Ireland offers a lot of excitement for both outdoor and city lovers. Below are some of the most captivating sites in the country, many of which are culturally rewarding, breathtaking, or both.
10. Cliffs of Moher
he beautiful Cliffs of Moher.
The Cliffs of Moher are perhaps the most breathtaking part of Ireland’s rugged coastline. About 5 miles long and 700 feet above sea level, the majestic cliffs overlook the Atlantic Ocean. From the top of the cliff, you can see the Aran Islands, Twelve Pines and Galway Bay. It is one of the most visited landscapes in Ireland, attracting over 1 million people a year. The cool winds blowing from the Atlantic Ocean make the experience unforgettable at the top of the cliff.
9. Liège
The promenade in Cork, Ireland.
Cork is the second largest city in Ireland after Dublin. In its history, the city was both attacked by the Vikings and occupied by English forces. Much of the city was also burnt down in 1920 during the Irish Civil War. Today the city has been rebuilt and is an important tourist attraction. The worldwide known English market is famous for its sweets and agricultural products.
Six miles northwest of the city is Blarney Castle, famous for the Blarney Stone, which is said to offer the Irish “gab gift” to those who kiss it.
8. Killarney
Killarney National Park, Ireland.
The town of Killarney is located in the south west of Ireland. It is home to Killarney National Park, established in 1952. The 10,236-hectare park is home to a variety of bird, insect and fish species. Tourists can also visit the gardens of the Muckross house and the traditional farms where the famous Queen Victoria stayed in 1861. A trip to Killarney is not complete without getting on the “passenger cars” used to visit local sites.
7. Dublin
Dublin, the capital of Ireland.
Dublin is the capital of Ireland and is home to more than a third of the country’s population. The city has a laid back atmosphere that many visitors often notice, the city seems small, unlike other European cities. Art and literature lovers can visit the Book of Kells at Trinity College, founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. The Guinness Storehouse, as well as the pubs at Temple Bar, are must-haves for those seeking a unique nightlife experience. Historical cathedrals such as St. Patrick’s and Christ Church illustrate the religious beliefs of the Irish people.
6. Kilkenny
Kilkenny Castle in the evening.
The town of Kilkenny is on the bank of the River Nore in the south-east of Ireland. It is characterized by winding streets and Georgian houses. It is the most visited place in Ireland, in part because of the popular tourist attraction of Kilkenny Castle. The castle was built in the early 13th century, although the current castle has undergone significant renovations since its initial construction. Visitors who prefer outdoor activities can also visit Dunmore Cave, used by traders from the 12th century.
5. Galway
The cobbled streets of Galway.
Galway is located on the west coast of Ireland. The Aran Islands and the mountainous Connemara region are some of the best places to visit in Galway. Art shops and galleries fill the city, many of which are located along winding alleys and cobbled streets. The city atmosphere is often filled with live music. Visitors can also visit JF Kennedy Park, which houses the gates of the old city and its defending cannon. For those looking for music and festivals, the city hosts the Galway Arts Festival every year.
4. Bru Na Boinne
The megalithic tomb of Bru Na Boinne.
Boyne Valley Bru Na Boinne is a testament to Ireland’s history. It includes some of the oldest burial mounds and burial mounds in the world, three of which have been excavated and opened to the public. Tourists can visit the site by joining a formal tourist group organized in the Brú Na Bóinne visitor center. It is open all year round, although opening hours are longer in summer.
3. County Donegal
A lighthouse in County Donegal.
County Donegal is located in the “border region” in the northern part of the Republic of Ireland, on the border with Northern Ireland. The region offers various tourist attractions which attract around 174,000 foreign visitors and nearly 500,000 domestic tourists. Tourists visit the county to discover the beautiful beaches and magnificent outdoor landscapes. Main attractions include Mount Errigal, Carrickfinn Beach and Glenveagh National Park. In the fall, dozens of visitors visit the forests and parks of the Emerald Isle, areas that are experiencing an upsurge in birds and insects. Visitors can also experience local festivals and sporting events.
2. Waterford
Lismore Castle in Waterford.
Waterford is located in the south east of Ireland. It is the oldest city in the country with a history of more than X years. The city of Ireland boasts of a colorful past, notably the Vikings, the Norman Warriors and the Cromwellian siege of the 1000s. In recent years the city has worked to restore its historic properties, including the walls around the city. In the Waterford countryside is Lismore Castle, one of the most visited castles in Europe.
1. Sligo
Benbulbin in Sligo.
Sligo is a city in the west of Ireland, the second largest in the region behind Galway. There was a population of 20,000 in 2014. It is a fantastic base for those wishing to explore the western region of Ireland. Sligo is also close to the picturesque Dartry range, home to the famous Bebulben, often nicknamed “Ireland’s table mountain”. Besides the natural landscapes, the Sligo Abbey is another site of interest. Sligo also offers an arrangement of shopping possibilities and quaint guesthouses.