The rich culture, gorgeous green landscapes, and welcoming locals are just a few of the reasons why so many travelers choose Ireland as their next destination. The best part about it, the Emerald Isle truly lives up to this wonderful reputation. Despite its small size, it has a lot to offer anyone that wishes to visit.
However, with so many unique cities, cozy towns, and countryside beauties to pick from, deciding what should be on your itinerary might be difficult. So, once you've figured out how to make your trip to Europe budget-friendly, read our trusted guide with the best places to visit in Ireland.
We're confident you'll find one (or more) places that pique your interest and entice you to come.
1. Dublin
Of course, the Republic of Ireland's capital, Dublin, had to be included in this list. Dublin is a historical city as well as a thriving modern port. This is what makes the city a place that's perfect for anyone wanting a modern experience of a historical place. Historical attractions include Dublin Castle, built in 1204, and St. Patrick's Cathedral, completed in 1260.
Whether you're exploring the James Joyce Museum, learning the history of the world-famous Guinness, or drinking a pint of it and talking to the locals, you are sure to leave with plenty of wonderful memories. So once you've explored Liverpool, take a ferry to Dublin and see what this bustling city has to offer.
2. Galway
One of the obligatory visits that you will have to make in your visit to the emerald country are the Cliffs of Moher and Galway. You can see an endless amount of Celtic music, drum beats, face-painting, Guinness beer and Jameson whiskey, accompanied by the sun and the green wave if you visit during Saint Patrick's Day.
Galway is located is the county town of Galway on the west coast of the island. It is known as the bohemian city of Ireland, characterized by art and history. You breathe art in every corner, and there is live music in each of them. The city is crossed by the Corrib river. Walk through its colorful streets, enjoying the urban art and the musicians that make the city even more beautiful.
Visit some of its most important points like the Galway city museum, Galway market, Galway Cathedral and Hall of the Red Earl. Muckanaghederdauhaulia is a small town land in county Galway which translates to ridge, shaped like a pig’s back, between two expanses of briny water.
Galway also offers the best of both worlds for travelers. Those who want to enjoy the city's light bustle can do so, while outdoor enthusiasts can visit one of the many natural attractions nearby. The Salthill Promenade and the Wild Atlantic Way are two such attractions. Galway is also regarded as one of the world's most musical cities.
Music can be heard on the streets, in amazing restaurants and lively pubs. Additionally, Galway is one of the very few places where you may hear the traditional Gaelic language.
3. Cork City
While exploring southern parts of Ireland, be sure to check out Cork, this country's second-largest city. With its rich history and stunning architecture, it's no surprise it's considered one of the best places to visit in Ireland. A tour to the iconic Blarney Castle, which has been attracting visitors for almost 600 years, is a must-do on any trip to Cork.
Also, you can explore Cork's luscious Fitzgerald park or various churches located in the area. There is something for everyone in Cork.
4. Limerick
Limerick, Ireland's First City of Culture, has a wide range of activities for people of all ages. It has everything you would need, whether you're just passing through or planning to relocate from the US. Once your international movers have organized an easy relocation to Ireland, visit King John's Castle and St. Mary's Cathedral to completely immerse yourself in the Irish culture and heritage.
And if you enjoy art, the Hunt Museum and Limerick City Gallery of Art will keep you entertained.
5. Aran Islands
The Aran Islands are a great place to visit if you want to get a sense of what old Ireland looked and felt like. The islands, which can be reached by ferry or plane, contain significant historical sites as well as vast stretches of untouched landscapes. On the Aran Islands, you'll find the spectacular Dun Aonghasa fort on one island, the Plassy shipwreck on another, and numerous beautiful sites on the third.
In this small slice of heaven, you will be sure to have an authentic cultural experience.
6. Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland's most visited tourist attraction, with over 1 million visitors every year. Do expect a big crowd when visiting. For the best experience, though, stop by in the evening when the crowds thin out, and you will be rewarded with a stunning sunset. Once you see the site, you'll understand why so many people from all over the world travel distances to see it.
The cliffs, which are 5 miles long and 700 feet tall, provide awe-striking views you will never forget.
7. Slieve League
On the other hand, if you wish to enjoy nature without many people around you, Slieve League is perfect for you. These are Ireland's highest cliffs, as well as the highest sea cliffs in Europe, surpassing even the Cliffs of Moher. Slieve League is considerably less crowded, but that doesn't mean the views are any less spectacular.
So take your camera and a travel companion and make your way to Slieve League before it becomes yet another popular tourist attraction.
8. Giant's Causeway
The Giant Causeway, located at the base of steep cliffs on Ireland's northeast coast, is a natural rock formation that looks as if it was carved by giants. The hexagonal honeycomb formation of basalt columns appears to be too geometrically perfect to have been created by nature. Nature, on the other hand, never ceases to surprise us.
The transformation of these columns into their current state required 16 million years of tectonic plate movement, lava flows, and erosion. To reach the star of the show, you must take a 15-minute walk from the visitor center or a 2-minute bus ride that will only set you back 1.5 pounds. It is truly a sight to behold that you won't want to miss.
9. Dingle Peninsula
One of the best places to visit in Ireland is the Dingle Peninsula, which is unrivaled in its stunning views. Sandy bitches, tall hills, high mountains, and cliffs abound this area. Its charm and unique Irish culture are sure to entice you. There are plenty of different places to see, such as the town of Dingle and the abandoned Blasket Islands.
On the other hand, you may traverse through a 28-mile route that will award you with views of breathtaking sceneries, historical attractions, and charming towns and villages.
10. Saltee Islands
Ireland is world renowned for its castles, lochs and cliffs, but it is also an exceptional destination for seabird watching and photography. Its location, within the migration paths of many Atlantic birds, means that large numbers of seabirds gather during some months of the year. And among all of them, the puffins are the most famous. There are several places to see puffins in Ireland, but the Saltee Islands are the most exceptional. These islands are a paradise for seabirds.
11. Killarney National Park
Picturesque Killarney National Park is on our top ten list of places to visit in Ireland, but it should also be on your itinerary! A 15th-century castle and a 19th-century Victorian residence covered in ivy may be found in this park. However, there is more. Killarney National Park has three spectacular lakes and Ireland's largest expanse of indigenous forest that are open to the public.
Although you may need to follow some COVID safety tips, you are sure to have a great time seeing the wonders of nature up close and personal.