Despite its small size, Ireland is home to plenty of quaint towns and villages that are worth exploring. Here are ten of our favourites that you need to check out while you’re here.
From north to south and east to west, Ireland is home to plenty of quaint towns and villages that are well worth discovering. Here are the ten best towns in Ireland for a break.
Whether you’re visiting with family, looking for a romantic break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, or just want to discover somewhere new, you’ll be spoilt for choice with epic places to visit in Ireland.
So, if you’re planning your Irish adventure but don’t know where to begin, we’re here to help. Read on to discover the top ten best towns in Ireland for a break.
10. Greystones, Co. Wicklow – a stunning town on the east coast
Located on the east coast just south of Dublin, Greystones is one of the best towns in Ireland for a break. If you like to relax and spend time by the seaside, eat in good cafes, and check out top local bars, Greystones is the perfect spot for you.
Popular with sea swimmers and just a short drive from the Wicklow Mountains, this is a great place for adventure.
If you want something more relaxed, we highly recommend the Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk, which takes you along the coast between two stunning Irish towns.
Address: Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
9. Carlingford, Co. Louth – for history and culture
Located on the east coast of Ireland, just south of the border with Northern Ireland, Carlingford is a great spot for all kinds of travel.
Whether you want to embrace adventure in the Cooley Mountains, head out on Strangford Lough, or relax in one of the many lively pubs and cafes, you’ll find something to suit your tastes.
Address: Carlingford, Co. Louth, Ireland
READ MORE: Top 5 best pubs and bars in Carlingford that everyone needs to experience
8. Doolin, Co. Clare – soak up the scenery and Irish culture
A quaint town in the west of Ireland, Doolin is pretty small and traditional, making it a must-visit on your travels through the country.
Home to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, this spot has plenty going for it, from beautiful scenery to lively pubs hosting live sessions in the evenings.
A real touch of Ireland, Doolin is the kind of place where you can fully immerse yourself in the culture of the Emerald Isle.
Address: Doolin, Co. Clare, Ireland
7. Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny – a beautiful town full of history
Located in the province of Leinster in the southeast of Ireland, Kilkenny is perhaps one of the most underrated spots to visit in Ireland.
Full of history and culture, Kilkenny is built on the banks of the River Nore and is a place where you can fully soak up the atmosphere of the Ancient East.
We recommend exploring Kilkenny Castle and the Medieval Mile before heading to one of the city’s award-winning restaurants for a delicious meal.
Address: Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny, Ireland
RELATED: Top 10 best pubs and bars in Kilkenny that everyone needs to experience
6. Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal – a surfer’s paradise
Set on the northwest coast of Ireland, County Donegal and County Sligo are renowned worldwide as epic spots for Irish surf. Dunfanaghy is a quaint town located close to some of the country’s top surf beaches.
Alongside this, however, Dunfanaghy is also a great place to enjoy a relaxed break with the family. You can check out the beaches, head to the famous Horn Head, and grab something to eat and drink at the best cafes, bars, and restaurants in town.
Address: Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal, Ireland
5. Roundstone, Co. Galway – a quaint town hidden amongst nature
Next up on our list of best towns in Ireland for a break is the beautiful town of Roundstone, at the heart of Connemara National Park in County Galway.
Surrounded by epic scenery with mountains, lakes, and beaches close to the town, you can truly relax in the presence of nature here. There are also lots of great cafes, bars, and restaurants where you can chill out with friends and enjoy a drink and a bite to eat.
Address: Roundstone, Co. Galway, Ireland
4. Dunmore East, Co. Waterford – a great place to soak up the sun (when it comes out)
Located in the sunny southeast, Dunmore East is the ideal town for a relaxed break where you can enjoy some of the best weather you’re likely to find in Ireland.
While you’re here, you can take on the epic Dunmore East Cliff Walk, check out the nearby beaches and secluded bays, or pop into one of the many great pubs and restaurants.
3. Dingle, Co. Kerry – worth the hype
No visit to County Kerry is complete without checking out the beautiful Dingle Peninsula. Home to stunning beaches, epic cliff faces, and an abundance of scenery, this place is truly magical.
If you’re looking for the perfect base from which to explore, we recommend heading to Dingle Town itself.
With plenty of adventure activities, streets lined with colourful buildings, and many wonderful bars and restaurants, this is certainly one of our favourite Irish towns.
Address: Dingle, Co. Kerry, Ireland
READ MORE: Top 10 best things to do in Dingle, RANKED
2. Kinsale, Co. Cork – a gem of the southwest
A great place from which to begin your adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way, Kinsale is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful towns in Ireland.
Home to history, scenic beauty, and narrow streets lined with small and colourful buildings, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the Ireland of the past exploring Kinsale.
The town is also home to fantastic bars and restaurants where you can relax, enjoy some delicious food and drinks, and witness a traditional live music session.
Address: Kinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland
READ MORE: Kinsale: things to do, when to visit, and things to know
1. Westport, Co. Mayo – a must-visit on the Wild Atlantic Way
A gem of the west coast, Westport is one of the main towns in County Mayo, with plenty to see and explore. Lively and bustling, there is always something to be enjoyed here.
Whether you want to get out and embrace adventure by trekking up the famous Croagh Patrick or you’d prefer to enjoy a drink and a traditional music session at one of the town’s best pubs, you’re sure to find something that takes your fancy in Westport.
Address: Westport, Co. Mayo, Ireland
READ MORE: 24 Hours in Westport: A Perfect One Day Itinerary For This Mayo Town
