Top 10 Places to Visit in Ireland

Explore the top 10 places to visit in Ireland for an unforgettable travel experience. From magical Dublin to the wild western shores, discover the hidden treasures of the Emerald Isle.

Rural house in Ireland - Photo by Wagrati Photo Pix
Rural house in Ireland - Photo by Wagrati Photo Pix

THEIreland is a land of green expanses, a thousand warm welcomes and legends of elves. Whether you are passionate about nature, history or gastronomy, this small island in the far west of Europe has something to offer all types of travellers. From the capital Dublin to the pristine counties of the northwest, this article will guide you through the 9 must-see places to include in your Irish itinerary.

1. Dublin: The vibrant capital

Dublin is often the starting and finishing point for visitors to Ireland, thanks to its international airports with flights direct flights from many countries. Despite the high costs, the city offers many free attractions, such as museums and art galleries, and a wide choice of cheap hostels. Among the most famous attractions are the Kilmainham Gaol, Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Distilleries e Teeling,EPIC Irish Emigration Museum , Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship. Dublin is also a great starting point for day trips to the rest of the country. To explore Dublin, you don't need a car. The city can easily be explored on foot or by using public transport. If you want to travel to other parts of Ireland, we recommend renting a car, so you have more flexibility in your travels.

Dublin what to see: panorama of the Irish capital ©Photo Tara Morgan
Dublin ©Photo Tara Morgan

2. Galway: The Capital of the West

Galway, located on the west coast about 2 hours and 20 minutes by train from Dublin, is an ideal destination for a weekend out of town without needing a car. This smaller city compared to the capital is easily explored on foot, with its historic center characterized by narrow cobbled streets, pubs, cafes and shops. In addition to the lively city atmosphere, Galway It also offers the possibility of reaching the city in a short time Salthill Beach, where you can stroll along the seafront promenade. Galway is a perfect stop to combine with Dublin in a itinerary in Ireland.

Galway City, Galway, delegates enjoying a city break
Galway City, Galway, delegates enjoying a city break

3. Tipperary: The Heart of Ireland

La county of Tipperary It is famous above all for its main site of interest, the Rock of Cashel, an imposing ruined abbey located on a hill. In addition to this majestic attraction, Tipperary also offers the Cahir Castle, one of Ireland's best preserved castles and the picturesque Swiss Cottage, a 19th century residence. The county also boasts numerous other castles, hiking mountains, religious sites and the Mitchelstown Caves. If you are travelling between Dublin and Cork/Kerry, a stop at Cashel o Cahir will allow you to discover the treasures of Tipperary.

The Rock of Cashel, Tipperary - Photo by Keith Pix
The Rock of Cashel, Tipperary – Photo by Keith Pix

4. Donegal: Wild Ireland

The county of Donegal, in the north-western corner of Ireland, is one of the least visited but most unspoiled areas of the country. Here is the starting and finishing point of the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way, with majestic cliffs like those of Slieve league and the Glenveagh National Park. Donegal also offers numerous beaches for walking and surfing, as well as lakes ideal for water sports and trekking. Reaching this remote region takes about 3-4 hours by car from Dublin but the journey is well worth it for admire one of the wildest and most natural corners of Ireland.

Ireland: Wild Atlantic Way, map
Ireland: Wild Atlantic Way, map

5. Kilkenny: the medieval city

Just 1,5 hours drive south of Dublin, Kilkenny is one of the best cities to visit in Ireland for a weekend. Here you can admire the majestic Kilkenny Castle, dating back to the 13th century, and get lost in its medieval streets full of pubs, live music venues and local craft shops. In addition to the castle, Kilkenny It also boasts a museum, a cathedral and a round tower. The city also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Kilkenny Tradefest, Kilkenny Arts Festival and the Kilkenny Cat Laughs Festival.

Kilkenny Castle - Photo by K. Mitch Hodge U

6. Waterford: the Viking city

Waterford, Ireland's oldest city, founded by the Vikings, is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Viking history outside of Dublin. In the historic centre, known as “Viking Triangle“, you can still admire the remains of the ancient city walls and visit the Reginald's Tower and the Medieval Museum. In addition to the historical sites, Waterford It also hosts the famous crystal factory Waterford Crystal, with guided tours to discover how it is made.

Waterford, Ireland - Photo by Dmitrijs Bojarovs Pix
Waterford, Ireland – Photo by Dmitrijs Bojarovs Pix

7. Kerry: Natural beauty

La County Kerry, located in the corner South West Ireland, is one of the most beautiful and naturalistic places in the country. Here is the Killarney National Park, crossed by the spectacular Ring of kerry, a 179 km circular route that offers breathtaking views of mountains, lakes and coasts. Other unmissable stops include the picturesque town of dingle, Skellig michael (Star Wars location) and the imposing Carrauntoohil, the highest mountain in Ireland. Kerry It is an ideal destination for nature and landscape lovers.

Ring of Kerry, Ireland
Ring of Kerry, Ireland

8. Cliff of Moher: The most famous cliffs in the world

Le Cliffs of Moher, majestic cliffs located on the west coast of Ireland, were recently named the country's top tourist attraction. This renowned destination, which stretches for eight kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean coast, offers breathtaking views and an immersive experience in wild and unspoiled nature. With over a million visitors each year, the Cliffs of Moher Not only do they represent a natural landmark, but also a symbol of Ireland's cultural heritage, attracting tourists from all over the world.

Cliffs of Moher at sunset - Ireland
Cliffs of Moher at sunset – Ireland

9. Wexford: the county for the family

Located in the south-eastern part of Ireland, the county of Wexford It is a perfect destination for families thanks to its many child-friendly attractions. Among these, the ancient Hook Lighthouse, Johnstown Castle with its agricultural museum, theIrish National Heritage Park and the Dunbrody Famine Ship, which allows you to relive the experience of Irish emigration. Wexford It also boasts beautiful beaches, historic abbeys and the JFK Arboretum, a beautiful natural park. Reachable in less than 2 hours from Dublin, Wexford It is ideal for a family holiday in theSouthern Ireland.

Hook Lighthouse, Ireland - Irish Tourism Photos
Hook Lighthouse, Ireland – Irish Tourism Photos

10. Antrim: the coastal route

The county of Antrim, in the northern part of Northern Ireland, is an unmissable stop thanks to the spectacular Causeway Coastal Route connecting Belfast a Derry/Londonderry. Along this coastal road are some of the main attractions of thenorthern Ireland, such as Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle and the seaside town of Portrush. Belfast, the county town, also offers numerous museums, botanical gardens and the Titanic Quarter, where you can visit the museum and hotel dedicated to the famous ocean liner.

Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast, Northern Ireland

Final reflections

Whether you want to explore the vibrant capital of Dublin, immerse yourself in the unspoiled nature of Donegal, or discover the Viking history of Waterford, this selection of the top 10 places to visit in Ireland will help you plan an unforgettable trip to the Emerald Isle. Each destination offers unique experiences, from the charm of medieval cities to the natural wonders of the wild coasts. Choose the stops that best suit your interests and prepare to experience a unique adventure in one of the most fascinating countries in Europe. We recommend moving in a camper in Ireland, for a slow and suggestive journey. Alternatively you can choose unusual places to sleep which are not lacking in Ireland, such as, for example, sleep in a castle or in the Irish luxury homes.

Ireland Landscape - Photo U+
Ireland Landscape – Photo U+

Search for last minute offers

We compare airlines and travel agencies in search of the best price

Map of Ireland


 If you want to stay updated on the destination IRELAND Sign up to our newsletter
Information about Anna Bruno 123 Articles
Professional journalist, former reporter for "La Gazzetta del Mezzogiorno", she specializes in travel, food, music and technologies. She is co-founder of the communication and digital PR agency FullPress Agency, she is the managing director of FullTravel.it, a travel magazine and of "VerdeGusto", as well as two other magazines. She is the author of “Digital Travel” and “Digital Food”, the fourth and fifth books respectively, for Flaccovio Editore. Digital Travel & Food Specialist, she is a consultant and teacher in training courses and is the delegate for the SOUTH and Islands of the Italian Travel Press (ITP).

5 Comments

  1. I am fascinated by the beauty of Galway, it looks like a lovely place to explore on foot. Thanks for the detailed information!

  2. Ireland really looks like a magical place to visit, full of history and nature to discover. I can't wait to organize a trip there!

  3. Kilkenny fascinates me with its medieval atmosphere and rich historical heritage. It would be great to attend the local festivals. Thanks for the travel ideas!

  4. Tipperary looks like a real gem with the Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle. I would love to visit this county full of history!

  5. Donegal seems to offer a wild and unspoiled nature, ideal for those who like to venture into less touristy places. Thanks for the suggestions!

Leave a comment

The email address will not be published.


*