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Best places to visit in ireland.

Ireland's rich culture, enchanting green landscapes and friendly locals are just a few reasons why so many travelers make the journey to this island country. But with so many cities, charming small towns and countryside wonders to choose from, it may be hard to decide exactly what should be on your Emerald Isle itinerary. U.S. News took into account sights, adventure, food and culture, plus expert opinions and traveler sentiment, to determine the best places to visit in Ireland. If you want to have a say in next year's list, be sure to vote below.

Dingle Peninsula

Cliffs of moher, iveragh peninsula, glenveagh national park, inishowen peninsula, connemara national park, aran islands.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

With a stoic castle, wild coastline and great "craic" (fun, entertainment and good company), Donegal checks off many items on an Ireland vacation bucket list. Donegal visitors can see the 15th-century Donegal Castle, grab a pint of Guinness in a traditional Irish bar dating back to the 1700s or revel in one of the town's high-spirited festivals. Meanwhile, Donegal's northwest coast location makes it ideal for driving along the scenic Donegal Bay to the Slieve League cliffs – which are nearly three times as tall as the Cliffs of Moher – or hopping to islands known for their exceptional preservation of the Gaelic language and culture.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Though Dublin is Ireland's hub for politics, culture and music, its approachable and relaxed culture sets it apart from most European capitals. Before making a beeline for the Guinness Storehouse, consider a walking tour to take in popular attractions like Trinity College (and its swoon-worthy library), the 13th-century Dublin Castle and the always exuberant Temple Bar district. Save time to take in the arts, too: Dublin is home to the national theater of Ireland and plenty of festivals and museums dedicated to Irish literary greats. Plus, Dublin offers easy access  to alluring destinations like the fishing village of Howth and Wicklow Mountains National Park.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Located along the country's famous Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula consistently stuns with its otherworldly scenery (think: evergreen cliffs, craggy coastlines and vibrant blue waters). Begin your journey by driving along Slea Head Drive, a scenic route known for its photo-worthy vistas. If you'd rather see the peninsula on foot, head down the Dingle Way, a network of trails that spans the entire peninsula. Or, take a ferry to the Blasket Islands to explore jaw-dropping cliffs, look for wildlife like sheep and dolphins, and visit pristine beaches without rubbing elbows with other tourists.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

For the quintessential Irish countryside experience, travel to Killarney. The town is surrounded by evergreen hills and valley on all sides, affording plenty of opportunities to become one with nature. Visitors gravitate toward Killarney National Park, which features Ireland's highest mountain range, MacGillycuddy's Reeks. If you aren't much of a hiker, you can still enjoy the scenic lakes or visit one of Killarney's centuries-old churches or castles.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland's most popular tourist attraction, welcoming more than 1 million visitors each year. In fact, the cliffs are so popular that cities situated more than 100 miles away often offer full-day bus tours to the attraction. Once you lay eyes on this sight, you'll understand why so many people travel hours to gaze at it. Measuring more than 8 miles long and 700 feet tall, the cliffs provide breathtaking views of Galway Bay, parts of Connemara National Park and the Aran Islands on a clear day.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

This peninsula in County Kerry is best known for featuring the world-famous Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile scenic drive that circles around the entire peninsula. Along the way, visitors will enjoy truly spectacular scenery both on the coast and inland. Can't-miss stops include Ladies View, Rossbeigh Strand, Derrynane beach and the Gap of Dunloe. Travelers should also save time for visiting some of the peninsula's picturesque small towns and castles, which are both developed and abandoned. Be sure to stay at least one night here for a glimpse of the stars in Ireland's first dark sky reserve.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Surrounded by a looming mountain, sandy beaches and charming countryside (dubbed "Yeats Country" after the county's famed poet), Sligo offers something for everyone. If you're up for an adventure, hike the loop around the iconic Benbulben mountain, take a surf lesson in Strandhill or watch the big-wave pros at Mullaghmore Head. Meanwhile, more leisurely travelers can visit Sligo town's popular sites like The Model art center and Sligo Abbey, or take a coastal drive to fine estates like the Lissadell House and Gardens (open seasonally). Just make time for a few stops along the Sligo Food Trail on your way.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

After Dublin, Cork is Ireland's largest city. Located at the southern end of the country, this city of more than 200,000 residents is famous for being home to Blarney Castle and its Blarney Stone. According to local legend, the stone will grant you the gift of eloquence, if you dare kiss it. Cork is also where you'll find 18th- and 19th-century churches, the Cork City Gaol (a former prison converted into a museum) and lush Fitzgerald Park, among other noteworthy attractions. When hunger strikes, explore Cork's English Market, where you'll find everything from meat and fish counters to cafes and bakeries.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Located just 17 miles south of Cork, this enclave on Ireland's southern coast charms visitors with rainbow-hued buildings and a "riviera" vibe. Sailing is central to Kinsale, which hosts several regattas throughout the summer, but other water activities like kayaking and surfing hold equal appeal. Those who prefer to stay on land can visit nearby attractions like the scenic Nohoval Cove and historic Charles Fort. What's more, as one of Ireland's top culinary destinations, Kinsale entices foodies with more than 50 delectable eateries and food-centric celebrations like the Kinsale Gourmet Festival and Kinsale Street Feast.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Galway offers the best of both worlds for travelers. City slickers can revel in Galway's relatively light but palpable bustle, while outdoor lovers can venture outside the city to see many natural attractions, including the Salthill Promenade, Wild Atlantic Way and, farther afield, Burren National Park. If you prefer to stay local, stroll through the lively Latin Quarter, then check out historical attractions like the Spanish Arch and St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Situated in the heart of County Donegal, Glenveagh National Park sets a picturesque scene, complete with a lakeside castle and lush mountains. Here, active sightseers can bask in the unspoiled natural beauty of the Emerald Isle, with nearly 40,000 acres that are completely free to access for hiking, biking, fishing and camping. Highlights include the Derryveagh Mountains, the sweeping valleys of the Poisoned Glen and the rugged shores of Lough Inshagh and Lough Veagh. For a small fee, visitors can also take a tour of the Glenveagh Castle, a stately granite structure representing the idyllic highland retreat, and explore its varied gardens and tearooms.  

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Situated just northwest of Ireland's border with Northern Ireland, the Inishowen Peninsula is the country's largest peninsula. Its remote location 170 miles northwest of Dublin plus its otherworldly scenery and thatched cottages create a peaceful setting you won't find in Ireland's more tourist-heavy peninsulas. Must-see natural wonders here include Malin Head, Trawbreaga Bay and the Gap of Mamore. If you've always dreamed of seeing the northern lights , be sure to visit in winter when the aurora borealis' beautiful hues are typically visible throughout the peninsula.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Expect awe-inspiring scenery everywhere you turn when you visit this 5,000-acre national park during the warmer months. Connemara National Park is home to the Twelve Bens mountain range, plus woodlands, grasslands, heaths (wild, undeveloped flatlands) and bogs (wetlands) that you can explore via one of several trails. To get a good overview of the park's diverse scenery, hike the Diamond Hill paths and walk the Green Road along Killary Harbour. The latter is where you'll find one of Ireland's few glacial fjords.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Travelers keen on getting a taste of what old Ireland looked and felt like should consider visiting the Aran Islands. Accessible by plane from Connemara or by ferry from Rossaveal, Galway and Doolin on Ireland's western coast, the Aran Islands feature important historical sites, Celtic churches and lots of untouched landscapes (think: the "Banshees of Inisherin," some of which was filmed here). Plus, Gaelic is widely spoken, providing an authentic cultural experience. Though all three islands offer noteworthy sights, plan on spending the bulk of your time on Inis Mór (or Inishmore), where the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa is located.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Kilkenny offers a hearty amount of historical attractions for travelers to explore. This is largely thanks to the town's prior distinction of being the medieval capital of Ireland, a heritage that remains evident today  in the Medieval Mile, Kilkenny's top attraction. Within the Medieval Mile you'll find several interesting sights, such as Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral and the Medieval Mile Museum. This historic part of town is also home to the Smithwick's Experience, where you can learn more about how one of Ireland's most popular ales is brewed.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Head to this small seaport on Ireland's southeastern coast to catch a glimpse of the country's oldest city. Waterford is full of history, and its attractions reflect that. History buffs can learn more about the city's Viking roots at Waterford Treasures' Medieval Museum, Reginald's Tower and Bishop's Palace facilities. Or, they can take a tour of the 18th-century House of Waterford factory to see how the city's world-renowned crystal is made. For travelers who need a break from Waterford's rich history, there's the Waterford Greenway, a nearly 30-mile-long walking and bike path.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Those who plan on visiting Cork should save time for a daytrip to Cobh. This charming small town, which sits on an island in Cork Harbor, is known for its past as both a major departure point for Irish emigrating to the U.S. and as the last port of call for the Titanic. Travelers who want to learn more about these key roles in Cobh's history can visit the Cobh Heritage Centre and Titanic Experience Cobh. Before leaving, take a stroll around town to admire Cobh's striking Victorian-era architecture and brightly colored storefronts and homes.

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The Irish Road Trip

33 Best Places to Visit in Ireland (2024 Edition)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: January 8, 2024

33 Best Places to Visit in Ireland (2024 Edition)

I’ve lived in Ireland for 35 years and, let me tell ya, many of the best places to visit in Ireland are consistently omitted from shiny tourist guidebooks. Does that make them any less worthy of a visit? Of course not!

With that in mind, this guide has a bit of a twist – it only  focuses on hidden gems and unique places to go in Ireland (many of which you’ll  hopefully  have never heard of!).

So, if you’re looking for info on the likes of the Dingle Peninsula  and the Ring of Kerry , hop into our guide to the best things to do in Ireland .

If you want to see some of the hidden gems in Ireland that many  tend to miss, you should find the below enlightening. Cheers!

The best places to visit in Ireland

hidden gems in ireland

Click to enlarge map

Although the Giant’s Causeway and the Cliffs of Moher tend to be regarded as the ‘must see places in Ireland’, this is far from a one-or-two-horse island.

Below, you’ll find everywhere from haunted castles and hidden caves to some unusual places to go in Ireland (the map above gives you a sense of where each location is).

1. Coumshingaun Lough (Waterford)

Coumshingaun

Photos via Shutterstock

We tend to get a lot of emails from tourists asking where to go in Ireland for the best views. One of the places that I tend to recommend first is Coumshingaun in County Waterford.

It’s on the Coumshingaun Lake Walk that you’ll see the view in the photo above all for yourself. There are a few different walks that you can do here.

The full walk takes between 4 and 6 hours to complete. You can find more info on the walk in our guide to things to do in Waterford .

2. Bull Rock (Cork)

Bull Rock

The chances are you’ll have heard of Dursey Island in Cork (yep, it’s the island that’s accessible via a little cable car).

Dursey Island is situated at the southwestern tip of the magnificent Beara Peninsula in the even-more-mighty region of West Cork .

Off the western point of the island stands three rocks: Cow Rock, Bull Rock and Calf Rock. Bull Rock, pictured above, looks like something whipped right from a Pirates of the Caribbean movie.

If you’re looking for top places to visit in Ireland that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a different world, get Bull Rock in Cork to the top of your ‘to-conquer’ list.

3. The Serpents Lair (Galway)

Worm Hole Inis More

Although it’s frequently referred to as ‘the Serpent’s Lair’ and ‘the Wormhole’ the real name of our next spot is ‘Poll na bPeist’.

It’s located on Inis Mor – the largest of the three Aran Islands off the coast of Galway.

Now, while the finely-cut edges in the photos above look like they were cut with some enormous tool, the Wormhole was actually formed naturally.

Mad stuff altogether. Find out more about this natural phenomenon in our guide to Inis Mor’s Wormhole .

4. Scrabo Tower (Down)

Scrabo Tower

Scrabo Tower in Newtownards in Down was built in the 19th century and it’s what we call a ‘Folly’.

A ‘Folly’ is a structure that has been built mainly for decoration, but its design suggests that it has some other grand purpose.

You’ll find it in Scrabo Country Park and those that climb the hill will be treated to incredible views over Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside.

5. The Kilbaha Cliffs (Clare)

Kilbaha Cliffs

The cliffs near Loop Head Lighthouse are, in my opinion, one of the best places to visit in Ireland.

Few visit the spectacular cliffs at Kilbha. And that’s what makes them that little bit more special. I’ve been 5 or 6 times and it’s rare that you’ll ever meet more than a handful of people.

Places like the cliffs at Kilbaha are up there with the best places to see in Ireland. Visitor numbers mean nothing in the grand scheme of things.

It’s all about the impact the scenery has on you. And the cliffs here pack a big aul punch.

6. Dunmore Cave (Kilkenny)

Dunmore Cave

Photos with thanks to Olivier Bruchez (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Dunmore Cave is another of the more unique places to visit in Ireland and you’ll find it tucked away in Kilkenny.

Some of the earliest mentions of this place date back to the 9th-century, where it’s referred to as one of the ‘Darkest places in Ireland’. Dunmore Cave has a history darker than its deepest depths.

Records from the 17th-century Annals of the Four Masters – a series of chronicles of medieval Irish history – state that in 928AD, more than 1,000 people were slain here by Vikings ( more info ).

7. McDermott’s Castle (Roscommon)

McDermott's Castle

You’ll find one of the more unique castles in Ireland in Roscommon on the beautiful Lough Key, not far from the town of Boyle.

Stretching around 10km across and forming a rough circular shape, Lough Key boasts 30 plus islands scattered throughout its chilly waters.

One of these islands is aptly named ‘Castle Island’ and it’s here that you’ll find the ruins of McDermott’s Castle.

Find out more about how to reach the castle along with the tragic tale behind it in our guide to McDermott’s Castle on Lough Key .

8. Doon Fort (Donegal)

Doon Fort

The wonderfully unique Doon Fort in Donegal is a Western Stone Fort at the centre of Loughadoon, near Narin and Portnoo.

The fort has been linked with two families: the Breslin’s and the O’Boyle’s. It’s said that the Breslin’s occupied it from the 5th century, while the O’Boyle’s held it until it fell into disrepair.

Although Doon Fort is situated on private land, during the peak summer season the family that owns the land rent out small boats to those that fancy visiting it.

9. The Caves of Keash (Sligo)

Caves of Keash

Many of the best places to visit in Ireland, in our opinion, can be found on Ireland’s west coast.

However, few boast a past like the Caves of Keash in County Sligo . The caves here form an ancient passage tomb cluster that are believed to predate the Pyramids of Egypt by a staggering 500-800 years!

Geological inspections took place during the 1900s that revealed how ‘early man’ used to use and live in the caves at Keash.

Evidence has also revealed that bears, wolves, arctic lemming, and other wildlife have lived here in the past. There are 17 caves in total. Learn more about them in our guide on what to do in Sligo .

10. The Croaghaun Cliffs (Mayo)

Croaghaun Cliffs

A lot of people mistake the Slieve League Cliffs in Donegal as the highest sea cliffs in Ireland. The cliffs at Slieve League are the highest cliffs on the island  of Ireland.

The highest cliffs in Ireland are the ones at Croaghaun , and can be found on Achill Island in Mayo where they stand at an impressive 688 metres (2,257 ft).

Interestingly enough, they’re also the third highest in Europe. The cliffs here can be found at the northern slope of Croaghaun mountain and can be admired if you hike around to the summit.

11. Leap Castle (Offaly)

Leap Castle

Photos by Gareth McCormack/garethmccormack.com via Failte Ireland

One of the must see places in Ireland for visiting ghost hunters is  the haunted Leap Castle near Roscrea in Coolderry.

The castle here is said to be the most haunted in Ireland, with TV shows like Most Haunted filmed here over the years. According to legend, a lady in red prowls the castle with a silver blade after dark. 

Another reason Leap Castle is said to be haunted is due to the discovery of a secret dungeon that contained hundreds of human skeletons.

It’s believed that the O’Carrolls would drop people through a trap door onto spikes laid out in the dungeon below.

12. Spike Island (Cobh)

Spike Island

Photos cCourtesy Spike Island Management via Tourism Ireland

The little town of Cobh is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Ireland by many  of the tourists we chat to.

However, few make the short ferry ride to nearby Spike Island . Over the past 1,300 years, the Island has played host to a Monastery, a 24-acre Fortress and the largest convict depot in the world.

At one stage, the Island housed convicts prior to penal transportation. This is where the nickname ‘Ireland’s Alcatraz’ originated.

13. The Lost Valley (Mayo)

Although the Lost Valley in Mayo is still a hidden gem, of sorts, I can see it becoming one of the top places to visit in Ireland in the coming years.

If you haven’t come across it, the Lost Valley is a part of Mayo that has remained untouched since the villagers who lived there were evicted during the Great Famine.

The valley is now privately owned by the Bourke family. Before owning it, they were employed by a landlord to farm it and, interestingly enough, before that they were one of the families evicted.

Find out loads more about the lost valley in our guide to the best things to do in Mayo in 2024.

14. Marsh’s Library (Dublin)

Marsh's Library

Photos by James Fennell via Failte Ireland

Many people that visit Dublin tend to visit one library – the Long Room in Trinity College . However, there’s another  constantly  missed library that’s just as central and just as, if not more, historic.

You’ll find Marsh’s Library , the oldest library in Ireland, tucked away behind St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, where it has been since 1707.

Marsh’s holds a staggering 25,000 books and over 300 manuscripts. If you visit, keep an eye out for bullet holes in the bookcases, which were made during the Easter Rising .

If you’re wondering where to visit in Ireland that most tourists tend to miss, carve out some time for Marsh’s.

15. The Swiss Cottage (Tipperary)

The Swiss Cottage

Photos via Failte Ireland

Built during the early 1800s by a chap called Richard Butler, the Swiss Cottage in Tipperary was originally part of Lord and Lady Cahir’s estate and was used to entertain guests.

The cottage was carefully restored in 1985, ensuring that its unusual and quirky features remained intact.

A visit to the Swiss Cottage is perfectly paired with a trip to the wonderful Cahir Castle.

You can stroll along the riverside to the Swiss Cottage from the castle in about 45 minutes.

16. Largy Waterfall (Donegal)

Largy Waterfall

Now, although you’ll see Largy Waterfall appear in many guides to the best places to visit in Ireland, few of them provide the necessary warnings.

While Donegal’s secret waterfall looks like a scene from a Jurassic Park movie, it’s  vital  that you understand how to read the tides, as if you get stuck here when the tide comes in  there’s no way out .

You’ll find this hidden gem on the Slieve League peninsula in Donegal. The waterfall is located in Largy, a village nestled between the towns of Killybegs and Kilcar.

Warning: Please read this guide before visiting – care really is necessary if visiting this place.

17. Ballaghbeama Gap (Kerry)

Ballaghbeama Gap

People often make the mistake of believing that the best drive in Kerry is the Ring of Kerry driving route . It’s an fantastic drive, don’t get me wrong, but there are plenty more drives worth doing in Kerry.

One of my favourite drives in Kerry takes a road through the wonderful Ballaghbeama Pass . The road here cuts across the mountains in the centre of the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula.

The road takes you along a wild scenic route where you’ll meet little traffic and plenty of sheep. You’ll also have the chance to soak up an endless number of mountain views.

18. The Marble Arch Caves (Fermanagh)

Marble Arch Caves

You’ll find the Marble Arch Caves in Fermanagh, in a borderless Park (the Marble Arch Geopark) which is located within both counties Cavan and Fermanagh.

The Marble Arch Caves are a series of natural limestone caves found near the little village of Florencecourt.

At around 11.5 kilometres in length, the caves form the longest known cave system in Northern Ireland.

Visit our guide to the best places to visit in Northern Ireland for more things to do in this neck of the woods.

19. The Dark Sky Reserve (Kerry)

Dark Sky Reserve

Photo left: Valerie O’Sullivan. Others: Tom Archer (Failte Ireland)

So, there’s a gorgeous little corner of Kerry that is a designated International Dark Sky Reserve and one of only 3 Gold Tier Reserves on the planet.

This means that on a clear night the sky in this part of Kerry (known as the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve ) is scattered with astronomical sights that you can admire with the naked eye.

Now, although this has been on a bucket list of best places to visit in Ireland that I’ve been attempting to tick off for a while, every time I’ve visited the sky has been packed with clouds.

Next time, definitely… OK hopefully …

20. Priest’s Leap (Cork)

Priest's Leap

The pictures above give you a little insight into what you can expect if you spin along the Priest’s Leap .

This drive (or cycle) takes you through one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ireland. Those that spin along this road will be taken on a spectacular trip over Ireland’s highest mountain pass.

You can kick-start the spin in Bonane in Kerry and you’ll be brought to your finish point in Coomhola in Cork.

Priest’s Leap is a steep, bendy and narrow mountain road that treats those that take it to magnificent mountain and wild landscape views.

Warning:  If you’re driving in Ireland for the first time, avoid this place. The road is extremely narrow. Avoid altogether in poor weather.

21. The Cloughmore Stone (Down)

Cloughmore Stone

© Tourism Ireland photographed by Brian Morrison

You’ll find the Cloughmore Stone in Kilbroney Park near Rostrevor in County Down – a place that’s also home to a viewing point called ‘Kodak Corner’.

Referred to locally as the ‘big stone’, the Cloughmore Stone is a massive granite boulder weighing in at around 50 tonnes.

It’s finely perched atop the mountainside at a height of almost 1,000 feet and it offers mighty views out over Carlingford Lough and the Mourne Mountains .

Although you’ll rarely see this one in guides to the best places to visit in Ireland, it, and much of County Down, never fails to disappoint. 

22. Gougane Barra (Cork)

Gougane Barra

There are certain places in Ireland that tend to rock you a little. You’ll have seen pictures or videos while you were planning your trip and you’ll have built an image of the place in your head.

But it just doesn’t prepare you for the real thing. The sights, smells and sounds that immerse you when you visit Gougane Barra in Cork have the ability to stop you in your tracks.

Places in Ireland like Gougane Barra imprint themselves upon your mind. The large valley and lake at Gougane Barra are enveloped by the rugged rock face of the mountains, which rise up to an impressive 370 metres.

23. The Shannon Pot (Cavan)

The Shannon Pot

The Shannon Pot in Cavan is where the mighty Shannon River begins. There’s a lovely bit of Irish folklore behind how the Shannon Pot first started.

According to legend, it’s all linked to the legendary Finn MacCool. The story goes that Síonnan, the daughter of a chap called Lodan, came to the Shannon Pot to search for the Salmon of Wisdom.

When the great salmon noticed her, it was furious. It was so enraged, in fact, that it caused the pool to overflow. As the water surged dangerously, Síonnan became trapped and drowned.

The surge of water caused the River Shannon to form and the river still bears Síonnan’s name to this day.

24. Crag Cave (Kerry)

If you’re looking for things to do in Kerry  when it’s pouring down, get yourself to Crag Cave. This cave here was discovered by divers in 1983 and it’s thought to be a whopping 1 million+ years old.

Crag Cave is an ancient fossil system that was once filled to the brim with water, which eroded the rock into a beautiful maze of tunnels and chambers.

It’s easy to visit Kerry and to stick to the old reliables – if you’re planning a visit, try and carve in some time for the less-visited (but no less impressive) attractions, like Crag.

25. The Knockmealdown Mountains (Tipperary)

The Vee Gap

The Knockmealdown Mountains border counties Tipperary and Waterford. While they’re a fine spot for a weekend adventure, what makes them unique?

Every year, between May and June, sections of the mountain are covered in a beautiful blanket of pink and purple rhododendrons

There are several trails, a couple of which are up there with the best hikes in Ireland , that you can head off on here, peaking at Knockmealdown itself and the famous Sugarloaf mountain.

26. Benwee Head (Mayo)

Benwee Walk

Photo left + bottom right: Gareth McCormack. Top right: Anne-Marie Flynn (via Failte Ireland)

If you’re wondering where to go in Ireland to escape the crowds, head for North Mayo along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Many people completely miss the North Mayo coastline when exploring Ireland. Which is a shame, as the coastline here is some of the most rugged that Ireland has to offer.

It’s also home to the magnificent Benwee Head . You can nearly hear the whistle of the wind and the crash of the waves from the photos above.

There’s a 5-hour loop walk that you can head off on here that follows a bog trail and takes in cliffs, ocean, and incredible coastal views.

27. Kinnagoe Bay (Donegal)

Kinnagoe Bay

Kinnagoe Bay in Donegal is one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland . Now, naturally enough it doesn’t  always  look like it does in the photos above.

However, I’ve been here on a dull winters day and it was still excellent. If you want to get the view seen above, you’ll find a spot to safely pull in on the road above.

If you’re debating visiting this part of Ireland (which you definitely should), dive into our guide to the best Donegal attractions to whack onto you ‘to-see-sharpish’ list.

28. Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird (Sligo)

Devil's Chimney

Our next spot is one of the top places to visit in Ireland when it’s raining. Why? Well, you can only see this waterfall when it’s lashing rain, or right after heavy rainfall.

At a whopping 150m, Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird (also known to as ‘the Devil’s Chimney’ online) is Ireland’s highest waterfall.

There’s a 45-minute moderately strenuous walk that’ll take you up to see it in action. See more of this place in our guide to the best things to do in Sligo .

29. Down Cathedral (Down)

Down Cathedral

You’ll find Down Cathedral standing proudly on the Hill of Down where it overlooks the historic town of Downpatrick.

Down Cathedral is easily one of the best places to see in Ireland for those of you looking to visit sites that are heavily linked with St. Patrick .

It’s here, in the Cathedral’s grounds, that St. Patrick, Ireland’s Patron Saint, is buried. Although the stone that marks his grave wasn’t erected until 1900, it’s thought that St. Patrick died in 461.

30. Islands galore (multiple)

Garnish Island

Photos by Chris Hill via Tourism Ireland

There’s plenty of islands off the coast of Ireland and, aside from the likes of Skellig Michael  and the Aran Islands, many tend to get overlooked.

Garnish Island in Cork and  Arranmore Island in Donegal are two good options if you’re looking for a day trip.

However, the likes of Bere Island (Cork), Inishturk Island (Mayo) and the Saltee Islands (Wexford) are all places in Ireland worth adding to your to-visit list.

31. Kinbane Castle (Antrim)

Kinbane Castle

You may have read about Kinbane Castle in our guide to the most unique castles in Northern Ireland .

Kinbane Castle was built on a small rock promontory known as Kinbane Head on the Antrim coast in 1547. The promontory extends out into the sea, making the location delightfully dramatic.

Those that visit can expect Isolated ruins, jagged cliffs and gorgeous coastal scenery. Make sure to visit if you’re driving the Causeway Coastal Route .

32. The Spire of Lloyd (Meath)

Spire of Lloyd

Randomly enough, the 30m (100ft) Spire of Lloyd is actually an inland lighthouse that can be found on the summit of the Commons of Lloyd in County Meath.

It’s said that the spire was used to view horse racing and hunting during the 19th century. Inside the Spire, you’ll find a 164-step spiral staircase that leads to the top.

On a clear day, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the surrounding countryside out as far as the Mountains of Mourne in County Down.

33. The tourist favourites

Keem Bay

I’m updating this guide after we’ve had about 20 moany emails saying something along the lines of, ‘You can’t have a guide to the best places to visit in Ireland and not mention X, Y, Z etc…’ .

If you were debating firing on one of those emails, too, pleeeease… don’t. The idea behind this articles was to give you a sense of where to go in Ireland to see some unique attractions.

However, I’ll list off some popular places to go in Ireland for those of you looking for tourist favourites: 

  • Valentia Island  
  • The Kerry Cliffs
  • Glendalough
  • Croagh Patrick
  • Killarney National Park
  • Connemara National Park

What unique places to go in Ireland have we missed?

Although we’ve coined this as a guide to the best places to visit in Ireland, I have  no doubt  that we’ve missed some great ones.

If there are any unique places to go in Ireland that you’d like to recommend, shout in the comments section!

FAQs about where to go in Ireland

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are some funky places to see in Ireland during winter?’ to ‘Where to go in Ireland for dark history?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received about the best places to visit in Ireland. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Where should tourists go in Ireland?

This is an almost impossible one to answer as a heap of factors come into play. Take your arrival point, first, and then determine your ‘must-dos’. From there, plot a route that suits you!

What are the best places to visit in Ireland?

If you want the tourist favourites, the Cliffs of Moher and Killarney tend to top many lists. For unique escapes, aim for West Cork, the North Mayo Coast or one of Ireland’s islands.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 34 years and has spent most of the last 10 years creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Divya Sharon

Tuesday 3rd of May 2022

This is by far the best blog I've read of all the blogs about Ireland. Very informative and so many new hidden spots. Wow! I've never heard of most of these places (apart from the popular ones of course!). Reading this has made the urge in me to explore the country even more stronger. I'm very inspired. Thank you Keith. :)

Maeve Elliott

Tuesday 26th of April 2022

Bective Abbey a great place to visit never to many people there

Saturday 12th of February 2022

Thanks Keith, I loved reading your guide and we will make sure to go to some of the places you recommended during our next staycation!!

Thursday 16th of December 2021

This has been my favorite post to read in my researching of Ireland. Thanks so much!

Wednesday 21st of April 2021

That's an incredible list! Bull Rock and the steps on Arranmore Island look insane :O

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IRELAND

The 21 best things to do in Ireland

Head to ancient sites on tiny Aran Islands or go bohemian in Galway when tackling the best things to do in Ireland

When a country is as famous as this one for being, above all, friendly, it's no surprise tourists flock to it, hoping to enjoy the best things to do in Ireland.

Opt to spend a weekend on a stag do in Dublin , blearily enjoying one of Europe's best cities, sample a slice of Bohemian life in Galway , head out to ancient sites on the tiny Aran Islands or even plan a few relaxing days at one of the best hotels in the country. Our guide brings together some of the most iconic spots, giving you a flavour of the many thing to do in this remarkable and stunning country.

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere.

Find out more about   how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world .

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in Ireland

Treat yourself to a pint at the Guinness Storehouse

1.  Treat yourself to a pint at the Guinness Storehouse

What is it?  Dublin’s most famous and popular tourist spot where you can learn the story of Guinness, and then remind yourself how good it tastes. Why go?  Most brewery tours (good as they are) involve a short tour followed by a tasting sesh. The Guinness Storehouse, however, is seven floors of interactive experiences, finishing with a pint in the Gravity Bar.

Catch some waves at Bundoran

2.  Catch some waves at Bundoran

What is it?  The ‘Surfing Captial of Ireland’ where you can take your first rookie steps with a surf board, or show off some well-honed skills. Why go?  Book a room at the Bundoran surf lodge and your place at surf school, then start enjoying the water. Bundoran Surf Co. offer surf packages catering to all tastes. We like the sound of their surf-and-yoga breaks - double relaxation.

Travel full circle at the Ring of Kerry

3.  Travel full circle at the Ring of Kerry

What is it? Famous circular route around the Iveragh Peninsula in the southwest of Ireland. Why go? So you want to ‘see Ireland’ but don’t really know where to start. Well, the Ring of Kerry wouldn’t be a bad  place. It’s basically a well-trod route linking together nine different towns. Starting in Cork, a day's guided tour will take you around sites including the 18-meter-high Torc Waterfall. 

Go glamping on the Aran Islands

4.  Go glamping on the Aran Islands

What is it? The fancier version of camping on the largest of the Aran Islands, Inis Mor. Why go?  The Aran Islands are a set of three small islands just off Galway Bay. They’re famous for a series of ancient monuments and beautiful scenery. If you’re keen to explore them more than briefly, book a spot in the glamping site near Inis Mor’s main town, Kilronan, and sleep soundly to the not-very-distant roar of the ocean waves.

Wave to Canada from the Cliffs of Moher

5.  Wave to Canada from the Cliffs of Moher

What is it? A stretch of cliffs in County Clare offering uninterrupted views across the Atlantic. Why go? One of the most gorgeous spots in an over-all gorgeous country. The Cliffs of Moher aren’t a favourite tourist spot for nothing – they really are stunning. But don’t let their fame put you off from going. No matter how many people visit, when you cast your eyes out across the Atlantic you’ll feel like the only person for miles and miles - apart from those living on the otherside of the ocean!

Take afternoon tea at Kylemore Abbey

6.  Take afternoon tea at Kylemore Abbey

What is it?  Scones, cakes, pies and more in the café of a Benedictine Monastery in Connemara, County Galway. Why go?  Visting Kylemore Abbey, a monastery founded in 1920 by Belgium nuns and set in the grounds of Kylemore Castle, is pleasant enough in itself, but whilst you're there make sure to sample the delicious produce served in the abbey’s café. Then, take a stroll around the Victorian walled garden.

Wash away your troubles at the Irish Whiskey Museum

7.  Wash away your troubles at the Irish Whiskey Museum

What is it?  Interactive tour through the history of Ireland's favourite spirit in Dublin.  Why go?  Like the Guinness Storeroom, the Irish Whiskey Museum is a thoroughly modern tourist attraction. The popularity of the venue links closely to the popularity of the drink, which has boomed in recent years. Taste not just one, but a whole selection of different tipples.

Find the ponies in Connemara National Park

8.  Find the ponies in Connemara National Park

What is it?  One of Ireland's six national parks, located in County Galway and a paradise for bird-spotters and outdoor pursuits fans alike.  Why go?  Connemara National Park boasts an amazingly wide variety of landscape: mountains, bogs, heaths and woodlands vie for attention here, as does the wildlife. The area gives its name to the lithe Connemara ponies, but you can also spot red deer and millions of different birds.

Try to choose between over 450 whiskeys in the Temple Bar Pub

9.  Try to choose between over 450 whiskeys in the Temple Bar Pub

What is it? A very well loved and lively pub know for its sexy oysters and HUGE collection of whiskey, bourbon and scotch. Why go? If you’ve come to Dublin for a good time, chances are you’ll at some point end up in the Temple Bar area of the city. The pub that shares the area’s name boasts a collection of over 450 different types of the world’s favourite brown liquor. Just err… don’t try them all.

Have a picnic in Phoenix Park and make some deer friends

10.  Have a picnic in Phoenix Park and make some deer friends

What is it?  The biggest public park in any capital city in Europe, home to both the President of Ireland and some beautiful deer.  Why go?  Why wouldn’t you? It’s a huge, walled park with sports fields, expansive open, green space and it recently won an award at the Inaugural International Large Urban Parks Awards. Pack up a picnic and go spot the herd of fallow deer.

Say hello to the lemurs in Dublin Zoo

11.  Say hello to the lemurs in Dublin Zoo

What is it?  Phoenix Park zoo containing animals from all corners of the world, and one of the oldest zoos around. Why go?  Like many modern zoos, Dublin’s centrally-located zoo is now dedicated to conservation and saving endangered species. This means visitors can get fill their heads with facts, whilst also enjoying walking around the massive grounds within Phoenix Park.

Climb the 600 steps up to Skellig Michael monastery

12.  Climb the 600 steps up to Skellig Michael monastery

What is it? An ancient monastery located on Skellig Michael, a small island off the south west coast of Ireland. Why go? You’re unlikely to come across something quite like this ever again. The now abandoned monastery on Skellig Michael includes dome-shaped cells, a church, an oratory, a graveyard and a whole lot of steps. Hot baths for aching calf muscles are very much allowed afterwards.

Spend an evening at Dublin’s iconic Abbey Theatre

13.  Spend an evening at Dublin’s iconic Abbey Theatre

What is it?  The National Theatre of Ireland and the historical venue that launched the careers of many of Ireland's most famous playwrights.  Why go?  Irish theatre is having a moment in the sunshine, with its venues consistently programming a brilliant range of directors, playwrights, companies and performers. The Abbey is Dublin’s most famous theatre, but make sure you also check out The Gate and many of the city’s smaller performance spaces – you never know what you might see in a room above a pub.

Become acquainted with Irish history at Kilmainham Gaol Museum

14.  Become acquainted with Irish history at Kilmainham Gaol Museum

What is it?  Former prison in Dublin now turned into a museum where visitors are told the story of a nation. Why go? Dublin provides endless opportunities for letting your hair down, but it’s also a city seeped in history – some of it very recent. The Kilmainham Gaol is a striking reminder of the turbulent route to independence and the people who fought for it.

Watch the morning sun ripple the lake water in Killarney National Park

15.  Watch the morning sun ripple the lake water in Killarney National Park

What is it? The first national park to be created in Ireland and the location of the country’s highest mountain range. Why go? If you’re in search of epically stunning landscapes, Ireland isn’t exactly short of them. The thing that makes the Killarney National Park special is the sheer range of different features in it – including large lakes that reflect the dramatic sky.

Watch the boats criss-cross Galway Bay - or get on one

16.  Watch the boats criss-cross Galway Bay - or get on one

What is it?  A lovely bay along the west coast of Ireland for fishing, sailing, swimming or just watching the world go by. Why go? Some would argue that Galway is a little over represented in this list, and they might have a point, but there are so many reasons why it’s an attractive area to visit. Not least is the strip of coast known as Galway Bay. Whether you view the bay from standing on shore, swimming in the sea or cruising in a boat, it’ll make for some great memories.

Get your annual arts fix at Galway International Arts Festival

17.  Get your annual arts fix at Galway International Arts Festival

What is it?  Ireland's biggest arts festival bringing together theatre, visual art, dance, literature, performance and more.  Why go?  In 2018, Galway International Arts Festival will have been going 41 years. Like its yearly counterpart in Edinburgh, there's so much going on here, the problem is going be deciding what you can possibly bear to miss. The only solution, really, is to come back next year...

Become a folklore expert at Brigit’s Celtic Garden

18.  Become a folklore expert at Brigit’s Celtic Garden

What is it?  A truly magical garden nestled in woodland and wildflower meadows, giving a sense of the land’s history. Why go? These lovely gardens will introduce you to Celtic mythology and heritage… but even if you’re not that interested in fairies and the Celtic calendar, this special spot will still be sure to calm and sooth simply through looking so damn pretty.

Gorge yourself on new plays at Dublin Theatre Festival and Fringe

19.  Gorge yourself on new plays at Dublin Theatre Festival and Fringe

What is it?  An autumnal take-over of the capital city by world-class theatre groups from Ireland and across the globe. Why go?  The Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe might be better known, but head to Dublin from September onwards and you'll be treated to the nation's most creative and brilliant producers of theatre, plus the more experimental companies working on the Fringe.

See the best in historic Irish art at the National Gallery of Ireland…

20.  See the best in historic Irish art at the National Gallery of Ireland…

What is it?  The name says it all really. Inside you’ll find a huge collection of artworks by Irish and European artists from 14 th – 20 th  century.  Why go?  Again this is the big hitter and it’s certainly worth a visit, not least because its collection will take you through the major art movements of the last centuries, whilst also showcasing home-grown artistic talents. 

…And then see the best in Modern Irish art at the Irish Museum of Modern Art!

21.  …And then see the best in Modern Irish art at the Irish Museum of Modern Art!

What is it?  Also known as IMMA, this is the country's top gallery for seeing modern and contemporary art. Why go?  As with the Abbey Theatre, don’t limit yourself to the NGI if you’re an art fan. Dublin alone is filled with galleries, including the Irish Museum of Modern Art, the Gallery of Photography Ireland and Project Arts Centre (also used to stage some great theatre and performance). IMMA's treasures include a substantial new collection of Lucian Freud paintings.

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20 of the most beautiful places to visit in Ireland

By Aoife O’Riordain

20 of the most beautiful places to visit in Ireland

For a relatively small country, Ireland scores high in the sightseeing stakes from the elegant Georgian streets of its capital Dublin , to the more elemental and remote appeal of its further flung beauty spots and historic landmarks. The craic might be mighty and the welcome warm, but it’s not just a nostalgia-steeped vision of the past that is the draw, modern-day Ireland is a progressive, youthful and cosmopolitan society with a fast-moving contemporary scene when it comes to art, film, music, food, literature and tech with something new to discover all the time.

Best places to visit in Ireland

1. Cliffs of Moher Clare  The Atlantic Ocean churns relentlessly below the towering Cliffs of Moher. Buffeted by the...

  • Cliffs of Moher, Clare

The Atlantic Ocean churns relentlessly below the towering Cliffs of Moher. Buffeted by the ever-present wind, the full majesty of the world’s longest defined cliffs unfurl before you, towering 702ft above the water for almost nine miles along the County Clare coast. The views over Galway Bay towards the Aran Islands are staggering, as are the vistas from the five-mile coastal Doolin Cliff Walk. This is one of the country’s most visited natural wonders, so expect some crowds, but stop by in the evening when numbers begin to dwindle – you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular sunset.

2. Connemara      Northwest of Galway city lies one of Irelands most alluring wildernesses. The haunting beauty of the...

North-west of Galway city lies one of Ireland’s most alluring wildernesses. The haunting beauty of the Connemara region stretches across County Galway: a landscape of slate-coloured lakes, bogland, sheep-dotted mountains, rugged coastline, hidden bays and small towns. Stop at Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord; the scenically situated Kylemore Abbey; the Alcock and Brown monument near Clifden that commemorates the landing site of the first non-stop transatlantic flight in 1919; and take to the hiking trails of the 40,000-acre Connemara National Park.

1. Voya Seaweed Baths Sligo  The rejuvenating properties of seaweed should not be underestimated. In the early 20th...

  • Voya Seaweed Baths, Sligo

The rejuvenating properties of seaweed should not be underestimated. In the early 20th century, there were more than 300 seaweed baths dotted around the coast of Ireland, but numbers dwindled in the ensuing decades and only a handful remain. Voya Seaweed Baths in Strandhill is just one of a number rediscovering this very ancient therapy for a whole new audience, hand-harvesting organic seaweed from the nearby beaches and combining it with mineral-rich seawater for the ultimate steamy soak.

4. Ring of Kerry      The scenic photo opportunities just keep coming on the 112mile Ring of Kerry one of Irelands most...

  • Ring of Kerry

The scenic photo opportunities just keep coming on the 112-mile Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland’s most celebrated touring routes. Roughly skirting the edges of the Iveragh Peninsula in the south-western corner of the country, it starts and ends in Killarney. Along the way it threads through a ravishing reveal of mountains and Atlantic-bashed coastal views that include the UNESCO World Heritage-listed monastic settlement on Skellig Michael and the glorious golden sands of Rossbeigh Beach.

5. Dingle peninsula Kerry     Dingle feels a long way from anywhere but the charm of this west Kerry fishing town in the...

  • Dingle peninsula, Kerry

Dingle feels a long way from anywhere, but the charm of this west Kerry fishing town in the heart of the Gaelic-speaking region is worth the trip. The pubs lining Main Street double as grocery stores and its annual gatherings such as the Other Voices music festival and the Dingle Food Festival draw a crowd. It’s also the jumping-off point for the remote charms of its namesake peninsula: the vertiginous drive around Slea Head with its views of the Blasket Islands; Sybil Head, which was used as a filming location in in Star Wars: The Last Jedi ; and, in good weather, the Caribbean-like the water lapping Coumeenoole Strand (aka Ryan’s Daughter beach), where David Lean’s classic 1970 flick was shot.

6. Waterford Greenway     In the 19th and 20th centuries Ireland was crisscrossed with a much larger network of regional...

  • Waterford Greenway

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Ireland was criss-crossed with a much larger network of regional railways than it is today. Some of the now-disused lines are being imaginatively repurposed into off-road walking and cycling routes. As its name hints, the Waterford Greenway is a 28-mile trail between the southerly port city of Waterford and seaside town Dungarvan, passing through tranquil countryside over viaducts and through moss-strewn railway tunnels with flashes of sea views.

7. Wild Atlantic Way      Irelands headlining scenic route the Wild Atlantic Way is an epic road trip that hugs the...

  • Wild Atlantic Way

Ireland’s headlining scenic route, the Wild Atlantic Way , is an epic road trip that hugs the ragged, western coast of Ireland from the isolated, weather-beaten beauty of Malin Head in Donegal for more than 1,500 miles through Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare and Kerry to the picturesque fishing town of Kinsale in Cork. You can pick up the well-signposted route in either a northerly or southerly direction anywhere along the coastline, stopping off to explore its show-stopping landscapes, towns and villages.

8. Giants Causeway Antrim      Northern Irelands unmissable landmark is the otherworldly UNESCO World Heritagelisted...

  • Giant’s Causeway, Antrim

Northern Ireland’s unmissable landmark is the otherworldly, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Giant’s Causeway. Tumbling into the sea, it’s an astonishing geological wonder; an expanse of more than 40,000 hexagonal columns resembling a super-sized pathway formed by volcanic activity between 50 and 60 million years ago. More fantastically, legend has it that the stones were laid by Irish warrior Fionn mac Cumaill to use as stepping stones across the water to fight the Scottish giant Benandonner.

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9. Dublin     Sliced in two by the River Liffey and hugging the gentle sweep of Dublin Bay the Irish capital was first...

Sliced in two by the River Liffey and hugging the gentle sweep of Dublin Bay, the Irish capital was first founded by the Vikings in the ninth century and has a rough-around-the-edges charm where Georgian grandeur rubs up against inner-city grit. A UNESCO City of Literature, Dublin 's streets are haunted by some of the literary greats of the English language. Dip into its thriving food scene, lose a few hours in one of its atmospheric pubs, seek out less well-known pockets of the capital such as The Liberties and delve into its multi-layered history spanning more than 1,000 years.

10. The Burren Clare     There is a lunar look to the extraordinary limestone landscape of The Burren and Cliffs of...

  • The Burren, Clare

There is a lunar look to the extraordinary limestone landscape of The Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark in County Clare. This UNESCO World Heritage site is littered with archaeological and natural wonders, such as the lonely Poulnabrone Dolmen near Ballyvaughan dating from around 3,800 BC; the longest free-hanging stalactite in Europe in Doolin Cave; and the far-reaching views from the aptly named Corkscrew Hill. Its limestone nooks and crannies are a botanist’s fantasy rock garden, with more than 1,100 Mediterranean, alpine and Irish plant species. Don’t miss a pit-stop at the picturesque An Fear Gorta tearooms in Ballyvaughan – fans of its cheesecake include Hollywood director Steven Spielberg.

11. Galway     Often called the city of tribes Galway has a relaxed bohemian vibe. One of two European Capitals of...

Often called the city of tribes, Galway has a relaxed, bohemian vibe. One of two European Capitals of Culture for 2020, this is a place that celebrates creativity and craft. A university town with a strong sense of its Irish heritage, the city is also a Gaelic-speaking stronghold and when summer rolls around the Galway International Arts Festival and Galway Film Fleadh attract culture lovers from all over the world. Visit the 16th-century Spanish Arch overlooking the Claddagh, where the River Corrib mingles with Galway Bay; dip into its thriving traditional music scene; stroll along Salthill pier and watch the hardy souls taking the plunge into the icy Atlantic waters; and visit one of its many standout restaurants such as Kai, Aniar and Ard Bia at Nimmos.

12. Cork      Spanning both sides of the River Lee is the selfstyled Peoples Republic of Cork whose residents only...

Spanning both sides of the River Lee is the self-styled People’s Republic of Cork , whose residents only half-jokingly refer to as the real capital of Ireland. A flourishing merchant city in the 18th and 19th centuries, its must-sees include the cherished English Market, where Corkonians have been shopping for some of the finest produce from the surrounding countryside since 1788; the Glucksman gallery within the grounds of the leafy University College Cork; and the Crawford Art Gallery set inside the repurposed 18th-century Customs House. Cork’s closest port, in Cobh, with its colourful houses creeping up the hill, was the last place the ill-fated Titanic docked in 1912.

13. Newgrange Meath     A marvel of early engineering Newgrange is one of Europes most remarkable Neolithic...

  • Newgrange, Meath

A marvel of early engineering, Newgrange is one of Europe’s most remarkable Neolithic archaeological sites. Older than the Great Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge, this sprawling passage tomb dates from 3,200 BC and, through a feat of ingenious Stone Age design, its main chamber is illuminated once a year (clouds permitting), when a small slit over the entrance lines up with the rising sun of the winter solstice in late December. The site forms part of the larger Brú na Bóinne UNESCO World Heritage site, set within a bend of the River Boyne, one of the most important clusters of prehistoric sites in Europe.

14. Glendalough Wicklow     Set in a deep valley gashed through the hills during the Ice Age the 100ft round tower of...

  • Glendalough, Wicklow

Set in a deep valley gashed through the hills during the Ice Age, the 100ft round tower of Glendalough pokes up through the trees bordered by steep forested slopes of the surrounding Wicklow Mountains National Park. This ancient monastic settlement and pilgrimage site, whose name means ‘glen of two lakes’ was founded in the sixth century by Saint Kevin and is one of Ireland’s loveliest beauty spots, with a network of walking trails nearby including the long-distance Wicklow Way.

15. Kilkenny City     Medieval magic awaits in Kilkenny which for a brief period in the Middle Ages served as the Irish...

  • Kilkenny City

Medieval magic awaits in Kilkenny, which for a brief period in the Middle Ages served as the Irish capital, astride the banks of the River Nore in the bucolic heart of Ireland. A former stronghold of Anglo-Norman invaders, its architectural heritage is part of the draw, told in its Medieval Mile Museum and throughout its atmospheric cobblestone streets and laneways presided over by the 12th-century Kilkenny Castle.

16. Birr Castle Offaly     Celebrating its 400th anniversary this year Birr Castle has been occupied by the Parsons...

  • Birr Castle, Offaly

Celebrating its 400th anniversary this year, Birr Castle has been occupied by the Parsons family since 1620. The hoi polloi can get the opportunity to peek around the castle and its extensive gardens that are home to more than 2,000 plant species and a grove of towering redwood trees. Also on display is the great telescope, completed in 1845 by the 3rd Earl of Rosse, who was one of the first to discover the spiral nature of the galaxies. The exploration of the cosmos continues with the estate’s low-frequency radio telescope, the I-LOFAR, part of one of the most sophisticated astrophysics research projects in the world.

17. Sliabh Liag Donegal     The Cliffs of Moher might be the crowd puller but Sliabh Liag in County Donegal has...

  • Sliabh Liag, Donegal

The Cliffs of Moher might be the crowd puller, but Sliabh Liag in County Donegal has high-altitude thrills of its own. Rising almost 2,000ft above the Atlantic Ocean, the mountain has some of Europe’s tallest accessible sea cliffs, three times higher than their County Clare rivals. Those with a head for heights should tackle the One Man’s Pass trail, where you can see the surf swirling beneath and marvel at the vertiginous, if stomach-churning, views.

18. Bundoran Donegal     Irelands selfstyled surf capital in Donegal also known as Fundoran is one of the best places in...

  • Bundoran, Donegal

Ireland’s self-styled surf capital in Donegal , also known as Fundoran, is one of the best places in the country to catch a wave, both for beginners and the more experienced. Tullan Strand or Rossnowlagh further up the coast offer plenty of thrills and spills, while south of the town in Sligo, Mullaghmore Head is one of the world’s premier big-wave spots, attracting the most daredevil surfers. Bundoran’s Sea Sessions surf and music festival in June is an annual sell-out.

19. Rock of Cashel Tipperary     Sitting on top of a jagged outcrop with the velvety green landscape of County Tipperary...

  • Rock of Cashel, Tipperary

Sitting on top of a jagged outcrop with the velvety green landscape of County Tipperary unfolding beneath for more than a millennium, the Rock of Cashel has a touch of the film set about it. Also known as St Patrick’s Rock, this huddle of partly ruined ecclesiastical buildings that include a 13th-century cathedral was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster and is one of Ireland’s most imposing historic sites.

20. Belfast Antrim     The city is having a bit of a moment. With The Troubles far behind it Belfast has found a new...

  • Belfast, Antrim

The city is having a bit of a moment. With The Troubles far behind it, Belfast has found a new energy helped by a burgeoning film-production scene and the regeneration of its Titanic Quarter which sits in the shadow of legendary Samson and Goliath, the nicknames given to the giant yellow Harland and Wolff shipyard cranes. Belfast’s charms creep up on you, but are easy to unearth from the winding streets of the Cathedral Quarter to the wide-open skies over Belfast Lough. Discover its evolving foodie scene with a browse in the 19th-century St George’s Market or supper at hot tables such as The Muddlers Club and Ox.

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Dunmoran Strand. We've rounded up 11 of the best beaches in Ireland here

A beachcombed haul

A beachcombed haul

Donegal landscape. Discover more about Donegal the county with some of the best beaches in Ireland here

Donegal landscape. Discover more about Donegal, the county with some of the best beaches in Ireland, here

Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey

The Irish Tricolour

The Irish Tricolour

Bedroom at Ballyportry County Clare

Bedroom at Ballyportry, County Clare

Darren Topps head gardener at Lismore Castle County Waterford

Darren Topps, head gardener at Lismore Castle, County Waterford

Peninsula Dingle

Peninsula Dingle

Hazel Mountain Chocolate factory

Hazel Mountain Chocolate factory

Ard Bia restaurant

Ard Bia restaurant

Cliff at Lyons. Read more about the best hotels in Ireland here

Cliff at Lyons. Read more about the best hotels in Ireland here

Lismore Castle County Waterford. Discover more of the best castles in Ireland here

Lismore Castle, County Waterford. Discover more of the best castles in Ireland here

Ard Bia and B

Ard Bia and B

Cow grazing

Cow grazing

America Village Apothecary

America Village Apothecary

Houses on Gola island with Owey in the background

Houses on Gola island with Owey in the background

Mullaghmore

Mullaghmore

Mitchell's restaurant in Clifden

Mitchell's restaurant in Clifden

The Burren. Find out more places to visit in Galway here

The Burren. Find out more places to visit in Galway here

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Ballymaloe House, Cork. Here are travel tips for Southern Ireland from Three Graces London

Connemara ponies

Connemara ponies

Fisherman Kevin Molloy with his spaniels on Lough Corrib

Fisherman Kevin Molloy with his spaniels on Lough Corrib

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20 Places to Visit in Ireland You Can’t Miss!

Home » Blog » Europe » 20 Places to Visit in Ireland You Can’t Miss!

From rugged sea cliffs to rolling green hills, bustling cities to quaint villages, Ireland is full of enchanting destinations. This guide will walk you through the best places to visit in Ireland for all types of travelers, so you can plan the ultimate Irish adventure.

Giant's Causeway Northern Ireland

The Emerald Isle is a tapestry of legend, ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and the warm spirit of its people. We’ve traveled to Ireland twice now and it has totally captured our hearts!

We’ve used our experience to put together this list of the best places to visit in Ireland, including both must-sees and hidden gems. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a music enthusiast, or simply seeking the magic of a new adventure, you’ll find something in this guide for you.

So put on your wittiest banter, grab a cup of Irish coffee, and get ready to be enchanted and inspired as we explore the places that make Ireland an irresistible travel destination. Sláinte!

Ireland travel guide

Jump to the following sections for information on that topic, or keep reading for all the juicy deets!

Top places to visit in Ireland

How many days do you need in ireland, best time to visit ireland, how to get around ireland, tips for visiting ireland.

  • What to pack for Ireland
  • Round up of the best places to visit in Ireland

If you’re looking for the very best places to visit in Ireland, here are our top recommendations. 

  • Ring of Kerry
  • Antrim Coast

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these towns, as well as all sorts of fun things to do in each.

Psst!  Don’t miss these tips and  mistakes to avoid while planning your trip to Ireland ! (You’ll thank us later!)

1. Ring of Kerry

Known for: stunning coastal scenery and dramatic landscapes

Ring of Kerry Ireland

Embark on a road trip along the famous Ring of Kerry, a scenic road that winds its way through the stunning landscapes of County Kerry in southwestern Ireland.

This iconic route follows winding roads past charming villages, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and mountain vistas. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time for can’t-miss stops along the way, such as the colorful town of Killarney and the mystical Gap of Dunloe .

Whether you’re driving the route yourself, joining a guided tour, or even cycling the scenic roads, the Ring of Kerry promises an unforgettable adventure that will show you the heart and soul of Ireland.

Psst! Before you hit the road, you’ll want to check out these helpful tips for driving in Ireland . 

Best Things to Do in the Ring of Kerry

Sneem Seaweed Baths Ireland

  • Take a boat trip to the iconic Skellig Islands . Explore the ancient monastic site on Skellig Michael, which was famously featured in the Star Wars films.
  • Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Killarney National Park . Hike through lush forests, discover hidden waterfalls, and cruise serene lakes.
  • You can join a guided tour ( like this one ), or you can visit on your own. But if you’re visiting independently, there are some tips and warnings you’ll definitely want to read up on. We have an entire guide packed with everything you need to know about  how to visit the Gap of Dunloe .
  • Catch some rays at Castlecove Beach , a sandy stretch of shoreline with water so clear you won’t believe you’re still in Ireland.
  • Cost: €48 (~$51.43 USD) per person for a 1-hour soak. Daily sessions begin from 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 5 p.m.
  • Stop at Fisherman’s Bar in Portmagee for amazing seafood with waterfront views.
  • Cross the bridge from Portmagee to explore Valentia Island . Enjoy sightseeing at the Valentia Lighthouse and Bray Head Tower, visit the famous Slate Quarry, or hop on a Valentia Harbour boat tour.
  • Venture off the beaten path and visit the Kerry Cliffs , a lesser-known (and way less crowded) alternative to the Cliffs of Moher.
  • Admission to the house is €7.00 (~$7.50 USD). Hours vary by season and can be found here. Pre-booking is not required.
  • Cost: $18 USD. Duration: 1 hour.

Want to save time and energy on planning?

In June 2023, we spent 2 weeks traveling around Ireland and living in a campervan. We were lucky enough to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!

We took our 2-week travels and are in the process of  creating the perfect Ireland road trip itinerary .  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice, once it’s finalized! Just click below to get on the waitlist for our  2-week Ireland road trip itinerary !

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Known for: cultural hub on Ireland’s west coast

Galway Ireland

Galway offers an enticing fusion of tradition and modernity that appeals to all types of travelers.

Known as the “city of festivals”, Ireland’s vibrant music, arts, and culture scene shines in Galway. While you wander through the cobblestone streets, you’ll be captivated by colorful buildings, lively pubs, and infectious music.

Outside the bustling city, nature lovers can explore emerald hills, mirror-like lakes, heathered moors, and County Galway’s 689 km (~428 mile) coastline, which makes up part of the Wild Atlantic Way scenic drive.

Best things to do in Galway

Latin Quarter Galway Ireland

You’ll definitely want to read our guide to all the best things to do in Galway , but for now, here are a few highlights:

  • Tigh Chóilí
  • Taaffes Bar
  • Tigh Neachtain
  • Visit the historic Claddagh neighborhood, birthplace of the iconic Claddagh Ring. Learn about its rich heritage and maybe even find your own token of love and friendship to take home.
  • Take a day trip to the iconic Cliffs of Moher . Marvel at the sheer beauty of these majestic cliffs as they tower above the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Enjoy one of the city’s many festivals , such as the Galway International Oyster Festival (September) or the Galway Film Fleadh (July).
  • Or, fully immerse yourself in the culture and learn Irish dance from an experienced local!
  • Wander the narrow, colorful streets of Galway’s Latin Quarter , home to some of the city’s most unique boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Grab a gin & tonic (the Latin Quarter is known for having the best in the country) while enjoying the talented street performers.
  • Good to know: the market is open Saturdays 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. year-round, with additional hours during the summer months and certain festivals. Check the hours here .
  • Get outta the city and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Connemara . Embark on a scenic drive through mountains, lakes, and charming villages. Keep an eye out for ponies roaming freely!
  • For a unique foodie experience, take a tasting tour at a seaweed & abalone farm . Forage for seaweed on the rugged shoreline and enjoy fresh seafood dishes made with both farm-grown and wild ingredients gathered from the nearby sea.
Read more: We put together a guide with everything you need to know about  renting a car in Ireland .

Known for: historic landmarks, lively pub culture, and literary heritage

Dublin Ireland

Ireland’s capital is a bustling city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity, offering a wealth of attractions and experiences that cater to every type of traveler.

As the birthplace of legendary authors like Oscar Wilde and James Joyce, Dublin is a city steeped in literary heritage that you can explore at Trinity College or the Dublin Writers Museum.

Step into Dublin’s historic streets and you’ll be greeted by a tapestry of architectural wonders, such as Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. 

For nightlife, look no further than the cobblestone lanes of Temple Bar, famous for its lively pubs and traditional Irish music.

Best things to do in Dublin

St. Patrick's Cathedral Dublin Ireland

  • This experience starts from €32 (~$34.68 USD) and prices vary depending on the date and time you select. We recommend booking tickets in advance as slots can fill up.
  • Though you can meander the college campus any time for free, there is a standard admission fee of €18.50 (~$20.05 USD) to access the Old Library and Book of Kells. You can book tickets here and check the hours here .
  • Cross the River Liffey via the iconic Ha’penny Bridge . 
  • Experience Dublin’s legendary nightlife at Temple Bar , which is not just one bar but an entire neighborhood of cobblestone lanes and pubs galore.
  • Self-guided visits are approx. 40 minutes and cost €8 (~$8.67 USD). Tickets can be booked online up to 7 days in advance and limited tickets are available at the ticket desk.
  • Marvel at the majestic architecture of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and slow down with a picnic in St. Patrick’s Park.
  • Take a break from the bustling city and visit the charming village of Howth . Enjoy breathtaking views of Dublin Bay from the scenic Cliff Walk , climb down to a tiny hidden beach , and spot the medieval Howth Castle .
  • Soak up the historic atmosphere (as well as the pints!) at The Brazen Head , Ireland’s oldest pub.

4. Antrim Coast

Known for: captivating coastal beauty and otherworldly landmarks

The Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland is a breathtaking stretch of coastline full of magical scenes that feel like stepping into a painting.

This mysterious region is not only a feast for the eyes, but also a place of history and folklore. Its crown jewel is the iconic Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of interlocking basalt columns steeped in legend.

Perhaps because of its mystique, the Antrim Coast was famously featured as the backdrop to many memorable scenes from HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones.

Note: Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, not the Republic of Ireland. Keep in mind that prices here will be in pounds sterling.

Best Things to Do in Antrim Coast

Dunluce Castle Northern Ireland

  • It costs £13.50 (~$16.87 USD) per adult to park at the site. If you’re up for it, you can visit the Giant’s Causeway for free with a hike from Dunseverick Castle or Portballintrae . Both of these scenic coastal trails provide stunning views and are well worth it if you have the time!
  • Reservations are required. Book tickets here . 
  • Slip into a fairytale at the enchanting Dark Hedges . This ethereal avenue of 18th-century beech trees set the stage for “the King’s Road” in Game of Thrones and is one of the most photographed natural sites in Northern Ireland.
  • Insider tip: stop at the nearby Magheracross Viewing Point for awe-inspiring views of the rugged coastline, Dunluce Castle, and (on a clear day) the Skerries islands.
  • Take a self-guided tour of the Game of Thrones filming locations scattered along the Antrim Coast, such as Ballintoy Harbour (“Lordsport”), Murlough Bay (“Slaver’s Bay”), and Cushendun Caves (the infamous “shadow-birthing” scene).
  • Tours (1 hour) start from £15 (~$18.74 USD) and tastings (2.5 hours) from £40 (~$49.97 USD). Book here .

Known for: colorful streets and renowned gastronomical scene

Kinsale Ireland

The quaint coastal town of Kinsale has earned a well-deserved reputation as the gourmet capital of Ireland, enticing visitors with its exceptional culinary scene and warm hospitality.

Beyond its culinary delights, Kinsale offers a wealth of things to do. Explore the rugged coastline and enjoy water activities such as sailing and kayaking, or simply bask in the sunshine on the nearby beaches.

The town’s maritime heritage as a bustling fishing port is reflected in the historic forts and museums that tell tales of pirates, naval battles, and seafaring adventures.

Stroll through colorful streets, savor delectable seafood, and soak in the breathtaking views of the harbor. 

Personal note: Kinsale was one of our very favorite towns in all of Ireland, and we’d highly recommend adding it to your itinerary!

Best things to do in Kinsale

Bulman Bar Kinsale Ireland

  • Our personal recommendation is to stroll along the seaside Scilly Walk (around 40 minutes one way) to The Bulman Bar & Restaurant for a delightful lunch. 
  • Step back in time at Charles Fort , a 17th-century star-shaped fortress that offers breathtaking views of the harbor (just a short walk from The Bulman Restaurant).
  • Tip: The Scilly Walk is a good one and takes roughly 40 minutes each way.
  • Book a memorable foodie experience : either a walking food tour, an adventurous foraging and picnic tour, or, for the bougie travelers, a private yacht and picnic tour.
  • Brace yourself for a spooky adventure with the Kinsale Ghost Tour . Follow your guide through the town’s narrow streets and dark corners, as chilling tales of ghosts and ghouls send shivers down your spine.
  • Marvel at the rugged beauty of the Old Head of Kinsale , a stunning headland that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean. 
  • Discover the town’s maritime past, delve into its connections with the Spanish Armada, and learn about the lives of its inhabitants at the Kinsale Regional Museum.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere of the Kinsale Farmers Market , where local producers showcase their artisanal products. Sample delicious cheeses, taste homemade treats, and fill your basket with gourmet goodies.
  • Take to the ocean for deep sea angling, scuba diving, fishing, or kayaking.

6. Wicklow Mountains National Park

Known for: breathtaking landscapes and wild beauty

Wicklow Ireland

Just a short drive from Dublin, Wicklow Mountains National Park is a picturesque haven known as “the Garden of Ireland”.

Lush green valleys, rolling hills, pristine lakes, and majestic peaks offer a tranquil escape as well as a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Meandering trails wind through heather-covered moors, ancient forests, and hidden glens where you can discover mirror-like lakes and cascading waterfalls.

The park is also home to historical and cultural treasures, such as the iconic Glendalough Monastic Site.

Best things to do in Wicklow Mountains National Park

Powerscourt Waterfall Wicklow Ireland

  • For a unique experience, check out this guided night hike and history tour . Sunset, stargazing, and storytelling – what could be more magical than that?
  • Entrance fees: €12.50 (~$13.39 USD) for the gardens and €7 (~$7.50 USD) for the waterfall.
  • Hours depend on the month and which attraction(s) you plan to visit. For more info, visit the official website .
  • Feast your eyes on the stunning beauty of Lough Tay , affectionately known as Guinness Lake due to its dark waters and a crescent-shaped sandy beach that resembles the famous pint.
  • Drive through the iconic Sally Gap , a mountain pass that offers awe-inspiring vistas and a sense of untamed wilderness. Keep your eyes peeled for wild deer.
  • Channel your inner movie buff as you explore the film locations scattered throughout the Wicklow Mountains. From P.S. I Love You to Braveheart , trace the footsteps of your favorite characters while reliving cinematic moments in real life.
  • Be mesmerized by the raw power of Glenmacnass Waterfall , cascading down rugged cliffs in a symphony of crashing water and mist.

7. Killarney

Known for: cute town surrounded by lakes and mountains 

Killarney Ireland

Nestled in the heart of County Kerry, Killarney is a picturesque town that captivates visitors with a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and traditional Irish charm.

Stroll through the colorful streets and you’ll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere that invites exploration.

Meanwhile, Killarney National Park beckons nature enthusiasts with its majestic mountains, serene lakes, and ancient forests.

Killarney is also a perfect base for exploring the world-famous Ring of Kerry, a scenic driving route that showcases some of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal and mountain views. 

Take a boat trip to the idyllic islands of the Lakes of Killarney, savor delicious cuisine in the town’s excellent restaurants, or simply soak up the friendly and inviting atmosphere that defines Killarney.

Best things to do in Killarney

Ross Castle Killarney Ireland

We have a whole guide dedicated to the best things to do in Killarney , but here are a few top picks:

  • This trail is a good choice if you’re looking for a challenging hike with incredible views.
  • Channel your inner royalty and take a boat ride to the captivating Ross Castle .
  • Saddle up on a horseback riding adventure through the enchanting Killarney National Park, where you can trot amidst ancient woodlands and spot majestic red deer.
  • Embrace the spirit of the Emerald Isle by seeing traditional Irish music performed at one of the lively pubs , where you can tap your feet to the tunes, belt out classic folk songs, and maybe even learn a jig or two.
  • Tip: Arrive early, as there is limited parking in this popular area.
  • John M. Reidy : lively pub serving woodfired pizzas and Irish coffee that is beloved by locals and tourists alike
  • Quinlan’s Seafood Bar : boasts the “best fish and chips in Kerry”, along with an array of mouthwatering seafood caught fresh daily
  • Bricín Restaurant and Boxty House : cozy restaurant serving traditional dishes worth the splurge
  • Take a leisurely stroll around Muckross House and Gardens , a stunning Victorian mansion surrounded by beautifully manicured grounds.
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Google Maps location (1 hour from Killarney city center)

Known for: lively atmosphere, historic charm, and rich culture

Cork Ireland Pixabay

Ireland’s second-largest city is a bustling and dynamic destination on the banks of the River Lee that offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary vibrancy.

Explore the lively streets of Cork and you’ll discover a treasure trove of attractions and experiences. Marvel at the stunning architecture of St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, wander through the historic English Market, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s many pubs.

With its thriving arts scene, Cork also boasts numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues, ensuring a rich cultural experience for every visitor.

Beyond the city center, the picturesque surroundings of Cork beckon with natural beauty and outdoor adventures. From the tranquil landscapes of Fitzgerald Park to the beauty of the nearby Blarney Castle, there’s no shortage of places to explore.

Best things to do in Cork

English Market Cork Ireland

  • Savor the culinary delights of the centuries-old English Market . If you’re feeling brave, try some of the more adventurous local specialties, such as drisheen (blood pudding) and pig’s trotters (literally pig’s feet).
  • Good to know: the castle & gardens are open year-round, but what you see in the gardens will depend on the season. General admission is €20 (~$21.67 USD) and tickets can be purchased in-person or booked online .
  • Entrance to the tower is €6 (~$6.50 USD). Access is dependent on the weather and religious services.
  • €24.95 regular tour (~$26.83 USD) includes ferry across Cork Harbour, departing from J.F. Kennedy Pier and returning after 3.5 hours. Explore tour options here .
  • Take a leisurely stroll through Fitzgerald Park , a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Visit the Cork Public Museum to delve into the city’s history, art, and natural heritage.

9. Dingle Peninsula

Known for: rugged beauty, charming fishing villages, and rich Gaelic heritage

Dingle Peninsula Ireland

Nestled on the southwestern coast of Ireland, the Dingle Peninsula offers both scenic landscapes and vibrant culture. This makes it a haven for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking an authentic Irish experience.

As you traverse the winding coastal roads of the Dingle Peninsula, you’ll be greeted by towering mountains, dramatic cliffs, and expansive sandy beaches. 

Take a stroll through the colorful streets of Dingle town, where you’ll find a lively atmosphere of artisan shops and cozy pubs full of fresh, mouthwatering seafood.

The area is also rich in ancient history, with prehistoric sites, medieval ruins, and the famous Gallarus Oratory, a perfectly preserved stone church dating back over a thousand years.

Best Things to Do in Dingle Peninsula

Dingle Ireland

  • Good to know: the suggested driving time is at least half a day, but we recommend giving yourself plenty of time for spontaneous stops.
  • Experience the vibrant energy of Dingle Town , a charming fishing village filled with colorful buildings, lively pubs, and fresh seafood.
  • Learn to row a naomhóg on this unique tour . You’ll learn about the history of this traditional vessel and enjoy the sights of Dingle Harbour from the water.
  • Marvel at the ancient Gallarus Oratory , a perfectly preserved stone church dating back to the 9th century.
  • Cé Dún Chaoin (Dunquin Pier) ferry: 20 minute crossing, €40 round trip (~$42.86 USD), daily departures 9:50 a.m., 10:50 a.m., 11:50 a.m., 12:50 p.m.
  • Dingle Marina ferry: 50 minute crossing, €65 round trip (~$69.64 USD), daily departure 9:30 a.m.
  • Note: there are length and weight restrictions for vehicles on the Connor Pass. Familiarize yourself with the rules here .
  • 1 hour tour, €18 (~$19.28 USD), must be 18+
  • Relax at Coumeenoole Beach , a secluded sand beach nestled between jagged cliffs.

10. Cliffs of Moher

Known for: awe-inspiring beauty and dramatic coastal vistas

Cliffs of Moher Ireland

The Cliffs of Moher are an iconic natural wonder, world-renowned for their breathtaking beauty and dramatic coastal vistas. They often top lists of Ireland’s must-sees.

Ahem – this may be an unpopular opinion, but the Cliffs of Moher were not our fave. On our most recent trip to Ireland, we visited the Kerry Cliffs, Kilkee Cliffs, and Slieve League, and to be honest, we liked all of them better.

We’re not saying don’t go to the Cliffs of Moher, just that there are other places to visit in Ireland that offer similar sea cliff views with WAY less crowds.

That said, if 1. it’s your first time visiting Ireland; 2. you have FOMO (like me); or 3. you don’t have your own wheels, then the Cliffs of Moher are a great experience with lots of tours and day trips offered from hub cities.

Best Things to Do in Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher Ireland

  • Take a leisurely stroll along the clifftop pathway.
  • Climb to the top of O’Brien’s Tower , an iconic landmark perched on the edge of the cliffs.
  • Admission rates vary based on the time of day. Book online to get the best rates.
  • Insider tip: with your admission ticket, you can borrow complimentary binoculars from the Visitor Centre.
  • Trek the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk . From the cliffs, you can take the north route to Doolin (7.1 km / 4.4 miles) or the south route to Hag’s Head (10.5 km / 6.5 miles). 

11. Slieve League

Known for: jaw-dropping cliffs and untamed beauty

Slieve League Ireland

Slieve League, located on the rugged coast of County Donegal, is home to some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.

Towering 598 meters (about 1962 feet) over the Atlantic Ocean, the cliffs are nearly 3 times higher than the way-more-famous (and way more touristy) Cliffs of Moher. 

If you’re not afraid of heights, a stroll along the cliff’s edge will treat you to panoramic views of the wild Atlantic coastline, with waves crashing against the base of the cliffs and the distant outline of mountains on the horizon.

Best Things to Do in Slieve League

Slieve League Ireland

  • Take in the view from the main lookout point. You can drive right up, or park at the Slieve League Cliffs Centre and walk to the viewpoint.
  • Follow in the footsteps of history as you hike the ancient Pilgrim’s Path , a 5.5 km (3.5 mile) out-and-back trail that makes its way up the back of the cliffs to a panoramic viewpoint.
  • Test your nerve on One Man’s Pass , a knife-edge ridgeline whereby you can continue hiking from Pilgrim’s Path to the Bunglass Viewpoint.
  • Cost: €25 (~$26.78 USD)
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting nearby villages, such as Carrick or Teelin . Explore charming pubs and experience the warm hospitality that makes this region truly special.
  • Witness the magic of a Slieve League sunset, as the golden hues dance across the cliffs, creating a breathtaking display of colors.

12. Rock of Cashel

Known for: majestic ruins and rich history

Rock of Cashel Ireland

The Rock of Cashel, perched atop a hill in Tipperary’s Golden Vale, is an awe-inspiring medieval fortress that captures the essence of Ireland’s rich history and architectural splendor.

This iconic landmark is a captivating collection of ancient monuments and centuries-old structures overlooking breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding countryside.

Originally the seat of the High Kings of Munster in the 5th century, the Rock of Cashel is believed to be where Aengus, King of Munster, was converted to Christianity by St. Patrick himself (yes, that St. Patrick!).

Best Things to Do in Rock of Cashel

Rock of Cashel Ireland

  • Step back in time as you explore the impressive ruins. Wander through the ancient structures and admire the intricate stonework.
  • Look up as you walk through the 13th-century cathedral and wonder at the Gothic architecture.
  • Enter the Chapel of King Cormac and marvel at the collection of Ireland’s only surviving Romanesque frescoes.
  • Admire the stunning architecture of the Hall of the Vicars Choral . Try to spot the Sheela-na-gig carvings that are hidden on the outer wall… let’s just say they don’t exactly scream church . 
  • Take in panoramic views of the valley from the summit of the Rock.
  • Explore the historic town of Cashel beyond the Rock. Visit the Cashel Folk Village and Cashel Heritage Centre , then kick back at T.J. Ryan , a traditional Irish pub established in the 17th century.
  • If you’re still craving more history, be sure to check out the haunting ruins of nearby Hore Abbey , a 13th-century Cisterian monastery.

Known for: lively music scene and breathtaking coastal beauty

Doolin Ireland

A charming coastal village situated on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Doolin is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking cliffs, traditional Irish music, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re in search of natural wonders or authentic Irish culture, Doolin has it all.

As you wander through its quaint streets, you’ll find cozy pubs where talented musicians fill the air with soul-stirring melodies.

Meanwhile, outdoor adventurers will enjoy hiking in the mystical Burren region, a unique limestone landscape dotted with ancient ruins and vibrant wildflowers. 

Doolin is also the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher and a great starting point for exploring the nearby Aran Islands.

Best Things to Do in Doolin

Drinks at Gus O'Connor's Pub Doolin Ireland

  • Experience a traditional music session at Doolin Music House . Gather around the fire for an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling in a local couple’s home – pretty much as authentic as you can get!
  • €17.50 (~$18.75 USD). For seasonal hours, click here .
  • Ferry times and prices vary depending on which island(s) you visit. Check the official website for more information.
  • Insider tip: if you can tear yourself away from the awe-inspiring Atlantic scenery, take the backroad from Doolin toward the cliffs and you’ll pass right by Doonagore Castle . Once you reach the cliffs, you can take the coastal walk back.
  • Cost: €12 (~$12.86 USD). Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
  • Rent a bike and explore the picturesque countryside surrounding Doolin. Pedal through green fields, discover hidden villages, and experience the Irish countryside at its most charming.

14. Aran Islands

Known for: rugged beauty & rich Gaelic heritage

Iniseer Aran Islands Ireland Pixabay

Located off the western coast of Ireland, the Arans consist of 3 main islands: Inishmore (Árainn / Inis Mór), Inishmaan (Inis Meáin), and Inisheer (Inis Oírr).

These captivating islands offer a glimpse into a world of traditional Irish life and untouched landscapes. Cinephiles might recognize them from the award-winning film, The Banshees of Inisherin .

From the iconic stone forts of Dún Aonghasa and Dún Chonchúir to picturesque villages with charming thatched cottages, the Aran Islands are a treasure trove of archaeological sites, stunning coastal cliffs, and fascinating folklore.

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world where time seems to stand still, where the beauty of nature meets the resilience of its people, and where ancient traditions come to life in a vibrant tapestry of Irish charm.

Best Things to Do in Aran Islands

Aran Islands Ireland Pixabay

  • There are several rental shops to choose from on Inishmore, as well as two on Inisheer, all located near the islands’ respective ferry terminals.
  • Immerse yourself in the Gaelic culture that still thrives on the Aran Islands. Practice a few Gaelic phrases and witness traditional crafts, such as knitting and basket weaving, that have been passed down through generations.
  • Dun Aengus , Inishmore: a prehistoric fortress perched dramatically on the edge of a 300-foot cliff.
  • Dún Crocbhur (Conor’s Fort) , Inishmaan: the largest stone fortress in the Aran Islands, standing at the highest point of Inishmaan.
  • Note: swimming in the Wormhole is extremely dangerous and strongly discouraged.
  • Discover the haunting allure of the Plassey Shipwreck , the rusted remains of a once-vibrant vessel that now rests against the rocky shoreline of Inisheer.
  • Watch the sunrise over Galway Bay from Teampall Bheanain on Inishmore. At roughly 15 feet by 11 feet, this wee stone building is thought to be the smallest church in the country.
  • Kilmurvey Beach , Inishmore: sheltered cove with white sand and crystal-clear water.
  • Frenchman’s Beach , Inishmore: popular location for snorkeling and scuba diving with lots of tidepools to explore.
  • Tra Mor , Inishmore: walk to the end of the paved road in Iaraine and continue north through the sand dunes to find this hidden gem. Chances are you might even have it all to yourself!
  • Trá Inis Oirr , Inisheer: white sand beach conveniently located between the ferry terminal and the airport.

15. Kilkenny

Known for: medieval history & vibrant cultural scene

Kilkenny Ireland

Nestled in Ireland’s picturesque countryside, Kilkenny is a gem waiting to be discovered. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, you might feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you wander the cobbled streets.

The star of the show is Kilkenny Castle, a majestic fortress that stands proud amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.

But it’s not all ancient history – Kilkenny is buzzing with modern energy. You’ll find a vibrant arts and culture scene, music drifting out of lively pubs, and a warm hospitality that’ll make you feel right at home.

Best Things to Do in Kilkenny

Nore River Kilkenny Ireland

  • Self-guided admission is €8 (~$8.62 USD) and guided tours are €12 (~$12.93 USD). Online bookings are only permitted within 7 days of your visit. Visit the official website to book.
  • Insider tip: upgrade your ticket for only €4 (~$4.31 USD) and get a tasting paddle instead of a pint.
  • You can walk the street on your own, but for a richer experience, we recommend hiring a local guide.
  • See all the sights from the tranquility of the Nore River . Take a guided kayak or SUP tour (€49 / $52.79 USD) or rent a hydrobike for a self-guided adventure (€25 / ~$26.93 USD for 1 hour).
  • Location: Stoneyford (16-minute drive from the city center)
  • Time: 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

16. Belfast

Known for: vibrant culture and tumultuous history

Belfast Northern Ireland

Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, is a city of contrasts where history intertwines with modern urban energy.

Prior to visiting, we knew a little bit about the Loyalist (primarily Protestant)-Nationalist (primarily Catholic) conflicts known as the Troubles. But we had no idea how prevalent the division is to this day. 

I say that literally – there are still walls standing that separate communities in Belfast. The “Peace Walls” are now adorned with street art, political murals, and messages of hope and resilience.

Belfast is also known for its shipbuilding heritage, most famously as the birthplace of the Titanic. The tragic yet compelling tale of her construction and ill fate comes to life in the Titanic Quarter.

Despite the grim aspects of its past, Belfast embraces a spirited atmosphere with its thriving arts scene, lively music venues, and eclectic nightlife. 

Best Things to Do in Belfast

Belfast Peace Wall Northern Ireland

  • Discover Belfast’s political and social history with a black cab tour . Listen to the knowledgeable local guide as they take you through the city’s murals and peace walls, sharing captivating stories from the Troubles.
  • Admission is £24.95 (~$31.33 USD)
  • Take in panoramic views of the city from Belfast Castle , nestled atop Cave Hill. Explore the castle’s beautiful gardens, go for a leisurely hike on Cave Hill, and enjoy a nature break just a stone’s throw from the city center.
  • Sample local delicacies and browse unique handmade goods at St. George’s Market , a bustling hub of food, crafts, and live music.
  • Entrance fee: £14.50 (~$18.21 USD)
  • Open at 10 a.m., last admission at 4 or 4:30 p.m., depending on the day and month.
  • Feel the vibrant energy of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter . Explore the narrow cobbled streets lined with trendy bars, restaurants, and art galleries.
  • Tours range from £10 (~$12.56 USD) to £100 (~$125.57 USD). Visit the official website for more information.
  • Relive your childhood with a scavenger hunt in CS Lewis Square . Look for the statue of the Belfast-born author, as well as 7 bronze statues of characters from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe . 

17. Connemara

Known for: sweeping boglands, majestic mountains, and windswept coastlines

Connemara Ireland

Connemara is a rugged and untamed paradise, huddled between the majestic Twelve Bens mountain range and the shimmering Atlantic Ocean on Ireland’s west coast.

This remote region is a playground for nature lovers, with vast stretches of untouched wilderness waiting to be explored. 

Traverse through serene landscapes of sparkling lakes, boglands, and heather-covered hills, and discover quaint villages where traditional Irish culture thrives. 

Best Things to Do in Connemara

Kylemore Abbey Connemara Ireland

  • Entrance fee: €16.00 (~$17.24 USD)
  • Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Venture into the rugged beauty of Connemara National Park . Choose from a variety of walking and hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging. Diamond Hill is a popular route, offering panoramic views.
  • Drive the iconic Sky Road , a scenic loop that offers breathtaking views of the coastline, rugged cliffs, and rolling hills of Connemara.
  • Catch a ferry from Cleggan Pier and escape to the wild beauty of Inishbofin Island . This nature-lover’s playground offers scenic trails, unspoilt beaches, wildflowers, sea cliffs, and protected wildlife.
  • Explore the picturesque village of Roundstone on Bertraghboy Bay, known for its traditional Irish music, colorful harbor, and vibrant art scene.
  • Meet the famous Connemara ponies , known for their gentle nature and beauty. Visit a local pony farm or take a pony trek through the scenic countryside.
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Location: Letterfrack
  • Cost: $86.26
  • Duration: 2.5 hours

18. Waterford

Known for: rich Viking heritage and vibrant arts scene

Waterford Ireland Pixabay

Founded by Vikings in 914, Waterford is the oldest city in Ireland.

History comes alive in the narrow medieval streets, landmarks, and museums of the Old Town, known as the “Viking Triangle”.

If you’ve heard of Waterford, I’m betting it’s probably in the context of Waterford Crystal. Drop by the visitor’s center to see this dazzling craft that is coveted worldwide.

But Waterford isn’t just about history and craftsmanship; it also offers a lively contemporary scene. Stroll along the picturesque quays, indulge in culinary delights at local restaurants, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere in the city’s bustling pubs.

Best Things to Do in Waterford

Reginald's Tower Waterford Ireland

  • Reginald’s Tower: Ireland’s oldest civic building, named after the viking founder of Waterford.
  • Medieval Museum: explore the 13th-century Choristers Hall and 15th-century wine vault; see the stunning Heavens’ Embroidered Cloths, the only surviving set of Medieval vestments in Northern Europe.
  • Bishop’s Palace: architectural jewel turned museum housing Georgian and Victorian treasures, such as the oldest piece of Waterford glass in the world.
  • Factory tour: €17.00 (~$18.31 USD)
  • Afternoon tea: €28 – €50 (~$30.16 – $53.86 USD)
  • Embark on a scenic cycling or walking adventure along the Waterford Greenway , a 46 km (~26 mile) trail that follows a former railway line from Waterford City to Dunvargan with tons of sights and attractions along the way.
  • The entrance fee is €10 (~$10.77 USD), slightly cheaper if you book online .
  • Try a 1-hour forest bathing experience for €25 (~$26.93 USD)
  • Try Waterford’s specialty bread, blaa (no, we’re not making weird noises – that’s what it’s called!). Pick some up at Hickey’s Bakery , the longest-established blaa bakery in the city, or find it on the menu at a local cafe.

19. Blarney Castle

Known for: the famous Blarney Stone

Blarney Castle Grounds Ireland

In County Cork, less than 20 minutes from the city center, tourists flock to Blarney Castle for a chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone.

Legend says that planting a smooch on this ancient stone will grant you the gift of eloquence.

Those who make the pilgrimage are certainly in good company – such influential figures as Winston Churchill, Ronald Reagan, and Mick Jagger have all pressed their lips to this intriguing block of limestone.

If getting fresh with a brick isn’t your thing, the castle and gardens are stunning and still very much worth a visit.

  • Entrance fee: €20 (~$21.67 USD)
  • Hours: roughly 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but varies slightly depending on the season

Our experience: We arrived shortly after the grounds opened at 9 a.m., thinking we were getting there early. But the lineup for the castle was already HUGE and the wait time was 90 minutes. Yikes . We felt like we were at Disney World.

We opted to skip the castle rather than waiting in the sun with a baby and explored the gardens instead. Truthfully, we didn’t care much whether we got to kiss the Blarney Stone or not (Ben actually has a theory that it’s all an elaborate prank to trick tourists!).

Best Things to Do in the Blarney Castle & Grounds

Blarney Castle Poison Garden Ireland

  • Climb to the top of the castle and pucker up for the ultimate tourist tradition: kissing the Blarney Stone. Sometimes ya just gotta do the tourist thing, right?
  • Wander the tranquil Fern Garden . Especially after seeing the crowds lined up for the castle, we loved the peace and quiet of the Fern Garden. It ended up being the best part of our visit!
  • We had to laugh when we saw the juniper (our daughter’s name!)
  • Explore the Rock Close , a mystical site said to have once been an ancient druidic settlement. The mysterious landmarks here include a sacrificial altar, a hermit’s cell, a witch’s kitchen, and the Wishing Steps . Keep your eyes peeled for whimsical fairy doors hidden among the trees.
  • If you’re visiting mid-summer, don’t miss the fragrant beauty of the 80-meter (~262-foot) rose pergola of the Herbaceous Border garden.

20. Glenveagh National Park

Known for: dramatic mountain peaks, mirror-like lakes, and vast heather-covered moorlands

Glenveagh National Park Ireland

Glenveagh National Park is a breathtaking wilderness of rugged mountains, serene lakes, and lush valleys in the heart of County Donegal.

Spread over more than 110 square miles, this national park captivates visitors with its untouched beauty and sense of tranquility. 

Hiking enthusiasts can explore the trails that wind through the Derryveagh Mountains, while nature lovers can revel in the park’s diverse ecosystems and protected wildlife.

Insider Tip: Park your car at the Visitor’s Centre. From there, you can catch a shuttle to the Glenveagh Castle & Gardens or take the Trail Walkers Bus to either Lough Inshagh or the Glen Walk (Saturdays & Sundays). Rides are first come first serve with no pre booking and cost €3.

Best Things to Do in Glenveagh National Park

Glenveagh Castle Ireland Pexels

  • Castle tour: €7 (~$7.54 USD)
  • Hours: 9:45 a.m. – 5:15 p.m.
  • Explore the wilderness of the Derryveagh Mountains on this trail , which passes through both Crockfadda East Top and Crockballaghgeeha.
  • Climb Slieve Snaght , the highest peak in the Derryveagh Mountains. Keep an eye out for the park’s resident wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and golden eagles.
  • Stroll along the shores of Lough Veagh , a serene lake surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. The Lakeside Walk is an easy out-and-back trail.

Black Lake Ireland

How long you decide to stay depends entirely on which places in Ireland you want to visit. 

Below is a breakdown of the number of days we’d recommend for some of the top places to visit in Ireland. The lower number of days will be for just seeing the highlights, while the higher number will allow you to spend more time really enjoying each place.

  • Ring of Kerry: 1-3 days
  • Galway: 2-3 days
  • Dublin: 2-3 days
  • Antrim Coast: 3-4 days
  • Kinsale: 1-2 days
  • Wicklow Mountains National Park: 1-2 days
  • Killarney: 1-2 days
  • Cork: 1-2 days
  • Dingle Peninsula: 1-2 days
  • Cliffs of Moher: 2-3 hours (longer if you plan on doing the entire coastal walk)

Causeway Coast Northern Ireland

Ireland is best experienced during the summer months of June to August, but we would recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons of May or September/October instead to avoid the crowds and price hikes of peak tourism. Christmas is also a magical (albeit expensive) time to visit.

Ireland doesn’t experience extreme temperatures and it rains no matter the season, so there isn’t really a bad time to visit. That said, we would probably avoid traveling in January/February in order to maximize daylight hours for exploring.

Our guide to the best time to visit Ireland gives the full breakdown on every season to help you decide when you plan your trip.

Trying to decide whether to visit Ireland or Scotland? You’re not alone! We’ve done both, and we have a whole guide where we compare the two and give our personal recommendation on the Scotland vs. Ireland debate.

Ireland car driving

Ireland offers a diverse range of transportation options that cater to different preferences as well as budgets. The country’s extensive transportation network ensures that travelers can easily navigate between different regions, cities, and towns.

Ireland car

Having your own set of wheels offers the most freedom and flexibility for traveling in Ireland, allowing you to get off the beaten path and pull over to take photos whenever your heart desires (trust me, this will happen a lot!).

Car rentals (a.k.a. car hires) are fairly affordable in Ireland, with mini, economy, and compact cars available at just $25-30 USD per day. Drivers must be at least 21 years of age and have a valid driver’s license in their home country. However, prices are significantly higher for drivers aged 21-24, starting at around $70 USD per day.

Driving in Ireland takes some skill and patience, as many of the roads are narrow, winding, and occasionally blocked by wandering sheep. It also helps if you know how to handle a stick, as rentals with automatic transmission are less common and much more expensive. And don’t forget that they drive on the left!

We personally like using Discover Cars when we rent vehicles around the world, as they gather options from all sorts of rental companies in one place. It makes it really easy to compare prices and vehicles so you can determine which is the best option for you.

Search & Compare Rental Car Prices

  • Discover Cars : We personally use this aggregate site to compare rental car prices from all the big name companies and get the best price possible. 
  • RentalCars.com :  We’ve had good experiences finding rental cars with this site in the past. 

Dublin Ireland bus

With rising prices of fuel, parking, and tolls, many visitors to Ireland are now choosing public transportation to get around rather than renting a car. Bus travel in Ireland is both efficient and affordable.

Transport for Ireland (TFI) operates a variety of express and city buses throughout the Republic of Ireland, with Bus Éireann serving over 3,000 locations. Online ticketing is available for 500 destinations.

Northern Ireland has its own public transportation services under the umbrella of Translink . The bus lines are Metro and Glider in Belfast, and Ulsterbus servicing various locations.

For sightseeing, some cities like Galway and Cork offer seasonal hop-on hop-off buses, while Dublin and Belfast have HOHO buses that operate year-round.

Irish Rail

Since all of Ireland’s rails are above ground, train travel is a great way to relax and enjoy scenic views of the country while getting from point A to point B. Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann) operates an extensive train network that covers most of the mainland, including one line from Dublin into Northern Ireland. There are a variety of ticket options available.

If you plan on taking a lot of public transport, then it may be beneficial to get a Leap Card , an electronic payment method that you can reload as you go.

Most commercial buses and trains throughout the Republic of Ireland (also some in Northern Ireland) accept the Leap Card. It’ll save you time buying tickets for each journey, as well as money with up to 30% discounts on Leap fares vs single cash tickets. You can buy the card online here .

Similarly, Translink offers a variety of travel cards for both train and bus travel in Northern Ireland.

Insider Tip: There are a few Leap Card types to choose from. Make sure you get the regular adult card as opposed to the visitor card, as the visitor card is only valid on trains within Dublin, whereas the regular card can be used nationwide on both trains and buses.

Though you can use the Uber app in Ireland, it’s not the same as in the US. Private drivers aren’t allowed to carry paying passengers, so Uber is simply used to hire taxis or limos.

By campervan

Kilkee Cliffs Ireland campervan

Another option for getting around Ireland that we HIGHLY recommend is to hire a campervan. We truly believe this is the best way to explore, plus you can save money because it’s your transportation and accommodation all in one. 

We have an entire guide to the best campervan rentals in Ireland to help you plan the ultimate road trip.

Connemara Ireland rain

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your trip to the Emerald Isle:

  • Expect sudden changes in weather. The one predictable thing about Ireland’s weather is that it’s always changing, so be prepared with layers and packable rain jackets.
  • Plan your driving routes. Especially if you opt to rent a campervan in Ireland (yes, do it!), make sure you’re aware of any size or weight restrictions as many of the roads are very narrow.
  • ROI uses the euro (€), while Northern Ireland uses pounds sterling (£).
  • Respect sacred places. Ireland is home to many sacred sites, so be mindful and respectful when visiting religious and historical places and observe any posted rules.
  • Start your days early. Popular historic attractions like castles and ancient ruins can get busy later in the day, so beat the crowds by visiting early in the morning.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. From cobbled streets to rugged trails, you’ll be doing a lot of walking while visiting Ireland. Be sure to pack sturdy, comfortable shoes (preferably waterproof).
  • Carry cash. While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s good to have some cash on hand, especially in smaller towns or when visiting local markets.

What to pack for traveling to Ireland

Dublin Ireland

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this  free Ireland packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women  and  men!) to electronics and extra gear you may consider packing if you plan to do some campervan travels.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Ireland that you won’t find anywhere else!

Ireland packing list opt in banner

Round up of the top places to visit in Ireland

Here’s a recap of all the best places to visit in Ireland so you can see everything in one place.

  • Wicklow Mountains National Park
  • Dingle Peninsula
  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Slieve League
  • Rock of Cashel
  • Aran Islands
  • Blarney Castle
  • Glenveagh National Park

Are you planning a trip to Ireland?

We’re creating lots of resources for travel in Ireland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ireland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

  • Ultimate 2-week Ireland Road Trip Itinerary
  • Best Time to Visit Ireland: When to Go & When to Avoid
  • Unforgettable Things to do in Ireland: Ultimate Bucket List
  • Camping in Ireland: Essential Tips + Best Campsites

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10 unmissable places to visit in Ireland

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Ireland is a country of contrasts. To the west, its ocean coastline has towering sea cliffs, powder-soft beaches, medieval castles, historic villages and forlornly beautiful islands where locals still nurture ancient traditions. The midlands harbor lesser-seen towns and meandering blue trails that follow the path of the River Shannon along rich green countryside. Dublin and Belfast to the east and north offer all the rich culture and diversity you’d expect to find in a large, modern metropolis.

With so many places to choose from, it’s not always easy to know where to go in Ireland, so we've handpicked the best places to stay to suit every taste and every changing mood.

Choose 3, 4, 5, or 7 top Dublin attractions and enjoy great savings with Go City. Taste the world-famous Irish drink at Guinness Storehouse, enjoy the sights on Big Bus Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, or discover Dublinʼs oldest building, Christ Church Cathedral – the choice is yours!

1. Inishowen Peninsula, County Donegal

Best place for a road trip

This is the final slice (or trailhead) of the magnificent Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal odyssey that connects this most northerly tip of Ireland to the south along the western seaboard. Inishowen has a hundred-mile sign-posted loop trail that covers the major attractions around the peninsula from any starting point. It’s one of the best places to visit in Ireland for a weekend, as it’s easily navigated over a couple of days.

Start the drive north by navigating the easterly contours of Lough Swilly before moving inland from  Fort Dunree to discover a highlight, Mamore Gap. It’s a narrow, curving road that snakes through the Urris Hills with spectacular coastal views. Before weaving on towards Tullagh Strand, there’s a wonderful detour to Glenevin Waterfall. The route passes one beauty spot after another, like Five Finger Strand (which has hazardous swimming conditions) and Knockamany, before arriving at the top of the world at  Banba’s Crown on Malin Head.

Planning tip: Travel in the off-season (November to Easter) for the best chance to catch Inishowen’s famous Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) stenciled onto a dark sky.

Sea stack standing in the ocean framed by other rocks on the cliff

2. Northwest Mayo

Best places for beaches

With a jagged, vast coastline, towering sea stacks and off-the-radar islands,  County Mayo offers beach settings that are framed by spectacular backdrops. Mulranny, with its bone-white powdery sand, has turquoise water that swirls around its contours. It once lured John Lennon and Yoko Ono on a "second honeymoon," and it’s also the gateway to Achill Island’s Keel Strand, which has miles of dunes to fly kites and jaw-dropping views of Slievemore and the Mweelaun Cliffs. 

Keem Bay is further west on Achill, and it is arguably Ireland’s most beautiful beach. It’s sheltered by giant cliffs that rise up to the north and south like a natural amphitheater. North of Achill is the Erris Peninsula which has Elly Bay, a safe beach with shallow waters, or Glosh and Crosshead Beaches, which offer dangerous, menacing waves. Head off-grid to Blacksod Pier to catch a ferry to the Inishkea Islands and discover a magnificent beach fringed by an abandoned village and pristine ocean waters.

Local tip: Rinroe, a secret cove north of Erris, has caverns that offer a good photo op.

3. Kilkenny

Best city for history

The medieval mile in Ireland’s prettiest city center is a living museum. Yes, there are countless ticketed heritage sites like  Kilkenny Castle and the  Medieval Mile Museum , which offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past (and rooftop views), but a ramble around "The Marble City’s" beating heart is the best way to discover its past. A self-guided walking tour of the Medieval Mile takes in sites like the  Black Abbey ,  Saint Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower and the Butter Slip – an atmospheric laneway that exudes old-world charm.

As one of the best nightlife spots in Ireland for centuries, expect the pubs in this pint-sized city to have a great backstory.  Kyteler’s Inn on St Kieran’s Street harbors a dark past with trumped-up witchcraft convictions, and Kilkenny’s brewing pedigree is showcased at the  Smithwick’s Experience on Parliament Street and  Sullivan’s Tap Room on John’s Street.

4. Limerick City

Best city for sport

Large stadiums and racetracks orbit the heart of Ireland’s third city while its narrow cobbled lanes and broad avenues have pubs, like  Jerry Flannery’s on Catherine Street or  JJ Bowles near  King John’s Castle , for post-match banter. The Limerick team is the reigning national champions at hurling, one of the fastest and oldest field sports on the planet, but it’s rugby that gets pulses racing in "The Treaty City."  Thomond Park Stadium gives the backstory to the 1978 match, when the local team and underdogs beat the famous All Blacks from New Zealand.

A brand new multistory  International Rugby Experience in O’Connell Street has redefined Limerick’s roofscape. Adare Manor , a resort and golf club a short drive from the city center, will host the 2027 Ryder Cup. The  Great Limerick Run draws crowds every May weekend, and cyclists venture to the countryside for mountain biking at  Ballyhoura or to the  Limerick Greenway for off-road trails as far as Kerry.

Group of gay men celebrating Gay Pride at home from their balcony

5. Dublin City

Best city for LGBTIQ+ travelers

A statue of playwright Oscar Wilde reclines on a bed of quartz near his home on Merrion Square with a wry smile that conveys playful puzzlement. About 120 years after he was imprisoned for gross indecency, almost to the day, Ireland became the first country in the world to legalize gay marriage by popular vote, and Wilde’s hometown was engulfed with rainbow flags for the occasion.

The  party continues in the capital’s landmark gay bar,  The George , which is one of the best places to visit in Dublin for members of the LGBTIQ+ community.  Pantibar on Capel Street and Street 66 on Parliament Street are more laid back, and ‘Mother’ on Grafton Street is for weekend clubbing. The city’s annual Pride Festival rivals the St Patrick’s Day parade for bringing the city to a standstill. Both GAZE, a film event in September, and the International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival in May mark the LGBTIQ+ community’s contribution to Ireland’s performing arts.  

6. Galway City

Best city for food

The scent of aromatic spices is carried on the fresh Atlantic breeze that passes through the cobbled lanes off Quay Street, the medieval heart of Galway. Top local restaurants like  Ard Bia at Nimmos cluster around its southern tip at  Spanish Arch because of its romantic setting, making it one of the best places for couples to visit in Ireland. It was once a trading post where galleons carried cargos of wine and food.

Cava Bodega continues that fusion of the experimental with traditional with their imaginative tapas, and on Middle Street,  Anair , the flagship restaurant of master chef JP McMahon is five minutes away.  Éan , a contemporary space down the moodily lit Druid Lane, sells exquisite artisan pastries. With fresh catch arriving from the ocean to the city by the trawler load, expect humble fish and chips with a difference at  McDonagh’s on Quay Street.  Sheridan’s Cheese on Nicholas Street offers the best dairy produce from the land.

Planning tip: Travel in the September shoulder season for the  Galway International Oyster Festival . 

O'Connor's Pub, group playing music at a table

7. County Clare

Best place to catch a tune

County Clare’s coastline attracts visitors by the busload for the Micho Russel Festival in  Doolin , near the  Cliffs of Moher , late in February. It’s the place to catch a lively traditional (trad) music session at any time of year, with  Gus O’Connor’s Pub packing in visitors to the rafters.

For something slower and more sentimental, visit the medieval banquet at  Bunratty Castle or Knappogue, where you can listen to harpists and vocalists harmonize Ireland’s past over a glass of honeyed mead and spare ribs. Ennis hosts the annual Fleadh Nua every May, when the entire town moves in rhythm with the bodhrán (Irish drum). Its pubs showcase a nightly blast of trad at  Brogan’s and  Knox’s or contemporary live music at  Nora Culligan's on Abbey Street.

Local tip:  True music aficionados head to the east side of the county towards Lough Derg, where the pubs cupped in fern green valleys –like Shortt’s Bar in Feakle – host top performers nightly. 

8. Causeway Coast, County Antrim

Best place to hike

Located between Belfast and Derry on the north Antrim coastline, the Causeway Coast has a seascape that’s smooth as whipped cream in some locations and jagged as broken ice in others. But it’s always fascinating. At a 20-mile (34km) distance of moderate difficulty, and blessed with spectacular scenery, it’s one of the best places to hike in Ireland.

The eastern leg has stunning settings, like the Gobbins Cliff Path on Islandmagee Peninsula, but if time is restricted, travel west by train to hike to the heavy hitters that are crammed within 10 miles of each other. Starting at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, which jigs and sways over the waves below, head west past the  Giant’s Causeway to the spectacular  Dunluce Castle that teeters on a cliff edge. Round off with a visit to the  Old Bushmill’s Distillery to get the blood flowing.

Planning tip:  Build in a detour to  The Dark Hedges ,  nine miles south of Carrick-a-Rede.

nice senior woman on mountain bike, cycling in sunset on the cliffs of Sheeps Head, County Cork, in the southwestern part of the Republic of Ireland

9. West Cork

Best place for families

Ocean spray and homemade ice cream are just a taste of why this expansive, meandering coastline, with its necklace of charming seaside villages, is one of the best places for families to visit in Ireland. Take a walking tour around pretty  Kinsale to discover stories of notorious seafarers like Alexander Selkirk, who inspired Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe, and Pirate Queen Anne Bonny. Or meander by the ramparts of star-shaped  Charles Fort . For another epic activity, take a whale-watching  boat tour from Baltimore to catch a glimpse of a magnificent humpback or baleen rise and fall beneath the clear ocean water.

Days can be spent lazing, surfing and horse-riding by the white dunes of  Barley Cove or  Inchydoney Beach , or k ayaking with seals near Glengarriff.  Ireland’s only cable car leaves from Beara to cross ocean waters to Dursey Island. Mizen Head, Ireland’s most southerly point, has an interpretive signal station that is accessed by footbridge over wild Atlantic waves.

10. Iveragh Peninsula, County Kerry

Best place for sensational views

For an out-of-this-world excursion, catch the ferry from brightly painted Portmagee to one of the most beautiful places in Ireland.  Skellig Michael, a small mountainous UNESCO World Heritage site, doubles as the windswept island sanctuary on the planet Ahch-To in Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015) and Episode VIII – The Last Jedi (2017).

Back on the mainland, the superlative landscapes will continue to impress with  Ladies View , which has panoramic views over the Lakes of Killarney.  Torc Waterfall on the northern tip of  The Ring of Kerry is better recorded than photographed with the powerful sound of the water pounding in the background. Head to Cronin’s Yard to scale and capture  Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain, which towers over the entire peninsula and ocean.

Planning tip:  The ferry service to Skellig Michael is extremely popular (and weather dependent), so it’s necessary to book months in advance to secure tickets.

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15 unmissable experiences to have in Ireland in 2023  

Connemara, best places to visit in Ireland

Experience authentic Ireland: from the savage beauty, to traditional feats, to movie magic. (Image: Chaosheng Zhang)

BY Kassia Byrnes & Cathlyn Botor

Last updated . 13 September 2023

From modern movie sets to ancient ruins and natural landforms that are millions of years old, a myriad of fascinating adventures await in Ireland.

There are many famous bucket list items to be had on the island of Ireland – like the west coast drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, puckering up for the Blarney Stone, and having a pint in the Guinness Storehouse with some of the friendliest locals in the world.

But if you’re looking to dig a little deeper for culture and history that dates back from BC times right up to our modern age, this is the list for you.

1. Immerse yourself in the Titanic Belfast

The tragic history of the RMS Titanic is such that even those of us without a maritime bone in our bodies can’t help but be fascinated.

Titanic Belfast museum, best places to visit in Ireland

Get up close and personal with the real Titanic store. (Image: Chris Hill)

The Titanic Belfast museum gets you up close and personal with the ship’s story – from conception to sinking – in a way the movie never could. Several interactive galleries immerse you in what being onboard was really like, from the sights, sounds and smells to the true stories of the passengers and workers.

You can even walk around and explore the last remaining White Star Line vessel, the Titanic’s own tender ship.

SS Nomadic, Titanic Belfast Museum, Ireland

Board the last remaining White Star Line ship, SS Nomadic.

2. Be in awe of Ireland’s natural beauty

Ireland is blessed with natural beauty, which means that a few wonders have well and truly earned their iconic status and need to remain firmly at the top of your Irish bucket list.

The 40,000 black basalt columns of Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland’s County Antrim are one of those must-see icons.

The result of an ancient volcanic eruption, the 50 to 60-million-year-old formation has inspired legends about a giant who tore up the coastline to build the causeway from Ireland to Scotland.

Giant’s Causeway, best places to visit in Ireland

View the black basalt columns of Giant’s Causeway from below on a boat tour. (Image: Chris Hill)

To the west of Ireland in County Clare, you’ll find the Cliffs of Moher. Few places in the world offer such a dramatic coastline, with almost 14 kilometres of rugged cliffs reaching over 200 metres tall.

There is nothing to impede the gorgeous view out to the open sea as you wander the paved pathways, but to truly appreciate the enormity of the cliffs, jump on a boat tour and gaze up at them from sea level.

Cliffs of Moher, best places to visit in Ireland

Gaze up at the 200-metre-tall Cliffs of Moher. (Image: Chaosheng Zhang)

3. Nerd out at Ireland’s TV and movie locations

It’s no surprise that the magical landscapes around the island of Ireland have inspired the sets of more than one fantasy epic.

Game of Thrones ®fans might already know that scenes in Winterfell, the Iron Islands and many that took place closer to The Wall were filmed in Northern Ireland. Join a Game of Thrones Tour to see the real locations of places like Winterfell (Castle Ward), the road from King’s Landing (the Dark Hedges) and Downhill Beach (dragonstone). Each of the tours is led by a guide who was an extra in the famous series. They’ll even provide cloaks, banners and swords for you to wear.

Games Of Thrones® Studio Tours, Ireland

Visit sets from Games Of Thrones®.

Alternatively head out to the Game of Thrones ® Studio Tour at Bainbridge, 40 mins south of Belfast or 90 mins north of Dublin. The behind the scenes tour takes in the epic sets, costumes, weapons and special effects created for the show.

If sci-fi is more your calling, Star Wars location scouts also saw the otherworldly landscape of the Wild Atlantic Way coastline and chose to film parts of Star Wars: The Force Awakens there. The locations are easy to get to so you can see them on your own, or you can join one of the many tour groups.

You’ll find those Star Wars locations, as well as the places where many other famous movies were set (including Harry Potter , Brooklyn and Braveheart ) in our guide to Ireland’s famous film locations .

Skellig Ring, Ireland

Visit the otherworldly Skellig Ring, where Rey met Luke Skywalker for the first time. (Image: Tom Archer)

4. Taste the best of Ireland at Moran’s Oyster Cottage

You haven’t done Ireland right if you haven’t sat down to oysters, soda bread and Guinness – and the locals love to share that experience with newcomers – which makes a trip to Moran’s Oyster Cottage essential. This family business dating back to the 1800s knows seafood, and they get it fresh out of Galway Bay.

Enjoy that day’s catch right from the ocean onto your plate. Oysters are the speciality here, but you’ll find a range of seafood dishes – like Chilli Coconut Prawns and smoked salmon – and even a few vegetarian options.

Morans Oyster Cottage, best places to visit in Ireland

Delight your tastebuds with a classic Irish feast.

5. Be transported back in time at Rock of Cashel

Seeing the Rock of Cashel for the first time is nothing short of jaw-dropping. As you arrive, this group of medieval buildings appears like an arrow piercing the ubiquitous fields of green.

A Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, and a fifteenth-century Tower House are preserved here, considered the most impressive of their age on the island of Ireland.

If you find that a day trip isn’t enough, a new five-star hotel, The Cashel Palace Hotel , opened up this year. Spend the night in a grand 18th-century Palladian – formerly home to Archbishops of Cashel – overlooking the other iconic structures.

Rock of Cashel, Ireland

Marvel at the medieval buildings of Rock of Cashel. (Image: Brian Morrison)

6. Join a tour of Newgrange

The sheer size of this tomb in Ireland’s Ancient East is an awe-inspiring sight. About 80 metres in diameter, this cairn is estimated to weigh a massive 200,000 tonnes in total, with some of the larger stones decorated with European Neolithic art.

A circle of standing stones surrounds the mound, believed to have been erected sometime after 2000BC.

Newgrange, Ireland

Catch the shuttle bus to Newgrange, an ancient tomb estimated to weigh 200,000 tonnes. (Image: Sonder Visuals)

Adding a bit of magic to the structure, a small opening was built so a beam of sunlight would shine directly down the entry passage into the tomb at dawn on the winter solstice every year – a day that was believed to signify nature’s rebirth and renewed life.

To see it, be sure to check shuttle bus timetables and book before you go, then arrive at the Brú na Bóinne visitors center; from there, a bus will drive you the 10 minutes to Newgrange (and will usually stop at other significant sites along the way).

A guide will take you around and into the tomb, sharing their intimate knowledge. It’s well worth the tour to fully appreciate the significance of what you’re seeing.

Sun shines into Newgrange on winter solstice, Ireland

Visit on Winter Solstice to see the sun reach inside the ancient tomb. (Image: Brian Morrison)

7. Explore another world on the Aran Islands

Off the coast of Galway sit the Aran Islands , a place where the Gaelic language, Celtic churches and prehistoric ruins are all preserved. You’d be hard-pressed to find anything else that gives you such a sense of what ancient times were like in the area, and the locals are excited to share their heritage and culture with visitors.

Inis Mór, Aran Islands, Ireland

Let the locals show you their heritage and culture around Inis Mór. (Image: Lukasz Warzecha)

For more history, visit World Heritage-listed Dún Aonghasa, the largest prehistoric stone fort on the islands, or Dún Eochaill, a fort estimated to be from the Iron Age.

You can also walk along the dramatic Inis Mór cliffs, spot the local seal colonies, or pop in for some traditional Irish music in Kilronan village.

Dun Aengus, Aran Islands, Ireland

Marvel at World Heritage-listed Dún Aonghasa. (Image: Gareth McCormack)

8. Be inspired by Connemara

Connemara has inspired poets and artists for decades – like Oscar Wilde, who described the place as a “savage beauty”.

Famous for its ocean-edged wild landscape and soft, pretty colours, this corner of Galway is another haven for locals who speak the Irish language.

Connemara, best places to visit in Ireland

Experience the “savage beauty” of Connemara. (Image: Chaosheng Zhang)

Jump on a bike and explore nature, wander through the famous Kylemore Abbey (part of a castle built by an Irish politician for his wife in the 1800s), be charmed by the picturesque towns and villages, and get stuck into traditional local dishes.

Kylemore Abbey, Connemara, Ireland

Wander through Kylemore Abbey, a castle built for love. (Image: Chaosheng Zhang)

9. Stay in a piece of Irish history

There aren’t too many places in the world where you can stay for a night or two like royalty, but in Ireland you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Castle Leslie Estate is about as grand as it gets. This four-star hotel in Glaslough, towards the north of Ireland, has had its fair share of fame; not only does the Leslie family tree include the likes of Attila the Hun and several Churchills, but it’s also been host to a huge number of celebrities, including Winston Churchill, WB Yeats and Mick Jagger.

Castle Leslie Hotel, Ireland

Stay at Castle Leslie, a real castle that’s not a four-star hotel. (Image: Tom Archer)

Foodies should head to Dromoland Castle , as the onsite restaurant, Earl of Thomond, was awarded a Michelin star in the 1990s.

The castle went through extensive renovations to transform it into a five-star hotel and has boasted its own long list of famous guests, such as Nelson Mandela, Johnny Cash and John Travolta.

You can check out our list of other Irish castles to stay in , or go for something completely different and be transported even further back in history by staying in a reconstructed Viking Settlement at the Irish National Heritage Park.

exterior Dromoland Castle, Ireland

Taste Michelin-star cooking at Dromoland Castle’s on-site restaurant.

Your accommodation for the night is built in the style of ancient Vikings’ homes, complete with walls made of woven branches and clay, a thatched roof and a central hearth – and yes, you’ll be cooking dinner on an open fire.

On arrival, you’ll be briefed on living an off-grid Viking life, including being on the lookout for invaders, and you’ll even be provided with authentic Viking costumes.

Viking Settlement at the Irish National Heritage Park. Ireland

Live the life of a Viking for a night.

10. Step into the Derry Girls Experience

Set during the time of The Troubles in Northern Ireland, Derry Girls is a coming-of-age story about five adolescent Catholic girls living in ‘Derry’, aka Londonderry.

The newly launched Derry Girls Experience will take you back in time to the 90s on the set of the famed British teen sitcom. The new exhibition is within the city’s historic walls just across from the iconic Guildhall – one of the many filming locations for the series.

You’ll find a diverse collection of memorabilia from the hit series, courtesy of Hat Trick Productions and Irish playwright Lisa McGee herself, including Aunt Sarah’s famous pyjamas, Erin’s diary and the Spice Girls’ costumes.

Catch the Derry Girls Experience in the Tower Museum until July 2024. Tickets are still available online .

a look inside the Derry Girls Experience exhibition in Ireland

Visit Derry Girls Experience and see original memorabilia from the hit show.

11. Sample Irish whiskeys at Skellig Six18 Distillery

In the historic town of Cahersiveen on Skellig Island you’ll find Skellig Six18. The remote distillery produces world-class Irish whiskeys, gins, and spirits infused with local botanicals and Atlantic-aged flavour.

It’s the perfect place to start exploring one of Ireland’s most alluring locations and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Skellig Michael – it’s also the site where the all-time top-grossing film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens was filmed.

Join a Skellig Six18 tour and be guided by a local storyteller who’ll take you on a sensory journey behind the scenes of the working distillery with a tasting of their signature gins and whiskeys.

a rocky cliffside at Skellig Michael, Ireland

The World Heritage-listed Skellig Michael is a sight to behold.

12. Escape from Ireland’s Ancient East Maze

Get lost in Ireland’s largest wooden panel maze at Sky Park in Carlingford, County Louth. Ireland’s Ancient East Maze features towers, bridges and gates that open and close to create a new challenge each time you visit.

In addition to the maze, kids and adults can also enjoy a range of thrills and activities, including an aerial adventure course that features more than 30 obstacles and seven zip wires. Test your limits as you tackle cargo nets, giant log swings and monkey bars or play a round of minigolf, monster croquet or aero ball.

13. Wish upon a star at OM Dark Sky Park

Cloaked in the darkness of the Davagh Forest away from the city lights you’ll find the OM Dark Sky Park . The observatory is the world’s 78th area to be awarded International Dark Sky accreditation and the first of its kind in Northern Ireland.

It’s the best stargazing spot in Ireland and home to a 14-inch LX600 Meade telescope. From holographic installations to virtual reality headsets, prepare for an immersive experience of our solar system – it’s even possible to witness the Northern Lights, if you’re lucky. Don’t miss the chance to make a wish while admiring the vast expanse of the Milky Way.

The Davagh Forest can be challenging to navigate, so you must stay close to the observatory building and car park. Visitors can stargaze at any time of the night. Note, that it only gets dark at half past ten during the months of June and July.

14. Cycle the Listowel–Abbeyfeale Greenway

Fertile valleys and rolling hills set the scene for a 16-kilometre off-road trail that connects the heritage town of Listowel with the market town of Abbeyfeale. The route will take you through the Kingdom of Kerry Greenway with views of the Stack Mountains to the south and on to the foothills of the Mullaghareirk Mountains before ending at the Limerick border.

Along the way, be sure to take a moment to breathe in the crisp air and stop at one of several picnic tables along the way to enjoy a packed lunch. If you need to hire a bike or would prefer to join a cycling tour, you can visit LikeBikes in Listowel or Abbeyfeale (depending on which end of the trail you are starting at).

15. Visit the Irish Wake Museum

What was once a retirement home for old people in the 15th century is now home to Ireland’s newest attraction: The Irish Wake Museum . Dive into five centuries of fascinating funeral rituals as you explore Ireland’s superstitions and traditions around death.

While death is often considered a taboo topic, you’ll be given a unique perspective on the subject matter when you join a guided audio-visual tour through six rooms that move you chronologically through Ireland’s death practices from the 15 th to the 20 th centuries.

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Good source of info for planning for the forthcoming trip to Ireland in sept/October 2023.

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Irish Around The World

10 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Ireland

By: Author Irish Around The World

Posted on Last updated: January 24, 2018

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There are many beautiful places to visit in Ireland, and it is impossible to list them all.

The spectacular coastline, charming small villages, stunning waterfalls are all part of why we love Ireland.

This green island has a lot to offer, and we found ten of the most beautiful places to visit in Ireland.

Those incredible places should be on everyone top places to visit in Ireland.

1. The Cliffs of Moher.

Cliffs of Moher visit Ireland

Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction and it is no wonder why. The mighty cliffs tower 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean.

Carved out about 320 million years ago by river delta offer one of the most spectacular views in the country.

Take your time here and explore Co. Clare where the strong traditional Irish culture flourishes.

2. Ring of Kerry.

Ring of Kerry visit Ireland

The Ring of Kerry drive stretches for almost 200 km of one of the most beautiful areas in Ireland. Here you can hike the mountains, swim in lakes, or just admire its beauty.

Highlights like the Beara Penninsula, Kerry Way, Killarney National Park, all make for the areas outstanding natural beauty.

3. Giant Causeway.

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

This Northern Ireland UNESCO heritage site proves that mother nature can provide one of the most dramatic natural tourist attractions in the country.

40000 natural basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic eruption attract thousands of tourist to Co. Antrim every year.

Stretching along the coastline like a series of large stepping stones, hold many mythical tales of how were they formed.

4. Glenveagh National Park.

Stretching across 170 square kilometres, Glenveagh is Ireland’s second largest National Park.

Filled with rugged mountainous landscapes, crystal clear lakes, sandy beaches and the magnificent Victorian Glenveagh Castle.

Look out for rare wildlife in the area, and the Golden Eagle which was formerly extinct and now is reintroduced to the area.

5. Aran Islands.

Aran Islands

The three islands located in the Galway Bay, are home to traditional Irish villages, far from modern developments of the mainland.

Here, many locals still speak Gaelic as their first language, live in small farming communities and drive pony traps.

The island has unique landscapes and many attractions including several Iron age forts, and Teampull Bheanain which is considered to be the smallest church in the world.

6. Glendalough.

This glacial valley in Co. Wicklow is a genuine picture perfect place. If you are history or architecture lover, then don’t miss the ancient two towers f St. Kevin’s Church and a ruined cathedral.

The trail and lake walks are stunning here. Glendalough is one of the most beautiful corners of the country; it is a profoundly tranquil and spiritual place.

7. The Knocknarea Mountain.

The scenery and the coastline surrounding the town of Sligo are stunning.

The Knocknarea Mountain along with 40 foot high stone cairn which is the mythical burial place of the Queen Maeve of Connaught, make the area truly unique.

Along Sligo’s best is the Carrowmore, the most extensive stone age cemetery in the country. Even the famous poet W.B Yeats made the village of Drumcliff his final resting place.

8. Skellig Islands.

Ireland’s unique unesco heritage site makes for an unforgettable side trip from the famous ring of kerry tourist trail..

skellig-michael-1891588_640

The two islands that rise from the sea are home to fascinating six-century monastic complex perched on the 230-meter high clifftop.

The birdlife here is also worth mentioning as it has Gannets, Black Guillemots, Cormorants, Razorbills and Herring Gulls.

9. The Burren.

About 300 meters above the ocean in Co Clare, western Ireland, lies the Burren.

Walking across the landscape of ruts, fissures and rocky mounds feel like on the moon. The scenery has been sculptured over thousands of years of acid erosion and is truly impressive to look at.

Take your time while you walk the Burren as it holds a great variety of rare plants and insects.

10. Cooley Peninsula.

At the northeast part of Ireland on the Iris Sea lies the Cooley Peninsula. Although the area is much less popular within tourists visiting Ireland, it has stunning landscape.

The views from the forested Mourne Mountains are breathtaking, and the medieval village of Carlingford makes the area the country’s most rewarding off the beaten track destinations.

What are your most beautiful places to visit in Ireland?

As you can see its an amazing list of places to visit in Ireland. What would other places around Ireland be on your list?

Of course, it is hard to mention all the beautiful places to visit in Ireland as there is so many of them. If you are looking for more inspiration and want to include more to your bucket list, make sure to read 99 Unmissable Things To Do In Ireland .

Thanks for reading and get your free weekly dose of Irish here .

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Our Top 10 Unmissable Highlights of Northern Ireland

Posted: February 19, 2024 | Last updated: February 19, 2024

<p>Small but mighty Northern Ireland packs in plenty of impressive sights, Celtic culture, cuisine, tradition, and history into 32,595 square miles. From museums to festivals and fine dining experiences, this destination offers an activity for every age and a flavor for every palette.</p>  <p><strong>Click or scroll through the gallery to discover our guide to the unmissable highlights of Northern Ireland, with a focus on activities for city break lovers...</strong></p>

Unmissable highlights of Northern Ireland

Small but mighty Northern Ireland packs in plenty of impressive sights, Celtic culture, cuisine, tradition, and history into 32,595 square miles. From museums to festivals and fine dining experiences, this destination offers an activity for every age and a flavor for every palette.

Click or scroll through the gallery to discover our guide to the unmissable highlights of Northern Ireland, with a focus on activities for city break lovers...

<p>Located on the very spot where the ill-fated ship was designed, built, and launched, <a href="https://www.titanicbelfast.com/explore/">Titanic Belfast</a> is a world-leading tourist attraction which takes visitors on an immersive journey from the bustling boomtown of early 19<sup>th </sup>century Belfast, through the conception and construction of the RMS Titanic. You'll also learn what life was like on board the completed ship and within the cabins of various classes, and finally the story culminates in the tragic sinking and devastating aftermath, with one of the largest collections of salvaged artifacts in the world.</p>

1. Visit Titanic Belfast

Located on the very spot where the ill-fated ship was designed, built, and launched, Titanic Belfast is a world-leading tourist attraction which takes visitors on an immersive journey from the bustling boomtown of early 19 th  century Belfast, through the conception and construction of the RMS Titanic. You'll also learn what life was like on board the completed ship and within the cabins of various classes, and finally the story culminates in the tragic sinking and devastating aftermath, with one of the largest collections of salvaged artifacts in the world.

<p>The museum is designed for guests of all ages, with plenty of interactive elements to engage young children, and a wealth of information presented through multimedia exhibits. There’s even a short, fairground-style ride that takes passengers through the sights, sounds, and smells of the shipyard as it would have been during the Titanic’s construction.</p>  <p>Also in the vicinity and worth exploring are the SS Nomadic, the Titanic’s tender ship and the last remaining White Star Liner vessel in the world; the slipways where the ship was actually constructed; and the former Harland & Wolff headquarters where the Titanic was designed – and which is now the <a href="https://www.titanichotelbelfast.com/?_gl=1*11a63nl*_up*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAiAgeeqBhBAEiwAoDDhnzS6LmhB6dtrHfPNn22WGbnX24zjXkicjzdCQ9S2I7wJCvRB5EPLeBoCZtsQAvD_BwE">Titanic Hotel Belfast</a>.</p>

The museum is designed for guests of all ages, with plenty of interactive elements to engage young children, and a wealth of information presented through multimedia exhibits. There’s even a short, fairground-style ride that takes passengers through the sights, sounds, and smells of the shipyard as it would have been during the Titanic’s construction.

Also in the vicinity and worth exploring are the SS Nomadic, the Titanic’s tender ship and the last remaining White Star Liner vessel in the world; the slipways where the ship was actually constructed; and the former Harland & Wolff headquarters where the Titanic was designed – and which is now the Titanic Hotel Belfast .

<p>While exploring Belfast’s rapidly developing six-mile Maritime Mile along the waterfront, you’ll want to stop by the <a href="https://www.titanicdistillers.com/">Titanic Distillers</a>, a new distillery based out of a former pumphouse that once serviced the Titanic, as well as many other ships. Distillery tours take visitors on a journey through the building’s history, from its original use – as a pumphouse, it was the last spot where Titanic rested on dry ground before she set sail – to its restoration and renovation into the distillery, including an explanation of the whiskey making process.</p>

2. Tour the Titanic Distillers

While exploring Belfast’s rapidly developing six-mile Maritime Mile along the waterfront, you’ll want to stop by the  Titanic Distillers , a new distillery based out of a former pumphouse that once serviced the Titanic, as well as many other ships. Distillery tours take visitors on a journey through the building’s history, from its original use – as a pumphouse, it was the last spot where Titanic rested on dry ground before she set sail – to its restoration and renovation into the distillery, including an explanation of the whiskey making process.

<p>The tour ends with a tasting, allowing guests to sample their Irish Whisky and award-winning Irish vodka, distilled on site. The tour is a must-do for history and whiskey-lovers alike, the perfect way to immerse yourself in Belfast’s maritime past while enjoying some of its very best contemporary spirits.</p>  <p>There is also a fantastic gift store if you want to bring some Titanic-branded beverages back home. </p>

The tour ends with a tasting, allowing guests to sample their Irish Whisky and award-winning Irish vodka, distilled on site. The tour is a must-do for history and whiskey-lovers alike, the perfect way to immerse yourself in Belfast’s maritime past while enjoying some of its very best contemporary spirits.

There is also a fantastic gift store if you want to bring some Titanic-branded beverages back home. 

<p>If you’re looking for an outdoor experience near Belfast that doesn’t require elite outdoorsman skills, then a hike up Cave Hill is the perfect excursion, with the added benefit that the trails are within easy walking distance of the city center. The hike starts at the beautiful <a href="https://www.belfastcastle.co.uk/belfast-castle/about-us/history/history.aspx">Belfast Castle</a>, a late 19<sup>th</sup> century mansion built in the Scottish baronial style popular at the time and situated on a promontory overlooking the city. From here, hikers can choose one of several routes of varying lengths, depending on how ambitious they’re feeling.</p>

3. Take a hike up Cave Hill

If you’re looking for an outdoor experience near Belfast that doesn’t require elite outdoorsman skills, then a hike up Cave Hill is the perfect excursion, with the added benefit that the trails are within easy walking distance of the city center. The hike starts at the beautiful Belfast Castle , a late 19 th century mansion built in the Scottish baronial style popular at the time and situated on a promontory overlooking the city. From here, hikers can choose one of several routes of varying lengths, depending on how ambitious they’re feeling.

<p>Any hike here should include a visit to McArt's Fort, known by locals as ‘the nose’ or ‘Napoleon’s Nose.’ This promontory sits 1,207 feet above sea level and is said to resemble the profile of the French emperor Napoleon I.</p>  <p>Napoleon’s Nose is also said to have inspired the giant in Jonathan Swift’s <em>Gulliver’s Travels</em>. This summit will provide breathtaking views out across the city, while the entire journey up the hill is punctuated with beautiful vistas of rolling farmland, leafy pastures, and the occasional herd of cows.</p>

Any hike here should include a visit to McArt's Fort, known by locals as ‘the nose’ or ‘Napoleon’s Nose.’ This promontory sits 1,207 feet above sea level and is said to resemble the profile of the French emperor Napoleon I.

Napoleon’s Nose is also said to have inspired the giant in Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels . This summit will provide breathtaking views out across the city, while the entire journey up the hill is punctuated with beautiful vistas of rolling farmland, leafy pastures, and the occasional herd of cows.

<p>If you’re keen to sample more of the flavors of Belfast, you should check out the variety of experiences offered by <a href="https://tasteandtour.co.uk/">Taste & Tour</a>, a company that specializes in various walking tours based around the city’s culinary highlights. The tours are an excellent way to see the city while providing the low-down on the best places to eat and drink from a knowledgeable guide.</p>

4. Savour the flavours on a tasting tour

If you’re keen to sample more of the flavors of Belfast, you should check out the variety of experiences offered by  Taste & Tour , a company that specializes in various walking tours based around the city’s culinary highlights. The tours are an excellent way to see the city while providing the low-down on the best places to eat and drink from a knowledgeable guide.

<p>Great tour options from Taste & Tour include the Belfast Food Tour, the Belfast Gin Jaunt, the City Cocktail Circuit, and the 5 Stop Brunch. Whichever tour you choose, the company ethos remains the same – highlighting local traditions and businesses, showcasing the very best of Northern Ireland’s flavors, and generally creating an atmosphere of a big, portable party. </p>  <p>We tried the City Cocktail Circuit and loved getting to sample a wide variety of artisanal drinks in locations ranging from the sumptuous and historic Merchant Hotel to a quirky underground speakeasy. And, if the thought of so many beverages in a concentrated time causes concern, don’t worry: there are plenty of tasty snacks included along the way!</p>

Great tour options from Taste & Tour include the Belfast Food Tour, the Belfast Gin Jaunt, the City Cocktail Circuit, and the 5 Stop Brunch. Whichever tour you choose, the company ethos remains the same – highlighting local traditions and businesses, showcasing the very best of Northern Ireland’s flavors, and generally creating an atmosphere of a big, portable party. 

We tried the City Cocktail Circuit and loved getting to sample a wide variety of artisanal drinks in locations ranging from the sumptuous and historic Merchant Hotel to a quirky underground speakeasy. And, if the thought of so many beverages in a concentrated time causes concern, don’t worry: there are plenty of tasty snacks included along the way!

<p>Moving away from Belfast and into County Tyrone (around 1 hour 20 from Belfast by car), you’ll find another activity that’s perfect for the whole family – the <a href="https://www.ulsteramericanfolkpark.org/">Ulster American Folk Park</a>. Popular with international tourists as well as locals, this living history museum recreates rural Irish life in the 18<sup>th</sup> century and charts the Irish immigrant’s journey from County Tyrone across the Atlantic to the American frontier.</p>  <p>Throughout the museum’s collection of authentic 18<sup>th</sup> and 19<sup>th</sup> century buildings, costumed interpreters perform daily chores and regale guests with stories from the past.</p>

5. Visit the Ulster American Folk Park

Moving away from Belfast and into County Tyrone (around 1 hour 20 from Belfast by car), you’ll find another activity that’s perfect for the whole family – the Ulster American Folk Park . Popular with international tourists as well as locals, this living history museum recreates rural Irish life in the 18 th century and charts the Irish immigrant’s journey from County Tyrone across the Atlantic to the American frontier.

Throughout the museum’s collection of authentic 18 th and 19 th century buildings, costumed interpreters perform daily chores and regale guests with stories from the past.

<p>Visitors will start in a traditional Ulster village, moving along the bustling high street from the blacksmiths to the schoolhouse, and then board the recreated ‘Brig Union ship,’ experiencing the cramped quarters and squalid conditions that immigrants endured for the 12-week journey to the US. They will then emerge in the vibrant New World and discover how Irish immigrants built new lives and communities in settlements as wide ranging as West Virginia, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania.</p>  <p>The Ulster American Folk Park also offers a range of seasonal events and workshops, particularly around the holidays.</p>

Visitors will start in a traditional Ulster village, moving along the bustling high street from the blacksmiths to the schoolhouse, and then board the recreated ‘Brig Union ship,’ experiencing the cramped quarters and squalid conditions that immigrants endured for the 12-week journey to the US. They will then emerge in the vibrant New World and discover how Irish immigrants built new lives and communities in settlements as wide ranging as West Virginia, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania.

The Ulster American Folk Park also offers a range of seasonal events and workshops, particularly around the holidays.

<p>Well into their third generation of farmers, the McKeever’s of <a href="https://www.longmeadowcider.com/">Long Meadow Cider</a> is a family farm situated in County Armagh, which has long been dedicated to the production of Bramley apples. The McKeevers turn the tasty fruit into award-winning juices, ciders, and apple cider vinegars, with tried and tested methods that have been passed down from generation to generation.</p>

6. Sample cider at Long Meadow Farm

Well into their third generation of farmers, the McKeever’s of  Long Meadow Cider  is a family farm situated in County Armagh, which has long been dedicated to the production of Bramley apples. The McKeevers turn the tasty fruit into award-winning juices, ciders, and apple cider vinegars, with tried and tested methods that have been passed down from generation to generation.

<p>The best way to experience all that Long Meadow has to offer is with a tour, which includes a walk through the aromatic orchard, a peek into the apple pressing and bottling room, and the cold storage facilities (with the chance to try both a piece of fruit and shot of apple cider vinegar), and a fabulous finish in the glass-fronted barn overlooking the orchard with a cup of hot coffee and a piece of freshly made apple tart and cream. There is also the option to enjoy a cooking demonstration and tasting of Irish soda bread.</p>  <p>And of course, all tours include a tasting of the various juices and ciders produced on site.</p>

The best way to experience all that Long Meadow has to offer is with a tour, which includes a walk through the aromatic orchard, a peek into the apple pressing and bottling room, and the cold storage facilities (with the chance to try both a piece of fruit and shot of apple cider vinegar), and a fabulous finish in the glass-fronted barn overlooking the orchard with a cup of hot coffee and a piece of freshly made apple tart and cream. There is also the option to enjoy a cooking demonstration and tasting of Irish soda bread.

And of course, all tours include a tasting of the various juices and ciders produced on site.

<p>In the historic walled city of Derry/Londonderry, you’ll have the chance to experience all that the inaugural UK City of Culture has to offer. The best way to do this is to take a tour of the city walls themselves.</p>  <p>Join a <a href="https://www.derrycitytours.com/">City Walking Tour</a> for an engaging, unbiased journey through Derry/Londonderry's history, from its Christian settlement in the 6<sup>th</sup> century, up through the Troubles including Bloody Sunday, to its current reputation as a seat of music, hospitality, and peace.</p>

7. Take a tour of the Derry walls

In the historic walled city of Derry/Londonderry, you’ll have the chance to experience all that the inaugural UK City of Culture has to offer. The best way to do this is to take a tour of the city walls themselves.

Join a City Walking Tour for an engaging, unbiased journey through Derry/Londonderry's history, from its Christian settlement in the 6 th century, up through the Troubles including Bloody Sunday, to its current reputation as a seat of music, hospitality, and peace.

<p>City Walking Tours take in exciting highlights, including the siege cannons still mounted on the city walls, St Columb’s Cathedral, and the Bogside murals, painted on the sides of buildings by local artists, which depict poignant moments from the Troubles. Plus, for fans of the hit Channel 4 TV series <em>Derry Girls</em>, there are quite a few familiar landmarks and references sprinkled in along the way…</p>

City Walking Tours take in exciting highlights, including the siege cannons still mounted on the city walls, St Columb’s Cathedral, and the Bogside murals, painted on the sides of buildings by local artists, which depict poignant moments from the Troubles. Plus, for fans of the hit Channel 4 TV series Derry Girls , there are quite a few familiar landmarks and references sprinkled in along the way…

<p>In fact, there are plenty of opportunities for <em>Derry Girls </em>fans to immerse themselves in the world of these iconic characters while visiting the city. Perhaps the biggest attraction is the Derry Girls mural, painted by UV Arts in 2019 to honor the show’s impact on the city.</p>  <p>The mural is a fantastic photo opp for Derry Girls fans of all ages.</p>

8. Pay homage to the Derry Girls

In fact, there are plenty of opportunities for Derry Girls fans to immerse themselves in the world of these iconic characters while visiting the city. Perhaps the biggest attraction is the Derry Girls mural, painted by UV Arts in 2019 to honor the show’s impact on the city.

The mural is a fantastic photo opp for Derry Girls fans of all ages.

<p>There is also a fantastic Derry Girls Experience in the <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=tower+museum+derry&sca_esv=583840315&sxsrf=AM9HkKlPvDKl8Tf-KSGPNWe2iWwaQfeqvA%3A1700431638338&ei=FodaZejzE4y1hbIPq4SwuAw&ved=0ahUKEwjo1pG-idGCAxWMWkEAHSsCDMcQ4dUDCBE&uact=5&oq=tower+museum+derry&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiEnRvd2VyIG11c2V1bSBkZXJyeTILEC4YrwEYxwEYgAQyBRAAGIAEMgUQABiABDIFEAAYgAQyBRAAGIAEMgoQABiABBgUGIcCMgsQABiABBiKBRiGAzILEAAYgAQYigUYhgMyGhAuGK8BGMcBGIAEGJcFGNwEGN4EGOAE2AEDSIMRUIcFWOwMcAF4AZABAJgBxQGgAYoHqgEDMS41uAEDyAEA-AEBwgIKEAAYRxjWBBiwA8ICDRAAGIAEGIoFGLADGEPCAhwQLhiABBiKBRjHARivARjIAxiwAxiOBRhD2AEBwgIZEC4YgAQYigUYxwEYrwEYyAMYsAMYQ9gBAcICDhAAGOQCGNYEGLAD2AECwgIKEAAYgAQYigUYQ8ICCxAuGIAEGMcBGK8BwgIQEC4YFBivARjHARiHAhiABMICDhAuGIAEGMcBGK8BGI4F4gMEGAAgQYgGAZAGE7oGBggBEAEYCLoGBggCEAEYCboGBggDEAEYFA&sclient=gws-wiz-serp">Tower Museum</a>, located in the heart of the city. Here, visitors can see sets, costumes, and props used on the hit TV series, as well as watch interviews with its cast and creator Lisa McGee, as they find out more about the production process.</p>  <p>If all this walking has tired you out, you can always stop by Doherty’s Home Bakery for a cream horn pick-me-up in honor of the show's Granda Joe!</p>

There is also a fantastic Derry Girls Experience in the Tower Museum , located in the heart of the city. Here, visitors can see sets, costumes, and props used on the hit TV series, as well as watch interviews with its cast and creator Lisa McGee, as they find out more about the production process.

If all this walking has tired you out, you can always stop by Doherty’s Home Bakery for a cream horn pick-me-up in honor of the show's Granda Joe!

<p>The best way to end a day in Derry/Londonderry is within the warm and welcoming confines of the <a href="https://www.walledcitybrewery.com/">Walled City Brewery</a>. Here, the self-proclaimed “expert hipster brewers” will take you on a tour of the facilities, letting you taste the different grains used, showing you the equipment for the brewing process, and explaining the history of the brewery itself, which originally opened in 1872.</p>  <p>At the end of the tour comes the highlight – the opportunity to pull your own pint of choice, straight from the keg.</p>

9. Pull your own pints at the Walled City Brewery

The best way to end a day in Derry/Londonderry is within the warm and welcoming confines of the Walled City Brewery . Here, the self-proclaimed “expert hipster brewers” will take you on a tour of the facilities, letting you taste the different grains used, showing you the equipment for the brewing process, and explaining the history of the brewery itself, which originally opened in 1872.

At the end of the tour comes the highlight – the opportunity to pull your own pint of choice, straight from the keg.

<p>The Walled City Brewery also boasts an impressive onsite restaurant, with a menu inspired by local produce and flavors and featuring everything from steak and chips and pork fillet to gluten-free, veggie, and vegan options. The restaurant is family-friendly and makes an excellent spot to kick back and relax with a pint after a day of exploring, or in preparation for a night of festivities…</p>

The Walled City Brewery also boasts an impressive onsite restaurant, with a menu inspired by local produce and flavors and featuring everything from steak and chips and pork fillet to gluten-free, veggie, and vegan options. The restaurant is family-friendly and makes an excellent spot to kick back and relax with a pint after a day of exploring, or in preparation for a night of festivities…

<p>If you’re lucky enough to visit Derry/Londonderry at the end of October, you’ll find yourself immersed in <a href="https://derryhalloween.com/">Derry Halloween</a>, Europe’s largest Halloween festival (taking place October 28-31, 2024). Steeped in centuries of Celtic tradition, the festival celebrates the end of the harvest season and the coming of winter or, in slightly darker lore, the moment when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead is at its thinnest.</p>  <p>While our modern Halloween traditions may have come a long way from these early Gaelic precursors, the spirit of Samhain is still alive and well in Derry.</p>

10. Revel at Derry Halloween

If you’re lucky enough to visit Derry/Londonderry at the end of October, you’ll find yourself immersed in Derry Halloween , Europe’s largest Halloween festival (taking place October 28-31, 2024). Steeped in centuries of Celtic tradition, the festival celebrates the end of the harvest season and the coming of winter or, in slightly darker lore, the moment when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead is at its thinnest.

While our modern Halloween traditions may have come a long way from these early Gaelic precursors, the spirit of Samhain is still alive and well in Derry.

<p>In a rollicking marriage of old and new traditions, Derry Halloween turns the entire walled city into one enormous party, with music, dancers, acrobats, storytellers, fire artists, and live performances of every kind. The festival runs for about a week leading up to the main event – an enormous parade and fireworks display that caps off the festivities.</p>  <p>Hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world flood the city for this special event every year, all dressed to impress in their finest (or fiercest!) festive attire.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/182887/irelands-most-beautiful-small-towns-and-villages"><strong>Now discover Ireland's most beautiful small towns and villages</strong></a></p>

In a rollicking marriage of old and new traditions, Derry Halloween turns the entire walled city into one enormous party, with music, dancers, acrobats, storytellers, fire artists, and live performances of every kind. The festival runs for about a week leading up to the main event – an enormous parade and fireworks display that caps off the festivities.

Hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world flood the city for this special event every year, all dressed to impress in their finest (or fiercest!) festive attire.

Now discover Ireland's most beautiful small towns and villages

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10 unmissable places to visit in Ireland

Ireland is a country of contrasts. To the west, its ocean coastline has towering sea cliffs, powder-soft beaches, medieval castles, historic villages and forlornly beautiful islands where locals still nurture ancient traditions. The midlands harbor lesser-seen towns and meandering blue trails that follow the path of the River Shannon along rich green countryside. Dublin and Belfast to the east and north offer all the rich culture and diversity you’d expect to find in a large, modern metropolis.

With so many places to choose from, it’s not always easy to know where to go in Ireland, so we’ve handpicked the best places to stay to suit every taste and every changing mood.

Choose 3, 4, 5, or 7 top Dublin attractions and enjoy great savings with Go City. Taste the world-famous Irish drink at Guinness Storehouse, enjoy the sights on Big Bus Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, or discover Dublinʼs oldest building , Christ Church Cathedral – the choice is yours!

1. Inishowen Peninsula, County Donegal

Best place for a road trip

This is the final slice (or trailhead) of the magnificent Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal odyssey that connects this most northerly tip of Ireland to the south along the western seaboard. Inishowen has a hundred-mile sign-posted loop trail that covers the major attractions around the peninsula from any starting point. It’s one of the best places to visit in Ireland for a weekend, as it’s easily navigated over a couple of days.

Start the drive north by navigating the easterly contours of Lough Swilly before moving inland from  Fort Dunree to discover a highlight, Mamore Gap. It’s a narrow, curving road that snakes through the Urris Hills with spectacular coastal views. Before weaving on towards Tullagh Strand, there’s a wonderful detour to Glenevin Waterfall. The route passes one beauty spot after another, like Five Finger Strand (which has hazardous swimming conditions) and Knockamany, before arriving at the top of the world at  Banba’s Crown on Malin Head.

Planning tip: Travel in the off-season (November to Easter) for the best chance to catch Inishowen’s famous northern lights (Aurora Borealis) stenciled onto a dark sky.

Sea stack standing in the ocean framed by other rocks on the cliff

2. Northwest Mayo

Best places for beaches

With a jagged, vast coastline, towering sea stacks and off-the-radar islands,  County Mayo offers beach settings that are framed by spectacular backdrops. Mulranny, with its bone-white powdery sand, has turquoise water that swirls around its contours. It once lured John Lennon and Yoko Ono on a “second honeymoon,” and it’s also the gateway to Achill Island’s Keel Strand, which has miles of dunes to fly kites and jaw-dropping views of Slievemore and the Mweelaun Cliffs. 

Keem Bay is further west on Achill, and it is arguably Ireland’s most beautiful beach. It’s sheltered by giant cliffs that rise up to the north and south like a natural amphitheater. North of Achill is the Erris Peninsula which has Elly Bay, a safe beach with shallow waters, or Glosh and Crosshead Beaches, which offer dangerous, menacing waves. Head off-grid to Blacksod Pier to catch a ferry to the Inishkea Islands and discover a magnificent beach fringed by an abandoned village and pristine ocean waters.

Local tip: Rinroe, a secret cove north of Erris, has caverns that offer a good photo op.

3. Kilkenny

Best city for history

The medieval mile in Ireland’s prettiest city center is a living museum. Yes, there are countless ticketed heritage sites like  Kilkenny Castle and the  Medieval Mile Museum , which offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past (and rooftop views), but a ramble around “The Marble City’s” beating heart is the best way to discover its past. A self-guided walking tour of the Medieval Mile takes in sites like the  Black Abbey ,  Saint Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower and the Butter Slip – an atmospheric laneway that exudes old-world charm.

As one of the best nightlife spots in Ireland for centuries, expect the pubs in this pint-sized city to have a great backstory.  Kyteler’s Inn on St Kieran’s Street harbors a dark past with trumped-up witchcraft convictions, and Kilkenny’s brewing pedigree is showcased at the  Smithwick’s Experience on Parliament Street and  Sullivan’s Tap Room on John’s Street.

4. Limerick City

Best city for sport

Large stadiums and racetracks orbit the heart of Ireland’s third city while its narrow cobbled lanes and broad avenues have pubs, like  Jerry Flannery’s on Catherine Street or  JJ Bowles near  King John’s Castle , for post-match banter. The Limerick team is the reigning national champions at hurling, one of the fastest and oldest field sports on the planet, but it’s rugby that gets pulses racing in “The Treaty City.”  Thomond Park Stadium gives the backstory to the 1978 match, when the local team and underdogs beat the famous All Blacks from New Zealand.

A brand new multistory  International Rugby Experience in O’Connell Street has redefined Limerick’s roofscape. Adare Manor , a resort and golf club a short drive from the city center, will host the 2027 Ryder Cup. The  Great Limerick Run draws crowds every May weekend, and cyclists venture to the countryside for mountain biking at  Ballyhoura or to the  Limerick Greenway for off-road trails as far as Kerry.

Group of gay men celebrating Gay Pride at home from their balcony

5. Dublin City

Best city for LGBTIQ+ travelers

A statue of playwright Oscar Wilde reclines on a bed of quartz near his home on Merrion Square with a wry smile that conveys playful puzzlement. About 120 years after he was imprisoned for gross indecency, almost to the day, Ireland became the first country in the world to legalize gay marriage by popular vote, and Wilde’s hometown was engulfed with rainbow flags for the occasion.

The  party continues in the capital’s landmark gay bar,  The George , which is one of the best places to visit in Dublin for members of the LGBTIQ+ community.  Pantibar on Capel Street and Street 66 on Parliament Street are more laid back, and Mother on Grafton Street is for weekend clubbing. The city’s annual Pride Festival rivals the St Patrick’s Day parade for bringing the city to a standstill. Both GAZE, a film event in September, and the International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival in May mark the LGBTIQ+ community’s contribution to Ireland’s performing arts.  

6. Galway City

Best city for food

The scent of aromatic spices is carried on the fresh Atlantic breeze that passes through the cobbled lanes off Quay Street, the medieval heart of Galway. Top local restaurants like  Ard Bia at Nimmos cluster around its southern tip at  Spanish Arch because of its romantic setting, making it one of the best places for couples to visit in Ireland. It was once a trading post where galleons carried cargos of wine and food.

Cava Bodega continues that fusion of the experimental with traditional with their imaginative tapas, and on Middle Street,  Anair , the flagship restaurant of master chef JP McMahon is five minutes away.  Éan , a contemporary space down the moodily lit Druid Lane, sells exquisite artisan pastries. With fresh catch arriving from the ocean to the city by the trawler load, expect humble fish and chips with a difference at  McDonagh’s on Quay Street.  Sheridan’s Cheese on Nicholas Street offers the best dairy produce from the land.

Planning tip: Travel in the September shoulder season for the  Galway International Oyster Festival . 

O'Connor's Pub, group playing music at a table

7. County Clare

Best place to catch a tune

County Clare’s coastline attracts visitors by the busload for the Micho Russel Festival in  Doolin , near the  Cliffs of Moher , late in February. It’s the place to catch a lively traditional (trad) music session at any time of year, with  Gus O’Connor’s Pub packing in visitors to the rafters.

For something slower and more sentimental, visit the medieval banquet at  Bunratty Castle or Knappogue, where you can listen to harpists and vocalists harmonize Ireland’s past over a glass of honeyed mead and spare ribs. Ennis hosts the annual Fleadh Nua every May, when the entire town moves in rhythm with the bodhrán (Irish drum). Its pubs showcase a nightly blast of trad at  Brogan’s and  Knox’s or contemporary live music at  Nora Culligan’s on Abbey Street.

Local tip:  True music aficionados head to the east side of the county towards Lough Derg, where the pubs cupped in fern green valleys –like Shortt’s Bar in Feakle – host top performers nightly. 

8. Causeway Coast, County Antrim

Best place to hike

Located between Belfast and Derry on the north Antrim coastline, the Causeway Coast has a seascape that’s smooth as whipped cream in some locations and jagged as broken ice in others. But it’s always fascinating. At a 20-mile (34km) distance of moderate difficulty, and blessed with spectacular scenery, it’s one of the best places to hike in Ireland.

The eastern leg has stunning settings, like the Gobbins Cliff Path on Islandmagee Peninsula, but if time is restricted, travel west by train to hike to the heavy hitters that are crammed within 10 miles of each other. Starting at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, which jigs and sways over the waves below, head west past the  Giant’s Causeway to the spectacular  Dunluce Castle that teeters on a cliff edge. Round off with a visit to the  Old Bushmill’s Distillery to get the blood flowing.

Planning tip:  Build in a detour to  The Dark Hedges ,  nine miles south of Carrick-a-Rede.

nice senior woman on mountain bike, cycling in sunset on the cliffs of Sheeps Head, County Cork, in the southwestern part of the Republic of Ireland

9. West Cork

Best place for families

Ocean spray and homemade ice cream are just a taste of why this expansive, meandering coastline, with its necklace of charming seaside villages, is one of the best places for families to visit in Ireland. Take a walking tour around pretty  Kinsale to discover stories of notorious seafarers like Alexander Selkirk, who inspired Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe, and Pirate Queen Anne Bonny. Or meander by the ramparts of star-shaped  Charles Fort . For another epic activity, take a whale-watching  boat tour from Baltimore to catch a glimpse of a magnificent humpback or baleen rise and fall beneath the clear ocean water.

Days can be spent lazing, surfing and horse-riding by the white dunes of  Barley Cove or  Inchydoney Beach , or k ayaking with seals near Glengarriff.  Ireland’s only cable car leaves from Beara to cross ocean waters to Dursey Island. Mizen Head, Ireland’s most southerly point, has an interpretive signal station that is accessed by footbridge over wild Atlantic waves.

10. Iveragh Peninsula, County Kerry

Best place for sensational views

For an out-of-this-world excursion, catch the ferry from brightly painted Portmagee to one of the most beautiful places in Ireland.  Skellig Michael, a small mountainous UNESCO World Heritage site, doubles as the windswept island sanctuary on the planet Ahch-To in Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015) and Episode VIII – The Last Jedi (2017).

Back on the mainland, the superlative landscapes will continue to impress with  Ladies View , which has panoramic views over the Lakes of Killarney.  Torc Waterfall on the northern tip of  The Ring of Kerry is better recorded than photographed with the powerful sound of the water pounding in the background. Head to Cronin’s Yard to scale and capture  Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain, which towers over the entire peninsula and ocean.

Planning tip:  The ferry service to Skellig Michael is extremely popular (and weather dependent), so it’s necessary to book months in advance to secure tickets.

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 10 unmissable places to visit in Ireland

Ireland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and we can’t wait to visit! We have heard from many of you that you are interested in going to Ireland, and we want to take this opportunity to tell you about all of the amazing things you’ll see and do when you visit.

First off, there are so many places to see in Ireland. The country is made up of four provinces (Leinster, Munster, Connacht and Ulster), each with its own distinct culture and personality. You’ll experience everything from majestic castles and rolling green hills to bustling cities full of exciting activities like concerts and street festivals.

You’ll also learn a lot about Irish history while visiting Ireland! This includes learning about how it was colonized by the English, what life was like before modern times were brought into existence here and how it has changed since then.

10 unmissable places to visit in Ireland 10 unmissable places to visit in Ireland

Whether you’re looking for a place to get away from it all or a city full of culture, there’s something for everyone in Ireland. Check out our list of 10 unmissable places to visit in Ireland:

1. Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland, and for good reason. The castle is one of the oldest in Ireland and it was built by an Irish king named Brian Boru around 1180. The castle has been used as a place of worship since medieval times.

Blarney Castle is located just outside Cork City, which makes it an ideal place to visit if you’re looking for a fun day trip or if you’re traveling with friends and family who are interested in history. There are plenty of other unmissable places to visit in Ireland as well, including Cork City itself, Ring of Kerry, Killarney National Park and more!

2. Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are a natural wonder in Ireland, one that you’ll want to see. These cliffs rise from the sea and stretch for miles, making them a must-see for any visitor to Ireland.

The cliffs form an impressive layered structure that makes it easy to get a great picture or video of them. The cliffs are also home to many different types of plants and animals, including birds and butterflies. If you’re visiting Ireland, be sure to add the Cliffs of Moher to your itinerary!

3. Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is a must-see for anyone travelling to Ireland. It’s home to some of the most scenic views in all of Ireland, and it’s also got a lot of history—the area was inhabited by the ancient Celtic tribes before they were conquered by the Vikings. If you’re looking for something a little different than the more popular tourist attractions, this place has it. You’ll get to see incredible hikes that take you through some of the most beautiful parts of the country, as well as stop by some historic sites dating back thousands of years.

The Killarney National Park is also a great place to spend time with your family, because it’s dog-friendly! There are plenty of trails for dogs to run off leash and explore on their own—or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even bring your furry friend on hiking trips! If you want an unforgettable trip to Ireland without having to worry about finding accommodations or planning your vacation around activities like hiking or kayaking, then look no further than Killarney National Park—it’s definitely worth checking out!

4. Galway City

The city of Galway lies in the west of Ireland and is one of the country’s most-visited tourist destinations. It is a popular destination for visitors from all over Ireland and beyond, with its famous Grafton Street shopping complex and bustling bars, restaurants, and pubs drawing thousands of tourists each year.

As well as being an exciting tourist destination, Galway is also an important cultural center for the Irish people. The city has a thriving arts scene that includes performing arts such as music, theater and dance performances. There are also many historic sites like the National Museum which tells the story of Irish history through artifacts from ancient times up until modern day!

5. Dingle Peninsula

Dingle Peninsula is a beautiful part of Ireland that is often overlooked. It has some amazing scenery, and it’s also a great destination for those who want to get away from the crowds and relax.

This peninsula is home to Dingle, where you can find lots of restaurants and pubs, as well as art galleries and museums. In addition to its attractions, Dingle has many more unmissable places to visit in Ireland such as Kerry’s Ring of Kerry, Killarney National Park (the most visited national park in Ireland), Blasket Islands National Park (home to one of the best beaches in Ireland), and Tralee Bay (which is known for its surfing).

6. Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are located off the coast of County Galway, Ireland. The islands are all part of the Burren National Park and are home to a diverse range of wildlife including wolves, wildcats and otters.

There are seven islands that make up the Aran Islands group: Inishmore, Inishmaan, Inisheer, Inishturk, Islay, Jura and Tory. Each island has its own distinct identity and character, but they do share some common characteristics such as wilderness and isolation.

Each island offers its own unique attractions for visitors such as beaches with fine sand or pebble beaches, cliffs that offer spectacular views of the ocean and mountains with ancient forestland. There are also plenty of waterfalls to explore as well as caves and rock formations created by erosion over thousands of years by wind and water erosion.

The best time to visit is between mid-June and late August when there are fewer tourists around and it’s easier to get away from crowds because many prefer going on holiday during this period rather than at other times throughout the year.

7. Dublin City Walls

The walls of Dublin are a must-see for visitors to Dublin, Ireland. The city is an architectural gem, and the walls are a big part of that. The walls stretch from Northside to Southside, and are lined with impressive buildings, like Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

The most popular walking route starts in College Green, where you can pick up a map from the tourist office or download it online. From there, you’ll wind your way through Trinity College and Gardens, before crossing over the River Liffey at O’Connell Bridge. Continuing on your way up toward Christchurch Cathedral and along Dawson Street brings you to O’Connell Street—where you’ll find yourself at Dublin Castle!

If you’re looking for more than just a few hours of sightseeing, though, Dublin City Walls has plenty more to offer: take a boat tour along the Liffey River; visit St. Stephen’s Green Gardens; walk down Grafton Street or head over to Blackhall Place for some shopping and delicious food; or cross over Trinity Bridge directly onto the south side of O’Connell Bridge Road—all within walking distance of each other!

8. Kilkenny City Walls

Kilkenny City Walls is an old fortress built in the 12th century and has been protected by walls for over 700 years. It is situated in the center of Kilkenny city, Ireland, and is a popular tourist destination.

The entrance to the fortifications is located in Castle Street, and you can get there by walking along Castle Street or by using any of the buses that go through it. The entrance fee for adults is €6 per person, and children under 16 are free. The entrance fee includes guided tour around the fortifications.

The fortifications are made of limestone blocks, with walls up to 5 meters (16 feet) high at some parts. There are seven towers on each side of the fortifications that were used for defense purposes during times of battle and siege. Some of these towers still stand today; however, most have been destroyed by fire or replaced by newer structures built after they were destroyed.

9. Slieve League Mountains

Slieve League Mountains is a range of mountains located in County Donegal, Ireland. It’s an amazing place to visit in Ireland due to its beautiful scenery and incredible views.

The Slieve League Mountains are located on the border between County Donegal and County Tyrone. This area is known for its unique scenery, which includes cliffs and sea stacks. The mountains are also home to many wildlife species such as deer, rabbits and foxes. In addition, there are many hiking trails that allow visitors to explore this area on foot or by bicycle.

One of the best things about visiting the Slieve League Mountains is that there are so many places you can visit while you’re there! You can take a picnic lunch with you and enjoy some delicious local food while enjoying the view from atop one of the cliffs above sea level or even higher up where there’s no danger of falling off!

If you’re interested in visiting Slieve League Mountains then we recommend doing so as soon as possible because it gets very busy during peak season from May through August when families come out here for picnics during summer break.

10. Powerscourt Waterfall

The Powerscourt Waterfall is a spectacular waterfall in the Wicklow Mountains, located in County Wicklow, Ireland. The waterfall is named after the nearby Powerscourt Estate and was designed by architect Roger Staley. It’s one of the most popular waterfalls in Ireland and can be reached by car or on foot; it’s about a 2-hour drive from Dublin.

The waterfall is situated near the village of Glendalough, which was home to Saint Kevin’s Monastery for centuries before being destroyed by Vikings in AD 804. The monastery was later rebuilt and one of its buildings was converted into a church dedicated to Saint Kevin; this church was later converted into a church dedicated to Saint Nicholas (St. Nicholas Church).

The Powerscourt Waterfall can be seen from many different vantage points throughout Glendalough—you’ll have plenty of options if you just want to stay put! You can walk up close to the falls if you’d like, but there are also places along the path that allow access via cable car so that you can get even closer without climbing over rocks or scrambling through bushes!

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10 unmissable places in Ireland

by Layene Alves Augusto | 2 Feb, 2024 | from: Brazil , Independent Colleges , Uncategorized

10 unmissable places to visit in ireland

Immerse with our Student Ambassador Layene Alves in 10 must-see destinations, embark on this journey through Ireland and its surroundings.

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Layene is studying Marketing at Independent College via Education in Ireland.

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Travel Around Ireland

Top 10 Things to Do in Northern Ireland: Unique and Unmissable

Northern Ireland is a beautiful corner of the Emerald Isle and has more to offer visitors than may first meet the eye.

Northern Ireland has eluded me but I have researched this part of the Emerald Isle extensively to bring you an amazing list of the top 10 things to do in Northern Ireland , things I plan to do when I visit.

So, if you are considering going North while on the Emerald Isle, you will love this list of some of Northern Ireland’s unique and unmissable attractions and things to do.

Uncover the top 10 things to do in Northern Ireland here so you can start planning your visit and discovering all the best things to see and do in the region.

Games of Thrones locations

Top things to do in northern ireland.

The northeast corner of Ireland is where you will find Northern Ireland. Although officially a country within the United Kingdom containing six of the overall 32 counties on Ireland, Northern Ireland is often combined with a trip to the Republic by many visitors to the island of Ireland.

If you are looking for the top things to do in Northern Ireland or have been wondering what the top 10 tourist attractions in Northern Ireland are, then you are going to enjoy learning about them below!

Read my post to understand why there is a difference between Ireland and Northern Ireland .

Visit Belfast

One of the top 10 places to visit in Northern Ireland is Belfast. As the capital city, Belfast is a city that has undergone many changes in the last few decades. With the peace after the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, the biggest changes have occurred, making it more appealing and popular with tourists flocking to the Emerald Isle.

One of the best places in the city, and top places to visit in Northern Ireland, is the area known as the Titanic Quarter. The city is famous for having been the birthplace of the famous liner and the shipyard in which she was built has been transformed into one of the top ten places to visit in Northern Ireland.

You can visit the Titanic Museum, the Titanic Studios, and visit the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star liner.

Also a must in Belfast is Belfast City Hall (pictured) and the Botanic Gardens. Tours of City Hall are available, and you should make time to visit the Victorian greenhouses in the Botanic Gardens, especially the 1839 Palm House.

There is also the Ulster Museum to visit, Stormont where the Northern Ireland Assembly meets, and the grounds of Belfast Castle are a lovely place for a quiet wander, although the castle itself is not open to the public.

One of the best things to do in Belfast is to take a Black Cab Tour of the city to discover the political murals of the city. During the Troubles between 1968 and 1998, many political murals were created to denote political loyalties and affiliations. Today the amazing artwork remains as a testament to the troubled times, which will hopefully remain in the past.

No matter your interests, there is sure to be plenty to do in Belfast.

A picture of Belfast City Hall with a Ferris Wheel behind it, green grass in front and blue skies overhead

Mourne Mountains

One of the best things to do in Northern Ireland is to head south from Belfast to visit the Mourne Mountains. Located in County Down, these low mountains, whose peaks rarely surpass 600m in height, attract thousands of visitors every year.

Although they might not be considered one of the top tourist destinations in Northern Ireland, should you choose to visit, you won’t be disappointed. They are hugely popular with walkers and hikers thanks to the fact that there is only one road that crosses the Mourne Mountains. This road was only built in the 19 th century and until then the mountains could only be cross on foot or circumvented by sea.

The Mourne Mountains are one of the best places in Northern Ireland to get away from the crowds and enjoy nature. There are a few forest parks to visit including the Tollymore Forest Park and the Castlewellan Forest Park.

You can also see the Mourne Wall, a spectacular drystone wall that was erected between 1904 and 1922 to enclose the catchment area of the Rivers Kilkeel and Annalong and prevent livestock from reaching them. The wall is 2m high, 1m thick and 35m long.

The Silent Valley Reservoir is another great place in the mountains for a stroll. As well as the walks and trails there is an exhibition about the dam’s construction.

There is no national park in Northern Ireland but there have been calls for the Mourne Mountains to be converted to Northern Ireland’s first one, which would make it a seventh national park in Ireland .

A picture of a gentle river slowing between rocks with hills in the background in the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland

Visit Derry-Londonderry

Along with Belfast, one of the most popular places in Northern Ireland for visitors is Derry or Londonderry. As the second-largest city in Northern Ireland, the city was given a makeover in 2013 for its turn in being the UK City of Culture with the Peace Bridge being built and the waterfront being redeveloped.

Derry is a walled city and one of the best things to do is to walk along the circumference of the 17th-century city walls. You can get a feel for the city and enjoy unparalleled views of Derry. These are among Ireland’s only, largely intact city walls and there are four original gates and three additional gates to pass.

There are also a few museums worth visiting in the city including the Tower Museum where you can learn about the city’s history, and the Siege Museum where visitors can learn about the 1688 siege of Derry by Jacobite troops.

Outside the city walls of Derry, you can walk the Peace Bridge (pictured), visit St Columba’s Church, and also see the 12 murals depicting key events in the Troubles including Bloody Sunday.

Note, the city’s (and county’s) official name is Londonderry, having acquired the prefix of London in 1613 after it was selected as a major Plantation project, although it is most commonly referred to as Derry in everyday speech.

A picture of the Peace Bridge in Derry at dusk

Discover the Causeway Coastal Route

If you are looking for things to do on the north coast of Northern Ireland and the east, then driving the Causeway Coastal Route is a must. This coastal route is approximately 130 miles long (210km) and stretches north from Belfast and then west to Derry.

This route includes some of the top 10 attractions in Northern Ireland including the Giant’s Causeway (discussed below), the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunseverick which has waterfalls that flow directly into the sea, the Mussenden Temple (pictured), and the beautiful seaside town of Portrush which hosts one of the best beaches in Ireland .

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a bridge that hangs 30m above the Atlantic Ocean and spans the 20m chasm between the mainland and Carrick-a-Rede Island. It was erected to provide access to the tiny island. It is hugely popular and, as one of the top things to see in Northern Ireland, a ticketed system was introduced giving visitors a one-hour slot to enjoy the bridge.

A unique sight to see in Northern Ireland is the Mussenden Temple, located not far from Portstewart. Built in the late 18 th century by the eccentric Earl of Bristol as a memorial to his cousin, this temple is quite unique, perched on the headland with its domed rotunda. Originally designed to be used as a library, it is now maintained as a tourist attraction by the National Trust .

There are lots of pretty coastal towns along the way and exploring the Causeway Coastal Route, both the east and north coast could easily fill more than a few days.

A picture of the Mussenden Temple on the Causeway Coast, one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland

Giant’s Causeway

One of the top tourist attractions in Northern Ireland that is usually found on people’s Ireland bucket list is the Giant’s Causeway, located along the Causeway Coast to the north. This spectacular rock formation is Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from across the globe.

The mainly hexagonal basalt stone columns were formed around 60 million years ago as a result of volcanic fissure eruption. After the molten basalt pushed through the chalk beds, rapid cooling occurred resulting in contraction, causing horizontal fractures which formed what we see today.

However, there is a legend associated with the Giant’s Causeway. Legend has it that an Irish giant, Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn MacCool) was challenged to a fight by a Scottish giant, Benandonner. Fionn built the causeway to reach Scotland to accept the challenge. However, when Fionn realised his opponent was much larger than he, his wife disguised Fionn as her baby. When the Scottish giant saw the baby, he believed that the Irish giant must be a giant among giants and fled back to Scotland, tearing up the causeway as he went so that Fionn cannot pursue him. There are identical basalt columns at the Scottish Isle of Staffa, which may have helped influence the legendary tale.

At the Giant’s Causeway, there is a visitor centre where you can learn more about the formation of the columns. While the centre is free to enter, you must pay for parking which gives you entry to the centre. From the visitor centre, it is a 10 to 15-minute walk to the Causeway itself.

So, if you are looking to visit one of the top ten tourist attractions in Northern Ireland, then the Giant’s Causeway is a must.

A picture of the Giant's Causeway with blue skies above it

Rathlin Island

Another one of the top things to visit in Northern Ireland is Rathlin Island. Lying 6km off-shore from Ballycastle on the Causeway Coast, the island which is L-shaped is a great place to visit if you’d like to try and spot seals or nesting birds in Spring or Summer.

The island is small and best visited on a day trip from Ballycastle or for an overnight stay. On the island, there is a Boathouse Visitor Centre where you can learn more about the island. There are also two lighthouses, among the best lighthouses in Ireland , and plenty of walking trails too.

The island also has a cave called Bruce’s Cave where it is said that Scottish hero Robert the Bruce spent time before returning to Scotland to defeat the English. His cave is located beneath the East Lighthouse at the north-eastern tip of the island.

A picture of the Rathlin West Lighthouse shining its upside down beacon in foggy conditions

Glen’s of Antrim

One of the most beautiful places to go in Northern Ireland is the area between Cushendun and Glenarm, known as the Glen’s of Antrim. The glacier valleys which form the Glens dissect a high plateau of black basalt lava and are among the best things to do in County Antrim .

The Glen’s of Antrim is an area of natural beauty and there are several walking trails in the region including the Ulster Way which stays close to the coast and the Moyle Way which runs inland across the plateau and includes the Glenariff Forest Park, which is a must-visit in this part of Northern Ireland.

The Glenariff Forest Park is home to one of the best things to see in Northern Ireland, the Ess-na-Larach Waterfall, one of the best Irish waterfalls . This and other waterfalls are dotted through the Glens, carved by nine rivers that run from the Antrim Mountains to the sea.

A picture of the milky waters of the Ess-na-Larach waterfall

As with the whole of Ireland, some of the best things to see in Northern Ireland are its many castles. There are over 40 castles, some of which are ruins, some of which are intact, and no matter where you are in the region, you are sure to stumble upon one of them.

One of the most visited lies along the northern part of the Causeway Coast, Dunluce Castle (pictured). This 13th-century castle is mostly ruined, as a result of a fire in the 1600s. However, it is often visited as part of a trip along the Causeway Coast. Guided tours are offered during the summer and it is a picture-worthy castle sitting atop its craggy basalt outcrop.

A visit to Belfast Castle (already mentioned) is worth doing if you are in the city. Although the castle itself is not open to the public, its grounds are a lovely place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Carrickfergus Castle is another castle to visit in Northern Ireland. It is a well-preserved Norman castle dating back to the 12 th century and located on the north shore of Lough Belfast in the town of the same name.

Other castles to visit in Northern Ireland include

  • Dunseverick Castle (history dating back to the 6 th century)
  • Enniskillen Castle (16 th century)

Castles are among the top things to see and do in Northern Ireland, so make sure to add one to your itinerary. Find a complete list of Northern Ireland castles here .

A picture of the ruins of Dunluce Castle on the Causeway Coast in Antrim with sunlight bathing it and the sea in the background

One of the top ten things to do in Northern Ireland is to pay a visit to the Gobbins. This cliff path at Islandmagee along the Causeway Coastal Route has tunnels, caves, and bridges passing lots of birdlife, which makes it a must-see in Northern Ireland. You may even be lucky enough to spot dolphins in the Irish Sea.

First opened in 1902, after being created by Irish railway engineer Berkeley Deane Wise when the new railway made the area accessible to visitors, it is a popular place to go if you enjoy walking and hiking and have a good level of fitness.

The Gobbins area is accessible by guided tour and visitors will enjoy a 2.5-hour tour along the path. Booking in advance is a must. There is a visitor centre from where tours begin, a playground, a café, and a souvenir shop.

If you are looking for something unusual to do in Northern Ireland, then make sure to tackle the Gobbins.

A picture of part of the Gobbins Coastal Path in Northern Ireland

One of the fun things to do in Northern Ireland is to embark on a trail to visit Game of Thrones locations in the country. There were about 25 filming locations around Northern Ireland for the famous TV show and many people flock to the region to visit some of them.

One of the top attractions in Northern Ireland when it comes to Game of Thrones locations is the Dark Hedges. Used as the Kingsroad in the show, the Dark Hedges is a road lined with entwined beech trees that were planted in the 18 th century by the Stuart family as the formal entrance to their estate.

Other Game of Thrones locations to visit include:

  • Cushenden Caves, where Melisandre gave birth to her ‘shadow baby’.
  • Ballintoy Harbour, which featured as the Free Cities where Varys was born, and as the coastal place where Theon Greyjoy arrives back to the Iron Islands.
  • Larrybane Quarry, which was used to introduce Brienne of Tarth when she fought Ser Loras Tyrell in front of King Renly.
  • Castle Ward, used as part of Winterfell.

If you are a Game of Thrones fan, then one of the best activities to do in Northern Ireland is to seek out these filming locations.

A picture of the famous Dark Hedges in Antrim, a road covered with entwined beech trees

Final thoughts on the top 10 things to do in Northern Ireland

If you’ve been wondering what to do in Northern Ireland, whether you are visiting the Emerald Isle or looking to explore more of the island you live on, then hopefully this list of the 10 best places to visit in Northern Ireland has given you some ideas.

From famous things in Northern Ireland to perhaps a few lesser-known places, Northern Ireland has so much to offer visitors to this corner of the Emerald Isle. Where will you visit next?

Read more about visiting Northern Ireland:

  • Is Belfast Worth Visiting?
  • Best Day Trips from Belfast
  • Best Things to Do in County Antrim
  • Ireland vs Northern Ireland: What’s the Difference?
  • The Two Fascinating Capitals of Ireland: Dublin and Belfast
  • Best Places in Ireland to Visit
  • Best Time to Visit Ireland
  • Navigating Ireland With or Without a Car
  • Best Reasons You Should Visit Ireland
  • Getting Around Ireland Without a Car
  • The Ultimate Ireland Packing List

A picture of the Giant's Causeway at dusk with text overlay saying Top Northern Ireland things to do

by Cath Jordan

2 thoughts on “top 10 things to do in northern ireland: unique and unmissable”.

I’m visiting Northern Ireland in a few weeks on a coach tour butI believe part of the tour includes Ireland on the Wild Atlantic coast. Is it worthwhile taking few Euros? Also, I’m not too good on my feet. Would you recommend crossing the rope bridge and walking near the Giants Causeway? Is Belfast an expensive city. I was thinking of buying one or two souvenirs. What’s best?

Unless you are actually going into the Republic of Ireland, you won’t need euros. I have not crossed the rope bridge but from what I understand, it is not hugely accessible and is only accessed via 1km of a cliff walk, of which only the first 0.5km is wheelchair accessible. For the Giant’s Causeway, you might find this article more helpful: https://spintheglobe.net/dir/2018/09/09/visit-wheelchair-accessible-giants-causeway/

All cities in Ireland can be expensive depending on where you stay and what you do. As for souvenirs, Carroll’s can be great for picking up cheap and inexpensive gifts and souvenirs. There are two in Belfast: https://www.carrollsirishgifts.com/stores/?showMap=true&horizontalView=true&isForm=true

Hope this helps 🙂

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23 of the best things to do in Dublin

Dec 1, 2023 • 17 min read

A young, mixed-race couple laughing together in Temple Bar, Dublin

From pub crawls and trad music to history lessons and culture, there's lots to keep you busy in Dublin © davidf / Getty Images

A small capital with a huge reputation, Dublin is a multicultural, artistic city brimming with incredible architecture, beautiful green spaces, and great opportunities for entertainment.

While traces of Ireland's Viking past have been largely washed away, the city is a living museum of its history since then, with medieval castles and cathedrals on display alongside beautiful examples of 18th-century architecture. As an added bonus, Dubliners are warm and welcoming hosts – a charismatic bunch with compelling souls and sociability.

Make the most of your visit to Dublin with our favorite top things to do in and around the city.

1. Discover why Temple Bar is on everyone's itinerary

Temple Bar , one of Dublin's most famous areas, was burdened for years with a reputation for drunken debauchery and not much else. Visit these days and you'll find a fun neighborhood with plenty to occupy your days as well as your nights. Its excellent, quirky boutiques appeal to fashionistas who flock to Siopaella and Folkster for some unique threads.

To indulge your cultural side, explore the fantastic street murals of the Icon Walk, or see a performance at the Project Arts Centre . A bar tab in Temple Bar is more expensive than other areas, but unusual venues like the Vintage Cocktail Club or a great pub like the Palace Bar are worth your time and money.

Planning tip: This area is also a haven for great food , both local and international.  Temple Bar Food Market runs every Saturday and it’s easy to while away an hour or two there, sampling the delights.

Explore Temple Bar effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

A vast library packed with books in Trinity College, Dublin

2. Take a stroll through elegant Trinity College

Located in the heart of Dublin, Trinity College is Ireland's most prestigious university and well worth a visit. Founded in 1592, it's the alma mater of writers like Swift, Wilde and Beckett, and its 19 hectares (47 acres) are an oasis of aesthetic elegance. The biggest draw is the barrel-vaulted Long Room in the Old Library . It’s the home of one of Ireland's greatest cultural treasures, the Book of Kells , the beautifully illuminated Gospel manuscript that dates back to the 9th century.

Planning tip:  Other attractions include the neo-Gothic Museum Building, home to the Zoological Museum (a top place to visit if you're traveling with kids ), and the beautiful wildflower meadows that make for a delightful place to wander.

3. Learn about Ireland's emigration at EPIC the Irish Emigration Museum

Visitors interested in learning the story of Ireland's emigrants should put EPIC the Irish Emigration Museum on their to-do list. This award-winning, high-tech museum explores emigration and its effect on Ireland and the 70 million or so people spread throughout the world who claim Irish ancestry. 

Highlights include the music section, where you can put your feet to work following the steps of the world-famous Riverdance, and the Rogues’ Gallery, where you can practice your quick-draw with a motion detector Irish outlaws quiz. For those interested in tracing their ancestry, there are professional genealogy service partners at the Irish Family History Centre.

Two pints of Guinness, a distinctive dark beer with a white top, stand on a bar as another is being poured straight from the pump

4. Drink a properly poured pint at the Guinness Storehouse

The most popular attraction in Dublin is the multimedia homage to Guinness, the Guinness Storehouse , one of the world’s most famous beer brands. An old fermentation plant in the St James's Gate Brewery has been converted into the seven-story Storehouse, devoted to sharing the company’s history and showcasing how the beer is made.

The top-floor Gravity Bar offers panoramic views of Dublin city. You can test your pouring power and drink a pint here, and maybe stick around for lunch at the excellent restaurant on the floor below.

Planning tip:  The Storehouse offers a range of experiences, including the Guinness Brewery Tour, which brings visitors to parts of St James's Gate that were previously off-limits to the public.

Transform your visit to Guinness Storehouse by  booking with GetYourGuide.

5. Get to know the city through a Talking Statues tour

If you're looking for a walking tour with a difference, Talking Statues Dublin is a very entertaining way to explore the city while listening to its story. There are plaques at ten of Dublin's most famous statues containing QR codes that you scan with your phone. This triggers a call to your phone and each one features a famous Irish actor reciting a monologue written by a current Irish author given from the perspective of the statue in question.

You can get a call back from James Joyce whose monologue is voiced by Gabriel Byrne, Wolfe Tone (Brendan Gleeson), Oscar Wilde (Andrew Scott), Fidelity on the O'Connell Monument (Ruth Negga), and James Larkin (Stephen Rea). Some approaches are dramatic, others are humorous, and some include flights of pure fantasy.

a herd of fallow deer (dama dama) in the phoenix park

6. Enjoy the rich greenery of the Phoenix Park

The hugely impressive 707 hectares (1747 acres) that comprise the  Phoenix Park has a lot to offer visitors. Attractions include Dublin Zoo , Áras an Uachtaráin , home of the Irish president, the official residence of the US ambassador, and the Papal Cross , where Pope John Paul II said mass to a million people in 1979. Visitors are always entranced by the large herd of fallow deer that call the park home.

The park also contains the opulent Farmleigh House , the Irish government's official guesthouse, a fine Georgian-Victorian pile that was originally part of the Guinness estate. It offers a guided tour that takes in the fantastic library and glass conservatory. The vast surrounding grounds, with their lake and walled gardens, are a delight to stroll.

Planning tip:  There's a farmers market on the grounds of Farmleigh House at the weekends.

Explore Phoenix Park effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

7. Learn some recent history at Kilmainham Gaol

An imposing grey building built in 1796, Kilmainham Gaol played a huge role in the Republic of Ireland's painful path to independence from British rule, and even today, it still has the power to chill. Sometimes referred to as The Bastille of Ireland, it was the forced temporary home of many rebels and revolutionaries. The Gaol was decommissioned in 1924 and is now a museum with an enthralling exhibit on the history of Irish nationalism.

Browsing the museum will give you excellent context and access to some of the former prisoners' personal belongings and letters. The enthusiastic guides provide a thought-provoking tour of the eerie prison, the largest unoccupied building of its kind in Europe. The highly memorable visit finishes in the yard where the leaders of the failed 1916 Easter Rising were executed.

People stand in an art gallery looking at the paintings on the wall

8. See major artworks at the National Gallery of Ireland

The National Gallery of Ireland showcases artworks spanning six centuries in 54 separate galleries. You’ll find big names including Goya, Rembrandt, Caravaggio and Van Gogh throughout its four wings, along with impressive paintings by luminaries such as Orpen, Reynolds and Van Dongen. The collection is full of Irish art, and there are high-quality pieces from every major European school of painting.

Planning tip:  General admission is free and free tours can be booked in advance. There is an audio tour and several self-guided tours aimed specifically at families with children.

9. Travel to the suburbs to see the National Botanic Gardens

The National Botanic Gardens are an oasis of calm and beauty and, as an added bonus, entry is free. Founded in 1795, the gardens are located in the suburb of Glasnevin and are famous for the exquisitely restored historic glasshouses by Richard Turner that date from 1843 to 1869. The 19.5-hectare (48 acres) gardens contain important collections of plant species and cultivars from all over the world.

Planning tip:  Other lovely things to see include sculptures, two sundials, a bandstand built in 1894, and a Viking house, but for an in-depth background to all of the garden's features, book in advance for a daily guided tour. Refreshments are available at the Garden Tearoom.

A stone archway leading to the courtyard of the Brazen Head pub in Bridge Street, Dublin.

10. Explore the historic Liberties

Most visitors pass through the Liberties to visit the Guinness Storehouse but it's well worth staying around to explore what is one of Dublin’s more historic and interesting neighborhoods . Step into the ancient St Patrick's Cathedral to see where the country's saint reputedly got his hands wet baptizing the locals, and continue to Christ Church Cathedral , the most photogenic of Dublin's three cathedrals as well as one of its most recognizable symbols.

Literary types will love Marrowbone Books , a cute, independent bookstore selling pre-loved paperbacks and hosting intimate music gigs. You’ll find Dublin’s antique quarter on Francis Street, broken up by tiny art galleries, while newer additions to the area include a couple of whiskey distilleries, Teelings  and the Pearse Lyons Distillery , which offer excellent tours.

The Brazen Head , the oldest pub in Dublin, is located here, and Arthur’s is the best place to continue sipping Guinness after a Storehouse visit – the crackling fire makes it ideal on a winter's evening.

11. Hear stories from the past at Malahide Castle and Gardens

Located 9km (6 miles) from Dublin Airport, the magnificent medieval Malahide Castle  set on 105 hectares (260 acres) of beautiful parkland has a dramatic 800-year heritage. You can hear the stories of the Talbot family who have called Malahide Castle home for generations on a guided tour, which includes exploring the private rooms and collections.

The gardens can be visited separately and are a hugely popular tranquil retreat, containing rare trees from all over the world. The Walled Garden encompasses Isobel Talbot’s pond, the blooming Rose Garden, and the famous Victorian Conservatory. It is also home to the Butterfly House, where over 20 species of butterflies live.

Planning tip:  If you're traveling with children, make time for the interactive Fairy Trail, which is full of magic and fun.

Two men chat as they wheel a bike through St Stephens Green in Dublin

12. Eat a picnic in St Stephen's Green

One of the city’s best green spaces, St Stephen’s Green , is a popular meeting spot for Dubliners and a great place to have a picnic. Although surrounded by iconic Georgian architecture, the layout of the park is Victorian, with tree-lined avenues, a duck pond, ornamental gazebos, and a bandstand that is still used in summer.

Statues and public artworks are found at every turn, and there is a playground and garden designed especially for people who are visually impaired.

Planning tip: The   Grafton Street shopping area and The Little Museum of Dublin  are both located right beside the park and are well worth a visit.

13. Visit the free National Museum of Ireland

The artifacts of the nation are to be found in this eminent institution, which opened to the public in 1890 with a fine collection of coins, medals and Irish antiquities, now split across three separate museum buildings. The National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology  is the primary repository of the nation's cultural and archaeological treasures.

You'll find stunning Celtic metalwork, Ireland's most famous crafted artifacts such as the Ardagh Chalice and the Tara Brooch, and a collection of mummified bodies from the Iron Age, preserved to a disturbingly perfect degree by Ireland's peat bogs.

The National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History's exhibits include a treasure trove made up of everything from silver, ceramics and glassware to weaponry, furniture and folk-life displays. Then there's the Museum of Natural History , which is also a fascinating place to visit, particularly if you have family members who will appreciate stuffed beasts and skeletons.

A stone statue of a man marks a grave site in a cemetery

14. Pay your respects at Glasnevin Cemetery

The tombstones at Ireland's largest and most historically important burial site read like a who's who of Irish history, as most of the leading names of the past 150 years are buried here, including great Irish parliamentarians Daniel O'Connell and Charles Stewart Parnell. Glasnevin Cemetery was established in 1832 by O'Connell as a burial ground for people of all faiths and as a response to the Protestant cemeteries' refusal to bury Catholics.

The social and political story of Ireland is told in wonderful detail in Glasnevin Cemetery Museum . The City of the Dead  covers the burial practices and religious beliefs of the 1.5 million people who found their final resting place at the cemetery, while the Milestone Gallery features a digitally interactive timeline outlining the lives of its most famous residents.

Planning tip:  Combine a visit here with a trip to the Botanic Gardens next door.

15. Enjoy the small but perfectly formed Little Museum of Dublin

Located in a handsome Georgian house, the Little Museum of Dublin is a charming place that tells the story of Dublin over the last century via memorabilia, photographs and artifacts donated by the general public. The impressive collection includes a lectern used by John F Kennedy on his 1963 visit to Ireland and an exhibition that tells the story of Ireland's many influential women throughout history.

There's a whole room on the 2nd floor devoted to the history of the band U2, and the museum hosts a treasure hunt that allows visitors to discover 1000 years of history in less than 60 minutes. There are always new exhibitions and fascinating tours on offer including the award-winning Green Mile tour, which is a very popular walking tour of St Stephen’s Green that begins outside the museum.

A boat sailing in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin.

16. Walk the pier at Dún Laoghaire

Take the DART (Dublin's electric rail service) to the elegant south Dublin port town of Dún Laoghaire and stroll along the famous pier down to the lighthouse, where children line up to peer through the public viewing telescopes.

When you've worked up an appetite, enjoy a picnic in the People’s Park, which has been open to the public since 1890 and hosts a popular farmers market every Sunday. It features fine examples of Victorian architecture with the Gate Lodge and the Tea Rooms, a bandstand with the original gaslight standards, and a playground.

Ireland’s National Maritime Museum is housed in the 180-year-old Mariners Church, and no visit to Dún Laoghaire would be complete without a trip to Teddy's Ice Cream  for a 99 cone.

Planning tip:  While you're out that direction, the James Joyce Tower & Museum  in Sandycove features Joyce memorabilia and gives a fantastic view of the coast and the surrounding countryside.

17. Do a Dublin pub crawl

Leopold Bloom mused in James Joyce's Ulysses that a good puzzle would be to cross Dublin without passing a pub. Even in these times of green juices and fitness apps, the pub remains the alpha and omega of social interaction in Dublin. The city's relationship with alcohol is complex and conflicted but, at its very best, a night out in the pub is the perfect social lubricant and one of the highlights of a visit to Dublin.

Every Dubliner has their favorite haunt, from the never-changing traditional pub to whatever new opening is bringing in the beautiful people. With more than 1000 spread throughout the city, you're spoilt for choice.

Planning tip:  Temple Bar may be famous for its pubs, but it’s just the start: leave its well-trodden streets to discover some of Dublin’s best-loved drinking holes like John Mulligan's , where John F Kennedy paid his respects in 1945.

18. Appreciate contemporary artists at the Irish Museum of Modern Art

This former 17th-century hospital – built in the Anglo-Dutch style and inspired by Paris’ Les Invalides – is now the  IMMA , home to the country’s foremost modern art gallery. The blend of old and new comes together wonderfully, and you'll find contemporary Irish artists including Louis le Brocquy, Sean Scully, Barry Flanagan, Kathy Prendergast and Dorothy Cross, as well as a film installation by Neil Jordan. The permanent exhibition also features paintings from heavy-hitters Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró and is topped up by regular temporary exhibitions.

Planning tip:  There's a good cafe on the grounds. When you’re finished touring the cutting-edge collection, stroll around the building and the beautiful surrounding gardens.

A two-man gig at the Temple Bar in Dublin

19. Listen to some live music

You're likely to stumble across live music on many streets and throughout pubs in Dublin, with Grafton Street being a particularly good spot for excellent – and sometimes famous – buskers. Once the sun sets, catch a gig at the Button Factory or head to Whelan's , the city's most beloved live music venue.

Pop to The International Bar for very authentic, often local, music. One of the city's best comedy venues is also upstairs if you fancy a laugh. Locals' favorite, The Workman's Club , features everything from acoustic warblers to electronic harmonizers. It costs nothing to enjoy the nightly traditional sessions in  O’Donoghue’s , where folk and trad legends, The Dubliners, cut their musical teeth in the 1960s.

20. Take a brisk walk at one of the city's beaches

Whether you're looking for a family day out, some cold water immersion in the open sea, or just a long stretch of sand to stroll while listening to a good podcast, you're never too far from a beach in Dublin .

Sandycove Beach is very popular with young families, thanks to its shallow waters for paddling. Swimmers and divers can tackle the Forty Foot Pool, which was made famous by Joyce's Ulysses.  Irish weather isn't exactly tropical, but hardy Dubliners come here all year round to swim in the Irish Sea.

Also drawing year-round swimmers is Seapoint Beach, between Blackrock and Monkstown on the south side of the city. Located in Clontarf, Dollymount Strand is a popular spot with dog walkers and joggers, as well as swimmers, paddleboarders, and kite surfers. The 5km-long (3 miles) stretch is set to the backdrop of Dublin's Poolbeg Chimneys and Howth Head.

Planning tip:  Dollymount Strand is surrounded by the North Bull Island Nature Reserve, which is great for urban wildlife watching.

Viewpoint over O'Connell street, Dublin

21. Shop on O'Connell Street

O’Connell Street is Dublin's main thoroughfare and it houses numerous sculptures, monuments, shops and historic buildings. One of the widest streets in Europe, it is home to The Spire (Monument of Light), a large needle-like monument that stands 120m (394ft) high and is the city's most visible landmark. Notable statues include those of political leaders Daniel O’Connell, Sir John Gray, James Larkin and Charles Stewart Parnell.

The General Post Office (GPO) building is where the Proclamation of the Republic was read and it is at the heart of Ireland's struggle for independence. The GPO served as command HQ for the rebels during the 1916 Easter Rising and has become the focal point for all kinds of protests, parades and remembrances, as well as home to the interactive GPO Witness History visitor center.

22. Go on a themed city tour

Dublin isn’t that big, so a straightforward sightseeing tour is only really necessary if you’re looking to cram in the sights or avoid blistered feet. What is worth considering, however, is a specialized guided tour, especially for those with a culinary, historical or literary bent.

The excellent 1916 Rebellion Walking Tour is led by Trinity graduates, who give you the lowdown on where, why, and how the 1916 Rising took place. Then there's the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl , where actors escort you through a selection of the city's most renowned literary boozers – with plenty of hilarious bits acted out for good measure. Music fans will enjoy the Dublin Musical Pub Crawl , which explores the history of Irish traditional music and its influence on contemporary styles in a number of Temple Bar pubs.

Planning tip:  Just want to put your feet up and see the sights? Dublin Bus Tours  has routes with hop-on-hop-off options, and there's the semi-amphibious  Viking Splash Tours , which explores the city center before taking a plunge into the Grand Canal Dock.

23. Travel through the past at 14 Henrietta Street

Opened in September 2018, 14 Henrietta Street is a relatively new addition to the Dublin museum circuit but has been very well received. Visitors get to explore behind the facade of one of Dublin's famous Georgian townhouses, carefully restored to gently peel back layers of complex social history over 300 years.

Originally built in the 1720s for wealthy Dublin families, by 1911 over 850 people lived on Henrietta Street, and over 100 of those were in number 14.

Part museum, part community archive, the museum covers the magnificent elegance of upper-class life in the 1700s to the destitution of the early 20th century when the house was a tenement with its occupants living in near squalor.

It gives visitors an insight into the stories of the people who passed through the house, examining their changing circumstances, their experience of family life, and the impact of politics and world affairs on their circumstances.

This article was first published April 2018 and updated December 2023

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