irish tourist landmarks

32 Of The Most Famous Landmarks In Ireland

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

There’s an almost never-ending list of famous landmarks in Ireland.

Some, like the Cliffs of Moher and Blarney Castle are famous the world over while others, like Jerpoint Abbey, don’t receive half the credit they deserve.

In this guide, we’ve pulled together a clatter of Irish landmarks that are famous across the globe along with ones that many people aren’t familiar with.

Table of Contents

The most famous landmarks in Ireland

Photos via Shutterstock

Now – a quick disclaimer – this isn’t a definitive list of all of the various monuments in Ireland. That would be a  very  long list.

This article contains what are arguably the most famous landmarks of Ireland. Dive on in!

1. The Cliffs of Moher (Clare)

The Cliffs of Moher in County Clare are easily one of the most recognisable natural landmarks in Ireland, and they’re a highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way . 

They stretch for an impressive 14km (9 miles) along the rugged Clare coast in a region known as the Burren. At their highest point, the Cliffs of Moher reach a lofty 390 feet above the choppy Atlantic below.

Although you can visit them on foot via the visitor centre, one of the more unique ways of experiencing Moher is via a boat tour from either Doolin or Galway City.

2. Rock of Cashel (Tipperary)

Few monuments of Ireland look as fairytale-like as the magnificent Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary.

A hot-spot on Ireland’s tourist trail, the Rock of Cashel is frequently referred to as ‘St. Patrick’s Rock’.

It’s believed that St. Patrick converted King Aenghus during the 5th century. That wasn’t it’s only claim to fame, though.

The area was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster! Many of the structures that are still visible to this day date back to the 12th and 13th century.

3. Monasterboice High Crosses (Louth)

One of the more historical landmarks in Ireland are the Monasterboice High Crosses in County Louth.

Monasterboice is the site of a 5th century monastic settlement and it boasts what is arguably the most impressive of the many Celtic Crosses in Ireland – The Cross of Muiredach.

It’s one of three High Crosses located in the grounds. There’s also two 14th century churches and an ancient round tower (pictured above) which was used to spot approaching attackers.

4. Newgrange (Meath)

Our next stop is the ancient Boyne Valley to see one of the most ancient monuments of Ireland – Newgrange .

Part of the world-famous Brú na Bóinne  complex alongside  Knowth , Newgrange is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to 3,200 BC.

Many archaeologists believe Newgrange was constructed to serve an astronomically-based religion. 

Every year, on the winter solstice, a beam of light shines through a roof-box at the entrance of Newgrange and illuminates the interior with sunlight.

The event requires people to enter a ‘ticket lottery’ with thousands of people from across the globe itching to see one of the most impressive Irish landmarks on its big day.

5. The Skellig Islands (Kerry)

Jutting out of the Atlantic off the coast of Kerry, the Skelling Islands (Skellig Michael and Little Skelling) are two of the more unique natural landmarks in Ireland.

Skellig Michael is the better-known of the two thanks to its appearance in a Star Wars movie. It’s also the only one you can visit.

Home to a thriving bird population, an early Christian Monastery from the 6th century and numerous beehive huts that were once home to monks, the Skelligs are like something from another world.

6. The Giants Causeway (Antrim)

The Giant’s Causeway topped the list in our guide to the most famous landmarks in Northern Ireland for good reason.

As was the case with Newgrange, the Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO Heritage site and it is believed that it dates back over 50 million years!

The most unique features of this spectacular corner of Ireland are the 40,000+ black basalt columns that jut proudly out of the sea.

Set against the green cliffs of the Antrim Coast , the columns are a sight to behold and give the impression that you’re walking in another world.

7. Benbulben (Sligo)

Few of the natural landmarks in Ireland deliver a stop-you-in-your-tracks moment like Sligo’s table-top-like Benbulben.

Part of the Dartry Mountain range, the very distinctive Benbulben was created by different responses to limestone erosion.

You’ll see it from afar from many parts of the county and its unique appearance never fails to catch the eye.

It’s best seen on the brilliant Benbulben Forest Walk which takes the guts of 2 hours and which offers a good eyeful of the mountain from close up.

8. Christ Church Cathedral (Dublin)

Christ Church Cathedral is one of the more major landmarks in Ireland due to it being one of the first attractions many tourists visiting the capital explore.

Located right in the heart of Dublin City Centre, the cathedral was founded by a Viking king during early 11th century, making it nearly as old as the city itself!

Manuscripts date Christ Church Cathedral to its current location at around 1030. The current cathedral was rebuilt in 1172 .

9. Dun Briste (Mayo)

You’ll find the towering sea stack known as Dun Briste at Downpatrick Head in County Mayo.

It, along with many of the North Mayo coast’s attractions, is one of many natural Irish landmarks that tourists tend to miss.

The surrounding cliffs at Downpatrick Head, with their unique rock formations, are a staggering 350 million+ years old.

When there’s a strong wind and the waves are crashing against the cliffs, this place make you feel like you’ve reached the place where Ireland ends.

10. Slieve League (Mayo)

After Moher, the Slieve League Cliffs are arguably one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland located on the Wild Atlantic Way.

They are some of Europe’s highest sea cliffs and the views on a clear day are outstanding.

You’ll find them in Donegal a short spin from the county town. You can (during the off-season) drive right up to the viewing point.

11. The Burren (Clare)

The Burren National Park in County Clare covers an area of around 1,500 hectares while the wider Burren region boasts 200 sq km and includes everywhere from the Aran Islands to the Cliffs of Moher.

Although it’s one of the more popular places to visit in Ireland , many people that visit the Burren leave underwhelmed, as they rock up (terrible pun, I know…) without a good plan of action.

If you follow the Burren Drive , you’ll visit everywhere from Doonagore Castle and Father Ted’s House to Doolin Cave , Poulnabrone Dolmen and the Aillwee Caves .

12. Kylemore Abbey (Galway)

The fairytale-like Kylemore Abbey in Connemara is arguably one of the most Famous landmarks in Ireland thanks to its appearance on a million+ postcards. 

Built in 1867, the magnificent Kylemore Abbey has witnessed its fair share of romance, tragedy and innovation over the years.

Kylemore is now home to the Benedictine nuns, who’ve been living there since 1920. A visit here is one of the more popular things to do in Galway , and the place gets mobbed at times.

If you can, try and arrive either when it opens or in the hours before it closes.

13. Hook Lighthouse (Wexford)

If you’re looking to experience historical landmarks in Ireland, look no further than County Wexford’s Hook Lighthouse .

Located on the wild Hook Peninsula , Hook Lighthouse is one of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world.

In fact, there has been a lighthouse of some shape or form in this point since the 5th century when a Welsh monk called Dubhán established a monastery just north of Hook Head.

14. Jerpoint Abbey (Kilkenny)

Few monuments of Ireland are as impressive to visit as the ancient Jerpoint Abbey in County Kilkenny.

If you’re not familiar with it, Jerpoint Abbey is one of the best-preserved Cistercian abbeys in Ireland and it dates to the 12th century.

The abbey thrived for hundreds of years until King Henry VIII brought in a Dissolution of the Monasteries act around 1536.

Fast forward to 2024 and the abbey is a joy to ramble around, despite the fact that much of it is in ruin.

15. Croagh Patrick (Mayo)

Photos courtesy Gareth McCormack/garethmccormack via Failte Ireland

A peak steeped in Irish mythology and history, Croagh Patrick is one of the most popular hikes in Ireland thanks to the other-worldly views it offers on a fine day.

You’ll find it a handy spin from Westport Town where pilgrims have been making the ascent to its summit for hundreds of years.

It’s a challenging climb to the top that takes the guts of 4 – 5 hours. However, the views of Clew Bay and its  many  islands make the effort well worth it.

16. Muckross Abbey (Kerry)

Muckross Abbey was founded in 1448 and it’s one of the more popular stops along the Ring of Kerry .

Its history is a turbulent one and the abbey was destroyed and rebuilt many  times.

The friars that lived in the abbey were regularly subjected to raids. They were also persecuted by Cromwell’s forces, like many others.

Now, even if you’re in no way interested in old ruins, the abbey here is worth a visit. Mainly thanks to the ancient yew tree that stands right at its centre.

17. Mizen Head (Cork)

Mizen Head in West Cork is the southern most point on the island of Ireland and it’s a great (but  very  windy!) place to visit at any time of year.

One of the reasons that the mighty Mizen Head is one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland is due to the fact that it was often the last bit of Europe that many of those on transatlantic shipping journeys laid their eyes upon.

You’ll find it on the wild and remote Mizen Peninsula where it’s home to a mini-museum, a signal station and a bridge that you can cross while gazing out at the surrounding cliffs.

18. King John’s Castle (Limerick)

You’ll find King Johns Castle in Limerick City where it’s strategically located on King’s Island, overlooking the waters of the River Shannon.

Similar to many Irish castles , King John’s is situated on an ancient site that was once home to a Viking settlement.

The building of the castle was ordered, unsurprisingly enough, by Kind John around 1200 and it’s believed to be one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Europe.

19. The Guinness Storehouse (Dublin)

Photos © Diageo via Ireland’s Content Pool

The Guinness Storehouse is another of the most famous landmarks in Ireland. It’s Ireland’s most visited tourist attraction, anyway!

Standing proudly at St. Jame’s Gate over near Dublin’s Phoenix Park, the factory is located on the same site where Arthur Guinness took out 9,000-year lease in 1759.

You can take either a self-guided or a guided tour here and both finish up in the impressive Gravity Bar where you’ll be treated to exceptional views of Dublin City and beyond.

20. Glendalough Monastic Site (Wicklow)

Glendalough Monastic Site is a fine spot for a stroll at any time of year and it has been attracting pilgrims, tourists and locals for thousands of years.

The Monastery was founded during the 6th century by St. Kevin as a place where he could escape from the world.

He lived for a short time in a cave at the Upper Lake which is now known as St. Kevin’s Bed. In the Monastery, you’ll find a round tower, a cemetery and some ruins.

21. Carrauntoohil (Kerry)

Carrauntoohil is, at 2,407 feet in height, the highest mountain in Ireland.

It’s part of the MacGillycuddy’s mountain range and the most well-trodden route up it is via the Devil’s Ladder from Cronins Yard.

This isn’t a hike to take lightly. The trail takes roughly 6 hours to complete but the terrain is difficult and conditions can change in an instant, so great care is needed.

22. Fanad Lighthouse (Donegal)

Fanad Lighthouse in County Donegal is an impressive sign, especially at sunrise or sunset.

It was built after a Royal Navy frigate was wrecked close by at the latter end of 1811, taking 250+ lives with it.

Despite its prominence, many other ships have been wrecked nearby, including the S Empire Heritage which went under in 1944.

23. The Free Derry Corner (Derry)

Left and bottom right photo: The Irish Road Trip. Top Right: Shutterstock

The Free Derry Corner is one of the more historical landmarks in Ireland and you’ll find it in the Bogside in Derry.

Although it’s not very old, the corner is synonymous with the the city’s turbulent past.

The story of the Free Derry Corner began on January 5th 1969 when a local activist painted ‘You are now entering Free Derry’ on the corner.

Images of the corner have be seen in history books, documentaries and on many news reports over the years.

24. The Deck of Cards (Cork)

The Deck of Cards in Cobh is one of many famous landmarks in Ireland that gained its fame from social media.

The ‘Cards’ are a row of colourful houses that are set against the backdrop of St Coleman’s Cathedral and the nearby harbour.

Seeing them from the view on the left above can be both dangerous and tricky, as the view pictured is taken from on top of a high wall.

25. Rock of Dunamase (Laois)

The Rock of Dunamase in County Laois combines history with glorious valley views.

The location was chosen for its strategic position overlooking the surrounding area and ‘the rock’ was built on a site of an early Christian settlement.

The Rock of Dunamase was part of a dowry (things of value brought by a bride to her marriage) when the daughter of the King of Leinster married Strongbow, a Norman in 1170.

The castle thieved until 1650 when it was destroyed by Cromwell’s troops. It now stands in ruin.

26. Glencar Waterfall (Leitrim)

Few natural landmarks in Ireland have inspired as much creative minds as Glencar Waterfall in Leitrim.

If you’re familiar of the works of WB Yeats, you’ll remember the mentions of Glencar Lough and it’s waterfall.

Today, it’s one of the more notable attractions on the Wild Atlantic Way and it can be found a short stroll from the nearby car park.

27. Dun Aonghasa (Galway)

Few natural landmarks in Ireland have received as much attention as Dún Aonghasa in 2024 (Achill Island’s Keem Bay got its fair share of limelight, too!).

The fort on Inis Mor was one of several Banshees of Inisherin filming locations due to its dramatic coastal location.

Dún Aonghasa was originally constructed c.1100BC. Some time later, around 700-800 AD, it was re-fortified.

If you visit, the craggy cliffs, the immense power of the wind and the crash of the waves below will send shockwaves through your senses.

28. Sean’s Bar (Westmeath)

Photos courtesy Sonder Visuals via Ireland’s Content Pool

Dating back to 900AD, Sean’s Bar in Athlone Town in County Westmeath is the oldest of the many  pubs in Ireland .

It’s a short stroll from both Athlone Castle and the banks of the River Shannon and it’s age was verified during an excavation in 1970.

During the ‘dig’, walls that were built using the wattle and daub technique were discovered and it’s believed that they date back to the 9th century.

29. Reginald’s Tower (Waterford)

Photos courtesy Waterford Museum of Treasures via Failte Ireland

Reginald’s Tower stands proudly in the centre of Waterford City where its now a Viking museum that showcases the city’s rich history.

The 16m-high round tower is the oldest civic building in Waterford and it is thought to have been built between 1253 and 1280.

It’s believed that the tower has named after one of the area’s Viking rulers – Raghnall Mac Gilla Muire – and it was used as a lookout tower.

30. The Dunbrody Famine Ship (Wexford)

Photo left: Via Failte Ireland. Others ©Tourism Ireland

The Dunbrody Famine Ship is another of the major landmarks in Ireland thanks to its location close to Rosslare Harbour, which is the arrival point for many getting the ferry to Ireland.

You’ll find it in the town of New Ross. Now, if you’re not familiar with Famine Ships, they were vessels that took people from Ireland during the Famine to far-off lands.

The original Dunbrody Famine Ship was constructed during the mid-19th century and in 1845 it left Wexford for Quebec.

The replica was built in the 90s thanks to the JFK Trust and the skill of local ship builders.

31. Dun Chaoin Pier (Kerry)

We’re off to the Dingle Peninsula , next, to one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland thanks to  endless  social media posts.

The very unique Dun Chaoin Pier on the Slea Head drive is located in the village of Dun Chaoin, a short spin from Dingle Town.

It is the departure point for the Blasket Island Ferry and you’ll find parking near the little ticket hut (never drive down the winding path!).

Now, you don’t have to be getting the ferry to enjoy this place – you’ll be treated to a view of it and the Dingle coast from the grass above.

32. Birr Castle (Offaly)

One of the more unusual historical landmarks of Ireland can be seen in the grounds of Birr Castle in Offaly.

The site has been home to fortresses since 1170 and, interestingly enough, the current castle has been inhabited by the same family that purchased it way back in 1620.

It’s on the grounds that you’ll find what was once the biggest telescope in the world. It was built in the 1840s and, for many years, people travelled from all over the world to use it.

What famous Irish landmarks have we missed?

This is  by no means  an exhaustive lists of all of the various landmarks and monuments of Ireland.

It excludes the like of Kilkenny Castle, Loop Head Lighthouse and plenty of other historical landmarks in Ireland.

If there’s one you feel that we need to add sharpish, shout away in the comments below.

FAQs about the monuments of Ireland

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are the most notable landmarks in Northern Ireland?’ to ‘What major landmarks in Ireland are a must-see?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are 5 famous landmarks in Ireland?

You could argue that the most famous Irish landmarks are the Cliffs of Moher, the Guinness Storehouse, Slieve League, the Rock of Cashel and the Skellig Islands.

What is Ireland’s most famous landmark?

This is an impossible question to answer with any real degree of accuracy but we can make a strong assumption that the Cliffs of Moher and the Guinness Storehouse are two of the major landmarks in Ireland.

What is the oldest landmark in Ireland?

If you’re looking to visit very old and famous landmarks in Ireland, look no further than Newgrange, the Rock of Cashel, Muckross Abbey and Monasterboice.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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30+ Irish Landmarks – Famous Landmarks In Ireland

Categories Antrim , Clare , Donegal , Dublin , Kerry , Kilkenny , Limerick , Mayo , Meath , Sligo , Tipperary , Where To Go , Wicklow

Irish landmarks are becoming more popular abroad – thanks to the exposure that movies and Game of Thrones brought to Ireland. 

From some of the world’s most beautiful castles and castle hotels to ancient sites and rugged landscapes, there are definitely several landmarks to visit in Ireland.

Discover the most beautiful and famous landmarks in Ireland from our list below.

Things you'll find in this article

30+ Irish Landmarks – Famous Landmarks In Ireland

Ha’penny bridge, trinity college, powerscourt house and gardens, st. stephen’s green, epic the irish emigration museum, temple bar , cliffs of moher , dark hedges, skellig michael , torc waterfall , killarney national park , wicklow national park , slieve league, giant’s causeway, boyne valley tombs, glasnevin cemetery, kilmainham gaol , dublin castle , blarney castle, kylemore abbey , rock of cashel , malahide castle , kilkenny castle , king john’s castle .

Cliffs Of Moher, Image by Christine Rogador

Irish landmarks in Dublin

The Iconic Ha’penny Bridge, Image by Christine Rogador

Before the beginning of the 1800s, there were no bridges to cross the Liffey River only ferryboats. Ha’penny Bridge , or officially named the Liffey Bridge, was built in May of 1816 and required people to pay a “halfpenny” in order to cross by putting it in a turnstile on either side of the bridge. By the early 1900s, the toll was dropped.

Now over 200 years old, it’s the most popular pedestrian bridge in Dublin , the site for many scenic selfies and even love locks, and the ideal place to stop after a long day to just watch the sunset or the moon rise.

If you enjoy walking down memory lane, give it a shot at Trinity College where you can find a collection of Ireland’s treasured past in its Long Room Library. This 200-foot-long room holds 200,000 books as old as you can possibly imagine.

The most popular treasure in this library is the Book of Kells which has a great role in the Irish identity. And this college is one of the popular Irish landmarks. 

READ ALSO:  13 Interesting Facts About Trinity College Dublin

There are landmarks in Ireland that are especially beautiful during winter, and Powerscourt Estate is one of them.

Located in County Wicklow , the Powerhouse Estate and Gardens is one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks, known for its magnificent main house, gorgeous themed gardens and it even has its own waterfall .

It’s lovely during other times of the year, but Powerscourt just looks magical during winter as most of it gets covered in snow. Make sure you visit, stroll through the grounds, and don’t forget to take photos!

Stephen’s Green is a 22-acre park ornamented with colorful flower beds, rows of trees, rockeries, and shrubberies. The park also features a waterfall and a lake on top of its Victorian layout.

For children, a playground is also accessible and safe to use during operating hours. It is also one of the best parks in Dublin.

EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum is an interactive learning experience where you’ll discover more about Irish culture and people, particularly during those periods of mass emigration in the country’s history. 

An estimated 9 to 10 million people emigrated since 1700, and the guided tours will take you through 20 themed galleries to find out the personal stories of many people who have emigrated and their journeys.

Temple Bar, Image by Christine Rogador

Temple Bar in Dublin consistently ranks as the best pub in the city , and perhaps in all of Ireland . It is famous, alright, and a must-visit especially among tourists.

Pub life in Ireland might as well be synonymous with a gurgling pint after pint of either the dark stuff or craft beer , but what sets Temple Bar apart is that it is home to the largest collection of rare whiskey in the country.

This historic pub also houses the area’s only fully-licensed beer garden, which is just one of the many reasons why Temple Bar is often regarded as the best in Dublin and one of the Irish landmarks that you need to visit. 

Buy your ticket online here.

Natural Irish Landmarks

The Cliffs of Moher are sea cliffs located in County Clare , Ireland.   It is one of Ireland’s most spectacular landmarks and one of the most visited attractions in Ireland with 1.5 million visitors annually. Any Ireland bucket list is not complete without the Cliffs of Moher. 

Standing 702ft above the ground at their highest point and 8km long, Cliffs of Moher boasts one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a good day, you can see the Aran Islands in Galway Bay.

Dark Hedges, Image by Christine Rogador

The Dark Hedges in County Antrim in Northern Ireland is probably among the most photographed natural attractions in recent times. It became even more popular when it was featured in the hit TV series ‘Game of Thrones’.

Now one of the most visited landmarks in Ireland and in Northern Ireland , the Dark Hedges is also quite fascinating.  

This avenue of large mature beech trees are natural tunnels that are both enchanting and eerie. These trees are now almost 250 years old and have only become even more atmospheric over time. A number of these beech trees were lost through the passing years, mostly due to changing weather and seasons as well as storms.

From the original 160, only 90 are left. Steps are being taken to ensure that these remaining trees are protected. Tourists are also encouraged to help in its preservation. 

Skellig Michael – filming location for Star Wars films

Standing in the Atlantic Ocean at about 12 kilometers southwest of Valentia Island , County Kerry are the stunning Skellig Islands – Skellig Michael and Small Skellig. The islands are both world-famous, but Skellig Michael is more known throughout the world of archaeology as the site of a well-preserved monastic outpost of the Early Christian period.

The earliest reference in history to the Skellig Islands dates back to 1400 BC. Between the 6th and 8th century, a Christian monastery was founded on the island and was continuously occupied until its abandonment in the late 12th century. The remains of this monastery, along with most of the island itself, became part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 1996. 

A jagged, difficult-to-access island off the Kerry shoreline, Skellig Michael towers at 714 feet  (218 meters) above sea level. It’s rather a steep climb up, but the sight of the remarkably well-preserved sixth-century monastic settlement and the magnificent views of the nearby islands and the Atlantic are well worth it and makes for one of the best things to do in Ireland.

These days, Skellig Michael isn’t just known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also for its role in two recent Star Wars movies. 

Torc Waterfall is a stunning 80 feet high waterfall nestled at the base of Torc Mountain and near N71 Killarney Kenmare road. It is around 7km from the town center of Killarney.

It is also one of the best natural landmarks along the Kerry Way and among the best waterfalls to visit in Ireland . 

Killarney National Park in County Kerry is one of the 6 national parks in Ireland and the first national park to be declared in 1932.

It is located near the town of Killarney and it covers 25,425 acres of protected land.

The park is of high ecological value because of the quality, diversity, and extensiveness of many of its habitats.  

There are also a wide variety of  species  in the parks including Red and Sika deer, and few of them are rare.

The park was designated a  UNESCO Biosphere Reserve  in 1981.

Nature conservation is the main objective of the park protecting the various and rare species in the area and the ecosystem.

Wicklow Mountains National Park is the largest national park in Ireland with an area covering more than 129,500 square kilometers.  It is also the only one located in the east of the country.

It extends from County Wicklow and a small area of Dublin which makes it one of the best day trips from Dublin .

The park contains a variety of attractions that include lush forests, fields, and mountains, and the historical Glendalough Valley.

Sliabh Liag Cliffs, or simply Slieve League , is situated on  County Donegal’s southwest coast. Teelin is the closest town and it’s about 1.5 hours from Donegal town, 2 hours from Londonderry , 3 hours from Galway and Belfast and it’s around 4 hours away from Dublin .

These cliffs are said to be the highest in Europe, with a three hundred meter drop straight into the wild, Atlantic below.

The Slieve League or Grey Mountain cliffs seem quite intimidating.

However, once you get over the fact that it’s even more massive than the Cliffs of Moher , you’ll begin to appreciate its spectacular rugged beauty and enjoy your visit. 

More than the dramatic drop into the vast Atlantic, Slieve League is also known for the many wonderful discoveries along the way. The two to three kilometer walk from the car park to the cliffs offers stunning sceneries.

The journey rewards visitors with unparalleled views of the Atlantic to the Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay. There’s also a small lake on the way to the highest part of the Slieve League. 

Giant Causeway, Image by Christine Rogador

The Giant’s Causeway is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption.

According to legend, the Giants Causeway was built because of two giants – Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill of Gaelic Mythology and Scottish giant Benandonner.

Benandonner challenged Fionn in a fight and the Irish giant accepted so he built the causeway across North Channel so the two giants could meet.

It is the reason why, according to legends, that there’s an area on the island of Staffa in Scotland with similar basalt columns.

When Fionn crossed the sea through the causeway, he realized that Benandonner was larger than he thought so he fleed in fear and destroyed the causeway behind him so the Scottish giant won’t be able to follow him.

Benbulben is the Table Mountain of Ireland. This large rock formation was formed by moving glaciers during Ice Age.

The mountain is part of the Dartry Mountains in an area known as Yeats Country – a name after the famous writer and poet W.B. Yeats.

The Benbulben offers the best view of Sligo town and it’s an easy trail to hike.

It is only 15-20 minutes away from the town center and although one of the most popular attractions in Sligo town, it is not touristy.

Along the trail are rolling hills and beautiful landscapes of forest, bogs, and plants.

Historical Irish landmarks 

Bru na Boinne contains one of the most important prehistoric landscapes in the world dating back to the Neolithic  period. It is famous for its Megalithic passage tombs called Knowth, Newgrange, and Dowth.

Aside from these three spectacular ancient sites, there are over 90 Neolithic monuments dotted across Brú na Bóinne.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, this famous River Boyne Valley is considered one of the best historic landmarks in Ireland.

More than a final resting place for the people of Dublin , Glasnevin has become a unique attraction. It holds the graves and memorials of several notable figures in Ireland and was opened to the public for the first time in 1832.

Despite being an unusual place to do sightseeing, this cemetery is considered one of the top landmarks in Ireland due to its rich history.

A cemetery tour in Glasnevin will take you back to the history of Ireland through the people buried there. You can learn the stories of Ireland’s political and notable figures such as Eamon De Valera, Daniel O’Connell, Charles Stewart Parnell, Michael Collins, Countess Marckievicz, and Brendan Behan just to name a few.

A trip to the Kilmainham Gaol is probably one of the more sobering experiences should you decide to visit. It is located off the Dublin city center and accessible via public transport.

This place is far from being a fun or relaxing tourist attraction, but it is an important part of Ireland’s history. In particular, the Gaol played a significant role in the country’s independence. 

This place is no fortress, not a pretty castle or museum . Kilmainham Gaol was a  working prison that housed men, women, and children.

It was in operation from 1787 until 1924. Records say that the youngest child sent here was only seven years old. The prison housed felons of all ages, sexes, and offenses. Those who had more serious charges were not kept in jail cells but hanged outside.

Thousands of prisoners were also kept here while they await transport to British penal colonies in Australia. 

During the time of the Great Potato Famine (1845 – 1852), it was said that many people intentionally broke the law so they’d be sent to the Gaol.

Irish people back then did this hoping they’d be fed while incarcerated. This situation eventually led to the overcrowding of the prison. Women and children had to sleep on the floor or hallways without blankets or covering. Men had to squeeze themselves in 28-square meter cells that are usually good for only five people. 

From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, Kilmainham Gaol was infamously tied to its rebel prisoners. A great number of Irish Nationalists were sent here. Meanwhile,  every Irish Republican leader stayed here for various offenses at one time or another.

Irish Castle Landmarks in Ireland 

From Medieval to Georgian, the styles you’ll find in the Dublin Castle betrays its fascinating history. 

In the early 13th century, it was the seat of English than British rule in Ireland. The castle’s main purpose was as the residence of the monarch’s representative  — the Viceroy Of Ireland. It was also an administrative and ceremonial center back then.

Originally, it was built as a fortress by King John of England. It had huge towers connected by high curtain walls,  set around a central enclosure.

The castle was built on the elevated ground that used to be a Viking settlement. This castle stood strong until it was ravaged by fire in April 1684.

Most parts of the building were severely damaged but some of the Medieval and Viking structures survived. These areas can remain unharmed for centuries that visitors can still explore them up to this day. 

One of Ireland’s most popular landmarks is Blarney Castle . It was built nearly six hundred years ago by Cormac MacCarthy, one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains. Surrounding the castle are extensive gardens.

Aside from the castle itself, the place is also popular because of Blarney Stone. In order to get the gift of eloquence, for over 200 years many famous people from around the world visit Blarney to kiss the famous Blarney Stone.

Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Castle was built by Mitchell Henry, a wealthy doctor from England, as a gift to his wife Margaret in 1871. It was sold to the Duke and Duchess of Manchester in 1903 and was then purchased by the Irish Benedictine nuns in 1920.

Kylemore Abbey , a Benedictine monastery was then founded in 1920 on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, in Connemara . Since the 1970s, the estate has been opened to the public.

Nestled at the base of Druchruach Mountain and along the shore of Lough Pollacappul in Connemara , the Abbey is one of the most iconic Irish landmarks. It is also one of the most beautiful castles in Ireland. And no visit to Ireland’s famous landmarks is complete without spending a half-day to the castle ground.

The Rock of Cashel , also known as Cashel of the Kings and St. Patrick’s Rock, is a historic landmark located at Cashel in County Tipperary . It is one of the famous landmarks in Ireland and also one of the most visited castles in Ireland.

This iconic landmark was the seat of the High Kings of Munster and was built between the 12th to the 13th century.

Buy your ticket online here. 

Malahide Castle is one of the oldest castles and best castles in Ireland which dates back as far as 1175. This is also one of the few castles in Dublin County and it’s located in the remaining parklands of Malahide Demesne Regional Park.

The Malahide Castle was home to Talbot Family for almost 800 years and survived many wars and also the deaths of its previous owners inside the palace.

For 11 years, the castle was given by Oliver Cromwell to Miles Corbet  after the English Parliament conquered Ireland. He hanged himself following the death of Cromwell.

The Talbot family took the castle back but it was followed by the death of 14 members where they didn’t make it back after the Battle of Boyne near Drogheda .

Now, this Irish castle is owned by the State as the last member of the Talbot family sold it.

Kilkenny Castle was built in 1195 to control a fording-point of the River Nore and the junction of several routeways. It was a symbol of Norman’s occupation and it is an important site to the history of Kilkenny . In 1967, the Castle was transferred to the people of Kilkenny for £50.

The Kilkenny Castle is now one of the very few castles in Ireland that offer tours to the public. The garden and park in the castle complex are also open to the public.

King John’s Castle is one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Europe. This 13th-century fortress is located in the heart of the medieval city of Limerick . It stands on a hill by the majestic River Shannon , and from the castle itself, one can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

King John’s Castle is quite an imposing figure, built by King John of England and an enduring testament to Ireland’s long history. 

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

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15 Top Tourist Attractions in Ireland

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on February 5, 2024

Unspoiled scenery, a depth of culture and friendly locals, Ireland is full of exciting experiences and unforgettable journeys. It may be a small island but Ireland is packed full of incredible attractions. Centuries old abbeys and churches dot the landscape, alongside millenia-old relics and ruins, with castles and stately homes galore for you to explore and discover in this famously green island.

Home to Celtic culture, early Christianity, Norman invaders, even Vikings, and finally the English, Ireland has had a tumultuous history, reflected in the wealth of heritage buildings that draw visitors the world over.

Its natural landscape – including beautiful waterfalls, dramatic coastlines, rock formations, mountains and stunning valleys – is not only the backdrop to the well visited man made attractions in Ireland, but draw hikers, cyclists and appreciators of nature year upon year.

But with so many natural and historical tourist attractions in Ireland to choose from, which should you choose to visit on your trip to the island? Here’s a comprehensive list to whet your appetite, ignite the spark of discovery, and help guide you around both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

15. Powerscourt Estate [SEE MAP]

Just 20 km from Dublin is the ineffably grand Powerscourt Estate. Set in 47 acres of beautiful land, the gardens were created 150 years ago with the idea of blending the stately home seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

Against the bold backdrop of the Great Sugar Loaf Mountains, the gardens are home to 200 varieties of trees, a rose garden, an Italian garden and a large kitchen garden. There are many trails to walk along through the vast landscape – one of which leads to Powerscourt Falls, Ireland’s highest waterfall at 121 meters.

14. Kilkenny Castle [SEE MAP]

Ireland has its fair share of castles, but Kilkenny Castle might have the claim of being the most beautiful. Meticulously restored, carefully furnished and open to the general public to explore, the castle was built in 1195 by the Normans, and over the centuries has been built on and developed by its numerous occupants. The castle was sold to the people of Kilkenny in 1967 for the tiny sum of £50 and is now a popular attraction for visitors from Ireland and around the world.

13. Guinness Storehouse [SEE MAP]

Set in the heart of Dublin is the iconic Guinness Storehouse. The brewery has been making Guiness here since 1769 when Arthur Guinness signed a lease for 9,000 years. Nowadays the home of Guinness is a modern visitor attraction, where fans can learn about the process of making the famous black stuff, understand the history behind it and, of course, sample it.

12. Dun Aengus [SEE MAP]

Clinging to the edge of a 100-metre-high cliff is the ancient stone fort of Dun Aengus. Built on the craggy coast of Inis Mór, this incredible construction dates back to 1100 BC; consisting of large limestone blocks which stand monolithic in the ground, the fort was built in order to deter invaders and protect the island from any form of attack. Take a walk along the old walls, step back in time and imagine what it would have been like to see invading marauders advancing from across rough sea.

11. Skellig Michael [SEE MAP]

If you are into Star Wars then you will want to visit Skellig Michael – and if you’re not, you should visit anyway because it is awe-inspiringly beautiful. The rocky island rises out of the Atlantic just off of the Iveragh Peninsula and was frequented by ascetic monks, who chose the towering sea crag as a place to live and worship somewhere between the 6th and 8th centuries.

The island is remarkable, not only for its stark natural surroundings, but also for the incredible feats of the monks who survived in such a harsh environment and who built monastic structures that still remain to this day.

10. Kinsale [SEE MAP]

The medieval fishing port of Kinsale is packed full of hidden historical gems. The colorful coastal village’s old winding lanes are dotted with various art galleries, local shops, hearty pubs and excellent restaurants – so excellent, in fact, that the town even hosts its own annual Gourmet Festival.

Visitors flock to the town from all over the world to enjoy yachting, walking and fishing in the scenic surroundings, all of which are overlooked by the looming 17th century fort.

9. Kylemore Abbey [SEE MAP]

The huge, rambling Kylemore estate was built in 1867 by a wealthy doctor as a romantic gift for his wife. The castle was purchased by Benedictine Nuns who, after fleeing Ypres in 1920, set up a Catholic boarding school in order to educate local and international Catholic girls.

Nowadays the impressive building, which sits on the shores of Kylemore Lake, is open to visitors who can walk along the decadently decorated corridors, discover inside the charming walled garden and stroll through the 1000-acre grounds.

8. Blarney Castle [SEE MAP]

Stick your head over the parapet at the historic Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone as millions have done before you. It’s said that people who manage to kiss the mysterious Blarney Stone are endowed with ‘the gift of the gab’.

This mystic relic isn’t the only interesting attraction at Blarney Castle – dating back to 1446, the medieval stronghold is a warren of stone passageways and dark dungeons, so take a tour and discover the castle’s hidden secrets and expanses of rambling green gardens.

7. Trinity College [SEE MAP]

The oldest university in Ireland is Trinity College, Dublin, founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592. The historic campus is in the center of the vibrant Irish capital, but once through the gates of the college the historic setting starts to come alive and it feels as if you have stepped into a bygone era.

Trinity college has educated some of Ireland’s most influential people including the first Irish president Theobald Wolfe Tone, along with iconic literary figures Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett.

Harry Potter enthusiasts will be excited to know that the university’s extraordinary Long Room was the inspiration being the library in Harry Potter. The university also houses some hidden treasures including the Book of Kells, a priceless 9th-century illuminated manuscript.

6. Dingle Bay [SEE MAP]

Marking the westernmost point of the Irish mainland is the picturesque Dingle Bay. Surrounded by a wide expanse of nature, the bay makes up part of the 2,500km long Wild Atlantic Way: a scenic route that stretches along the length of Ireland’s west coast.

Here you can soak up the mesmerising views across the deep blue of the ocean and explore the crooked stone huts that were built on the peninsula by monks in the Middle Ages. Around the bay the local culture and customs are protected, with help from the Irish government, in order to retain Gaelic traditions and language.

5. Newgrange [SEE MAP]

The unimaginably old stone structure of Newgrange tomb was built in 3200 BC. The domed Megalithic Passage Tomb is estimated to have taken 300 people 20 years to build and covers an area of over one acre, revealing interior stones decorated with the spirals and curves of Neolithic rock art.

During the Winter Solstice the passageway, along with the inner chamber, is incredibly illuminated by the sunrise that streams through a roof box at the entrance.

4. Giant's Causeway [SEE MAP]

Walk in the footsteps of giants at one off Ireland’s must-see attractions. The world-famous Giant’s Causeway is made up of 40,000 interlocking, hexagonally shaped columns of basalt rock which create unintentional stepping stones.

The peculiar pillars are so perfect it’s hard to believe that they aren’t man-made – in fact the unusual rock formation was a result of volcanic activity that occurred around 60 million years ago. Take a hike along the coast and discover the Wishing Chair, a throne created by a curve of the naturally forming rocks.

3. Killarney National Park [SEE MAP]

Scenic Killarney National Park has to be on your Ireland itinerary. Not only is the park home to a sprawling 19th-century, ivy-covered mansion, but also a captivating landscape that makes up a Biosphere Reserve.

With its three magnificent lakes and Ireland’s biggest expanse of indigenous forest, the beautiful scenery of Killarney National park is captivating. The best way to experience Killarney is to take a drive along the 11 kilometer road, through the Gap of Dunloe and across a landscape sculpted by glaciers.

2. Glendalough Monastic Site [SEE MAP]

Inside the grounds of the Wicklow Mountains National Park lies the eerie remains of a veritable monastic city which dates back to the 6th century. Explore what lies among the old stones and discover crumbling churches, mysterious relics and the particularly well-preserved Round Tower.

The ancient woodlands and lakes surrounding the site are also enticing – take a stroll among the enigmatic landscape where the venerable monks themselves once wandered.

1. Cliffs of Moher [SEE MAP]

Standing at 214 meters over the depths of the Atlantic Ocean, and stretching for an awesome 8 km, are the rugged Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. Visitors are drawn to the cliffs, not just for their sheer impressive size, but also for the views of the breathtaking landscape – on a clear day it is possible to see all 5 of the surrounding counties as well as the Aran Islands.

The awe-inspiring cliffs are also home to Ireland’s largest mainland seabird colony, which between April and July includes Puffins!

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22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ireland

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Andrew Birbeck Updated Mar 18, 2024

Author Meagan Drillinger has a Master's Degree in Irish Studies. She has studied there and visited many times over the years, the most recent trip being in April 2022.

There's nothing quite like a visit to the Emerald Isle to cleanse your soul and reinvigorate your spirit. Home to some of the world's greenest, most breathtaking landscapes, Ireland brims with tourist attractions so appealing, you'll want to visit them all.

From the captivating Cliffs of Moher that will leave you gob-smacked to the bright lights of Dublin's Grafton Street to the hallowed halls of Trinity College , you'll find plenty of fun things to do in Ireland. The hard part will be choosing which fascinating attractions should top your must-see list.

Whether you're hoping to spend time pursuing Ireland's endless number of outdoor activities (we're talking horseback riding, waterfall hiking, golf, and sailing) or hope to study the works of some of the country's most famed artists in state museums and galleries, you won't be at a loss for intriguing ways to spend your time.

Discover all the best places to visit in this stunningly attractive country with our list of the top tourist attractions in Ireland.

1. The Cliffs of Moher

2. grafton street, dublin, 3. killarney national park and muckross house & gardens, 4. the book of kells and trinity college, dublin, 5. kilmainham gaol, dublin, 6. the ring of kerry, 7. glendalough, co. wicklow, 8. powerscourt house and gardens, co. wicklow, 9. the rock of cashel, 10. national museum of ireland, dublin, and county mayo, 11. blarney castle and the blarney stone, 12. kinsale, co. cork, 13. the dingle peninsula and the wild atlantic way, 14. torc waterfall, killarney national park, 15. st. stephen's green, dublin, 16. bunratty castle & folk park, 17. national gallery of ireland, dublin, 18. the english market, cork, 19. the aran islands, 20. kilkenny castle, kilkenny, 21. the little museum of dublin, 22. experience glasnevin cemetery, map of tourist attractions in ireland, best time to visit ireland.

So many superlatives have been used to describe the magnificent Cliffs of Moher that it's hard to find the right words. Vertigo-inducing and awe-inspiring spring to mind, and they are indeed both of these things, as well as being utterly wild and ruggedly beautiful.

For those who've read up on the Emerald Isle prior to visiting, the cliffs will be familiar, starring as they do in countless postcards and guidebooks. Yet no image can ever do them justice. This is one of the top tourist attractions in Ireland for good reason.

About one and a half hours by car from Galway , in neighboring County Clare, the cliffs are visited by close to a million people from across the globe each year. It's one of the popular day trips from Dublin . They stretch for eight kilometers along the Atlantic and rise some 214 meters at their highest point. Take a walk along the trail to experience the raw power of nature at its most majestic.

So much more than just a great place to shop in Dublin, Grafton Street is alive with buskers, flower-sellers, and performance artists. You will also find countless places to stop off and simply watch the world meander by. Café culture has taken off in the capital, and on a sunny day, you'd be forgiven for thinking you were in Barcelona or Lisbon.

True, this is Dublin's shopping heartland, but there's no need to spend a fortune if visiting. You'll find friendly, chatty service no matter where you go and be entertained from the bottom of the street to St. Stephen's Green at the top. Grab a coffee or, in the mornings, a legendary Irish breakfast at Bewley's Grafton Street Café . Take time as well to duck down the numerous alleyways and streets to see what you can discover.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dublin

If visiting the Kerry region, the 19th-century Muckross House, Gardens, and Traditional Farms, set in spectacular Killarney National Park , should be top of your must-see list. There are many reasons this is deemed one of the best tourist attractions in Ireland; you'll need to visit to discover them all.

Standing close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of three Killarney lakes famed worldwide for their splendor and beauty, this former mansion oozes the grandeur and gentility of bygone days. When exploring, bear in mind that Queen Victoria once visited here. In those days, a royal visit was no small affair; extensive renovations and re-landscaping took place in preparation, and no detail was left to chance.

The house and gardens are a real treat, and there are Jaunting Cars (Killarney's famous horse & traps) to take you around the grounds in style. The attraction's old farmsteads are also well worth taking in for a taste of how ordinary folk once lived.

The Killarney National Park & Lakes region is filled with beautiful scenery, and any route through it will reveal view after view of its lakes and mountains. A highlight in the western part of Killarney National Park is the 11-kilometer drive over the scenic Gap of Dunloe , a narrow and rocky mountain pass carved by glaciers at the close of the Ice Age. The gap separates Purple Mount and its foothills from Macgillycuddy's Reeks.

Another highlight of this national heritage site is Ross Castle . Winding lanes and cycling paths are among the best ways to see the park.

Address: Killarney National Park, Muckross, Killarney, Co. Kerry

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Killarney

Ireland's oldest university, Trinity College in Dublin is one of the country's ancient treasures. Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity is a world within a world.

Once you enter the gates and cross the cobblestones, it's as if the modern, thriving city outside simply melts away. A stroll in and around the grounds is a journey through the ages and into the hushed world of scholarly pursuit. Many shop and office workers take their lunchtime sandwiches here during summer months simply to escape the hustle and bustle outside.

The college is also famed for its priceless treasures. These include the awe-inspiring Book of Kells (on permanent exhibition), and the mind-boggling Long Room (the inspiration for the library in the first Harry Potter movie).

Address: Trinity College, College Green, Dublin 2

Featured in many a rebel song and occupying a notoriously dark place in Irish history, Kilmainham Gaol should be high on the list of Dublin's best places to visit for those with any interest in Ireland's troubled past.

It was here that the leaders of the 1916 Uprising were brought and, after being convicted of High Treason, executed in the prison yard. The only one spared was future Irish President Eamon De Valera who, by virtue of his American citizenship, didn't suffer the same grisly fate.

Dating from 1796, the prison was a dank vile institution that housed those guilty of such misdemeanors as being unable to pay their train fares and, during the famine, the destitute and hungry. In Irish eyes, Kilmainham became an irrevocable symbol of oppression and persecution.

A visit here will open your eyes and will remain with you indelibly. The yard mentioned earlier is particularly spine-chilling. In short, this is one of Ireland's absolute must-sees.

Address: Inchicore Road, Dublin 8

If in Kerry, take the time to explore what is arguably Ireland's most scenic route, the Ring of Kerry (Iveragh Peninsula). While you can start anywhere along this spectacular 111-mile-long tourist route, most people tend to set out from either Kenmare or Killarney ending, naturally enough, back in the same spot.

The entire journey non-stop could take under three hours, but that's unlikely to happen. En route there's a feast of jaw-dropping Atlantic Ocean views, stunning islands to visit, wild sweeping mountains, and many picturesque villages.

This area of astounding natural beauty boasts a range of outdoor pursuits including golf, water sports on pristine beaches, cycling, walking, horse-riding, and terrific freshwater fishing and deep-sea angling. For history enthusiasts, there are Ogham Stones, Iron Age forts, and ancient monasteries, all set against a canvas of striking landscapes.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Ring of Kerry

Magical and mysterious, Glendalough is home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. The settlement was established by St. Kevin during the 6th century and eventually evolved into what's known as the Monastic City.

Visitors have flocked to the valley of the two lakes for thousands of years to absorb its rich history, magnificent scenery, plentiful wildlife, and fascinating archaeological finds.

The monastic site with its incredibly preserved round tower is a joy to explore, and the surrounding woodlands and lakes are perfect for rambling through at your leisure or stopping off for a picnic. There are marked nature trails to follow and a Visitor Centre for all the information you'll need for a day out like no other.

Address: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow

Superb views, serene lakeside walks, engaging history, and the stunning backdrop of Sugarloaf Mountain are just some of the treats in store when visiting the magnificent Powerscourt House and Gardens , just 20 kilometers from Dublin.

Now owned by the Slazenger family, the house is set on 47 manicured acres. Take time to stroll through the Rose and Kitchen Gardens and explore the beautiful Italian Gardens. There are more than 200 varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers, and particularly moving is a section where much-loved family pets were buried complete with headstones and inscriptions.

The gardens were laid out over a period of 150 years and were designed to create an estate that blends harmoniously with the surroundings. On-site, in the former Palladian home, are craft and design shops and an excellent café/restaurant. Truly one of the most majestic attractions in Ireland, this is also one of the top day trips from Dublin .

Address: Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow

Ireland's most visited heritage site, the Rock of Cashel stars in countless images of the Emerald Isle. Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain even visited by helicopter during her 2011 official tour of the country. Perched upon a limestone rock formation in the Golden Vale, this magnificent group of medieval buildings includes the High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, the 12th-century round tower, a 15th-century castle, and a 13th-century Gothic cathedral.

The restored Hall of the Vicars Choral is also among the structures. Tourist attractions include an audio-visual show and exhibitions. It's also said that this was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster prior to the Norman invasions.

Address: Cashel, Co. Tipperary

It's easy to spend an entire day at the National Museum of Ireland , which is technically a collection of museums. You'll find a building dedicated to highlighting the country's "natural history" on Merrion Street in Dublin 2, "decorative arts & history" in Dublin's Collins Barracks , "country life" in Mayo , and the stunning "archeology" museum on Kildare Street in Dublin 2.

Depending on which building you visit, you can expect to find interesting exhibits on everything from Irish Antiquities to Irish folklife to Celtic art. The National Museum of Ireland—Archaeology is home to over two million historic artifacts, and contains fascinating finds, including metalwork that dates to the Celtic Iron Age.

The National Museum of Ireland—Country Life , which lies in Turlough Park, Castlebar, is housed in a unique building that seamlessly blends Victorian and contemporary architecture. Inside, you'll find photographs, films, ancient furniture, and permanent exhibits on everything from Irish hearth and home to life in the community to various jobs held on both land and water.

The National Museum of Ireland—Decorative Arts & History is housed in an iconic military barracks and contains historic treasures such as ceramics, glassware, clothes, jewelry, and coins.

The National Museum of Ireland—Natural History is home to over 10,000 exhibits featuring the country's most beloved wildlife, as well as interesting creatures from across the globe.

Possibly Ireland's best-known attraction and one of its must-see-castles , the Blarney Stone sits high on a tower of Blarney Castle , not far from Cork. Reputed to endow the famed Irish eloquence to those who dare hang their head over the parapets to kiss it, the stone is not the only reason for visiting Blarney Castle.

Blarney Castle was built more than 600 years ago by Irish chieftain Cormac McCarthy, and you can tour the massive stone building from its towers to its dungeons. Extensive gardens surround it, filled with stone features and secret corners. Blarney Woollen Mills is known for its sweaters and other knitwear and has a shop selling crystal, porcelain, and other Irish gifts.

Soaked in history and in a scenic coastal setting at the gateway to West Cork, Kinsale has been attracting large numbers of visitors for decades. It's one of the best small towns in Ireland for tourists .

The town has a decidedly Spanish feel, particularly in summer. This is hardly surprising bearing in mind that in 1601, three years after the defeat of the Spanish Armada, the Spanish sent a military force to Ireland, most of whom disembarked at Kinsale. This led to the English laying siege to the town and ultimately the defeat of Spanish and Irish forces by superior English military might.

Kinsale is now a magnet for those who love sailing, walking, fishing, marvelous scenery, and great food. The town is packed with restaurants of all sorts and the seafood on offer is excellent. There's an annual Gourmet Festival among others, and a visit to the imposing Charles Fort shouldn't be missed.

Part of The Wild Atlantic Way, a 1700-mile marked route around Ireland's west and adjacent coasts, the Dingle Peninsula combines wild beauty, history, and a glimpse of traditional Irish culture and language.

It's not by accident: the region is designated as a Gaeltacht, where the Irish language and culture are protected by government subsidies. You'll hear Gaelic spoken and sung, and read it on signs, although everyone also speaks English.

Ending at Dunmore Head , the Irish mainland's westernmost point, the peninsula is bordered by some of Ireland's best beaches and ragged cliffs. Stone huts that scatter its open landscapes were built by monks in the early Middle Ages, and you'll find more stone monuments that date to the Bronze Age.

It's easy to see why the Torc Waterfall is one of the best places to visit in Ireland . Situated in the heart of Killarney National Park , this 20-meter-tall cascade is one of the top attractions in the Ring of Kerry. The relaxing sound of rushing water can be heard from the nearby car park, which lies a mere 200 meters away, an easy walk for those who find hiking difficult.

If you're hoping for a longer trek, continue on the Kerry Way , a 200-kilometer well-sign-posted walking trail that loops its way around the stunning Iveragh Peninsula on its way to and from nearby Killarney.

Beloved by Dubliners and with a colorful history, tranquil St. Stephen's Green is a great place to wind down, enjoy a picnic, or feed the ducks. Incidentally, during the 1916 Uprising, special dispensation was given on both sides to the park keepers. Hostilities ceased daily so that the ducks could be properly fed. It could only happen in Dublin.

Nowadays "The Green," as it's known locally, boasts beautifully maintained gardens, the ubiquitous Duck Pond, a picturesque bridge, recreation grounds, mature trees to rest beneath, and a playground.

Around the perimeter are many of Dublin's premier Georgian buildings as well as the iconic Shelbourne Hotel, founded in 1824, where afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor's Lounge is considered by many to be a real treat.

A visit to the Shannon region wouldn't be complete without coming here. Dating from 1425, the castle is the best-preserved medieval fortress in Ireland and was lovingly restored in the 1950s. Containing a fine array of 15th- and 16th-century furnishings and tapestries, the castle will transport you back to ancient medieval times.

The themed banquets in the evenings are great fun, although certain guests who misbehave run the risk of being sent to the dungeons below. The impressive Folk Park brings the Ireland of a century ago vividly to life. Featuring more than 30 buildings in a village and rural setting, the folk park has village shops, farmhouses, and streets to explore. It's all great fun for families and kids.

Founded in 1854 by an Act of Parliament, the National Gallery of Ireland is a beloved institution situated in Dublin's tree-lined Merrion Square . This grand gallery opened to the public in 1864 but recently underwent an extensive renovation, creating even more impressively airy and bright spaces to house its vast collection of artworks. Don't worry, the impressive, 19 th -century architecture was well preserved.

In addition to the picturesque structure, inside you'll find a collection of the country's most famous art, as well the national collection of paintings by the European Old Masters. Its convenient location in Dublin's city center makes it easy to spend the rest of your day shopping and dining in the city's best establishments.

Even better than the impressive works found in this gallery is the price: admission is free. With so many intriguing pieces to examine, we'd suggest setting aside a few hours to explore it fully.

Address: Merrion Square West, Dublin 2

No visit to Cork would be complete without dropping by the English Market . That said, it's a tad ironic that what is arguably one of Cork city's best attractions should contain the word "English" — Cork folk usually see themselves as far more ideologically and culturally removed from neighboring Britain than their Dublin counterparts.

Having said that, they hold a special place in their hearts for this quirky covered market, which stocks the best of local produce, including the freshest seafood, artisan bread, and excellent cheeses.

A market has existed on the site since the late 1700s, although the distinctive entrance on Princes Street dates from 1862. Recent worldwide fame came when Queen Elizabeth II dropped by on her first-ever state visit to the Republic of Ireland in 2011. Iconic images of her sharing a joke with Fishmonger Pat O'Connell were beamed across the globe.

For those who wish to linger a while, there's coffee to go and the cozy Farmgate Restaurant upstairs.

Address: Princes Street, Cork (off St. Patrick's Street & Grand Parade)

Originally brought to world attention in 1934 by the fictionalized documentary Man of Aran, these islands have been entrancing visitors ever since. This is a taste of Ireland as it once was. Gaelic is the first language; there are a mere 1,200 inhabitants; and once ashore, you'll feel as if you're in a time warp.

There are three islands, the largest being Inishmore , then Inishmaan , and the smallest is Inisheer .

Wild, windswept, rugged, and utterly unique, the islands offer a visitor experience quite like no other. Once experienced, the great stone fort of Dun Aonghasa and the towering cliffs of Aran will never be forgotten. The local culture is quite different from that of the mainland, the archaeological heritage cannot be found elsewhere and the rich scenery is simply breathtaking.

Despite housing many different owners and undergoing multiple stints of rebuilding, Kilkenny Castle has stood strong for over 800 years. While it looks Victorian from the outside, the castle's roots date to the 13 th century. This is when it was built by William Marshal, who created this masterpiece to serve as a "symbol of Norman Control."

Today, the castle is open to visitors wishing to traipse through the 50 acres of lush grounds, which include a stunning, terraced rose garden; towering, ancient trees; and a sparkling, man-made lake. It is one of the most beloved tourist attractions in Ireland.

The grand house is open to explore, and it's here you'll find an ornate entrance hall, eerie undercroft, and captivating tapestry room, as well as period rooms like the nursery.

The 19 th -century pitched roof picture gallery is particularly impressive for those who enjoy admiring creative works in a captivating setting.

Address: The Parade, Kilkenny

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Kilkenny

A recent addition to the capital's museums, The Little Museum should be top on the list for anybody wishing to grasp Dublin's recent history. The museum grew organically from a "meet and greet" service for visitors, and quickly became what we see today. As well as informative, personally guided tours, new initiatives include Dublin by Land & Sea and The Green Mile Walking Tour .

On permanent exhibition are such items as the lectern used by John F. Kennedy during his 1963 visit to Ireland, and a U2 exhibition with mementos donated by band members themselves. This is a joyful museum that celebrates Dublin with all its quirkiness and humor.

Address: 15 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2

Perhaps one of the best ways to learn about the history of Ireland is to wander among its most notable figures. The Glasnevin Cemetery, Ireland's National Cemetery, is a place practically packed with history, as most of the country's pivotal players are buried here.

Glasnevin is both the country's largest cemetery, as well as the world's first cemetery museum . It opened in 1832 and is the final resting place for more than 1.5 million people. Among the celebrated figures buried here are Daniel O'Connell, Michael Collins, Charles Stewart Parnell, and Eamon de Valera, all of whom played an integral role in the shaping of modern-day Ireland. The cemetery also has 800,000 victims of the Great Famine from the 1840s.

Prior to the opening of the ceremony, Catholics in Ireland were limited in how they could bury and honor their dead, thanks to 18th-century Penal Laws put in place by England. The cemetery opened as a place where both Irish Catholics, as well as Protestants, could bury their dead without restriction.

The cemetery museum opened in 2010 and has exhibits that include an immersive display that teaches visitors about burial practices and customs in Ireland. The cemetery itself is designed beautifully, with a traditional Victorian garden, monuments, and sprawling lawns. Today the entire cemetery takes up 124 acres.

Address: Finglas Road, Glasnevin, Dublin, D11 XA32, Ireland

While the shoulder seasons in the spring and fall are great times to visit for the smaller crowds, each season brings with it unique reasons to go.

Summer has some of the best weather, and winter has the best rates for lodging and transportation. It is important to consider the factors that matter to you most and start your planning from there, since some things in your itinerary will be dependent on the time of year that you go.

Spring: The spring months are some of the best times to visit Ireland. You can plan on comfortable weather and not as many crowds as the summer season. The rates for airfare and hotels will be lower, and you can find incredible deals on bed and breakfast accommodation. B&B Ireland is a network of B&Bs throughout the country that have been inspected for quality, and the network extends throughout the country.

The flowers in Ireland are blooming in April and May, so the many gardens and landscaping at the castles will be stunning for a spring visit. Crowds are smaller in the spring , which is nice, especially at attractions like castles that have narrow stone stairwells and in the small villages where shopping quarters and sidewalks are small.

The only caveat with spring is the occasional rain shower. They generally come and go and do not last long, so a glimpse of sunshine is always around the corner. Pack for the potential of rain, and you will be fine.

Summer : If your Ireland priority is to travel during the months with the best weather , then summer is when to go . June, July, and August are the sunniest months in Ireland and they are also the busiest with tourists.

The nice thing about Ireland's consistent weather is that even in the middle of summer, the temperatures never get overly hot. This makes it nice for spending full days outside, especially since you will need to plan a little extra time at attractions due to the many tourists.

The long days of summer allow for more time to sightsee attractions, and these are the months when festivals are in full swing. Since the summer months see the most tourists, that means rates at hotels and airfares are at their highest.

If you do plan to travel to Ireland in the summer, you should book your accommodations far in advance, as availability will become limited the closer you get to your travel dates.

Fall: The months of September and October are great times to go to Ireland when the brisk fall air and leaves changing colors add to the experience and natural beauty of the island. The summer tourists are gone in the fall, and you can enjoy no lines at the popular attractions. Since it is the shoulder season, you can expect the same unpredictable weather as the rest of the year, with a slightly higher risk for occasional rain.

Light rain in the fall months will not deter your ability to take ferries to nearby islands or other experiences, you just have to plan for the possibility. Even the open-air, double-decker, hop-on, hop-off buses in Dublin keep operating in the rain.

You will find many farmers markets and outdoor craft festivals throughout Ireland in the fall, and you can enjoy the break on rates at hotels and for airfare. Be advised that some smaller establishments, businesses, and B&Bs close up for the season after October, so check into that before booking airline tickets.

Winter: If a cozy Ireland vacation sounds appealing, then traveling in the winter months between November and February can net you some huge discounts , especially if you plan to base out of main cities like Dublin or Cork.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Things to Do in Ireland and When to Visit: Some people come here for a quick weekend break , while others come on longer trips to explore the castles, cities, and small towns. A few people come here to fish. Anglers will want to be sure to see our article on the best fishing destinations in Ireland . One thing to consider if you are planning activities or even sightseeing is the time of year you want to travel.

More on Ireland

20 most incredible places to visit in

Irish scenery is among the most spectacular in Europe, with breathtaking views and stunning landscapes throughout the whole country.

Here’s our guide to the places that will make a trip to Ireland one to remember.

Best for breathtaking photos

The Gap of Dunloe, County Kerry

The Gap of Dunloe is a wild and scenic (and sometimes hairy!) mountain pass – studded with crags and bejewelled with lakes and waterfalls.

It lies to the west of Killarney National Park, squeezed between Purple Mountain and the high summits of the Macgillycuddy Reeks (Ireland's highest mountain range).

Take a pony and trap ride with a local for an authentic experience, or walk the Gap to allow time to take in the majestic views.

Best for a Game of Thrones-like location

Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary

Soaring up from the green Tipperary pastures, this ancient fortress takes your breath away at first sight.

The seat of kings and churchmen who ruled over the region for more than 1000 years, it rivalled Tara as a centre of power in Ireland for 400 years.

Entered through the 15th-century Hall of the Vicars Choral, its impervious walls guard an enclosure with a complete round tower, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral and a 12th-century Romanesque chapel.

Best for city strolling

Dublin’s Georgian Squares, County Dublin

A perfect way to spend an afternoon in Dublin is to wander around the city's elegant spaces of Merrion and Fitzwilliam Squares and take in the exquisite architecture.

Here you'll find the perfect mix of imposing public buildings, museums, and private offices and residences.

These include the home of the Irish parliament at Leinster House and, immediately surrounding it, the main branch of the National Museum of Ireland and the Museum of Natural History.

Take a trip over to the Northside to the more vibrant, community centered Mountjoy Square, and stop off at the Hugh Lane gallery on Parnell Square to view an incredible contemporary art collection.

• The ultimate Ireland travel planning guide

• Ireland Food and Drink
• Things to Do
• Destination Guides
• Itineraries
• Packing Lists
• Seasonal Guides
• Where to Stay

Inspiration

15 must-see famous landmarks in ireland.

While you’re wandering around Ireland, finding the mystical places and friendly faces that the country offers, there are a number of attractions that should not be missed out on. There are plenty of natural, historical, and culturally famous landmarks in Ireland, and this list has just a few of the best. 

Whether you’re a local looking to know better your country’s history, or a traveler wanting to delve deeper into what makes Ireland unique and fascinating, there is so much to explore. From the famed Blarney Stone to the picturesque Ring of Kerry, Ireland has so many significant sites and landmarks. 

Take a look at this list of these landmarks, and you’ll have a much better idea of what to visit in Ireland. However long you plan on visiting the Emerald Isle, at least one of these Ireland landmarks should be on your to-do list. You can easily add them to any Ireland bucket list as you’re planning your trip.

15 Famous Landmarks in Ireland to Visit at Least Once

Whether you’re taking a 10 day road trip around Ireland or only in town for a short visit, there’s a long list of essential places to visit while you’re here. This list offers just some of the most popular and important landmarks in Ireland that you’ll find around the country. 

If you’re driving in Ireland , these should be easy to get to and between, but if you’re without a car in Ireland , perhaps look at taking guided tours to these famous places.

Table of Contents

1. Cliffs of Moher

Location : Find it at the Southwestern edge of the Burren region in Co. Clare

Cost : Cliffs are free, but you’ll pay from €5.00 for anyone over 12 to gain access to the visitor center, etc. 

Hours to visit : 9 AM to 5 PM (closing time depends on sunset)

As one of the top visitor attractions in Ireland, visiting the Cliffs of Moher should be on every Irish itinerary. Take a trip to this magnificent spot and see for yourself what all the fuss is about. This landmark is a short drive from most major cities and works well as a day trip from   Dublin . 

The cliffs are made of Munarian shale and sandstone and stand at 700 feet tall, with dramatic vertical drops that end in the cold Atlantic Ocean. You can visit them from the top, stopping off at the visitor center and walking down to one of the viewpoints. 

If you need a place to stay after visiting and are continuing north on your vacation, you’ll love the bed and breakfasts in Galway to stay at.

This area is also beautiful to visit during Ireland in October with the changing fall foliage.

2. Giant’s Causeway

Location : 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Co. Antrim

Cost : €15 for adults and €8 for children

Hours to visit : From dawn to dusk

Speaking of spectacular landmarks set against the ocean’s backdrop, Giant’s Causeway is another amazing sight. This natural wonder is somewhere between 50 and 60 million years old and yet continues to amaze visitors. 

The rock formations were caused by successive lava flows that would cool down once they reached the sea. When it cooled, it broke up into the fascinating shapes that we can see today. The 40,000+ columns are the main attraction here, but you can also see the Giant’s Boot, Wishing Chair, and a camel made of stone. There is also a visitor center and walking trails.

Make sure you read about tourist mistakes to avoid in Ireland before you go.

3. Blarney Stone (and Castle)

Location : Monacnapa, Blarney, Co. Cork

Cost : €18 for adults and €8 for children. Lower prices for seniors, students, and family tickets. Book online for a further discount

Hours to visit : 9 AM to 4 PM

Blarney Castle is where you’ll find Blarney Stone, and both of these are must-sees in Ireland. The stone is a significant attraction, and many people visit it to give it a kiss . This stone apparently will provide you with (the kisser) the ‘gift of the gab,’ enabling you to speak with eloquence and charm. 

Even if you’re not interested in puckering up for the fabled rock, visiting the castle grounds will provide you with amazing sights and scenery. Stroll through the gardens and explore the various spaces , viewing diverse surroundings and points of interest. There’s even the Poison Garden which contains a collection of toxic plants.

Make sure to find where to stay in Cork in advance for this part of your trip.

4. Newgrange

Location : Donore, Co. Meath

Cost : Depending on whether you want to do a tour, access online, and/or exhibition – budget for anything between €6 and €18 per adult.

Hours to visit : Between 9 AM and 5 PM, depending on the season. 

If you’re visiting Ireland in winter , put Newgrange on the top of your excursion wishlist. This site is not only an educational and cultural experience , but it’s known to offer stunning scenes during the winter solstice sun. 

The Irish tomb passage dates back to 3,200BC, and it covers a single tomb. It’s a large mound that sits in a field. The mound is around 80m in diameter and has a 97-stone curb at its base. 

5. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Location : Near Ballintoy in Co. Antrim

Cost : €6.50 per person to cross, but viewing the bridge is free

Hours to visit : 9:30 AM to 5 PM

This rope bridge was built way back in the 70s by fishermen who needed to cross the 20-meter gap between Carrick Island and the Country Atrium. Since then, the bridge was constructed using a few wooden planks, with an abundance of gaps in between and one handrail.  

Today, however, visitors to this spot can cross an updated, sturdier version of the bridge, although it is still 100 feet in the air. The visit to the bridge includes a 20-minute walk with breathtaking views over the beautiful sea waters. Tickets to cross the bridge are timed, so it’s best to book online if you’re hoping to cross it during your visit. 

6. Dunquin Pier

Location : Slea Head Drive

Cost : Free to access the pier

Hours to visit : If you want photos, go during the daylight hours

Also known as Dun Chaoin in Irish, Dunquin Pier is a fantastic place to stop off on Slea Head Drive and one of the most popular famous landmarks in Ireland. The pier has a very narrow winding path down to the bottom, and the path is known as Sheep Highway. It’s only for pedestrians, as many drivers have figured out over the years . 

Even if you’re not catching a ferry at the bottom, this pier is one of the most photogenic places in Ireland. So take your camera, a cup of coffee, and maybe a snack, and spend some time exploring the area and its views.

From time to time, you’ll see the ferries coming into the bay below, and perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to catch sight of a herd of sheep ambling up the path. It’s one of the most scenic drives around Ireland , so enjoy it.

7. Guinness Storehouse

Location : St. James’s Gate, Dublin 8, Co. Dublin

Cost : Prices vary; you can visit on your own or book a tour

Hours to visit : Wednesday to Sunday from 2 PM to 9 PM

Ireland’s most iconic beer, the chocolatey stout named Guinness, has its origins in Dublin City and the Storehouse has quickly become one of the most famous landmarks in Dublin. You can take a guided tour at the storehouse and discover the history of this beer, how it came to be, and how it continues to be such a favorite. 

This site is one of the top Dublin landmarks you’ll find. The average tour lasts about 1.5 hours, and then the fun happens. After you’ve gone through the process of beer-making and learned about the ingredients and heritage of Guinness, you can sit down and enjoy a pint just as the Irish would. 

This is a great stop to make while you’re visiting Dublin for the day , and you’re bound to make some local friends before you leave the brewery.

Need to burn off some energy and all that beer? Head out on an easy walk near Dublin .

8. Skellig Islands

Location : Just off the Iveragh Peninsula in Co. Kerry

Cost : Prices of tours to the islands vary

Hours to visit : You have to book tickets, so times will be dictated accordingly

Being the place where ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ and ‘The Last Jedi’ scenes were filmed, the Skellig Islands will be a highlight for any fans of the films. Even if you’ve never seen ‘Star Wars’, the islands’ natural beauty and groups of Atlantic puffins in the summer will amaze you.

Of the Skellig Islands, there are two major islands that you can visit. These are Skellig Michael and Little Skellig. Tour boats venture out to the islands, where you can experience the historical significance of the isles. A trip up the 1000-year-old stone stairway to reach the ancient monastic site on Skellig Michael is highly recommended. 

Only a certain number of people are allowed each day, so booking in advance is best. If you can’t make it out to the islands, though, you can view them from vantage points on the Ring of Kerry. Or visit the Skellig Experience Centre, found on the waterfront near Valentia Island bridge. 

9. Slieve League Cliffs

Location : Atlantic Coast, Co. Donegal

Cost : Free

Hours to visit : Open year-round, but it’s probably best to visit during the daytime

Not as well-known as the Cliffs of Moher, but just as majestic, Slieve League Cliffs are another must-see spot in Ireland. These cliffs are much higher than Moher, with their highest point standing at an impressive 601 m (close to three times the height of their more famous counterpart). Thanks to the view, these are one of the best things to do in Donegal .

Depending on how adventurous you’re feeling, you can drive up to the viewpoints on the cliffs, hike up one of the trails, or cycle to this landmark in Ireland. Whichever way you choose to go, you’re sure to be stunned and amazed once you reach one of the spots and look over at the picturesque views at one of the most beautiful famous landmarks in Ireland.

10. The Dark Hedges

Location : Bregagh Road, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland

Cost : Free to drive yourself through

Hours to visit : Open 24 hours

This ‘tunnel’ of beech trees is located all along Bregagh Road and was used for some of the filmings of the popular TV show Game of Thrones , making it one of the most recognizable Northern Ireland Game of Throne filming locations . The Stuart family planted it in the 18th century as a unique pathway leading to their house. 

This area has become a popular place to photograph, and tourists tend to flock to the site. Farmlands surround the attraction, but it’s a common stop on many tour buses and can get crowded. If you’re going to seek out the hedges, be sure to have a camera so you can get your own stunning photograph.

I also recommend going early if possible, as it’s now a popular Northern Ireland road trip stop .

Note – You can’t park on this road, as it’s only for pedestrians, so you’ll have to find a parking spot further down the road.

11. King John’s Castle

Location : Nicholas St, Kings Island, Co. Limerick

Cost : €10 per adult and €5.25 per child

Hours to visit : 9:30 AM to 6 PM

Located on the River Shannon in Limerick, King John’s Castle is one of the most historical landmarks in Ireland with an impressive 13th-century fortress that shows off Ireland’s medieval heritage. It was built in the early 1200s for the ruthless King John. Today, it holds a rich collection of over 800 years of history. 

This is a great stop-off if you’re traveling with kids in Limerick , as the visitor center has fun and interactive displays where you can experience historical and educational exhibitions. There’s also the chance to try on costumes and pretend you’re medieval royalty for the day. 

Staying overnight? You’ll have a variety of choices for where to stay in Limerick for your trip.

12. Malin Head

Location : Inishowen Peninsula, Co. Donegal

Cost : No admission fee

Hours to visit : Open 24 hours, but best to visit between 9 AM and 10 PM

Head to Ireland’s most northern tip and prepare to view some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes at one of the most famous Irish landmarks. Malin Head is known for its beaches and views and is home to Europe’s biggest sand dunes. Take a walk along the coast, go in search of the lighthouse, and check out Banba’s Crown. 

There’s plenty to do here, including hiking, fishing, and swimming, and the sights to see are seemingly endless. If you really want to maximize your time and not miss out on anything, consider booking a night or two at a B&B in the area. 

13. Trinity College Campus and Library

Location : College Green, Dublin 2, Co. Dublin

Cost : €11 per adult and €9 per child

Hours to visit : May – September: Monday to Saturday 8:30 to 17:00, Sunday 9:30 to 17:00; October – April: Monday to Saturday 9:30 to 17:00, Sunday 12:00 to 16:30

As Ireland’s highest-ranked university, Trinity College is an obvious addition to this list of the top attractions in Ireland. This ‘Little Ivy’ has seen 18,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students walk through its halls, with majors ranging from business and law to arts and health sciences.  September in Ireland is a beautiful time to visit as students resume classes again.

The library on campus is a must-see as well and one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland. It’s home to The Book of Kells , and there are many exhibition displays put on for visitors. 

It’s a good idea to buy your ticket to enter the library and include a guided tour . This will allow you to explore the campus’s cobblestone streets while learning about the building’s history. 

14. Titanic Quarter

Location : Titanic House, 6 Queens Rd, Belfast, Co. Antrim

Cost : €22 – children under 5 are free

Hours to visit : 10 AM to 4:30 PM

Way back in 1912, citizens of Belfast were able to watch the massive, ‘indestructible’ Titanic set sail after being built in the harbor. The ship would later stop in Southampton to pick up passengers and then embark on its journey – to its tragic end. However, the Titanic legend lives on in Belfast, and this is seen in the Titanic Quarter , one of the famous monuments in Ireland.

The Titanic Quarter is an extensive waterfront regeneration in Belfast, Northern Ireland. It’s home to a collection of apartments, film production studios, and offices, but the main attractions are the historical and educational spots.

There are historic maritime landmarks for visitors to explore, educational facilities to take advantage of, and fun entertainment for the whole family. It’s no wonder why this is one of the most famous landmarks in Northern Ireland.

There’s also the world’s largest Titanic-themed attraction, Titanic Belfast. This can be found at the harbor, right at the head of the slipways that once saw the mighty ship off. The space is impressive and is filled with exciting galleries and exhibitions. Visitors can interact with these and learn more about the Titanic and the role Belfast played in the legend.

There are plenty of places to stay in Belfast if you want to explore the area more. Visiting Ireland in April is a great time to do indoor activities here.

15. The Ring of Kerry

Location : Iveragh Peninsula, Co. Kerry

Cost : Depends on the stops you choose to make

We’ve possibly left the best for last, as the Ring of Kerry is one of the most stunning Irish famous landmarks that you’ll come across in Ireland. The road is in a ring and located in County Kerry – hence the name. It’s a popular choice for road trips and offers unimaginable coastal views and beautiful stop-offs.

Some tours go through the Ring of Kerry for those who aren’t fans of driving or don’t have a car. Going with a local will help ensure that you don’t miss any important landmarks along the way. 

Besides the Irish landmarks we’ve already listed here, this 120-mile stretch of ringed coastal road has its list of unmissable stops. Some of these include:

• Killarney National Park 
• Ladies View
• Torc Waterfall
• Rossbeigh Beach
• Ross Castle

Famous Irish Landmarks Tips

However long you plan on visiting the Emerald Isle, at least one of these Ireland landmarks should be on your to-do list.

Remember to take a camera; you’re going to want to take home memories of the scenes you encounter. Check out the weather before you head out in search of these ancient landmarks and structures. You won’t see much of the Cliffs of Moher in the misty cold, but you can enjoy discovering Trinity College. 

So plan accordingly and see how many famous landmarks in Ireland you can fit into your trip!

Marissa became obsessed with Ireland when she first visited in 2015, and has been back numerous times since to explore more of the Emerald Isle. She started this site to help others plan their trip to Ireland based off her experiences.

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35 Famous Ireland Landmarks You’ll Want to Visit

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 17/02/2024

From cathedrals and castles to historically significant sites and striking landscapes, The Emerald Isle is home to many famous landmarks. These sites shaped the country and gave it the deserved title as one of the world’s greatest countries.

Visitors are awed by Ireland’s friendly people, rugged landscapes, and fascinating yet tragic history. Dubbed as one of the most beautiful countries in Europe , you’ll be captivated by war-torn structures, sheer cliffs, ancient tombs, and wild islands.

Embark on one of the many hiking trails along the Ring of Kerry or admire the beautiful stained glass in Dublin’s Cathedral. Sample some world-renowned Guinness beer at their storehouse or learn about some interesting stories from the past.

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some of Ireland’s most famous landmarks to add to your bucket list .

35 Famous Ireland Landmarks

1. cliffs of moher.

As one of Ireland’s most popular attractions and an undoubtedly famous landmark , the Cliffs of Moher is a must-see while visiting the Emerald Isle. Located in County Clare and hugging the Wild Atlantic Way, these sheer, cascading sea cliffs are over 320 million years old. They form part of the UNESCO Global Geopark.

Stretching for 14 km and rising 214 meters at their highest point, these cliffs offer spectacular viewpoints. Head to the observation tower, the O’Brien’s Tower, to get the best-unobstructed panoramas of the areas. 

These cliffs, however, offer more than just beautiful vistas. A modern centre was built to improve the visitor experience and provide information about the area’s geology and geography. Here you’ll find many unique bird species that call this place home, such as razorbills, falcons, kittiwakes, and more. 

Join one of the fabulous day tours to the Cliffs of Moher and explore the area. Tour buses depart daily from major metros, including Galway, Dublin, and Cork.

Book Your Day Trip from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher

2. Giant’s Causeway

Located in County Antrim, the Giant’s Causeway is one of Northern Ireland’s most impressive landmarks. It’s famous for its odd-looking hexagonal rock columns. There are approximately 40,000 of these basalt columns along 6 kilometres of the Antrim plateau, resulting from an ancient volcanic fissure eruption. There are typically five to seven irregular sides jutting out of the cliff faces.

Legend has it that this strange formation was built by the Irish warrior Finn McCool (Fionn mac Cumhaill) to fight the Scottish giant Benandonner. Finn accepted the challenge and built the causeway across the North Channel so the two giants could meet.

The Giant’s Causeway is an enjoyable place to visit, and there are plenty of day trips and tour options to choose from. Some highlights not to be missed here include the Giant’s Boot, the wishing chair (a natural throne), and of course, the largest of three rock outcrops, the Grand Causeway. And if you’re an avid hiker, there are some incredible cliff-top trails along the causeway.

Access to this landmark is free of charge. There is, however, an entrance fee to the visitor centre.

3. The Titanic Quarter

Situated in the heart of Belfast, the Titanic Quarter is home to where the notorious Titanic ship was first created. Today, it houses a state-of-the-art Titanic-themed museum to pay tribute to the world-famous cruise liner.

Visitors’ experience at this museum is second to none, with interactive exhibits and world-class art galleries enabling you to explore the world of the Titanic. Here you can uncover the building processes right through to the disastrous events and the underwater remains. Head to the slipway to find some unique souvenirs and to see where the Titanic, and her sister Olympic, were built and first launched.

I highly recommend you book entrance tickets to explore the fascinating history of the Titanic in this magnificent museum.

Book Your Titanic Belfast Tickets Now

4. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, also known as the National Cathedral of Ireland, is steeped in over 800 years of Irish history. It’s a historical and religious site, one of Dublin’s most famous landmarks.

It was built in honour of Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick, who baptised converts into the Christian faith. Founded in 1191, the building offers visitors a rich and compelling cultural experience.

The Gothic cathedral boasts beautiful stained glass and historic architecture. Another highlight here is the tomb of Johnathan Swift. He is the famed author of Gulliver’s Travels and was the dean of the cathedral in the 1700s.

And if you have enough time, be sure to listen to the St. Patrick’s Cathedral choir (which was founded in 1432). The cathedral is open from Monday to Friday; however, service times vary throughout the week. Take a bike tour to see the cathedral and Dublin’s main attractions.

5. Blarney Stone, Gardens and Castle

The Blarney Castle is located in County Cork and is one of Ireland’s most revered historical landmarks. The medieval castle was constructed in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster.

The iconic attraction here is the Blarney Stone, which, according to the legend, can grant you the gift of eloquence if you kiss it. The 600-year-old castle looks like a mystic building from one side and a war-torn hero from the other.

Other highlights here are the stunning, well-manicured gardens of Blarney Castle. While you’re exploring this remarkable green space, be sure to check out the Poison Garden, The Seven Sisters, the Fern Garden, and more.

Tourists come from far and wide to give this stone a smooch in the hope of some Irish luck. So, I highly recommend booking a tour to learn about the grounds’ thrilling history and its legends.  

Admission to the Blarney Castle is $21 for adults and $10 for children. Opening times are from 9 am to 5 pm every day.

Book a Blarney Castle Day Trip from Dublin

6. Newgrange Tomb

Located in the Boyne Valley in County Meath, the Newgrange Tomb is the focal point for other-worldly ceremonies and symbolises Ireland’s Ancient East. One of the many interesting facts about Ireland is that the 5,200-year-old stone passage was constructed around 3,200 BC, which makes it older than the Great Pyramids of Egypt!

It was built by Stone Age farmers and sits on a circular mound with an inner stone passageway and chambers, aligned with the rising sun on the mornings around the Winter Solstice . It’s around 85 meters in diameter and 13 meters high. There’s a passage measuring 19 meters, leading to a chamber with three alcoves.

The Newgrange Tomb forms part of a complex of prehistoric sites — including Knowth and Dowth — and is known as Brú na Bóinne. Visitors can enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site monuments via the Brú na Bóinne Visitors Center. Alternatively, there are plenty of tours to explore the Newgrange .

7. Dublin Castle

Nestled in the heart of Dublin city is the 600-year-old castle that served a range of possessors, from the Danish Vikings to the British Empire. The historic building served as a residence for the Viceroy of Ireland (the British monarch’s Irish representative) and a ceremonial and administrative center.

The Dublin Castle was originally developed as a medieval fortress by orders of King John of England in 1230 in defense against Norman invaders.

Today, the Record Tower is the last remaining building from the original medieval structure. Other noteworthy areas in the castle include a Viking excavation area, a Medieval Tower, the State Apartments, the Chapel Royal (a church), and the gardens.

Admission into the castle costs $10, and it’s open Monday to Sunday from 9.45 am – 5.45 pm. You can take a self-guided tour using the Dublin Castle app. Alternatively, there are plenty of tours following the sites and happenings behind this castle’s history.

8. Ring of Kerry

Situated in County Kerry and part of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Kerry has attracted visitors to its unspoilt scenery.

The 179-kilometre-long circular tourist route takes its visitors around the Iveragh Peninsula and through majestic valleys, rivers, mountains, towns, historic sites, and beaches. The landscape is varied, from the rocky bay of Rossbeigh Strand to the Killarney lakes and mountains.

Hop in your car and head on an unforgettable road trip, or find your seat on a tour to explore the heavenly scenic route. Along the way, stop by some of Ireland’s noteworthy sites including, Ross Castle, the Kerry Cliffs, and the Cahergall Stone Fort. And, don’t forget to visit some exquisite beaches and enjoy some of the stunning hiking trails along the way.

9. Guinness Storehouse

Who doesn’t love a good beer? Or even if you don’t, as one of the most famous exports from the Republic of Ireland, the storehouse certainly deserves a visit. The ‘black stuff’, as it’s fondly known, has been brewed in Dublin since 1759. It’s housed in the St. James Gate’s Brewery, the largest stout brewery in the world.

It’s a dedicated space to the 250-year-old art of brewing the world-famous beverage. A self-guided tour around the seven-floor brewery takes around 1.5 hours. Head to the Gravity Bar at the top to sample the iconic Irish beer while enjoying panoramic views of the city.

The Guinness Storehouse entrance tickets are around $17 (€15) to $28 (€24) per person. Opening hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 2 pm to 9 pm and are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Book Your Skip the Line Tickets to the Guinness Storehouse

10. Dunluce Castle

One of the most picturesque and romantic of the Irish Castles, Dunluce has a spectacular location on the dramatic cliffs of north County Antrim. The castle was built by the MacQuillan family around 1500. It was seized by the MacDonnell clan in the 1550s and became the seat of the earls of Antrim in the 17th century.

Today it is a key tourist attraction in the area. Don’t miss Magheracross Viewing Point for some great views of Dunluce Castle in its amazing location.

11. Carrickfergus Castle

Another spectacular castle in County Antrim with a great location, Carrickfergus Castle sits on the northern shore of Belfast Lough. The castle played an important military role until 1928. It was besieged by Scots, Irish, English and even the French.

The castle is 800 years old and one of the best preserved medieval structures in Ireland. Don’t miss the Great Hall at the top of the Great Tower.

12. Carrick-A-Rede Bridge

This rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen in 1755. It is suspended almost 100 feet above sea level and connects Carrick-A-Rede island to the mainland.

It is possible to cross the bridge with a clean drop to the Atlantic Ocean underneath – not advisable if you have a fear of heights. The island is home to just one building which is a restored fisherman’s cottage.

13. Skellig Islands

These two rocky and uninhabited islands are located off the southeastern coast of Ireland in the Atlantic Ocean. One of the two islands has a monastery and it is possible to take a boat trip to visit both islands.

14. Kilmainham Gaol

This jail in Dublin has hosted some of Ireland’s most infamous characters including Charles Stewart Parnell and the 15 leaders of the Easter uprising. Today Kilmainham Gaol is a museum with exhibitions that cover Irish nationalism and republicanism.

15. Dublin’s General Post Office

This GPO was the headquarters of the 1916 Easter uprising and it was here that the proclamation of the Irish Republic was first read out. The building was nearly destroyed and some of the bullet holes from the time can still be seen today. It was rebuilt and still operates as Ireland’s General Post Office.

16. Trinity College, Dublin

Trinity College was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I and is Ireland’s oldest University. Originally a monastery it is now one of the world’s most prestigious universities. It is also home to the Book of Kells and its Old Library contains a stack of 200,000 books.

17. National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology

This Dublin museum contains items from the Celtic and Medieval eras and is best known for its archaeology wing. The beautiful building, which is home to the museum was built in Victorian Palladium style and the museum also contains several stunning mosaic floors.

18. Rock of Cashel

Legend has it that Satan spat a chunk of rock out of a cave after St. Patrick banished him to Cashel. Sitting on that limestone rock is a large medieval structure which includes a cathedral, chapel, tower and a castle.

19. Aran Islands

Located off the west coast of Ireland near Galway, this archipelago consists of three islands. These rugged islands are very beautiful but can get very very windy. There are rustic huts, the ruins of a castle, a fort and several other attractions to see on the islands. And one of the things that Aran islands are best known for are their famous knitted jumpers.

20. Hill of Tara

The Hill of Tara is referred to as a sacred place in Irish mythology. It was believed that the hill housed the entrance to the underworld. The legend goes that St Patrick headed to the hill to talk to the pagans as it was a sacred site. It was a seat of power for the 142 Kings who ruled in prehistoric times. Today, on a clear day it is possible to get fantastic views of much of Ireland from the top of the Hill of Tara.

21. Leap Castle

Built in the 12th century, Leap Castle’s claim to fame is that it is reputed to be the most haunted castle in Ireland. The castle’s history is full of violence and it is believed that the ghosts of those involved in these battles still haunt the castle today. Ghost tours are available.

22. Glendalough

Glendalough is located in the County of Wicklow and is a valley with two lakes. In addition to being extremely scenic, the town of Glendalough has several monastic sites, including ruins from both Viking and Norman attacks.

23. Dingle Peninsula

This beautiful peninsula is located on in the south west of Ireland. The small town of Dingle is extremely charming and filled with atmospheric Irish pubs; don’t miss Inch Beach.

24. Spike Island

Spike Island was originally a monastery and then became a fortress. In the mid 1800s it was converted into the biggest prison in the world. It is possible to visit the old prison cells and punishment blocks and see for yourself why Spike Island was referred to as hell on earth.

25. Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park covers 26,000 acres and and is home to rivers, castles and mountains. It is a wonderful area for hiking, walking and cycling.

26. Wild Atlantic Way Coastline

The Wild Atlantic Way is the beautiful coastline between the Inishowen peninsula and Kinsale in Cork. It is 1600 kilometers long and combines stunning views, cute villages and beautiful Irish countryside. There are 14 stages to the route.

27. Waterford Greenway (Deise Greenway)

This railway trail runs between Dungarvan and Waterford City. It is Ireland’s longest off road cycling path at 46 kilometers and walkers can also enjoy the route. There are 11 bridges and 3 viaducts along the Waterford Greenway as well as great views of the countryside and some castle ruins.

28. Benbulben

Benbulben Mountain was once known as being the only place in Ireland where you could actually see fairies. Formed in the ice age, today Benbulben is more for walkers and climbers than fairy searchers. Climbing Benbulben provides some fantastic views of Sligo Bay and the surrounding area.

29. Bunratty Castle

Bunratty Castle was built in the 15th century and is located in County Clare.

30. Glenveagh National Park

Ireland’s second largest national park has castles, great views, gardens and mountains. There are seven different walking trails through the park and don’t miss a visit to Glenveagh Castle.

31. Knocknarea Mountain

This limestone mountain is 327 metres high and located in Sligo town. Legend has it that kings were crowned on Knocknea Mountain in prehistoric times. Today, you can probably climb to the top of the mountain in 40 minutes and experience some terrific views.

32. Kilkenny Castle

Built at the end of the 12th century, this castle is located in the town of Kilkenny. The interior of the castle is Victoria in style due to when it was redecorated and the grounds of the castle are just lovely and cover 21 hectares.

33. King John’s Castle

Located in Limerick, this 13th century castle sits next to the River Shannon. Today the castle is home to 3D models and animations that bring medieval times to life. Don’t miss the views of the River Shannon.

34. Dalkey Castle

Dalkey is about 40 minutes from Dublin and was once a port. It is home to Dalkey Castle which is one of seven fortified structures in the town. Visits to the castle are brought to life with actors leading the tours.

35. Connemara National Park

Located in Galway, this is one of Ireland’s six national parks. The most popular walk in the park is to Diamond Hill where the views are fantastic. Connemara National Park is also home to birds, foxes, goats, and ponies.

A Footnote: Famous Ireland Landmarks

Scattered across Ireland, visitors come to find some of the country’s most incredible stories, steeped in history and astonishing landscapes. Incredibly rich in culture, the ‘Emerald Isle’ is sure to set alight a sparkle in anyone’s eye.

Now that we’ve scratched the surface for some of Ireland’s famous landmarks, you’ve got the idea of how spectacular this country truly is. So, it’s time to get cracking and start packing for an unforgettable trip to Ireland to see these places for yourself.

You might enjoy reading my article on Russian landmarks.

I covered all of the costs associated with writing this post. However, this famous Ireland landmarks post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Jacob Brydon

Friday 14th of May 2021

Ireland has been on our must visit list for a long time now, and we can't wait to get back to travelling to explore more great places like these. Thank you for sharing.

The Boutique Adventurer

Sunday 16th of May 2021

I can't wait to start exploring again too Jacob! Thanks for sharing

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Famous Landmarks in Ireland you should visit

By: Author LetsGoIreland

Posted on Last updated: May 9, 2022

Table of Contents

• 1 Famous Landmarks in Ireland
• 2 Skellig Islands
• 3 Newgrange and Brú na Bóinne 
• 4 Guinness Storehouse
• 5 Cliffs of Moher
• 6 Ha’Penny Bridge Dublin
• 7 Poulnabrone Dolmen in the Burren
• 8 Blarney Castle
• 9 Trinity College Dublin and the Book of Kells
• 10 Rock of Cashel
• 11 Dún Aonghasa on the Aran Islands
• 12 The Spire of Dublin
• 13 Killarney National Park, County Kerry
• 14 Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin
• 15 Gallarus Oratory on Dingle Peninsula
• 16 Kylemore Abbey, County Galway
• 17 Hill of Tara, County Meath
• 18 Samuel Beckett Bridge, Dublin
• 19 Titanic Belfast, Northern Ireland
• 20 Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland

Famous Landmarks in Ireland

Ireland is known for its beautiful landscapes, rugged coastlines, lively culture and rich history. This unique combination leaves a footprint on the landscape which can be seen in the diversity of the landmarks in Ireland. 

A landmark is a distinguishing natural or manmade feature, object or structure of significant aesthetic, historical or cultural importance. 

In Ireland, remarkable landmarks are found throughout the country so it is difficult to narrow down the list to just a few. This post introduces you to the unmissable Irish landmarks that you will find nowhere else in the world. 

Top Dublin landmarks are included in this article, as well as famous landmarks in Northern Ireland. 

Please note that the numbers do not indicate any particular order or ranking. We think that all of these landmarks are well worth visiting and should be added to your bucket list!

What to know what Ireland is famous for? Read here for some interesting insights!

Skellig Islands

The two, rocky, steep-sided islands off the south west coast of Ireland were once thought to be the edge of the known world. Today, the larger of the two islands, Skellig Michael (Scelig Mhichíl) is one of the most famous of all Irish landmarks for its historical and environmental importance and more recently, its otherworldly appearance in the Star Wars Episode VII “The Force Awakens”. 

Sometime between the 6th and 8th centuries, the first monks settled on Skellig Michael and built the iconic bee-hive huts as part of a Christian monastery. 

The isolated nature of the location, roughly 12 km off the coast of County Kerry , has helped to preserve the early Christian settlement in remarkable condition, which resulted in the island being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

Both Skellig Michael and the smaller island, Little Skellig are home to protected seabirds such as Storm-petrels, Puffins, Guillimots and Kittiwakes and are important internationally recognised breeding areas.

In recent times, Skellig Michael has become even more well known due to its use as a filming location for Star Wars and the smaller of the islands, Little Skellig was also featured in the Harry Potter Film .

Due to the sensitive nature of settlement and the protected seabird colonies, visitors are only allowed to visit Skellig Michael during the summer months and strict visitor quotas apply. 

If you do wish to visit, make sure you book a place on the ferry boat to Skellig Michael well in advance to ensure that you will be able to enjoy the wonder of this amazing landmark. 

Skellig Michael landing tour boats depart from Portmagee, Caherdaniel or Ballinskelligs Pier in County Kerry. In Portmagee you will also find the Skellig Experience where you can learn more about Skellig Michael and its rich history. 

Newgrange and Brú na Bóinne 

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Brú na Boinne Complex in the Boyne Valley, County Meath. The area in and around the River Boyne has been a focal point of human settlement in Ireland for over 6,000 years, resulting in a rich archeological history. 

The most famous of the Irish landmarks in Brú na Bóinne are the three passage tombs of Knowth, Dowth and Newgrange that were built about 5000 years ago during the Late Stone Age period. (Yes, they are older than the Egyptian pyramids!) 

Newgrange is the one of the most recognised historical landmarks in Ireland. This neolithic monument has a unique alignment that allows sunlight to enter the burial chamber only in the days around the winter solstice. 

The megalithic art on the entrance stone and the standing stones around the large mound is truly exquisite. Depictions of spirals, chevrons, triangles and arcs can be seen in the intricate ancient carvings.

The Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre provides additional background and information about the site and guided tours of the passage tomb are available. It is also possible to apply there for the draw to be one of the lucky few to be inside the tomb for the occurrence of the winter solstice. 

Guinness Storehouse

One of the things Ireland is most known for is its famous beer Guinness. It is therefore no coincidence that one of the most popular landmarks in Ireland is the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. In fact, it has been the most visited attraction in Ireland for several years with over 1.7 million visitors in 2018. 

Arthur Guinness founded Guinness in 1759 and started his brewery in St. James’s Gate in Dublin, where Guinness is still produced today. 

The Guinness Storehouse visitor center building is situated next to the St. James’s Gate Brewery and extends over seven floors detailing the brewing process, as well as the history and marketing concepts of this hugely successful company. 

Reviews of this attraction often state that visitors highly enjoy the Gravity Bar on top of the Guinness Storehouse. This is where they will experience unbeatable views of the Dublin City skyline along with a perfect pint of the Irish “Black Stuff”, if they so wish. 

For more tips about the Guinness Storehouse read our other article here. 

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are undoubtedly one of the most internationally famous Irish landmarks and a highly popular tourist attraction in Ireland. 

Situated on the west coast of the country in County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher are just one of the star attractions along the Wild Atlantic Way coastal drive. The cliff edge stretches about 8 km (5 miles) along the Atlantic Ocean coastline coast and reaches 214 meters (702 feet) at the highest point. 

The view of the towering wall of rock looks particularly stunning at sunset, when the rays of the sun illuminate the rockface. 

A modern visitor center has been built to enhance the Cliffs of Moher visitor experience and provide more background and information about the geography and geology of the area. 

Due to their unique geology the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher have been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark .

Visitors often plan a day tour to the Cliffs of Moher in combination with a visit to the nearby Burren. Tour buses to the Cliffs of Moher depart daily from the main cities including Dublin, Galway and Cork.

The cliffs have also been used as filming locations for both Harry Potter and the Princess Bride movies . 

Ha’Penny Bridge Dublin

The Ha’Penny Bridge is arguably one of Dublin’s best loved landmarks and one of Ireland’s best known bridges. Built in 1816, this iconic pedestrian bridge spans the River Liffey.

The cast iron bridge arches elegantly 3 meters over the river, has a 43 meters span and is 3.5 meters wide. Decorative lamp posts add to the special charm to this landmark.

It was built by the Liffey ferry operator William Walsh, who decided to construct a bridge rather than repair his aging ferries. A toll of half a penny was charged to cross the bridge until about 1919, hence the name “Ha’Penny”. The official name of the bridge is the Liffey Bridge.

As the bridge is very centrally located in Dublin City and close to Temple Bar, it is popular with tourists, as well as Dubliners alike with tens of thousands of people traveling across it each day. 

Movies such as Far and Away (1992) and Michael Collins (1996) also feature this bridge.

Poulnabrone Dolmen in the Burren

The Poulnabrone Portal Dolmen is an iconic landmark located on the karst limestone pavement of the Burren, County Clare. Undoubtedly this megalithic monument is one of the most famous of Irish portal tombs and is designated a National Monument of Ireland. 

Not only is the structure of the monument highly impressive, but the lunar-like rocky surroundings make it a very striking feature on the landscape and a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike!

The portal dolmen of Poulnabrone stands almost 2 meters tall and has a capstone roughly 3.5 meters in length. It consists of upright stones and topped by a slanted capstone. The large stone behind the tomb is thought to have been another capstone that has since collapsed. 

Given the basic tools and equipment (ropes, pulleys and ramps etc.) that were available at the time this was built, it is even more impressive that such portal stones could be maneuvered into place and still remain standing to the present day. 

In 1986, the Poulnabrone dolmen site was excavated and the human remains of about 22 individuals, both adults and children were found in the burial chamber . Along with the remains, other ancient artifacts such as pendants, beads, a polished stone axe and pottery were found in the burial chamber.

Blarney Castle

Situated in the south west of Ireland, a short distance outside Cork City is the Blarney Castle, home of the internationally famous Blarney Stone. Originally dating back to about 1200, the castle has a rich history and was occupied by Cormac MacCarthy, the King of Munster in the 12th century.

Many tourists travel especially to Cork to visit this popular Irish tourist attraction. The experience of kissing the Blarney Stone, by hanging backwards over a high drop, is one of the main highlights. All of those who complete this act of aerial acrobatics is said to receive the gift of eloquence for life…. Try it for yourself and see!

Furthermore, the grounds surrounding the castle are exceptionally well maintained and a wonderful place to explore. There are several different gardens including an arboretum, Poison Garden and a Fern Garden. 

Trinity College Dublin and the Book of Kell s

On College Green, right in the center of Ireland’s capital is Trinity College Dublin, the oldest university in the country. The beautiful 18th-century monuments and buildings, as well as gardens and sports grounds make the university a lovely place to wander around and explore. 

Former Trinity students include Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett, Bram Stoker, as well as the female presidents of Ireland Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese to name but a few.

Sally Rooney, the author of Normal People also studied here and many parts of the hit series were filmed on the campus.

The Book of Kells is probably one of the highlights of Trinity College Dublin, with hundreds of thousands of visitors flocking to see this unique medieval illuminated manuscript each year. 

Thought to date back to about the 8th century, this national treasure was kept for many years in the Abbey of Kells in County Meath, hence its name. 

It contains the four Gospels of the New Testament exquisitely decorated with illustrations and ornamentation. The Chi Rho page and the cover page of each of the Gospels are exceptionally ornately decorated.

In addition to viewing the manuscript itself, visitors also have access to the Long Room, arguably one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. The old library has a wooden barrel vaulted ceiling and its rows of bookshelves and busts are remarkably striking.

Rock of Cashel

For more than 1,000 years, the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary has been a site of great importance in Ireland and it is now one of the highlights of Ireland’s Ancient East historical trail. 

The rocky outcrop commands excellent views over the lower lying areas, making it a very strategic location that was once the seat of the Kings of Munster. It is even said to be the spot that Saint Patrick converted King Aenghus to Christianity.

Around the 12th century, the site was given to the church and over the following centuries the number of buildings at the location continued to expand.

They include a round tower (unfortunately not accessible to the public), as well as an architecturally significant 12th century Romanesque chapel, a 13th century cathedral, a 15th century Tower House and the Hall of the Vicars Choral.

A wander around the nearby less well known, but highly impressive Hore Abbey, as well as Cashel town is also worth it.  

Dún Aonghasa on the Aran Islands

Off the west coast of County Galway lie the three islands of Inis Mór (Inishmore), Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) and Inis Oírr (Inisheer), known collectively as the Aran Islands. 

The largest of these islands, Inis Mór, is home to one of the most impressive promontory forts in the world, Dún Aonghasa. This prehistoric stone fort is literally perched on the edge of a cliff edge 100 meters above the crashing waves of the wild Atlantic Ocean. 

Earliest settlement at Dún Aonghusa is thought to date back over 3,000 years. The structure has been modified and fortified through the Bronze Age and Iron Age. Originally, the fort was probably oval in shape, but over time parts have collapsed into the sea, giving it its current D-shape. 

The defence system of the fort consists of four concentric walls that are up to 4 meters thick in places. The outermost wall encompasses an area of about 6 hectares (14 acres), making it a large ruin by prehistoric standards. 

In addition to the walls, there is also a field of up-right rocks, known as a “Cheval de frise”. While some of the walls and steps have been restored, other parts, including the up-right rock field are very well preserved. 

As well as having a tour of this heritage site, it is really worth spending some time exploring the unique scenery and culture of the Aran Islands. 

The rocky landscape, somewhat similar to the Burren in County Clare, is framed by miles and miles of stone walls. The Irish playwright, John Millington Synge, was particularly fond of the islands. During his visits, he collected folklore and learned Irish, which is still predominantly spoken on the islands today. 

The Spire of Dublin

One striking landmark in Dublin City centre is “The Spire” or the “Monument of Light” (“Túr Solais” in Irish). This stainless steel, needle shaped monument stands 120 meters tall, with the base measuring 3 meters in diameter and the apex just 15 centimeters. 

An international competition was held to select the design for the monument, which was won by the London-based Ian Ritchie Architects.

It is a relatively modern addition to the Dublin skyline having been completed in January 2003. Situated on O’Connell Street at the site of the former Nelson Pillar, this landmark has pride of place in the capital. 

As usual, the Dubliners were quick to christen the monument with some creative monikers such as the “Spike” and the “Stiletto in the Ghetto”.

Killarney National Park, County Kerry

In the south west of Ireland lies County Kerry, home to Killarney National Park. This incredibly scenic landscape was designated as the first national park in Ireland in 1932 and recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1991. 

The park is highly regarded internationally for its ecological value in terms of its flora, fauna and unique woodland areas. It has a broad diversity of bryophytes (mosses and liverworts), as well as several very rare, protected species including the Killarney fern. Native red deer (as well as the non-native sika deer) are also found within the park. 

Undoubtedly, the Lakes of Killarney are one of the park’s main highlights. On the shores of one of the lakes, Lough Leane, lies the idyllically situated Ross Castle.

For amazing views of the landscape that was greatly influenced by the ice age, head to Ladies View for an unparalleled vista. 

In the park, there are several wonderful walking trails of different difficult levels suitable for all abilities. 

Other places that should not be missed within the park include 19th century Muckross House and Gardens, Muckross Abbey and the picturesque Torc Waterfall.  

Killarney town is only a short distance away from the park, as is the famous Gap of Dunloe. While in the area, it is also possible to take a trip around the Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland’s most scenic driving routes.

Kilmainham Gaol , Dublin

From both a historical and architectural point of Kilmainham Gaol (pronounced “jail” and often misspelled as Kilmainham Goal) played a central role in the Irish civil war. 

Located near the Phoenix Park on the outskirts of Dublin City, this is definitely a very important historical landmark.

Nearly all of the main freedom fighters (such as Robert Emmet and Charles Stewart Parnell) and the rebel leaders of the Easter Rising (including Patrick Pearse and Thomas MacDonagh) were incarcerated and many executed in this prison. 

In fact, Ireland’s first president, Èamonn de Valera, was one of the last prisoners to leave the prison before it closed.

In addition to its important place in Irish history, this building has also been used as a filming location for several different films, including “The Italian Job”, “In the Name of the Father” (1993) and more recently, “The Wind that Shakes the Barley” (2006). U2 also featured the building in their video for the song “A Celebration”. 

Tours of Kilmainham Gaol museum are available, enabling visitors to learn more about the history and view the impressive interior prison architecture of this famous national monument. Be sure to book your tour a day or two in advance. Only a limited number of people are allowed per tour and this is a popular attraction.

Gallarus Oratory on Dingle Peninsula

One of Ireland’s most unusual looking landmarks is one that dates back to about the 12th century. Gallarus Oratory, on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, is a small stone building with a very distinctive appearance, thought to have been used as a small church or oratory.

Dry stone masonry was used to create a corbelled vault that resembles an upturned boat. The precise positioning of overlaid stones created sloping sides that ensure that the rain and elements are kept out of the structure.

The interior of the building is very dimly lit as the only light comes from the doorway at the entrance and a single round window on the rear wall

Kylemore Abbey, County Galway

One very photogenic Irish landmark is Kylemore Abbey in Connemara National Park, County Galway . 

Built as a private home by Mitchell Henry and his wife Margaret Henry in the 19th century, the stunning Kylemore Castle is a popular attraction along the Wild Atlantic Way coastal drive. The reflections of the building in Lough Pollacapall add beauty to this particularly picturesque landmark.

In 1920, Benedictine nuns from Ypres in Belgium founded an abbey on the grounds of the castle after their own abbey was destroyed by bombing during the First World War. The gothic church and Victorian walled garden have been restored and maintained by the nuns down through the years. Kylemore Abbey was also home to a boarding school for girls until it closed in 2010. 

Visitors can experience tours of the Abbey to learn more about its rich history and enjoy wandering in the gardens.

Hill of Tara, County Meath

The area in and around the Boyne Valley in County Meath was a hotspot of activity during the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages. The Hill of Tara, the ancient Seat of Power of Ireland, can attest to this fact. This famous mound has a rich archeological history and is the source of many fanciful Irish myths and legends dating back over 3,000 years. 

Today, the most recognizable feature of the Hill of Tara is the raised circular earthen mounds are still visible on the landscape. During its high time in the late Stone Age and early Iron Age, the Hill of Tara was the inaugural site of the High Kings of Ireland, with significant importance as an entrance to the otherworld in Pagan belief. 

One of the most intriguing ancient monuments is the standing stone Lia Fáil- or Stone of Destiny, one of treasures of the Tutha de Dannan which is said to cry out when the rightful high King touches it.

In the surrounding area there are a number of other monuments also dating to this period, the oldest being a passage tomb named The Mound of Hostages. Other monuments hidden beneath the surface have been discovered using aerial photography and geophysical survey work.

More information about this fascinating ancient site can be found in the The Hill of Tara Visitor Centre.

Samuel Beckett Bridge , Dublin

The second of Dublin’s famous bridge landmarks is the Samuel Beckett Bridge. This contemporary bridge was opened in 2009 and links Sir John Rogerson Quay to the Docklands area of Dublin City. 

The stunning design, created by the Spaniard, Santiago Calatrava, and has won several international awards. The slender design of the structure was inspired by the Irish harp, which has been the national symbol of Ireland for centuries. 

At its highest point, the steel pylon reaches 46 meters (151 feet) above the River Liffey. The bridge is 124 meters (407 feet) long and 27 meters (89 feet) wide and is open both to pedestrians and vehicular traffic. The structure rotates through 90 ° degrees to allow taller vessels to pass. 

It is named after the Dubliner, Samuel Becket, who was the winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1969. 

Titanic Belfast, Northern Ireland

Not only is the Titanic Belfast one of the most modern and interesting visitor attraction in Northern Ireland , the spectacular architecture of the building makes it one of the best Belfast landmarks. 

The museum is situated on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard where the actual RMS Titanic vessel was built for the White Star Line Company. In a nod to the heritage of the area, this part of Belfast City has been renamed the Titanic Quarter.

Designed to resemble the prows of a ship, the elaborate Aluminium outer structure of the museum is inspired by the maritime influences.

The Titanic visitor experience is second to none, with state of the art galleries and interactive exhibits enabling you to explore the world of Titanic in depth, from the ship building process through the disastrous maiden voyage and the underwater remains.

Giants Causeway , Northern Ireland

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim is undoubtedly a very impressive landmark and probably the best known of all the Northern Ireland landmarks. Legend has it that it was built by the Irish warrior Finn McCool in order to fight the Scottish giant Benandonner!

The 40,000 or so dark basalt columns create intricate landscapes of staircases along the Antrim coast. This natural phenomenon was created by volcanic activity over 50 million years ago.

Visitors travel from all over the world to view this incredible place and experience the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre. In fact the Giant’s Causeway is the most popular attraction in Northern Ireland. It received about 1.5 million visitors in 2019. 

So there you have it! We will continue to add to this list over time. 

If you want to learn about what Ireland is known for, as well as facts about Ireland and some famous people in Ireland then read our post here!

30 Famous Landmarks Of Ireland To Plan Your Travels Around!

Posted on Last updated: November 24, 2021

Categories Famous Landmarks Around The World , Ireland

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Ireland is one of the world’s most captivating travel destinations, a place of abundant and infinitely beautiful must-visit locations from spooky goals and gravesites to striking castles and historical abbeys. Not to mention the Guinness Storehouse…

There is so much to see here. It can all seem a little overwhelming — but discovering the most famous landmarks in Ireland is an excellent place to start…

Amidst all the history here it is easy to forget that Ireland is also extraordinarily well-endowed with incredible natural landscapes with waterfalls, wind-swept coastlines, stunning mountains, and the improbably Giant’s Causeway. Many you might recognize from films made in Ireland.

There is so much to places to visit in Ireland; you could spend a lifetime exploring its riches and only just scratch the surface. This is why we have developed this cheat sheet to help you with your travels. 

But first – what is a landmark?

A landmark is a recognizable natural or artificial feature that typically stands out from its environment and has become a local or national symbol. For modern tourists, a landmark is useful for navigation – in terms of both being a physical waypoint and in trying to help you organize your itinerary.

Getting the off-the-beaten-track is all well and good, but at the end of the day – there are some spots you just have to see when you visit a country. Think the Sydney Opera House or Christ the Redeemer .  Instantly recognizable places you couldn’t miss if you tried. And Ireland has more than its fair share…

When approaching a trip to this magical land, you will want to tick off as many famous Irish landmarks as you can – and the best way is to do that is often by taking a tour , or hiring a car to get around. Public transport can also be used to get to many places and is useful if you also plan to explore the pubs of Dublin and Ireland. 

We have decided to include sites in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland (part of the United Kingdom) is either described as a country, province or region, depending on who you talk to. As there are no border controls, and Ireland is an island, this makes the most sense here as travellers planning out their adventures can easily cross between both without any hassles. 

There is a lot to explore in Ireland — and no list of iconic Irish landmarks could ever be exhaustive. But, we have tried to get the top highlights by putting a call out to our favourite travel bloggers and asking them to regale us with stories and helpful tips about their best-loved.

This way, you have a reasonable frame of reference to inspire your Ireland travels from which you could choose a few landmarks that you absolutely cannot miss… or cram as many as possible into one trip.

If you plan it right — and have enough time—, you might just hit them all. And discover plenty more of your own highlights of Ireland while you’re at it!

30 Famous Landmarks Of Ireland To Plan Your Travels Around! 🍀

Page Contents

Blarney Castle

Brú na bóinne, bunratty castle & folk park, carrauntoohil, carrick-a-rede rope bridge, castle ward, cliffs of moher, derry city walls, dun aonghasa, dunguaire castle, dunluce castle, dunquin pier, gap of dunloe, giant’s causeway, glendalough monastic site, guinness storehouse, kilmainham gaol, kylemore abbey, mussenden temple, rock of cashel, skellig islands, slieve league, st. patrick’s grave, the custom house, the dark hedges, the stairway to heaven, titanic belfast, torc waterfall, trinity college.

Ben Bulben , the mountain immortalized by the Irish poet William Butler Yeats, is perhaps the most famous landmark of Ireland other than the Blarney Stone. Ben Bulben dominates the countryside of County Sligo, as well as Irish literary heritage. In his famous last poem Under Ben Bulben, Yeats decreed that he be buried near the mountain, which he was.

The summit of Ben Bulben is a popular walking destination. From the south side, it is an easy walk up the gentle slope. From the summit, there are stunning views over the coastal plain of north County Sligo and the Atlantic Ocean. The land adjacent to the western edge of the ridge is private farmland and not open to the public. A climb up the north side is treacherous and requires rock climbing skills. There is also a groomed path you can take around the base of the mountain.

Ben Bulben got its distinctive shape from the receding glaciers of the Ice Age. Ben Bulben is one of the Dartry Mountain range. The layers of the mountain formed approximately 320 million years ago under a shallow sea. Uppermost are limestone layers. Further down, the lower slopes consist of shaly mudstone known as the Ben Bulben Shale Formation. Seashell fossils exist throughout the layers of the mountain. The shale layer also holds some corals.

If the mountain piques your curiosity, be sure to check out Yeats’ grave in the churchyard of Saint Columba’s Church in the village of Drumcliff, about six kilometres away, in the shadow of the famous mountain.

Explored by Tom Bartel from Travel Past 50

Blarney Castle is a medieval castle located 10km away from Cork, Ireland, 2nd biggest city. It is famous for its stone, which the legend says that whoever kisses it, is given the “gift of the gab” (a great eloquence). What makes kissing the stone extra-special is that the stone is on top of the castle, and you have to lie on your back with a staff member holding you while you are getting your gift of the gab. Famous people to have kissed the stone include Winston Churchill and Laurel and Hardy.

One legend says that in the 15th century, Cormac Laidir MacCarthy, the castle owner, had to go to court to defend himself. After a prayer, a voice told him to kiss the first stone he saw. He did and was so eloquent in his trial that he won. He moved the stone on top of his castle, persuaded that the stone made him win.

But visiting Blarney Castle is not just about the castle which is pretty much in ruin, and kissing a stone, trying to forget that hundreds have kissed it before you… Even in those ‘new-normal’ times, it is still possible to kiss it (it is now disinfected after every kiss). There are also many gardens such as a poisonous garden, a fern garden (making you think you are entering Jurassic Park), and many more. There is even a lake at the end of the property. In addition, there is a private mansion on site, Blarney House, which can be visited for an extra fee.

How long you should visit for depends on your interest and the crowd. If you just want to see the castle and kiss the stone, you can be out in less than an hour. But to enjoy the castle and the sizable gardens, a few hours are necessary. Blarney castle website advertises 3 hours, and that sounds about right.

When visiting, you should also consider that the Irish weather is unpredictable, and rain is always possible. But considering how nice the gardens are, try to visit from May to October when trees have leaves and flowers are blooming. You can easily get here by bus 215 from Cork.

Explored by Ben McHenry from A Walk in the World

Brú na Bóinne (also known as Boyne’s Palace or Boyne’s Mansion) or Boyne Valley Tombs, is a place in County Meath, Ireland, situated in a curve of the Boyne River. It comprises one of the most interesting geological landscapes in the world dating back to the Neolithic period, comprising Knowth, Newgrange and Dowth ‘s large Megalithic passage graves as well as around 90 other monuments.

The related archaeological history of these sites is dubbed the “Boyne culture.” The location is one of the most famous places in Ireland and has been a UNESCO recognised World Heritage Site since 1993, known as “Brú na Bóinne-Archeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne”.

Accompanied by some forty satellite tombs, Brú Na Bóinne forms a funerary landscape known as having significant ceremonial importance, drawing later Iron Age temples, along with those in the early Christian and mediaeval periods.

Positioned about 40 km north of Dublin on a hill between the Boyne and Mattock rivers, the Brú Na Bóinne is part of a region rich in tales from the ancient history of Ireland. The region is still mostly agricultural and has been widely studied by archaeologists and historians for over a hundred years, with archaeological digs discovering new details even today.

The Knowth community, whose oldest structures here date from the Neolithic era and the youngest from the Anglo-Norman era, has created thirty monuments and sites that we know of, including petroglyphs, enclosures, sites of conquest and field structures. The Newgrange party is strictly ancient, with a ringfort, a cursus, a henge and a passage pit. The Dowth community is similar to those at Newgrange except in the shape of a church and a castle; there is mediaeval evidence.

Together, Brú na Bóinne represents Europe’s largest and most important concentration of prehistoric megalithic art and is not to be missed when you visit Ireland. It is only comparable with the ancient majesty of Skara Brae in Scotland or Stonehenge in England , but the scale of the structures makes this place our favourite.

The fascinating experience of entering the structures is enhanced with the onsite he museum and guest centre, which is extremely well put together. You can reach Brú na Bóinne by bus or on tour, but to make the most of the surrounding finds it is best to hire and explore by car.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is a landmark in Ireland not-to-be-missed. Combining a stunning castle with a folk park, this tourist attraction in County Clare, just 20 minutes from Limerick City is somewhere everyone should visit when visiting Ireland.

Sharing its name with the town it is located in, Bunratty Castle is a medieval castle which is one of the most complete and authentic medieval castles in Ireland. The current castle building was built in the 1400s and is the fourth castle to stand at the site. The site was also once a Viking trading camp in the late 900’s.

Within the medieval castle are several floors to be explored, many of which are furnished with 15th and 16th-century furniture and tapestries. If you want to add something special to your Ireland itinerary, why not book a spot at the Medieval Banquet held every evening at Bunratty Castle. You might even get a chance to act as Lord and Lady of the Manor.

As well as the castle, the site at Bunratty is also home to a folk park. This gives visitors the chance to experience village life in Ireland during the 19th century. With over 30 buildings dating from over a century ago, you can visit various farmhouses, shops, workshops and even a school. Each is furnished with furniture and artwork from the period in which it would have been inhabited, and you’ll even come across real peat fires, giving the whole place an authentic feel.

During certain times of the year, you’ll find costume characters to interact with who go about their “daily” 19th-century life. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park are truly a landmark in Ireland you must put on your Ireland bucket list for your visit to the Emerald Isle.

Explored by Cath from Travel Around Ireland

Carrauntoohill isn’t the first place you think of when it comes to landmarks in Ireland, but if you want to see the great outdoors, then it’s one of the best places you can visit. Carrauntoohil is the highest point in Ireland located in County Kerry.

The mountain can be found in the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range. If you’re in Kerry, this is easy to reach from anywhere in the county. At the same time, Kerry can be reached from most parts of Ireland via a three to four-hour drive.

Despite only being 1,038 metres (3,407 ft) high, Carrauntoohill is no walk in the park. It’s a serious climb that will take you a good half day to complete, and that’s if the weather is good. The most straightforward route up the mountain is via the Devil’s Ladder. The start from this route can be found in Cronin’s Yard. Until you reach the ladder, you follow the path and scramble up the ladder onto the ridge before ascending to the summit.

At the top, you will find a 5 m (16 ft 5in) cross which was erected in 1976. If it’s a good day, you’ll be treated to excellent views of the surrounding area. While if it’s a bad day, it’s best to move on as quick as you can. As I found out when I hiked to the summit, the weather can change in an instant and be very different from what you’ll find further down the climb! Don’t let that put you off though, Carauntoohill is a fantastic place to visit in Ireland and a climb you’ll enjoy and won’t forget in a hurry!

Explored by Tom from The Travelling Tom

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Northern Ireland, and one of the best places to stop on a trip along the Causeway Coast. This is a small, narrow, bridge from the mainland which connects to a tiny island called Carrickarede, just off the shore. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is 20 meters across in length and sits 30 meters high above the sea.

It was first erected in 1755 by salmon fishermen, as they used the bridge to get their catch of fish across and back to the mainland. The current bridge that stands today was built in 2008. Today, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a popular visitor attraction, operated by the National Trust. There is an admission charge of £9 per person for entry to the site. The scenery along the cliffs out to the sea is really spectacular here! The easiest way to get to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is by car, and there’s a large car park for visitors. It’s one of the top places to visit on the Causeway Coast, and it is about a 1 hour and 15-minute drive from Belfast.

 If you aren’t driving, you can access Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge by bus, but it’s not very convenient. The most direct route is to take Bus 218 from Belfast to Coleraine and connect with Bus 402, which travels along the Causeway Coast and stops at Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. You can also join a Causeway Coast day tour from Belfast which is an easier option—nearly all of the tours will stop at Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

This is one of the best things to do in Northern Ireland, and one of the most popular landmarks along  the Causeway Coast!

Explored by Maja from Away With Maja

Castle Ward would likely be the most significant stately home on the nearside of the Ards Peninsula and on Strangford Loch, and it is likely one of the most popular tourist destinations in the renowned scenic County Down at the moment.

Although this is partly because of a new-found global fame as Castle Ward is the setting of Winterfell and the home to the ‘King in the North’ from the Game of Thrones. The surrounding grounds also make backdrops for many scenes throughout the series.

 But this somewhat off-the-beaten-track destination has always been a huge draw locally where it is found on the scenic Strangford Lough driving route and only a short distance from the car-ferry crossing between Strangford and Portaferry. Castle Ward itself is managed by the National Trust including acres of grounds with nature trails, coastal paths, and ancient structures around and in between.

The main areas, however, would be the manor home which offers free daily heritage tours through the old family home, the outhouses, and the sunken gardens. It also has a courtyard café. Then there is the old medieval castle, aka, Winterfell which has some fascinating outhouses as well as newer Game of Thrones attractions like archery, period dress-up and shopping, and they offer bike rental and tours to explore the various scenes found through the Game of Thrones Franchise.

With limited public transport routes to Castle Ward, it is almost necessary to have your own mode of transport. There is also a connecting caravan park for vehicles and camping as well as the  Castle Ward Glamping Pods  to bring some added incentive for a visit. Explored by Allan Wilson of It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor.  

Explored by Allan Wilson from It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

The Cliffs of Moher are the most popular landmark in Ireland and are part of the UNESCO Global Geopark. The cliffs are located on the west coast of Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way and reach 702 feet in height at their highest point. You likely recognize them from one of the many movies that feature them like Harry Potter and The Princess Bride.

 Visiting the cliffs is pretty straight forward. There is a parking lot where you pay per person as you enter and the cliffs are located a short walk from there. The visitors centre includes a restaurant and Murphy’s ice cream shop. We recommend the sea salt ice cream! You can walk around the cliffs in either direction to see unique views and over 20 species of sea birds. 

 While many visitors come to the Cliffs of Moher as part of a quick stop on a tour bus and view them from above, spending more time in the area will be much more memorable. You can take a ferry to see the cliffs from below which really gives you an idea of their massive size. You board the ferries at the nearby town of Doolin and can choose to visit the as well Aran Islands which is highly recommended. 

 After a day of exploring the Cliffs of Moher, you can enjoy an amazing meal at the Ballinalacken Castle Hotel, which has a perfect view of the sunset before heading back to Doolin to enjoy the pubs. There are only two main pubs in Doolin, so pick one to enjoy some local music and get something to eat and drink. 

Explored by Dan & Michelle from HoneymoonAlways.com

A stroll through Derry / Londonderry’s walls shows a charming city packed with tradition, traditions, curiosity and a lively cultural scene. Undoubtedly a famous landmark of Ireland, the walls of this city are a must-visit for those with an interest in Irish history. Derry is Ireland’s only intact entirely walled town and one of Europe’s best examples of Walled Cities, up there with Tallinn and Carcassonne in France.

The Walls were built by the Irish Society mostly during period 1613-1618 as defensive structures for England and Scotland colonialists who had come to Ulster as a result of the Ulster Plantation founded by James I. this was a direct result of an earlier community being ruined by Irish leader Cahir O’Doherty during the revolt of O’Doherty. The area was formally called Londonderry in the royal charter of 1613 as a consequence of a ground of companies setting up here from London, which the Irish Society’s construction of the city’s defences, were to protect.  That is what later led to the name controversy between Derry / Londonderry city and district, an issue that still persists to this day.

 The wall surrounds ‘Old Derry’, and there is a selection of Derry’s most famous places protected inside them that you should try to see, including the Apprentice Boy’s Hall and St. Columb’s Cathedral (the very first Protestant Cathedral ever to be built the first cathedral to be built and the first non-Roman Catholic cathedral to be built in Western Europe.

The Walls, about 1.5 km in diameter, form a promenade all around the city centre as well as provides a special walkway to display the architecture of the original city that still retains the Renaissance street grid to this very day. Butcher Gate, Bishop’s Gate, Ferryquay Gate, and Shipquay Gate are the main four entrances to the Walled City, but there are seven openings in total.

Dun Aonghasa is the main attraction on the island of Inis Mor, one of the three Aran Islands off the Western coast of Ireland. Dun Aonghasa (pronounced done-angus) is an ancient stone fort built in a semi-circular shape that dates all the way back to c. 700BC.  

With sweeping views overlooking the Atlantic, Dun Aonghasa is well-worth the arduous trek it requires to reach the fort. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find yourself atop a 300ft cliff, sure to take your breath away.  

Be careful on the cliffs, as there are no barriers of any kind between you and the steep drop below.  

There is a natural platform that overlooks the ocean, which is believed to have been the site of important rituals. Jewellery and other items that have been excavated from the site lead scholars to believe that the platform was a place of great significance to the earliest inhabitants of the island.  

To reach Dun Aonghasa, you first need to get to the island of Inis Mor, which is an  easy day trip from Galway . Take a bus to Rossaveal, and from there a ferry ride takes only 40 minutes. Once you’ve reached Inis Mor, there are many places from which to rent a bicycle in Kilronan Village. There are two different routes to take to reach Dun Aonghasa depending on your time constraints. Once you arrive at the base of the fort, you’ve got to ditch the bike and make the ascent on foot, as the terrain is not suitable to navigate on wheels. Don’t forget to wear appropriate shoes!

Walking is also an option for those who are less-than-confident on a bike. If you happen to be there on a warm day, take a quick dip in the refreshing waters of Kilmurvey beach, which is en route to Dun Aonghasa. Be sure to check to see if you can spot any seals at the seal colony, also on the way!

Explored by Jade from The Migrant Yogi

Dunguaire Castle is one of the prettiest and most photographed structures in Ireland. The castle itself is beautiful, but its unique position on Galway Bay adds to the allure. During high tide, it is surrounded by water, which gives it such a prominent appearance. 

Built-in 1520 by the O’Hynes clan, it has a 75-foot tower you can climb and fortress walls. The castle was named after the O’Hynes’ ancestor Guaire, the king of Connacht. In addition to having a history as an important Irish castle, it also has an interesting literary past. In 1924, it was sold to Oliver St. John Gogarty, who was a patron or the arts with a love of poetry. Dunguaire Castle was frequented by George Bernard Shaw, W.B. Yeats and other well known Irish poets.

Dunguaire Castle has been renovated and to this day is a good example of 16th-century life. You can tour the castle during the day, but many people visit in the evening for the popular Medieval banquets. The hours change between seasons, so it’s best to check the website for accurate information. Plan a few hours for a visit and make sure to take a walk around the outside. 

Located on the Wild Atlantic Way Dunguaire Castle is found just on the outskirts of the town of Kinavara, approximately 30 minutes from downtown Galway. If you are taking a trip to the Cliffs of Moher from Galway, you can easily add this stop to your day. It is also very close to The Burren. All three can easily be seen in a day on a  7 Day Ireland itinerary .

Explored by Jenifer Byington from The Evolista

Situated on the dangerous Antrim coastline of Northern Ireland, Dunluce Castle is a magnificent ruined fortress from as far back as the 13th century.

 Exploring Dunluce feels as if you have been dropped into Game of Thrones or Lord of the Rings. It is surrounded by grassy hills and jagged rocky cliffs. The castle sits on an outcrop of land with only a bridge connecting it to the mainland. This gave it a great strategic advantage for defence. There is even a hidden waterway to the ocean from beneath the castle for supplies during a siege or an escape.

Dunluce Castle became an important stronghold during the 16th century when the McDonnell family turned it into their main home base as they consolidated their properties in Scotland and Ireland. They continued to live there until 1639 when the castle’s kitchen fell into the sea below, and they finally decided to leave. The castle is still owned by the McDonnell family to this day, but sits in ruin.

There are great vantage points in the area of the castle to get some amazing photos. Take a walk up the grassy hills along the trails to get an overview of the castle. You can also walk along the coastal cliff-sides in either direction to get a nice view of the castle on its outcrop. It is Ireland, so the trail and hills can get quite muddy so make sure you are properly dressed.

The castle can be reached on a day trip from Belfast or Derry. It is in the same general area as some other popular Irish spots like the Giant’s Causeway, The Dark Hedges and Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. You can spend a good hour or so exploring the castle grounds and going for a cliff walk imagining the history and battles fought there.

Explored by Nathan Sado from Fit Living Lifestyle

Nestled on the southwest tip of Ireland is a tiny harbour that is home to the picturesque Dunquin Pier. The winding path that snakes down the cliff towards Dunquin Pier, Dun Chaoin in Irish, has featured on postcards of Ireland for decades.

The view is indeed as beautiful as the photos portray and Dunquin is a must for any visitors to Dingle. The pier is also referred to as ‘Sheep’s Highway’ in reference to the sheep which file up the path after arriving on the passenger ferry from the Blasket Islands! These days the sheep are a rare but incredibly special sighting.

Dunquin Pier is the main harbour that services The Blasket Islands. Deserted in the 1950s, today the islands can be visited by the daily ferry crossings which leave from Dunquin Pier. A trip to the Blaskets is like stepping back in time, and it’s only by setting foot on the remote islands that visitors can imagine how hard life was like for those who resided here years ago.

Dunquin Pier is located on the scenic  Slea Head Drive  in Dingle in County Kerry and is one of the most popular things to see in the county. Dunquin is most easily accessed by car, and a short walk from the car park takes visitors to the incredible view of Dunquin Pier below. Care should also be taken on the cliffs as they are not fenced, and the drops aren’t marked.

Visitors are asked not to attempt to try and drive down the narrow pier road as they will get stuck. There have been numerous cases of tourists getting stuck overnight in their cars and having to be rescued the next day!

Explored by David from Your Ireland Vacation

The Gap of Dunloe can be found just outside of  Killarney, Ireland . This popular destination can be visited as part of a trip to the Ring of Kerry or as a day trip from Killarney.

The Gap of Dunloe is a particularly scenic part of County Kerry, which is saying a lot in such a beautiful part of Ireland. It’s a mountain pass where the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Ireland highest mountains, and the Purple Mountains meet. This makes for very dramatic scenery, including waterfalls and rocky cliffs. There are several lakes found here as well as a charming stone bridge known as the Wishing Bridge.

One of the most popular ways to visit is to take a jaunting car down the narrow road that goes through the Gap of Dunloe. Contrary to popular belief, you can drive this road as well though you may get stuck behind horses. If you have more time, it’s worth doing a boat tour across Lough Leane and then walking or biking the Gap of Dunloe to get the most out of the experience.

As part of a visit to this area, you can visit both Lord Brandon’s Cottage and Kate Kearney’s Cottage. They can be found at opposite sides of the Gap of Dunloe, and both are now tea shops. Kate Kearney’s Cottage is part of the local lore of the area. During the 18th century, Kate apparently sold illegal whiskey to travellers at this cottage.

While the Gap of Dunloe isn’t part of nearby Killarney National Park, it has long been on the tourist trail. It became popular among wealthy tourists in the 1700s that were seeking wild-looking landscapes. You are sure to find that here still, and of course, the occasional sheep or two.

Explored by Brianna from Curious Travel Bug

Located along the famous  Causeway Coastal Route , the eponymous Giant’s Causeway is a unique blend of Irish folklore & mythology and Science!

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant’s Causeway is made up of 40,000+ interlocking, hexagonal basalt columns, reaching out over the Atlantic Ocean and flanked by sharp cliffs on the other side. It is the result of volcano activity from 60 million years ago, an incredible geological marvel – or is it really? Irish folklore has something else to say about it.

Legend has it that the Giant’s Causeway was built by the Irish Giant (think that one was quite obvious!) Fionn mac Cumhaill as stepping stones across the water to meet the Scottish Giant Benandonner for a fight. That he then got scared and hid disguised as a baby thus scaring away Benandonner is a story you should watch at the Visitor’s Center – it’s delightful and awe-inspiring at the same time!

Even if you were to scoff at the myths, there is no denying the intriguing nature of the place and its breathtaking beauty. The ruggedly symmetrical columns act as stepping stones between the dramatic cliffs and the wild sea – it’s nature at its best.

The Giant’s Causeway is located on the North Coast of the island, in the county of Antrim in Northern Ireland, close to the towns of Bushmills and Ballycastle. It’s best visited as part of a drive on the Causeway Coastal Route. Try and make it your first stop, so you avoid the crowds and plan to spend at least 2-3 hours at the place.

To visit the Giant’s Causeway, buy a ticket at the Visitor’s Center and spend some time at the displays there to take in both the legend & the Science behind the place. Then take the ~1 km walk down to the actual causeway. There is a bus that runs on this route too, but the walk is so superbly scenic that it really should not be missed!

The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most spectacular natural phenomenons in Europe and absolutely a must-visit during a visit to Ireland.

Explored by Smita from My Faulty Compass

You cannot have a list of famous landmarks in Ireland and not include Glendalough Monastic Site. 

Located in County Wicklow, the Glendalough Monastic Site is a  great day trip from Dublin. Founded by Saint Kevin in the early 6th century, visiting this early Christian settlement is like stepping back in time. After visiting the Visitors Center, head toward the site itself. You begin by entering through the ancient medieval gateway. 

This gateway is a premier example of ancient Roman architecture and served as the entry point into the settlement.

Once inside the site, you will notice that there are several structures and buildings for you to explore, most of which date back to the 11th and the 12th century. The most notable of these is the Round Tower, which stands 30m high! In addition to the gateway and the Round Tower, the site also consists of seven churches, the priest’s house, two High Crosses, a graveyard, St. Kevin’s Cell (hermitage hut), and St. Kevin’s Bed (cave). Be sure to take time to visit and explore each of the structures, as each is unique and historic.

While in this area, take some time to explore the valley and lakes that originally drew Saint Kevin to this area. If you visit the Upper Lake, you will find the cave where Saint Keven spent seven years of his life. You will find several other trails throughout the beautiful Wicklow Mountain area just waiting to be explored.  

Explored by Michelle from That Texas Couple

The  Guinness Storehouse  is truly the best out of all the famous landmarks in Ireland. It’s the very place where Ireland’s best beer, Guinness, is brewed!

It’s been in the very same location since the late 18th century when Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease! Seriously, Guinness isn’t going anywhere.

This storehouse is made up of seven floors. If it was filled up with beer, it’d be the biggest pint glass in the whole world! What’s so great about the Guinness Storehouse is that it’s extremely interactive. You can have fun with a lot of the exhibits; watching short films, testing your knowledge, and even learning the right way to drink Guinness!

The true highlight of the storehouse is the Gravity Bar at the top. You can turn your ticket in for a free pint and enjoy panoramic views of Dublin down below. Of course, this part of the museum can get the busiest because of the view, so try to come earlier in the day for your tour if you can.

All tours are offered with a time slot, so you’ll want to purchase your tickets well in advance to make sure that you can get a time that works easily for you. Once you’re inside, you can stay for as long as you want!

The storehouse is located in a pretty central area right near the River Liffey, so it’s not too difficult to get to. You could drive or utilize public transportation. For buses, the 40 towards Liffey Valley, 123 towards Walkinstown, and the 13 towards Grange Castle all have stops right nearby. The red LUAS line also has a stop on James’s right nearby.

Explored by Krystianna from Volumes & Voyages

It is a haunting sight. High stone walls, cavernous courtyards and cold, damp quarters. It was hard to imagine this as a state-of-the-art penitentiary in 1796, but that is exactly what Dublin’s Kilmainham Gaol (pronounced jail) was. It housed men, women and even children for everything from petty crimes of stealing food to murder and insurrection. Its youngest prisoner was seven when caught stealing food.  

This was one of the original penitentiaries which hoped that through reflection (penance) and reading the bible; prisoners would be rehabilitated. Sitting in a cell with only The Bible and their thoughts, over 4,000 prisoners waited here before they were shipped off to penal colonies in Australia . The gaol had separate areas for men and women who were seldom together with the exception of Sunday service. There was both a Catholic and Protestant Chapel.

Kilmainham Gaol was closed in 1924 after years of holding and at times executing both men and women for heinous as well as political crimes. The museum illustrates the struggle of Irish nationalism, the Irish-Anglo conflict, including multiple insurrections. At it’s most gruesome the history of how those convicted of the 1916 Easter Rising were imprisoned and executed. There is an eerie single cross in the courtyard commemorating the event. 

That kind of history is what you will find in spades at the Kilmainham Gaol Museum. You can  visit the Kilmainham Prison  by purchasing your tickets in advance (no walk-up visitors are accepted at this time). You will be required to wear a mask, and guided tours have been made smaller to adhere to social distancing protocols.

Whether to take a tour bus or public transport, a visit to Kilmainham Gaol is worth a stop on your tour of Dublin. The gaol is considered an important national monument to the Irish struggle for independence from Britain.

Explored by Margarita Ibbott from DownshiftingPRO

Initially constructed as a castle as a sensual gift in 1867, the Kylemore Abbey and the nearby mountains and lakes are steeped in tradition filled with tales of catastrophe, romanticism, engineering, gambling and royal visits. Around 1920, it became host to a Benedictine Nuns congregation and became known as a centre of meditation and learning.

Kylemore’s tale – Castle and Abbey alike – is a genuinely amazing one. From the inception to the modern-day, the changes of destiny that have shaped its existence converge to construct a vivid and changing narrative. Tucked away at the foot of Druchruach Mountain on the edge of Lough Pollacappul (in he heart of the Connemara Mountains,) in the west of Ireland, this is not only one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland – but one of its most gorgeous. It is all very moody, and it reminds us of  the melancholy nature of nearby Scotland.

 The Benedictine community is still very much present here though the school closed in 2010 and the property focussed now on education and retreat activities. The nuns have done an incredible job restored Abbey’s gardens and church with the help of endowments, and regional artisans have also been brought in to ensure the continuance of this self-sustaining estate.

 Today the Kylemore Abbey and the grounds are open to guests throughout the year and the main areas to enjoy include the Abbey, the Gothic Church, the Victorian Walled Gardens, and the quiet lake and woodland walks. There is also a cute tea room, craft shop and restaurant to complete the visit.

Mussenden Temple is located near Castlerock in Country Londonderry in Northern Ireland. The temple sits on a 120 feet high dramatic cliff, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Mussenden Temple was originally built in 1785 and formed part of the estate of Frederick Augustus Hervey, Bishop of Derry and Earl of Bristol (or the Earl Bishop). The temple was built as a summer library, and the temple’s architecture is inspired from Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, Rome. It was once possible to drive a carriage around the temple. However, now due to coastal erosion, the temple stands closer to the edge of the cliff.  

Hence in 1997, understanding the importance to preserve the building, National Trust carried out cliff stabilization work to ensure the building is able to sustain coastal erosion. The entire temple and surrounded Downshill Demesne are part of National Trust and is open to the public all year round. Offering sweeping views of Downhill beach on the west and as far as Magilligan Point and County Donegal and Castlerock beach towards Portstewart, Portrush and Fair Head. On the east. 

Needless to say, the temple is one of the most photographed tourist spots in Ireland.  

The attraction is also popular amongst Game of Thrones fans, as Mussenden Temple appears as Dragonstone in the season seven of the series.

While driving by car is the best option to reach the attraction, there are trains that connect to Castlerock from Belfast and Londonderry.  

Explored by Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple

The Rock of Cashel is located in the beautiful  County Tipperary  and is one of the most amazing structures to be seen in the country. This iconic location towers over the traditional town of Cashel. The Rock of Cashel is also known as Cashel of the Kings.

 It was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster long before the Norman invasion. The majority of the buildings at the site date back from around the 12th and 13th centuries which is when the rock was gifted to the church.

This is truly a fantastic place to visit, and no photos can give justice to the grandeur and beauty of the architecture on offer. It’s no wonder it’s one of Ireland’s most visited sights. Entrance costs €8.00 for adults, and there is lots of information given to learn more about the history, including a small museum. You can even take a guided tour which runs multiple times a day.

 This excellent spot will take around 1 hour to visit, and if you visit on a sunny, clear day, you’ll have beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and the town of Cashel. If you’re taking an Irish road trip, then stopping at the Rock of Cashel will be easy with your own car. But you can also get organized tours from both Kilkenny and Cork if you prefer. The site is open from 9 am to 7 pm (depending on the time of year), but visit early, or just before closing to avoid the crowds. 

Explored by Cazzy Magennis from Dream Big, Travel Far 

Without a doubt, one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks is the island of Skellig Michael. Situated roughly 12 kilometres off the coast of County Kerry, this rocky outcrop is so remote and unique, that its otherworldly nature has attracted people for centuries.

Monks first settled on the island between the 6th and 8th centuries and lived simple, very isolated lives until about the 13th century. The remains of their early monastic settlement, including their well-preserved stone beehive huts, can still be seen today. The island’s unparalleled beauty and secluded nature has become even more famous since it was recently featured as a  Star Wars film location.

Since 1996, the island has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the remarkable preservation of the early Christian settlement. In addition to its important cultural heritage, the island, along with the other smaller surrounding islands, is a protected seabird sanctuary. To minimize the impact of tourism and disruption to the fauna, tours to the island only run during the summer months (usually mid-May to September) and visitor numbers are limited by a daily quota.

 As demand is high, it is necessary to book your ticket to the island well in advance to avoid disappointment. To reach the island, you must take a ferry from Portmagee, Caherdaniel or Ballinskelligs Pier, which takes about an hour. After landing on the island, tourists generally have roughly 2.5 hours to explore the island. Comfortable footwear is advised. There are over 600 steps to climb on the island if you want to experience the amazing views at the top.

There are also no facilities on the island, so whatever you need, be sure to bring it with you. It is worth keeping in mind that during poor weather conditions, the ferry sailings will be cancelled.

Explored by Emer and Nils from Let’s Go Ireland

Donegal’s Slieve League Cliffs are among the most striking natural attractions in Ireland. The cliffs (also sometimes known as Sliabh Liag) tower over their surrounding landscape and plunge nearly 600 meters into the churning Atlantic Ocean below.

The Slieve League Cliffs lie along the  Wild Atlantic Way , between Donegal town and Ardara. From Teelin, a narrow road leads to the rugged scenic area.

The Slieve League cliffs are free to visit and contain two main parking lots. The lower car park is located near a gate that remains closed in order to stop the movement of sheep. If you open the gate and drive beyond it, the road continues to an upper car park that sits conveniently near one of the area’s preeminent lookouts.

From the upper car park, a precipitous footpath leads along the edge of the sea cliffs, to One Man’s pass. The narrow trail affords breathtaking views of the towering rock faces and pounding surf. On a clear day, it is possible to see across the water to Sligo, Leitrim and Mayo counties.

Though Slieve League is most notable for its natural splendour, the area is also home to historical relics. Ancient stone remains near the cliffs suggest that the area was once a pilgrimage destination. Nearby, an early Christian monastic site sits high on the surrounding slopes. And by the main viewing area, a tower stands look out over the dramatic coastline. The tower was built in preparation for a possible Napoleonic invasion in the 19th century.

The soaring cliffs of Slieve League are among the top places to visit in County Donegal. Yet, while they are three times taller than the infamous Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, they receive only a fraction of the visitors.

In fact, despite their geological grandeur, the iconic Slieve League Cliffs remain blissfully crowd-free and off the beaten path—at least for now.

Explored by Erika from Erika’s Travels

Celebrated throughout the world, St. Patrick’s Day has become synonymous with Ireland, Christianity, the shamrock, the colour green, beer and parades. Saint Patrick is the most revered saint in Ireland, and his gravesite can be found on a very short trip from Belfast in Northern Island.

St. Patrick’s Grave and Down Cathedral  are located on Cathedral Hill, the highest point of the Mound of Down in Downpatrick, Down Country. Only 20 miles from Belfast, Downpatrick Cathedral, its ancient graveyard, and Celtic Cross are right next to the Down County Museum (in the 18th-century gaol) and the Saint Patrick Center.

Saint Patrick was born in Roman Britain and abducted as a slave to Ireland when he was 16 and spent the next six years as a herdsman. He returned to Britain but decided to become a missionary in Ireland, building churches and preaching in north and west Ireland. He routinely risked being killed for his beliefs.

Myths and legends have sprung up about St Patrick, and it feels like there’s a relic of the saint in every town, but his grave is visited by thousands of pilgrims a year. Saint Patrick died in 471 AD and is buried along with the two other most famous Catholic saints of Ireland (Saint Brigid and Saint Columcille) in a grave in front of the Cathedral. In 1900 the grave had an enormous slab of granite placed upon it to stop an old practice where Irish who were emigrating took a small amount of earth from the grave with them to their new countries.

In addition to seeing the grave, it is worth spending time wandering through the graveyard as the gravestones date from the 1500s. The Cathedral is also worth a visit. In addition to a magnificent pipe organ, the stained glass windows tell the story of the life of Saint Patrick.

Explored by Monique at Tripanthropologist.com

Dublin’s Custom House is considered one of the most iconic landmarks of the city, a  masterpiece of European neo-classicism, that took ten years to complete. When it was in opened  1791, its total cost has come to cost £200,000 to build – a considerable sum at the time and was used to collect tariffs on goods for the port. 

Situated on the north side of the Liffey River, near Butt Bridge and Talbot Memorial Bridge on Custom House Quay, the ports moved downriver over time, and this grand building became obsolete.  The primary function of the Custom House was then as used by local government, until during the Irish War of Independence the house was burned to the ground on 25 May 1921; in an attempt to disrupt British rule in Ireland. 

Thankfully, after the Anglo-Irish Treaty, it was reconstructed by the Irish Free State government, but with local materials — and of course, the historical records within were lost forever. Make sure it is on your list of places to see at Dublin, especially at night when it is lit up and looks phenomenal from across the river.

The Dark Hedges is one of those magical landmarks that you can only appreciate in person. The road is a photographer’s dream, and people visit from all over the world to get that perfect atmospheric shot. It is even believed to be the most photographed place in Northern Ireland!

Since the Dark Hedges was used as a location for the HBO television series Game Of Thrones, it has become an incredibly popular tourist attraction. The series featured the area as the King’s Road, but the scenes showing the Dark Hedges in all their glory barely lasts a minute! It was still enough to convince fans to flock to the filming location!

The tunnel of beech trees was planted along the roadside in the eighteenth century as an entranceway to the new Stuart family house. The Gracehill House belonged to James Stuart and Grace Lynd and still stands there today as a golf course. Their daughter’s spirit is said to float through the trees, so look out for her if you arrive at dusk!

There are many tours that can take you to the Dark Hedges, but you’ll be one of many buses/vans vying for space. You can also hire a car to get there. Not only will you have more freedom but you can visit when the hordes of tourists aren’t there to ruin the moment.

To get there by car just enter The Dark Hedges into Google Maps, or enter Bregagh Road, Ballymoney BT53 8TP. You can approach the trees from the Northern end, or Southern end and both views offer something a little different. If you want my opinion, then I preferred the view from the Northern end, looking south!

My tip for getting the most out of your visit is to hire a car and get there early morning or late afternoon. You’ll see the road without as many tourists and can take as long as you want to photograph this magnificent landmark.

Explored by Jeff from Life Of Y

The Stairway to Heaven, and no not the Led Zeppelin song but an incredible 33km trail that goes up a mountain in Fermanagh, Northern Ireland known as  the Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Trail . The trail leads up Fermanagh’s highest mountain, and in Gaelic, its name means chalky peak. It is certainly one of the most famous natural landmarks in Ireland – and should feature on your Ireland travel plans.

Sitting on the border of Cavan in the Republic and Fermanagh in the north this area within the Cladagh Glen Nature Reserve which was recognized as one of the first UNESCO European Geoparks. It is also the world’s first transnational cross-border Geopark.

The park is around a 3-hour drive from Dublin, and yes you will need a car to get there. The other option is to take a tour which will cost around €60 euros. If you drive you can park at the Marble Arch Caves Car Park which will cost £5, but they’ll take five euro if you haven’t any sterling.

The Stairway to Heaven is a 1.6 km boardwalk that was built to protect a unique habitat known as a blanket bog. The bog was facing erosion from walkers doing the hike, and so a 1.6 km boardwalk was built to protect the bog.

The hike itself takes around 4 hours to the top and back and includes 450 stairs to the top. Fortunately, there are rest platforms along the way from where you will have stunning views of the countryside and Loch Antona.

Explored by Faith from xyuandbeyond.com

Situated in the Titanic Quarter area of Belfast, Northern Ireland, the iceberg-shaped  Titanic Belfast museum  is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Symbolic of the city’s long shipbuilding heritage, this museum guides visitors through the story of Belfast’s relationship with shipbuilding through the ages before introducing us to the most famous ship built in the city – the ill-fated RMS Titanic.

Designed by Eric Kuhne and Associates and Todd Architects, the building stands 38 metres tall, the same height as Titanic’s hull, and its design was intended to reflect Belfast’s history of shipbuilding through its angular form, which models the shape of ships’ bows. Opening in just 2012, this museum has fast become one of Northern Ireland’s most famous attractions, and for a good reason.

Although tickets aren’t especially cheap (£19 for standard admission), the museum has pulled out all the stops to give visitors value for money. From a virtual tour of the ship right from the bottom up to artefacts from the ship (and the beloved James Cameron movie!). There’s even a ride, which guides you through the shipbuilding process, complete with sweltering heat and hammering as the builders work around you!

Standard admission tickets also include entry to the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line Vessel, and the tug-boat which transferred first and second class passengers from Cherbourg to the Titanic.

To get from the city centre of Belfast to the Titanic Quarter (and if the weather is on your side), the walk is around 25-30 minutes. If you don’t fancy that, catch bus 26, 26A, 26B, or 26C from the Belfast Welcome Centre in the city which will drop you off at Titanic Belfast.

Explored by Ella from Many More Maps

Torc Waterfall is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Ireland. Located in Killarney National Park, it is often referred to as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Europe  and visiting the waterfall is one of the highlights of the famous Ring of Kerry road trip. Even better- it’s only a 5-minute walk from the road, so perfect for a quick stop or a picnic lunch.

The falls are 20m high and 110m long and form a cascade, which is particularly impressive after heavy rain.

The waterfall can become very busy in peak season, especially at the lower viewing point. For the best experience, visit early or late in the day to avoid the crowds and also to have the best chance of seeing the elusive red deer which roam the woodlands, although they tend to avoid humans if they hear you.

You can reach the base of the waterfall via a short woodland path from the nearby car park. For the best spot to take photos, find the stone steps to the left of the waterfall and climb up to the higher vantage point. Here, you’ll not only have a superb view of the waterfall, but also over the Lakes of Killarney- breathtaking on a sunny day.

The path is uneven, and there are around 100 steps, so comfortable shoes and some mobility are a must. If you would like to do more hiking in the area, there are several different looped walks close by with a variety of difficulty levels.

Explored by Kat from Wandering Bird Motorhome Adventures

Trinity College, formerly Queen Elizabeth’s College of the Holy and Undivided Trinity in Dublin, is the University of Dublin’s only constituent college. Queen Elizabeth, I created the college in 1592 as “the mother of a university” based on the academic colleges of Oxford and Cambridge. Today, the designations “Trinity College” and “University of Dublin” are generally interchangeable for functional purposes.

 It is one of Britain and Ireland’s seven ancient universities, and the oldest surviving university in Ireland. Trinity College is widely considered Ireland’s most prestigious university, and one of Europe’s most privileged academic institutions. In the fields of law, literature and humanities, the college is especially applauded.

Interestingly, in compliance with the ad eundem gradum rule, a type of acceptance that occurs between the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge and the University of Dublin, a graduate of Oxford, Cambridge, or Dublin can be awarded with an equal degree without further review at any of the other two universities.

While Trinity was initially built outside of Dublin’s town walls, it is now surrounded by central Dublin and is situated opposite the old Irish Houses of Parliament on College Lawn. Trinity College was set up partly to unify the rule of the Tudor monarchy in Ireland, and as a consequence for much of its history was the University of Protestant Ascendancy.

Although Catholics were permitted from 1793, certain limitations on college membership existed, as Protestants were reserved for professorships, fellowships, and scholarships. An Act of Parliament in 1873 lifted those restrictions, but then the Catholic Church in Ireland explicitly prohibited its members from attending Trinity College without approval from 1871 until 1970.

 The college campus is often considered one of the world’s most beautiful university campuses, mainly because of its legendary Georgian architectural buildings. It is, for this reason, it is considered one of the landmarks of Ireland, much like the  University of Coimbra is considered one of Portugals  and the  University of Oxford, one of the United Kingdoms . The college campus covers 190,000 square metres (47 acres), with a vast collection of stunning buildings ranging from large quadrangles (known as squares) to two sports fields.

The Library of Trinity College is a legal deposit library for Ireland and Great Britain, protecting about 7 million published volumes and manuscripts, including the renowned Book of Kells, which came to college in 1661 for safe custody after the Cromwellian raids on religious organizations. The vast set stored in the Long Room contains a rare reproduction of the Irish Republic’s 1916 Declaration and a famous wooden harp from the 15th century that is the basis for Ireland’s national emblem.

Every year the library itself attracts more than half a million visitors, making it one of the biggest in Ireland and should not be missed. 

• NORTHERN IRELAND
• TRAVEL TIPS

16 Famous Landmarks in Ireland You Must Visit

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Are you planning a trip to the Emerald Isle? You’re in luck! There are many famous landmarks in Ireland, ranging from ancient sites to beautiful castles that you won’t want to miss out on.

Plus, each attraction will get you even closer to Irish culture and history.

Depending on the length of your trip to Ireland , you may be able to visit a lot of these Irish landmarks.

A lot of them are located right in Dublin, so if you’re flying into Dublin International Airport, you’ll easily be able to see at least three top attractions in the country.

So, what are you waiting for? Start reading this list of the most famous landmarks in Ireland !

🔎 Table of Contents

Top famous landmarks in Ireland

You will find below all the most famous landmarks in Ireland, a description, how to visit and why you should do so!

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher is arguably the most-visited out of all of the landmarks in Ireland.

They are one of the most famous landmarks in Galway in County Clare, the western part of the country.

Unlike some of the other Ireland landmarks on this list, the Cliffs of Moher are entirely natural and have been there for centuries.

These cliffs stand 155 m (509 feet) above the Atlantic Ocean down below and have been featured in countless movies, including Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and The Princess Bride.

It’s actually the only Harry Potter filming location outside of the United-Kingdom!

Most people visit the Cliffs of Moher by visiting Galway and driving an hour and a half south to get to them.

Other options include taking a day tour, and there are many companies in Ireland that operate trips from cities like Dublin and Cork to the Cliffs of Moher.

When visiting, be smart about what you wear!

The Cliffs of Moher are always very windy because they’re on the coast, and often the trails near the edge can also be quite muddy.

Be sure to stay mindful of the marked paths and not get too close to the edge for safety reasons.

Blarney Castle

Out of all the Irish Castles, Blarney Castle is the most well-known!

It’s one of the famous landmarks in Cork and is home to the Blarney Stone, which you must climb to the top of the castle and lean over the edge to kiss.

This castle was built by the MacCarthys of Muskerry in the fifteenth century and served as a fortress for many years.

Unlike some other castles in Ireland, much of this castle is well-preserved, and guests can climb through it and explore.

Blarney Castle is surrounded by tons of gardens that you can explore because access is included in your ticket.

Some of the top places to visit on the grounds include the Poison Garden, Bog Garden, The Jungle, and the Fern Garden & Ice House.

The majority of people will visit Blarney Castle while staying in Cork. From Cork, you can easily hop on a bus that will only take thirty minutes or take a fourteen-minute drive. If you opt to take the bus, be sure to purchase a Leap Card to save money.

Plan on spending at least five to six hours at the castle if you want to explore the gardens!

Book of Kells

The Book of Kells is one of the historical landmarks in Ireland that you won’t want to miss out on.

It’s located right in Dublin and is hosted at Trinity College, one of the country’s top universities.

Trinity College is impossible to miss and isn’t that far from the River Liffey or Grafton Street.

As one of the most beautiful and well-preserved illuminated manuscripts in the world, the 9th-century Book of Kells only has a few pages on display at a time.

They’re rotated throughout the year, so if you visit multiple times, you may see a different page.

To see the Book of Kells, you do have to purchase your tickets well in advance. Because it’s one of the top attractions in Dublin, tickets are sold with a timed entry.

They can be purchased online or right at Trinity College.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Another one of the famous landmarks in Dublin is St. Patrick’s Cathedral! It’s a 12th-century cathedral that is most well-known for being home to beautiful architecture and also being the final resting place of Jonathan Swift, the author of Gulliver’s Travels .

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the Church of Ireland’s national cathedral, and it’s visited by both locals and tourists.

You do have to pay a small fee to enter, but it’s worth it.

Plus, you can join in on a tour that’s included in the ticket or tour the entire cathedral on your own. Be on the lookout for the Jonathan Swift artefacts!

To get here, you’ll want to head to St. Patrick’s Close.

It’s right near the Temple Bar neighbourhood and can easily be reached by public transportation, so it’s pretty accessible to visitors travelling to Ireland.

The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is one of the best Irish landmarks. It’s a bit different from other landmarks on this list because it’s a scenic road trip route versus an actual ‘destination’, but it absolutely should not be missed.

It’s located in County Kerry and often starts in the beautiful town of Killarney, which can be reached within a few hour’s drive from Dublin.

While you can drive the entire Ring of Kerry without stopping in only three hours, it makes a great road trip spread over a few days if you want to enjoy it more.

Some of the most popular stops along The Ring of Kerry include Killarney National Park, the Kerry Cliffs, and Portmagee.

If you’re a chocolate lover, be sure to stop by Skellig Chocolates too.

Keep in mind that this is a popular route done by tourists, but most people head south first.

Explore a lot of the attractions alone and run into less traffic by starting north instead.

Rock of Cashel

Next is the Rock of Cashel, one of the best famous places in Ireland. Located in Co. Tipperary, this historic site was built in the twelfth century and has been popularly visited by tourists road tripping the country ever since.

It was initially built to be a fortress by the Kings of Munster and is pretty well-preserved compared to many other historical monuments like it in the country.

On average, you’ll most likely need about two hours to explore it. Tickets are relatively cheap to visit, so there’s no excuse for you not to!

An easy way to visit is to stop at the Rock of Cashel on a road trip to Cork because it’s on the way.

There isn’t a whole lot to do in the area that it’s located in, but you could take time to explore the small Irish town.

Arguably one of the most famous monuments in Ireland, Newgrange dates back to prehistoric times and is located in Co. Meath. This passage tomb is believed to have been built in 3200 BC.

In fact, it’s even older than the pyramids in Egypt!

This ancient tomb served as a burial ground for a group of people who ruled Ireland thousands of years ago. It was excavated in the late twentieth century, and those who excavated it were amazed at its architecture.

Plus, it’s been very well kept since its founding.

You can go inside the passage tomb, but this is normally only when you book a tour.

Otherwise, you’ll just have access to the grounds to view its outside.

To get to Newgrange, you can either book a day tour or drive to County Meath.

Even if you’re not a fan of history, you honestly will want to add this Irish landmark to your list of must-visit attractions in the country.

Skellig Islands

The Skelling Islands are one of the coolest landmarks in Ireland.

They’re located off the country’s western coast and are often visited via ferry from Portmagee.

The set of islands include Skellig Michael and Little Skellig.

Most people opt to visit Skellig Michael because it was featured in the Star Wars franchise, which is where it gained its popularity.

It’s also home to a historic Christian monastery and a beautiful lighthouse.

The islands got their names because monks used to live on the island. They’re truly beautiful and surrounded by dark turquoise waters.

Keep in mind that it’s more popular to visit the Skellig Islands in the summer because the weather is nicer.

Rough weather can make the water unsafe for the ferries, which is the only way to get to the Skellig Islands.

Guinness Storehouse

Located in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse is where the most famous beer in all of Ireland is made.

Luckily, you’re allowed to tour this remarkable establishment!

Honestly, this is one of the top Irish landmarks, and you’ll want at least a few hours to explore it.

In 1759, Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease for the location at St. James’ Gate for a low annual price. Guinness has been brewed at this location ever since, and it’s good that it has been there for so long.

The Guinness family has helped out the country multiple times throughout Ireland’s hardships over the years.

Tickets are sold on a timed-entry basis and tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Purchase them online ahead of time, at least a few weeks before your trip, to be safe.

The tour will take you through the entire brewing process, and it ends with a trip to the Gravity Bar, which overlooks the whole city. Plus, you get a free pint here!

Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol is one of the famous landmarks in Dublin that dates back to the 18th century.

While the jail was only open for a little over 100 years, it’s become famous for its connection to the 1916 Easter Rising.

Many leaders involved in this historic event were jailed at this very prison.

The prison officially closed in 1924 and has since become a public museum.

It’s very easy to get here, and you can take the Dublin Bus if you aren’t renting a car during your trip to Ireland.

Tours last about one hour, so plan your visit wisely.

History fans might find that they could easily spend a few hours here!

Like other Dublin attractions, you have to book a timed-entry ticket in advance to visit Kilmainham Gaol.

This can be done online to make it easy for you when you’re planning your trip. 

Dingle Peninsula

Dingle Peninsula is another one of the best areas to visit in Ireland that you won’t want to miss out on.

It’s located in Western Ireland along the Atlantic Ocean and is one of the most beautiful parts of the country.

This peninsula is most well-known for having a solid connection with the Irish language.

You may even find locals who still speak Irish Gaelic, and it’s an excellent opportunity to pick up on a few sayings and connect more with the culture during your visit.

Top places to explore on Dingle Peninsula include Brandon Mountain, Dingle Bay, the Blasket Islands, and Conor Pass.

The best way to explore it is by road tripping the peninsula, so be sure to rent a car or go on a day tour of it if you can!

It’s not that far from Galway, so you could easily visit both places in the same weekend while visiting Ireland.

The Temple Bar Pub

The Temple Bar Pub is one of the very best Ireland landmarks.

Located in Dublin, even if you haven’t been to Ireland, you’ve probably heard of this place.

It’s most well-known for its extensive unique collection of rare alcohol and is a popular meeting place for tourists and locals.

This pub is a bright red colour that has become iconic.

It’s located in the lively Temple Bar neighbourhood, which has become one of the best places to visit in all of Dublin for nightlife despite having a harsh past.

It was built in 1840 and has been a staple in Ireland ever since. In addition to their rare whiskies, they also sell hard ciders, beers and have an extensive sandwich menu.

This place gets bustling in the evening, no matter what time of year it is.

Plan on visiting for lunch or in the early evening so that you can get a seat and enjoy yourself.

Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is the largest coastal scenic route in the world. It goes almost all the way around the country, with stops at the top monuments and destinations, including the Cliffs of Moher.

This route goes on for 2,500 km is truly beautiful. It’s often done with a road trip lasting at least one week, though two weeks is a lot better if you want to enjoy it more.

The best way to explore it is on a road trip, so you will want to rent a car. If you’re travelling with a bit more of a budget, then you can also go on day trips with tour bus companies from Dublin that go along part of the route.

A few of the top sights to visit along the Wild Atlantic Way include Slea Head, the Cliffs of Moher, Croagh Patrick, and the Slieve League Cliffs.

What’s so great about doing this road trip is that you’ll truly see some of the best coastal spots that Ireland is most well known for.

Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey is one of the historical landmarks in Ireland located in the western part of the country.

It’s a monastery that opened in the early twentieth century and is beautiful.

It’s located right on a lake that makes the whole area feel like paradise.

The abbey was restored in 1996, and the gardens got a huge makeover.

What’s interesting about it is that it also doubles as a castle, which only adds to its allure.

If you do get the chance to visit here, take the time to explore Connemara National Park, too, which is right in the area.

You do have to pay to enter the abbey, but it’s well worth it.

If you get hungry during your visit, you’re in luck.

There’s a restaurant there that has pretty great food with quite a few different options for picky eaters.

Hill of Tara

Last but not least is the Hill of Tara, another of the historical landmarks in Ireland. It’s an ancient burial site from the Neolithic era and is also located in Co. Meath like Newgrange, so you can easily visit both within the same day.

It’s most well known for its connection to the High Kings of Ireland.

If you’re a fan of Irish mythology, you may have also read about it before in books or online. Also, a passage tomb was built here.

When you visit, be on the lookout for the fairy tree.

This is an ancient Irish tradition in which someone ties a piece of fabric to the tree and makes a wish.

They’re entirely colourful and can be found all over the country, usually near ancient sites.

Fairy trees are significant to the Irish, and highways and roads are sometimes built entirely around them because of the superstition of cutting one down.

King John’s Castle

Located in Limerick, King John’s Castle is one of the most famous castles in Ireland.

It was built in 1200 which means you get to discover over 800 years of history.

The site where the castle stands was occupied by the Vikings for over 1,000 years before being taken by the Normans.

The castle was built by King John of England who was Richard the Lionheart’s brother.

You can visit the castle any day of the week (but opening times vary depending on the season). Tickets are available on the official website.

Map of the famous landmarks in Ireland

As you can see, there are tons of Ireland landmarks, and each one is better than the last. When planning your trip, be sure to research as much as you can and always book your tickets well in advance.

This way, your trip will go as smoothly as possible.

Enjoy your trip to the Emerald Isle!

You may also be interested in:

• 7-day Ireland Itinerary: Exactly How to Spend a Week in Ireland
• The Best Ireland Quiz: 100 Trivia Questions and Answers about Ireland
• 18 Incredible facts about Dublin that will blow your mind
• 30 Interesting and Fun Facts about Ireland that will blow your mind!
• 29 Famous Landmarks in Europe You Must See At Least Once in your Life

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

10 Most Famous Landmarks in Ireland: From Ancient Ruins to Modern Marvels

When it comes to Ireland landmarks, there are some that spring to mind immediately. And some famous landmarks of Ireland are on everyone’s Ireland bucket list. If you are looking to visit some of the best places in Ireland, then this list of the most famous landmarks in Ireland will help you and anyone else planning a trip to the Emerald Isle.

When it comes to famous landmarks, Ireland is not short of a few. From natural landmarks in Ireland such as the Cliffs of Moher to historical and man-made ones, there is plenty on offer to fuel everyone’s wanderlust, whether you are based on the Emerald Isle and looking for somewhere new to discover, or if you are planning a visit and looking to add to your itinerary.

In this post, you will discover 10 of the best and most famous sites in Ireland covering the length and breadth of the country. Most you will have heard of or read about, but you might come across a new one to add to the bucket list.

Newgrange Passage Tomb, Meath

Most famous landmarks in ireland, the rock of cashel, tipperary.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Southern Ireland is the Rock of Cashel. Overlooking the Tipperary countryside, this famous historic landmark in Ireland often features top of the list for bucket-list destinations in Ireland.

Imposing looking atop its hill, the Rock of Cashel overlooks the landscape below and is somewhere most people visiting Ireland want to go. Also known as Cashel of the Kings, and St Patrick’s Rock, the Rock of Cashel was once the seat of the High Kings of Ireland.

It was donated by a High King to the Church in the 12 th century and contains many buildings to explore. Its oldest building is a well-preserved round tower dating from the early 12 th -century. As well as this, there are other buildings of note including Cormac’s Chapel, built from sandstone, the cathedral which is the predominated building that can be seen from miles around, and the graveyard which contains many fine examples of Irish Celtic crosses .

Work on the cathedral began in the 12 th -century and continued over the centuries. However, its roof was removed by an Anglican Archbishop in the mid-18 th century, and it has remained roofless ever since. The curved beams of the original roof remain, giving visitors a taste of what it might have looked like.

Location : St. Patrick’s Rock of Cashel, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, E25 KX44

More information .

Giant’s Causeway, Antrim

One of the most famous landmarks in Northern Ireland also happens to contain the most famous rock formations in Ireland. The Giant’s Causeway is another bucket-list destination for visitors to the Emerald Isle, and when you see pictures, it is easy to see why.

Located in County Antrim , the Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is managed by the National Trust. Consisting of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, this landmark of Ireland is another one of the most popular places to visit.

Created by a volcanic fissure eruption between 50 and 60 million years ago, these unusual rock formations spark the interest of everyone who sees them, either in person or in pictures.

Although we now know how they were formed, Irish legends said they were the remains of a causeway bridge created by a giant, Fionn mac Cumhaill. He was challenged to a fight by a Scottish giant. When it was accepted Fionn built the causeway bridge so they could meet. However, when Fionn realised his opponent is much bigger than he, he disguised himself as a baby and when his opponent saw the ‘baby’ of Fionn mac Cumhaill, he believed the father must be a giant among giants and fled back across the causeway, destroying the bridge as he went.

As there are identical rocks on the island of Staffa in Scotland across the sea, these may have influenced the legend that is still retold to children in Ireland today.

When it comes to Northern Ireland landmarks, you cannot get any more famous than the Giant’s Causeway. Visitors can walk across the basalt columns and can stop at the visitors’ centre where they can learn more about the formation of the rocks and the flora and fauna in the area. There are guided tours to join (these and the visitors’ experience must be pre-booked), trails along the paths that lead to the rocks, and a few other sights to see.

Location : 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Co. Antrim, BT57 8SU (UK)

Benbulbin, Sligo

One of the most famous landmarks of Ireland is also one of its most unique. Often referred to as Ireland’s Table Mountain, Benbulbin is the most distinctive mountain on the Emerald Isle.

Also called Benbulben, this flat-topped rock formation is located in County Sligo and is part of the Dartry Mountains. It was shaped during the Ice Age when Ireland was under glaciers. Originally a plateau, the distinctive shape was formed when glaciers moved southwest to form its present shape.

Benbulbin is a protected site and is a popular climbing destination in the county. It can be climbed from both the north and south faces, with the south being the easiest thanks to being sheltered from the worst of the high winds and storms that roll in from the Atlantic Ocean. Those who summit this unusual natural landmark in Ireland will be afforded some spectacular views on clear days.

Whether you choose to climb Benbulbin or not, it is one of the most unusual natural sights to see in Ireland, so go prepared with your camera at the ready.

Location : Benbulbin, Cloyragh, Co. Sligo

Cliffs of Moher, Clare

Of all the famous landmarks in Ireland, there are none more famous than the Cliffs of Moher. Standing 214 metres above the Atlantic Ocean at their highest point, north of O’Brien’s Tower, the Cliffs of Moher are also one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions.

Located along the Atlantic coast in County Clare, these natural sea cliffs run for 14 kilometres between the villages of Doolin and Liscannor.

Their name comes from an old defensive fort that once stood where Hag’s Head is to the south, called Mothar (Moher). The cliffs have been formed over millions of years due to erosion and are an awe-inspiring sight.

Visitors can enjoy walks along the paths that follow the tops of the cliffs, see interactive displays, learn about the flora and fauna of the cliffs in the Visitors’ Centre, or enjoy views across Galway Bay on clear days as far as the Aran Islands, and even the Twelve Bens peaks in Connemara.

While the cliffs themselves are free to visit, parking at the sight is payable and includes entry to the visitors’ centre. There are some other parking options in the surrounding area, but this may involve a walk to reach the cliffs.

Location : North Liscannor Co. Clare, V95 KN9T

The Burren, Clare

If it is natural Irish landmarks you are looking for, you won’t be disappointed by a visit to the Burren National Park. With its unique lunar-like landscape, this area is also one of the National Parks of Ireland.

1,500 hectares of bog, forests, mountains, heath, and grasslands await those who venture into this area of the West of Ireland, which is also a great place to visit on a day trip from Galway City .

The Burren is a popular landmark of Ireland that people often combine with trips to the Cliffs of Moher, mentioned above, as they are located within 40 minutes of one another in County Clare.

Visitors can enjoy walks along the many trails, visit ring forts, portal tombs such as the Poulnabrone Dolmen, and potentially spot some of the inhabitants of Ireland’s smallest National Park such as pine martin, foxes, and otters along the coastline.

The Burren, with its exposed karst limestone landscape which formed millions of years ago under a sea, is a truly unique landmark in Ireland worth visiting.

Location : Burren National Park, Clare Heritage Centre, Corofin, Clare, V95 T9V6

Glendalough Round Tower, Wicklow

One of the most famous historical sites in Ireland is Glendalough and its Round Tower. The area of Glendalough in County Wicklow is a glacial valley where the monastic site of the same name can be found.

Its famous early medieval monastic site was founded in the 6 th century by Saint Kevin, son of one of the ruling families of Leinster at the time. It remained an ecclesiastical site until its destruction by English forces in the late 14 th century, although it has remained a place of pilgrimage and importance ever since.

Glendalough is probably most famous for its Round Tower, standing 30 metres high. Its entrance is 3.5 metres from the base. Although its roof was rebuilt in the late 19 th century, it was done with the original stones.

Visitors can also explore other religious buildings such as St Peter and St Paul’s Cathedrals, the largest buildings at this historical landmark of Ireland. There are also several smaller churches, and buildings to visit. Close to the site, there is also a miner’s village, remnants of the galena lead mine in the area during the 19 th and early 20 th centuries.

Glendalough is also a place of natural beauty, with two lakes that have walking trails around them. You will also find an amazing waterfall in the woods surrounding the lakes, the Poulanass Waterfall. The woods are a serene and peaceful place to visit while in Glendalough, and if you visit during late Spring, you may be greeted by a carpet of bluebells , some of the best in Ireland.

As well as visiting the monastic site and walking some of the trails, visitors can enjoy incredible views across the lakes from The Spinc viewing platform, partake in rock climbing or pass through while walking the Wicklow Way.

Location : Glendalough Visitor Centre, Derrybawn, Glendalough, Co. Wicklow, A98 HC80

Slieve League, Donegal

While they are not the most famous cliffs in Ireland, the cliffs of Slieve League are gaining in popularity and can often be a quieter affair than their more famous counterparts in Clare.

Located along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Donegal , these sea cliffs which rise majestically out of the Atlantic Ocean are taller than the Cliffs of Moher at 596 metres at their highest.

Many visitors hike to the top of the cliffs to enjoy spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay. Visitors to the area can also enjoy the cliffs from boat tours that depart from nearby Teelin Harbour. If you choose this option, watch out for pods of dolphins during your trip.

While there is not much to do at the cliffs, there are several trails to walk affording you great views for your efforts. So, if you are looking for other natural landmarks in Ireland to visit, head to Donegal for the Slieve League cliffs.

Location : Slieve League Cliff Experience and Visitor Centre, Bunglas Road, Lergadaghtan, Teelin, Co. Donegal, F94 W8KC

Torc Waterfall, Kerry

One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Ireland is the Torc Waterfall, a natural landmark that is very popular with visitors to Killarney and the Ring of Kerry.

Called Easach Toirc in Irish, which means cascade of the wild boar, is a 20m high waterfall located in the Killarney National Park. This long cascade waterfall is formed by the Owengarriff River from a corrie lake above and lies at the base of the Torc Mountain.

Located just 7 kilometres from Killarney Town, this waterfall is a popular landmark in the region for visitors. The waterfall is located 200 metres from the car park and is accessed along a variety of looped trails for people with various abilities. Nearby, visitors can climb to viewing points for views across the Killarney lakes.

Many visitors to the Torc Waterfall combine it with visits to nearby Muckross House and Abbey. It is a great place to visit just off the Ring of Kerry.

Location : Cloghereen Upper, Killarney, Co. Kerry

Blarney Castle and Stone, Cork

One of the most popular tourist attractions on the Emerald Isle is Blarney Castle, and in particular, the Blarney Stone. This famous landmark of Ireland attracts thousands of visitors every year for mainly one reason, the Blarney Stone.

Blarney Castle is a medieval stronghold located about 20 minutes from Cork City and is one of the top things to do in County Cork . A castle has been on the site since the 13 th century, although the current structure dates from the mid-15 th century.

Although Blarney Castle is a partially ruined structure, some rooms and the battlements are still accessible, and it is at the top of the castle where you will find what everyone comes to see, the Blarney Stone.

It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone will be bestowed with the gift of eloquence or the gift of the gab. Whether or not it is true remains to be seen but nevertheless, the Blarney Stone attracts thousands of people every year. And it is no mean feat to kiss it, as you need to hang upside-down over a sheer drop in order to do so.

Blarney Castle is also surrounded by magnificent grounds and gardens including a poison garden, fern garden, two waterfalls and an arboretum. Visitors can also view Blarney House from the outside (it is still a private residence). So, if it is historical landmarks you want to visit, head to Blarney.

Location : Monacnapa, Blarney, Co. Cork

One of the best national monuments of Ireland to visit is the Newgrange Passage Tomb in the Brú na Bóinne Valley. This area of Ireland is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the historical importance of the landscape and many Neolithic and Megalithic tombs that can be found there. And one of the most important is Newgrange.

So-called due to its location along the Boyne River, this historical site is located just 8 kilometres from Drogheda and 40 kilometres from Dublin, making it a popular day trip from the Irish capital . The Brú na Bóinne area contains many passage chambers, tombs, standing stones, and other prehistoric enclosures.

Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth are the largest of the Megalithic passage tombs. Knowth is a Neolithic passage grave of one large mound and seventeen smaller mounds and has two passage chambers. Dowth is another passage tomb but is less developed as it is lower in the ground and can only be visited and seen from above ground.

Newgrange is the most famous of these passage tombs and chambers. Older than the pyramids and Stonehenge, it is aligned with the winter solstice, during which time the passage is illuminated all the way to the burial chamber during sunrise. Members of the public can enter Newgrange throughout the year, but during the winter solstice, only a small number of people, chosen via a lottery, can witness the sight.

The Brú na Bóinne Valley Monuments are one of the best ancient landmarks to visit in Ireland and can easily be done during a stay in Dublin. Note that visitors can only access the site via approved and official tours leaving from the Visitor Centre.

Location : Brú na Bóinne, Glebe, Donore, Co. Meath, A92 EH5C

Whether you are looking to visit historical places in Ireland or natural wonders, these are the most famous landmarks in Ireland to add to your list. With choices across the Emerald Isle, no Ireland itinerary would be complete without adding at least one of these to it.

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by Cath Jordan

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Privacy Overview

Map of Ireland with places to visit

With our interactive Ireland map, all the must-see attractions in Ireland and Northern Ireland are just one click away. Here you’ll find a comprehensive overview of scenic highlights, cliffs, beaches, castles, antiquities, gardens and much more. 

Meeting of the Waters & Old Weir Bridge

The National Monument

Nano Nagle Bridge

White Strand Beach

White Strand Bay

Vartry Reservoir

Vandeleur Walled Garden

Trinity College

Tourmakeady Waterfall

Torc Mountain Walk

Three Castle Head

St. Lua’s Oratory

St. Flannan’s Oratory

St. Brendan’s Well

Srahwee Wedge Tomb

Spinc and Glenealo Valley

Sketrick Castle

Cloghleagh Bridge & Shankill River

Seven Heads Bay

Sandycove Beach

Reefert Church

Ravensdale Dolmen

Rath Strand

Pulleen Loop Walk

Pulleen Harbour Bog

Powerscourt Waterfall

Port an Dorais

Pincher Bay

Old Bawn Beach

Nun’s Cove

Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul

Mullinhassig Wood & Poulanassig Waterfall

Muckross Lake

Muckross House & Gardens

Muckross Friary

Mornington Strand

Moone High Cross

Moloney’s Strand

Glendalough Miners Village

Mahon Falls

Loughane More Ring Fort

Lough Currane

Looscaunagh Lough

Long Woman’s Grave

Lissadell House & Gardens

Lettergesh Beach

Kockaunaniller Cliffs

Carlingford Castle

Kindred Spirits

Kilmacduagh Monastery & Round Tower

Killiney Beach

Kilcummin Bay Beach

Kilcooley Abbey

Kells Priory

Jameson Distillery Midleton

Enniscrone Castle

Hussey’s Folly

Huntington Castle and Gardens

Purteen Harbour

Grotto & Slate Quarry

Golden Castle

Glengarriff Nature Reserve

Glenarm Valley

Glenballyeamon

Gleensk Viaduct

Glebe Stone Circles

Glassilaun Beach

Glanleam Beach

Galley Cove

Split Rock / Fionn Mac Cumhal’s Stone

Eyrephort Beach

English Market in Cork

Dunworley Beach

Dunworley Bay

Dunbrody Castle

Dunany Beach

Dromineer Castle

Dingle Lighthouse

Dhurode Mine Powder House

Derryveagh Mountains

Cuas Pier Caves

Creagh Graveyard

Craigs Lower Passage Tomb

Courtown Beach

Shankill Beach

Coom Wedge Tomb

Cockle Row Cottages

Clonegal Bridge

Castlehaven Strand

Castledermot Friary

Castledermot Round Tower & High Crosses

Cashel Murphy

Carrowmore Lake

Carrowmore Beach

Carnivan Bay

Cahersiveen

Cahermore Pier

Burren Perfumery

Bunowen Castle

Brownshill Dolmen

Brigit’s Garden

Blarney Castle

Blackstairs Mountains

Bird Island

Bellacragher Bay

Barryscourt Castle

Barry’s Cove

Bishop’s Quarter Beach

Ballyvaughan

Ballymoney Beach

Ballymalis Castle

Ballydavid Cliff Walk

Ballinskelligs Pier

Tinnaberna Bay Beach

Dolmen of the Four Maols

Ardmore Point

Annascaul Lake

An Bhinn Dubh

Altagore Cashel

Ahakista Pier

High Mournes Scenic Loop

Coomhola Bridge

St Vincent’s Bridge

Shandon Bridge

Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral

Shandon Bells and Tower – St. Anne’s Church

Toe Head Signal Tower

Benvoy Strand

Roaringwater Bay

Wynn’s Castle

Warren Beach

Grand Canal

Urris Hills

Twelve Bens

Tranabo Cove

Tralong Bay

Traloher Strand

Torc Waterfall

Addergoole Titanic Memorial Park

The Gearagh

Tetrapod Footprints

Templetown Church

Temple of Deen

Pigeon Hole Cave and Teach Aille Cave

Swiss Cottage

St. Saviour’s Priory

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Sigginstown Castle

Shronebirrane Stone Circle

Sherkin Island

Sheen Falls

Rosscarbery

Rossbrin Castle

Ross Errilly Friary

Ross Castle

Rock Art at Letter West

Reenroe Beach / Inny Strand

Rattoo Round Tower

Rathlin Island

Rathfran Priory

Rabbit Island

Puffin Island

Puck’s Castle

Glengarriff

Poulnabrone Dolmen

Poulgorm Bridge

Owenahincha

The Old Barracks

Northburgh Castle

National Museum of Ireland

National Library of Ireland

Mount Gabriel

Mount Errigal

The Mottee Stone

Moll’s Gap

Memorial Garden in Kilmore Quay

Meeting of the Waters

Maynooth Castle

Mare’s Tail Waterfall

Magilligan Point

Macroom Castle

Loughareema

Lough Corrib

Lough Caragh

Lough Aughawoolia

Lough Abisdealy

Long Strand

Leacanabuaile Stone Fort

Lauragh Forest

Larrybane Quarry

Ladies’ View

Labbacallee Wedge Tomb

Kylemore Abbey

Knightstown

King John’s Castle

Kilmakilloge Church and Cemetery

Kilmainham Gaol

Kilcoe Castle

Kilcatherine Church and Cemetery

Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve

Macgillycuddy’s Reeks

Kerry Highlands

Kenmare Stone Circle

Kenmare River

Keelbeg Pier

Kealkill Stone Circle

John D’Arcy Monument

Jerpoint Abbey

Holy Island

Hill of Tara

Guinness Storehouse

Grange Stone Circle

Gougane Barra

Goat Island

Glenveagh National Park

Glenmore Valley

Gleninagh Castle

Glencar Waterfall

Glenbeg Lough

Glen of Aherlow

Gleesk Pier

Glanworth Castle

Glanmore Lake

Garnish Beach

Gap of Dunloe

Foilhommerum Bay

Ferrycarrig Tower House

Ferns Cathedral

Ferns Castle

Glenariff Forest Park

Errew Abbey

Enniscorthy Castle

Dwyer-McAllister Cottage

Scotsman’s Bay – Dún Laoghaire

Merrion Square

Half Penny Bridge

Dublin Castle

Drumlohan Ogham Stones and Souterrain

Downhill Beach

Downeen Castle

Doonbeg Castle

Doonagore Castle

Dooks Beach

Desmond Castle Adare

Derrynane Beg Ogham Stone

Derrynane House

Derrymore Beach

Derryclare Lough

Derreen Garden

Cranny Falls

Craggaunowen

Courtmacsherry Woods

Coppinger’s Court

Coosacuslaun Bay

Coomasaharn Lake

Cloonsharragh Standing Stones

Cloonee Lough

Clontygora Court Tomb

Clonca Church and High Cross

Clogher Strand

Glenevin Waterfall

Causeway Coast Way

Causestown Castle

Castletownshend

Castlepoint

Castlehaven Bay

Castlefreke Woods

Cashelkeelty Stone Circles

Carton House

Carrowmore High Crosses

Carrigaphooca Castle

Carriganass Castle

Carrigadrohid Castle

Carlingford Lough

Cahir Castle

Caha Mountains

Old Bushmills Distillery

Burrishoole Abbey

Buncrana Bridge

Bunagee Old Pier

Bonane Heritage Park

Boheh Stone

Bocan Stone Circle

Blennerville Windmill

The Blasket Centre

Blackstones Bridge

Black Valley

Bishop’s Quarter

Beltany Stone Circle

Beaghmore Stone Circles

Barnancleeve Gap

Barloge Creek

Barley Lake

Bantry House and Gardens

Banagher Old Church

Dún na Séad Castle

Church Strand Bay

Ballyrisode Beach

Ballynahinch Castle

Ballylinchy Signal Tower

Ballylahan Castle

Ballydonegan Beach

Ballydehob Viaduct

Ballycrovane Harbour

Ballycorus Leadmines

Ballybrack Dolmen

Ballaghisheen Pass

Ballaghbeama Gap

Aughadown Church and Graveyard

Athgreany Piper’s Stones

Ardmore Beach

Ashford Castle

Ardclinis Church

Ardgroom Stone Circle

Annagh Killadangan Archaeological Complex

Garrykennedy

Dark Hedges

Downhill Demense and Hezlett House

Dalkey Island

Dalkey Castle

Trawnamoe Cove

Brown’s Bay

Hill of Uisneach

Titanic Belfast

Rogerstown Estuary

Bannow Church

Priest’s Leap

Glanteenassig Forest Park

Dysert O’Dea

Abbey Island

Christ Church Cathedral

Reginald’s Tower

Athassel Priory

Rock of Cashel

Clonmacnoise

Portumna Castle and Gardens

Rock of Dunamase

Kilkenny Castle

Mellifont Abbey

Trim Castle

Hill of Slane

Monasterboice

Powerscourt Gardens

Castle Roche

Glendalough

Bloody Foreland

Ballyhiernan Bay

Isle of Doagh

Kinnagoe Bay

Inishowen Head

Mussenden Temple

Londonderry

Whiterocks Beach

Whiterocks Bay

Dunluce Castle

Giant‘s Causeway

Dunseverick Castle

Dunseverick Falls

White Park Bay

Ballintoy Harbour

Carrick-a-Rede

Kinbane Castle

Ballycastle Beach

Bonamargy Friary

Murlough Bay

Torr Head Scenic Route

Layd Old Church

Red Bay Castle

Garron Point

Carnlough Harbour

Walled Garden at Glenarm Castle

Glenarm Harbour

Antrim Coast Road

Ballygalley

The Maidens

Blackhead Lighthouse

Gobbins Cliff Path

Carrickfergus Castle

Belfast Castle

Cave Hill and McArts Fort – Belfast

Donaghadee Lighthouse

Kearney Village

Mount Stewart House and Gardens

Scrabo Tower

Lightship L.V. Petrel

Strangford Lough

Nendrum Monastic Site

St. Patrick‘s Grave in Downpatrick

Down Cathedral in Downpatrick

Castle Ward

Killard National Nature Reserve

Ardtole Church in Ardglass

St John‘s Point Lighthouse

Rossglass Beach

Dundrum Castle

Murlough National Nature Reserve

Annalong Cornmill

Silent Valley in Mourne Mountains

Greencastle

Cloughmore Stone

Narrow Water Keep

Flagstaff Viewpoint

Cooley Mountains

Carlingford

Kilwirra Church

Proleek Dolmen

Carrig Cultra Wetlands near Blackrock

Dromiskin Monastery

Salterstown Pier

Port Beach or Lurganboy Beach

Termonfeckin Castle

Baltray Beach

Drogheda Port East Lighthouse

Laytown Beach

Balbriggan Harbour

Ardgillan Castle

Red Island Skerries

St. Patrick‘s Footprint in Skerries

Skerries Mills

Skerries Islands

Loughshinny

Lusk Round Tower

Tower Bay Beach

Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk

Balcarrick Beach Donabate

Malahide Castle

Malahide Estuary

The Velvet Strand in Portmarnock

Howth Lighthouse

Howth Castle

St. Mary’s Abbey in Howth

Baily Lighthouse at Howth Head

Martello Tower in Sutton

North Bull Wall

Dollymount Strand and Bull Island

Wooden Bridge in Clontarf

Clontarf Pier

River Liffey

Samuel Beckett Bridge

Great South Wall

Seapoint Beach

Forty Foot in Sandycove

James Joyce Tower in Sandycove

Bullock Harbour

Coliemore Harbour

Sorrento Park

Killiney Hill

The Pyramid at Killiney Hill

The Obelisk at Killiney Hill

Bray Cliff Walk

Six Mile Point Newcastle

Wicklow Harbour

Black Castle Wicklow

Wicklow Head

Brittas Bay

Redcross River

Arklow Harbour

Clogga Strand

Kilmichael Point

Courtown Harbour

Norman Motte Glasscarrig

Cahore Beach

Curracloe Beach

Raven Nature Reserve

Wexford Wildfowl Reserve

Burrow Peninsula Rosslare

Rosslare Strand

Johnstown Castle

Our Lady‘s Island

Tacumshane Windmill

Ishartmon Church

Kilmore Quay

Shell Cottage

Bannow Island

Woods at Tintern Abbey

Tintern Abbey

Shipwrecks near Saltmills

Fethard Quay

Baginbun Head

Hook Lighthouse

St Dubhán‘s Church

Duncannon Fort

Ballyhack Castle

Dunbrody Abbey

Dunmore East

Metal Man Tramore

Garrus Strand

Kilfarrasy Strand

Dunhill Castle

Dunabrattin Bay

Tankardstown Copper Mines

Bunmahon Bay

Ballydowane Bay

Ballyvoony Cove

Stradbally Cove

Ballinacourty Lighthouse

Waterford Greenway

Dungarvan Castle

Davitt‘s Quay Dungarvan

Dungarvan Harbour

Helvick Head

Ballyquin Strand

Ardmore Cliff Walk

Ardmore Round Tower

Youghal Clock Gate Tower

Youghal Lighthouse

Garryvoe Beach

Ballymaloe Cookery School

Ballymaloe House

Ballycotton Lighthouse

Ballycotton Cliff Walk

Ballycroneen

Cloyne Round Tower

Roches Point

Little Island

Fota Island Castle

Fota Arboretum and Gardens

River Lee at Passage West

River Owenabue

Roberts‘ Cove

Myrtleville Beach

Tracton Woods

Rocky Bay Beach

Nohoval Cove

Charles Fort

James‘s Fort Kinsale

Lough Foyle

Dunmanus Bay

Barley Cove

Toormore Bay

Altar Wedge Tomb

Baltimore Beacon

Gurranes Stone Row

Raheen Tower House

Drombeg Stone Circle

Galley Head

Inchydoney Island

Timoleague Abbey

Harbour View

Courtmacsherry Bay

White Strand Garrylucas

Old Head of Kinsale

Ringrone Castle

Kinsale Harbour

Sheep‘s Head

Seefin Viewpoint

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We have a collection of 33 quirky, eccentric, and distinctive buildings across Ireland North and South. Properties vary in size, shape and location. We have a number of Lighthouses, Gatelodges, a Schoolhouse, a Mews, Country Houses, a restored Mill. Each property is unique and offers something special.

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Since our foundation we have taken the approach that we repair rather than replace. Our primary aim is to conserve and sustain. Irish Landmark Trust always respects the history and architectural integrity of the buildings we conserve, but we also ensure they have all the contemporary comforts you want in a holiday home.

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Booking Conditions

HOW TO BOOK AN IRISH LANDMARK HOLIDAY :  

It is possible to reserve dates online at www.irishlandmark.com but bookings are not confirmed until a confirmation email is received from the bookings desk.     

BOOKING:   

Your booking must be for holiday purposes only.  Irish Landmark reserve the right to refuse hire for purposes other than holiday accommodation. When you make a booking, you accept full responsibility for all persons who will use or visit the property during the period booked.  When you book, you agree to indemnify us against all loss and damage arising directly or indirectly to the property and its contents from any deliberate or negligent act or omission by yourself, or any person accompanying you. 

CONTRACT OF HIRE :   

The hiring contract shall be between the Hirer and Irish Landmark and made subject to these Booking Conditions . The Contract of Hire is not effective until Irish Landmark dispatches to the Hirer written confirmation of a booking. 

PRICE OF YOUR HOLIDAY:    

Irish Landmark reserves the right to increase or decrease the price of unsold holidays at any time. However, such amendments to price will not be applied to holidays already confirmed.   

All prices quoted are based on current prices and rates of V.A.T. at the time of going to press. Irish Landmark is unable to absorb increases in Value Added Tax or any new forms of taxation which may be introduced. Any such increases will be charged as notified and will be payable. 

DEPOSIT AND BALANCE PAYMENTS:    

All bookings can be paid for in full at time of booking. All bookings made within 12 weeks of stay must be paid in full at time of booking. Bookings made more than 12 weeks in advance of stay require a 30% non-refundable deposit with the balance due 12 weeks before arrival.  Irish Landmark shall be entitled to treat any failure to pay by the due date as a cancellation of the booking and will notify the Hirer by email.  The maximum number of payments for a booking will be limited to two – the deposit and balance payment.   A separate payment may be due where an amendment has been made to the original booking.  

PAYMENT TYPES:  

Payments can be made by credit/debit card (Visa or Mastercard ONLY).    

Payments for properties in the Republic of Ireland are taken in Euros, payments for properties in Northern Ireland are taken in Great British Pounds. 

VOUCHERS:   

Please note that only one voucher can be used per booking.  Vouchers have a strict expiry date. 

CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING:     

Upon receipt of payment by our bookings office, you will receive a confirmation of your reservation.  All charges for the booking will be confirmed in this notification.  Once confirmation has been issued, the Hirer is responsible for the total advertised price of the property and any extras notified.   

AMENDMENTS TO BOOKINGS (excluding cancellations):     

Irish Landmark does not offer a transfer of dates option. A complete change of dates is treated as a cancellation 

CANCELLATION POLICY: We hope that you will not have to cancel your stay, or part of your reservation.  If for any reason this is unavoidable, cancellations must be notified by email to [email protected] . In the event of cancellation (this includes a reduction in number of nights) your deposit is non-refundable and the following cancellation charges will apply:   

Irish Landmark does not operate a cancellation insurance scheme for any reason, including Covid-19, and strongly recommends that all guests take out full holiday insurance cover.    

PARTY SIZE AND COMPOSITION :  In no circumstances may more than the number of persons listed on the booking form occupy the property overnight.   Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse admission if this condition is not observed. Bookings can only be made by adults and cannot be accepted from anyone under the age of 21.  Irish Landmark only allows guest stays where the lead guest is aged 21 years or over.   

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE:   

Upon receipt of final payment, you will receive Access Details and Important Information via email about your rental. This includes the contact information of the Local House Manager, directions to the property, arrival and departure time, etc. However, the specific arrival time must be agreed with the relevant local House Manager at least four days prior to holiday start date .  It is the responsibility of the Hirer to arrive at the property at the time agreed with the House Manager. Irish Landmark reserves the right to levy an additional charge if the property is not vacated in accordance with these terms on the day of departure.  

DAY VISITORS:   

The number of day visitors will be limited to the capacity of the property – i.e., a 2-person property may have 2 day visitors, etc.   Prior written consent must be obtained from Irish Landmark Trust for additional numbers of day visitors. 

PERSONAL BELONGINGS : Baggage and personal belongings are always at the Hirers risk. No responsibility can be accepted for loss or damage to any car or its contents. 

POLICY REGARDING DOGS:    

Only certain Irish Landmark Trust properties accept a dog.  ALWAYS check this before you book.   Hirers who have made a reservation and are taking a dog will be required to read and agree to special terms, which details the conditions of bringing a dog to one of these properties.  Failure to comply with these conditions could result in the guest being asked to leave a property.  The rental cost is non-refundable in such cases.   

ELECTRIC VEHICLES:  

Irish Landmark respectfully request that you charge your electric vehicle at the nearest charging point and not at the property.  

HIRER’S RESPONSIBILITY :   

The Hirer is responsible for the property and is expected to take all reasonable care of it. Our House Managers work hard to maintain and clean the buildings and aim to ensure that the property is in a satisfactory condition for your enjoyment.  We ask that you leave the property in a clean and tidy condition upon departure, including all equipment, utensils etc. If the property is left in an unsatisfactory condition and additional cleaning costs are incurred, Irish Landmark reserves the right to recover these costs from the Hirer.   All breakages and damage must be reported to the House Manager immediately so that they can be rectified. All breakages and damage are the legal responsibility of the Hirer and the cost of repair or replacement must be paid to Irish Landmark upon demand.   If there are problems relating to the functioning of the building, please let the House Manager know immediately. Please note that candles are NOT permitted at any Irish Landmark property. Smoking is not allowed inside any Irish Landmark property. 

WEBSITE / LITERATURE :   

While every effort has been made to ensure that the representations stated on our website, or any printed literature, are made in good faith, neither they nor any oral representations made by employees or representatives of Irish Landmark Trust will create liability on the part of Irish Landmark. 

GENERAL :   

There shall be no liability for any claim arising from the act, omission or neglect or default of Irish Landmark Trust, its employees or representatives unless proved to be done with intent to cause damage or recklessly and with knowledge that loss or danger would probably result. Irish Landmark’s agents, servants and employees or other representatives have no authority to waive or modify these Conditions other than in writing. 

RIGHT OF ENTRY :   

On rare occasions Irish Landmark may need access to the property for essential maintenance work, should it be necessary, Irish Landmark will give you as much notice as is possible.   There is no need for you to stay in the property since our House Manager can accompany any such visits. 

COMPLAINTS:   

If you have any complaint during your holiday, please contact the House Manager.  If the matter is not dealt with to your satisfaction, please email [email protected] outlining details of your complaint.   

IRISH LANDMARK’S RIGHTS :   

Irish Landmark reserves the right to refuse any booking and cancel any booking already made, if in its absolute discretion it considers this to be necessary. Where a booking is cancelled by Irish Landmark, every effort will be made to offer an alternative holiday at no increase in cost.  If the Hirer does not accept the alternative holiday offered, Irish Landmark will return to the Hirer the deposit paid and any other sum paid to Irish Landmark by the Hirer.  Liability for all consequential loss, damage and disappointments is accordingly limited to such return. 

SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR SPECIFIC DOG – FRIENDLY PROPERTIES  

It is the hirer’s responsibility to ensure they book a specific dog-friendly property if they are bringing a dog.  There are specific terms and conditions that to which the hirer must adhere: 

We allow a dog, but only when they have been booked in and paid for. The “Taking a Dog” option must be selected at time of booking.  A charge will apply.  

Our policy is strictly ONE DOG. If you arrive at the property with more than one dog the House Manger is entitled to deny you access to the property.  If it becomes known during/after your stay that more than one dog is/was with you, you may be asked to vacate the property and a charge of €100/£100 per dog will apply. 

You must bring your own crate/bed in which your dog can sleep.  Please also bring bowls, towels, and waste bags for your dog. 

Your dog must be house-trained and kept under proper control.  Dogs are STRICTLY not permitted on beds, sofas, or any furniture.  There is no exception to this rule.    

Before departure, please thoroughly clean the property, paying particular attention to removing pet hair from rugs and soft furnishings.  A vacuum cleaner is available to you.   

If there is evidence that you have not cleaned up adequately after your stay, you will be charged a flat rate of €100/£100.   

You must double-check that the outside area around the property is free of any foul. Dog fouling inside the property is completely unacceptable.  Guests will be asked to vacate the premises immediately if this is discovered.  

Your dog must not be left unsupervised in the property.  We ask that you take your dog with you when you go out.  Please be mindful of any livestock nearby. 

By accepting a confirmation of a reservation from Irish Landmark the lead guest agrees: 

I have read and agree to be bound by the Booking Conditions. 

I agree to be held responsible for the balance of hire for the property due and payable in accordance with these terms. 

I understand that most Irish Landmark properties have no television or internet access; that some have no washing machines or dishwashers; and that many have limited mobile phone coverage. 

I understand that as the Lead Person, I am responsible, before their arrival, for informing all guests of Irish Landmark’s booking conditions, and for their observance of same. 

If I am bringing a pet or having day visitors, I have particularly noted the special conditions that apply in these situations 

Hirers making a reservation over the telephone are deemed to have read all Booking Conditions and agree to be bound by them.   

Availability Calendar

Check availability for all of our properties at a glance here.

Republic of Ireland

Northern ireland.

Important Notes

1-night stays are not permitted.

Bank Holidays & Special Dates have a set minimum number of nights.

Deposits are strictly non-refundable & non-transferable.

Cancellation Fees will apply if you cancel your reservation.

Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Special Offers and Discounts are not valid against existing bookings.

There are restrictions on arrival and departure dates over the Christmas and New Year periods. Strictly no arrivals or departures on 24th, 25th and 31st of December.

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Moscow metro to be more tourist-friendly

A new floor sign system at the Moscow metro's Pushkinskaya station. Source: Vladimir Pesnya / RIA Novosti

For many years now, Moscow has lagged behind St. Petersburg when it comes to making life easy for tourists, especially where getting around the city is concerned. Whereas the northern capital installed English-language maps, signs and information points throughout its subway system in the late 2000s, the Russian capital’s metro remained a serious challenge for foreign visitors to navigate.

Recent visitors to Moscow may have noticed some signs that change is afoot, however. In many stations of the Moscow subway, signs have appeared on the floor – with large lettering in Russian and English – indicating the direction to follow in order to change lines. Previously, foreign visitors using the Moscow metro had to rely solely upon deciphering the Russian-language signs hanging from the ceilings.

Student volunteers help tourists find their way in Moscow

However, this new solution has a significant drawback. “The floor navigation is visible only to a small stream of people – fewer than three people per meter. During peak hours, this navigation will simply not be noticed,” said Konstantin Trofimenko, Director of the Center for Urban Transportation Studies.

One of the biggest problems for tourists in the Russian capital remains the absence of English translations of the names of subway stations in the station vestibules and on platforms. The Department of Transportation in Moscow has not commented yet as to when this problem will be solved. However, Latin transliterations of station names can already be found in the subway cars themselves.

Finding the right exit

At four of the central stations – Okhotny Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshchad Revolyutsii, Lubyanka and Kuznetsky Most – the city authorities have now installed colorful stands at the exits with schematic diagrams of the station’s concourse and surrounding area, which provide information about the main attractions and infrastructural facilities.

The schematic diagrams are the work of British specialists from the City ID and Billings Jackson Design firms, who have already implemented successful projects in New York and London.

According to Alexei Novichkov, expert at the Design Laboratory at the Higher School of Economics, the design of these information booths raises no objections: The color solutions, font, layout and icons are consistent with international standards.

However, the stands do have some shortcomings. “Many questions are raised about the fact that the developers of these maps did not apply orientation to the north, and have provided layouts of the surrounding areas with respect to the exits,” says Novichkov. “A system like that is used for road navigators, but most of the ‘paper’ guides and maps are oriented strictly to north. The subway map is also oriented to north, so people may become confused.”

Muscovites and foreign visitors are generally positive about these navigation elements, with most of them citing the numbered exits from the subway as the most useful feature.

The fact is that many Moscow subway stations have several exits. One of the busiest central stations of the Moscow subway in particular, Kitay-Gorod, has more than a dozen exits. Previously, these exits were differentiated from each other only with signs in Russian referring to the names of streets and places of interest to which they led – making it easy for tourists and those with poor navigation skills to get confused.

Now, when making an appointment to meet a friend, instead of struggling to find the right spot when they tell you: “I'll meet you at the exit to Solyanka Street,” you can just propose to meet under a specific exit number.

“I’ve lived in Moscow for seven years,” says Angelika, a designer from Voronezh, “but I still don’t always know where to go to find the place I need, so the new schematic diagrams will be very useful. Previously, some subway stations had maps, but not with so much detail.”

Teething problems

Foreigners, meanwhile, focus their attention on other elements. “It is good that the new information boards have QR-codes, which can be ‘read’ by smartphones,” says Florentina, a writer from Vienna. But there are also shortcomings. “The English font of the information on posters and in the captions to theaters and museums is too small – you have to come very close to see it well,” she says.

Pleasant encounters on the streets of Moscow

Florentina was also dissatisfied with the fact that such posters are not provided at all subway stations: “When I was trying to find Tsaritsyno Park (a museum and reserve in the south of Moscow) at a subway station with the same name, it turned out to be quite difficult,” she says.

“There are no maps with landmarks for other areas, such as those already in the city center. There were no clear pointers in the English language, and the passers-by I met did not speak in English, so they could not help me,” she adds.

Officials say that the navigation system is gradually being redeveloped and improved. According to Darya Chuvasheva, a press representative for the Department of Transport of Moscow, the introduction of a unified navigation system will take place in stages.

“By the end of 2014, the system will first appear on the first subway stations on the Circle Line. By the end of 2015, we plan to install the system at all major stopping points, subway stations and transport interchange hubs,” says Chuvasheva.

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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