The day in Ireland isn’t over when the sun sets – it comes alive in a different way.
We all know the carpe diem motto. While we’re seizing the day, you’d be wrong to forget about your nighttime travel planning.
Once everything goes quiet, other places come to life. Pubs, the wildness, the skies – we’ll give you seven magical experiences you can have after dark.
7. Ghost tours – spooky, but fun
Getting spooked on purpose can be fun, really. While this is not what you may have thought of, several cities in Ireland like Dublin, Cork, Galway, or Kilkenny offer ghost tours to talk about the dark sides of history.
They’re often a mix of stories and historical facts. All presented in a lighter, fun way. The Ghost Bus in Dublin is one of the more best-known options, but you can also get walking tours.
Address: Dublin Bus Head Office, 59 Upper O’Connell Street Upper, North City, Dublin 1, D01 RX04, Ireland
6. Live music – it’ll get everyone moving
Going to a pub seems like a very normal thing to do on your trip to Ireland. However, there’s more to a pub outing.
Once the trad music starts, the pub really comes alive, and you’ll notice your feet moving to the rhythm.
You have a lot of pubs to choose from for trad music. There’s often a sign outside that will mention it. To get you started, here are some trad music tips for Dublin.
5. Night kayaking – when everything is quieter
When you’re travelling along the Wild Atlantic Way, you can have a special nighttime experience in West Cork – night kayaking on Lough Hyne.
If that isn’t already enough: The lough is one of the top spots where you might be able to witness bioluminescence.
Just imagine: it’s dark, you’re on the water, the clear sky above you. What’s the wildlife like at night? This is truly something you won’t forget.
Address: Loughine, Ballyoughtera, Co. Cork, Ireland
4. Storytelling events – listen and enjoy
The Irish storytelling tradition goes back a long time. It’s not just legends and fairies, it’s any story, really. You can still have those special sessions.
The Stag’s Head in Dublin would be one of the places for this, but you can find others around the country.
Bonus tip: Check out the Seanchoíche events – you can either take part yourself or just listen. Wherever you go for your storytelling, it’ll be a very special experience.
3. Observe the night sky – twinkle, twinkle little star
Does it get more magical than stars? Ireland is one of the top destinations in Europe for clear skies.
However, you can make it even better. Check out the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in Omagh or the Dark Sky Reserve in Kerry.
Alternatively, find a spot without any light pollution and practice your astrophotography skills. If you’re lucky and depending on your travel time, you might even see the Northern Lights.
2. Sleeping under the stars – so serene
You can also take it to the next level and literally sleep under the stars. Camping would be the obvious choice. You have lots of camping options to choose from.
If you want something special, though, sleeping in a bubble dome might just be it for you. Finn Lough in Fermanagh is one of the spots.
You can also combine a treehouse experience with a bubble dome at Fernwood – close to Clifden. Get glamping!
1. Sunset views – without the crowds
Some of the most magical experiences are for free. It’s the small things, isn’t it? One of them is certainly those stunning sunset views. However, we’re not just talking about any sunset. No. Think big.
Go to the Cliffs of Moher for sunset. The Giant’s Causeway. The Wormhole on Inis Mór. Pick your perfect nature spot. On top of the wonderful views, you can even beat the crowds and have it (almost) to yourself.
After a long day of exploring, make sure you still have a bit of energy left for everything that happens after dark. Magical nighttime activities are waiting for you. Whether it’s a lively pub or a quiet beach, the night is yours.
