About Wicklow
Wicklow, known as the 'Garden of Ireland,' is a breathtaking county just south of Dublin that offers an extraordinary blend of rugged coastal beauty, serene mountain landscapes, and rich historical heritage. Its crown jewel is the Wicklow Mountains National Park, a vast expanse of heather-clad hills, glacial lakes like the famous Lough Tay (the 'Guinness Lake'), and scenic hiking trails including the Wicklow Way. The dramatic coastline features charming villages like Greystones and the historic harbor of Wicklow Town. Glendalough, a 6th-century monastic settlement nestled in a glacial valley, is a site of profound peace and historical significance. The county's lush gardens, such as Powerscourt Estate and Mount Usher Gardens, showcase horticultural excellence. For travelers, Wicklow provides the perfect escape from urban life with opportunities for hiking, photography, coastal walks, visiting historic sites, and enjoying traditional Irish pubs in villages like Avoca and Roundwood. Its proximity to Dublin makes it an ideal day trip or a tranquil base for exploring Ireland's east coast.
Things to do in Wicklow
Guided House Tour in Ireland
Wicklow, Ireland
Wicklow Mountains Horse Trekking
Wicklow, Ireland
Russborough House and Parklands Admission and Tour Ticket
Wicklow, Ireland
From GHS 190
4.7 (50)
Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer
Wicklow, Ireland
From GHS 2,861
Chester Beatty County Wicklow To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer
Wicklow, Ireland
From GHS 4,291
Parkview Hotel Newtown MountKennedy To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer
Wicklow, Ireland
From GHS 4,148
Chester Beatty County Wicklow To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer
Wicklow, Ireland
Bridge Tavern Wicklow To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer
Wicklow, Ireland
From GHS 4,005
Tinakilly Country House Hotel To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer
Wicklow, Ireland
Druid Glen Hotel & Golf Resort To Dublin Airport Private Chauffeur Transfer
Wicklow, Ireland
Arklow To Dublin Airport Private Car Transfer
Wicklow, Ireland
Walking Tour in Ireland Hidden Glendalough and Valleys Secrets
Wicklow, Ireland
From GHS 851
Travel Tips for Wicklow
Getting Around
The most flexible way to explore Wicklow is by rental car, allowing access to remote mountain areas, coastal villages, and scenic drives like the Military Road. Public bus services (primarily operated by Bus Éireann and Go-Ahead Ireland) connect main towns (Wicklow, Bray, Arklow) to Dublin and each other, but frequency drops in rural areas. The DART (train) service runs along the coast as far south as Greystones. Local taxis are available in towns but not on-demand in remote areas. Popular ride-hailing apps like Uber operate in the Dublin area but may have limited availability in Wicklow. For hiking the Wicklow Way, local shuttle services can transport luggage between accommodations. Cycling is popular, with some dedicated routes.
Best Time To Visit
Late May to September offers the warmest and driest weather, ideal for hiking and exploring the outdoors. July and August are peak tourist seasons with longer days and vibrant atmosphere, but also more crowds. The shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October provide milder weather, beautiful spring blooms or autumn foliage, and fewer visitors. Winter (November-March) is quieter and can be beautifully stark, but days are short, weather is cold and wet, and some tourist facilities may have reduced hours.
Local Customs
Irish hospitality is warm and welcoming. A friendly greeting is customary. When entering pubs or small shops, it's polite to say hello. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; around 10-12% in restaurants for good service is standard, while tipping in pubs is less common. Round buying in pubs is a social tradition. Dress is generally casual, but smart-casual attire is appropriate for nicer restaurants. When visiting churches or religious sites like Glendalough, modest dress is respectful. Punctuality is relaxed but be reasonable. Always ask permission before photographing individuals. The Irish have a great love for conversation and storytelling.
Safety Information
Wicklow is generally a very safe county for tourists. Violent crime is rare. Exercise normal precautions: secure valuables, especially in parked cars at popular tourist sites like Glendalough, as petty theft from vehicles can occur. When hiking in the mountains, be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, inform someone of your route, carry appropriate gear, and stick to marked trails. Some coastal cliffs have steep, unstable edges; heed warning signs. There are no specific areas to avoid, but as in any destination, be aware of your surroundings in quieter areas after dark. Common scams are not prevalent in Wicklow, but always be cautious with unsolicited offers. Road safety is important; drive cautiously on narrow, winding rural roads.
Health Information
Medical care in Wicklow is of a high standard, with primary services available at local medical centers and the nearest major hospital being St. Vincent's University Hospital in Dublin (approx. 30-60 mins drive). Smaller hospitals include St. Columcille's Hospital in Loughlinstown. No specific vaccinations are required for travel to Ireland. Tap water is safe to drink. Travelers should have comprehensive travel health insurance that covers the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its UK/Irish equivalent if applicable. The most common health concerns for visitors are typical of a temperate climate; pack for changeable weather to avoid colds. Tick-borne Lyme disease is a minimal risk in rural/wooded areas; use insect repellent and check for ticks after hiking. Pharmacies are widely available for minor ailments.
Languages Spoken
EnglishIrish (Gaelic)
Quick Facts
Currency
Euro (EUR)
€
€
Timezone
Europe/Dublin +00:00 (GMT) / +01:00 (IST)
Calling Code
+353
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
155,000
Area
2027 km²
Government
County Council (Local Authority)
ISO Code
WW