MacDill Air Force Base
• Moody Air Force Base
• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Hurricane Helene page features forecasts, maps, imagery, and more. And hurricanes.gov/#helene from NOAA's National Hurricane Center offers additional maps and advisories.

Communications

• The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has activated the Disaster Information Reporting System (DIRS) in response to communications impacted by Hurricane Helene. DIRS is a web-based system that communications providers, including wireless, wireline, broadcast, cable and Voice over Internet Protocol providers, and satellite providers use to report communications infrastructure status and situational awareness information during times of crisis. Learn more and get hurricane-related updates.
• The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) shares science and real-time and interactive data related to Hurricane Helene.

Agriculture and food safety

• The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers food safety guidance, tips for protecting pets and livestock, and risk management and disaster assistance options for agricultural producers following a disaster.
• The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) shares Hurricane Helene updates.  

Business and consumer information

• The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is monitoring the impact of Hurricane Helene on investors and capital markets

Government agency closures

• Visit the website of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida for information on Hurricane Helene-related office closures .
• Find out about Hurricane Helene closures for the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest in Georgia.

LAST UPDATED: September 29, 2024

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