Visiting Ireland? Don’t miss out on these thrilling things to do in Ireland! Read on to know more!
Saying that Ireland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world is like saying a tennis ball is round and bouncy, it is blatantly stating the obvious.
Be it quaint countryside, bustling urban centers, or sandy beaches, Ireland has it all, and much more. Every nook and cranny of this magnificent island boasts an incredible history and hosts a lively, welcoming culture.
But with so much to see and do in this country, where should one start? What should one not miss under any circumstances? Worry not, for we have you covered with a curated list of the top 10 things to do in Ireland.
From exploring ancient castles to savoring the flavors of traditional cuisine, from immersing yourself in the vibrant music scene to embarking on breathtaking hikes, Ireland offers an abundance of unforgettable experiences. So pack your bags, prepare for adventure, and let Ireland’s enchanting landscapes and warm-hearted people captivate your senses.
1. Dublin City.
As the capital and largest city of Ireland, Dublin is a must-visit for first-time, second-time, or even third-time visitors. With a wide range of activities available, from kayaking in the River Liffey to strolling along the Howth Cliff Walk, Dublin offers endless options.
2. Visit the Cliffs of Moher.
Explore the stunning Cliffs of Moher, a breath-taking 14 km stretch of sea cliffs reaching heights exceeding 200 m (around 660 ft.).
Named after an ancient fort at its southernmost end, these awe-inspiring cliffs attract over a million visitors annually, making exploring them one of the best things in Ireland. They have also been featured in numerous movies and music videos, including the Harry Potter series and “The Princess Bride.”
3. Traditional Music Sessions.
Wander through Irish pubs and you may be fortunate enough to encounter musicians immersed in lively traditional music sessions. It’s a cultural delight and a treat for music enthusiasts.
4. Experience the Aran Islands.
Located off the coast of Galway, the Aran Islands are serene and captivating. Inishmore, the largest of the three islands, gained fame as the setting for the acclaimed 2022 film “The Banshees of Inisherin,” starring Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson. The islands showcase a blend of Christian and Celtic influences, making them a popular destination for religious pilgrimage and one of the top things to do in Ireland.
5. Discover the Wild Atlantic Way.
The Wild Atlantic Way is a highly popular tourist route spanning 1600 miles (2500 km). With over a million visitors each year, it passes through charming villages, enchanting towns, and lively beaches.
Notable attractions along this route include the Alihies Copper Mine Museum, the ruined cottages of Great Blasket Island, Spanish Armada shipwrecks at Streedagh Beach, Doe Castle, and many other incredible locations.
6. Visit Titanic Belfast.
Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland, the award-winning Titanic Belfast museum offers a fascinating journey into the history of the Titanic and allows visitors to explore interactive exhibits while immersing themselves in Belfast’s maritime heritage.
7. Take a boat trip to Skellig Michael.
Embark on an unforgettable boat trip from County Kerry to Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This rugged island, known for its puffins and dramatic landscape, houses an ancient monastic settlement. Its stunning twin-peaked crag rests at the southwesternmost tip of Ireland.
8. Kilmainham Gaol.
Once a prison, Kilmainham Gaol has transformed into a popular tourist destination in Ireland. While booking a tour can be challenging, the effort is undoubtedly worth it. Walking through its historic walls feels like stepping into the pages of history.
This renowned building housed Irish revolutionaries and now stands as a testament to their efforts, playing a significant role in shaping modern Ireland. A visit to Kilmainham Gaol is highly recommended when planning all the top things to do in Ireland.
9. Trinity College.
This historic building is not only Ireland’s premier educational institution, but indeed, one of Europe’s most elite colleges, having produced countless playwrights, authors, and poets, including, but not limited to Oscar Wilde and Bram Stoker.
10. Enjoy Irish Cuisine.
Irish Stew, Boxty, Colcannon, and Coddle, if the sound of these dishes doesn’t make your mouth salivate, then they should, for these are just some of the various mouth-watering dishes Irish Cuisine has to offer.
“The Winding Stair”, “Sheehan’s”, and “The Old Mill Restaurant” are just a few eateries known for their authentic Irish Cuisine, so if any of the above-mentioned dishes excite you, do give them a try!
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Ireland?
While there isn’t a definitive ‘best’ time to visit Ireland, depending on your expectations from your travel, some periods in the year are better than others. The summer months are generally the busiest, thus, it might be more difficult to find lodgings and book events and activities. The winter months are the least busy, but they can get quite cold and aggravate Ireland’s already rainy weather. So, one might say that the best time to visit is from April to September but avoid the hot summer months.
What is the currency used in Ireland?
Ireland uses the Euro as its standard currency.
What is the best way to get around Ireland?
If you wish, you can rent a car or a bike, however, for short distances, Ireland’s public transport systems are more than adequate. Securing a travel card issued by the National Transport Authority will prove to be very useful as the fares offered by public transport are better than commercial fares.
Are there any specific customs or etiquette I should be aware of in Ireland?
There aren’t very many special customs or etiquette observed in Ireland that aren’t observed in most other countries, however, their sense of humor is rather ironic and does involve a bit of making fun of others, one shouldn’t interpret it as disrespect but take it in their stride, as this Irish tradition of ‘slagging’ or making fun shows trust and familiarity, not hostility.
Are there any specific safety considerations or travel advisories for Ireland?
Ireland was ranked third on the 2022 Global Peace Index, meaning it is one of the safest countries in the world, however, there is always a risk of danger, but one can avoid most of it by avoiding trips down dark lanes and alleys at night.
Leave a reply