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11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Northern Ireland

Written by Andrew Birbeck and Lura Seavey Updated Jul 13, 2022

Eschewed by visitors for years, Northern Ireland has made a comeback following The Good Friday Agreement of 1998, a power-sharing contract seeking to promote peace. Since then, Ulster (as Northern Ireland is also known) has rebounded both economically and culturally and is one of the world's must-see destinations.

Most recently, Northern Ireland's role as the filming location for Game of Thrones has brought another wave of tourists. For those in the know, even during the bad times, this corner of Ireland was always high on the sightseeing agenda. Legendary natural attractions, such as the mystical Giant's Causeway , join newer arrivals, such as Belfast Titanic, as top things to do.

The power-sharing government has invested massively in making Ulster attractive to visitors. There's great shopping, world-class restaurants, a remarkable history and culture, outstanding golf, and a lively music scene. These add up to plenty of places to visit in Northern Ireland for families, couples, and solo travelers, all of whom can be assured of a warm and friendly welcome.

If visiting from the Irish Republic, remember you're crossing the border into a separate sovereign country. Here, you'll need pound sterling, not the Euro as used in the south.

Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in Northern Ireland.

1. The Giant's Causeway

2. the causeway coast and dunluce castle, 3. carrick-a-rede rope bridge, 4. the titanic belfast, 5. the glens of antrim, 6. carrickfergus castle, 7. ards peninsula, 8. the ulster folk museum and transport museum, 9. dark hedges, 10. londonderry (derry), 11. lough erne, more must-see destinations near northern ireland.

The Giant's Causeway

Famed around the world for its columns of layered basalt, the Giant's Causeway is Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site . These polygonal-shaped natural features (there are around 40,000 of them) were created by a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. Today, they are the prime focus of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Three different periods of volcanic action birthed the Lower, Middle, and Upper Basalts. The Middle Basalt rock forms the famous amphitheaters of columns shaped like hexagons. That's the science. However according to legend it was carved out by the mighty giant Finn McCool who left behind his ancient home to do battle with his foe Benandonner across the water in Scotland.

Various names bear testament to this engaging myth: The Giant's Boot, The Wishing Chair, The Camel, The Giant's Granny, and The Organ high up on the cliffs. Weather permitting, you might even see Scotland in the distance.

Be sure to pop into the modern-looking Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre, too. This state-of-the-art facility is not only architecturally stunning, boasting a design that reflects the area's unique topography, but also provides a fascinating insight into the history of the area (audio guides are provided).

Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/giants-causeway

Dunluce Castle

Naturally, most visitors' first stop along this scenic coast is the World Heritage-listed Giant's Causeway . The surrounding coastline, however, is magnificent and shouldn't be bypassed. Many treats await, including the beautiful beaches, dunes, and rolling waves at Portrush (where there's a world-class golf course) and Portstewart . If you're feeling brave enough, either is perfect for a bracing dip.

An easy 10-minute drive west, through the picturesque village of Bushmills, brings you to ruined medieval Dunluce Castle (Dún Libhse). It's impossible to miss, perched precipitously on the cliff edge, the kitchen having plunged into the thrashing waves below one terrible night many centuries ago.

The only survivor, apparently, was the kitchen boy who was perched on the windowsill and had to be rescued. Exterior shots of the castle were used in Game of Thrones .

Address: 87 Dunluce Road, Bushmills, Antrim

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

An easterly drive from the Giant's Causeway of around 15 minutes brings you to another of Ulster's must-sees, the vertigo-inducing Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge . Located near the beautiful coastal village of Ballintoy, this spectacular attraction, though, is not one for the faint-hearted.

The vertiginous rope bridge joins to a tiny island, where fisherman would catch salmon. While access to the grounds are free, if you dare to cross the bridge itself, a fee is required.

Address: County, 119a Whitepark Rd, Ballintoy, Antrim, Ballycastle

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/carrick-a-rede

The Titanic Belfast

A striking landmark, this star-shaped building representing the White Star Line logo traces Belfast's maritime history and honors the story of the RMS Titanic. Belfast was once the powerhouse of British Empire shipbuilding, a fact that can't be missed in this part of the city.

There are nine interactive exhibitions on this spot where the infamously ill-fated ocean liner Titanic was built. Enjoy a guided tour around the slipway and dry-dock and, for an additional fee, visit the SS Nomadic . Built in 1911, this tender would carry passengers from shore to their waiting ocean liners.

There's a restaurant, café, and gift shop located on-site, too. This truly is a world-class tourist attraction.

Address: 1 Olympic Way, Queen's Road, Belfast

Official site: http://titanicbelfast.com/

The Glens of Antrim

It's not just the North Antrim coastline that beguiles. Inland are the nine Glens of Antrim - usually referred to simply as "the Glens" - each exuding its own charm. Drive from Ballycastle towards Larne along the main A2 coast road, and serene lakes, tumbling waterfalls, forest trails, and rolling hills await. Glenariff , the "Queen of the Glens," is the most famous of the nine.

Along the way, notice the Glendun Bridge, an excellent example of innovative design and construction. Ballypatrick Forest Park has a 10-kilometer loop drive around Carneighaneigh Mountain, which is especially scenic.

The small seaside resort town of Portrush , on the County Londonderry border, is also worth a visit. It's home to the Royal Portrush Golf Club and one of the world's most challenging links golf courses, the Dunluce Links.

Official site: www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/ballypatrick-forest

Carrickfergus Castle

Around 20 minutes' drive from Belfast is the substantial town and port of Carrickfergus, home to imposing Carrickfergus Castle. One of the best-preserved medieval structures in Ireland, this Norman castle has seen off foes over eight centuries.

Perched near the shore and dominating the town, the fortress is still intact and the recreated banqueting hall is a particular treat, especially for kids. You can pick up an audio guide at the visitor center and explore the interior and battlements at your leisure.

Nearby is the Andrew Jackson Centre , the reimagined ancestral home of the 7th president of the USA.

Address: Carrickfergus Castle, Marine Highway, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Belfast

Aerial view of Killyleagh on the Ards Peninsula

South of Bangor, at Donaghadee, is the start of the 32-kilometer-long picturesque Ards Peninsula. From Donaghadee, a road runs along the Irish Sea coast to Ballywalter with its beautiful beach, Ballyhalbert, and finally Cloughy, where it turns inland to Portaferry.

Serene 18th century Mount Stewart House and Gardens is well worth stopping off to admire and it's only a 10-minute drive or so from Ballywalter. On the west shore of the Strangford Lough is the resort of Killyleagh , with Hilltop Castle overlooking the town. On a good day, you'll see the famous Mourne Mountains shimmering in the distance.

Portaferry is on the peninsula's southern tip where there's a ferry link to Strangford. Either that or make the drive, which skirts the west side of the peninsula by the shores of Strangford Lough .

Ulster Folk and Transport Museum

Around 15 minutes' drive from Belfast city center brings you to this living history museum, which allows visitors to experience Ulster life more than 100 years ago. Tourists can stroll the village , which is home to nearly three dozen structures, including both restored historic buildings and reproductions.

Among them are laborers' cottages, working farms, rural schools, and village shops, many of which feature interpreters who go about their day in an early 19 th -century life. Visitors can ask questions and learn about their various trades, including basket-weaving; the carpenter's shop; and a print shop, where you can watch them work.

Right next door is the Transport Museum , where you can clamber aboard steam locomotives and explore its impressive collections of electric trams, fire engines, motorbikes, beautiful vintage cars, and horse-drawn carriages. If you're visiting both sites in one day, leave one to two hours to explore the transport museum.

The same non-profit foundation also operates two other excellent museums, including a living history museum in Omagh, the Ulster American Folk Park . This is dedicated to the mass emigration of Irish to North America during the 18 th and 19 th centuries and includes homes, workshops, and other buildings with costumed interpreters. The most fascinating exhibit here is the full reproduction of an emigrant ship, allowing visitors to see and feel what it was like to make the arduous ocean crossing.

In Belfast, there is also the Ulster Museum , which contains exhibits about Northern Ireland's natural history and cultural heritage in a traditional museum setting.

Address: 153 Bangor Road, Holywood, Belfast

Official site: http://nmni.com/uftm

The Dark Hedges

The sight of Dark Hedges' centuries-old beech trees dramatically enveloping the road is so fantastical that even the best photos don't seem real, appearing to be detailed illustrations taken from the pages of a fantasy story instead of a living tunnel that you can walk through in the real world.

Originally planted by the Stuarts in the 18 th century , the lane was designed with the express purpose of inspiring awe in travelers as they approached the family's estate. Time has only added to this effect, and today it is one of the most photographed sites in Northern Ireland . Its beauty and grandeur have also made it the perfect backdrop for film and television, most recently featured in Game of Thrones as the "King's Road."

Today, it is a pedestrian-only lane that is free to visit and open to the public at any time of day or night.

Address: Bregagh Road, Stranocum, Ballymoney BT53 8PX, United Kingdom

Londonderry (Derry)

The second city of Northern Ireland, Londonderry – or Derry, as it's more commonly known locally – lies where the River Foyle opens out into the sea-lough of the same name. The town has been robbed of part of its natural hinterland of Donegal by the division of Ireland, yet remains an important port and industrial center with a traditional textile industry, chemical and mechanical engineering plants, and ceramics factories.

With its attractive surroundings it's a popular tourist center and a good base for trips into the Inishowen Peninsula and Donegal in the Republic of Ireland. The town itself has an almost completely preserved circuit of medieval walls and a number of interesting old buildings.

Londonderry Map - Tourist Attractions

Two connected lakes combine to form Lough Erne, in County Fermanagh, a favorite for fishing, kayaking, or exploring on a day cruise . Castles and manor houses dot its banks, and its islands are a main attraction.

A 12th-century round tower dominates Devenish Island's ruined Augustinian priory, and mysterious carved stone figures on White Island and Boa Island were the work of Celts between AD 400 and 800. The 39-mile Shannon Erne Waterway connects Lough Erne to the River Shannon in Ireland.

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Once you have seen the highlights of Northern Ireland, you may want to cross into the Republic of Ireland and explore its capital, Dublin . Or you might consider the options available by ferry from Belfast. Two ferry routes connect Northern Ireland to Scotland , one from Belfast and the other from Larne, each about a two-hour trip. Ferries also depart Belfast for Liverpool , in England , and twice a week ferries travel to the Isle of Man , in the Irish Sea, halfway between England and Ireland.

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More on Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland Travel Guide

14 Places To Visit In Northern Ireland 

Categories Antrim , Londonderry , Where To Go

Over the years, Northern Ireland has slowly emerged as a fascinating tourist destination. That’s with the help of the new Titanic Museum , and being featured as a setting in the hit fantasy series, Game of Thrones .

Northern Ireland is a small country and it’s part of the United Kingdom. Still, it is never lacking in things to see and do.

A lot of its attractions are pretty extraordinary, too.

From charming medieval towns to lake islands, stunning castles and dramatic coastal landscapes— these are some of the places to visit in Northern Ireland. 

Things you'll find in this article

14 Places To Visit In Northern Ireland 

1. giant’s causeway, co. antrim, 2. causeway coastal route, northern ireland, 3. carrick-a-rede rope bridge, co. antrim, 4. dunluce castle, co. antrim, 5. the glens of antrim, northern ireland, 6. the dark hedges, northern ireland, 7. mussenden temple, co. derry, 8. londonderry, northern ireland, 9. belfast, northern ireland, 10. titanic museum, 11. carrickfergus castle , 12. newcastle, northern ireland, 13. lough erne, northern ireland, 14. the ulster folk and transport museum.

Giant Causeway, Image by Christine Rogador

Giant Causeway, Image by Christine Rogador

Exquisite, dramatic, awe-inspiring. It’s easy to run out of ways to describe the Giant’s Causeway , but one will always find more reasons to go back.

Comprised of 40,000 polygonal basalt rock columns, this stunning natural wonder stretches along the coastline like giant stepping stones. These were created by a volcanic eruption that took place 60 million years ago.

These layered basalts are known around the world and are the prime focus of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The Giant’s Causeway is also the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland. 

Causeway Coastal Route

The Causeway Coastal route is easily one of the most scenic drives in Ireland.

This is essentially the surrounding coastline to the Giant’s Causeway, an extraordinary experience that you shouldn’t miss. The drive only takes ten minutes, but you can always slow down as you take in the sights.

The stunning beaches , the sand dunes, the rolling waves as you pass Portrush and Portstewart. This drive is stunning any time of the day, but it’s best to do it at sunset as the sights are particularly breathtaking. 

Carrick A Rede

Carrick A Rede, Image by Christine Rogador

If you’re in for an adventure that also lets you enjoy the stunning views, cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

Found in County Antrim, this rope bridge links the mainland to the island of Carrickarede. The bridge spans 66 feet and about 98 feet above the rocks below. 

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is mainly a tourist attraction and not an official means to get to and from an island.

It’s quite a thrilling adventure to cross it and a must experience when in Northern Ireland. It is also one of the best day trips from Belfast . 

Dunluce Castle, Image by Christine Rogador

Dunluce Castle, Image by Christine Rogador

Located in the North Antrim Coast is the brooding and dramatic Dunluce Castle . It is situated close to a headland and used to be the headquarter of the McDonnell clan.

This medieval castle maybe mostly ruins but at least we know now that a village used to surround the castle. This village was destroyed by fire in 1641. Dunluce Castle was featured in ‘Game of Thrones’ as the castle of Greyjoy. 

glens of antrim

The North Antrim may have some stunning otherworldly sights, but its nine glens are not to be upstaged.

These are among the most breathtaking places you’ll ever see. These nine glens even exude a unique individual charm that you simply lust to spend time here when you visit.

A great way to see the glens is by driving along the main A2 coastal road, where you get to enjoy a  closer look at the lakes, waterfalls , rolling hills and forest trails. 

The Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland

Dark Hedges, Image by Christine Rogador

The Dark Hedges is undoubtedly one of the most photographed and truly iconic sights in Northern Ireland. This natural attraction was featured in a few episodes the hit fantasy TV series ‘Game of Thrones as the road to King’s landing.

The best time to go here is in the morning, preferably before eight in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Aside from being a popular photography subject and tourist attraction, the Dark Hedges is also now a favorite location for wedding photographs.

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne

The beautiful and dramatic location of Mussenden Temple made it an ideal setting for a rather horrifying scene in ‘Game of Thrones’.

Perched 120 feet high on a rugged clifftop, the temple overlooks the Atlantic as well as the Downhill Strand towards Magilligan Point. The views from here are spectacular, a definite must-visit when in Northern Ireland. 

Derry City Walls - things to do in londonderry

Londonderry or simply Derry is the second city in Northern Ireland. It is located where the River Foyle opens out into the sea-lough of the same name.

Derry is known to have brilliantly preserved medieval walls as well as some interesting old buildings. It is now an important port and industrial center. Its main industries include textiles and ceramics.

The town’s gorgeous surroundings also make it an ideal base to explore the Inishowen Peninsula and Donegal in the Republic of Ireland. Both places are known to be ideal sights for chasing the northern lights

Belfast in Northern Ireland

Exploring Belfast is a definite must when in Northern Ireland.

There’s just a lot to see and do here — from the Titanic Museum and HMS Caroline to a hike up a castle on a hill.

Other places that should be in your Belfast itinerary are the Belfast Cathedral, the Belfast City Hall, the Botanical Gardens and the Crumlin Road Gaol,

Titanic Museum in Belfast, Image by Christine Rogador

Titanic Museum in Belfast, Image by Christine Rogador

This place is in Belfast but deserves a separate post. One should definitely devote ample time to visiting this stunning museum. It opened in 2012 during the centennial of the sinking of the Titanic, but the building is already an iconic Belfast landmark .

Located in the middle of the Titanic Quarter, the museum features extensive displays and collections on everything Titanic. They’re all interactive, too.

A visit here is a great way to learn more about this intriguing part of Northern Ireland’s history. 

Carrickfergus Castle Northern Ireland

The imposing Carrickfergus Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval structures in Ireland.

Constructed over eight hundred years ago, it has been a witness and a target during war, conflict, and revolutions. It is nestled near the shore and still mostly intact.

The facade of the church set against its interesting location is already a treat in itself. Its namesake town is also a lovely place to explore. 

Murlough Beach County Down

The charming town of Newcastle in County Down is a perfect seaside escape. The water may be colder than usual but the pristine beach is worth a leisurely stroll.

Or you can check out the incredible sand dunes at Murlough Beach. The seafront is lined with quaint shops and restaurants that serve up delicious local and international cuisine.

Newcastle also has the beautiful Mourne Mountains, which is a relatively manageable hike. This small town is also known to have the best golf course in all of Northern Ireland .

Get in for a few swings, or if you know nothing about golf, try the crazy version instead. 

Lower Lough Erne

Lough Erne might as well be a living museum. Comprised of two connected lakes and islands, this part of County Fermanagh is a must-see.

See the castles and manor houses spread along the shore. See the 12th century round tower in one of the islands. Or how about some Celtic art?

Head on to White Island and Boa Island and see the carved stone figures done over a thousand years ago. 

Ulster Museum Belfast

The Ulster Museum is easily accessible within a fifteen-minute drive from Belfast city center. This is a living museum that showcases the fascinating Ulster life more than 100 tears ago. Being here is like being sent back in a bygone era.

You get to walk around a village, explore a parkland or even get on steam locomotives. This place is an amazing glimpse at a life that we only read about in books.

Seeing them up close is a Northern Ireland experience that one shouldn’t pass up. 

places to visit in ireland and northern ireland

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

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The World Was Here First

The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Northern Ireland Itinerary

Last Updated on February 12, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

places to visit in ireland and northern ireland

Planning out a Northern Ireland itinerary is an excellent option for those who want to see more of this area than a simple day trip along the Causeway Coastal Route or a day or two exploring Belfast.

If you have 3, 4 or 5 days to dedicate to exploring Northern Ireland, you can see a lot of the country and experience some of the island of Ireland’s most incredible scenery and learn about the heartbreaking recent history.

If you’re planning on visiting Northern Ireland and are curious about what to see and do here, this route will help you map out up to five days of exploring this corner of the United Kingdom.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Northern Ireland?

Before jumping into this route, you’re likely wondering how many days to spend in Northern Ireland. This can really depend on what kind of trip you’re after, however, if you’re interested in spending time in the city along with seeing the iconic natural sites, then plan to spend at least 3 days in Northern Ireland.

With 3 days, you will have the time to explore Belfast and learn about that city while also having time to get to take in the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway and some of the other highlights of the Antrim Coast.

However, if you have 4 days in Northern Ireland, you will have more time to take your time on the Causeway Coast and to spend time at attractions other than the Giant’s Causeway.

For those who want quite a holistic experience, then plan to spend 5 days. This will allow you to add on a visit to the city of Derry and learn about the history here.

The Causeway Coast

Getting To & Around Northern Ireland

There are a range of options available for you when it comes to arriving in Northern Ireland. First and foremost, Belfast is home to its own international airport that connects it to a number of destinations within the UK, Europe and further afield.

Though flying into Belfast is certainly an option, you will find that there are far more flight options going into Dublin airport. Dublin is located only about a 2-hour drive from Belfast and there are also lots of stops along the way . The two cities are also well-connected by bus or train.

It’s worth noting that there is no hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and it is likely you won’t even notice that you’ve crossed. However, if you are driving, keep in mind that speed limits in Northern Ireland are listed in miles per hour while they’re listed in kilometres per hour in the republic.

It’s also possible to arrive into Belfast via ferry from Liverpool in England and from the village of Cairnryan in Scotland.

Once in Northern Ireland, you’ll be wondering how to get around whilst there. In Belfast and Derry, you can certainly plan to get around on foot and via public transport – in fact, it’s probably easier than planning on driving.

Those venturing outside of the cities have a couple of options. The easiest and most convenient option to get around is by having your own vehicle as it will give you the flexibility to visit where you want when you want without having to reckon with bus timetables and routes. Doing a Northern Ireland road trip is easygoing, fun and incredibly scenic and generally the most recommended option.

And if you’ve decided that a Northern Ireland road trip itinerary is the choice for you, you can browse car hire options on Rentalcars.com to compare prices across major companies.

However, you can also get around regional Northern Ireland by bus and train, where applicable. For instance, there is a regional bus system connecting the sites along the coastline so it is possible to travel independently in this area even if you don’t drive.

Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge

3, 4 or 5 Days in Northern Ireland Itinerary

Without further ado, here is how to spend 3 to 5 days exploring Northern Ireland. This route is meant to be built upon each day so if you’re only seeing Northern Ireland in 3 days, then plan to spend the first 2 in Belfast before heading onto the Causeway Coast. And if you’re spending 4 days, it’s best to leave a visit to Derry for another time.

Day 1 – Belfast

Begin your time in Northern Ireland in the capital city of Belfast . Though this city has a bit of a dark reputation and something of a rough-around-the-edges vibe, it’s very much worth exploring and it has a lot to offer visitors – especially for those interested in learning more about its recent history.

On your first day in Belfast, make sure to learn as much about the history of the city as possible by embarking on a black cab tour . On these tours, you can learn about the Troubles from knowledgeable guides and also get a good feel for the geography of this divided city.

After your tour, head to Belfast City Hall and then visit the historic Crumlin Road Gaol before rounding out your day.

Belfast City Hall

Where to Stay in Belfast

The Warren Belfast – Those looking for luxury will love this plush, centrally-located hotel in the heart of Belfast. They have several luxe rooms to choose from, great amenities, breakfast each morning and an unbeatable location in the Queen’s Quarter

Central Belfast Apartments: Citygate – If you’re looking for a self-catering option while visiting Belfast, then these apartments are the perfect choice. Centrally located, they have many fully-furnished flats available along with free parking for guests.

Vagabonds – Budget and solo travellers will love this cool, highly-rated hostel in Belfast. Offering both private rooms and dorms, there are also clean facilities and great common areas making it easy to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Belfast hotels!

Day 2 – Belfast

On day 2, it’s time to visit one of the Northern Irish capital’s top museums – the Titanic Belfast. The infamous ocean liner was actually constructed in Belfast before it embarked on its fateful 1912 journey across the Atlantic.

This iceberg-shaped museum will take you through a range of exhibits explaining all there is to know about the Titanic and the history surrounding both the construction of the ship itself and also some information about the crash and its repercussions. It’s truly a great experience to have while in Belfast. You can book tickets in advance here.

Spend the rest of your day in Belfast exploring some of the sites that you didn’t make it to the first day. For instance, you can grab a bit to eat at St George’s Market, get the views from the Victoria Square Dome or even head to CS Lewis Square to take in some statues dedicated to the late children’s author and theologian.

The Titanic Belfast

Day 3 – Causeway Coast

On day 3 of this trip, it’s time to head out of the city and make your way to the north of the country – to the iconic Causeway Coast. We highly recommend leaving Belfast as early as possible to make it to the Giant’s Causeway before the tour buses arrive – it takes about an hour to drive here from the capital.

If you don’t have a car, there are a number of guided tour options such as this full-day tour or this full-day tour that will pick you up from Belfast in the morning.

The Giant’s Causeway is the name for a collection of roughly 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that were likely formed as part of an ancient volcanic eruption.

However, in Irish myth, it is said to have been formed when an Irish giant built a causeway in order to fight a Scottish giant — there are similar rock formations on the island of Staffa just off the Hebridean Isle of Mull in Scotland.

Note that the Causeway is free to enter, however, it is not free to park at the visitor’s centre or go inside unless you’ve paid for that. If you’re up for a bit of a (beautiful) walk, we recommend parking at the Salmon Rock Beach car park in the town of Portballintrae and walking to the Giant’s Causeway – that way you can visit entirely for free!

The Giant's Causeway

Plan to spend a couple of hours at the Giant’s Causeway as there is more here than just the rock formations. Take the time to walk on all of the trails and really take in the views of this gorgeous place. It’s a truly spectacular experience and an essential inclusion on any Northern Ireland road trip itinerary.

After visiting the Giant’s Causeway, you can take the time to take in some other sites on the Northern Ireland Coast. Head over to the town of Bushmills and tour the Bushmills distillery. You can also make your way over to some viewpoints and maybe even go on a few more walks.

If you’re only spending 3 days in Northern Ireland and want to maximise your time here, you can take in some of the other sites in this area, such as the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Dunluce Castle and the Dark Hedges. However, if you are planning a 4- or 5-day itinerary, then you can take your time more at go at a slower pace.

End your day in the town of Portrush. This makes a great base in the area and the town itself is a popular seaside resort complete with its own amusement park and lovely beach. There are also plenty of pubs and restaurants to unwind in at the end of the day with a pint of Guinness and a good meal.

Portrush

Where to Stay on the Causeway Coast

Anvershiel House – Located in the town of Portrush, this bed and breakfast is an excellent mid-range option for those exploring this part of Northern Ireland. They offer several clean and bright rooms, an excellent breakfast available in the mornings, and a location within walking distance of the beach and town centre.

Elephant Rock Hotel – Those looking for a luxury hotel while on the Causeway Coast will love this chic hotel in Portrush. Centrally located, they have a range of lovely rooms to choose from, an on-site restaurant and bar along with plenty of other great amenities.

Causeway Hotel – If you’d like to stay within a stone’s throw of the Giant’s Causeway and see it without the tour buses, then this hotel is a great option. Located adjacent to the visitor’s centre, booking a night here will also grant you free entry to the centre along with plenty of other perks.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Causeway Coast hotels!

Day 4 – Causeway Coast

Those who have more time to devote to the Causeway Coast will be energised to hit the road early and start exploring again.

Start your day by touring the lovely and striking Dunluce Castle. This ruined castle is perched on striking cliffs not far at all from the town of Portrush and it makes for an excellent place to visit.

Next, you can make your way over to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. This place was used as a filming location for the HBO series Game of Thrones and it is now very popular amongst visitors – so make sure to book your tickets online in advance and also to arrive relatively early if you want to beat the crowds.

You can spend a fair amount of time hiking around here and it’s worth doing this on your second day so that you don’t feel rushed.

Of course, no visit to this area of Northern Ireland is complete without heading to the Dark Hedges. Again, this was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones and it is an incredibly popular tourist attraction. It’s simply a country laneway that is lined with intertwining trees.

Keep in mind that it is definitely a lot more beautiful in the late spring and summertime when there are leaves on the trees and it can seem a bit lacklustre in the winter to about mid-May.

The Dark Hedges

Day 5 – Derry

If you’ve got five days to devote to your Northern Ireland road trip, then make sure not to miss the city of Derry (Londonderry). As Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, Derry can be overlooked by visitors here, however, it has a lot to offer visitors and can provide important cultural context.

Though the city has been popularised as a destination because of the sitcom Derry Girls (you can even tour filming locations ), it doesn’t get the same amount of attention as Belfast.

Derry is a small city and you can certainly take in the majority of the sites and points of interest within the confines of a day. Take the time to walk the city walls – Derry is, in fact, the only walled city in Ireland and this is a great thing to do here.

Of course, no visit to Derry is really complete without taking the time to learn about the city’s more recent history and what life was like during the Troubles. You can visit the Bloody Sunday memorial to learn more about the 1972 massacre and you can also opt to take a walking tour of the Bogside murals with a knowledgeable local guide.

Those who want to learn even more about the city’s history will also find the Free Derry Museum interesting.

Another top Derry attraction is the Peace Bridge. The pedestrianised bridge connects the majority Unionist east side of the city to the majority Republican west side of the city and was meant to be an emblem of bridging the gap of a centuries-long political divide.

Peace Bridge in Derry

Have More Time?

If you have more time after this Northern Ireland itinerary, why not continue on from Derry into the Republic and visit County Donegal ?

If you’re coming from Northern Ireland and only have a day, then driving the Inishowen 100 is an excellent way to explore this part of northwestern Ireland. However, you could easily spend more time exploring this area, as well.

You can reach the town of Muff in County Donegal in about 15 minutes or you can drive north and take the ferry across Lough Foyle to the town of Greencastle. The latter option would also give you the opportunity to make a stop at Mussenden Temple.

For those who want to tour more of the Emerald Isle, then consider heading further south and enjoying some of (or the entirety of) the Wild Atlantic Wa y. County Donegal is absolutely gorgeous, but other highlights include Benbulben in County Sligo, Achill Island in County Mayo, Connemara in County Galway and more.

Views from the Inishowen Peninsula

When planning a trip to Northern Ireland, you may not realise just how much this small country has to offer visitors. From vibrant and historic cities to some of the most spectacular natural scenery there is to offer in this world, spending a few days exploring Northern Ireland is never a bad idea.

Are you planning to visit Northern Ireland? Have any questions about this route? Let us know in the comments!

places to visit in ireland and northern ireland

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, I enjoy reading your travel blogs and find them informative. Living in Northern Ireland I’d like to let you know that not only do we have an airport some 20 miles away from the city centre but there is also George Best Airport less than 2 miles from the City Centre and is great for those arriving to the city for its convenience. Also please note that St George’s market is only open from Friday to Sunday . I have seen many disappointed tourists arrive to the market on other days only to find it closed. Finally if you are travelling from Britain and have a National Trust membership this will allow free entry at the Causeway centre and other attractions – their website would provide more detail.

Thanks for those insights, Barbara!

Thank you so much Barbara Would not have thought about our N T membership. We are thinking about driving, any suggestions??

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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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

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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

Protect Your Trip »

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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.  

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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.

places to visit in ireland and northern 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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Grounded Life Travel

14 Best Things To See In Ireland & Northern Ireland

Allie Marmion

  • 1.1.1 Slea Head Drive
  • 1.1.2 Minard Castle
  • 1.2 Cliffs of Moher
  • 1.4.1 Clifden
  • 1.4.2 Kylemore Abbey
  • 1.5 Letterkenny
  • 1.6.1 Titanic Hotel
  • 1.6.2 Titanic Museum
  • 1.6.3 Carrick a Rede
  • 1.6.4 Dark Hedges
  • 1.6.5 Giants Causeway
  • 1.6.6 Hop On Hop Off Bus
  • 1.7 Recap Ireland and Northern Ireland Travel Itinerary

Ireland & Northern Ireland

We get lots of questions about our Ireland and Northern Ireland travel guide so we decided to share it with you. Fly into Dublin and rent a car at the airport. Reserve an automatic if you think driving a manual will be challenging while also driving on the left, if you are not used to it. There is a shuttle bus that will take you to the rental car company, just make sure to get on the right one. The shuttles are labeled on the outside.

Be prepared to purchase the insurance for your rental car. In Ireland they will not just take your word for it that your insurance from home will cover you. Most insurance companies will not cover in Ireland. If, by chance, your insurance or credit card covers Ireland, you will have to produce a letter proving the coverage or you can call you insurance company from the rental agency and they can give the rental agent verbal confirmation of the coverage. The chances any insurance company offers coverage in Ireland is rare.

Dingle Peninsula

Dingle, Ireland

Once you have your car, head out to the Dingle peninsula. This is about a 4 hour drive from Dublin. If your flight arrive later in the evening you may want to stay a night in Dublin. Our flight arrived relatively early in the day, since we were flying in from Edinburgh, Scotland.

We booked a nice AirBnb in Dingle . There are many housing options in Dingle. First thing you will want to do is enjoy a nice stroll through town. It’s a very walkable area. There are many pubs and restaurants to enjoy the local fare and, of course, a Guiness beer! There are also several establishments that are one thing by day and a pub by night. Keep an eye out for the signs. Be sure to rest up, the next day you will be ready to tackle Slea Head Drive.

Slea Head Drive

Slea Head Drive in Dingle, Ireland

Slea Head Drive is part of the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s a scenic drive, the best way to enjoy Slea Head Drive is to travel clockwise. There are many tour buses on Slea Heads single track roads and you don’t want to get stuck going the wrong way with a tour bus. Set aside at least 3 hours to truly enjoy this lovely drive.

Minard Castle

Minard Castle near Dingle, Ireland

If you have time you will want to drive over to Minard Castle. This is said to be one of the largest fortresses on the peninsula. The beach area beside the castle is a storm beach. The sandstone boulders are used to make ogham stones locally. A couple other spots of interest are Connors Pass and Inch Beach.

Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher in Ireland

The Cliffs of Moher is incredible touristy but it is certainly worth adding to our Ireland and Northern Ireland travel guide. They are not on the way to anything so you will have to drive a bit off the path to get to them. Upon arrival you will see the guard in the road directing traffic. The tour buses park to the left and the cars park to the right. You pay for parking but it’s free to see the cliffs. The parking is a bit steep, for parking, they charge by the person and not the car, it was about $8 pp to park.

Follow the walkway to the visitors center where you can stop in the shop, use the restrooms or enjoy a meal in the restaurant. Once outside the visitors center you will see several ways to walk up to see the cliffs. It is wheelchair accessible. You will not have to walk far from the visitors center to see the cliffs. The best spot to take pics is about halfway up. The brush over the railing is longer the higher up you go and it doesn’t look as nice in your photos.

Angel Wings in Galway, Ireland

Galway was a must do for my when we put together our Ireland and Northern Ireland travel guide. I had seen the pics of this cute town and really wanted to see what it was all about. Be sure to heed the warnings of the parking lot signs so you will be able to find a parking spot quickly. If you pull into a lot that is full you can simply wait at the entrance until someone has left and the machine will dispense a ticket for you to enter.

Galway is a harbor city. You can stroll near the harbor or walk into town or Eyre Square and enjoy some shopping or a beer at a local pub. The Latin quarter still retains some of the medieval city walls. This is a great place for a day trip. You can see most of what Galway has to offer in a day.

Connemara Region

Abbeyglen Hotel in Clifden, Ireland

Clifden was next on our list. This cute little town was in the Connemara region on the west coast of Ireland. We stayed in Abbeyglen Castle. It was such a treat to stay a few nights in a castle. This one was great, the grounds were well kept and the staff was amazing. Your stay includes breakfast, afternoon tea and biscuits and champagne story time in the evening.

Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey in Ireland

Clifden was a great place to stay so we could visit Kylemore Abbey . This castle was a Benedictine monastery founded in 1920 on the grounds. It was founded for the nuns who fled Belgium in World War I. The home was built in 1868 as a private residence for the Henrys. You can tour the inside of the castle as well as their famed gardens. You will find many tour buses here. Parking is free and it is about $15 USD to enter the abbey and it’s grounds.

Letterkenny

Fanad Head Lighthouse in Ireland

This city on the northernmost edge of the Republic of Ireland is a great place to spend a night to see Fanad Head Lighthouse before heading into Northern Ireland. Fanad Head Lighthouse was proposed in 1812 after a shipwreck. It was first lit in 1817 and was converted to electric in 1975 then automated in 1983. They say the only survivor of the shipwreck was the vessels parrot. Lough Swilly is one of Irelands few glacial fjords. The drive to the lighthouse is gorgeous. It is a short hike along the harbor to see this lovely lighthouse.  

Fanad Head is considered a sea light and not a harbor light. Despite the fact that it clearly marks the natural Lough Swilly, which is a natural harbor refuge. It is one of 70 operating lighthouses in Republic of Ireland. Fanad Head is not just for looks, it continues to provide a vital role in maritime safety today. After seeing pictures online we made sure to add this lighthouse to our Ireland and Northern Ireland travel guide.

Once you’ve made the journey, it is well worth it to stay after the sunset to see the light shine into the ocean. You can tour the lighthouse for a small fee of about $10 USD and even climb the tower. They have recently completed the cottages. You can also spend the night at the lighthouse, be sure to book early. There aren’t many rooms available, reserve well in advance to get a chance to stay in the lighthouse.

Northern Ireland

I have to be honest, I was not sure what it would be like to go to Northern Ireland. We hear lots of negative things about this area. Let me tell you, I was wrong! I fell in love with Northern Ireland (checkout our YouTube video of the top 7 things we loved about Northern Ireland) . It is a lovely area. You can simply drive into Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland with no security check. The roads are very similar to those in Republic of Ireland. There is a very noticeable difference upon crossing the border into Londonderry. This area still struggles with the stife of their past.

Titanic Hotel

Titanic Hotel In Belfast, Ireland

We drove to Belfast as our base for Northern Ireland. The places we planned to visit were all within a manageable distance from Belfast by car. We checked into the Titanic Hotel. I thought this would be an overdone attraction type hotel. I was wrong, AGAIN!! It is very obvious that they took great care to preserve the history of the buildings it was built in. You enter the main entrance between what used to be the Harland and Wolff drawing offices. These are the engineers that drafted the plans for the Titanic and many of the worlds most famous ocean liners.

The hotel features an art deco nautical theme. The rooms are luxurious and the staff is top notch. The grand staircase was restored and mimicked the one in the Titanic which was the inspiration for what you see in many cruise ships today. The Hotel is right across from the museum. You can also park under the museum as there is no parking at the hotel. You don’t have to stay here to see the beauty you can simply walk in and show yourself around the first floor and see all the history in the buildings. Here is our video tour of the hotel .

Titanic Museum

Titanic Museum In Belfast, Ireland

Since we were staying in the hotel we might at well see the museum. It was not too busy on the afternoon we were there. The tour of the museum starts with some history of how Belfast happened upon ship building. You walk through every step of the process for conceiving and building the Titanic as well as the horror of the sinking.

Once downstairs you will also experience the search for the wreckage, years later. You become a part of the search, in a very interactive display with video screens and touch displays. Once you are done at the museum, simply walk outside right into the dry dock where the Titanic was built. They have outlined the vessel in blue lights so you can see exactly where it sat. Your museum tour includes a visit to the SS Nomadic which served as a tender boat to the Titanic’s first and second class passengers. It was a great experience. I would definitely recommend this to anyone. Click here to see our video review of the museum .

Carrick a Rede

Carrick-A-Rede Bridge in Northern Ireland

If you watch Game of Thrones you probably remember a significant characters death on the rope bridge. The rope links the mainland to carrickarede island. The bridge is mainly a tourist attraction. If you have the stomach for it you can purchase a ticket and walk across. Be sure to purchase your ticket online as many time slots are sold out each day.

Don’t just visit the rope bridge if you visit Carrick a rede. There are several places to walk and enjoy the beauty of this area. Walk to the other side of the upper parking lot and down to the lower lot, which was also used in Game of Thrones. From this area you can walk down to the beach or stand on the cliffs and enjoy the view to the neighboring islands.

Dark Hedges

The Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland

There is no parking on the road with the dark hedges, be sure to use the Hedges Hotel parking lot, it’s free to park as long as you use the back lot. The hedges were planted in the 18 th century by the Stuart family to impress visitors to their Georgian Mansion. These beech trees have become one of the most photographed natural phenomenon in Northern Ireland. These were also used in Season 2 of Game of Thrones.

With the influx of visitors the trees have suffered a bit. The area has also seen some problems with visitors to the area. Some trees have damage due to vandalism and even people climbing in the trees. Don’t be that person. As always, be sure to not leave anything behind. Traffic on this road is just for the locals, please be a kind traveler and abide by their requests. You will want to visit this area in the evening to have fewer or no people in your pics and to have a darker look to the photos.

Giants Causeway

Giants Causeway in Northern Ireland

Next on our Ireland and Northern Ireland travel guide is Giants Causeway. There are many stories about how this area was formed but one thing is for sure, it’s impressive. The water has shaped the stones. There is a visitors center but it’s very touristy and charges a fee, although it is free to see the Giants Causeway. From the parking lot you can walk right down to the causeway. The views are spectacular on the way down.

If you don’t walk to walk down or up the steep inclines you can take the shuttle bus for a small fee, have euro coins with you as they do not make change and do not take credit cards. The walk down is gorgeous. We stopped several times on the way down to take pictures and to enjoy the views.

At the bottom you will find over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. They are the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and in 2005 it was names the fourth greatest natural wonder in the UK. You will find stones with 4,5, 7 or 8 sides. They seemingly flow right into he ocean. We visited in the evening when there were very few tourists around. You must be very careful at this time as the tide rise quickly.

Hop On Hop Off Bus

C.S. Lewis Square in Belfast, Northern Ireland

We have used the City Sightseeing Hop on Hop Off buses in several countries. We have never had a problem. The service was fine in Belfast but we noticed it was very crowded. The people don’t ever hop off!! I have not see this before. In all the other countries we have used them, people get off at the sites to enjoy. We were the only people who got off the bus!

It was an easy way to see all the sites and not have to worry about driving or parking and the guide on the bus shared lots of great info with us. It was very interesting and surreal to see CS Lewis Square, the parliament building, freedom corner, Falls Road murals, Shankill Memorial Garden, Donegall Street, International wall murals and the Peace Walls. This tour is worth the money.

Hop on Hop off bus in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Recap Ireland and Northern Ireland Travel Itinerary

We loved our time in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Our 14 days was split between the 2 countries. We returned to Dublin the night before our flight to Iceland. With so little time we did not to do all the touristy things in Dublin but there is plenty to do if you want to tour Dublin before you head to Dingle or you can tour it after Northern Ireland. Both countries had so much beauty and history to offer. There is so much to do, this was just a small taste of what you can do in just 2 weeks in these lovely countries. The food was fantastic, the beer was delightful and the people were kind. We will definitely be back to Ireland.

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Allie Marmion

Allie Marmion

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20 Enchanting Spots to Visit in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland was one of the most atmospheric places I’ve ever visited. There’s just something extraordinary about Ireland, and Northern Ireland has an untouched and rugged beauty.

It’s home to a hip capital, an increasingly vibrant food and music scene, excellent whiskey distilleries, an unspoiled coastline, ancient castles, cosy pubs heated by roaring log fires, and still very much visited former Game of Thrones sets. From my time exploring here, here are my favourite Irish gems…

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We can book your trip to stay in Northern Ireland ’s beautiful places through our top-rated travel planning service !

1. Causeway Coastal Route

Causeway Coastal Route

If you are out for a road trip, I promise you, this is where you need to be! This is one of the most atmospheric and beautiful road trips I’ve ever been on.

The road from Derry to Belfast is packed with sights to see along the way. Although it’s only 120 miles, there’s so much to do that you should plan at least three days for your adventure. You’ll also find several of the attractions mentioned throughout this post. 

Set out on the road from Belfast and head north; your journey will terminate in Londonderry. There is the odd detour on the route; depending on your time, I suggest you check out the following…

  • Carrickfergus Castle – One of the best-preserved medieval structures in Northern Ireland.
  • Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge – A unique, fun, and slightly scary suspension rope bridge over a 100ft drop to the sea.
  • Ballintoy 

Ballintoy Harbour Northern Ireland

A painter’s paradise and one of the locations used to film Game of Thrones television, this place was known as the ‘Iron Islands. ‘ You’ll find a small harbour on a raised beach in a quaint fishing village.

Torr Head – Expect rough seas and stunning views over the Mull of Kintyre.

Dunluce Castle is a haunting castle with fabulous views, dra,matic seascapes, and another Game of Thrones set.

Giant’s Causeway – It is a natural and picturesque wonder that is mythological and geological and one of the world’s most beautiful places to visit. 

Bushmills Distillery

Bushmills Distillery Northern Ireland

I loved this place, and the tour was fun and exciting. Make it at the end of the day, and maybe treat yourself to a sample of the good stuff .

Castlerock Beach

CastleRock Beach Northern Ireland

A sweeping, tranquil, sandy beach backed by some of the oldest dunes in Ireland.

Ballycastle

Ballycastle Northern ireland

This beautiful town is topped with a castle called the Eastern Gateway to the Causeway—a Game of Thrones location. 

Mussenden Temple Castlerock

Mussenden Temple Castlerock

This striking and highly photogenic historical circular library is over 200 years old and is accompanied by beautiful sea views. 

2. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, County Antrim

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Carrick-a-Rede means ‘rock of the casting’ and refers to the island, not the rope bridge you will find here. Will you be brave enough to strut the 20 meters over the 100 ft drop below? If you are, then you’ll have achieved something.

Many have gone one way and lost their nerve, preferring to be picked up from the island by boat. The original bridge was constructed to get fishermen to the best salmon spots; now, it is a popular tourist attraction, enticing around half a million visitors annually.

If you have your glasses on and the weather is clear, you might just be able to spot the western coast of Scotland winking at you from over the horizon! 

3. Giant’s Causeway

Giant's Causeway Ireland

If you’ve been to check out Carrick-a-Rede, you are only a short hop from Giants Causeway. This is one of the most iconic landmarks in the country, and it’s popular for a reason.

You’d be forgiven for thinking these pillars and columns are artificial. They are not. They are formed by layers of basalt, which, over countless millennia, have tilted in their axis until you see a cross-section of millions of years of different compacted sediments on their side.

Don’t get too bogged down in the Geology. I would recommend just enjoying it for what it is. You’ll find a coastline laden with fables about giants and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

The granite plinths change from almost black to warm and mellow brown, depending on the time of day. Make sure to take your camera.

4. Dunluce Castle County Antrim

Dunluce Castle Northern Ireland

If you love your history, you are in for a treat. Dunluce Castle might need a little work to make it liveable, but it’s full of wonder and sits like a broken tooth looking out to sea.

The castle is over 500 years old. After you have marveled and wondered what it must have looked like back in the day, I would suggest taking a walk and seeing if you can discover the nearby town the castle protected.

There are archaeological digs and bits of ancient buildings all over the place. If you time it right and go down to the beach, you can take super brooding and atmospheric shots of the sunset. This castle is also doubled as the castle in Game of Thrones.

5. Dark Hedges

Dark Hedges Northern Ireland

This place may feel slightly familiar. That’s because it was one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones. There isn’t much to see, but it passed an hour, and I loved how atmospheric and photogenic it was.

The road is eye-catching because it is lined by a twisted series of 200-year-old Beech trees that twist and lean, creating a natural tunnel. It is seriously spooky, especially if you go towards twilight.

6. Tollymore Forest

Tollymore Forrest Ireland

If you go down to the woods today, you are sure of a big surprise. As curiosities and hidden gems go, this is one of the best locations in Northern Ireland. It’s a little eclectic, but that’s what makes it great.

You’ll find a barn resembling a church, quaint caves, and rocky outcrops, all surrounded by quirky architecture that reflects different influences and styles.

Again, there’s a link to the Titanic here, as most of the wood used in its construction came from this estate. Put on your walking boots and enjoy one of the color-coded river walks, where you will follow babbling streams and encounter picturesque stone bridges.

7. Belfast City Hall

Belfast City Hall

Belfast is an increasingly fabulous and hip city, and I personally think it’s worth exploring. At over a hundred years old, this eye-catching centrepiece speaks of a time of prosperity and forward-thinking. If you have the time, it’s worth taking a tour inside, as it has one or two hidden secrets.

The interior of the City hall was designed and furnished by the same people who built the Titanic, and as a result, it has many standard features specific to its age.

Walk amongst huge halls and marble staircases and try to imagine men in top hats and women with umbrellas strolling amongst the white columns.

8. Gleno Waterfalls

Glencoe Waterfall

There’s little better than a lovely walk with something beautiful to see once you get to the end. It all makes it worthwhile. I can think of no better example than the Glencoe waterfall.

Dappled glens and winding paths eventually lead to a picturesque 30-foot cascading waterfall resembling something from a Tolkien novel.

The waterfall is steep, so it might not be suitable for little legs or those with mobility issues. However, it’s well worth a visit if you feel up for it.

9. Roe Valley Country Park

Green, lush, and utterly gorgeous, Roe Valley Country Park offers plenty to do while surrounded by natural beauty. Think of chattering streams, twigs crunching underfoot, and leafy trails to explore.

Whether you enjoy a spot of angling, rock climbing, canoeing, or just getting out and breathing in wonderfully fresh air, there’ll be something for you here.

Located on Limavady’s outskirts, Roe Valley Country Park also boasts a museum, visitor center, and several buildings that pay homage to its former industrial heritage.

10. Cliffs of Magho

Enniskillen Northern Ireland

Look no further for drives through breathtaking forests and windswept vistas. You can enjoy glorious views of the nearby Lough Erne and the Atlantic Ocean.

The climb up to this limestone escarpment can be steep, so take some sturdy footwear and perhaps something cool to drink. The base of the cliffs can be a little tricky to get to, so take your time and stop to ask for directions if you need to.

11. Craft Village Derry

Craft Village Derry

If you want to see a place where the old and new blend seamlessly, Derry Craft Village is for you. It is located in the city’s heart and features whitewashed cottages and thatched roofs.

They are stuffed with trinket shops, coffee houses, artisanal crafts, and the odd restaurant. It’s like stepping back in time while enjoying all modern civilization’s benefits ’til you drop, and then take the weight off with a nice brew.

12. Bangor Castle

Bangor Castle Northern Ireland

This is one of those situations where if you take something’s name too literally, it can all get a little confusing. However, you should be all right in Northern Ireland and not Wales.

That said, this isn’t a castle in the traditional sense. It is a council office that was built around 150 years ago. With all that said, it is still rather lovely.

A country house ideally situated amongst well-manicured gardens. The house was a regular stopover for the wordsmith CS Lewis, who described it as “heaven.” If it was good enough for him, it’s good enough for us.

13. Donaghadee

Donaghadee Harbour

If you are a regular site reader, you’ll know that we love a pretty coastal village. This harbor town is rather good-looking and even offers views across the Irish Sea towards Scotland.

Go for a scenic walk along the marina, head out to the bright white lighthouse on the Causeway and watch the fisherman and, if you want a little history, go and check out the prominent ‘Motte’ which dominates the town and was built over 1000 years ago to repel the pesky Norman raiders.

14. Mourne Mountains

Mourne Mountains

The mountains of Mourne sound slightly like ‘Lord of the Rings.’ But that said, they have views to match. They are adorned by jutting Granite tors (a posh name for massive boulders).

They are striking and eerily beautiful, to be fair. If you embark on a ramble amongst the numerous trails and paths, you’ll be struck by the sense of drama and foreboding that seems to ooze from the hills themselves.

Time is right, and I promise you’ll feel like the only person in the country! 

15. Castlewellan Forest Park

Castlewellan Forest park

For a great day out, make your way to Castlewellan Forest Park . There’s absolutely zero chance of being bored.

As you’d expect, there are numerous colour-coded trails for you to follow that, depending on which route you take, will give stunning views toward the foot of the Mourne Mountains.

The park even has routes for the slightly less mobile. You’ll find an Arboretum, a Moorish tower, and a children’s play area if you have energetic company.

16. Portbraddon

Portbraddon- beautiful places to visit in Northern Ireland

Quaint fishing villages are all good, but sometimes you want more than nets and whitewash. Well, here is the answer and a small surprise…Quite literally. Portbraddon is home to the smallest church in the country.

There are a few conspiracy theories about how it came about, as it was only built in the 1950s. Rumour has it that it was a cleverly disguised cowshed. Either way, it’s a spot of interest.

Aside from the church, you’ll find this village quiet; it’s got a population of about 20 (regular-sized) people.

17. Silent Valley and Ben Crom

The Silent Valley and Ben Crom walks occur in the heart of the Mourne Mountains. The best part is that because they are along a dam, they are relatively flat, making them accessible for almost everyone.

You can have all the fun of the mountains without having to have legs like a mountain goat! At 6.2 miles, it’s a good few hours’ walk, but that said, you don’t have to do all of it.

Along the way, you’ll find the usual fare, including a gift shop and visitor centre, a café, and some amenities.

18. Carnlough Harbour

Carnlough Harbour

So, if you lived in Antrim, it’s fair to say there are a few exciting things around. One of which is Carnlough Harbour. Aside from being pleasing to the eye, it is another location used in filming Game of Thrones.

You’ll recognize the stone staircase leading from the water’s edge; it’s where Arya escaped after being stabbed and went on to become a plot-ruining ninja (we aren’t bitter).

Bitter endings said there are several minor ‘quirks’ in this town. See if you can find the memorial to Paddy the Pigeon, a record-breaking English Chquirks’ event in World War II that earned him a medal and a plaque.

19. Cave Hill Country Park

Cave Hill Country Park

Just North of Belfast, Cave Hill Country Park is located. If you embark upon one of the many trails, you’ll experience bits of everything that makes a good walk: craggy cliffs, rolling meadows, and views that justify the sweat you’ll have on by the end.

The country park is an iconic part of the Belfast landscape and can be seen throughout most of the city. Its green bosom also houses Belfast Castle; whatever you do, ensure you don’t fall down Napoleon’s Nose! Google it!

20. White Park Bay

White Park Bay Northern Ireland

It would appear that County Antrim gets all the luck! This area is a vast white sandy beach, backed by high-sided dunes and a little windswept and rugged, but that’s part of the charm.

The beach is three miles long so you can pick your spot even on busy days. For a bit of interest, see if you can catch sight of the cows, which occasionally wander down onto the beach from the fields surrounding it.

Enjoy your trip; I think, like I did, you’ll fall for its many charms! 

Becky Moore

Becky Moore – Owner, writer and photographer

My first true adventure began as a six-month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh-faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi-nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in the warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds, and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex-Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.

Hotel Reviewing Experience – published hotel review in the 52 Sleeps Book organised by Laterooms.com and Lonely Planet. Asked by over 12 tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board , Canada Tourist Board , Eviivo , France.fr , Visitoostende.be , Live Riga and Queensland Tourist Board . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos .

I’ve also been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic , The Times , LA Weekly , Yahoo Travel , Huffington Post , Business Insider , Thrillist , British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur , Daily Express , Wanderlust , Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and Metro . Winner of Travel Blog of the Year . Find me on Linkedin or Facebook .

2 thoughts on “20 Enchanting Spots to Visit in Northern Ireland”

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Wow fantastic photos this, this part of Ireland looks gorgoeus!

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Looking back on the best weekend ever, as we take off on our honeymoon to the Philippines! We are eternally grateful for everyone who came & made the weekend so special.👰🏻‍♀️💍  Love you, hubby! @benvadasz 🤍

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Ireland & Northern Ireland · February 27, 2022

16 Bucket List Places to Visit in Ireland & Northern Ireland

Places to visit in Ireland - A Girl crosses the National Trust Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Planning a trip to The Emerald Isle and looking for places to visit in Ireland? In this post, I will help you narrow down where to go and what to do with 16 bucket list places to visit in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Although Ireland is relatively small, there’s still so much to see and do. This list will save you time by showing you the top places to see, which will be helpful when planning your Ireland itinerary.

Also, if you didn’t know already, Ireland and Northern Ireland are two different countries. And they even run on two currencies – Euros and the Pound! They both have a really different vibe, which is why you should try to visit both of them on your trip. However, if you are only travelling to one or the other I have split this post into two sections. This will help you easily find bucket list places in either just Ireland or just Northern Ireland.

* Pro Travel Tip : Dublin Go City All-Inclusive Pass

If you’re planning a visit to the captivating city of Dublin, Ireland, the Dublin: Go City All-Inclusive Pass is your ultimate ticket to an unforgettable and cost-effective adventure! This incredible pass offers unbeatable value and convenience. It will allow you to explore Dublin’s top attractions while saving a significant amount of money.

With the All-Inclusive Pass, you gain access to a number of must-visit sites! Including iconic landmarks like the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Castle, and the National Gallery of Ireland. Not only does this pass grant you entry to these renowned attractions, but it also includes exciting experiences such as Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours, fascinating walking tours, and even a Jameson Distillery Bow St. Tour.

The Dublin: Go City All-Inclusive Pass ensures that you make the most of your time in Dublin while stretching your budget further. You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly atmosphere without breaking the bank. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to discover Dublin’s hidden gems while enjoying incredible savings – grab your All-Inclusive Pass before your trip, and embark on an adventure of a lifetime!

Bucket List Places to Visit in Ireland

1. trinity college library in dublin.

I’m not exaggerating when I say that the Trinity College Library, or the Long Room as it’s properly named, is one of the most beautiful ancient libraries in the world! Plus, it’s filled with over 25,000 of the oldest books and a traditional Irish harp. Seeing the ancient architecture of this 18th-century library transported me to Hogwarts, for all my other Harry Potter fans out there.

In order to visit the Long Room, you need to buy a ticket for the Book of Kells . The Book of Kells is the original 9th-century medieval manuscript of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which was also incredibly fascinating to see and learn about. This is one place I recommend booking ahead for, especially if you are here around the St Patrick’s Day holiday. I did not pre-purchase a ticket, and as a result, I had to wait in a long line-up, which luckily moved quickly. 

If you are on a budget, I should mention that the outside grounds of Trinity College are equally stunning and free to wander around. So whether you see the Library or not, make sure to come for a walk around the Trinity College.

Cost: €11-14

Trinity College Library in Dublin

2. Drink Local Irish Libations

Local Irish libations offer a delightful taste of the Emerald Isle, ranging from the smooth and distinctive flavours of Irish whiskey to the rich and creamy goodness of Guinness stout. Visiting these two places to in Ireland provides not only a delightful taste experience but also a cultural immersion. Here are two experiences that perfectly combine deliciousness and cultural significance to Ireland.

The Guinness Storehouse in Dublin

One of the top place to visit in Ireland, is the famous Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. You can’t travel all the way to Ireland and not try a pint of their iconic beer – Guinness! And if you have never tried it before, now is the time. I was actually surprised how much I LOVED Guinness by the end of our time in Ireland. If you aren’t a big beer fan, order a half pint to give it a try.

At the Guinness Storehouse , learn how they make the brew and master a perfect pour. You will also discover the history of Guinness and how they’ve famously marketed it over the years. In order to skip the lines when you arrive, purchase your tickets before your trip here .

Price :  Ranges from €19.50 to €26.00 – free with the Dublin: Go City All-Inclusive Pass

The Jameson Distillery Bow St. Tour & Tasting

The Jameson Distillery Bow St. Tour in Dublin , Ireland, is an absolute must for whiskey enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This immersive experience offers a captivating journey through the heritage and craftsmanship behind one of Ireland’s most beloved spirits, showcasing the rich history of Jameson whiskey and providing a unique opportunity to sample and savour its exceptional flavours.

Price : without pass €30.00 – free with the Dublin: Go City All-Inclusive Pass

3. Road Trip Around the Country

One of the best ways to see Ireland and Northern Ireland is by car. There are so many tiny towns, scenic drives and hikes, that having the flexibility to stop when you want to is a great benefit. For example, one day we were driving along in the country when the most striking rainbow that took over the sky. Driving ourselves allowed us to pull over to admire the views and towns whenever we pleased.

Beautiful rainbow over a green field in Ireland

However, I must warn you that driving Ireland isn’t for the faint of heart. Their roads are not only narrow, but extremely windy, and dangerous. Luckily, my boyfriend Ben was brave enough to drive us, but otherwise, I wouldn’t recommend this to timid drivers. As a great alternative, I would highly recommend travelling with Get Your Guide , as they  run trips around Irelan d   that stop at a lot of these bucket list places mentioned in this post. 

4. Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most iconic places to visit in Ireland and famous for their natural beauty. Be careful when visiting and taking photos in this area, as there are no fences that border the dangerous cliffs. If you aren’t renting a car, there are tons of great day tours that go to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin. 

Travel Tip: Looking for the scenery but not the crowds? Check out Kerry Cliffs Portmagee – a beautiful look-alike to the Cliffs of Moher, without busloads of tourists. This photo doesn’t do it justice because we were there on a very stormy day.

Places to visit in Ireland - Kerry Cliffs Portmagee

5. Dingle & Slea Head Drive 

Slea Head Drive is easily one of the most beautiful seaside roads in the country, which makes it a bucket list place to visit in Ireland. I highly recommend staying in Dingle for the night, so you can spend a full day driving around this peninsula. Also, pack a picnic and stop at various scenic spots along the drive. Below I’ve included some of my favourites spots to check out:

  • Dunquin Harbour  was by far my favourite stop along Slea Head Drive. The dramatic cliffs, emerald coloured water and twisting staircase made for some incredible photographs
  • Walk along the beautiful beaches of  Wine Strand
  • Keep your eyes peeled for Fungie – The Dingle Dolphin . You can take boat tours around the harbour to meet him, or you can see his statue in the town of Dingle 
  • Star Wars fans should stop at  Dunmore Head , as this is where filmed Star Wars Episode VIII – The Last Jedi 
  • Stop in for a pint at  Foxy John’s  in Dingle that runs as a hardware store during the day and a pub at night.  Dick Macs Pub is also a great spot to try!

Places to Visit in Ireland - Dingle

6. Celebrate St Patrick’s Day   at the Temple Bar in Dublin

Join half a million other people and celebrate the ‘luck of the Irish’ at one of the biggest  St Patrick’s Day celebrations  in the world. Dress up in your finest green attire, watch the famous St Patrick’s Day parade, listen to traditional Irish folk music in Temple Bar and party the day away. 

And even if you aren’t in Dublin during St. Patrick’s Day, I still recommend visiting the Temple Bar area. This area is packed full of lively bars playing traditional Irish music! I guarantee you won’t leave without making some new friends over a pint of Guinness.

To hear more about my St Patrick’s Day experience read my  Travel Guide to Celebrating St Patrick’s Day in Dublin .

Places to visit in Ireland - Celebrate St Patrick's Day at Temple Bar in Dublin

7. Trad Irish Folk Music in Galway

The town of Galway is famously known for having traditional Irish pubs that play folk music (also commonly known as ‘trad music’). So don’t miss the opportunity to order a Guinness and dance the night away. And if you aren’t into dancing, cozy up by the fireplace and share stories from your adventures in Ireland.

From experience, I highly recommend  O’Connell’s Bar ,  Taaffes Bar , and Tig Coili.

8. Ring of Kerry

Located in southwest Ireland, the Ring of Kerry is another scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula. We managed to cover the Ring of Kerry in a day, but if you want a slower pace, you could extend this to do more hiking and relaxing at some of the beautiful beach towns. Along this road trip, we stopped at:

  • Killarney National Park to hike to a waterfall
  • Had lunch at Kenmare
  • Stopped at the beaches of Caherdaniel 
  • Kerry Cliffs Portmagee – a beautiful look-alike to the Cliffs of Moher, but without the crowds
  • Ended our day with dinner and a drink while listening to trad music in Kerry. 

Long colourful street of Kenmare in Ireland

Learn from our mistake and spend a night in Kerry. We didn’t do this, and instead pushed through to Dingle, but it made for a very long day of driving. Plus the town of Kerry had a really wonderful vibe and lots of trad music. 

9. Kylemore Abby

If you are looking to get off the beaten path and see something different, visiting the Kylemore Abby was really special. Unfortunately, when we were there it was closed for construction, but normally you can go inside to see the female monastery and you can even eat or have tea there. Since it was closed, we walked around the lake, took in the views, and then followed up with a cozy pub lunch at Veldons Seafarer . This place had the most incredible crab claws I’ve ever tasted! Yum.

Cost to go in Kylemore Abby: €13.30

Kylemore Abby across the lake in Ireland

10. Visit The English Market in Cork

Visiting Cork? Don’t miss this beautiful 18 th -century market filled with locally produced foods, handmade pottery and other unique items. Buy everything you need for a picnic or visit  The Farmgate Cafe  at the back of the market for a comforting soup and sandwich at an affordable price.

Tip: For an inexpensive quick meal eat at The Farmgate Cafe Counter, and for a fancier more relaxed experience, you can have full service and eat in the dining room.

Places to Visit in Ireland - The English Market in Cork

11. Kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork

The Blarney Stone   is located at the Blarney Castle, which is about a 15-minute drive from Cork .  In order to kiss the Blarney Stone, you need to climb to the top of the Castle, lie on your back, and then lean over a ledge backwards to press your lips on a cold stone wall. In other words, it’s a bit crazy! Kissing the Blarney Stone became popular after a legend proclaimed that kissing the stone would give the person ‘the gift of the gab’, or the skill of flattery.

Although this is one of the more popular things to do in Ireland, we couldn’t bring ourselves to do it. Maybe it’s because the ‘gift of the gab’ didn’t sell us, but I think it was because we heard rumours that locals get drunk and pee on the stone (gross, right?).  Even if you don’t kiss the Blarney Stone, I have heard the Blarney Castle and grounds are beautiful to visit. 

Cost: €6 – €9

Bucket List Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

12. belfast famous black cab tours.

If there is one thing you do during your time in Belfast, make sure it’s the Famous Black Cab Tour . These tours are put on by locals who have lived through Belfast’s troubled past, to share Belfast’s history to tourists. During this tour, you will see the famous political murals in Belfast, the Peace Line wall, as well as learn about the tragic conflict between the Catholics and Protestants.  

This city has endured so much over the years, and I have to admit that I didn’t know much about it before coming to Belfast. These tours offer a great way for visitors to educate themselves on the issues Belfast still face today, as well as ask questions to their guides. 

Book in advance here .

Political murals in Belfast, Northern Ireland

13. Titanic Museum in Belfast

Continuing on the theme of history I recommend visiting the Titanic Museum . Did you know that the world-famous Titanic was actually built in Belfast? Because of this, so much of the Titanic’s history lies in this city. At the museum, you’ll discover what it took to build the ship, see replicas of some of the rooms, hear about it’s a short-lived journey, and of course learn about its tragic sinking. You can also eat or have tea in one of their Titanic-themed restaurants.

If you happen to be in Belfast around April 14th, check out their unique event that pays tribute on the anniversary of the Titanic’s sinking.

Outside the Titanic museum in Belfast, Northern Ireland - Places to visit in Ireland

14. Dark Hedges  

The Dark Hedges are located in Northern Ireland along Bregagh Road and are famously known and visited by Game of Throne fans, as they were featured in season one. Funny enough, I have never watched the show. But regardless, this long road lined with massive beech trees was extremely enchanting to see and take photos of. 

To see the Dark Hedges for yourself, rent a car and drive the 50 miles from Belfast. Or jump on this Game of Thrones Locations Tour .

Girl in yellow jacket standing amongst the Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland

15. The Giant’s Causeway 

The Giant’s Causeway is Northern Ireland’s most iconic landmark was made an official UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. It is located right on the North Atlantic Ocean and is made up of thousands of rock columns formed by volcanic activity. From Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway is just over an hour’s drive, making it the perfect day-trip from the city. If you aren’t renting a car, you can also do a day tour from Belfast that includes the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge .

If you do it with your own car rental, I highly recommend giving yourself at least an hour here, as it takes a while to walk from the parking lot to the site. Plus, there are some spectacular ocean views and hikes around the area. 

Travel tip: Wear good shoes to hike up and down the big hill. Also, the rocks and boulders can be slippery, so be careful if you walk on them. If you don’t have the time or the fitness to walk up and down the big hill, you can pay for the bus. 

Entrance Cost: £12.50

The Giant's Causeway with the ocean in the background - places to visit in Ireland

16. National Trust Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was a huge highlight from our trip to Northern Ireland. The natural beauty of this area, mixed with the adrenaline crossing the bridge made for a fun experience and one I will never forget. I’m a little scared of heights, so I was basically shaking the entire time I was on the bridge, but these views made it totally worth it.

In order to fully enjoy this area, leave at least an hour to hike out to the Rope Bridge and walk around the park. Also, make sure to bring your camera with you, as the views from this area will take your breath away.

Entrance Cost: £9.00

A view of waves on the ocean from Northern Ireland - Places to visit in Ireland

Northern Ireland Bonus Tip*

If you are short on time in Northern Ireland, or don’t have a car, I really recommend seeing all of these bucket list places by hopping on a day tour. This particular one allows you to see everything above. However, you get to pick either entrance to the Titanic Museum or the Black Cab Tour. Honestly, spare yourself the anxiety of driving narrow Irish roads, and renting a car, and hop on this easy guided tour.

What to Pack for Ireland & Northern Ireland

When embarking on a journey to these bucket list places in Ireland or Northern Ireland, it’s crucial to pack smart and be prepared for the ever-changing weather. The weather conditions can vary depending on the time of year you plan to visit. During our visit in March, coinciding with the vibrant St. Patrick’s Day festivities , we were taken aback by the cold and damp climate. Even in the seemingly pleasant summers, the island’s exposed location on the Atlantic Ocean can bring a slight chill to the air. To ensure your adventure is delightful and hassle-free, while keeping you warm and comfortable, here are five essential items every female traveller should pack for their unforgettable journey.

1. A Versatile Rain Jacket

Ireland’s famously unpredictable weather calls for a reliable and stylish rain jacket. Opt for a lightweight, waterproof jacket that can be easily layered over your outfits. It will keep you dry during sudden showers while allowing you to explore the breathtaking landscapes in comfort and style. I brought the yellow rain jacket (because it made me happy and looks great in the Dark Hedges photos), but I also love the tan, that gives you that trending trench coat look.

And if you are travelling outside of summer, I highly recommend also packing a lightweight puffy jacket . Overall, the weather was colder and wetter than I was expecting in March, so this jacket came in handy. And as you can see in my photos, I wore this puffy jacket daily, since it packs up in a tiny bag that I could throw in my backpack for when the temperature dipped.

2. Comfortable Walking Shoes

Ireland and Northern Ireland are best explored on foot, from wandering through cobblestone streets to hiking along stunning coastal trails. Pack a pair of sturdy, comfortable walking shoes and waterproof boots to ensure you can wander freely and embrace the beauty of the Emerald Isle without any discomfort.

3. Adaptable Clothing Layers

The weather in Ireland and Northern Ireland can vary greatly throughout the day. Pack a range of clothing layers that you can easily mix and match to adapt to changing temperatures. Be sure to include lightweight sweaters , long-sleeve tops , and versatile scarves and wide brim hat that add both warmth and style to your outfits.

4. Travel Adapter

Don’t forget a universal travel adapter suitable for Ireland & Northern Ireland outlets ! This handy device will ensure that you can easily charge your electronics and stay connected.We have this one and love it! Not only does it work with my computer and hair curler, it has the additional four USB plugs at the top, to charge all your phone and any other gadgets!

5. Day Backpack

An essential item for any traveler, a reliable day backpack will be your trusty companion throughout your journey. Opt for a lightweight and durable backpack that is spacious enough to carry your essentials such as a water bottle, camera, snacks, and a travel guidebook. It will prove invaluable during your explorations, leaving you hands-free to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of these captivating destinations. I also love this vegan leather backpack , for a more stylish look.

Packing the right items can make all the difference in ensuring an enjoyable and worry-free trip to Ireland or Northern Ireland. By including these five essential items in your luggage, you’ll be well-prepared to embrace the unique experiences, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality that await you in these charming destinations.

So that concludes the 16 bucket list places to visit in Ireland and Northern Ireland. I hope it helps you plan and map out the perfect itinerary for your trip to Ireland. Happy travels!

If there are any other bucket list places to visit in Ireland that I have missed, make sure to let me know in the comments below!

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Thanks a million! I really appreciate it. I hope you found some things that you will like to do on your trip. 🙂

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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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19 of the Very Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

19 of the Very Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

  • Last Updated 1 August 2023

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Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland - Carrick a Rede Causeway Coast

There are so many amazing places to visit in Northern Ireland !  Epic coastal road trips, cute seaside towns, scenic countryside villages, and rolling mountain ranges… there is simply so much to discover.

Plus there are eight Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB’s) to choose from, so when it comes to stunning landscapes and wildlife you’re spoilt for choice.

Then there are the historic towns and cities, the rich history, and lively local legends. Expect a warm and welcoming culture, with great food and boundless hospitality.

There are so many reasons to plan a visit to Northern Ireland. And there’s so much to see and do when you get there!

With so many amazing places to visit on your trip to Northern Ireland, the only difficulty is knowing where to choose.  So I asked some amazing bloggers and locals to recommend their favourite spots. Get ready to discover the very best of Northern Ireland… 

Map of Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

Giant’s causeway, county antrim, belfast – capital of northern ireland, downhill demesne & mussenden temple, londonderry, the dark hedges, county antrim, ards peninsula, county down, boa island, fermanagh, bangor, county down, ballintoy & carrick-a-rede rope bridge, county antrim, londonderry, county londonderry, lough neagh, bushmills & bushmills distillery, county antrim, cushendun, county antrim, portrush & white rocks beach, county antrim, rathlin island, county antrim, cliffs of magho & lower lough erne, fermanagh, kilkeel & mourne mountains, county down, the sperrins aonb, londonderry and tyrone, cuilcagh boardwalk & marble arch caves, fermanagh.

19 of the Very Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

19 Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

19 of the Very Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

One of the most famous places to visit in all of Northern Ireland is the iconic Giant’s Causeway.

The star attraction of the Causeway Coast, the Giant’s Causeway is a MUST! It’s made up of around 40,000 basalt columns, strangely polygonal in shape. These columns interlock perfectly to form a pavement. So it’s easy to see why local legends suggest they were shaped by hand.

There’s a brilliant legend behind the Giant’s Causeway’s creation . According to tradition, the Causeway was built as stepping stones by the giant Fionn mac Cumhail (also called Finn McCool) in order to pick a fight with the Scottish giant Benandonner. Although science says that the world-famous interlocking basalt columns were created by an ancient volcanic eruption… so who knows what to believe?!

Recommended Tour: Giant’s Causeway Full-Day Guided Tour from Belfast – from £30pp

Recommended by: Maja, Away with Maja

Places to Visit in Northern Ireland - Belfast Titanic Museum

As the capital city, Belfast can’t be missed on a trip to Northern Ireland. You’ll be spoiled for choice with things to do – from culture to history to food and drink.

Visit Titanic Belfast to discover the tale of the tragic ship in the city where it was built. Enjoy stunning architecture like Belfast City Hall and Queen’s University, before retreating to the quiet of the Botanic Gardens.

No visit to Belfast would be complete without learning about the Troubles. This is the name of the multi-decade conflict between (Catholic) Nationalists and (Protestant) Unionists in Northern Ireland. To gain a deeper understanding of the city’s very recent history, visit the murals around Falls Road and Shankill Road, and the Peace Wall, on a black taxi tour or a walking tour (some are run by former political prisoners).

Recommended Tours: Political Murals, Street Art, and Peace Gate – walking tour from £18pp. Belfast Taxi Mural Tour – from £60 per group.

For a nightcap, there are some excellent places to drink around Belfast. Try to grab a booth at the Crown Liquor Saloon, one of the most ornate pubs in the city, or bar-hop down Commercial Court in the Cathedral Quarter.

Belfast is an excellent and underrated city break, and definitely one of the top destinations in Northern Ireland.

Recommended by: Luke, Wild About BC

Mussenden Temple Northern Ireland

Situated on the edge of a 120-foot cliff that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean , Mussenden Temple is one of the most spectacular places to visit on the entire island of Ireland.

This picturesque temple was built in 1785 and sits in the grounds of Downhill Demesne . You can enjoy walking through the ruins of the old Bishop’s house before walking down to the cliff edge where Mussenden Temple dramatically sits.

From the temple, you get magnificent views in all directions. To the West, you will see Downhill beach directly below you and you can see all the way over to County Donegal. Look East and you will see Castlerock beach – and beyond that, the seaside town of Portstewart.

This is a great place to explore with lots of walking trails offering views over the beautiful and rugged coastline of Northern Ireland’s north coast.

Recommended by: Kristin, Adventures with En Suite

Dark Hedges Northern Ireland

The Dark Hedges needs no introduction for any Games of Thrones fans. This mystical ‘tunnel’ of trees is also worth a visit if you have never watched the show.

It might have been the TV series that made it famous, but the avenue of trees was planted in the 18th Century when the Stuart family wanted an imposing approach to their new mansion, Gracehill House.

According to local legend, a ghost called The Grey Lady lives in the hedges. On dark nights she can be seen walking the road or moving from tree to tree. The ghost is believed to be the spirit of one of the Stuarts’ daughters, or maybe a housemaid who died mysteriously.

After featuring in Game of Thrones, the Dark Hedges has become a popular tourist attraction – so try to visit early or late in the day to avoid the tour groups.

Recommended Tour: Giants Causeway & Game of Thrones Location Tour from Belfast – from £31pp

Sunrise over Scrabo Tower Ards Peninsula

Although less than half an hour from Belfast, the Ards Peninsula is somewhat less known than the more famous Causeway Coast. However, it’s easily one of the most amazing places to visit in Northern Ireland.

Separating Strangford Lough from the Irish Sea, the Ards Peninsula boasts miles of stunning coastline dotted with quaint villages. Don’t miss the colourful fishing village of Portaferry, the historic ruins of Grey Abbey, or the whitewashed cottages of the historic National-Trust-owned Kearney village.

For the best views of the Peninsula, head to Scrabo Tower and Country Park. Perched on top of Scrabo Hill, the tower is also one of the best-known landmarks in Northern Ireland. From the top of the hill, you’ll get exceptional views of both Strangford Lough and the whole of North Down.

Recommended by: Faith, XYUandBEYOND

19 of the Very Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

In Lough Erne Fermanagh sit several beautiful islands including Boa, Lusty Beg, Lusty More, Devenish and White Island. On Boa Island lies a mystery that has yet to be deciphered … the mystery of the Janus head.

You can see this enigmatic figure in the Caldragh Cemetery which is off the B82 road to Boa Island. No tour buses go to Boa Island so you will need to rent a car.

This mysterious cemetery is said to be one of the “thin places”. Within it stand two curious figures that pre-date Christianity.

The larger stone is called the two-headed Janus. One side is female and the other male. To the side of Janus stands a smaller figure. This is known as “the Lustyman” because it was found on the nearby island Lusty More. However, historians have theorized that it represents the “divine hag” or Boa and is a female figure.

The islands of Lough Erne are a superb off the beaten path destination in Northern Ireland and so beautiful you may not want to leave! 

Recommended by: Allan, It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

Bangor Northern Ireland

The scenic seaside town of Bangor, Northern Ireland is found just 30-minutes down the train lines from Belfast City Centre, on what is known as Northern Ireland’s “Gold Coast” due to its sandy beaches and high property prices.

Bangor also marks the start of the famous “North Down Coastal Path”, which connects the more scenic spots of this stretch. The main draw to the town would be the fancy marina and seaside attractions , including Pickie Fun Park , a sprawling pier, as well as various central beaches.

But there is more to the town than its shiny seafront, with a rich cultural backdrop centred around Bangor Castle where there are an onsite museum and Victorian walled garden. Then there’s Bangor Abbey which is a significant heritage site for Europe’s Christian beginnings.

Recommended by: Nicole, Go Far Grow Close

Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge Northern Ireland

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was originally built in 1755 by local fishermen. It is a rope bridge between two cliffs that are over 100ft above the Atlantic Ocean. Today, it’s managed by a National Trust and includes beautiful walks along cliffs overlooking the ocean.

From the carpark, you walk one mile along a fairly level path that gently undulates with the terrain. This part is wheelchair and stroller friendly. After a mile, you reach fairly steep stairs that take you down to the entrance to the bridge. Only those who are physically fit should descend as it is quite a climb back up!

At the bridge, you wait your turn to cross and walk, at your own pace, over the bridge. Directly below you are waves harshly hitting the rocks. Although it feels precarious and dangerous, you are completely surrounded by rope. You might slip, but you will not fall into the ocean. Once across, you can explore the little island at your leisure and return across the bridge when you’ve had enough. 

Recommended Tour: Giant’s Causeway and Rope Bridge Tour from Belfast – from £25pp

Recommended by: Joanna, The World in my Pocket

19 of the Very Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

Londonderry is the second largest city in Northern Ireland. For many years the name of the city was disputed between Londonderry and Derry, depending on the political affinities of the residents.

Whilst the official name of the city is “Londonderry”, the younger generations have adopted the term “Legenderry”, which couldn’t be more suitable, as there are some pretty  amazing things to do in Londonderry !

A very peaceful city today, Londonderry has a very troubled recent history. One of the best ways to learn about its past is by taking a free city tour or go on a guided walk of the city walls. The murals in Bogside remind visitors of the Troubles and the 1972 Bloody Sunday.

Recommended Tour: Bloody Sunday & Bogside Murals Walking Tour – from £25pp

In 2011, the Peace Bridge was inaugurated. The bridge is shaped as an “S”, symbolising a handshake between the two sides of the river Foyle. Thousands of people attended the weekend-long party, attended by the First Ministers of Ireland and Northern Ireland as well.   

Recommended by: Bradley, Dream Big, Travel Far

19 of the Very Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

Just 20 miles west of Belfast lies the biggest lake in the entire British Isles, and arguably one of its most beautiful too. With many things to do in Northern Ireland , visiting Lough Neagh is definitely a must. It spans over 151 square miles and is a huge source of fresh water for the area.

This is also home to the iconic eels of Lough Neagh, who travel from the depths of the Atlantic Ocean to mature before returning to the Sargasso Sea. There are plenty of eel fisheries here exporting their eels around the globe. It’s even said that these eels have been eaten since the Bronze Age!

Birdwatching is another thing that Lough Neagh is known for, as there are a huge variety of birds all in the surrounding shores and boglands, all through the summers and winters.

Recommended by: Charles, McCool Travel

Northern Ireland Food Tour

Giants Causeway is one of the top attractions in the world, but savvy travellers will also explore the nearby quaint village of Bushmills. Highlights include Bushmills Distillery, The Bushmills Inn , Finn MacCool’s Public House, and plenty of Northern Ireland charm.

Allow two hours to tour Old Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery. Book tour reservation slots in advance if you can, as you may have to wait a bit if you book onsite. Either way, spend idle time sampling products, shopping for gifts, or, when the wait exceeds an hour, explore Bushmills village.

The Bushmills Inn is one of the  best places to stay in Northern Ireland . The building traces its history to the 1600’s, and they have received many awards for the best hotel in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Ancient Dunwick Castle is only 2.5 miles away, while the Dundarave Estate is a classic Irish garden estate between Bushmills and Giants Causeway.

Recommended Tour: Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Whiskey Tour – from £35pp

Recommended by: Lavina, Continent Hop

Cushenden Northern Ireland

The village of Cushenden, located in the Antrim coast’s heart about 30 minutes from the Giant’s  Causeway , is an AONB – An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Centuries ago, Cushenden was used as a harbour for people travelling between Scotland and Ireland. This element and the Cushendun caves’ presence made this village famous as a Game of Thrones shooting location.

Taking a look at the caves hardly takes a few minutes. However, the coast’s hiking trail is very picturesque and is one of the must-do things in Cushendun. This isn’t the only walking path, though; there are many that pass through the village and harbour as well.

If this makes you tired and hungry, try to grab some pub food at Mary McBride’s, one of Ireland’s smallest bars. 

For people who love spotting wildlife, red squirrels – which were once thought to be extinct – can be found in Cushendun near Cregagh Wood, making for another peaceful walk. 

Recommended by: Claire, Tales of a Backpacker 

19 of the Very Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

Portrush is a bustling seaside town on Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast.   There are plenty of  things to do in Portrush , such as the chance to go surfing, fishing and take boat trips, or enjoy the spectacular beaches on both sides of the town. 

Portrush is also a great place for golfers and was host to the 2019 Open Championship. The golf course runs along the coast and has wonderful sea views. It’s also not far from the Bushmills whiskey distillery and the Giant’s Causeway.

The beaches are the main draw of Portrush though, in particular East Strand Beach which stretches for two miles to the east of Portrush, ending with White Rocks Beach where you can explore the caverns and arches formed in the limestone cliffs. 

From there, you can continue along the coastal path to the ruins of Dunluce Castle, medieval ruins and Game of Thrones filming location.

Recommended by: Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

19 of the Very Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

The remote beauty of Rathlin Island makes this gem off the northern coast a must-visit destination.

Take the ferry from Ballycastle to the scenic working harbour of Rathlin Island. Visit the nearby Boat House museum for fascinating local stories. You can also watch the seals play from the beach.

Next, walk, rent a bike, or take the Puffin Bus to travel the 4.5 miles to the Sea Bird Center. Huge colonies of puffins, guillemot, kittiwakes, razorbills, and fulmars breed and raise their young here. Volunteer guides provide information about this incredible viewing of the largest nesting seabird colony in Northern Ireland.

The island has three lighthouses, with the West Lighthouse being the most unique. This upside-down lighthouse is built directly into the cliff. You descend down to see the red light at the base of the lighthouse. The cliffside views and history make it worth a visit.

19 of the Very Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

Formed by a deep glacial trough, Lower Lough Erne is one of the most impressive natural landscapes in Northern Ireland, and one of the best places to visit in the country!

Stretching for 20 miles from Enniskillen to Rosscor, the lake is dotted with over 40 islands and surrounded by woodlands and wildlife-rich grasslands. It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise : home to dozens of resident and migrating species.

The Cliffs of Magho are a 9km-long limestone escarpment along the southwestern edge of the lake. At their highest, the cliffs are around 300m, so the views from the top are incredible. Look out across the scattered islands of Lough Erne to the Blue Stack Mountains of County Donegal!

Mourne Mountains Newry Northern Ireland

In the south of County Down, Kilkeel is the southernmost town in Northern Ireland. It’s also the main fishing port on the Down coast, known for its authentic working harbour and incredible seafood.

Kilkeel is also the ideal setting off point for exploring the nearby Mourne Mountains AONB . The area is made up of fifteen peaks, including the tallest mountain in Northern Ireland: Slieve Donard at 850m.

The mountains sweep down to meet the sea on the Down Coast, so you get the best of both worlds within the AONB. Dramatic coastline with some stunning beaches and a vast array of sea life – including dolphins, seals, otters and porpoises. As well as mountainous upland areas full of stunning snow-capped peaks and majestic woodland.

19 of the Very Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

The Sperrins is a mountain range that stretches across the country, straddling the counties of Tyrone and Londonderry. The area was designated an AONB in 2008 and is made up of some incredible landscapes – so it’s well worth exploring.

In between the dramatic mountains, you can find sparkling lakes, narrow glens and deep valleys. It’s also one of the least visited areas in the country! So this is the perfect place to get off the beaten path. Plan a road trip or get your hiking boots on and hit the trails!

Cuilcagh Boardwalk Northern Ireland

Last – but absolutely not least – we have the famous Cuilcagh Boardwalk, as well as the nearby Marble Arch Caves. These two-star attractions of County Fermanagh are among the best places to visit in Northern Ireland.

Also known as the “Stairway to Heaven”, The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail is a 4mile (6km) linear trail across one of the biggest expanses of blanket bog in the country and up Cuilcagh Mountain. The trail is made up of wooden boardwalks and staircases in order to avoid the bog, so it’s ideal for walkers of all abilities. Although some may wish to skip the final, very steep, ascent up the mountain!

Nearby, the Marble Arch Caves are another must-visit if you’re in the area. These natural limestone caves are one of the finest show caves in Europe, full of twisting passageways, lofty chambers, and stunning rock formations – as well as underground rivers and even waterfalls.

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Is there anywhere you’d add to this list of places to visit in Northern Ireland? Scroll down and leave a comment!

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19 Amazing Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

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10 unmissable places to visit in Ireland

Vic O'Sullivan

Mar 5, 2024 • 9 min read

places to visit in ireland and northern ireland

The sweeping landscape of County Kerry is only the beginning of the most incredible places to visit in Ireland © Matt Anderson Photography / Getty Images

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.

This article was first published May 2021 and updated March 2024

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15 Best Places In Northern Ireland To Visit

Best Places In Ireland (18)

Northern Ireland is one incredible place to explore whilst seeing the best places in Ireland and the UK . With all its valleys, rugged coastlines, beautiful castles and cities, there are so many amazing and best places in Northern Ireland to visit.

Best Things To Do In Belfast (8)

Now, I might be a little bit biased (my grandparents are from Northern Ireland) but there are just so many incredible places to explore.

What’s more, it’s not just those physical landscapes and places that make Northern Ireland so special. It’s the people! Now, again, I know I’m probably biased but you’ll find some of the friendliest people here.

Honestly, it makes travelling around the island such a treat.

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Take a look below at some of the best places in Northern Ireland to visit.

1.) See Giant’s Causeway

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For me, visiting a new place is always about finding something unique to the area. And you know what, that’s what Giant’s Causeway is for Northern Ireland.

With over 40,000 columns, this UNESCO World Heritage Site formed millions of years ago from some sort of volcanic eruption. I’m not going to even attempt to describe how… my geology is patchy at best.

That being said, I do know about the legend of the giants (in Ireland and Scotland) that were challenged to fight. In order for this duel to take place, the giants created a causeway over the ocean (to Scotland)… so the legend goes. Still, to this day, you can see similar columns at Fingal’s Cave in Scotland. Apparently, it’s part of the same lava flow… though, the Giants will tell you different!

Oh, and remember, it’s free to visit Giant’s Causeway but you will need to pay if you want to explore the Visitor Centre (Which, I’d personally avoid). To access the causeway for free, follow through the archway at the side of the visitor’s centre, or if you’re not worried about heights,  explore it via the cliffs by going over the roof of the centre itself.

Whatever way you go, trust me when I say it’s one of the best places in Northern Ireland to visit.

2.) Explore Belfast

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Belfast is the capital city and one of the best places in Northern Ireland to visit for a city break.

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Once you’re here, visit the Titanic Belfast which has over nine galleries showcasing everything about the Titanic.

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Head to the HMS Caroline, the Belfast Cathedral, the Crumlin Road Gaol, and indulge in some amazing food at restaurants like Ox, James Street South, The Muddlers Club, and Howard Street.

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If you’ve got time, take a stroll to see Belfast City Hall and Belfast Castle, too.

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Finally, if you’re spending a few days in the city, pop out to see Stormont (a few miles from the city centre) that’s well worth seeing.

Read more: Best things to do in Belfast

3.) See The Dark Hedges

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Around a 50-minute drive from Belfast , the Dark Hedges has become one of the most popular and best places in Northern Ireland to visit.

Planted almost 300 years ago, the beech trees were chosen as an imposing entrance to Gracehill House (which it certainly does).

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Made even more famous from appearing in Game of Thrones, the Dark Hedges is a gorgeous little stopping point to see before exploring more of the north coast.

Just be aware that crowds can gather at peak times. This means it’s often best to go earlier in the morning and avoid holidays or weekends.

4.) Find the Glens of Antrim

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For one of the best places in Northern Ireland to experience nature, make sure to drive through the stunning Glens of Antrim. There are nine in total and each has its own charming and unique character that is incredible to explore.

Once here, make sure to explore Glenariff with its rugged beauty and waterfalls is known as the “Queen of the Glens”. Visit the beaches of Glenarm, Ballygally, Cushendall, and Carnlough. Oh, and a stopover at Slemish Mountain which is a beaut.

If you’re here in August, visit Cushendall for the “Heart of the Glens” music festival that’s pretty fun, too.

5.) See Carrickfergus Castle

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Honestly, Northern Ireland is full of some pretty stunning castles, with Carrickfergus Castle being no different.

Considered one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland, it’s a great place to explore for a few hours after leaving Belfast and a pretty easy place to wander around for a stop off in the area.

Read more: Best places to visit in Ireland

6.) Visit Old Bushmills Distillery

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You can’t go to Northern Ireland and not try some Irish whiskey!

Head to the oldest working distillery on the river banks in the quaint village of Bushmills. They have been handcrafting small batches of whiskey for over 400 years (yep, you read that correctly). The distillery is older than some countries!

Pop over for a tour and a little taster too! Just make sure to have a designated driver with you. No one likes a drunk driver.

7.) Explore Kinbane Castle

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Around 8 miles from Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Kinbane Castle (and Kinbane Head) is a stunning area to include on your trip around Northern Ireland.

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Once here, make sure to explore the area, and make sure to bring some sturdy shoes… the trek down and back up can be tough. If you struggle with steps or don’t fancy around 140-steps down, then it might be best to see Kinbane Castle from afar.

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Whatever you choose, it’s one of the more ‘hidden’ spots and the best places in Northern Ireland to explore.

Read more: Best castles in Ireland to explore

8.) Discover Dunluce Castle

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Around a 60-minute drive from Belfast , Dunluce Castle is one of the best places in Northern Ireland to visit if you love castles. Perched right over from Portrush, it’s one beautiful castle that’s history goes back centuries.

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Now, don’t worry if you don’t drive, you can easily get here by taking the train to Portrush and hopping on a bus or taxi to the castle area itself.

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Oh, and if you are a Game of Thrones fan, you will probably recognize Dunluce Castle as the House of Greyjoy Castle.

9.) Enjoy Ulster Folk and Transport Museum

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Ulster Folk and Transport Museum is a journey in itself. Travel back in time and see what life was like centuries ago in this one-of-a-kind spot.

Explore historic cottages, schools, farmhouses, shops, churches, and more, all like they were back in the day.

Whilst wandering around, you’ll spot over 500 original artefacts, and check out the steam locomotives, horse-drawn carriages, boats, electric trams, fire engines and amazing vintage cars in the Transport Museum.

10.) Hike the Cliffs of Magho & Lower Lough Erne

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Perched on the opposite end of Northern Ireland (from Belfast ), the Cliffs of Magho and Lower Lough Erne are some of the best places in Northern Ireland for views across the countryside.

Once here, make sure to explore go on a forest drive through the area or head out on foot on a cliff walk. The whole area is stunning and it’s just so peaceful.

11.) Stroll through Bangor

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Not to be confused with Bangor in Wales, Bangor in Northern Ireland is pretty close to Belfast and pretty easy to visit.

Once here, stroll through the Bangor Castle Walled Garden, chill at the Crawfordsburn Country Park, check out the Old Customs House, the Clandeboye, and enjoy taking a ramble to the marina. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful getaway from the city. Oh, and if you fancy a hike up the coast, join the Blackhead Path that’s around 5-8 miles from Bangor itself.

For a lovely place to stay, check into the Old Inn Crawfordsburn , which is around 2 miles from the centre.

Read more: Best hikes in Ireland

12.) Explore Derry

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Derry (also called Londonderry) may not be as popular as Belfast but add it to your list for its history, architecture, stunning skyline, and hip festivals. It really is one of the best places in Northern Ireland to visit if you want an authentic slice of Northern Irish life.

Once you’re here, check out the 17th Century walls, the 12 Bogside Murals on Rossville St., the Guildhall, the Tower Museum, the Museum of Free Derry, and The Peace Bridge which is easily the most beautiful bridge in Northern Ireland.

Oh, and don’t forget to pop into  Browns Bonds Hill that makes some of the best grub in Derry.

13.) Find Downhill Demesne

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There is no dearth of stunning views in Northern Ireland and the spectacular Downhill Demesne is proof of this for sure!

Now, Downhill Demesne is an 18th-century mansion that was built by Earl Bishop and the open grounds include gardens, woodlands, and “Hezlett House”, one of the oldest thatched cottages in this region.

The grounds are perfect for a picnic and the views from Mussenden Temple which is perched right on the cliff edge is out of this world.  It’s quite easy to pair up a visit to Downhill Demesne whilst you’re at Dunluce Castle, so plan your trip to include both.

14.) Walk Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

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Cross Northern Ireland’s most famous rope bridge, the Carrick-a-Rede which is close to Ballintoy in County Antrim.

It connects the mainland to the small island of Carrickarede and is 20 metres wide and 30 metres above the rocks (enough to make you gulp).

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Apparently, there have been bridges crossing the island for centuries, way back when local fishermen used to look for salmon nearby. Open all year round (as long as weather permits).

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Plus, if you’re interested in volcanoes, Carrickarede Island is said to be one of the very best volcanic plugs in the country.

15.) Explore the Kilkeel & Mourne Mountains

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If small towns are what you’re after, head to Kilkeel in County Down for a little exploration and a bite to eat.

With ancient ruins, winding streets, terraced shops and more, Kilkeel is a charming town that you can’t help but fall in love with. Once you’re here, make sure to gorge at Cunningham’s Kitchen (they make some of the best burgers in the area).

Afterwards, pop over to the Mourne Mountains which is one of the highest mountain ranges in the country. It’s easily up there as one of the best places in Northern Ireland to visit, especially if you love hiking (to spots like Slieve Donard).

19 Best Places In Ireland To Visit

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13 places to visit in northern ireland that won’t disappoint.

Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

Depending on your personal preferences, your hobbies and interests, you may know of Northern Ireland for a variety of different reasons; Perhaps for historical and political reasons with the Northern Ireland conflict, known as ‘ The Troubles ’ in the latter half of the 20 th Century, or pop culture aficionados will know it for its spectacular, other-worldly ‘Game of Thrones’ sets and yet others simply have a wonderful wish to see the famous Giant’s Causeway with their own eyes.

Clearly, Northern Ireland has its own special draw for all who visit. No matter your hankering, whether for countryside or cityscapes, for quiet or crowds, the birthplace of famous author C.S. Lewis, is as vast and rich as the author’s imagination.

1. Giant’s Causeway

Have you ever witnessed 40,000 interlocking basalt columns spanning almost five kilometers, along a windy, craggy, rocky coast, with wave upon wave crashing against the stones? The Giant’s Causeway , as it is known, is a sight you won’t soon forget! Cast from a volcanic fissure eruption, these tall columns, with curiously shaped hexagonal and pentagonal faces, lead from the foot of cliffs and disappear — some almost 12 metres tall.

2. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

The name just rolls right off the tongue, doesn’t it? The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is exactly as it sounds — except that you’ll be suspended almost 30 metres above sea level, making your way between the cliffs of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a pathway carved by salmon fishermen almost 350 years ago. There’s plenty of wildlife to spot here; on your walk, you’re sure to see seabirds, basking sharks and maybe even dolphins and porpoises.

While the coastline is open from dawn to dusk, access to the bridge runs from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm, every day. Note that the last tickets to cross the bridge are sold 45 minutes before site closure.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in Northern Ireland

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

3. Belfast City

There’s just so much to do in Belfast City , a mere day simply won’t do.

Plan to spend at least a day on an expansive tour of Belfast City with a Black Taxi Tours being a must do. These tours will take you around the city, setting the scene with their own personal stories, the histories of the locations you’re visiting and let you know what real life in Belfast was like then and now.

If you’ve got the afternoon to yourself, take a tour of the majestic Belfast Botanic Gardens, a local favourite, with its lush flora and lots of places to sit, as well as an incredible greenhouse structure known as the Palm House conservatory.

If you’re visiting on a Friday, make sure to check out the St. George market, one of Belfast’s oldest attractions. This Friday market runs into Saturday and Sunday and has become somewhat of a traveller-favourite, with people flocking from all over to find unique gifts and souvenirs, chat over a local cup of coffee, speak with Belfast’s traders and listen to local musicians.

4. Witness the Titanic Experience

As you can imagine, Northern Ireland’s heritage as a maritime power is a long one. But visiting the Titanic monument , open since 2012, is an experience unto itself. The former shipyards of Harland & Wolff are where the RMS Titanic was built.

Through the series of nine interpretive and interactive galleries, visitors can explore the shipyard, walk the decks, travel to the depths of the ocean and witness a recreated experience of the sights, sounds and even smells that those working on the ship, as well as those boarding the ship, would have experienced. It’s an entirely new way to put you in the shoes of those who travelled with her on her maiden — and final — voyage.

Tickets for the experience are £18.50 for adults and £8 for children from 5 – 16 years of age. Children under 5 get in for free and there are a variety of ticket packages to choose from.

5. Game of Thrones Film Locations

Remember our recommendation to plan to spend more than a day in Belfast? Well, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, add this item to your itinerary for sure! If you have the time, our ultimate 6 day Game of Thrones tour allows you to step into the worlds of George R. R. Martin, as we take you on an incredible journey to the most iconic of the series’ locations, from Winterfell, the home of the Starks, to the scenic Strangford Lough, location for the Narrow Sea and the Iron Islands.

Don’t miss a single second as your guide will take you trekking through old growth forests, along wild sea cliffs, across rocky beaches, into caves and crumbling medieval ruins.

6. Portrush and Dunluce Castle

Cropping out at the edge of the basalt cliffs in County Antrim (yes, the same place as the Giant’s Causeway) sits a craggy but majestic medieval Dunluce Castle . Located just five kilometres east of Portrush, a mere one hour walk along the coastal path and you’ll have arrived — but not before you brave the journey along a narrow bridge with extremely steep drops on either side. Just getting here is an adventure!

Once you’ve arrived, the views will capture you and the histories will set your imagination soaring. So incredibly picturesque and yet forlorn is the main fortress and the landscape it’s set against, you may spy a wedding party or two committing their vows with the castle as a backdrop. The price of admission is £3.50 for children and seniors and £5.50 for adults.

Dunluce Castle in Northern Ireland

Dunluce Castle

Make your way to Dunluce from the sleepy seaside resort town of Portrush, where there are plenty of fun things to do for the day. Head to Barry’s Amusements for a day and have a go on the wildest roller coaster. Or, if it’s particularly warm and your family fancies a dip, head to Waterworld, a water park with splashy slides and warm pools.

You could also visit the scenic and mysterious Portrush Whiterock Beach caves for a little picnic and exploration. Pack a change of clothes and good shoes for this experience of Northern Ireland!

7. Downhill Beach and Mussenden Temple

There is something wild, melancholy and yet beautiful about the rugged North Coast. And if you think it’s particularly familiar, you’re not wrong: Downhill Beach was used in the filming of Game of Thrones, the location of ‘Dragonstone’. When you visit, however, you’re likely to see 11 kilometres of sand and surf, where you can undertake various water sports, take scenic walks and explore all that nature has to offer.

Between Downhill Beach and Benone Complex lies the Ulster Wildlife Nature Reserve, a protected area of sand dunes and rife with flora and fauna like butterflies, moths, bees, rare orchids, adders’-tongue, moonwort, skylark, mistle thrush and more.

From Downhill Beach, you can walk up to Mussenden Temple, one of the most photographed structures in the North. The temple itself looks more like an observatory and, indeed, you’ll be able to witness the stunning views of the beach below and the horizon above. The grounds also include access to the fading but beautiful Downhill Castle, open all year long from dawn to dusk.

8. Derry (The Walled City)

Sitting on the River Foyle, Derry is best known for its 17th-century Derry’s Walls with its seven gates, spanning 26 feet high and 30 feet wide. The Walled City, as it’s known, is a historic site and you’ll be able to learn all about it at the Tower Museum, spread over five floors, with its uppermost level dedicated to stunning panoramic views of the city.

From here, you can spy the Peace Bridge or head there yourself. Right on the River Foyle, the modern cycle and footbridge sits like a handshake between a historically divided community in Northern Ireland. If gothic spires and stone-faced architecture is more your thing, don’t miss a visit to the stained-glass beauty of St. Columb’s Cathedral.

A much-loved attraction for literary aficionados, the Seamus Heaney Centre in Ballaghy, County Derry celebrates the life and legacy of the late poet, playwright and Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney, who was born in Derry. “Deeply moving and inspirational” and “Simply beautiful” are words from previous visitors about this cultural and truly inspiring stop for your Derry visit.

9. Rathlin Island

Just about 10 kilometres wide, Rathlin Island is tiny but absolutely brimming with wildlife. The touches of natural beauty here are simply unmistakable and your trip is sure to include plenty of seabird-watching. Visit any time from April to June, in particular, and you’ll be right in the midst of puffin season.

You can also explore working lighthouses on the island, or one of the best ways to tour the island yourself is to rent a bike . There are plenty of cycles for hire and you’ll be able to bike along the shore to Mill Bay, where more than a few resident seals play. You can also head to the Boathouse Visitor Centre and learn all about the history of Rathlin Island, including artefacts from shipwrecks

10. Whiskey Tasting in The Old Bushmills Distillery

Can a trip to Northern Ireland ever  truly be complete without whiskey tasting at the Old Bushmills Distillery ? We thought not. It is the oldest working distillery in Ireland and when you embark on a tour of its factory, taking sips of your whiskey all along, you’ll understand why. Bushmills has always specialised in producing small batches of handcrafted, smooth tasting whiskey, a process that has been passed down for generations.

The distillery is open to the public and tickets cost £8 for adults and £4.50 for children. Children under 8 are welcome on site with their parents but are not permitted on the tours.

11. Northern Lights

This is one of those natural phenomena you probably have on your bucket list — so why not cross it off in Northern Ireland? When trying to get a good view of this majestic light show put on by nature, the key is to avoid light pollution. The Northern Lights are probably dancing above your head the whole time, but it’s hard to see them. So, head up to Donegal along the northern headlands and hopefully with a bit of luck, you’ll be able to get a really good glimpse.

The best viewing time is from November to February, between 9 pm and 1 am.

12. Drive the Causeway Coastal Route

So, you want to see it all, even if you don’t get to  do it all, and you’re looking for a route that will help you stop, get out and take it all in? Explore some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic spots, along the most scenic of routes: the  Causeway Coastal Route . Load up your car at Belfast and travel the 190-kilometre route, all the way to Lough Foyle, and expect to meet historic little castles, golden sand dunes, beautiful golf courses, quaint little fishing villages, silent glens, craggy cliffs and serene, unspoilt beaches.

Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland

Causeway Coastal Route

13. Ulster American Folk Park

Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm, the Ulster American Folk Park is an unforgettable experience. Here, you can actually partake in the journey of those who, hundreds of years ago, set out on the long and difficult journey from the Atlantic coast to America. Wander through the quaint villages, with their thatched cottages and log cabins, and meet the villagers (in costume, of course!) who are proud to tell you more about the traditions, ways of life, and histories. Break bread with the locals, witness a militia parade, and explore the more than 30 buildings and exhibits.

Northern Ireland is well-connected and many of the activities and trips on this list can be undertaken in a day or so. The counties all slip into one another and the locations like Mussenden Temple, Giant’s Causeway and Derry are all easily accessible. Make sure to pack a poncho or some rain gear, however, as the maritime weather can change quickly.

As well as our popular Game of Thrones tour, many of our other tours take in the wonderful sights and sounds of the North of Ireland. Depending on your preference, choose from private escorted tours, coach tours or self-drive tours.

Our 7 Day Great Northern Ireland tour is available as a private tour or as a self-drive option. Our 6 Day Northern Ireland Small Group Tour is also a very popular option, where you can meet fellow travelers and share stories during your discovery of beautiful Northern Ireland.

A lot of our Private Tours of Ireland and Self-Drive Tours of Ireland include a night in Derry and a night in Belfast. We can tailor any of our self-drive and private tours to include Northern Ireland on your travel itinerary should you wish.

Our expert guides can escort you and tell you about the history and modern-day life of Northern Ireland, showing you historic sites and hidden treasures along the way. Or make your own way with our self-drive option.

Contact us and we can help you decide on the best tour option for you.

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Condé Nast Traveler

Condé Nast Traveler

The 19 Most Beautiful Places in Ireland, From Inconceivable Rock Formations to Medieval Architecture

Posted: November 17, 2023 | Last updated: March 7, 2024

<p>It’s impossible to visit Ireland and <em>not</em> fall in love with it. The small but mighty country is home to friendly locals, historical landmarks, and charming cities—plus staggering natural beauty—that will have you planning your next trip before you’ve even finished your first.</p> <p>To help you plan your next trip to the Emerald Isle, we’ve compiled a list of the most beautiful places in Ireland (including Northern Ireland). We included <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/most-beautiful-small-towns-in-the-world?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">colorful small towns</a>, under-the-radar islands, and obvious showstoppers like the Cliffs of Moher, as well as many other attractions to add to your itinerary.</p> <p>Whether you decide to embark on a multi-week <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-road-trips-uk-ireland?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">road trip</a> or just visit the country’s greatest hits over a long weekend, be sure to visit at least a few of these stunning attractions—you (and your camera roll) will thank us later.</p> <p><em>This gallery was originally published in 2016. It has been updated with new information.</em></p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

It’s impossible to visit Ireland and not fall in love with it. The small but mighty country is home to friendly locals, historical landmarks, and charming cities—plus staggering natural beauty—that will have you planning your next trip before you’ve even finished your first.

To help you plan your next trip to the Emerald Isle, we’ve compiled a list of the most beautiful places in Ireland (including Northern Ireland). We included colorful small towns , under-the-radar islands, and obvious showstoppers like the Cliffs of Moher, as well as many other attractions to add to your itinerary.

Whether you decide to embark on a multi-week road trip or just visit the country’s greatest hits over a long weekend, be sure to visit at least a few of these stunning attractions—you (and your camera roll) will thank us later.

This gallery was originally published in 2016. It has been updated with new information.

Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Clare</p> <p>You might know them better as the Cliffs of Insanity from <em>The Princess Bride,</em> but this seaside wonder is actually located <a href="http://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-07-07/driving-ireland-coast-to-coast-dublin-cliffs-of-moher/8?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">just south of Galway</a>. Stretching for five miles along the Atlantic coast, the 400-foot-high cliffs offer one of Ireland’s, shall we say, most <a href="https://youtu.be/Urhw_kPDkoo"><em>inconceivable</em></a> views.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Cliffs of Moher

Location: County Clare

You might know them better as the Cliffs of Insanity from The Princess Bride, but this seaside wonder is actually located just south of Galway . Stretching for five miles along the Atlantic coast, the 400-foot-high cliffs offer one of Ireland’s, shall we say, most inconceivable views.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Dublin</p> <p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/story/inside-guinness-secret-bar-in-dublin?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">Dublin</a>’s Trinity College—the oldest university in Ireland—has no shortage of beautiful buildings and green lawns, but the main attraction is the Old Library’s Long Room. The vast hall holds 200,000 books and 14 marble busts under its barrel-vaulted ceiling—with the intricately illustrated <em>Book of Kells</em> being the centerpiece of a <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/places-book-lovers-need-to-visit?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">bibliophilic dream</a>.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Trinity College

Location: County Dublin

Dublin ’s Trinity College—the oldest university in Ireland—has no shortage of beautiful buildings and green lawns, but the main attraction is the Old Library’s Long Room. The vast hall holds 200,000 books and 14 marble busts under its barrel-vaulted ceiling—with the intricately illustrated Book of Kells being the centerpiece of a bibliophilic dream .

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Kerry</p> <p>The Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile-long drive that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula, is really like several dozen beautiful places packed into one: The route passes by Killarney National Park, Skellig Michael, and several more entries on this list. Driving (<a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/story/best-hiking-in-europe?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">or hiking</a>) the Ring of Kerry is a great activity for first-time visitors to Ireland, as it perfectly showcases the country’s green spaces and Atlantic coast.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

The Ring of Kerry

Location: County Kerry

The Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile-long drive that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula, is really like several dozen beautiful places packed into one: The route passes by Killarney National Park, Skellig Michael, and several more entries on this list. Driving ( or hiking ) the Ring of Kerry is a great activity for first-time visitors to Ireland, as it perfectly showcases the country’s green spaces and Atlantic coast.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Sligo</p> <p>Formed hundreds of millions of years ago, this limestone formation hovers over Sligo like something from a <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/story/books-to-read-this-summer?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">fantasy novel</a>. Benbulben’s paved trails make it a popular destination for hikers and climbers, but the peak is perhaps best known for its literary associations. Irish poet W. B. Yeats drew inspiration from the mountain and its surrounding landscapes, most notably in his 1938 poem “Under Ben Bulben.”</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Benbulben Mountain

Location: County Sligo

Formed hundreds of millions of years ago, this limestone formation hovers over Sligo like something from a fantasy novel . Benbulben’s paved trails make it a popular destination for hikers and climbers, but the peak is perhaps best known for its literary associations. Irish poet W. B. Yeats drew inspiration from the mountain and its surrounding landscapes, most notably in his 1938 poem “Under Ben Bulben.”

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Galway</p> <p>Galway is in a prime location on Ireland’s west coast, close to the Aran Islands and Connemara region. But the town itself is so charming, you might find yourself sticking close to the cobblestoned streets and ancient architecture for at least a day or two. During the day, make time to snap some photos of the Spanish Arch and the Claddagh, an area by Galway Bay where you’ll find rows of colorful buildings and swans floating by.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Location: County Galway

Galway is in a prime location on Ireland’s west coast, close to the Aran Islands and Connemara region. But the town itself is so charming, you might find yourself sticking close to the cobblestoned streets and ancient architecture for at least a day or two. During the day, make time to snap some photos of the Spanish Arch and the Claddagh, an area by Galway Bay where you’ll find rows of colorful buildings and swans floating by.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Antrim</p> <p>Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder worthy of its whimsical moniker. The <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2014-12-23/most-beautiful-unesco-world-heritage-sites-galapagos-taj-mahal-yosemite?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">UNESCO World Heritage Site</a> is made up of 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns, which were formed by volcanic activity 40–50 million years ago. Local lore tells the story a bit differently: Allegedly, a giant named Finn McCool tossed parts of the Antrim coast into the sea to beat a hasty path to fight a giant Scottish interloper. No matter how they got there, the rocks fit together as perfectly as puzzle pieces.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Giant’s Causeway

Location: County Antrim

Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder worthy of its whimsical moniker. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns, which were formed by volcanic activity 40–50 million years ago. Local lore tells the story a bit differently: Allegedly, a giant named Finn McCool tossed parts of the Antrim coast into the sea to beat a hasty path to fight a giant Scottish interloper. No matter how they got there, the rocks fit together as perfectly as puzzle pieces.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Kerry</p> <p>You could spend an entire day exploring the 41-square-mile <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/story/a-locals-guide-to-kerry-ireland?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">Killarney National Park</a>, from the towering Torc Waterfall to the 15th-century Ross Castle. One of the park’s greatest treasures is its population of wild red deer, which have lived in Ireland since the last Ice Age but now only survive in Killarney. Above all else, the park is most famous for its reflective lakes, which cover nearly a quarter of the entire reserve.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Killarney National Park

You could spend an entire day exploring the 41-square-mile Killarney National Park , from the towering Torc Waterfall to the 15th-century Ross Castle. One of the park’s greatest treasures is its population of wild red deer, which have lived in Ireland since the last Ice Age but now only survive in Killarney. Above all else, the park is most famous for its reflective lakes, which cover nearly a quarter of the entire reserve.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Mayo</p> <p>Overlooking a lake in County Mayo, <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/hotels/ireland/cong/ashford-castle-hotel-co-mayo?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">Ashford Castle</a> has been around since 1228—but don’t go expecting an old-fashioned experience. The hotel underwent a $75 million renovation in 2015, which added a cinema, cigar room, billiard room, and wine cellars to the already luxurious 82-room property. The crown jewel of the property is probably the spa, which is located in a bronze former conservatory and features an indoor pool adorned with white and gold tiles.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Ashford Castle

Location: County Mayo

Overlooking a lake in County Mayo, Ashford Castle has been around since 1228—but don’t go expecting an old-fashioned experience. The hotel underwent a $75 million renovation in 2015, which added a cinema, cigar room, billiard room, and wine cellars to the already luxurious 82-room property. The crown jewel of the property is probably the spa, which is located in a bronze former conservatory and features an indoor pool adorned with white and gold tiles.

This group of medieval buildings (some dating back to the 12th century) situated on an outcrop of limestone is easily one of the most beautiful places in Ireland. Don’t miss the Romanesque Cormac’s Chapel or the Hall of the Vicars, which houses several Celtic relics like the original Cross of St. Patrick. Oh, and the views over the Golden Vale aren’t too shabby either.<p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Rock of Cashel

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Kerry</p> <p>Although the boat ride out to Skellig Michael from the coast of County Kerry can be a rocky one, it’s well worth the effort. The craggy, emerald-green island houses the remains of a 6th-century monastery, which you can explore after ascending a chillingly steep 600-step climb. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find a <a href="http://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2015-12-23/10-things-star-wars-can-teach-us-about-travel?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">brooding Luke Skywalker</a> once you reach the top.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Skellig Michael

Although the boat ride out to Skellig Michael from the coast of County Kerry can be a rocky one, it’s well worth the effort. The craggy, emerald-green island houses the remains of a 6th-century monastery, which you can explore after ascending a chillingly steep 600-step climb. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find a brooding Luke Skywalker once you reach the top.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Antrim</p> <p>This avenue of beech trees in Northern Ireland dates back to the 18th century—over time, the trees have grown and intertwined to create a natural tunnel-like canopy. The site is both eerie and beautiful, which is probably why it was famously chosen as a <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/game-of-thrones-filming-locations?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">filming location</a> for the first season of <em>Game of Thrones</em>.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

The Dark Hedges

This avenue of beech trees in Northern Ireland dates back to the 18th century—over time, the trees have grown and intertwined to create a natural tunnel-like canopy. The site is both eerie and beautiful, which is probably why it was famously chosen as a filming location for the first season of Game of Thrones .

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Cork</p> <p>Cobh redefines charming with its rows of candy-colored homes along the water and towering cathedral standing sentry over the harbor. <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/25-most-beautiful-small-towns-in-europe?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">This small town</a> is particularly popular with cruise-lovers—about 60 ships stop there every year. In fact, Cobh was the final port of call for the RMS <em>Titanic,</em> and a commemorative museum stands in the city today.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Location: County Cork

Cobh redefines charming with its rows of candy-colored homes along the water and towering cathedral standing sentry over the harbor. This small town is particularly popular with cruise-lovers—about 60 ships stop there every year. In fact, Cobh was the final port of call for the RMS Titanic, and a commemorative museum stands in the city today.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Galway</p> <p>Mountains and valleys, lakes and streams, all combine to make Connemara one of the loveliest regions in Ireland. See Kylemore Abbey in the heart of the Connemara mountains for proof. This impressive structure was built in 1868 as one of the great neo-Gothic castles of the period. It is now a Benedictine abbey run by nuns, and the church and gardens have been completely restored.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Kylemore Abbey

Mountains and valleys, lakes and streams, all combine to make Connemara one of the loveliest regions in Ireland. See Kylemore Abbey in the heart of the Connemara mountains for proof. This impressive structure was built in 1868 as one of the great neo-Gothic castles of the period. It is now a Benedictine abbey run by nuns, and the church and gardens have been completely restored.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Donegal</p> <p>Inishowen is Ireland’s largest peninsula, occupying over 218,500 acres off the northern coast of the country. Due to its location, the peninsula is the best place in the country to view the Northern Lights; head to places like Dunree or Malin Head (the most northerly tip of Ireland) between November and February for increased visibility. Even if you don’t have luck spotting the aurora borealis, Inishowen’s unspoiled landscapes are fantastic road trip material—it is the last (or first) stop on the <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-road-trips-in-the-world?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">Wild Atlantic Way</a>, after all.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Location: County Donegal

Inishowen is Ireland’s largest peninsula, occupying over 218,500 acres off the northern coast of the country. Due to its location, the peninsula is the best place in the country to view the Northern Lights; head to places like Dunree or Malin Head (the most northerly tip of Ireland) between November and February for increased visibility. Even if you don’t have luck spotting the aurora borealis, Inishowen’s unspoiled landscapes are fantastic road trip material—it is the last (or first) stop on the Wild Atlantic Way , after all.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Wicklow</p> <p>Glendalough is a 6th-century monastery and popular Catholic pilgrimage destination, as the settlement was founded by Saint Kevin (aka Kevin of Glendalough). Religious significance aside, travelers will enjoy the valley for its well-preserved ruins, green countryside, and <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/most-beautiful-lakes-in-the-world?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">beautiful lakes</a>.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Glendalough

Location: County Wicklow

Glendalough is a 6th-century monastery and popular Catholic pilgrimage destination, as the settlement was founded by Saint Kevin (aka Kevin of Glendalough). Religious significance aside, travelers will enjoy the valley for its well-preserved ruins, green countryside, and beautiful lakes .

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Galway</p> <p>The Aran Islands consist of three windswept isles—Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer—off the west coast of Ireland. All three locations have a rugged, bleak beauty, but we might have to pick Inishmore as our favorite—it’s here you’ll find the 2,000-year-old ruins of Dún Aenghus, a Celtic fortress clinging to a cliff top as if declaring this to be the actual edge of the world.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands consist of three windswept isles—Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer—off the west coast of Ireland. All three locations have a rugged, bleak beauty, but we might have to pick Inishmore as our favorite—it’s here you’ll find the 2,000-year-old ruins of Dún Aenghus, a Celtic fortress clinging to a cliff top as if declaring this to be the actual edge of the world.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Kerry</p> <p>Pointing into the Atlantic Ocean like a finger, the Dingle Peninsula is an incredible stretch of natural beauty: <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-09-29/the-worlds-most-insanely-beautiful-coastlines?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">seaside cliffs</a>, sheep-strewn fields, and Crayola-green hills. A short ferry ride away are the Blasket Islands, which once hosted a thriving community of Irish writers, but were abandoned in the 1950s after young residents emigrated en masse. Today, the on-site heritage museum—and remote, empty landscapes—are lovely yet somber reminders of a community lost.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Dingle Peninsula

Pointing into the Atlantic Ocean like a finger, the Dingle Peninsula is an incredible stretch of natural beauty: seaside cliffs , sheep-strewn fields, and Crayola-green hills. A short ferry ride away are the Blasket Islands, which once hosted a thriving community of Irish writers, but were abandoned in the 1950s after young residents emigrated en masse. Today, the on-site heritage museum—and remote, empty landscapes—are lovely yet somber reminders of a community lost.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Clare</p> <p>The Burren (Irish for “great rock”) is not only unearthly and ethereal—it’s a geological rarity. The 150-square-mile area consists of thick layers of limestone dotted with a unique <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/15-beautiful-pictures-of-spring-flowers-around-the-world?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">variety of flowers</a>, ranging from arctic wildflowers to 25 different species of orchids. Visit in May to see most of the flora in full bloom.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

The Burren (Irish for “great rock”) is not only unearthly and ethereal—it’s a geological rarity. The 150-square-mile area consists of thick layers of limestone dotted with a unique variety of flowers , ranging from arctic wildflowers to 25 different species of orchids. Visit in May to see most of the flora in full bloom.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> County Antrim</p> <p>Suspended almost 100 feet above sea level, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was first built by salmon fishermen over 200 years ago. Although the last fish was caught here in 2002, somewhere around a quarter of a million visitors cross the bridge for both thrills and scenery. Tourists walking the 66-foot path are rewarded with views of Rathlin Island, <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2016-04-06/10-amazing-things-you-need-to-see-in-scotland?mbid=synd_msn_rss&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=syndication">Scotland</a>, and the Irish Sea. A lucky few might even spot some sharks and porpoises below in the water...if they dare to look down.</p><p>Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel</p><a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/newsletter/the-daily?sourceCode=msnsend">Inspire Me</a>

Carrick-a-Rede

Suspended almost 100 feet above sea level, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was first built by salmon fishermen over 200 years ago. Although the last fish was caught here in 2002, somewhere around a quarter of a million visitors cross the bridge for both thrills and scenery. Tourists walking the 66-foot path are rewarded with views of Rathlin Island, Scotland , and the Irish Sea. A lucky few might even spot some sharks and porpoises below in the water...if they dare to look down.

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17 Best Cities in Ireland to Visit in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 4, 2024

We have had the privilege of visiting Ireland several times, and when visiting the ‘Emerald Isle,’ its cities are some of the best places to embrace Irish culture. Irish cities are magical, full of local history, myths and legends, art galleries, pubs, and friendly locals. Whether you visit Dublin for major attractions like the Guinness Storehouse and the Book of Kells, or you head to Galway for traditional music and street art, you will fall in love with the lively cities in Ireland.

Table of Contents

Best Cities in Ireland

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best cities in Ireland and Northern Ireland. These are the places where you will make lasting memories during your stay.

The best way to get around Ireland is by renting a car. You can compare car rental prices here. We have taken road trips along the Wild Atlantic Way, on Ireland’s west coast, with island day trips, cobbled streets, and live music and along the Causeway Coast to see some of Northern Ireland’s most awe-inspiring attractions. We have explored lesser-visited cities in Ireland and each one is just as memorable as the last.

Dublin is Ireland’s largest city and the capital of the Republic of Ireland. We recommend spending at least three days in Dublin before traveling to the different cities in Ireland. Located on the River Liffey, Dublin has hundreds of attractions at your fingertips.

Top attractions in this popular Irish City are endless including a visit to the famous Kilmainham Gaol, the GPO Museum, Dublin Castle, and the Guinness Storehouse (read more about our experience  here ).

Dublin Castle is one of the most famous  medieval castles  in the world, dating back to the 13th century. It is now a government building, but that doesn’t stop tourists from coming to see it.

Trinity College, the Book of Kells, and the famous Temple Bar. Dublin is easily one of the best cities in Ireland for history lovers, with stories of the Easter Rising in 1916 to ancient stories within the pages of the Book of Kells. It’s also a city of academia; Dublin is officially Yeats country and houses Trinity College, which educated the likes of Oscar Wilde .

There are so many  things to do in Dublin , and if you want to visit Ireland for  St Patrick’s Day , you will want to be in Dublin. If you want to escape the city, Dublin is just a hop skip, and a jump from the Wicklow Mountains where you can go hiking or horseback riding.

When visiting Dublin, pick up a  Dublin Pass . The Dublin Pass is an excellent way to save money on Dublin attractions giving you entrance to 35 attractions including the Dublin Hop-on Hop-Off Big Bus Tour, Guinness Storehouse, James Joyce Centre, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral (where Saint Patrick himself St Patrick baptised Christians) and many more. Details here .

Plan Your Dublin Vacation

  • 35 Best Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland
  • Where to Stay in Dublin, Ireland: Best Areas and Hotels for Every Budget
  • Guinness Storehouse in Dublin – The Ultimate Tasting Tour

2. Cork City

As the second largest city in Ireland, it once had a reputation as the capital of ‘Rebel Country.’ Cork natives sometimes claim they are the real ‘capital of Ireland.’ We love this city located in the South of the Emerald Isle, and others agree, Cork is a much-loved tourist destination.

If you haven’t visited Cork, you are truly missing out. The best things to do in Cork include day-tripping to Blarney Castle to Kiss the Blarney Stone. The Blarney Stone may be what has attracted tourists to the area for the gift of the Gab, but Blarney Castle is an excellent destination in its own right.

In Cork City proper, you can ring the Bells of Shannon, visit the English Market is a fantastic place for organic and locally produced food, and check out the history at Elizabeth Fort, a 17th-century old city fortress. You should also head down to the small towns around Cork Harbour, the second-largest natural harbor in the world. It’s near Cork Harbour, where you’ll find beautiful Cobh, a colorful seaside town and the Titanic’s last port of call in 1912.

Plan Your Trip to Cork

  • The Best Things to do in Cork, Ireland
  • Kiss the Blarney Stone for the Gift of the Gab

3. Galway City

Galway City is impossible not to love. If you are looking for the best cities in Ireland, look no further than the fifth-largest city.

Despite its growing size, Galway retains an authentic charm that has inspired the likes of Ed Sheeran to write a song about it. Make sure to add Galway to your Emerald Isle Itinerary to really enjoy traditional Irish music and friendly locals.

The real hive in Galway is its colorful old town, lined with cobbled streets and boldly painted independent shops. The city is undoubtedly the best place to visit in Ireland for creatives or anyone looking to get a ‘small town experience.’

Galway City is split in half by the River Corrib and sits on Ireland’s west coast, overlooking Galway Bay. It is a brilliant spot for an Irish road trip.

Galway is located directly on the Wild Atlantic Way, with many of the  route’s beautiful viewpoints  – like the Cliffs of Moher- just a short drive away. You can also use Galway as a base to take day trips to the gorgeous west coast islands. This is also the jumping-off point for the Aran Islands.

Book a cruise to see the Aran Islands here. However, if you can, we highly recommend spending two nights on one of the Aran Islands. We spent 3 days on the Inis Mór – Fun Fact, the Colin Farrell Movie, the Banshees of Inishmore was filmed on the Aran Islands.

Plan Your Trip to Galway

  • 22 Best Things To Do In Galway, Ireland
  • Cliffs of Moher: The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Ireland’s Top Attraction

Make sure to visit the Latin Quarter, which is Galway’s ‘old town’ and full of cobbles and street art. For those who know their Irish history, it’s also worth stopping by Saint Nicholas Collegiate Church, a 14th-century church visited by Oliver Cromwell. Meanwhile, for less morbid history, you can appreciate the 16th-century city walls by visiting the Spanish Arch.

Finish your days in Galway with visits to its many art galleries, and of course, check out its live music scene after dark.

4. Limerick City

Limerick is another of Ireland’s largest cities, but this time, it has a reputation for Viking and Medieval history. It was a walled city established by Vikings, making it one of Ireland’s oldest and current largest. It is located on the southwest coast, near the mouth of the River Shannon.

This location once made it a prime target for Viking settlers. But, for modern-day tourists, its location now makes it a great city break just off the Wild Atlantic Way’s path. Limerick is ideally located for a day trip to natural beauty like the Cliffs of Moher. However, it’s also a solace of urban sightseeing amongst tiny country lanes and five building villages.

Top attractions in Limerick include the Treaty Stone, the Hunt Museum for Art and Archaeology, the medieval fortress of King John’s Castle, and the spectacular International Rugby Experience. To embrace the characteristic Viking history in the city, you can walk the Limerick Medieval Trail, taking you through the medieval buildings of English Town with fifteen different points of historical interest. This self-guided walking tour is a great way to see Limerick through early Viking eyes.

It’s the Viking history that really solidifies Limerick as one of the best cities in Ireland. Limerick is also a fantastic city in the southwest, providing an  excellent place to stay on the Wild Atlantic Way  for an urban break.

5. Waterford

Waterford is another Viking-created city on the island. Founded in 914 AD by Ragnall, Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city and has some unusual claims to fame. It has had its fingers in a few different pots, particularly once known as Ireland’s wine and glass-making capital.

Its coastal location has meant Waterford has remained a trading hub, typical of a port city. It has picked up numerous different industries and has an underlying production-minded subculture. You can still find Waterford Crystal in shops around the city center and at the House of Waterford Museum. As for Waterford wine, you can visit the 15th-century Mayor’s Wine Vault at the Medieval Museum.

Attraction highlights of Waterford include Reginald’s Tower, the Irish Museum of Time, Bishop’s Palace, and Waterford Nature Park. We had to add Waterford to this guide, partly because of its busy production mindset, which makes for some great historical sightseeing, and partly because of its title as Ireland’s oldest city. If you want to learn more about Ireland’s unique production industries and earliest days, Waterford is a compact city you can happily sightsee on foot.

Small Sligo may be a town, but in our eyes, it’s special enough to justify a position amongst the best cities to visit in Ireland. City status means nothing when you check out Sligo’s literature history, and it has tons to offer tourists in the way of sightseeing.

Sligo sits on the Northwest Coast of Ireland, near the magical site of Queen Maeve’s Cairn, a megalithic tomb atop a Knocknarea mountain, and Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery – the largest of its kind in Ireland.

Sligo is an ideal place to stop for a few nights on a road trip, and it’s easy to see why it inspired so much literature. The town is surrounded by ancient architecture, and its pretty town center is scenically sliced by the gentle Garavogue River. You should definitely visit the Yeats Society, Sligo Country Museum, and Sligo Abbey in the town itself.

Sligo is shrouded in ancient mystery, dramatized by its extensive literature history. We love its proximity to some of Ireland’s most beloved megalithic tombs, and it’s a beautiful place to visit in Ireland for an insight into this darker history.

Athlone is a chronically overlooked city to visit in Ireland but trust us, if you stop here, you will love it. Ahlone dates back to the Bronze Age and was even involved in the Jacobite Rising; you’ll find tons of lesser-known historical sites and quiet archaeological sites . It is also a popular stop on bus tours to visit the oldest pub in the world! During our River Shannon Cruise, we parked right in front of Sean’s Bar to enjoy a pint in the world’s oldest pub.

Athlone is a beautiful city split in half by the River Shannon and located right next to Lough Ree. We loved spending two nights in this historic city and visiting the 6th-century site of Clonmacnoise. Read about it here.

8. Kilkenny City

Kilkenny is one of our favorite cities in Ireland. It is a treasure trove of historical and cultural riches. Nestled in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, Kilkenny City boasts a stunning medieval landscape, complete with cobbled streets, ancient stone buildings, and the iconic Kilkenny Castle.

This city is not only steeped in history but also thrives as a center of contemporary arts, hosting numerous festivals throughout the year that showcase the best in Irish craft, design, and music.

The bustling streets of Kilkenny are lined with artisan boutiques, inviting cafes, and traditional pubs where one can savor the local cuisine and enjoy the renowned Irish hospitality. Whether you’re exploring the well-preserved Kilkenny Castle, wandering through the enchanting Rothe House and Garden, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Kilkenny offers a uniquely enriching experience that captures the essence of Ireland’s cultural and historical splendor.

There’s also St Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum, Rothe House and Garden, St Mary’s Cathedral, and St Canice’s Cathedral. Smithwick’s Experience is a must, too, guiding you through a multi-sensory tour of how Ireland’s oldest ale came to be formed.

Wexford is easily one of the best cities to visit in Ireland. The major city sits on Ireland’s east coast, which, as you already know, was predominantly founded by Viking settlers. It has an excellent maritime heritage and stunning sandy beaches, many of which are designated Blue Flag Beaches for their cleanliness and safety. It is less industrial than Waterford, with more of a lingering historical atmosphere. You can enjoy condensed culture in its extremely walkable center or use it as a day trip launchpad – more on that in a second.

The best inner-city attractions in Wexford are the National Opera House, Wexford Harbour, and the ruins of Selskar Abbey, where the first Anglo-Irish treaty was signed. Wexford has many medieval lanes and narrow streets in its modern-day shopping quarter. It’s a fun place for some retail therapy with a historical backdrop, one of the main reasons we added it to this guide.

The second reason is Wexford’s day trip potential. It is less than a 10-minute drive from the incredible Irish National Heritage Park, which tells the story of Irish settlement over 9,000 years with recreated houses and costumed guides over 35 acres.

10. Tullamore

Beautiful Tullamore is one of Ireland’s best cities to visit, with fewer tourists than other cities. Located in County Offaly, one of the central counties in Ireland, it has excellent access to the almost tourist-free Slieve Bloom Mountains.

As if this peaceful, off-the-beaten-track setting wasn’t good enough, Tullamore is also known for its whiskey, and you can take guided whiskey tours at the Tullamore DEW Distillery.

The Grand Canal splits the center and has beautiful waterfront views. You should prioritize visits to Shra Castle, Charleville Castle, and the Clara Boardwalk, which treats you to gorgeous views over one of Offaly’s famous bogs. Bogs are crucial to rural culture, historically providing peat to heat homes and that peaty flavor in certain Irish whiskies, like Tullamore Whiskey.

Tullamore is a great place to visit in Ireland to get an insight into rural culture. It provides the perfect springboard for bog tourism and ancient castles, plus, of course, the chance to sample some of the tastiest Irish whiskey.

The small port city sits on the western Dingle Peninsula, you guessed it, right on the beautiful Wild Atlantic Way’s path; so it’s a must-stop-off if you decide to  road trip the Wild Atlantic Way . Dingle has an inspiring relationship with nature and is a much quieter version of Galway Bay. We just had to add it to our list of the best cities in Ireland.

Dingle is children’s book worthy, having piggybacked its fame from the tale of Fungie the Dolphin, a famous lone dolphin that used to call Dingle Harbour home. Now, you can still take  boat tours to go dolphin spotting  or visit the Fungie statue in the harbor – which immortalizes everyone’s favorite Dingle resident.

In addition to dolphin spotting, you should also check out the Dingle Distillery and Kingdom Falconry. And if you have time for day trips, take a boat tour to the Blasket Islands.

What Adare lacks in city status, it makes up tenfold in character. Its buildings are so aesthetic and it holds so much culture that we just had to include it. It is so beautiful that it is a designated heritage town, with a mixture of colorful traditional terraces and white-washed cottages with thatched roofs. Adare is no hidden gem, but if you can visit off-season, you won’t find it overcrowded. It is like a time capsule, whisking you back to 12th-century Ireland.

When visiting, you must see the thatched cottages, now turned into gift shops like Lucy Eridge, and restaurants like the gorgeous Blue Door Restaurant. You should also visit Adare Castle and the Augustinian Friary. Adare is all about atmosphere and stunning traditional aesthetic.

Adare is the ideal addition to a city break in Limerick. If you have a long weekend, we suggest spending a night there before driving back to Limerick for its airport and major city amenities.

13. Donegal

Introducing Donegal: one of the most popular cities in Ireland. Donegal is set in its same-named county, County Donegal, nicknamed Ireland’s Forgotten County. Dramatic sea cliffs and barren moorland surround the city, and it’s where to visit if you want plenty of day trips into nearby wilderness. Donegal is a brilliant stop-off for a few nights if you follow the Wild Atlantic Way’s route down the west coast.

Donegal Castle and the Railway Heritage Museum are other must-visits in the city. However, Donegal is far from surrounded by natural beauty and happy-go-lucky history. It’s also a harrowing city to learn about the impact of the famine. The Great Famine hit in the mid-19th century and  led to the death of approximately 25% of the Irish population . A visit to Donegal’s Famine Graveyard is a must to help comprehend the tragedy of the conflict-driven famine.

Donegal is a great place to visit and experience a huge spectrum of Irish history, culture, and nature in a tiny area. With a beautiful location and lots to teach tourists, it is an easy addition to our list of the best cities to visit in Ireland.

14. Killarney

Killarney is beautifully located on the outskirts of Killarney National Park in County Kerry. County Kerry is located smack dab in the middle of two of Ireland’s most iconic scenic drives: the Wild Atlantic and the Ring of Kerry. It’s the perfect base to go on  horseback rides  or explore waterfall trails and forests on foot in the Killarney National Park, heading back for a cozy pub dinner in Killarney in the evenings. And if you want to experience Ireland’s ‘deep south’, this is your choice.

Killarney itself has a neo-Gothic architectural style and a small center. You can take a tour by  horse and carriage , visit Killarney House and Gardens, and test your tastebuds at the Irish Whiskey Experience. Killarney is also ideally located on a day trip to some  unique things to do along the Wild Atlantic Way , like Skellig Michael.

We love its strong sense of character and profoundly traditional atmosphere, and its proximity to the national park is just the ultimate addition.

Best Cities in Northern Ireland

Of course, the island of Ireland is split into two countries: Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. While Northern Ireland is much smaller, it has some fabulous cities to visit, so we had to give it a special mention in this guide.

Visiting both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in one trip is super straightforward – you can just drive across the border or catch a shuttle service, especially if you’re traveling between Belfast and Dublin. If you can, combine the two in a single trip. These are some of the best Northern Irish cities that should definitely find a way onto your itinerary.

15. Derry / Londonderry

Derry / Londonderry is a city that goes by two names. You can find out why  here , but in short, it is because of sectarian tensions. Protestants referred to the city as Londonderry, while Catholics called it Derry. Nowadays, you can usually use either without controversy; to be polite, when talking to Northern Irish people, you can just take their lead in how they reference the city.

It goes without saying that a city with such a backstory behind its name makes for a fascinating tourist destination. There’s tons of political and social history to unpack behind Derry City, and you can stop by attractions like murals and the Museum of Free Derry and walk the Derry Walls. Derry is compact and walkable, making it a great city break. And for any Derry Girls fans, you can spot plenty of filming locations, which is a fun extra.

We had to add Derry City to this list, as it is one of the most complex and interesting cities in Northern Ireland. If you like your history, Derry is a must-visit.

Beautiful Bangor is a small Northern Irish city just a 30-minute drive outside Belfast. It is a seaside city with sandy beaches and a great place to experience the coastal pace of life in Northern Ireland. In summer, Bangor comes alive with a slightly cheesy seaside resort atmosphere. But if you catch it out of season, it has a really romantic, wistful appeal and a much slower pace.

You can walk the 10-mile Holywood to Bangor section of the North Down Coastal Path or just enjoy having beaches like Ballyholme Beach at your beck and call. Bangor’s waterfront is scenic, an attraction in itself, lined by colorful terraces painted blues, greens, and pinks. Stroll along the water and stop by independent coffee shops like the quirky cafe The Bearded Goat. If you want to get historical in your sightseeing, head to the North Down Museum.

17. Belfast

The Northern Irish capital of Belfast is a fascinating mix of friendly locals and a web of complex history. Belfast is a modern city with a gritty undertone, with city maps still segmented into sectarian neighborhoods despite its now – mostly – blended communities. It’s most famed for its Troubles, a period of political unrest that lasted from 1968 to 1998 before the signing of the Good Friday Agreement. For history buffs, the opportunity to learn about this unrest is a huge draw, usually through  black taxi tours of the murals and Peace Wall .

This singular stereotype of Belfast and the tourism it offers is reductionist, though. There’s everything from cozy pubs and bars in the buzzy, cobbled Cathedral Quarter to the Titanic Belfast museum and a trail commemorating the east Belfast-born singer Van Morrison. It’s also a fantastic place to use as a launchpad to visit the Mourne Mountains, Dark Hedges, or the Causeway Coast.

If you want to understand Northern Ireland, head to Belfast. Northern Ireland has an entire culture of its own. Belfast will introduce you to the politics, subcultures, and traditions behind that – all while situated in an ideal place for a day trip to areas of natural beauty.

Best Cities in Ireland: FAQs

Now you know which cities to visit in Ireland, we need to help narrow down your new collection of choices. After all, it is a tough choice. How do you pick between Galway City and Dingle? Or Limerick and Cork? Or Belfast versus Derry? In this section, we’ll look at the most commonly asked questions to see if we can help you pick your top two or three cities in Ireland.

Where is the most beautiful city in Ireland?

The most beautiful city in Ireland is undoubtedly Galway City. The old town is the most authentic place to experience local culture, and out of all the Irish cities, Galway retains a rustic, windswept settlement quality.

What are the 5 largest cities in Ireland?

In the Republic of Ireland, the five largest cities are Dublin, Limerick, Cork, Galway, and Waterford. The largest cities on the island of Ireland, including the Republic and Northern Ireland, are Dublin, Belfast, Limerick, Galway, and Derry/Londonderry.

What is the main town in Ireland?

Dublin is the capital city of Ireland and

I don’t think I would agree with this. I would say it is Dublin. Can you re-write this.

What is the best city to go to in Ireland?

It is a tough call, but Galway is the best city to go to in Ireland. We’d suggest Galway because it is closest to the Wild Atlantic Way and has easy day trip access to the striking west coast islands like the Aran Islands, Skellig Michael, and the Inishmore Islands. It also has the most authentic character, and while Dublin is incredible if you want a luxury hotel, formal museums, and buzzy drinks at Temple Bar, Galway offers more of an immersion into traditional Irish music and culture.

Cities in Ireland We Love

Wherever you choose to visit in Ireland, you’ll find an amazing string of cities offering a different experience and outlook. You can head to Northern Ireland for the brilliant city of Belfast or the sleepy seaside town of Bangor with all its sandy beaches. You can head to Ireland’s west coast for the iconic cities along the Wild Atlantic Way, like Killarney and Galway City. The central cities along the River Shannon, like Athlone, are surrounded by the beautiful bog country. The south offers intense culture in cities like Cork and Limerick city, while the east coast houses Dublin and Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford.

There are some awe-inspiring cities in Ireland. These 17 best cities in Ireland should keep you well entertained during your stay.

Remember to check out some of the smaller towns and villages in Ireland as well. It isn’t known as the ‘Emerald Isle’ for no reason – heading out into the countryside will give you some amazing experiences and perspectives of Ireland. Start in the best cities in Ireland and then branch out to its smaller treasures. Have an incredible stay.

Plan Your Next Trip to Ireland With These Resources

  • How To Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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Express & Star

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Respecting cultures helps secure Northern Ireland’s place in UK, says Givan

Education Minister Paul Givan was speaking after a visit to an Irish language school in Co Tyrone on Wednesday.

places to visit in ireland and northern ireland

Respecting different cultures helps “secure Northern Ireland’s place within the United Kingdom”, Stormont Education Minister Paul Givan has said.

The DUP representative hit the headlines after a visit to an Irish language primary school in Dungannon, Co Tyrone, on Wednesday.

Mr Givan spoke some words of Irish during his visit to Gaelscoil Aodha Rua, including “Maidin mhaith” (“Good morning”), and also took part in a traditional ceili dance with pupils in the playground.

He said the Irish language should not be politicised, and can be a shared language for everybody in Northern Ireland.

On the same day, his party colleague, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, made her first visit to a GAA club and tried her hand at camogie.

St Paul’s GAA club visit

Last month, First Minister Michelle O’Neill stood for God Save The King when she attended a Northern Ireland women’s football match at Windsor Park.

Referring to his visit, Mr Givan said: “It’s the right thing to do, and it also recognises the diversity within Northern Ireland, and that’s the kind of unionism that I want, which is broad and recognises space for everybody, and that ultimately will help secure Northern Ireland’s place within the United Kingdom because why would somebody want to change if they feel that their cultural identity is respected within the current status quo?

“It’s the right thing to do, but of course it does lean into my wider political vision of a unionism that is broad and welcoming and diverse.”

Speaking on BBC Radio Ulster’s Nolan Show, he said he agrees with DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson’s view of how Northern Ireland’s place can be “secured for the future”.

“That is not going to be achieved through a very crude demographic headcount of us and them based on religious identity – that is not how you’re going to do it. Nor will it be secured through legal victories within the courts, because we know within the Belfast Agreement it will be through public referenda,” he said.

“That is what ultimately will decide Northern Ireland’s future in years to come, and therefore you have to win hearts and minds.

“In the past, culture identity has been something which has polarised people in Northern Ireland. I don’t think it needs to be, and I want to recognise the various identities that exist.”

Mr Givan went on: “I think I need to demonstrate my commitment to all the sectors within Northern Ireland’s education system, and that is our controlled sector, our maintained sector, the integrated sector, and that also includes the Irish medium sector.

“If we are to be believe in a truly plural society where there are choices, that people can then take, that is something that should be protected, and I do believe in parental choice when it comes to education – to bring their children up in the type of school that they believe is most appropriate to them – and that’s something that I want to protect for everybody.”

In 2016, Mr Givan tried Gaelic football on a visit to a GAA club in Lisburn as Stormont communities minister.

However, he also created controversy in that role in the same year when he axed a bursary scheme for children to attend Irish language classes in Co Donegal. That funding decision was ultimately reversed.

Asked whether he would do that now, Mr Givan said: “Whilst I can say today there was a value for money assessment in respect of that, that is not how that decision was perceived, that it was a purely value-for-money consideration … it was perceived very differently within the wider nationalist community. I understand that.

“It played into what was going on politically, because obviously Sinn Fein were on a particular trajectory in the run-up to that Christmas period, where they were on the verge of collapsing the institutions, and that decision fuelled their political objectives at that time.

“What I’m saying is that we need to make sure we don’t act in a way that is politicising around the Irish language, and I have a responsibility around education and the various sectors that exist, and I will discharge those duties fairly and equitably.”

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

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