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Best places to visit in ireland.

Ireland's rich culture, enchanting green landscapes and friendly locals are just a few reasons why so many travelers make the journey to this island country. But with so many cities, charming small towns and countryside wonders to choose from, it may be hard to decide exactly what should be on your Emerald Isle itinerary. U.S. News took into account sights, adventure, food and culture, plus expert opinions and traveler sentiment, to determine the best places to visit in Ireland. If you want to have a say in next year's list, be sure to vote below.

Dingle Peninsula

Cliffs of moher, iveragh peninsula, glenveagh national park, inishowen peninsula, connemara national park, aran islands.

With a stoic castle, wild coastline and great "craic" (fun, entertainment and good company), Donegal checks off many items on an Ireland vacation bucket list. Donegal visitors can see the 15th-century Donegal Castle, grab a pint of Guinness in a traditional Irish bar dating back to the 1700s or revel in one of the town's high-spirited festivals. Meanwhile, Donegal's northwest coast location makes it ideal for driving along the scenic Donegal Bay to the Slieve League cliffs – which are nearly three times as tall as the Cliffs of Moher – or hopping to islands known for their exceptional preservation of the Gaelic language and culture.

Though Dublin is Ireland's hub for politics, culture and music, its approachable and relaxed culture sets it apart from most European capitals. Before making a beeline for the Guinness Storehouse, consider a walking tour to take in popular attractions like Trinity College (and its swoon-worthy library), the 13th-century Dublin Castle and the always exuberant Temple Bar district. Save time to take in the arts, too: Dublin is home to the national theater of Ireland and plenty of festivals and museums dedicated to Irish literary greats. Plus, Dublin offers easy access  to alluring destinations like the fishing village of Howth and Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Located along the country's famous Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula consistently stuns with its otherworldly scenery (think: evergreen cliffs, craggy coastlines and vibrant blue waters). Begin your journey by driving along Slea Head Drive, a scenic route known for its photo-worthy vistas. If you'd rather see the peninsula on foot, head down the Dingle Way, a network of trails that spans the entire peninsula. Or, take a ferry to the Blasket Islands to explore jaw-dropping cliffs, look for wildlife like sheep and dolphins, and visit pristine beaches without rubbing elbows with other tourists.

For the quintessential Irish countryside experience, travel to Killarney. The town is surrounded by evergreen hills and valley on all sides, affording plenty of opportunities to become one with nature. Visitors gravitate toward Killarney National Park, which features Ireland's highest mountain range, MacGillycuddy's Reeks. If you aren't much of a hiker, you can still enjoy the scenic lakes or visit one of Killarney's centuries-old churches or castles.

The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland's most popular tourist attraction, welcoming more than 1 million visitors each year. In fact, the cliffs are so popular that cities situated more than 100 miles away often offer full-day bus tours to the attraction. Once you lay eyes on this sight, you'll understand why so many people travel hours to gaze at it. Measuring more than 8 miles long and 700 feet tall, the cliffs provide breathtaking views of Galway Bay, parts of Connemara National Park and the Aran Islands on a clear day.

This peninsula in County Kerry is best known for featuring the world-famous Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile scenic drive that circles around the entire peninsula. Along the way, visitors will enjoy truly spectacular scenery both on the coast and inland. Can't-miss stops include Ladies View, Rossbeigh Strand, Derrynane beach and the Gap of Dunloe. Travelers should also save time for visiting some of the peninsula's picturesque small towns and castles, which are both developed and abandoned. Be sure to stay at least one night here for a glimpse of the stars in Ireland's first dark sky reserve.

Surrounded by a looming mountain, sandy beaches and charming countryside (dubbed "Yeats Country" after the county's famed poet), Sligo offers something for everyone. If you're up for an adventure, hike the loop around the iconic Benbulben mountain, take a surf lesson in Strandhill or watch the big-wave pros at Mullaghmore Head. Meanwhile, more leisurely travelers can visit Sligo town's popular sites like The Model art center and Sligo Abbey, or take a coastal drive to fine estates like the Lissadell House and Gardens (open seasonally). Just make time for a few stops along the Sligo Food Trail on your way.

After Dublin, Cork is Ireland's largest city. Located at the southern end of the country, this city of more than 200,000 residents is famous for being home to Blarney Castle and its Blarney Stone. According to local legend, the stone will grant you the gift of eloquence, if you dare kiss it. Cork is also where you'll find 18th- and 19th-century churches, the Cork City Gaol (a former prison converted into a museum) and lush Fitzgerald Park, among other noteworthy attractions. When hunger strikes, explore Cork's English Market, where you'll find everything from meat and fish counters to cafes and bakeries.

Located just 17 miles south of Cork, this enclave on Ireland's southern coast charms visitors with rainbow-hued buildings and a "riviera" vibe. Sailing is central to Kinsale, which hosts several regattas throughout the summer, but other water activities like kayaking and surfing hold equal appeal. Those who prefer to stay on land can visit nearby attractions like the scenic Nohoval Cove and historic Charles Fort. What's more, as one of Ireland's top culinary destinations, Kinsale entices foodies with more than 50 delectable eateries and food-centric celebrations like the Kinsale Gourmet Festival and Kinsale Street Feast.

Galway offers the best of both worlds for travelers. City slickers can revel in Galway's relatively light but palpable bustle, while outdoor lovers can venture outside the city to see many natural attractions, including the Salthill Promenade, Wild Atlantic Way and, farther afield, Burren National Park. If you prefer to stay local, stroll through the lively Latin Quarter, then check out historical attractions like the Spanish Arch and St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church.

Situated in the heart of County Donegal, Glenveagh National Park sets a picturesque scene, complete with a lakeside castle and lush mountains. Here, active sightseers can bask in the unspoiled natural beauty of the Emerald Isle, with nearly 40,000 acres that are completely free to access for hiking, biking, fishing and camping. Highlights include the Derryveagh Mountains, the sweeping valleys of the Poisoned Glen and the rugged shores of Lough Inshagh and Lough Veagh. For a small fee, visitors can also take a tour of the Glenveagh Castle, a stately granite structure representing the idyllic highland retreat, and explore its varied gardens and tearooms.  

Situated just northwest of Ireland's border with Northern Ireland, the Inishowen Peninsula is the country's largest peninsula. Its remote location 170 miles northwest of Dublin plus its otherworldly scenery and thatched cottages create a peaceful setting you won't find in Ireland's more tourist-heavy peninsulas. Must-see natural wonders here include Malin Head, Trawbreaga Bay and the Gap of Mamore. If you've always dreamed of seeing the northern lights , be sure to visit in winter when the aurora borealis' beautiful hues are typically visible throughout the peninsula.

Expect awe-inspiring scenery everywhere you turn when you visit this 5,000-acre national park during the warmer months. Connemara National Park is home to the Twelve Bens mountain range, plus woodlands, grasslands, heaths (wild, undeveloped flatlands) and bogs (wetlands) that you can explore via one of several trails. To get a good overview of the park's diverse scenery, hike the Diamond Hill paths and walk the Green Road along Killary Harbour. The latter is where you'll find one of Ireland's few glacial fjords.

Travelers keen on getting a taste of what old Ireland looked and felt like should consider visiting the Aran Islands. Accessible by plane from Connemara or by ferry from Rossaveal, Galway and Doolin on Ireland's western coast, the Aran Islands feature important historical sites, Celtic churches and lots of untouched landscapes (think: the "Banshees of Inisherin," some of which was filmed here). Plus, Gaelic is widely spoken, providing an authentic cultural experience. Though all three islands offer noteworthy sights, plan on spending the bulk of your time on Inis Mór (or Inishmore), where the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa is located.

Kilkenny offers a hearty amount of historical attractions for travelers to explore. This is largely thanks to the town's prior distinction of being the medieval capital of Ireland, a heritage that remains evident today  in the Medieval Mile, Kilkenny's top attraction. Within the Medieval Mile you'll find several interesting sights, such as Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral and the Medieval Mile Museum. This historic part of town is also home to the Smithwick's Experience, where you can learn more about how one of Ireland's most popular ales is brewed.

Head to this small seaport on Ireland's southeastern coast to catch a glimpse of the country's oldest city. Waterford is full of history, and its attractions reflect that. History buffs can learn more about the city's Viking roots at Waterford Treasures' Medieval Museum, Reginald's Tower and Bishop's Palace facilities. Or, they can take a tour of the 18th-century House of Waterford factory to see how the city's world-renowned crystal is made. For travelers who need a break from Waterford's rich history, there's the Waterford Greenway, a nearly 30-mile-long walking and bike path.

Those who plan on visiting Cork should save time for a daytrip to Cobh. This charming small town, which sits on an island in Cork Harbor, is known for its past as both a major departure point for Irish emigrating to the U.S. and as the last port of call for the Titanic. Travelers who want to learn more about these key roles in Cobh's history can visit the Cobh Heritage Centre and Titanic Experience Cobh. Before leaving, take a stroll around town to admire Cobh's striking Victorian-era architecture and brightly colored storefronts and homes.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Ireland — From a Dark-sky Park With Milky Way Views to One of Europe's Highest Sea Cliffs

From the popular Cliffs of Moher to lesser-known towns, islands, and mountains, these are the best places to visit in Ireland.

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When I visited Ireland for the first time back in 2016, I thought my four-day itinerary was airtight. My friend and I would spend a night in Dublin, head to Galway, drive to the Wicklow Mountains, and then explore Howth before flying home from the capital city. While we certainly covered a lot of ground, the plan was flawed from the beginning. Four days is barely enough time to discover one region, much less the country as a whole. Yes, I checked off several popular items — including Trinity College Library, Quay Street, and the Cliffs of Moher — but the country boasts many more charming villages, natural wonders, and historic landmarks, each as worthy of a visit as the next. 

According to Michael Leahy, the head concierge at Ashford Castle , I’m not the only traveler who has made that mistake. “I find that first-time visitors to Ireland often misjudge how large and expansive the island is, and therefore underestimate the time they need to fully explore and enjoy Ireland’s myriad attractions, sites, hotels, rich history, and cultural heritage,” he tells Travel + Leisure . If your schedule is flexible, he recommends extending your trip — so it’s longer than just a few days — in order to get a “well-rounded Irish experience.” 

By embracing this leisurely pace, you’ll also be able to appreciate your trip more profoundly. “Beyond the picturesque landscapes, taking time to interact with locals, immersing yourself in traditional music, and exploring local pubs can enhance your overall experience and truly integrate you into the Irish way of life,” explains Chris Parkes, front of house manager at Adare Manor .

To ensure your trip to the Emerald Isle is more comprehensive than my original endeavor, we asked some of the country’s most knowledgeable experts to share their recommendations for the best places to visit in Ireland. Read on to discover their favorites.

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

There’s a good chance you’ll start your Irish adventure in Dublin , home to Dublin Castle, Trinity College Dublin, the National Museum of Ireland, and the Guinness Storehouse. It’s a walkable city, so you’ll be able to explore most of it in just a day or two. For an extra dose of history and a drink, of course, make your way to The Brazen Head , which Patrick McManus, concierge at The Shelbourne , notes is the oldest pub in Dublin.

lisandrotrarbach/Getty Images

According to Parkes, Galway’s “bohemian atmosphere and lively arts scene” are two reasons you’ll want to visit the harbor city during your journey. Unlike Dublin, where you may feel the need to see as much as possible, Galway is a bit more low-key. He recommends travelers “stroll through cobblestone streets, savor traditional music in local pubs, and experience the enchanting landscapes of Connemara that surround this charismatic city.”

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

In Kinsale, “beautiful views of the harbor abound,” says Anna Marron, guest relations manager at Liss Ard Estate . If it’s a nice day, stretch your legs along the 3.7-mile Scilly Walk before heading to Bulman Bar & Restaurant for dinner. Or, if you want something a bit more elevated, there’s the Michelin-rated Bastion , which is only open Thursday through Sunday.

Old Head of Kinsale

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Marron describes the Old Head of Kinsale as a “world-class golf course on many golfer's ... lists.” It’s only about a 20-minute drive from the town, but it stands alone as its own destination. “It’s the Pebble Beach of Ireland,” she adds, referring to the golf paradise in Northern California.

Cliffs of Moher

There’s a reason the Cliffs of Moher make an appearance on your Instagram feed every so often — and they’re even more beautiful in person. “Towering over the Atlantic Ocean, the cliffs offer panoramic views that are both exhilarating and serene,” says Parkes. Plus, says, McManus, the surrounding landscape is equally impressive, “with unique and precious wildlife and natural flora and fauna.”

Iveragh Peninsula

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Leahy describes the Iveragh Peninsula as a “stunning stretch of heritage in southwestern Ireland” that offers a “picturesque escape into nature’s awaiting embrace.” Many travelers choose to explore the area via the Ring of Kerry, the scenic drive that encircles the peninsula. The route’s popularity stems from the fact that the 111-mile journey is accented by incredible landscapes, small villages, and top-tier views of the Atlantic Ocean.  

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If you decide to complete the Ring of Kerry scenic drive, you’ll come across Killarney. Take the time to explore the town — it’s very walkable — but Parkes also shares that nearby Killarney National Park should not be overlooked: “Within the park, you'll find the three famous Killarney lakes, which provide breathtaking views as they sit beside the mountain range ... [and] Torc Waterfall, one of the most spectacular in Ireland and best viewed after heavy rain.”

Dingle Peninsula

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

You’ll find the Dingle Peninsula slightly northwest of Killarney. According to Parkes, its “rugged coastline and charming villages” create the ultimate Irish experience. “Explore the Slea Head Drive for jaw-dropping vistas, encounter ancient archaeological sites, and engage with the welcoming locals who add a touch of warmth to this picturesque region,” he adds. 

Aran Islands

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Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer make up the Aran Islands, a place known for its ruins and sacred sites. “The islands unfold a tale of timeless elegance against the backdrop of the Atlantic's gentle embrace,” explains Leahy. If you’re already in Galway, you can take the seasonal ferry directly from the city to the islands.

If your trip was inspired by the desire to hear Irish music, look no further than Doolin, a coastal village known as the “traditional music capital of Ireland.” Take a seat at Gus O'Connor's Pub or McDermott's Pub and enjoy hours of lively tunes, pint in hand. Doolin is also called the “gateway to the Aran Islands,” as the rocky isles are just offshore.

Located southwest of Limerick, Adare was founded in the 13th century, and since then, it's become known as one of the most beautiful villages in the country. Parkes shares he may be a bit biased, given that he works in Adare, but he also says it’s a destination that captivates visitors with its “timeless charm … picture-perfect thatched cottages, historic architecture, and lush green landscapes.” 

Trim Castle

Located in County Meath, Trim Castle is the largest Norman castle in Ireland and a well-preserved example of Anglo-Norman military architecture. Travelers may recognize it from "Braveheart," but the castle’s history goes all the way back to the 12th century, when it served as a fortress during the Norman invasion of Ireland.

If you’re after an unforgettable view of the ocean and its powerful waves, Marron suggests checking out Mizen Head in West Cork. She calls the geographical feature a “more dramatic and less-visited version of the Cliffs of Moher,” and it’s commonly known as the mainland’s most southwesterly point.

Wicklow Mountains National Park

Courtesy CONSARC Consultancy

McManus also recommends exploring Wicklow Mountains National Park , the largest of Ireland’s six national parks. Hikers and walkers have their choice of paths in this stunning region — and movie buffs will want to make their way to Sally Gap, a recognizable setting from the 2007 film "P.S. I Love You."

Giant’s Causeway

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The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most identifiable features in Ireland. While scientists have discovered that the 40,000 basalt columns sticking out of the sea were formed by volcanic activity more than 50 million years ago, there’s still a mystical and sacred feeling to the area. “This historic route invites pilgrims and wanderers alike to tread upon its hallowed ground, whispering tales of spirituality and connection through the ages,” shares Leahy. 

Jerpoint Abbey

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History can be found nearly everywhere you go in Ireland — but it’s particularly noticeable at Jerpoint Abbey in County Kilkenny. The medieval Cistercian abbey dates back to the 12th century and features Romanesque and Gothic elements. Inside, visitors will find a church, tower, cloister, and several detailed stone sculptures.

Mayo Dark Sky Park

 Josh Matthews/Courtesy Mayo Dark Sky Park

If the weather permits, astronomy enthusiasts will be able to see stars, planets, the Milky Way, and even meteor showers while inside Mayo Dark Sky Park , a designated dark-sky preserve in County Mayo. Should you visit, Leahy says you’ll get to witness these “celestial wonders unfolded beneath a cloak of velvety darkness,” all completely free of charge.

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“Howth is a lovely fisherman’s village,” says McManus. It’s a quick trip from Dublin — about 30 minutes by train — so it’s an easy destination to tack on to the beginning or end of your trip. Start the day with a moderate hike along the 3.7-mile Howth Cliff Walk, then head back to the village for some fresh seafood (you can’t go wrong with fish and chips). 

Croagh Patrick

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Croagh Patrick, which you may hear referred to as “the Reek,” is one of Leahy’s recommendations, thanks to its “iconic peak overlooking the surrounding landscape” and its role as a “majestic pilgrimage site.” The mountain has held religious significance for mor ethan 1,500 years, and it’s said that Ireland's patron saint, St. Patrick, spent 40 days fasting on its summit in the fifth century. It’s also popular with hikers and those interested in panoramic views of Clew Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding countryside.

Sliabh Liag

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Sliabh Liag, or Slieve League, is one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, measuring in at nearly 2,000 feet above sea level. Significantly taller than the Cliffs of Moher, which reach 702 feet, these cliffs provide amazing views in nearly every direction — and they’re a convenient stop along the famed Wild Atlantic Way .

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Top Places to See

The Top 20 Places to See in Ireland

It is hard to narrow down the top places to see in Ireland because the country is filled with so many famous attractions. There is the rugged landscape of the mountains and natural wonders like the otherworldly Burren and the striking Cliffs of Moher, as well as historic castles and ancient abbeys. With so much to choose from, there is quite literally sometimes for everyone in gorgeous Ireland. Here are the 20 amazing sites that are among ​Ireland’s most universally loved places to see.

The Lakes of Killarney and the Ring of Kerry, Co Kerry

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

If you want to experience spectacular coastal scenery, breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancient monuments and the tranquil old-world-charm of  Killarney 's lakes, castles and houses, this is the place to go. Bear in mind that thousands of tourists will have the same idea—the best time here is spring or fall (in order to avoid the crush of people that arrive in summer). Killarney is located in  County Kerry, part of the Irish Province of Munster . The nearest airport is Cork Airport or Killarney (though this has European flights only). 

The Cliffs of Moher, Co Clare

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

When the undulating landscape suddenly ends in a sheer drop of more than 650 feet, straight down to the Atlantic, then you know you have reached the  Cliffs of Moher . One of the most spectacular coastal areas in Europe, the cliffs are best when the winds are low so that visitors can take a stroll along the (roped off) edge. The visitor center has been rebuilt on a grand scale and there is now a higher price of admission to see the national attraction for yourself. The Cliffs of Moher can be found in County Clare, in Ireland's Province of Munster. The nearest airport is Shannon Airport .

Newgrange and Bru na Boinne, Co Meath

Rather than a single sight, one of Ireland’s must-sees is a  complex historic landscape on the banks of the Boyne ,  dotted with prehistoric monuments . The largest are Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth. Newgrange and Knowth can only be visited by taking a tour, which starts at the modern visitor center. Be there early and plan to stay for a half day (at least) to take in the whole experience. Newgrange is located in  County Meath, in the Province of Leinster . The nearest airport is Dublin Airport.

Dublin City

Dublin is a relatively small city which can sometimes feel more like a jumble of villages than a major capital. It is, however, rich in history, as well as full of sights and museums that are best explored on a day out on foot.  Dublin's top attractions  alone can keep the tourist busy for a whole week! Between live music, art, culture, and even a castle, Dublin is Ireland’s most popular stop (even for Irish visitors, who often head into the city on the weekends). Dublin Airport is outside the city limits, but a bus ride into town will only take about half an hour.

The Giant's Causeway, Co Antrim

The Giant's Causeway is made up of strangely regular basalt columns point that the way towards Scotland, which can be seen on the horizon on good days. It is possible to reach Northern Ireland's top sight by car and shuttle bus (if the fairly steep final mile seems too daunting). Travelers with some time on their hands can also take in the nearby Old Bushmills Distillery which is connected by steam train. Bushmills and the Giant's Causeway are located in County Antrim, in the Northern Irish part of the Province of Ulster. The nearest airport would be  Belfast .

Hill of Tara, Co Meath

The ancient seat of the  High Kings  of Ireland and one of the Irish royal sites, can look like little more than a mound covered with grass when you see the area for the first time. However, there is an excellent audiovisual show in the former church that will help visitors understand the importance of this site. Once armed with a bit of background information, visitors will soon see why the  Hill of Tara  is fascinating. This site is also located in  County Meath, in the Province of Leinster , a short distance from Navan. The nearest airport is Dublin Airport.

Sligo and Area, Co Sligo

Bernd Biege

The town of Sligo is not a major destination itself but the nearby treasures more than make up for it. Knocknarea boasts the grave of Queen Maeve (or so rumor has it) and offers a spectacular view as a reward for a steep climb. Carrowmore is  the largest stone age cemetery in Ireland .  Drumcliff  sports a (truncated)  round tower , a medieval high cross and the grave of W.B.Yeats (winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1923) right next to the spectacular table mountain of Ben Bulben. All these are located in County Sligo, in the Province of Connacht . The nearest airports are either Dublin Airport, Shannon Airport or  Belfast —all of which are roughly the same distance away.

Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, Co Cork

The Irish gift of the gab? Some believe that comes directly from the Blarney Stone. The stone in question (which legend says you must kiss upside down, hanging over a sheer dropoff) is located at Blarney Castle in County Cork. Some of the rooms in the castle, which dates back to the 15th century, can also be visited. The fortified medieval home is surrounded by lush gardens along the River Martin. The must-see sight is a short drive from Cork City, making Cork Airport the closet to fly into.

The Burren, Co Clare

Wedged between the rough beauty of the Aran Islands and the bustling university city of Galway, the near featureless desolation of this limestone plateau has often been likened to a moonscape. Ancient monuments and bizarre rock formations abound. Some spectacular sights can be taken in by driving around the  Burren  next to Galway Bay. The Burren can be found in County Clare, in  Ireland's Province of Munster . The nearest airport is Shannon Airport.

Glendalough, Co Wicklow

In Glendalough, the valley of the two lakes, you will find one of the most important early Christian sites. History aside, the setting in the Wicklow Mountains in a valley beside tranquil lakes is simply beautiful. Visitors who do love of history and/or architecture can indulge in  a massive round tower , the quaint St Kevin's Kitchen (actually a church) and a cathedral (a ruin, but still imposing enough), all  in an ancient monastic setting . More into the outdoors? Nature lovers can enjoy the walks along the lakes. Glendalough is located in  County Wicklow, in the Province of Leinster , a short distance from Dublin which means the nearest airport is Dublin Airport.

Bunratty Castle, Co Clare

The Bunratty tower house is one of the best castles in Ireland and is beloved by locals and visitors alike. It was built in 1467 by the O'Brien family and has been renovated with no expenses spared. A medieval banquet is offered in the evenings, complete with period entertainment. During the day, the adjoining Bunratty Folk Park allows a glimpse into Ireland's past. Bunratty can be found in ​ County Clare, in Ireland's Province of Munster . The nearest airport is Shannon Airport, which is essentially just around the corner.

Dingle Peninsula, Co Kerry

For a small country, Ireland is bursting with natural beauty but there is something particularly breathtaking about the Dingle Peninsula. From the sandy stretch of Inch Beach to the rugged cliffs along the Wild Atlantic Way which look out towards the Aran Islands and the charming port town of Dingle itself, this promontory in southwest Ireland is full of gorgeous scenery. Dingle is located in  County Kerry, part of the Irish Province of Munster and the closest airport is Cork Airport.

Kylemore Abbey, Co Galway

Set on the shores of a lake an hour outside of Galway, Kylemore Abbey was built by the British Politician Mitchell Henry in the late 1800s. He hoped that his elaborate estate would serve as an example of what was possible in even the most remote corners of Ireland. In 1903, the castle and abbey were sold to the Duke and Duchess of Manchester who had bold plans for renovations and entertaining but soon had to let go the property in order to pay their gambling debts. In 1920, a group of Benedictine Nuns acquired the Abbey after their Belgian abbey was bombed during World War I. The estate is still owned by the nuns and was a Catholic girl’s school until 2010. In addition to the breathtaking castle, there is a walled Victorian Garden that has been restored and is well known as Ireland’s largest walled garden.

Titanic Belfast, Co Antrim, Northern Ireland

The ill-fated RMS Titanic was poorly piloted but it was certainly well built here in Northern Ireland. The Harland & Wolff shipyard where the massive ocean liner was created has now been transformed into an exceptional museum about the infamous boat. The Belfast museum has an impressive interactive exhibit that allows visitors to walk the decks and even virtually travel to the depths of the ocean. While the museum has a policy against displaying any ​artifacts from the wreck itself, they do have an impressive assortment of mementos (like china dishes and promotional brochures) that were created for the RMS Titanic.​

Connemara National Park, Co Galway

One of the six national parks in Ireland, Connemara National Park is found in County Galway. The large natural area is best known for its mountain walks, though there are also bogs and grasslands to be explored. Visitors particularly head for cone-shaped Diamond Hill above the village of Letterfack in order to enjoy near ​360-degree views of mountains and sea. The Visitor Center, which has a great audio-visual exhibit, is open daily from March to October, while the park itself is open year-round.

Skelling Michael, Co Kerry

Located eight miles out to sea off the coast of County Kerry, Skellig Michael is an isolated island destination. The island is sometimes known as Great Skellig and has a smaller neighbor which is fittingly named Little Skellig. No one lives on the Skelligs these days, but in the 6th century a group of monks felt that the rocky islands in the Atlantic made the perfect remote spot for a monastery. The ruins of this ancient monastery are now a UNESCO site and visitors brave the ocean passage between May and October for a chance to hike through the secluded archaeological site. If the monastery looks familiar that might be because it was featured as a sacred Jedi location in two Star Wars movies.

English Market, Co Cork

Ireland’s best covered market is a treat to explore in Cork City. It was named the “English Market” in the 19th century to distinguish it from Cork’s “Irish Market” that also existed at the time. The Victorian-style building was originally built in 1862, though an uncovered market has existed on the same spot since 1788. It was badly damaged by a fire in the 1980s but was carefully refurbished by the Cork City Council. It is one of the best places to shop for local foods or to stay for a meal on the second-floor café. Shoppers are in good company—Queen Elizabeth once stopped by for a bit of fish.  

The Rock of Cashel, Co Tipperary

Unofficial estimates guess that Ireland has around 1,000 castles in all. It could take a lifetime to seek out all the ruins and restored tower house beauties, but one of the most impressive of all is certainly the Rock of Cashel. Built atop a hill in County Tipperary, this was once the seat of power for the High Kings of Ulster. The rulers eventually turned the stunning fortified complex over to the church, and the ruins of the medieval cathedral are one of the major draws of the sight.  

Kinsale, Co Cork

TripSavvy / Kathleen Messmer 

Depending on which direction you decide to drive, Kinsale is either the start of the end of the famed Wild Atlantic Way—the coastal route that snakes 1,500 miles along western Ireland. The village is called after its Irish name:  Ceann tSaile , which means “Head of the Sea.” Originally a medieval fishing village, the boats that still bob in the harbor make for a postcard-perfect Irish setting. Away from the waterfront, the village is filled with brightly painted shops and plenty of traditional pubs and restaurants. The nearest airport is Cork Airport, and the village is about a 25-mile drive from Cork City. 

Slieve League, Co Donegal

The Cliffs of Moher may be more famous, but the stunning cliffs of Slieve League reach almost three times higher. Slieve League is a mountain (with slieve meaning mountain in the Irish language), which towers nearly 2,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean at its highest point. For those who don’t bat an eyelash at death-defying heights, there is a windswept trail that can be hiked along the cliffs. It is also possible to drive up to the main viewing area or visit the family-run Visitor’s Center. Visitors who opt to explore on foot can seek out the ruins of ​an early Christian monastery and beehive huts along the mountain slopes.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Ireland

In this guide, you are going to discover the best places to visit in Ireland . From stunning scenery, lush landscapes, places to discover Ireland’s history and the best cities to enjoy, these places are the must-visit and must-see in Ireland that you need to consider when planning your Ireland itinerary.

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Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Ireland

To help you decide what places in Ireland to put on your Ireland itinerary, I’ve compiled a list of what I consider to be the best places in Ireland to visit. These will include cities, national parks, areas of interest and I will also give you an idea of what to visit while you are there and where to stay.

If you are still trying to decide the best month to visit Ireland, read this post which gives you a detailed guide to help you decide the best time of year to book your trip to Ireland for.

Most trips to Ireland will probably begin for many with arrival at Dublin Airport. As the capital of Ireland, Dublin is one of the most visited places in Ireland. It is a large city with a bustling city centre which is where most visitors will stay and explore.

There are hotels and other accommodation to suit every budget and a wealth of things to do in Dublin. From tourist attractions to museums, parks and galleries, there is something for everyone in Dublin.

Dublin can also serve as a starting or ending point for a larger Ireland itinerary. Spend a day or two in the city before heading out to explore Ireland or start your exploration first and end with 3 days in Dublin .

Dublin is also a great place in Ireland for a city break and it is also very family-friendly.

Top attraction to visit – Dublin regularly features when list suggest the top 10 attractions in Ireland and one of them is always the Guinness Storehouse. Learn how the famous black drink is made and sample some afterwards. Book your tickets here .

Top place to stay – Jury’s Inn Christchurch, a great mid-range priced hotel. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

Glendalough

Nestled in the Wicklow Mountains National Park is one of the top places to see in Ireland, the monastic site of Glendalough. Founded in the 6 th century by St Kevin, Glendalough is a historical site that has a Visitor’s Centre, lots of monuments and buildings, and a 33-meter-tall Round Tower, the most famous structure at Glendalough.

But it is not only the monastic site that is the reason why people visit. The Glendalough Valley is also home to some stunning scenery, thanks to the Upper and Lower Lakes. Head up to the Spink Viewing Spot for incredible views down the valley overlooking the lakes.

There are also walking trails from Glendalough that lead into other parts of the Wicklow Mountains National Park. It is a great place to combine beautiful nature with history.

Top attraction to visit – The Round Tower at the monastic site at Glendalough is not-to-be-missed. You can also book guided tours from the Visitor’s Centre.

Top place to stay – Powerscourt Court Hotel for a little luxury and pampering. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.

If you are looking for the best castle to visit in Ireland, then why not pay a visit to Kilkenny. The town is one of the most popular places in Ireland and was once the medieval capital of the Emerald Isle.

This lovely inland town still holds remnants of its medieval past, with Tudor houses and facades visible, as well as the Cathedral. Kilkenny Castle is one of the best castles in the country and this Norman fortress holds court near the centre of town.

Kilkenny is also known for one of the country’s best art festivals and also for the Cats Laughs Comedy Festival, which sees artists from around the world come to host sketches in the hotels and pubs around the city over a long weekend.

Top attraction to visit – Kilkenny Castle is a must when in the city. You can wander the castle yourself or take a guided tour. The grounds are worth visiting if the weather permits.

Top place to stay – Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel in the city. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

One of the best places to visit in southern Ireland is located in the southeast corner. Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city, established in 914 by the Vikings, and is sometimes a city overlooked by visitors. But it shouldn’t be.

Waterford is a great city to visit, particularly if you are interested in history. Not only are there snippets of its Viking origins in the city, but there is a wealth of medieval history in the city too. There are also three fantastic museums in the city and two cathedrals.

The best way to discover Waterford is via the little tourist train that runs through the city. Despite the fact the journey is just less than an hour-long, you can see and learn so much about the city while using it to decide where to visit next.

Top attraction to visit – The House of Waterford Crystal is a must to discover the origins of the famous crystal and see how orbs of molten glass are transformed into stunning crystal pieces. Pre-book your tickets here.

Top place to stay – Waterford Castle for a relaxing but luxurious stay. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.

One of the top destinations in Ireland is the sleepy little town of Cashel in County Tipperary. While the town is small, there is something big that draws thousands of visitors every year.

A majestic stronghold rises from the landscape as soon as you approach the town of Cashel. The Rock of Cashel is one of the best places to visit in Ireland. Once the seat of the High Kings of Munster, it is one of Ireland’s most spectacular historic sites. The site includes the Abbey, chapels, a graveyard, round tower and museum.

But there is more to Cashel than just the Rock. The Brú Ború Culture Centre is located beside the Rock of Cashel and was named after the 11 th century High King of Ireland, Brian Ború. Here you can sample Irish culture through a folk theatre, traditional music and a craft shop.

You can also visit the Hore Abbey, Cashel Folk Village and the Cashel Heritage Centre.

Top attraction to visit – Undoubtedly the top attraction to visit is the Rock of Cashel. It is a must-visit when in Cashel.

Top place to stay – Baileys Hotel for a comfortable stay at mid-range prices. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

One of the top 5 best cities to visit in Ireland is Cork. Despite being the Republic’s second city in terms of size, Cork is quite compact, set on an island in the River Lee, making it an ideal destination for an Ireland getaway.

Cork is a vibrant city with lots to offer visitors. It hosts an October jazz festival which is a popular time to visit the city. Attractions to visit in the city include the Cork Butter Museum which tells the story of one of Ireland’s most important exports, as well as Cork City Gaol, the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery, other museums, cathedrals and forts.

Cork is also a great place to base yourself to visit Cobh, the last stop Titanic made before she set sail across the Atlantic. The Titanic Experience is located in the original White Star Line offices and gives visitors a powerful insight into the liners fateful voyage. And from Cork, you can also visit another of the best places to visit in Ireland, Blarney Castle where you may be lucky to bestowed with the gift of the gab if you venture to the top of the castle to kiss the Blarney Stone.

Top attraction to visit – Within Cork, Blackrock Castle and Observatory is a must-visit while just outside Cork, both Blarney Castle and the Titanic Experience in Cobh are highly recommended. Book a full-day tour from Dublin, taking in Cork, Cobh and Blarney here.

Top place to stay – For a budget-friendly, city centre hotel, stay in the Cork Metropole Hotel. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.

One of the top places to visit in Ireland is Killarney in County Kerry. Sitting on the edge of the Killarney National Park , this “tourist town” is busiest in summer when many visitors come to enjoy the lively pubs, great food in the many restaurants available for all budgets, and to spend time in the beautiful Killarney National Park.

The Killarney National Park is home to no less than three beautiful lakes which make up a third of the park. Within the Killarney National Park are lots of things to see and do. There are walking and hiking trails, Ross Castle, Muckross House and Abbey and the Torc Waterfall.

This area is one of natural beauty and it is easy to see why it is so popular with tourists.

Top attraction to visit – The stunning Torc Waterfall and Ross Castle are top attractions to visit while in Killarney. We also highly recommend a visit to the Gap of Dunloe. Book your boat, car and bus tour here.

Top place to stay – For ultimate luxury on the edge of one of the lakes of Killarney National Park, stay in The Europe. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

Ring of Kerry

One of the most beautiful places in Ireland to visit is also one of the most scenic places in Ireland. A 179km circular driving route known as the Ring of Kerry is somewhere that everyone needs on their Ireland bucket list.

The Ring of Kerry also forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way , a 2500km driving route that stretches from Malin Head in County Donegal to the Old Head of Kinsale in County Cork. The Ring of Kerry circuit of the Iveragh Peninsula brings you through pretty villages, past rugged coastline and the landscape changes all the time from beaches to mountains and loughs.

The Killarney National Park is encased in the Ring of Kerry. Valentia Island is just off the Ring of Kerry and is accessed by a car ferry from Portmagee on the mainland. From here you can visit the Skellig Islands, featured in recent Star Wars films.

In each of the villages and towns, you will find things to see and do like museums, castles, heritage centres and more and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants and pubs for a bite to eat. But it is the sheer beauty of the Ring of Kerry which makes it one of the 10 best places to visit in Ireland.

Top attraction to visit – Visit Valentia Island and take a boat across to the Skellig Islands. Just make sure the boat is licenced by the Office of Public Works (www.opw.ie) as numbers are limited on the islands each day. If you don’t fancy doing all the driving yourself, we can recommend this day trip around the Ring of Kerry for Killarney. For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Top place to stay – Parknasilla Resort and Spa is a great place in Sneem to stay if you want to stay on the Ring of Kerry itself. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.

One of the best places to travel in Ireland is to, and along, the Dingle Peninsula. Also part of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula has mainland Ireland’s most westerly point and visitors can find prehistoric ring forts and beehive huts, early Christian chapels and picturesque villages, both inhabited and abandoned.

At the centre of this is the gorgeous fishing town of Dingle, and one of the prettiest Irish coastal towns . This charming town has been known to attract artists, craftsmen and musicians, who spend their time in workshops, museums and festivals.

Once the home of Fungi the dolphin, Dingle is a mix of brightly coloured craft shops and cafes with plenty of quaint pubs offering live music and fresh seafood, fished by one of the many fishing boats moored in the harbour.

Top attraction to visit – Dingle Oceanworld is a great aquarium with a walk-through tunnel and touch pool which brings visitors face-to-face with the creatures found in the waters off Ireland.

Top place to stay – Dingle Harbour Lodge for B&B accommodation at reasonable prices and views across the harbour. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

One of the top places to go in Ireland is its third-largest city, Limerick. A vibrant city that bustles all year-round, mainly thanks to its large student population, Limerick can often be overlooked by visitors who favour Dublin or Galway.

Sitting on the tidal banks of Ireland’s longest river, the Shannon, Limerick is a city that boasts a huge castle, a recently rejuvenated waterline, a lively art gallery and a quietly developing food scene.

Most of the places of interest in Limerick are found in the oldest part of the city on King’s Island and around Crescent and Pery Square along the riverbanks. These include King John’s Castle, the Hunt Museum, the Limerick City Gallery of Art, the Frank McCourt Museum (who wrote about it in his book Angela’s Ashes ) and the People’s Park.

Limerick is also a good base for visiting Adare Castle and Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, both within an easy drive of the city.

Top attraction to visit – King John’s Castle is probably the best attraction to visit in the city. It is a large castle with a small museum and interactive exhibitions. Book your entry ticket here.

Top place to stay – The George Hotel is a boutique hotel which is centrally located and is hugely popular. Reserve well in advance for this stylish and comfortable, reasonably priced hotel. Click here to check for availability and to see the latest prices.

County Clare

One of the most amazing places in Ireland is County Clare. This county is one full of rich history and natural beauty which is why it features among the top 5 places to visit in Ireland in terms of overall counties.

County Clare is home to one of the most famous places in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher. Rising magnetically from the Atlantic Ocean, these sheer cliffs attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. These cliffs which reach heights of 214m at their tallest give unparalleled views to the Aran Islands and Galway Bay on a clear day. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre offers an interactive exhibition on the flora, fauna, geology and climate of one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations.

County Clare is also home to the Burren National Park , famous for its rocky, windswept landscape made predominantly of grey limestone. You will also find several castles to visit including Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, located in the south of the county. This castle is one of Ireland’s most intact medieval castles and the folk park gives visitors an insight into village life in Ireland in the 19 th century.

Top attraction to visit – Without a doubt, the top attraction to visit in County Clare are the Cliffs of Moher. For a truly unforgettable view of these awe-inspiring cliffs, take a cruise tour of the cliffs from Doolin. Book this tour here.

Top place to stay – Hotel Doolin in the town of the same name is an ideal base for visiting both the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren National Park. See the latest prices and check availability here.

One of the most popular and best places to go in Ireland is the capital city of the West of Ireland, Galway. Not only is the city hugely popular and a brilliant place for a getaway in Ireland, but County Galway is also just as good.

Galway City sits on the banks of the River Corrib and is a lively university city. Galway City has several churches and cathedrals to visit, a few museums including the Galway City Museum, an Arts Centre and the Spanish Arch, an extension of the city’s medieval walls, is a must. The seaside town of Salthill which is located next to Galway City is also a great place to visit.

Within Galway City, Eyre Square and the Latin Quarter are popular with visitors for the lively bars, pubs and restaurants.

Galway hosts several of Ireland’s best festivals throughout the year including the Galway Races, the Cúirt International Festival of Literature and the Galway International Arts Festival.

Top attraction to visit – Visit the free Galway City Museum where you can enjoy exhibits about the city’s history from 1800 to 1950.

Top place to stay – For a comfortable mid-range price hotel, stay in the Jury’s Inn Galway. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

Connemara National Park

Galway can be a great base for exploring another of the most beautiful parts of Ireland, the Connemara National Park . This national park spans nearly 3000 hectares of bog, mountains, heath and woodlands.

To reach Connemara National Park from Galway, it is best to take the coast road which is part of the Wild Atlantic Way . Trailing through village-like Spiddal, Clifden and Letterfrack, this is an epic part of the driving route.

Visitors come to see the beautiful landscape which includes lakes such as Lough Kylemore, catch a glimpse of Connemara ponies and see traces of the lands previous uses including megalithic tombs which are over 4000 years old. During summer, guided walks are popular activities to partake in.

Top attraction to visit – On the edge of Lough Kylemore is a beautiful former castle, Kylemore Abbey. See restored rooms and explore the gardens before visiting the craft shop.

Top place to stay – The Clifden Bay Lodge is a B&B just 15 minutes from the Connemara National Park with stunning sea views. Click here to see this B&B, latest prices and availability.

Achill Island

Another of the top beautiful places to visit in Ireland is Achill Island, Ireland’s largest island, located in County Mayo. Connected to the mainland by a bridge, Achill is just 22km long by 19km wide.

For a small island, it packs things in, with mountains, rugged cliffs, moorland and beaches to explore. Achill Island is a popular spot for angling and water sports. There is a circular Atlantic Coast drive for those wanting to enjoy the whole island.

Activities include visiting Keem Bay Beach, the Slievemore deserted village which was abandoned during the Great Famine and Grace O’Malley’s Castle, a 40-ft high 15th-century tower that is associated with a pirate queen after who it was named.

Top attraction to visit – Keem Bay Beach is one of the top attractions to visit on Achill Island and one of Ireland’s best beaches . This lovely bay has a sandy beach and from viewing points above it, you can try and spot basking whales who often visit the bay.

Top place to stay – Most accommodation on Achill is B&B-type. Click here to search for accommodation on Achill Island.

Sitting along the River Garavogue is the West of Ireland town of Sligo. With pretty shop fronts and céilidh music spilling from the many pubs, Sligo is the perfect base for exploring the county it shares its name with.

County Sligo is Yeats country which is why it is one of the top ten places to visit in Ireland for poetry and literary buffs. Sligo Town has many things to do including Model, a gallery that houses Irish artwork, including pieces by Jack B Yeats (brother of William). There is also an abbey to visit, a county museum, a memorial building to WB Yeats and more.

Sligo is a great place to discover Irish myths and legends but also Ireland history. And it is also home to Benbulbin, a mountain that is uncommonly flat at its top and near-vertical sides. It is a unique place in Ireland.

Top attraction to visit – Sligo is home to some of the most important places in Ireland when it comes to history in the form of megalithic tombs and cemeteries. Visit the megalithic cemetery at Carrowkeel (3000 to 2000 BC) and the one at Carrowmore (thought to predate the tombs of Brú na Bóinne, see below).

Top place to stay – for a comfortable stay at reasonable prices, stay at the Clayton Hotel & Leisure Club. Click here to see this hotel, and the latest prices and availability.

One of the prettiest places in Ireland to visit is Donegal Town and County Donegal as a whole. Located in the far northwest corner of the Republic, it is often called the wild child of Ireland thanks to its rugged, yet beautiful coastline.

Donegal Town is a small, yet inviting place to visit with a well-preserved castle and 17 th century Diamond Obelisk, a market square with an obelisk in the centre. There is a great craft village where local craftwork is showcased.

Donegal sits on the edge of Lough Eske, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Further afield you can find the Glenveagh National Park with a castle of its own. And of course, Slieve League, the amazing cliffs just west of Donegal Town which can hold their own against their Wild Atlantic Way rivals, the Cliffs of Moher. And if you love the Wild Atlantic Way, you can follow it along the Donegal coastline to its northern starting point of Malin Head. Donegal is often overlooked as a place to visit in Ireland but is one which you should definitely consider putting on your Ireland bucket list!

Top attraction to visit – The Slieve League cliffs are by far one of the best attractions to visit in Donegal. These sea cliffs are among the highest in Europe, higher than the Cliffs of Moher, which makes them even more spectacular.

Top place to stay – For a truly unforgettable stay in Donegal, choose the Lough Eske Castle. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

Derry/Londonderry

One of the top places to visit in Northern Ireland is the walled town of Derry/Londonderry. Northern Ireland’s second-largest city is an artistic and cultural hub and was the UK’s City of Culture in 2013, resulting in a make-over for many parts of the city.

Derry is steeped in history including the Siege of Derry, Battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday. A stroll around the 17th-century city walls is a must as well as a guided walking tour which allows you to learn more about the historically important events in the city’s past.

Derry also has several museums to visit as well as a cathedral, art gallery and memorials to historically important events. Derry also hosts several festivals throughout the year making it a great city in Ireland to visit.

Top attraction to visit – The area within the city walls is littered with great things to see and do including various gates, the Tower Museum, a Guildhall and the Chapel of St Augustine. Book your private walking tour here.

Top place to stay – Stay within the historical city walls in the Bishop’s Gate Hotel. For prices and availability, click here.

Causeway Coast

One of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland is the Causeway Coast, a spectacular stretch of coastline that runs from the Giant’s Causeway (one of the most famous places in Northern Ireland) to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. It is 16.5km long and if you want to walk it, it will take approximately four hours to complete.

As one of the finest coastal walks in Ireland, the Causeway Coast is hugely popular with visitors in Northern Ireland. Much of the path is narrow and can get muddy when the weather makes a turn for the worst. If walking is not your thing, you can still enjoy the main sites by driving.

The Causeway Coast also features Dunseverick Castle and harbour, Ballintoy Harbour and Hamilton’s Seat, a bench that marks the most northern point of the walk. Dunluce Castle is just beyond the Giant’s Causeway, a 16th-century castle that is well-preserved except for its roof.

Top attraction to visit – Without a doubt, it has to be the Giant’s Causeway with its strange basalt columns said to once have been a bridge laid by Finn MacCool so he could reach Scotland to battle with his Scottish rival.

Top place to stay – The ideal place to stay for exploring the Causeway Coast is the Causeway Hotel. Click here for latest prices and availability.

One of the best places to go in Northern Ireland is its capital city, Belfast. Once shunned by travellers because of the “Troubles”, Belfast is now a popular destination for visitors to Northern Ireland who visit here and places beyond the city.

It is a city that has reinvented itself and has so many great things to see and do. From the Ulster Museum to the Botanic Gardens, to Belfast Castle and more, there’s something for everyone in Belfast.

If you are interested in learning about the history of the city during the Troubles, then take a black cab tour and view the amazing murals dotted around the city. There is a Cathedral Quarter to visit, and if you are visiting the city as a family and looking for the best things to do with kids in Belfast , then a visit to the W5 interactive science museum is sure to be a hit.

However, one of the more popular places of interest in Ireland, and in particular Northern Ireland, is the Titanic Quarter. Titanic Belfast is a huge building with exhibitions and interactive displays to share the story of the famous liner including its construction in the Harland and Wolff shipyard. You can visit HMS Caroline and SS Nomadic. This is one of the busiest areas of the cities with visitors.

Top attraction to visit – The Titanic Quarter is by far one of the best places to visit in Belfast. Book either the Titanic Experience or the Titanic Trail tours for the best experience.

Top place to stay – If you are visiting the Titanic Quarter, why not stay in it at the Titanic Hotel. Click here to see the latest prices and availability.

Drogheda, in County Louth, is not usually considered one of the top places in Ireland to visit, but this historic fortified town has a few things to offer visitors as well as being a based for one of the most unique places to visit in Ireland.

Within Drogheda itself, there is a cathedral and interesting museum to visit as well as lots of pubs and restaurants for soaking up some good old Irish craic. There is a 17th-century stately manor, an art gallery that was once a monastery and a tower and gateway stemming from its historical past.

Drogheda is also a great base for visiting Brú na Bóinne or the Boyne Valley. This Neolithic area of one of the most historically important sites in Ireland is one thousand years older than Stonehenge and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to Neolithic tombs, the three largest and most important being Knowth, Dowth and Newgrange.

Drogheda can also be a base for visiting the Hill of Tara and Trim, two other important historical sites in Ireland.

Top attraction to visit – The three Neolithic tombs of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth at Brú na Bóinne are the top attraction to visit near Drogheda and make a great day trip from Dublin . Entry is limited each day, so it is advisable to pre-book your tickets in advance.

Top place to stay – The riverside D Hotel is a great place to stay in Drogheda. Click here to check out this hotel with the latest prices and availability.

Deciding the best part of Ireland to visit can be a really hard decision to make. I hope this list of some of the best places to visit on the Emerald Isle has helped somewhat. Or has it? Whether you were thinking of finding stunning places to visit in the Republic or seeking out beautiful places in Northern Ireland, I hope I’ve helped and not hindered your decision making.

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by Cath Jordan

1 thought on “20 best places to visit in ireland”.

I definitely agree with the places on this post, although I’ve never spent time in limerick. I’ll have to go and see it now!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Ireland

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on February 5, 2024

From its rich Celtic culture to the breathtaking beauty of its varied landscapes, Ireland is a travel destination that lives up to its nearly mythic reputation. The Emerald Isle really is that green, the sights are truly spectacular and the people are genuinely friendly. Despite its small size, bustling cities and sprawling suburbs, Ireland still boasts stretches of roads and trails where visitors can feel as if they have the island all to themselves.

Those seeking a more sociable travel experience have only to walk into a neighborhood pub to feel right at home. Whether spending the night in an ancient castle, cycling along a coastal headland or viewing Celtic artifacts at a world-class museum, Ireland casts a spell of enchantment on every visitor.

Politically, Ireland is divided between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, a part of the UK. Our selection of the best places to visit in Ireland covers the entire island.

10. Galway [SEE MAP]

West Ireland’s largest city, Galway is best known for its art galleries and shops, most of which are located along the winding lanes and cobblestone streets of the city’s charming medieval quarter. With several live music venues and a thriving pub scene, Galway is considered a major center for traditional Irish music as well.

The harbor city is also known as one of the few places left in Ireland where the Irish language is still spoken on the streets. Full of fun, history and culture, Galway is an ideal destination for any visitor seeking a true Irish travel experience.

9. Aran Islands [SEE MAP]

Located off the west coast of Ireland at the mouth of Galway Bay, the Aran Islands of Inishmore, Inishmaan and Inisheer have attracted visitors for centuries. Isolated from the mainland, inhabitants on the islands have maintained a more traditional lifestyle than in other parts of Ireland, offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich past.

With no more than 100 vehicles allowed on Inishmore, the largest of the three islands, horse-drawn buggies carry visitors by stone farm cottages to enjoy spectacular views from limestone cliff tops. Inishmore has a 2,000-year-old stone fortress perched atop a 90-meter (300-foot) cliff that’s well worth exploring too.

8. Dingle Peninsula [SEE MAP]

The Dingle Peninsula encompasses the westernmost tip of Ireland, offering visitors the appeal of a far-away destination with the convenience of a nearby town. The landscape is dotted with remnants of Bronze Age settlements, prehistoric stone markers and more than 500 monastic stone huts.

The monks who dwelt in the so-called beehive huts, or clocháns, helped keep learning alive during the Dark Ages. Surfing and windsurfing are popular activities on the peninsula’s beaches. With fine restaurants, good accommodations and a lively pub scene, Dingle Town offers fun and relaxation at the end of the day.

7. Glendalough [SEE MAP]

Just a few km to the south of Dublin lies Glendalough, a monastery founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, a hermit monk who figures prominently in traditional Irish legends. Once a chief pilgrimage destination in Ireland, Glendalough continues to attract visitors from around the world.

Situated near two lakes in a glen surrounded by forests, visitors are drawn by the area’s scenic beauty as well as its rich history. The largest structure in the monastery is an unfinished 9th-century cathedral, but it’s the Round Tower that many visitors find the most striking. Equipped with a pull-up ladder, the 30-meter (110-foot) tower served as a last-resort refuge during Viking raids.

6. Dublin [SEE MAP]

The capital of the Republic of Ireland, Dublin is surprisingly large for a country with a total population of around five million people. Most of the city’s inhabitants live in outlying suburbs, however, and Dublin’s main travel destinations are located in the center of the city.

A city with a thousand-year-old past, Dublin is both an historical city and a bustling modern-day port. The city treasures its past while never forgetting to live in the present.

Other cities in Europe may be known for art or music; Dublin is renowned for its literature. Dublin is the home to literary giants like Oscar Wilde, James Joyce and George Bernard Shaw, so it’s no surprise that one of the city’s greatest attractions is a 1200-year-old book. Housed at Trinity College, the alma mater of writers like Bram Stoker and Samuel Becket, the Book of Kells is a rare, ornamented copy of the four gospels of the New Testament.

Historical attractions include Dublin Castle, a Norman fortress built in 1204, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, completed in 1260 and still the nation’s largest cathedral. For its collection of prehistoric gold, Celtic art and Viking artifacts, the National Museum of Ireland is worth a visit as well.

Easy-going locals are a sociable lot known for their wit, charm and passion for good food and drink. The latter may explain why the Guinness Storehouse, home of Ireland’s celebrated brew, is the most visited attraction in Ireland. Equally popular are the city’s pub crawls, of which the literary pub crawls are perennial favorites. Actors lead visitors from pub to pub past literary landmarks and regale participants with excerpts from Dublin’s most famous authors.

Whether exploring the James Joyce Museum or swapping stories with locals over a pint of Guinness, a visit to Dublin is a unique and memorable experience. Visitors come away with a stirring narrative that they’ll love to share with others for years to come.

5. Giant's Causeway [SEE MAP]

Situated at the base of steep cliffs on the northeast coast of Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a natural rock formation that does indeed look as if it were fashioned by giants. The honeycomb formation of more than 37,000 hexagon-shaped basalt columns appears too geometrically perfect to have been shaped by nature.

It took 60 million years of tectonic plate movement, lava flows and erosion to fashion the stepping-stone columns into their present shape. Cliff-top trails offer great views of the rocks, and a flight of steps leads down to sea level. A nearby visitor center also offers walking tours and trips by van to the site.

4. Killarney National Park [SEE MAP]

Located in southwest Ireland in County Kerry, the Killarney National Park was established in 1932 when the Muckross Estate was donated to the country. The Victorian Muckross House now serves as the park’s visitor center, and the estate’s extensive gardens are popular attractions in the park.

For many visitors, however, the park’s three lakes are the biggest draw. Populated by swans and otters and surrounded by forests inhabited by Ireland’s only native herd of red deer, boat trips on the lake offer encounters with wildlife as well as scenic views. A broad network of surfaced paths invites exploration by foot, bicycle or horse-drawn carriage.

3. Bru na Boinne [SEE MAP]

Remnants from Ireland’s ancient past are found all over Ireland, but the Brú na Bóinne mounds in Boyne Valley are not to be missed. Three of the 5,000-year-old burial mounds have been fully excavated and are open to visitors: Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth.

With its carved granite boulders and white quartz façade, Newgrange is the most striking. A central passage leads to vaulted chambers where cremated remains and grave goods from at least five people were found. The mound of Knowth is best known for its 250 decorated stones, some of which appear to be local maps. There is no public access inside Dowth, but visitors can climb the mound to enjoy the view.

2. Ring of Kerry [SEE MAP]

The most popular scenic drive in Ireland, the Ring of Kerry is a more than 160 km (100 mile) long highway that runs along the coastline of the isle’s picturesque Iveragh Peninsula. Most visitors start and end their tour in the busy town of Killarney; savvy travelers choose the less-crowded pretty village of Kenmare as a base.

Sights along the Ring include Ireland’s tallest mountain Carrantuohill, several pristine lakes, a medieval monastery and the prehistoric Staigue Fort, which features thick stone walls constructed without mortar. Several seafront towns and resorts along the route boast sandy beaches, making them charming side destinations when the weather is warm.

1. Cliffs of Moher [SEE MAP]

No visit to Ireland is complete without spending some time enjoying the view from on a high cliff overlooking the Atlantic, and the Cliffs of Moher take this experience to breathtaking new heights. Rising nearly 210 meters (700 feet) from the shoreline, the stretch of cliffs attracts almost one million visitors each year making it one of the most popular places to visit in Ireland.

Understandably, access to the cliffs is restricted in windy weather. Boat tours offered at the pier in Doolin give visitors the opportunity to enjoy the cliffs from a different perspective.

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October 27, 2014 at 3:51 am

This is really a great list of places one can enjoy while visiting Ireland..

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The 19 Most Beautiful Places in Ireland, From Inconceivable Rock Formations to Medieval Architecture

By Caitlin Morton

It’s impossible to visit Ireland and not fall in love with it. The small but mighty country is home to friendly locals, historical landmarks, and charming cities—plus staggering natural beauty—that will have you planning your next trip before you’ve even finished your first.

To help you plan your next trip to the Emerald Isle, we’ve compiled a list of the most beautiful places in Ireland (including Northern Ireland). We included colorful small towns , under-the-radar islands, and obvious showstoppers like the Cliffs of Moher, as well as many other attractions to add to your itinerary.

Whether you decide to embark on a multi-week road trip or just visit the country’s greatest hits over a long weekend, be sure to visit at least a few of these stunning attractions—you (and your camera roll) will thank us later.

This gallery was originally published in 2016. It has been updated with new information.

Cliffs of Moher

Location: County Clare

You might know them better as the Cliffs of Insanity from The Princess Bride, but this seaside wonder is actually located just south of Galway . Stretching for five miles along the Atlantic coast, the 400-foot-high cliffs offer one of Ireland’s, shall we say, most inconceivable views.

Trinity College

Location: County Dublin

Dublin ’s Trinity College—the oldest university in Ireland—has no shortage of beautiful buildings and green lawns, but the main attraction is the Old Library’s Long Room. The vast hall holds 200,000 books and 14 marble busts under its barrel-vaulted ceiling—with the intricately illustrated Book of Kells being the centerpiece of a bibliophilic dream .

The Ring of Kerry

Location: County Kerry

The Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile-long drive that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula, is really like several dozen beautiful places packed into one: The route passes by Killarney National Park, Skellig Michael, and several more entries on this list. Driving ( or hiking ) the Ring of Kerry is a great activity for first-time visitors to Ireland, as it perfectly showcases the country’s green spaces and Atlantic coast.

Benbulben Mountain

Location: County Sligo

Formed hundreds of millions of years ago, this limestone formation hovers over Sligo like something from a fantasy novel . Benbulben’s paved trails make it a popular destination for hikers and climbers, but the peak is perhaps best known for its literary associations. Irish poet W. B. Yeats drew inspiration from the mountain and its surrounding landscapes, most notably in his 1938 poem “Under Ben Bulben.”

Jamie Spain

Kaitlin Menza

Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

Rebekah Peppler

Location: County Galway

Galway is in a prime location on Ireland’s west coast, close to the Aran Islands and Connemara region. But the town itself is so charming, you might find yourself sticking close to the cobblestoned streets and ancient architecture for at least a day or two. During the day, make time to snap some photos of the Spanish Arch and the Claddagh, an area by Galway Bay where you’ll find rows of colorful buildings and swans floating by.

Giant’s Causeway

Location: County Antrim

Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder worthy of its whimsical moniker. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns, which were formed by volcanic activity 40–50 million years ago. Local lore tells the story a bit differently: Allegedly, a giant named Finn McCool tossed parts of the Antrim coast into the sea to beat a hasty path to fight a giant Scottish interloper. No matter how they got there, the rocks fit together as perfectly as puzzle pieces.

Killarney National Park

You could spend an entire day exploring the 41-square-mile Killarney National Park , from the towering Torc Waterfall to the 15th-century Ross Castle. One of the park’s greatest treasures is its population of wild red deer, which have lived in Ireland since the last Ice Age but now only survive in Killarney. Above all else, the park is most famous for its reflective lakes, which cover nearly a quarter of the entire reserve.

Ashford Castle

Location: County Mayo

Overlooking a lake in County Mayo, Ashford Castle has been around since 1228—but don’t go expecting an old-fashioned experience. The hotel underwent a $75 million renovation in 2015, which added a cinema, cigar room, billiard room, and wine cellars to the already luxurious 82-room property. The crown jewel of the property is probably the spa, which is located in a bronze former conservatory and features an indoor pool adorned with white and gold tiles.

Rock of Cashel

This group of medieval buildings (some dating back to the 12th century) situated on an outcrop of limestone is easily one of the most beautiful places in Ireland. Don’t miss the Romanesque Cormac’s Chapel or the Hall of the Vicars, which houses several Celtic relics like the original Cross of St. Patrick. Oh, and the views over the Golden Vale aren’t too shabby either.

Skellig Michael

Although the boat ride out to Skellig Michael from the coast of County Kerry can be a rocky one, it’s well worth the effort. The craggy, emerald-green island houses the remains of a 6th-century monastery, which you can explore after ascending a chillingly steep 600-step climb. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find a brooding Luke Skywalker once you reach the top.

The Dark Hedges

This avenue of beech trees in Northern Ireland dates back to the 18th century—over time, the trees have grown and intertwined to create a natural tunnel-like canopy. The site is both eerie and beautiful, which is probably why it was famously chosen as a filming location for the first season of Game of Thrones .

Location: County Cork

Cobh redefines charming with its rows of candy-colored homes along the water and towering cathedral standing sentry over the harbor. This small town is particularly popular with cruise-lovers—about 60 ships stop there every year. In fact, Cobh was the final port of call for the RMS Titanic, and a commemorative museum stands in the city today.

Kylemore Abbey

Mountains and valleys, lakes and streams, all combine to make Connemara one of the loveliest regions in Ireland. See Kylemore Abbey in the heart of the Connemara mountains for proof. This impressive structure was built in 1868 as one of the great neo-Gothic castles of the period. It is now a Benedictine abbey run by nuns, and the church and gardens have been completely restored.

Location: County Donegal

Inishowen is Ireland’s largest peninsula, occupying over 218,500 acres off the northern coast of the country. Due to its location, the peninsula is the best place in the country to view the Northern Lights; head to places like Dunree or Malin Head (the most northerly tip of Ireland) between November and February for increased visibility. Even if you don’t have luck spotting the aurora borealis, Inishowen’s unspoiled landscapes are fantastic road trip material—it is the last (or first) stop on the Wild Atlantic Way , after all.

Glendalough

Location: County Wicklow

Glendalough is a 6th-century monastery and popular Catholic pilgrimage destination, as the settlement was founded by Saint Kevin (aka Kevin of Glendalough). Religious significance aside, travelers will enjoy the valley for its well-preserved ruins, green countryside, and beautiful lakes .

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands consist of three windswept isles—Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer—off the west coast of Ireland. All three locations have a rugged, bleak beauty, but we might have to pick Inishmore as our favorite—it’s here you’ll find the 2,000-year-old ruins of Dún Aenghus, a Celtic fortress clinging to a cliff top as if declaring this to be the actual edge of the world.

Dingle Peninsula

Pointing into the Atlantic Ocean like a finger, the Dingle Peninsula is an incredible stretch of natural beauty: seaside cliffs , sheep-strewn fields, and Crayola-green hills. A short ferry ride away are the Blasket Islands, which once hosted a thriving community of Irish writers, but were abandoned in the 1950s after young residents emigrated en masse. Today, the on-site heritage museum—and remote, empty landscapes—are lovely yet somber reminders of a community lost.

The Burren (Irish for “great rock”) is not only unearthly and ethereal—it’s a geological rarity. The 150-square-mile area consists of thick layers of limestone dotted with a unique variety of flowers , ranging from arctic wildflowers to 25 different species of orchids. Visit in May to see most of the flora in full bloom.

Carrick-a-Rede

Suspended almost 100 feet above sea level, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was first built by salmon fishermen over 200 years ago. Although the last fish was caught here in 2002, somewhere around a quarter of a million visitors cross the bridge for both thrills and scenery. Tourists walking the 66-foot path are rewarded with views of Rathlin Island, Scotland , and the Irish Sea. A lucky few might even spot some sharks and porpoises below in the water...if they dare to look down.

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The Best Ireland Itinerary (Irishman’s 2024 Guide)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: April 15, 2024

We spent 8 months and €15,728 building what is, in my opinion, the best Ireland itinerary library available anywhere.

It became clear long ago that there is no such thing as a ‘one-size-fits-all’ Ireland travel itinerary.

For example, some of you will have a car while others will be relying on public transport.

So, we created a library of Ireland itineraries that let you pick a starting point, trip length, method of transport and much  more.

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about our Ireland itinerary library

Click to enlarge

WAIT – please take 10 seconds to read the points below before you scroll. It’ll make finding your perfect Ireland trip itinerary easier:

1. You can pick your trip length and starting point

Two of the key elements in any Ireland itinerary are the length and the start point. Our road trip itineraries range from 3 days right the way up to 4 weeks. There are also multiple start points including the main ferry terminals and airports in Ireland .

2. You can pick a mode of transport

You can pick an Ireland trip itinerary based on how you plan on getting around Ireland . We have Ireland itineraries that  only  use public transport for those of you doing Ireland without a car . We also have itineraries for those of you that plan on renting a car in Ireland .

3. You can decide how fast you want to travel

Love to squeeze as much as possible into each day? Our ‘Fast Trips’ are just for you! Prefer to take it easy and avoid moving accommodation too often? You’ll love our ‘Slow Trips’.

4. You can choose a travel itinerary for Ireland to suit your fitness

Travelling with someone that has poor mobility? No problem – we have low fitness Ireland itineraries. Want to tackle some of the different hikes in Ireland? We’ve medium-high fitness itineraries just for you!

5. You’ll find our different itineraries starting from 3 days below

Now it’s time for you to find the best Ireland itinerary for  you . We’re gong to start at the 3 day Ireland itineraries and then work our way up to 21 days. Dive on in!

3 days in Ireland

3 days in Ireland is a fairly small amount of time, so you need to be careful – you can easily fall into the trap of trying to do much.

The result is that your itinerary will be over-packed and you’ll spend most of your time in the car/on public transport.

The best Ireland itinerary for 3 days is one that finds a central base and that sees you explore around you on day trips.

Some people with a small amount of time like this can feel disheartened, but don’t – you can see many of the best things to do in Ireland in 3 days. You just need a logical itinerary.

4 days in Ireland

4 days in Ireland is a decent chunk of time. However, if you have the flexibility to chose when to visit Ireland (many don’t), try and arrive during summer or spring.

These two seasons boast plenty of daylight hours so, although you only have 4 days, you’ll still have plenty of time to explore.

These shorter road trips can be tricky to map out at times so, when it comes to planning a trip to Ireland with only 4 days to work with, take your time.

The best Ireland itinerary for 4 days is one that uses 1 – 2 ‘bases’ max and that explores a specific corner of Ireland, e.g. Kerry and West Cork.

5 days in Ireland

Click to enlarge map

5 days in Ireland is arguably the perfect amount of time to explore a section of Ireland.

These are our most popular Ireland itineraries and it’s a trip length that many people visiting Ireland choose.

If it was me, I’d try and fly into either Shannon or Dublin. Landing in Shannon places you right on the Wild Atlantic Way with everywhere from the Aran Islands to the Cliffs of Moher close by.

We’ve had our Ireland vacation itinerary guides live on our site for over a year and they’ve racked up some great reviews. Enjoy!

6 days in Ireland

6 days in Ireland is a lovely amount of time to play with and you can easily cover a decent bit of land during this time.

The beauty of 6 days, also, is that if you’re flying a good distance to get to Ireland, you can take some time out to banish the jet lag.

The best Ireland itinerary for 6 days, in my opinion, is one that doesn’t stretch itself too thin.

If you’re starting in Belfast, for example, tackle the Causeway Coastal Route and then explore the many places to visit in Donegal .

7 days in Ireland

Our itineraries for spending 7 days in Ireland mark the start of our longer Irish road trips.

Trips of this length are great as they give you a lot of flexibility when it comes to what you can do (even if it’ll see the cost of a trip to Ireland increase steadily).

If you’re visiting for 7 days, try and visit during summer or spring as the weather in Ireland tends to be better then and you’ll get more bang-for-your-buck.

8 days in Ireland

8 days in Ireland provides you with options. You aren’t too hard pressed for time and 8 days ensures you don’t have to rush at any point (unless you want to!).

With 8 days, you can explore several counties in depth or you can go full-steam-ahead and try and squeeze in as much as possible.

The best Ireland trip itinerary for 8 days, for me, would be starting in Dublin and then working down through Wicklow, Wexford, Waterford and then around through Cork and Kerry.

9 days in Ireland

So, you’re spending 9 days in Ireland . Wonderful! However, you want to see all of the ‘main’ attractions during this time and you’re worried it’s too much.

It’s likely (and I’m basing this on getting emails from endless visitors) that you’re trying to pack in too much to the point that you’ll spend all your time moving accommodation and travelling.

9 days is a lovely chunk of time. But don’t get carried away. You can see and do  a lot  during this time frame. You just need to decide how much travelling about is ‘too much’.

10 days in Ireland

The second most popular of our Ireland vacation itinerary guides are the ones focused on spending 10 days in Ireland .

This is a mighty amount of time for an Irish road trip and it gives you a huge amount of flexibility.

For this trip length, you could easily pick 3-4 bases and fit a huge amount in while still taking it nice and handy. Or, you could go full whack and try and see as much of the island as possible!

11 days in Ireland

Our itineraries for spending 11 days in Ireland have gone down well since we published them last year.

In particular, the ones that use public transport have received good feedback, especially as planning buses and trains for this number of days was a nightmare .

The best Ireland itinerary for 11 days is up for debate. Personally, I think if you have this amount of time to play with the island is your oyster – you just need to pick a well-thought-out route, which is our Ireland trip itinerary library comes in.

12 days in Ireland

If you’re spending 12 days in Ireland , you’re in for a treat. You can see a whole lot in 12 days, from the  many  castles in Ireland to islands, cliffs and lots more.

You don’t have to worry too much when it comes to picking a start point for a trip of this length, as you’ve a bit of room for error.

If I had the option, I’d start in Cork and drive the Wild Atlantic Way, taking in the likes of Kinsale , the Beara Peninsula , Doolin and Achill Island .

13 days in Ireland

If you have 13 days in Ireland you’ll be the envy of many, and for good reason – you can cover a lot of ground in a 13 day Ireland trip itinerary.

We’ve created 56 different Ireland itineraries for a 13-day trip (yes, 56) and they’ve been used by over 100,000 people in only a few short months.

The different routes take in everywhere from County Mayo and County Clare to some of the most charming small towns in Ireland . Check ’em out below!

14 days in Ireland

Our 14 days in Ireland itineraries were some of the most enjoyable to research, plan and write as we had a fair idea that this trip length would be popular.

Thankfully, it was! Those of you planning a 2-week Ireland trip itinerary are on the cusp of a bucket list road trip that you’ll remember for a life time.

Although I’d argue that there’s no best Ireland itinerary for a trip this length, we’ve created 56 different options for you to choose from at the link below.

15 days in Ireland

15 days in Ireland poses a great number of adventure opportunities. If you’re doing Ireland on a budget , you’ll need to be careful about where you pick as your bases.

I’d avoid the various cities in Ireland along with key tourist towns and, if you can, stay slightly off-the-beaten-path.

We spent a huge amount of time mapping out our 17-day Ireland itineraries and, based on initial feedback, they’re going down very well already!

16 days in Ireland

16 days in Ireland is the stuff of road-trip-envy. You’ll have the chance to see a massive amount of Ireland during this time.

As was the case with all of our Ireland vacation itinerary guides, we spent a lot of time planning our 16-day routes.

At the link below, you’ll be able to pick a trip based on start point, fitness level, mode of transport and how fast you like to travel.

17 days in Ireland

17 days in Ireland is, yep, a good chunk of time. We found these Ireland itineraries tricky to plan out at times, especially the ones that use public transport.

However, we got there in the end and these routes have been read over 70,000 times in recent months.

The best Ireland itinerary for this length of time is one that doesn’t go overboard when it comes to moving hotels and that takes the time to experience each of the areas it uses as a base.

18 days in Ireland

18 days in Ireland is a massive amount of time to work with. However, it’s worth getting a sense of the lay of the land with a trip of this length.

Although you can see plenty on an 18-day Ireland travel itinerary, the aul trap of spreading yourself too thin is an easy one to fall into.

Our 18-day Ireland itineraries took a fair bit of time to map out and I’m confident you’ll find them  very  useful.

19 days in Ireland

19 days in Ireland is another considerable amount of time. However, and I’ll sound like a broken record, it comes with advantages and disadvantages.

It’s easy to fall into a trap when planning an Ireland itinerary of this length and think,  ‘Ah, sure we’ve loads of time – we’ll just head over and play it by ear!” .

19 days requires a lot of planning as there are  many  moving parts with a trip of this length. Luckily, you’ll find the best Ireland itinerary for 19 days at the link below.

20 days in Ireland

Few people, aside from those of us that live here, get to spend 20 days in Ireland .

This is a massive amount of time and it gives you the opportunity to either explore one corner of Ireland in depth or squeeze in as much as possible.

For example, you could explore Kerry (the Ring of Kerry , Dingle Peninsula , etc) and then work your way through West Cork, Waterford, Wexford and more.

The best Ireland itinerary for 20 days is one picks an adequate number of bases near key areas of interest and that avoids falling into the trap of trying to ‘fit everything in’.

21 days in Ireland

21 days in Ireland is a huge amount of time, and this comes with both pros and cons.

You could arguably map out the best Ireland itinerary imaginable with 3 weeks, but you’ll also need to spend a lot of time planning.

This was the hardest of our Ireland vacation itinerary guides to create and the research phase took over 12 days. We did the hard work for you – cheers!

FAQs about the best Ireland trip itinerary 

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from Ireland vacation ideas to detailed train itineraries.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What is the best Ireland itinerary?

I’d argue that there is no best Ireland travel itinerary – no ‘one size fits all’. We’ve created hundreds of Ireland itineraries for you to choose from, in an attempt to help you find the best Ireland itinerary based on your situation.

How many days in Ireland is enough?

It depends. If you’re looking to see specific things and they’re close together, 5 days could be plenty. If you’re looking to see the West of Ireland, you’ll want at least 7. There is one one clear answer.

Is Rick Steves Ireland itinerary good?

By all accounts, Rick Steves Ireland itinerary guides are pretty good. I’ve spoken to many Americans, in particular, visiting Ireland for the first time who swear by Rick’s itineraries.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Nicola Doyle

Thursday 7th of April 2022

Do you have a guide to travelling around Ireland with a dog?

Keith O'Hara

Friday 8th of April 2022

Hey Nicola - I don't, but this is weird timing. Myself and my dad have been chatting about doing a trip with our dog who's an absolute nightmare in the car. So, while we've nothing on planning a trip in Ireland for those with a dog yet, but hopefully it's on the horizon!

Friday 6th of August 2021

Hello. Thanks for all your posts. They are very informative and helpful.

One questions, when planning can we assume the driving times we see on Google Maps are more or less accurate? I know there are a lot of country roads and I didn't know if this was taken into account by Google.

Thanks again!

Heather Cripe

Sunday 18th of April 2021

Hello Keith,

I’m just writing to thank you for doing this. I do not have a set date for when I can come to Ireland but reading the info you provided and the extensive comments you’ve answered, I almost feel like I’ve been to Ireland already! I know that’s when I can finally plan my trip, this website will be my go to for planning my trip! God bless you Keith!

Monday 19th of April 2021

A fine message to wake up to! Thanks a million Heather - I'm glad you found it useful. Hopefully your visit is just over the horizon.

Cheers from a cold and sunny Dublin!

Sunday 17th of May 2020

Hi Keith, I am planning to take my grandparents to Ireland next spring. My grandmother has always wanted to go and never got the chance to travel. However, they are not in the best of health and I don't think they could handle walking an hour+ (which seems to be the best/only way to see some of the main spots you mention in your recommended itineraries).

Do you have any recommendations for best places to go that don't require much of a hike? My Grandparents would love: beautiful landscapes, local places that don't feel touristy (they always manage to make friends with locals while out eating, etc), places of historical significance.

Hey! A lot of people planning a visit to Ireland have this problem, but it can definitely be worked around.

Say, for example, they're very limited mobility wise, if you took them to Donegal, there's plenty of places where you can literally drive right up to for an incredible view.

Here's a couple of examples:

- The Slieve League Cliffs: you can drive right up to the 'main' view - Ballymastocker Bay: you can pull in on the road above and grab an incredible view - The Inishowen 100 drive: there's an endless number of great views on this (the one at Tra Na Rossan is unreal!

If you're looking for lovely little towns, you can't bate Ardara (Nancy's pub, in particular, is lovely!).

I hope this helps!

Lynda rendell

Wednesday 29th of April 2020

Hi Keith Just found your page. It’s brilliant My husband retires 2021 and we are planning on visiting his great great grandfathers Museum in Mayo His mother’s birthplace in Connemara and auntie in Newlawn we then want to end up in Galway and Dublin Have you any advice of B&B pubs en route to these places We are hoping to go for 15 days so any advice or help would be greatly appreciated we will be travelling from Heathrow Airport UK We’ve never been to Ireland before so we are really really looking forward to it thank you

22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ireland

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Andrew Birbeck Updated Mar 18, 2024

Author Meagan Drillinger has a Master's Degree in Irish Studies. She has studied there and visited many times over the years, the most recent trip being in April 2022.

There's nothing quite like a visit to the Emerald Isle to cleanse your soul and reinvigorate your spirit. Home to some of the world's greenest, most breathtaking landscapes, Ireland brims with tourist attractions so appealing, you'll want to visit them all.

From the captivating Cliffs of Moher that will leave you gob-smacked to the bright lights of Dublin's Grafton Street to the hallowed halls of Trinity College , you'll find plenty of fun things to do in 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's endless number of outdoor activities (we're talking horseback riding, waterfall hiking, golf, and sailing) or hope to study the works of some of the country's most famed artists in state museums and galleries, you won't be at a loss for intriguing ways to spend your time.

Discover all the best places to visit in this stunningly attractive country with our list of the top tourist attractions in Ireland.

1. The Cliffs of Moher

2. grafton street, dublin, 3. killarney national park and muckross house & gardens, 4. the book of kells and trinity college, dublin, 5. kilmainham gaol, dublin, 6. the ring of kerry, 7. glendalough, co. wicklow, 8. powerscourt house and gardens, co. wicklow, 9. the rock of cashel, 10. national museum of ireland, dublin, and county mayo, 11. blarney castle and the blarney stone, 12. kinsale, co. cork, 13. the dingle peninsula and the wild atlantic way, 14. torc waterfall, killarney national park, 15. st. stephen's green, dublin, 16. bunratty castle & folk park, 17. national gallery of ireland, dublin, 18. the english market, cork, 19. the aran islands, 20. kilkenny castle, kilkenny, 21. the little museum of dublin, 22. experience glasnevin cemetery, map of tourist attractions in ireland, best time to visit ireland.

So many superlatives have been used to describe the magnificent Cliffs of Moher that it's hard to find the right words. Vertigo-inducing and awe-inspiring spring 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 as they do in countless postcards and guidebooks. Yet no image can ever do them justice. This is one of the top tourist attractions in Ireland for good reason.

About one and a half hours by car from Galway , in neighboring County Clare, the cliffs are visited by close to a million people from across the globe each year. It's one of the popular day trips from Dublin . They stretch for eight kilometers along the Atlantic and rise some 214 meters at their highest point. Take a walk along the trail to experience the raw power of nature at its most majestic.

So much more than just a great place to shop in Dublin, Grafton Street is alive with buskers, flower-sellers, and performance artists. You will also find countless places to stop off and simply watch the world meander by. Café culture has taken off in the capital, and on a sunny day, you'd be forgiven for thinking you were in Barcelona or Lisbon.

True, this is Dublin's shopping heartland, but there's no need to spend a fortune if visiting. You'll find friendly, chatty service no matter where you go and be entertained from the bottom of the street to St. Stephen's Green at the top. Grab a coffee or, in the mornings, a legendary Irish breakfast at Bewley's Grafton Street Café . Take time as well to duck down the numerous alleyways and streets to see what you can discover.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dublin

If visiting the Kerry region, the 19th-century Muckross House, Gardens, and Traditional Farms, set in spectacular Killarney National Park , should be top of your must-see list. There are many reasons this is deemed one of the best tourist attractions in Ireland; you'll need to visit to discover them all.

Standing close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of three Killarney lakes famed worldwide for their splendor and beauty, this former mansion oozes the grandeur and gentility of bygone days. When exploring, bear in mind that Queen Victoria once visited here. In those days, a royal visit was no small affair; extensive renovations and re-landscaping took place in preparation, and no detail was left to chance.

The house and gardens are a real treat, and there are Jaunting Cars (Killarney's famous horse & traps) to take you around the grounds in style. The attraction's old farmsteads are also 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 it will reveal view after view of its lakes and mountains. A highlight in the western part of Killarney National Park is the 11-kilometer drive over the scenic Gap of Dunloe , a narrow and rocky mountain pass carved by glaciers at the close of the Ice Age. The gap separates Purple Mount and its foothills from Macgillycuddy's Reeks.

Another highlight of this national heritage site is Ross Castle . Winding lanes and cycling paths are among the best ways to see the park.

Address: Killarney National Park, Muckross, Killarney, Co. Kerry

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Killarney

Ireland's oldest university, Trinity College in Dublin is one 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 simply melts away. A stroll in and around the grounds is a journey through the ages and into the hushed world of scholarly pursuit. Many shop and office workers take their lunchtime sandwiches here during summer months simply to escape the hustle and bustle outside.

The college is also 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 first Harry Potter movie).

Address: Trinity College, College Green, Dublin 2

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 any interest in Ireland's troubled past.

It was here that the leaders of the 1916 Uprising were brought and, after being convicted of High Treason, executed in the prison yard. The only one spared was future Irish President Eamon De Valera who, by virtue of his American citizenship, didn't suffer the same grisly fate.

Dating from 1796, the prison was a dank vile institution that housed those guilty of such misdemeanors as being unable to pay their train fares and, during the famine, the destitute and hungry. In Irish eyes, Kilmainham became an irrevocable symbol of oppression and persecution.

A visit here will open your eyes and will remain with you indelibly. The yard mentioned earlier is particularly spine-chilling. In short, this is one of Ireland's absolute must-sees.

Address: Inchicore Road, Dublin 8

If in Kerry, take the time to explore what is arguably Ireland's most 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 out from either Kenmare or Killarney ending, naturally enough, back in the same spot.

The entire journey non-stop could take under three hours, but that's 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 astounding natural beauty boasts a range of outdoor pursuits including golf, water sports on pristine beaches, cycling, walking, horse-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.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Ring of Kerry

Magical and mysterious, Glendalough is home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. The settlement was established by St. Kevin during the 6th century and eventually evolved into what's known as the Monastic City.

Visitors have flocked to the valley of the two lakes for thousands of years to absorb 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 Centre for all the information you'll need for a day out like no other.

Address: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow

Superb views, serene lakeside walks, engaging history, and the stunning backdrop of Sugarloaf Mountain are just some of the treats in store when visiting the magnificent Powerscourt House and Gardens , just 20 kilometers from Dublin.

Now owned by the Slazenger family, the house is set on 47 manicured acres. Take time to stroll through the Rose and Kitchen Gardens and explore the beautiful Italian Gardens. There are more than 200 varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers, and particularly 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 top day trips from Dublin .

Address: Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow

Ireland's most visited heritage site, the Rock of Cashel stars in countless images of the Emerald Isle. Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain even visited by helicopter during her 2011 official tour of the country. Perched upon a limestone rock formation in the Golden Vale, this magnificent group of medieval buildings includes the High 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 audio-visual show and exhibitions. It's also said that this was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster prior to the Norman invasions.

Address: Cashel, Co. Tipperary

It's easy to spend an entire day at the National Museum of Ireland , which is technically a collection of museums. You'll find a building dedicated to highlighting the country's "natural history" on Merrion Street in Dublin 2, "decorative arts & history" in Dublin's Collins Barracks , "country life" in Mayo , and the stunning "archeology" museum on Kildare Street in Dublin 2.

Depending on which building you visit, you can expect to find interesting exhibits on everything from Irish Antiquities to Irish folklife to Celtic art. The National Museum of Ireland—Archaeology is home 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 find photographs, films, ancient furniture, and permanent exhibits on everything from Irish hearth and home to life in the community to various jobs held on both land and water.

The National Museum of Ireland—Decorative Arts & History is housed in an iconic military barracks and contains historic treasures such as ceramics, glassware, clothes, jewelry, and coins.

The National Museum of Ireland—Natural History is home to over 10,000 exhibits featuring the country's most beloved wildlife, as well as interesting creatures from across the globe.

Possibly Ireland's best-known attraction and one of its must-see-castles , the Blarney Stone sits high on a tower of Blarney Castle , not far from Cork. Reputed to endow the famed Irish eloquence to those who dare hang their head over the parapets to kiss it, the stone is not the only reason for visiting Blarney Castle.

Blarney Castle was built more than 600 years ago by Irish chieftain Cormac McCarthy, and you can tour the massive stone building from its towers to its dungeons. Extensive gardens surround it, 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 gifts.

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's one of the best small towns in Ireland for tourists .

The town has a decidedly Spanish feel, particularly in summer. This is hardly surprising bearing in mind that in 1601, three years after the defeat of the Spanish Armada, the Spanish sent a military force to Ireland, most of whom disembarked at Kinsale. This led to the English laying siege to the town and ultimately the defeat of Spanish and Irish forces by superior English military might.

Kinsale is now a magnet for those who love sailing, walking, fishing, marvelous scenery, and great food. The town is packed with restaurants of all sorts and the seafood on offer is excellent. There's an annual Gourmet Festival among others, and a visit to the imposing Charles Fort shouldn't be missed.

Part of The Wild Atlantic Way, a 1700-mile marked route around Ireland's west and adjacent coasts, the Dingle Peninsula combines wild beauty, history, and a glimpse of traditional Irish culture and language.

It's not by accident: the region is designated as a Gaeltacht, where the Irish language and culture are protected by government subsidies. You'll hear Gaelic spoken and sung, and read it on signs, although everyone also speaks English.

Ending at Dunmore Head , the Irish mainland's westernmost point, the peninsula is bordered by some of Ireland's best beaches and ragged cliffs. Stone huts that scatter its open landscapes were built by monks in the early Middle Ages, and you'll find more stone monuments that date to the Bronze Age.

It's easy to see why the Torc Waterfall is one of the best places to visit in Ireland . Situated in the heart 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 can be heard from the nearby car park, which lies a mere 200 meters away, an easy walk for those who find hiking difficult.

If you're hoping for a longer trek, continue on the Kerry Way , a 200-kilometer well-sign-posted walking trail that loops its way around the stunning Iveragh Peninsula on its way to and from nearby Killarney.

Beloved by Dubliners and with a colorful history, tranquil St. Stephen's Green is a great place to wind down, enjoy a picnic, or feed the ducks. Incidentally, during the 1916 Uprising, special dispensation was given on both sides to the park keepers. Hostilities ceased daily so that the ducks could be properly fed. It could only happen in Dublin.

Nowadays "The Green," as it's known locally, boasts beautifully maintained gardens, the ubiquitous Duck Pond, a picturesque bridge, recreation grounds, mature trees to rest beneath, and a playground.

Around the perimeter are many of Dublin's premier Georgian buildings as well as the iconic Shelbourne Hotel, founded in 1824, where afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor's Lounge is considered by many to be a real treat.

A visit to the Shannon region wouldn't be complete without coming here. 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 furnishings and tapestries, the castle will transport you back to ancient medieval times.

The themed banquets in the evenings are great fun, although certain guests who misbehave run the risk of being sent to the dungeons below. 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 village shops, farmhouses, and streets to explore. It's all great fun for families and kids.

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 grand gallery opened to the public in 1864 but recently underwent an extensive renovation, creating even more impressively airy and bright spaces to house its vast collection of artworks. Don't worry, the impressive, 19 th -century architecture was well preserved.

In addition to the picturesque structure, inside you'll find a collection of the country's most famous art, as well the national collection of paintings by the European Old Masters. Its convenient location in Dublin's city center makes it easy to spend the rest of your day shopping and dining in the city's best establishments.

Even better than the impressive works found in this gallery is the price: admission is free. With so many intriguing pieces to examine, we'd suggest setting aside a few hours to explore it fully.

Address: Merrion Square West, Dublin 2

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 word "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 bread, and excellent 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 II dropped by on her first-ever state visit to the Republic 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 the cozy Farmgate Restaurant upstairs.

Address: Princes Street, Cork (off St. Patrick's Street & Grand Parade)

Originally brought to world attention in 1934 by the fictionalized documentary Man of Aran, these islands have been entrancing visitors ever since. This is a taste of Ireland as it once was. Gaelic is the first language; there are a mere 1,200 inhabitants; and once ashore, you'll feel as if you're in a time warp.

There are three islands, the largest being Inishmore , then Inishmaan , and the smallest is Inisheer .

Wild, windswept, rugged, and utterly unique, the islands offer a visitor experience quite like no other. Once experienced, the great stone fort of Dun Aonghasa and the towering cliffs of Aran will 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.

Despite housing many different owners and undergoing multiple stints of rebuilding, Kilkenny Castle has stood strong for over 800 years. While it looks Victorian from the outside, the castle's roots date to the 13 th century. This is when it was built by William Marshal, who created this masterpiece to serve as a "symbol of Norman Control."

Today, the castle is open to visitors wishing to traipse through the 50 acres of lush grounds, which include a stunning, terraced rose garden; towering, ancient trees; and a sparkling, man-made lake. It is one of the most beloved tourist attractions in Ireland.

The grand house is open to explore, and it's here you'll find an ornate entrance hall, eerie undercroft, and captivating tapestry room, as well as period rooms like the nursery.

The 19 th -century pitched roof picture gallery is particularly impressive for those who enjoy admiring creative works in a captivating setting.

Address: The Parade, Kilkenny

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Kilkenny

A recent addition to the capital's museums, The Little Museum should be top on the list for anybody wishing to grasp Dublin's recent history. The museum grew organically from a "meet and greet" service for visitors, and quickly became what we see today. As well as informative, personally guided tours, new initiatives include Dublin by 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 band members themselves. This is a joyful museum that celebrates Dublin with all its quirkiness and humor.

Address: 15 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2

Perhaps one of the best ways to learn about the history of Ireland is to wander among its most notable figures. The Glasnevin Cemetery, Ireland's National Cemetery, is a place practically packed with history, as most of the country's pivotal players are buried here.

Glasnevin is both the country's largest cemetery, as well as the world's first cemetery museum . It opened in 1832 and is the final resting place for more than 1.5 million people. Among the celebrated figures buried here are Daniel O'Connell, Michael Collins, Charles Stewart Parnell, and Eamon de Valera, all of whom played an integral role in the shaping of modern-day Ireland. The cemetery also has 800,000 victims of the Great Famine from the 1840s.

Prior to the opening of the ceremony, Catholics in Ireland were limited in how they could bury and honor their dead, thanks to 18th-century Penal Laws put in place by England. The cemetery opened as a place where both Irish Catholics, as well as Protestants, could bury their dead without restriction.

The cemetery museum opened in 2010 and has exhibits that include an immersive display that teaches visitors about burial practices and customs in Ireland. The cemetery itself is designed beautifully, with a traditional Victorian garden, monuments, and sprawling lawns. Today the entire cemetery takes up 124 acres.

Address: Finglas Road, Glasnevin, Dublin, D11 XA32, Ireland

While the shoulder seasons in the spring and fall are great times to visit for the smaller crowds, each season brings with it unique reasons to go.

Summer has some of the best weather, and winter has the best rates for lodging and transportation. It is important to consider the factors that matter to you most and start your planning from there, since some things in your itinerary will be dependent on the time of year that you go.

Spring: The spring months are some of the best times to visit Ireland. You can plan on comfortable weather and not as many crowds as the summer season. The rates for airfare and hotels will be lower, and you can find incredible deals on bed and breakfast accommodation. B&B Ireland is a network of B&Bs throughout the country that have been inspected for quality, and the network extends throughout the country.

The flowers in Ireland are blooming in April and May, so the many gardens and landscaping at the castles will be stunning for a spring visit. Crowds are smaller in the spring , which is nice, especially at attractions like castles that have narrow stone stairwells and in the small villages where shopping quarters and sidewalks are small.

The only caveat with spring is the occasional rain shower. They generally come and go and do not last long, so a glimpse of sunshine is always around the corner. Pack for the potential of rain, and you will be fine.

Summer : If your Ireland priority is to travel during the months with the best weather , then summer is when to go . June, July, and August are the sunniest months in Ireland and they are also the busiest with tourists.

The nice thing about Ireland's consistent weather is that even in the middle of summer, the temperatures never get overly hot. This makes it nice for spending full days outside, especially since you will need to plan a little extra time at attractions due to the many tourists.

The long days of summer allow for more time to sightsee attractions, and these are the months when festivals are in full swing. Since the summer months see the most tourists, that means rates at hotels and airfares are at their highest.

If you do plan to travel to Ireland in the summer, you should book your accommodations far in advance, as availability will become limited the closer you get to your travel dates.

Fall: The months of September and October are great times to go to Ireland when the brisk fall air and leaves changing colors add to the experience and natural beauty of the island. The summer tourists are gone in the fall, and you can enjoy no lines at the popular attractions. Since it is the shoulder season, you can expect the same unpredictable weather as the rest of the year, with a slightly higher risk for occasional rain.

Light rain in the fall months will not deter your ability to take ferries to nearby islands or other experiences, you just have to plan for the possibility. Even the open-air, double-decker, hop-on, hop-off buses in Dublin keep operating in the rain.

You will find many farmers markets and outdoor craft festivals throughout Ireland in the fall, and you can enjoy the break on rates at hotels and for airfare. Be advised that some smaller establishments, businesses, and B&Bs close up for the season after October, so check into that before booking airline tickets.

Winter: If a cozy Ireland vacation sounds appealing, then traveling in the winter months between November and February can net you some huge discounts , especially if you plan to base out of main cities like Dublin or Cork.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Things to Do in Ireland and When to Visit: Some people come here for a quick weekend break , while others come on longer trips to explore the castles, cities, and small towns. A few people come here to fish. Anglers will want to be sure to see our article on the best fishing destinations in Ireland . One thing to consider if you are planning activities or even sightseeing is the time of year you want to travel.

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20 of the most beautiful villages and small towns in Ireland

By Vic O’Sullivan

Ireland’s beautiful villages and small towns, with their clusters of whitewashed cottages, mossy churchyards and low-rafter pubs that still sell groceries along with a pint of stout, are living time capsules of the past. Some have only a single street lined with neat rows of slate roofs, rich lime render and solid sash windows, where locals gather in pubs that have had the same family names hanging over their half-doors for generations.

Dingle, Roundstone and Inistioge draw film crews from Hollywood, while Dalkey is awash with famous locals – from rock band U2 to temporary lockdown resident, actor Matt Damon. As remarkable for their setting as their character, they are often discovered around the bend of a road over a high plain or at the foot of a hilly lane, shimmering against the ocean after a summer shower or in the folds of a valley.

Kinsale, County Cork

Kinsale’s narrow, cobbled lanes, 19th-century architecture lacquered in dazzling colours and sturdy-beamed old-world pubs evoke the very essence of a pirate’s enclave. In fact, Daniel Defoe’s inspiration for Robinson Crusoe (Alexander Selkirk) set sail on his misadventure from this handsome port in 1703. Today, Kinsale’s location as the trailhead for the Wild Atlantic Way , its seafood offerings such as the succulent lobster at quayside Fishy Fishy , craft stores and hillside setting draw year-round visitors.

Find out which other towns feature alongside Kinsale on our list of the most beautiful villages in the UK and Ireland

Roundstone, County Galway

Close your eyes – and picture the perfect Irish village in your mind. Chances are it’ll have ocean views, a vibrantly painted streetscape and bobbing fishing vessels in its harbour. Throw in a backdrop of the Twelve Bens mountain range and Connemara’s awe-inspiring landscape and you’ll have visions of Roundstone in Galway . The main street straddles a steep hill overlooking the Atlantic, where visitors linger to drink in the view with a bowl of chowder or glass of creamy stout at O’Dowd’s Seafood Bar .

Inistioge, County Kilkenny

The 19th-century Irish village square was the marrow of rural commerce and Sunday-morning gossip in its time, and the handsome buildings that line Instioge’s green are perfectly formed edifices from that time. The setting has enticed Hollywood – providing a rustic Georgian background for films such as Widow’s Peak (1994) and Circle of Friends (1995.) An elegant 10-arch limestone bridge spans the River Nore and links the village to its farmland surroundings.

Doolin, County Clare

Set on a limestone plateau at the point where the Cliffs of Moher plunge into the ocean, this brightly painted ribbon of thatched buildings has borne the brunt of the Atlantic’s force for centuries. These days summertime visitors clamour beneath the low-hanging joists of Gus O’Connor’s on Fisher Street to hear traditional music. In shoulder season, the village regains the rhythm of a fisherman’s port as ferries dart to and from its pier to the Aran Islands.

Adare, County Limerick

With its neat rows of thatched cottages, Adare could be lifted straight from a John Constable painting of a county shire. The River Maigue weaves its way through the village, and lying by its banks are the ruins of Desmond Castle and a Franciscan Monastery – and the decadently refurbished Adare Manor , one of Ireland’s most opulent hotels. The main street is crammed with cafés, craft shops, pubs and restaurants.

Read our full review of Adare Manor

Baltimore, County Cork

This west Cork village dips and glides down narrow lanes flanked by Victorian cottages with sash windows and sandstone walls. Its shorefront is a hive of activity, with a cluster of small pubs and 13th-century Dún na Séad Castle. Take a whale-watching tour from the harbour, or idle at Casey’s of Baltimore hotel to eat mussels and drink home-brewed beer while looking out at the white sailboats speckled against the cobalt sea.

Dalkey, County Dublin

While Dublin City has absorbed other bordering towns into its suburban sprawl, Dalkey has retained its independent, seaside-village vibe, attracting A-list residents. The centre has remained medieval in character, with rambling narrow lanes that lead into Castle Street, the main thoroughfare. Two Norman castles and an appealing tapestry of granite and redbrick pubs and restaurants line the street. The village tumbles east, towards the sea – while its hillside has panoramic coastal views.

These are the best castles in Ireland .

Dingle, County Kerry

This town's dramatic oceanfront setting near the southern tip of a peninsula, and its comely streetscape, have drawn visitors for decades. Yet its provincial charm remains, due partially to the fact that Dingle is a designated Irish-speaking region – or Gaeltacht. Its terraced pastel buildings wrap around the pretty port, where trawlers dock daily to supply chefs, such as the crew at seafood restaurant Out Of The Blue , with fresh catch.

Cashel, County Tipperary

This quirky, lamplit settlement lies in the shadow of the Rock of Cashel – a medieval ruin set on a colossal limestone outcrop. More than 1,000 years ago it was the palace of Ireland’s High King, Brian Boru. Below, the village’s narrow, twisting streets are a mishmash of an architectural timeline. There’s The Cashel Palace Hotel , a crimson-bricked Palladian mansion; lots of Georgian fanlights; Victorian houses; and compact 15th-century Kearney’s Castle, wedged tightly between 19th-century terraced buildings.

Lauren Burvill

Connor Sturges

Tabitha Joyce

Florrie Thomas

Dunmore East, County Waterford

Snaking around its amber-shaded sandstone coastline, which twists and turns past pristine beaches and secluded coves, Dunmore East’s streetscape is like a pinball ramp that finally plateaus by its Doric column-esque lighthouse on the pier. Dotted along the way is Ireland’s finest collection of thatched cottages, and the uninterrupted view across the harbour bay to another lighthouse – the world’s oldest functioning, on County Wexford’s Hook Head – is spectacular.

Westport, County Mayo

With its neat planned Georgian streets and octagonal marketplace, Westport seems to have been designed with ambitious growth in mind. Luckily, it remains pint-sized in scale, with a mini grid layout that’s defined by the Carrowbeg River. Handsome, cheerfully painted buildings, drenched in flowers, lure visitors to a number of fine-dining options, or to experience the traditional music scene at Matt Molly’s Pub . Westport is the trailhead for the Great Western Greenway – an ocean-view walking and cycling trail that links the town to magnificent Achill Island.

Birr, County Offaly

This miniature Midlands hamlet has many grand edifices and architectural influences, from its Gothic castle to its neoclassical town hall. Every building appears as though it has been carefully placed by a porcelain collector, each emanating from the village square. The grounds of Birr Castle Demesne curve along the village walls and the River Camcor, and visitors can explore the castle’s past as a centre of astronomy by visiting its 19th-century telescope.

Carlingford, County Louth

Nestled on an inlet that splits the Cooley and Mourne Mountains on the shoreline of Carlingford Lough, this comely corner of Louth is steeped in history. The turbulent Cromwellian years, or later, when the village’s economy tanked as herring stocks inexplicably disappeared from the lake, left development in limbo for centuries. The result is that ancient infrastructure is now part and parcel of everyday life in Carlingford Village. Keep your eyes peeled for historical markers, such as the arched gate that offers access to town, a limestone tower that stands like a centurion over a public house, or the crumbling remains of King John’s Castle that keeps watch over the pier. Scattered in the maze of narrow, winding streets are further reminders of times gone by – such as PJ O’Hares , a vintage pub where hearty fare and fresh seafood are served by a roaring fire on days when a chilly wind swirls up from the lake.

Enniskerry, County Wicklow

Harmonious town planning transformed this 19 th -century collection of tenement houses into one of the most stunning villages in Ireland – but, of course, its setting in a lush green valley at the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains doesn’t hurt either. Streets converge onto a small, curved plaza where a copper-capped clock tower has kept with the town’s slow pace of life since St Patrick’s Day 1843. Today, visitors pass time with a scone and a hot beverage in the charming tea shops, or at the Avoca Terraced Café at Powerscourt Estate that lies on the outskirts of town. The 47-acre tiered garden has ornamental lakes, fountains, a waterfall, splendid blooms, and an on-site whiskey distillery. Enniskerry’s character is so beguiling that it attracted Disney executives to film Disenchanted (2022) with actors Patrick Dempsey and Amy Adams.

Kinvarra, County Galway

This pretty harbour-front village is the perfect stop-off for those touring Ireland’s glorious west coast. Its low-lying streetscape overlooks Galway Bay and it has a fine selection of craft shops, cafés, inns and pubs. Just off the main street by the pocket-sized marina, The Pier Head Bar is the place to while away an hour or two over a bowl of seafood chowder or mussels. If you time it right, Cruinniú na mBád, a regatta of local vessels, brings a frenzy of colour against the deep blue backdrop every summer. Perched on a small ocean-ridged bluff on the outskirts of town is one of Ireland’s most beautiful landmarks – Dunguire Castle, standing proudly like a displaced rook from a chess set. Architects of modern Irish literature such as Yeats, Lady Gregory and Synge gathered here to conjure up great theatrical plans as the Atlantic winds scaled the rooftop in the early days of the last century.

Eyeries, County Cork

Like a giant box of macarons, radiantly painted little Eyeries would cheer up even the dullest of days. Its location, at the south-westerly tip of Ireland on the Beara Peninsula, means that it’s off the main tourist trail, but bang central in one of the most remarkably beautiful corners in the country. The village is high on a slope that overlooks Coulagh Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, with unbroken views across the entire peninsula. The sky is big here, with kaleidoscopic sunsets that reflect and ripple off the water below. The village dips and soars over its hilly terrain – and apart from Causkeys Bar and a few cafés there’s little else to do but meander down to the coast and find a quiet cove for the day. A little further south, Allihes is another pastel-shaded village with a copper mining history and a superb white sandy beach.

Bunratty Village, County Clare

Bunratty packs a lot of gorgeousness in its diminutive, winding river-sculpted contour. Dominating the village and surrounding countryside is a sturdy 15 th -century castle that was once the palace of a powerful chieftain. Today it still bears the scars of Cromwellian cannonballs and mixed fortune, but with a sensitive restoration and conversion of its grounds into a model Irish hamlet, it has become a village within a village, attracting visitors throughout the year. Beyond the castle walls is cheerfully painted Durty Nelly’s Pub – it operated as a toll booth in the early 19 th century when Bunratty was a mini-metropolis that served as a water gateway to the Shannon River. A pedestrian limestone bridge, a canopied courtyard, a former stagecoach inn and the garden of the thatched and slated JP Clarke’s Pub draw al-fresco dining aficionados to savour the ripe produce of the local landscape.

Slane, Co Meath

Legend has it that Saint Patrick lit the bonfire that ignited Christianity in Ireland on a hill overlooking Slane. A few fields and a millennium and a half away, rock legends from David Bowie to U2 have ignited the same delirium in people – but this time it’s the fans that gather to hear their music in the natural amphitheatre. However, there’s a lot more to Slane than saints and singers. In the heart of the village, four identical and very handsome mid-18 th -century houses stare each other down diagonally from across an octagonal crossroads. One theory is that they were the homes of warring sisters, which would be typical of Slane’s idiosyncratic charm. Beyond the obvious Georgian symmetry and quadruplet houses, there’s something delightfully quirky and offbeat about the village – such as the broad and narrow architecture on Main Street or the 13 rounded and pointed arches in the bridge that crosses over the River Boyne and into the village centre.

Inisheer, Co Galway

Inisheer is a patchwork of townlands, strewn across the northern region of the smallest Aran Island. It’s darned together by a warren of lanes with dry stone walls that connect cottages to the church, shop, community centre – and of course, the pubs. Tigh Ned is a simple limestone and whitewash spot, where locals go to savour fresh catch and soak up the views. When the weather is wild, the island almost hunches down against the elements, but when it’s fine the setting is full-on tropical, with the village’s bone-white sandy beach leading to impossibly clear turquoise water. The island is virtually car-free, so a venture to the west side to view County Clare’s magnificent coastline is the best way to idle away an afternoon. It’s also a native Irish-speaking location– so a ‘cúpla focal’ (few words) might come in useful.

Killaloe, County Clare and Ballina, County Tipperary

These two distinctly different sister villages are linked by a narrow limestone bridge with 13 elegant arches. In Killaloe, County Clare, a pretty cluster of vernacular buildings slope down towards the waterside where colourful boats are moored and ready to venture out onto Lough Derg – arguably Ireland’s most beautiful lake. The village has higgledy-piggledy streets built into a hillside that shoulders the worst of any rainfall or wind. At the foot of the hill overlooking the lake is a 12 th- century Romanesque cathedral, St Flannan’s, which houses rare inscriptions and carvings from the centuries when local residents, the O’Brien chieftains, ruled Ireland. Across the bridge in Ballina, County Tipperary, visitors can explore Lough Derg aboard the Spirit of Killaloe , a passenger craft – or just drink in the lake views at Goosers , a traditional thatched pub close to the water’s edge.

18 Most Beautiful Towns & Villages In Ireland

T he beautiful landscape of Ireland is best seen from its small towns and villages. Many are positioned in coastal areas featuring beautiful oceanfront scenery and are also surrounded by towering mountains, which makes them even more scenic. Unlike the country’s larger cities, towns and villages here are laid-back and beautiful and also have plenty of things to offer visitors. This makes them perfect for a relaxing vacation. There are so many such towns and villages in the country, but these 16 stand out as the most beautiful towns in Ireland.

UPDATE: 2023/06/30 23:23 EST BY REENA JAIN

18 Most Beautiful Towns & Villages In Ireland

This list has been updated to include two more of beautiful towns in Ireland, including Ardara and Birr, for offering visitors a range of exciting explorations and adventures to enjoy some thrills, as well as serene surroundings to connect with nature.

Ardara, Donegal

Donegal's charming Ardara is the ideal launching point for exploration for being close to a limitless number of attractions. The village, once named one of the best villages to live in Ireland, is also known for its bustling festivals and excellent food and drink scene. There are several traditional taverns and restaurants where guests can enjoy a variety of delectable cuisine as well as local beverages. From the Cup of Tae Festival (May) to the Ardara Bluegrass Festival (July), there is always something going on.

• Where: County Donegal, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Ardara: Assaranca Waterfall, Glengesh Pass, Caves of Maghera, Narin/Portnoo Beach, Malin Beg, Slieve League

Birr, Offaly

Birr is a great spot for taking a vacation from the city's bustling life for good reason. The well-preserved Georgian architecture transports visitors back in time. From appreciating the majestic architecture of Birr Castle Demesne to meandering through the gorgeous gardens and witnessing the famous Great Telescope, every experience provides insight into the town's rich history. But Birr has more to offer than history, such as live plays at Birr Theatre, horseback riding across the gently sloping countryside, photographing the Seffin Stone, and visiting the gates of St. John's Hall, known as the "Centre of Ireland."

• Where: County Offaly, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Birr: Birr Castle Demesne, Birr Theatre & Arts Centre, Birr Equestrian Centre, St. John's Hall,

Sneem, Kerry

One of Ireland's smallest towns on this list, Sneem is a popular tourist destination for its breathtaking views and a wide range of fun activities like biking, hiking, sightseeing, and dining. At Blueberry Hill Farms, visitors can pet and feed farm animals, take in the picturesque surroundings, and discover how to make candles. The Way the Faeries Went is a short walk along the water dotted with miniature faerie homes and sculptures, providing visitors with beautiful photos and pleasant memories. Sneem is a great pit stop for those traveling the Ring of Kerry, offering many mystical, picturesque locations.

• Where: County Kerry, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Sneem: Bull Rock, Skellig Michael, Brushwood Studios, North Square, South Square, The Way the Faeries Went

Howth, Dublin

Howth, one of Ireland's most picturesque towns, is just 30 minutes drive from Dublin, and has a rich historical background and modern appeal. From views and experiences to countryside charm, this small Irish town has it all! While the Howth Cliff Walk Loop is a must-see for its amazing vistas, Ireland's Eye is a major draw for its breathtaking views, sandy beaches, and variety of activities, such as fishing and bird watching. There is also an 800-year-old castle that provides insight into the region's rich history.

• Where: County Dublin, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Howth: Howth Cliff Walk, Howth Castle and St. Mary’s Abbey, Ireland’s Eye, Howth Pier, Howth Market

Clifden is a charming coastal town in Galway's Connemara region with many lovely castles, sunset viewing vantage points, hiking loops, and magnificent beaches. After a long day of activities and exploration, one can unwind in one of the city's many restaurants and pubs. One of the prettiest towns in Ireland, Clifden can meet the needs of any traveler, whether looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed vacation.

• Where: County Galway, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Clifden: Connemara National Park, Derrigimlagh/Marconi walking loop, Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens, Clifden Castle, Dog's Bay Beach

Dalkey is a charming fishing port and an affluent neighborhood for Dubliners. It is a medieval town renowned for its fortified castle and spectacular coastal landscapes. The presence of the vacation homes of affluent Irish people makes it referred to as the "Beverly Hills" of Dublin. Furthermore, being so close to the Irish capital makes it the ideal location for a getaway if one wants to enjoy the tranquil surroundings as well as the city's highlights.

• Where: Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County, Dublin, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Dalkey: Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre, Killiney Hill Park, Dalkey Island, Coliemore Harbour, Sorrento Park, Vico Baths, White Rock Beach

Located in Cork Harbour, Cobh is the most beautiful town in Ireland with a fascinating history. From daring adventures to historical experiences and lovely trails to heart-pumping activities, it offers something for all ages and tastes. Renowned as the Titanic's final European port of call, Cobh has so much to see and do that a visitor could stay there for days without getting bored.

• Where: County Cork, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Cobh: Fota Wildlife Park, Deck of Cards, The Promenade, The Queenstown Story, Spike Island, Cobh Heritage Center

Visitors are drawn to Lismore by its magnificent historical buildings, such as the eight-hundred-year-old medieval Lismore Castle, as well as by the surrounding natural beauty of the River Blackwater and the Knockmealdown mountains. Besides historical sites, Lismore is home to many lovely eateries and bars where tourists can sample the local cuisine and beverages and experience true Irish nightlife.

• Where: County Waterford, Munster, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Lismore: Lismore Castle, Saint Carthage's Cathedra, St. Carthage's Catholic Church, Fortwilliam, Lismore Farmers & Craft Market, Cotton Library, Lismore Heritage Centre

Adare, Limerick

Adare is a small village that comes with a natural and historic appeal. Large parts of the town are covered with trees and grasses, while the town itself is lined up with colorful and thatched-roofed buildings. Walking through the streets is a must-do in this village as it takes one through the enchanting scenery it has to offer. Adare has restaurants and hotels and a couple of historic attractions like Desmond Castle, which was built in the 12th century, and the Trinitarian Abbey - the only Trinitarian monastery in Ireland built in the 13th century.

• Where: County Limerick, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Adare: Desmond Castle, Holy Trinity Abbey Church, Adare Town Park, Adare Heritage Centre, Old Trinitarian Abbey

Kinsale, County Cork

There is so much to love about Kinsale , from the beautiful natural and architectural scenery to the rich history it has accumulated throughout its existence. Famous for being a fishing town, Kinsale has seen a fierce battle and has been used as a port for a long time.

Visitors from all over the country now come to this town to enjoy a charming seaside vacation filled with fishing and food adventures. One will enjoy wandering the streets of Kinsale as it is where to find the beautifully colored buildings and numerous pubs and restaurants that serve sumptuous meals. The town is also a great place to shop, relax, or learn some interesting Irish history .

• Places To Visit In Kinsale: Town Centre, Ramparts of Charles Fort, Kinsale Museum, Kinsale Loop, Blacks Brewery, Shannon River

Allihies, Cork

A visit to Allihies is sure to be memorable as the village welcomes all visitors with incredibly natural and architectural scenery. This village is quite small and remote, but there are plenty of things that make it worth visiting. The town sits majestically on the Beara Peninsula and overlooks the scenic coast. Within the village, one will find colorful villas, outdoor bars and restaurants, and several historic sites. One historic site to visit here is the Allihies Copper Mines, as it played a major role in the development of the area. For those who want more adventure, Allihies has several amazing viewpoints from which to see the incredible scenery of the area, and it also has a sandy beach where one can relax and watch birds.

• Places To Visit In Allihies: Allihies Copper Mine Museum, Allihies Beach, Allihies Copper Mine Trail, Beara Way, Dursey Island, Sheeps Head Peninsula, Mill Cove Gallery, Mizen Head

Carlingford, Louth

Sitting at the foot of the towering Slieve Foy mountain and on the shores of Carlingford Lough, this town is one of Ireland’s finest. The town comes with a medieval view as its streets are narrow and filled with colorful buildings. Carlingford has plenty of historic structures, from castles to monasteries which visitors can spend their time exploring. It is also surrounded by beautiful green areas where one can enjoy a walk in nature. In and around the town of Carlingford, there are opportunities for horse riding, biking, and water sports such as - kite surfing, diving, and boating.

• Where: County Louth, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Carlingford: King John’s Castle, Carlingford Abbey, Taaffe’s Castle/Merchant House, The Tholsel, The Mint, Ghan House, Church of the Holy Trinity, Town Wall

Dingle, Kerry

Dingle is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in the world as it sits on the Atlantic Coast and presents incredible ocean scenery and even mountain scenery. Like many other destinations in Ireland, the town also features beautifully colored houses that make it look like a painting. As a fishing town, one will find lots of opportunities to fish and enjoy some seafood here.

When it comes to infrastructure and facilities, Dingle is endowed with an abundance of pubs, restaurants, and even a distillery where one can enjoy some spirits. Besides fishing and exploring the town’s attractions, things to do in this town include - boat tours, relaxing at the beach, riding horses, diving, hiking, and taking scenic drives to nearby places.

• Places To Visit In Dingle : Inch beach, Dingle Peninsula Drive, Lios Stone Circle, Coumeenoole Beach, Slea head drive, Sybil’s Head or Ceann Sibéal, Conor pass

Dunmore East, Waterford

At Dunmore East, one will be met with beautiful seaside scenery and streets filled with unique thatched-roof buildings. The town has beautiful beaches that have sea caves, several ancient sites, restaurants, pubs, and hotels with incredible views of the sea.

Besides walking through the streets and gazing at the town’s impressive architecture, visitors to this city will have the opportunities to cliff walk, cruise the scenic ocean, relax on the beach, enjoy delicious meals with amazing views, and enjoy golfing on a cliff edge. That’s not all, however. There’s more to do in this laid-back picturesque town, and the only way to enjoy all the town has to offer is by visiting.

• Where: County Waterford, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Dunmore East: Dunmore East cliff, Councillors Strand, Ladies Cove1, Dunmore Strand, Dunmore Adventure, Tramore

Related: Top 13 Things To Know Before Visiting Ireland

Kenmare, County Kerry

Kenmare comes with a vibrant atmosphere and amazing natural scenery. From any part of the town, one will be met with views of colorful structures backdropped by towering mountains. The town has a scenic lake where one can enjoy some kayaking and fishing adventures, and it is also surrounded by lush forest areas where one can enjoy a nature walk. Visitors here will have opportunities to walk through streets lined up with beautifully colored buildings, some of which are restaurants and bars where one can enjoy some of Ireland’s delicious food and drinks.

• Places To Visit In Kenmare: Molly Gallivan’s Cottage & Traditional Farm, Gleninchaquin Park, Old Kenmare Road, Derreen Gardens, Reenagross Park, Cromwell’s Bridge, Holy Cross Church, Verart Sculpture Garden

Cong, County Mayo

Cong is a charming and historic village endowed with a huge selection of ancient sites. With so many trees and streams around the village, visitors here will feel like they are in a fantasy land. It really feels medieval here, especially when one is visiting the town’s numerous historic attractions, one of which is Cong Abbey - a site that dates back to the 12th century and the world-famous Ashford Castle which is also a five-star hotel, by the way. Here are more castles in the country that also pass as hotels .

It may look like an abandoned little village, but Cong has hotels, bars, and pubs, and it also offers opportunities for hiking and fishing.

• Where: County Mayo, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Cong: Cong Abbey, The Quiet Man Museum, Bridge between Galway and Mayo, Cross of Cong, Cong Love Tokens, Statue of John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, Monks Fishing Hut, Cong Nature Trail

Doolin, Clare

Doolin is one village that presents the incredible coastal scenery that Ireland is known for. Like a typical settlement in Ireland, this village is also lined up with several colorful buildings, and it is particularly famous for being a place to enjoy Irish traditional music. Doolin has restaurants, bars, and historical/natural attractions to keep visitors busy. It is also close to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, and activities one can do in the area include hiking and rock climbing.

• Where: County Clare, Ireland
• Places To Visit In Doolin: Doolin Cave, Burren Scenic Drive, Aillwee Caves, Cliffs of Moher, Doonagore Castle

Related: The Wild Atlantic Way: The Ultimate Irish West Coast Road Trip

Westport, County Mayo

Located in County Mayo, Westport is one of the most beautiful towns in Ireland characterized by streets lined up with beautifully colored buildings and surrounded by towering mountains and gorgeous trees. The town has picturesque beaches as well as charming lakes that add to its scenery.

When it comes to things to do, Westport has plenty of them . If one does not want to relax on the beaches or hike in the nearby mountains, one can wander the streets of the town and patronize the bars and restaurants in it. The town also has some historic attractions one can visit, some of which include - the old stone bridge and a house known as the Westport House, which is more than 200 years old.

• Places To Visit In Westport: Westport House & Gardens, Great Western Greenway, Croagh Patrick, Pirate Adventure Park

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Explore Ireland's islands

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The island's gorgeous coastline is dotted with offshore wonders

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Island-hopping around Ireland is a lot of fun. We’re talking fresh ferry rides with sea spray on your face, remote beaches all to yourself, a pint of Guinness in the sun outside a quaint pub, coastal cycles, puffin-watching, off-the-beaten-track mischief and craic! From the Causeway Coastal Route to County Dublin, we’ve rounded up ruggedly big, charmingly small and lesser-spotted island gems for you to explore.

So, hop aboard. Sailing conditions are pristine. Take that watch off as you’re heading for island time, where the hustle and bustle of everyday life recedes from view. Next stop: a cute little harbour on a beguilingly peaceful-looking offshore oasis where unforgettable experiences await. You’re an islander now – feels nice, right?

... there are few places in the world that can match the beauty of Ireland’s islands. Lonely Planet

Skellig Michael, County Kerry

10 unmissable island experiences

Add these bucket list essentials to your island-hopping itinerary!

Causeway Coast

Rathlin Island is by far the largest island off the coast of Northern Ireland, making it a good starting point in the region. Access to the island is via Rathlin Ferry which runs several times daily. Key sights to see are the Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre which is home to Northern Ireland’s largest seabird colony, and Rathlin West Light, the ONLY upside-down lighthouse on the island of Ireland! It has to be seen to be believed. Great walking trails criss-cross the island offering clifftop strolls and wanders through unspoiled heath land.

Elsewhere in Northern Ireland, day trips and overnight stays are available to the Copeland Islands off the coast of County Down via the Copeland Bird Observatory . This quiet retreat is an ideal place to relax and unwind in nature.

Dún Aonghasa, Inis Mór, Aran Islands, County Galway

Ireland’s islands quiz

From an upside-down lighthouse to a clifftop fort, test your knowledge of these wave-lashed havens.

Even in bustling Dublin, island adventures are close by. In Dublin Bay, spot local wildlife amid sand dunes and salt marshes on North Bull Island . Further north, scenic boat trips are available around Ireland’s Eye and postcard-perfect Howth. For day trips and overnight stays, go to Lambay Island , the largest island off the east coast which is amazingly home to a colony of wallabies! On Dublin’s south side, Dalkey Island is a popular kayaking spot. Keep an eye out for inquisitive seals and dolphins as you paddle along.

Further south along the east coast is County Wexford’s Saltee Islands . Although both islands – the Great and Little Saltee – are privately owned, day-trippers are welcome on the larger island which is one of Ireland’s premier bird sanctuaries. Gannets, gulls, guillemots, razorbills and colourful puffins are flock to the craggy sea cliffs here.

Keem Bay, Achill Island, County Mayo

Wild Atlantic Way

Choices abound when it comes to islands on the Wild Atlantic Way. Up in County Donegal, Tory Island is the most remote inhabited island in Ireland, lying some 12km offshore from the mainland. Take the Tory Ferry over for breathtaking scenery and tales of giants who forged the landscape. Down the coast in County Mayo, ever-popular Achill Island is buzzing thanks to its starring role in The Banshees of Inisherin . Nearby Clare Island is a quieter retreat.

County Galway’s Aran Islands  are one of our most famous groups of islands, thanks to their winning mix of rich culture, sandy beaches and ancient landmarks. Further south, County Kerry’s Blasket Islands  are another popular destination. Venture to the Great Blasket Island from Dingle to immerse yourself in rolling green fields, jagged sea cliffs and local wildlife – without another soul in sight! As for Skellig Michael , visit to see why this otherworldly pyramid-like rock was so at home on the big screen in Star Wars.

In County Cork, don’t miss Ireland’s only cable car trip which goes from the mainland to Dursey Island  as the Atlantic Ocean rages below. To sample island life for a few days, try Cape Clear Island which has cute self-catering cottages, friendly B&Bs and glamping sites.

Devenish Island, Lower Lough Erne, County Fermanagh

5 inland island gems

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Island hopping in Ireland

5 tales from Ireland’s islands

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The Aran Islands

Aran Islands

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The Skellig Islands-Na Scealga

Islands of Lough Erne

Great Ireland boat trips

Journey to the Blasket Islands

The Blasket Islands-Na Blascaodaí

Ireland's islands

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Dursey Island

It's a little difficult to reach, but this quirky island sure is worth the journey.

Toraigh (Tory Island)

Monastic marvels, nature havens and big screen features: welcome to the Skelligs.

Island Discovery - Inishbofin Ferry

Accommodation

Aran Islands Hotel

Blasket Islands Eco Marine Tours

A trip to Spike Island

Explore Ireland’s most notorious island…

Oxford Island

Scattery Island

Saltee Islands

Kayaking.ie

Ireland's Eye

Island Cottage Cookery School

Amidst the rugged landscape of this isolated island, you can let your mind wander and discover a tranquillity and beauty that is so unexpected.

The Aran Island Hotel is located off the West Coast of Ireland on Inis Mor, Aran Island. All bedrooms are spacious and beautifully appointed with a wide range of facilities. The ideal base to explore the unique spirit and traditions of Aran.

A walk on flat tarmac paths around Oxford Island Nature Reserve

The Saltee Islands are situated approximately 5km off the coast of Kilmore Quay County Wexford. The larger island, Great Saltee, is the most famous bird sanctuary in Ireland and is very popular with both day-trippers and birdwatchers alike.

Island Cottage Cookery School is located on Heir Island, a unique island that lies southwest of County Cork. They provide a range of cookery courses and also provide accommodation.

Ireland’s top 10 natural wonders

Jan 5, 2021 • 5 min read

Ireland is a country filled with incredible natural wonders © S-F / Shutterstock

Everything you’ve heard is true: Ireland is a stunner. Locals will argue over the must-sees, but you can't go wrong if you put the brooding loneliness of Connemara, the dramatic wildness of Donegal, the majestic cliffs of Moher and the celebrated Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland on your to-visit list. Here are the top 10 natural wonders of Ireland. 

Editor's note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government advice.

Giant’s Causeway

This spectacular rock formation – Northern Ireland 's only Unesco World Heritage site – is one of Ireland's most impressive and atmospheric landscape features, a vast expanse of regular, closely packed, hexagonal stone columns looking for all the world like the handiwork of giants. 

The phenomenon is explained in the Giant's Causeway Visitor Experience , housed in a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly building half-hidden in the hillside above the sea. Visiting the Giant's Causeway itself is free of charge but you pay to use the car park on a combined ticket with the visitor center; parking-only tickets aren't available.

Cliffs of Moher

In good visibility, the Cliffs of Moher (Aillte an Mothair, or Ailltreacha Mothair), located in western Clare, are staggeringly beautiful. The entirely vertical cliffs rise to a height of 214m (702ft), their edge abruptly falling away into a ceaselessly churning Atlantic.

In a progression of vast heads, the dark sandstone and siltstone strata march in a rigid formation. Views stretch to the Aran Islands and the hills of Connemara . Sunsets here see the sky turn a kaleidoscope of amber, amethyst, rose pink and deep garnet red.

One of Ireland's blockbuster sights, it includes a high-tech visitor center, a 19th-century lookout tower and a wealth of walking trails. Visiting by boat can bring the best views.

An astonishing sea stack that's lashed by foaming sea, Dun Briste is Mayo's top natural sight. Legend attests that St Patrick drove all the vipers from Ireland onto the stack on Downpatrick Head, leaving the mainland snake-free. Try to choose a clear day for a visit to amplify the visuals. You can drive most of the way up to the sea edge, but then you'll need to walk the last 400m (1312ft) or so. Dun Briste is 6km (3.7mi) northeast of Ballycastle.

The sea stack was shorn from the mainland in 1393 by a severe storm that left poor unfortunates stranded upon it (later rescued). Indeed, the remains of buildings survive on the stack to this day.

 A viewing area has been constructed by a huge blowhole set back slightly from the cliff edge. It has numerous plaques detailing the history and folklore of the area. During storms, seawater is dramatically blasted through the blowhole.

Sliabh Liag 

The Cliffs of Moher get more publicity, but the cliffs of Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) in Southwestern Donegal are higher (and free). In fact, these spectacular sea cliffs are among the highest in Europe, plunging some 600m (1969ft) to the ceaselessly churning sea.

From Teelin, a road through the stark landscape leads to the lower car park (with hiking signs) beside a gate in the road; drive another 1.5km (0.93mi) to the upper car park (often full in summer) right beside the viewpoint (close the gate though).

Gap of Dunloe 

The Gap of Dunloe in the Killarney Region is a scenic valley squeezed between Purple Mountain and the eastern summits of MacGillicuddy's Reeks. In the summer, it can be a bottleneck crammed with coaches depositing crowds of day-trippers for one-hour pony-and-trap rides through the pass. Rather than joining the hordes, think about hiring a bike and cycling the route.

Carrauntoohil

Macgillycuddy's Reeks is Ireland's highest mountain range, and towering Carrauntoohil in the Killarney region is the country's highest summit, at 1040m (3412ft). There are several routes up, though even the most straightforward path requires good hillwalking and navigation skills, while others are serious scrambling or rock-climbing routes.

The Burren 

Stretching across northern Clare, the rocky, windswept Burren region is a unique striated lunar-like landscape of barren grey limestone that was shaped beneath ancient seas, then forced high and dry by a great geological cataclysm. It covers 250 sq km  (97 sq mi) of exposed limestone and is 560 sq km (216 sq mi) in total.

Wildflowers in spring give the Burren brilliant, if ephemeral, color amid its stark beauty. Villages throughout the region include the music hub of Doolin on the west coast, Kilfenora inland and charming Ballyvaughan in the north, on the shores of Galway Bay.

Lough Glencar Waterfall 

The poet WB Yeats is among those who've fallen for this 15m (49ft) tumbling torrent, set in the most beautiful area of Lough Glencar – it features in his poem The Stolen Child . There are astonishing views over the water, especially towards sunset; it's particularly impressive after heavy rain. There's a car park right at the foot of the hill.

Caves of Keash

Around 6km (3.7mi) southeast of Ballymote, these splendid limestone Caves of Keash high in Keshcorran Hill make for a fun expedition. You can park near the bottom at the fields at the foot of the slope and climb on up. It doesn't take long to reach the 16 caves, some of which are pretty deep, and afford excellent views over the countryside. Mind your step as it is steep and can be slippery after rain.

Located in the Wicklow Mountains , Lough Tay (also known as Guinness Lake) is backed by steep scree slopes descending from Luggala (Fancy Mountain). The picturesque valley is one of the areas most popular destinations and surrounded by spectacular countryside. 

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100 great restaurants and places to eat around Ireland this summer

Our writers have found the best restaurants and recommendations for dining in ireland.

Summer on a plate: some of the great places and food to eat around Ireland this year

There are always great expectations for summer – an outdoor table on a sunny day, a fish restaurant by the sea, a new place to explore, a casual place to hang out with friends, somewhere special for a celebration, and the classics, the places that never seem to go out of fashion.

Once again, we have searched the country for great summer restaurants, gleaned recommendations from seasoned travellers and diners, and prioritised newly opened restaurants (25 in total) to bring you a list that is fresh and interesting . It is impossible to include everyone, so do be sure to support all of your favourites, whether they’re on this list or not.

Reviews by Corinna Hardgrave and Joanne Cronin

25 NEW IRISH RESTAURANTS

At Allta it is about the grill as much as it is about Niall Davidson’s great way with pasta. Photograph Nick Bradshaw

1 Three Locks Square, Dublin 2. allta.ie

The barbecued rabbit with ricotta cavatelli is the not-to-miss dish at Allta’s stylish new home at Dublin’s Grand Canal docks. It is, of course, about the grill as much as it is about Niall Davidson’s great way with pasta and you’ll find skewers of squid and suckling pig with lardo, pork chops and hunks of beef from six-year-old ex-dairy cows cooked over a custom-built Rhys Allen levitation grill. It’s wonderful. CH

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Andhra Bhavan

85 marlborough street, dublin 1; 01-5518742, andhrabhavan.ie.

Several visits to Andhra Bhavan are required to experience the menu's full spectrum of variety

The bright blue exterior of Andhra Bhavan definitely catches the eye and the menu promises a tropical taste of southern India. Chef Venkata Manthri and team are cooking from morning to night, starting the day with a selection of dosas, idlis, vadas, peserattu and uttappams with cups of fragrant chai. From lunchtime, it steps up a gear, adding dishes such as rich biryanis, mixed thali platters and mutton fry. There’s so much variety on the menu that several visits are required to experience the full spectrum. JC

Henry Street, Kilrush, Co Clare; 085-1061083, beagfood.com

Every small town should have a cafe such as Beag. This charming spot occupies a historic corner house where the original shopfront windows and fittings have managed to survive. Locals are constantly passing through the doors for excellent Calendar coffees, pastries and some of the best golden toasted sandwiches going. The ham and cheese toastie features free-range McCarthy ham, fragrant with a touch of clove, Carbery cheese, béchamel and home-made relish, while vegans can try a roast chickpea version with carrot, tahini, pickled cabbage and fermented chilli. JC

Biang Biang

21 mary street little, dublin 7; 01-5588987, biangbiang.ie.

Thick, ribbony flat wheat noodles are hand-pulled before being cooked to order at Biang Biang

The kitchen team at newly opened Biang Biang have come all the way from Xi’an city in Shaanxi Province. And with them has come years of experience in making the region’s thick, ribbony flat wheat noodles that are hand pulled before being cooked to order. Other dishes from Xi’an such as roujiamo (aka Chinese burger), dumplings and cold noodle in sesame paste are also on offer. The pricing is affordable and the style is quick and casual. Be ready to slurp. JC

Main Street, Church Rd, Rathdown Lower, Greystones, Co Wicklow; 01-576 8999, caladh.ie

Caladh in Greystones, Co Wicklow, from the team behind the Pigeon House in nearby Delgany. Photograph: Laura Hutton

Peter Hannan’s salt-aged strip loin with pressed potato fries is clearly the star attraction at this smart new restaurant in Greystones from Brian Walsh and Paul Foley, the team behind the Pigeon House in Delgany. Skill in the kitchen is evident when it comes to cooking fish, which was halibut with grilled fennel, carrot purée and toasted hazelnuts when I visited. Pricing is pitched at posh neighbourhood levels. CH

22 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2; 01-531 2522, cellar22.ie

It sounds simple but when that charcuterie plate is loaded with home-made pâté en croute and numerous other bits it is the perfect bite to have with a friend for a catch-up. Photograph: Alan Betson

Who knew that an all-day menu that includes a large charcuterie plate and more than 30 wines by the glass was the thing we so desperately needed in Dublin? It sounds simple but when that charcuterie plate is loaded with home-made pâté en croute, rustic pâté de campagne, a velvety chicken liver pâté and numerous other bits it is the perfect bite to have with a friend for a catch-up. There is a top team in place here, led by sommelier Victor Nedelea, so watch out for the planned opening in June of the more formal restaurant upstairs. CH

Main Street, Durrus, Co Cork; 083-3011650, @centanni_durrus

Take a 10-minute spin from the seaside town of Bantry to the little village of Durrus, where you will find Emma and Chris’s buzzing pizzeria Cent’Anni. Already hugely popular with locals since opening, it’s bound to find some new fans during the busy summer months. Bright blue walls are decorated with wooden chopping boards, and the Neapolitan-style pizzas are real crowd-pleasers. Look out for the daily specials and enjoy a classic spritz for that real Mediterranean feel. JC

Church Lane

Church lane, midleton, co cork; 021-4621229, @churchlanemidleton.

Midleton town might have taken a beating in recent times, and while it has been down, it is most certainly not out. Look no further than Church Lane, the town’s newest gastropub, from brothers Colin and Barry Hennessy, together with experienced chef James Cullinane (ex-Cliff House). It’s got it all, with hearty Sunday roasts, refined evening plates, sharing steaks and a casual bar menu to enjoy alongside the live music. JC

Ichigo Ichi Bistro

5 fenns quay, sheares street, cork; 021-4279997, ichigoichie.ie.

Takashi Miyazaki makes soba noodles daily at Ichigo Ichie in Cork. Photograph: Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision

Six days a week, Takashi Miyazaki heads into his Cork city restaurant at 7am to make fresh soba for the day, these thin Japanese, buckwheat noodles now being his speciality. It is quite a change in style from the formality of his kaiseki restaurant which landed a Michelin star in 2018, six months after it opened. Now it’s all about donburi (rice dishes), hot and cold soba, and a few daily specials chalked up on a blackboard. It’s a popular evolution and the Michelin Guide promptly awarded it a Bib Gourmand. CH

Jean-Georges at The Leinster

7 mount street lower, dublin 2; 01-2336000, jean-georges.com.

Expect to pay a premium for the pricey fit out at The Leinster

Already a big hit with the D4 and south Co Dublin set, you’ll find caviar, shrimp salad, wild turbot, duck breast and steaks on the menu at Jean-Georges, the swanky restaurant in The Leinster hotel. A joint venture with mega chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, the day-to-day operation is run by Scottish chef Ross Bryans, who brings skill to the dishes he cooks. Expect to pay a premium for the pricey fit out. CH

South Great Georges St, Dublin 2; 01-9061008, kickys.ie

Kicky's will hit-you-over-the-head, full-throttle flavour. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw

Eric Matthews and Richie Barrett’s new restaurant burst on to the food scene when it opened at the end of last year with light bites, sharing plates, pasta, meat and fish cooked over a rip-roaring fire. It’s hit-you-over-the-head, full-throttle flavour with the potato focaccia with carbonara butter and Matthews’s Irish coffee take on a tiramisu being the must-order items. CH

Léa’s at the Glucksman

University college cork, western road, cork; 021-4901848, leasattheglucksman.com.

When the Glucksman Gallery opened in UCC in 2004 its limestone and cement design was a contrast to classic Gothic styling of the university. Over the years it has softened, easing into the landscape, and now the basement is home to Léa’s, a warm and vibrant brunch and daytime spot from the team behind Joe’s + Bros. Bright colours, Scandi-inspired delph and strong use of Cork producers all combine wonderfully here, and the garden terrace is a delight on sunny days. JC

42 Drury Street, Dublin 2; manipizza.ie

Mani is upping the stakes in the Dublin pizza wars. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw

The Dublin pizza wars notched up a level when the carbonara slice landed at Ciaran McGonagle’s Roman-style pizza shop. Made with a 72-hour cold fermented dough, Toonsbridge fior di latte, pancetta, guanciale, pecorino Romana, black pepper and free-range egg yolks, it is a thing of beauty. A spritz menu with new fritti has launched in time for summer and, with 35 outdoor seats, this is likely to be one of the buzziest places in town. CH

11 O’Connell Street, Waterford; 089-4259696, marawaterford.com

Luis Martin, chef and owner of Mara in Waterford. Photograph: Mary Browne

Spanish chef Luis Martin took over The Old Couch last year, changing the decor and food offering completely. In April he renamed it Mara, to celebrate their first birthday. He serves an intriguing €110, 11-course tasting menu which reverberates with global flavours. A wafer flower is filled with a cheesy foam and dotted with jalapeño gel, Ferran Adria style, warm mushroom jelly comes with an egg yolk encased in batter, and tiramisu is dusted with cep powder. CH

32 O’Connell Street, Sligo, Co Sligo; 071-9327112, ottopizza.ie

One of Sligo’s newest openings, Otto is owned by David Dunne and Paul Brennan, who enlisted the help of in-demand interior designer Laura Farrell to give Otto its sleek, modern wine-bar styling. There’s an enticing menu of bar snacks and small plates (Sligo Bay mussels with garlic and ‘nduja flatbread or local Lissadell oysters), but it’s hard to ignore the magnificent Florentine Valoriani pizza oven which turns out Neapolitan-influenced pizzas using a 48-hour proofed dough. JC

Sadler’s Bar & Restaurant

Cashel road, fethard, co tipperary; 062-30 699, sadlersfethard.ie.

Brunch, lunch and weekend dinner is on the menu at the newly opened Sadler’s Bar in the premises that was formerly home to Dooks Fine Foods. The team from Cashel Palace are behind the new menu, with the full Tipp breakfast and chorizo baked eggs featuring on the brunch menu, and chicken schnitzel, fish and chips and beef burgers on the menu later in the day. CH

3 Bath Place, Blackrock, Co Dublin; @september.dublin

Just a stone’s throw from the Blackrock seafront is where you’ll find newly opened September. Coming from the same team as Leroy’s food truck, who have built up a loyal following for their sandwiches, September is a cafe by day and a wine bar at night. The cafe serves breakfast and those famous sandwiches, while the wine bar has nibbles and a short, curated menu. The furniture is almost all antique and look out for the special touches such as the big communal table salvaged from a convent. JC

Fidelity Studio, 79 Queen Street, Dublin 7; 091-637530, fidelitybar.ie

Sweet Heart Egg with Oscietra Caviar at Sister 7. Photograph: Laura Hutton

Fidelity bar has had such an amazing first year that they’ve expanded, setting up their spacious new studio complete with a custom Hatchett Sounds sound system. Food here comes courtesy of Sister 7, a collaboration with the city’s favourite Asian eatery BigFan, so diners can expect dumplings, fresh bao, plus loads of sharing plates. Initially Studio will start with the same drinks menus of the original bar, but collaboration between Sister 7 and Whiplash beer is on the cards. JC

[  Sister 7 review: This is Dublin’s coolest new place – delicious, creative food in a great room  ]

45 Hogan Place, Dublin 2; 01-5154403, table45.ie

Ceviche and gambas al pil pil feature on the tapas menu as well as empanadas, croquetas and churros. Photograph: Alan Betson

The two Dans, Daniel Kavanagh and husband Daniel Rivera, see Table 45 as a community space. They have lived in the apartment upstairs for eight years and recently took over the lease of the pub. Ceviche and gambas al pil pil feature on the tapas menu as well as empanadas, croquetas and churros. There’s a full bar to the front and an impressive cocktail menu. You’re guaranteed to have a fun time in this great space. CH

Tacos Lupillo

53 sarsfield road, kilmainham, dublin 10; 083-1409327, @tacoslupillodublin.

Tacos Lupillo might be one of Dublin’s smallest eateries but it packs the punch of a Mexican luchador. Stand outside the pink door, the aromas of grilling meats says it all. The menu from chef and owner Jose Guadalupe Zamudio is simple, offering nachos, tacos, tortas or gringas with your choice of filling. But this is where the magic alchemy happens. Whether it is pineapple-marinated pastor, rich tender beef brisket, house-made Mexican chorizo or grilled vegetables, it’s all delicious and even better with a home-made horchata drink. JC

The Coach House

Main street, roundwood, co wicklow; 01-2336010, thecoachhouse.ie.

The Coachhouse, Roundwood, Co Wicklow. Photograph: Ben McCarthy

Be sure to book lunch at The Coach House when you are heading into the Wicklow hills for a summer’s walk. Luke Matthews is the head chef and what you get is hearty food, such as Tuscan bean soup, Rings Farm chicken and leek pie, bouillabaisse and wood-fired halibut. Its sister business, the Roundwood Stores bakery, is next door and is perfect for a more casual bite. CH

The Dunmore

196 lower rathmines road, dublin 6; 01-9695010, thedunmore.ie.

The Dunmore offers tastes of the sea fresh from the southeast. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw

Waterford siblings Clifden and Louise Foyle of The Strand Inn Hotel in Dunmore East delivered on their promise to bring freshly landed fish from the coast to Dublin, and made the smart move of putting chef Josef Cervenka (ex-Asador) behind the stove and the charcoal-burning oven. It’s a room made for celebrations and catch-ups with friends, and although there is nothing madly adventurous about the menu, the cooking is solid. CH

Upstairs at Connolly’s

The quay, kinvara, co galway; 091-637530.

The brightly painted village of Kinvara is definitely a place for a pint, some ceol and some craic. Connolly’s pub sits near the quay, with lots of outdoor seating available overlooking the water for those summer evening. Downstairs, there’s a casual pub menu available while upstairs, chef Jason O’Neill produces fresh, modern food, inspired by the history of Kinvara. Try Doonbeg crab and saffron arancini, followed by whole fish roasted on the bone with classic grapes, capers and lemon butter. JC

90 Terenure Road North, Terenure, Dublin 6W; 01-551 0231, yewtree.ie

Yew Tree is neighbourhood restaurant delivers on expectations. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill

Few neighbourhood restaurants deliver on expectations, as much forgiveness comes with the fact that “it’s just down the road”. Yew Tree is an exception – without over-promising, Máire Ní Mhaolie and Geoff Carty have quietly crafted the sort of restaurant that seems to suit every moment, from a smart evening menu of tasty, well-priced small plates (some of which are quite big) to Sunday roasts and hearty sandwiches at lunchtime. It’s a smart operation that is getting a load of love from the neighbourhood and further afield. CH

[  Yew Tree review: Brilliant value at this under-the-radar neighbourhood restaurant  ]

Yves @ Brother Hubbard

29a ranelagh, dublin 6; 01-441 1112, brotherhubbard.ie.

Chefs David Gorgeart and Thibaud Boulant of Brother Hubbard, Ranelagh. Photograph: Tom Honan

If you’re looking for somewhere to go with a group of pals and want to keep a handle on the bill, the €37.50 feasting menu at the weekend evening pop-up in Brother Hubbard is your thing, with the added bonus of a BYOB policy. French dishes such as panisse, rillettes and pot au feu are typical on Thibaud Boulant and David Gorgeart’s tasty menu. CH

Restaurants by the water

Hake with mushy peas and tartar sauce from {…} And Chips. Photograph: Patrick Browne

{…} And Chips

Castle house, the quay, dungarvan, co waterford; 058-24498, andchips.ie.

When Eunice Power opened her upmarket chipper in her hometown of Dungarvan just over five years ago it set a new standard for fish and chips by the sea. Choose from fish suppers, fish burgers or fish tacos if you’re in a fishy mood, but there are also chicken and beef burgers and even a fish spice box. Best of all, Power sources as much produce as she can locally, including from a range of fishing boats from Cork and Waterford. JC

Blackrock Cottage

Blackrock house, salthill promenade, galway; 085-7826323, blackrockcottage.ie.

Watching the brave souls dive off the pier into the Atlantic from the promenade in Salthill will keep you occupied while you wait for a walk-in table at this hugely popular restaurant, although reservations are taken for dinner. Martin O’Donnell serves tasty dishes ranging from chowder and excellent burgers to roast lamb rump and Korean poke bowls. The raised outdoor seating area overlooking Galway Bay is the place to be on a sunny day. CH

By The Pier, Ballycotton, Co Cork; 021-4646768, cush.ie

Grilled turbot with tempura mussels, spinach, cauliflower puree and seaweed butter sauce at Cush. Photograph: Michael Mac Sweeney/Provision

The coastal drive to Ballycotton is quite stunning and so is the fish that lands on the plate at this Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant where Dan Guerin is head chef. The early bird menu is particularly good value, with two/three courses for €29.50/€34.50, but for a broader choice of fish opt for the a la carte which generally features scallops, John Dory and halibut. CH

The Fish Basket

Long strand, castlefreke, clonakilty, co cork; 023-8851716, thefishbasket.ie.

Peter and Elaine Shanahan started The Fish Basket as a food truck before taking up permanent residence at the very lovely Long Strand in Castlefreke. A talented baker, Elaine keeps the place stocked with tasty treats, and there’s a short breakfast menu available, but it is hard to beat the classic fish and chips, eaten outside, overlooking the golden sands. Opening hours and menus can vary so check social media for the latest. JC

Helen’s Bar

Kilmacalogue, co kerry; 064-6683104, helensbarkilmacalogue.com.

It is a little bit of a trek to find Helen’s Bar but when you crest the hill and see Kenmare Bay before you, ringed by mountains, with little boats rocking in the water, it is well worth the effort. Helen’s has built up a reputation for good value, a warm welcome and that fantastic view. Sit outside and enjoy the setting sun or have the craic indoors but, most of all, have the seafood. JC

King Sitric Seafood Bar

East pier, howth, co dublin; 01-8325235, kingsitric.ie.

Fish is cooked with a minimum of fuss and all of the dishes come in two sizes to encourage sharing. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill

Lobster with a choice of seven ways of eating it is one of the many reasons to visit Dec and Sue MacManus’s fish restaurant in Howth, as well as the fact that all of their fish comes from local boats. Fish is cooked with a minimum of fuss and all of the dishes come in two sizes to encourage sharing. Just add an outside table and a chilled bottle of Picpoul and you’re in heaven. CH

Linnane’s Lobster Bar

New quay, the burren, co clare; 065-7078120, linnanesbar.com.

On a fine summer’s day it is truly one of life’s little pleasures to take a seat outdoors at Linnane’s. Overlooking Flaggy Shore and Galway Bay, it is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers. Chef Alec Foster, formerly of Gregans Castle, is in charge of a kitchen that turns out classic Flaggy Shore oysters, grilled butterflied mackerel with taramasalata, hot seafood platters or sole on the bone with herb gnocchi and wild mushrooms, all served with lots of cheer and happiness. JC

64a Portstewart Road, Coleraine Marina, Coleraine, Co Derry; +44 78 28127739, nativeseafood.co.uk

The banks of the river Bann are going to be hopping this summer thanks to The Pool, the casual area that belongs to Rebekah and Stevie McCarry’s Lir. With live music, DJs and a daily changing seafood-based street food menu, it has got all the ingredients for fun summer sunsets. Back indoors, there are small plates and tasting menus, which showcase the incredible creativity for which Stevie has become renowned. Korean fried ray wings and smoked coley Scotch eggs are calling us northwards. JC

Shells Bakery Cafe

Seafront, strandhill, co sligo; 071-9122938, shellscafe.com.

No matter the weather, it’s always a good idea to pull up a seat at Shells. With the ocean waves crashing outside, it is a lovely place to stop for breakfast, coffee or lunch. The menu is a mix of tasty home bakes, salads and sandwiches, while dishes such as the Cape Malay flatbread or pork belly brunch pan catch the eye. Keep an eye out for occasional evening events, or walk into the adjoining room to find a fun selection of Irish arts, crafts, toys and food. JC

The Lifeboat Inn

Main street, courtmacsherry, co cork; 085-8696463, lifeboatinn.ie.

The Lifeboat Inn's food is smart but unfussy. Photograph: lifeboatinn.ie

David O’Halloran and Martin Buckley, aka “the lads from The Lifeboat”, have become a bit of a TikTok sensation charting the renovation of their Courtmacsherry pub which they bought in 2017. More recently, Martin has been treating us to cooking videos. The food is smart but unfussy, with locally landed fish and seafood a speciality in the summer months. The prime tables are across the road with views across the river Arigideen. CH

The Sea Rooms

Kelly’s resort hotel, rosslare, co wexford; 053-9173553, kellys.ie.

The Sea Rooms has live fire cooking and superb sea views.

Live fire cooking is fun and bold but requires skilful handling to harness the flavours into elegant dishes. Using a custom rig from Smokin’ Soul, chef Chris Fulham has masterfully perfected this balancing act, producing gorgeous plates that positively invite the diner to dive into dishes, such as lightly smoked cod with hay salt cauliflower with peas and pickled cucumber, or confit shiitake mushroom risotto accented with Timur pepper. Vegetables come from the hotel garden and the views are superb. JC

Restaurants with outside tables

Builín Blasta Cafe has a tented cover if the rain comes down

Builín Blasta Cafe, Bakery & Wine Bar

Unit 16 ceardlann craft village, spiddal, co galway; 091-558559, builinblasta.com.

With a stretch tent that seats up to 46 people, you don’t need to worry about the changeable Connemara weather when you dine al fresco here. Heather Connolly and Eimear Killian’s Builín Blasta is the all-day place to go for breakfast, lunch or an early dinner, with pancakes, toasties and dishes featuring their famous sauces lined up on their tasty casual menu. CH

Camus Farm Field Kitchen

Camus, clonakilty, co cork; 086-8263429, fieldkitchen.ie.

The front of house staff at Camus Farm Field Kitchen, near Clonakilty. Photograph: Andy Gibson

Set on the 12-hectare working organic Camus Farm outside Clonakilty, the Field Kitchen is where head chef Bob Cairns holds sway. On a fine day, meals are served outdoors, family style, at the cluster of shaded, wooden benches, which engenders a convivial feeling among diners. In line with the farm’s ethos of seasonality, sustainability and biodiversity, plates are vegetable forward, although the farm’s own Dexter beef does feature too. JC

1 Palace Street, Dublin 2; 01-6337215, chezmax.com

A hint of Paris in Dublin at Chez Max. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw

The summer months are when the outdoor dining areas at Chez Max, complete with Parisian-style chairs, truly come to life. This much-loved spot from owner Max de Laloubie is always buzzing with happy diners and has been serving French classics for nearly 20 years. Dig into moules marinières with piles of frites, classic warm goat’s cheese salad or even escargots de Bourgogne, sup on a glass of vin rouge and make believe for a little while that you’re in Paris. Très bien! JC

The Harbour Bar, Downings, Co Donegal, fiskseafoodbar.com

The food on Tony Davidson and Lina Reppert’s menu is simple, with dishes such as Donegal oysters with jalapeño granita. Photograph: Ellius Grace/The New York Times

It doesn’t get more glorious than an outside table at Fisk on a warm summer’s day in Donegal, looking out across Sheephaven Bay. But you need to be lucky as it is walk-in only, so you may have to wait for that table. The food on Tony Davidson and Lina Reppert’s menu is simple, with dishes such as Donegal oysters with jalapeño granita, Mulroy Bay mussels in ‘nduja sauce, and very tasty fish tacos. CH

22 Camden Street, Dublin 2. franksdublin.com

Frank’s has perfect summer wines for enjoying while perched outdoors. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw

When a restaurant is operating from a small space, you’d think that plonking a large communal counter right in the middle would be a bad idea. But at this wine bar and cave à manger on Camden Street, it doesn’t matter because the clean and precise modern cooking from David Bradshaw is just that good; while Katie Seward, one of Ireland’s best sommeliers, has the perfect summer wines for enjoying while perched outdoors on Camden Street. JC

Good Day Deli

Nano nagle place, douglas street, cork; 021-4322107, gooddaydeli.ie.

Breakfast and lunch dishes reflect Kristin’s home, with subtle south Pacific influences

Nano Nagle Place, a contemporary heritage site with a museum, bookshop and restaurant, feels like a secret, with its celestial gardens and scents of rosemary and lavender. Clare Condon and Kristin Makirere’s restaurant has an enviable south-facing patio, with extra seats on the lawn during the summer months. Breakfast and lunch dishes reflect Kristin’s home, with subtle south Pacific influences from New Zealand and the Cook Islands. A new addition is Nádúr Deli, a smaller cafe in the front plaza. CH

Grangecon Kitchen

Main street, grangecon, co wicklow; 087-7478863, grangeconkitchen.ie.

Grangecon Kitchen has house-made juices and food served under a large yurt-style tent. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw

Rose O’Toole, formerly of Misunderstood Heron and Aimsir, has joined Angela Papakonstantinou in the kitchen of this much-loved restaurant, where house-made juices and food are served under a large yurt-style tent. Brunch favourites include brioche French toast, buttermilk pancakes and Turkish eggs, with larger dishes such as cider-braised Crowe’s free range ham, mac and cheese, and chicken and leek pie also featuring. CH

An Tulach, Baile na hAbhann, Co na Gallimhe; 085-7566963, potacafe.com

Owner and chef of Pota Diarmuid Ó Mathúna has a sharp focus on seasonal and organic ingredients

Pota cafe is the type of place where you get enthusiastic about speaking Irish. Bilingual menus list out the daily specials, which is especially impressive when you consider Irish wasn’t a language originally meant for vegan meze or fish tacos. Owner and chef Diarmuid Ó Mathúna has a sharp focus on seasonal and organic ingredients. Classics such as potted crab and ham and cheese toasties are superb, especially when eaten outdoors in the sun. In a clever move, kids can order half-size portions. JC

L’Atitude 51

1 union quay, cork; 021-2390219, latitude51.ie.

L'Atitude 51 specialises in small plates and low intervention wines. Photograph: Joleen Cronin

Giant parasols cover the seating area by the river across the street from Beverley Matthews’s wine bar. It’s the perfect place to catch the last rays of sun on a summer evening. There is a global slant to the a la carte menu of small plates, which includes dishes such as pan-fried squid with crispy polenta and chorizo; Macroom burrata with roast tomato, and mussel and haddock croquettes. The low intervention wine list features more than 300 bottles, with 25 available by the glass. CH

Little Fish

Cleggan, co galway; 087-9603735, @littlefish_cafe.

Little Fish has a concise, well-priced menu

Tom Mullan and Eva Caulwell return to Cleggan this summer with additional tables outside their smart, simple restaurant. Fish and hand-cut chips, Killary mussels in a spiced coconut sauce, and crab nachos with tomatillo salsa are among the dishes that feature on their concise, well-priced menu. Vegetarians are also catered for with crispy tempura cauliflower tossed in their house buffalo sauce. CH

Pot Duggans

New road, ennistymon, co clare; 065-7072212, potduggans.com.

Outdoor dining is available at Pot Duggans

Ashley Gribben is back at Pot Duggans this summer with The Melting Pot series, a rotating collection of menus with everything from ramen and tacos to pasta and shawarma. There will also be top notch pizza from Brazilian pizzaiolo, Cristian Marcos. There is seating for 60 on the covered terrace. CH

Marsh’s Street, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny; 083-164 1967, @tabutapas

Rodrigo Gonzalez and Amanda Greer at Tãbú Tapas. Photograph: Dylan Vaughan.

Patio Tãbú is as good as it sounds, a wonderful, semi-covered outdoor terrace at Rodrigo Gonzalez’s vibrant restaurant, where global influences bring a real excitement to the food. Have a cocktail, tuck into padron peppers, ceviche, softshell crab bao buns, or opt for something more substantial such as fish and chips or a steak. CH

The Stables at Sheen Falls

Sheen falls lodge, kenmare, co kerry; 064-6641600, sheenfallslodge.ie.

When the sun shines in Kenmare, outdoor tables are snapped up in seconds. One of the best places to bag a table is The Stables restaurant at Sheen Falls Lodge, which has an incredible al fresco dining area. The food is bistro-style, with classics such as battered fish and chips and steaks. For a more fine dining experience, it is always a treat to eat Mark Treacy’s food in The Falls restaurant with its dramatic view of the river. CH

The Towers Bar and Restaurant

The quay, westport, co mayo; 098-24844, thetowersbar.com.

The Towers is a favourite with families

An absolute favourite with families for good reason, the sizeable beer garden at The Towers seats up to 200 people, serving Killary mussels, seafood chowder, fish and steaks. There are few better places to watch the sun go down over Clare Island. CH

Great places for casual dining

Calum Johnstown is the head baker at Arán Artisan Bakery. Photograph: Patrick Browne

8 Barrack Street, Kilkenny; 056-7756297, arankilkenny.ie

Bart Pawlukokjc and Nicole Server-Pawlukojc’s bakery and bistro really seems to be in top gear at the moment. They took Supreme Champion at the 2022 Blas na hÉireann awards and have never taken their feet off the pedal, while also seeming to have endless fun. The new summer brunch and evening menus pull together a gamut of influences, from Polish (Bart), Filipino (Nicole) and Japanese to Spanish, and pretty much everything in between. With unlimited coffee at breakfast, and a child and dog-friendly atmosphere, they’ve got all the bases covered. JC

Unit 2, Main Street, Adare, Co Limerick; 061-513133, cafelogradare.com

David and Petra Hayes are the owners of Cafe Lógr

Weekend brunch is special at David and Petra Hayes’s beautiful cafe in Adare, where regulars return for the French toast with Amarena cherries and pistachios, the Turkish eggs and the wild mushroom ragout with poached egg on sourdough toast. Get there early on a sunny day to ensure you get one of the outside tables. CH

Dash Burger

6-11 kevin street lower, dublin 2; 159 capel street, dublin 1; dashburger.ie.

Double smash burger from Dash Burger

Sometimes only a burger will hit the spot and when you find yourself in that kind of mood Barry Wallace’s Dash Burger is the place to go. After a burger tour in New York, where he met US burger legend George Motz, he went all in, creating thin, crustily seared, umami-rich burgers that are served double or triple, with juices oozing in soft potato buns. The current collaboration with Allta restaurant comes with the restaurant’s signature shiitake miso butter for extra decadence. JC

Upper Green Street, Dingle, Co Kerry; 087-6027866, thefishboxdingle.com

A firm Dingle favourite, the Fish Box has recently had a bit of a glow up and it is looking very good indeed. All the seafood used in the restaurant comes from the Flannery family’s own trawler, Cú Na Mara, and other produce is sourced from small artisan businesses. Check out their signature fish box, piled high with fresh-cut chips, battered fish and squid. Gluten-free options are also available and there’s a larger beer and wine selection available thanks to the new bar. JC

76 Benburb Street, Dublin 7; 01-5571473, fish-shop.ie

I will never tire of the confident simplicity of Fish Shop, where you can start with a glass of sherry and a gilda before moving on to a beautifully cooked piece of battered fish, with perhaps a Jura white from their incredible wine list. There are just 15 counter stools at this wonderful restaurant so booking in advance is advisable. CH

Sunny Row, Fethard on Sea, Co Wexford; gralinncafe.squarespace.com

Herby beans at Grálinn, Fethard on Sea

Dee Kelly and Matteo Griscti have started serving dinner at their charming, sea-adjacent cafe, where the focus is primarily on vegetarian food. During the day, brioche French toast comes with semi-dried blood orange wedges and pistachio mascarpone, and haricot beans are slow-cooked in a basil and cavolo nero sauce. Produce is top-tier, with sourdough from Seagull Bakery, eggs from Tinnock Farm and vegetables from McNally Farm. They now have 18 outdoor seats. CH

14 George’s Quay, Cork; 021-2290689, izz.ie

Warm breads, still puffy and pillowy, are perfect for enjoying scoops of creamy hummus spiked with pickles. Photograph: Michael Mac Sweeney/Provision

Even though Eman and Izz Alkarajeh have recently expanded their hugely popular Izz Cafe by taking over space from a neighbouring gelato parlour, it can still be challenging to get a table. That is because the Palestinian food here is exceptionally good, and Cork people know a good thing when they see it. Warm breads, still puffy and pillowy, are perfect for enjoying scoops of creamy hummus spiked with pickles, while baked manoosheh (flatbreads) are topped with halloumi, labneh with honey or spiced shredded chicken. JC

Little Acorn Café

Market square, baltinglass east, co wicklow; 059-645 1805, @littleacorncafe.

Little Acorn Café are now opening for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights

Years spent training under Alain and Michel Roux at their three Michelin-starred restaurant The Waterside Inn, in Maidenhead, is what underpins the focus on flavour in Maggie Roche’s delightful west Wicklow cafe. Fish tacos are piled high with tempura haddock, O’Neill’s bacon and Grá Arán sourdough is used for the BLT which comes with home-made crisps, and the pancakes are fluffy and generous. They are now opening for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. CH

Maison Gourmet

6 henry street, kenmare, co kerry; 064-6641857, maisongourmetkenmare.com.

Patrick and Emma Puech with their nephew (L-R) Giani Soulier and their sons Mael and Roman Puech, who run Maison Gourmet in Kenmare. Photograph: Valerie O'Sullivan

Emma and Patrick Puech’s charming daytime cafe is the place to head for breakfast or lunch in Kenmare. Croissants are made with French butter, the Croque Madame on pain de mie is a delicious sandwich with ham, cheese and béchamel with a fried egg on top, and the pastries are glorious. The bistro seats outside are the most coveted in town. CH

3 John’s Bridge, Kilkenny; 087-4025353, noininkilkenny.ie

Nóinín has a concise two-course menu, featuring dishes such as pollock tempura, lamb kofta tagine and Indonesian-style stir-fried rice

Sinéad Moclair worked in The Fumbally for three years, was the chef behind the Connemara pop-up Báidín and opened Nóinín in November 2022 with her sister Maeve. Walk-in by day, it is possible to book at the weekends when a short dinner menu features. It is a concise two-course menu, featuring dishes such as pollock tempura, lamb kofta tagine and Indonesian-style stir-fried rice topped with sambal oelek and a crispy fried egg. CH

30 Mallow Street, Limerick; 061-312657, riftcoffee.com

Dishes range from eggs Benedict and French toast to cornbread with chipotle butter and smoky bacon, arepas and birria tacos

Dalton Greene has expanded his cafe, where Venezuelan chef Emily Vasquez brings some of her cooking influences to breakfast, lunch and brunch. Dishes range from eggs Benedict and French toast to cornbread with chipotle butter and smoky bacon, arepas and birria tacos. It opens as a wine bar during the evening in the summer months, with low-intervention wines, small plates, oysters and cheeses. CH

Savoir Fare

Bridge street, westport, co mayo; 098-60095, @savoir_fare.

Seasonal pâté en croute and the Gala pie. Pork, onion and on the wild side pancetta force meat with hard-boiled egg through the centre. Photograph: Michael McLaughlin

You need to get in early if you are hoping to bag a lunchtime table in Alain Morice and Nuria Brisa’s daytime bistro and wine bar. It is a little pocket of France in Westport, with pâte en croute, Galway snails, roast organic chicken and bouillabaisse on the menu. There is an interesting selection of wines by the glass, including wonderful burgundies made by master of wine and Mayo local, Roisin Curley. CH

Strandfield

Ballymascanlon, dundalk, co louth; 042-9371856, strandfield.com.

Strandfield is charming and popular spot combines a florist, bakery, cafe and grocery, with inside and outside seating available

A meal with the kids, a coffee with friends or a pit stop while travelling, Strandfield is perfect for summer days. This charming and popular spot combines a florist, bakery, cafe and grocery, with inside and outside seating available. Breakfast dishes are made with eggs direct from the farm and the menu is a mix of flatbreads, tartines, salads, wood-fired pizzas and much more. When leaving, stock up with local bread, eggs, fruit and vegetables, cheese and fresh flowers. JC

The Grain Store

Killruddery house & gardens, southern cross road, killruddery, bray, co wicklow; 01-2863405, killruddery.com.

The Grain Store uses ingredients from the estate and local producers. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw

Killruddery is a gorgeous little microcosm just a short distance from Dublin city. Within the estate, there is so much to do and explore, including an excellent Saturday Farm market, but it is the food offerings that really shine. Go casual and quick with wood-fired pizzas from the Pizza Shed, or dine at the Grain Store where chef Niall O’Sullivan is cooking up a storm with ingredients from the estate and local producers. In the evening time, explore the menu with the four-course seasonal supper club. JC

Tango Street Food

Muckross road, killarney, co kerry; 064-6636986, tangostreetfood.com.

Argentinians Facundo Rodulfo and Pamela Neumann have made Killarney their home, and the town is all the richer for this decision. Rodulfo is a master of asado cooking, using his timber-fired parrilla grill to turn out sizzling gaucho dishes such as choripan, short ribs, skirt steak plus occasional specials of T-bone steak or traditional stuffed flank steak. If that wasn’t enough, Tango also produces empanadas, award-winning sourdough pizzas and delectable Argentinian sweet treats. JC

Great food stalls to try

Snappy Snappy in Letterfrack serve fresh crab on Japanese-style milk buns or on toasted sourdough

Snappy Snappy

Dooneen, letterfrack, co galway; @snappysnappycrab.

There are just two delicious choices at this food truck: fresh crab on house-made Japanese-style milk buns, or crab on toasted sourdough. Both dishes are €16.50 and come with a selection of sauces and almond-dressed green beans. Outdoor seating for 70 people is at picnic benches along the waterfront and surrounding grass areas and there is plenty of parking. Across the road is “Oifig an Fish”, a new casual restaurant that focuses on fish and seafood. CH

Dooncastle Seafood Trailer

Opposite kylemore house, lake shore, kylemore, connemara, co galway; @dooncastle_oysters.

There are a few picnic benches here, so this is a charming place to stop for a bite

You’ll find John Ward’s seafood trailer in the secluded location by the lake opposite Kylemore House, where he serves oysters and seafood cooked to order. There are a few picnic benches, so this is a charming place to stop for a bite. CH

Julia’s Lobster Truck

Glencolumbkille house, carron, co clare; 087-6167277, @juliaslobstertruck.

In the summer you’ll find Julia selling amazing seafood from her food truck, including oysters, barbecued lobster and grilled fish

Julia Hemingway trained at Leith’s School of Food and Wine and worked with Margot and Fergus Henderson’s The French House Dining Room in London before moving to Ireland to work as a private chef. In the summer you’ll find her selling amazing seafood from her food truck, including oysters, barbecued lobster, grilled fish and mussels and chips. Follow her on Instagram as the location changes. CH

Misunderstood Heron

Derrynacleigh, leenane, co galway; misunderstoodheron.com.

Dishes change regularly and could include mackerel with lemon, cream, chives and baby potatoes; langoustine curanto; curried lamb pasties and Killary Fjord mussels in home-made cholita sauce

Kim Young and Reinaldo Seco’s South American-inspired food truck on the edge of the Killary Fjord made it on to the pages of Lonely Planet as one of the most stunning locations in which to eat great food. Dishes change regularly and could include mackerel with lemon, cream, chives and baby potatoes; langoustine curanto; curried lamb pasties and Killary Fjord mussels in home-made cholita sauce. CH

Mushroom Butcher

90 south circular road, dublin 8; @mushroombutcher.

The Mushroom Butcher have incredible choice of mushroom-based takeaway food

Australian Mark Senn and his Lithuanian partner Ingrid Baceviciute took on the task of growing their own mushrooms in dark, humid conditions in a former retail unit in Portobello. They now run a food truck outside their operation on Saturdays, selling the most incredible line-up of mushroom-based takeaway food. The menu changes weekly and ranges from tacos, sushi and flatbreads to their famed mushroom fillet roll in a baguette. Be sure to order the creme brûlée doughnuts if they’re on. CH

Sumi’s Kitchen

Ryan’s pub, beggar’s bush, 115 haddington road, dublin 4; 083-3123848, @sumiskitchen_official.

I was not expecting to find a fantastic Maharashtrian food truck at the back of a pub car park but life has a habit of throwing happy curveballs. Started in 2023, Sumi’s Kitchen has built up a following in Dublin’s Indian community for their authentic, home-made dishes. There is a regular menu of street food classics such as vada pan or onion bhajis, but it is the changing daily specials that really entice. Check Instagram for dishes such as black pepper soya curry, fish thali or egg lababdar. JC

Places to eat with friends

David Devereaux and Anne Zagar of 51 Cornmarket, Cork. Photograph: Corinna Hardgrave

51 Cornmarket

51 cornmarket street, cork; 083-0102321, 51cornmarket.ie.

David Devereaux and Anne Zagar continue to evolve and grow their little spot on Cork’s historic Coal Quay. We might wonder what the shoppers of the original market would make of dishes such as grilled west Cork asparagus with scallops, hazelnut crumb and smoked butter hollandaise, or duck with funky black garlic, enjoyed with some excellent natural wines, but I think it’s fair to say that they would be ferociously proud of this Cork success. JC

Unit 1 Drury Street Car Park, Drury Street, Dublin 2; 01-5486255, amyaustin.ie

Amy Austin was recently awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand for dishes such as turbot rib with green Thai sauce and puffed rice. Photograph: Alan Betson

Originally a bit of a cheeky cowgirl, Amy Austin is maturing nicely into her groove. Chef Victor Lara’s seriously good food, along with wine on tap, fuels this bubble of brightness nestled into the concrete surroundings of the Drury Street car park. It was recently awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand for dishes such as turbot rib with green Thai sauce and puffed rice, grilled bone marrow with chimichurri or black bean tamales (reflecting Lara’s Mexican origins). JC

Daróg Wine Bar

56 dominick street lower, galway; 091-565813, darogwinebar.com.

Daróg Wine Bar has a skilfully selected wine list and the food is at a serious level. Photograph: Joe O'Shaughnessy

Zsolt Lukács, the former sommelier at Aniar, and his wife, Edel McMahon-Lukács are the team behind this wonderful wine bar. The wine list is skilfully selected and the food is at a serious level. Attila Galambos, formerly of Aniar and Lignum, heads up the kitchen. Line caught mackerel is lightly cured, flashed over charcoal and served with a crème fraîche sauce jewelled with fennel oil; seared scallops in a ponzu sauce come with tiny cubes of daikon and leeks, and the most wonderful dessert, coffee cream caramel, is encircled with candied pumpkin seeds. It is a delight. CH

Muckross Road, Killarney, Co Kerry; 064-6630766, harrowkillarney.com

The eye-catching elegant dark green exterior of Harrow is a good indicator of the smart, upmarket style of food cooked by head chef John O’Leary, formerly of Adare Manor, the Killarney Park hotel and Pichet. Marble-topped tables are host to a brasserie-style menu that features local and Irish produce in dishes such as lobster bisque, the signature lamb wellington and firecracker scotch eggs. There is a smart bar shaking up original cocktails and you might even see a visiting celebrity or two. JC

House of Plates

Upper chapel street, castlebar, co mayo; 094-9250742, houseofplates.ie.

Galway goat’s cheese with beetroot meringue, miso-glazed tofu with charred sweetheart cabbage, and Calvey’s Achill mountain lamb with Velvet Cloud sheep’s yoghurt are just some of the dishes you are likely to encounter on the menu at Barry Ralph’s Castlebar restaurant. Prices are reasonable, with the set menu on Thursday to Sunday coming in at two/three courses for €48/€54. CH

7-9 Rathgar Road, Rathmines, Dublin 6; 01-5585969, lotties.ie

Lottie’s is an all-rounder and is a sleek, chic spot for dinner with friends

Lottie’s is very good at getting the flavours right. Whether it is lamb rump with wild garlic and ras el hanout salsa or Andarl Farm pork chop with pepperonata, it is clear that chef Tudorel Ostache has been given room to have fun in the kitchen. Lottie’s is an all-rounder; a sleek, chic spot for dinner with friends, Sunday roasts with the family (enlivened with the help of the Sunday €10 BOYB corkage) or drinks upstairs in the gorgeous terrace area. JC

Neighbourhood

1 north main street, naas, co kildare; 045-954466, neighbourhoodnaas.com.

Bone marrow served with flatbread at Neighbourhood in Naas

Neighbourhood has some serious intentions. Plates are made by Fermoyle Pottery, tables are hand made by Waterford Wood and they’ve just launched their Thursday Steak Night. Over the course of eight weeks, all parts of a directly sourced Tipperary-bred Black Angus heifer will be used, starting with steaks on Thursdays, burgers for the bar and, lastly, the offcuts for sauces, starters and staff food. Start or finish the night with a cocktail in their new upstairs bar or outdoor area. JC

26 Fenian Street, Dublin 2; 01-2447344, notedublin.com

Essa Fakhry’s cooking is truly one of the hottest tickets in town right now. His clean, modern style delivers plates that may look simple but result in joyous flavour combinations. Think gnocchi with Gorgonzola fondue and radicchio or crab piled high on a crumpet with sea urchin espuma, all paired with creative cocktails and a wine list heavily leaning towards organic and natural. The three-course lunch for €32 is simply superb value. JC

O’Mahony’s of Watergrasshill

Main street, watergrasshill, co cork; 086-8316879, omahonysofwatergrasshill.com.

John Coleman, Sean Moran, Máire O'Mahony and Victor Murphy, O’Mahony’s of Watergrasshill

O’Mahony’s pub has been serving the people of Watergrasshill for 200 years but when Máire O’Mahony and partner Victor Murphy took charge they kicked it up a notch. This warm and friendly spot serves up a changing range of dishes that you just want to enjoy with friends. Start with local Rossmore oysters, then enjoy bacon and cheese croquettes or risotto with sautéed Kilbrack leeks, along with a selection from their excellent cocktail, wine or beer listing. JC

Osteria Lucio

The malting tower, grand canal dock, clanwilliam terrace, dublin 2; 01-6624198, osterialucio.com.

The open kitchen in Ross Lewis’s much loved Italian restaurant has been renovated and Joshua Plunkett has joined the crew as head chef. The best way to work through this menu is by sharing, starting with antipasti, followed by pasta, pizza and suckling pig shoulder al forno. Okay, that’s a lot of food, so be sure to come with friends. Sit on the outside terrace for extra summer vibes. CH

Rúibín Bar & Restaurant

1-3 dock road, galway; 091-399200, ruibin.ie.

Love and lemons cocktail at Ruibin, Galway

There are three different menus at Alice Jary and Richard Kennan’s handsome restaurant – lunch, dinner and a more casual bar menu downstairs. Dishes are led by local produce, with sea trout and cider braised pork cheeks on the lunch menu and John Dory, monkfish and roast Skeaghanore duck featuring on the dinner menu. Booking is essential, although you may get lucky and get a stool at the bar where there are small plates, cocktails and 25 wines by glass. CH

Saint Francis Provisions

Short quay, kinsale, co cork; 083-0168652, saintfrancisprovisions.squarespace.com.

Barbara Nealon and Rebeca Recarey Sanchez, St Francis Provisions, Kinsale. Phootograph: John Allen

Barbara Nealon’s buzzing little Kinsale spot has kicked off an innovative series of Sommwich Sundays, where guest chefs and sommeliers are invited in to create incredible sandwiches, paired with fun wines. This electric energy permeates all aspects of SFP, where chef Rebeca Recarey Sanchez turns out magical dishes such as red mullet crudo, potted Courtmacsherry shrimp and her incredible torrijas served with rhubarb creme anglaise. JC

Solas Tapas

Unit 1 strand street, dingle, co kerry; 087-9932116, solastapas.com.

Solas Tapas: Spanish and international slant to Irish produce

Nicky Foley landed a Michelin Bib Gourmand for his tapas restaurant in Dingle, which brings a Spanish and international slant to Irish produce. Realt Na Mara rock oysters come with sea trout caviar and yuzu; scallop ceviche is dressed with apple, ginger and smoked pineapple tartare; and octopus tempura is served with kimchi dressing. CH

5-23 Hill Street, Belfast, Co Antrim; +44 28-90434310, waterman.restaurant

Waterman: set menu luch is good value

This light-filled room which looks out on to a pedestrianised street is one of the loveliest places in Belfast to catch up with friends. The set menu at lunchtime of two/three courses for £18.50/£22.50 is particularly good value, so it is no surprise that they landed a Michelin Bib Gourmand. The a la carte menu has plenty of choice if you want to explore further, all seasonally led dishes cooked with flare. CH

Special occasion restaurants

Sophie and Robbie McCauley of Homestead Cottage. Photograph: Brian Arthur

Homestead Cottage

Luogh north, doolin, co clare; 065-6794133, homesteadcottagedoolin.com.

It is not every day that a little traditional, stone-walled Irish cottage perched on the very west of Ireland is blessed with a Michelin star but when you taste the precise cooking of Robbie McCauley, with its use of local ingredients, you will understand why. He and his wife Sophie have transformed this former cafe into something that is both deeply rooted in the past and firmly modern. McCauley works closely with local producers as well as farmers to bring sustainable, traditional Burren outwintered beef to the table. JC

10 Main Street, Abbeyleix, Co Laois; 057-8757749, bramleyabbeyleix.com

Bramley: Simple Supper menu on Wednesdays and Thursdays is superb value

Since Sam and Emily Moody opened Bramley last year, this elegant neighbourhood restaurant has continued to develop. Maybe it is Sam’s pedigree (ex-Ballyfin Demesne) or the beautifully refurbished dining area, or the careful use of local produce, but there is something magical and calming about Bramley. The more casual lunch menu or the Simple Supper on Wednesday and Thursday are superb value and dinner really kicks up a gear with a la carte and tasting menus. JC

Dede at The Customs House

Baltimore, co cork; 028-48248, customshousebaltimore.com.

It has been more than four years since Ahmet Dede and Maria Archer teamed up to open Dede at The Customs House. Described as a Turk with a west Cork heart, Ahmet’s delectable fusion cuisine, which adeptly weaves beguiling Turkish flavours with the best of Irish produce, has garnered two Michelin stars. This year there is a new prep kitchen in the garden which will be used for cooking demonstrations, classes and private dining. Finish your night out with a pint around the corner overlooking the harbour. JC

Olde Glen Bar & Restaurant

Glen village, carrigart, co donegal; 083-1585777, oldeglen.ie.

It was a sad day for Dublin when chef Ciarán Sweeney left Forest & Marcy to return to his native Donegal but what unrestrained joy he has bought to this little Donegal village. The most traditional of old Irish pubs opens up into a bright space, where Sweeney uniquely defines modern Irish cooking with dishes that satisfy locals and tourists alike. Enjoy fermented potato bread or roast Mulroy Bay scallops followed by glazed wild Atlantic cod or market fish from Greencastle. JC

The Blue Haven Hotel, 2-4 Pearse Street, Kinsale, Co Cork; 021-4772209, rare1784.ie

Meeran Manzoor, executive head chef at Rare in Kinsale. Photograph: Miki Barlok

Over the past year or so the buzz about Rare has been steadily building, and it is justified. Chef Meeran Manzoor uses his Tamil Nadu heritage to skilfully elevate local produce with fragrant accents of the Indian subcontinent. The descriptions of the five and seven-course tasting menus might be minimal but the dishes, all served on local Kinsale Pottery delph, are most certainly not. Chicken chaat and fresh truffle or halibut with coconut anyone? JC

Restaurant Chestnut

Staball hill, ballydehob, co cork; 028-25766, restaurantchestnutwestcork.ie.

Elaine Fleming and Rob Krawczyk, owners of Restaurant Chestnut in Ballydehob. Photograph: Andy Gibson

Rob Krawczyk brings serious but restrained skill to his €149 tasting menu, which is centred on seasonal produce from Lisheen Greens and locally landed fish. He also offers a shorter four-course tasting menu at 6pm for €70 while, if you are looking for something less formal, book a table in the casual dining space upstairs where tasty small plates range from €6-€20. CH

Beach House

Turkey road, tramore, co waterford; 051-338270, beachhousetramore.ie.

Peter Hogan and Jumoke Akintola, owners of Beach House. Photograph: Patrick Browne

Co-owner Jumoke Akintola is the creative mind behind the ever-changing seafood menus here that shine with bright simplicity and confidence. Located in a Victorian town house in Tramore, Beach House is open for lunch Thursday to Sundays and for dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings. Enjoy your meal surrounded by bottles from the well-chosen wine list, designed to accompany dishes such as Woodstown Bay oysters, Boatstrand lobster mayonnaise or sole with brown butter. Just ask for a recommendation. JC

The Dining Room at Gregans Castle

Ballyvaughan, Co Clare; 065-7077005, gregans.ie

The elegant and cosily eclectic Gregans Castle has a new head chef in the form of Jonathan Farrell, formerly of Michelin-starred Bastible. An overnight stay is recommended to take full advantage of Farrell’s seasonal, deft dishes which draw from the castle’s new fruit and vegetable garden and on items skilfully foraged by Farrell himself, and accompanied by an excellent wine list. In coming months an outdoor dining area will be available in the garden, perfect for tranquil summer evenings in the Burren. JC

Classic Dining

Cured halibut at Goldie

128 Oliver Plunkett Street, Cork; 021-2398720, goldie.ie

Cork has the second-largest natural harbour in the world, so it makes sense that one of Ireland’s best seafood restaurants is right on its doorstep. Aishling Moore’s whole fish cookery means nothing is wasted and Goldie shines like a beacon in the south. Humble pollock is elevated with jalapeño and blood orange, while pan roast cod comes with curry leaf noisette. The renovated upstairs diningroom can be booked for private dining, and now we can all try Moore’s recipes at home thanks to her first cookbook, Whole Catch. JC

22 Sea Road, Galway; 091-526003, kairestaurant.ie

New Zealander Jess Murphy and her husband Dave opened Kai restaurant in 2011. The approach is casual during the day, offering a simple revolving lunch menu, and in the evening there’s a more serious restaurant vibe. Dinner could include Connemara crab with kohlrabi and roe, Connemara lamb with asparagus, and agnolotti del plin with Connemara surf clams. Their Michelin green star reflects their sustainable approach, building on the circular economy. CH

La Fougère at Knockranny House Hotel

Knockranny, westport, co mayo; 098-28600, knockrannyhousehotel.ie.

La Fougère: meticulous attention to detail

Seamus Commons worked as Derry Clarke’s head chef in L’Ecrivain during the period when it first landed its Michelin star. That meticulous attention to detail and ability to get the balance just right has stayed with him and you see it in his classically based dishes in Knockranny’s La Fougère restaurant, where he has headed up the kitchen for many years. He has a magical way with fish and in the colder months game season is always a treat. CH

16 Lancaster Quay, Cork; 021-4277939, paradiso.restaurant

Denis Cotter, owner and executive chef of Paradiso in Cork. Photograph: Ruth Calder-Potts

For 30 years Denis Cotter’s Paradiso has led the charge for vegetarian cooking, inspiring many disciples across the globe but never bettered. Chef Miguel Frutos now heads up the kitchen, producing dishes that maintain the Paradiso vibe but also reflect current tastes, such as carrot escabeche with buffalo labneh and pickled fennel. Paradiso works closely with main vegetable supplier Gortnanain Farm to reflect seasonality, and the all natural wine list perfectly maintains the ethos started all those years ago. JC

The Tannery

10 quay street, dungarvan, co waterford; 058-45420, tannery.ie.

Máire Flynn of The Tannery. Photograph: Patrick Browne

Very much a family run restaurant, you are likely to see the next generation, Paul and Máire Flynn’s two girls, helping out with the service if you visit The Tannery during the holidays. You can go a la carte or opt for the set menus which are always good value – the early bird is €40, the dinner menu is €68 and Sunday lunch is €39. If you want something more casual, there are small plates chalked on the blackboard in the wine bar downstairs. CH

Vaughan’s Anchor Inn

Liscannor, co clare; 065-7081548, vaughans.ie.

A multigenerational family story, you will find James Vaughan heading up the kitchen in Liscannor, while his father Denis is head chef at Vaughan’s on the Pier in nearby Lahinch. Even their fish batter has pedigree, coming as it does from a 22-year-old sourdough starter. Seafood is landed daily and while the rollicking bowls of seafood chowder, classic fish and chips and perfectly cooked fish shine, there is also a wide range for all eaters. Stop at Spooneys on Lahinch pier afterwards for some ice cream. JC

Wine & Brine

59 main street, moira, co down; +44 28 92610500, wineandbrine.co.uk.

Chris and Davina McGowan’s spot is always worth a detour when travelling between Dublin and Belfast (doubly helped by the presence of Peter Hannan’s wonderful butcher shop). Since Chris returned to Northern Ireland in 2015, they have forged a style that is all their own, bringing a unique edge to his sharp classical execution using fabulous northern ingredients. Think twice baked three cheese soufflé, sesame prawn toast with Portavogie prawn crudo and squid à la Greque. JC

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This county is the best place to live ‘off-grid’ in Ireland, study reveals

Mayo topped the ranking due to its competitive property prices, land availability and best natural amenities..

A new study has ranked County Mayo as the best place to live off the grid in Ireland. 

The study examined a number of factors, including square meters per population, hours of sunlight, property prices, land availability, local produce markets, and the quality of natural amenities.

Mayo topped the ranking due to its competitive property prices and the large amount of land available per capita. It also boasted one of the best natural amenities scores in the study commissioned by Calor.

Leitrim ranked second due to its low property prices and land available per capita, while Kerry completed the top three thanks to its strong performance in the natural amenities and hours of sunlight categories. 

Donegal and Roscommon completed the top five, with Donegal scoring highly in natural amenities and property prices and Roscommon scoring highly in hours of sunlight and land available for sale. 

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The study noted that the true meaning of living off the grid means forgoing connections to public utilities such as sewers, water, and electrical lines. However, Calor said the study applies to the modern-day definition of living off the grid, which generally denotes a minimalist, efficient, and self-reliant lifestyle. 

On the other hand, Dublin unsurprisingly ranked as the worst place to live off the grid in Ireland . The Irish capital offers few opportunities for off-grid living due to its limited available land.

However, Calor noted that suburbs such as Malahide boast plenty of beaches and green spaces, making them viable destinations for off-grid living. 

Meath and Kildare, which both share a border with Dublin, also rank among the worst counties in Ireland for off-grid living due primarily to the high property prices in both counties. The study noted that there are viable off-grid destinations in both counties but added that they are located further afield from Dublin, including Kells and Trim.

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Money blog: Avocados 'laser-tattooed' in supermarket trial; Netflix users warned of scam

Lasers are being used to "tattoo" barcodes onto extra large avocados to replace stickers at Tesco. Read this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news below, and leave your thoughts in the comments box.

Friday 31 May 2024 21:00, UK

• First-time buyers urged to consider building societies over banks
• Netflix users warned of scam
• Avocados 'laser-tattooed' in supermarket trial
• Drivers unaware as Low Emission Zone fines go live in Scotland

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An investigation has been launched into whether the biggest banking merger since the financial crisis could harm competition.

The Competition and Markets Authority announced the inquiry into Nationwide's £2.9bn takeover of rival Virgin Money this morning.

The move would bring together the fifth and sixth largest retail lenders, creating a combined group with around 24.5 million customers and nearly 700 branches.

It would spell the end of the Virgin Money brand, with Nationwide planning to rebrand the business within six years.

The CMA has invited interested parties to give their views on the deal, as it considers whether it could "result in a substantial lessening of competition" in the market.

Nationwide struck the takeover agreement in March, and last week a clear majority of 89% of Virgin Money shareholders voted in favour, helping to clear the path to complete.

The government has sold £1.24bn of its shares in NatWest, accelerating the process of private ownership.

The Treasury's shareholding in the high street bank has fallen by approximately 3.5 percentage points to 22.5%.

NatWest, formerly Royal Bank of Scotland, received multibillion-pound bailouts during the 2008 financial crisis, leaving the government with an 84% stake.

The government has been selling down its stake in the lender, with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt planning to sell all of its interest in the bank by 2025 or 2026 should the Conservatives be re-elected.

There was supposed to be a public share sale this summer, allowing individuals, not just institutional investors, to purchase stock, but the plans have been shelved due to the election.

In recent years, the sell-off has become more rapid. In 2018, the government owned 62% of the group, but by December of last year that was down to just under 38%.

In March, that fell below 30%, meaning the government was no longer classed as a controlling shareholder in the lender.

Earlier this year, NatWest wrote to shareholders asking them to support an increase in the amount of stock the bank could buy back from the government in a year, from just under 5% to 15%.

The establishment of Great British Energy is among the last remnants of the "green prosperity plan" devised and championed by Ed Miliband, the shadow secretary of state for energy security and net zero, three years ago.

The former Labour leader's vision was to spend £28bn per year in the first five years of an incoming Labour government on decarbonising the UK economy.

However, as the current leader Sir Keir Starmer recognised, the issue was swiftly weaponised by the Conservatives because all the money - as Mr Miliband himself had made clear - would have been borrowed.

More importantly, the plan did not survive contact with Rachel Reeves, the shadow chancellor, who has made fiscal responsibility her priority.

The £28bn-a-year spending pledge was watered down in February this year to one of £23.7bn over the life of the next parliament.

A sizeable chunk of that will be on Great British Energy, described by Mr Miliband as "a new publicly owned clean power company", which Labour has said will be initially capitalised at £8.3bn.

And, instead of the money being borrowed, Labour is now saying "it will be funded by asking the big oil and gas companies to pay their fair share through a proper windfall tax".

Read on  here... 

Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee are joining Glasgow as cities with Low Emission Zones where motorists could face fines up to £480 if they don't comply.

The zones were introduced two years ago, but drivers were given a grace period before charges began.

In Dundee, the grace period ended today - in Edinburgh and Aberdeen it's tomorrow.

A non-compliant vehicle entering the zone can be charged £60, which doubles with each subsequent breach up to a maximum of £480.

If paid within 14 days, the initial fine will be halved to £30.

Despite the warning, only 55% of drivers in Scotland are confident they know where the zones are in operation, according to online marketplace Carwow.

Some 30% of Scottish motorists are not sure if they understand the rules and 24% are not sure if their vehicle is compliant.

"We therefore need to tackle the lack of understanding among motorists about Low Emission Zones in Scotland – where they are and which cars are compliant - because, without better knowledge, millions of drivers are at risk of being fined," said Sally Foote, chief commercial officer at Carwow.

The Low Emission Zones aim to discourage high-polluting vehicles from entering certain areas, just like those in English cities like Sheffield and Bristol.

Unlike English Clean Air Zones, Scottish LEZs apply to all types of vehicles except motorbikes and mopeds.

Non-compliant vehicles are not allowed into those zones whatsoever, unlike English LEZs, which apply a daily charge.

Ultra-low emission vehicles are automatically compliant, but others must conform to certain Euro emission ratings, which can be found in your V5C logbook - or you can check online.

Cars, vans, minibuses, taxis and private hire vehicles with a petrol engine must have at least a Euro 4 rating, while those with diesel engines should have a Euro 6.

Grants are available to people living within 20km of a LEZ who have no other choice but to sell or adapt their vehicles.

Hackers say they have stolen confidential information from all Santander staff and millions of customers, reports the BBC.

A gang going by the name of ShinyHunters posted an advert on a hacking forum claiming to be selling 30 million people's bank account details, six million account numbers and balances, 28 million credit card numbers and HR information for staff.

Earlier this month, the bank said data was accessed belonging to customers in Chile, Spain and Uruguay and all current Santander employees, but nothing that would allow transactions to take place.

As of March, Sandander as a whole employed more than 211,000 people and as of 30 June 2021, 20,900 employees worked for Santander UK.

Santander has declined to comment on the claims beyond a statement released on 14 May.

It read: "Certain information relating to customers of Santander Chile, Spain and Uruguay, as well as all current and some former Santander employees of the group had been accessed.

"No transactional data, nor any credentials that would allow transactions to take place on accounts are contained in the database, including online banking details and passwords. The bank's operations and systems are not affected, so customers can continue to transact securely.

"We apologise for the concern this will understandably cause and are proactively contacting affected customers and employees directly."

ShinyHunters have previously sold data stolen from AT&T and claim to be selling private data hacked from Ticketmaster, the BBC reported.

Lasers are being used to "tattoo" barcodes onto extra large avocados to replace stickers at a UK supermarket.

High-powered beams will draw the Tesco logo by removing a tiny section of the top layer of the skin in a trial designed to be environmentally friendly. 

The etching, directed by a computer program, takes a third of a second to mark an avocado, 70 million of which Tesco sells a year.

Customers at approximately 270 Tesco stores in southeast England will see the new avocados and – if feedback is positive – they will be rolled out across all stores.

Tesco said it could save nearly a million plastic stickers on its loose extra-large avocados, based on current sales information.

"We're really excited to hear customer feedback on our new laser-etched avocados, avoiding the need for a barcode sticker that can easily be forgotten and left on when recycling through household food waste," said Tesco avocado buyer Lisa Gilbey.

The trial also includes replacing the plastic tray packaging for two of its most popular avocado lines and moving to a cardboard container that is easier to recycle.

Westfalia Fruit, which supplies avocados to Tesco, said this could save more than 20 million pieces of plastic tray packaging from the twin-pack avocado alone, increasing up to 25 million pieces across the pre-packed range.

The laser-etched avocados will be in all stores taking part in the trial this weekend.

Income growth over the last 15 years has been the "worst in generations", according to a report.

Pay packets would be 24% higher for the average Briton if incomes had risen at the same rate since 2009-10 as they did prior, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) found.

Real average earnings this year are expected to be 4% higher than in 2019–20, but disposable incomes will be broadly unchanged due to higher mortgage payments, tax rises and falling employment, the IFS said.

"Although there has been a widespread slowdown in growth internationally since the financial crisis, the UK has fallen from being one of the fastest growers prior to the Great Recession, to one of the weakest performers," said Tom Waters, an author of the report and an associate director at IFS.

UK income growth lagged behind comparable nations between 2007 and 2019, coming 10th out of 14 countries analysed by the IFS.

At 6% growth, the UK was performing half as well as the US, and well below the 30% that could be expected in a similar time period pre-recession.

Germany outstripped the UK by some margin at 16% growth, while only France, Spain and Greece recorded a lower rate.

Between 2019 and 2023, UK incomes fell by 0.5%, the third worst growth among 12 countries for which there was available data.

"Living standards have languished for more than a decade," said Mubin Haq, chief executive of the abrdn Financial Fairness Trust.

"On a range of measures, UK performance has been weak, especially in comparison to other wealthy countries. The danger is that stagnation becomes the new normal. 

"This is in no one's interests and stunts too many futures and too many lives."

Netflix subscribers are being urged to be wary of suspicious emails or texts claiming to be from the streaming giant.

Customers have reported being contacted by scammers claiming to be Netflix, asking for payments or stating there are problems with their account. 

Under no circumstances should links be clicked on in any suspicious-looking messages, consumers have been warned. 

Recent figures cited by Birmingham Live showed victims of scams lost £1,730 on average, with around half saying they were left feeling angry with themselves or "stupid".

Netflix issued a message to millions of its customers: "If you get an email or text message (SMS) asking for your Netflix account email, phone, password, or payment method it probably didn't come from Netflix.

"We'll never ask for payment through a third party vendor or website. 

"If the text or email links to a URL that you don't recognise, don't tap or click it. If you did already, do not enter any information on the website that opened.

"Scammers can't get information from you unless you give it to them. So don't click any links in the messages or reply to them."

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

JD Sports is one of the big losers on the stock market this morning after its shares plunged more than 12% in early UK trading.

It comes after the sportswear retailer released its results for the year to January on Friday - and revealed it had suffered an 8% drop in pre-tax profits.

Revenues also dropped by 8.3% to £3.51bn over the 12 months - but its organic sales grew by 9%.

Despite the figures, the chain's chief executive Regis Schultz hailed the company's "strong" performance in what he described as a "challenging market".

In other markets news, the government has sold £1.24bn of its shares in NatWest.

The Treasury's stake in the high street staple has fallen by around 3.5 percentage points to 22.5% as a result of the move.

The bank received several multibillion-pound bailouts during the 2008/09 financial crisis and is being gradually returned to private ownership.

However, a public share sale planned for this summer has been postponed because of the upcoming general election - as Sky News revealed last week.

Overall, there's little change on the FTSE 100 this Friday morning.

It's down 0.3% as investors await inflation news in the US and Europe which could impact on potential interest rate cuts.

On the currency markets, £1 buys $1.27 US or €1.17 - similar to yesterday's rates.

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