Need to call Ireland but not sure how to dial correctly? You're in the right place. Ireland's country code is +353, and knowing how to use it properly can save you from those awkward moments when your call doesn't go through (and your phone bill doesn't thank you either).
Whether you're calling family in Dublin, conducting business in Cork, or trying to reach that charming B&B in Galway, this guide covers everything you need to know about dialling Ireland correctly. We'll walk you through the step-by-step process, common mistakes to avoid, and even some free calling options that won't break the bank.
What is the country code for Ireland?
Ireland's country code is 353. This three-digit number is what you need to dial when calling Ireland from any other country around the world.
Country codes are part of the international telephone numbering system, designed to route calls to the correct country. Think of them as postal codes for phone calls - they tell the network exactly where your call needs to go. Ireland's 353 code has been in use since the country established its modern telecommunications system.
For reference, Ireland's ISO country codes are IE (alpha-2) and IRL (alpha-3), which you might see used in forms, websites, or official documentation.
How to call Ireland from abroad
Calling Ireland follows a simple three-step formula that works from anywhere in the world:
International Access Code → Country Code → Local Number
Here's how it breaks down:
- Dial your country's international access code (011 from the US/Canada, 00 from most European countries)
- Add Ireland's country code: 353
- Dial the local number, dropping the initial "0"
Examples in Action:
From the US to Dublin: 011 353 1 234 5678
From the UK to Cork: 00 353 21 234 5678
From Germany to Galway: 00 353 91 234 5678
The key thing to remember? Always drop that initial "0" from Irish area codes when calling from abroad. Irish numbers start with 0 when dialled domestically (like 01 for Dublin), but you skip this zero for international calls.
Ireland area codes (most common by city)
Here are the most important area codes you'll need when calling different parts of Ireland:
City/region - area code
Dublin - 01
Cork - 21
Limerick - 61
Galway - 91
Waterford - 51
Drogheda - 41
Dundalk - 42
Wexford - 53
Kilkenny - 56
Athlone - 90
Sligo - 71
Letterkenny - 74
Tralee - 66
Ennis - 65
Carlow - 59
Important note: Irish mobile numbers (starting with 08) don't use area codes. You simply dial the full mobile number after the country code.
How to call Ireland from a mobile phone
Mobile phones make international calling even simpler. Instead of remembering different international access codes, you can use the universal + symbol:
Format: +353 [area code] [local number]
Examples:
- To Dublin mobile: +353 87 123 4567
- To Cork landline: +353 21 234 5678
Most smartphones automatically recognise the + symbol when you hold down the "0" key. This method works regardless of which country you're calling from - no need to remember whether it's 011, 00, or something else.
How to call Ireland for free
Who doesn't love a good bargain? Several apps and services let you call Ireland without traditional phone charges:
Internet-based calling:
- WhatsApp: Free voice and video calls (both parties need the app)
- FaceTime: Free for Apple users calling other Apple devices
- Google Meet: Free voice and video calling
- Viber: Free app-to-app calls worldwide
Pros and cons:
Pros: Completely free (just uses your internet data), often better call quality than traditional calls Cons: Both parties need the same app and a reliable internet connection
These options work brilliantly for staying in touch with friends and family, though you might still need traditional calling for businesses or official services.
Common reasons why calls to Ireland fail
Nothing's more frustrating than a call that won't connect. Here are the usual suspects and quick fixes:
Wrong country code: Double-check you're using 353, not 533 or any other combination Incorrect area code: Check that the area code matches the city you're calling
Missing digits: Irish landlines typically have 7 digits after the area code, mobiles have 7 digits after 08
Forgot to drop the zero: Remember to skip the initial "0" when calling from abroad
No international plan: Check with your provider; some plans block international calls by default
Network issues: Try calling from a different location or wait and try again
Pro tip: If you're still having trouble, try calling an Irish directory service first to test your connection.
What time is best to call Ireland?
Ireland follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in winter and Irish Standard Time (GMT+1) during daylight saving time (March to October).
For business calls: Aim for 9 AM to 5 PM Irish time, Monday through Friday
For personal calls: Consider that Irish folks often have dinner around 6-7 PM, so early evening can work well
Always use a time zone converter when scheduling important calls - there's nothing quite like waking up your Irish colleague at 3am because you miscalculated the time difference.
Emergency and service numbers in Ireland
In case you ever need them, here are Ireland's essential service numbers:
- 112 and 999: Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance)
- 116000: Missing child helpline
- 116123: Emotional support helpline
These numbers are free to call from any phone in Ireland and should only be used for genuine emergencies or crises.
Conclusion
Calling Ireland is straightforward once you know the basics: use country code 353, remember to drop the initial zero from area codes, and don't forget about free internet-based calling options. Whether you're planning a business call to Dublin or want to check in with a B&B in the countryside, following these simple steps will ensure your calls connect smoothly.
For the best experience, double-check the local time before calling and keep a time zone converter handy. With these tools in your back pocket, you'll be chatting away like a pro in no time. Sláinte to successful calls!
This article is for general information purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, financial or other professional advice or a recommendation of any kind whatsoever and should not be relied upon or treated as a substitute for specific advice relevant to particular circumstances. We make no warranties, representations or undertakings about any of the content of this article (including, without limitation, as to the quality, accuracy, completeness or fitness for any particular purpose of such content), or any content of any other material referred to or accessed by hyperlinks through this article. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content on our site is accurate, complete or up-to-date.
