Looking for the best places to visit in Ireland? This beautiful country in north-western Europe takes up most of the island of Ireland. Known for its rugged coastline, stunning landscapes, and numerous hiking trails, Ireland is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
But that’s not all. Ireland is also home to breathtaking sites steeped in legend, ancient towns with amazing architecture, and superb museums. There’s just so much waiting for you to explore in Ireland.
Planning a trip to Ireland and need some guidance on the top places to check out? You’re in luck. We’ve put together a list to help you plan your adventure.
Dublin, the capital and largest city, has no shortage of incredible things to do and see. It’s one of the top destinations in Ireland. The compact city is easy to explore on foot or by bike and is divided by the River Liffey, featuring several historic bridges. Start your tour at the iconic Dublin Castle in the city center. Don’t miss Grafton Street, Dublin’s famous pedestrian shopping district bustling with vendors and shoppers alike. Side streets here offer charming shops where you can buy traditional Irish crafts and souvenirs.
If you’ve ever wanted to experience an authentic Irish pub, Dublin is the place to be, with about 750 pubs to choose from! The most renowned is Temple Bar, located in the heart of the city. This area is also fantastic for enjoying traditional folk music. For beer lovers, a visit to the Guinness Storehouse is a must to learn about the history of this famed “Black Stuff.” Don’t forget to check out the Old Jameson Distillery to delve into the history of the famous Jameson whiskey.
The Cliffs of Moher, rising dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean on the North Atlantic Coast, are must-see natural landmarks in Ireland. These sea cliffs stretch about 14 kilometers and offer breathtaking ocean views. On clear days, you can even spot the mountains of Connemara and the Aran Islands. At the cliffs’ midpoint, there’s a round stone tower built in 1835. The height of these cliffs ranges from 120 to 214 meters, and a well-marked, 18-kilometer trail runs along the coast.
In western Ireland, Connemara National Park is one of six national parks in the country. This 2000-hectare park boasts diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, bogs, and grasslands. It’s a paradise for hikers, offering beautiful views and numerous trails. For spectacular views, hike up Diamond Hill, an isolated peak standing 442 meters tall. Besides being a natural wonder, the park also features historical monuments like Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden. Built-in 1868 as a private home, the Abbey became a refuge for Irish Benedictine Nuns in 1920 after fleeing Belgium during WWI.
Benbulbin, a large flat-topped rock formation resembling a table, stands 525 meters high with a flat limestone plateau and near-vertical, ribbed sides. You can hike to its flat top, and this unique natural landmark also features in several Irish legends.
The Ring of Kerry, a scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula, is a 179-kilometer circular route that offers stunning coastal views and should be on your must-do list. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike the Ring of Kerry, a 215-kilometer trail that takes about 10-11 days to complete, following the same path as the drive.
Slieve League Cliffs, some of the highest sea cliffs on the island of Ireland, soar to a maximum height of 596 meters. Though not as famous as the Cliffs of Moher, they are almost three times higher. For the best views, head to a viewpoint known as Bunglass.
Finally, the Aran Islands, a group of three small rocky islands off the coast near Doolin, are another highlight. Inis Mór is the largest of the Aran Islands. Enjoy walks along rocky cliffs and visit ancient Celtic churches. Don’t miss Dún Aonghasa, a group of prehistoric hill forts and an important archaeological site.
Enjoy your trip to Ireland and soak in all the natural beauty and rich history this amazing country has to offer!