Ireland is such a beautiful country! But it can be hard to visit on a budget. Fortunately, there are ways to stay for free in Ireland. There are also affordable places to stay. And you might even get paid to stay there!
If you want to experience that Irish charm, you’ll be able to do that for cheap. Keep reading to learn about the best ways to stay in Ireland without breaking the bank.

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Why Visit Ireland?
There are so many great places to see in Ireland! Visit Cork City or Phoenix Park. Explore the Dublin city center, Killarney National Park, or Kilkenny Castle.
There are so many castles to see! If you like castles, visit Ashford Castle, Ballynahinch Castle, or Clontarf Castle. Learn about Irish history and enjoy Irish cuisine. The delicious dining is about as dreamy as the excellent views throughout the country.
Staying in a central location will help you to see the highlights of this beautiful country. You could stay at an international hotel or a popular spa hotel in Ireland. However, the Cahernane House Hotel and Lyrath Estate Hotel are not cheap.
Fortunately, there are many ways to save money on lodging in Ireland. Skip the stunning hotel experience and forego the modern hotel luxuries, stay in Ireland for free with one of the following options!

Housesit in Ireland
Housesitting is a great way to see the world on a budget. You’ll have to take care of someone’s house and maybe even their pets. This means that you will have some responsibilities.
However, these responsibilities don’t take too much time and effort. You should still be able to have time to explore Irish cities! You’ll also be able to stay in a comfortable home with basic amenities. This can be way more enjoyable than a stylish hotel or a cheap hostel.

Volunteer Exchanges in Ireland
Websites like HelpStay and WorkAway will match you with people who need some help. You’ll work for them and they’ll provide lodging. Then you can explore Ireland in your free time.
WorldPackers and WWOOF are other organizations with similar programs. These opportunities include things like working on a farm, at a camp, or at a bed and breakfast. Find an opportunity that matches your skill set.
You may find service projects that you’re passionate about. Or maybe someone who just needs seasonal help. These positions usually require about 20-30 hours of your time a week. This cuts into your free time, but you’ll still have days off and plenty of time to get around.
You can also search for work exchanges in Ireland to find more opportunities. These are very similar to volunteer exchanges, just with a different name. These are also a great way to learn the language and culture as you’ll be spending a lot of time with locals.
You’ll also be able to enjoy spectacular views as you stay on a farm. Or a quaint room if you stay at a bed and breakfast. Perhaps, you’ll have dorm-like housing. Then you can stay with other like-minded people working with you.
Contests and Sweepstakes
Now and then, there will be a way to win a free stay in Ireland. Some hotel chains or Irish attractions will give away free stays on their property. This can be tough to find, though. You’ll have to follow a lot of these places on social media to see the contests. You can also follow visitor bureaus and Irish travel bloggers. They’ll help you find these chances to win free lodging.
Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is an online platform that allows you to connect with people who are willing to let you crash with them. Maybe they have guestrooms with space. But you might literally sleep on their couch.
This is always free, but it is nice to bring a gift from your country. It is also somewhat expected to spend time together to learn about each other’s culture. A lot of hosts from this platform will love to show you around popular attractions! They can fill you in on Ireland’s rich history and let you know the best places to eat.

While a luxury hotel is nice for special occasions, free lodging will always be better. This is especially true if the cost of a hotel is the only thing keeping you from booking your vacation!
Once you figure out where you’ll stay for free in Ireland, book your airplane tickets to Dublin Airport!
Author: Britt
I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.
The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.
I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.
Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.
I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!
You can read more about Jay and me here!
Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.
