Public Transport
Between the bus and train system it is just about possible to travel anywhere in Ireland. The key to traveling by public transport is to use both buses and trains as this will give you more choices when choosing your destinations. Iarnrod Eireann, the Irish Rail system, operates trains in the Republic on routes that fan out from Dublin. Although comfortable and reliable, the service is limited and can sometimes take longer than buses. Bus Eireann operates long distance buses throughout the Republic often connecting remote villages with cities. However outside of peak season, service is limited and may disappear. In Northern Ireland, buses are operated by Ulster Bus and Northern Ireland Railway runs four train routes from Belfast. One service links with the system in the Republic via Newy to Dublin. If you plan on doing a lot of travel by public transport, consider saving money by buying a pass. Eurorail passes are valid in the Republic and offer unlimited travel on trains. Other considerations are The Irish Explorer Rail and Bus pass and Emerald Isle Card.
Car
Traveling by car is a slow process but allows you the flexibility of covering long distances and stopping en route. Many of Ireland's historical monuments and quaint bed and breakfasts are off the beaten path and so renting a car gives you wonderful flexibility and widens your horizons. However, be warned that motorways are limited and as a result you will spend a lot of your time driving on narrow, windy roads with rough surfaces. Cattle and sheep are often around the next bend, so driving slow is the key to avoiding accidents. Remember that the Irish drive on the left side of the road and distances are marked in kilometers. Be sure to buy a good map and don't be fazed by bad road signage or the complete lack of signposts.
Biking
Biking is a wonderful way to get off the beaten path and explore the backroads of Ireland. Equip yourself with a bike, helmet and panniers and meander from one bed and breakfast to another. There is no shortage of places to stay and eat along the way. If you are looking for some challenging terrain, consider heading to County Kerry which offers coastline and mountain passes. The mystical land of Connemara outside of Galway is better for cyclists who are looking for flatter terrain and want to immerse themselves in traditional Irish culture. Guided tours are available with companies, such as Backroads, or local companies, such as Irish Cycling Safaris or Go Ireland.
Hiking
Rolling green hills, rocky mountains, national parks and miles of coastline offer hikers many choices. Choose to hike for a day or attempt one of the 31 long distance paths. County Kerry, County Wicklow, County Donegal and County Clare are popular hiking destinations. At 132 miles, The Kerry Way is the longest long distance path and incorporates some of Ireland's most dramatic scenery. This route takes about ten days and starts and ends in Killarney. The cliffs of Slieve League in County Donegal, Killary Harbour in County Galway, Mount Carrantuohil (Ireland's highest peak) and Mount Brandon in County Kerry are some additional famous hikes. Guided trips are available with companies, such as Backroads or local companies, such as Go Ireland or South West Walks Ireland.
Air
Due to Ireland's size, traveling by air is unnecessary unless you are in a hurry. There are flights between Dublin and the following cities: Belfast, Cork, Derry, Donegal, Galway, Kerry, Shannon and Silgo. Flights also exist between Belfast and Cork and between Galway and the Aran Islands. The only domestic carriers are Aer Arann and Aer Lingus.
