Northern Ireland is an exciting destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Northern Ireland?
A typical traveler spends $222 (£163) per day on a trip to Northern Ireland. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Northern Ireland based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $110 (£81) on meals
- $20 (£14) on local transportation
- $186 (£137) on hotels
A one-week trip to Northern Ireland for two people costs, on average, $3,111 (£2,282). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,556
£1,141
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$3,111
£2,282
-
One Month
Per person
$6,667
£4,890
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,111
£2,282
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,223
£4,564
-
One Month
For a couple
$13,335
£9,780
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Northern Ireland cost?
A one week trip to Northern Ireland usually costs around $1,556 (£1,141) for one person and $3,111 (£2,282) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Northern Ireland on average costs around $3,111 (£2,282) for one person and $6,223 (£4,564) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Northern Ireland will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Northern Ireland on average costs around $6,667 (£4,890) for one person and $13,335 (£9,780) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Northern Ireland expensive to visit?
In Northern Ireland, budget travelers spend $91 (£68) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $217 (£163) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $489 (£368) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland is a small yet captivating destination that lures visitors with differing travel styles, spending levels, and budgetary preferences. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
Northern Ireland can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like looking for discounts and coupons.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Northern Ireland is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to many other destinations.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Northern Ireland Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Northern Ireland?
The average Northern Ireland trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Northern Ireland travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Northern Ireland cost?
Northern Ireland on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$37
(£27)
|
$93
(£68)
|
$235
(£172)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$9
(£6.39)
|
$20
(£14)
|
$35
(£26)
|
|
Food2
|
$47
(£34)
|
$110
(£81)
|
$235
(£172)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$11
(£7.93)
|
$25
(£18)
|
$48
(£35)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-7
(£2-5)
|
$5-16
(£4-12)
|
$10-30
(£7-22)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
When planning your trip to Northern Ireland, it's important to be realistic about your travel budget. While some people assume they can travel very cheaply, most people aren't comfortable on an extreme shoestring budget. Consider what you enjoy most on vacation and how you like to travel. Do you perfer to stay in resorts, hotels, or hostels? Do you enjoy sightseeing and dining out? These factors will affect your overall budget and travel plans.
Northern Ireland on a Shoestring Budget?
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $91 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. Visitors to Northern Ireland typically prioritize the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks during their stay. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $217 per person, per day.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you want a vacation with premium amenities and superior service, brace yourself for a price near $489 daily. Choosing upscale hotels, dining at award-winning eateries, enjoying lavish excursions, and using taxis or private drivers around the destination will require a luxury budget.
Accommodation Budget in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has a wide range of hotel prices. Luxury hotels come with higher price tags and better amenities, and prices are much steeper during peak season. On average, a room costs $ in the off-season and averages $ during peak season. Overall, you can expect prices from $ to $. Hostels, especially dorms, are cheaper alternatives. You can save by traveling in the low season, booking in advance, or looking for special offers.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Northern Ireland for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $186 (£137). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $93 (£68) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Northern Ireland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
If you plan your trip for the shoulder or low season and avoid , you'll enjoy reduced accommodation costs and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Northern Ireland
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $20 (£14) per person, per day, on local transportation in Northern Ireland. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Northern Ireland is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$20
£14
Driving through Northern Ireland can be a very amusing experience given that the roads are extremely well maintained compared to their southern neighbors. However, car rentals are hard to come by in this area.
There is a reliable and modern public transportation system known as Translink. This includes buses and railways around the entire country.
When driving, confirm that your hotel has convenient parking options.
How much does it cost to go to Northern Ireland? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Northern Ireland will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Northern Ireland
For many, the local food is a significant part of the travel experience, so don't miss the chance to enjoy it.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Northern Ireland can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Northern Ireland is $110 (£81) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$110
£81
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Northern Ireland is around $107 (£81) per person, with previous travelers spending from $45 to $229. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Northern Ireland are as follows:
- Breakfast: $11 to $32
- Lunch: $16 to $43
- Dinner: $32 to $75
- Coffee: $9
- Fast Food or Street Food: $16
One of the most popular dishes in Northern Ireland is the "Ulster Fry." You won't want to miss this dish of eggs, bacon, sausage, potato and soda bread all fried in a pan together. Also, of course, there's the classic "bangers and mash," or treat your taste buds to some sausage with champ - creamed potatoes and spring onions.
Many hotels include breakfast in their pricing structure, while some charge additional fees for it. The quality and cost can vary significantly by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you decide whether to allocate more money. It might be worth paying for the delicious hotel buffet, or you could go to a local bakery or cafe that's less expensive.
Carry a reusable water bottle instead of buying drinks everywhere you go. It's good for the earth, too.
While planning your tour, it's essential to know which meals are included. You may find yourself paying for some meals, which can add to your travel budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Northern Ireland
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Northern Ireland typically cost an average of $25 (£18) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$25
£18
Northern Ireland is home to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the world. On the top of that list has to be Giant's Causeway. This geological phenomenon features spectacular rock formations. Legend has it these little columns were placed there by giants trying to build a bridge from Ireland to Scotland. It's free to visit and the views will stay with you forever.
For you history buffs, Belfast is where the infamous Titanic was built. The head of the slipway where she was put together is now a multimedia experience for any tourist interested in the world's most famous cruise liner. Follow the history of the city and the ship through its interactive exhibits.
For more unique Northern Irish history, be sure to take a tour or experience the many things to do in Derry/Londonderry. Admire the astonishing 17th century city walls. Follow them around the 1.5-kilometers to get a brilliant tour of the city.
One thing you'll certainly want to do while in Northern Ireland is take a Black Taxi Tour in West Belfast. This is the region with all "the troubles." Today it is perfectly safe and stands as a living monument to the country's turbulent past. These taxi tours will drive you through the spectacular murals up to the Peace Line. Ride along as drivers provide history lessons and colorful commentary.
On the Antrim coast is a special experience not to be missed. Travel to the Old Bushmills Distillery for a tour and a taste. Licensed since 1608, this is the oldest legal distillery in the world. The whiskey is made with Irish barley, water and matured in oak barrels. Definitely worth a sip!
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Northern Ireland. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- From Belfast: Strangford Lough Kings and Queens Tour for $741 details
- Titanic Belfast and City Tour for $943 details
Nightlife Budget in Northern Ireland
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $11 (£7.77) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Northern Ireland per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$11
£7.77
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
Travel cost data last updated: Aug 11, 2025
Traveling in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland
You may think you know Northern Ireland, but guess again. This once turbulent and dangerous country has calmed down and continues to pleasantly surprise visitors from all over the world.
Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom, or Great Britain. Northern Ireland joins England, Scotland and Wales in the UK. This is still a point of controversy within this region depending on whom you are talking to. Unionists, or those who prefer being a part of Great Britain, will proudly call themselves British and try very much to differentiate themselves from their Irish neighbors. Republicans, or those who would prefer to be a part of the Republic of Ireland, call themselves Irish. Nowhere is this more prominent than in the historic city of Londonderry. That is what Unionists call the city, as the "London" was added after Northern Ireland joined the UK. On the other hand, you'll hear Republicans refer to the city as its original Derry.
Dress in layers, as it's not uncommon to experience every season in an hour in Northern Ireland. This part of the British Isles arguably receives more rain than anywhere.
More difficult than the weather, however, are the accents of the locals. While it may not sound like it at times, they are speaking English. Simply ask them to slow down so you can better understand their very thick accents.
Regions
Among the Irish and Republicans, Northern Ireland is known as "The Six Counties," though it is not advised that you call them that. Nevertheless, the country is split into six different counties. County Antrim is the home of the capital city of Belfast and the stunning Giant's Causeway. County Armagh includes the Navan Fort, while Londonderry is in the aptly named County Derry. The coastal town of Bangor is located in County Down. Finally, County Fermanagh and County Tyrone are mostly rural with vast mountain ranges.
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Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.