From the lively Dublin to the scenic Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland is a country that will captivate you with its diversity and charm.
You can start your journey in Dublin, Ireland's capital and largest city. Dublin is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with much to offer, from historical landmarks like Trinity College and Kilmainham Gaol to lively pubs and restaurants in the Temple Bar area. You can also explore the city's museums, galleries, and parks or take a day trip to nearby attractions like Powerscourt House and the Waterford Crystal Exhibition.
Here are nine other must-sees and dos when visiting Ireland:
Kiss the Blarney Stone: According to legend, you can gain eloquence and persuasiveness by kissing the stone that sits atop Blarney Castle in County Cork. To do so, you have to lie down and lower yourself over the edge of the castle’s tower1.
Learn to pour the perfect pint of Guinness: Guinness is Ireland’s most famous drink, and there is an art to pouring it properly. You can learn how to do it at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, where you can also enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Gravity Bar2.
Drive the Wild Atlantic Way: This is the ultimate road trip in Ireland, covering 1,550 miles of stunning coastline from Kinsale in County Cork to the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal. Along the way, you can explore charming villages, rugged landscapes, and historical sites3.
Eat like a king in a castle: Ireland has many castles that offer a unique dining experience. One of them is Bunratty Castle, where you can enjoy a medieval banquet with live entertainment in the 15th-century hall4.
Visit the Cliffs of Moher: These are Ireland’s most iconic natural attraction, rising 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. You can admire the breathtaking views from the cliff-top trail or take a boat tour to see them from below5.
Explore Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, but it has its own distinct culture and history. You can visit Belfast, the capital city, where you can learn about the Troubles at the Titanic Museum or take a mural tour. You can also see the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 40,000 basalt columns formed by volcanic activity6.
Attend a festival: Ireland is famous for its festivals, which celebrate everything from music and literature to oysters and matchmaking. Some of the most popular ones are St. Patrick’s Day, Bloomsday, Galway International Arts Festival, Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, and Cork Jazz Festival.
See a castle: Ireland has over 30,000 castles and ruins, each with its own story and charm. Some of the most impressive ones are Dublin Castle, Kilkenny Castle, Rock of Cashel, Trim Castle, and Cahir Castle.
Go hiking: Ireland has some of the best hiking trails in Europe, offering scenic views and diverse terrain. You can choose from easy walks to challenging treks, such as Wicklow Way, Kerry Way, Dingle Way, Connemara National Park, and Croagh Patrick.
Drink at the pubs: No trip to Ireland is complete without visiting a pub and enjoying a pint or a whiskey with the locals. Pubs are not just places to drink, but also to socialize, listen to live music, and have fun. Some of the oldest and most famous pubs in Ireland are The Brazen Head in Dublin, Sean’s Bar in Athlone, Grace Neill’s in Donaghadee, and Dick Mack’s in Dingle.
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