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There are very strict drink-driving laws in Ireland and you can be stopped and breathalysed at any time. Within the city, most places can be reached on foot, and restaurants are very happy to call cabs.

It is unwise to wander around any badly lit areas of any city at night, and Dublin is no exception. It is also advisable not to walk around on your own late at night. There are areas of the city that have a reputation for being more dangerous than others – the northside is a bit rough after dark, so stick to the main thoroughfares such as O’Connell Street and the quays. On the southside, around Dolphin’s Barn, beyond Portobello, is a notorious area for drug-related crime, so avoid that both day and night, and similarly Summerhill off Gardiner Street on the northside. However neither of these areas has anything to draw the tourist so you are unlikely to find yourself there unless lost.

It is always a mistake to carry valuables around with you when you’re sightseeing, so leave them in the hotel safe. If you’re driving, never leave anything visible in the car to tempt a break-in. Like any capital city, beware of pickpockets. Don’t put temptation in their way by leaving bags open and valuables visible.

The traffic has got much worse in Dublin over the last few years and the rush hour lasts from about 8–9:30am and 5–7pm so allow extra time if you need to travel between these times. This is particularly important on the route to the airport, on which traffic problems are currently exacerbated by the building of the Port Tunnel.

Dublin’s pub culture is a major part of its charm and character, but when pubs become crowded they are a haven for petty thieves. Keep your money in your bag and your bag on your lap or where you can see it at all times. Even better, wear a money belt.

It is best to avoid drinking in hotel bars unless money is no object. Prices are always higher than in local bars and pubs, and a gratuity may be added.

There has been a problem with a lack of taxis around the city for late-night revellers. If you are at a restaurant or club ask the waiter to call for one rather than trying your luck on the street. Recent deregulation may improve the situation and hopefully bring more cabs onto the street.

Dublin’s traffic wardens are very sharp and quite thick on the ground, so make sure you don’t overrun your time as you’ll be fined immediately. Clampers are also about all over the city, and it is time-consuming and expensive to get released.

From January to May the Six Nations Cup is played out between Italy, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, France and England with matches in the various countries. These weekends are best avoided, unless you’re a rugby fan – hotel prices increase and the city is overcrowded.

The public transport system around Ireland is generally poor (see Getting Around Dublin). There is a rail service to the main cities from Dublin but it is difficult to tour from one place to another as rail and bus links are limited. If you need to use public transport make sure you have researched your route beforehand.