50+ Best Things to do in Ireland on your next vacation
In 2022 and 2025, I had the amazing opportunity to visit Ireland. The first trip, I went counterclockwise around the top half, seeing some truly incredible places. Then in 2025, I went clockwise, adventuring throughout the southern half, seeing the best places to visit. As you’re soon to find out, there are so many incredible things to do in Ireland.
It’s honestly not possible to do all of it at once, unless you plan for a three-week trip. (Which, maybe, is your plan!) But I hope this helps you strategize your Ireland itinerary a little more.
Four tips I’ll share before we get going with the best things to do in Ireland:
- The top half is more adventurous but less traveled. There’s still plenty of lodging/hospitality, but it might be slightly harder to plan
- The southern half is far more your typical Irish vacation: Dingle Peninsula, Ring of Kerry, Castles, Galway, and Dublin.
- Book your hotels early.
- Wild Atlantic Way (the west side of Ireland) is a must-see.
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My Favorite Things to Do in Ireland in the Northern Half and Wild Atlantic Way
As a photographer, my Google Maps is full of all the best places to visit and things to do in Ireland. Sadly, I haven’t been everywhere (but these places, even if I haven’t been there, look INCREDIBLE). And I’ve noted the places I haven’t visited. If I go back a third time, I’ll do more in the north!
I hope this helps plan out your trip.
1. Hike to the Mourne Wall
This was the first place I ever visited in Ireland, outside of Dublin. After landing, we headed north, exploring the southern part of Northern Ireland. Funny enough, it was the day of the Queen’s funeral back in 2022, and the place was a ghost town.
The hike up to the Mourne Wall is pretty standard and basic. You hike on a pretty wide dirt path/road before it turns more into a trail. It’s a nice workout with lovely views, but nothing overly challenging or strenuous.
2. Explore the Giant’s Causeway
One of the most iconic natural wonders in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway features 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity—or so legend says, by a giant named Finn McCool.
The dramatic landscape offers scenic coastal walks and fascinating geology that captivates visitors year-round. It’s a must-visit when exploring unique things to do in Ireland.
At the top of my list for my next trip.
3. Hike and Climb on Cruit Island
This is a beautiful coastal area on the Northwest side of Ireland. We booked a rock climbing tour out there, which allowed us to climb the rocks. It was pretty mild climbing, but we were on ropes, so it still felt real.
We also had a chance to do a zipline-like rope swing to reach the other side. It was exhilarating until you came to a stop and then had to pull yourself across! Still, highly recommend booking them out if possible.
4. Explore Connemara National Park (Diamond Hill Hike)
On my 2022 trip, this was the best thing I did in Ireland. While the rest of the group stayed on the flat trail below, I scampered near the top of the National Park. From here, I had 270-degree views of the fjords and sea.
It was stunning. I still remember sitting up there and thinking how lucky I was to get to witness this.
I hiked the Diamond Hill trail, but didn’t make it all the wya to the top due to time constraints. I made it to the photo spot that you’ll see on the AllTrails route. It’s not a strenuous hike, though you do gain 1,300 feet in two miles.
5. Check out the Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
Tucked into the hills of Connemara, Kylemore Abbey looks like something out of a fairytale, sitting quietly on the edge of a peaceful lake. You can wander the restored Victorian Walled Garden, explore the old Abbey, and take in the views that feel straight out of a movie. It’s easily one of the most photogenic and relaxing things to do in Ireland.
Half of our tour group went here, and the other half went to Connemara. It looks beautiful, and I wish we had had time to explore both!
6. Check out Kinbane Castle
Perched on a rugged white limestone cliff, Kinbane Castle is a hidden gem along the Antrim Coast that offers sweeping views and a touch of solitude.
Though only ruins remain, the site evokes centuries of history and is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. Add this to your list of off-the-beaten-path things to do in Ireland.
At the top of my list for my next trip.
7. Go back in time at Ulster American Folk Park
This was a fun spot to stop and gives you an opportunity to immerse yourself in life 90-100 years ago. (It reminded me of Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg tours you can do in the US.)
The Ulster American Folk Park is a living history museum that walks you through the story of Irish emigration to America. You’ll explore traditional thatched cottages, board a full-scale emigrant ship, and see how Irish settlers built new lives across the Atlantic. It’s a cool, hands-on experience and one of the more unique things to do in Ireland—especially if you’re into history or storytelling.
I had family emigrate from Ireland to America, and this gave a fantastic historical breakdown of the events that led to it.
8. Act like a King or Queen at Dunluce Castle
Dramatically sitting on a cliff edge, Dunluce Castle is a medieval ruin steeped in legends of ghosts, shipwrecks, and clan rivalries. Visitors can wander through the remnants of the fortress and soak in panoramic views of the North Atlantic.
For history buffs and photographers alike, this is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Ireland.
At the top of my list for my next trip.
9. Carrick-a-Rede
This thrilling rope bridge connects the mainland to a tiny island once used by salmon fishermen, now one of the top adrenaline-pumping things to do in Ireland. Suspended nearly 100 feet above the ocean, the crossing offers jaw-dropping views of the rugged coastline and turquoise waters below.
It’s a bucket-list stop for adventurous travelers exploring Northern Ireland.
At the top of my list for my next trip.
10. Hike to a castle at Glenveagh National Park
In addition to Connemara National Park, this was the highlight of my first trip to Ireland. Glenveagh Castle sits in the heart of the National Park next to a lake, and it’s mesmerizing.
I only had a brief time inside the castle, but the area around it is what blew me away. The garden in the back is filled with the most magical array of flowers you can imagine. I landed some truly magical shots.
After enjoying the colors, we hiked up above the castle, giving us an unobstructed view of the lake valley and mountains.
For those looking to do more hiking, you can go beyond the castle and up to the saddle. This would get you away from almost all the crowds and offer epic views.
11. Scope out Crohy Head Sea Arch
Tucked away along the wild Donegal coastline, the Crohy Head Sea Arch is a stunning rock formation sculpted by the Atlantic over centuries. With dramatic cliffs and crashing waves, it’s a photographer’s paradise and a true hidden gem. For nature lovers searching for lesser-known places to visit in Ireland, this coastal marvel is a perfect stop.
At the top of my list for my next trip.
12. Photograph Assaranca Waterfall (Eas a’ Ranca)
Cascading down a lush hillside near Ardara, Assaranca Waterfall is one of the most picturesque and easily accessible waterfalls in Ireland. It’s a quick roadside stop, but the views—especially after a good rain—are magical. If you’re chasing scenic things to do in Ireland, this one’s not to be missed.
Unfortunately, I haven’t been here yet, but I think you’ll enjoy it!
13. Beat the crowds at Silver Strand Beach
Nestled at the foot of dramatic cliffs near Malin Beg, Silver Strand Beach is a pristine crescent of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a bit of a hike down, but the isolation and beauty make it feel like a secret paradise.
Among the most peaceful things to do in Ireland, it’s ideal for a quiet picnic or a refreshing dip.
Unfortunately, I haven’t been here yet, but I think you’ll enjoy it!
14. Visit Ireland’s tallest cliffs at Sliabh Liag
These soaring sea cliffs in County Donegal are among the highest in Europe, towering nearly three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher. Offering panoramic views and cliffside hikes, Sliabh Liag is a favorite for hikers and photographers. For jaw-dropping natural beauty, this is hands down one of the best places to see in Ireland.
Cannot wait to see these cliffs.
15. Suf at Rossnowlagh Beach
This is a GOREGOUS beach and we stayed on its shores at the Sandhouse Hotel. It’s nestled in a cute little town, and there’s a surf school nearby if you’re interested in learning how to surf.
If you need a nice spot to stay for the night, I’d pick this area.
16. Take the Rougey Cliff Walk
If you’re visiting the town of Bundoran on the Wild Atlantic Way, I highly recommend doing the Rougey Cliff Walk. It’s not challenging and mostly paved, taking you along the coastline and the golf course. We also saw surfers catching waves down below.
It’s a three-mile, one-way walk. Though if you don’t have a car on the other end, it’ll end up being six miles.
17. Expeience Downpatrick Head
Home to the iconic Dun Briste sea stack, Downpatrick Head delivers powerful ocean vistas and deep-rooted Irish history. You’ll also find blowholes, sea caves, and the ruins of an old church founded by St. Patrick.
Unfortunately, I haven’t been here yet, but I think you’ll enjoy it!
18. Soak up nature at Achill Sound
As the gateway to Achill Island, Achill Sound offers charming seaside vibes, traditional pubs, and scenic drives that lead to some of Ireland’s most dramatic coastal landscapes.
It’s the perfect launch point for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way. Make it a stop if you’re looking for a bit of an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Unfortunately, I haven’t been here yet, but I think you’ll enjoy it!
19. Embrace the Wild Nephin National Park
Spanning over 15,000 hectares, Wild Nephin is Ireland’s first wilderness national park and a dream for hikers, stargazers, and solitude seekers.
With vast boglands, forest trails, and one of the best dark sky zones in Europe, it’s a place to truly disconnect. For outdoor lovers, it’s one of the most immersive and untamed things to do in Ireland.
Unfortunately, I haven’t been here yet, but I think you’ll enjoy it!
20. Bike on the Great Western Greenway
Another part of my 2022 trip. We were dropped off at a bike rental shop and then rode back 10 or so miles on the Great Western Greenway. It’s a 98% flat route, riding past sheep and goats, surrounded by deep green hills.
It’s a nice way to slow down, get some exercise, and enjoy the views. But it’s also not in the top tier of things to do in Ireland.
21. Find the Fairy Bridges in Donegal
I think there are a few of these in Ireland, but the one we went to was in Bundoran near the Rougey Cliff Walk. It’s just a rock bridge that people can walk over, so nothing exceptional. But if you’re in the region and are looking for a nice walk, combine this with the Cliff Walk for a lovely coastal stroll.
22. Flip back time at Burren National Park
Of all the National parks I’ve ever been to, this is one of the most visually ‘meh’ I have seen. Which is unfortunate, because it’s rich in history. We took a guided hike here and learned all about it, but as a photographer, I just wasn’t impressed with the landscape.
Burren National Park is a geological wonder. Formed over 350 million years ago from ancient sea beds and shaped by glaciers, its limestone landscape holds the footprints of humans dating back over 5,000 years.
Neolithic tombs like Poulnabrone Dolmen, Iron Age ring forts, and early Christian sites dot the terrain, telling the story of continuous settlement and spiritual connection to the land. The name “Burren” comes from the Irish Boíreann, meaning “rocky place,” and it’s long been a source of Irish myth and folklore. Today, the park protects both its rich biodiversity and deep cultural roots.
Best Things to Do in Ireland on the Southern half + Dublin and Galway
I spent 10 days in 2025 exploring Dublin, the southern half, and Galway, seeing as much of the area as I could possibly fit in. Of these things to do in Ireland, I’ve experienced almost all of them. I didn’t get to do the last four in this segment, but if you’re in the area, I think you’ll enjoy them.
23. Hike in Wicklow Mountains National Park
This was our first stop after leaving Dublin. I love exploring National Parks and was excited to get down here. It’s about 50 minutes south of Dublin, but mind those narrow roads heading into the area. They gave me anxiety!
Once inside the park, we hiked up the Spinc Trail, though this loop trail would also have been great if we weren’t short on time. (We waited in line for our rental car for 90 minutes.)
This is one of the best trails in the park, offering incredible views of the valley and Upper Lake. After the hike, we walked through the cemetery, saw the Round Tower, and St. Kevin’s Church.
24. Take a drive to Glenmacnass Waterfall, Sally Gap, and Lough Tay
After hiking, we wanted to see more of the area and decided to drive up to Sally Gap. These are even narrower roads, but thankfully, we didn’t have much oncoming traffic, making for a smooth drive. Our first stop was Glenmacnass Waterfall. The best photo opportunity is before you get there. Keep an eye out for a small pull-out.
We then walked up near the waterfall and stream to get a closer look.
From there, we hit Sally Gap 20 minutes later, which is just a junction. We turned right and headed down to Lough Tay (pronounced “Lock Tay”). We parked at the viewpoint and walked down for better views and photo opportunities. I’d suggest spending 15-20 minutes here. There’s not a lot to do.
You may also want to check out this spot or this spot for photos. We were heading to our hotel and didn’t have more time to spot.
25. Take a Tour of Rock of Cashel
The Rock of Cashel is freaking awesome! And so well preserved. We booked the tour, which included Cormac’s Chapel, although it’s not strictly necessary. That add-on tour can only be bought on-site. Otherwise, it costs 8 euros to visit, which is $9.31.
Overall, this is one of the must-see places in Ireland.
26. Visit Rock of Dunamase
We visited this before the Rock of Cashel, and it’s far less impressive, albeit also falling apart. It sits on top of a small hill, with great 360-degree views. One pro is that it is free.
If you’re in the area, it’s a nice place to stop and stretch your legs. But if you’re short on time, you can skip it.
27. Visit Killarney and Killarney National Park
My fiancée and I loved Killarney. We spent two nights at the Ross Hotel, giving us incredible access to the outdoor adventures nearby. (Granted, all hotels are close in their region.)
I recommend spending two nights here, giving you enough time to see the area, take tours, and enjoy live music and the town.
28. Hike to Torc Waterfall
The Torc Waterfall is an 8-minute walk from the parking lot (which is small, so you may have issues parking) on a nicely graded trail. There’s a slight incline, but nothing that should challenge anyone. I think most people turn around there, though you are able to hike further.
For the photographers out there, coming early or late in the day will allow you to get nice long exposures of the waterfall, creating a dreamlike scene.
29. Walk around Muckross House
The Muckross House is WILD. This is one of the largest properties I’ve ever set foot on. And damn, is it beautiful and impressive. Entering the area is free, but you can’t go into the actual house unless you have a ticket.
We spent probably an hour moseying our way around and soaking it up. Totally worth the time. You’ll be blown away by the architecture and pure grandeur of the area.
30. Book a tour of Ross Castle, Jaunting Car Ride, and Ross Lake Boat Ride
This is one of the best ways to see Killarney National Park and at the top of the things to do in Ireland. We joined a Jaunting Car Ride tour (which is really just a horse and buggy) and went through the forest, learning the history of the area, seeing wildlife, and having a relaxing ride.
From there, we checked out Ross Castle. You have to buy tickets to go above the lower level, so we opted against it, as we also had a tour for the boat ride around the lake coming up.
I loved the hour-long boat ride. It’s nothing special, but it offers you lovely views around the lake and shows off Innisfallen Island, home to a 6th-century monastery. We also saw an eagle, but I can’t remember exactly which one.
The best part was that the tour was basically empty, and we got a chance to relax. The prior few days had been go-go-go, and getting a chance to sit was perfect.
31. Drive up to Ladies’ View
Ten minutes past the Torc Waterfall is Ladies’ View. This offers a beautiful view of the lakes in Killarney National Park. It’s also not full of tour buses, making it far less busy and chaotic.
There are a couple of light trails that you can walk out onto for better views of the lakes, mountains, and valleys.
This is perfect to combine with the Torc waterfall and Muckross House.
32. Explore Gap of Dunloe
Moving outside of Killarney National Park, but to the very, very popular Gap of Dunloe. From downtown to Kate Kearney’s Cottage, where most people start. It’s a 17-minute drive.
When you arrive at the cottage, there’s a big parking lot. Here, you can either walk or take a horse and buggy. (You are allowed to drive through it, just realize it’s quite, quite narrow.)
Since we needed to get to the Dingle Peninsula later that afternoon, Jaimie and I only walked for two miles to the shore of Augler Lake. This walk has a little incline at the beginning and then levels out for the majority of the walk. Where we stopped, you can see the switchbacks of the road, cutting up to the official Gap of Dunloe.
Once we were at the lake, the views were pretty magical. I think hiking at least four miles round trip into the area is one of the best things to do in Ireland.
33. Enjoy Live Music at the Pubs in Town
We got so lucky! We stumbled upon a full, two-hour-long concert at 11pm on a Tuesday night in one of the pubs in Killarney. It was incredible, and the band was great as well! Make sure to spend a night out enjoying the town, hearing live music, and chatting with locals! You won’t be disappointed.
34. Explore the Dingle Peninsula
Let’s go explore the Dingle Peninsula to the southwest of Killarney. This was such a fun area to visit. While we may have only spent one night, I feel we packed in a ton of places that were on our bucket list and saw more than enough of the top things to do in Ireland.
You’ll see my favorites below, but I do think everyone should put this area on their Ireland travel list.
35. Hit the open seas with Dingle Sea Safari
What can I say, other than this was the best thing we did in Ireland. Our Dingle Sea Safari was almost 3.5 hours long, getting us up close to the Dingle Cliffs, Great Blasket Islands, Cathedral Rocks, puffins, sea lions, dolphins, and possibly more!
If you’re spending time in Dingle, you HAVE to do this. Don’t pass it up.
36. Drive the Slea Head Drive
The Slea Head Drive is the broad term for the road that hugs the cliffs as you circumnavigate the Peninsula, starting in Dingle. For most of the road, please drive it only clockwise. Out by the Sea Head Cross, the road can barely fit one car, let alone two trying to pass. Also, don’t forget the 4,000-year-old Beehive Huts you’ll pass at the beginning of the drive.
Below, you’ll see my favorite things to do in this area of Ireland.
37. Photograph Dunquin Pier
A quick stop on the Slea Head Drive, Dunquin Pier is a steep and narrow walkway down to the water below. There’s nothing down there to look at, so I’d imagine this is primarily a spot photographer will want to explore. The view is best from above.
There’s also a bathroom and a food truck if you want a bite to eat.
38. Get a taste of the Caribbean at Coumeenoole Beach
One of the most stunning beaches I’ve seen in Ireland! It honestly looks like the Caribbean. In early May, we had pretty pink flowers growing along the walkway down the beach.
The walk down is steep, but it is on cobblestone bricks, so it’s not terribly hard to walk on. If we had had more time (a theme of the trip), it would have been cool to jump into the ocean.
39. Hike up Dunmore Head
At the same parking lot as Coumeenoole Beach, visitors can hike up to Dunmore Head. It’s a short 1.5-mile walk with 500 feet of gain. This gives you epic views of the Blasket Islands. We chose not to do this hike as we had seen the views from the Sea Safari.
That said, the views do look incredible, and I think it’s well worth it.
After this area, make sure to check out Kruger’s bar for some fish and chips and a drink before heading back to Dingle.
40. Walk to the edge of the Kerry Cliffs
Towering over 1,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, the Kerry Cliffs are one of Ireland’s most underrated gems. Located just outside Portmagee (and a great add-on after a Skellig tour), these cliffs offer panoramic views of Skellig Michael, Little Skellig, and Puffin Island.
The viewing paths are well-maintained and accessible for most visitors. Entry is around €5, and the golden hour here is chef’s kiss for photographers.
41. Explore the Skellig Islands
Remote, rugged, and steeped in history, the Skellig Islands are one of Ireland’s most mind-blowing destinations. Skellig Michael, a UNESCO site, is home to ancient stone monastic huts and hundreds of puffins (in summer). Getting there requires a boat ride from Portmagee—trips sell out fast, so book early.
Note: landing tours are weather-dependent and involve a steep 600-step climb to the top, but the views? Absolutely worth it, however.
44. Find a new gem at Glenbeg Lough
A quiet stunner tucked away on the Beara Peninsula, Glenbeg Lough is a peaceful mountain lake surrounded by raw, untouched nature. It’s the perfect stop if you’re venturing off the typical tourist path and want a breath of solitude.
There’s a scenic walking trail nearby, and it’s also an excellent spot for landscape photography, wild camping, or just soaking in the calm. Located just past Ardgroom, it’s a worthy pause before tackling the rest of Beara’s winding roads.
45. Visit the classic Cliffs of Moher
I actually almost forgot this. Not sure how. Whoops! Okay! The Cliffs of Moher are a must-see in Ireland. But let me tell you a little secret. The main area is incredibly crowded, as you can imagine, so I recommend a private tour that takes you to the cliff’s edge.
Now, this is not for those with bad balance or difficulty walking, because you may very well fall off the edge. And we don’t want that.) But if you’re more adventurous and enjoy better views, this is the place to be.
We also went to the main overlook area and paid $40 or so. This is still widely impressive, as the cliffs here are taller than on the walk. But you can’t get as close, and the photography opportunities are far less nice. The visitor center has a great museum to check out, which is almost worth the price of admission itself.
BONUS: Drink a Guinness
You can’t go to Ireland and not drink a Guinness when you’re there (unless you don’t drink). So, order away and have the trip of your life! So obviously, this is one of the top things to do in Ireland!
A Few Fun Things to Do and places to see in in Dublin
On our Ireland itinerary, we spent a night in Dublin when we arrived and a night before leaving.
But we made the most of it! We walked around almost every inch of (#46) Temple Square, saw (#47) Christ the Church, enjoyed live music at the pubs, circled the (#48) Dublin Castle, (#49) St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and took a tour of the (#50) Guinness Factory. (That was rad!) We also enjoyed a whiskey tasting at the (#51) Irish Whiskey Museum.
Book a tour around Dublin to see St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle, and more!
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Unfortunately, we arrived post-dinner and the museum was closed. Luckily, there was live music in the bar, and that was good enough for us.
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Is Galway worth visiting and what should you do there?
Galway is so worth visiting. We absolutely loved spending time there. Due to usual time constraints, we only spent 15 hours in Galway, thoroughly enjoying ourselves. It is such a lively place, especially the (#52) Latin Quarter. I highly recommend booking a hotel in the middle of it so you don’t have to worry about driving until you leave.
We walked up and down the streets, soaking it all in.
My fiancée and I opted for a low-key dinner of pizza and pasta, as all the other spots had long wait times. Then we headed out to the pubs for live music, staying out well past midnight.
- Taaffes Bar
- Tig Cóilí
The next morning, we walked out to Eyre Square, enjoying the sunny skies and warm weather. ON the way back, we stopped for cheese and wine at Sheridan’s Cheesemongers.
I won’t say that I’m a city person, but I sure did have a fun time in Galway. If you’re going to be in the area, I highly recommend making a night out of it.
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Places I’ve Personally Stayed in Ireland that are Fantastic
I can personally vouch for and recommend these hotels in Ireland. They will provide everything you need to make the most of the best things to do in Ireland.
- Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort – Wicklow Hotel
- The Morrison Dublin, Curio Collection by Hilton
- Staycity Aparthotels, Dublin, Tivoli
- Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links
- Slieve Donard
- An Chúirt Hotel Gweedore
- The Sandhouse Hotel
- Clifden Station House Hotel
- The Bedford Townhouse
- The House Hotel – Galway Hotel
- Dingle Skellig Hotel
- The Ross
Final thoughts on the best places to see in Ireland
I’ll admit, my first trip to Ireland wasn’t as fun or enjoyable as I would have hoped. Thankfully, the second trip more than made up for it. And it put Ireland back on the map as an incredible place to vacation with so many places to see. But I will say, Ireland is not for those looking for rugged adventures.
It’s a great place for slow travel and looking to immerse yourself in the culture and see pretty sights without having to break a sweat all the time. Plus, you can see there are an immense number of things to do in Ireland – probably even enough to make a couple of trips to the island.
I hope you have a wonderful trip and these ideas help spark some fun memories and lead you to plan another trip in the future. (PS: If you book hotels or tours with my links, I get a small commission at no cost to you, which supports this website.)
Until next time, adventurers, stay safe.
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