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If you’re planning a solo trip, the good news is that Ireland is the perfect choice – there’s great scenery and food, people are friendly and welcoming to visitors and there’s lots to do for the solo traveller. In fact, Rough Guides rates Ireland as one of the top countries in the world for travelling alone.

There are plenty of transport options to get around Ireland as a solo traveller. You can get to the cities and towns via public transport – the rail and bus network is reasonably priced and efficient. All the island's cities are very walkable and it can be fun to explore them on foot. But there are also bus services, commuter rail and tram services to help you get from A to B.

If you’re renting a car and taking a road trip around Ireland on your own, make sure to use a satnav or maps app on your phone with the audio instructions enabled, for help to navigate around the roads.

There’s plenty to do for the solo traveller, whether it’s having a quiet night at the cinema or theatre, taking in a live music gig, enjoying a comedy show, dining out or just sampling the atmosphere at the local pub, where it’s easy to strike up a conversation with friendly locals. Check out local event guides to find out what’s on in the area when you visit.

Eating alone in a restaurant or café is no problem and it’s very common in Ireland to see people dining on delicious food or enjoying a coffee alone. You can ask for a quiet corner in the restaurant if you don’t want to draw attention to yourself, or a table at the centre of the action for people-watching.

If you’re drinking alone in a pub or bar, especially if you sit at the bar counter, someone (usually a friendly or curious local) may try to strike up a conversation with you. If people buy you a drink in the pub, the custom is to buy them (and whoever else is in the “round” of drinks) one back.

Most accommodation – hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs – is priced by the room, so it’s the same price whether the room is for a couple or a solo traveller. Some places do have single rooms, but they are rare. No matter where you stay, you can ask your hosts for help, advice and recommendations for things to see and do.

If you don’t mind sharing a room or dorm, you can try a hostel, which will cut down on costs. It will also give you a chance to meet other travellers.