Destination Ireland Travel Guide
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Welcome to Ireland! Get ready for breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. This small island nation is packed with diverse destinations, from buzzing cities to rugged coastlines, ancient castles, and everything in between.
We are here to help you prepare for a trip of a lifetime with tonnes of content like the best things to do, off-the-beaten-path destination guides, suggested itineraries, and insightful blog posts about every region. We’ve got you covered!
So what are you waiting for? Let’s explore the lush greenery of Leinster, the rugged beauty of Connacht, the historical landmarks of Ulster, and the coastal charm of Munster. Plus, let’s not forget about the food and drink! Ireland is home to world-renowned pubs, distilleries, and breweries, as well as fresh seafood and hearty stews.
Popular places to visit in Ireland:
From the bustling city streets of Dublin to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, countless destinations will leave you in awe. If you’re planning a trip to Ireland and wondering where to start, look no further than our list of top destinations.
Travel to Ireland Today!
Top popular places
Dublin – Ireland’s capital city is a must-see for any visitor to the country. It’s filled with history, culture, and nightlife, and it’s easy to spend a few days exploring its many attractions.
Giant’s Causeway – Located on the north coast of Northern Ireland, this natural wonder consists of around 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that look like a pathway leading into the sea. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for anyone interested in geology or stunning landscapes.
Cliffs of Moher – These towering cliffs on the west coast of Ireland are a stunning sight to behold. They reach up to 700 feet in some places and offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Ring of Kerry – This scenic driving route takes you around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, offering stunning views of the rugged coastline, sparkling lakes, and quaint villages. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the Irish countryside.
Other popular spots in Ireland include:
- Blarney Castle
- Guinness Storehouse
- Killarney National Park
- The Burren
- Kilkenny Castle
- Galway City
- Newgrange
- Dingle Peninsula
- Rock of Cashel
- Skellig Islands
Wondering how to fit all these fantastic destinations into one trip? We’ve got you covered! Check out our 7-day Ireland Itinerary for inspiration.
Lesser-visited & Off the Beaten Path Ireland Destinations
If you love venturing off the beaten path, Ireland has plenty of hidden gems to explore. There are many places to visit that you may have never heard of before.
These destinations often provide a more authentic travel experience than some of the more popular ones. Below, you’ll find 5 of the best Ireland travel destinations loved by locals but still relatively unknown by international tourists.
Saltee Islands
Westport
Bundoran
Leitrim
Connemara
🏢 IRELAND CITIES
Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Belfast are some of the most popular and biggest cities to visit in Ireland. Each city has its own unique charm and offers a range of attractions, from historic landmarks to modern art galleries and museums.
The best time to visit these cities is during the shoulder season when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.
🏖️ IRELAND BEACHES
Ireland may not be known for its beaches, but it does have some stunning white-sand beaches that are worth visiting.
The best time to visit Ireland’s beaches is during the summer months when the weather is at its best… but don’t expect the water to be warm. Be happy if you get 15°c!
🏰 IRELAND CASTLES
Ireland is famous for its many castles, which offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and heritage. From the imposing Rock of Cashel in Tipperary to the picturesque Blarney Castle in Cork, there are numerous castles to explore throughout the country. Many of these castles offer guided tours and host special events throughout the year, making them a must-see attraction for visitors to Ireland.
The best time to visit Ireland’s castles is during the off-season when there are fewer crowds and cooler weather. Read this article to learn about the best castles to visit in Ireland.
🏝 IRELAND ISLANDS
Did you know there are about 80 to 100 inhabited islands off the coast of Ireland? Yes, that’s a lot! While each is worth a visit and has its unique history, culture, and landscape, we have put together a list of our favourite islands you shouldn’t miss. From the rugged beauty of the Aran Islands to the lush greenery of the Skellig Islands, many islands are worth the detour.
The best time to visit these islands is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is milder, the seas are calmer (making it easier to access by boat), and ferries or tours are open for booking.
How many counties are there in Ireland?
There are 32 counties in Ireland. 26 of these are in the Republic of Ireland, while the remaining six are in Northern Ireland. The largest county in Ireland is Cork, and the smallest is Louth.
To learn more about these 32 counties and what each of them has to offer, keep reading!
- Antrim – Visit the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of 40,000 interlocking hexagonal basalt columns.
- Armagh – Explore Armagh City, the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland and home to two stunning cathedrals.
- Carlow – Walk the Barrow Way, a scenic trail that follows the River Barrow from Lowtown to St. Mullins.
- Cavan – Go fishing or boating on Lough Oughter, a picturesque lake dotted with islands and ancient ruins.
- Clare – Tour the Cliffs of Moher, a dramatic coastal cliff formation that rises 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean.
- Cork – Visit Blarney Castle, home of the Blarney Stone, a legendary stone that grants the gift of gab to those who kiss it.
- Derry – Walk the city walls of Derry/Londonderry, the best-preserved walled city in Ireland.
- Donegal – Explore Glenveagh National Park, a vast wilderness area with stunning lakes, mountains, and forests.
- Down – Visit the historic town of Downpatrick, where St. Patrick is said to be buried.
- Dublin – Explore Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital city, home to numerous historic sites, museums, and cultural attractions.
- Fermanagh – Take a boat tour of the Fermanagh Lakelands, a stunning region of interconnected lakes and waterways.
- Galway – Explore the charming town of Galway, famous for its traditional Irish music, lively pubs, and colourful streets.
- Kerry – Drive the Ring of Kerry, a scenic 111-mile road that winds past rugged coastline, majestic mountains, and charming towns.
- Kildare – Visit the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens, a beautiful horse breeding centre with tranquil Japanese-style gardens.
- Kilkenny – Explore Kilkenny Castle, a stunning medieval castle that dates back to the 12th century.
- Laois – Visit the Rock of Dunamase, a ruined fortress atop a rocky hill with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Leitrim – Cruise the Shannon-Erne Waterway, a tranquil canal that winds through the heart of Ireland’s Lakelands.
- Limerick – Visit King John’s Castle, a 13th-century fortress that overlooks the River Shannon.
- Longford – Explore the Royal Canal Greenway, a scenic trail that follows the route of the historic Royal Canal.
- Louth – Visit the Neolithic tombs at Newgrange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that predates the Pyramids of Egypt.
- Mayo – Climb Croagh Patrick, a holy mountain that has been a site of pilgrimage for thousands of years.
- Meath – Visit the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland.
- Monaghan – Explore Rossmore Forest Park, a tranquil woodland with scenic walking trails and a picturesque lake.
- Offaly – Visit Clonmacnoise, an ancient monastic site with numerous historic ruins and artefacts.
- Roscommon – Visit Boyle Abbey, a beautifully preserved Cistercian monastery that dates back to the 12th century.
- Sligo – Explore the rugged landscape of Yeats Country, the region that inspired much of the poetry of W.B. Yeats.
- Tipperary – Visit the Rock of Cashel, a medieval fortress that was once the seat of the Kings of Munster.
- Tyrone – Visit the Ulster American Folk Park, an outdoor museum that tells the story of Irish emigration to the United States.
- Waterford – Tour the Waterford Crystal factory, where skilled craftsmen create exquisite crystal products using traditional methods.
- Westmeath – Explore the Belvedere House and Gardens, a stunning 18th-century mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland.
- Wexford – Take a boat trip to the Saltee Islands, a bird sanctuary off the coast of Wexford with stunning views and an abundance of wildlife.
- Wicklow – Visit the picturesque Glendalough Valley with its stunning medieval monastic site and beautiful hiking trails..
Ireland Travel: Know before you go
💰Currency: Euro
🗣️Language: English and Irish Gaelic are the official languages of Ireland. You may also hear other languages, such as Polish or Chinese, due to the country’s diverse population.
🛂 Ireland Visa: Most travellers from the US, Canada, Australia, and many European countries do not need a visa to visit Ireland for up to 90 days. Check if you need a visa for travel to Ireland here.
🔌Electricity Socket: Ireland uses Type G sockets, which have three rectangular pins. If you’re from a country that uses a different type of plug, you’ll need an adapter.
☎️ Ireland SIM Card: If you want to use your phone in Ireland, you’ll need to get a pre-paid SIM card. Lyca Mobile or Free offer good deals, but I prefer Airalo eSIM when I travel abroad. It’s easy to install and you don’t have to go to a shop (everything can be done online, from home!). If you are from the European Union, you can use your roaming allowance
🚘Car Rentals: Renting a car in Ireland is a great way to explore the country’s stunning landscapes and charming villages. Check out this guide to renting a car in Ireland for tips on the process.
The Best ways to visit Ireland
Rent a Car
Going on a road trip in Ireland can be an unforgettable experience. The country’s winding roads will take you through stunning landscapes, charming towns, and historic sites. Whether you want to drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, explore the Ring of Kerry, or travel through the Boyne Valley, there is a route and length for every taste.
You can stop at roadside cafes, traditional pubs, and craft shops to sample local food and drink, or take a detour to hike in the mountains or walk along secluded beaches. Just remember to drive on the left side of the road and enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the way.
BEST IRELAND CAR RENTAL COMPANY DISCOVER CARS
When booking a rental car in Ireland online, I use Discover Cars because they offer Full coverage for less than €7. It is the best rental car comparator out there!
Take a tour
When you have limited time to explore the island of Ireland, embarking on a well-structured 3 to 10-day tours allows you to make the most of your visit and cover a significant amount of ground. These tours are meticulously designed to showcase the highlights and must-see attractions, providing a comprehensive overview of Ireland’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.
On the other hand, if you have a bit more flexibility or prefer to base yourself in one place, taking several day-trips is an excellent way to explore different parts of the country at a more leisurely pace.
I highly recommend using reputable platforms like Viator or Get Your Guide to book tours in Ireland (and around the world). The benefit of using these platforms lies in their extensive selection, allowing you to find tours that perfectly align with your interests, preferences, and available time.
With user reviews, detailed descriptions, and easy booking processes, these platforms are invaluable resources for planning and booking your adventures. I have personally relied on them numerous times and have always found the ideal tour to suit my desires.
My favourite platform to book a tour in Ireland
Get Your Guide offers a large panel of guided tours. I took many tours with Get Your Guide in Ireland, Iceland, Spain, and Hungary, for example, and I have never been disappointed.
The service has always been excellent. Tickets are easily accessible through the apps, and post-sales service is spot on when you need it!
There might be fewer tour choices than on Viator, but I think that’s a gauge of quality. You can be certain the team has checked the tours available on Gyg and can be trusted.
Best Foods to Eat in Ireland
Irish Stew – This classic Irish dish is made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and herbs. It’s the ultimate comfort food and perfect for warming up on a chilly day. However, Irish stew is not the type of food you find in restaurants where locals go… Irish Stew is typically found in the more “touristy” pubs, let’s be honest. If you want to escape touristy places, I recommend ordering a Beef and Guinness Pie as an alternative.
Seafood Chowder: Ireland’s coastline is a seafood lover’s paradise, and seafood chowder is a must-try dish. Made with a creamy base, potatoes, fresh seafood, and herbs, this hearty soup is a staple in many coastal towns and restaurants across the country. Be sure to pair it with some freshly baked Irish soda bread for the ultimate Irish meal.
Soda Bread – A staple of Irish baking, soda bread is a simple bread made with flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. It’s perfect for serving with soups or stews.
Irish Cheese – Ireland produces some of the world’s best cheese, including the famous Cashel Blue and the creamy Brie-like Durrus.
Black Pudding – A traditional Irish sausage made with pork, oats, and spices, black pudding is a must-try for adventurous eaters.
Irish Coffee – This classic Irish drink is made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and whipped cream. It’s the perfect way to warm up on a cold day, although that’s not something you will find easily. Some bars and restaurants will have it on the menu, but local people don’t order it much. It’s more something that we make at home! If you visit a distillery in Dublin, check if they also offer an Irish coffee masterclass!
What are the best holidays to visit Ireland?
St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th) – Celebrated worldwide, St. Patrick’s Day is Ireland’s national holiday and features parades, music, and lots of green.
Galway International Arts Festival (July) – A two-week festival in Galway that features theatre, music, dance, and visual arts from around the world.
Cork Jazz Festival (October) – One of the largest jazz festivals in Europe, the Cork Jazz Festival features hundreds of musicians performing at venues throughout the city.
Halloween (October 31st) – Halloween has its roots in Celtic culture, and Ireland is a great place to dress up and celebrate the holiday. The streets tend to get very busy with house parties and fireworks on the night of Halloween. In residential areas, kids dress up and go trick-or-treating in their neighbourhood. Each year, the Bram Stoker Festival takes over the Streets of Dublin with various events, including outdoor installations, classic film shows, and parades. Alternatively, the fantastic Puca Festival in Meath is an event not to be missed if you are in the area!
Wexford Festival Opera (October/November) – A world-renowned opera festival featuring productions from up-and-coming and established opera artists in Wexford.
Bloomsday festival (June 16th) – A celebration of the life and work of James Joyce, who set his famous novel “Ulysses” in Dublin, with readings, performances, and reenactments of scenes from the book.
Summer Solstice (June 21st) – It is celebrated each year on June 20th or 21st around the ancient sites of Newgrange and Knowth, where visitors can witness the magic of the rising sun illuminating these historic sites.
Christmas Markets (November-December) – Throughout the holiday season, cities and towns across Ireland come alive with festive markets that sell local crafts, food, and drinks.
What’s a Typical budget for a trip to Ireland?
On average, daily expenses for a budget trip to Ireland can range from €50 to €100 (approximately $60 to $120), covering accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.
However, prices quickly escalate if you stay in hotels, especially in major cities. Ireland accommodation is costly and fills up quickly, so booking way in advance is the best way to find an affordable room.
The cost of a night in a hotel also depends on the season and whether you are booking during a local holiday or on the weekend.
Regarding food, eating out would typically cost around €50 for two with a couple of drinks, but you can find cheaper street-food-like restaurants in cities. Our recommendation when travelling in Ireland is to avoid hotel restaurants (never of excellent quality) and find a local pub. They usually serve hearty, typical Irish food like Irish Stew, Chicken Pies, or Seafood Chowder for an affordable price (€14-€18 per meal).
In terms of leisure, many activities and places to visit in Ireland are free, but you may need to account for parking fees (e.g., the Cliffs of Moher).
Here are a few examples of costs currently seen in Ireland:
| Accommodation | Transport | Food | Leasure |
| Campsites: €10-€15 a night for tents Hostel: €25-€30 a night Hotel: from €150 in main cities B&B: €75-€150 Unusual places: €200+ | Tram (Luas): €2.10-€3.30 Bus: €1.70 – €2.60 Long distance bus: +/- €20-€30 Train: €10-€40 | Fish & chips: €11 Beer (Guinness): €4.5-5.5 Street food: €8-€12 Restaurant: €25-€45 | Guinness Factory: €26-€38 Skellig Michael : €45-€125 Newgrange: €10 Rock of Cashel: €8 |
What to pack for a trip to Ireland?
✅ Warm and waterproof clothing
Ireland can be cool and rainy, so pack a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes even in the summer. Consider layering with a sweater and a fleece or a light puffer jacket.
✅ Comfortable walking shoes
Ireland has many hills and cobblestone streets, so be sure to pack comfortable shoes. If you plan on hiking, get a pair of boots that cover your ankles; most hikes are rocky and uneven.
✅ Power adapter
Ireland uses the Type G plug, so make sure to bring the correct adapter for your devices if needed.
✅ Cash and credit cards
Ireland is a cash-friendly country, but debit or credit cards are widely accepted in most places. If you plan on driving a car, the driver must present a valid personal credit card.
❌ Do not pack! Umbrella
Leave that one at home. When it rains in Ireland, it is often windy, and umbrellas never survive the Irish weather.
For more details on what to pack for Ireland, download our Irish packing list! It’s free and you can use it on your phone to tick the packed items as you go!
FAQ
Ireland guide
read our COMPLETE GUIDE TO PLANNING THE PERFECT TRIP TO IRELAND.
From choosing the right time to visit, to finding the best accommodations, this dedicated article covers everything you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime in Ireland. So, buckle up, grab a cup of tea and let’s get started on planning your dream trip to Ireland!
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I help you explore Ireland like a local with insider tips, detailed itineraries, and practical advice.
HEY THERE! I’M JEN…
Funder, Author & Photographer behind travelirelandtoday.com
Ireland has been my home for the last 12 years. Before settling here, I spent years backpacking around the globe, visiting 65+ countries. Along the way, I discovered my love for hiking, photography, and crafting budget-friendly itineraries.
Through this website, I share the best things to do and see in Ireland, detailed hiking guides, and practical tips to help you plan your perfect Irish adventure. Let’s make your trip unforgettable!
