Donegal travel guide

In Donegal, as with the rest of Ireland, the official currency is the Euro. Cash can be withdrawn from ATMs, which are ubiquitous throughout the region. Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted in most establishments. However, smaller shops or rural areas may prefer cash payment. It's advisable to carry some cash for such instances and for small purchases. When budgeting for your trip, keep in mind that Ireland has a Value-Added Tax (VAT) of 23%, which is often included in the displayed price of goods and services. Tipping is customary in restaurants and bars, typically around 10-15% of the bill.

While English is widely spoken and understood in Donegal, Irish (Gaeilge) is still prevalent, particularly in the Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) areas. To immerse yourself in the local culture, you might want to learn a few Irish phrases. 'Dia dhuit' (Hello), 'Go raibh maith agat' (Thank you), and 'Slán' (Goodbye) are some basics. However, don’t worry if you can't get the hang of Irish; locals appreciate any attempt to speak their language but are also fluent in English.

Signs in Donegal are often bilingual, in both Irish and English, so familiarize yourself with common words like 'Sráid' (Street) or 'Úllord' (Orchard). As in any travel situation, respect and a friendly demeanor are as important as language skills. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or directions, Donegal locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness.

Donegal, located in the northwest of Ireland, experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. Temperatures typically range from 4°C to 19°C. The summer months, from June to August, offer the warmest and most consistent weather with an average high of around 15°C to 19°C. Winter, from November to February, is colder but rarely severe, with temperatures averaging between 4°C and 8°C.

Rain is a common feature of Donegal's climate, with the region receiving consistent rainfall throughout the year. The wettest months are usually December and January, while April and June tend to be the driest. As such, it's advisable for travelers to carry rain gear at all times. Additionally, Donegal can be windy, especially along the coast. Despite the variable weather, the changing skies and lighting conditions contribute to Donegal's dramatic and beautiful landscapes.

Home to plenty of top attractions, Donegal is more than just a wonderful town in Ireland. Donegal is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Ireland.

One fascinating sight in Donegal is the unforgettable Donegal Castle. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the town, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Donegal. This remarkable attraction is located at Saint Helenes, Castle St, Donegal, Ireland and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 10:00-17:15.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Ireland, check out our list of top attractions in Donegal below. Discover the best places to visit in Donegal, including the fascinating Donegal Castle, and Donegal Railway Heritage Museum (Centre).

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Donegal.

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the town of Donegal.

Donegal offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Adventure Tours, and Half-day Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Ireland.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Donegal by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Travelers in Donegal can choose from 12 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Shore Excursions is the answer.

The most popular tour in Donegal is the fantastic Mysteries of Inishowen private day tour. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Donegal one of the best travel destinations in Ireland.

Donegal also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Walking Tour Buncrana is the cheapest tour in the town, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 13 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Donegal. This Historical Tour is available in 1 language: English. Around 9 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Donegal and book a top-rated tour in the town. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Donegal below.

Discover the best things to do in Donegal. Choose from 31 fantastic tours and activities available in the town.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Donegal. Click the green button to view your options.

Experience the culinary delights of Donegal, a city known for its traditional Irish fare with a modern twist. The city's gastronomic scene extends from the vibrant street food at Donegal Town Food Festival to the high-end dining establishments like The Lemon Tree and Harvey's Point. These are considered some of the best places to eat in Donegal. Indulge in local favourites like seafood chowder, a hearty bowl filled with fresh catch from the Atlantic, or Boxty, a traditional potato pancake. Make sure to try the Donegal lamb, famed for its distinct flavour due to the sheep grazing on the county's herb-rich pastures. For dessert, savor a slice of Donegal tart, a local delicacy made with shortcrust pastry, apples, and blackcurrants. Pubs and restaurants often offer these traditional dishes accompanied by a pint of locally-brewed craft beer. Foodies will also appreciate the unique culinary experiences offered, such as seaweed foraging tours and cookery classes. Remember, dining in Donegal isn't just about eating; it's about experiencing the culture through its food.

Donegal's nightlife scene is a unique blend of traditional Irish culture and contemporary vibes. The best area for bars in Donegal is arguably the central town, where you'll find a mix of lively pubs, elegant lounges, and vibrant nightclubs. Here, establishments like The Reel Inn and McCafferty's Bar offer authentic Irish music sessions, while The Central Bar and The Pulse Nightclub provide a more modern, upbeat atmosphere.

A standout feature of Donegal's nightlife is the warm hospitality and conviviality that is synonymous with the Irish culture. The lively chatter and laughter that fills the air, combined with traditional music sessions, create an unforgettable ambiance. It's common to find locals and tourists alike tapping their feet to the rhythm of the music or engaging in friendly banter at the bar. For a truly memorable night out, don't miss a visit to Leo's Tavern, a popular music venue known as the birthplace of world-renowned musicians Enya and Clannad. Remember to dress casually yet respectfully, as most establishments adhere to a smart casual dress code.

For a unique shopping experience, Donegal, Ireland is an exceptional choice. The best place to go shopping in Donegal is the bustling Main Street, where you'll find a mix of traditional and modern shops offering Irish tweed clothing, local crafts, and exquisite Celtic jewelry. Be sure to visit the local markets like the Donegal Designer Makers Shop and McNutt of Donegal for handmade items. These markets showcase the talent and creativity of local artisans, offering a wide range of unique, high-quality items, from handwoven blankets to ceramic pieces. Donegal is well-known for its distinct fashion, particularly the world-renowned Donegal tweed. Triona Design and Magee 1866 are must-visit stores for tweed clothing and accessories. For practical information, most shops in Donegal are open from 9 a.m to 6 p.m, and credit cards are widely accepted. While shopping, don't forget to try a 'Donegal Catch', a local delicacy that will enhance your shopping experience. Remember, shopping in Donegal is not just about buying, it's about exploring the rich Irish culture and tradition.

Discover the best free things to do in Donegal, a vibrant county in Ireland brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. Start your journey at Glenveagh National Park, which offers breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and wildlife, perfect for hiking and picnicking. For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Donegal Castle, a 15th-century fortification, is a must. Although tours of the castle require a fee, exploring the grounds is free. Next, stroll through the quaint village of Glencolmcille, dotted with thatched-roof cottages and traditional Irish pubs. The village is also home to the Glencolmcille Folk Village Museum, an open-air museum where you can learn about rural Irish life in the 18th and 19th centuries for free. Finally, unwind at the stunning Silver Strand Beach, a horseshoe-shaped beach boasting turquoise waters and white sands. With such a diverse array of activities, Donegal guarantees a rich and fulfilling experience without spending a dime.

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful town of Donegal.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Donegal get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Ireland. Your customized holiday package to Donegal is only a few clicks away!

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Donegal, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Ireland. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Donegal, Ireland, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Donegal costs around 85 EUR and is offered by the airline Wizz Air UK.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Donegal cost approximately 41 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on January 2 and the return flight is scheduled on January 31. The flight time is around 1 hour per way.

The return flight is operated by Kerry.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Ireland and the town of Donegal from your city of departure.

Travelers visiting Donegal in Ireland can fly to Donegal airport directly from 608 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Donegal airport and the town of Donegal in Ireland depart from Tocumen International airport in Panama City, Panama, Barcelona–El Prat airport in Barcelona, Spain, and Charleston International airport in Charleston, the United States.

Travelers can fly to Ireland by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Panama City; from 3 weekly flight(s) from Barcelona; and from 2 weekly flight(s) from Charleston.

The airline that operates most flights to Ireland is Bamboo Airways. Bamboo Airways offers 1 scheduled flight routes to Ireland.

Discover the most popular flights to Donegal below. Click to view flights to Donegal, Ireland from destinations all across the globe.

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Donegal provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Donegal. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Donegal for the unique experience they provide.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Donegal provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Donegal are created equal, finding the best in the town often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Donegal.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Donegal. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the town of Donegal on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the town of Donegal that match the information provided.

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the town of Donegal to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Donegal can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Ireland at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Donegal is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Donegal is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the town of Donegal.

Check out all options available in Donegal and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Ireland below.

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful town of Donegal. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Donegal, Ireland, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Ireland. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Travelers in Ireland can catch flights to domestic airports in Dublin. Domestic flights in Ireland are operated by 1 airline: Aer Lingus. There are around 1 scheduled flight routes operating to Donegal on a weekly basis.

From Donegal, travelers can book scheduled flights to 1 domestic destinations.

Traveling to another city or region in Ireland? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Donegal to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Ireland on the selected dates.