Where is Ireland Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated May 30, 2025

Where is Ireland located on the map? Ireland is an independent nation located in Northern Europe. Check out the following images to see location of Ireland on maps.

Ireland Location in World Map

Ireland is in Western Europe.

Location Information of Ireland

Ireland is an island located to the northwest of mainland Europe, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the Irish Sea, and the Celtic Sea. It shares a land border with Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. Known for its green landscapes, ancient history, and rich cultural heritage, Ireland is both a unique and important part of Europe. The country is divided into the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, with the Republic of Ireland being the sovereign state and Northern Ireland remaining part of the United Kingdom.

Latitude and Longitude

Ireland is situated between 51° N and 55° N latitude, and 5° W and 10° W longitude. The capital city, Dublin, lies at approximately 53.3498° N latitude and 6.2603° W longitude. The island’s geographical location gives it a temperate climate, with moderate temperatures and ample rainfall throughout the year.

Capital City and Major Cities

Dublin (Capital City)

Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland, has a population of approximately 1.2 million in the metropolitan area. It is located on the east coast of Ireland, along the River Liffey. Dublin is the political, cultural, and economic center of the country and is known for its vibrant arts scene, rich literary history, and historical landmarks. The city has a mix of modern architecture and Georgian-era buildings, with popular sites such as the Trinity College Library, the Guinness Storehouse, and Dublin Castle.

Dublin is a hub for Ireland’s financial and tech industries, with many international corporations, including Google, Facebook, and Apple, establishing regional headquarters in the city. The Temple Bar district, known for its lively pubs, restaurants, and cultural events, is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

Cork

Located on the south coast of Ireland, Cork is the second-largest city in the Republic, with a population of around 210,000. Cork is known for its maritime heritage and is often referred to as the “Maritime Capital of Ireland.” The city’s Cork Harbour is one of the largest natural harbors in the world, and Cork is home to a number of cultural institutions, such as the Cork Opera House and the Crawford Art Gallery.

The city also has a long history of education and innovation, with University College Cork playing a major role in research and development. Cork is famous for its culinary scene, offering everything from fresh seafood to artisan cheeses and locally produced meats.

Galway

Situated on the west coast of Ireland, Galway is a vibrant city with a population of around 80,000. Known for its artistic and cultural atmosphere, Galway is often referred to as the “Cultural Heart of Ireland.” The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the famous Galway International Arts Festival and Galway Races.

Galway is located near the scenic Connemara region, known for its rugged landscapes, lakes, and mountains. The city is a popular base for tourists looking to explore the Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands, two of Ireland’s most visited natural landmarks.

Limerick

Located on the Shannon River in the mid-western region of Ireland, Limerick has a population of approximately 100,000. The city is historically significant, with many notable medieval structures, including King John’s Castle and the St. Mary’s Cathedral. Limerick is also known for its vibrant arts and literary scenes, and it was designated as the European City of Culture in 2014.

Limerick has a growing economy, with significant investment in technology, pharmaceuticals, and education. The University of Limerick and the Limerick Institute of Technology are two major institutions contributing to the city’s development.

Waterford

Waterford, located on the southeast coast of Ireland, is the oldest city in the country, with a history dating back over 1,100 years. The city has a population of around 53,000. Waterford is famous for its long-standing tradition of crystal glassmaking, with Waterford Crystal being one of the world’s most renowned crystal brands.

The city is also known for its well-preserved medieval structures, including Reginald’s Tower and the Waterford Viking Triangle, which showcases the city’s Viking heritage. Waterford is also home to several modern attractions, including the Waterford Museum of Treasures and Waterford Greenway, a scenic trail for cycling and walking.

Time Zone

Ireland operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during the winter months, which is UTC +0. During the summer, Ireland follows Irish Standard Time (IST), which is UTC +1. The shift to Daylight Saving Time in March and back in October is standard across the European Union, including Ireland. This places Ireland in the same time zone as the United Kingdom, Portugal, and much of Western Europe.

Climate

Ireland has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by moderate temperatures, consistent rainfall, and relatively mild winters. The climate is influenced by the surrounding Atlantic Ocean, which moderates both the summer heat and winter cold.

Rainfall

Ireland receives substantial rainfall throughout the year, with some areas, particularly the west coast, experiencing over 2,500 mm (100 inches) annually. The west of the country, including Galway and Limerick, tends to be wetter than the east, including Dublin and Cork, where rainfall is somewhat less frequent. Despite the high rainfall, it is often light and spread out over the year, with occasional heavy downpours or storms.

Temperature

Summers in Ireland are generally mild, with temperatures averaging around 15-20°C (59-68°F) in July and August. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 0°C (32°F), with an average winter temperature of about 5-8°C (41-46°F) in December and January. Snowfall is uncommon but can occur during cold spells, particularly in the mountainous areas of the country.

Winds

Ireland is known for its frequent and strong winds, especially in coastal regions and during the winter months. The winds are most pronounced in the west and northwest, where Atlantic storms bring strong gusts and heavy rain.

Economic Status

Ireland has a highly developed economy, with a GDP of approximately $530 billion USD. The country is one of the wealthiest in the world, with a high standard of living and low unemployment rates. Ireland is known for its open economy, relying heavily on trade, especially exports, and attracting significant foreign direct investment.

Key Economic Sectors

Technology and Pharmaceuticals: Ireland is a major player in the global tech and pharmaceutical industries, with many multinational companies establishing their European headquarters in Dublin. Companies like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft have substantial operations in Ireland, benefiting from the country’s favorable corporate tax rates and skilled workforce. The pharmaceutical industry also plays a significant role in Ireland’s economy, with companies like Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson having major manufacturing plants in the country.
Agriculture and Food: Ireland has a long history of agriculture, and the food and drink sector remains a key part of the economy. The country is known for producing high-quality beef, lamb, dairy products, and whiskey. Irish whiskey, in particular, has seen a significant rise in global demand in recent years.
Tourism: Ireland is a popular destination for international tourists, attracting millions each year. The tourism industry contributes significantly to the national economy, providing jobs and boosting local economies. Ireland’s natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and historical sites make it a sought-after destination for visitors.

Challenges

Ireland faces several economic challenges, including housing affordability, regional disparities in wealth and development, and the potential economic impacts of Brexit. The housing crisis in Dublin and other major cities has been a significant issue, with rising property prices and rents outpacing wages.

Tourist Attractions

Ireland is a country steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Its landscapes, ancient monuments, and lively cities make it an ideal destination for tourists.

Dublin

Dublin offers a mix of cultural attractions, including:

Trinity College Library, home to the Book of Kells.
Dublin Castle, a historic government complex.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Ireland.
Temple Bar district, known for its pubs and live music.

Cliffs of Moher

Located on the west coast of Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are one of the country’s most famous natural landmarks. The dramatic cliffs rise over 700 feet (214 meters) above the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning views. The cliffs are also home to diverse birdlife, including puffins and gannets.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of lakes, mountains, and the Atlantic coastline. The route passes through picturesque towns like Killarney and Kenmare and is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist routes.

Blarney Castle

Home to the famous Blarney Stone, Blarney Castle near Cork is one of Ireland’s top tourist attractions. Legend holds that kissing the Blarney Stone grants the gift of eloquence.

Giant’s Causeway

Though technically in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is one of the island’s most famous landmarks. It consists of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by volcanic activity and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens do not require a visa for tourism or business visits to Ireland for stays of up to 90 days. However, travelers must have a valid U.S. passport with at least six months’ validity beyond their planned departure date. For longer stays or purposes such as work, study, or residency, a visa or residence permit is required. U.S. citizens traveling for other purposes should check the specific visa requirements with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS).

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

From New York City to Dublin: The distance between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Dublin Airport (DUB) is approximately 3,200 miles (5,150 kilometers). A direct flight typically takes about 7 hours.
From Los Angeles to Dublin: The distance between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Dublin Airport (DUB) is approximately 5,100 miles (8,200 kilometers). Direct flights generally take around 10 hours.

Ireland Facts

Size	70,273 km²
Residents	4.9 million
Languages	Irish, English
Capital	Dublin
Longest river	Shannon (386 km)
Highest mountain	Carrantuohill (1,041 m)
Currency	Euro