In this part of the Car Rental in Ireland series, we’re looking at one of the most common traveler questions: can you take your rental car into Northern Ireland, or even across to Scotland? Here’s what to know before planning a trip that crosses borders.
Cross Border Travel with an Ireland Rental C…In this part of the Car Rental in Ireland series, we’re looking at one of the most common traveler questions: can you take your rental car into Northern Ireland, or even across to Scotland? Here’s what to know before planning a trip that crosses borders.
Cross Border Travel with an Ireland Rental Car
Many travelers visiting Ireland plan to explore beyond the Republic’s borders, whether that means heading into Northern Ireland or, possibly, taking a ferry across the Irish Sea to Scotland.
While crossing the border on the island is easy, taking a rental car beyond it isn’t always straightforward. Here’s how to make sure you’re covered – and avoid unexpected costs or insurance problems along the way.
Driving Between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland
Traveling between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland is simple – there’s no checkpoint or customs stop, and in most places, you’ll cross the border without even noticing (until you see a speed limit sign – the Republic uses kilometers per hour while Northern Ireland uses miles per hour). What does change, though, are the rules attached to your rental car agreement.
Rental companies charge a cross-border fee, usually a flat rate for the entire rental period, to cover additional insurance requirements. With a few companies this is included in your rate, but with most companies this is an additional fee.
(Review Car Rental Fees & Hidden Costs for more information.) Car rental series episode 2
Your rental company will ask if you plan to travel to Northern Ireland. Be honest with them – don't try to avoid the fee.
Firstly, they will know as the cars are monitored.
And second, if you don’t share that information you could void your insurance coverage and be liable for any damage or incidents that occur while you’re north of the border.
What about picking up a car in Dublin and dropping off in Belfast (or vice versa)?
Not every car rental company will allow this, so you'll need to do your research.
The rental company will need to have a rental location in both countries and there may be an extra fee for the ‘international drop off'.
I recommend creating few test bookings to compare prices and read the terms.
Pro Tip: Your rental agreement includes all insurance and roadside service information so keep your copy in the glove box.
Taking a Rental Car to Scotland (or Elsewhere in the UK)
Ferries operate from Dublin and Belfast to several ports in Scotland and England, but most rental companies don’t allow their vehicles to leave the island of Ireland. If Scotland is part of your itinerary, the easiest option is to return your Irish rental car in Belfast or Dublin and book a separate rental once you arrive in Scotland.
A few rental agencies occasionally permit cars to travel by ferry, but this is rare and always requires advance approval. Policies can change without notice, so it’s essential to confirm before you book – not when you arrive at the dock.
If permission is granted, be prepared for an increased rate to cover insurance and a return fee to cover the vehicle should it be damaged while the car is outside of Ireland.
In most cases, arranging separate rentals on each side of the Irish Sea is simpler, cheaper, and far less stressful.
Pro Tip: It may even cost less to fly from Dublin or Belfast to Edinburgh or Glasgow. Check budget airlines like RyanAir and EasyJet.
Practical Tips for Cross-Border Travel
A few small but important details change once you cross the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Car insurance and currency differ north and south – Ireland uses euros (€), while Northern Ireland uses pounds sterling (£). Most credit cards are accepted on both sides, but it’s still helpful to have a small amount of local cash if you’re traveling outside major towns.
You’ll also notice a change in road signs. Distances and speed limits in the Republic are shown in kilometers, but once you cross into Northern Ireland, they switch to miles. Keep that in mind when checking your speed, setting your cruise control, and judging travel time.
Mobile coverage can vary near the border, so check whether your phone plan includes both Irish and UK networks. And if you’re using GPS or a map app, make sure your destination didn’t switch country settings automatically – it’s an easy mistake to make when towns share similar names on both sides.
So yes, you can take your rental car across the border into Northern Ireland, or even Scotland, as long as your rental agreement allows it. Just make sure you’ve paid the fee and have the proof tucked safely in your glove box.
The next episode wraps up this series with how to save money on your Ireland car rental – I’ll share the do’s and don’ts that can make your rental cheaper and easier.
Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 308
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Lori-Ann and Nick Mancini transform their daughters' Irish dance opportunity into an unforgettable 20-day family adventure across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, blending cultural experiences with memorable exploration. • Flying direct from Orlando to Dublin before driving through I…Lori-Ann and Nick Mancini transform their daughters' Irish dance opportunity into an unforgettable 20-day family adventure across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, blending cultural experiences with memorable exploration. • Flying direct from Orlando to Dublin before driving through Ireland and Northern Ireland • Discovering the surprising beauty of Northern Ireland, including Tollymore Forest, Giant's Causeway and Silent Valley • Flying to Edinburgh and experiencing Holyrood ...more
Mickela Mallozzi is a bundle of creative energy. She is the creator and host of the award winning TV show Bare Feet as well as a professor at New York University. She tells Brent about the new season of Bare Feet that includes adventures in Ireland like a distillery in a jail, eating oysters right f…Mickela Mallozzi is a bundle of creative energy. She is the creator and host of the award winning TV show Bare Feet as well as a professor at New York University. She tells Brent about the new season of Bare Feet that includes adventures in Ireland like a distillery in a jail, eating oysters right from the ocean, and the punk rock scene in Northern Ireland. Plus, a little talk about New Zealand and the importance of accessibility. [Ep 345]
Show Notes:
Destination Eat Drink foodie travel guides at Buy Me a Coffee
In this episode of the Exploring Ireland Podcast, we're diving into the vibrant city of Belfast, Northern Ireland's capital. Hosts Dan McDermott and local experts take listeners through key historical and cultural spots such as the Crumlin Road Jail, Ulster Museum, and the Titanic Quarter. Fionn Dav…In this episode of the Exploring Ireland Podcast, we're diving into the vibrant city of Belfast, Northern Ireland's capital. Hosts Dan McDermott and local experts take listeners through key historical and cultural spots such as the Crumlin Road Jail, Ulster Museum, and the Titanic Quarter. Fionn Davenport provides insights on Belfast's food scene, nightspots, and travel tips, while Daragh O'Sullivan and Ann Marie Walsh explore top attractions, including the Game of Thrones Studio Tour. The podcast also highlights recommendations for dining, drinking, and lodging, ensuring a comprehensive guide to discovering Belfast.more
This city in Northern Ireland is well known for its defensive city walls, murals, and the tragic Bloody Sunday history during the period known as The Troubles.
Located at the westernmost end of the Causeway Coastal Route and the northernmost tip of the Wild At…Planning to visit Derry/ Londonderry?
This city in Northern Ireland is well known for its defensive city walls, murals, and the tragic Bloody Sunday history during the period known as The Troubles.
Located at the westernmost end of the Causeway Coastal Route and the northernmost tip of the Wild Atlantic Way, Derry makes a terrific base to for touring portions of these scenic drives.
Ferryquay Gate, one of 4 gates in the Derry city walls.
Visiting Derry in Northern Ireland
This article is based on the Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 116, featuring Gleann Doherty, the owner of Derry Guided Tours. Gleann is a Derry native, raised in the city all through the conflict. He holds a B.A. Honours Degree graduate of Irish History and Politics from the Magee campus University of Ulster.
If you prefer to read the article, it continues below the podcast player.
Derry – or Londonderry?
The city's original Irish name is Doire, which translates to ‘the oak grove'. That was anglicized to Derry.
In 1613 King James I changed the name to Londonderry for the London Guild who financed the building of the city walls.
Locally the city is generally referred to as Derry.
Cannon sit atop the city wall of Derry, a reminder of the Plantation of Ulster.
The Derry Walls
The Derry Walls are the largest ancient monument in state care in Northern Ireland and have the longest, complete circuit of ramparts of any of the remaining 30 walled towns in Ireland.
The walls were built during the Plantation of Ulster, a colonization of the province of Ulster by the British to populate the area with British and Scottish Protestants. The walls were the main defensive structure for the plantation of the area.
The Derry walls are massive! You could actually drive a car on top of them in many areas! And the experience of walking above the city is so unique.
The Ulster Overview itinerary takes you through the highlights of Ulster, including the Giant’s Causeway, Belfast, and Derry – while introducing you to places along the Causeway Coast that you’ve not heard of!
The itinerary is suitable for all ages and includes 3 levels of lodging recommendations.
Get the FREE Ulster Overview itinerary here.
The Free Derry Wall as you enter the Bogside.
Murals in Derry
Derry is a city known for its murals located in an area known as Bogside.
The murals began in the late 70s as a rather fluid political message, often a form of protest in the Catholic Nationalist community.
The murals that people see today were painted from the mid-90s and early 2000s, but were designed to be ‘static' and explain the modern history of Derry.
When you think of the Great Famine, your mind likely drifts to the midlands of Ireland. However, a unique and deeply moving famine experience exists in Northern Ireland at Gorta, located above Friel’s Pub in Swatragh, Mid Ulster. Here, you can step into history and uncover the often-overlooked impac…When you think of the Great Famine, your mind likely drifts to the midlands of Ireland. However, a unique and deeply moving famine experience exists in Northern Ireland at Gorta, located above Friel’s Pub in Swatragh, Mid Ulster. Here, you can step into history and uncover the often-overlooked impact of the famine in this region through an immersive and well-researched exhibit.
The only famine pot in Ireland still in its original location
This article is based on a podcast episode with Dermot Friel, owner of Friel's Pub and the Gorta Famine Story. If you would prefer to listen to this information the podcast player can be found at the bottom of the page.
A Famine Story Rooted in Local History
Gorta is not just another famine museum—it’s the only dedicated famine soup kitchen experience on the island of Ireland. The experience takes you through the history of famine relief efforts, particularly focusing on a soup kitchen established on-site by Dr. Mooney, a key figure in the community during the 1840s.
During the early 1990s, a famine pot was discovered on the property, leading to research that uncovered the site’s history as a charitable soup kitchen. Unlike government-run relief programs, this initiative was supported by local donations and managed under the direction of the Mercers Company, a London-based organization that once controlled vast lands in Ireland.
Exhibit at Gorta
An Immersive and Interactive Experience
As you walk through Gorta, you journey from the pre-famine era, through its devastating effects, and finally, the relief efforts made by local communities. Storyboards, audio recordings, and visual exhibits guide you through the narrative, making it an accessible and digestible experience. The compact size of the exhibit means you can complete your visit in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal stop during your travels.
One of the most remarkable discoveries on-site was a low-lying window, believed to have been the serving point for the soup kitchen during the famine. This window, uncovered during lockdown, remains intact and serves as a physical link to the past.
How to Visit Gorta
Gorta is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, from April through September. Visitors can purchase admission at Friel’s Pub and explore the self-guided exhibit, with occasional insights from Dermot Friel and Cathy O’Neill, who also leads an Emigrant’s Walk up the nearby Carntogher Mountain.
For those looking for a deeper connection to Irish history, combining the Gorta experience with Cathy’s guided hike offers a profound look into the struggles of famine-era Ireland and the stories of those who emigrated.
Friel's Pub
More Than Just a Pub
While visiting Gorta, you also have the chance to experience Friel’s Pub, a fourth-generation family-run establishment that has been a staple in the community since 1903. Dermot Friel, who took over the business at just 18, continues to uphold its legacy alongside his wife, Katrina, and their children. The pub is not only a gathering place for locals but now also a stop for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking authentic Irish experiences.
To keep up with evolving tourism, the Friels have expanded the property to include a motorhome park and will soon introduce glamping-style shepherd’s huts, providing visitors with unique accommodation options.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re traveling through Ulster make sure to add Gorta and Friel’s Pub to your itinerary.
Click here to get the FREE Ulster Overview itinerary
Whether you’re drawn to history, cultural heritage, or simply a great Irish pub experience, Gorta and Friels offer a meaningful and educational stop that sheds light on an often-overlooked chapter of Ireland’s past.
Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 258
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You've probably heard of the Causeway Coastal Route – it's one of the most scenic drives in the world. But Ulster, Ireland's northernmost province, saves some stunners for people who aren't afraid to get off the tourist path. Way, way off the tourist path.
Off the tourist trail in Northern Ireland
…You've probably heard of the Causeway Coastal Route – it's one of the most scenic drives in the world. But Ulster, Ireland's northernmost province, saves some stunners for people who aren't afraid to get off the tourist path. Way, way off the tourist path.
Off the tourist trail in Northern Ireland
CLICK HERE to add this to your Ireland travel board on Pinterest
This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Adam Stewart, the owner of Flat Cap Adventurers. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.
Podcast Guest
Adam Stewart, owner of Flat Cap Adventurers
Adam Stewart, owner of Flat Cap Adventurers
Where is Ulster?
Ulster is one of the four historic provinces of Ireland.
Located in the northern-most part of the country, Ulster includes the 6 counties of Northern Ireland, as well as 4 counties in the Republic of Ireland.
Get the FREE Ulster Overview itinerary.
Ulster Ireland Travel Tips
The Giant's Causeway and entire Causeway Coastal Route are among the most popular spots in Ulster.
From the town of Ballycastle, and other spots along the coastal route, you can see Rathlan Island and, on a very clear day, Scotland.
Among the old fishing villages is Ballantoy, which became well known when the harbour was used as a setting for Game of Thrones.
The most scenic train ride in Ireland is along the Causeway Coast from Coleraine to Derry, passing underneath Mussenden Temple.
If you only want to drive the Causeway Coast and stop at a few places you need to plan a full day. But you should really plan to stay longer to fully explore this incredible area.
A terrific central base for touring the Causeway Coastal route is Bushmills. Known for its whiskey – Bushmills is the oldest continually operating distillery in Ireland – the village is an area of conservation.
Flat Cap Adventurers Tours in Ulster
Flat Cap Adventurers
Get off the tourist trail and visit places most people never see.
Adam's tours will take you off road and into places where you will only see sheep – and amazing scenery.
In the Sperrin Mountains Adam will take you to visit a shepherd to learn about sheep farming.
On the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal you can experience a famine village, take a heart -pounding ride to the top of a mountain, and see seals on beaches that only a 4×4 can reach.
Learn more at FlatCapAdventurers.com and find Flat Cap Adventurers on the socials: Instagram – Facebook – message on WhatsApp.
3 Places to Add to Your Ireland Itinerary
Doagh Famine Village
The Point Bar at Magilligan for a meal at the end of the Inishowen 100
Cross Lough Foyle on the ferry from Magilligan to Greencastle.
2 Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episodes
Episode 257: Flat Cap Adventurers
Episode 147: On & Off the Tourist Path in Ulster
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Is Northern Ireland on your itinerary? Today's guest, Jamese McCloy, is going to give you a dozen reasons to venture off the tourist trail and explore the heart of Mid Ulster in Northern Ireland.
Exploring Mid Ulster in Northern Ireland
Click Here to add this to your Ireland vacation board on Pint…Is Northern Ireland on your itinerary? Today's guest, Jamese McCloy, is going to give you a dozen reasons to venture off the tourist trail and explore the heart of Mid Ulster in Northern Ireland.
Exploring Mid Ulster in Northern Ireland
Click Here to add this to your Ireland vacation board on Pinterest!
This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Jamese McCloy, shepherd at Glenshane County Farm. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.
Highlights of Mid Ulster in Northern Ireland
Embrace the ‘old Ireland' you've imagined!
Get the FREE Ulster Itinerary to help plan your own visit to Ireland's northern counties.
The Sperrin Mountains are relatively untouched; they are a beautiful, spiritual place
Slemish Mountain, where St. Patrick is believed to have been a shepherd
Seamus Heaney Homeplace – Seamus Heaney won the 1995 Nobel Prize in Literature
Bronagh's Bakehouse – Irish baking experience and dining
Lough Neagh Stories – tour with a fisherman
Davagh Dark Sky Observatory
The Ponderosa – the highest pub in Ireland
Crosskeys Inn – Ireland's Oldest Thatched Pub
Friel's Bar – historic pub and Gorta Famine Story
Easy day trips to the Causeway Coast, Belfast, and Derry!
Meet My Guest: Jamese McCloy
Jamese McCloy is a fourth-generation shepherd who wants to show people sheep farming and particularly his highly trained team of working sheepdogs. He invites visitors to his farm set deep on the beautiful, little-known landscape of the Sperrin Mountains.
At Glenshane County Farm you can expect a bucolic Irish farm experience. Watch the sheepdogs at work, try your hand at shearing, cuddle a baby lamb, and even stay a while at the 5-stay Glenshane Country House.
Learn more Glenshane Country Farm
Connect Facebook – Instagram
3 Experiences to Add to Your Northern Ireland Itinerary
Get an unbeatable quote on your car rental in Ireland with Irish Car Rentals!
Click my exclusive link to save 10%!
Brohagh's Bakehouse or Tracey's Farmhouse Kitchen – Irish baking experiences
Dalriada Kingdom Tours – unique, private, and personal experiences
2 Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episodes
Episode 256: Glenshane Country Farm
Episode 97: Mid-Ulster – The Heart of Northern Ireland
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Do you ‘knead' a taste of Ireland right now? Today's guest has an Irish bread making experience you can try in your own home – or in her thatch cottage in the North of Ireland.
Irish Baking Experience at Tracey's Farmhouse Kitchen
This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Tracey Jeffery…Do you ‘knead' a taste of Ireland right now? Today's guest has an Irish bread making experience you can try in your own home – or in her thatch cottage in the North of Ireland.
Irish Baking Experience at Tracey's Farmhouse Kitchen
This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Tracey Jeffery, the owner of Tracey's Farmhouse Kitchen. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.
Meet My Guest: Tracey Jeffery
Tracey welcomes you into her home kitchen – admittedly not the tidiest or fanciest – but one that is lived in and loved. Her thatch cottage is located on the shores of Strangford Lough, just 30 minutes from Belfast, in County Down.
Highlights of County Down
An area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Strangford Lough is the largest inlet of water in the British Isles. As a protected body of water there is a large amount of wildlife. It has over 300 tiny islands and is a perfect place for kayaking and an island picnic.
County Down is known for its ‘drumlins', small, low, rounded hills that resemble a basket of eggs.
The Mourne Mountains in the south of the county are mystical, magical, and beautiful.
County Down is an unspoilt area, and definitely the ‘road less traveled'.
Read More: Spots You Shouldn't Miss When Traveling in Northern Ireland
Bread Making Experiences – and more – With Tracey's Farmhouse Kitchen
Tracey welcomes you into her home for a traditional breadmaking experience – with tea and plenty of her home baked treats!
The ‘Canoe & Cake' experience lets you enjoy the peaceful beauty of the lough before returning to her home for delicious treats.
Tracey Also Offers
Afternoon Tea
Video courses
Video tutorials on her YouTube channel
Visit or Contact Tracey's Farmhouse Kitchen
Website – Facebook – YouTube – Instagram
3 Places to Add to Your Ireland Itinerary
Scrabo Tower
Strangford Village – ferry to Portaferry, Castle Ward (GoT), shops, restaurants
Mourne Mountains – 12 peaks, CS Lewis, mystical, not overcrowded
Planning to visit the North of Ireland?
Download my FREE Ulster Overview Itinerary!
Two Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episodes
Episode 255
Episode 101
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Two countrymen explore Ireland's reverence for their national poet, W. B. Yeats. Then a Dublin journalist shares what it was like to grow up amid the turbulent societal changes in his city during the 1960s and '70s. And a guide from Belfast tells us why an Emerald Isle itinerary should include a vis…Two countrymen explore Ireland's reverence for their national poet, W. B. Yeats. Then a Dublin journalist shares what it was like to grow up amid the turbulent societal changes in his city during the 1960s and '70s. And a guide from Belfast tells us why an Emerald Isle itinerary should include a visit to Northern Ireland.more
For St. Patrick’s Day, Brent is in Ireland for a visit to a castle (and some ice cream!) with Samantha Brown. Then, it’s off to Dublin for a few pints (and great craic) before we trek back to Northern Ireland for some incredible Game of Thrones sites. [Ep 328]
Show Notes:
Destination Eat Drink foo…For St. Patrick’s Day, Brent is in Ireland for a visit to a castle (and some ice cream!) with Samantha Brown. Then, it’s off to Dublin for a few pints (and great craic) before we trek back to Northern Ireland for some incredible Game of Thrones sites. [Ep 328]
Join Tracy and Doug in episode 124 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast as they recount their exciting three-day itinerary in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Building on their extensive UK journey, this episode delves into the highlights of their Belfast adventure, offering insights and tips for those plann…Join Tracy and Doug in episode 124 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast as they recount their exciting three-day itinerary in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Building on their extensive UK journey, this episode delves into the highlights of their Belfast adventure, offering insights and tips for those planning a visit to this vibrant city. The episode begins with Tracy and Doug's journey from Dublin to Belfast, navigating train and bus transfers due to ongoing engineering works. They share their expe...more
