Arklow
,Arklow is a picturesque town located on the east coast of Ireland, in County Wicklow. It is known for its beautiful beaches, charming harbor, and historic buildings. Arklow also has a strong maritime tradition, with a long history of fishing and shipbuilding.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the town's shops, restaurants, and scenic coastal walks.
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "Slán" - Goodbye
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Arklow
morning
:Start your day with a stroll along Arklow's scenic seafront and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze. Grab a coffee at a local café to kick-start your adventure.
afternoon
:Visit the Arklow Maritime Museum to learn about the town's rich maritime history. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the town center for some shopping.
evening
:Dine at a cozy local restaurant, sampling traditional Irish cuisine. End the evening with a walk along the beach as the sun sets.
Nature and Hiking
morning
:Head to the nearby Wicklow Mountains for a morning hike through stunning landscapes. Take in the fresh air and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
afternoon
:Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the mountain lakes. Spend some time exploring the trails and soaking up the stunning views.
evening
:Return to Arklow and unwind at a local pub with some live traditional music. Savor a pint of Guinness while mingling with locals.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning coastal scenery and access to beautiful beaches.
- Rich history and culture, with several historical sites and landmarks.
- A friendly, tight-knit community with a welcoming atmosphere.
- Variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and water sports.
- Relatively mild climate compared to other regions in Ireland.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, which may lead to commuting.
- The cost of living may be higher, particularly housing prices.
- Limited public transport options, making a car necessary for many residents.
- Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment compared to larger cities.
- Potential for isolation due to its small-town nature.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Walking along the Avoca River
Enjoy a scenic walk along the picturesque Avoca River, which features beautiful views and lush landscapes.
Visiting the Beaches
Spend a day at Arklow's stunning sandy beaches, such as Ravenswell Beach or South Beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Hiking in the Wicklow Mountains
Explore the nearby Wicklow Mountains with various hiking trails that offer breathtaking views and a chance to experience nature.
Cycling the Greenway
Cycle along the Arklow to Bray Greenway, a flat and easy route that's great for families and offers beautiful coastal views.
Fishing in the Avoca River
Try your hand at fishing in the rich waters of the Avoca River, known for its salmon and trout fishing.
Visiting Arklow Maritime Museum
Learn about the maritime history of Arklow with a visit to the local maritime museum, featuring exhibits on the town's seafaring heritage.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Arklow with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Arklow Harbour
A picturesque spot with beautiful views of the River Avoca meeting the Irish Sea, ideal for capturing sunset photos.
Seaview Park
A scenic park located along the coastline, offering panoramic views of the ocean and opportunities for family portraits against a natural backdrop.
The Strand
A stunning beach area perfect for photographing the waves, sand dunes, and tranquil scenery, especially during golden hour.
Avoca River Walk
A serene walking trail alongside the river, featuring lush landscapes and charming bridges, great for nature and landscape photography.
Cliffs of Arklow
The dramatic cliffs provide breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the sea, perfect for striking landscape shots and adventurous photography.
Arklow Lighthouse
An iconic landmark offering incredible views of the coastline and the opportunity to capture nautical scenes and sunsets.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Guinness Beef Stew
A rich and savory stew prepared with tender beef, root vegetables, and a generous splash of Guinness. Best enjoyed at the Old Ship or The Gin Mill, two cozy pubs known for their authentic Irish comfort food.
Must-Try!
Seafood Chowder
A creamy, flavorful chowder brimming with locally sourced seafood such as salmon, mussels, and prawns. Visit The Bay Café for a delectable bowl with stunning waterfront views.
Boxty
A traditional Irish potato pancake, often served with a variety of fillings like beef, salmon, or goat cheese. The Celtic Bistro is renowned for their delicious and inventive boxty creations.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Arklow better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Arklow Farmers' Market
Held every Saturday, this market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade jams, and freshly baked goods. Don't miss the authentic Irish street food stalls offering everything from fish and chips to gourmet burgers.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Arklow, a common way to greet someone is by saying 'Hello' or 'Hi', often accompanied by a friendly smile. A handshake is also acceptable, especially in formal settings. It is polite to maintain eye contact while greeting.
Punctuality
Being on time is considered respectful in Arklow. Whether for social events or business meetings, arriving on time is appreciated. If you are running late, it is courteous to inform the person you are meeting.
Dining Etiquette
When dining in Arklow, it is customary to wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. Use utensils properly and keep your elbows off the table. It is polite to thank the host after the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Arklow with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Arklow, Ireland, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the bill if service is not included. In cafes and pubs, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also appreciated.
Payment
In Arklow, various payment methods are accepted, including cash, debit, and credit cards. Contactless payment options are widely available and used. Most shops, restaurants, and services support electronic payments. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets that may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Arklow, as the weather starts to warm up and flowers bloom. Expect mild temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), with occasional rain. It's a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the scenic coastline.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Arklow, with temperatures often reaching between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Visitors can enjoy long daylight hours and vibrant local festivals. It's the best time for beach activities, water sports, and enjoying local cuisine at outdoor cafes.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures, usually between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The fall foliage makes the landscapes stunning, providing great opportunities for photography and scenic walks. It can be rainy, but fewer crowds make it a peaceful time to explore.
Winter
Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures averaging between 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F). While it can be wet and windy, the off-season atmosphere allows for quiet, reflective walks along the coastline. The town may have festive decorations during December and offers a cozy experience with local pubs and indoor activities.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Croghan Mountain
A scenic hike with a variety of trails offering panoramic views of the surrounding areas, suitable for different skill levels.
Glendalough National Park
Famous for its stunning landscapes and ancient monastic site, Glendalough offers numerous hiking trails amidst lakes and mountains.
Wicklow Way
One of Ireland’s longest trail walks, it stretches through the Wicklow Mountains, starting near Dublin and passing close to Arklow.
The Spinc and Glenealo Valley
A popular hiking route providing breathtaking views of the Glendalough Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Ballycumber Mountain
A less-known hiking spot featuring rugged trails and beautiful vistas, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Arklow by plane.
Dublin Airport (DUB)
The largest and busiest airport in Ireland, located approximately 130 km from Arklow.
Cork Airport (ORK)
Ireland's second-largest airport situated about 250 km from Arklow, offering a range of international flights.
Shannon Airport (SNN)
An important international airport located around 250 km from Arklow, primarily serving transatlantic flights.
Belfast International Airport (BFS)
Located approximately 175 km from Arklow, this airport serves international destinations and is Northern Ireland's main airport.
Knock Airport (NOC)
Also known as Ireland West Airport, located about 290 km from Arklow, providing flights to various international locations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White Irish
The largest demographic group in Arklow, comprising the majority of the population.
Other White
Includes individuals from other European countries and non-Irish white ethnicities.
Asian or Asian Irish
Comprises individuals of Asian descent, including those from various Asian countries.
Black or Black Irish
A smaller group including individuals of African and Caribbean descent.
Mixed or Multiple Ethnic Groups
Includes individuals from mixed ethnic backgrounds.
Other Ethnic Groups
Comprises smaller populations that do not fall into the above categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
A widely played team sport in Arklow, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.
Rugby
Rugby union is popular in Arklow, with clubs that involve youth and adults in competitive play.
GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association)
Involves Gaelic football and hurling, with active participation in local clubs and competitions.
Athletics
Track and field sports are promoted through local clubs, encouraging participation from a young age.
Golf
Arklow boasts several golf courses, attracting both local players and visitors.
Fishing
Given its coastal location, fishing is a popular recreational activity among locals.
Water Sports
Activities such as kayaking and sailing are enjoyed due to Arklow's proximity to the sea.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Several eateries in Arklow offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, from innovative plant-based dishes to classic comfort food with a meat-free twist. The culinary scene is welcoming and accommodating to those with plant-based dietary preferences.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors with gluten intolerance can easily find suitable dining options in Arklow. Many restaurants and cafes have dedicated gluten-free menus or are willing to customize dishes to accommodate dietary needs.