About Donegal
Donegal, Ireland's northernmost county, is a breathtaking tapestry of wild Atlantic coastline, soaring mountains, and deep Gaelic heritage. Often called the 'Forgotten County' for its rugged remoteness, it rewards travelers with some of Europe's most dramatic landscapes. The iconic Slieve League cliffs, among the highest sea cliffs on the continent, dwarf the more famous Cliffs of Moher. The serpentine roads of the Inishowen Peninsula and the Fanad Peninsula lead to pristine beaches like Rossnowlagh and Marble Hill, while Glenveagh National Park offers majestic lakes and castle gardens. Culturally, Donegal is a Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) heartland, with traditional music sessions thriving in villages like Ardara and Glencolmcille. The county town of Letterkenny is a vibrant hub, but the true magic lies in its remote glens, ancient stone forts like Grianán of Aileach, and the warm, welcoming spirit of its people. It's a destination for hikers, surfers, history buffs, and anyone seeking authentic, untamed beauty.
Things to do in Donegal
Inishowen Peninsula Tour
Donegal, Ireland
From GHS 11,726
5.0 (31)
Sliabh Liag Cliffs and Glencolmcille Tour
Donegal, Ireland
From GHS 10,824
5.0 (30)
Glenveagh National Park and Gaeltacht Tour
Donegal, Ireland
From GHS 10,824
5.0 (22)
DAY TOUR: Highlights Of South Donegal
Donegal, Ireland
2 Hour Walking Tour in Slieve League Ireland
Donegal, Ireland
DAY TOUR: Highlights of Derry and Donegal
Donegal, Ireland
DONEGAL DAY TOUR: Coast and Castles
Donegal, Ireland
A Walk Through Time in Fort Dunree
Donegal, Ireland
eBiking Glenveagh National Park. Donegal. Self guided. 3 hours.
Donegal, Ireland
Hidden Valleys of Donegal Self Guided 1 Day E-bike Tour
Donegal, Ireland
Fanad Lighthouse and Doe Castle Tour
Donegal, Ireland
From GHS 10,824
5.0 (2)
3 Day County Donegal Private Tour
Donegal, Ireland
From GHS 25,021
5.0 (2)
Donegal Private Tour Slieve League & Glenveagh National Park
Donegal, Ireland
Harveys Point Donegal To Dublin Airport Or City Private Chauffeur Transfer
Donegal, Ireland
Buncrana County Donegal To Dublin City or Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer
Donegal, Ireland
Travel Tips for Donegal
Getting Around
A rental car is highly recommended and often essential to explore Donegal's remote beauty effectively. Public bus services (Bus Éireann, Local Link) connect main towns but are infrequent in rural areas. Taxis are available in towns but not for touring. Popular navigation apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps work well. For real-time bus info, use the Transport for Ireland app. Cycling is an option for the fit, but be prepared for steep hills and strong winds.
Best Time To Visit
May to September offers the mildest and driest weather, with long daylight hours ideal for hiking and sightseeing. July and August are peak tourist season with more crowds and events like the Earagail Arts Festival. Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) provide a good balance of decent weather and fewer visitors. Winters are mild but wet, windy, and have very short days, though they offer a dramatic, storm-watched atmosphere.
Local Customs
Donegal people are known for their friendliness and hospitality. A casual greeting is standard. In Gaeltacht areas, a simple 'Dia dhuit' (Hello) is appreciated. Tipping is similar to the rest of Ireland: 10-15% in sit-down restaurants if service is not included; rounding up the bill in taxis; not expected in pubs. Dress is casual and practical for the weather; waterproof layers are essential. In pubs, it's customary to take your turn buying a 'round' of drinks for your group if invited to join. Respect local traditions and the Irish language.
Safety Information
Donegal is generally very safe with low crime rates. Standard precautions apply in towns like Letterkenny. The primary risks are environmental: exercise extreme caution on coastal paths (especially Slieve League), heed weather warnings, and be aware of strong currents and cold water when swimming or surfing. Rural roads are often narrow, winding, and shared with livestock; drive cautiously. No specific areas need to be avoided, but as always, secure valuables. Scams are rare, but be wary of unsolicited offers.
Health Information
Donegal has several public hospitals, including Letterkenny University Hospital (the main regional hospital) and community hospitals in Dungloe, Lifford, and Carndonagh. For minor issues, pharmacies are widely available. Travelers from the EU/EEA should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its UK/Irish replacement. Non-EU visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance. No specific vaccinations are required. Tick-borne Lyme disease is a low risk in grassy/wooded areas; use insect repellent. The remote terrain means emergency services response times can be longer in isolated areas. Tap water is safe to drink.
Languages Spoken
EnglishIrish (Gaeilge)
Quick Facts
Currency
Euro (EUR)
€
€
Timezone
Europe/Dublin +00:00 (GMT) / +01:00 (IST)
Calling Code
+353
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
166,000
Area
4861 km²
Government
County Council (Local Authority)
ISO Code
DL