irish cities to visit

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Best places to visit in ireland.

Ireland's rich culture, enchanting green landscapes and friendly locals are just a few reasons why so many travelers make the journey to this island country. But with so many cities, charming small towns and countryside wonders to choose from, it may be hard to decide exactly what should be on your Emerald Isle itinerary. U.S. News took into account sights, adventure, food and culture, plus expert opinions and traveler sentiment, to determine the best places to visit in Ireland. If you want to have a say in next year's list, be sure to vote below.

Dingle Peninsula

Cliffs of moher, iveragh peninsula, glenveagh national park, inishowen peninsula, connemara national park, aran islands.

With a stoic castle, wild coastline and great "craic" (fun, entertainment and good company), Donegal checks off many items on an Ireland vacation bucket list. Donegal visitors can see the 15th-century Donegal Castle, grab a pint of Guinness in a traditional Irish bar dating back to the 1700s or revel in one of the town's high-spirited festivals. Meanwhile, Donegal's northwest coast location makes it ideal for driving along the scenic Donegal Bay to the Slieve League cliffs – which are nearly three times as tall as the Cliffs of Moher – or hopping to islands known for their exceptional preservation of the Gaelic language and culture.

Though Dublin is Ireland's hub for politics, culture and music, its approachable and relaxed culture sets it apart from most European capitals. Before making a beeline for the Guinness Storehouse, consider a walking tour to take in popular attractions like Trinity College (and its swoon-worthy library), the 13th-century Dublin Castle and the always exuberant Temple Bar district. Save time to take in the arts, too: Dublin is home to the national theater of Ireland and plenty of festivals and museums dedicated to Irish literary greats. Plus, Dublin offers easy access  to alluring destinations like the fishing village of Howth and Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Located along the country's famous Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula consistently stuns with its otherworldly scenery (think: evergreen cliffs, craggy coastlines and vibrant blue waters). Begin your journey by driving along Slea Head Drive, a scenic route known for its photo-worthy vistas. If you'd rather see the peninsula on foot, head down the Dingle Way, a network of trails that spans the entire peninsula. Or, take a ferry to the Blasket Islands to explore jaw-dropping cliffs, look for wildlife like sheep and dolphins, and visit pristine beaches without rubbing elbows with other tourists.

For the quintessential Irish countryside experience, travel to Killarney. The town is surrounded by evergreen hills and valley on all sides, affording plenty of opportunities to become one with nature. Visitors gravitate toward Killarney National Park, which features Ireland's highest mountain range, MacGillycuddy's Reeks. If you aren't much of a hiker, you can still enjoy the scenic lakes or visit one of Killarney's centuries-old churches or castles.

The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland's most popular tourist attraction, welcoming more than 1 million visitors each year. In fact, the cliffs are so popular that cities situated more than 100 miles away often offer full-day bus tours to the attraction. Once you lay eyes on this sight, you'll understand why so many people travel hours to gaze at it. Measuring more than 8 miles long and 700 feet tall, the cliffs provide breathtaking views of Galway Bay, parts of Connemara National Park and the Aran Islands on a clear day.

This peninsula in County Kerry is best known for featuring the world-famous Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile scenic drive that circles around the entire peninsula. Along the way, visitors will enjoy truly spectacular scenery both on the coast and inland. Can't-miss stops include Ladies View, Rossbeigh Strand, Derrynane beach and the Gap of Dunloe. Travelers should also save time for visiting some of the peninsula's picturesque small towns and castles, which are both developed and abandoned. Be sure to stay at least one night here for a glimpse of the stars in Ireland's first dark sky reserve.

Surrounded by a looming mountain, sandy beaches and charming countryside (dubbed "Yeats Country" after the county's famed poet), Sligo offers something for everyone. If you're up for an adventure, hike the loop around the iconic Benbulben mountain, take a surf lesson in Strandhill or watch the big-wave pros at Mullaghmore Head. Meanwhile, more leisurely travelers can visit Sligo town's popular sites like The Model art center and Sligo Abbey, or take a coastal drive to fine estates like the Lissadell House and Gardens (open seasonally). Just make time for a few stops along the Sligo Food Trail on your way.

After Dublin, Cork is Ireland's largest city. Located at the southern end of the country, this city of more than 200,000 residents is famous for being home to Blarney Castle and its Blarney Stone. According to local legend, the stone will grant you the gift of eloquence, if you dare kiss it. Cork is also where you'll find 18th- and 19th-century churches, the Cork City Gaol (a former prison converted into a museum) and lush Fitzgerald Park, among other noteworthy attractions. When hunger strikes, explore Cork's English Market, where you'll find everything from meat and fish counters to cafes and bakeries.

Located just 17 miles south of Cork, this enclave on Ireland's southern coast charms visitors with rainbow-hued buildings and a "riviera" vibe. Sailing is central to Kinsale, which hosts several regattas throughout the summer, but other water activities like kayaking and surfing hold equal appeal. Those who prefer to stay on land can visit nearby attractions like the scenic Nohoval Cove and historic Charles Fort. What's more, as one of Ireland's top culinary destinations, Kinsale entices foodies with more than 50 delectable eateries and food-centric celebrations like the Kinsale Gourmet Festival and Kinsale Street Feast.

Galway offers the best of both worlds for travelers. City slickers can revel in Galway's relatively light but palpable bustle, while outdoor lovers can venture outside the city to see many natural attractions, including the Salthill Promenade, Wild Atlantic Way and, farther afield, Burren National Park. If you prefer to stay local, stroll through the lively Latin Quarter, then check out historical attractions like the Spanish Arch and St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church.

Situated in the heart of County Donegal, Glenveagh National Park sets a picturesque scene, complete with a lakeside castle and lush mountains. Here, active sightseers can bask in the unspoiled natural beauty of the Emerald Isle, with nearly 40,000 acres that are completely free to access for hiking, biking, fishing and camping. Highlights include the Derryveagh Mountains, the sweeping valleys of the Poisoned Glen and the rugged shores of Lough Inshagh and Lough Veagh. For a small fee, visitors can also take a tour of the Glenveagh Castle, a stately granite structure representing the idyllic highland retreat, and explore its varied gardens and tearooms.  

Situated just northwest of Ireland's border with Northern Ireland, the Inishowen Peninsula is the country's largest peninsula. Its remote location 170 miles northwest of Dublin plus its otherworldly scenery and thatched cottages create a peaceful setting you won't find in Ireland's more tourist-heavy peninsulas. Must-see natural wonders here include Malin Head, Trawbreaga Bay and the Gap of Mamore. If you've always dreamed of seeing the northern lights , be sure to visit in winter when the aurora borealis' beautiful hues are typically visible throughout the peninsula.

Expect awe-inspiring scenery everywhere you turn when you visit this 5,000-acre national park during the warmer months. Connemara National Park is home to the Twelve Bens mountain range, plus woodlands, grasslands, heaths (wild, undeveloped flatlands) and bogs (wetlands) that you can explore via one of several trails. To get a good overview of the park's diverse scenery, hike the Diamond Hill paths and walk the Green Road along Killary Harbour. The latter is where you'll find one of Ireland's few glacial fjords.

Travelers keen on getting a taste of what old Ireland looked and felt like should consider visiting the Aran Islands. Accessible by plane from Connemara or by ferry from Rossaveal, Galway and Doolin on Ireland's western coast, the Aran Islands feature important historical sites, Celtic churches and lots of untouched landscapes (think: the "Banshees of Inisherin," some of which was filmed here). Plus, Gaelic is widely spoken, providing an authentic cultural experience. Though all three islands offer noteworthy sights, plan on spending the bulk of your time on Inis Mór (or Inishmore), where the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa is located.

Kilkenny offers a hearty amount of historical attractions for travelers to explore. This is largely thanks to the town's prior distinction of being the medieval capital of Ireland, a heritage that remains evident today  in the Medieval Mile, Kilkenny's top attraction. Within the Medieval Mile you'll find several interesting sights, such as Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral and the Medieval Mile Museum. This historic part of town is also home to the Smithwick's Experience, where you can learn more about how one of Ireland's most popular ales is brewed.

Head to this small seaport on Ireland's southeastern coast to catch a glimpse of the country's oldest city. Waterford is full of history, and its attractions reflect that. History buffs can learn more about the city's Viking roots at Waterford Treasures' Medieval Museum, Reginald's Tower and Bishop's Palace facilities. Or, they can take a tour of the 18th-century House of Waterford factory to see how the city's world-renowned crystal is made. For travelers who need a break from Waterford's rich history, there's the Waterford Greenway, a nearly 30-mile-long walking and bike path.

Those who plan on visiting Cork should save time for a daytrip to Cobh. This charming small town, which sits on an island in Cork Harbor, is known for its past as both a major departure point for Irish emigrating to the U.S. and as the last port of call for the Titanic. Travelers who want to learn more about these key roles in Cobh's history can visit the Cobh Heritage Centre and Titanic Experience Cobh. Before leaving, take a stroll around town to admire Cobh's striking Victorian-era architecture and brightly colored storefronts and homes.

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12 Best Towns And Cities In Ireland To Visit

Categories Cork , Dublin , Galway , Kerry , Kilkenny , Mayo , Offaly , Sligo , Waterford , Westmeath , Where To Go

The lush green isle of Ireland is one of the most scenic countries in the world. And when visiting, one simply doesn’t just see the major cities or the most popular attractions but also the beautiful towns in the countryside of Ireland. 

Things you'll find in this article

1. Cobh, Co. Cork

2. kinsale, co. cork, 3. dingle, co. kerry, 4. killarney, co. kerry, 5. valentia, co. kerry, 6. birr, co. offaly, 7. galway, co. galway, 8. howth, co. dublin, 9. strandhill, co. sligo, 10. lismore, county waterford, 11. kilkenny, co. kilkenny, 12. westport, co. mayo.

There’s more to this country than its bustling capital, and a visit to a small town or two will definitely show anyone just how breathtaking Ireland can be.

From picturesque port towns to intriguing medieval villages and favorite stops in a scenic route, here are some of the most beautiful and best towns and cities in Ireland to visit. 

Best Towns In Cork, Ireland

The quaint and quirky seaport town of Cobh is best known as the Titanic’s last port call in Europe before its fateful maiden voyage.

It has witnessed other significant events in Ireland’s history, particularly those that involved mass migrations during war and conflict, with most of its people sailing to Australia or North America. 

Along Cobh’s waterfront, you’ll see pretty cottages straight out of storybooks, complementing the prominent spire of the beautiful St. Colman’s Cathedral.

The fascinating Heritage Center will tell you more about the town’s intriguing history, while a stroll along the promenade, feeding the ducks in the Cuskinny, or high tea at the St. Benedict’s Priory Bible Garden and Tea Rooms are also great ways to experience this charming Irish town. 

READ MORE: 12 BEST THINGS TO DO IN COBH, IRELAND

One simply cannot resist Kinsale, a town on the southern coast of Ireland, in County Cork.

With its historic streetscape and brightly colored shops, a stroll is like a walk back in time or into the pages of a storybook.

The narrow streets of Kinsale’s old town center are lined with color and history, a perfect company during a morning walk, or a late afternoon stroll.

Since it is located by the coast, Kinsale is also a fishing town where you can enjoy plenty of fresh seafood. 

Top places to visit in Kinsale include two well/preserved fortresses from the 17th century: the massive, star-shaped Charles Fort and the smaller James Fort which stands on opposite banks of the River Brandon.

There are also museums housed in beautiful historic buildings— the Kinsale Regional Museum in the town’s 16th-century courthouse and the International Museum of Wine in the Desmond Castle. 

READ MORE: 15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN KINSALE, IRELAND

Best Towns In Kerry, Ireland

Dingle is the main town in the Dingle Peninsula and is part of the breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way .

A vibrant fishing port situated at the end of the rugged Conor Pass, this town is also known for offers some of the most captivating sceneries in Ireland.

Don’t be surprised if you hear Gaelic as much as English when in Dingle, as it’s one of the few places left in the country that still speaks their native language. 

Dingle is known for its thriving pub scene , serving not only a great selection of drinks but god traditional Irish music as well.

Since it’s situated by the Atlantic, sea life in Dingle is among its top draws.

Hang out by the bay and you’d most likely spit bottlenose dolphins, including their famous resident sea mammal Fungie. 

READ MORE: 25 BEST THINGS TO DO IN DINGLE, IRELAND

Located in the southwest of Ireland and often the start or endpoint of the breathtaking Ring of Kerry , Killarney just has to be one of those towns in Ireland that’s worth a visit.

A major attraction is the massive Killarney National Park, which is home to some of the town’s best attraction s such as the Muckross Estate and Torc Waterfalls .

A walk around town is among the best things to do here, where you’ll see historic buildings like the Muckross Abbey, St. Mary’s Cathedral and  Ross Castle .

Killarney also has a great pub scene that you lust check out for a truly Irish experience that you won’t soon forget. 

READ MORE: 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN KILLARNEY, IRELAND

Easily one of the most beautiful and unique towns in Ireland, Valentia is found on an island with the same name.

It is located in the Iveragh Peninsula in the southwest of Ireland. 

From here, you can also visit the ancient monastic island of Skellig Michael .

Valentia is easily accessible from the mainland via a bridge from Portmagee, and can also be reached by a car ferry from Reenard Point. 

Valentia is best known for the fossilized footprints from 385 million years ago, said to be among the world’s oldest remnants of vertebrate life on land.

Another stunning place to see here is the lovely Glanleam House with its sub-tropical gardens. These gardeners have a unique microclimate, and therefore houses a variety of rare plants. 

Best cities and towns in other parts of Ireland

The picturesque heritage town of Birr used to be called Parsostown, after the Parsons family, who owned the castle and estate. 

The town takes pride in its unique character and long history, seen in the colorful Georgian buildings.

Of all the lovely structures you’ll see in this town in County Offaly , Birr Castles has to be the most intriguing.

Built by the Parsons family, the Earl of Rosse, its most unique feature is the massive telescope that stands on its grounds up to this day.

It was the world’s biggest until 1927 and played a significant part in the advancement of astronomy.

READ MORE: 11 BEST THINGS TO DO IN OFFALY, IRELAND

Galway Cathedral , Image by Christine Rogador

Galway is the ideal base to explore the Aran Islands or Connemara . It is also easily accessible to the Cliffs of Moher .

This captivating town is known for its artsy, bohemian vibe, evident in its lively pub scene mixed with quaint little shops that sell books , handcrafted Claddagh rings , and musical instruments. 

It’s center bursts with light and color, but one will still see remnants of the medieval town walls and castles .

While here and aside from the much talked about pub scene, have a meal or a drink in one of the many restaurants and cafés — they double as front seats to enjoy talented buskers and street theater.

Walk on the bridges over River Corrib, or stroll through the promenade with views of Galway Bay.

While here, be sure to have some of Galway ’s famous native oysters — said to be the best in the world. 

READ MORE: 20 BEST THINGS TO DO IN GALWAY, IRELAND

Located east of Dublin is the picturesque village of Howth , on the north coast of the Howth Peninsula.

It is a favorite weekend getaway for those living in the nearby capital, as it’s just a quick trip via the DART line.

Its history and varied landscape is a lovely discovery for visitors who are curious enough to see more of Ireland apart from busy Dublin . 

Being a port and fishing town, among the best things to do here involves spending time on the pier, visiting nearby islands, or watching the sunset as fisherfolk get their boats ready.

Around town, there’s the 15th-century Howth Castle and its rhododendron gardens, the Martello Tower which houses a vintage radio museum and the medieval ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey. 

READ MORE: 12 BEST THINGS TO DO IN HOWTH, IRELAND

Situated at the west of Sligo town and on the base of the Knocknarea Mountain is the coastal town of Strandhill.

It is known for its quiet stretches of rocky beaches and as a haven for surfers. It is not advisable to swim on the beach, however, because of the strong currents and tides.

Still, it is an ideal place for long quiet walks, from Strandhill to Culleenamore Strand, and also to Killaspubrone. 

Apart from its lovely coast, Strandhill also has interesting establishments and structures such as the 200-year-old traditional thatched cottage called Dolly’s Cottage, and the Carrowmore megalithic tombs which is one of the biggest in Ireland. 

READ MORE: 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SLIGO, IRELAND

Surrounded by beautiful countryside, Lismore in County Waterford is one of those towns in Ireland that’s perfect for the outdoorsy types, or simply those who enjoy nature walks.

This historic town is situated at the foot of Knockmealdown Mountains, in Ireland’s Munster province. 

One of the most popular attractions in Lismore is the 800-year-old castle, which stands on the site of an old monastery on a steep hill.

This imposing castle was built during the medieval era, and its location offers stunning views of the town and the nearby Blackwater valley.

Lismore Castle was the former home of important historical artifacts such as the Book of Lismore, which is now in the Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, and the Lismore Crozier, now housed in the National Museum of Ireland. 

READ MORE: 15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN WATERFORD, IRELAND

Just a few hours away from Dublin , in the southeast is the charming medieval town of Kilkenny .

The town is best known for its grand castle and deeply religious roots, as seen in the brilliantly preserved churches and monasteries such as the majestic St. Canice’s Cathedral and the Black Abbey Dominican priory, which both date back to the 13th century. 

Kilkenny is a medieval town in southeast Ireland. 

It may be among the most recognizable buildings in Ireland but while in town, it is still a must for anyone to see Kilkenny Castle , built in 1195 by Norman occupiers.

There’s just a lot to see and do inside — with its important collections, an impressive art gallery, a crafts hub, and a working farm. 

READ MORE: 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN KILKENNY, IRELAND

Situated by the scenic Clew Bay, the picturesque town of Westport is a must-visit in County Mayo .

It is known for its colorful town center, and with its location by the bay, Westport is also known as a hub for a variety of water activities like fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, snorkeling, surfing , and windsurfing. 

For a unique kind of adventure mixed with the town’s fast local history, there’s the Pirate Adventure Park that’s a feature of the beautiful Westport House.

This Georgian era estate also features lush gardens, an aviary, a mini-railway, and a house that has rooms with period decor and furnishings. 

READ MORE: 15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN WESTPORT, IRELAND

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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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17 Best Cities in Ireland to Visit in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 4, 2024

We have had the privilege of visiting Ireland several times, and when visiting the ‘Emerald Isle,’ its cities are some of the best places to embrace Irish culture. Irish cities are magical, full of local history, myths and legends, art galleries, pubs, and friendly locals. Whether you visit Dublin for major attractions like the Guinness Storehouse and the Book of Kells, or you head to Galway for traditional music and street art, you will fall in love with the lively cities in Ireland.

Table of Contents

Best Cities in Ireland

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best cities in Ireland and Northern Ireland. These are the places where you will make lasting memories during your stay.

The best way to get around Ireland is by renting a car. You can compare car rental prices here. We have taken road trips along the Wild Atlantic Way, on Ireland’s west coast, with island day trips, cobbled streets, and live music and along the Causeway Coast to see some of Northern Ireland’s most awe-inspiring attractions. We have explored lesser-visited cities in Ireland and each one is just as memorable as the last.

Dublin is Ireland’s largest city and the capital of the Republic of Ireland. We recommend spending at least three days in Dublin before traveling to the different cities in Ireland. Located on the River Liffey, Dublin has hundreds of attractions at your fingertips.

Top attractions in this popular Irish City are endless including a visit to the famous Kilmainham Gaol, the GPO Museum, Dublin Castle, and the Guinness Storehouse (read more about our experience  here ).

Dublin Castle is one of the most famous  medieval castles  in the world, dating back to the 13th century. It is now a government building, but that doesn’t stop tourists from coming to see it.

Trinity College, the Book of Kells, and the famous Temple Bar. Dublin is easily one of the best cities in Ireland for history lovers, with stories of the Easter Rising in 1916 to ancient stories within the pages of the Book of Kells. It’s also a city of academia; Dublin is officially Yeats country and houses Trinity College, which educated the likes of Oscar Wilde .

There are so many  things to do in Dublin , and if you want to visit Ireland for  St Patrick’s Day , you will want to be in Dublin. If you want to escape the city, Dublin is just a hop skip, and a jump from the Wicklow Mountains where you can go hiking or horseback riding.

When visiting Dublin, pick up a  Dublin Pass . The Dublin Pass is an excellent way to save money on Dublin attractions giving you entrance to 35 attractions including the Dublin Hop-on Hop-Off Big Bus Tour, Guinness Storehouse, James Joyce Centre, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral (where Saint Patrick himself St Patrick baptised Christians) and many more. Details here .

Plan Your Dublin Vacation

• 35 Best Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland
• Where to Stay in Dublin, Ireland: Best Areas and Hotels for Every Budget
• Guinness Storehouse in Dublin – The Ultimate Tasting Tour

2. Cork City

As the second largest city in Ireland, it once had a reputation as the capital of ‘Rebel Country.’ Cork natives sometimes claim they are the real ‘capital of Ireland.’ We love this city located in the South of the Emerald Isle, and others agree, Cork is a much-loved tourist destination.

If you haven’t visited Cork, you are truly missing out. The best things to do in Cork include day-tripping to Blarney Castle to Kiss the Blarney Stone. The Blarney Stone may be what has attracted tourists to the area for the gift of the Gab, but Blarney Castle is an excellent destination in its own right.

In Cork City proper, you can ring the Bells of Shannon, visit the English Market is a fantastic place for organic and locally produced food, and check out the history at Elizabeth Fort, a 17th-century old city fortress. You should also head down to the small towns around Cork Harbour, the second-largest natural harbor in the world. It’s near Cork Harbour, where you’ll find beautiful Cobh, a colorful seaside town and the Titanic’s last port of call in 1912.

Plan Your Trip to Cork

• The Best Things to do in Cork, Ireland
• Kiss the Blarney Stone for the Gift of the Gab

3. Galway City

Galway City is impossible not to love. If you are looking for the best cities in Ireland, look no further than the fifth-largest city.

Despite its growing size, Galway retains an authentic charm that has inspired the likes of Ed Sheeran to write a song about it. Make sure to add Galway to your Emerald Isle Itinerary to really enjoy traditional Irish music and friendly locals.

The real hive in Galway is its colorful old town, lined with cobbled streets and boldly painted independent shops. The city is undoubtedly the best place to visit in Ireland for creatives or anyone looking to get a ‘small town experience.’

Galway City is split in half by the River Corrib and sits on Ireland’s west coast, overlooking Galway Bay. It is a brilliant spot for an Irish road trip.

Galway is located directly on the Wild Atlantic Way, with many of the  route’s beautiful viewpoints  – like the Cliffs of Moher- just a short drive away. You can also use Galway as a base to take day trips to the gorgeous west coast islands. This is also the jumping-off point for the Aran Islands.

Book a cruise to see the Aran Islands here. However, if you can, we highly recommend spending two nights on one of the Aran Islands. We spent 3 days on the Inis Mór – Fun Fact, the Colin Farrell Movie, the Banshees of Inishmore was filmed on the Aran Islands.

Plan Your Trip to Galway

• 22 Best Things To Do In Galway, Ireland
• Cliffs of Moher: The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Ireland’s Top Attraction

Make sure to visit the Latin Quarter, which is Galway’s ‘old town’ and full of cobbles and street art. For those who know their Irish history, it’s also worth stopping by Saint Nicholas Collegiate Church, a 14th-century church visited by Oliver Cromwell. Meanwhile, for less morbid history, you can appreciate the 16th-century city walls by visiting the Spanish Arch.

Finish your days in Galway with visits to its many art galleries, and of course, check out its live music scene after dark.

4. Limerick City

Limerick is another of Ireland’s largest cities, but this time, it has a reputation for Viking and Medieval history. It was a walled city established by Vikings, making it one of Ireland’s oldest and current largest. It is located on the southwest coast, near the mouth of the River Shannon.

This location once made it a prime target for Viking settlers. But, for modern-day tourists, its location now makes it a great city break just off the Wild Atlantic Way’s path. Limerick is ideally located for a day trip to natural beauty like the Cliffs of Moher. However, it’s also a solace of urban sightseeing amongst tiny country lanes and five building villages.

Top attractions in Limerick include the Treaty Stone, the Hunt Museum for Art and Archaeology, the medieval fortress of King John’s Castle, and the spectacular International Rugby Experience. To embrace the characteristic Viking history in the city, you can walk the Limerick Medieval Trail, taking you through the medieval buildings of English Town with fifteen different points of historical interest. This self-guided walking tour is a great way to see Limerick through early Viking eyes.

It’s the Viking history that really solidifies Limerick as one of the best cities in Ireland. Limerick is also a fantastic city in the southwest, providing an  excellent place to stay on the Wild Atlantic Way  for an urban break.

5. Waterford

Waterford is another Viking-created city on the island. Founded in 914 AD by Ragnall, Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city and has some unusual claims to fame. It has had its fingers in a few different pots, particularly once known as Ireland’s wine and glass-making capital.

Its coastal location has meant Waterford has remained a trading hub, typical of a port city. It has picked up numerous different industries and has an underlying production-minded subculture. You can still find Waterford Crystal in shops around the city center and at the House of Waterford Museum. As for Waterford wine, you can visit the 15th-century Mayor’s Wine Vault at the Medieval Museum.

Attraction highlights of Waterford include Reginald’s Tower, the Irish Museum of Time, Bishop’s Palace, and Waterford Nature Park. We had to add Waterford to this guide, partly because of its busy production mindset, which makes for some great historical sightseeing, and partly because of its title as Ireland’s oldest city. If you want to learn more about Ireland’s unique production industries and earliest days, Waterford is a compact city you can happily sightsee on foot.

Small Sligo may be a town, but in our eyes, it’s special enough to justify a position amongst the best cities to visit in Ireland. City status means nothing when you check out Sligo’s literature history, and it has tons to offer tourists in the way of sightseeing.

Sligo sits on the Northwest Coast of Ireland, near the magical site of Queen Maeve’s Cairn, a megalithic tomb atop a Knocknarea mountain, and Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery – the largest of its kind in Ireland.

Sligo is an ideal place to stop for a few nights on a road trip, and it’s easy to see why it inspired so much literature. The town is surrounded by ancient architecture, and its pretty town center is scenically sliced by the gentle Garavogue River. You should definitely visit the Yeats Society, Sligo Country Museum, and Sligo Abbey in the town itself.

Sligo is shrouded in ancient mystery, dramatized by its extensive literature history. We love its proximity to some of Ireland’s most beloved megalithic tombs, and it’s a beautiful place to visit in Ireland for an insight into this darker history.

Athlone is a chronically overlooked city to visit in Ireland but trust us, if you stop here, you will love it. Ahlone dates back to the Bronze Age and was even involved in the Jacobite Rising; you’ll find tons of lesser-known historical sites and quiet archaeological sites . It is also a popular stop on bus tours to visit the oldest pub in the world! During our River Shannon Cruise, we parked right in front of Sean’s Bar to enjoy a pint in the world’s oldest pub.

Athlone is a beautiful city split in half by the River Shannon and located right next to Lough Ree. We loved spending two nights in this historic city and visiting the 6th-century site of Clonmacnoise. Read about it here.

8. Kilkenny City

Kilkenny is one of our favorite cities in Ireland. It is a treasure trove of historical and cultural riches. Nestled in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, Kilkenny City boasts a stunning medieval landscape, complete with cobbled streets, ancient stone buildings, and the iconic Kilkenny Castle.

This city is not only steeped in history but also thrives as a center of contemporary arts, hosting numerous festivals throughout the year that showcase the best in Irish craft, design, and music.

The bustling streets of Kilkenny are lined with artisan boutiques, inviting cafes, and traditional pubs where one can savor the local cuisine and enjoy the renowned Irish hospitality. Whether you’re exploring the well-preserved Kilkenny Castle, wandering through the enchanting Rothe House and Garden, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Kilkenny offers a uniquely enriching experience that captures the essence of Ireland’s cultural and historical splendor.

There’s also St Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum, Rothe House and Garden, St Mary’s Cathedral, and St Canice’s Cathedral. Smithwick’s Experience is a must, too, guiding you through a multi-sensory tour of how Ireland’s oldest ale came to be formed.

Wexford is easily one of the best cities to visit in Ireland. The major city sits on Ireland’s east coast, which, as you already know, was predominantly founded by Viking settlers. It has an excellent maritime heritage and stunning sandy beaches, many of which are designated Blue Flag Beaches for their cleanliness and safety. It is less industrial than Waterford, with more of a lingering historical atmosphere. You can enjoy condensed culture in its extremely walkable center or use it as a day trip launchpad – more on that in a second.

The best inner-city attractions in Wexford are the National Opera House, Wexford Harbour, and the ruins of Selskar Abbey, where the first Anglo-Irish treaty was signed. Wexford has many medieval lanes and narrow streets in its modern-day shopping quarter. It’s a fun place for some retail therapy with a historical backdrop, one of the main reasons we added it to this guide.

The second reason is Wexford’s day trip potential. It is less than a 10-minute drive from the incredible Irish National Heritage Park, which tells the story of Irish settlement over 9,000 years with recreated houses and costumed guides over 35 acres.

10. Tullamore

Beautiful Tullamore is one of Ireland’s best cities to visit, with fewer tourists than other cities. Located in County Offaly, one of the central counties in Ireland, it has excellent access to the almost tourist-free Slieve Bloom Mountains.

As if this peaceful, off-the-beaten-track setting wasn’t good enough, Tullamore is also known for its whiskey, and you can take guided whiskey tours at the Tullamore DEW Distillery.

The Grand Canal splits the center and has beautiful waterfront views. You should prioritize visits to Shra Castle, Charleville Castle, and the Clara Boardwalk, which treats you to gorgeous views over one of Offaly’s famous bogs. Bogs are crucial to rural culture, historically providing peat to heat homes and that peaty flavor in certain Irish whiskies, like Tullamore Whiskey.

Tullamore is a great place to visit in Ireland to get an insight into rural culture. It provides the perfect springboard for bog tourism and ancient castles, plus, of course, the chance to sample some of the tastiest Irish whiskey.

The small port city sits on the western Dingle Peninsula, you guessed it, right on the beautiful Wild Atlantic Way’s path; so it’s a must-stop-off if you decide to  road trip the Wild Atlantic Way . Dingle has an inspiring relationship with nature and is a much quieter version of Galway Bay. We just had to add it to our list of the best cities in Ireland.

Dingle is children’s book worthy, having piggybacked its fame from the tale of Fungie the Dolphin, a famous lone dolphin that used to call Dingle Harbour home. Now, you can still take  boat tours to go dolphin spotting  or visit the Fungie statue in the harbor – which immortalizes everyone’s favorite Dingle resident.

In addition to dolphin spotting, you should also check out the Dingle Distillery and Kingdom Falconry. And if you have time for day trips, take a boat tour to the Blasket Islands.

What Adare lacks in city status, it makes up tenfold in character. Its buildings are so aesthetic and it holds so much culture that we just had to include it. It is so beautiful that it is a designated heritage town, with a mixture of colorful traditional terraces and white-washed cottages with thatched roofs. Adare is no hidden gem, but if you can visit off-season, you won’t find it overcrowded. It is like a time capsule, whisking you back to 12th-century Ireland.

When visiting, you must see the thatched cottages, now turned into gift shops like Lucy Eridge, and restaurants like the gorgeous Blue Door Restaurant. You should also visit Adare Castle and the Augustinian Friary. Adare is all about atmosphere and stunning traditional aesthetic.

Adare is the ideal addition to a city break in Limerick. If you have a long weekend, we suggest spending a night there before driving back to Limerick for its airport and major city amenities.

13. Donegal

Introducing Donegal: one of the most popular cities in Ireland. Donegal is set in its same-named county, County Donegal, nicknamed Ireland’s Forgotten County. Dramatic sea cliffs and barren moorland surround the city, and it’s where to visit if you want plenty of day trips into nearby wilderness. Donegal is a brilliant stop-off for a few nights if you follow the Wild Atlantic Way’s route down the west coast.

Donegal Castle and the Railway Heritage Museum are other must-visits in the city. However, Donegal is far from surrounded by natural beauty and happy-go-lucky history. It’s also a harrowing city to learn about the impact of the famine. The Great Famine hit in the mid-19th century and  led to the death of approximately 25% of the Irish population . A visit to Donegal’s Famine Graveyard is a must to help comprehend the tragedy of the conflict-driven famine.

Donegal is a great place to visit and experience a huge spectrum of Irish history, culture, and nature in a tiny area. With a beautiful location and lots to teach tourists, it is an easy addition to our list of the best cities to visit in Ireland.

14. Killarney

Killarney is beautifully located on the outskirts of Killarney National Park in County Kerry. County Kerry is located smack dab in the middle of two of Ireland’s most iconic scenic drives: the Wild Atlantic and the Ring of Kerry. It’s the perfect base to go on  horseback rides  or explore waterfall trails and forests on foot in the Killarney National Park, heading back for a cozy pub dinner in Killarney in the evenings. And if you want to experience Ireland’s ‘deep south’, this is your choice.

Killarney itself has a neo-Gothic architectural style and a small center. You can take a tour by  horse and carriage , visit Killarney House and Gardens, and test your tastebuds at the Irish Whiskey Experience. Killarney is also ideally located on a day trip to some  unique things to do along the Wild Atlantic Way , like Skellig Michael.

We love its strong sense of character and profoundly traditional atmosphere, and its proximity to the national park is just the ultimate addition.

Best Cities in Northern Ireland

Of course, the island of Ireland is split into two countries: Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. While Northern Ireland is much smaller, it has some fabulous cities to visit, so we had to give it a special mention in this guide.

Visiting both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in one trip is super straightforward – you can just drive across the border or catch a shuttle service, especially if you’re traveling between Belfast and Dublin. If you can, combine the two in a single trip. These are some of the best Northern Irish cities that should definitely find a way onto your itinerary.

15. Derry / Londonderry

Derry / Londonderry is a city that goes by two names. You can find out why  here , but in short, it is because of sectarian tensions. Protestants referred to the city as Londonderry, while Catholics called it Derry. Nowadays, you can usually use either without controversy; to be polite, when talking to Northern Irish people, you can just take their lead in how they reference the city.

It goes without saying that a city with such a backstory behind its name makes for a fascinating tourist destination. There’s tons of political and social history to unpack behind Derry City, and you can stop by attractions like murals and the Museum of Free Derry and walk the Derry Walls. Derry is compact and walkable, making it a great city break. And for any Derry Girls fans, you can spot plenty of filming locations, which is a fun extra.

We had to add Derry City to this list, as it is one of the most complex and interesting cities in Northern Ireland. If you like your history, Derry is a must-visit.

Beautiful Bangor is a small Northern Irish city just a 30-minute drive outside Belfast. It is a seaside city with sandy beaches and a great place to experience the coastal pace of life in Northern Ireland. In summer, Bangor comes alive with a slightly cheesy seaside resort atmosphere. But if you catch it out of season, it has a really romantic, wistful appeal and a much slower pace.

You can walk the 10-mile Holywood to Bangor section of the North Down Coastal Path or just enjoy having beaches like Ballyholme Beach at your beck and call. Bangor’s waterfront is scenic, an attraction in itself, lined by colorful terraces painted blues, greens, and pinks. Stroll along the water and stop by independent coffee shops like the quirky cafe The Bearded Goat. If you want to get historical in your sightseeing, head to the North Down Museum.

17. Belfast

The Northern Irish capital of Belfast is a fascinating mix of friendly locals and a web of complex history. Belfast is a modern city with a gritty undertone, with city maps still segmented into sectarian neighborhoods despite its now – mostly – blended communities. It’s most famed for its Troubles, a period of political unrest that lasted from 1968 to 1998 before the signing of the Good Friday Agreement. For history buffs, the opportunity to learn about this unrest is a huge draw, usually through  black taxi tours of the murals and Peace Wall .

This singular stereotype of Belfast and the tourism it offers is reductionist, though. There’s everything from cozy pubs and bars in the buzzy, cobbled Cathedral Quarter to the Titanic Belfast museum and a trail commemorating the east Belfast-born singer Van Morrison. It’s also a fantastic place to use as a launchpad to visit the Mourne Mountains, Dark Hedges, or the Causeway Coast.

If you want to understand Northern Ireland, head to Belfast. Northern Ireland has an entire culture of its own. Belfast will introduce you to the politics, subcultures, and traditions behind that – all while situated in an ideal place for a day trip to areas of natural beauty.

Best Cities in Ireland: FAQs

Now you know which cities to visit in Ireland, we need to help narrow down your new collection of choices. After all, it is a tough choice. How do you pick between Galway City and Dingle? Or Limerick and Cork? Or Belfast versus Derry? In this section, we’ll look at the most commonly asked questions to see if we can help you pick your top two or three cities in Ireland.

Where is the most beautiful city in Ireland?

The most beautiful city in Ireland is undoubtedly Galway City. The old town is the most authentic place to experience local culture, and out of all the Irish cities, Galway retains a rustic, windswept settlement quality.

What are the 5 largest cities in Ireland?

In the Republic of Ireland, the five largest cities are Dublin, Limerick, Cork, Galway, and Waterford. The largest cities on the island of Ireland, including the Republic and Northern Ireland, are Dublin, Belfast, Limerick, Galway, and Derry/Londonderry.

What is the main town in Ireland?

Dublin is the capital city of Ireland and

I don’t think I would agree with this. I would say it is Dublin. Can you re-write this.

What is the best city to go to in Ireland?

It is a tough call, but Galway is the best city to go to in Ireland. We’d suggest Galway because it is closest to the Wild Atlantic Way and has easy day trip access to the striking west coast islands like the Aran Islands, Skellig Michael, and the Inishmore Islands. It also has the most authentic character, and while Dublin is incredible if you want a luxury hotel, formal museums, and buzzy drinks at Temple Bar, Galway offers more of an immersion into traditional Irish music and culture.

Cities in Ireland We Love

Wherever you choose to visit in Ireland, you’ll find an amazing string of cities offering a different experience and outlook. You can head to Northern Ireland for the brilliant city of Belfast or the sleepy seaside town of Bangor with all its sandy beaches. You can head to Ireland’s west coast for the iconic cities along the Wild Atlantic Way, like Killarney and Galway City. The central cities along the River Shannon, like Athlone, are surrounded by the beautiful bog country. The south offers intense culture in cities like Cork and Limerick city, while the east coast houses Dublin and Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford.

There are some awe-inspiring cities in Ireland. These 17 best cities in Ireland should keep you well entertained during your stay.

Remember to check out some of the smaller towns and villages in Ireland as well. It isn’t known as the ‘Emerald Isle’ for no reason – heading out into the countryside will give you some amazing experiences and perspectives of Ireland. Start in the best cities in Ireland and then branch out to its smaller treasures. Have an incredible stay.

Plan Your Next Trip to Ireland With These Resources

• How To Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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20 of the most beautiful places to visit in Ireland

By Aoife O’Riordain

For a relatively small country, Ireland scores high in the sightseeing stakes from the elegant Georgian streets of its capital Dublin , to the more elemental and remote appeal of its further flung beauty spots and historic landmarks. The craic might be mighty and the welcome warm, but it’s not just a nostalgia-steeped vision of the past that is the draw, modern-day Ireland is a progressive, youthful and cosmopolitan society with a fast-moving contemporary scene when it comes to art, film, music, food, literature and tech with something new to discover all the time.

Best places to visit in Ireland

• Cliffs of Moher, Clare

The Atlantic Ocean churns relentlessly below the towering Cliffs of Moher. Buffeted by the ever-present wind, the full majesty of the world’s longest defined cliffs unfurl before you, towering 702ft above the water for almost nine miles along the County Clare coast. The views over Galway Bay towards the Aran Islands are staggering, as are the vistas from the five-mile coastal Doolin Cliff Walk. This is one of the country’s most visited natural wonders, so expect some crowds, but stop by in the evening when numbers begin to dwindle – you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular sunset.

North-west of Galway city lies one of Ireland’s most alluring wildernesses. The haunting beauty of the Connemara region stretches across County Galway: a landscape of slate-coloured lakes, bogland, sheep-dotted mountains, rugged coastline, hidden bays and small towns. Stop at Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord; the scenically situated Kylemore Abbey; the Alcock and Brown monument near Clifden that commemorates the landing site of the first non-stop transatlantic flight in 1919; and take to the hiking trails of the 40,000-acre Connemara National Park.

• Voya Seaweed Baths, Sligo

The rejuvenating properties of seaweed should not be underestimated. In the early 20th century, there were more than 300 seaweed baths dotted around the coast of Ireland, but numbers dwindled in the ensuing decades and only a handful remain. Voya Seaweed Baths in Strandhill is just one of a number rediscovering this very ancient therapy for a whole new audience, hand-harvesting organic seaweed from the nearby beaches and combining it with mineral-rich seawater for the ultimate steamy soak.

• Ring of Kerry

The scenic photo opportunities just keep coming on the 112-mile Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland’s most celebrated touring routes. Roughly skirting the edges of the Iveragh Peninsula in the south-western corner of the country, it starts and ends in Killarney. Along the way it threads through a ravishing reveal of mountains and Atlantic-bashed coastal views that include the UNESCO World Heritage-listed monastic settlement on Skellig Michael and the glorious golden sands of Rossbeigh Beach.

• Dingle peninsula, Kerry

Dingle feels a long way from anywhere, but the charm of this west Kerry fishing town in the heart of the Gaelic-speaking region is worth the trip. The pubs lining Main Street double as grocery stores and its annual gatherings such as the Other Voices music festival and the Dingle Food Festival draw a crowd. It’s also the jumping-off point for the remote charms of its namesake peninsula: the vertiginous drive around Slea Head with its views of the Blasket Islands; Sybil Head, which was used as a filming location in in Star Wars: The Last Jedi ; and, in good weather, the Caribbean-like the water lapping Coumeenoole Strand (aka Ryan’s Daughter beach), where David Lean’s classic 1970 flick was shot.

• Waterford Greenway

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Ireland was criss-crossed with a much larger network of regional railways than it is today. Some of the now-disused lines are being imaginatively repurposed into off-road walking and cycling routes. As its name hints, the Waterford Greenway is a 28-mile trail between the southerly port city of Waterford and seaside town Dungarvan, passing through tranquil countryside over viaducts and through moss-strewn railway tunnels with flashes of sea views.

• Wild Atlantic Way

Ireland’s headlining scenic route, the Wild Atlantic Way , is an epic road trip that hugs the ragged, western coast of Ireland from the isolated, weather-beaten beauty of Malin Head in Donegal for more than 1,500 miles through Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare and Kerry to the picturesque fishing town of Kinsale in Cork. You can pick up the well-signposted route in either a northerly or southerly direction anywhere along the coastline, stopping off to explore its show-stopping landscapes, towns and villages.

• Giant’s Causeway, Antrim

Northern Ireland’s unmissable landmark is the otherworldly, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Giant’s Causeway. Tumbling into the sea, it’s an astonishing geological wonder; an expanse of more than 40,000 hexagonal columns resembling a super-sized pathway formed by volcanic activity between 50 and 60 million years ago. More fantastically, legend has it that the stones were laid by Irish warrior Fionn mac Cumaill to use as stepping stones across the water to fight the Scottish giant Benandonner.

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Sliced in two by the River Liffey and hugging the gentle sweep of Dublin Bay, the Irish capital was first founded by the Vikings in the ninth century and has a rough-around-the-edges charm where Georgian grandeur rubs up against inner-city grit. A UNESCO City of Literature, Dublin 's streets are haunted by some of the literary greats of the English language. Dip into its thriving food scene, lose a few hours in one of its atmospheric pubs, seek out less well-known pockets of the capital such as The Liberties and delve into its multi-layered history spanning more than 1,000 years.

• The Burren, Clare

There is a lunar look to the extraordinary limestone landscape of The Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark in County Clare. This UNESCO World Heritage site is littered with archaeological and natural wonders, such as the lonely Poulnabrone Dolmen near Ballyvaughan dating from around 3,800 BC; the longest free-hanging stalactite in Europe in Doolin Cave; and the far-reaching views from the aptly named Corkscrew Hill. Its limestone nooks and crannies are a botanist’s fantasy rock garden, with more than 1,100 Mediterranean, alpine and Irish plant species. Don’t miss a pit-stop at the picturesque An Fear Gorta tearooms in Ballyvaughan – fans of its cheesecake include Hollywood director Steven Spielberg.

Often called the city of tribes, Galway has a relaxed, bohemian vibe. One of two European Capitals of Culture for 2020, this is a place that celebrates creativity and craft. A university town with a strong sense of its Irish heritage, the city is also a Gaelic-speaking stronghold and when summer rolls around the Galway International Arts Festival and Galway Film Fleadh attract culture lovers from all over the world. Visit the 16th-century Spanish Arch overlooking the Claddagh, where the River Corrib mingles with Galway Bay; dip into its thriving traditional music scene; stroll along Salthill pier and watch the hardy souls taking the plunge into the icy Atlantic waters; and visit one of its many standout restaurants such as Kai, Aniar and Ard Bia at Nimmos.

Spanning both sides of the River Lee is the self-styled People’s Republic of Cork , whose residents only half-jokingly refer to as the real capital of Ireland. A flourishing merchant city in the 18th and 19th centuries, its must-sees include the cherished English Market, where Corkonians have been shopping for some of the finest produce from the surrounding countryside since 1788; the Glucksman gallery within the grounds of the leafy University College Cork; and the Crawford Art Gallery set inside the repurposed 18th-century Customs House. Cork’s closest port, in Cobh, with its colourful houses creeping up the hill, was the last place the ill-fated Titanic docked in 1912.

• Newgrange, Meath

A marvel of early engineering, Newgrange is one of Europe’s most remarkable Neolithic archaeological sites. Older than the Great Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge, this sprawling passage tomb dates from 3,200 BC and, through a feat of ingenious Stone Age design, its main chamber is illuminated once a year (clouds permitting), when a small slit over the entrance lines up with the rising sun of the winter solstice in late December. The site forms part of the larger Brú na Bóinne UNESCO World Heritage site, set within a bend of the River Boyne, one of the most important clusters of prehistoric sites in Europe.

• Glendalough, Wicklow

Set in a deep valley gashed through the hills during the Ice Age, the 100ft round tower of Glendalough pokes up through the trees bordered by steep forested slopes of the surrounding Wicklow Mountains National Park. This ancient monastic settlement and pilgrimage site, whose name means ‘glen of two lakes’ was founded in the sixth century by Saint Kevin and is one of Ireland’s loveliest beauty spots, with a network of walking trails nearby including the long-distance Wicklow Way.

• Kilkenny City

Medieval magic awaits in Kilkenny, which for a brief period in the Middle Ages served as the Irish capital, astride the banks of the River Nore in the bucolic heart of Ireland. A former stronghold of Anglo-Norman invaders, its architectural heritage is part of the draw, told in its Medieval Mile Museum and throughout its atmospheric cobblestone streets and laneways presided over by the 12th-century Kilkenny Castle.

• Birr Castle, Offaly

Celebrating its 400th anniversary this year, Birr Castle has been occupied by the Parsons family since 1620. The hoi polloi can get the opportunity to peek around the castle and its extensive gardens that are home to more than 2,000 plant species and a grove of towering redwood trees. Also on display is the great telescope, completed in 1845 by the 3rd Earl of Rosse, who was one of the first to discover the spiral nature of the galaxies. The exploration of the cosmos continues with the estate’s low-frequency radio telescope, the I-LOFAR, part of one of the most sophisticated astrophysics research projects in the world.

• Sliabh Liag, Donegal

The Cliffs of Moher might be the crowd puller, but Sliabh Liag in County Donegal has high-altitude thrills of its own. Rising almost 2,000ft above the Atlantic Ocean, the mountain has some of Europe’s tallest accessible sea cliffs, three times higher than their County Clare rivals. Those with a head for heights should tackle the One Man’s Pass trail, where you can see the surf swirling beneath and marvel at the vertiginous, if stomach-churning, views.

• Bundoran, Donegal

Ireland’s self-styled surf capital in Donegal , also known as Fundoran, is one of the best places in the country to catch a wave, both for beginners and the more experienced. Tullan Strand or Rossnowlagh further up the coast offer plenty of thrills and spills, while south of the town in Sligo, Mullaghmore Head is one of the world’s premier big-wave spots, attracting the most daredevil surfers. Bundoran’s Sea Sessions surf and music festival in June is an annual sell-out.

• Rock of Cashel, Tipperary

Sitting on top of a jagged outcrop with the velvety green landscape of County Tipperary unfolding beneath for more than a millennium, the Rock of Cashel has a touch of the film set about it. Also known as St Patrick’s Rock, this huddle of partly ruined ecclesiastical buildings that include a 13th-century cathedral was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster and is one of Ireland’s most imposing historic sites.

• Belfast, Antrim

The city is having a bit of a moment. With The Troubles far behind it, Belfast has found a new energy helped by a burgeoning film-production scene and the regeneration of its Titanic Quarter which sits in the shadow of legendary Samson and Goliath, the nicknames given to the giant yellow Harland and Wolff shipyard cranes. Belfast’s charms creep up on you, but are easy to unearth from the winding streets of the Cathedral Quarter to the wide-open skies over Belfast Lough. Discover its evolving foodie scene with a browse in the 19th-century St George’s Market or supper at hot tables such as The Muddlers Club and Ox.

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A beachcombed haul

Donegal landscape. Discover more about Donegal, the county with some of the best beaches in Ireland, here

Kylemore Abbey

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Bedroom at Ballyportry, County Clare

Darren Topps, head gardener at Lismore Castle, County Waterford

Peninsula Dingle

Hazel Mountain Chocolate factory

Ard Bia restaurant

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Ard Bia and B

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Mullaghmore

Mitchell's restaurant in Clifden

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Connemara ponies

Fisherman Kevin Molloy with his spaniels on Lough Corrib

10 Best Cities in Ireland for an Amazing Visit!

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

Full of lush rolling hills, more sheep than people, a stunning coastline, and the nickname ‘The Emerald Isle’, it’s no secret that Ireland is beautiful. This small country has something for all travelers whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or to hit the pubs in the old cobbled streets of Ireland’s cities.

With a rich history involving Vikings, subjugation, rebellion, and famine, the cities of Ireland tell the country’s story in their world-class museums, traditional Irish culture, local cuisine, and their historic architecture.

As Phil’s home country, we know Ireland well, and we’ve spent a lot of time exploring and visiting its beautiful cities and towns as we travel Europe. We’ve put together this list of the best cities in Ireland to visit that offer traditional Irish charm, history, and culture to help you plan your perfect Ireland itinerary.

Best Cities To Visit in Ireland

Straddling the River Liffey, Dublin is Ireland’s largest city and it is also the capital city, making it one of the most important cities in the Republic of Ireland.

Dublin city is a global hub for multinational companies like Google, so parts of the city lack the charm of the rest of Ireland. If you want to spend your time in small Irish towns and see beautiful greenery and historical sites, Dublin may not be the best for you. However, it is a stop that all travelers should (and most likely will have to!) make, so lean in and experience Dublin like you mean it!

Dublin has a complex history full of Vikings, famines, and wars, and much of the city center still has a historic feel, with streets of cobblestone, castles and ancient churches. One of the best ways to see Dublin is by wandering and meandering along the river, down interesting streets and past architectural splendours and reminders of this intimate city’s character.

Where to Eat in Dublin and What to Try

We can personally recommend the Brazen Head. This Irish Pub is a bit of an institution among locals and tourists alike so you’ll have to search for a table at all times of the day, but it’s worth it. 

This very lively spot is known for its Guinness and stick-to-your-ribs Irish Stew and the person sitting next to you will likely strike up a conversation with you here. This is just the Irish way! If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic dinner this may not be the spot for you.

Things to Do in Dublin

• Go on a Dublin Food Tour to immerse yourself in the local cuisine and learn about the city.
• Visit the Guinness Storehouse, one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions, to see how the black stuff is made, and of course, try a pint of Guinness!
• Visit THE Jameson Whiskey Distillery to taste their famous spirit – or do both and get skip-the-line tickets for Guinness and Jamesons!
• Take a walk around Oscar Wilde’s Dublin, from his favourite childhood haunts to his house in Merrion Square.
• Visit the famous Temple Bar Area to spend a night pub-hopping and listening to live Irish music.
• Learn about Irish history at the Kilmainham Gaol Museum and former prison.
• See the Book of Kells, Old Library and Long Room at Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest university.
• Explore EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum at Dublin’s Docklands and get under the skin of what it really means to be Irish.
• Enjoy a stroll in Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed public parks in any capital city in Europe, and one of the best places to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Where to Stay in Dublin

We stayed in the Parkway Guesthouse and it was the perfect place from which to explore. It is clean, walkable to downtown, has friendly staff, and is a reasonable price considering accommodation in Dublin can be expensive.

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Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Ireland. We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is a vibrant city and the second largest city on the island of Ireland. A vibrant and historic city, Belfast has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a fun day out, Belfast has plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

A very walkable city, much of what you’ll want to see can be reached on foot. A walking tour with a local guide will help you understand the complex history of the Troubles and the complex relationship between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Where to Eat in Belfast and What to Try

Whenever we’re in Belfast we head to our nearest Maggie Mays (there are three; Malone Road, Botanic Avenue and Castle Street) for a traditional Ulster Fry, a cooked breakfast with thick back bacon, fried eggs, local pork sausage, black pudding and the key ingredients of potato bread and soda bread.

Things to Do in Belfast

• A top attraction in Belfast is the Titanic Quarter, with the Titanic Experience dedicated to the ill-fated liner that was built in the city.
• Visit the Ulster Museum to explore the past, the present and the future of Northern Ireland.
• Explore the historic Crumlin Road Gaol, one of Belfast’s historic landmarks.
• Take this brilliant political taxi tour to see the famous murals around the city and discover Northern Ireland’s recent troubled history.
• Enjoy a pub-crawl through the lively pubs and buzzing nightlife of the Cathedral Quarter.

Where to Stay in Belfast

The Malmaison Belfast is an urban haven in the city centre, and combines historic charm with modern amenities and comfortable rooms.

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Ireland’s second-largest city, and the capital of County Cork, Cork city is home to one of the top universities in Ireland and is popular wih international students, so its no surprise that the city has a hip and eclectic vibe, with a bit of a rebellious streak.

Cork city sits on an island between two branches of the River Lee, and this beautiful setting makes it one of the most popular cities in Ireland!

Cork is known as the food capital of Ireland and has a diverse offering of food choices from homey, traditional Irish food to artisan cheese and beautifully smoked fish. If you want a great experience and the best Irish food culture, Cork is where you want to be!

Like much of Ireland, Cork also enjoys incredible nightlife. However, it also offers a tranquill riverside escape for those wanting to get out of the hustle and bustle of the busy downtown area.

Where to Eat in Cork and What to Try

With so much great food in the city, there are no wrong choices. However, Gallagher’s Cork is a local pub that’s signature dish of beef and Beamish ale pie, braised beef with vegetables and puff pastry, is a must-try.

Things to Do in Cork

• Taste your way through the English Market, one of the oldest covered markets in Europe.
• Visit the Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone, just a short 10km drive outside the city center.
• Visit St Patrick Street, which locals call Pana, to buy souvenirs and listen to the live music coming from the pubs.
• Take the train along Cork Harbour to Cobh, the great embarkation point for countless thousands of Irish emigrants leaving their native shores for North America. 
• Explore the wild and dramatic West Cork landscapes on the Beara Peninsula and at  Mizen Head .

Where to Stay in Cork

The Imperial Hotel Cork City is a hotel that feels like a palace upon walking in. It is in the heart of downtown and has an excellent breakfast included in many of the booking options. 

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Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Ireland.

While Kinsale is less of a city and more of a small town it is worth a stop as you travel through Ireland, and is located at the start or finish of the Wild Atlantic Way, just outside of Cork. What once was an old fishing port, this adorable Irish town is known for its cobblestone streets lined with brightly colored buildings.

The mix of color among the medieval buildings of the rest of the town is what we thought made Kinsale special and one of the most beautiful cities in Ireland, and why it’s included on this Irish cities list!

Where to Eat in Kinsale and What to Try

The Black Pig Winebar serves local and seasonal, modern European food with a cozy atmosphere. The most popular menu items are their oysters and amazing charcuterie.

Things to Do in Kinsale

• For history buffs, visit the two 17th century fortresses that overlook the River Bandon: the huge Charles Fort to the southeast, and the smaller James Fort on the river’s opposite bank.
• Spend some time on the River Brandon sailing, fishing, or kayaking.
• Visit the Lusitania Museum & Old Head Signal Tower where you can find out about the 1915 sinking of the RMS Lusitania.
• Discover mead, an alcoholic drink made with honey, at Kinsale Mead Company , Ireland’s only meadery.
• Take a pottery class at Kinsale Pottery and Arts Center where you’ll use the potter’s wheel and learn traditional techniques.

Where to Stay in Kinsale

The Kinsale Hotel and Spa is in a great location and is also surrounded by water and forest so it has something for all travelers. 

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Kilkenny, a medieval city located in Ireland’s Ancient East is known as the ‘Marble City’ due to the many buildings constructed with the local Kilkenny stone.

The city has an incredible vibe and feels like the quintessential Irish city built along its Medieval Mile street of shops, pubs, restaurants, and more. The Mile stretches from Kilkenny Castle to St. Candice Cathedral and, along with its medieval history, it is one of the highlights of this small city that feels larger than it really is.

Because the main attractions are on one street, Kilkenny is one of the most walkable cities in Ireland. Travelers can spend time eating Irish food, stroll between the traditional pubs, explore the shops, or wander along the River Nore.

Where to Eat and What to Try in Kilkenny

Matt The Millers Bar and Restaurant is a local favorite with great live music and an incredible Guinness and beef stew, served with colcannon – basically mashed potato with spring onions, known as scallions in Ireland.

Things to Do in Kilkenny

• Explore 12th century Kilkenny Castle, the principal seat of the butlers, earls, marquesses, and dukes of Ormond for almost 600 years.
• Visit the Medieval Mile Museum , on the site of 13th century St Mary’s church and graveyard, for a treasure trove of artifacts encompassing more than 800 years of Irish history.
• Listen to classic Irish Trad (folk music) at a local pub. For us Kytelers Inn is the best stop, and so it should be, they have been going since 1324!
• Take a guided tour of Smithwick’s Brewery and enjoy a taste of Ireland’s oldest ale.

Where to Stay in Kilkenny

We recommend the Club House Hotel for those who want to watch their budget while still being downtown. It’s clean and has an incredible breakfast included. Note that there are a lot of stairs and no elevators.

Fans of Ed Sheeran may have heard of this cute city in Ireland from his song Galway Girl . One of our favorite Irish cities, Galway is another university city with an old town of medieval buildings on the dramatic and wild west coast of Ireland. 

In 2020, this medieval city by the sea was voted the European Capital of Culture due to its bohemian, artsy vibe and plenty of festivals!

When wandering through the narrow lanes visitors will hear traditional Irish music from the many buskers and vibrant pubs, but there are also plenty of cozy and quiet cafes if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience! No matter what you prefer, Galway City is one of the best cities to visit in Ireland!

Where to Eat in Galway and What to Try:

Galway’s most famous seafood, you must try the oysters straight from the Atlantic Ocean at the  Seafood Bar at Kirwans .

Things to Do in Galway

• If you’re looking for a reprieve from the bar scene, try exploring the west coast in Connemara National Park, a short drive away   in nearby County Mayo.
• Wander through Quay Street – the main city street where you’ll find the shops, traditional pubs, and restaurants.
• Visit the 1958-built Galway Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas.
• Explore the Galway City Museum where you can discover the archaeology, history, and local culture.
• Take a day trip to explore the mysterious Burren and the mighty Cliffs of Moher , as they rise dramatically from the sea.
• Get a boat to Inishmore, or  Inis Mór , the largest of the beautiful Aran Islands that guard the mouth of Galway Bay.

Where to Stay in Galway

We had an incredible stay at The Huntsman Inn . It is on top of an old bar but the rooms are surprisingly spacious, modern, and beautiful. It’s a 10 minute walk from the center of downtown but provides a nice respite from the noise of sleeping.

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Think of Limerick as the ‘Portland, Oregon’ of Ireland with its street art, awesome restaurants, and great craft beer scene. It has a rougher reputation than other Irish cities, but this should not stop you from visiting the first-ever Irish European City of Culture.

Whether you prefer medieval or more modern architecture, more traditional and homey food, or more upscale fine dining, or want to drink Guinness or local, craft beer, Limerick city has something for all travelers. 

Where to Eat in Limerick and What to Try

The Locke Bar is on the River Shannon and has live traditional music and Irish dancing in the summer months. For the adventurous traveler, try the fisherman’s pie which is like a shepherd’s pie, but with fish. 

Things to Do in Limerick

• Head to Limerick’s Milk Market, one of Ireland’s biggest foodie markets for more than milk! You’ll find local arts and crafts, locally produced food and drink, and lots more.
• Explore some Viking history with a walking tour of 13th century King John’s Castle, also known as Limerick Castle.
• Stop by Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum and taste Irish Coffee where it was invented, right in the Foynes Irish Coffee Lounge.
• Visit 1856 St John’s Cathedral which boasts one of the tallest spires in Ireland.

Where to Stay in Limerick

The Absolute Hotel Limerick is right in the city’s medieval quarter with an incredible view of the Abbey River. It’s clean, chic, and very central with an option to include breakfast in your stay.

Waterford is a hidden gem in Ireland as most tourists stop at large cities like Dublin or Cork and pass by, but Waterford is definitely worth visiting. Known for its Waterford Crystal, Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city, founded by Vikings in the 9th century. The city’s name comes from a Viking word that means ‘windy Fjord’.

The beautiful city is home to many museums and historic buildings within walking distance, making Waterford a great place to stop for those who want to get into the history of Ireland.

Where to Eat in Waterford and What to Try

Take a break from hearty Irish food and head over to Emilianos for some incredible Italian foods that rival what you’ll find right in Italy.

Things to Do in Waterford

• Visit the House of Waterford and watch beautiful Waterford crystal being made.
• Visit the Viking Triangle, a series of old streets that connects Reginald’s Tower, The Bishop’s Palace, and Christ Church Cathedral, and includes the Medieval Museum and the Irish Museum of Time.
• Discover Waterford’s 49 beaches, perfect spots for water sports like surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and coasteering.
• Hire a bike and cycle the Waterford Greenway, a 46km cycling and walking trail between Waterford and Dungarvan.

Where to Stay in Waterford

The Granville Hotel is a high-class hotel that feels very old-world European inside. It overlooks the River Suir and is in a central location, walkable to all the main attractions.

Derry-Londonderry

Derry-Londonderry is fast becoming a popular destination in Northern Ireland. One of the finest examples of a fortress city in Europe, Derry is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland.

Derry is the last stop on the Causeway Coastal Route, which encompasses the whole of the Antrim Coast from Belfast and takes in top attractions like the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, and the Bushmills Distillery.

Close to the border with County Donegal and on the shores of Loch Foyle, Derry enjoys some of Ireland’s best beaches in the Binevenage Outstanding Area of Natural Beauty and is in a great position for exploring Malin Head and the Wild Atlantic Way.

Where to Eat in Derry and What to Try

The Walled City Brewery in Ebrington Square has a classic gastropub menu showcasing locally sourced and produced ingredients alongside an eclectic mix of flavors from around the world. We vote for the McAtamney’s sirloin, from a local Coleraine butcher.

Things to Do in Derry

• Walk the 17th century walls and spot the ornate Guildhall and the Derry Girls mural.
• Stroll over the contemporary Peace Bridge to Ebrington Square which was once a British Army barracks.
• Take a Bloody Sunday and Bogside walking tour , a great way to see the political murals and learn about Derry’s recent history, which has shaped how the city has developed in the last century.
• Discover three of the 25 Northern Ireland Game of Thrones filming locations nearby: the Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbour, and Downhill Strand.

Where to Stay in Derry

Positioned within the walls, the listed Bishop’s Gate Hotel is well-situated and offers a boutique vibe with luxury rooms.

Situated in County Kerry’s scenic southwest region of Ireland lies the busy town of Killarney. One of Ireland’s top tourist destinations Killarney is on the edge of Killarney National Park and Lough Leane, and is the starting point for the Ring of Kerry Coastal Route around the Iveragh Peninsula.

Killarney is surrounded by pretty lakes and spectacular vistas of Ireland’s highest mountain ranges and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, especially hiking and mountain biking.

For cultural activities, visit Derrynane, the ancestral home of the ‘great liberator’ Daniel O’Connell, where you can find out more about Irish political history at Derrynane House.

Where to Eat in Killarney and What to Try

We loved Bricín Restaurant and Boxty House for its cozy traditional decor, but mostly for its amazing boxty, an Irish specialty made with mashed potato and grated raw potato, bacon fat, and sometimes cheese. An old Irish rhyme tells the importance of this historic staple dish; “Boxty on the griddle, boxty on the pan; if you can’t make boxty, you’ll never get a man.”

Things to Do in Killarney

• Visit Killarney National Park to see the top attractions of Muckross House and Abbey, Ross Castle, the Gap of Dunloe and Ladies View, and Torc Waterfall, all surrouned by the beautiful scenery the national park is known for.
• Take a brewery tour at the Killarney Brewing and Distilling Company to see how Irish craft beer is made.
• Go kayaking on Lough Leane and see if you can make it to Innisfallen Island!
• Hike the Devil’s Ladder to the summit of Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain at 1,038 meters above sea level.
• Take a drive along the Dingle Peninsula, ringed by sandy beaches and craggy cliffs, to Dunmore Head, Ireland’s most easterly point.

Where to Stay in Killarney

The Great Southern Killarney stands in six acres of beautiful gardens in the heart of Killarney with easy access to the town and a ten minute drive to Killarney National Park.

The Island of Ireland

The Republic of Ireland is officially described as the Republic of Ireland and is a member state of the European Union. There is no such country as Southern Ireland, although it is often incorrectly used to differentiate between Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland (or ‘Norn Iron’ as it is affectionately known by residents) is a part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, also known as the UK. The other countries in this sovereign state are England, Scotland and Wales.

Together, the two countries make up the island of Ireland. Upon the  partition of Ireland  in 1921, the 32 counties were split, with Ireland encompassing 26 and Northern Ireland, six.

Best Time To Visit Ireland

While there is no bad time to visit Ireland, but planning a visit in late spring or early fall is best. During the shoulder seasons, you will find fewer crowds at popular attractions, cheaper accommodation prices, and mild temperatures without too much rain – although this is Ireland, so make sure to pack your umbrella and a waterproof.

To experience a true Irish party, visit for St Patrick’s Day on March 17th. The anniversary of St Patrick’s death in the 5th century, this is a global celebration of Irish culture, and no more so than in Ireland itself. Known in Ireland as Paddy’s Day, there are public parades and festivals, céilithe (a traditional Irish gathering with music and dance), the wearing of green and orange outfits and shamrocks everywhere !

Another popular festival in Ireland is Halloween, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm. This is possibly because the roots of Halloween can be traced back to pagan Ireland over 2,000 years ago when the ancient festival of Samhain was celebrated to mark the beginning of winter. Head to the birth Púca Festival  at Athboy in County Meath said to be the birthplace of the festival for folklore, fun, and feasting.

Ireland Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Ireland will be a better experience if you use some of these top tips: 

• Ensure you remember to drive on the left of the road and not the right in the whole of the island or Ireland.
• Driving on the left side of the road also means that you have to look in the other direction when crossing the road, so look RIGHT before crossing and not left.
• Life moves slowly in rural Ireland, and no more so than on the roads! Watch out for sheep, cattle, herders and slow moving tractors, and enjoy the relaxed pace!
• Public transport can be sparse, especially in rural areas, so traveling by car and taking an Irish road trip, or even campervanning around Ireland , is the best option for seeing as much as possible.
• The food is heavy and comforting and portion sizes are generally large. You may struggle with vegetarian and vegan options outside of the cities.
• It’s customary to leave 10-15% of your of the bill in a restaurant, if the service has been good and there is no service charge on the bill. It is not expected to tip taxis but its a welcome gesture to round up the bill.
• If you’re crossing the border from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland, you’ll need both euros and pounds, as Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom .
• Don’t be offended by the people. Poking fun at people, even travelers that they just met, is the way of the Irish People. We were harassed for being American in our Uber within the first few minutes but it’s all lighthearted and you’ll have a great time once you get the  craic,  an Irish word for having a good time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Irish Cities

What is the most walkable city in ireland.

All of the cities in Ireland are quite walkable but Kilkenny, with all of its main shops, pubs, and restaurants on one street, is the most walkable city in Ireland.

What is the most touristy city in Ireland?

Being the largest capital city of Ireland, the most touristy city in Ireland is Dublin. Although this means it will be busier, Dublin is also home to some of the best attractions in Ireland.

What are the ten largest cities in Ireland?

The ten largest cities in Ireland by population are Dublin, Belfast, Derry-Londonderry, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Craigavon, Waterford, Drogheda, and Dundalk.

What is the nicest part of Ireland?

While all of Ireland is beautiful, the Wild Atlantic Way is a must-see on a tour of the Emerald Isle. At 1,600 miles, it is one of the longest-defined coastal routes in the world and winds from County Donegal in the north to County Cork in the south, following the gorgeous west coast of Ireland.

Ireland Trip Resources

Here are the services we use and recommend for traveling in Ireland;

• Search for affordable flights with Skyscanner
• Book your airport transfers with Intui Travel
• Find hotel and accommodation deals with Booking.com
• Book the best value car rentals with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Find the best activities and tours with Get Your Guide
• Get highly-rated travel insurance with True Traveller
• Get your convenient travel esim from Airalo or Holafly

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19 Best Places to Visit in Ireland

Written by Shandley McMurray and Meagan Drillinger Updated Jul 26, 2022

For a relatively small island, Ireland certainly packs in its visitors. This happening holiday destination attracts close to 11 million tourists each year.

Finding the best place to visit it Ireland is usually they're top priority. And boy does the Emerald Isle have some impressive attractions to please its visitors. We're talking verdant landscapes; rolling hills; medieval castles; vibrant music; and folk so congenial, you'll strike up a lifelong friendship.

Ireland is also admired for its charming villages and bustling cities that are bursting with interesting things to do, see, and eat. From unbeatable tourist attractions like Dublin's Kilmainham Gaol to the breathtaking sight of Giant's Causeway and Killarney National Park , Ireland is one of the world's best vacation spots, with a ton of stellar places to visit.

With so many towns and cities to tour, it can be difficult to choose which stunning places should top your itinerary . We've chosen 17 of the best Irish destinations to help whittle down your list. Plan your sightseeing with our list of the best places to visit in Ireland.

4. Aran Islands

5. killarney national park and killarney, 6. the ring of kerry and the iveragh peninsula, 7. galway city, 8. the cliffs of moher, 9. giant's causeway, 10. dingle & the dingle peninsula, 12. limerick city, 13. kilkenny, 14. westport, 16. coleraine, 17. kinsale, 18. connemara loop, 19. donegal, map of places to visit in ireland, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit ireland, what is the best way to get around ireland, what is a good itinerary for first-time visitors to ireland.

No trip to Ireland is complete without a stop in its lively capital. The biggest city in Ireland, Dublin is actually small when compared with other capitals. What it lacks in size and population, however, it makes up for with a large (and long) history, and an intimacy you won't find in other metropolitan cities.

Dublin isn't the most beautiful city, but what it lacks in cleanliness, it makes up for in effervescence. The laid-back vibe and cobblestone streets at the heart of this vibrant spot make it a truly magical place. The locals (and if you're uber lucky, Bono) will be happy to chat you up if you stop for a "convo."

Then they'll direct you to learn more about the city's expansive history in its stellar museums (like the unique and unforgettable Kilmainham Gaol, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum , and The Little Museum of Dublin ). Don't miss the breathtaking Christ Church Cathedral or iconic Dublin Castle .

One of the best aspects of Dublin's diversity and multiculturalism can be found in its tasty fare. Luckily for us foodies, the list of restaurants is even more extensive. Looking for a great curry? You'll find hundreds. How about sushi? They've got that, too. Fish and Chips? Obviously!

• Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Dublin

One of the best places to visit in southern Ireland, Cork follows Dublin as the Republic of Ireland's second largest city. It's also on par with the capital for being highly cosmopolitan. Wander the historic streets to soak up cool vibes emanating from small cafés, eccentric shops, unique museums (that means you, Cork Butter Museum ), and lurid art galleries.

Once again, we arrive back to food. The city is jammed with phenomenal restaurants. Think of a food you'd like to eat, then take your pick! That said, the covered English Market set in the heart of the city is a must-visit. You'll be hard-pressed to find fresher, more delicious treats (think, artisan cheeses, local fish, and scrumptious cakes). They've been in business since 1788, so they know how to do a market right.

While you're in Cork, set aside time for a day trip to Blarney Castle . One of the most popular attractions in Ireland, this relic was built almost 600 years ago. It is home to the infamous Blarney Stone, a.k.a. the Stone of Eloquence. If you kiss it while hanging upside down, you'll be gifted with eloquence - a better ability to communicate and speak.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cork

In times of old, Belfast was a location non grata. Once an industrial powerhouse (its shipyard produced the doomed Titanic ), this capital of Northern Ireland became feared. Today, Belfast has become a big tourist draw.

In addition to the Titanic Belfast museum (the most popular tourist destination, designed to commemorate the sinking of the infamous ship), the city boasts an opera house, botanic gardens, and a zoo, as well as many other attractions.

The Ulster Museum is a wonderful spot to while away a few hours. The largest museum in Northern Ireland, this unique building houses artifacts, specimens, and art that outlines the "human history" of Ireland. It occupies about 90,000 square feet within the Botanic Gardens.

A fun place to spend a few days, Belfast offers a rich cultural scene-from visual arts displayed on the streets to impromptu concerts. The shopping is on par with any European metropolis and there are too many good restaurants to choose from.

Plan your trip to coincide with the city's annual Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival in the first week of May. It spans about 11 days and brings culture (in the form of drama, poetry, music, art, and street theater) to the neighborhood.

• Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Belfast

Want a truly Irish experience? Immerse yourself in life on the Aran Islands. A popular spot for day-trippers from County Galway (a ferry leaves from Rossaveal ) and County Clare (ferries depart from Doolin), those who want to thoroughly explore these three unique islands opt to stay longer. Visitors with deeper pockets can opt for a 10-minute flight to the area.

Inis Mór is the largest island, Inis Meain is the most rural, and Inis Oirr is the smallest. All three are located in the middle of the Wild Atlantic Way — 2,574 kilometers of Ireland's most beautiful Western coastline stretching from Derry in the north to Kinsale in the south.

The scenery here is harsher and more desolate than that found in the verdant fields and mountains on the rest of the island. Jagged cliffs rise from the Atlantic to meet grazing sheep and cows. You'll also find ancient forts and impressive archeological remains — some of the oldest in Ireland.

Kilronan is the only village between the three islands. It's tiny and sits on Inis Mór. Locals speak Irish and English, which helps enhance the authentic Celtic charm. With a few bed and breakfasts and a smattering of restaurants, you won't be overwhelmed by the modern choices afforded by big cities like Dublin and Cork. Instead, you'll be able to sit back, relax, and soak up the Gaelic lifestyle along with unbeatable scenery.

Don't relax too much, though, or you'll miss Dun Aonghasa , a 14-acre prehistoric stone fort built atop 91-meter cliffs on Inis Mór.

Read More: From Galway to the Aran Islands: Best Ways to Get There

County Kerry (on the southwest corner of Ireland) is home to the much-visited Killarney. Those who come here are in search of something a metropolitan high street doesn't have on offer: serenity.

Take a look around, and you'll be graced by lakes, waterfalls, and mountains. Miles of trails are calling, and only comfortable sneakers (or hiking boots) will get you to your destination.

With more hotel rooms per capita than any Irish city, town, or village (Dublin excluded), Killarney knows how to accommodate its endless supply of visitors. Rest here while touring the spectacular Ring of Kerry or use it as a place to refuel after spending a full day exploring Killarney National Park . Don't miss the city's main attraction, Ross Castle.

Whether you choose to tour the park by foot, bike, boat, or jaunting car (picture a horse and buggy, and you're getting close), an active day in the park will leave you famished and exhausted. Killarney's restaurants value locally sourced food, and many offer lively music to help keep you moving.

After a good night's sleep (and perhaps a massage from a local spa), you'll have the energy to hike the Gap of Dunloe , head out fishing, or visit the Torc Waterfall .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Killarney

When it comes to breathtaking scenery, the Ring of Kerry has it all. Dramatic seascapes, majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, mysterious woodlands, and colorful homes pepper this captivating 179-kilometer route circling the Iveragh Peninsula.

Along the way, visitors will pass the Ring of Kerry's most famous (and spectacular) attractions , including the Gap of Dunloe , Torc Waterfall , Muckross House , Molls Gap , Ladies View , and Derrynane House . Charge your camera and be ready to get finger cramps from clicking; it's impossible to visit this magical landscape without taking a zillion photos.

Also passed en route are the adorable small towns of Beaufort , Killorglin , Glenbeigh , Caherdaniel , Sneem , Kenmare , Cahersiveen , and, of course, Killarney . You'll want to schedule extra time for a few nights' stay in these sweet villages to soak up their history and ambience.

Visit between April and October to add the Skellig Ring to your trip. A car ferry is available at that time from Renard Point , taking visitors to this scenic 18-kilometer route that passes Portmagee , Waterville , and Valenita Island .

The artsy vibe found in Galway City is second to no other on the Emerald Isle. An eclectic mix of old world versus contemporary metropolis, you'll find ruins of the town's medieval walls strewn around unique tourist shops and restaurants teeming with life.

Dull is not a word you'll ever find associated with Galway City. Listen closely and you'll hear a bagpipe (or two). You'll probably see people dancing in the street. Speaking of the street, that's where you'll find buskers and theater performers strutting their stuff.

Walk along one of the stone bridges stretching across the River Corrib , and find your way along the promenade to Galway Bay , which is lined with quaint and colorful houses.

Like Killarney, Galway is also a jumping-off point for other, more organic destinations. Connemara National Park , a 5,000-acre wonderland filled with bogs, mountains, forests, and grasslands offers four main walking trails that will keep travelers busy for hours.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Galway

There are few natural Irish landmarks as impressive as the beguiling Cliffs of Moher. Rising high (214 meters at some spots) above County Clare's west coast in all their rugged glory, it's easy to see why these enthralling sea cliffs have become one of the best places to visit in Ireland.

From atop the cliffs, which stretch south to Kerry and beyond, visitors are treated to unbeatable vistas of the Atlantic Ocean waves crashing upon the rocky shore below, with the lovely Aran Islands looming in the distance. Walking along them is by far one of the best things to do in Ireland.

So beloved by tourists, the area has adapted to its fame by adding a visitor center, on-site theater, gift shop, two cafés, and facilities. To get here, follow the Doolin Cliff Walk . The 19th-century O'Brien's Tower offers phenomenal views. It was restored in 2019 and is open to visitors through guided tours.

Protected since 1979, this spectacular area is a part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark and as such, plays host to a variety of Ireland's beautiful creatures, including over 35 types of birds.

Giant's Causeway is a captivating place where nature leaves you gob-smacked. Situated at the base of giant basalt cliffs, the Causeway consists of more than 40,000 massive, hexagonal-shapred black columns sticking out of the sea. In a nod to this attraction's unique name, these majestic forms look as if they were, indeed, placed there by giants.

Actually created through multiple volcanic eruptions, moving tectonic plates, and erosion over 60 million years, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a geological marvel. It's visited by tourists looking to soak up historic legends, enjoy breathtaking views, and feel small for a while. A less-than-one-kilometer walk will get you to its base, where you can explore this wonder up close, jumping over the stones, and measuring their girth first-hand.

The Giant's Causeway Visitor Center is the place to go if you're looking to unearth the legend of Fionn mac Cumhaill (a.k.a. Finn McCool), a giant who built a stepping-stone path (the Causeway) to Scotland in order to fight his equally large enemy, the Scottish Benandonner.

This quaint, hilly city is the capital of the Dingle Peninsula . A highlight on any tour of the Wild Atlantic Way , this famed peninsula boasts things you've likely never seen (like beehive huts) and beauty you'll be hard-pressed to surpass (that point where the azure waves crash against jagged cliffs to reveal secret sandy coves).

It's no surprise, then, that so many tourists choose to rest their weary heads (and feet) in this charming spot, especially on weekends and during the summer.

Perched above Dingle Bay , the Irish-speaking town faces the Blasket Islands . If you look closely enough, you might be able to spot Fungi, the town's unofficial mascot. Most head here to enjoy all that the coast has to offer (i.e. lounging, walking, and surfing). Cumeenoole Beach shouldn't be skipped!

Non beachgoers can hike uphill to the ancient Eask Tower . Their reward: unparalleled 360-degree views of dramatic and unforgettable scenery. Shoppers will enjoy eclectic stores selling everything from clothes to jewelry to hardware.

Officially known as Londonderry, Derry is the second largest city in Northern Ireland. It's most well-known for its stunning Atlantic coast and well-preserved ancient walls (dating back to the 17 th century, they surround the old city and are worth a tour). Derry also has significant ties to the Bloody Sunday massacre of 1972, which took place in its Bogside section.

Recently, the historic city had a major makeover, taking it from "ok" to "wow." One of the upgrades included Peace Bridge , a pedestrian and cycle bridge, which crosses the River Foyle . It opened in 2011. Since then, the bridge has become an icon used as a backdrop for concerts, New Year's celebrations, and more.

The city also worked hard to redevelop its waterfront. Wander the busy streets, pop into the unique shops, or grab a bite in one of the city's highly rated restaurants. You can't miss the modern buzz emanating from this bustling town.

Be sure to enjoy the Causeway Coast Route (by car or train) while you're in the area. Little can beat the magnificence of the impressive scenery, adorable villages, and unspoiled beaches.

Limerick is about to hit the big time, trust us! After a historic economic downturn, the city suffered for years. Lately, however, this vibrant town that hugs the River Shannon where it meets the Atlantic has been given a second, more upscale and glitzy chance.

Named Ireland's first City of Culture, Limerick received a much-needed revamp. New and improved quays, riverside walks, and public bicycles helped boost this quirky city towards a bright and shiny future. Lovely Georgian buildings hobnob with eccentric art galleries and the stunningly restored Milk Market , where food and fun combine in the form of pop-up restaurants, art exhibits, and concerts.

Of course, rugby still reigns as the sport of choice (for playing, watching, and loudly arguing about). You can avoid all that at King John's Castle , the 800-year-old heart of the city that received an extensive refurbishment to make it the most interesting, interactive, and fun castle you'll visit.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Limerick

An hour and a half from Dublin, Kilkenny spans both banks of the River Nore . Like, Derry, Kilkenny's medieval ties link closely with the new and exciting advances of today. Also known as the "marble city," this picturesque town is as delightful as it gets. It boasts a wide array of inviting restaurants and quaint cafés, along with shops to please those in need of a little retail therapy.

Kilkenny offers a slew of attractions, the most popular of which is the Medieval Mile , a scenic trail of narrow lanes that links many of the historic buildings (including Saint Mary's Cathedral and Kilkenny Castle , Rose Garden, and Park ).

Wander through the secret passageways, soak up the culture at one of the city's many festivals, or get lost in the maze created by Norman alleyways. Feeling creative? Unleash your inner artist by painting the castle grounds or capturing the juxtaposition of modern-day Ireland mixed with the crumbling, yet essential walls of yore.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kilkenny, Ireland

No one gets bored in Westport. Located in County Mayo on Ireland's west coast, Westport is a charming city often used as a base for adventurers. Play a round of golf, cycle the winding scenic trails, hike through the fields, or take the kids to Pirate Adventure Park at Westport House . Not enough adventure for you? Set out on a fishing trip, go sailing, or take a cool dip off the beach.

An hour and a half from Galway , this remote city is sometimes referred to as the Riviera of the Wild Atlantic Way . Surrounded by rugged countryside, the town also boasts 50 miles of pristine beachfront overlooking the magnificent Clew Bay . Head to Oyster Beach (near Murrisk ) for a relaxing horseback ride along the sand, or jump off the pier at Old Head (20 minutes away from town) while gazing up at the impressive Croagh Patrick .

Once you brush off the sand, head into town. Peruse the shops along the mall or take a romantic stroll across the stone bridge crossing the tree-lined bank of the Carrowbeg River . You won't be lacking in restaurant choices, so choose one that suits your taste.

An hour away, you'll find Achill Island , a remote island with three of Ireland's most beautiful, unspoiled, and best beaches . Bordered by dramatic cliffs, Keem Bay is the place to go for water sports and snorkeling. If you're feeling up to it, you can bike here along the 26-mile cycle path called the Great Western Greenway .

An adored rest stop for adventurers, Sligo is a friendly and picturesque coastal seaport. Located in the northwest of the island, near the border with Northern Ireland, Sligo is comfortably nestled between Donegal and Galway . That makes it an ideal place to rest your legs while touring the Wild Atlantic Way .

Like many of the captivating towns on this list, Sligo exists in the sweet, magical spot where the land meets the sea. The result is an oasis of mountain peaks, salty ocean spray, and sandy dunes that inspire even the least artistic of us to get creative.

Staying here is a treat. Where else can you ride the waves at the beach in the morning and visit an ancient castle backed by the most dramatic, craggy cliffs in the afternoon? Did we mention the adorable shops and plentiful restaurants?

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Sligo

You'd be amiss not to visit this delightful town on the Irish north coast, also known as the "capital of the Causeway Coast." A prior winner of prestigious awards like "Best Kept Town," "Ulster in Bloom," and "Best Kept Large Town in Northern Ireland," you're in for a treat while staying in this lovely spot.

While many are impressed by its new shopping center, Coleraine's charm oozes from its perfectly tended gardens and pretty town square (a.k.a. "the Diamond"). Local golf courses abound-with 14 golf clubs and courses located just outside the city. Most, however, come to walk, hike, or bike to appreciate the breathtaking views along the River Bann .

Carve out a couple of hours for a hike to Mountsandel Wood , a Mesolithic site dating back over 10,000 years. It's the earliest known settlement in the country and is thought to be Ireland's oldest archaeological site.

When your legs are sore from all that walking, make a pit stop at the Wee Cottage , a small, unique restaurant decorated with everything from trolls to teapots. Order a scone-you'll thank us! It's located right near Dunluce Castle , making it a perfect place for afternoon tea.

Another reason to visit Coleraine: it's only 12 miles from the Giant's Causeway .

It may be small, but this colorful seaside town is bursting with charm. A mere 40 minutes from Cork, Kinsale was once a medieval fishing port. Today, its impressive marina plays host to boats that are larger than your first apartment. Ogle the yachts before making your way along the Scilly Walk (a nice coastal walk) to Charles Fort , a star-shaped, 17 th -century artillery fort originally built to guard Kinsale Harbour .

Desmond Castle sits in the center of town. Built in the early 16 th century, this three-story tower house is hard to miss. Used to contain mainly French prisoners of war, it's known by locals as the "French Prison."

While roaming the charming streets, you'll notice a bevy of fun shops and other points of interest peppered throughout. Perhaps our favorite part about the town center, however, is its vast array of restaurants serving delectable food. Once dubbed the "Gourmet Capital of Ireland," you can't leave Kinsale without enjoying a meal (or 10).

Read More: Top-Rated Things to do in Kinsale, Ireland

Of all the drives in all the world, Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way is one that will stay with you forever. This 2,600-kilometer route is one of the longest defined coastal highways in the world, along which are many of the best places to see in Ireland.

Among the scenic drives that can be done off the Wild Atlantic Way, the Connemara Loop is likely one of the most beautiful, cultural, and historic. Connemara is a section of County Galway — one of its most remote, wild, and rugged. The loop takes travelers on an ever-changing scenic journey around mountains, across bogs, past lakes, beaches, and forest. Along the way, you will pass through charming villages and coastal towns, as well as through one of the largest Irish-speaking communities in Ireland.

The loop will take travelers through towns like Maam Cross, Lettergesh, Tully Cross, Letterfrack, the Inagh Valley, and beyond. The entire loop is 85 kilometers and is considered part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Be sure to visit Connemara National Park, Diamond Mountain, Kylemore Abbey, and many other epically beautiful and historic attractions.

Tucked all the way up in the northernmost corner of Ireland, County Donegal is a spectacular spot that is often skipped over for places in the south. But Donegal is stunningly beautiful, raw, wind-swept, and packed with history, making it one of the true undercover gems of Ireland.

The Wild Atlantic Way begins (or ends) here in Donegal. Throughout the county, visitors will be spoiled with views of rivers, lakes, beaches, and mountains. Because tourism numbers are much lower here than in other parts of Ireland, this is one of the best places in the country to absorb its local history and ancient traditions.

Donegal is where you can find one of Ireland's largest Gaeltachts (Irish-speaking areas). It is truly steeped in centuries-old traditions and culture. It also is a strikingly beautiful place, marked by salty fishing villages like Killybegs, rolling green fields, and ancient heritage.

Worth a visit is Malin Head, the most northern point in all of Ireland. It is webbed with coastal walks that offer jaw-dropping views over the Atlantic. You'll also find the Stone Fort of Grianan of Aileach, which is a stone fort that dates back more than 3,500 years. Another fantastic stop in Donegals are the Slieve League Cliffs, which are said to be even more incredible than the Cliffs of Moher — and far less crowded.

Ireland is fairly mild (in comparison to other European countries) and quite rainy year-round. If you're hoping to enjoy more outdoor time, the best time to visit Ireland is in the summer .

While you'll still need to pack a brolly (umbrella) and wellies (rainboots), traveling during the summer - a.k.a. June to September - means less of the wet stuff, more sunshine, and higher temperatures. Highs range in the low to mid 60s with lows hovering around the high 50-degree mark in July and August, so you'll want to pack a sweater.

June offers visitors up to 17 hours of sunlight, plenty of time to enjoy the bevy of outdoor activities on offer. In summer, you'll have to pony up higher fees, as this is the most popular time to visit Ireland.

The Emerald Isle's most captivating attractions lie far outside city boundaries, which makes traveling by car the best way to get around Ireland .

While taking a bus can save you money, you won't have the advantage of being able to pull over at incredible scenic spots along the route, and will be at the mercy of the bus's route and schedule.

Trains are also available to transport visitors across the country, but their stops are limited and again, leave you without the option of veering off your route to admire spectacular sights.

Feeling extra energetic? Ireland's twisty roads are well traversed by bicycles, and there are plenty of cycle paths to be found in the countryside.

First-time visitors to Ireland should plan a round-trip adventure starting (and ending) in Dublin, and taking in some of the country's best places to visit in between.

In terms of where to travel, here's the best itinerary for first-time visitors to Ireland: Dublin, Cork, Kinsale, Killarney, Dingle, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Dublin . The entire trip will involve about 13.5 hours of driving, broken up over multiple days.

First stop: Dublin . You'll want to spend at least two days here before moving on to Cork . One day will do here before you drive to Kinsale , which is so adorable, you'll have to spend the night. Next, head to Killarney , where you can visit Killarney National Park and tour the spectacular Ring of Kerry . You should plan at least one night or, better yet, two, to get the most out of this destination. Next up is Dingle and the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula . Charge your camera! A night or two will do. The Cliffs of Moher is your next stop and again, you'll want to take a ton of photos. On to Galway for a day or two and then back to Dublin .

Schedule two weeks to get the most from your trip. The added time means you won't have to rush through any of the spots you'll fall in love with at first sight. And be sure to rent a car, as this is the easiest way to travel in Ireland. Stay in B&Bs for the most comfortable and authentic Irish experience.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Ireland Highlights: Some of the best places to visit in Ireland for people who want to get off the beaten path are the small towns. For ideas on where to go, check out the top-rated small towns in Ireland . Another highlight of the country are the castles. If you have your heart set on visiting some of these historic structures, see our guide to the top castles in Ireland . And if you happen to be looking for the best places to go fishing in Ireland , we've got that covered as well.

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13 Charmingly Best Cities to Visit in Ireland

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Are you wondering what the best cities to visit in Ireland are ? You’re in luck! I studied abroad in Dublin and was lucky enough to travel all around the country. In this post, I’ve teamed up with other travelers to showcase Ireland’s best places to visit.

Ireland is a great country to plan a trip to. The food is amazing, the views are great, and the people are the kindest people I’ve ever met in my entire life.

I absolutely love Ireland to bits, and I think it should be on everyone’s travel list. I can’t recommend enough that you take an Ireland holiday and visit the coolest towns in Ireland.

There are so many cities and towns in Ireland , so it can get overwhelming trying to decide where to go when you only have a limited time in the country. Below, find the best cities to visit in Ireland, in no particular order.

#1 Best City to Visit in Ireland

The best city to visit in Ireland that’s a bit more off-the-beaten-path is Killarney in Co. Kerry . With historic sites like Muckross House and beautiful hikes to places like Torc Waterfall, you can’t go wrong with a visit here.

Table of Contents

Most Beautiful Cities in Ireland Map

At a glance, here’s a look at the Ireland towns and cities that you can’t miss .

Best Cities to Visit in Ireland

Killarney, co. kerry.

Killarney is super beautiful, and it’s even an easy day trip away from Dublin . It’s 100% worth visiting and exploring as one of the best cities to visit in Ireland, and I think you could easily spend a week here or even more. There’s a lot to see!

What to do in Killarney

Explore Killarney National Park . The town of Killarney itself is in Killarney National Park, and the views everywhere are exceptional. If you’re lucky enough to rent a car in Ireland or own one, go out and drive around.

There are amazing viewpoints everywhere. One such viewpoint that I suggest is Aghadoe Heights , which gives you a beautiful water and mountain view.

Check out Torc Waterfall . Torc Waterfall is probably one of the most-visited parts of Killarney National Park.

It’s a very short hike up from the parking area, and you may find it overcrowded if you’re there during midday, but you can also keep hiking up the trail if you please. The waterfall itself is 66 feet high and is a sight to behold.

Visit Muckross House , a Victorian mansion from the 19th Century. It was designed by Scottish architect William Burn for Henry Arthur Herbert and his family. Queen Victoria even visited Muckross House in the 1860s and instantly fell in love with Killarney.

Supposedly, the Herberts redid much of the house before Queen Victoria came, even positioning her room with the best park view from her window!

Walk around downtown Killarney! Killarney is my favorite Irish town. There’s just something about it that makes it so different from other Irish towns I’ve visited. It just feels so homey and comforting. It’s hard to describe!

The buildings are extremely beautiful and clean, too. Plus, the locals are really friendly! Though, of course, the locals are friendly no matter where you are in Ireland.

Drive the Ring of Kerry . This road trip is one of the most famous drives in Ireland. If you rent a car during your visit to Ireland, this is one of the most scenic road trips! Killarney is such a great place to start this drive.

Bray, Co. Wicklow

Bray is a gorgeous coastal town in County Wicklow. If you’re staying in the Dublin area for the entirety of your time in Ireland, it makes for a really easy day trip on public transportation!

What to do in Bray

Hike the Bray Head cliff walk. While studying abroad in Ireland , I became a huge fan of cliff walks. They’re just a whole bunch of fun, and you get some of the best views ever. Plus, you’re being active.

The Bray Head cliff walk is no exception! I visited on a slightly overcast day, and there weren’t many people along the walk at all.

Explore Wicklow Mountains National Park. Wicklow Mountains National Park is one of the most gorgeous places in all of Ireland. If you love getting outdoors, definitely check it out!

Visit the Mermaid Arts Centre. The Mermaids Art Centre is free to visit if you’re going to check out their galleries! They rotate out their second-floor exhibits.

Walk along the Promenade. My friend and I decided that when we did the Bray Head cliff walk, we’d go from Greystones to Bray instead of from Bray to Greystones because we knew we’d be greeted with prettier views this way. Boy, were we right!

The Bray Promenade was our view at the end of the cliff walk, and it’s gorgeous. It’s Victorian style and lined with many fun little shops and ice cream places. We even stopped to get chips from a fish & chip shop while we soaked in the view.

Revel in the fact that Hozier is from Bray! Isn’t that wild? Hozier is one of my favorite artists; this is his hometown!

Bray is one of the best cities to visit in Ireland, though very underrated.

Clonakilty, Co. Cork

Clonakilty is a small town near the southern coast of Ireland. Located in West Cork, Clonakilty was actually voted the best town in the UK & Ireland in 2017! It’s one of the best cities to visit in Ireland.

What to do in Clonakilty

Visit the West Cork Model Railway Village . This model village has miniature working trains that were part of the West Cork Railway Line in the 1940s and includes the towns that the trains frequented, like Kinsale, Dunmanway, and, of course, Clonakilty!

Have a tour of the Clonakilty Distillery . Here, you can schedule a tour of the facility along with a guided tasting of whiskey.

Or, you can attend a 2-hour masterclass at the Minke Gin School, learning all there is to know about gin and even how to craft your own personal recipe!

Explore Michael Collins House, Centre, & Monument . Michael Collins was an important figure at the forefront of fighting for Irish independence. You can now visit either of the museums (the house and centre) or the monument.

Walkabout the town. What’s better than walking around the town and popping into all the cute little shops? The Church of Immaculate Conception is also nice to stop in for a quick visit.

See the Blue Flag Beach at Inchydoney. This gorgeous beach is ready for splashing about! If you can manage to get good weather, of course – it is Ireland, after all.

If you have the chance, Clonakilty is also a great jumping-off point for an island visit. I personally visited both Cape Clear and Sherkin Island and really enjoyed each one.

Recommended by Kelsey from Sights Better Seen

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Cobh, Co. Cork

Nestled at the end of Ireland’s Ancient East discovery trail is the town of Cobh in County Cork . This beautiful town is perched on a hill overlooking Cork Harbour and has a great variety of things to do and see.

The town was formerly known as Queenstown until about 1920 and was the last port of call for many emigration ships to America, Australia, and England.

It was also the last port that the Titanic picked up passengers from before departing on its ill-fated voyage.

What to Do in Cobh

For those of you interested in learning more about Titanic, you can visit the Titanic Experience Cobh on the waterfront , as well as a small commemorative garden with a view of the entrance to Cork Harbour on the far side of the town.

Guided walking tours delve deeper into the maritime history of Cobh and its connections to the Titanic and the sinking of the Lusitania off the coast in 1915.

A trip to the former prison on Spike Island , a short boat ride from Cobh, is also highly recommended. This 19th-century star-shaped fortress was, for a time, one of the largest prisons in the world and has a fascinating history.

After checking out the latest art exhibition in the Sirius Arts Centre , why not enjoy the views of the harbour from the seafront promenade ? Cobh truly is one of the best cities to visit in Ireland.

Before you leave, try to get a photo of one of Cobh’s most photogenic streets. West View is a row of colorful terraced houses that are stacked together on a steep hill with the impressive St. Coleman’s Cathedral in the background.

Recommended by Emer and Nils from Let’s Go Ireland.

Cork, Co. Cork

When it comes to the best cities in Ireland to visit, it’s easy to see why Cork should be on your list. It’s actually the second-largest city in Ireland, right behind Dublin! It’s a lot larger than most people initially think.

If you’re wondering why you must visit Cork , just wait until you see what there is to do there.

What to do in Cork

As one of the best cities to visit in Ireland, there are many things to do in Cork.

Walk the grounds of Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone . Keep in mind that this is kind of a super touristy attraction!

I don’t think I ran into any locals here while at Blarney Castle, except maybe the workers. It is still a super fun experience, though! If you’re afraid of heights, do not try to kiss the Blarney Stone.

There’s also a lot more to Blarney than just the castle. You also get to peruse all of the gardens. There’s so much to do here, and many of the grounds’ different areas are amazing.

I feel like so many people go, kiss the stone, and then leave. Really, take your time here!

It’s also easy to get from Blarney Castle to downtown Cork by bus.

Peruse the English Market . The English Market is an indoor market from the 18th Century. There are so many food stalls – trust me, you won’t be able to leave without buying at least one thing to eat.

The inside of the English Market is also really gorgeous! It seemed really well-kept to me when I visited.

Walk around University College Cork. UCC has a gorgeous campus. What more is there to say? If I hadn’t studied in Dublin, I probably would’ve tried to study in Cork!

Stroll St. Patrick’s Street. St. Patrick’s Street is Cork’s Grafton Street. It’s where all the shopping happens! Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s fun to stroll down a city’s high streets and people watch and just pop into stores.

Dingle, Co. Kerry

Dingle is the most Southwestern of Ireland’s towns and is one of the best cities to visit in Ireland. While it may seem a bit out of the way, it’s worth it to come down to one of Ireland’s most beautiful seaside towns.

What to do in Dingle

The most important thing to do while in Dingle is to complete the Slea Head Drive on the Dingle peninsula.

While you can complete the circuit by car in just a few hours, give yourself at least a half-day to get out and enjoy the sites and scenic views along the way!

Next, you will want to go on a Dingle Dolphin tour . Fungie the Dingle Dolphin moved into the waters off the shore of the town over thirty years ago.

He loves to make an appearance on tour boats. You even get your money back if you don’t see him on your tour!

Like any good Irish town, you will want to enjoy some of the local Irish pubs. Dick Mack’s is famous , though you can find Guinness and traditional Irish music at almost any pub in town.

If you love Irish whiskey, make sure to go on a Dingle Distillery tour , where you can learn all about the history of Irish whiskey and get to taste some of the local wares!

Finally, if you love to shop, explore the town’s artisanal cheese shops, wool shops, and bookstores . Dingle is a great place to look for Irish souvenirs!

Recommended by Stephanie from History Fangirl.

Doolin, Co. Clare

Doolin, Ireland, is a small coastal town in County Clare and is one of the best cities to visit in Ireland. It’s an excellent place to base yourself to explore many Irish bucket list destinations, including the Cliffs of Moher , the Aran Islands, and Burren National Park.

Doolin is also the home of traditional Irish music played in the pubs any night of the week. 

What to Do in Doolin

One of the best things to do in Doolin is take the coastal walk from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher .

It takes about 2 hours one way and will allow you to experience the Cliffs of Moher without all the crowds. Bonus if it’s a clear day and you can time it for sunset, it’s stunning!

Once you’re done with the cliff walk, take Bus Eireean back to the center of Doolin, where there is an excellent fudge shop and a popular pub, Gus O’Connor’s . 

There are four pubs in Doolin; McGann’s is my favorite, but find out where Blackie O’Connell and/or Eoghan Neff are playing that night.

Blackie plays the uilleann pipes, and Eoghan Neff is a fiddle player. He’s next-level Ed Sheeran, using a machine to layer sounds to create a full song – fantastic.

Be careful with how much Guinness or whiskey you indulge in at the pub because you can take a 20-minute ferry to the smallest Aran Island, Inisheer, for a day trip .

There, you can rent a bike to visit all of the best points on this small rural island, including a shipwreck!

If you have time, spend a day doing one of the many walks in the Burren National Park .

This limestone landscape starkly contrasts the lush green Irish fields you’re used to, but it’s equally as stunning, especially in the spring when flowers pop up through the limestone cracks.

Doolin may be a small town, but there is so much to do here you could easily spend a few days exploring this gorgeous part of Ireland.

Recommended by Katie from Just Chasing Sunsets.

Dublin, Co. Dublin

There is obviously so much to do in beautiful Dublin, Ireland, and it’s one of the most beautiful cities in the world !

It’s definitely a city that you need to spend more than 48 hours in, but if you’re ever there for a short period of time, there are a few things I definitely recommend seeing.

What to do in Dublin

Eat all of the food. I personally think that there’s so much great food in Dublin . Try all the local dishes you can – from boxty to a traditional Irish breakfast to Irish stew! Be sure to get yourself a pint of Guinness, too.

Visit Trinity College Dublin. Trinity College is a must-visit in Dublin, especially if you’re looking to see the Book of Kells. I suggest buying your Book of Kells ticket ahead of time online because it can get quite busy!

Really take your time at this exhibit, too – it’s totally worth it. You can also wander around the gorgeous campus a little bit too!

Shop on Grafton Street. There are so many fantastic stores on Grafton Street and even outstanding performers.

I can’t even tell you the number of times I’ve grabbed a gelato or a crepe and just stood and listened to whoever was playing for a half-hour.

Peruse the Temple Bar area. Yes, the Temple Bar area can be quite touristy. Don’t let that stop you! I still think it’s worth seeing while you’re in Dublin.

Keep in mind that it definitely gets a lot busier at night. If you’re looking to actually get a drink at the Temple Bar Pub , I’d suggest going earlier in the day just to say you’ve done it, and then try going to another pub at night.

One of the ones I found myself always going back to was Quay’s, conveniently located near the Temple Bar Pub. There are also a lot more local options that will probably be more affordable around Dublin.

Experience the Guinness Storehouse . The Guinness Storehouse is actually the #1 most-visited Irish tourist attraction. Isn’t that crazy? I’m here to tell you that it is with good reason! The entire museum itself is so interactive, and it has 5+ floors to explore.

There’s even a tasting room where you’re taught how to drink Guinness correctly! Plus, you get a free pint at the Gravity Bar on the top floor, where you’re greeted with panoramic views of the entire city.

Take a stroll in St. Stephen’s Green. While studying abroad in Dublin, I constantly returned to St. Stephen’s Green. It’s such a beautiful park.

It’s fun even to grab some food on Grafton Street and then sit in the park while you eat! There are so many little areas that you can sit in the park too.

If you’re looking for more awesome things to do in this amazing city, there are many more unique things to do in Dublin !

Galway, Co. Galway

Ah, Galway, the place Ed Sheeran sang about in “Galway Girl.” Galway is always one of the top destinations people want to visit in Ireland, and I don’t blame them!

What to do in Galway

Visit the Cliffs of Moher. The Cliffs of Moher are only 1.5 hours away from Galway, and they are accessible by public transport.

You could even rent a car to make the trip if you wanted, or you could make a day tour trip where you could see even more awesome views .

The Cliffs of Moher, though touristy, are definitely worth the visit. The views are amazing. Just don’t get too close to the edge!

Explore the Latin Quarter. The Latin Quarter is an area in Galway filled with cobblestone streets. I might be completely wrong in saying this, but it reminds me of the Temple Bar area in Dublin. It’s a lovely area.

Walk down Quay Street. Quay Street is definitely one of Galway’s busier streets, but the buildings are so pretty. I definitely suggest walking down here. It’s also home to one of Galway’s most famous pubs, The Quays.

Look at Lynch’s Castle. This castle is one of the original castles that were in Galway long ago. It has now been converted into a bank! It’s fun to look at from the inside. I’m sure you could even go in, too, if you really wanted to!

Snap a photo of picturesque Galway Harbor. The harbor is definitely the quintessential “I went to Galway” photo that everyone has. There’s a reason everyone goes here. It’s so beautiful!

Still looking for more to do in Galway? There are so many more things to do in Galway .

Howth, Co. Fingal

Howth is an absolutely beautiful coastal town just north of Dublin and one of Ireland’s best cities to visit. To this day, it’s one of my favorite places that I visited! Plus, it’s super easy to get there from Dublin, and vice versa .

What to do in Howth

Walk the Howth coastal cliff walk. The Howth coastal cliff walk is just fantastic. I don’t know how else to describe its beauty.

The water is this amazing blue color that I’ve never seen before, and everywhere you look, there’s more amazing scenery.

The walk can take anywhere from 1 – 3 hours, depending on which route you decide to take and whether you choose to loop around or not.

My friend and I took the easier route but tried coming back on a harder route just so that our views would be a little different.

Grab some food at Howth Market. Howth Market is a pretty little market down near the Harbor.

There are some great places to eat here. I couldn’t help myself and got some gelato since it was so hot the day I was there! There’s also a lot of actual lunch food as well.

Stare at the beauty of Howth Harbor. It’s a lot of fun to just sit and people-watch by Howth Harbor. There’s a lot of hustle and bustle, and you can see all the beautiful boats.

A lot of seafood restaurants are along Howth Harbor, so if you’re feeling up to it, you could even sit outside at one of these restaurants and people-watch that way!

Dip your toes into Balscadden Bay Beach. Balscadden Bay Beach is a cute little beach a short walk from Howth Harbor. It’s also on the way up to the cliff walk. It is a pretty rocky beach, so keep that in mind. It wouldn’t stop me from at least dipping my toes in!

Limerick, Co. Limerick

There are  several things to do in Limerick, Ireland .

Located in the Southern part of the country, it is close to some of Ireland’s best attractions, such as Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, and Wild Atlantic Way, which is why it’s one of the best cities to visit in Ireland.

The city itself is known for its charming old town from the medieval era, Georgian townhouses, hidden gardens, museums, bustling pub scene, and medieval castles.

What To Do In Limerick

The Limerick Museum is a city museum that showcases over 60,000 artifacts gathered from generous donations, purchases, and long-term loans from donors.

Some of the several interesting collections in the Limerick Museum include a mummified cat found in the street in the 1890s, World War II gas masks, and a fragment of the largest meteorite that fell in Ireland in 1813.

The Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum is the only flying boat museum in the world, and it holds some of the most interesting aviation artifacts in the 30s and 40s. It is also said to be the home of the world-famous Irish Coffee.

According to the story, a flight left Foynes one stormy night for New York, but the pilot decided to return to ensure the safety of the passengers.

Joe Sheridan who was the chef in the coffee shop and restaurant owned by Brendan O’Regan, an Irish restaurateur in Foynes Terminal Building, decided to prepare warm drinks for the cold passengers.

He added whiskey to the coffee for the passengers to enjoy, and when one passenger asked him if the coffee is from Brazilian beans, Chef Joe joked, “No, it’s an Irish coffee.”

St. John Castle is one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Europe. It was built in 1200 through the order of King John of England.

Located next to River Shannon, the castle overlooks the river and a panoramic view of the city of Limerick. The castle features strong fortifications, towers, and moat walls.

The castle was heavily damaged once during the infamous Siege of Limerick in the 17th century and has since then witnessed several important events in Irish history. 

Thomond Park is a popular stadium in Limerick. It is home to one of the most successful rugby teams in the world – Munster Rugby.

It also has the Shannon RFC, the most successful club in the All Ireland League, and UL Bohemian RFC as tenants. The stadium has over 25,000 seat capacity.

The stadium offers a full tour that consists of a museum visit, film, and visits to the pitching side, the Munster dugout, dressings rooms, and the post-match interview area.

The Bishop’s Palace was once a home for the former Protestant Bishops of Limerick. It is located adjacent to King John’s Castle, and it’s a good example of English palaces in Palladian style.

It is now currently an office for Limerick Civic Trust, and they offer exhibitions for tourists.

The exhibitions in the palace offer a great insight into the social and political history of the city from the 1700s to the 1920s.

Recommended by Christine Rogador from Ireland Travel Guides.

Waterford, Co. Waterford

Waterford is the oldest city on the east side of the Irish island. It is located on the banks of the River Suir. It is also at the head of Waterford Harbor. The Vikings founded the city in the early 10th century.

This is a very interesting city to visit and offers a lot to see.

What to Do in Waterford

The Viking Triangle is the place where most of the sights of this city, full of interesting history behind the Viking walls, are located.

From Reginald’s Tower, through the Bishop’s Palace, all the way to the Medieval Museum and the House of Crystals Waterford.

The House of Crystal Waterford is part of the rich history of Waterford. The very name of the city sounds familiar to us precisely because of the finest glass, Waterford crystal.

The company has been operating since 1783 until 2009 when it went bankrupt. The city reacted in 2010 and did not allow history to be forgotten. Then production started again.

The symbol of this city is the Reginald Tower , the oldest building in Waterford. The tower was part of the Viking fortress, and in addition to the defense, it also served as a military warehouse and is now a museum.

Waterford Greenway is a hiking and biking trail that stretches along the old railroad tracks. It is 46km long and crosses over 11 bridges and several viaducts, and offers a beautiful view of the Comeragh Mountains and Dungarvan Bay.

So, if you are a nature lover, this is the right tour for you.

Recommended by Mark from  Vogatech

Wexford, Co. Wexford

Located 2 hours southeast of Dublin, Wexford is reachable by car, bus, or train. The journey from Dublin takes about two hours and 

What to Do in Wexford

The Irish county is known for its amazing strawberry farms, its amazing landscape, and the birthplace of Halloween and the Guinness World Record Book. 

The beaches are among the most visited places in Ireland, as Wexford is also the warmest region in the country.

If you’re visiting in October, you’ll get a chance to enjoy a show at the annual Wexford Opera .

Nature enthusiasts can rejoice as Wexford has thousands of acres of parks and gardens , including the historic Wells House , 11th century Johnstown Castle and Gardens , and John F. Kennedy Memorial Park & Arboretum .

When in Wexford, take a scenic drive to Hook Peninsula, where you will find Hook Lighthouse.

This is the world’s second-oldest working lighthouse that is still operating to date, and the Loftus Hall – Ireland’s most famous haunted house, a popular attraction during Halloween. 

Along the way, stop at the Tacumshane Windmill , the only remaining windmill in Ireland from 1846 with a revolving straw-thatched cap to catch the wind for its sails.  

Recommended by Lerato from Life From a Bag.

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to go in Ireland

Ireland is considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world due to its diverse landscapes, including rugged coastlines and rolling green hills, its picturesque villages and towns adding to its overall charm, and the warm and friendly nature of its people, making it feel truly special.

In Ireland, you can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking through the breathtaking countryside, exploring historical landmarks in Dublin, fishing in abundant rivers and lakes, playing golf on renowned courses, and sampling local cuisine like the famous Guinness stout, ensuring a memorable experience.

The best city in Ireland to visit is Killarney on the western part of the country.

Ireland’s most beautiful part is the Wild Atlantic Way. This stretch of coastline features some of the most picturesque views in all of Ireland, with towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

The prettiest county in Ireland is Wicklow. It is often called the Garden of Ireland because of its lush and green landscape.

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Visit in Ireland

Ireland, with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, offers a myriad of cities, each brimming with its unique charm and activities.

From the lively and historic streets of Dublin to the serene beauty of Galway, each city provides a distinctive experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture, savor traditional cuisine, and explore breathtaking landscapes.

Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a culinary enthusiast, Ireland’s cities have something to offer that will make your visit unforgettable.

So, pack your bags and set off to explore the enchanting cities of Ireland, where every moment becomes a cherished memory.

Don’t forget to pin this post and share it for later.

EXPLORE IRELAND

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, you’re in luck! I studied abroad there and have tons of Ireland posts. Explore them below!

• If you’re visiting within a short amount of time, you can see the best of Killarney in one day .
• Learn all about the top Ireland activities so you can have the best trip to the Emerald Isle.
• While off-the-beaten-path places are fun to explore, you won’t want to miss out on Ireland’s best landmarks .
• Find the best Ireland souvenir and plan ahead so you know what to be on the lookout for.
• Spend an afternoon exploring and learning all about Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse .

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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105 comments.

I was only able to visit Galway and Dublin on my trip, but I loved them both and would definitely take your advice to see more lovely towns in Ireland.

Yay, I’m so glad to hear that! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

I only done one road trip to south-western Ireland and three weekend trips to Dublin (as I live on the island next door) and I love the scenery there. So rugged, barren in places and untouched but the towns are also great. Not a big fan of Dublin but I have been to Killarney, Tralee, Limerick, and loved all three of them. Hoping to be soon and hope to be going to Cork next time. 🙂

Dang, I happen to love Dublin, though it may be because I studied abroad there. I’d love to check out Tralee and Limerick!

So many great towns in Ireland to visit! I have a lot of ancestral roots in Galway, so I know I want to go there for sure. Howth and Bray look absolutely breathtaking! Thanks for this great guide!

I hope you get to Galway one day! I highly suggest Howth and Bray. I have nothing bad to say about either of them! 🙂

Love it – Ireland has so much to do. Thanks for inspiring me to head back and want to do more!

I totally agree! Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

So many great towns! I would love to visit Dublin and Galway!

Yay! I hope you get to visit them! 🙂

This makes me wish I would’ve explored Ireland more! Trinity college is beautiful. Great insight ?

There’s definitely so much to explore in Ireland. I haven’t even seen it all! I am hoping one day to rent a car and do a road trip of my own. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!

Great post and so many ideas for a trip to Ireland!

Thank you! 🙂

I just really need to get myself to Ireland. It’s my next top destination for sure. So many great places here. Always wanted to visit Galway, it looks so beautiful

I hope you get there one day! It’s one of my favorite countries. 🙂

This posts is what I was looking for and helped me preparing my trip to Ireland this summer. Thank you so much!

That’s so awesome! Have fun in Ireland! 🙂

I’ve never been to Ireland, but it’s on my list. I can’t wait to check out these places when I visit. My husband loves Ireland.

That’s so awesome! I hope you get there one day. 🙂

No offense, but I’m not a fan of Killarney Town at all. Over touristed, too many motor coaches. Galway City, however, is a lot of fun. Great university city. Although I’d head west from there into the Connemara area of County Galway. It’s stunning!

I totally get that. I only was there for a day, but I relatively enjoyed it. I can see how it could be seen as touristy! I also enjoyed Galway. 🙂

We visited a few spots in Ireland last year. It was just a taste test and enough to show us that we need to plan longer vacation in Ireland. So your blog post will definitely help with planning. Killarney sounds like a good spot for both town and nature sights. We visited the Giant’s Causeway. So would want to add the Cliffs of Moher on a return visit. I do love those views over the Balscadden Bay Beach. So many reasons to return.

So glad to hear that you’ve made it to Ireland! It’s definitely a country that you need a bit of time in if you plan to fully immerse yourself into the culture and landscapes. I hope you make it back one day! Also, I LOVE the Giant’s Causeway. It’s so surreal!

I’ve only been to Dublin but would love to explore the rest of Ireland some day (including these towns)!

That’s awesome! Weirdly enough, Dublin is my favorite city in Ireland. It might be because I’m biased and studied abroad there. 🙂

I love Ireland. I’ve always wanted to visit since I was young. It’s one of my top 5 countries to visit. Thanks for a lovely post about each city.

That’s so great! I hope you make it one day. 🙂

Wow great post! All these places looking amazing. Pinning so I will have a guide when I get to Ireland.

Thank you so much! (:

Such a great list, I feel so inspired to travel back to Ireland. I’ve been to a few of these spots, but not Killarney! Thanks for sharing

I hope you get back there one day! There’s so much to explore.

I have been wanting to visit Ireland so badly and even more so now after reading this great post! All the towns look so charming and I know I would enjoy it there. ?

That’s so great to hear! I hope you get there one day. The towns are all so charming. 🙂

Ireland seems full of charming towns! And it’s so cool that there are things like waterfalls and the Cliffs of Moher within easy drives of these spots. Best of both worlds — urban amenities plus nature.

YES. It’s one of the things I love about Ireland! Even Dublin is like that. You could be in the middle of the city and then take a 30 minute bus/train ride and then be in the small town of Howth or Bray!

Ireland is on my bucket list! Your post is super informative. I hope to visit all of your recommended places one day.

Thank you! I hope you get to visit. 🙂

I love Ireland! I’ve been twice and want to go back again. My favorite was Galway but I also liked Killarney and the National Park.

I’m glad to hear that! Galway is super fun. 🙂

Wonderful post on Ireland! Very helpful 🙂

Thank you so much! 🙂

When I was in Dublin I went to Malahide Castle. On my way back to Dublin I swung by Howth and wished I had more time to explore. It was so pretty. I will get back some day!

I so wish I went to Malahide Castle! I never made it there, but next time I’m in Ireland I’ll be sure to get there. I’m glad you made it to Howth! I love it there. 🙂

I haven´t made it to Ireland yet, such a beautiful country! Galway and Cliffs of Moher are on the top of my travel bucket list!

That’s awesome! Galway and the Cliffs are so surreal.

There’s so much to explore in Ireland! All these places look amazing! I lived in London for a year and I never went to Ireland because I felt like I didn’t have enough time for all I wanted to see. It’s still on my list, though, so eventually…

I totally get that! It’s definitely a country that you’ll want a bit of time to explore!

This is a timely post for me, as I’m planning my itinerary for a trip to Ireland in May! I’m trying to decide whether to include Galway. Pinning your post for future reference!

That’s so awesome – I hope you have fun! Galway is definitely worth visiting, but I personally think you won’t need any more than 1-2 days there. I know some people will say differently!

This came in perfect timing! I’m currently planning an Ireland road trip, and these will be on the list.

Ireland seems to be a very popular travel destination, especially among americans. Thanks for detailed information an nice photos!

Of course, thanks for stopping by! 🙂

Oh these towns look awesome. Would love to visit them all. I hope I can travel to Ireland very soon.

I hope you get to too! 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!

Ireland is such a beautiful destination. I’d like to visit Bray looking at your list. It looks cute.

I loved Bray! I can only imagine how fun and lively it must be in the summertime. 🙂

I would defently go see the book of Kells, especially after seeing the beautiul animated film The Secret of Kells

The Book of Kells is awesome in person! 🙂

Ireland has been on my list for the longest time! I’d love to discover towns outside of Dublin like Cork and Galway. Hopefully this year!

It’s so much fun – I hope you get to go! 🙂

I totally agree!! I spent 2 weeks in Ireland and Cork, Killarney and Galway were some of my favorites!!

Yay, I’m glad to hear that! I love Killarney – it’s one of my personal favorites! 🙂

I loved my time in Dublin and will have to check out these other spots!

Yay, that’s awesome to hear! 🙂 I hope you get to explore Ireland more.

Oh I love the flow of this guide so much! It’s so well-structured and very informative! ?

We have been to about half of all these towns, which means we need to go back to Ireland.

That’s awesome that you’ve even been to half! I hope you get to visit the others sometime. 🙂

Nice! Such a bucket list, definitely save it for the next adventure!

Of course – thanks for stopping by! 🙂

I wonder how much the Mermaids Art Centre costs to visit if you don’t check out their galleries. It sounds like a great deal to be able to check out the galleries and get a free visit. I would love to eat all of the food. Then, I would have to walk the cliff walks to burn off the calories, but it would be so worth it.

You can learn more about the Mermaid Arts Centre here , if you’re interested! The cliffs are gorgeous. Thanks for stopping by! 🙂

Ireland looks so beautiful! I would love to visit Galway one day, the nature and scenery looks stunning.

It really is beautiful! I hope you get to visit. 🙂

I’ve only been to Dublin for a few days, but I’m dying to go back. So many great suggestions here, love it!

That’s awesome that you’ve been to Dublin! I’m dying to go back too! 🙂

SO many places to go! I was in Dublin many moons ago and would love to return to Ireland and do a more thorough trip. I’ll keep this post for later as Killarney and Cork are on my radar for a visit!

That’s awesome – I hope you make it to Cork and Killarney!

Some great recommendations here! I really need to explore more of Ireland! We visited Dublin a couple of years ago and fell in love with it. The one thing we didn’t manage to squeeze into our visit was a trip to Trinity College…I need to go back now to tick that off!

I’m so glad that you fell in love with Dublin! It really is such a loveable city. I hope you make it back to check out TCD!

This is absolutely perfect timing as I am planning a trip to Ireland this fall. The rough itinerary is Dublin to Galloway to Cork – and the fine tuning will be what stops along the way. I will definitely refer to this guide. Any hidden gems that are an absolute must? Please pass them along my way!

That’s so awesome – I hope you enjoy your time there! Honestly, just make sure you drive some of the Wild Atlantic Way, because the views are breathtaking the whole time, especially on the western coast. Definitely check out Dingle Peninsula if you can, as well! If you visit the Cliffs of Moher, be sure to make a quick stop at the Burren! 🙂 Bray and Howth are also hidden gems if you’re up to doing a fun cliff walk!

As an Irish dancer, Ireland has been on my bucket list for YEARS but I still haven’t been!! These are great recommendations and I definitely want to check all of them out whenever I FINALLY get there!

That’s so awesome, I hope you get to visit!! 🙂

I really need to see more of Ireland! Absolutely loved Galway – Killarney is also on my list to visit! This is a great reminder that I need to go back, haha.

I’m glad you loved Galway! I honestly think Killarney may have been my favorite on this list. 🙂

Cliffs of Mohr are so picturesque. I agree tht Ireland is a must see and Dublin is more than just a short trip. Thanks for sharing

I agree – they are gorgeous! Thanks for visiting. 🙂

Having never been to Ireland yet, I learned a ton from reading your post. You do a great job of showcasing some more off-the-beaten-path destinations as well as the more famous ones. I would love to see some of the coastal town like Bray and Howth in addition to the center of Dublin.

Thank you! I tried to show at least a few that are so underrated. Bray and Howth are definitely hidden gems. 🙂

Wow! The Trinity college library is gorgeous. I always saw photos of it on Instagram and didn’t know it was in Irelend. You mentioned, “If you’re lucky to rent a car…,” in the beginning of your post and I was wondering if it’s hard to rent cars there? I would like to visit Ireland and rent a car instead of doing the bus tours but didnt think that it would be so hard to rent a car.

I totally agree! And sorry if that was misleading – I said “if you’re lucky” because I was there while studying abroad and couldn’t afford to rent a car so I used all public transportation, which is also super easy. I had some roommates in Dublin who easily rented a car, so it’s definitely not a difficult process! 🙂

We had hoped to visit Ireland this year, but it just wasn’t in the cards. It’s been on my and my husband’s bucket list for quite some time. These towns in Ireland look so cute and picturesque!

I hope you make it sometime! It’s such a beautiful country. 🙂

I would move to Howth tomorrow if I could! I loved it there so much

I totally agree! 🙂

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This is such a great compilation of amazing places to see, and what to do!

Cork is honestly so underrated. Loved it then love it now

I totally agree!

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9+ Best Cities In Ireland To Visit (Expat Advice)

Categories Living Abroad

We have compared Scotland to Ireland and talked about Ireland’s wealth , but now it’s time to dig deeper for those who want to visit Ireland.

Which city in Ireland is the best to visit?

Tourists often ask this question and we feel qualified to answer this question. We have spent time in an assortment of Irish cities and appreciate the nuances of each one. This can help pinpoint what you are going to get when you take the time to go to Ireland.

We have even lived in Ireland for a few months.

Here is our take on the top cities in Ireland to visit.

Table of Contents

Best Cities In Ireland To Visit

Let’s start with Dublin .

We spent a few months in Dublin and felt it was the heartbeat of Ireland. Just the aura of this magical city is straight out of a story as you are going to feel honored to walk the streets in this gorgeous place.

Dublin has it all and is truly one of the finest international cities in the region.

It starts with the wide array of breweries, great people, and of course the natural sights that are in the city. The amount of greenery you are going to get to see will appeal to you and it’s always nice to walk around the neighborhoods when you are in Dublin.

We loved the charm of this city and how refined it was.

For the average tourist wanting to experience the ins and outs of Irish culture, you are going to want to start with this gorgeous city. It has a little bit of everything and you are not going to be disappointed as soon as you are here.

Waterford is a hidden gem.

This is often associated with Ireland’s history as a place that was a prominent part of its ancient civilizations. This helps create this ambiance when you are strolling through the neighborhoods in Waterford because you will see architectural details that allude to this past.

We took the time to visit the various castles in the area and to further explore the history of the region when we were there.

For history buffs, this is a beautiful place and it has a lot of information to offer.

Cobh is a unique city in Ireland.

We love this city because it is beautiful. You are going to adore the amount of picturesque sights that are spread throughout Cobh as it is a revered port city.

We loved being able to explore the charming destination including its gorgeous streets one by one. Being able to do this in Ireland is always fun when the weather is good and we enjoyed our time here in the summer.

You are not going to be disappointed when you are taking the time to mingle with the locals. They are welcoming, hearty people who are always up for a conversation.

Limerick is a more traditional Irish city.

You are going to see various intricate nuances spread throughout Limerick’s architecture as you walk around. This includes the buildings that have been around for centuries and continue to be well-maintained.

We appreciated how authentic this Irish city was. This adds to its appeal and makes you feel like you are walking through a history book when you are in town. It is situated close to the River Shannon, which adds to its appealing views as soon as you are there.

We had a good time here and it was always nice to explore the various viewpoints that were spread throughout Limerick.

If you are someone who wants to relax and just chill out a bit, you are going to have to consider visiting Sligo in Ireland.

Why is Sligo such a relaxed place

It is a place that does not welcome as many tourists, which means you are going to get a more traditional experience when you are here. We felt it was a beautiful place with ample heritage including being able to walk around the various streets in Sligo.

The people here are kind and you can get to almost anywhere within minutes.

This tight-knit community is great and adds to the vibe of Sligo.

Galway is one of the biggest cities in Ireland.

We found this to be one of the more vibrant cities in Ireland because it was always jumping. By this we mean it was always alive. It did not matter what time of the year we went, Galway was always alive and this allowed us to let our hair down a bit.

This is always fun for those who want to partake in festivals and get a feel for the local culture. Galway is going to do this for you as a major port city in Europe.

We felt the breweries were world-class and they did things the right way. It was not just the quality of the beverages but also the people. The ambiance was top-notch, which added to the appeal of being in Galway as a tourist.

Athlone is a lovely place that has a little bit of everything.

We found the food to be world-class in Athlone and quite underrated when compared to other cities. This allowed us to find world-class restaurants throughout Athlone at affordable prices while also being able to locate quality pubs along the way.

This is one place where you are going to enjoy your vacation including being able to take a look at the local architecture and also learn more about medieval times.

Bango is unique because it’s fresh.

This is due to where it’s located in Ireland. You are going to be close to the water when you are in Bango and this adds to the appeal for residents too.

People often take the time to come here to experience the port city, learn more about its history, and also spend time at one of the local hotels facing the water. It is relaxing to be by the sea whenever you are here and that applies to residents too.

Bango just is a tranquil place and it is one of the premier tourist spots for those who just want to turn off their minds for a bit.

Armagh is a charming place, which has been around for centuries.

The architecture is often an ode to the past as you are going to see various intricate architectural details still alive as you walk through the streets. This includes cathedrals, hotels, and more that have been around for a long time.

We found it charming to be able to walk through the streets and spot these details.

It is also a top-tier location for good food. They are known for offering world-class food throughout the city and you are going to have all of them spread from one end to the other. This means it doesn’t matter where you are, the food is going to be good!

Final Thoughts

In our eyes, these are the best tourist cities in Ireland.

You are going to have a lovely time in any of these cities.

Take the time to also read our take on driving to the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland and the cheapest nations to visit in Europe .

Amanda Harper is a travel enthusiast with 10+ years of traveling experience across the planet. Her passion for writing and travel makes her a walking bibliography on modern-day tourism.

Things to Do in Ireland

Free Things to Do

National Museums of Ireland

Best Walks to Take

Castles to Visit

Cliffs of Moher

Blarney Stone

What to Do Along the Wild Atlantic Way

Places to Golf in Ireland

Foods to Try

Best Irish Drinks

The Best Time to Visit Ireland

Weather & Climate

Airports in Ireland

Driving in Ireland

Best Castle Hotels

How to Spend Two Weeks in Ireland

Top Places to See

The Top 20 Places to See in Ireland

It is hard to narrow down the top places to see in Ireland because the country is filled with so many famous attractions. There is the rugged landscape of the mountains and natural wonders like the otherworldly Burren and the striking Cliffs of Moher, as well as historic castles and ancient abbeys. With so much to choose from, there is quite literally sometimes for everyone in gorgeous Ireland. Here are the 20 amazing sites that are among ​Ireland’s most universally loved places to see.

The Lakes of Killarney and the Ring of Kerry, Co Kerry

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

If you want to experience spectacular coastal scenery, breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancient monuments and the tranquil old-world-charm of  Killarney 's lakes, castles and houses, this is the place to go. Bear in mind that thousands of tourists will have the same idea—the best time here is spring or fall (in order to avoid the crush of people that arrive in summer). Killarney is located in  County Kerry, part of the Irish Province of Munster . The nearest airport is Cork Airport or Killarney (though this has European flights only). 

The Cliffs of Moher, Co Clare

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

When the undulating landscape suddenly ends in a sheer drop of more than 650 feet, straight down to the Atlantic, then you know you have reached the  Cliffs of Moher . One of the most spectacular coastal areas in Europe, the cliffs are best when the winds are low so that visitors can take a stroll along the (roped off) edge. The visitor center has been rebuilt on a grand scale and there is now a higher price of admission to see the national attraction for yourself. The Cliffs of Moher can be found in County Clare, in Ireland's Province of Munster. The nearest airport is Shannon Airport .

Newgrange and Bru na Boinne, Co Meath

Rather than a single sight, one of Ireland’s must-sees is a  complex historic landscape on the banks of the Boyne ,  dotted with prehistoric monuments . The largest are Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth. Newgrange and Knowth can only be visited by taking a tour, which starts at the modern visitor center. Be there early and plan to stay for a half day (at least) to take in the whole experience. Newgrange is located in  County Meath, in the Province of Leinster . The nearest airport is Dublin Airport.

Dublin City

Dublin is a relatively small city which can sometimes feel more like a jumble of villages than a major capital. It is, however, rich in history, as well as full of sights and museums that are best explored on a day out on foot.  Dublin's top attractions  alone can keep the tourist busy for a whole week! Between live music, art, culture, and even a castle, Dublin is Ireland’s most popular stop (even for Irish visitors, who often head into the city on the weekends). Dublin Airport is outside the city limits, but a bus ride into town will only take about half an hour.

The Giant's Causeway, Co Antrim

The Giant's Causeway is made up of strangely regular basalt columns point that the way towards Scotland, which can be seen on the horizon on good days. It is possible to reach Northern Ireland's top sight by car and shuttle bus (if the fairly steep final mile seems too daunting). Travelers with some time on their hands can also take in the nearby Old Bushmills Distillery which is connected by steam train. Bushmills and the Giant's Causeway are located in County Antrim, in the Northern Irish part of the Province of Ulster. The nearest airport would be  Belfast .

Hill of Tara, Co Meath

The ancient seat of the  High Kings  of Ireland and one of the Irish royal sites, can look like little more than a mound covered with grass when you see the area for the first time. However, there is an excellent audiovisual show in the former church that will help visitors understand the importance of this site. Once armed with a bit of background information, visitors will soon see why the  Hill of Tara  is fascinating. This site is also located in  County Meath, in the Province of Leinster , a short distance from Navan. The nearest airport is Dublin Airport.

Sligo and Area, Co Sligo

Bernd Biege

The town of Sligo is not a major destination itself but the nearby treasures more than make up for it. Knocknarea boasts the grave of Queen Maeve (or so rumor has it) and offers a spectacular view as a reward for a steep climb. Carrowmore is  the largest stone age cemetery in Ireland .  Drumcliff  sports a (truncated)  round tower , a medieval high cross and the grave of W.B.Yeats (winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1923) right next to the spectacular table mountain of Ben Bulben. All these are located in County Sligo, in the Province of Connacht . The nearest airports are either Dublin Airport, Shannon Airport or  Belfast —all of which are roughly the same distance away.

Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, Co Cork

The Irish gift of the gab? Some believe that comes directly from the Blarney Stone. The stone in question (which legend says you must kiss upside down, hanging over a sheer dropoff) is located at Blarney Castle in County Cork. Some of the rooms in the castle, which dates back to the 15th century, can also be visited. The fortified medieval home is surrounded by lush gardens along the River Martin. The must-see sight is a short drive from Cork City, making Cork Airport the closet to fly into.

The Burren, Co Clare

Wedged between the rough beauty of the Aran Islands and the bustling university city of Galway, the near featureless desolation of this limestone plateau has often been likened to a moonscape. Ancient monuments and bizarre rock formations abound. Some spectacular sights can be taken in by driving around the  Burren  next to Galway Bay. The Burren can be found in County Clare, in  Ireland's Province of Munster . The nearest airport is Shannon Airport.

Glendalough, Co Wicklow

In Glendalough, the valley of the two lakes, you will find one of the most important early Christian sites. History aside, the setting in the Wicklow Mountains in a valley beside tranquil lakes is simply beautiful. Visitors who do love of history and/or architecture can indulge in  a massive round tower , the quaint St Kevin's Kitchen (actually a church) and a cathedral (a ruin, but still imposing enough), all  in an ancient monastic setting . More into the outdoors? Nature lovers can enjoy the walks along the lakes. Glendalough is located in  County Wicklow, in the Province of Leinster , a short distance from Dublin which means the nearest airport is Dublin Airport.

Bunratty Castle, Co Clare

The Bunratty tower house is one of the best castles in Ireland and is beloved by locals and visitors alike. It was built in 1467 by the O'Brien family and has been renovated with no expenses spared. A medieval banquet is offered in the evenings, complete with period entertainment. During the day, the adjoining Bunratty Folk Park allows a glimpse into Ireland's past. Bunratty can be found in ​ County Clare, in Ireland's Province of Munster . The nearest airport is Shannon Airport, which is essentially just around the corner.

Dingle Peninsula, Co Kerry

For a small country, Ireland is bursting with natural beauty but there is something particularly breathtaking about the Dingle Peninsula. From the sandy stretch of Inch Beach to the rugged cliffs along the Wild Atlantic Way which look out towards the Aran Islands and the charming port town of Dingle itself, this promontory in southwest Ireland is full of gorgeous scenery. Dingle is located in  County Kerry, part of the Irish Province of Munster and the closest airport is Cork Airport.

Kylemore Abbey, Co Galway

Set on the shores of a lake an hour outside of Galway, Kylemore Abbey was built by the British Politician Mitchell Henry in the late 1800s. He hoped that his elaborate estate would serve as an example of what was possible in even the most remote corners of Ireland. In 1903, the castle and abbey were sold to the Duke and Duchess of Manchester who had bold plans for renovations and entertaining but soon had to let go the property in order to pay their gambling debts. In 1920, a group of Benedictine Nuns acquired the Abbey after their Belgian abbey was bombed during World War I. The estate is still owned by the nuns and was a Catholic girl’s school until 2010. In addition to the breathtaking castle, there is a walled Victorian Garden that has been restored and is well known as Ireland’s largest walled garden.

Titanic Belfast, Co Antrim, Northern Ireland

The ill-fated RMS Titanic was poorly piloted but it was certainly well built here in Northern Ireland. The Harland & Wolff shipyard where the massive ocean liner was created has now been transformed into an exceptional museum about the infamous boat. The Belfast museum has an impressive interactive exhibit that allows visitors to walk the decks and even virtually travel to the depths of the ocean. While the museum has a policy against displaying any ​artifacts from the wreck itself, they do have an impressive assortment of mementos (like china dishes and promotional brochures) that were created for the RMS Titanic.​

Connemara National Park, Co Galway

One of the six national parks in Ireland, Connemara National Park is found in County Galway. The large natural area is best known for its mountain walks, though there are also bogs and grasslands to be explored. Visitors particularly head for cone-shaped Diamond Hill above the village of Letterfack in order to enjoy near ​360-degree views of mountains and sea. The Visitor Center, which has a great audio-visual exhibit, is open daily from March to October, while the park itself is open year-round.

Skelling Michael, Co Kerry

Located eight miles out to sea off the coast of County Kerry, Skellig Michael is an isolated island destination. The island is sometimes known as Great Skellig and has a smaller neighbor which is fittingly named Little Skellig. No one lives on the Skelligs these days, but in the 6th century a group of monks felt that the rocky islands in the Atlantic made the perfect remote spot for a monastery. The ruins of this ancient monastery are now a UNESCO site and visitors brave the ocean passage between May and October for a chance to hike through the secluded archaeological site. If the monastery looks familiar that might be because it was featured as a sacred Jedi location in two Star Wars movies.

English Market, Co Cork

Ireland’s best covered market is a treat to explore in Cork City. It was named the “English Market” in the 19th century to distinguish it from Cork’s “Irish Market” that also existed at the time. The Victorian-style building was originally built in 1862, though an uncovered market has existed on the same spot since 1788. It was badly damaged by a fire in the 1980s but was carefully refurbished by the Cork City Council. It is one of the best places to shop for local foods or to stay for a meal on the second-floor café. Shoppers are in good company—Queen Elizabeth once stopped by for a bit of fish.  

The Rock of Cashel, Co Tipperary

Unofficial estimates guess that Ireland has around 1,000 castles in all. It could take a lifetime to seek out all the ruins and restored tower house beauties, but one of the most impressive of all is certainly the Rock of Cashel. Built atop a hill in County Tipperary, this was once the seat of power for the High Kings of Ulster. The rulers eventually turned the stunning fortified complex over to the church, and the ruins of the medieval cathedral are one of the major draws of the sight.  

Kinsale, Co Cork

TripSavvy / Kathleen Messmer 

Depending on which direction you decide to drive, Kinsale is either the start of the end of the famed Wild Atlantic Way—the coastal route that snakes 1,500 miles along western Ireland. The village is called after its Irish name:  Ceann tSaile , which means “Head of the Sea.” Originally a medieval fishing village, the boats that still bob in the harbor make for a postcard-perfect Irish setting. Away from the waterfront, the village is filled with brightly painted shops and plenty of traditional pubs and restaurants. The nearest airport is Cork Airport, and the village is about a 25-mile drive from Cork City. 

Slieve League, Co Donegal

The Cliffs of Moher may be more famous, but the stunning cliffs of Slieve League reach almost three times higher. Slieve League is a mountain (with slieve meaning mountain in the Irish language), which towers nearly 2,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean at its highest point. For those who don’t bat an eyelash at death-defying heights, there is a windswept trail that can be hiked along the cliffs. It is also possible to drive up to the main viewing area or visit the family-run Visitor’s Center. Visitors who opt to explore on foot can seek out the ruins of ​an early Christian monastery and beehive huts along the mountain slopes.

How to Spend 5 Days in Ireland

The 11 Best Castles to Visit in Ireland

Your Trip to Ireland: The Complete Guide

Shannon Airport Guide

Ireland's Province of Munster - an Introduction

The 9 Best Day Trips from Galway

A Guide to Airports in Ireland

Ireland's 20 Largest Towns and Cities

Ireland in Two Weeks - the South

Things to Do in County Cork

County Towns of Ireland

The 10 Highest Mountains in Ireland

The Top Stops Along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

The Top 22 Things to Do in Ireland

Every Island You Need to Visit in Ireland

The 7 Best Destinations for Walkers in Ireland

21 Of The Best Small Towns In Ireland

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: March 11, 2024

It’s worth treating every guide to the best small towns in Ireland with a healthy does of scepticism… even this one.

These kind of guides tend to be peppered with the writers own experiences… which is the case with this one, but bear with me.

I’ve spent a good chunk of my 33+ years living here travelling around the island and have been fortunate enough to spend time in many big and small towns and villages in Ireland.

In this guide, I’m going to show you my favourites, from Inistioge and Cobh to everywhere in between.

Table of Contents

The best small towns in Ireland

Photos via Shutterstock

Right – a quick disclaimer – although I’m coining this as a guide to the best towns to visit in Ireland, it’s in no particular order.

Below, you’ll find everything from picturesque Irish villages tucked between valleys to lively Irish towns that make a great base to explore from.

1. Allihies (Cork)

What do copper mines and a mining museum, the spectacular Ballydonegan Beach, an August summer festival, and a dramatic coastline all have in common? They all call  Allihies ‘Home’.

Allihies is a little village on the Beara Peninsula in Cork. Brightly painted buildings line its main street, and the village is set against rolling mountains, which make it look more like a painting than a real place.

This is one of the better known off-the-beaten-path Irish villages as it tends to go viral online every now and then. Nearby Eyeries in just as colourful.

2. Cong (Mayo)

Photo left: Michelle Fahy. Bottom right: Stephen Duffy. Top right: Chris Hill

Sat on the shore of Lough Corrib, and on the edge of the Galway border, Mayo’s Cong is one of the most famous small towns in Ireland, thanks to it’s appearance in The Quiet Man starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara.

The first evidence of the film is the statue located in the centre of the town. However, film fans will spot several places from the film, like The Quiet Man Bar (Pat Cohan’s Pub).

Head into the finely manicured parkland and get an eyeful of The Monk’s Fishing House and Cong Abbey or simply saunter along it’s narrow streets take it all in.

Note: As this is listed as one of the best towns in Ireland in many tourist guidebooks, it gets packed during the summer months.

3. Adare (Limerick)

Adare is arguably the most postcard-perfect of the many small towns in Ireland thanks to the thatch cottages that are dotted along it’s streets. 

Adare, which is a stone’s throw from Limerick City, is a designated heritage town and it’s a joy to ramble around at any time of year.

Home to one of the finest 5 star hotels in Ireland , Adare Manor, and the ruins of Adare Castle, it’s a great base to explore from.

4. Dunmore East (Waterford)

Dunmore East is one of the lesser-known small towns in Ireland amongst visiting tourists, but the town is a firm favourite for ‘staycations’.

You’ll find it south of Waterford City, right on the edge of the North Atlantic. Dunmore East is an old fishing village turned popular tourist destination thanks to its picturesque setting.

It has strong ties to its Viking and Norman past, with its roots firmly bedded in the Iron Age. The village still benefits from the fishing industry, with a busy harbour that sees many angling charters take to the seas.

On top of that, there’s a cliff walk, two popular beaches and some great pubs and restaurants. 

5. Glaslough (Monaghan)

Photos via Monaghan Tourism on Ireland’s Content Pool

Located in County Monaghan on the edge of the border with Northern Ireland, Glaslough is one of the quieter Irish villages in this guide.

However, it attracts plenty of visitors as it’s home to Castle Leslie – one of the most popular castle hotels in Ireland for weddings.

Visitors can tackle the Heritage Trail, which takes you from the Famine Monument at one end to Saint Salvator’s Church at the other, and discover how the Leslie family’s history is intertwined with the village.

Glaslough is also part of Ireland’s Ancient East, with the landscape’s history going back 5,000 years. Or, you can just enjoy a nice cup of tea in one of the cosy cafes.

6. Doolin (Clare)

Photos courtesy of Chaosheng Zhang

Doolin is another spot that’s arguably one of the best towns in Ireland, especially for those of you that like trad music.

You’ll find Doolin southwest of the Burren National Park. It makes a great base to explore the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher.

The most photographed corner of Doolin is called ‘Fisher Street’ and it’s here that you’ll find a sweater shop and the lively Gus O’Connor’s Pub.

7. Dingle (Kerry)

Dingle is one of the busiest small towns in Ireland come the summer season, with tourists pouring into it’s many hotels and guesthouses.

The town is perched on the southern edge of the Dingle Peninsula and it is the starting point for the popular Slea Head Drive .

The town itself, although always popular, has gone from strength-to-strength in recent years and it’s now a ‘foodie’ hub, of sorts.

If you’re looking for lively small towns in Ireland where you can explore by day and kick-back to trad in buzzy pubs at night, look no further.

8. Carlingford (Louth)

Photos by Tom Archer via Tourism Ireland

Halfway along the Cooley Peninsula , on the shores of Carlingford Lough, Carlingford is a town that has something for everyone.

The gateway to Ireland’s Ancient East, this quaint town with its historic market street (check out the Tower-house, once used as a Mint) and other medieval buildings is a real charmer.

Behind it, stands the towering Slieve Foye Mountain, which is a popular spot for a hike while in front of it are the lively waters of the lough, where water sports regularly take place.

The towns streets are lined with pubs and it’s arguably one of the best towns in Ireland for a hen or stag weekend. 

9. Cobh (Cork)

Next up is another of the best towns in Ireland if you like to go off of tourist guidebooks… I don’t, but I do love Cobh .

Cobh is located on a little island that sits in the busy harbour of Cork, a short spin from the bustling Cork City (one of our favourite cities in Ireland !).

Cobh has a poignant past; it was the last port of call for Titanic as she set sail for America. For Titanic aficionados, there are several memorials and experiences, including the White Star Line ticket office, along with the Cobh Heritage Centre that looks at Ireland’s mass emigrations.

10. Portrush (Antrim)

Next up is one of the best towns to visit in Ireland if you’re looking to explore the brilliant Causeway Coastal Route – the coastal town of Portrush .

Twinned with nearby Portstewart, the two towns border some truly stunning scenery, captivating history, and pleasurable beach locations.

Don’t forget to check out Whiterocks and West Strand beaches, or dramatic Ramore Head and Dunluce Castle while you’re visiting the area.

11. Inistioge (Kilkenny)

Inistioge is one of the most overlooked villages in Ireland, in my opinion. In fact, a good chunk of counties Carlow and Kilkenny tend to get missed by most visiting Ireland.

Located 25km northeast of Kilkenny City, the picturesque village of Inistioge sits on the River Nore. Entrances don’t come much more dramatic than the 10-arched stone bridge that leads you into Inistioge, which isn’t surprising as the rest of the village is just as impressive.

With tree-lined roads and a charming village green, it’s easy to understand why this place has been used several times by Hollywood as a filming location.

Also within the village are several popular eateries, including cafes, pubs, and bars, a pretty little church with stained glass windows, and a lovely woodland walk.

12. Baltimore (Cork)

There’s a lot to like about Baltimore . It makes a brilliant base for exploring West Cork and it’s the departure point for the Cape Clear ferry along with several sea safaris.

A handful of eateries will get you fuelled up before you head off on an adventure while Bushe’s Bar is perfect for a pint after you’ve tackled the Baltimore Beacon walk .

The town has a busy little harbour and, if you visit in the summer, there’s a great bit of seating in the centre of town where you can grab a coffee and watch the world go by.

13. Killaloe (Clare)

Photos courtesy Discover Lough Derg via Failte Ireland

By the shores of beautiful Lough Derg, and on the banks of the River Shannon, Killaloe sits like a jewel in the crown of Clare. The village has ties to the Irish High King, Brian Boru.

In fact, you can still visit the site of his famous hill fort as it’s just outside Killaloe.

This riverside village boasts spectacular scenery along the Shannon, with many photo opportunities for some postcard memories.

There are plenty of boutique shops, cosy cafes and pubs to whittle away some time, or you can always hop on one of the popular Killaloe river cruises.

14. Westport (Mayo)

Arguably one of the best towns in Ireland for a weekend away, Westport in Mayo combines endless nearby attractions with a great pub and restaurant scene.

Visitors to Westport can expect busy streets, stone bridges, a Georgian crescent with typical spa-town housing and several tree-lined promenades along the beautiful Carrowbeg River.

One of the reasons that it’s one of the more popular small towns in Ireland is due to the volume of things to see and do nearby, from Croagh Patrick and Achill Island to the Great Western Greenway, you’ll never go bored here.

15. Kinsale (Cork)

Kinsale is one of the most colourful little villages in Ireland and it’s a Mecca for visiting tourists.

Grab a coffee and start strolling and you’ll soon be rambling along streets that look like something from a Dulex advert.

Kinsale also has plenty of things to do, from James Fort and Charles Fort to the Kinsale Regional Museum, the Old Head of Kinsale and more, there’s lots to see and do close by.

16. Clifden (Galway)

Clifden is often referred to as ‘the capital of Connemara ‘. It’s a tiny town a stone’s throw from the likes of Kylemore Abbey and the national park.

A small coastal town with a rich history, and absolutely breathtaking scenery, Clifden is home to a clatter of lively pubs and plenty of great places to eat.

Sitting on the banks of the Owenglin River, just before it flows into Clifden Bay, the town is a popular rest stop for those exploring Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way .

Nearby are the dramatic ruins of Clifden Castle, the outstanding Sky Road and a whole host of breath-taking beaches.

17. Kenmare (Kerry)

Photo left: The Irish Road Trip. Others: Shutterstock

Kenmare is one of the best towns to visit in Ireland if you’re looking to explore the Ring of Kerry . 

It makes a great alternative to nearby Killarney and, although much quieter, it still boasts plenty of great hotels, pubs and restaurants.

The streets here are a joy to ramble around and the one of the left in the photo above has a bit of a Diagon Alley feel to it.

From Kenmare, you can kick off the Ring of Kerry Drive and you’ll soon be immersed in the scenery that Kerry is famous for.

18. Leighlinbridge (Carlow)

Leighlinbridge in Carlow is one of the lesser-known towns in Ireland but it has a fine bit of charm and character to it.

Boasting narrow streets, grey limestone malthouses, the ruins of an early Norman castle and tower, and accessed by a 14th century stone bridge, Leighlinbridge is a historic gem just waiting to be discovered.

Several small cafes and takeaways occupy the west bank of the town, with a sculpture garden providing a nice respite.

There are no bells and whistles here, it’s a quiet and ‘Tidy Town’, with a picturesque river crossing, over the River Barrow, the village makes for a great central base to explore from.

19. Enniskerry (Wicklow)

Enniskerry is one of the best towns in Ireland to base yourself in if you’re looking for a trip packed with hikes and scenery.

Only a short drive south of the nation’s capital, this quaint village with its Y shaped centre, is a hub of activity.

Practically humming with well patronised cosy cafes, boutique shops, upmarket restaurants, a country market and the eclectic Enniskerry antique gallery, there’s no shortage of things to do or experience.

Of course, all of this is overshadowed by the nearby Powerscourt Estate, which you’d be forgiven for mistaking for Ireland’s Whitehouse.

The area also boasts some nature walks, the Victorian Knocksink Bridge, and Powerscourt Distillery where you can try a dram or two of fine Irish whiskey.

20. Ardara (Donegal)

Photo left and top right: Martin Fleming. Bottom right: Gareth Wray

Ardara in Donegal was crowned the ‘best village to live in’ by the Irish Times in 2012 and it’s a popular base to explore the county from.

Although the buildings don’t have the same jazzy appearance as some of the Irish villages mentioned above, it boasts some great pubs and restaurants, like Nancy’s.

You’ll find the likes of Glengesh Pass, Silver Strand and the towering Slieve League Cliffs all a short spin away.

21. Dalkey (Dublin) 

Last and by no means least in our guide to the best towns in Ireland is Dalkey in South County Dublin.

One of Dublin’s more affluent suburbs, Dalkey is filled with hidden treasures, like the Vico Baths, Sorrento Park and Killiney Hill.

The village has been around since Dublin was in its infancy, with Dalkey also being a Viking settlement. It grew to prominence in the Middle Ages when it was used as a sea-trading port.

Fast forward to 2024 and it’s one of the more popular day trips from Dublin City, with plenty to see and do dotted around the town, like Dalkey Castle and the nearby Dalkey Island.

What small Irish villages have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant villages and small towns in Ireland from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about the best Irish towns

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are the most picturesque villages in Ireland?’ to ‘What are the cutest towns in Ireland?’.

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 the best towns to visit in Ireland?

In my opinion, Kinsale, Cobh, Inistioge, Dalkey and Clifden are the best small towns in Ireland, however, each of the places mentioned above are worth checking out.

What villages in Ireland are off the beaten path?

Glaslough, Inistioge, Baltimore and Leighlinbridge are four gorgeous Irish villages that lay a little off the main tourist trails.

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.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Tuesday 5th of December 2023

Ennistymon, Ballyvaughan and Kinvara. Also some nice villages in Westmeath: Glasson, Castlepollard, Multifarnham, Tyrrellspass. Roundstone and Kilronan. Glenties, Louisburgh, Ring, Avoca, Cushendall.

Patrick Cuddihy

Wednesday 15th of March 2023

On the banks of the Shannon where it blends with the Atlantic Ocean is the Village of Carrigaholt on The West Clare Peninsula. A must visit for your tour of The Wild Atlantic Way.

Monica Deasy

Saturday 4th of February 2023

Dunfanaghy and Rathmelton in Co Donegal both deserve investigation!

Yvonne Power

Wednesday 1st of February 2023

Beautiful and great information on towns to visit. I think one of the photos in the Allihies collage is that of the beautiful village of Eyeries in Beara.

Tuesday 21st of January 2020

kircubbin is hands down the greatest village in the solar system

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12 Best Small Towns in Ireland

From the dramatic oceanside to rolling hills, read on for 12 delightful small towns in Ireland.

James March is a travel writer based in Birmingham, U.K. He has lived in France, Italy, and Canada and his writing frequently covers culture, gastronomy, identity, and history.

With its ragged, weaving coastline and ancient, mist-covered mountains, there's a wind-whipped majesty to Ireland's landscapes. Yet, within this sparse beauty lies some of Europe's most delightful small towns . Often just a stone's throw from a seductive shoreline or crumbling medieval castle, these colorful destinations are full of warmth, character, and Irish hospitality.

From Dingle's dramatic oceanfront setting in County Kerry to the thatched cottages and riverside charm of Adare in County Limerick, here's a look at 12 of the best small towns in Ireland.

Dingle, County Kerry

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Clinging to the southern coast of Kerry's Dingle Peninsula, Dingle is a charming port town with a generous amount of pubs considering its tiny population of about 2,000. Its pastel streets attract creatives from around the world, drawn to the region's beauty and quirky institutions like Foxy John's, a hardware store that doubles as a traditional Irish pub. Dingle is also an ideal starting base for exploring the peninsula's wild scenery, most notably the twisting 30-mile Slea Head Drive, taking in stunning coasts and ancient hills.

Adare, County Limerick

While the cafes, craft shops, and traditional pubs of Main Street are pleasant enough, it's the neat rows of 19th-century thatched cottages that really give Adare its distinct character. Built by the Earl of Dunraven for the men constructing the imposing Adare Manor nearby, the whitewashed cottages are impossibly quaint and a few are available to rent throughout the year. Follow the snaking River Maigue along the north side of the village and admire the stately ruins of Desmond Castle and Adare Franciscan Friary.

Doolin, County Clare

While Doolin's probably most famous as a gateway to the Cliffs of Moher, it's full of scattered charm in its own right. Evenings are for whiling away with a few pints of Guinness amid the energetic sounds of live Irish music at Gus O'Connor's or McDermott's Pub . And when morning comes, it's not just the famous cliffs that are nearby. Doolin is not far from the ethereal form of Doonagore Castle, the mysterious Burren National Park, and the ferry zipping you out to the beautiful offshore Aran Islands.

Kinsale, County Cork

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

Though this was a busy fishing port for more than 300 years, Kinsale's colorful, cobbled lanes look like they were built exclusively for postcard scenes (or, dare I say it, Instagram). The rustic pubs and quirky stores filling these winding streets have made this small town in County Cork immensely popular with the summer crowds, and it's also the starting point of the Wild Atlantic Way trail . While many will want to hit the trail, stick around in Kinsale first to sample some of the region's freshest seafood at Martin Shanahan's excellent Fishy Fishy Restaurant .

Westport, County Mayo

With handsome Georgian streets and elegant bridges combined with a superb gastronomy scene, it's clear why Westport in County Mayo has become such an alluring location in the west of Ireland. Centered around the historic clock tower, its octagonal town center is delightful, and there are plenty of colorful pubs and fine restaurants flanking the pretty Carrowbeg River. Westport is also just a 15-minute drive away from Croagh Patrick, the 2,507-foot mountain considered to be Ireland's holiest.

Dunmore East, County Waterford

There are few better locations in Ireland to spend a languid summer evening watching the sunset than at Dunmore East's picturesque waterfront. With an alluring coastal road that gently rises and falls with the shore's sandstone cliffs, it's a town of secluded coves and immaculate beaches. Further south, the spectacular Dunmore East Cliff Walk offers clear views of County Wexford's Hook Head Lighthouse — one of the world's oldest-operating lighthouses — across the bay.

Roundstone, County Galway

With Errisbeg for an imposing mountain backdrop and the lumpy outline of the Twelve Bens range in the hazy distance across from Roundstone Bay, Roundstone is a quaint fishing village that's in dramatic natural company. And it's that remarkable surrounding landscape that makes this tiny destination in County Galway ever more seductive. Stroll the gently meandering Monastery Road and finish with a pint of stout and a plate of fresh hake and chips at O'Dowd's Seafood Bar and Restaurant .

Kenmare, County Kerry

While Kenmare attracts plenty of visitors thanks to its proximity to the spectacular Killarney National Park, its buzzy, colorful streets are captivating in a different sense and packed with lively pubs like PF McCarthy's on Main Street. But ancient curiosities are never far away in this weather-beaten land. In fact, just a short walk from the town lies Kenmare Stone Circle. Thought to date back to the Bronze Age (2,200 to 500 B.C.), the 15 heavy boulders in an ellipse-shaped circle are one of the region's more unique attractions.

Inistioge, County Kilkenny

Not for nothing were Inistioge's handsome Georgian streets chosen by Hollywood as the setting for films such as "Widows' Peak" (1994) and "Circle of Friends" (1995). Nestled within the rolling hills of County Kilkenny and dominated by the 10-arch limestone bridge spanning the River Nore, Inistioge's tree-lined square is also the picturesque setting for long summer afternoons in the sun. Find a table outside the Woodstock Arms , enjoy a pint of creamy stout, and take it all in.

Howth, County Dublin

Almost 30 percent of Ireland's population lives in Dublin , but only a fraction of those reside in Howth. The tiny town, built around a lively harbor, is a side to Dublin that few tourists see, but those who do will be glad they made the journey. With a vibrant stretch of sublime restaurants and casual seafood bars populating the harbor's western arm, it's a perfect little spot to return to after taking in the sweeping vistas of the Howth Cliff Walk.

Baltimore, County Cork

A lively gateway to the Atlantic, Baltimore's narrow lanes almost tumble into the ocean and are particularly vibrant in the summer months. Boat tours out to the enchanting island of Cape Clear and whale-watching excursions bring enthusiastic visitors down to Baltimore's shores every year, though there are also plenty of good reasons to remain on land. Along with the colorful cluster of pubs around the harbor, the town sits in the shadow of the 13th-century Dún na Séad Castle and now welcomes a newly crowned Michelin-star Turkish restaurant, Dede at the Customs House , to its culinary scene.

Cashel, County Tipperary

Located in Tipperary's Golden Vale with the grassy Galtymore mountain rising in the hazy distance, Cashel's ethereal surrounding scenes haven't changed in centuries. Dominated by the imposing shape of the 12th-century Rock of Cashel, this town is a perfect spot to take in one of Ireland's more underrated landscapes. Busy Main Street is packed with cafes, pubs, and hotels, while the handsome blue canopy and white lace curtains of Mikey Ryan's hide a superb restaurant that features a beautiful back garden for the summer months.

Seven Irish cities to visit that aren't Dublin

There are many cities to visit beyond Ireland's capital

• 15:40, 12 SEP 2023

One of the biggest mistakes tourists make when planning a trip to Ireland is spending all or most of their time in Dublin.

Dublin is a fantastic city, full of fascinating history, beautiful scenery, delicious food, and unreal cultural experiences. From The Guinness Storehouse to the EPIC Museum of Emigration to Kilmainham Gaol , Dublin City is full to the brim of world-famous tourist attractions. And they allow visitors to Ireland to create some truly wonderful memories.

But tourists often overlook Ireland's other cities. Although they're nowhere as big as Dublin, they make for just as much fun.

From cities in Northern Ireland down to Co Cork, each of Ireland's cities has its own unique identity and individual offerings for tourists.

Whether it's a seaside getaway you're looking for or you want to learn about Irish history and culture , here is a list of the other Irish cities to consider visiting in the Emerald Isle.

For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here .

Galway is a true taste of Ireland. The city on Ireland's western coast is full to the brim of Irish culture from traditional music to fascinating history. Some of the top attra actions in Galway include a visit to Salthill and driving to the Cliffs of Moher in Co Clare . What's probably most loved about Galway is its atmosphere, one you will experience in the city's many Irish pubs .

Located in the south of the island of Ireland is Cork City, the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland . Here, you will find some great pubs as well as attractions in and around the city to keep you busy. Some of the most popular things to do in the area include Fota Wildlife Park, Cork City Gaol, English Market, Elizabeth Fort and Franciscan Well Brewery. The city is even home to a butter museum.

Waterford is a lovely little city on Ireland's southern coast. Known for great pubs, interesting Viking history, and stunning natural beauty surrounding it, Waterford City should definitely be on your hit list. Some of Waterford's top attractions include the magnificent Waterford Greenway, the Viking Triangle, Reginald’s Tower, the Medieval Museum, Bishop’s Palace and Waterford Crystal. There is also some insanely beautiful nature close by including the Copper Coast and Coumshingaun.

Limerick offers an array of attractions, including The Hunt Museum, King John's Castle, Terra Nova Garden and St Mary's Cathedral. The city is a living museum to its history, with medieval castles and elegant Georgian buildings lining the streets.

Belfast is Northern Ireland's capital and has some of the best things to do on the island. Its close proximity to the Giant's Causeway as well as the Game of Thrones Studio Tour make it a popular base for those exploring surrounding areas. Within the city, you have the Titanic Museum, The Black Taxi Tour, the Ulster Museum, Belfast Castle and Belfast Zoo. During the Christmas season, the markets here are well worth visiting.

Kilkenny is somewhere that tourists should definitely see. Even though it's Ireland's smallest city, it has no shortage of things to do. The county is synonymous with the sport of hurling and is the best place to learn all about it. Other attractions here include the Smithwick's Beer Experience, Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral and Round Tower, Butler Gallery and Kilkenny's Medieval Mile and Medieval Mile Museum.

Many tourists learned about Derry through the hit series Derry Girls . For fans of the show, there is a special Derry Girls tour. B eing the site where Bloody Sunday happened, there is plenty of rich and emotional history to learn here, particularly at the Free Derry Museum. Other attractions in this small Northern Irish city include the old city walls and the Tower Museum.

• Co Limerick
• Co Kilkenny
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Wander With Alex

A Local’s Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Irleand

Posted: September 4, 2023 | Last updated: September 4, 2023

Ireland is one of the top tourist destinations in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. Each year, tourists visit the Emerald Isle to reconnect with family roots or explore the country’s charming small towns and lush green hills.

Most of the best places to visit in Ireland are near the coast, either along a circuit known as Ireland’s Ancient East or the Wild Atlantic Way. Depending on your time in Ireland, you can explore a section of the country or take a road trip around the island. 

Best Time to Visit Ireland

The best time to visit Ireland depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip. Here are some factors to consider:

• Late Spring to Early Autumn (May to September) : These months offer the best weather, with longer, sunnier days and milder temperatures. This is generally considered the peak season for visiting Ireland.
• Peak Season (June to August) : Expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation and attractions. Book well in advance if you plan to travel during these months.
• Shoulder Season (April, May, September, October) : These months offer a balance between decent weather and fewer crowds. You may also find cheaper flights and accommodations during this period.
• Outdoor Activities : If you’re looking to enjoy Ireland’s natural beauty, the summer months are best for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and visiting the Cliffs of Moher or the Ring of Kerry.
• Cultural Festivals : St. Patrick’s Day in March is a significant cultural event, but festivals occur throughout the year, including the Galway Arts Festival in July and the Cork Jazz Festival in October.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Ireland. The ideal trip to Ireland will include a stop in an Irish city, like Dublin or Cork , and some time in the countryside to explore the natural areas and admire the small towns.

The capital city of Dublin is worth visiting when you’re in Ireland, but be sure it’s not the only place you see on your trip. You can explore the infamous Temple Bar, known for its pubs and live music. Enjoy a pint of Guinness from a historic pub, or even visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about the history of this iconic Irish stout.

If time permits, make a point of visiting the historic Book of Kells at Trinity College Library. While there, you can marvel at the building’s architecture and learn a little about Ireland’s long history of scholarship and literary prowess. 

Finally, visit Bar 1661, a craft cocktail bar near Temple Bar. There, you can try poitín, an Irish spirit that was banned for many years. Bar 1661’s signature drink is the Belfast coffee, a play on the Irish coffee made with poitín, cold brew, and a cold nutmeg cream. 

Galway is the largest city in the west of Ireland, known for its live music and bustling city center. It’s one of the most popular stops in Ireland and the perfect place to start or end your adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way.

You can catch live music on Galway’s streets or in a Latin Quarter pub. The Dáil Bar and Taaffes in Galway are both known for having live music most nights of the week. 

Galway was a medieval city, and today, you can visit relics from its storied past, like a stretch of the old city walls from the 13th century. Be sure to visit the Spanish Arch while you’re in Galway, a structure with a history that dates back to the 12th century. 

You can stay in a charming Bed and Breakfast in Galway while you explore the city and enjoy its incredible nightlife. 

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are a UNESCO Geopark, recognized for their geologic and cultural significance. They’re also one of Ireland’s most instantly recognizable landmarks . 

These seaside cliffs offer breathtaking sea views along the Atlantic Ocean on the Wild Atlantic Way. Many species of wild seabirds live along the cliffs, including puffins during some parts of the year. Bird watchers will want to bring a pair of binoculars.

You can see the Cliffs of Moher by parking at the Visitor’s Center, or you can hike along the tops of the cliffs. Stay near the Cliffs of Moher in the small town of Doolin, which boasts a few adorable B&Bs and cozy pubs. 

Near the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare is The Burren. This area is known for its wild beauty and intriguing rock formations that you can admire from your drive or by going for a hike. You can find a walking trail through the Burren or walk on the stones for a while in any direction – the local farmers usually don’t mind, so long as you don’t disturb the livestock. 

The Burren Perfumery is one of the most unique gift shops in Ireland. This boutique perfume shop sells scents that were inspired by the rugged beauty and natural characteristics of the Burren. With fragrances like Spring, Winter, or Aran, you can wear a scent that captures the magic and whimsy of this wild park in Ireland. 

Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula is one of the most special places in Ireland. You can spend a full day driving along the peninsula from Inch Beach to Dingle Town and Coumeenoole Beach to Dunquin Pier. In the springtime, there are local farms with lambs that you can pet and feed for a few euros. 

Dingle Town is a particularly quaint and charming Irish town that is well worth a visit in Ireland. Near the harbor, you can find an outlet store that sells high-quality Irish wool sweaters at discounted prices. There are several boutique gift stores, adorable cafes, and great restaurants. 

If you have time, take the Dingle Sea Safari tour to see the Great Blasket Islands. The tour offers the chance to see various animals in their natural habitats, like seabirds, whale sharks, seals, and dolphins. Bring seasickness medicine if you take the Sea Safari because the water can sometimes be choppy. 

Ring of Kerry

Visitors to Ireland often make the mistake of trying to complete the Ring of Kerry in a few hours. To see and experience Kerry, spend a full day driving along the scenic roads on this iconic portion of the Wild Atlantic Way. 

Try to spend an hour or two walking or hiking in Killarney National Park. With well-marked trails, waterfalls, and beautiful green spaces, it’s a beginner-friendly way to see Ireland’s natural beauty. The Torc Waterfall is the most popular spot in the park, and it’s only a short walk from the car park. 

As the name suggests, West Cork is the western portion of County Cork. This area is renowned as a holiday destination in Ireland because of its beautiful peninsulas, sandy beaches, and laid-back pace of life. 

Baltimore, a small village in West Cork, was once the seat of an ancient dynasty. Today, you can go whale watching, see the Baltimore Beacon, and stroll around Cape Clear. 

Nearby is the impressive Mizen Head, a peninsula known for its signal station, and walk across the bridge that connects Cloghane Island to the mainland. You could also stop at Three Castle Head on the Mizen Peninsula, a spooky set of castle ruins that are said to be haunted. 

Kinsale’s cute and quirky fishing village is one of Ireland’s best places to visit. Located just a short drive from Cork City, this colorful little town has an active harbor, adorable shops, and many great restaurants. 

You can take the Scilly Walk from the center of Kinsale to Charles Fort, a star-shaped fort that is one of Ireland’s largest military installations. You can take some incredible views of Kinsale and the Irish countryside from Charles Fort. 

Kinsale has its own beach, or you can drive to nearby Garretstown Beach. At Garretstown, you can try sauna bathing at a mobile sauna, an activity that is becoming very popular in Ireland. Alternate between sweating in the hot sauna and dashing into the cold sea for 30 to 60 minutes, it’s a rejuvenating experience. 

Cork is Ireland’s second city, known for its rebellious spirit and fabulous culinary scene. You can take a walking tour of Cork to learn about the city’s history and cultural significance in Ireland. Then, try to see as many of the city’s most important sites, like the English Market, Fitzgerald Park, Saint Anne’s Church, and Elizabeth Fort, as possible. 

In the evenings, duck into a local pub like the Shelbourne Bar or the Friary for a pint of stout or a pour of Irish whiskey. Sin é is the best spot for live traditional or “trad” music, though it’s best to get there early if you want a seat. 

Blarney Castle

Take a day trip from Cork and visit the historic Blarney Castle. The castle grounds date back to 1200 AD and are home to Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone. It is said that the Blarney Stone bestows the “gift of the gab” upon those brave enough to kiss it. 

The stone is very near the top of the castle, and you’ll have to lay back and dangle over the edge to kiss it – it’s not for the faint of heart! There is a camera at the top, and afterward, you can buy a photo of yourself kissing the stone as a souvenir. 

Be sure to spend a few hours exploring the magnificent castle gardens. 

Cobh is best known for being the final stop the Titanic made before its fated journey across the Atlantic. It’s also home to St. Colman’s Cathedral, a stunning cathedral that overlooks the harbor. You can also visit “The Deck of Cards,” a collection of colorful houses stacked against each other. As the name suggests, it is reminiscent of a deck of cards. 

There are also several adorable restaurants, pubs, and cafes in town. The Seasalt Cafe is one of the most popular spots in town, and you can stop by for breakfast or lunch while you’re in Cobh. 

After you’ve explored Cobh, you can take a short ferry ride to Spike Island. It is a former prison complex that housed many Irish revolutionaries and other prisoners over the course of its storied history. A tour takes you around the grounds, offering a glimpse into the experiences of Irish prisoners over the decades. 

County Waterford

County Waterford is not always on a list of places to visit in Ireland, but it’s well worth a detour if you’re traveling along Ireland’s Ancient East. This Irish county has rolling green hills, impressive hikes, and picturesque seaside villages. 

One of the best places to visit in Waterford is the seaside town of Tramore. There is a swimmable beach and a small pier with rides, games, and treats for children and families. You’ll also find a Japanese Garden dedicated to the late Irish writer Lafacadio Hearn and the Seagull Bakery. 

County Wicklow

County Wicklow is known as the Garden of Ireland, home to the Wicklow Mountains and a stretch of coastline along the Irish Sea. The county has charming pubs, beautiful green spaces, and wild mountain ranges. Nestled into the Wicklow Mountains is Glendalough, a glacial lake with an adjacent set of monastic ruins. 

Visiting Glendalough is one of the top things to do in Wicklow, and you can enjoy a picnic near the lake or hike in the area. A hiking trail takes you up and around the lake at Glendalough, offering spectacular views of the mountain range. 

Another fabulous spot to visit is Trooperstown, a small local mountain near Glendalough. If you go when the heather is in bloom, the rolling hillsides will be covered in a lush green with a soft purple hue. There are several easy hikes around Trooperstown, but it’s easy to get turned around, so be sure to drop a pin so that you can keep track of where you parked. 

Places to Visit in Ireland on Vacation

When most travelers think of Ireland, they picture the streets of Dublin or rolling green hills. While it certainly has those things, there’s much more to see on the Emerald Isle. 

Ireland is a European destination with rugged wild areas, stunning cliffsides, and welcoming locals. Whether you have a few days to explore Ireland or a few weeks, visit a mix of urban, historical, and rural destinations. 

There are charming pubs throughout the country, and most of them are full of friendly locals and the occasional tourists. You can buy a pint of Guinness and chat with the barkeep or enjoy the company of your travel companions.

This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex . Featured Photo Credit: [@EcoPic/DepositPhotos]

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Taking the train in Ireland – what you need to know

Apr 19, 2024 • 11 min read

A train travels along the Rosslare, Wexford to Dublin line in Ireland © Irish Rail

Traveling by train is one of Ireland ’s great, if under-appreciated, pleasures.

It’s a small island and the rail network is limited, so no journey is especially long – but riding the rails across the country is one of the loveliest ways to enjoy the rolling countryside.

Compared to its European counterparts, Irish trains aren’t especially spectacular, but this is a country that doesn’t need high-speed or sleeper trains: you roll along at a maximum of 160km/h (99mph) and before you know it you’re on the other side of the island.

The particular nature of Irish demographics has shaped train travel in Ireland: with around a quarter of the population clustered in the greater Dublin region, it makes sense that most train journeys begin or end in the capital. In Northern Ireland the same is true of Belfast .

Irish trains might not be especially quick or super luxurious, but they’re an efficient and eco-friendly way of exploring the island – so long as your explorations are focused on the major cities and towns. Here is our essential guide to train travel in Ireland.

The lowdown on rail travel in Ireland

Irish trains are efficient, relatively frequent and usually on time.  Irish Rail/Iarnród Éireann operates the entire network of trains in the Republic, from intercity trains linking the major urban centers to the busy commuter network that services the greater Dublin region.

There are two main lines into the west and three into the south and southwest; spurs off the main lines connect to a host of smaller towns throughout the country. There’s also a line to Belfast, from where  Translink services connect the city with the Antrim Coast and Derry (Londonderry) .

Within the greater Dublin region, a network of commuter services connects the capital with a host of suburbs and dormitory towns in the surrounding counties. Dublin’s coastline between the northside suburbs of Howth and Malahide, and Greystones in County Wicklow is served by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport) trains.

There are some notable gaps in the country’s rail network, with no services in counties Donegal , Monaghan and Cavan , and no trains into West Cork . Some towns – like Buttevant in Cork or Annacotty in Limerick – are on the rail line but they’re bypassed as they have no functioning station.

Ireland’s bigger train stations – including Cork , Limerick , Galway , Sligo, Belfast and the two in Dublin – are all pretty well stocked when it comes to picking up supplies and other assorted sundries for your journey. Most other stations will have a small shop.

Train tickets are relatively good value

The good news about traveling by train in Ireland is that it is relatively inexpensive compared to train travel in some places, such as the UK, for example. If you buy it online, a standard one-way fare between Dublin Heuston and Kent Station in Cork costs €30–35, and around €55 in first class.

Online is the best place to buy your tickets for train travel in the Irish Republic. Not only do you get the best fares (with savings of up to 50% compared to buying the ticket at the station), but you can purchase your ticket up to 90 days in advance and reserve a seat when you do.

You have the option of collecting your bought ticket from a machine at the station as you’re boarding, or downloading a QR code at the point of purchase. If you wait to buy your ticket at the station, you’ll pay significantly more and have to get there early to queue up at the ticket kiosk.

For travel in Northern Ireland, you’re better off buying the ticket at the station as only a limited number of tickets are available online. Show up a short time before your intended departure time and just buy your ticket there.

Only a handful of services offer first class, but upgrading is relatively inexpensive. On average, expect to pay around €20–25 more to sit in first. There are three kinds of first class service on Irish trains. CityGold is on direct Dublin to Cork services, and includes an onboard host and a complimentary newspaper on selected early morning services. The Enterprise service between Dublin and Belfast offers the same, plus a fine breakfast. Premier Class is similar, but is only available on direct services between Dublin and Tralee and some Dublin to Cork trains.

Some discounts and offers apply

There are discounted fares for children and young adults aged between 19 and 25, as long as they have a valid discount card. Under fives and those aged 66 and over travel for free.

The commuter network in the Greater Dublin area has a fare cap of €6 for travel between the capital and a host of towns in the surrounding counties.

There are two rail passes aimed at visitors. The Trekker Four Day (€88) offers unlimited travel for adults on all Irish Rail services on four consecutive days from the date of issue. The Explorer (adult/child €128/64) provides five days of travel on all services in a 15-day window.

However, before investing in either, be sure that you plan on making the most out of it. The limited rail network means that connections are limited and traveling between some destinations involves backtracking: Cork and Waterford are both on the south coast, but to get from one to the other means travelling to Limerick, while Sligo and Westport are only 140km (87 miles) apart along the west coast, but to go between them by train you’ll have to travel through Dublin – which is on the other side of the country.

In Northern Ireland, the Sunday Fun Day Tracker ticket gives passengers unlimited train travel on a Sunday for £9 (£4.50 for children). Tickets are available from all ticket offices, the mLink ticketing app and from the conductor on the train.

These are the busiest times to travel by train

Unsurprisingly, peak times for train travel coincide with busy rush hour periods. Early morning services to Dublin from cities including Cork, Galway and Limerick can be busy, especially if the train is due to arrive in Dublin around the start of the working day. Friday evening trains departing Dublin can also be quite busy. However, as online bookings also include the option of booking a seat, you’ll never have to stand.

The commuter network is busiest on weekdays from 7am to 9am and from 4:30pm to 6:30pm as thousands of people travel in and out of work. You can’t prebook seats on these services, so plenty of people do end up standing. Keep an eye out on changing schedules, especially for weekend and holiday travel, as frequencies diminish.

The train network is limited, but it has some benefits over road travel

There are no rail links to any Irish airport, which means you’re relying on taxis, private cars or buses once you arrive in the country. Irish ferry ports are better connected to rail lines, however, and you can catch trains in Rosslare, Dublin and Larne; there is no rail link to Belfast Port.

If you want to reach the more remote corners of the island, then the Irish rail network is quite limited, and a car will give you the flexibility you need. However, rental fees can be very expensive and fuel is another considerable cost, with the price of unleaded and diesel hovering between €1.75 and €2 a liter. Parking is also pricey in all urban centers, especially Dublin.

Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get around, but it can be a slow business, as most make lots of stops along the way. There are some direct express services, but they are at the mercy of traffic, which can also add considerable time to a journey compared to traveling by train. Plus, buses don’t have bathrooms, with those traveling longer distances relying entirely on rest stops.

On board facilities vary depending on the type of train

There are two kinds of Irish trains: InterCity and commuter. InterCity trains are all the same – relatively modern with comfortable seats in standard class and fancier recliners in first – and they travel at speeds of up to 160km/h (99mph). There’s no journey in Ireland that is longer than 2½ to 3 hours. Commuter trains are slightly older, with less comfortable seats; older trains are used on some small-distance spur lines in rural areas and are very basic (facilities include seats and a toilet).

While Ireland’s flagship service is the one between Dublin and Cork, the fanciest train is the Enterprise service between Dublin Connolly and Belfast Lanyon Place, which is a joint venture between Irish Rail and Translink. This train is on a par with most services you’ll find in mainland Europe and first class is the most luxurious of any in the country.

All InterCity trains have three-pin sockets at every row where you can plug in a charger or a laptop. Most commuter trains in the greater Dublin area also have sockets. All trains have toilets and there is a cross-network wi-fi service operated by Irish Rail, but it is patchy and inconsistent. Translink has its own wi-fi network, which is accessible on all bus and rail services in the north, but, like in the Republic, you’re at the mercy of signal strength and contention levels.

Food options are pretty limited. There is a trolley service on the Dublin to Cork service, while the Enterprise between Dublin and Belfast operates a full service menu in a dedicated dining car; first class passengers also get a pretty good breakfast as part of their ticket.

Some trains on the Dublin to Cork route have a “quiet carriage” (usually Carriage G, marked in purple when booking) where the use of phones is prohibited and passengers are encouraged to keep noise levels down.

You can bring a bike on any Irish Rail train for free, although there are some restrictions during busy periods (such as sporting fixtures and concerts). The Dublin to Cork line is the only one to have a dedicated bike storage area; all other InterCity trains have (very) limited bicycle spaces within the passenger compartment – it’s not unusual for only two bikes to be allowed into the compartment, so be sure to book in advance. Bikes are not allowed on commuter and DART services during peak hours – before 10am and from 3:30pm to 7pm Monday to Friday.

There are many scenic train routes: here are the best

No matter where you are in Ireland you’re going to find a beautiful landscape or two, but some journeys are worth keeping your eyes wide open for.

Dublin to Sligo

Once you’ve gone past the huge suburban sprawl of the greater Dublin area, the landscapes get quite gentle; beyond Mullingar the train skirts alongside the edge of beautiful Lough Owel. For the best views, sit on the left-hand side of the train.

Dublin to Belfast

The Enterprise service is the best in the country, with the most comfortable seats and the best food options – especially in first class. The train skirts alongside the Irish Sea between Malahide and Balbriggan, so be sure to sit on that side as you travel (on the right-hand side if you’re traveling to Belfast).

Derry (Londonderry) to Coleraine

The Translink service between Northern Ireland’s second city and Coleraine is a stunner, a 40-minute journey along the Causeway Coast that comes with beautiful beaches, huge cliffs and unimpeded views out over the North Sea.

Downpatrick to Inch Abbey

It’s only a 10-minute journey, but the trip from Downpatrick in County Down to the monastic ruins of Inch Abbey takes place in a vintage steam train (or a 1960s diesel train) that chugs its way along the line, over the River Quoile and past the drumlin-specked landscape.

Cork to Cobh

One of Ireland’s most scenic trips is the 25-minute trip from Cork City to the seaside town of Cobh , which takes you along the river (sit on the right for the best views), past marshy Harper’s Island and over the bridges on Lough Mahon and the Slatty Water. You can always stop off at Fota and visit the  wildlife park  there.

Book in advance for wheelchair access to trains

All InterCity services are nominally accessible, but if you do need assistance you will need to book it in advance so that suitable arrangements can be made. This usually means that a conductor will have a ramp ready for wheelchair access, but we have also heard plenty of anecdotal evidence of staff simply lifting a wheelchair onto a train, which depending on the individual can either be a help or an annoying hindrance. Whatever you do, make sure to communicate your requirements before you travel as assistance is not guaranteed otherwise.

For passengers with learning difficulties or any issue where there may be a challenge with communication (such as autism) Irish Rail staff are trained to recognize visual cue cards such as the  JAM card , which inform the interlocutor of the holder’s condition. JAM cards are available online or at mainline train stations in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Sligo.

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Tenerife chief issues new warning to ‘flip flop’ Irish holidaymakers after thousands of locals mount huge protest

• Natalie Penza
• Published : 10:22, 25 Apr 2024
• Updated : 12:00, 25 Apr 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

A LEADING Tenerife politician has urged Irish and British tourists looking for cheap all-inclusive sunshine breaks to go elsewhere for their vacations.

Carlos Tarife, deputy mayor for the island capital Santa Cruz, said holidaymakers interested in staying in their hotels with their mandatory wristbands on should book places like the Dominican Republic instead.

He made his extraordinary comments just three days after thousands of Canary Islanders took to the streets of the Atlantic archipelago to protest against the problems caused by mass tourism and demand their politicians take action.

Government officials in Tenerife , where protestors held up banners which said: ‘You enjoy we suffer’ and ‘Tourism moratorium now’, said around 30,000 people had taken part but organisers put the figure at 80,000.

In an interview on a Tenerife radio station on Tuesday, Mr Tarife who is also Head of Public Services and the Environment for Santa Cruz Council, said when explaining why he was against a tourist moratorium: “In the Canary Islands we have less hotel beds today than five or six years ago.

“That’s got to do amongst other things with the fact that in the Canaries, and I’m referring especially to Tenerife and southern Tenerife in particular, a model of four-star hotels is changing to one of five-star and five-star plus hotels.

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“Where there were hotels with 250 beds, there’s now hotels with less beds but greater quality.

“I think that is the type of tourism we need here, not the type of tourism with all-inclusive wristbands where holidaymakers stay inside the hotel and do everything in the hotel.

“For that I think there are destinations like the Dominican Republic and other places."

He went on to tell Radio Marca Tenerife: “I think we have to have five-star hotels and five-star plus hotels where tourists don’t just come to enjoy the facilities there but where they come to enjoy our local products such as the famous Canarian potatoes, that’s what should interest us.”

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Mr Tarife caused controversy last year after being pictured with a latex penis during a visit to a sex shop in a Tenerife shopping centre ahead of municipal and regional elections.

The right-wing politician responded to critics of the photo showing him posing with the giant phallus and two shop assistants holding up his election leaflets by telling them to “be happier” and saying: “I bring out affection in people who naturally freely publish a photo on their social media, even if some turn it into a controversy.”

Last week Spanish opera singer Ainhoa Arteta claimed the favourite holiday destination attracts too many “flip-flop”-wearing tourists.

The four-times-married soprano said the Spanish government should be doing more to attract holidaymakers seeking a cultural experience.

The Basque-born 59-year-old voiced her concern in an interview ahead of the Canary Island protests last Saturday, which were backed by campaigners who organised smaller support events in cities including London , Berlin and Malaga .

WILL HOLIDAYMAKERS BE AFFECTED?

WHILE no official action has been made by Government authorities in the  wake of the protest , there is talk of a tourist tax coming in.

Canary Islands president Fernando Clavijo has suggested that the government is considering a €3 per night charge for tourists.

This would mean Irish holidaymakers will be hit with an extra €3 cost for every night that they stay on the island - a common concept that has been implemented in other popular holiday destinations across the world.

He said that while "ecotax is not included in the government program", it is "true" that it is something they are "willing to discuss".

The  Canary Tourist Board  told the Irish Sun that they are urging holidaymakers not to cancel their plans to visit and are encouraging people to still consider the Canary Islands as a holiday destination.

They said: "In terms of tourists, the situation they see on the eight islands is absolutely normal.

"We are aware that there has been some isolated and specific event, but this has not altered at any time the enjoyment of the holidays of those who visit us."

Arteta, whose husbands have included American baritone Dwayne Croft, touched on the type of tourism Spain attracts after being asked whether opera in her homeland is in a healthy state.

She told Majorcan daily Diario de Mallorca in an interview: “Not at all. Spain is a cainite country, it’s not a country that helps its singers and musicians.

“And it’s a shame because we have truly talented singers.

“If this country exploited its cultural-historical patrimony and accompanied it in all our theatres and auditoriums with ambitious programmes, we would attract cultural and not flip-flop tourism.”

She added, in a clear reference to Barcelona and Madrid: “The Ministry of Tourism and Culture should act together and we should be conscious there’s culture around the country, not just in two cities.”

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