Letterkenny - Discovering Ireland

Travelling to Letterkenny

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Letterkenny, a pretty good destination in Ireland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Letterkenny and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Letterkenny, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ireland, here's everything to know about Letterkenny for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Letterkenny

Letterkenny is a town located in the county of Donegal in Ireland. It is the largest town in the county and serves as a commercial and cultural hub for the northwest of Ireland. The town has a population of around 20,000 people and offers many amenities, such as shopping centers, restaurants, pubs, and cultural institutions. It is situated near to some of the most stunning natural scenery in Ireland, including the Wild Atlantic Way and Glenveagh National Park. Additionally, Letterkenny has a rich history and many interesting landmarks to visit, such as the Donegal County Museum and the Cathedral of St. Eunan and St. Columba.

What to visit in Letterkenny

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Letterkenny, Ireland: 1. Glenveagh National Park - This park is spread over 16,000 hectares of mountains, lakes, and forests. The visitors can explore the castle and surrounding gardens, take guided walks, and spot red deer.
2. Letterkenny Cathedral - It is also known as the Cathedral of St Eunan and St Columba. This cathedral is an impressive neo-gothic building that dates back to the late 1800s.
3. Newmills Corn and Flax Mills - Visitors can take a tour of this complex and experience the process of grinding corn and flax. The site also offers a lovely walk along the river and an insight into the industrial history of Ireland.
4. Donegal County Museum - For those interested in history and culture, this museum boasts an extensive collection of artifacts from the county's past, including Viking and medieval objects.
5. An Grianán Theatre - This state-of-the-art theatre offers a range of entertainment, including plays, comedy gigs and musical performances.
6. Donegal Castle - This 15th-century castle situated in the heart of Donegal town, just a short drive from Letterkenny. It once served as a stronghold for the O'Donnell clan.
7. Lurgybrack Farm - This farm offers a chance for visitors of all ages to get up close with various animals, including goats, cows, and rabbits. The farm also features a play area.
These are just a few of the tourist attractions available in Letterkenny, Ireland. There are many more places worth a visit, and each has something unique to offer visitors.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ireland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Letterkenny

The best time to visit Letterkenny, Ireland is during the summer months, from June to August, when temperatures are milder and there is less rainfall. The average temperatures during this time are between 14°C/57°F to 19°C/66°F. The summer season is also the peak tourist season, which means that you should expect crowds and higher prices. If you want to visit when there are fewer tourists and more favorable prices, you can consider traveling during the shoulder season months of April, May, September, and October. However, be aware that weather conditions during these months can be more unpredictable with a higher chance of rainfall.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Letterkenny

There are several ways to get to Letterkenny, Ireland: 1. By Car: If you have a car, Letterkenny can be reached from Dublin by taking the M50 motorway and following the N3 via Cavan and Ballybofey.
2. By Bus: There are daily buses from Dublin, Galway, and Belfast to Letterkenny. Buses to Letterkenny are operated by Bus Eireann and private bus companies such as John Gallagher Donegal Tours.
3. By Train: There is no train station in Letterkenny, but you can take a train to Derry or Sligo and then take a bus or taxi to Letterkenny.
4. By Air: The nearest airport to Letterkenny is Donegal Airport, which is about a 45-minute drive from the town. Alternatively, you can also fly into Belfast International Airport or Dublin Airport and then take a bus or rent a car to get to Letterkenny.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Letterkenny, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Letterkenny

Here are some typical foods of Letterkenny, Ireland, with a short description for each of them: 1. Irish Stew: This is a classic Irish dish made with lamb or mutton, potatoes, onions, and carrots, cooked slowly in a pot with a rich broth.
2. Boxty: Boxty is a type of potato pancake that is unique to Ireland. It is made with grated potatoes, flour, and buttermilk, and can be served as a side dish or as a main course with toppings like bacon, cheese, or vegetables.
3. Coddle: Coddle is another traditional Irish dish made with sausages, bacon, onions, and potatoes, slow-cooked in a pot with water or broth.
4. Seafood Chowder: Letterkenny is located close to the coast, so seafood is a big part of the local cuisine. Seafood chowder is a creamy, hearty soup made with different types of fish, shellfish, vegetables, and herbs.
5. Black Pudding: Black pudding is a type of blood sausage that is commonly eaten in Ireland and the UK. It is made with pork blood, fat, oatmeal, and spices.
6. Soda Bread: Soda bread is a type of bread that is made with flour, baking soda, buttermilk, and salt, and is a staple in Irish cuisine. It is usually served with butter and jam or used as a side dish for stews and soups.
These are just a few examples of the delicious foods you can try in Letterkenny, Ireland!
You can find general info about typical foods in Ireland here.

Is Letterkenny an expensive destination for tourists?

Letterkenny is a relatively affordable destination compared to other popular tourist spots in Ireland like Dublin or Galway. However, it's still slightly more expensive than other smaller towns and cities in the country. Expect to pay more for accommodations and meals in the city center than in the outskirts of the town. Nevertheless, there are plenty of affordable options for transportation, attractions, and activities in and around Letterkenny. Overall, the cost of a trip to Letterkenny will depend on your travel style and budget.

Where to find accomodation in Letterkenny

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Letterkenny in Ireland are: 1. Letterkenny city centre: This area is great for those who want to be close to amenities, restaurants, shops, and pubs.
2. Donegal Road: This area is popular for pubs and nightlife and is also close to the city centre.
3. Ramelton Road: This area is a little quieter than the city centre but still within walking distance of all the amenities.
4. Ballyraine: This area is a bit further from the city centre but offers a quiet and peaceful environment.
5. Lower Main Street: This area is great for shopping and dining and is close to the Letterkenny Shopping Centre.
You can check hotel prices at Letterkenny here:
Booking.com

Is Letterkenny a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Letterkenny is generally a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is low in the area, and locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors. However, it is always best to exercise caution, especially in busy tourist areas, and take common sense precautions like keeping valuables out of sight and staying aware of your surroundings. In case of any emergency, it is always recommended to call 999 or 112, the emergency contact numbers in Ireland.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ireland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Letterkenny.

What type of travelers will enjoy Letterkenny the most?

Letterkenny, Ireland is a beautiful town that offers something for everyone. However, it mostly caters to couples and families who are looking for a peaceful, relaxing holiday. If you're looking for a bustling city with plenty of nightlife and entertainment, Letterkenny may not be the right choice for you. Instead, the town is known for its scenic beauty, charming streets, and quaint shops and restaurants. Families will especially love the parks and outdoor spaces, not to mention the traditional Irish hospitality that is so welcoming to visitors. Overall, Letterkenny is a fantastic destination to unwind, slow down, and soak in the beautiful surroundings.

How to get around Letterkenny

There are a few options for transportation in Letterkenny, Ireland. The most common way to get around is by car or taxi. There are also buses available from the Bus Eireann and John Mc Ginley companies that traverse the town and connect to other parts of the country. Additionally, some visitors may opt to walk or rent bikes to explore the town on their own.

What to see around Letterkenny

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Letterkenny: 1. Glenveagh National Park: It is a beautiful national park with amazing scenery, wildlife and a historic castle located just about 20 km north of Letterkenny.
2. Grianan of Aileach: It is an ancient ring fort located about 13 km from Letterkenny on top of a hill and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
3. Doagh Famine Village: It is a fascinating outdoor museum that reveals life in Ireland during the Great Famine, located just about 30 km from Letterkenny.
4. Malin Head: It is the northernmost point of the island of Ireland, located about 70 km from Letterkenny and offers beautiful coastal views and landscape.
5. Fanad Lighthouse: It is a picturesque lighthouse with a scenic coastal location, located about 40 km from Letterkenny.
6. Ards Forest Park: It is a lovely forest park with picturesque walking trails, located about 20 km from Letterkenny.
7. Inch Island: It is a beautiful island located about 15 km from Letterkenny, surrounded by Lough Swilly and offering stunning scenery and wildlife.
For every travel information about Ireland you can click here.

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