Ireland: The Best Things to Do

Back in 2014, I spent four months studying abroad in Ireland. During that time, I had the chance to explore so much of this beautiful country. From dramatic cliffs to fun cities to stunning landscapes to castles, I covered nearly all of the big tourist sights.

While it’s true that I didn’t see everything (even with four months this isn’t possible), I covered a lot of ground. So, I thought I’d put together an Irish Bucket List containing some of the best things to do in Ireland. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it’s a great start for anyone planning a trip to Ireland.

Before we start, I want to give two major notes. First, I will cover some parts of Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom, not Ireland. However, since many tourists visit both, I’m including both on this list. Second, while this list is grouped into sections (cities versus scenery), it’s in no particular order. Just because one item is listed first, doesn’t mean that it’s better than what comes next.

Now, let’s get into it.

Ireland’s Best Cities

Dublin

As the capital and largest city in Ireland, Dublin is the typical start and/or end point for many visitors. While it’s true that I think there are better cities (and certainly better things to do), I think that Dublin is still worth a short visit. And if you’re already traveling through Dublin, it just makes sense to stop.

It’s not a list of things to do in a European city without a cathedral, but Ireland’s national cathedral (St. Patrick’s Cathedral) is located here and is worth a visit. Or visit Trinity College and see the Book of Kells, a extravagantly illuminated manuscript. You can also tour Dublin Castle, which was constructed in the 1200s, was the seat of the British Parliament until 1922, and now functions as a major government building.

For less history, wander around Temple Bar or visit the Guinness Storehouse. Or, just spend your time wandering the streets of Dublin. I personally liked walking along the River Leffy which flows through the heart of Dublin.

As a bonus, if you don’t have you own car for exploring Ireland, you’ll be able to find lots of great day trip options from Dublin. So while travelers with a car may only need one or two days in this city, travelers without a car could consider making a base in Dublin for a few days.

Galway

Galway is one of my favorite cities in Ireland. The city itself is charming and a delight to explore, even if its lighter on sights than some other cities in this list. But Galway has a huge advantage in that it can make a great base to explore other areas of western Ireland.

Because the city is lighter on sights, you don’t need to budget as much time here. But I definitely think it should be on your list just because it’s so nice to wander.

Cobh

Cobh is significantly smaller than most of the other cities on this list. However, this is one of my favorite small towns in Ireland. It’s big claim to fame is this was Titanic’s last port of call. So while you’ll find Titanic history here, you’ll find a cute small town. My family and I visited for one afternoon and had a great time.

You don’t need a lot of time, but if you’re traveling nearby (particularly in Cork), I think it’s worth popping over for a quick visit to Cobh.

Limerick

I couldn’t write this list and not include Limerick. This is where I lived for four months (technically Castletroy, but I went to the University of Limerick).

Because of this, I’ve had friends and family ask for my opinion. Should they include Limerick on their itinerary? While it’s true that Limerick does have some museums and a castle you can tour, there are just better cities to explore in Ireland. This is especially true if you have a short vacation.

However, there is one exception. If you’re traveling Ireland without a car, I would actually recommend considering Limerick. While it’s not the most beautiful city in Ireland, it did make a great base for exploring southwestern Ireland. I used Paddywagon Tours and was able to visit the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, and the Cliffs of Moher from here without any issues. That was more connections than I’ve seen in some other popular tourist cities.

Cork

Cork is the second largest city in Ireland and can be found in southern part of the country. While the city itself isn’t my favorite in Ireland, there’s still a few things to do. Visit the English Market, Cork City Gaol, St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, and even more when you’re here.

Despite the fact that I prefer other Irish cities to Cork, Cork makes a good jumping off point for travelers wanting to visit Cobh or Blarney Castle. My family and I combined Cork and Cobh into one day, which worked well.

Ireland’s Best Scenery

Dingle Peninsula

In southwestern Ireland, you’ll find the Dingle Peninsula, which is another popular area with travelers. Unsurprisingly, the main town on this peninsula is the town of Dingle, but you’ll find a handful of other small, quaint towns dotting the coastlines.

A visit to Dingle Peninsula includes the western most drive in Ireland, as you drive Slea Head Drive along the Atlantic coast. Plus don’t forget to stop at some of the beaches along the way, including the popular Inch Beach. In Dingle, you’ll find a delightful small town to explore. Plus, enjoy views of the Blasket Islands and see if you can spot Fungi the Dolphin.

While I didn’t have great weather during my visit to Dingle and its Peninsula, it was a beautiful drive and it’s definitely an area I would revisit.

Aran Islands

Just off the coast of Doolin in western Ireland is a series of three islands known as the Aran Islands. These islands are connected to the mainland by a series of ferries. So while you’ll see beautiful scenery both on the mainland and on the Aran Islands, you also get some great views on the ferry as well.

During my time in Ireland, I only had a chance to explore Inisheer. This island is the closest to the mainland, and the smallest of the three islands. So if you’re like me and are visiting as a day trip, you’ll likely visit Inisheer. On Inisheer, you can walk through the old Plassey shipwreck, visit the ruins of an old castle, and see the dramatic cliffs of Irish mainland in the distance.

Despite limited time, I loved my time on Inisheer. This was one of my favorite things I did in Ireland. Climbing the ruins of a ancient castle surrounded by the gorgeous scenery and the Cliffs of Moher in the distance was a massive highlight. Unsurprisingly, I plan to return to the Aran Islands some day.

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s top sites and are absolutely gorgeous. This is where you’ll find some of the most jaw dropping views anywhere in Ireland. Despite the beauty, you also need to be prepared for crowds. The Cliffs of Moher are popular for a reason.

However, you have plenty of alternatives. The Cliffs of Moher are the most famous, but the western coast of Ireland is full of dramatic cliffs.

One day, I took a trip from my university, heading south past the Cliffs of Moher to Kilkee. We explored the cliffs in this area and they were just as stunning as the Cliffs of Moher. On our visit, my small group of twelve students were the only people around. The beauty was wonderful, but the lack of tourists is what made it even better.

Regardless of whether you visit the Cliffs of Moher or choose some cliffs that are off the beaten path, you must add a visit to some of the cliffs when you are in Ireland.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry isn’t one place, but is one of the most beautiful driving routes in Ireland. Many people start their loop in Killarney, but there really is no official start point. It’s a loop so you can start wherever is easiest for you.

Once on the Ring of Kerry, you’ll have 120 miles of stunning scenery around every turn. And there are a lot of turns on this windy road. If you drive the route yourself, please drive carefully. I took a tour, so I didn’t have to drive, and even as a passenger I felt myself questioning Irish road safety. But I still had a great time and I’m super glad I did it.

Blarney Castle

If there’s one tourist site you’ve heard of in Ireland, it’s likely Blarney Castle. This is where you’ll find the famous Blarney Stone. Legend (aka something made up by a tour guide) says that kissing this stone will bring you good luck.

There are so many castle ruins across Ireland, so don’t feel locked into the Blarney Castle. In my opinion, so many of the other castle ruins are just as spectacular, if not more spectacular, than what you’ll find at Blarney Castle. Plus, many of those other castle ruins won’t have the same level of crowds that you’ll find at Blarney Castle.

At the end of the day, if you want to visit Blarney Castle, go for it. I just think, especially for those with limited time, there are a lot of other good options in Ireland.

Highlights of Northern Ireland

Belfast

Belfast is the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland. One of the top things to do in this city is to take a Black Cab Tour to learn about the Troubles. What better way to learn about history than from your own private guide. Another popular option is the Titanic Museum which highlights Belfast’s shipbuilding history.

I visited Belfast twice during my time in Ireland. The first was part of a long weekend trip through Northern Ireland and the second was as a day trip from Dublin when my parents came to visit. While Northern Ireland is worth more than one day (since there is more to see here than just Belfast), a day trip here can be sufficient if you’re crunched for time.

Derry/Londonderry

Derry, officially called Londonderry, is the second largest city in Northern Ireland. Like Belfast, it has a lot of history and it’s worth stopping if you have the time. While there’s a lot to do here, make sure to visit the city walls, the peace bridge, and the Free Derry Museum.

I enjoyed my visit to Derry, but not as much as other cities. Admittedly I had terrible weather and our walking tour was done in the cold rain. That’s not Derry’s fault, but it’s reality. If you have limited time in Ireland, I’d recommend focusing on other parts of Ireland and saving Derry for a trip where you aren’t as rushed. Northern Ireland as a whole deserves a visit, but to really do the area justice, you’ll need some extra time.

Giant’s Causeway

I couldn’t write about Northern Ireland without mentioning at least one area of natural beauty. Giant’s Causeway is the top natural attraction in Northern Ireland. If you’re traveling between Derry and Belfast, this is a great place to stop, explore, and take a driving break.

Giant’s Causeway is a unique rock formation that’s made up of hexagonal pillars. Similar formations can also be found in Scotland and Iceland, but it was Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland where I first experienced them.

I wish I had more to say about Giant’s Causeway, but on the day I visited, there was a torrential downpour and while I saw Giant’s Causeway, we spent a lot of our time trying not to get absolutely soaked (we failed). Still, it’s a really cool stop and one day I plan to go back, just to experience it properly.

So What’s The Best of Ireland?

This list doesn’t cover everything in Ireland and it’s still tough to pick favorites. For first time visitors to Ireland, I recommend focusing on Ireland’s natural beauty and small towns. That’s where the charm of Ireland is found.

But, if I have to pick my top three places on this list, I’d likely choose (in no particular order), the Aran Islands, Cliffs of Moher/Kilkee, and Galway.

What Should You Skip

In general, I think that people should explore for themselves. We all have different preferences and things change over time.

However, if I were to skip anywhere on this list, I’d recommend skipping Cork, Limerick (if you’re traveling with a car), and Blarney Castle.

Final Thoughts

Ireland is a beautiful country and it’s in this lush, green countryside where you’ll find that beauty. Get out and explore, but don’t forget that sometimes its also a good idea to spend just a little time in its cities.

Continue Your Adventure

Ireland Photo Tour: Are you looking for more photo inspiration for your trip to Ireland? Check out my virtual Ireland Photo Tour. Or dive deeper into western Ireland with this Cliffs of Moher Photo Tour.

France’s Loire Valley: If you love castles, visit France’s Loire Valley to tour the magnificent chateaux.

Iceland: If it’s the jaw dropping beauty that’s luring you in, head over to Iceland for more dramatic scenery.