Best Things to do in Ireland

Introduction : 60 Best Things to Do in Ireland

Hey there, fellow wanderluster! Planning a trip to the Emerald Isle? You’re in for a treat! Ireland may be small, but it packs a mighty punch when it comes to unforgettable experiences. From ancient castles to lively pubs, breathtaking landscapes to charming villages, this magical island offers something for everyone.

I’ve put together this ultimate guide to the 60 best things to do in Ireland to help you make the most of your Irish adventure. So grab a cup of tea (or maybe a pint of Guinness?), and let’s dive into the very best experiences this incredible island has to offer!

Natural Wonders and Landscapes

1. Stand in Awe at the Cliffs of Moher

These dramatic sea cliffs in County Clare rise 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and stretch for nearly 8 miles. The views are absolutely jaw-dropping, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Aran Islands. Ever wondered what it feels like to stand at the edge of the world? This is about as close as it gets!

2. Road Trip the Wild Atlantic Way

This 1,600-mile coastal route is one of the world’s most epic road trips. Winding along Ireland’s western coast from Donegal to Cork, it showcases some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. Pack some snacks, create a killer playlist, and prepare for the drive of a lifetime.

3. Explore Killarney National Park

Ireland’s first national park is a paradise of mountains, lakes, and woodland. Take a horse-drawn jaunting car through the park, hike to Torc Waterfall, or kayak on the lakes. The beauty here is the kind that makes you stop mid-step and just stare.

4. Discover the Giant’s Causeway

These hexagonal basalt columns in Northern Ireland were supposedly built by the giant Finn McCool. Science says they’re the result of ancient volcanic activity, but I think the giant story is way more fun! 🙂 Either way, they’re absolutely incredible to see in person.

5. Get Lost in the Wicklow Mountains

Just south of Dublin, these mountains offer stunning hiking trails, serene lakes, and the historic Glendalough monastic site. It’s no wonder they call Wicklow “The Garden of Ireland.”

6. Venture to Skellig Michael

This remote island off the Kerry coast features an ancient monastery perched atop a craggy peak. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and was featured in the recent Star Wars films. The boat journey is rough, and the 600-step climb is challenging, but trust me, it’s worth every bit of effort.

7. Wander the Burren

This unique limestone landscape in County Clare looks almost lunar with its cracked pavement and rare flora. It’s one of the most distinctive natural areas in Ireland, and botanists go crazy for the Arctic and Mediterranean plants that somehow coexist here.

8. Drive the Ring of Kerry

This scenic 111-mile circular route takes you through rugged coastline, charming villages, and medieval ruins. Take your time with this one – there’s a photo opportunity around literally every bend.

9. Marvel at Slieve League Cliffs

Less famous than the Cliffs of Moher but actually three times higher! These dramatic cliffs in Donegal offer spectacular views without the crowds. Bring sturdy shoes and a camera with plenty of memory.

10. Kayak Through Lough Hyne

Ireland’s first marine nature reserve is perfect for night kayaking, where bioluminescent plankton can light up the water. It’s like paddling through the stars – magical doesn’t even begin to describe it.

Historic Sites and Cultural Experiences

11. Tour the Rock of Cashel

This medieval complex in County Tipperary includes round towers, chapels, and a cathedral, all perched dramatically on a limestone outcrop. The history here is so thick you can practically feel it.

12. Kiss the Blarney Stone

Legend says that kissing this stone at Blarney Castle gives you the “gift of gab.” Yes, it’s touristy, but sometimes the classics are classics for a reason! FYI, you have to lean backward over a serious drop to reach it, so it’s not for the faint-hearted.

13. Step Back in Time at Newgrange

This prehistoric monument in County Meath is older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. During the winter solstice, sunlight floods the inner chamber in a spectacular display of ancient engineering.

14. Experience Traditional Irish Music in Doolin

This small village in County Clare is the traditional music capital of Ireland. Pop into any pub in the evening, and you’ll likely find locals playing heart-stirring tunes that have been passed down for generations.

15. Visit Trinity College and the Book of Kells

Walk the cobbled squares of Ireland’s oldest university and visit its magnificent library to see the Book of Kells, an incredibly detailed illuminated manuscript from around 800 AD. The Long Room library looks like something straight out of Harry Potter!

16. Explore Dublin Castle

Built in the early 13th century, this complex has served as a military fortress, prison, treasury, and court of law. Today, it hosts presidential inaugurations and state functions.

17. Tour the Rock of Dunamase

These dramatic ruins in County Laois offer a glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It’s less visited than other castle ruins, which means you often get the place to yourself.

18. Visit Kylemore Abbey

This Benedictine monastery in Connemara is set against a backdrop of mountains and reflected in a lake. With its Victorian walled garden and Gothic church, it’s like something from a fairy tale.

19. Wander Through Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

Experience life in Ireland as it was a century ago in this living history museum. The medieval banquets at the castle are touristy but genuinely fun.

20. Explore the Hill of Tara

Once the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, this ancient site in County Meath is steeped in mythology and offers panoramic views of the countryside. Standing there, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient ceremonies.

Urban Adventures

21. Take a Literary Pub Crawl in Dublin

Follow in the footsteps of Joyce, Yeats, and Beckett as actors lead you through Dublin’s historic pubs, performing works by these literary giants. It’s literature meets beer – what’s not to love?

22. Shop at the English Market in Cork

This covered food market dates back to 1788 and offers everything from traditional Irish foods to international delicacies. Come hungry and chat with the vendors – they often have the best stories!

23. Walk the Walls of Derry

The only completely intact walled city in Ireland, Derry’s 17th-century walls tell the story of a turbulent past. The guided tours here are absolutely worth it for the insight they provide.

24. Visit Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin

This former prison held many Irish revolutionaries and offers a powerful window into Ireland’s struggle for independence. It’s sobering but essential for understanding Irish history.

25. Explore the Titanic Belfast

This state-of-the-art museum tells the story of the ill-fated ship that was built in Belfast’s shipyards. The interactive exhibits are surprisingly moving, even if you’ve seen the movie a dozen times.

26. Stroll Through Galway’s Latin Quarter

With its colorful shopfronts, street performers, and lively pubs, this pedestrianized area captures the vibrant spirit of Galway. It’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon.

27. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin

Dating back to 1191, this is the largest church in Ireland and served as Jonathan Swift’s pulpit for many years. The architecture alone is worth the visit, but the history makes it unforgettable.

28. Shop on Grafton Street in Dublin

This pedestrian shopping street features street performers, cafes, and a mix of high-end and affordable shops. Even if you’re not a shopper, the people-watching is top-notch.

29. Take the Black Taxi Tour in Belfast

Learn about The Troubles from local drivers who lived through this turbulent period. These tours offer personal perspectives on the conflict and the peace process that followed.

30. Visit Cork City Gaol

This former prison has been restored to its 19th-century appearance and offers a glimpse into the harsh penal system of Victorian Ireland. The audio tour really brings the place to life.

Food and Drink Experiences

31. Tour the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin

Learn how Ireland’s famous stout is made and enjoy a perfect pint with a 360-degree view of Dublin from the Gravity Bar. Even if you’re not a beer drinker, the views alone are worth it!

32. Visit the Jameson Distillery

Whether in Dublin or Cork, these distillery tours offer insight into Irish whiskey production and, more importantly, generous tastings! The comparative tasting at the end is particularly eye-opening for whiskey novices.

33. Enjoy a Traditional Irish Breakfast

Start at least one day with this hearty meal of eggs, bacon, sausage, black and white pudding, mushrooms, tomatoes, beans, and soda bread. It’ll keep you fueled for hours of sightseeing!

34. Try Irish Seafood Chowder on the Coast

Each region has its own variation, typically served with brown bread. On a chilly day by the sea, there’s nothing more comforting or delicious.

35. Take a Food Tour in Kinsale

This colorful town in County Cork is known as Ireland’s gourmet capital. A guided food tour is the perfect way to sample the best local dishes and meet the passionate people behind them.

36. Enjoy a Session at a Traditional Irish Pub

There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere of an authentic Irish pub. Order a pint, chat with locals, and if you’re lucky, enjoy some impromptu traditional music. Some of my favorite memories in Ireland happened on random stools in dimly lit pubs.

37. Sample Irish Farmhouse Cheeses

Ireland’s artisanal cheese scene has exploded in recent years. Try Cashel Blue, Gubbeen, or Coolea, paired with some local chutney and crackers. Sheridan’s Cheesemongers shops are great places to start your dairy adventure.

38. Take a Cooking Class at Ballymaloe

This famous cookery school in East Cork offers short courses for visitors. Learn to make traditional Irish soda bread or master the art of cooking with local ingredients. The skills you’ll take home are the best souvenir!

39. Visit a Farmers’ Market

Towns across Ireland host weekly markets where you can sample local produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods. The atmosphere is always buzzing, and it’s a great way to interact with locals.

40. Try a Traditional Irish Stew

This hearty dish of lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions has been keeping Irish people warm for centuries. Each family has their own recipe, so try it in different places to find your favorite version.

Outdoor Activities and Adventures

41. Surf on the West Coast

Ireland’s Atlantic coast offers world-class surfing spots like Lahinch in Clare and Bundoran in Donegal. Don’t worry about the cold water – modern wetsuits make it surprisingly comfortable. Well, almost!

42. Cycle the Great Western Greenway

This 42-km off-road cycling trail in County Mayo follows the route of the old Westport to Achill railway line. The scenery is spectacular, and the flat terrain makes it accessible for most fitness levels.

43. Go Horse Riding on the Beach

Galloping along the sand with the wind in your hair is an exhilarating experience, especially on long, empty beaches like Streedagh in Sligo or Rossbeigh in Kerry. Even beginners can enjoy a gentle walk led by experienced guides.

44. Fish for Salmon and Trout

Ireland’s rivers and lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities. The River Moy in County Mayo is famous for its salmon runs, while the limestone lakes of the midlands are perfect for trout fishing. Just make sure to get the right permits!

45. Play a Round of Golf

Ireland is home to over 300 golf courses, including world-famous links courses like Royal County Down and Ballybunion. Even if you’re not a serious golfer, the spectacular settings make for an enjoyable day out. Just don’t expect to match the locals’ skill at navigating the wind!

46. Go Whale Watching off the South Coast

The waters off West Cork and Kerry are among Europe’s premier whale-watching destinations. Minke whales, fin whales, and humpbacks are regularly spotted, along with dolphins and porpoises. Seeing these massive creatures breach the surface never gets old.

47. Hike Diamond Hill in Connemara

This relatively easy 7-km loop offers some of the best views in Connemara National Park. On a clear day, you can see the Twelve Bens mountain range, Kylemore Abbey, and all the way to the Atlantic.

48. Kayak on the Shannon-Erne Waterway

This 63-km waterway connects Ireland’s two longest rivers through a series of canals, rivers, and lakes. Guided tours are available for beginners, while experienced kayakers can rent equipment and explore independently.

49. Try Coasteering on the Wild Atlantic Coast

This adventure activity combines rock climbing, cliff jumping, cave exploring, and swimming along rocky coastlines. It’s an adrenaline-pumping way to experience Ireland’s dramatic shoreline from a unique perspective.

50. Take a Seaweed Bath in Sligo

These traditional therapeutic baths have been used for generations to ease sore muscles and rejuvenate the skin. The combination of hot seawater and freshly harvested seaweed is surprisingly soothing after a day of exploring. Trust me, you’ll get over the initial weirdness pretty quickly!

Off the Beaten Path Gems

51. Visit the Skellig Ring

This lesser-known extension of the Ring of Kerry offers equally stunning scenery with a fraction of the tourists. The views of Skellig Michael from the mainland are worth the detour alone.

52. Explore Achill Island

Connected to the mainland by a bridge, this island off the coast of Mayo features dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and an abandoned village that tells the story of Ireland’s emigration history. The Keem Bay beach looks like it belongs in the Caribbean (minus the warm water, of course).

53. Discover the Copper Coast in Waterford

This UNESCO Global Geopark stretches for 25 km along Waterford’s coastline and showcases 460 million years of geological history. The dramatic scenery and quiet beaches make it perfect for a peaceful day out.

54. Visit Hook Lighthouse

One of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world, this 800-year-old tower in County Wexford offers guided tours and spectacular coastal views. The stormy day stories from the keeper’s quarters will give you goosebumps!

55. Explore the Beara Peninsula

Less visited than its neighbors (the Ring of Kerry and Dingle), this stunning peninsula that straddles Cork and Kerry offers rugged landscapes, colorful villages, and the adventurous Dursey Island cable car.

56. Visit the Irish Sky Garden

This crater-shaped garden designed by artist James Turrell in West Cork offers a unique perspective on the Irish sky. Lying on the central stone plinth and gazing up at the perfectly framed sky is a meditative experience unlike any other.

57. Tour the Marble Arch Caves

This spectacular natural underworld in County Fermanagh features underground rivers, waterfalls, and fascinating limestone formations. The boat trip through the cave system feels like journeying to the center of the earth.

58. Visit Slieve League Cultural Centre

Before heading to the famous cliffs, stop by this center to learn about the area’s rich cultural heritage, including ancient pilgrim paths and the tradition of weaving Donegal tweed.

59. Discover Spike Island

Once the world’s largest prison, this island in Cork Harbour is now accessible by ferry for tours of its star-shaped fort and former prison cells. It’s been called “Ireland’s Alcatraz,” but the history here spans much more than just its prison years.

60. Attend a Local Festival

From the Puck Fair in Kerry (where a wild goat is crowned king for three days) to the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, Ireland’s local celebrations offer authentic glimpses into Irish culture and traditions. Check local event calendars before your trip – there’s almost always something happening somewhere!

Final Thoughts

Ireland may be compact, but as you can see, it’s bursting with incredible experiences! Whether you’re drawn to ancient history, stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, or simply enjoying the craic with friendly locals, the Emerald Isle delivers in spades.

The best advice I can give? Don’t try to squeeze too much into your itinerary. Ireland’s winding roads and the temptation to stop at every amazing view means journeys often take longer than expected. And honestly, some of my favorite Irish memories came from unplanned detours and spontaneous pub conversations.

Have you been to Ireland before? Which of these experiences are you most excited about? Whatever you choose, I guarantee the warm Irish welcome and the stunning landscapes will have you planning your return trip before you’ve even left!

Slán go fóill (goodbye for now), and happy travels!