Ireland Attractions

by

Dublin

Dublin, Ireland’s capital city, is home to a wealth of attractions and experiences for visitors. From its vibrant nightlife and traditional pubs to its remarkable museums, stunning views, and historical sights, Dublin has something for everyone.

Visitors will find plenty to keep them entertained in Dublin, whether they want to participate in cultural activities or enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere.

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle is one of the Irish capital’s most iconic and historical attractions. Located in the city’s center, it has been an important site since 1190 and is a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.

Originally built as a defensive fortification, it was later transformed into a royal residence in 1204, where various kings and queens lived until 1922, when it became home to the Irish government. Nowadays, Dublin Castle serves as the official residence of Ireland’s President and as the symbolic heart of historic Dublin.

The castle features four distinct areas:

  • The Upper Yard, which houses ceremonial receptions;
  • The Record Tower, which operates as a modern exhibition center;
  • The Old Library, which houses valuable manuscripts and documents from centuries ago;
  • and finally, The Museum Building – showcases an excellent selection of fine artworks.

In addition to its traditional interiors and architecture, visitors will also find significant artifacts reminding them of different historical monuments within the castle grounds. Among them are:

  • St Patrick’s Hall (now part of Dublin City Hall).
  • Chester Beatty Library (the most extensive collection by any scholar from that time).
  • Constantinian Order’s chapel (a relic from the early days).

Throughout its history, Dublin Castle has been host to countless public events, such Donnybrook Fair in 1806 – Ireland’s oldest fair – as well as more recent occasions, such as when Queen Elizabeth II visited Ireland in 2011. Today, visitors can explore this lush area on guided tours or participate in other activities held throughout its grounds, such as performances or music festivals. As a result, Dublin Castle is an absolute must-see place for national and international tourists visiting Dublin.

Trinity College

Trinity College, the oldest university in Ireland, is one of Dublin’s most popular attractions. Founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592, this historic college campus is steeped in centuries of intellectual and educational achievement. Today, Trinity College is a significant symbol of Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.

When visiting Trinity College, you can explore the cobblestone pathways and eighteenth-century halls and admire the college’s beautiful library, designed by Nathaniel Hone and featuring rare manuscripts collected over the centuries. The Book Of Kells and The Long Library have impressive wood paneling, artwork, and a soaring ceiling on display.

Other noteworthy landmarks include:

  • The Campanile (bell tower)
  • The Graduates Memorial Building
  • A chemistry-physics building featuring an Egyptian obelisk.

Visiting Trinity College allows travelers to learn about Irish history and experience Dublin’s world-renowned college atmosphere.

The Guinness Storehouse

Located in the heart of St. James’s Gate Brewery, the Guinness Storehouse is one of Dublin’s top attractions. It offers a unique hands-on experience as you explore seven floors celebrating Guinness beer’s history, heritage, and brewing process.

Start your visit on the Ground Floor with the Gravity Bar, where you can toast your arrival with a complimentary pint of cold Guinness or sip a tasty coffee in this glass-domed bar featuring 360-degree views over Dublin city center. Head to the third floor for The Experience – an interactive journey through different historical eras and all aspects of Guinness advertising from traditional markets to print media, radio & TV campaigns, and digital media.

On Level 5, sample a variety of taste sensations from traditional draughts and stout to more contemporary flavors in ‘Gravity.’ Then, on 6 & 7, enjoy delicious dishes inspired by local seasonal produce in Arthur’s Bar & Brasserie – try the Dublin Coddle dish made with smoky bacon and delicious vegetables.

For those looking for souvenirs, don’t miss the extensive range at Arthurs Bar Gift Shop featuring clothing, gifts, homewares, and more inspired by everyone’s favorite stout – cheers!

Cork

Cork is a city in Ireland that is full of attractions. From its picturesque city center to its stunning coastline and rolling hills, this vibrant city has many places to explore and experience. From museums to heritage sites, from traditional pubs to modern restaurants, Cork offers something for everyone.

In this article, we will discuss some of the must-see attractions in Cork:

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is an ancient medieval stronghold in Cork, Ireland. It was built in 1446 by Cormac MacCarthy, King of Munster, and has been a tourist attraction since its opening in 1874. One of the best-known features of Blarney Castle is the Blarney Stone, which can be found on the battlements overlooking the gardens. The stone is believed to have magical powers that imbue anyone who kisses it with eloquence and charm.

The grounds of Blarney Castle are split into two parts: The massive 13th-century fortress, which stands on top of a hill within wooded parklands, and the magical Walled Gardens, filled with vibrant colors and exotic plants. The castle has winding stairways, secret passages to explore, and magnificent views inside and out. Its luxurious State Rooms include:

  • Irish antiques.
  • Arms and armor displays.
  • Stained glass windows.
  • A richly decorated fireplace.

A fantastic opportunity for visitors to experience Irish hospitality during their stay is their Enjoy Irish Evening option which features traditional snacks paired with stories about Irish culture and history. Visit Blarney Castle – it’s a perfect family destination!

Cobh Heritage Centre

The Cobh Heritage Centre is an award-winning attraction located in Cork, Ireland. Situated in the town’s former railway station and post office, it tells the area’s story – from its ancient roots to more modern times. It includes several migrations, famine, industry, and maritime heritage exhibitions.

Visitors will discover displays about the millions of people who left Irish shores during the 19th and 20th centuries for America and further afield, as well as those who were deported from here during World War I. Among other attractions at this impressive center is a section dedicated to the infamous ship RMS Lusitania, which was sunk by a German U-boat off Cobh in 1915.

The center is also home to special events throughout the year. It makes a perfect day for anyone interested in learning more about Cork’s colorful past or Irish emigration worldwide.

Fota Wildlife Park

Fota Wildlife Park is a 78-acre conservation park located on Fota Island, near Cork, in the south of Ireland. It demonstrates the importance of conservation and sustainable development through its wide variety of wildlife species and habitats.

Visitors can take in exotic wildlife stars such as giraffes, zebras, lemurs, kangaroos, and other primates against stunning gardens and natural greenery. Themes such as sustainable energy, global warming, and biodiversity are explored through interactive exhibitions, such as the Planet Zoo exhibiting a selection of endangered animals from around the world. The Park also features a nature trail that encourages its guests to learn about Irish wildlife in its native environment.

The Park is dedicated to the preservation, with all profits from entrance fees used to support programs for endangered species worldwide – making it an enjoyable visit that helps contribute to vital conservation efforts.

Galway

Galway is a popular destination for tourists to visit in Ireland. With its cobbled streets, bustling market, and stunning coastline, there is something for everyone. From the Galway City Museum and Eyre Square to the Claddagh Village and more, there are plenty of attractions to explore in Galway.

Let’s take a closer look at all the incredible sights that the city has to offer:

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions and a must-see during any visit to the county of Galway. Located on the Atlantic coast, the cliffs rise 8 Km long, 214 m at their highest point, and provide stunning panoramic views of Galway Bay and The Aran Islands.

The cliffs have been used for centuries as a trading point between ships off the coast and local farmers who harvested seaweed. As a result, many local legends surround these stunning cliffs, and today, visitors come from all over the world to admire their beauty and learn more about them through nearby information centers.

Whether walking along their path or admiring them on your way down to Galway, the Cliffs of Moher offer an unforgettable experience you should not miss during your stay in Ireland.

Burren National Park

The Burren National Park is a unique and fascinating part of Ireland, located in the southeast corner of County Galway. This Park covers 3,883 hectares and includes the best example of limestone pavement in all of Europe. Here, visitors can take in scenic views, explore rare geological features, and witness a wide range of plants and animals adapted to live on the limestone pavement.

The Burren National Park is home to many significant features, such as its largest lake – Lough Talt – wild orchids, rare minerals such as pink mica schist, and drifts of rockroses outside the months from May to August. In addition, other exciting mammals, such as badgers, hares, stoats, and foxes, live within the Park’s boundaries.

In addition to all these natural wonders, numerous walking trails are available at different levels catering for both experienced hikers and novices alike, among other viewpoints across Lough Talt or Finé MacConmara’s castle ruins date back to 1122 AD. In addition, the National Park makes a great base point for exploring nearby attractions, including Aillwee Cave or Cliffs of Moher, all located close by in beautiful southwest Ireland.

Connemara National Park

Connemara National Park is one of six national parks in Ireland, located in the heart of Galway. Established in 1980, the Park covers some 2,957 hectares of land stretching from Letterfrack to the expanse of Ballynahinch Lake. Visitors can find habitats like dunes, heaths, and woodlands. A range of wildlife also inhabits this area, including a unique butterfly species not found elsewhere in Europe.

The Galway region has a special history that includes the Iron Age Celts, who lived there two thousand years ago. It can be seen through many monuments, such as Standing Stones and Ogham Stones, scattered throughout Connemara National Park.

In addition to exploring archaeological remains, visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including:

  • Hikes along Lough Inagh Way and Letterfrack Nature Trail.
  • Take part in interpretive talks on Cromlech Medieval Fort (one of Europe’s best preserved).
  • Marvel at spectacular views like Kylemore Lake.

For those looking for an educational experience encompassing culture and heritage, Connemara National Park should be top on their list!

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is one of the most beautiful towns in Ireland, and it is known for its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich cultural heritage. It is an ideal destination for tourists exploring the quintessential Irish landscape. Kilkenny has something to offer everyone, from its stunning cathedrals to its many restaurants and pubs.

Take a look at some of the top attractions in Kilkenny that make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ireland:

Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland. It stands on the River Nore, overlooking Kilkenny City, and is a stunning example of Norman architecture. It was built in 1172 by William Marshall, 4th Earl of Pembroke, on a site that dates back to 1030. As a result, the castle has seen many changes over the centuries.

Visitors to Kilkenny Castle can take a self-guided audio tour that covers its main features and explore parts of the beautifully landscaped grounds. There are also costumed guides available to answer questions about the history and architecture of this grand castle.

The castle’s rooms are decorated with period furniture and works of art reflecting their different eras. It boasts an impressive collection of paintings from local artists such as William Hogarth and James Snare. The ‘Master’s Library’ contains 5,000 volumes from the 16th century onwards, including books from writers such as William Shakespeare and John Milton.

Kilkenny Castle also hosts many public events during the year, such as historical reenactments and performances in its large hall. Tours run seven days a week throughout the year; however, checking opening times in advance is advisable due to seasonal closures or special events in the castle or grounds.

Canice’s Cathedral

St. Canice’s Cathedral is one of Kilkenny, Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions. The Cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is named after Canice the Abbot, who built a convent on the current site. Abbot Canice (or St. Kenneth) also founded a school in Kilkenny where some of Ireland’s greatest writers, including Thomas Moore, William Carleton, and Laurence Sterne, were educated.

Today, visitors to St. Canice’s are treated to its majestic spire, spectacular stained windows, and beautiful stonework throughout its walls, aisles, and cemetery that contains the tombstone carvings of many notable members of Irish society from both past and present centuries. Within St. Canice’s are also two round towers, symbols from pre-Christian times in Gaelic Ireland, and a clock tower built in 1852 for Quaker philanthropist William Smith whose family lived near the Cathedral for many generations until only recently.

Just beside St Canice’s Cathedral is an old but active Round Tower which anyone can climb up to get a fantastic view over the city below or even further across County Kilkenny – making this one of those must-see places when visiting Kilkenny or indeed anywhere nearby! Inside is also an exciting exhibition dedicated to local genealogy with displays containing details about prominent local families – providing a compelling insight into their past lives! Visitors can also take part in guided tours or explore St Canic’s ancient walls and graveyard before exploring more here in this bustling Irish city!

Rothe House

Rothe House is a 16th-century townhouse located in the heart of Kilkenny City, Ireland. The house was built around 1594 and today serves as a museum that provides insight into the architecture and lifestyle of its wealthy former inhabitants. It features an array of exhibition spaces exploring local history across three floors and a period exterior garden.

The website of Kilkenny City Museum explains that “Rothe House has two remarkable Medieval townhouses in one – thought to be the only example in either Ireland or Britain. It was inhabited by successive merchant generations until 1967 when their direct descendent handed it over to Kilkenny Corporation (now Kilkenny County Council) to ensure it would be maintained for posterity.“

The museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts that tell the story of life during a time when trade and commerce shaped Kilkenny’s past, along with numerous temporary exhibitions looking at topics like Irish sport and film, calligraphy, and ceramic art inspired by Japan. It also hosts local school trips. In addition, regular guided walks are projected to extend into the city streets and other historical sites nearby, such as St. Mary’s Church, Ossory Bridge, and St Canice’s Cathedral.

Rothe House is essential to understanding the rich history that so many locals are proud to lay claim to – if you find yourself in Kilkenny, be sure not to miss it!

Dingle

Dingle is one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland and a must-visit if you’re looking for a unique and picturesque getaway. It has something to offer everyone, from its stunning cliff-lined coastline to its quaint villages. So whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family holiday, consider a trip to this gorgeous corner of Ireland.

Explore the history, sample the delicious seafood, and let yourself be charmed by the breathtaking views as you wander around Dingle:

  • Discover the history of the area.
  • Sample the delicious seafood.
  • Be captivated by the stunning views.

Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula is a stunning stretch of undulating hills and jagged Atlantic coastlines situated in the southwest of Ireland. Its characterful towns and villages, dramatic mountain passes, and breathtaking beaches paint a vivid picture of rural Irish life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

At the heart of the area, you’ll find Dingle Town – a lively harbor village steeped in ancient history. Here you can experience traditional music sessions at local pubs, explore vibrant art galleries tucked away in atmospheric old buildings, try out delectable locally-caught seafood dishes, and even catch a glimpse of Fungi, the famous resident dolphin.

Take your time exploring this beautiful area, as there is plenty to see! Take in the stunning views on Mount Eagle or visit wonderful ruins such as the early Christian monastery at Gallarus Oratory or Corca Dhuibhne stone beehive huts dotting hillsides across the peninsula. For those looking for beach time with panoramic vistas to match, head down to Inch Beach or Coumeenole Strand.

The list goes on with countless outdoor activities such as hiking up to Ireland’s highest sea cliffs at Clogher Head, cycling around nature reserves like Ceann Sibeal, kayaking around secluded coves, and visits to grand hotels spas like The Dunloe Hotel Spa & Golf Resort. Dingle has it all!

Slea Head Drive

Slea Head Drive is a popular scenic route around the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland. Located in the region of Iveragh, this rugged 40-mile-long drive has been voted one of Europe’s most beautiful routes. From the end of this circular drive, you can marvel at an uninterrupted view right out to Blasket Islands and the Atlantic Ocean.

A world tour destination, it offers breathtaking views of cliffs, beaches, and rolling hills where sheep often wander by your car.

For some of the best views, start your journey from Ventry village, heading south around Slea Head to Dunquin (or spend a day driving from Dingle Town). It won’t take long before you come across iconic landmarks such as Beehive cells or Bog Village – if you are lucky, you will also see Fungi The Dolphin or partake in activities such as:

  • Climbing Mount Brandon for panoramic vistas
  • Exploring a Bronze Age ring fort where Wild Atlantic Way ends – Dingle Bay
  • Taking surfing lessons at Coumeenoole beach.

Along your journey, there are plenty of pubs and cozy cafes to treat yourself to traditional Irish dishes and drinks – Guinness beer tasting is not to be missed! For many travelers, including families with children, Slea Head is a must-see when visiting Ireland – they will not feel disappointed after experiencing these natural wonders!

Blasket Islands

The Blasket Islands, or Na Blascaodaí, are a group of islands off the west coast of Ireland, situated 10km off the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry. The islands are steeped in history dating back thousands of years and were once an essential part of Irish culture and language until its last permanent inhabitants disembarked in 1953.

For those looking to sample a piece of Irish culture and admire spectacular scenery, a trip to the Blasket Islands should be top of your list. While modern-day transport can take you there in minutes by ferry or helicopter, true adventurers may prefer longer kayak or charter boat trips. Either way, visitors will be treated to breathtaking views and stunning wildlife.

Although no longer inhabited by people year-round, day trips from Dingle offer visitors various activities, from lively traditional music sessions with local musicians to scrabbling up cliffsides for sightseeing opportunities with incredible coastal vistas. For nature lovers looking for a twist on rural exploring, this is one area that does not disappoint!