Europe
Is Ireland safe?
L1Exercise normal precautions
Is Ireland safe?
Very safe for visitors. Petty theft and late-night antisocial behaviour in central Dublin are the main concerns; rural Ireland is very low-risk.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 1: Exercise normal precautions, updated 2026-03-19.
- Homicide rate: 0.7 per 100,000 people (2023, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 3.1 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 999 · Ambulance 999 · Fire 999 · All emergencies 999.
- Solo women: Comfortable for solo women. Take usual care in central Dublin late at night and use licensed taxis or apps.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Bag and phone theft in central Dublin and on public transport
- Antisocial behaviour around O'Connell Street and the quays at night
- Narrow, winding rural roads when driving on the left
Common scams
- Fake rental listings demanding a deposit before any viewing, especially in Dublin
- Resold or fake tickets for concerts and big matches
Laws visitors break by accident
- Cannabis is illegal, and possession of small amounts can still bring a fine or conviction.
- Drinking alcohol in public streets is banned in most towns under local bye-laws.
- E-scooters must stay off footpaths, carry no passengers and keep under 20 km/h.
Safety by place in Ireland
Quick answers
Is Ireland safe for tourists?
Very safe for visitors. Petty theft and late-night antisocial behaviour in central Dublin are the main concerns; rural Ireland is very low-risk.
Is Ireland safe for solo female travelers?
Comfortable for solo women. Take usual care in central Dublin late at night and use licensed taxis or apps.
What is the emergency number in Ireland?
Police 999 · Ambulance 999 · Fire 999 · All emergencies 999.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- Irish Immigration Service: Coming to visit Ireland
- GOV.UK: Ireland travel advice
- Citizens Information
- Speedtest Global Index: Ireland
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.