The 10 best places to visit in Ireland, and the best time to go
Published Jan 9, 2020 5:59 PM EDT
Europe's Emerald Isle is decorated with rolling green hills and shrouded in fantastical folklore. Ireland is, by far, one of the most mysterious and beautiful places to visit. From age-old pubs to sprawling cities, there's something for everyone in the land of luck. Take a look at the best places to visit in Ireland before planning your trip to this gorgeous country.
Peek into Ireland's ancient history with a visit to the Aran Islands. These three islands are located in Galway Bay and have maintained a wild, rocky terrain. On the largest isle, Inishmore, you will find Dún Aonghasa perched proudly atop a crag. The Aran Islands are one of the best places to experience the local culture and catch an earful of Gaeilge. Farmers' markets, pubs, and unspoiled natural beauty make up daily life on the archipelago.
Photo by Diogo Palhais
Diogo Palhais
What's a visit to Ireland without a trip to Dublin? Ireland's capital has so much to offer. From Guinness pubs to stunning architecture, this Irish city oozes culture. You'll find historic remnants waiting around each corner. Along the coast, St. Patrick's Cathedral sits waiting to be admired. Food, drinks, and museums can be enjoyed by those who come to Dublin.
Cliffs of Moher
Photo by Dimitry Anikin on Unsplash
Rocky coastline meets pristine countryside in western Ireland's County Clare. When you come to County Clare, you won't want to miss a visit to Burren National Park. Hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography are popular hobbies in this gorgeous park. The Burren is also home to the tombs of ancient tribes, adding to the park's mystery and wonder. Park visitors can enjoy the trails that wind through the cliffs of Burren National Park.
Traditional pubs and hipster-inspired coffee shops sit side-by-side in Ireland's second-largest city. The River Lee winds through the town past music-filled cafes, bustling shops, and restaurants serving up dishes made with locally grown ingredients. Cork is the honorary capital of Ireland, a place that's known for modern delights and veined with skinny alleys.
Giants Causeway photo by Patrick Metzdorf
Photo by Patrick Metzdorf on Unsplash
Staggering basalt columns pay dramatic homage to volcanic eruptions that occurred long ago. This famous Irish attraction sits on the Northern Coast of Ireland in County Antrim. Hiking trails and pristine scenery surround this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ireland's National City of Culture is known for its love of rugby and Guinness beer. Although Limerick almost went bankrupt, the city has continued to rise to success. Limerick boasts an impressive theatrical arts scene with the Belltable Arts Centre in the middle of it all. Catch plays and productions in the city while enjoying the natural beauty that encompasses the Munster region.
Wicklow Mountains, photo by Bart Vermeiren
Photo by Bart Vermeiren on Unsplash
Just south of Dublin, you will find County Wicklow and all it has to offer. The county is marked by an 80-mile nature trail that will take you through the Wicklow Mountains National Park. History and Mother Nature tell a beautiful story in Wicklow's Glendalough Valley, where lush flora surrounds immaculately preserved religious architecture.
From the coast of the Irish Sea to stunning County Kildare, Boyne Valley is by far one of Ireland's most remarkable destinations. Boyne Valley is known as the Emerald Isle, a well-deserved name thanks to its lush green grasses. Dublin city-dwellers have long used Boyne Valley as a retreat from city life and can spot a dozen markets here.
Photo by Jean Carlo Emer
Jean Carlo Emer
Located in County Kerry, The Ring of Kerry takes you on a circular tour of the Iveragh Peninsula. Coastal towns and deep green vistas dot the 179km-long stretch. Mountains overlook pristine lakes formed in deep valleys, making the Ring of Kerry one of Ireland's most beautiful destinations. Visit Skellig Michael to admire the abandoned Christian church that dates back to the 7th century.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Killarney represents nature in its purest form. Countless species of flora and fauna can be spotted here, including red deer and ash trees. Purple Mountains reflect their majesty in pristine lakes alive with numerous species of fish. Killarney is an Irish dream for any nature lover.
Staying in tune with the local weather forecast can help you be prepared for your upcoming trip to Ireland. If you are planning a trip to this marvelous country, there are several ideal times of year that bring the best conditions for travel in Ireland. June through September brings amazing weather but be prepared for tourists galore. Mid-April through May offers pleasant weather with fewer tourists, and the winter months are fine for sightseeing if you don't mind bundling up.
Report a Typo
News / Travel
The 10 best places to visit in Ireland, and the best time to go
Published Jan 9, 2020 5:59 PM EDT
Europe's Emerald Isle is decorated with rolling green hills and shrouded in fantastical folklore. Ireland is, by far, one of the most mysterious and beautiful places to visit. From age-old pubs to sprawling cities, there's something for everyone in the land of luck. Take a look at the best places to visit in Ireland before planning your trip to this gorgeous country.
Aran Islands
Peek into Ireland's ancient history with a visit to the Aran Islands. These three islands are located in Galway Bay and have maintained a wild, rocky terrain. On the largest isle, Inishmore, you will find Dún Aonghasa perched proudly atop a crag. The Aran Islands are one of the best places to experience the local culture and catch an earful of Gaeilge. Farmers' markets, pubs, and unspoiled natural beauty make up daily life on the archipelago.
Photo by Diogo Palhais
Dublin
What's a visit to Ireland without a trip to Dublin? Ireland's capital has so much to offer. From Guinness pubs to stunning architecture, this Irish city oozes culture. You'll find historic remnants waiting around each corner. Along the coast, St. Patrick's Cathedral sits waiting to be admired. Food, drinks, and museums can be enjoyed by those who come to Dublin.
Cliffs of Moher
County Clare
Rocky coastline meets pristine countryside in western Ireland's County Clare. When you come to County Clare, you won't want to miss a visit to Burren National Park. Hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography are popular hobbies in this gorgeous park. The Burren is also home to the tombs of ancient tribes, adding to the park's mystery and wonder. Park visitors can enjoy the trails that wind through the cliffs of Burren National Park.
Cork
Traditional pubs and hipster-inspired coffee shops sit side-by-side in Ireland's second-largest city. The River Lee winds through the town past music-filled cafes, bustling shops, and restaurants serving up dishes made with locally grown ingredients. Cork is the honorary capital of Ireland, a place that's known for modern delights and veined with skinny alleys.
Giants Causeway photo by Patrick Metzdorf
Giant's Causeway
Staggering basalt columns pay dramatic homage to volcanic eruptions that occurred long ago. This famous Irish attraction sits on the Northern Coast of Ireland in County Antrim. Hiking trails and pristine scenery surround this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Limerick
Ireland's National City of Culture is known for its love of rugby and Guinness beer. Although Limerick almost went bankrupt, the city has continued to rise to success. Limerick boasts an impressive theatrical arts scene with the Belltable Arts Centre in the middle of it all. Catch plays and productions in the city while enjoying the natural beauty that encompasses the Munster region.
Wicklow Mountains, photo by Bart Vermeiren
County Wicklow
Just south of Dublin, you will find County Wicklow and all it has to offer. The county is marked by an 80-mile nature trail that will take you through the Wicklow Mountains National Park. History and Mother Nature tell a beautiful story in Wicklow's Glendalough Valley, where lush flora surrounds immaculately preserved religious architecture.
Boyne Valley
From the coast of the Irish Sea to stunning County Kildare, Boyne Valley is by far one of Ireland's most remarkable destinations. Boyne Valley is known as the Emerald Isle, a well-deserved name thanks to its lush green grasses. Dublin city-dwellers have long used Boyne Valley as a retreat from city life and can spot a dozen markets here.
Photo by Jean Carlo Emer
Ring of Kerry
Located in County Kerry, The Ring of Kerry takes you on a circular tour of the Iveragh Peninsula. Coastal towns and deep green vistas dot the 179km-long stretch. Mountains overlook pristine lakes formed in deep valleys, making the Ring of Kerry one of Ireland's most beautiful destinations. Visit Skellig Michael to admire the abandoned Christian church that dates back to the 7th century.
Killarney National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Killarney represents nature in its purest form. Countless species of flora and fauna can be spotted here, including red deer and ash trees. Purple Mountains reflect their majesty in pristine lakes alive with numerous species of fish. Killarney is an Irish dream for any nature lover.
The Best Time to Visit Ireland
Staying in tune with the local weather forecast can help you be prepared for your upcoming trip to Ireland. If you are planning a trip to this marvelous country, there are several ideal times of year that bring the best conditions for travel in Ireland. June through September brings amazing weather but be prepared for tourists galore. Mid-April through May offers pleasant weather with fewer tourists, and the winter months are fine for sightseeing if you don't mind bundling up.
Related: