Best Places to Visit in Ireland: A Guide to the Emerald Isle

Ireland captures travelers’ hearts with its vivid emerald pastures, windswept Atlantic sea cliffs, centuries-old castle ruins, and welcoming pub culture.

Whether you plan to drive the coastal Wild Atlantic Way or explore historic Georgian squares, here are the best places to visit in Ireland.

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1. The Cliffs of Moher & The Burren (County Clare)

Rising vertically up to 214 meters (702 feet) above the churning Atlantic Ocean, the Cliffs of Moher stretch for 14 kilometers along the western coastline.

• Top Experiences: Walking the coastal trail from Doolin, taking an evening boat tour from Doolin Pier to view puffin nesting colonies, and exploring the stark limestone karst landscapes of the Burren National Park.

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2. Dublin: Literary Heritage and Lively Pubs

Ireland’s capital city combines centuries of literary brilliance with historic architecture and world-famous brewing history.

• Top Experiences: Viewing the 9th-century illuminated manuscript Book of Kells in the Old Library of Trinity College; touring Kilmainham Gaol for insights into Ireland’s struggle for independence; and enjoying a pint of stout at historic watering holes.

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3. Galway & The Aran Islands

The cultural capital of the west coast, Galway is renowned for buskers lining pedestrianized Quay Street, traditional Irish music sessions, and fresh Atlantic oysters.

• Top Experiences: Taking a ferry from Rossaveel or Doolin to Inis Mór to explore the prehistoric cliff-edge stone fort of Dún Aonghasa; and driving into the rugged boglands and mountains of Connemara.

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4. The Ring of Kerry & Killarney National Park

A 179-kilometer circular scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula in southwest Ireland.

• Top Experiences: Touring the Victorian mansion of Muckross House, marveling at Torc Waterfall, and driving through the dramatic mountain pass of Moll’s Gap.

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5. Dingle Peninsula (County Kerry)

Often preferred by travelers over the Ring of Kerry for its dramatic coastal topography and concentration of ancient Gaelic ruins.

• Top Experiences: Driving Slea Head Drive to view the Blasket Islands, stopping at the Gallarus Oratory (an early Christian stone chapel), and enjoying seafood chowder in Dingle Harbor.

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6. Giant’s Causeway & the Antrim Coast (Northern Ireland)

Composed of roughly 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic fissure activity.

• Top Experiences: Walking across the basalt columns of Giant’s Causeway, braving the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and touring Dunluce Castle ruins perched above the sea.

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7. Kilkenny: Medieval Castles and Craftsmanship

Ireland’s “Marble City,” centered around the 12th-century stone fortress of Kilkenny Castle.

• Top Experiences: Walking the Medieval Mile connecting the castle to St. Canice’s Cathedral, and browsing traditional pottery and weaving studios.

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8. Cork & Kinsale: Ireland’s Culinary Epicenter

Southern Ireland’s food haven, celebrated for artisan cheeses, smoked fish, and coastal harbor views.

• Top Experiences: Browsing gourmet stalls inside the 18th-century English Market in Cork City, and walking the colorful waterfront of Kinsale.

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Driving & Travel Tips for Ireland

1. Left-Hand Driving: Vehicles drive on the left side of the road with the steering wheel on the right. Renting an automatic transmission vehicle makes navigating narrow rural lanes significantly easier.
2. Passing Places on Rural Roads: Rural roads (R- and L-roads) often narrow to single lanes; yield to oncoming vehicles at marked passing spaces with a friendly wave.
3. Weather Preparedness: Irish weather is famously changeable; pack a waterproof windbreaker and breathable layers regardless of the forecast.