Flying to Ireland: Your Gateway to the Emerald Isle

At Absolute Escapes, our self-drive tours give you the freedom to discover Ireland’s rich culture and stunning landscapes, with the reassurance that everything has been expertly arranged and backed by decades of experience.

How to Travel to Ireland

With five primary international airports connecting Ireland to the world, and even a few extra options if you are coming from another European destination, Ireland is well connected.

It is possible to fly into one area and out of another so you do not have to retrace your steps and can see as much of this beautiful country as possible.

International Airports in Ireland

• Dublin Airport: Located just north of Dublin City on the east coast, this is the busiest and most well-connected airport.
• Cork Airport: Situated just south of Cork City on the scenic south coast.
• Shannon Airport: Nestled just north of Limerick City on the west coast, perfect for exploring Ireland’s dramatic Wild Atlantic Way.
• Ireland West Airport (Knock Airport): Found in County Mayo in the northwest, offering easy access to the rugged west.
• Belfast International Airport: Located west of Belfast City in the northeast, ideal for venturing into Northern Ireland.

Regional Airports in Ireland

For travellers who plan to visit another European country before arriving in Ireland, additional regional airports can be a convenient option.

Kerry Airport offers connections from Berlin Brandenburg, Dublin, Frankfurt Hahn, London-Luton, and London-Stansted.

Donegal Airport, George Best Belfast City Airport, and City of Derry Airport provide further alternatives.

Map of Ireland Airports

Airlines That Fly to Ireland

Major carriers serving Ireland include:

• Aer Lingus
• British Airways
• Ryanair
• American Airlines
• Air Canada
• Delta Airlines
• Emirates
• Lufthansa

Flying to Ireland from the USA

With direct flights from several major US cities, reaching Ireland from the USA is easier than ever. Whether you are departing from the East Coast, the Midwest, or the West Coast, there are multiple daily flights to Dublin, Shannon, and Belfast, making Ireland an accessible and exciting destination.

Major airlines flying to Ireland from the USA include:

• Aer Lingus: Direct routes from cities such as New York, Boston, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
• American Airlines: Flights from Philadelphia, Dallas, and Charlotte.
• Delta Airlines: Direct services from New York and Boston. Also flies seasonally from Atlanta.
• United Airlines: Routes from Newark, Chicago, and Washington D.C. Also flies seasonally from Denver.

With a flight time of around 6.5 hours from the East Coast, you could be strolling through Dublin‘s historic streets or driving along the Wild Atlantic Way in no time, confident that your meticulously-planned vacation is waiting for you.

Flying to Ireland from Canada

Ireland is just a short transatlantic journey from Canada, with direct flights available from major cities including Toronto and Vancouver.

Top airlines flying to Ireland from Canada include:

• Air Canada: Direct flights from Toronto and seasonal services from Vancouver.
• Aer Lingus: Direct flights from Toronto to Dublin.
• WestJet: Seasonal services from Calgary to Dublin.

With flights from Toronto taking around 6.5 hours, it will not be long before you are discovering Ireland’s legendary hospitality and beautiful landscapes.

Best Road Trips in Ireland

Ireland’s winding roads and landscapes make for an unforgettable journey. While flights are not included in our packages, we craft vacations that let you explore at your own pace without the hassle of planning.

Our 10 signature itineraries are just a starting point. Whether you are drawn to lively cities, dramatic coastlines, or hidden rural retreats, we can design a customised journey tailored entirely to your interests.

• Grand Irish Road Trip – A sweeping adventure through Ireland’s most iconic destinations, from vibrant cities to breathtaking coastal roads.
• West Coast of Ireland Road Trip – Follow the dramatic shoreline of the Wild Atlantic Way, where rugged cliffs and golden beaches await.
• Highlights of Ireland – A perfect blend of historic landmarks, charming towns, and scenic countryside.
• Dublin & Ireland’s Ancient East – Step back in time as you explore medieval castles, monastic sites, and Ireland’s lush green landscapes.
• Northern Ireland Road Trip – Discover the legendary Causeway Coast, the vibrant energy of Belfast, and hidden gems in the north.
• Game of Thrones Tour – Walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters at stunning filming locations across Northern Ireland.
• Complete Wild Atlantic Way Tour – Experience the full length of this world-famous coastal route, from Cork to Donegal.
• Wild Atlantic Way South – Cork, Kerry & Dingle – Explore the colourful harbours, dramatic peninsulas, and spectacular coastal roads of Ireland’s southwest.
• Wild Atlantic Way Central – Clare, Galway & Mayo – From the towering Cliffs of Moher to the lively streets of Galway, this itinerary captures the essence of the west.
• Wild Atlantic Way North – Sligo & Donegal – Escape to Ireland’s wild and unspoiled northwest, where rugged beauty meets rich Gaelic heritage.

Wherever your journey takes you, we will create a self-drive holiday that is truly your own, crafted with care, local expertise, and an eye for the extraordinary.

Planning a Trip to Ireland

With so much to see, planning the perfect Irish getaway can feel overwhelming. That is where we come in.

Our self-drive itineraries are designed to take the stress out of travel while ensuring you experience Ireland at its most authentic. With hand-picked accommodation, a personalised information pack, and 24-hour support from our expert team, you can set off with complete confidence.

The itineraries above are just examples. Every holiday we create is tailor-made to your preferences. Whether you dream of tracing your ancestry, exploring secret beaches, or experiencing the best of Ireland’s food and culture, we will design a trip that is uniquely yours.

Find out more: How do our Self-Drive Holidays Work?

Note: The information provided was correct at the time of writing. However, flight routes, airport services, and airline schedules may be subject to change. We strongly recommend checking with airlines, airports, or official travel sources for the latest information.