{"id":882343,"date":"2025-06-02T12:38:20","date_gmt":"2025-06-02T11:38:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/?p=882343"},"modified":"2025-10-08T16:40:04","modified_gmt":"2025-10-08T15:40:04","slug":"best-things-to-do-in-ireland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/best-things-to-do-in-ireland\/","title":{"rendered":"17 best things to do in Ireland"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When it comes to unmissable travel destinations, the Emerald Isle earns its name with every wild headland, misty valley, and music-filled pub. From coastal views to poetic history and natural wonders, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do. In this guide, we\u2019ve rounded up the 17 best things to do in Ireland\u2014from iconic landmarks to hidden gems\u2014so you can make your trip to Ireland<\/a> unforgettable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1. Stand in awe at the Cliffs of Moher<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

No list of the best things to do in Ireland would be complete without the Cliffs of Moher. Rising over 700 feet from the Atlantic Ocean, these cliffs are a marvel of natural drama and one of the Emerald Isle\u2019s most iconic sights. Stretching for nearly nine miles along the western coast of County Clare, the cliffs provide sweeping views over Galway Bay, the Aran Islands, and even as far as the Maumturk Mountains on a clear day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Walking the cliff path is an experience that stirs the soul. With every gust of wind and crash of waves below, you\u2019re reminded of nature\u2019s power and Ireland\u2019s rugged beauty. The visitor center<\/a> is built into the hillside and offers interactive exhibits that explain the region\u2019s unique geology, flora and fauna, and cultural significance. Don\u2019t forget to pause at O\u2019Brien\u2019s Tower, a 19th-century stone tower perched near the highest point. Visiting at sunset offers an unforgettable glow over the Atlantic, and during spring and summer, puffins and seabirds nest in the cliffside. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take a guided walk with a Local Specialist<\/em><\/strong> on Day 3 of the Irish Highlights tour<\/a>, learning about conservation efforts going on at the cliffs<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Trafalgar guests at the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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2. Discover the ancient secrets of Newgrange<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Nestled in the Boyne Valley, Newgrange<\/a> is not just one of Ireland\u2019s most important historical landmarks\u2014it\u2019s one of the most mysterious. This passage tomb dates back over 5,000 years, predating even the pyramids of Egypt. Circular in shape and lined with engraved kerbstones, Newgrange was built with incredible precision. On the morning of the winter solstice, a beam of sunlight travels down the narrow passageway, illuminating the burial chamber within. It\u2019s a moment that continues to captivate scientists, archaeologists, and spiritual seekers alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But Newgrange is more than just a tomb\u2014it\u2019s a window into a prehistoric society deeply connected to nature, astronomy, and ceremony. Surrounding sites like Knowth and Dowth are equally intriguing, forming a wider Neolithic complex that has earned UNESCO World Heritage <\/a>status. The lush surrounding landscape is dotted with other ancient monuments, from standing stones to early Christian ruins, which paint a picture of Ireland as a cradle of early civilization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Curious about more sites like this? Here are 12 fascinating sites to explore in Ireland\u2019s Ancient East<\/a><\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Newgrange,
Newgrange is a prehistoric monument in County Meath in Ireland. Image credit: Trafalgar.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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3. Drive the legendary Ring of Kerry<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Ring of Kerry<\/a> is one of Ireland\u2019s most scenic and celebrated drives, winding through 111 miles of dramatic coastline, mountains, lakes, and ancient ruins in County Kerry. This circular route starts and ends in the town of Killarney and takes visitors through charming towns like Kenmare, Sneem, Waterville, and Cahersiveen, each offering something unique\u2014from artisan shops to centuries-old churches and traditional pubs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Driving the Ring of Kerry feels like stepping into a living postcard. The route hugs the shoreline in parts, offering breathtaking coastal views, while inland stretches pass rolling green pastures dotted with grazing sheep and medieval ruins. A stop at Ladies View\u2014a scenic overlook so named because Queen Victoria\u2019s ladies-in-waiting once praised the spot\u2014gives you sweeping views of Killarney National Park below. Another highlight is Muckross House and Gardens<\/a>, a 19th-century mansion nestled within the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Ring also gives you access to lesser-known gems, such as the Skellig Ring and Valentia Island, home to the prehistoric Tetrapod Trackway and dramatic lighthouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Trafalgar guests at the Ring of Kerry. Image credit: Trafalgar<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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4. Explore the eerie beauty of Giant\u2019s Causeway<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Situated on the north coast of Northern Ireland, the Giant\u2019s Causeway<\/a> is a surreal landscape of hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity more than 60 million years ago. According to Irish mythology, it was built by the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill to cross the sea to Scotland – hence the name. There are over 40,000 interlocking stone columns here, most of them perfectly geometric. Walking along the cliff path or venturing down to the shore, you\u2019ll see formations with nicknames like the Chimney Stacks, the Wishing Chair, and the Organ Pipes. The surrounding cliffs are alive with seabirds, and the views out to sea are dramatic and ever-changing. The visitor center offers a deeper dive into the geological and mythical origins of the site, complete with interactive displays and storytelling. A visit here is a vivid reminder of how nature and legend intertwine on this island, making it one of the top natural wonders in Ireland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Trafalgar guest relaxing at Giant’s Causeway. Image credit: Trafalgar<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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\n 21 Northern Ireland language phrases to travel with <\/h2>\n <\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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5. Taste the world\u2019s freshest oysters in Galway<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Galway<\/a> is a city that effortlessly fuses Ireland\u2019s artistic energy with age-old traditions, and there\u2019s no better place to appreciate this than along the docks where Galway Bay\u2019s salty breeze meets the sounds of local musicians. Known for its rich culinary scene, Galway takes great pride in its oysters\u2014especially during the Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival<\/a>, one of the longest-running food festivals in the world. Here, you can sample fresh native oysters served with lemon, pepper, or just as they are\u2014perfectly briny and creamy. But it\u2019s not just about food, make sure to stroll along the Salthill Promenade for sweeping coastal views. Galway\u2019s energy is infectious: colourful shopfronts, street performers, and friendly locals make every corner of this west coast city a joy to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Galway<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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6. Visit the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Guinness Storehouse<\/a> isn\u2019t just a museum\u2014it\u2019s a multi-sensory deep dive into the story of one of the world\u2019s most iconic beers. Spread across seven floors in the heart of the St. James\u2019s Gate Brewery, the Storehouse brings the Guinness story to life with interactive exhibits on brewing, branding, and Irish history. You\u2019ll even learn how to pour the perfect pint with a certified \u201cGuinness Academy\u201d session.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

End your visit at the Gravity Bar, perched atop the building with 360-degree views of Dublin. Your visit gives an immersive way to connect with a drink that\u2019s inseparable from Ireland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Want to go deeper? Read our history of Ireland\u2019s national drink<\/a>.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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7. Step inside Kilmainham Gaol<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A visit to Kilmainham Gaol<\/a> is a sobering and unforgettable experience. Once home to political prisoners and revolutionaries, this former jail in Dublin offers a raw look at Ireland\u2019s struggle for independence. Walking through the stone corridors and empty cells, you can almost hear the echoes of Irish history\u2014most notably the 1916 Easter Rising, after which several leaders were imprisoned and executed here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The guided tours are led by passionate experts who share personal stories and context that deepen your understanding of Ireland\u2019s journey toward self-rule. The restored Victorian wing, with its haunting iron balconies and high windows, is a photographer\u2019s dream and a poignant reminder of the human cost of freedom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Kilmainham<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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8. Live like royalty in Ireland\u2019s castles<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There\u2019s something uniquely enchanting about staying in a grand castle, which is actually possible on the Castles and Manors tour<\/a>. For example, you’ll rest your head in The Lodge at Ashford Castle, a luxury country estate that blends modern comfort with centuries of heritage. From antique furnishings and four-poster beds to sprawling gardens and views over Lough Corrib, it\u2019s a chance to step into Ireland\u2019s aristocratic past\u2014without sacrificing an ounce of comfort. Later in your journey in the West of Ireland, you can visit the stately 18th-century Westport House where you\u2019ll enjoy a Traditional High Tea hosted by the Hughes family. Set in the elegant drawing room, you\u2019ll savor flavours like banoffee and Baileys, all while hearing stories about the home\u2019s history and its links to the legendary Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Ashford<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

READ MORE: The ultimate guide to the most beautiful castles in Ireland<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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9. Sail to the remote Skellig Michael<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Skellig Michael<\/a>, a craggy island off the coast of County Kerry, rises dramatically from the Atlantic and seems almost too mythical to be real. Once home to a group of ascetic monks, the 6th-century monastery clings to the island\u2019s steep cliffs and is reached only by climbing over 600 steps carved into the stone. The sense of isolation and spiritual dedication is palpable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent years, the island gained global fame as a filming location for the Star Wars sequels, but its true magic lies in its untouched, otherworldly feel. Only a handful of visitors are allowed each day during the summer season, making the journey not just scenic\u2014but sacred.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Skellig<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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10. Climb Carrauntoohil, Ireland\u2019s highest peak<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Adventure seekers, take note: Carrauntoohil, at 3,406 feet, is the tallest mountain in Ireland. Located in County Kerry within the MacGillycuddy\u2019s Reeks range, this climb is not for the faint-hearted but offers breathtaking rewards for those who take it on. The Devil\u2019s Ladder is the most popular (and aptly named) ascent route, though there are gentler options depending on experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the summit, you\u2019ll be treated to panoramic views of lakes, valleys, and green ridges that stretch toward the Atlantic. On clear days, the sense of vastness is humbling, and even in mist or drizzle, the atmosphere is pure Irish magic. Just be sure to bring proper hiking gear and check conditions before setting off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Carrauntoohil<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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11. Discover the mystique of the Aran Islands<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Just off the coast of Galway Bay lie the Aran Islands<\/a>: Inis M\u00f3r, Inis Me\u00e1in, and Inis O\u00edrr. These rocky outposts feel frozen in time, where horse-drawn carts are still common and Irish is often spoken as a first language. Stone walls crisscross the fields, and ancient forts like D\u00fan Aonghasa perch on cliff edges with dizzying views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Renting a bike is one of the best ways to explore these islands. You\u2019ll encounter thatched cottages, remote beaches, and sweeping views at every turn. It\u2019s the kind of place that strips away distractions and connects you with a simpler, more elemental way of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Aran<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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12. Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a rite of passage for many visitors to Ireland: climbing the narrow spiral staircase of Blarney Castle<\/a> to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. Said to bestow the \u201cgift of the gab\u201d on those brave enough to lean backwards over a gap in the battlements, the ritual is equal parts quirky and iconic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The castle itself is surrounded by lush gardens, including a Poison Garden and a magical Rock Close with ancient druidic stones. Whether you come for the legend or the landscape, Blarney Castle offers a fun, engaging stop for travelers of all ages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Blarney<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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13. Explore The Burren\u2019s strange beauty<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Burren<\/a> is like another planet\u2014an expanse of pale limestone slabs stretching across County Clare. Cracked and weathered over millennia, this karst landscape is dotted with rare wildflowers, prehistoric tombs, and deep caves. In spring, orchids and alpine plants bloom in the crevices, a vivid contrast to the grey rock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite its sparse appearance, the Burren has been inhabited for thousands of years. Poulnabrone Dolmen, a megalithic portal tomb, is a highlight, as are the remains of Celtic ring forts. Walking the Burren is meditative, quiet, and deeply humbling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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14. Experience a trad session in a traditional pu<\/strong>b<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

No trip to Ireland is complete without an evening spent in a cozy pub, surrounded by locals, a fire crackling, and live traditional music echoing off the walls. Whether in a big city like Dublin or a quiet town in the west, a good trad session is an invitation into the soul of Irish culture. Fiddles, bodhr\u00e1ns, flutes, and banjos weave stories of joy, sorrow, and celebration, often accompanied by spontaneous singing or even a bit of dancing. Order a pint, settle in, and prepare to lose track of time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Britain and Ireland Grandeur tour<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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17. Walk part of the Wicklow Way<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Wicklow Way offers a peaceful escape just south of Dublin. This 80-mile walking trail winds through misty valleys, forests, and the Wicklow Mountains, offering breathtaking views and moments of quiet solitude. Glendalough, an ancient monastic site with twin lakes and stone towers, is a key highlight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether you walk for an hour or a day, the Wicklow Way delivers a dose of nature, history, and serenity\u2014without needing to travel far from the capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

READ MORE:<\/strong> Dublin: a cultural gateway to Ireland’s incredible landscapes<\/em><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Wicklow<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Is 7 days in Ireland enough?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The answer is yes, if you plan wisely so you can take in as much as possible within the week. Luckily, we’ve done all the planning for you in our 7-day Ireland itineraries<\/a>. You’ll unlock the best of the country in a week, soaking in the sights with everything taken care of; leaving no time wasted without enjoying the beauty of Ireland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is the best month to travel to Ireland?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The best month to visit Ireland depends on what you\u2019re looking for. May and September offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes\u2014perfect for sightseeing. June through August brings warmer temperatures and longer days, ideal for outdoor adventures. For festive charm and fewer tourists, consider March (for St. Patrick\u2019s Day) or October.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is the #1 thing to see in Ireland?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While there are countless contenders, the Cliffs of Moher are often considered the #1 thing to see in Ireland. Their sheer scale, dramatic beauty, and location along the Wild Atlantic Way make them a must-see for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

When it comes to unmissable travel destinations, the Emerald Isle earns its name with every wild headland, misty valley, and music-filled pub. From coastal views to poetic history and natural wonders, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do. In this guide, we\u2019ve rounded up the 17 best things to do in Ireland\u2014from iconic landmarks […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":76,"featured_media":882362,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[4910],"tags":[577,201,23152,319],"class_list":["post-882343","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-inspiration","tag-dublin","tag-europe","tag-galway","tag-ireland"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n17 best things to do in Ireland - 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