what to see on first visit to ireland
21 Peak-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ireland
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In that location'southward cypher quite similar a visit to the Emerald Isle to cleanse your soul and reinvigorate your spirit. Domicile to some of the world's greenest, most breathtaking landscape, Ireland brims with tourist attractions so highly-seasoned, you'll want to visit them all.
From the captivating Cliffs of Moher that volition go out y'all gob-smacked to the brilliant lights of Dublin's Grafton Street to the hallowed halls of Trinity College, yous'll find plenty of fun things to practise in Republic of ireland. The hard part will be choosing which fascinating attractions should top your must-see list.
Whether you're hoping to spend time pursuing Ireland'southward endless number of outdoor activities (nosotros're talking horseback riding, waterfall hiking, golf, and sailing) or hope to written report the works of some of the land's well-nigh famed artists in country museums and galleries, yous won't be at a loss for intriguing ways to spend your time.
Discover all the things to do in this stunningly attractive state with our list of the top tourist attractions in Ireland.
Note: Some businesses may be temporarily airtight due to recent global health and safety issues.
1. The Cliffs of Moher
Then many superlatives have been used to describe the magnificent Cliffs of Moher that it'south hard to find the right words. Vertigo-inducing and awe-inspiring jump to mind, and they are indeed both of these things, as well as being utterly wild and ruggedly beautiful. For those who've read up on the Emerald Isle prior to visiting, the cliffs will be familiar, starring every bit they exercise in countless postcards and guidebooks. Yet no epitome can ever do them justice. This is one of the top tourist attractions in Ireland for skilful reason.
Virtually 1 and a half hours by auto from Galway, in neighbouring County Clare, the cliffs are visited by close to a million people from across the globe each twelvemonth. Information technology's 1 of the popular twenty-four hour period trips from Dublin. They stretch for eight kilometers along the Atlantic and ascent some 214 meters at their highest point. Take a walk along the trail to experience the raw ability of nature at its most majestic.
Official site: www.cliffsofmoher.ie
Adaptation: Where to Stay almost the Cliffs of Moher
two. Grafton Street, Dublin
So much more just a great place to shop in Dublin, Grafton Street is alive with buskers, flower-sellers, and performance artists. Y'all will also observe countless places to finish off and but spotter the world meander past. Café civilization has taken off in the uppercase, and on a sunny day, y'all'd be forgiven for thinking you were in Barcelona or Lisbon.
True, this is Dublin'south shopping heartland, merely there's no need to spend a fortune if visiting. You'll find friendly, communicative service no matter where you go and be entertained from the bottom of the street to St. Stephen's Dark-green at the elevation. Grab a coffee or, in the mornings, a legendary Irish breakfast at Bewley'south Grafton Street Café. Accept time as well to duck downwardly the numerous alleyways and streets to see what you can detect.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Dublin: All-time Areas & Hotels
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dublin
iii. Killarney National Park and Muckross Business firm & Gardens
If visiting the Kerry region, the 19th-century Muckross House, Gardens, and Traditional Farms, ready in spectacular Killarney National Park, should exist height of your must-come across list. At that place are many reasons this is deemed i of the best tourist attractions in Republic of ireland; you'll need to visit to notice them all.
Standing close to the shores of Muckross Lake, 1 of three Killarney lakes famed worldwide for their splendor and beauty, this former mansion oozes the grandeur and gentility of bygone days. When exploring, deport in mind that Queen Victoria once visited hither. In those days, a royal visit was no small affair; extensive renovations and re-landscaping took place in preparation, and no particular was left to chance.
The house and gardens are a real treat, and at that place are Jaunting Cars (Killarney'south famous horse & traps) to accept yous around the grounds in style. The attraction's old farmsteads are likewise well worth taking in for a taste of how ordinary folk once lived.
The Killarney National Park & Lakes region is filled with beautiful scenery, and any route through information technology will reveal view after view of its lakes and mountains. A highlight in the western part of Killarney National Park is the eleven-kilometer drive over the breathtaking Gap of Dunloe, a narrow and rocky mountain pass carved past glaciers at the close of the Ice Age. The gap separates Regal Mount and its foothills from Macgillycuddy'south Reeks.
Another highlight in this national heritage site is Ross Castle. Winding lanes and cycling paths are amidst the best ways to see the park.
Accost: Killarney National Park, Muckross, Killarney, Co. Kerry
Official site: www.killarneynationalpark.ie
Adaptation: Where to Stay in Killarney
- Read More: Acme-Rated Tourist Attractions in Killarney
iv. The Book of Kells and Trinity Higher, Dublin
Republic of ireland'due south oldest university, Trinity Higher in Dublin is i of the country's ancient treasures. Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity is a world within a world.
Once you enter the gates and cross the cobblestones, it's as if the modern, thriving city outside but melts away. A stroll in and around the grounds is a journey through the ages and into the hushed world of scholarly pursuit. Many store and function workers take their lunchtime sandwiches here during summer months only to escape the hustle and hurry exterior.
The college is as well famed for its priceless treasures. These include the awe-inspiring Book of Kells (on permanent exhibition), and the mind-boggling Long Room (the inspiration for the library in the starting time Harry Potter movie).
Address: Trinity College, College Green, Dublin 2
Adaptation: Where to Stay in Dublin: Best Areas & Hotels
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dublin
5. Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin
Featured in many a rebel song and occupying a notoriously dark place in Irish history, Kilmainham Gaol should be high on the list of Dublin's best places to visit for those with whatever involvement in Ireland's troubled by. Information technology was here that the leaders of the 1916 Uprising were brought and, later existence bedevilled of Loftier Treason, executed in the prison chiliad. The only one spared was future Irish gaelic President Eamon De Valera who, by virtue of his American citizenship, didn't suffer the aforementioned grisly fate.
Dating from 1796, the prison was a dank vile institution that housed those guilty of such misdemeanours as being unable to pay their train fares and, during the famine, the destitute and hungry. In Irish gaelic eyes, Kilmainham became an irrevocable symbol of oppression and persecution.
A visit hither will open your optics and volition remain with you indelibly. The g mentioned earlier is specially spine chilling. In brusque, this is i of Ireland's absolute must-sees.
Address: Inchicore Route, Dublin eight
Official site: http://kilmainhamgaolmuseum.ie
6. The Ring of Kerry
If in Kerry, take the fourth dimension to explore what is arguably Ireland's nearly scenic route, the Ring of Kerry (Iveragh Peninsula). While you can start anywhere along this spectacular 111-mile-long tourist route, most people tend to set up out from either Kenmare or Killarney ending, naturally plenty, back in the same spot.
The entire journey non-finish could have under iii hours, but that'south unlikely to happen. En-route there's a feast of jaw-dropping Atlantic Ocean views, stunning islands to visit, wild sweeping mountains, and many picturesque villages.
This area of phenomenal natural beauty boasts a range of outdoor pursuits including golf, water sports on pristine beaches, cycling, walking, equus caballus-riding, and terrific freshwater fishing and deep-sea angling. For history enthusiasts, there are Ogham Stones, Iron Age forts, and ancient monasteries, all set against a canvas of striking landscapes.
Accommodation: Where to Stay near the Ring Of Kerry
- Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Ring of Kerry
7. Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Magical and mysterious, Glendalough is abode to one of the well-nigh of import monastic sites in Ireland. The settlement was established by St. Kevin during the 6th century and eventually evolved into what'south known as the Monastic Urban center. Visitors have flocked to the valley of the two lakes for thousands of years to blot its rich history, magnificent scenery, plentiful wildlife, and fascinating archaeological finds.
The monastic site with its incredibly preserved round tower is a joy to explore, and the surrounding woodlands and lakes are perfect for rambling through at your leisure or stopping off for a picnic. There are marked nature trails to follow and a Visitor Heart for all the data you'll need for a day out like no other.
Address: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Wicklow
8. Powerscourt House and Gardens, Co. Wicklow
Superb views, serene lakeside walks, engaging history, and the stunning backdrop of Sugarloaf Mount are just some of the treats in store when visiting this magnificent home, just 20 kilometers from Dublin.
At present owned by the Slazenger family, the house is ready on 47 manicured acres. Have fourth dimension to stroll through the Rose and Kitchen Gardens and explore the cute Italian Gardens. In that location are more than 200 varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers, and especially moving is a section where much-loved family pets were buried complete with headstones and inscriptions.
The gardens were laid out over a period of 150 years and were designed to create an estate that blends harmoniously with the surroundings. On site, in the former Palladian home, are craft and design shops and an excellent café/restaurant. Truly one of the most majestic attractions in Ireland, this is also one of the height day trips from Dublin.
Address: Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow
Official site: http://powerscourt.com/
9. The Rock of Cashel
Republic of ireland's most visited heritage site, the Rock of Cashel stars in countless images of the Emerald Isle. Queen Elizabeth II of United kingdom fifty-fifty visited by helicopter during her 2011 official tour of the land. Perched upon a limestone rock formation in the Golden Vale, this magnificent group of medieval buildings includes the Loftier Cross and Romanesque Chapel, the 12th-century round tower, a 15th-century castle, and a 13th-century Gothic cathedral.
The restored Hall of the Vicars Choral is also among the structures. Tourist attractions include an acoustic show and exhibitions. It'south besides said that this was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster prior to the Norman invasions.
Accost: Cashel, Co. Tipperary
10. National Museum of Ireland, Dublin and County Mayo
It's like shooting fish in a barrel to spend an entire mean solar day at the National Museum of Ireland, which is technically a collection of museums. You'll discover a building dedicated to highlighting the country'due south "natural history" on Merrion Street in Dublin 2, "decorative arts & history" in Dublin'due south Collins Barracks, "country life" in Mayo, and the stunning "archaeology" museum on Kildare Street in Dublin two.
Depending which building you visit, you can look to discover interesting exhibits on everything from Irish Antiquities to Irish folklife to Celtic art. The National Museum of Ireland—Archaeology is dwelling to over two million historic artifacts, and contains fascinating finds, including metalwork that dates to the Celtic Iron Age.
The National Museum of Ireland—Country Life, which lies in Turlough Park, Castlebar, is housed in a unique building that seamlessly blends Victorian and contemporary architecture. Inside, you'll detect photographs, films, ancient piece of furniture, and permanent exhibits on everything from Irish hearth and dwelling to life in the customs to various jobs held on both state and h2o.
The National Museum of Ireland—Decorative Arts & History is housed in an iconic military barracks and contains celebrated treasures such equally ceramics, glassware, apparel, jewelry, and coins.
The National Museum of Ireland—Natural History is home to over ten,000 exhibits featuring the country'south most dearest wild animals, every bit well as interesting creatures from across the globe.
Official site: https://world wide web.museum.ie/en-ie/abode
11. Blarney Castle and the Blarney Rock
Maybe Republic of ireland's all-time-known attraction and i it's must-run into-castles, the Blarney Stone sits high on a tower of Blarney castle, not far from Cork. Reputed to endow the famed Irish gaelic eloquence to those who dare hang their head over the parapets to buss it, the rock is not the only reason for visiting Blarney Castle.
Blarney Castle was built more than than 600 years agone by Irish chieftain Cormac McCarthy, and yous can tour the massive rock building from its towers to its dungeons. All-encompassing gardens surround information technology, filled with stone features and secret corners. Blarney Woollen Mills is known for its sweaters and other knitwear and has a shop selling crystal, porcelain, and other Irish gaelic gifts.
Official site: www.blarneycastle.ie
12. Kinsale, Co. Cork
Soaked in history and in a scenic coastal setting at the gateway to West Cork, Kinsale has been attracting large numbers of visitors for decades. It'southward one of the best small towns in Ireland for tourists.
The boondocks has a decidedly Spanish feel, especially in summer. This is hardly surprising begetting in mind that in 1601, three years after the defeat of the Spanish Fleet, the Spanish sent a military force to Republic of ireland, nearly of whom disembarked at Kinsale. This led to the English language laying siege to the town and ultimately the defeat of Castilian and Irish forces by superior English military machine might.
Kinsale is at present a magnet for those who love sailing, walking, angling, marvellous scenery, and great nutrient. The boondocks is packed with restaurants of all sorts and the seafood on offer is splendid. In that location's an annual Gourmet Festival amidst others, and a visit to imposing Charles Fort shouldn't be missed.
13. The Dingle Peninsula and the Wild Atlantic Fashion
Part of The Wild Atlantic Style, a 1700-mile marked route effectually Republic of ireland's due west and next coasts, the Dingle Peninsula combines wild dazzler, history, and a glimpse of traditional Irish culture and language. It'south non by blow: the region is designated as a Gaeltacht, where the Irish gaelic language and culture are protected past government subsidies. You'll hear Gaelic spoken and sung, and read it on signs, although everyone also speaks English.
Catastrophe at Dunmore Head, the Irish mainland'due south westernmost point, the peninsula is bordered past some of Republic of ireland's best beaches and ragged cliffs. Stone huts that besprinkle its open landscapes were built by monks in the early Heart Ages, and you'll find more stone monuments that date to the Statuary Historic period.
xiv. Torc Waterfall, Killarney National Park
It's easy to see why the Torc Waterfall is ane of the best places to visit in Ireland. Situated in the centre of Killarney National Park, this 20-meter-tall cascade is one of the top attractions in the Ring of Kerry. The relaxing sound of rushing water tin be heard from the nearby carpark, which lies a mere 200 meters abroad, an piece of cake walk for those who find hiking hard.
If you lot're hoping for a longer trek, continue on the Kerry Way, a 200-kilometer well sign-posted walking trail that loops its style effectually the stunning Iveragh Peninsula on its mode to and from nearby Killarney.
Official site: https://www.killarneynationalpark.ie/visit-us/torc-waterfall/
15. St. Stephen'south Green, Dublin
Beloved by Dubliners and with a colorful history, tranquil St. Stephen's Green is a great place to wind down, savor a picnic, or feed the ducks. Incidentally, during the 1916 Uprising, special impunity was given on both sides to the park keepers. Hostilities ceased daily and so that the ducks could be properly fed. It could just happen in Dublin.
Nowadays "The Green," as it'due south known locally, boasts beautifully maintained gardens, the ubiquitous Duck Pond, a picturesque bridge, recreation grounds, mature trees to rest below, and a playground.
Effectually the perimeter are many of Dublin's premier Georgian buildings likewise equally the iconic Shelbourne Hotel, founded in 1824, where afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor'southward Lounge is considered by many to be a real treat.
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dublin
16. Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
A visit to the Shannon region wouldn't be complete without coming hither. Dating from 1425, the castle is the best-preserved medieval fortress in Ireland and was lovingly restored in the 1950s. Containing a fine array of 15th- and 16th-century effects and tapestries, the castle volition transport you dorsum to aboriginal medieval times.
The themed banquets in the evenings are great fun, although certain guests who misbehave run the take a chance of being sent to the dungeons beneath. The impressive Folk Park brings the Ireland of a century ago vividly to life. Featuring more than 30 buildings in a village and rural setting, the folk park has hamlet shops, farmhouses, and streets to explore. It'southward all nifty fun for families and kids.
17. National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin
Founded in 1854 by an Act of Parliament, the National Gallery of Ireland is a beloved institution situated in Dublin's tree-lined Merrion Square. This thousand gallery opened to the public in 1864 merely recently underwent an extensive renovation, creating fifty-fifty more impressively airy and bright spaces to house its vast collection of artworks. Don't worry, the impressive, 19th -century architecture was well preserved.
In addition to the picturesque structure, inside you lot'll find a collection of the country's most famous fine art, as well the national collection of paintings past the European Old Masters. Its convenient location in Dublin's city heart makes information technology easy to spend the rest of your day shopping and dining in the city's best establishments.
Even meliorate than the impressive works found in this gallery is the price: access is free. With so many intriguing pieces to examine, nosotros'd suggest setting bated a few hours to explore it fully.
Address: Merrion Square West, Dublin two
Official site: https://www.nationalgallery.ie/
eighteen. The English Marketplace, Cork
No visit to Cork would be complete without dropping by the English Market. That said, it's a tad ironic that what is arguably one of Cork city's best attractions should contain the discussion "English" - Cork folk usually see themselves as far more ideologically and culturally removed from neighboring Britain than their Dublin counterparts. Having said that, they hold a special place in their hearts for this quirky covered market, which stocks the best of local produce, including the freshest seafood, artisan breads, and first-class cheeses.
A market has existed on the site since the late 1700s, although the distinctive entrance on Princes Street dates from 1862. Recent worldwide fame came when Queen Elizabeth Two dropped by on her first ever state visit to the Commonwealth of Ireland in 2011. Iconic images of her sharing a joke with Fishmonger Pat O'Connell were beamed across the globe.
For those who wish to linger a while, there's coffee to go and cozy Farmgate Restaurant upstairs.
Address: Princes Street, Cork (off St. Patrick's Street & Grand Parade)
Official site: www.englishmarket.ie
xix. The Aran Islands
Originally brought to world attention in 1934 by the fictionalised documentary Man of Aran, these islands have been entrancing visitors always since. This is a taste of Ireland every bit it once was. Gaelic is the showtime language, there are a mere 12,000 inhabitants, and in one case ashore, you'll feel as if y'all're in a time warp. There are 3 islands, the largest existence Inishmore, then Inishmaan, and the smallest is Inisheer.
Wild, windswept, rugged, and utterly unique, the islands offer a visitor feel quite like no other. Once experienced, the great stone fort of Dun Aonghasa and the towering cliffs of Aran volition never be forgotten. The local culture is quite different from that of the mainland, the archaeological heritage cannot be found elsewhere and the rich scenery is simply breathtaking.
twenty. Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny
Despite housing many different owners and undergoing multiple stints of rebuilding, Kilkenny Castle has stood potent for over 800 years. While it looks Victorian from the exterior, the castle'southward roots appointment to the 13th century. This is when information technology was built past William Marshal, who created this masterpiece to serve equally a "symbol of Norman Control."
Today, the castle is open to visitors wishing to traipse through the fifty acres of lush grounds, which include a stunning, terraced rose garden; towering, ancient trees; and a sparkling, human being-fabricated lake. It is ane of the nigh beloved tourist attractions in Ireland.
The grand firm is open to explore, and it's here y'all'll notice an ornate foyer, eerie undercroft, and captivating tapestry room, also as period rooms like the nursery.
The 19th-century pitched roof pic gallery is specially impressive for those who relish admiring creative works in a captivating setting.
Address: The Parade, Kilkenny
Official site: https://kilkennycastle.ie/
Read More: Meridian-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Kikenny
21. The Little Museum of Dublin
A recent addition to the capital letter'south museums, The Footling Museum should be top on the list for anybody wishing to grasp Dublin'south recent history. The museum grew organically from a "meet and greet" service for visitors, and quickly became what nosotros see today. Besides as informative, personally guided tours, new initiatives include Dublin past Land & Sea and The Green Mile Walking Tour.
On permanent exhibition are such items as the lectern used by John F. Kennedy during his 1963 visit to Ireland, and a U2 exhibition with mementos donated by ring members themselves. This is a joyful museum that celebrates Dublin with all its quirkiness and humor.
Accost: fifteen St. Stephen'southward Dark-green, Dublin ii
Official site: www.littlemuseum.ie
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Things to Do in Ireland and When to Visit: Some people come here for a quick weekend interruption, while others come up on longer trips to explore the castles, cities, and modest towns. A few people come hither to fish. Anglers will want to be sure to encounter our article on the best line-fishing destinations in Ireland. Ane thing to consider if you are planning activities or even sightseeing is the time of twelvemonth you lot want to travel. For a great resource, see our guide to the best fourth dimension to visit Ireland.
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