Facts About Ireland
From sweeping countryside and ocean views to bustling towns and city centers, there are plenty of tourist attractions in Ireland for everyone. If you're planning to visit Ireland and don't want to miss out on anything, this article can serve as your Irish travel guide.
1. The Cliffs of Moher
It's impossible to think about Ireland without thinking of the Cliffs of Moher. This historic and beautiful site was named the Best Visitor Attraction in Ireland by the Irish Independent's Reader Travel Awards in 2023, and it remains on top today.
The Cliffs of Moher stand above the West Clare coast and offer breathtaking views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay. While you can view the cliffs for free, the official Cliffs of Moher tour costs around $10 per person.
2. Donegal
Although it's not as well-known as major and historic cities in Ireland, Donegal is a must-visit for anyone who wants to see the true core of Ireland. Whether you want to see ancient castles, scenic coastlines or sprawling mountains, Donegal has it all.
In addition to plenty of beautiful sites, Donegal has a bustling downtown area with iconic restaurants, pubs and shopping areas. Once you're finished with your round of golf or touring Donegal Castle, you can grab a pint at one of the many pubs in the area.
3. Ring of Kerry
If you rent a car for your tour of Ireland, be sure to drive the Ring of Kerry. This scenic roadway that encircles the Iveraugh Peninsula is 111 miles long and will allow you to see most of the top sites and cities in the country.
In addition to endless views of cliffs, ocean views and towering mountains, the Ring of Kerry also travels through some of the best cities to visit in Ireland, including Killarney and Kenmare. You'll also be able to glimpse the Skellig Michael, a rocky island that features a Christian monastery built in the 7th century.
4. Glendalough
Visiting Glendalough, also known as the Monastic City, is one of the most unique things to do in Ireland. Glendalough features a number of historic monuments and ruins of ancient monasteries, not to mention some of the most beautiful lakes in Ireland.
Glendalough is located in Wicklow Mountains National Park, the largest national park in the country. As such, once you're finished taking in the splendor of Glendalough, you're free to visit the rest of the park at your leisure.
5. Galway
Aside from Dublin, Galway is easily one of the most popular and best places to visit in Ireland. Located on the northern coast of the North Atlantic Ocean, Galway has something for everyone. From breathtaking coastal views and boat tours to live music and some of the best seafood in the country, Galway should definitely be on your "must-visit" list.
Galway also serves as a nice base of operations if you want to plan a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher or the Aran Islands!
6. Aran Islands
Another one of the more unique things to do in Ireland is to visit the aforementioned Aran Islands. Located southwest of Galway in the heart of the North Atlantic, you can only reach the Aran Islands by ferry or plane.
It's well worth the trouble, as the Aran Islands provide a great look at what ancient Ireland looked like. It holds some of the oldest Celtic churches and historic landmarks in the country, and most of the islands residents speak Gaelic.
7. Newgrange
Sticking to the theme of unique things to do in Ireland, be sure to check out Newgrange during your visit. Newgrange is a nearly 300-foot round mound that's been hollowed out in the middle, essentially making it a tiny city or building.
It was constructed by Stone Age farmers and is truly an experience unlike any other. It's a structure that features narrow passages, tiny chambers and much more that you can't find anywhere else in the world.
8. Killarney
Most of the top cities to visit in Ireland are located along the North Atlantic Coast. However, Killarney is located further inland on the banks of Lough Leane, one of the most beautiful lakes in Ireland. In addition to some of the best food and beer in the country, Killarney also features Ross Castle, Innisfallen Abbey and many other historic sites and scenic views.
9. Drombeg Stone Circle
The Drombeg Stone Circle is another must-see historic site in Ireland. Located in Glandore County Cork, Drombeg Stone Circle is more than 3,000 years old and consists of 17 stones, similar to the stone circle featured in the hit TV series, Outlander.
10. Dublin
Finally, no visit to Ireland is complete without visiting the capital city of Dublin. Dublin features a sprawling city center packed with shops, pubs, restaurants and much more, and serves as the cultural center of the country. You'll also have breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and can catch a ferry to the UK if you want to continue your European adventure!
Explore Ireland in Style
There's plenty to see and do in historic Ireland. Be sure to plan your trip in advance and buy tickets when necessary so that you can experience as much of Ireland as possible.
Want to see more of Europe? Check out these popular spots in Rome, Italy.