Can I watch ZDF/ARD online in Ireland?

Is it possible to watch ZDF/ARD online in Ireland? I live in Dublin, but would love to watch German TV, and especially the upcoming FIFA World Cup on ZDF/ARD. Can that be done from abroad?

That is a brilliant question, and the answer to your question is yes. It can be done, but you need to trick around a bit. The upcoming FIFA World Cup will be broadcasted in Ireland as well, so you can watch the matches on Irish TV, but if you want to watch them on German TV (which is understandable as you cheer for Germany), you will need to give the ZDF/ARD website the impression that you are in Germany.

zdf live in Ireland

To do so, you will need to make the ZDF/ARD website believe that you are in Germany. The best way to do so is by using a VPN service. Such a service will let you connect to a server in Germany, which will result in you getting a German IP address, which again will make you able to watch German TV online in Ireland.

There are lots of programs available for free all across Europe on the websites of ZDF and ARD, but if you want to watch live streams of sports events or special programs from the big library of both TV networks, a German IP address is often required. You might also need to register a free user at both websites, but that is completely free, so you don’t need to pay any extra for such a service.

For this purpose, I recommend using the VPN services of IPVanish. That is an American VPN service with servers all across the world, also in Germany. Sign up, connect to a server in Germany, and you are good to go.

If you later move back to Germany and miss Irish TV, you can also use IPVanish to get an Irish IP address, in order to stream RTE and other Irish TV channels from abroad.

What is a VPN and why does it help me stream German TV in Ireland?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a tool that helps protect your online privacy and security. When you use the internet, it is easy for others to see and track your movements. This can be abused by hackers, and also by your internet service provider if they want to find out what you are doing online. A VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet, and this makes it much harder for anyone to see or steal your information.

Many people think of a VPN like a private tunnel for your internet traffic. When you connect to a VPN, your data goes through this tunnel, hiding your activities and location. This is especially useful when using public Wi-Fi networks, as they lack security. In other words, this is especially useful if you use public WiFi in restaurants, cafés, and hotels as you travel to Dublin, or leave Ireland to visit some other place.

Overall, using a VPN is a simple way to enhance your online security and privacy.

A few words about IPVanish.

IPVanish is a very popular and well-known VPN provider, perfect for the purpose of streaming German TV online in Ireland (and elsewhere in the world). The service was founded in 2012. It helps keep your online activities private and secure by encrypting your internet connection. IPVanish has over 2,000 servers located in more than 75 countries around the world. This means you can choose from a lot of different locations to connect through.

With IPVanish, you can have up to 10 devices connected at the same time, which is great for families or people with multiple devices. It supports many platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and even some smart TVs and routers. This makes it easy to protect your privacy no matter what device you are using.

Are you coming to Dublin in April? Useful suggestions and information!

April is a fantastic month for traveling. As we say goodbye to the cold winter, we order cheap plane tickets and go away for some days to explore a new city. Are you coming to Dublin in April? This article gives useful information about what to do in Dublin in April and what kind of weather you can expect.

Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, is a vibrant metropolis with an interesting history. The city was founded by Vikings over a thousand years ago and it has since then evolved into a dynamic hub with happy locals, known for their hospitality.

What is the weather like in April?

As you travel to Dublin in April, you should expect frequent rain showers and cool temperatures (this is true for most of the year). Even though the daytime temperatures can reach 15-20 Celsius, you shouldn’t be surprised if you are hit by sudden rain and a lot of wind. Our best advice is to check the weather forecast before you travel and even though it promises you sun and beautiful temperatures, you should bring some water resistant clothes.

Some cool activities in and around Dublin in April.

Walk around and drink a beer in the Temple Bar District.
No visit to Dublin is complete without sampling the vibrant pub scene, especially in the lively Temple Bar area. Spend an evening hopping between traditional Irish pubs, enjoying live music, hearty pub grub, and the company of friendly locals. Temple Bar is renowned for its lively atmosphere, making it the perfect place to immerse yourself in Dublin’s rich cultural heritage.

temple bar district in dublin

Visit the beautiful Phoenix Park.
On a sunny day, take advantage of Dublin’s green spaces and head to Phoenix Park, one of Europe’s largest urban parks. Stroll along its tree-lined avenues, admire the scenic landscapes, and perhaps enjoy a picnic. With lots of space where you can relax, Phoenix Park offers a peaceful retreat from the stress of the city.

phoenix park in dublin

River Boat Trip:
Doesn’t it sound fantastic to explore Dublin from a different perspective? If that sounds tempting to you, buy a ticket for a boat trip on the River Liffey. On such a trip you can admire the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Ha’penny Bridge, Dublin Castle, and the Samuel Beckett Bridge. There are all sorts of boat trips available, so if you want to combine a boat trip with dinner, then that is a good option. Would you rather learn more about the city? Buy tickets for a boat trip with an audio-guide or a live guide!

river cruise in Dublin

Upcoming Events:
Are you eager to discover Dublin and find out what’s going on in the city? Take a look at our Dublin calendar for information on upcoming concerts, exhibitions, and festivals. There you can read about concerts, art exhibitions, food festivals, and much more. There is always something exciting happening in the city. We haven’t written about all events in Dublin, but it is smart to look at it for one minute or two, just in case there is something special going on in Dublin while you are there.

Excursions:
While in Dublin in April, consider taking a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic natural attractions. As you visit this fantastic location, you will be amazed as you look at the rugged cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. Several tour operators offer day trips from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher, so the best way to visit this location on a day-trip from Dublin is by joining an organized trip from Dublin.

cliffs of moher in ireland

More information before you visit Dublin.

Would you like to learn even more about Dublin and what to expect before you come to Ireland? You can read more about the most famous attractions in Dublin here in our guide. Are you looking for information about how to travel from Dublin airport to the city center? There is lots of information in our Dublin Guide, so get yourself a cup of coffee, a pen, and a notebook, and start planning your upcoming trip!

Five books you should read before you come to Dublin!

Before embarking on a trip to Dublin, we recommend that you read lots of literature that captures the essence of this vibrant city, which again will enrich your experience in profound ways. From the streets immortalized by James Joyce to the contemporary tales woven by modern authors, Dublin’s literary landscape offers a captivating glimpse into its history, culture, and people.

Here are five books that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of Dublin before you even set foot in its bustling streets. These are not tourist guides, but stories that will let you feel the breath and atmosphere of Dublin before you even arrive.

Five books worth reading before you come to Dublin!

1. “Dubliners” by James Joyce:
James Joyce’s “Dubliners” is a collection of short stories that vividly depict the everyday lives of Dubliners at the turn of the 20th century. From the struggles of ordinary people to moments of epiphany, Joyce’s writing captures the essence of Dublin with unparalleled insight and depth. Each story offers a glimpse into different facets of Dublin life, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the city’s rich tapestry of human experiences.

ulysses by james joyce

2. “Ulysses” by James Joyce:
Considered one of the greatest works of modernist literature, “Ulysses” is set in Dublin and follows the protagonist Leopold Bloom as he navigates the city over the course of a single day. James Joyce’s intricate prose and complex narrative style paint a vivid portrait of Dublin, incorporating its streets, landmarks, and inhabitants into the fabric of the story. Reading “Ulysses” offers not only an insight into Dublin’s physical landscape but also its cultural and historical significance.

3. “Angela’s Ashes” by Frank McCourt:
Frank McCourt’s Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir, “Angela’s Ashes,” provides a poignant account of his childhood in Limerick, Ireland, which shares many similarities with Dublin. Through vivid storytelling, McCourt offers a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of Irish life, capturing the spirit of resilience that defines the Irish people. While not set specifically in Dublin, “Angela’s Ashes” offers valuable insights into the broader Irish experience, making it a compelling read for visitors to the city.

4. “The Dublin Murder Squad Series” by Tana French:
For fans of mystery and crime fiction, Tana French’s Dublin Murder Squad series offers a captivating glimpse into the darker side of Dublin. Set against the backdrop of the city’s streets, parks, and neighborhoods, each book in the series follows a different detective as they unravel complex mysteries. Through French’s evocative prose and intricate plotting, readers are drawn into the heart of Dublin’s criminal underworld, providing a unique perspective on the city’s hidden depths.

5. “Dublin: A Portrait” by Joseph O’Connor:
“Dublin: A Portrait” by Joseph O’Connor serves as a comprehensive guide to the city, offering a blend of history, culture, and personal anecdotes. Through O’Connor’s eyes, readers are taken on a journey through Dublin’s streets, exploring its landmarks, neighborhoods, and hidden gems. More than just a guidebook, “Dublin: A Portrait” is a celebration of the city’s spirit, showcasing its resilience, creativity, and unique charm.

You can buy these and lots of other books at

By reading these five books before your visit to Dublin, you’ll not only gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s literary heritage but also enhance your understanding of its people, history, and culture.

Have you read any of the books? How did you enjoy them? Do you have any other book recommendations that you would like to share? Write a comment and let us hear from you!

Find out what’s happening in Dublin…

Would you like to know more about what’s happening in Dublin? Have you already booked your plane tickets and would like to know if there are any interesting festivals, concerts, or happenings while you are in Dublin? Or are you looking for an excuse to visit Ireland and Dublin in the coming weeks or months?

We have an up-to-date calendar presenting some of the most important upcoming events, festivals, concerts, and other happenings in the Irish capital. Not only does our Dublin Guide contain information about Dublin’s most important attractions, activities, programs, and museums, but you can now also find out what’s going on in Dublin.

Would you like to find out what’s taking place in Dublin? Click this link to find out what’s happening in Dublin!