Explore Ireland

Ireland (Irish: Éire), known popularly as the Emerald Isle, is an island in north-western Europe which has been divided politically since 1920. Most of the island is made up of the Republic of Ireland (Irish: Poblacht na hÉireann). The remainder is Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom.



The island of Ireland historically consists of 32 counties, of which six, collectively known as Northern Ireland, have remained as part of the United Kingdom since the rest of Ireland gained independence in 1922. The name "Ireland" applies to the island as a whole, but in English is also the official name of the independent state (i.e., the 26 counties which are not part of the United Kingdom), since 1937.

Explore travel tips & travel diaries - For Travelers, By Travelers. Find hostels, backpackers, b&b's, hotels and other accommodations on Traveldudes.