When I first visited Ireland in 2016, I thought my four-day itinerary was perfect. My friend and I would overnight in Dublin, head to Galway, drive up to the Wicklow Mountains, then explore Howth before flying back from the capital. Sure, we saw a lot, but our plans were flawed from the start. Four days is barely enough time to see one region, let alone the whole country. Sure, we hit some popular spots like Trinity College Library, Quay Street, and the Cliffs of Moher, but the country is so full of charming villages, natural wonders, and historic landmarks that are worth visiting one after the other.
According to Michael Leahy, head concierge at Ashford Castle, I’m not the only traveler to make this mistake: “First-time visitors to Ireland often misunderstand the size and vastness of the island and underestimate the amount of time they’ll need to fully explore and enjoy Ireland’s countless sights, attractions, hotels, rich history and cultural heritage,” he told Travel + Leisure. If your schedule allows, he recommends a longer trip rather than a few days, which will help you get the “full Irish experience.”
Embracing this relaxed pace also means you’ll enjoy your trip to a greater extent: “As well as the picturesque scenery, interacting with locals, immersing yourself in traditional music and exploring local pubs will enhance your overall experience and allow you to truly become immersed in the Irish lifestyle,” explains Chris Parkes, Front of House Manager at Adare Manor.
To ensure my trip to the Emerald Isle was more fulfilling than I had originally planned, I asked some of Ireland’s most knowledgeable experts to share their recommendations for the best places to visit in Ireland. Read on to discover their favourites.
Dublin
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Your Irish adventure is best started in Dublin, home to Dublin Castle, Trinity College Dublin, the National Museum of Ireland, and the Guinness Storehouse. Dublin is an easy walkable city, so you can see most of it in a day or two. If you want more history and a few drinks, of course, head to The Brazen Head, which The Shelbourne concierge Patrick McManus tells us is Dublin’s oldest pub.
Galway
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According to Parkes, Galway’s “bohemian vibe and vibrant arts scene” are two reasons you’ll want to stop by the port city on your travels. Unlike Dublin, where you might be tempted to see as much as you can, Galway is a bit more low-key. He encourages travelers to “wander the cobbled streets, enjoy traditional music in a local pub, and experience the enchanting Connemara landscape that surrounds this charming city.”
Kinsale
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Kinsale “has beautiful views over the harbour,” says Anna Mallon, guest relations manager at Llys Ard Estate. If the weather’s nice, walk the 3.7-mile Scilly Walk before enjoying dinner at Bulman Bar & Restaurant. Or, for something a little more upscale, there’s Michelin-rated Bastion, which is only open Thursday to Sunday.
Old Head of Kinsale
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Mallon describes Old Head of Kinsale as “a world-class golf course that’s on many golfers’ lists.” Though it’s only a 20-minute drive from town, it stands as a destination in its own right. “It’s Ireland’s Pebble Beach,” she says of her Northern California golfing paradise.
Cliffs of Moher
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There’s a reason the Cliffs of Moher pop up on Instagram feeds from time to time—and they’re even more beautiful in person: “The cliffs tower over the Atlantic Ocean, offering exhilarating, serene, panoramic views,” says Parkes. Plus, according to McManus, the surrounding landscape is just as impressive, and “home to unique and precious wildlife, native flora and fauna.”
Ivegher Peninsula
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Leahy describes the Iveragh Peninsula as “a stunning heritage site in southwest Ireland” and a place that offers “a picturesque escape in the embrace of nature.” Many visitors choose to explore the region via the Ring of Kerry, a scenic drive that encircles the peninsula. This route is popular because the 111-mile journey combines incredible landscapes, tiny villages and some of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Killarney
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If you decide to complete the scenic drive of the Ring of Kerry, you’ll come across Killarney. Take the time to explore the town; it’s very walkable. But Parks says nearby Killarney National Park is also not to be missed. “Within the park you’ll find the three famous Killarney Lakes, set beside the mountain ranges and offering breathtaking views… [and] Torc Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Ireland and is at its most beautiful after heavy rainfall.
Dingle Peninsula
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The Dingle Peninsula lies a little northwest of Killarney. Its “rugged coastline and charming villages” create the ultimate Irish experience, according to Parkes. “Explore the Slea Head Drive to take in breathtaking views, encounter ancient ruins and interact with friendly locals who add warmth to this picturesque region,” he adds.
Aran Islands
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Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer make up the Aran Islands, known for their archaeological ruins and sacred sites. “These islands tell a story of timeless elegance set against the gentle embrace of the Atlantic,” explains Leahy. If you’re already in Galway, you can hop on a seasonal ferry that runs direct from the city to the islands.
Doolin
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If your travels begin with a desire to hear Irish music, look no further than Doolin, a coastal village known as the “Traditional Music Capital of Ireland.” Sit down at Gus O’Connor’s or McDermott’s Pub, grab a beer and enjoy hours of upbeat music. Doolin is also known as the “Gateway to the Aran Islands” due to the rocky islands just offshore.
Adair
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Located southwest of Limerick, Adare was founded in the 13th century and has since become known as one of the most beautiful villages in the country. Parkes says he might be a little biased because he works in Adare, but he also says Adare attracts visitors with its “timeless charm, picturesque thatched cottages, historic architecture and lush landscapes.”
Trim Castle
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Trim Castle in County Meath is the largest Norman castle in Ireland and a well-preserved example of Anglo-Norman military architecture. Travelers may remember it from “Braveheart,” but the castle’s history dates back to the 12th century, when it served as a fortress during the Norman invasion of Ireland.
Mizen Head
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For unforgettable ocean views and powerful waves, Mallon recommends a trip to Mizen Head in West Cork, which she calls “a more dramatic and less visited version of the Cliffs of Moher,” better known as the southwesternmost point of the mainland.
Wicklow Mountains National Park
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McManus also recommends a visit to Wicklow Mountains National Park, the largest of Ireland’s six national parks. Hikers and walkers have plenty of trails to explore in this stunning region. Film buffs should check out Sally Gap, best known as the setting for the 2007 film “PS I Love You.”
Giant’s Causeway
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The Giant’s Causeway is one of Ireland’s most distinctive landscapes. Scientists have discovered that the 40,000 basalt columns jutting out of the sea were formed by volcanic activity more than 50 million years ago, but the area still exudes an air of mysticism and sacredness. “This historic path invites pilgrims and wanderers to its sacred grounds, whispering stories of spirituality and connection through the ages,” says Leahy.
Jerpoint Abbey
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History is apparent everywhere you go in Ireland, but nowhere is this more evident than at Jerpoint Abbey in County Kilkenny. The medieval Cistercian monastery dates back to the 12th century and features Romanesque and Gothic elements, and inside you’ll find a church, tower, cloisters and some intricate stone carvings.
Mayo Dark Sky Park
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Weather permitting, astronomy enthusiasts can view stars, planets, the Milky Way and even meteor showers at Mayo Dark Sky Park, a designated dark object preserve in County Mayo. Leahy said visitors to the park can see all these “celestial wonders” shrouded in velvety darkness, all for free.
House
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“Howth is a lovely fishing village,” says McManus. It’s close by, about a 30-minute train ride from Dublin, making it an easy place to start or end your trip. Start your 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 the fish and chips).
Croagh Patrick
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Croagh Patrick, also known as “Leek”, is one of Leahy’s top picks due to its “iconic peak overlooking the surrounding landscape” and its role as a “majestic pilgrimage site”. The mountain has had religious significance for more than 1,500 years, with St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, said to have fasted for 40 days on the summit in the 5th 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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Slieve Liag, or Slieve League, is one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, rising almost 2,000 feet above sea level. Much higher than the 702-foot Cliffs of Moher, the cliffs offer stunning views in almost every direction, and are a convenient stopping point along the famous Wild Atlantic Way.
