Sports and leisure activities Ireland

Budget & Tips

In Ireland, if you want to spend your energy without spending a penny, you can of course enjoy the country's number one activity: hiking. There are countless trails throughout the country, to the delight of locals and visitors alike. A few jogs in the parks of the big cities will also allow you to work up a sweat at a lower cost.

What's very local

Once again, walking the local trails is the best way to discover the island. It's also a popular activity with the locals, who don't hesitate to get out their hiking boots as soon as the weekend arrives. And it's the perfect opportunity to meet locals on every trail you take.

Nor do we hesitate to watch a game of rugby, hurling or Gaelic soccer. At the stadium, if you can, with a local and usually overheated atmosphere.

And if you want the low-cost version, head to the pub to watch the match!

Your documents please

You'll need to find out beforehand, as many activities, especially on the coast or at sea, require a minimum age of 12 to 16.

To be booked

In high season (between May and September), water-based activities, particularly around the major towns, require advance booking.

In the Ring of Kerry, for activities at sea, it's best to book two days in advance, and to be flexible about times, because whether you're fishing or cruising, outings depend above all on weather conditions.

Main events

The 6 Nations Tournament, one of the biggest competitions on the rugby planet, and the hurling and Gaelic soccer finals, held at the legendary Croke Park stadium in September, are the events not to be missed during an Irish getaway.