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Best places to visit in ireland.

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

Dingle Peninsula

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.  

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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Top Places to See

The Top 20 Places to See in Ireland

It is hard to narrow down the top places to see in Ireland because the country is filled with so many famous attractions. There is the rugged landscape of the mountains and natural wonders like the otherworldly Burren and the striking Cliffs of Moher, as well as historic castles and ancient abbeys. With so much to choose from, there is quite literally sometimes for everyone in gorgeous Ireland. Here are the 20 amazing sites that are among ​Ireland’s most universally loved places to see.

The Lakes of Killarney and the Ring of Kerry, Co Kerry

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

If you want to experience spectacular coastal scenery, breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancient monuments and the tranquil old-world-charm of  Killarney 's lakes, castles and houses, this is the place to go. Bear in mind that thousands of tourists will have the same idea—the best time here is spring or fall (in order to avoid the crush of people that arrive in summer). Killarney is located in  County Kerry, part of the Irish Province of Munster . The nearest airport is Cork Airport or Killarney (though this has European flights only). 

The Cliffs of Moher, Co Clare

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

When the undulating landscape suddenly ends in a sheer drop of more than 650 feet, straight down to the Atlantic, then you know you have reached the  Cliffs of Moher . One of the most spectacular coastal areas in Europe, the cliffs are best when the winds are low so that visitors can take a stroll along the (roped off) edge. The visitor center has been rebuilt on a grand scale and there is now a higher price of admission to see the national attraction for yourself. The Cliffs of Moher can be found in County Clare, in Ireland's Province of Munster. The nearest airport is Shannon Airport .

Newgrange and Bru na Boinne, Co Meath

Rather than a single sight, one of Ireland’s must-sees is a  complex historic landscape on the banks of the Boyne ,  dotted with prehistoric monuments . The largest are Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth. Newgrange and Knowth can only be visited by taking a tour, which starts at the modern visitor center. Be there early and plan to stay for a half day (at least) to take in the whole experience. Newgrange is located in  County Meath, in the Province of Leinster . The nearest airport is Dublin Airport.

Dublin City

Dublin is a relatively small city which can sometimes feel more like a jumble of villages than a major capital. It is, however, rich in history, as well as full of sights and museums that are best explored on a day out on foot.  Dublin's top attractions  alone can keep the tourist busy for a whole week! Between live music, art, culture, and even a castle, Dublin is Ireland’s most popular stop (even for Irish visitors, who often head into the city on the weekends). Dublin Airport is outside the city limits, but a bus ride into town will only take about half an hour.

The Giant's Causeway, Co Antrim

The Giant's Causeway is made up of strangely regular basalt columns point that the way towards Scotland, which can be seen on the horizon on good days. It is possible to reach Northern Ireland's top sight by car and shuttle bus (if the fairly steep final mile seems too daunting). Travelers with some time on their hands can also take in the nearby Old Bushmills Distillery which is connected by steam train. Bushmills and the Giant's Causeway are located in County Antrim, in the Northern Irish part of the Province of Ulster. The nearest airport would be  Belfast .

Hill of Tara, Co Meath

The ancient seat of the  High Kings  of Ireland and one of the Irish royal sites, can look like little more than a mound covered with grass when you see the area for the first time. However, there is an excellent audiovisual show in the former church that will help visitors understand the importance of this site. Once armed with a bit of background information, visitors will soon see why the  Hill of Tara  is fascinating. This site is also located in  County Meath, in the Province of Leinster , a short distance from Navan. The nearest airport is Dublin Airport.

Sligo and Area, Co Sligo

Bernd Biege

The town of Sligo is not a major destination itself but the nearby treasures more than make up for it. Knocknarea boasts the grave of Queen Maeve (or so rumor has it) and offers a spectacular view as a reward for a steep climb. Carrowmore is  the largest stone age cemetery in Ireland .  Drumcliff  sports a (truncated)  round tower , a medieval high cross and the grave of W.B.Yeats (winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1923) right next to the spectacular table mountain of Ben Bulben. All these are located in County Sligo, in the Province of Connacht . The nearest airports are either Dublin Airport, Shannon Airport or  Belfast —all of which are roughly the same distance away.

Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, Co Cork

The Irish gift of the gab? Some believe that comes directly from the Blarney Stone. The stone in question (which legend says you must kiss upside down, hanging over a sheer dropoff) is located at Blarney Castle in County Cork. Some of the rooms in the castle, which dates back to the 15th century, can also be visited. The fortified medieval home is surrounded by lush gardens along the River Martin. The must-see sight is a short drive from Cork City, making Cork Airport the closet to fly into.

The Burren, Co Clare

Wedged between the rough beauty of the Aran Islands and the bustling university city of Galway, the near featureless desolation of this limestone plateau has often been likened to a moonscape. Ancient monuments and bizarre rock formations abound. Some spectacular sights can be taken in by driving around the  Burren  next to Galway Bay. The Burren can be found in County Clare, in  Ireland's Province of Munster . The nearest airport is Shannon Airport.

Glendalough, Co Wicklow

In Glendalough, the valley of the two lakes, you will find one of the most important early Christian sites. History aside, the setting in the Wicklow Mountains in a valley beside tranquil lakes is simply beautiful. Visitors who do love of history and/or architecture can indulge in  a massive round tower , the quaint St Kevin's Kitchen (actually a church) and a cathedral (a ruin, but still imposing enough), all  in an ancient monastic setting . More into the outdoors? Nature lovers can enjoy the walks along the lakes. Glendalough is located in  County Wicklow, in the Province of Leinster , a short distance from Dublin which means the nearest airport is Dublin Airport.

Bunratty Castle, Co Clare

The Bunratty tower house is one of the best castles in Ireland and is beloved by locals and visitors alike. It was built in 1467 by the O'Brien family and has been renovated with no expenses spared. A medieval banquet is offered in the evenings, complete with period entertainment. During the day, the adjoining Bunratty Folk Park allows a glimpse into Ireland's past. Bunratty can be found in ​ County Clare, in Ireland's Province of Munster . The nearest airport is Shannon Airport, which is essentially just around the corner.

Dingle Peninsula, Co Kerry

For a small country, Ireland is bursting with natural beauty but there is something particularly breathtaking about the Dingle Peninsula. From the sandy stretch of Inch Beach to the rugged cliffs along the Wild Atlantic Way which look out towards the Aran Islands and the charming port town of Dingle itself, this promontory in southwest Ireland is full of gorgeous scenery. Dingle is located in  County Kerry, part of the Irish Province of Munster and the closest airport is Cork Airport.

Kylemore Abbey, Co Galway

Set on the shores of a lake an hour outside of Galway, Kylemore Abbey was built by the British Politician Mitchell Henry in the late 1800s. He hoped that his elaborate estate would serve as an example of what was possible in even the most remote corners of Ireland. In 1903, the castle and abbey were sold to the Duke and Duchess of Manchester who had bold plans for renovations and entertaining but soon had to let go the property in order to pay their gambling debts. In 1920, a group of Benedictine Nuns acquired the Abbey after their Belgian abbey was bombed during World War I. The estate is still owned by the nuns and was a Catholic girl’s school until 2010. In addition to the breathtaking castle, there is a walled Victorian Garden that has been restored and is well known as Ireland’s largest walled garden.

Titanic Belfast, Co Antrim, Northern Ireland

The ill-fated RMS Titanic was poorly piloted but it was certainly well built here in Northern Ireland. The Harland & Wolff shipyard where the massive ocean liner was created has now been transformed into an exceptional museum about the infamous boat. The Belfast museum has an impressive interactive exhibit that allows visitors to walk the decks and even virtually travel to the depths of the ocean. While the museum has a policy against displaying any ​artifacts from the wreck itself, they do have an impressive assortment of mementos (like china dishes and promotional brochures) that were created for the RMS Titanic.​

Connemara National Park, Co Galway

One of the six national parks in Ireland, Connemara National Park is found in County Galway. The large natural area is best known for its mountain walks, though there are also bogs and grasslands to be explored. Visitors particularly head for cone-shaped Diamond Hill above the village of Letterfack in order to enjoy near ​360-degree views of mountains and sea. The Visitor Center, which has a great audio-visual exhibit, is open daily from March to October, while the park itself is open year-round.

Skelling Michael, Co Kerry

Located eight miles out to sea off the coast of County Kerry, Skellig Michael is an isolated island destination. The island is sometimes known as Great Skellig and has a smaller neighbor which is fittingly named Little Skellig. No one lives on the Skelligs these days, but in the 6th century a group of monks felt that the rocky islands in the Atlantic made the perfect remote spot for a monastery. The ruins of this ancient monastery are now a UNESCO site and visitors brave the ocean passage between May and October for a chance to hike through the secluded archaeological site. If the monastery looks familiar that might be because it was featured as a sacred Jedi location in two Star Wars movies.

English Market, Co Cork

Ireland’s best covered market is a treat to explore in Cork City. It was named the “English Market” in the 19th century to distinguish it from Cork’s “Irish Market” that also existed at the time. The Victorian-style building was originally built in 1862, though an uncovered market has existed on the same spot since 1788. It was badly damaged by a fire in the 1980s but was carefully refurbished by the Cork City Council. It is one of the best places to shop for local foods or to stay for a meal on the second-floor café. Shoppers are in good company—Queen Elizabeth once stopped by for a bit of fish.  

The Rock of Cashel, Co Tipperary

Unofficial estimates guess that Ireland has around 1,000 castles in all. It could take a lifetime to seek out all the ruins and restored tower house beauties, but one of the most impressive of all is certainly the Rock of Cashel. Built atop a hill in County Tipperary, this was once the seat of power for the High Kings of Ulster. The rulers eventually turned the stunning fortified complex over to the church, and the ruins of the medieval cathedral are one of the major draws of the sight.  

Kinsale, Co Cork

TripSavvy / Kathleen Messmer 

Depending on which direction you decide to drive, Kinsale is either the start of the end of the famed Wild Atlantic Way—the coastal route that snakes 1,500 miles along western Ireland. The village is called after its Irish name:  Ceann tSaile , which means “Head of the Sea.” Originally a medieval fishing village, the boats that still bob in the harbor make for a postcard-perfect Irish setting. Away from the waterfront, the village is filled with brightly painted shops and plenty of traditional pubs and restaurants. The nearest airport is Cork Airport, and the village is about a 25-mile drive from Cork City. 

Slieve League, Co Donegal

The Cliffs of Moher may be more famous, but the stunning cliffs of Slieve League reach almost three times higher. Slieve League is a mountain (with slieve meaning mountain in the Irish language), which towers nearly 2,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean at its highest point. For those who don’t bat an eyelash at death-defying heights, there is a windswept trail that can be hiked along the cliffs. It is also possible to drive up to the main viewing area or visit the family-run Visitor’s Center. Visitors who opt to explore on foot can seek out the ruins of ​an early Christian monastery and beehive huts along the mountain slopes.

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A small island with a memorable punch, Ireland's breathtaking landscapes and friendly, welcoming people leave visitors floored. You'll want to go back for more.

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Must-see attractions.

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What’s the best way to get the best of the natural beauty and famous charm of Ireland? Hit the (rural) road on these top road trips. 

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32 Best Things to do in Ireland (2024 Edition)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: January 30, 2024

This guide to the best things to do in Ireland is packed with places that I’ve visited 10+ times and that I’m confident you’ll love.

Some places, like the majestic Ring of Kerry and the Wicklow Mountains, are famous the world over .

Others, like Donegal’s Inishowen , while not as famous, are home to some of the most impressive things to see in Ireland.

Below, you’ll discover what I think are the best things to do in Ireland, based on 35 years of living here . Cheers!

Table of Contents

The best things to do in Ireland

Trying to decide what to do in Ireland can be a struggle, especially when you are presented with hundreds of worthy options.

Below, you’ll find everything from the Ring of Beara and the Dingle Peninsula to some unique spots that we think you must see in Ireland.

1. The Ring of Kerry

Photos via Shutterstock

The mighty Ring of Kerry starts and finishes in the buzzy town of Killarney on the Wild Atlantic Way. Best tackled over at least one day, this 179km long (111 miles) route takes in areas of immense natural beauty.

One of the reasons that this is one of the more popular things to do in Ireland is the sheer volume of natural attractions you encounter along the way, like Killarney National Park , Torc Waterfall , Moll’s Gap , Derrynane Beach and  Ladies View .

Expect countless castles, mountainous scenery, breath-taking coastline and plenty of colourful towns and villages, like Kenmare .

Related read: Check out our guide to 42 of the best things to do in Kerry in 2024.

2. The Inishowen Peninsula

If you’re wondering what to do in Ireland that’ll take you away for the crowds, make a beeline for the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal.

Located in the north of the county, this is where you’ll discover some of Ireland’s most remote and unspoiled beauty.

Arguably the best way to explore it is on the Inishowen 100 – a scenic driving route that takes you to the likes of Malin Head , Mamore Gap , Five Finger Strand and heaps of beaches.

Related Read: Check out our guide to 33 of the best things to do in Donegal in 2024.

3. Sligo’s outdoor delights

Although Sligo is one of the key points along the Wild Atlantic Way , it tends to get overlooked by many exploring the west coast of Ireland.

However, if you like to explore on foot, the likes of Knocknarea , the Benbulben Forest Walk and the Gleniff Horseshoe will knock-you-sideways.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Ireland, carve out some time to see  the Caves of Keash (ancient passage tombs that predate the Pyramids of Egypt) and the Devil’s Chimney (one of Ireland’s highest waterfalls).

Related Read: Check out our guide to 36 of the best things to do in Sligo in 2024.

4. The Causeway Coastal Route

There’s more to the Antrim Coast than the Giant’s Causeway and you’ll discover the best it has to offer on the Causeway Coastal Route drive!

The route begins in either Belfast or Derry City and follows the coast through the nine Glens of Antrim for 313km.

Over the course of the spin you’ll see everywhere from the Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge and the Old Bushmills Distillery to Glenariff Forest Park , Torr Head and plenty more.

This route is regarded as one of the top things to do in Ireland by visiting tourists as there’s endless places to visit all within close proximity to each other.

Related Read: Check out our guide to 36 of the best things to do in Antrim in 2024.

5. West Cork wonders

We’re back to the Wild Atlantic Way again and off to West Cork. I’ve spent many holidays here over the years, and its scenery never gets old.

Arguably the most notable attraction in the area is Mizen Head – Ireland’s most Southwesterly Point. However, there’s plenty more to discover.

Gougane Barra , Cape Clear Island , Glengarriff Nature Reserve , Dursey Island and the  many  beaches in West Cork are a tiny bit of what awaits.

There’s a good reason that a visit to this corner of Ireland is widely regarded as one of the best things to do in Ireland.

Related Read: Check out our guide to 31 of the best things to do in West Cork in 2024.

6. Coumshingaun Lough

If you’re wondering what to do in Ireland that’ll get heart-rate boppin’, carve out some time to tackle one of the many hikes in Ireland ,

One of my favourites is the 3-4 hour Coumshingaun Lough hike (you need hiking experience for this trail) in Waterford, and the photos above should give you an idea as to why!

Some other challenging hikes in Ireland are Carrauntoohil (County Kerry) and Croagh Patrick (County Mayo). 

If you fancy a slightly easier hike, Diamond Hill (County Galway), Ballinastoe Woods (County Wicklow) and the Stairway to Heaven (Fermanagh) are well worth considering!

7. Achill Island

A day spent on Achill Island is another one of the best things to do in Ireland, in my opinion.

Now, one of the beauties of this island is that you can drive onto it and follow the Atlantic Drive or you can cycle onto it via the brilliant Great Western Greenway .

When you arrive, you’ve everywhere from Keem Bay and the highest sea cliffs in Ireland (Croaghaun – 2,257 feet/687 meters) to Minaun Heights, Keel Beach and plenty more to see.

Related Read:  Check out our guide to 33 of the best things to do in Mayo in 2024.

8. Wicklow Mountains National Park

The Wicklow Mountains are another of the more popular things to see in Ireland and you can easily explore them on a day trip from Dublin .

There’s plenty to see and do here, from the various walks in Glendalough and the brilliant Sally Gap Drive to Lough Ouler , Djouce Mountain , Guinness Lake and Glendalough Monastic City.

Keep in mind that if you’re renting a car in Ireland and driving to Wicklow to tackle one of the walks, arrive early as many car parks fill up on fine mornings.

Related Read: Check out our guide to 37 of the best things to do in Wicklow in 2024.

8. The Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula really is hard to beat and there’s a few ways of exploring it. If you have time, you can stay in Dingle Town and explore around you over a few days.

If you don’t, your best bet is to head for the town (make sure to check out Conor Pass on the way!) and then join the brilliant Slea Head Drive .

Over the course of the route you’ll see the Blasket Islands , Dunquin Pier , Coumeenoole Beach , the Skellig Islands in the distance and much, much more.

A visit to the Dingle Peninsula is regarded as one of the best things to do in Ireland by visiting tourists as it combines charming towns and villages, spectacular scenery and Irish history into one relatively small area.

Related read: Check out our guide to 24 of the best things to do in Dingle in 2024.

10. The Doolough Valley

The Doolough Valley is situated between the villages of Louisburgh (County Mayo) and Leenaun (County Galway) and it’s one of my favourite drives on the Wild Atlantic Way.

If you drive this route outside of the busy summer months, it often feels like you’re the last person left in the world – the landscape is barren and beautiful and it has an almost other-worldly feel to it.

You’ll find an overview of what to expect from it in our guide to the Leenaun to Louisburgh Drive . It’s a great little gateway to Connemara if you’re in County Mayo and an hour spent here will live happily in your memory forever more.

Related read: Check out our guide to 41 of the best things to do in Galway in 2024.

11. The Ring of Beara

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Ireland, slap the Beara Peninsula on your to-visit list and head off on your merry way (see our Ring of Beara drive guide for the route).

This places boasts bucket-loads of scenery around every (often narrow!) twist and turn and some gorgeous towns and villages, like Eyeries and Allihies .

The peninsula is also home to some of the more unique things to do in Ireland, like Dursey Island , Bull Rock , Priest’s Leap (beware!) and the Healy Pass .

Related read: Check out our guide to 44 of the best things to do in Cork in 2024.

12. Valentia Island

There’s some gorgeous Irish islands and the spectacular Valentia Island in County Kerry is one of the more popular ones to visit.

When you arrive on the island, head for the Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs side of the island. You’ll arrive at the viewing point above.

If you’re in search of things to see in Ireland that’ll paint themselves upon your mind for a long aul time, get yourself here for sunset.

You can park right up at a viewing point that overlooks mountains, Valentia Lighthouse and the wild Atlantic.

Visiting Ireland for the first time? See our guides to mapping out your Ireland itinerary and planning a trip to Ireland with ease.

13. Connemara

The Connemara region in Galway is arguably best known for Kylemore Abbey , but there’s plenty more to see and do here.

Spend a sunny morning exploring Connemara National Park on foot or saunter along one of the many beaches in Connemara , like Dog’s Bay .

Or you can kick-back in Clifden , spin along the Sky Road or set-off on one of the many hikes in Connemara.

14. Towns and villages

You’ll find gorgeous little towns and villages scattered right the way across Ireland and, while some are the run-of-the-mill places you’ll find in many countries in Europe, others have character and charm that you won’t find anywhere else.

If you’re looking to stay on the tourist track, the likes of Doolin , Cong , Westport and Kinsale are likely already on your radar.

If you fancy checking out some of the smaller villages and towns in Ireland , aim for Union Hall (County Cork), Killaloe (County Clare) or Dunmore East (County Waterford).

15. Cliffs of Moher and overlooked cliffs

A visit to the Cliffs of Moher is one of the top things to do in Ireland. Millions of people (a whopping 1,580,010 in 2018) visit each and every year.

And, while they’re worth visiting (especially on the Liscannor to Doolin walk ), there are plenty more cliffs in Ireland worth checking out.

The often-missed Kerry Cliffs near Portmagee pack a punch while the Fair Head Cliffs in Antrim are particularly impressive.

If you’re in County Clare, the Kilkee Cliffs are well-worth seeing as are the outstanding Slieve League Cliffs in Donegal and the ones hidden away on Arranmore island .

16. The Burren National Park

The Burren National Park in County Clare covers an area of around 1,500 hectares while the wider Burren region boasts 200 sq km and includes everywhere from the Aran Islands to the Cliffs of Moher.

Although it’s one of the more popular things to see in Ireland, many people visit and leave underwhelmed, as they visit without a good plan of action.

If you follow the Burren Drive , you’ll visit everywhere from Doonagore Castle and Father Ted’s House to Doolin Cave , Poulnabrone Dolmen and the Aillwee Caves .

17. The Dublin Mountains

Although there are plenty of walks in Dublin , it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking the best of the bunch are the Howth Cliff Walk and Killiney Hill .

There are a clatter of rambles in the capital that fail to make it on the radar of first-time visitors. See our Dublin Mountains walks guide for a mix of easy and tough walks to head off on!

Or, if you fancy staying on the tourist track, head to Trinity College , see the Book of Kells , visit Kilmainham Gaol and drop into the various museums in Dublin.

Related read: Check out our guide to 33 of the best things to do in Dublin in 2024.

18. The Aran Islands

If you read our guide to the Aran Islands , you’ll know that it’s possible to road trip around them… by ferry.

While this isn’t a traditional road trip, it’s easy to follow and it packs a sizeable punch, as the islands are home to an almost endless number of things to see and do.

You’ll start your journey with a trip to Inis Mor (from Doolin pier in County Clare) before moving on to Inis Meain and then, finally, to the brilliant Inis Oirr .

Over the course of your trip, you’ll see many a fort, sea cliff and historic site (you’ll also find a handful of cosy pubs for post-adventure pints).

19. Castles galore

Some of the best things to do in Ireland involve taking a little step back in time, and where better to sample a chunk of the past than at one of the  many  castles in Ireland .

From tourist favourites like Blarney Castle , Bunratty Castle and the Rock of Cashel to less-visited castles like Kinbane Castle and Swords Castle, there’s plenty to choose from.

Or, if you fancy a very unique experience, there’s a handful of castle hotels in Ireland that you can book into!

20. A bounty of beaches

If you’re wondering what to do in Ireland on one of those often rare sunny days, point your nose in the direction of the coast.

There’s some outstanding beaches in Ireland and many of the best fail to make it onto the pages of shiny tourist guidebooks.

Some of my favourites are Curracloe Beach in Wexford, Silver Strand in Donegal and Strandhill Beach in Sligo.

21. Traditional Irish pubs

Photos by The Irish Road Trip

There are thousands of pubs in Ireland but not all are equal. If you can, aim to visit a traditional Irish pub during your visit.

Some of the more notable pubs are Sean’s Bar in Athlone (Ireland’s oldest) and the Brazen Head in Dublin.

In many old-school pubs you’ll get to chance to soak up some traditional Irish music while sampling Irish whiskey and/or Irish beer .

22. The Boyne Valley

One of the more overlooked things to do in Ireland is to  properly  explore the Boyne Valley .

Yes,  many  people visit Brú na Bóinne to see Newgrange and Knowth , but the Boyne Valley encompasses some of the best that County Meath and County Louth has to offer.

Some of the other highlights are Trim Castle , Slane Castle , the Hill of Tara , Loughcrew Cairns and the Cooley Peninsula .

Related read: Check out our guide to 27 of the best things to do in Meath in 2024.

23. The Hook Peninsula

The chances are you’ll have heard of Hook Lighthouse – the current structure has been marking the entrance to Wexford Harbour for at least 800 years, yet its history goes back a whole lot further.

But have you heard of the Ring of Hook ?! This route takes you right the way around the Hook Peninsula where you’ll see Tintern Abbey , Duncannon Fort and some of the best beaches in Wexford .

If you’re wondering what to do in Ireland that’ll take you off the beaten path, Hook is well worth considering!

Related read: Check out our guide to 28 of the best things to do in Wexford in 2024.

24. The Mourne Mountains

A day spent exploring the Mourne Mountains in County Down is another of the more frequently missed things to do in Ireland.

The Mournes are the highest mountain range in Northern Ireland and they boast endless adventure opportunities.

There’s plenty of hikes to get stuck into here, from Slieve Donard to Slieve Binnian , Slieve Doan , Slieve Bearnagh , Slieve Meelbeg and Meelmore and plenty more.

Related read: Check out our guide to 56 of the best things to do in Northern Ireland in 2024.

25. The Ballyhoura region

Photos courtesy Ballyhoura Fáilte

If you’re looking for a ‘hidden’ must see in Ireland, make a beeline for the Ballyhoura region.

It spans multiple counties including southeast Limerick, north-east Cork and west Tipperary and is home to some outstanding scenery.

There’s loads of great walks in Ballyhoura to get stuck into, with a trail to suit most levels of fitness. Two of my favourites are the Clare Glens Loop and the Canon Sheehan Loop .

Related read: Check out our guide to 19 of the best things to do in Limerick in 2024.

26. The Copper Coast

Waterford is home to some of the best coastline in Ireland and it’s a great place to explore by foot or on bike.

The Copper Coast is named after the massive mines that operated here in the 19th Century and it’s home to countless beautiful beaches.

If you fancy a long walk/cycle, the brilliant  Waterford Greenway is well worth tackling! Although the Greenway is Ireland’s longest off-road trail, you can complete it in a couple of hours by bike. 

Related Read: Check out our guide to 34 of the best things to do in Waterford in 2024.

27. Unique places to stay

Courtesy Glenlo Abbey Hotel and Estate, Galway

If you’re wondering what to do in Ireland to mark a special occasion, give one of the many unique places to stay in Ireland a bash.

Castle hotels aside, there’s some excellent 5 star hotels in Ireland that are worth considering and there’s endless spa hotels in Ireland , too. Here’s some other guides with suggestions for you:

• 27 unique places to go glamping in Ireland
• 26 places to stay in Ireland if you fancy staying somewhere with a view
• 40 of the most unique places to go glamping in Northern Ireland
• 33 of the finest family hotels in Ireland

28. Buzz around Belfast

Belfast gets a bad rep from some. Usually those that have never visited the city and base their opinion on hearsay.

The fact is that there’s plenty to see and do here, from the Cave Hill Walk and the Cathedral Quarter to the Black Cab Tours , Black Mountain and plenty more.

It also makes a good base to explore Northern Ireland from, as there’s plenty of day trips from Belfast that require very little driving.

Related Read: Take a look at our guide to 25 of the best things to do in Belfast today .

29. Spike Island and cobh

A visit to Cobh is another of the best things to do in Ireland if you like to go off handbooks. I don’t, personally, but I’d have to agree.

Now, don’t get fooled into think that the Deck of Cards are all that Cobh has to offer – this is far from a one horse town.

You’ll find Spike Island , a 103-acre island that’s been used as a place of worship, defense, confinement, and punishment a short ferry ride from the village of Cobh in County Cork.

There’s also St Coleman’s Cathedral , Fota Wildlife Park , the Titanic Experience and much more.

Related Read:  Check out our guide to 11 mighty things to do in Cobh in 2024.

30. Step off the beaten-path

One of the best things to do in Ireland, in my opinion, is to step off the beaten track and experience a bit of ‘hidden’ Ireland.

If you fancy seeing places like Doon Fort (pictured above) or other ‘hidden’ tourist attractions in Ireland, like the secret waterfall in Donegal , you’re in for a treat, as Ireland’s home to plenty of them.

In our guide to the best ‘hidden’ places to visit in Ireland , you’ll find 35 very unique things to do in Ireland, some of which you hopefully won’t have seen before.

31. The North Mayo coast

The North Mayo coastline is home to some magnificent cliffs, breath-taking beaches and, most of all, peace and quiet.

This corner of the island is well off the beaten path, which means that many who visit Ireland never make it out this far.

However, if you can, try and etch out some time to have a nosey around. You’ll find the towering Dun Briste sea stack, the Ceide Fields , the Mullet Peninsula and much more.

32. Tourist favourites

So, as I mentioned in the intro, this guide is packed with what  I  think are the best things to do in Ireland. However, as you’ll probably have noticed, many of the more popular tourist attractions in Ireland are missing.

If you’re visiting Dublin, the likes of the Guinness Storehouse , Dublin Zoo, Temple Bar and Dublin Castle are all popular spots.

Other notable omissions that are often considered must do in Ireland are Kilkenny Castle , Dún Aonghasa , Muckross House , Blarney Castle and Bunratty Castle .

Regardless of who you ask about what to do in Ireland, the answer tends to change, which is why it’s always worth taking any recommendations on the best things to see in Ireland with a pinch of salt!

FAQs about what to do in Ireland

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are good things to see in Ireland with kids?’ to ‘What are some fun things to do in Ireland for couples?’.

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

What are the best things to do in Ireland?

This is completely subjective, but some of my favourite tourist attractions in Ireland are the Ring of Kerry, the various walks in Sligo and the Inishowen Peninsula.

What are some unique things to see in Ireland?

If you’re wondering what to do in Ireland that’s a little different, see the Caves of Keash, visit Bull Rock, drive the Doolough Valley and see Spike Island.

What is Ireland’s number 1 tourist attraction?

If you go off visitor numbers, the Guinness Storehouse (with over 1.7 million visits in 2018) is one of the best things to do in Ireland.

I’m wondering what to do in Ireland on a first visit?

The first thing is to be realistic – don’t try and squeeze in too much. Make a list of the various things to see in Ireland and priortise them. Then choose a base to stay that’s within reasonable distance/located close to organised tours.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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

Graham Cosgrave

Tuesday 15th of February 2022

Great article Keith! Leave the website! If it's ok with you I shared it with my network of doctors on facebook in an attempt to 'pitch Ireland' and convince international doctors and their families to move here. Keep it up and I'll keep sharing!

Monday 9th of August 2021

Fantastic ideas - won't be lost for something to do for many a year! thanks for this

Friday 14th of May 2021

thanks so much this will help out on my school project

Thursday 11th of March 2021

Wow what a list! Looking for some inspiration for once Lockdown ends and this was VERYYY useful :D Still a few I've yet to tick off :D

Tom McNamara

Saturday 25th of April 2020

Did I miss Skellig Michael on your list??

22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ireland

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Andrew Birbeck Updated Mar 18, 2024

Author Meagan Drillinger has a Master's Degree in Irish Studies. She has studied there and visited many times over the years, the most recent trip being in April 2022.

There's nothing quite like a visit to the Emerald Isle to cleanse your soul and reinvigorate your spirit. Home to some of the world's greenest, most breathtaking landscapes, Ireland brims with tourist attractions so appealing, you'll want to visit them all.

From the captivating Cliffs of Moher that will leave you gob-smacked to the bright lights of Dublin's Grafton Street to the hallowed halls of Trinity College , you'll find plenty of fun things to do in Ireland. The hard part will be choosing which fascinating attractions should top your must-see list.

Whether you're hoping to spend time pursuing Ireland's endless number of outdoor activities (we're talking horseback riding, waterfall hiking, golf, and sailing) or hope to study the works of some of the country's most famed artists in state museums and galleries, you won't be at a loss for intriguing ways to spend your time.

Discover all the best places to visit in this stunningly attractive country with our list of the top tourist attractions in Ireland.

1. The Cliffs of Moher

2. grafton street, dublin, 3. killarney national park and muckross house & gardens, 4. the book of kells and trinity college, dublin, 5. kilmainham gaol, dublin, 6. the ring of kerry, 7. glendalough, co. wicklow, 8. powerscourt house and gardens, co. wicklow, 9. the rock of cashel, 10. national museum of ireland, dublin, and county mayo, 11. blarney castle and the blarney stone, 12. kinsale, co. cork, 13. the dingle peninsula and the wild atlantic way, 14. torc waterfall, killarney national park, 15. st. stephen's green, dublin, 16. bunratty castle & folk park, 17. national gallery of ireland, dublin, 18. the english market, cork, 19. the aran islands, 20. kilkenny castle, kilkenny, 21. the little museum of dublin, 22. experience glasnevin cemetery, map of tourist attractions in ireland, best time to visit ireland.

So many superlatives have been used to describe the magnificent Cliffs of Moher that it's hard to find the right words. Vertigo-inducing and awe-inspiring spring to mind, and they are indeed both of these things, as well as being utterly wild and ruggedly beautiful.

For those who've read up on the Emerald Isle prior to visiting, the cliffs will be familiar, starring as they do in countless postcards and guidebooks. Yet no image can ever do them justice. This is one of the top tourist attractions in Ireland for good reason.

About one and a half hours by car from Galway , in neighboring County Clare, the cliffs are visited by close to a million people from across the globe each year. It's one of the popular day trips from Dublin . They stretch for eight kilometers along the Atlantic and rise some 214 meters at their highest point. Take a walk along the trail to experience the raw power of nature at its most majestic.

So much more than just a great place to shop in Dublin, Grafton Street is alive with buskers, flower-sellers, and performance artists. You will also find countless places to stop off and simply watch the world meander by. Café culture has taken off in the capital, and on a sunny day, you'd be forgiven for thinking you were in Barcelona or Lisbon.

True, this is Dublin's shopping heartland, but there's no need to spend a fortune if visiting. You'll find friendly, chatty service no matter where you go and be entertained from the bottom of the street to St. Stephen's Green at the top. Grab a coffee or, in the mornings, a legendary Irish breakfast at Bewley's Grafton Street Café . Take time as well to duck down the numerous alleyways and streets to see what you can discover.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dublin

If visiting the Kerry region, the 19th-century Muckross House, Gardens, and Traditional Farms, set in spectacular Killarney National Park , should be top of your must-see list. There are many reasons this is deemed one of the best tourist attractions in Ireland; you'll need to visit to discover them all.

Standing close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of three Killarney lakes famed worldwide for their splendor and beauty, this former mansion oozes the grandeur and gentility of bygone days. When exploring, bear in mind that Queen Victoria once visited here. In those days, a royal visit was no small affair; extensive renovations and re-landscaping took place in preparation, and no detail was left to chance.

The house and gardens are a real treat, and there are Jaunting Cars (Killarney's famous horse & traps) to take you around the grounds in style. The attraction's old farmsteads are also well worth taking in for a taste of how ordinary folk once lived.

The Killarney National Park & Lakes region is filled with beautiful scenery, and any route through it will reveal view after view of its lakes and mountains. A highlight in the western part of Killarney National Park is the 11-kilometer drive over the scenic Gap of Dunloe , a narrow and rocky mountain pass carved by glaciers at the close of the Ice Age. The gap separates Purple Mount and its foothills from Macgillycuddy's Reeks.

Another highlight of this national heritage site is Ross Castle . Winding lanes and cycling paths are among the best ways to see the park.

Address: Killarney National Park, Muckross, Killarney, Co. Kerry

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Killarney

Ireland's oldest university, Trinity College in Dublin is one of the country's ancient treasures. Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity is a world within a world.

Once you enter the gates and cross the cobblestones, it's as if the modern, thriving city outside simply melts away. A stroll in and around the grounds is a journey through the ages and into the hushed world of scholarly pursuit. Many shop and office workers take their lunchtime sandwiches here during summer months simply to escape the hustle and bustle outside.

The college is also famed for its priceless treasures. These include the awe-inspiring Book of Kells (on permanent exhibition), and the mind-boggling Long Room (the inspiration for the library in the first Harry Potter movie).

Address: Trinity College, College Green, Dublin 2

Featured in many a rebel song and occupying a notoriously dark place in Irish history, Kilmainham Gaol should be high on the list of Dublin's best places to visit for those with any interest in Ireland's troubled past.

It was here that the leaders of the 1916 Uprising were brought and, after being convicted of High Treason, executed in the prison yard. The only one spared was future Irish President Eamon De Valera who, by virtue of his American citizenship, didn't suffer the same grisly fate.

Dating from 1796, the prison was a dank vile institution that housed those guilty of such misdemeanors as being unable to pay their train fares and, during the famine, the destitute and hungry. In Irish eyes, Kilmainham became an irrevocable symbol of oppression and persecution.

A visit here will open your eyes and will remain with you indelibly. The yard mentioned earlier is particularly spine-chilling. In short, this is one of Ireland's absolute must-sees.

Address: Inchicore Road, Dublin 8

If in Kerry, take the time to explore what is arguably Ireland's most scenic route, the Ring of Kerry (Iveragh Peninsula). While you can start anywhere along this spectacular 111-mile-long tourist route, most people tend to set out from either Kenmare or Killarney ending, naturally enough, back in the same spot.

The entire journey non-stop could take under three hours, but that's unlikely to happen. En route there's a feast of jaw-dropping Atlantic Ocean views, stunning islands to visit, wild sweeping mountains, and many picturesque villages.

This area of astounding natural beauty boasts a range of outdoor pursuits including golf, water sports on pristine beaches, cycling, walking, horse-riding, and terrific freshwater fishing and deep-sea angling. For history enthusiasts, there are Ogham Stones, Iron Age forts, and ancient monasteries, all set against a canvas of striking landscapes.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Ring of Kerry

Magical and mysterious, Glendalough is home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. The settlement was established by St. Kevin during the 6th century and eventually evolved into what's known as the Monastic City.

Visitors have flocked to the valley of the two lakes for thousands of years to absorb its rich history, magnificent scenery, plentiful wildlife, and fascinating archaeological finds.

The monastic site with its incredibly preserved round tower is a joy to explore, and the surrounding woodlands and lakes are perfect for rambling through at your leisure or stopping off for a picnic. There are marked nature trails to follow and a Visitor Centre for all the information you'll need for a day out like no other.

Address: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow

Superb views, serene lakeside walks, engaging history, and the stunning backdrop of Sugarloaf Mountain are just some of the treats in store when visiting the magnificent Powerscourt House and Gardens , just 20 kilometers from Dublin.

Now owned by the Slazenger family, the house is set on 47 manicured acres. Take time to stroll through the Rose and Kitchen Gardens and explore the beautiful Italian Gardens. There are more than 200 varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers, and particularly moving is a section where much-loved family pets were buried complete with headstones and inscriptions.

The gardens were laid out over a period of 150 years and were designed to create an estate that blends harmoniously with the surroundings. On-site, in the former Palladian home, are craft and design shops and an excellent café/restaurant. Truly one of the most majestic attractions in Ireland, this is also one of the top day trips from Dublin .

Address: Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow

Ireland's most visited heritage site, the Rock of Cashel stars in countless images of the Emerald Isle. Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain even visited by helicopter during her 2011 official tour of the country. Perched upon a limestone rock formation in the Golden Vale, this magnificent group of medieval buildings includes the High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, the 12th-century round tower, a 15th-century castle, and a 13th-century Gothic cathedral.

The restored Hall of the Vicars Choral is also among the structures. Tourist attractions include an audio-visual show and exhibitions. It's also said that this was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster prior to the Norman invasions.

Address: Cashel, Co. Tipperary

It's easy to spend an entire day at the National Museum of Ireland , which is technically a collection of museums. You'll find a building dedicated to highlighting the country's "natural history" on Merrion Street in Dublin 2, "decorative arts & history" in Dublin's Collins Barracks , "country life" in Mayo , and the stunning "archeology" museum on Kildare Street in Dublin 2.

Depending on which building you visit, you can expect to find interesting exhibits on everything from Irish Antiquities to Irish folklife to Celtic art. The National Museum of Ireland—Archaeology is home to over two million historic artifacts, and contains fascinating finds, including metalwork that dates to the Celtic Iron Age.

The National Museum of Ireland—Country Life , which lies in Turlough Park, Castlebar, is housed in a unique building that seamlessly blends Victorian and contemporary architecture. Inside, you'll find photographs, films, ancient furniture, and permanent exhibits on everything from Irish hearth and home to life in the community to various jobs held on both land and water.

The National Museum of Ireland—Decorative Arts & History is housed in an iconic military barracks and contains historic treasures such as ceramics, glassware, clothes, jewelry, and coins.

The National Museum of Ireland—Natural History is home to over 10,000 exhibits featuring the country's most beloved wildlife, as well as interesting creatures from across the globe.

Possibly Ireland's best-known attraction and one of its must-see-castles , the Blarney Stone sits high on a tower of Blarney Castle , not far from Cork. Reputed to endow the famed Irish eloquence to those who dare hang their head over the parapets to kiss it, the stone is not the only reason for visiting Blarney Castle.

Blarney Castle was built more than 600 years ago by Irish chieftain Cormac McCarthy, and you can tour the massive stone building from its towers to its dungeons. Extensive gardens surround it, filled with stone features and secret corners. Blarney Woollen Mills is known for its sweaters and other knitwear and has a shop selling crystal, porcelain, and other Irish gifts.

Soaked in history and in a scenic coastal setting at the gateway to West Cork, Kinsale has been attracting large numbers of visitors for decades. It's one of the best small towns in Ireland for tourists .

The town has a decidedly Spanish feel, particularly in summer. This is hardly surprising bearing in mind that in 1601, three years after the defeat of the Spanish Armada, the Spanish sent a military force to Ireland, most of whom disembarked at Kinsale. This led to the English laying siege to the town and ultimately the defeat of Spanish and Irish forces by superior English military might.

Kinsale is now a magnet for those who love sailing, walking, fishing, marvelous scenery, and great food. The town is packed with restaurants of all sorts and the seafood on offer is excellent. There's an annual Gourmet Festival among others, and a visit to the imposing Charles Fort shouldn't be missed.

Part of The Wild Atlantic Way, a 1700-mile marked route around Ireland's west and adjacent coasts, the Dingle Peninsula combines wild beauty, history, and a glimpse of traditional Irish culture and language.

It's not by accident: the region is designated as a Gaeltacht, where the Irish language and culture are protected by government subsidies. You'll hear Gaelic spoken and sung, and read it on signs, although everyone also speaks English.

Ending at Dunmore Head , the Irish mainland's westernmost point, the peninsula is bordered by some of Ireland's best beaches and ragged cliffs. Stone huts that scatter its open landscapes were built by monks in the early Middle Ages, and you'll find more stone monuments that date to the Bronze Age.

It's easy to see why the Torc Waterfall is one of the best places to visit in Ireland . Situated in the heart of Killarney National Park , this 20-meter-tall cascade is one of the top attractions in the Ring of Kerry. The relaxing sound of rushing water can be heard from the nearby car park, which lies a mere 200 meters away, an easy walk for those who find hiking difficult.

If you're hoping for a longer trek, continue on the Kerry Way , a 200-kilometer well-sign-posted walking trail that loops its way around the stunning Iveragh Peninsula on its way to and from nearby Killarney.

Beloved by Dubliners and with a colorful history, tranquil St. Stephen's Green is a great place to wind down, enjoy a picnic, or feed the ducks. Incidentally, during the 1916 Uprising, special dispensation was given on both sides to the park keepers. Hostilities ceased daily so that the ducks could be properly fed. It could only happen in Dublin.

Nowadays "The Green," as it's known locally, boasts beautifully maintained gardens, the ubiquitous Duck Pond, a picturesque bridge, recreation grounds, mature trees to rest beneath, and a playground.

Around the perimeter are many of Dublin's premier Georgian buildings as well as the iconic Shelbourne Hotel, founded in 1824, where afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor's Lounge is considered by many to be a real treat.

A visit to the Shannon region wouldn't be complete without coming here. Dating from 1425, the castle is the best-preserved medieval fortress in Ireland and was lovingly restored in the 1950s. Containing a fine array of 15th- and 16th-century furnishings and tapestries, the castle will transport you back to ancient medieval times.

The themed banquets in the evenings are great fun, although certain guests who misbehave run the risk of being sent to the dungeons below. The impressive Folk Park brings the Ireland of a century ago vividly to life. Featuring more than 30 buildings in a village and rural setting, the folk park has village shops, farmhouses, and streets to explore. It's all great fun for families and kids.

Founded in 1854 by an Act of Parliament, the National Gallery of Ireland is a beloved institution situated in Dublin's tree-lined Merrion Square . This grand gallery opened to the public in 1864 but recently underwent an extensive renovation, creating even more impressively airy and bright spaces to house its vast collection of artworks. Don't worry, the impressive, 19 th -century architecture was well preserved.

In addition to the picturesque structure, inside you'll find a collection of the country's most famous art, as well the national collection of paintings by the European Old Masters. Its convenient location in Dublin's city center makes it easy to spend the rest of your day shopping and dining in the city's best establishments.

Even better than the impressive works found in this gallery is the price: admission is free. With so many intriguing pieces to examine, we'd suggest setting aside a few hours to explore it fully.

Address: Merrion Square West, Dublin 2

No visit to Cork would be complete without dropping by the English Market . That said, it's a tad ironic that what is arguably one of Cork city's best attractions should contain the word "English" — Cork folk usually see themselves as far more ideologically and culturally removed from neighboring Britain than their Dublin counterparts.

Having said that, they hold a special place in their hearts for this quirky covered market, which stocks the best of local produce, including the freshest seafood, artisan bread, and excellent cheeses.

A market has existed on the site since the late 1700s, although the distinctive entrance on Princes Street dates from 1862. Recent worldwide fame came when Queen Elizabeth II dropped by on her first-ever state visit to the Republic of Ireland in 2011. Iconic images of her sharing a joke with Fishmonger Pat O'Connell were beamed across the globe.

For those who wish to linger a while, there's coffee to go and the cozy Farmgate Restaurant upstairs.

Address: Princes Street, Cork (off St. Patrick's Street & Grand Parade)

Originally brought to world attention in 1934 by the fictionalized documentary Man of Aran, these islands have been entrancing visitors ever since. This is a taste of Ireland as it once was. Gaelic is the first language; there are a mere 1,200 inhabitants; and once ashore, you'll feel as if you're in a time warp.

There are three islands, the largest being Inishmore , then Inishmaan , and the smallest is Inisheer .

Wild, windswept, rugged, and utterly unique, the islands offer a visitor experience quite like no other. Once experienced, the great stone fort of Dun Aonghasa and the towering cliffs of Aran will never be forgotten. The local culture is quite different from that of the mainland, the archaeological heritage cannot be found elsewhere and the rich scenery is simply breathtaking.

Despite housing many different owners and undergoing multiple stints of rebuilding, Kilkenny Castle has stood strong for over 800 years. While it looks Victorian from the outside, the castle's roots date to the 13 th century. This is when it was built by William Marshal, who created this masterpiece to serve as a "symbol of Norman Control."

Today, the castle is open to visitors wishing to traipse through the 50 acres of lush grounds, which include a stunning, terraced rose garden; towering, ancient trees; and a sparkling, man-made lake. It is one of the most beloved tourist attractions in Ireland.

The grand house is open to explore, and it's here you'll find an ornate entrance hall, eerie undercroft, and captivating tapestry room, as well as period rooms like the nursery.

The 19 th -century pitched roof picture gallery is particularly impressive for those who enjoy admiring creative works in a captivating setting.

Address: The Parade, Kilkenny

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Kilkenny

A recent addition to the capital's museums, The Little Museum should be top on the list for anybody wishing to grasp Dublin's recent history. The museum grew organically from a "meet and greet" service for visitors, and quickly became what we see today. As well as informative, personally guided tours, new initiatives include Dublin by Land & Sea and The Green Mile Walking Tour .

On permanent exhibition are such items as the lectern used by John F. Kennedy during his 1963 visit to Ireland, and a U2 exhibition with mementos donated by band members themselves. This is a joyful museum that celebrates Dublin with all its quirkiness and humor.

Address: 15 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2

Perhaps one of the best ways to learn about the history of Ireland is to wander among its most notable figures. The Glasnevin Cemetery, Ireland's National Cemetery, is a place practically packed with history, as most of the country's pivotal players are buried here.

Glasnevin is both the country's largest cemetery, as well as the world's first cemetery museum . It opened in 1832 and is the final resting place for more than 1.5 million people. Among the celebrated figures buried here are Daniel O'Connell, Michael Collins, Charles Stewart Parnell, and Eamon de Valera, all of whom played an integral role in the shaping of modern-day Ireland. The cemetery also has 800,000 victims of the Great Famine from the 1840s.

Prior to the opening of the ceremony, Catholics in Ireland were limited in how they could bury and honor their dead, thanks to 18th-century Penal Laws put in place by England. The cemetery opened as a place where both Irish Catholics, as well as Protestants, could bury their dead without restriction.

The cemetery museum opened in 2010 and has exhibits that include an immersive display that teaches visitors about burial practices and customs in Ireland. The cemetery itself is designed beautifully, with a traditional Victorian garden, monuments, and sprawling lawns. Today the entire cemetery takes up 124 acres.

Address: Finglas Road, Glasnevin, Dublin, D11 XA32, Ireland

While the shoulder seasons in the spring and fall are great times to visit for the smaller crowds, each season brings with it unique reasons to go.

Summer has some of the best weather, and winter has the best rates for lodging and transportation. It is important to consider the factors that matter to you most and start your planning from there, since some things in your itinerary will be dependent on the time of year that you go.

Spring: The spring months are some of the best times to visit Ireland. You can plan on comfortable weather and not as many crowds as the summer season. The rates for airfare and hotels will be lower, and you can find incredible deals on bed and breakfast accommodation. B&B Ireland is a network of B&Bs throughout the country that have been inspected for quality, and the network extends throughout the country.

The flowers in Ireland are blooming in April and May, so the many gardens and landscaping at the castles will be stunning for a spring visit. Crowds are smaller in the spring , which is nice, especially at attractions like castles that have narrow stone stairwells and in the small villages where shopping quarters and sidewalks are small.

The only caveat with spring is the occasional rain shower. They generally come and go and do not last long, so a glimpse of sunshine is always around the corner. Pack for the potential of rain, and you will be fine.

Summer : If your Ireland priority is to travel during the months with the best weather , then summer is when to go . June, July, and August are the sunniest months in Ireland and they are also the busiest with tourists.

The nice thing about Ireland's consistent weather is that even in the middle of summer, the temperatures never get overly hot. This makes it nice for spending full days outside, especially since you will need to plan a little extra time at attractions due to the many tourists.

The long days of summer allow for more time to sightsee attractions, and these are the months when festivals are in full swing. Since the summer months see the most tourists, that means rates at hotels and airfares are at their highest.

If you do plan to travel to Ireland in the summer, you should book your accommodations far in advance, as availability will become limited the closer you get to your travel dates.

Fall: The months of September and October are great times to go to Ireland when the brisk fall air and leaves changing colors add to the experience and natural beauty of the island. The summer tourists are gone in the fall, and you can enjoy no lines at the popular attractions. Since it is the shoulder season, you can expect the same unpredictable weather as the rest of the year, with a slightly higher risk for occasional rain.

Light rain in the fall months will not deter your ability to take ferries to nearby islands or other experiences, you just have to plan for the possibility. Even the open-air, double-decker, hop-on, hop-off buses in Dublin keep operating in the rain.

You will find many farmers markets and outdoor craft festivals throughout Ireland in the fall, and you can enjoy the break on rates at hotels and for airfare. Be advised that some smaller establishments, businesses, and B&Bs close up for the season after October, so check into that before booking airline tickets.

Winter: If a cozy Ireland vacation sounds appealing, then traveling in the winter months between November and February can net you some huge discounts , especially if you plan to base out of main cities like Dublin or Cork.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Things to Do in Ireland and When to Visit: Some people come here for a quick weekend break , while others come on longer trips to explore the castles, cities, and small towns. A few people come here to fish. Anglers will want to be sure to see our article on the best fishing destinations in Ireland . One thing to consider if you are planning activities or even sightseeing is the time of year you want to travel.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Ireland

In this guide, you are going to discover the best places to visit in Ireland . From stunning scenery, lush landscapes, places to discover Ireland’s history and the best cities to enjoy, these places are the must-visit and must-see in Ireland that you need to consider when planning your Ireland itinerary.

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Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Ireland

To help you decide what places in Ireland to put on your Ireland itinerary, I’ve compiled a list of what I consider to be the best places in Ireland to visit. These will include cities, national parks, areas of interest and I will also give you an idea of what to visit while you are there and where to stay.

If you are still trying to decide the best month to visit Ireland, read this post which gives you a detailed guide to help you decide the best time of year to book your trip to Ireland for.

Most trips to Ireland will probably begin for many with arrival at Dublin Airport. As the capital of Ireland, Dublin is one of the most visited places in Ireland. It is a large city with a bustling city centre which is where most visitors will stay and explore.

There are hotels and other accommodation to suit every budget and a wealth of things to do in Dublin. From tourist attractions to museums, parks and galleries, there is something for everyone in Dublin.

Dublin can also serve as a starting or ending point for a larger Ireland itinerary. Spend a day or two in the city before heading out to explore Ireland or start your exploration first and end with 3 days in Dublin .

Dublin is also a great place in Ireland for a city break and it is also very family-friendly.

Top attraction to visit – Dublin regularly features when list suggest the top 10 attractions in Ireland and one of them is always the Guinness Storehouse. Learn how the famous black drink is made and sample some afterwards. Book your tickets here .

Top place to stay – Jury’s Inn Christchurch, a great mid-range priced hotel. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

Glendalough

Nestled in the Wicklow Mountains National Park is one of the top places to see in Ireland, the monastic site of Glendalough. Founded in the 6 th century by St Kevin, Glendalough is a historical site that has a Visitor’s Centre, lots of monuments and buildings, and a 33-meter-tall Round Tower, the most famous structure at Glendalough.

But it is not only the monastic site that is the reason why people visit. The Glendalough Valley is also home to some stunning scenery, thanks to the Upper and Lower Lakes. Head up to the Spink Viewing Spot for incredible views down the valley overlooking the lakes.

There are also walking trails from Glendalough that lead into other parts of the Wicklow Mountains National Park. It is a great place to combine beautiful nature with history.

Top attraction to visit – The Round Tower at the monastic site at Glendalough is not-to-be-missed. You can also book guided tours from the Visitor’s Centre.

Top place to stay – Powerscourt Court Hotel for a little luxury and pampering. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.

If you are looking for the best castle to visit in Ireland, then why not pay a visit to Kilkenny. The town is one of the most popular places in Ireland and was once the medieval capital of the Emerald Isle.

This lovely inland town still holds remnants of its medieval past, with Tudor houses and facades visible, as well as the Cathedral. Kilkenny Castle is one of the best castles in the country and this Norman fortress holds court near the centre of town.

Kilkenny is also known for one of the country’s best art festivals and also for the Cats Laughs Comedy Festival, which sees artists from around the world come to host sketches in the hotels and pubs around the city over a long weekend.

Top attraction to visit – Kilkenny Castle is a must when in the city. You can wander the castle yourself or take a guided tour. The grounds are worth visiting if the weather permits.

Top place to stay – Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel in the city. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

One of the best places to visit in southern Ireland is located in the southeast corner. Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city, established in 914 by the Vikings, and is sometimes a city overlooked by visitors. But it shouldn’t be.

Waterford is a great city to visit, particularly if you are interested in history. Not only are there snippets of its Viking origins in the city, but there is a wealth of medieval history in the city too. There are also three fantastic museums in the city and two cathedrals.

The best way to discover Waterford is via the little tourist train that runs through the city. Despite the fact the journey is just less than an hour-long, you can see and learn so much about the city while using it to decide where to visit next.

Top attraction to visit – The House of Waterford Crystal is a must to discover the origins of the famous crystal and see how orbs of molten glass are transformed into stunning crystal pieces. Pre-book your tickets here.

Top place to stay – Waterford Castle for a relaxing but luxurious stay. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.

One of the top destinations in Ireland is the sleepy little town of Cashel in County Tipperary. While the town is small, there is something big that draws thousands of visitors every year.

A majestic stronghold rises from the landscape as soon as you approach the town of Cashel. The Rock of Cashel is one of the best places to visit in Ireland. Once the seat of the High Kings of Munster, it is one of Ireland’s most spectacular historic sites. The site includes the Abbey, chapels, a graveyard, round tower and museum.

But there is more to Cashel than just the Rock. The Brú Ború Culture Centre is located beside the Rock of Cashel and was named after the 11 th century High King of Ireland, Brian Ború. Here you can sample Irish culture through a folk theatre, traditional music and a craft shop.

You can also visit the Hore Abbey, Cashel Folk Village and the Cashel Heritage Centre.

Top attraction to visit – Undoubtedly the top attraction to visit is the Rock of Cashel. It is a must-visit when in Cashel.

Top place to stay – Baileys Hotel for a comfortable stay at mid-range prices. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

One of the top 5 best cities to visit in Ireland is Cork. Despite being the Republic’s second city in terms of size, Cork is quite compact, set on an island in the River Lee, making it an ideal destination for an Ireland getaway.

Cork is a vibrant city with lots to offer visitors. It hosts an October jazz festival which is a popular time to visit the city. Attractions to visit in the city include the Cork Butter Museum which tells the story of one of Ireland’s most important exports, as well as Cork City Gaol, the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery, other museums, cathedrals and forts.

Cork is also a great place to base yourself to visit Cobh, the last stop Titanic made before she set sail across the Atlantic. The Titanic Experience is located in the original White Star Line offices and gives visitors a powerful insight into the liners fateful voyage. And from Cork, you can also visit another of the best places to visit in Ireland, Blarney Castle where you may be lucky to bestowed with the gift of the gab if you venture to the top of the castle to kiss the Blarney Stone.

Top attraction to visit – Within Cork, Blackrock Castle and Observatory is a must-visit while just outside Cork, both Blarney Castle and the Titanic Experience in Cobh are highly recommended. Book a full-day tour from Dublin, taking in Cork, Cobh and Blarney here.

Top place to stay – For a budget-friendly, city centre hotel, stay in the Cork Metropole Hotel. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.

One of the top places to visit in Ireland is Killarney in County Kerry. Sitting on the edge of the Killarney National Park , this “tourist town” is busiest in summer when many visitors come to enjoy the lively pubs, great food in the many restaurants available for all budgets, and to spend time in the beautiful Killarney National Park.

The Killarney National Park is home to no less than three beautiful lakes which make up a third of the park. Within the Killarney National Park are lots of things to see and do. There are walking and hiking trails, Ross Castle, Muckross House and Abbey and the Torc Waterfall.

This area is one of natural beauty and it is easy to see why it is so popular with tourists.

Top attraction to visit – The stunning Torc Waterfall and Ross Castle are top attractions to visit while in Killarney. We also highly recommend a visit to the Gap of Dunloe. Book your boat, car and bus tour here.

Top place to stay – For ultimate luxury on the edge of one of the lakes of Killarney National Park, stay in The Europe. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

Ring of Kerry

One of the most beautiful places in Ireland to visit is also one of the most scenic places in Ireland. A 179km circular driving route known as the Ring of Kerry is somewhere that everyone needs on their Ireland bucket list.

The Ring of Kerry also forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way , a 2500km driving route that stretches from Malin Head in County Donegal to the Old Head of Kinsale in County Cork. The Ring of Kerry circuit of the Iveragh Peninsula brings you through pretty villages, past rugged coastline and the landscape changes all the time from beaches to mountains and loughs.

The Killarney National Park is encased in the Ring of Kerry. Valentia Island is just off the Ring of Kerry and is accessed by a car ferry from Portmagee on the mainland. From here you can visit the Skellig Islands, featured in recent Star Wars films.

In each of the villages and towns, you will find things to see and do like museums, castles, heritage centres and more and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants and pubs for a bite to eat. But it is the sheer beauty of the Ring of Kerry which makes it one of the 10 best places to visit in Ireland.

Top attraction to visit – Visit Valentia Island and take a boat across to the Skellig Islands. Just make sure the boat is licenced by the Office of Public Works (www.opw.ie) as numbers are limited on the islands each day. If you don’t fancy doing all the driving yourself, we can recommend this day trip around the Ring of Kerry for Killarney. For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Top place to stay – Parknasilla Resort and Spa is a great place in Sneem to stay if you want to stay on the Ring of Kerry itself. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.

One of the best places to travel in Ireland is to, and along, the Dingle Peninsula. Also part of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula has mainland Ireland’s most westerly point and visitors can find prehistoric ring forts and beehive huts, early Christian chapels and picturesque villages, both inhabited and abandoned.

At the centre of this is the gorgeous fishing town of Dingle, and one of the prettiest Irish coastal towns . This charming town has been known to attract artists, craftsmen and musicians, who spend their time in workshops, museums and festivals.

Once the home of Fungi the dolphin, Dingle is a mix of brightly coloured craft shops and cafes with plenty of quaint pubs offering live music and fresh seafood, fished by one of the many fishing boats moored in the harbour.

Top attraction to visit – Dingle Oceanworld is a great aquarium with a walk-through tunnel and touch pool which brings visitors face-to-face with the creatures found in the waters off Ireland.

Top place to stay – Dingle Harbour Lodge for B&B accommodation at reasonable prices and views across the harbour. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

One of the top places to go in Ireland is its third-largest city, Limerick. A vibrant city that bustles all year-round, mainly thanks to its large student population, Limerick can often be overlooked by visitors who favour Dublin or Galway.

Sitting on the tidal banks of Ireland’s longest river, the Shannon, Limerick is a city that boasts a huge castle, a recently rejuvenated waterline, a lively art gallery and a quietly developing food scene.

Most of the places of interest in Limerick are found in the oldest part of the city on King’s Island and around Crescent and Pery Square along the riverbanks. These include King John’s Castle, the Hunt Museum, the Limerick City Gallery of Art, the Frank McCourt Museum (who wrote about it in his book Angela’s Ashes ) and the People’s Park.

Limerick is also a good base for visiting Adare Castle and Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, both within an easy drive of the city.

Top attraction to visit – King John’s Castle is probably the best attraction to visit in the city. It is a large castle with a small museum and interactive exhibitions. Book your entry ticket here.

Top place to stay – The George Hotel is a boutique hotel which is centrally located and is hugely popular. Reserve well in advance for this stylish and comfortable, reasonably priced hotel. Click here to check for availability and to see the latest prices.

County Clare

One of the most amazing places in Ireland is County Clare. This county is one full of rich history and natural beauty which is why it features among the top 5 places to visit in Ireland in terms of overall counties.

County Clare is home to one of the most famous places in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher. Rising magnetically from the Atlantic Ocean, these sheer cliffs attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. These cliffs which reach heights of 214m at their tallest give unparalleled views to the Aran Islands and Galway Bay on a clear day. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre offers an interactive exhibition on the flora, fauna, geology and climate of one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations.

County Clare is also home to the Burren National Park , famous for its rocky, windswept landscape made predominantly of grey limestone. You will also find several castles to visit including Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, located in the south of the county. This castle is one of Ireland’s most intact medieval castles and the folk park gives visitors an insight into village life in Ireland in the 19 th century.

Top attraction to visit – Without a doubt, the top attraction to visit in County Clare are the Cliffs of Moher. For a truly unforgettable view of these awe-inspiring cliffs, take a cruise tour of the cliffs from Doolin. Book this tour here.

Top place to stay – Hotel Doolin in the town of the same name is an ideal base for visiting both the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren National Park. See the latest prices and check availability here.

One of the most popular and best places to go in Ireland is the capital city of the West of Ireland, Galway. Not only is the city hugely popular and a brilliant place for a getaway in Ireland, but County Galway is also just as good.

Galway City sits on the banks of the River Corrib and is a lively university city. Galway City has several churches and cathedrals to visit, a few museums including the Galway City Museum, an Arts Centre and the Spanish Arch, an extension of the city’s medieval walls, is a must. The seaside town of Salthill which is located next to Galway City is also a great place to visit.

Within Galway City, Eyre Square and the Latin Quarter are popular with visitors for the lively bars, pubs and restaurants.

Galway hosts several of Ireland’s best festivals throughout the year including the Galway Races, the Cúirt International Festival of Literature and the Galway International Arts Festival.

Top attraction to visit – Visit the free Galway City Museum where you can enjoy exhibits about the city’s history from 1800 to 1950.

Top place to stay – For a comfortable mid-range price hotel, stay in the Jury’s Inn Galway. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

Connemara National Park

Galway can be a great base for exploring another of the most beautiful parts of Ireland, the Connemara National Park . This national park spans nearly 3000 hectares of bog, mountains, heath and woodlands.

To reach Connemara National Park from Galway, it is best to take the coast road which is part of the Wild Atlantic Way . Trailing through village-like Spiddal, Clifden and Letterfrack, this is an epic part of the driving route.

Visitors come to see the beautiful landscape which includes lakes such as Lough Kylemore, catch a glimpse of Connemara ponies and see traces of the lands previous uses including megalithic tombs which are over 4000 years old. During summer, guided walks are popular activities to partake in.

Top attraction to visit – On the edge of Lough Kylemore is a beautiful former castle, Kylemore Abbey. See restored rooms and explore the gardens before visiting the craft shop.

Top place to stay – The Clifden Bay Lodge is a B&B just 15 minutes from the Connemara National Park with stunning sea views. Click here to see this B&B, latest prices and availability.

Achill Island

Another of the top beautiful places to visit in Ireland is Achill Island, Ireland’s largest island, located in County Mayo. Connected to the mainland by a bridge, Achill is just 22km long by 19km wide.

For a small island, it packs things in, with mountains, rugged cliffs, moorland and beaches to explore. Achill Island is a popular spot for angling and water sports. There is a circular Atlantic Coast drive for those wanting to enjoy the whole island.

Activities include visiting Keem Bay Beach, the Slievemore deserted village which was abandoned during the Great Famine and Grace O’Malley’s Castle, a 40-ft high 15th-century tower that is associated with a pirate queen after who it was named.

Top attraction to visit – Keem Bay Beach is one of the top attractions to visit on Achill Island and one of Ireland’s best beaches . This lovely bay has a sandy beach and from viewing points above it, you can try and spot basking whales who often visit the bay.

Top place to stay – Most accommodation on Achill is B&B-type. Click here to search for accommodation on Achill Island.

Sitting along the River Garavogue is the West of Ireland town of Sligo. With pretty shop fronts and céilidh music spilling from the many pubs, Sligo is the perfect base for exploring the county it shares its name with.

County Sligo is Yeats country which is why it is one of the top ten places to visit in Ireland for poetry and literary buffs. Sligo Town has many things to do including Model, a gallery that houses Irish artwork, including pieces by Jack B Yeats (brother of William). There is also an abbey to visit, a county museum, a memorial building to WB Yeats and more.

Sligo is a great place to discover Irish myths and legends but also Ireland history. And it is also home to Benbulbin, a mountain that is uncommonly flat at its top and near-vertical sides. It is a unique place in Ireland.

Top attraction to visit – Sligo is home to some of the most important places in Ireland when it comes to history in the form of megalithic tombs and cemeteries. Visit the megalithic cemetery at Carrowkeel (3000 to 2000 BC) and the one at Carrowmore (thought to predate the tombs of Brú na Bóinne, see below).

Top place to stay – for a comfortable stay at reasonable prices, stay at the Clayton Hotel & Leisure Club. Click here to see this hotel, and the latest prices and availability.

One of the prettiest places in Ireland to visit is Donegal Town and County Donegal as a whole. Located in the far northwest corner of the Republic, it is often called the wild child of Ireland thanks to its rugged, yet beautiful coastline.

Donegal Town is a small, yet inviting place to visit with a well-preserved castle and 17 th century Diamond Obelisk, a market square with an obelisk in the centre. There is a great craft village where local craftwork is showcased.

Donegal sits on the edge of Lough Eske, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Further afield you can find the Glenveagh National Park with a castle of its own. And of course, Slieve League, the amazing cliffs just west of Donegal Town which can hold their own against their Wild Atlantic Way rivals, the Cliffs of Moher. And if you love the Wild Atlantic Way, you can follow it along the Donegal coastline to its northern starting point of Malin Head. Donegal is often overlooked as a place to visit in Ireland but is one which you should definitely consider putting on your Ireland bucket list!

Top attraction to visit – The Slieve League cliffs are by far one of the best attractions to visit in Donegal. These sea cliffs are among the highest in Europe, higher than the Cliffs of Moher, which makes them even more spectacular.

Top place to stay – For a truly unforgettable stay in Donegal, choose the Lough Eske Castle. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

Derry/Londonderry

One of the top places to visit in Northern Ireland is the walled town of Derry/Londonderry. Northern Ireland’s second-largest city is an artistic and cultural hub and was the UK’s City of Culture in 2013, resulting in a make-over for many parts of the city.

Derry is steeped in history including the Siege of Derry, Battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday. A stroll around the 17th-century city walls is a must as well as a guided walking tour which allows you to learn more about the historically important events in the city’s past.

Derry also has several museums to visit as well as a cathedral, art gallery and memorials to historically important events. Derry also hosts several festivals throughout the year making it a great city in Ireland to visit.

Top attraction to visit – The area within the city walls is littered with great things to see and do including various gates, the Tower Museum, a Guildhall and the Chapel of St Augustine. Book your private walking tour here.

Top place to stay – Stay within the historical city walls in the Bishop’s Gate Hotel. For prices and availability, click here.

Causeway Coast

One of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland is the Causeway Coast, a spectacular stretch of coastline that runs from the Giant’s Causeway (one of the most famous places in Northern Ireland) to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. It is 16.5km long and if you want to walk it, it will take approximately four hours to complete.

As one of the finest coastal walks in Ireland, the Causeway Coast is hugely popular with visitors in Northern Ireland. Much of the path is narrow and can get muddy when the weather makes a turn for the worst. If walking is not your thing, you can still enjoy the main sites by driving.

The Causeway Coast also features Dunseverick Castle and harbour, Ballintoy Harbour and Hamilton’s Seat, a bench that marks the most northern point of the walk. Dunluce Castle is just beyond the Giant’s Causeway, a 16th-century castle that is well-preserved except for its roof.

Top attraction to visit – Without a doubt, it has to be the Giant’s Causeway with its strange basalt columns said to once have been a bridge laid by Finn MacCool so he could reach Scotland to battle with his Scottish rival.

Top place to stay – The ideal place to stay for exploring the Causeway Coast is the Causeway Hotel. Click here for latest prices and availability.

One of the best places to go in Northern Ireland is its capital city, Belfast. Once shunned by travellers because of the “Troubles”, Belfast is now a popular destination for visitors to Northern Ireland who visit here and places beyond the city.

It is a city that has reinvented itself and has so many great things to see and do. From the Ulster Museum to the Botanic Gardens, to Belfast Castle and more, there’s something for everyone in Belfast.

If you are interested in learning about the history of the city during the Troubles, then take a black cab tour and view the amazing murals dotted around the city. There is a Cathedral Quarter to visit, and if you are visiting the city as a family and looking for the best things to do with kids in Belfast , then a visit to the W5 interactive science museum is sure to be a hit.

However, one of the more popular places of interest in Ireland, and in particular Northern Ireland, is the Titanic Quarter. Titanic Belfast is a huge building with exhibitions and interactive displays to share the story of the famous liner including its construction in the Harland and Wolff shipyard. You can visit HMS Caroline and SS Nomadic. This is one of the busiest areas of the cities with visitors.

Top attraction to visit – The Titanic Quarter is by far one of the best places to visit in Belfast. Book either the Titanic Experience or the Titanic Trail tours for the best experience.

Top place to stay – If you are visiting the Titanic Quarter, why not stay in it at the Titanic Hotel. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.

Drogheda, in County Louth, is not usually considered one of the top places in Ireland to visit, but this historic fortified town has a few things to offer visitors as well as being a based for one of the most unique places to visit in Ireland.

Within Drogheda itself, there is a cathedral and interesting museum to visit as well as lots of pubs and restaurants for soaking up some good old Irish craic. There is a 17th-century stately manor, an art gallery that was once a monastery and a tower and gateway stemming from its historical past.

Drogheda is also a great base for visiting Brú na Bóinne or the Boyne Valley. This Neolithic area of one of the most historically important sites in Ireland is one thousand years older than Stonehenge and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to Neolithic tombs, the three largest and most important being Knowth, Dowth and Newgrange.

Drogheda can also be a base for visiting the Hill of Tara and Trim, two other important historical sites in Ireland.

Top attraction to visit – The three Neolithic tombs of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth at Brú na Bóinne are the top attraction to visit near Drogheda and make a great day trip from Dublin . Entry is limited each day, so it is advisable to pre-book your tickets in advance.

Top place to stay – The riverside D Hotel is a great place to stay in Drogheda. Click here to check out this hotel with the latest prices and availability.

Deciding the best part of Ireland to visit can be a really hard decision to make. I hope this list of some of the best places to visit on the Emerald Isle has helped somewhat. Or has it? Whether you were thinking of finding stunning places to visit in the Republic or seeking out beautiful places in Northern Ireland, I hope I’ve helped and not hindered your decision making.

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by Cath Jordan

1 thought on “20 best places to visit in ireland”.

I definitely agree with the places on this post, although I’ve never spent time in limerick. I’ll have to go and see it now!

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The best places to visit in ireland.

If you’re wondering what to see in Ireland on your next visit, this list of the best places to visit in Ireland will help you make the right decision.

There’s no other place on Earth quite like the beautiful Emerald Isle. With a deep and rich history that runs back thousands of years, Ireland is a culturally and geographically rich island with so much to offer those who grace her shores.

I’ve had the incredible opportunity to visit Ireland many times in my life, and while there are many more places on my bucket list, I just keep coming back! There’s something special about this place that I can’t quite describe.

If you’re heading there soon and wondering what to see in Ireland, but struggling with narrowing down your choices, I’m here to help you out…or make your decision harder…with this list of the best places in Ireland! 

There are so many places in Ireland that hold a special place in my heart, but I wanted to share my top 40 best places to visit in Ireland that I  don’t think you should miss!  I hope this list will help you narrow down where to visit in Ireland.

I don’t think it’s possible to see all of these sites in one trip to Ireland, so don’t try. If you’re looking for a great overall Ireland itinerary that will cover both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, this is a great option .

• Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Ireland:

Get an Easy Ireland Itinerary

Our favorite hotels in Ireland

• Castle Hotel: Ashford Castle
• Dublin Hotel: Moxie Dublin
• Killarney: Killarney Royal Hotel
• Northern Ireland: The Fitzwilliam

Our favorite tours in Ireland

• Cliffs of Moher
• Northern Ireland Tour
• History Tour of Dublin
• Dublin Food Tour
• Book a Photoshoot in Ireland

Renting a Car in Ireland?

If you want to see authentic Ireland, I recommend you drive yourself. If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use:  Rental Cars  and  Expedia Cars.  We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

Here's a Short Cut

Where to go in Ireland

Map of ireland cities and ireland points of interest, three different regions of ireland, east coast: ireland’s ancient east, 2. howth cliffs, 3. newgrange, 4. hill of tara, 5. cooley peninsula, 6. wicklow mountains, 7. kilkenny, 9. hook peninsula, 10. waterford, 11. dunmore east, 12. lismore castle, west coast: the wild atlantic way, 13. cliffs of moher, 14. killarney national park, 15. ring of kerry, 16. dingle peninsula, 17. the burren, 18. county cork, 19. blarney castle, 20. the rock of cashel, 21. county sligo, 22. achill island, 24. limerick, 25. aran islands, 26. mount errigal donegal, 27. connemara, 28. the skellig islands, 29. kinsale, 30. giant’s causeway, 31. carrick-a-rede rope bridge, 32. dark hedges, 33. mussenden temple, 34. tollymore forest park, 35. strangford, 36. rathlin island, 37. glenariff forest park, more resources for visiting ireland.

When you’re trying to decide where to go in Ireland, it can be hard not to see the whole island. If you really want to see as much of Ireland as possible, follow my Ireland Itinerary for the most incredible road trip around both Ireland and Northern Ireland.

But if you have less than 10 days in Ireland, I suggest picking a few items off this list of top places to visit in Ireland and making the most of your time.

If you only have one week in Ireland, pick a region and stick with it, otherwise, you will spend your entire trip driving in Ireland. Each region in Ireland has so much to offer. They are all unique, but plentiful in natural and cultural beauty. Whichever area in Ireland you end up choosing, you won’t be disappointed!

These are my picks for the best places to visit in Ireland by region:

Ireland’s Ancient East is full of history (obviously) but also full of culturally rich experiences and incredible natural beauty. This area one of the best places in Ireland to witness the ancient history of the island.

The capital of Ireland, Dublin is the most populous city in Ireland and where most cheap flights to Ireland will take you. Don’t miss the Trinity College Library, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St. Stephen’s Green , and Dublin Castle.

I highly recommend taking a guided tour of Dublin which contains many of the top sites in Ireland and then getting out of the city to see what the rest o the amazing island has to offer.

Just north of Dublin lies the town of Howth and the Howth Cliffs. They’re not quite the imposing Cliffs of Moher, but the Howth Cliffs are impressive in their own right. Take the Howth Cliff Walk for stunning views and be sure to stop in town for some fresh fish and chips from this adorable Irish town.

Newgrange is a prehistoric monument built as a grand passage tomb in 3200 BC. It is older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids , and worth seeing!

The Hill of Tara is another ancient site in Ireland. It is an archaeological complex. It was once the high seat of the King of Ireland. At the top of the hill, you can find   Lia Fáil  or the Stone of Destiny, where the ancient kings of Ireland were crowned.

Just along the border to Northern Ireland is the beautiful Cooley Peninsula. There are plenty of outdoor activities you can partake in during the summer months. Don’t miss King John’s Castle along the water.

The Wicklow Mountains tend to get overlooked by first-time visitors to Ireland, which is a shame because it’s under an hour’s drive to visit one of the most beautiful places to go in Ireland. Wicklow has a rugged beauty that is characteristic of Ireland, and I’m pretty sure there’s a little magic hidden in those mountains! How could there not be?

Be sure to visit   Glendalough , known as the Valley of the Two Lakes, where you’ll find hiking, rock climbing, and site-seeing that will take your breath away!

Don’t miss Powerscourt House and Gardens, which was once a 13th-century castle, but has been extensively renovated in 1996 after a fire destroyed it. Powerscourt is a wonderful place to go on a sunny day in Ireland to enjoy the gardens, Avoca Handweavers, or the Powerscourt Golf Club.

We stayed at the Marriott Autograph Collection Powerscourt Hotel two separate times in Powerscourt, and it is definitely one of my top 5 favorite hotels in the world! You can find it here.

If you’re looking for a quintessential ancient Irish town, you’ve found it in Kilkenny. Wander the ancient, narrow streets, visit Kilkenny Castle , one of the best castles in Ireland , and Black Abbey .

This incredible town founded by Vikings in the 9th century is famous for its ancient heritage. The picturesque medieval streets are fun to walk through. Don’t miss the Irish National Heritage Park where you can learn about Eastern Ireland’s history.

Hook Peninsula is a little hidden gem in Ireland that doesn’t receive many tourists, yet has so much to offer. This is the part of Ireland that we lived in, so I may be biased, but it’s one of the best parts of the country and one of the must see places in Ireland.

This area of Ireland is also known as “the sunny southeast” and it’s true that it receives more sun than the rest of the country. So take advantage of that fact and spend some sunny days in the south.

Don’t miss   Hook Lighthouse , the oldest working lighthouse in the world! You can climb up to the light and learn about how different lighthouse keepers through the ages lived and worked.

On Hook Peninsula, you can also visit Loftus Hall , Ireland’s most haunted house where they put on a truly spooky tour! You can run through the fairy gardens afterward to lighten the mood.

Be sure to stop in at Tintern Abbey , where you can explore the ruins of a 13th-century abbey and also the ruins of an old overgrown mill. The surrounding area has amazing hiking paths that run along the stream. The tide goes in and out in front of Tintern Abbey and it’s a beautiful thing to watch.

Right next door to the Abbey, you can visit   Colclough Walled  Garden, which is an ancient enclosed garden that has been restored and is lovely and blooming in the springtime.

Waterford is one of the best cities to visit in Ireland if you’re interested in Viking history. You can visit the Medival Museum , the Viking Triangle , and the Waterford Crystal Factory , which is absolutely fascinating.

Just outside of Waterford you’ll find Curraghmore House & Gardens. Sitting on over 2,500 acres of gorgeous gardens and forests, where you can find the oldest bridge in Ireland.

This adorable fishing village just outside Waterford is a great little Irish town where you’ll find the cutest thatch-roof houses and a great little beach.

You can stay at this beautiful castle for only €57,800 for a seven-night stay for up to 16 guests! But if that’s not in your price range, check out these affordable castles you can actually stay in!

While the East’s focus is on history, I would say that the Wild Atlantic Way in the west of Ireland focuses on  natural beauty . With some of the most beautiful places in Ireland, the west should not be overlooked! These are my favorite places along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Probably the most iconic site in the country and definitely a must see in Ireland are the dramatic Cliffs of Moher . Plan at least half a  day to visit these beauties. They have a great visitor center there that’s worth taking a look at.

And if you’re a Harry Potter fan , you’ll especially love this as it was the filming location for the cave scene in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince! These 14 kilometers are also home to some super cute puffins that you’ll be able to see during the spring and summer months in Ireland.

Killarney, Ireland is so incredible, that it really deserves its own post, and you can find that here . But this is one of the best places to go in Ireland to get a great feel for the country and also to learn about its history.

At Killarney National Park you can enjoy beautiful hikes and scenery, tour the opulent Muckross House , the ancient ruins of Muckross Abbey , and also spend a day at the farm.

At Muckross Traditional Farms you can try your hand at making your own butter and even at milking a cow! Learn how peat was grown and used as fuel, and a little bit about the construction of traditional Irish houses over 100 years ago. It’s a great learning experience for the whole family.

The town of Killarney has some incredible restaurants and pubs, which are fun to see even if you don’t drink. Don’t miss Quinlan’s for amazing seafood, and Murphy’s for the best ice cream in Ireland!

The ring of Kerry is famous for its incredible views, and for good reason. You’ll see some of Ireland’s most stunning scenery along this road, which crosses through Killarney National Park. The rugged coastline drive offers many interesting stops at beautiful beaches, imposing mountain passes, and charming villages, making it easy to see why it’s the most popular Ireland road trip.

A little less well-known than the ring of Kerry, although quickly gaining in popularity is the Dingle peninsula. It’s a shorter drive through lands that are just as stunning, but maybe a little less crowded.

If you’ve ever watched the movie Leap Year, this is where it is set and mostly filmed. Dingle peninsula offers the same sandy beaches and craggy cliffs that Ireland is known for. Head to Dunmore Head, Ireland’s most western point for an incredible view of the Blasket Islands.

The Burren is an other-worldly landscape created from thousand-year-old limestone. Wandering around this place feels like walking on Mars! Watch for Foxgloves and rock roses that grow on the rocks.

Cork is one of my favorite big cities to visit in Ireland. While many people are drawn to Dublin, I prefer Cork. It has a less-touristy, and more authentic feel to it, but still with plenty to do and see.

Don’t miss the   English Market!  This covered market has been in business since 1788! You can find fresh fish (might need to plug your nose), fresh bread, fruits and vegetables. Queen Elizabeth even stopped by this market on her very first visit to the Republic of Ireland in 2011!

St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral  is a site to behold in Cork. Built with Cork limestone and Cork marble, it’s a stunning building.

Fitzgerald Par k is a lovely and tranquil spot to find some nature in the bustling city. There is also a museum, cafe, and skate park.

Be sure to ring the   Shandon bells at St. Anne’s Church , which uses the original bells from the 1800’s. Climb the tower for spectacular 360 views of the city of Cork.

Just south of Cork lies the charming and colorful seaside town of Cobh where you’ll find a hodgepodge of bright houses! Don’t miss Cork, one of the best cities in Ireland! 

Just north of Cork lies one of the most famous castles in Ireland, Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the notorious Blarney Stone!   The Blarney Stone is said to give anyone who kisses it the “gift of the gab.” The choice to kiss the stone is up to you, but the castle and the grounds are also quite impressive and worth a visit.

The Rock of Cashel, also known as St. Patrick’s Rock, is one of Ireland’s most visited sites. It’s essentially a collection of ancient buildings, including the 12th century round tower and 13th-century gothic cathedral, set upon an outcrop of limestone. The original cross of St. Patrick can also be found here. Learn more about the  Rock of Cashel here. 

Perhaps one of the most underrated places in Ireland, Sligo is a beautiful county on the west coast offering stunning scenery, adorable traditional architecture, and a rich cultural history.

You can hike the   Ox Mountains , visit the   Caves of Keash , go horseback riding through the forest, take a   seaweed bath  (yes you read that right), visit the animal sanctuary, go rock climbing, go golfing, and stay at a Castle Dargan! There are so many options in Sligo and I think it’s one of the best places to go in Ireland!

Achill Island located off the coast of County Mayo is known for its tall cliffs and pristine beaches. Achill Island boasts   Europe’s third highest sea cliffs ! They’re pretty impressive! Don’t miss   Keem Bay  and   Keel Beach.  I truly believe its one of the most beautiful places in Ireland and not to be missed if you’re touring the west coast!

The town of Galway is one of the famous places in Ireland, it even has it’s own song,  Galway Girl . It’s so quintessentially Irish that you can’t miss it! If you’re visiting this quaint Irish town, be sure to read this   guide to Galway! 

Limerick is a wonderful area in western Ireland full of history and myth. It’s the third largest city after Dublin and Cork and you don’t want to miss it. Be sure to visit   King John’s Castle  along the beautiful River Shannon,   St. Mary’s Cathedral , the oldest monument in the city, and the   Milk Market , one of Ireland’s best farmers’ market.

These three rocky islands just off the coast from Galway are known for their stunning beauty and ancient sites. Don’t miss the prehistoric fort of   Dún Aonghas  on Inishmore, the largest Aaran island, or the   Worm Hole , which despite its name, is actually a rectangular natural pool. It’s truly one of the most stunning places to see in Ireland if you’re on the west coast.

This is the tallest peak in County Donegal and quite a site to see! Be sure to watch it during sunset to see its pinkish glow! It’s one of the most impressive sites to see in Ireland!

Connemara, which means   Land of the Sea   is a wild region in the northern part of the Republic of Ireland, and one of the must see places in Ireland if you’re visiting in the north. Known for its pristine lakes and imposing mountains, Connemara is still remote and largely undiscovered, making it one of Ireland’s hidden gems.

Due to its remoteness, there is a strong Irish tradition and you can often find Irish spoken here. Hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and even scuba diving can be done in Connemara. Don’t miss the iconic Kylemore Abbey on the lake!

These two uninhabited islands along the Wild Atlantic Way known as Skellig Michael and Little Skellig were made famous by the movie   Star Wars: The Force Awakens , and has become increasingly popular because of it.

The islands can only be accessed by bout tour in fair weather. So if you’re visiting Ireland May-October, you’ll likely have the opportunity to see them. On Skellig Michael, the largest of the Skellig Islands, you can see an early Christian Monastery and beehive-shaped huts. It’s one of the most beautiful historical sites in Ireland and worth a visit if you can get there!

South of Cork lies the colorful town of Kinsale. You’ve probably seen pictures of this town without even knowing where it is. The bright idyllic houses and shops in Kinsale make it one of the best towns to visit in Ireland.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is a separate country from its southern neighbor the Republic of Ireland. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom. You won’t need a passport to cross the border, however, the currency used there will be pounds Stirling rather than Euros.

There are plenty of amazing things to do in Northern Ireland and you could easily spend your entire trip there, despite its small size. Here are what I think are the best things to do in Northern Ireland that you shouldn’t miss!

This beach with over 40,000 interlocking basalt rocks is a must see in Ireland! These iconic rocks are a result of an ancient volcanic eruption and are quite the site! You can walk around the rocks, but be careful, they can get slippery.

There is also an awesome hike up to some ancient caves that are worth your time! The hotel right by Giants Causeway has a great restaurant serving delicious beef stew and soda bread. You’ll need to fuel back up after a long day of hiking and climbing on these beautiful rocks!

If you’re staying in Belfast and looking for a worry free way to get there, this Giants Causeway tour from Belfast is a fantastic option. You’ll see so much and have a local guide’s knowledge the whole day.

If you’re feeling brave, cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge which links the mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede, used by fishermen. The rope bridge is almost 100 feet in the air and spans 65 feet across!

There is about a half mile walk to get to the bridge and the crossing is quite controlled, despite what you may see on Instagram. Once you are on the island you’re free to wander around, although it does feel like you could easily roll off the steep cliffed piece of earth!

Not only is the bridge fun and adrenaline inducing to cross, but the views in this area are incredible. I was amazed at how calm and blue the waters were. The bridge attendant said that she had seen dolphins there the day before!

Another Irish site made famous through film ( Game of Thrones ), the Dark Hedges is just a road lined with Beech trees along Bregagh Road . I don’t recommend even making this stop if you’re visiting Ireland in winter, as there are no leaves on the trees, so it will be a little underwhelming. But in the Spring, summer, and fall, it’s a beautiful site.

Aaaannnd….another famous film location from   Game of Thrones ! The Mussenden Temple, perched high on a 120-foot clifftop, was built in 1785 as part of the estate of Frederick Augustus Hervey, Bishop of Derry and Earl of Bristol. It was originally built as a summer library (I’d take just a regular old library) and was modeled after the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, Italy.

This was the first state forest park in Northern Ireland, established in 1955, its a beautiful place for camping, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and sightseeing. There are 16 stone bridges crossing the Shimna River. Most bridges were built by former residents and are over 200 years old!

Strangford is a cute little seaside town just outside of Belfast. Its population is only 475.  It’s fun to imagine yourself living a quiet life by the sea in Ireland. If you’re into sailing, kayaking, diving, canoeing, bird watching, fishing, kite surfing, windsurfing, boating, paddling, and swimming, then come to Strangford!

My daughter learned a traditional Irish folksong called Rathlin Bog in choir which inspired our visit to Rathlin Island. I’m not sure if the two or related, but it intrigued me. You can   catch a ride on the ferry  across the Sea of Moyle to get to the island which is only   six miles long and home to 140 people !

See the   boathouse visitor center , and walk along the island’s many beaches. If you’re there during   Puffin season  (April-July) you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of these adorable birds. If you’re there that time of year be sure to also pay a visit to the   seabird center  where you can also tour a real working lighthouse! This may not be one of the top sights in Ireland, but it’s unique and worth seeing!

This huge forest in County Antrim is one of the best places to see in Ireland for raw natural beauty. The park is full of incredible waterfalls you won’t want to miss!

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Ireland Itinerary Guide to Ireland with Kids Ireland Packing List 50 Things to Know Before You Go to Europe

Wherever you choose to go in Ireland you’ll have an incredible time. You really can’t go wrong with any of these options. Have you been anywhere in Ireland that didn’t make the list? Comment below and I’ll add it here. If you’re planning a trip to Ireland and need help, I’d love to help. Send me an email or get in touch on Facebook or Instagram .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ireland travel guide

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

Top places to visit in Ireland

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

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

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

• Ring of Kerry
• Antrim Coast

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

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

1. Ring of Kerry

Known for: stunning coastal scenery and dramatic landscapes

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in the Ring of Kerry

We have a guide to all the best stops along the Ring of Kerry , but here are a few highlights:

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

Check out what our travels in Ireland looked like on our road trip:

Want to save time and energy on planning?

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

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

Known for: cultural hub on Ireland’s west coast

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

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

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

Best things to do in Galway

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

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

Read more: We put together a guide with everything you need to know about  renting a car in Ireland .

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

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

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

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

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

Best things to do in Dublin

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

4. Antrim Coast

Known for: captivating coastal beauty and otherworldly landmarks

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Antrim Coast

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

Known for: colorful streets and renowned gastronomical scene

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

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

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

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

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

Best things to do in Kinsale

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

6. Wicklow Mountains National Park

Known for: breathtaking landscapes and wild beauty

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

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

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

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

Best things to do in Wicklow Mountains National Park

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

7. Killarney

Known for: cute town surrounded by lakes and mountains 

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

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

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

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

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

Best things to do in Killarney

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best things to do in Cork

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

9. Dingle Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Dingle Peninsula

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

10. Cliffs of Moher

Known for: awe-inspiring beauty and dramatic coastal vistas

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Cliffs of Moher

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

11. Slieve League

Known for: jaw-dropping cliffs and untamed beauty

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Slieve League

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

12. Rock of Cashel

Known for: majestic ruins and rich history

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Rock of Cashel

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

Known for: lively music scene and breathtaking coastal beauty

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Doolin

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

14. Aran Islands

Known for: rugged beauty & rich Gaelic heritage

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Aran Islands

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

15. Kilkenny

Known for: medieval history & vibrant cultural scene

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Kilkenny

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

16. Belfast

Known for: vibrant culture and tumultuous history

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

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Belfast

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

17. Connemara

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Connemara

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

18. Waterford

Known for: rich Viking heritage and vibrant arts scene

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Waterford

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

19. Blarney Castle

Known for: the famous Blarney Stone

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in the Blarney Castle & Grounds

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

20. Glenveagh National Park

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

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

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

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

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

Best Things to Do in Glenveagh National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Search & Compare Rental Car Prices

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By campervan

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

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

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

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

What to pack for traveling to Ireland

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

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

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

Round up of the top places to visit in Ireland

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

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

Are you planning a trip to Ireland?

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

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

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Home » Europe » Ireland » 20 Best Places to Visit in Ireland

20 Best Places to Visit in Ireland

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: April 21, 2023

There’s a reason Ireland is on so many people’s bucket lists—it’s simply incredible. With cute villages, fascinating historic sites, and unparalleled ocean views, there is a seemingly endless list of remarkable places to visit in Ireland.

From Dublin to Galway and Belfast to Kinsale, we’ve had the opportunity to drive around the Emerald Isle three times. We have found favorite coastal routes, explored ancient ruins, listened to numerous trad sessions, and eaten more fish and chips than we can count in order to put together a helpful list of fun destinations and sites.

Here’s a look at where to go in Ireland to experience some of the best of what this exquisite place has to offer.

Slieve League

In a country filled with dramatic coastline, it doesn’t get much more spectacular than Slieve League.  The sea cliffs soar 1900 feet above the Atlantic making them the second-highest cliffs in Ireland.

Amidst the breathtaking landscape of Donegal, the site is less frequented than its more famous neighbors to the south–the Cliffs of Moher–which means you can visit and practically have it to yourself. Getting to Slieve League takes some commitment, but the reward is gazing out at one of the most beautiful places to see in Ireland in an utterly unspoiled setting.

Glendalough

Set among the Wicklow Mountains, the monastic settlement of Glendalough is one of the most magnificent ancient sites in the country. It was founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin and became a prominent center of learning.

Glendalough is noted for its round tower that stands nearly 100 feet tall and the group of medieval buildings clustered in the valley. From a 6th-century cross to the cemetery and beyond, there are lots of details to uncover here.

On a clear day, it’s a gorgeous place to wander some of the hiking trails and see the lakes. With more overcast weather, it’s easy to imagine the monks that once walked its grounds while the fog hangs over the valley. We’ve seen it under both conditions on different visits, and it’s beautiful either way.

The village of Doolin in County Clare is the home of traditional Irish music. This town of just over 300 residents has five pubs and restaurants that host regular trad sessions, so you can find great music and craic nearly every night of the week. It’s one of the most charming places to visit in Ireland.

If you’re feeling ambitious, it’s easy to visit all the pubs within a 20-minute walk. Our choice was McDermott’s where the music starts nightly at 9pm, but each spot has something to set it apart.

Doolin is also a good base for visiting nearby attractions. It is the start/end of a 3-hour walking route to the Cliffs of Moher and is the point of departure for visiting the Aran Islands with daily ferry sailings from April through October.

Cliffs of Moher

Along the west coast, the Cliffs of Moher stretch for five undulating miles. Rising up to 700 feet above the ocean, the cliffs provide what is unquestionably one of the best views in the country. They are the top natural attraction in Ireland for good reason and draw crowds year-round, welcoming around one million visitors a year.

From The Princess Bride to Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince , the cliffs have been the setting for numerous movies and television shows, but seeing them in person is still wildly impressive. Don’t miss the visitors center for an overview about how the cliffs formed and the numerous species of puffins and other seabirds who make their homes here.

A visit to the Cliffs of Moher can be crowded in peak season because it’s a very popular stop on coach tours. Bring your patience, but consider leaving your hat in your car—it can get incredibly windy here, and we’ve seen lots of people lose them to the ocean below.

Rock of Cashel

Few places in Ireland have seen as much history as the  Rock of Cashel . In its 1000 years, this limestone rock above the Tipperary plain has seen Vikings, kings, battles, prayer, destruction, and restoration. Its stories and ruins draw visitors from around the world, making it Ireland’s most visited heritage site.

The Rock of Cashel is reportedly the site where St. Patrick converted and baptized King Aengus to Christianity in the 5 th century. In the early 1100s, the Rock was donated to the Catholic Church, and the rest is history.

The medieval buildings that still stand here include the round tower that dates from the 1100s and Cormac’s Chapel which houses the only Romanesque frescoes that still survive in Ireland. The castle and Gothic cathedral ruins are also fascinating to visit.

The lakes, mountains, and bogs of Connemara place it high on the list of most striking landscapes in the country. This region of County Galway is scenic and rural, offering lots of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, fishing, and horse riding. One of its greatest gems is Connemara National Park whose 2000 hectares welcome visitors to enjoy camping and nature trails.

Connemara is a Gaeltacht, meaning that residents of its villages like Clifden and Letterfrack often use Irish as their primary language.

The area’s top attraction is Kylemore Abbey . Set against a mountain backdrop, the 19th-century building was once a private home but has functioned as a Benedictine abbey for over a century. It is open for tours and garden visits, and there are opportunities for nature walks and guided hikes across the 1000-acre estate.

Dingle Peninsula

From coastal drives to ancient ruins and villages filled with friendly, Irish-speaking locals, the Dingle Peninsula is not to be missed. In the southwest of the country, this gorgeous area is part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Its stunning views and unique natural features make it one of the top Ireland destinations.

Slea Head Drive is one of our favorite places to experience the beauty of Dingle. Numerous viewpoints along the way beckon you to stop and look at the dramatic scenery. There are also beehive huts built by settlers on the peninsula centuries ago and Gallarus Oratory, an ancient church that is estimated to be about 1400 years old. From Dunquin, you can gaze out at the Blasket Islands and learn more about them at the nearby Great Blasket Centre . Wherever you stop, Slea Head Drive is exceptional.

Dingle town is also a favorite of ours that we’ve had a chance to add to our itinerary on two visits. Its brightly colored shops allow for lots of browsing opportunities, and there are many restaurants serving some of the best seafood around. If you’re craving something sweet, visit the original Murphy’s Ice Cream where you can try every one of their creative flavors. We’re partial to the chocolate whiskey.

English Market in Cork

For 235 years, the English Market has been an important part of life in Cork. It is packed with products, fruits, vegetables, and meats from across Ireland and around the world. There are newer specialty businesses alongside vendors who have sold their wares here for over a century.

Stopping in to browse the market is one of the fun things to do in Cork . Check out the pastries, cheeses, spices, and wines or pull up a seat at one of the on-site restaurants and cafes. Breakfast at the Farmgate Café is always a good idea.

Just 25 minutes from Cork, the charming town of Cobh (pronounced “Cove”) is one of the must see places in Ireland. Spend an afternoon seeing the sites or just stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the shops, cafes, and park.

Cobh, which sits on an island in Cork harbor, is best known for its history as both a port of departure for Irish citizens emigrating to other countries and as the last stop the Titanic made before its disastrous sinking. There are museums dedicated to both topics. The Cobh Heritage Centre tells the story of Irish emigration and the town’s maritime history. The Titanic Experience , which is in the original White Star Line ticket office, follows the journey of the ill-fated ship and the stories of the 123 passengers who boarded in Cobh.

The cathedral that dominates the town’s landscape is worth a stop. Built beginning in 1868, St. Colman’s Cathedral has a massive belltower with the country’s only carillon, and the interior is decorated with carved arches and ornate stained glass. Head over to West View Park to see the view of the cathedral towering over the colorful homes known at the Deck of Cards houses.

Galway buzzes with an infectious energy that guarantees visitors a great time. A university town, Galway is packed with restaurants and lots of pubs offering daily traditional Irish music and performances from bands of all genres.

On the west coast, Galway is known for its winding medieval lanes filled with art galleries and shops. There’s also lots of history here which is evident from the moment you view the Spanish Arch, which dates from 1584.

Walk around town to see the street art, pick up some snacks at Sheridan’s Cheesemongers , and enjoy the weekend farmer’s market. To explore a little further, head out to the Salthill Promenade for an ocean front stroll, beaches, and carnival rides.

Remarkable Derry is the second largest city in Northern Ireland and the point where the Wild Atlantic Way meets the Causeway Coastal Route.

For many years, Derry experienced some of the worst of The Troubles—the fight over whether Northern Ireland should remain part of the UK or join the Republic of Ireland—and became a highly militarized city due to the fighting. Learning about the conflict is an important part of visiting Derry, and one of the best places to do that is in the Bogside neighborhood, which is full of murals depicting events and memorializing those who died.

These days, the city along the River Foyle is known for the Peace Bridge that spans the river as a symbol of its bright future. Take a walk here, wander the 17 th -century city walls, and see inside St. Columb’s Cathedral that dates from 1633. For something more modern, take a tour the Derry Girls sites from the popular TV show.

The largest city in Northern Ireland, Belfast is packed with things to do and see.

St. George’s Market has operated at the same site for an incredible 400 years. From food stands to fresh produce, the market has a little bit of everything delicious with a focus on Northern Irish products. If a pub is more your speed, check out the memorabilia-filled Duke of York or the historic Crown Liquor Saloon that has stained glass windows and an iconic red granite bar.

Architecture lovers should visit City Hall for a peek at the stunning interior and art collection in the century-old building. Crumlin Road Gaol is another of the city’s interesting spots having held notable prisoners including activists like Bobby Sands and Éamon de Valera in its 150-year history. There are guided and self-guided experiences highlighting different aspects of the prison’s past.

As in Derry, murals dedicated to The Troubles are prominent in Belfast. A Black Cab tour will take you to the notorious Shankill Road and other areas to see the artworks commemorating historical figures and participants in the decades of conflict that ripped apart communities. Our tour was one of the most eye-opening experiences we had.

Also not to be missed is the city’s top attraction, Titanic Belfast . The museum is located in the spot where the famous ship was built and launched, and it traces the story of its concept, construction, and sinking as well as the stories of its passengers. The nine galleries have interactive components and feature lots of ship-related memorabilia.

Powerscourt

In the lush foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, the Powerscourt Estate is full of history and beauty. A mile-long avenue of beech trees leads you directly to the front door of the magnificent 18 th -century manor house, which was previously the site of a castle built in the 1200s. Not far beyond is some of the best gardens in the world.

The Powerscourt Gardens are laid out on a one-hour walking tour taking in the best of the estate. It’s impossible to say which area of the gardens is the prettiest, but the pet cemetery is certainly the most unique. While some of the graves commemorate beloved family pets such as hunting dogs and the children’s cherished ponies, some have a tongue-in-cheek humor that only the Irish can pull off (the milk cow who produced over 100,000 gallons of milk).

A visit here is an easy day trip from Dublin. Don’t skip on visiting the on-site distillery when you go.

Bru na Boinne

The incredible sites at Bru na Boinne are some of the oldest things to see on Earth. The burial mounds of Knowth, Newgrange, and Dowth are all around 5000 years old, predating the pyramids of Egypt by 500 years and Stonehenge by 1000 years.

Though a lot remains a mystery about these Neolithic passage tombs, archaeologists do know that they had religious, astrological, and ceremonial importance. We had the chance to visit Newgrange , the chamber that is famous for being illuminated by the sun each winter solstice. Experiencing the eerie majesty of the ancient, intricately constructed site is fascinating. 

Trinity College library

Gazing at the rows in Trinity’s College’s Long Room—a massive library with books stretching to the ceiling—is one of the must dos in Dublin. The incredible space holds 250,000 of the college’s most ancient books, which is even more remarkable when you consider that Trinity itself is over 425 years old.

Just downstairs is the artifact that Trinity College is most known for: The Book of Kells . An illuminated manuscript that dates from 800 AD, the book features ornate Latin script and detailed drawings. Typically, two pages of the ancient work are displayed alongside an extensive exhibit about the book’s creation.

If the library is on your Ireland itinerary, book tickets well ahead of your visit, especially if you’re visiting in peak season.

Kilmainham Gaol

The solemn nature of a tour of Kilmainham Gaol can’t help but make an impression on most visitors. At over 225 years old, the building was once a infamous prison housing men, women, and even children in deplorable conditions, often for crimes as minor as stealing food.

The prison’s most preeminent residents were the leaders of the Easter Rising in 1916. They were incarcerated in Kilmainham after being convicted of treason, and most were executed in the courtyard. A cross and the flag of Ireland are the only items there now. Only Eamon De Valera—who later became the president of Ireland—avoided execution.

A tour here offers a look at the conditions in which prisoners lived and a discussion of modern Irish political history. You’ll learn about its most well-known prisoners as well as the thousands jailed for petty crime and those who were ultimately shipped off to Australia. It’s one of the most thought-provoking experiences we’ve had in Ireland.

The limestone landscape of the Burren in County Clare spans 200 square miles. Among the fertile rocks are acid- and lime-loving plants that thrive despite the unusual conditions. To protect the distinct flora, 1800 hectares are designated as The Burren National Park , drawing visitors eager to learn about the geology and plants.

The dramatic scenery continues underground with sites like Aillwee Cave. The cave, which is nearly 300 feet underground at its deepest point, includes stalactites and stalagmites, bridged chasms, and even an underground waterfall.

The history of the Burren is long, which is evident in the historic sites in the area. Caherconnell Stone Fort dates back to the 900s and was likely inhabited for 600 years. Visitors can still see its remains and learn about medieval life. Poulnabrone dolmen is much older—likely constructed between 4200 BC and 2900 BC. This Neolithic portal tomb is one of the area’s most unique things to see in Ireland.

The historic port village of Kinsale greets visitors looking for activities on the water, great food, and lots of Irish hospitality. Its natural harbor brings lots of boats offering deep sea fishing, SCUBA diving, and harbor cruises, and its broad sand beach means you can swim, kayak, and paddleboard.

Kinsale is known for its food. There are restaurants of all kinds, but seafood is a particularly good bet here. April brings a fun street food festival, and the Kinsale Gourmet Food Festival in October draws thousands of attendees.

Take time to browse the brightly colored shops and make a stop at Kinsale Mead Co. , a family-run business with tastings and a tour. For a look at the history of the area, head to James Fort or Charles Fort , two 17th-century forts that protected the harbor for centuries.

Blarney Castle

Of Ireland’s many outstanding castles, Blarney Castle is probably the best known because of its stone.

According to legend, those daring enough the kiss the Blarney Stone become eloquent and get the Irish “gift of the gab.” Kissing the stone requires lying down and bending backwards over the castle wall, so it’s not for everyone.

Even if you’re not interested in lining up to kiss the stone, there is lots to see on the grounds of the 600-year-old castle. You can see the dungeons and interior of the castle as well as the exhibition rooms and Blarney House. Our favorite part was wandering some of the garden trails to see the landscaped and more natural areas of the estate and the sculptures scattered throughout.

Causeway Coast

The Causeway Coast, which stretches from Belfast to Derry, has a wealth of sites worth visiting. Carved into the cliffs and perched on the hills, the road links castles, caves, sandy beaches, small towns, and amazing geological formations.

You can stroll the walled garden of 17 th -century Glenarm Castle and settle in for afternoon tea or gaze out at the ruins of Dunluce Castle on its cliffside spot above the ocean. If you’re up for an adventure, step out on the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge that hangs between two rocky outcroppings in the north Atlantic. For something a little calmer, visit The Old Bushmills distillery to sample some Irish whiskey.

The main site on the Causeway Coast is the epic Giant’s Causeway . With over 40,000 basalt columns and beautiful ocean views, it’s a unique place to spend some time climbing around on the stones.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Ireland's best places to visit - from natural beauty to a dose of craic!

From stunning landscapes to fascinating museums, intriguing historic sites, and even places for a bit of craic - here are the best places to visit in ireland.

National Tourism Day is today, January 25 -- what better way to mark the occasion than by looking at the best places to visit in Ireland?!

There is no shortage of stunning attractions to visit while you're in Ireland  - from the windswept Cliffs of Moher to the rain-soaked Aran Islands.

If ancient history is your thing, Ireland has plenty of it: try Newgrange or the Hill of Tara in County Meath.

For sheer unadulterated, natural, beauty, try the Giant's Causeway  in Northern Ireland, or the entire county of Kerry in the southwest of Ireland.

But there is more to Ireland than countryside and rocks, as any number of attractions in Dublin, such as Trinity College and the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin , make clear.  

To narrow down the list of Ireland's best attractions to just a few is quite a challenge, but the below spots in Ireland are considered our must-visit locales.

What's your favorite place in Ireland?

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Boyne Valley

Sunrise over Newgrange in the Boyne Valley. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Brú na Bóinne (the Boyne Palace) in Co Meath contains some of the most important historic sites and monuments in Ireland, and is a designated World Heritage Site.

It features the massive megalithic ancient passage tombs - which are graves dating back to ancient times - of Newgrange, Knowth, and Dowth. These tombs are older than both Stonehenge in England and the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.

Newgrange , which was built about 5,000 years ago, is Ireland's most famous prehistoric site.

It's especially famous for a spectacular event on December 21, also known as the Winter Solstice , the shortest day of the year. The tomb was built in such a way that on this day, it is illuminated by a narrow beam of sunlight that shines through a specially designed roof box. Those who have seen this say it's an unforgettable experience.

Nobody knows why the tomb was built in the way it was, or indeed how the stones were even transported to the site. But it does seem fairly certain that Newgrange was built before the invention of the wheel.

The tomb itself was almost lost to history itself. It was sunk into the ground for over 4,000 years, only rediscovered in 1699 when workers carried away building stones for the landowner. As they removed the stones they discovered the entrance. But they left it undisturbed as they thought it was a cave. Then, in 1962, archaeologists began to investigate the sinking mound. Newgrange was then excavated and restored to its former glory.

Today, access to Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth begins at a visitor center, from where you can take a guided tour of the site.

The Hill of Tara is also in Co Meath. An archeological complex, it consists of a number of ancient monuments, including the Stone of Destiny, the Fort of the Kings and the Mound of the Hostages. Located on the River Boyne, it is said to be the actual seat of the High Kings of Ireland .

Nearby is the site of the Battle of The Boyne , one of the key dates in Irish history, in which protestant William of Orange defeated Catholic James II in 1690.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry in Co Kerry (Ireland's Content Pool)

For many people around the world, the Ring of Kerry drive encapsulates their image of Ireland: ancient monuments, romantic castles, spectacular gardens, and colorful towns and villages. The stunning scenery, dramatic coastline, charming locales, and ancient archaeological treasures have been featured in postcards, film, poetry, and song.

Here, the idealized view of Ireland as a land of rural greenery and natural beauty springs to reality. Tourists come to Co Kerry to experience this rare dip into a lifestyle foreign in pace, philosophy, and spirit. Each twist and turn on a drive around the Ring of Kerry reveals new sights - windswept cliffs, breathtaking scenery, spectacular lakes, rich flora and fauna, green and yellow checkered hills, and unspoiled beaches.

There is evidence of the region's unique heritage and culture everywhere, in the place names, the standing stones, and the many archaeological sites. The 6th-century beehive huts and ruined monastery on Skellig Michael are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also worth checking out are the stone forts at Caherciveen and Castlecove, the Neolithic stone circle in Kenmare , the 15th-century Ballycarberry Castle, the magnificent O'Connell Memorial Church, Derrynane House, and Gardens, or the pretty 19th-century Heritage town, Kenmare.

The Ring of Kerry is also highly regarded for its culinary delights, such as the local cheeses, seafood and shellfish, lamb, and homemade breads. The town of Kenmare , in particular, has a number of very highly regarded restaurants. (It is thought to be the only town in Ireland that has more restaurants than pubs.)

The area is a favorite among artists, writers, and sculptors, and there are a number of craft shops and galleries such as Cill Rialaig showcasing their best works. It's also ideal for activity holidays, such as walking and cycling routes , diving and angling, and adventure sports, to its array of championship golf courses - Waterville (An Coireán), Dooks, Kenmare, and Killorglin.

The coastal roads provide an ever-changing landscape around the Iveragh Peninsula, with snapshots of the famous offshore islands popping in and out of view around every corner.

The Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher, in County Clare.

The most famous and breathtaking part of Ireland’s craggy west coastline is the Cliffs of Moher area in Co Clare , which features some of the most breathtaking views of the entire island.

The Cliffs stretch for almost 5 miles and rise up to 702 feet over the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The amazing view from the Cliffs includes the Aran Islands , Galway Bay, The Twelve Pins, and the Maum Turk Mountains. The landscape and seascape of the Cliffs of Moher have, for centuries, welcomed a multitude of visitors; close to 1 million people per year now travel to this iconic location.

But don’t get the wrong impression – just because many people flock to the site, this in no way spoils the experience of being there; it’s easy to forget your surroundings and lose yourself in nature as you stand near the edge of the majestic cliffs .

Giant's Causeway

The Giant's Causeway.

Giant's Causeway , a coastal area of about 40,000 basalt columns near the town of Bushmills in Co Antrim , is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Ireland .

Folklore tells us that an Irish giant named Finn MacCool once lived in the area, and from across the sea he could see a Scottish giant, Benandonner, his rival, whom he had never met.

Finn challenged Benandonner to come to Ireland to fight. Because no boat was big enough to carry the giant, Finn built a causeway of stones in the water so that Benandonner would be able to make it across.

When Finn realized the Scottish giant was far bigger than he had expected, he fled to the hills where his wife disguised him as a baby. This move foxed Bennadonner because he thought that if the child was that big, the father would be even bigger. Benandonner fled back to Scotland, ripping up the causeway behind him so that Finn wouldn’t be able to follow him.

In truth, Giant's Causeway was created by a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago – an interesting fact, but the Finn MacCool myth is a bit more fun to believe.

No matter how it came to be, Giant's Causeway is one of the best places to walk through in the North .

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Aran Islands

The Aran Islands (Ireland's Content Pool)

A trip to Co Galway would be incomplete without a visit to the Aran Islands , the collective name for the small islands, Inis Mór (Inishmore), Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) , and Inis Oírr (Inisheer). The mystical, frozen-in-time islands are famous for their preservation of a rural existence largely unchanged, at least culturally, over the centuries. There may be some electricity there these days, but the ways of the past are carefully preserved among locals who make their living much the same way their ancestors did.

The residents of the islands are happy to accommodate guests, whether by raising a pint in friendship or unraveling the folklore of the enchanted isles.

If you’d rather explore Inis Mór on your own, rent a bike and make a loop around the entire island. On your one-day cycling tour, you’ll encounter ancient ruins, lots of livestock, and even miniature houses for leprechauns (or are they for the tourists?)

Guinness Storehouse

The Guinness Storehouse in Dublin (Ireland's Content Pool)

A trip to the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin's most popular tourist attraction , is pretty much compulsory for any self-respecting tourist in Ireland's capital. Or, at the very least, it should be!

The Guinness Storehouse tells the story of how Guinness is made and how this famous drink came to be one of Ireland's best-known exports.

It is in an awesome building: its core is in the shape of a giant pint glass and consists of seven floors. After walking around for about 45 minutes and being constantly told how wonderful Guinness is , pretty soon the subliminal messages start to kick in.

Before you know it, you find yourself craving a pint of the black, delicious stuff like your life depended on it, even if you were previously not a fan. (It is, after all, an acquired taste.)

The top floor, which has the Gravity Bar, is the most fun. There you get a complimentary pint of Guinness. You also get the most spectacular view of Dublin , which is worth the admission price alone.

Trinity College Dublin

Trinity College Dublin.

Trinity College is Ireland's most prestigious college - and although its rivals at University College Dublin might dispute this, it's probably the best university in Ireland.

But one thing not up for argument is the magnificent setting of Trinity : many of its majestic buildings are hundreds of years old. (The college was founded by England's Queen Elizabeth 1 in 1592.)  Architecturally at least, Trinity is way above its nearest rivals.

Although the college is best known for the Book of Kells , it's also worth going there to check out the Long Room of its old library. (Apparently, this room was the inspiration for a room called the Jedi Archives, in the movie, “Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones.”)

It is also worth taking one of the guided tours of the college as nearly every building seems to have an interesting story. Many of the tour guides appear to be Trinity College drama school graduates: They always seem to add a little dramatic flair to their tours.

The best time of the year to visit this university is around the end of May, just after the students' exams are over. Then the whole college comes to life.

A popular activity among its students is to sit out outside the Pavilion Bar (known as "The Pav") while watching a game of cricket. Join them and bring a few beers, if you get the chance.

The Burren in Co Cavan (Ireland's Content Pool)

The Burren , which is formed by limestone karst plates (in other words, it's a great big rocky mass), is one of Ireland’s most famous natural attractions .

The limestone terrain stretching across Co Galway and Co Clare holds a special fascination for geologists and botanists for its Mediterranean and alpine plants.  

Described as a botanist's paradise, The Burren has one of the most diverse and beautiful floras in Ireland: 635 different plant species (including 22 of Ireland's 27 native orchids) have been recorded here.

The region also has a number of more rare and elusive species such as the carnivorous pine marten, the snake-like slow worm, and the rare lesser horseshoe bat, as well as over 100 breeding birds and almost all of Ireland's native butterfly species.

The diversity of species is due to a happy coincidence of natural and cultural factors. As well as the unique growing environment provided by the thick limestone and thin soil, low-impact traditional farming practices such as the ancient practice of winter grazing contribute to the presence of this rich flora. The European Union has designated most of the Burren as a Special Area of Conservation, a title reserved for the finest natural environments in Europe.

St. Patrick's Cathedral

St. Patrick's Cathedral, lit up green ahead of St. Patrick's Day. (Ireland's Content Pool)

St. Patrick's Cathedral, Ireland’s largest church, is also one of the biggest tourist attractions in Dublin.

In a well close to the cathedral, St.Patrick was believed to have baptized converts from paganism to Christianity. To commemorate his visit, a small wooden church was built on the site. Later, in 1191, the present building was constructed, and St. Patrick's was raised to the status of a cathedral.

St Patrick's is also notable for being the first place where Handel's “Messiah” was performed , in 1742. Another interesting fact: Jonathan Swift, the author of “Gulliver’s Travels,” who was the dean of the cathedral from 1713-45, is buried here.

While this cathedral is replete with history, St. Patrick's is not, however, a museum. It's still very much a living building with services held every day of the year. There are also sung services six days a week. The choir sings two services every day during school terms - the only cathedral in Ireland or Britain to do so.

Croke Park in Dublin (Ireland's Content Pool)

Croke Park is the headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) , the sporting body responsible for Ireland's national games.

It is hard to believe that Croke Park is primarily designed for amateur sports - with a capacity of around 80,000, it is the fourth largest stadium in Europe.

But it's much more than merely a stadium: it has been described as the spiritual home of Irish cultural nationalism. Hurlers and Gaelic footballers - and indeed their fans - speak of Croke Park as if it were sacred ground.

"Croker" is something of a hidden secret for tourists. If you can get tickets to any of the sporting matches in the stadium, the chances are that you will be one of the few tourists there. The best time to get tickets is usually around May at the start of the season. To go and see a game of either hurling or football at Croke Park is to sample a unique slice of Irish life!

While you're there, visit the GAA Museum and go on a tour of the grand stadium.

Titanic Belfast

Titanic Belfast (Ireland's Content Pool)

Co Antrim's Titanic Belfast, which has won more than a dozen awards since opening in 2012, has quickly become a must-see for any visit to Ireland and Northern Ireland. The Belfast center, completed to mark the centenary of the Titanic’s ill-fated maiden voyage, is on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard where the ship was built. 

Titanic Belfast tells the stories of the Titanic, which hit an iceberg and sank during her maiden voyage in 1912, and her sister ships RMS Olympic and HMHS Britannic, while paying homage to Belfast's maritime history. Only in Belfast City can you trace the Titanic story to its source, discover the passion and pride of those who designed and built her, and relive the excitement of the Titanic era when the city was at the height of its powers.

A dedicated Titanic exhibition takes visitors through the entire lifecycle of the infamous ship - from its construction in Belfast and launch to its maiden voyage and tragic sinking, to the legacy of the disaster, the myths and legends that surround it, and the shipwreck itself on the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean floor. 

* Originally published in 2014.

What's your favorite place to visit in Ireland? Let us know in the comments!

Related: Ireland's Travel Secrets , Antrim Coastline , Aran Islands , Cliffs of Moher , Giant's Causeway , Ring of Kerry , The Burren , Boyne Valley , Dublin , Guinness , Kenmare Village , Northern Ireland , The Titanic

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20 of the most beautiful villages and small towns in Ireland

By Vic O’Sullivan

Ireland’s beautiful villages and small towns, with their clusters of whitewashed cottages, mossy churchyards and low-rafter pubs that still sell groceries along with a pint of stout, are living time capsules of the past. Some have only a single street lined with neat rows of slate roofs, rich lime render and solid sash windows, where locals gather in pubs that have had the same family names hanging over their half-doors for generations.

Dingle, Roundstone and Inistioge draw film crews from Hollywood, while Dalkey is awash with famous locals – from rock band U2 to temporary lockdown resident, actor Matt Damon. As remarkable for their setting as their character, they are often discovered around the bend of a road over a high plain or at the foot of a hilly lane, shimmering against the ocean after a summer shower or in the folds of a valley.

Kinsale, County Cork

Kinsale’s narrow, cobbled lanes, 19th-century architecture lacquered in dazzling colours and sturdy-beamed old-world pubs evoke the very essence of a pirate’s enclave. In fact, Daniel Defoe’s inspiration for Robinson Crusoe (Alexander Selkirk) set sail on his misadventure from this handsome port in 1703. Today, Kinsale’s location as the trailhead for the Wild Atlantic Way , its seafood offerings such as the succulent lobster at quayside Fishy Fishy , craft stores and hillside setting draw year-round visitors.

Find out which other towns feature alongside Kinsale on our list of the most beautiful villages in the UK and Ireland

Roundstone, County Galway

Close your eyes – and picture the perfect Irish village in your mind. Chances are it’ll have ocean views, a vibrantly painted streetscape and bobbing fishing vessels in its harbour. Throw in a backdrop of the Twelve Bens mountain range and Connemara’s awe-inspiring landscape and you’ll have visions of Roundstone in Galway . The main street straddles a steep hill overlooking the Atlantic, where visitors linger to drink in the view with a bowl of chowder or glass of creamy stout at O’Dowd’s Seafood Bar .

Inistioge, County Kilkenny

The 19th-century Irish village square was the marrow of rural commerce and Sunday-morning gossip in its time, and the handsome buildings that line Instioge’s green are perfectly formed edifices from that time. The setting has enticed Hollywood – providing a rustic Georgian background for films such as Widow’s Peak (1994) and Circle of Friends (1995.) An elegant 10-arch limestone bridge spans the River Nore and links the village to its farmland surroundings.

Doolin, County Clare

Set on a limestone plateau at the point where the Cliffs of Moher plunge into the ocean, this brightly painted ribbon of thatched buildings has borne the brunt of the Atlantic’s force for centuries. These days summertime visitors clamour beneath the low-hanging joists of Gus O’Connor’s on Fisher Street to hear traditional music. In shoulder season, the village regains the rhythm of a fisherman’s port as ferries dart to and from its pier to the Aran Islands.

Adare, County Limerick

With its neat rows of thatched cottages, Adare could be lifted straight from a John Constable painting of a county shire. The River Maigue weaves its way through the village, and lying by its banks are the ruins of Desmond Castle and a Franciscan Monastery – and the decadently refurbished Adare Manor , one of Ireland’s most opulent hotels. The main street is crammed with cafés, craft shops, pubs and restaurants.

Read our full review of Adare Manor

Baltimore, County Cork

This west Cork village dips and glides down narrow lanes flanked by Victorian cottages with sash windows and sandstone walls. Its shorefront is a hive of activity, with a cluster of small pubs and 13th-century Dún na Séad Castle. Take a whale-watching tour from the harbour, or idle at Casey’s of Baltimore hotel to eat mussels and drink home-brewed beer while looking out at the white sailboats speckled against the cobalt sea.

Dalkey, County Dublin

While Dublin City has absorbed other bordering towns into its suburban sprawl, Dalkey has retained its independent, seaside-village vibe, attracting A-list residents. The centre has remained medieval in character, with rambling narrow lanes that lead into Castle Street, the main thoroughfare. Two Norman castles and an appealing tapestry of granite and redbrick pubs and restaurants line the street. The village tumbles east, towards the sea – while its hillside has panoramic coastal views.

These are the best castles in Ireland .

Dingle, County Kerry

This town's dramatic oceanfront setting near the southern tip of a peninsula, and its comely streetscape, have drawn visitors for decades. Yet its provincial charm remains, due partially to the fact that Dingle is a designated Irish-speaking region – or Gaeltacht. Its terraced pastel buildings wrap around the pretty port, where trawlers dock daily to supply chefs, such as the crew at seafood restaurant Out Of The Blue , with fresh catch.

Cashel, County Tipperary

This quirky, lamplit settlement lies in the shadow of the Rock of Cashel – a medieval ruin set on a colossal limestone outcrop. More than 1,000 years ago it was the palace of Ireland’s High King, Brian Boru. Below, the village’s narrow, twisting streets are a mishmash of an architectural timeline. There’s The Cashel Palace Hotel , a crimson-bricked Palladian mansion; lots of Georgian fanlights; Victorian houses; and compact 15th-century Kearney’s Castle, wedged tightly between 19th-century terraced buildings.

Adam Turner

CNT Editors

Rachel Everett

Dunmore East, County Waterford

Snaking around its amber-shaded sandstone coastline, which twists and turns past pristine beaches and secluded coves, Dunmore East’s streetscape is like a pinball ramp that finally plateaus by its Doric column-esque lighthouse on the pier. Dotted along the way is Ireland’s finest collection of thatched cottages, and the uninterrupted view across the harbour bay to another lighthouse – the world’s oldest functioning, on County Wexford’s Hook Head – is spectacular.

Westport, County Mayo

With its neat planned Georgian streets and octagonal marketplace, Westport seems to have been designed with ambitious growth in mind. Luckily, it remains pint-sized in scale, with a mini grid layout that’s defined by the Carrowbeg River. Handsome, cheerfully painted buildings, drenched in flowers, lure visitors to a number of fine-dining options, or to experience the traditional music scene at Matt Molly’s Pub . Westport is the trailhead for the Great Western Greenway – an ocean-view walking and cycling trail that links the town to magnificent Achill Island.

Birr, County Offaly

This miniature Midlands hamlet has many grand edifices and architectural influences, from its Gothic castle to its neoclassical town hall. Every building appears as though it has been carefully placed by a porcelain collector, each emanating from the village square. The grounds of Birr Castle Demesne curve along the village walls and the River Camcor, and visitors can explore the castle’s past as a centre of astronomy by visiting its 19th-century telescope.

Carlingford, County Louth

Nestled on an inlet that splits the Cooley and Mourne Mountains on the shoreline of Carlingford Lough, this comely corner of Louth is steeped in history. The turbulent Cromwellian years, or later, when the village’s economy tanked as herring stocks inexplicably disappeared from the lake, left development in limbo for centuries. The result is that ancient infrastructure is now part and parcel of everyday life in Carlingford Village. Keep your eyes peeled for historical markers, such as the arched gate that offers access to town, a limestone tower that stands like a centurion over a public house, or the crumbling remains of King John’s Castle that keeps watch over the pier. Scattered in the maze of narrow, winding streets are further reminders of times gone by – such as PJ O’Hares , a vintage pub where hearty fare and fresh seafood are served by a roaring fire on days when a chilly wind swirls up from the lake.

Enniskerry, County Wicklow

Harmonious town planning transformed this 19 th -century collection of tenement houses into one of the most stunning villages in Ireland – but, of course, its setting in a lush green valley at the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains doesn’t hurt either. Streets converge onto a small, curved plaza where a copper-capped clock tower has kept with the town’s slow pace of life since St Patrick’s Day 1843. Today, visitors pass time with a scone and a hot beverage in the charming tea shops, or at the Avoca Terraced Café at Powerscourt Estate that lies on the outskirts of town. The 47-acre tiered garden has ornamental lakes, fountains, a waterfall, splendid blooms, and an on-site whiskey distillery. Enniskerry’s character is so beguiling that it attracted Disney executives to film Disenchanted (2022) with actors Patrick Dempsey and Amy Adams.

Kinvarra, County Galway

This pretty harbour-front village is the perfect stop-off for those touring Ireland’s glorious west coast. Its low-lying streetscape overlooks Galway Bay and it has a fine selection of craft shops, cafés, inns and pubs. Just off the main street by the pocket-sized marina, The Pier Head Bar is the place to while away an hour or two over a bowl of seafood chowder or mussels. If you time it right, Cruinniú na mBád, a regatta of local vessels, brings a frenzy of colour against the deep blue backdrop every summer. Perched on a small ocean-ridged bluff on the outskirts of town is one of Ireland’s most beautiful landmarks – Dunguire Castle, standing proudly like a displaced rook from a chess set. Architects of modern Irish literature such as Yeats, Lady Gregory and Synge gathered here to conjure up great theatrical plans as the Atlantic winds scaled the rooftop in the early days of the last century.

Eyeries, County Cork

Like a giant box of macarons, radiantly painted little Eyeries would cheer up even the dullest of days. Its location, at the south-westerly tip of Ireland on the Beara Peninsula, means that it’s off the main tourist trail, but bang central in one of the most remarkably beautiful corners in the country. The village is high on a slope that overlooks Coulagh Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, with unbroken views across the entire peninsula. The sky is big here, with kaleidoscopic sunsets that reflect and ripple off the water below. The village dips and soars over its hilly terrain – and apart from Causkeys Bar and a few cafés there’s little else to do but meander down to the coast and find a quiet cove for the day. A little further south, Allihes is another pastel-shaded village with a copper mining history and a superb white sandy beach.

Bunratty Village, County Clare

Bunratty packs a lot of gorgeousness in its diminutive, winding river-sculpted contour. Dominating the village and surrounding countryside is a sturdy 15 th -century castle that was once the palace of a powerful chieftain. Today it still bears the scars of Cromwellian cannonballs and mixed fortune, but with a sensitive restoration and conversion of its grounds into a model Irish hamlet, it has become a village within a village, attracting visitors throughout the year. Beyond the castle walls is cheerfully painted Durty Nelly’s Pub – it operated as a toll booth in the early 19 th century when Bunratty was a mini-metropolis that served as a water gateway to the Shannon River. A pedestrian limestone bridge, a canopied courtyard, a former stagecoach inn and the garden of the thatched and slated JP Clarke’s Pub draw al-fresco dining aficionados to savour the ripe produce of the local landscape.

Slane, Co Meath

Legend has it that Saint Patrick lit the bonfire that ignited Christianity in Ireland on a hill overlooking Slane. A few fields and a millennium and a half away, rock legends from David Bowie to U2 have ignited the same delirium in people – but this time it’s the fans that gather to hear their music in the natural amphitheatre. However, there’s a lot more to Slane than saints and singers. In the heart of the village, four identical and very handsome mid-18 th -century houses stare each other down diagonally from across an octagonal crossroads. One theory is that they were the homes of warring sisters, which would be typical of Slane’s idiosyncratic charm. Beyond the obvious Georgian symmetry and quadruplet houses, there’s something delightfully quirky and offbeat about the village – such as the broad and narrow architecture on Main Street or the 13 rounded and pointed arches in the bridge that crosses over the River Boyne and into the village centre.

Inisheer, Co Galway

Inisheer is a patchwork of townlands, strewn across the northern region of the smallest Aran Island. It’s darned together by a warren of lanes with dry stone walls that connect cottages to the church, shop, community centre – and of course, the pubs. Tigh Ned is a simple limestone and whitewash spot, where locals go to savour fresh catch and soak up the views. When the weather is wild, the island almost hunches down against the elements, but when it’s fine the setting is full-on tropical, with the village’s bone-white sandy beach leading to impossibly clear turquoise water. The island is virtually car-free, so a venture to the west side to view County Clare’s magnificent coastline is the best way to idle away an afternoon. It’s also a native Irish-speaking location– so a ‘cúpla focal’ (few words) might come in useful.

Killaloe, County Clare and Ballina, County Tipperary

These two distinctly different sister villages are linked by a narrow limestone bridge with 13 elegant arches. In Killaloe, County Clare, a pretty cluster of vernacular buildings slope down towards the waterside where colourful boats are moored and ready to venture out onto Lough Derg – arguably Ireland’s most beautiful lake. The village has higgledy-piggledy streets built into a hillside that shoulders the worst of any rainfall or wind. At the foot of the hill overlooking the lake is a 12 th- century Romanesque cathedral, St Flannan’s, which houses rare inscriptions and carvings from the centuries when local residents, the O’Brien chieftains, ruled Ireland. Across the bridge in Ballina, County Tipperary, visitors can explore Lough Derg aboard the Spirit of Killaloe , a passenger craft – or just drink in the lake views at Goosers , a traditional thatched pub close to the water’s edge.

Why Off Season Is a Magical Time to Travel in Ireland

You’ll be rewarded with blissfully empty beaches and unhurried meandering from cafés to craft studios..

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Gorteen Bay Beach, in County Galway, is wonderfully quiet in the low season.

Photo by Yvonne Gordon

The gray-white pony is standing, almost hidden, beneath bare branches in a frost-covered field. As we drive past, we catch a glimpse of his head, illuminated by the early morning sunlight. As we stop and get out of the car, he approaches the fence slowly but sure-footed on the frozen ground and we gaze admiringly into his huge, gentle face.

The Connemara Pony is Ireland’s native pony, a hardy breed well-adapted to the rough bogland and rocky seashores where it plowed the land or pulled carts of seaweed and turf in times past. Seeing one is on my bucket list for an off-season visit to Connemara in County Galway, in the west of Ireland, and this backdrop of a field carpeted with white frost makes for a magical first sighting.

I am spending a few days exploring the area from my home in Dublin and have brought along a pal. He has donkeys and otters on his wish list; I have ponies and mountain hikes on mine. But there’s a storm forecast so we’ve also brought books and games. Like many regions that are popular with tourists, especially on Ireland’s coast, Connemara is busy during the high-season months of July and August, when school is out and Irish families flock to holiday homes. But there’s a certain magic in the off-season—before the holidaymakers have arrived in June, or after September when they have gone home—and an ethereal, soft light shines on dunes and bogs. While not all of the attractions, restaurants, or accommodations are open out of season (especially from November to March), it’s easier and cheaper to book stays in the places that are open, the beauty spots are crowd-free, roads are quieter, and the pace of life is unhurried.

Bays, bogs, a fine home base

The tiny fishing village of Roundstone makes for a central, peaceful travel base.

We start the trip driving around Galway Bay, where the low sun bathes village harbors in gold, and the roadside gradually reveals the flat, boggy landscape of Connemara. This barren, often tree-less coastline, with its dry stone walls, long beaches, and rocky coves, has long inspired artists and craftspeople. At Ceardlann An Spidéal (Spiddal Craft Village), we admire kiln-fused glass art, stoneware pottery, woolens, and everything from coasters to posters with expressions in the Irish language on them.

When we see a row of clocks saying: Tá sé in am tae — Irish for “It’s time for tea,” we don’t need to be told twice. This is a Gaeltacht or Irish-speaking area, so the road signs are in Irish, and down the road in Caifé Teac na Cúirte (Courthouse Café), we hear native speakers chatting as I try out my own rusty Irish to order tea and toasted sandwiches.

Our base for the next five days is the fishing village of Roundstone. From here, it’s a 45-minute drive to Connemara National Park in Letterfrack where we hike Diamond Hill, a nearly two-hour ascent to a 1,450-foot summit for views over bays, boglands, and pointy peaks. While the park gets up to 3,000 people a day in high season, that drops to somewhere between 100 to 300 in low season.

We also explore the beaches at Gorteen Bay (also known as Port na Feadóige , “bank of the plover”) and Dog’s Bay, two miles from the village. Here, over millions of years, the sea has swept the remains of single-celled sea creatures, foraminifera, into the channel between a small island and the shore, forming two horseshoe-shaped beaches linked by a tombolo.

A yellow and red lifeguard hut indicates the beach’s popularity in summer months, when families come here to swim and picnic. In low season, you have expanses like this to yourself. We inspect the sand close up—it’s made of tiny fragments of worn-down seashells—and we marvel at the rich seaweeds that washed ashore with the tide and might wash out with the next one.

Afterwards, we visit Roundstone Music and Crafts , the studio and shop of master bodhrán-maker Malachy Kearns, who fashions the traditional handheld Irish drum from goatskin and adds his intricate designs. It’s quiet, so he has time for tea and a chat, and he tells me he stops at a local beach nearly every day on his way to work.

Time to get crafty

Basket maker Joe Hogan in his workshop, where you may find him relaxed enough for a chat in the off-season.

Many attractions, such as the visitor center at Connemara National Park, used to close for off-season months but now, since about 2019, they stay open year-round, creating more than seasonal employment for locals.

It is with this ethos that Within the Village , five luxury boutique townhouses set in restored houses in Roundstone, which opened last September, remains open all year. Its aim is to make a positive impact on the area, not only environmentally but also socially and economically—by using and recommending local businesses and sponsoring community events like the annual Tour de Bog cycling race. Products used in the accommodations, from toiletries to bedding, are from local suppliers. “We are showcasing small and medium-size businesses in the area, from the bed linen to tweed. Rather than us selling it ourselves, we encourage the visitor to go directly to the website of the supplier, so they are supporting local industry and sustaining businesses in the area,” says Within the Village co-owner Maria Murphy. The proprietors encourage slow tourism and have created maps showing all there is to see and do in the area. They also offer a one-bedroom, a two-bedroom, and a trio of three-bedroom houses, which can be rented for three, four, or seven-night stays. (Low season prices are from $370 to $960 per night, depending on house size, until the end of May and from the end of September.)

Another sustainability initiative was to collaborate with local craftspeople and artists to outfit the houses, which showcase their work. One of the most interesting art pieces in each is a replica of a small bird’s nest, placed under a glass dome on a side table, made by basket maker Joe Hogan . Hogan creates pieces to order and his work is sold in Joyce’s Craft Shop in the village of Recess. To learn more about his work, we drive to to his studio, in Loch Na Fooey, following the twists and turns of the road as sheets of rain pass sideways across the valley.

Hogan’s workshop overlooks the lake, and even in the wet weather, the orange hue of the bog fills the landscape with warmth. Here, Hogan grows willow to make baskets and collects heather for the nests. The nearest main road is five miles away, the nearest shop is eight miles away. Hogan says being able to grow the material for the baskets and make a living in this remote place was the initial draw when he moved from County Cork 45 years ago.

He started making cribs for babies before moving on to Indigenous Irish baskets, a craft that was disappearing. A big basket could take him 70 hours to make, over six days. He says it’s about getting the texture of the willow just right to ply it into shape—a challenge in cooler temperatures. “You’re not imposing your will on it,” he says. “You’re learning how to work with it. If you pull it too hard, it will break.” His son Ciaran runs basket-making courses , and he says there’s lots of interest, particularly from those visiting from other parts of Ireland.

A focused game, a roundabout drive

Back at Roundstone, we hear there’s a game of “Twenty-five” in King’s Bar. This card game is popular in rural areas, but being a city-dweller in Dublin, I’ve never seen it, so it feels exciting. We take up some stools at the bar to discreetly observe. A group of nine men are playing. Concentration is so fierce, the barman can’t serve us until they have a break. It feels like a special off-season experience—in summer, it’s usually so packed here that the crowds spill out onto the road.

As with any trip in Ireland, luck is on our side for much of the trip—but not all of it. We see so many donkeys, James loses count after it gets into double figures, but otters remain elusive. We have calm days with perfect blue skies where the entire village is mirrored in the water and the early morning sun illuminates the upturned currachs (small wood-framed boats) on the pier.

But as the week goes on, Storm Elin closes in and rain pelts the windows. The accommodation manager Andy brings fresh fluffy scones from J Woods grocery shop across the road. I later visit for supplies and am happy to find the tiny shop has a full butcher’s counter. I get thick slices of bacon to make “BT” sandwiches—modified BLTs, as there’s no lettuce in the village and the next delivery isn’t until tomorrow.

On one outing, driving toward Letterfrack, we decide to take the famed scenic lakeside road, past Lough Inagh. We set off, and enjoy an amazing drive, with bog on both sides, silvery ponds, and the Twelve Bens Mountains in the distance. We don’t pass another soul—or a lake.

After about 45 minutes, we pass a sign for Roundstone. We’ve gone in a circle and are back where we started. We’ve mysteriously taken a road known as the “bog road,” which is said to be haunted. It was a road I had wanted to drive and it looked like it decided it wanted to be driven. We never find the road with the lake.

Thankfully, we’re in no hurry and we just go with the flow on days when the navigation system decides to tweak our route. Off-season travel in Ireland can be stress-free—there are no lines, no bookings, no crowds. Sometimes you can plan the route or for the weather; other times they decide for you. It’s a bit like the willow for the baskets —you have to learn how to work with it rather than imposing your will.

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9 of the Best Places to Retire in Europe

Thinking about moving abroad in your golden years? Consider these European destinations.

More and more seniors have been opting for retirement abroad in recent years. In fact, the Social Security Administration reports that more than 700,000 Americans receive their monthly payments in foreign countries. Europe is an especially popular choice, and a number of factors explain why. Some retirees want to experience the culture of their ancestors. Others may have enjoyed vacations on the continent and want to spend more time there. Depending on the country or city, European destinations may have a low cost of living, a pleasant climate, or an overall high quality of life.

Each country has different rules on visas and residency qualifications, but in general, most require evidence of a minimum income level and private health coverage. Many have restrictions on retirees having jobs or owning property, while others make provisions for both. Americans living abroad must still file a federal tax return, though some countries have treaties that prevent double taxation on retirees' income. Keep in mind that Medicare does not pay for health care abroad, though some European countries allow legal residents to participate in their national health program.

With so many considerations, it's advisable to obtain professional advice on taxes and to research health care, visa and residency requirements, rental costs, infrastructure, and language. The U.S. State Department is an excellent resource for anyone considering retirement abroad.

If you're ready to make the leap, though, this list is here to help. We've looked into the latest policies and trends, and these are nine of the best places to retire in Europe.

Algarve, Portugal

Gorgeous white-sand beaches, warm Atlantic waters, ideal year-round weather, and an array of outdoor activities await retirees in this region on Portugal's southern coast . Historic towns like Silves boast beautiful Moorish architecture, while a bustling local airport and the relative proximity of Lisbon make the region easy to access. Considered one of the best places in the world to retire, the Algarve offers an extraordinary selection of golf courses, a healthy lifestyle, Mediterranean diet, and low cost of living. Best of all for monolingual seniors, English is widely spoken.

Legal residents are able to register with the National Health Service to get pay-as-you-go access to public hospitals and health centers, though it's worth noting that obtaining private health insurance is required as a condition of receiving a residence permit. (Other requirements include a passport and proof of income.) These permits are mandatory for retirees wanting to stay longer than three months, though once a permit is issued, it remains valid for five years. Residents can also apply for a permanent permit when the initial one expires. If you want to simply make a long visit rather than moving to the country, that's doable too: no visa is needed for stays of fewer than 90 days within a six-month period.

Income is generally taxed, but Portugal offers 10 years with no tax on retirement pensions under certain qualifications of its Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) program.

Bordeaux, France

A lovely riverfront city in southwestern France, Bordeaux enjoys warm summers and mild winters. Conveniently situated a short drive from the Atlantic Ocean and close to a multitude of renowned wineries , the city has much to offer visitors and residents alike. Museums, galleries, concert halls, public parks, restaurants, cafes, outdoor markets, and lively nightlife are all plentiful. Getting here (and traveling once you've settled in) is also easy, thanks to a modern system of high-speed trains that connect Bordeaux to various cities in France and across Europe.

France's health care system has been recognized as one of the best in the world, and, fortunately for would-be residents, it's accessible even to noncitizens under certain conditions. If you live in the country for three consecutive months and stay for a minimum of 183 days per year, you're eligible to apply for public health care.

A long-stay visa is required to remain in France for more than 90 days, and this must be obtained while still in the United States. To apply, you'll need to provide your local French consulate with a passport, extra photos, and proof of financial self-sufficiency and confirmed housing, among other documents.

Budapest, Hungary

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

With beautiful historic buildings, excellent restaurants, thermal baths, and friendly citizens, Budapest is becoming a popular retirement destination for both Europeans and Americans. The city developed a reputation in the early 2000s for affordability, and, though prices have risen since, the cost of living is still appealingly low — think $1,000-a-month rent and high-end dinners for $50.

Hungary is a member of the European Union, making continental travel a breeze (though remember that the country uses its own currency, the forint). A rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and a location on the Danube have attracted a large international community, which means English speakers are easy to find.

Foreigners are permitted to buy property in Budapest, and the health care system is generally regarded as good. Foreign retirees can become eligible for permanent residency after just three years of living continuously in Hungary, as long as they meet certain criteria like having a stable home in the country.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

This capital city of about 295,000 is an emerging favorite among retirement-age expats. A former Yugoslav republic, Slovenia has been independent since 1991 and a European Union member since 2004, and it boasts a rich culture and diverse natural environment. A wide range of attractions can be found within a few hours' drive of Ljubljana, from Adriatic beaches and Alpine ski resorts to the Italian city of Venice. Slovenia has a long history of winemaking and several UNESCO World Heritage sites, one of which is located in the center of Ljubljana. The capital also offers a charming mix of old and new architecture and a walkable urban core that's on par with many better-known European cities — but without the throngs of tourists.

No visa is required here for stays of up to 90 days. If you wish to stay longer than that, you'll begin by applying for a temporary residence permit. People with Slovene heritage can expedite the permit process, so fire up the ancestry test if you're interested in relocating. Health care is considered adequate, and many people purchase private health insurance if they are not eligible for the public program. Income is taxable on residents, but double taxation can be avoided with proper IRS filing.

Split, Croatia

Growing in popularity as a tourist destination, Croatia is also quite attractive as a retirement location. Not only does the country have approximately 3,600 miles of coastline, but warm, dry summers and mild winters create a desirable climate. The country's second-largest city, Split, offers easy access to some of the best beaches in Croatia . The Roman emperor Diocletian built his palace here, and its remains have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Restaurants, bars, cultural and entertainment venues, and many English-speaking residents make it relatively easy to adapt.

U.S. citizens who intend to stay longer than 90 days must apply for a temporary residence permit , and once you've lived in Croatia for five years, you become eligible for permanent residency. U.S. citizens are also permitted to purchase real estate in Croatia. Health care is considered adequate, and English-speaking doctors are available.

Alicante, Spain

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Located on Spain's southeastern coast, Alicante offers exquisite beaches, dynamic nightlife, and historic attractions. The climate is the most famous draw here — the warm, waterfront city has been called the sunniest in Europe — but the culinary scene is equally impressive. Reasonably priced dining options range from casual to elegant, with fresh seafood and the artisan stalls of the Alicante Central Market being particular highlights.

With a population of just over 330,000, Alicante has all the amenities of a major city, yet it maintains a reputation for being cozy and friendly. It's well connected to destinations across Spain thanks to an excellent rail system, and the bustling Alicante-Elche Airport also helps make travel a breeze.

High-end housing can certainly be found here given Alicante's longtime popularity with foreign nationals, but it's also possible to rent modest homes for under $1,000 per month or to purchase them for as little as $100,000. Health care also tends to be affordable, and, as is the case throughout Spain, it's regarded as being of exceptional quality, with state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained doctors. Non-Europeans looking to retire in Spain should contact their local Spanish embassy to apply for a long-stay retirement visa, which must be renewed annually. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency.

Valletta, Malta

Valletta is the tiny capital city of Malta, a country composed of three islands in the Mediterranean Sea about 60 miles south of Sicily. Though the city has a population of around 6,000, this UNESCO World Heritage site punches above its weight in terms of history and culture. Appealing features include a picturesque coastal location on a peninsula between two sheltered harbors and architecture that dates back as far as the 16th century. Serviceable public transit and strong walkability add to the ease of living here.

The main language besides Maltese is English, and the country has a large population of expats from the U.K., Australia, and the U.S. Affordability is another draw: one-bedroom apartments in the capital region can rent for as low as $750 a month, and groceries and restaurant dining are also reasonably priced.

Private health care in Malta is recommended for non-EU expatriates, and is both highly rated and inexpensive compared to U.S. options. Malta and the U.S. have a treaty in place for relief from double taxation on income. Plus, residency can be established in several ways, making relocation to Malta accessible for retirees.

Kinsale, Ireland

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

Situated on the southern coast of the Republic of Ireland , Kinsale is a historic town known for its colorful architecture and thriving maritime culture. For retirees who enjoy the outdoors, this could be an ideal spot. The waterfront offers beaches, fishing, and boating opportunities, while cycling, hiking, and horseback riding are all available on shore. One of the country's most beautiful golf courses, Old Head, is nearby, and even for non-golfers, it's the perfect place for a walk among sea breezes and stunning views.

English is spoken, of course, and foodies will appreciate the abundance of restaurants and fresh seafood. The weather is mild, and the proximity of the city of Cork (30 minutes to the north) makes rail travel and international flights easy to access. Living costs are comparable to those in the United States, though housing prices have been increasing across Ireland in recent years.

In order to stay beyond three months, visa applicants must prove adequate income (around $54,000 annually) and substantial savings. Temporary residence visas can be renewed annually for five years, at which point the duration is extended to five years per visa. Private health coverage is advised, and health care is considered good.

Prague, Czech Republic

This unique and captivating city is particularly welcoming to foreigners — it's home to more than 200,000 expatriates and a growing number of retirees. Nicknamed the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague was mostly spared in World War II, as evidenced by its colorful Baroque and Gothic architecture. The entire Old Town has been named a World Heritage site, yet the Czech Republic's capital is a modern city with high standards of living, world-class art and museums, diverse cuisine, and a range of historic pubs and inventive breweries.

Affordable rents can be found just outside the city center, including in many impressively modern apartments. Centrally located in Europe, Prague is a great base from which to explore all of the continent. Plus, its health care system is among Europe's best. Health insurance is mandatory yet comes at a reasonable cost, and there are plenty of high-quality, well-trained doctors, many of whom speak English. U.S. citizens or other non-EU residents wishing to retire in Prague must obtain a long-term visa , beginning with an application at their most convenient Czech consulate. Permanent residency can be applied for after living legally in the Czech Republic for five years.

Social Security Administration

U.S. State Department

Related Articles

Best Places to Visit in Europe | Money

If you’re overwhelmed while planning for a European vacation, you’re not alone. There are so many popular destinations worth visiting that it can be difficult to pare down a list to chose from. How do you sort out which cities are too expensive, too crowded, or have the type of attractions you’re looking for?

Read on for an in-depth look at five European cities you might want to include in your travel itinerar y and check out our quick travel guide to help you plan the perfect European vacation.

Our Top Picks for Best Places to Visit in Europe

• Dublin, Ireland – Best tourist attractions
• Barcelona, Spain – Best theme parks
• Gdansk, Poland – Best historical destination
• Prague, Czech Republic – Best architecture
• Chania, Greece – Best beaches

Best Places to Visit in Europe Reviews

Best tourist attractions in europe: dublin, ireland.

• Free parks and hiking areas
• Accessible from other Western European destinations
• Inclement weather during off-season

Why we chose it : Dublin, Ireland is full of entertaining tourist attractions including castles, museums, free parks, historical sites and plenty of nightlife.

Dublin offers attractions to visitors of all stripes. Its well-maintained historical sites dating back to medieval times attract history buffs; its nightlife, whiskey and plentiful pubs make it a reveler’s delight, while its free parks and natural scenery make it an agreeable place for the whole family.

A few of Dublin’s most popular tourist attractions are:

• Trinity College Dublin : One of the oldest universities in Europe, with beautiful stone architecture and classical buildings. Several guided tours are available for a fee.
• National Botanic Gardens : World-renowned botanical gardens in the heart of Dublin. Entrance is free.
• Temple Bar : A popular nightlife district, centered around the famous Temple Bar Pub.
• Dublin Castle : A medieval castle that currently serves as a government complex. Tour costs vary by season.
• Phoenix Park : One of the largest enclosed public parks in Europe, free to visit.

On top of the attractions within Dublin’s city limits, you can also visit the castles, national parks, charming towns and beaches dotted throughout Ireland by renting a car or taking public transportation. Another advantage is that the city is highly accessible from other destinations — you’ll find affordable flights to Dublin from most major European cities.

Dublin can get crowded during the summer months and around the winter holidays. Prices for museums and tours also tend to increase during those months, so you’ll save money by traveling to Dublin in the off-season. Unfortunately, those winter months are when the weather can get unpleasant, blustery and rainy.

Despite the rain and cold, Dublin is an entertaining and accessible city to add to your itinerary as you explore Europe.

Best Theme Parks in Europe: Barcelona, Spain

• Sunny weather
• Good public transportation system
• Pricier than other destinations

Why we chose it : Barcelona has multiple amusement parks including the famous Tibidabo Amusement Park, one of the oldest theme parks in the world.

Barcelona, Spain is a bustling cultural center in Europe with plenty of attractions, including ancient architecture and world-class food. But the city’s whimsical side is also displayed in its variety of theme parks, water parks and rides.

Tibidabo Amusement Park is the oldest amusement park in Spain (and one of the oldest in the world). It’s situated on Tibidabo — the tallest hill in the area — with views of the surrounding city and ocean below. While there, you can ride the Ferris wheel and roller coaster or enjoy seasonal entertainment around Halloween and Christmas. Tickets cost €35 with the train ride up Tibidabo or €14 separately.

PortAventura Park, located about an hour outside of Barcelona, is another popular amusement park with rides, shows, restaurants and bars. It offers three hotel complexes, with one located inside the park — a fun option if you’re traveling with kids. Ticket costs vary by season but you can save money by buying them online before your trip.

Aside from theme parks, you’ll also find plenty of public parks, green spaces and sunny beaches in Barcelona. You should also be aware that, as part of the autonomous community of Catalunya, Barcelona stands out from the rest of Spain — residents speak Catalan as well as Spanish, the cuisine is unique to the region and prices are higher than in other smaller Spanish cities.

Best Historical Place in Europe: Gdansk, Poland

• Affordable destination
• Lively street markets
• Relatively cold, even in the summer

Why we chose it : In Gdansk, you can visit historical sites relevant to maritime history, World War II, the Solidarity movement and even medieval times.

Gdansk, Poland is a port city and historical merchant town on the northern coast of Poland. Although much of the city was destroyed during the Second World War, it has been rebuilt to match its original charm. The city’s Old Town maintains its Renaissance-style architecture, colorful buildings and street markets.

Along with Old Town, you can also visit Gdank’s many museums to learn about local history, including:

• Museum of the Second World War : Here, you’ll learn about the events of World War II from the perspective of Polish citizens.
• Museum of Gdansk : A Gothic/Renaissance-style building with modern and local art.
• Museum of Amber : Learn about the amber trade and its role in making Gdansk a thriving merchant town.
• Europejskie Centrum Solidarności : Roughly translated as the “European Center of Solidarity”, the museum is devoted to the history of Solidarity movement during Soviet rule in Poland.

Ticket costs to Gdansk’s museums vary by season but are generally less than $10 per person. Poland is one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe and has its own currency — you’ll pay less for attractions, food and lodging in Gdansk than in bigger cities like London, Berlin or Barcelona. However, that means you’ll have to exchange currency when you get there.

The weather also rarely gets warm, with average highs of only 63 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. You also might encounter a language barrier in Gdansk as English isn’t as prevalent as in other major cities.

Best Architecture in Europe: Prague, Czech Republic

• Renowned Christmas markets
• Historical old town
• Cold and dark in the winter months

Why we chose it : Prague, Czech Republic is one of the few major Central European cities to make it through the 20th century with their historic architecture mostly intact, including its stunning Gothic and Romanesque buildings.

If you’re a fan of Gothic architecture, you’ll love walking the streets of Prague. The city’s Old Town is well-preserved from medieval times, with cobbled streets, winding alleyways and tall spires. Prague has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, so you can quickly get around the city without a rental car or taxi.

Some of Prague’s most notable architectural sites include:

• Charles Bridge : A medieval stone bridge spanning the Vltava River flanked by religious statues.
• Old Town Hall : Prague’s ancient city center with one of the oldest astronomical clocks in the world.
• Church of Our Lady Before Týn : An 11th-century Gothic-style church, open to public visitors.
• Schwarzenberg Palace : A Renaissance-era palace and current museum with Czech Baroque paintings.

There is no charge to walk around some of Prague’s most famous historical sites and take in the architecture, but you can pay for a guided walking tour to learn more about the history behind each building.

As beautiful as it is, Prague is also a very old city — you can see the impact of decades of pollution on the buildings, and the ancient, narrow alleyways can collect some litter. Prague can also be very cold in the winter months, making walking around and viewing the architecture less enjoyable.

Prague is more affordable than some Western European cities, so it’s a good destination if you want to visit Europe on a budget, even during the pricier summer months.

Best Beach in Europe: Chania, Greece

• Off the beaten path (compared to other destinations in Greece)
• Sunny weather even in the off-season
• Small streets can get crowded

Why we chose it : If you want to visit Greece’s crystal clear beaches without the crowds and high costs of other beach resort towns, try Chania, a harbor city on the island of Crete that offers beach weather even in late fall.

Chania, Greece — the second-largest city on the island of Crete — offers warm, sunny climate and hidden bays, making it a great destination if you’re looking for the best beaches in Europe. Unlike Mykonos and other popular Greek beach communities, Chania is off the beaten path for most tourists. Pleasant weather extends until late November, so you can beat the crowds and still enjoy plenty of warmth and sunshine.

While Chania itself is a port town with cobbled streets and wooden docks, there are plenty of sandy beaches within a short drive or boat ride from the city. The most popular beaches include:

• Elafonisi Beach : A white-sand islet, easiest to reach by boat.
• Balos Beach : A secluded beach accessible by road or boat.
• Falassarna Beach : A family-friendly resort area with a long, sandy beach surrounded by olive groves.

Chania offers affordable accommodations, diverse food options — including Jewish, Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisines — and fresh seafood. There is some nightlife, but the town is quieter than other destinations in Greece. You should also be aware that Chania doesn’t have the whitewashed, domed buildings or high cliffs other Greek towns are known for.

Other Places to Visit in Europe We Considered

Utrecht, netherlands.

• Less crowded alternative to Amsterdam
• Close to the Amsterdam airport
• Can be expensive

Utrecht, Netherlands has the cafés and canals of Amsterdam, minus the crowds and higher prices. It’s a quick train ride from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and can be a stop on your Netherlands trip or a destination of its own. Although it isn’t quite as pricey as Amsterdam, the cost of food and lodging in Utrecht is still relatively high compared to other European cities.

Lisbon, Portugal

• Colorful architecture
• Great food options
• Crowded year-round

Lisbon, Portugal is one of Western Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. It is generally considered to have a laid-back vibe with charming cobbled streets, colorful buildings and spectacular coastal views. However, because it’s so popular, this city is crowded with tourists year-round.

Reykjavik, Iceland

• Abundance of natural wonders
• Vibrant nightlife
• Far from the rest of Europe

Reykjavik, Iceland is home to natural wonders like waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes and even the Aurora Borealis. This is a great destination for nature-lovers but, if you’re planning on visiting multiple European cities on your trip, it might be challenging to work Iceland into your itinerary due to its distance from other European countries. Reykjavik might be best for a single-destination trip.

Places to Visit in Europe Guide

If you’re looking for the best international places to travel , you’ll find no shortage of bucket list destinations in Europe. Although it’s difficult to definitively rank the best cities to visit in Europe — or even the best countries to visit in Europe — we’ve compiled this quick European travel guide to help you plan your trip. Remember that the ideal destinations will depend on your priorities and when you’re traveling.

The basics of Europe

Before you start comparing the best airlines or best hotels for your trip, you’ll want to establish your priorities. It’s impossible to see every tourist destination in one trip but focusing on what you want to do and what your ultimate goals are for your trip.

Here are some things to consider to help you decide which European destination works best for your trip.

Europe has distinct regions based on culture, geography and language. The main generalized geographical areas of Europe are:

• Western Europe – This is where you’ll find some of the most popular European destinations including France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. These countries are often expensive to visit and can get cold in winter, but they also contain several global cities and important historical sites.
• Southern Europe – Spain, Italy and Portugal are all Southern European countries with typically sunny climates, Mediterranean cuisine and historic architecture.
• Central Europe – When visiting Germany, Poland or the Czech Republic you’ll find colder climates, as well as cultural and historic attractions.
• Eastern Europe – Estonia, Georgia and Croatia are examples of Eastern European destinations you might not have considered traveling to but that offer unique cultural experiences at an affordable cost.

Depending on the time of year you’re traveling, weather can make or break your trip. Western and Central European countries experience dark, freezing winters, making sightseeing challenging.

Despite being a relatively small geographical area, Europe contains hundreds of diverse cultures. You should expect different cultural norms regarding dining, public transportation and conversations everywhere you go. As a traveler, it’s always important to understand and respect the culture of the country you’re visiting.

Best time to visit Europe

Here are a few examples of seasons when you can make the most of your European vacation.

The best time to enjoy the weather in Europe

Weather in Europe varies drastically depending on the region you’re visiting. If you want the sunny beaches of the Mediterranean, you’ll enjoy the best weather between early spring and summer while late summer and fall bring higher temperatures and humidity.

The best time to backpack in Europe

If you plan to backpack and camp in Europe, you’ll want to travel in early or late summer. Pay attention to the rainy seasons! The United Kingdom, for example, is rainiest in spring.

The best time to cruise in Europe

Flying between European countries is fast and generally affordable, especially if you take advantage of some of the best airline rewards programs . But if you’re not in a hurry, a cruise can be a pleasant way to get to your next destination and do some sightseeing along the way.

Some of the best river cruises in Europe can take you through France, Italy or into Central Europe, with the best weather occurring during spring and summer. On the other hand, you might find discounted tickets for a cruise during colder seasons. If you don’t mind a little inclement weather, a cruise in the off-season can be an excellent way to save.

The best time to ski in Europe

For ski resorts, you’ll want to travel during winter or spring. Remember that mid-winter in Northern Europe means short days and long nights — you’ll enjoy more daylight if you travel in late winter or spring, toward the end of the ski season.

Best ways to travel Europe

One of the main differences between Europe and the U.S. is accessible public transportation in and between major cities. Train travel, boats and buses make it easy to get around without renting a car.

Budget airlines can be a good option if you’re visiting multiple countries. You might also get a good deal with the best airline credit cards .

Travel Europe by train

Train travel in Europe can be slow and luxurious or fast and efficient. For example, the Paris to Barcelona train is a direct route that takes less than a day and costs around €30. Many train routes in Europe are very scenic — plus, it’s a more environmentally friendly form of travel than airplanes.

Travel Europe by ferry

Ferries are an affordable option if you’re traveling around the Mediterranean or Baltic seas. You can find overnight ferries (for example, Helsinki to Stockholm) or quick trips, such as between Greek islands. If you plan on taking an overnight or multi-day ferry, book your ticket in advance and use the best travel credit cards to save money.

Travel Europe in group tours

All-inclusive European vacations can make it easier to plan your trip. Instead of booking multiple trips separately, you can book a group tour to see multiple countries with an organized schedule. Travel packages to Europe might be a little more expensive than an unstructured trip, but they remove the stress of planning and can be a comfortable option for an inexperienced traveler.

Things to consider when you travel to Europe

Here are a few more things to remember as you plan your European vacation.

Currency exchange

Many European countries use the euro, but not all of them do. Be sure to research the local currency in each destination country and be prepared to exchange cash. Remember that exchange rates are generally highest at airports and busy tourist areas.

Power adapters

Most of Europe uses a Type C outlet, and the United Kingdom uses Type G. A universal power adapter is a necessary purchase before any international trip.

Busy seasons

Most European destinations are busiest in summer when the weather is warm and kids are off from school. Travel during the busy season is fine, but you should know that attractions will be more crowded and potentially more expensive. If you can travel in the off-season, you might find better deals.

Conservation efforts

When traveling to a country known for its national parks, like Iceland, you’ll want to pay attention to local conservation efforts. National parks are periodically closed to protect sensitive wildlife.

This doesn’t just apply to natural scenery — museums and historical sites can also be closed for maintenance from time to time. Big Ben in London, for example, was closed to visitors between 2017 and 2023 to prevent it from wearing down.

Places to Visit in Europe FAQs

How do i plan a trip to europe, how much does a trip to europe cost, how many countries are in europe, how do i travel to europe on a budget, is it safe to travel to europe now, how we chose the best places to visit in europe.

To chose the European destinations covered in this article, we compared locations based on a few important factors, including:

• Safety : All destinations in this review have low crime rates and are safe to travel to.
• Reputation : We looked into the reputation of each of these cities based on reviews (and the author’s personal experience).
• Accessibility : You can reach these cities directly from the U.S. or major European cities.
• Things to do : We looked for cities that offer a wide variety of things to do, whether you’re traveling solo, as a group or with family.

Summary of Money’s Best Places to Visit in Europe

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