Best places to visit in Ireland

Where are the best places to visit in Ireland? Here’s a wee list of places where you’ll get a unique experience and come away with fabulous memories which you’ll cherish forever.

Dublin

Dublin is the capital city of Ireland and a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. Here are some tips for visiting Dublin:

Visit the historic sites: Dublin is a city rich in history and culture. Be sure to visit Trinity College and see the famous Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript dating back to the 9th century. Also, explore Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Christ Church Cathedral, all steeped in history and beautiful architecture.
Walk around the city: Dublin is a great city for walking, and you can discover many of the best sights on foot. Take a stroll through the charming streets of Temple Bar, a popular tourist district known for its lively pubs, restaurants, and street performers. Also, explore the Georgian Quarter with its beautifully preserved Georgian architecture.
Experience the nightlife: Dublin has a vibrant nightlife with many great pubs, clubs, and music venues. Be sure to check out the pubs in the Temple Bar area, such as The Brazen Head, which is the oldest pub in Dublin, and The Palace Bar. Also, see a show at the famous Olympia Theatre or catch a gig at Whelan’s, a popular music venue.
Enjoy the local food and drink: Dublin is famous for its Guinness beer, but there is so much more to enjoy in terms of food and drink. Try traditional Irish dishes like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, or Irish stew. Visit the Temple Bar Food Market for a range of artisan food products, or try out one of the many excellent restaurants in the city.

Galway

Galway is a beautiful city located on the west coast of Ireland, known for its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and lively nightlife. Here are some tips for visiting Galway:

Explore the city center: Galway’s city center is a maze of winding streets, colorful buildings, and lively pubs. Be sure to visit the Spanish Arch, a historic monument that once formed part of the city walls, and the Galway City Museum, which tells the story of the city’s history and culture.
Walk along the Claddagh: The Claddagh is a historic fishing village located on the outskirts of Galway’s city center. It’s famous for its thatched cottages, fishing boats, and iconic Claddagh ring, a traditional Irish ring that symbolizes love, loyalty, and friendship.
Visit the Aran Islands: The Aran Islands are a group of three islands located off the coast of Galway. They’re known for their stunning landscapes, traditional Irish culture, and ancient stone forts. You can take a ferry from Galway to the islands and spend a day exploring.

Cork

Cork is a vibrant city located in the south of Ireland, known for its lively culture, historic sites, and excellent food and drink scene. Here are some tips for visiting Cork:

Explore the city center: Cork’s city center is packed with historic buildings, lively markets, and charming streets. Be sure to visit the English Market, a covered market that has been selling local produce since 1788, and St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, a stunning Gothic Revival church.
Visit the Cork City Gaol: The Cork City Gaol is a former prison that has been converted into a museum, offering a fascinating insight into the city’s history and culture. You can take a guided tour of the cells, exercise yards, and Governor’s House, as well as see exhibitions and audio-visual displays.
Take a walk along the River Lee: The River Lee runs through Cork and offers a scenic route for walking, cycling, or boating. You can see historic buildings, bridges, and parks along the way, as well as enjoy the city’s vibrant street art.

Dingle

Dingle is a charming town located on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, southwest Ireland. It’s known for its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and vibrant culture. Here are some tips for visiting Dingle:

Explore the Slea Head Drive: The Slea Head Drive is a scenic route that takes you around the Dingle Peninsula, offering stunning views of the coast, islands, and mountains. You can stop at several historic and cultural sites along the way, such as Dunbeg Fort, the Blasket Islands, and the Gallarus Oratory.
Visit Dingle Harbour: Dingle Harbour is a picturesque port where you can see fishing boats, yachts, and traditional currachs (Irish boats). You can also take a boat tour to see Fungie, a friendly dolphin who has been living in the harbor for over 30 years.
Try the local food and drink: Dingle has a thriving food and drink scene, with plenty of excellent restaurants, cafes, and pubs serving fresh seafood, locally sourced meats, and craft beers. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as Dingle gin, Murphy’s ice cream, and homemade bread.

Sligo

Sligo is a beautiful county located in the northwest of Ireland, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and outdoor activities. Here are some tips for visiting Sligo:

Explore the great outdoors: Sligo is home to some of Ireland’s most breathtaking natural landscapes, including Benbulben, Lough Gill, and the Wild Atlantic Way. You can hike, bike, or drive through the countryside, or take a boat tour of the lakes and coastline.
Visit Sligo Abbey: Sligo Abbey is a well-preserved medieval monastery that dates back to the 13th century. It’s open to the public and offers guided tours, as well as a visitor center with exhibits and information.
Learn about Yeats: Sligo was the birthplace and inspiration of the famous Irish poet, W.B. Yeats. You can visit his childhood home, Thoor Ballylee, and the Yeats Society in Sligo town, which has exhibitions, events, and a research library.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a charming city located in the southeast of Ireland, known for its rich history, medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Here are some tips for visiting Kilkenny:

Visit Kilkenny Castle: Kilkenny Castle is a beautiful medieval castle located in the heart of the city. It’s open to the public and offers guided tours, as well as a park and gardens to explore.
Explore the medieval streets: Kilkenny has a well-preserved medieval center, with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and historic landmarks such as St. Canice’s Cathedral and the Black Abbey.
Visit the Smithwick’s Experience: The Smithwick’s Experience is a brewery tour that tells the story of the famous Irish beer. You can see the brewing process, learn about the history of the brewery, and sample some of the beers.

Waterford

Waterford is a vibrant city located in the southeast of Ireland, known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and stunning coastline. Here are some tips for visiting Waterford:

Explore the Viking Triangle: The Viking Triangle is Waterford’s historic quarter and is home to some of the city’s most important cultural attractions, including the Waterford Museum of Treasures, Reginald’s Tower, and the Medieval Museum.
Visit Waterford Crystal: Waterford Crystal has been producing high-quality crystal since the 18th century and is one of Ireland’s most iconic brands. You can take a tour of the factory and see the skilled craftsmen at work, as well as browse the extensive range of crystal products in the showroom.
Walk along the Waterford Greenway: The Waterford Greenway is a 46km trail that runs along the old railway line between Waterford and Dungarvan. It’s perfect for cycling, walking, or jogging, and offers stunning views of the coastline and countryside.

Wicklow (and Greystones)

Greystones is a charming seaside town located in County Wicklow, in the east of Ireland. Here are some tips for visiting Wicklow and Greystones:

Explore the Wicklow Mountains: The Wicklow Mountains are a stunning natural area that’s perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring. There are several trails and scenic drives in the area, and you can also visit the beautiful Powerscourt Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in Ireland.
Walk along the seafront: Greystones has a beautiful seafront promenade that’s perfect for a leisurely walk or a jog. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants along the way, as well as a marina and a small harbour.
Visit the Greystones Heritage Trail: The Heritage Trail is a self-guided tour that takes you through the history and culture of Greystones. The trail includes several historic buildings, churches, and monuments, as well as information on the town’s fishing and maritime heritage.

Glendalough

Glendalough is a beautiful valley located in County Wicklow, in the east of Ireland. It’s famous for its monastic settlement and stunning natural scenery. Here are some tips for visiting Glendalough:

Explore the monastic site: Glendalough was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century and was once one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. The ruins include several churches, a round tower, and a cemetery, and there are guided tours available that provide a fascinating insight into the site’s history and architecture.
Take a walk in the valley: Glendalough is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, with rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and dense forests. There are several walking trails in the valley, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, and they’re a great way to appreciate the beauty of the landscape.
Visit the Glendalough Visitor Centre: The visitor centre is located near the entrance to the monastic site and provides information on the history and archaeology of Glendalough. There’s also a small museum, a café, and a gift shop.
See the Round Tower: The Round Tower is one of the most iconic structures at Glendalough. It’s a cylindrical tower that was built in the 10th century and served as a bell tower, a lookout tower, and a refuge in times of attack.
Try some local food: There are several cafes and restaurants in the Glendalough area that serve delicious local food, including Wicklow lamb, fresh seafood, and artisanal cheeses. Be sure to try some of the local specialties and support local businesses.

Clonmacnoise

Clonmacnoise is an ancient monastic site located in County Offaly, in the midlands of Ireland. Here are some tips for visiting Clonmacnoise:

Explore the monastic ruins: Clonmacnoise was founded in the 6th century and was once one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. The ruins include several churches, towers, and high crosses, as well as a cemetery and a museum where you can learn more about the site’s history.
Admire the high crosses: The high crosses at Clonmacnoise are some of the finest examples of early Christian art in Ireland. They feature intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Bible and Irish mythology, and they’re a must-see for anyone visiting the site.
Take a guided tour: There are guided tours available at Clonmacnoise that provide a fascinating insight into the site’s history and architecture. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the site, and they’ll help you to understand its significance in Irish history and culture.
Visit the nearby town of Athlone: Athlone is a charming town located on the banks of the River Shannon, just a short drive from Clonmacnoise. It has a rich history and plenty of interesting sites to explore, including Athlone Castle, which dates back to the 12th century.

Knock

Knock is a small village located in County Mayo, in the west of Ireland. It’s famous for its Marian Shrine, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Here are some tips for visiting Knock:

Visit the Knock Shrine: The Knock Shrine is the main attraction in the village, and it’s an important site for Catholics around the world. It’s said to be the site of an apparition of the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and Saint John the Evangelist in 1879. There are several chapels and prayer spaces within the shrine complex, as well as a museum and visitor center where you can learn more about the history and significance of the site.
Take a walk in the village: Knock is a small, peaceful village with plenty of green spaces and walking trails. Take a stroll around the village and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
Explore the local history: Knock has a rich history that’s worth exploring. Visit the Knock Folk Museum, which houses exhibits on local history, culture, and traditions. You can also visit the nearby town of Claremorris, which has several historical sites, including the ruins of an ancient abbey.

Connemara

Connemara is a beautiful region in the west of Ireland, known for its stunning landscapes, rugged coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some tips for visiting Connemara:

Explore Connemara National Park: Connemara National Park is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. The park covers over 2,000 hectares of rugged mountains, moorland, and bogs, and it’s home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, Connemara ponies, and golden eagles. There are several walking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, as well as a visitor center where you can learn more about the park’s history and ecology.
Drive the Sky Road: The Sky Road is a scenic drive that takes you along the rugged coastline of Connemara, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Twelve Bens mountains, and the surrounding countryside. There are several lookout points along the route where you can stop and take in the views.
Visit Kylemore Abbey: Kylemore Abbey is a beautiful 19th-century castle and Victorian walled garden located in the heart of Connemara. It’s a popular tourist attraction, with guided tours of the castle and gardens available, as well as a restaurant, tea room, and gift shop.

Cong

Visiting Cong, Ireland is a great way to experience the natural beauty and rich history of this charming village located in County Mayo. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Visit Ashford Castle: Ashford Castle is a magnificent 13th-century castle that has been converted into a luxury hotel. Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth visiting to admire the beautiful architecture and grounds. The castle is open for tours, and there are plenty of activities available, such as horseback riding, fishing, and falconry.
Explore Cong Abbey: Cong Abbey is a ruined 12th-century abbey located in the center of the village. It’s a fascinating historical site that’s free to visit, and it’s surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking paths.
Take a walk in the woods: The nearby Cong Forest is a beautiful woodland area that’s perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic. There are several walking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone.

Aran Islands

Getting there: The Aran Islands can be reached by ferry from the towns of Rossaveal and Doolin, or by plane from Connemara Airport. The ferry journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the weather conditions, and the plane journey takes about 10-15 minutes. Be sure to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
Accommodation: There are a range of accommodation options available on the islands, including hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the summer months when the islands can be very busy.
Explore the Islands: The Aran Islands are made up of three islands – Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer. Each island has its own unique charm and attractions. Be sure to explore the islands on foot, by bike, or by horse-drawn carriage to fully appreciate their beauty.