Believe it or not, Ireland has a few tourist traps, which are not all they’re cracked up to be, and these are the ones to avoid.
Ireland may have plenty of incredible natural attractions, heritage sites, and famous landmarks, but the truth is that Ireland also has plenty of tourist traps that are best avoided.
For a small country, Ireland welcomes many visitors from all corners of the globe, eager to soak up traditional Irish culture, meet the locals, and see what hidden gems the country offers.
Yet, quite a few landmarks are not worth your time, and we will spill the beans right here. Let’s take a look at Ireland’s ten most overhyped, overrated tourist traps.
10. The Spire, Dublin – nothing to write home about
The Spire is a monument in Dublin located on O’Connell Street, and since its erection, it has become somewhat of a symbol of the capital.
In reality, the Spire is nothing short of underwhelming and, for locals, is seen as an eyesore or a meeting point rather than a must-see landmark.
Address: O’Connell Street Upper, North City, Dublin, Ireland
9. Killarney, County Kerry – the hub for tourists
Killarney is a hub for tourists, especially those who want to enjoy the beauty of Killarney National Park, but what can be said about the town itself?
In truth, Killarney is a crowded town packed with tourists, souvenir shops, and expensive hotels, which is certainly not ideal if you want an authentic Irish experience.
Address: Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland
8. Hop on, hop off tour bus – a soul-less way to explore a city
Yes, tour buses can be a great way to see a city quickly, and a few of Ireland’s cities offer this experience, attracting visitors.
We must say that this overrated tourist trap is far from the best way to see Ireland. In fact, taking local transport is much more authentic and often costs the same or even less than these buses.
7. National Leprechaun Museum of Ireland, Dublin – there are better museums in Dublin
This leprechaun-themed museum catches visitors’ attention because they want to delve into Irish folklore and learn more about our famous leprechauns.
However, the National Leprechaun Museum of Ireland is expensive and not worth the price tag. Instead, spend your money and time at one of the city’s better museums.
Address: 2-3, Mary’s Abbey, North City, Dublin, D07 X6R6, Ireland
6. The Crown Bar, Belfast – not worth the hype
If there is one place you should avoid when visiting Belfast – if you want a local experience – it is the Crown Bar.
While this picturesque Victorian pub is popular with visitors, it is not worth being jammed among crowds, with no chance of finding a seat. You are better off visiting an authentic local pub instead.
Address: County Antrim, 46 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BA
5. Molly Malone Statue, Dublin – an overrated statue in the capital
Many tourists who come to Dublin are eager to visit the city’s best attractions. But, believe it or not, the Molly Malone Statue is not one of them for us.
We must admit that this life-sized statue of one of Dublin’s most famous fictional characters is not worth the hype, so best stick to Dublin’s better sights.
Address: Suffolk St, Dublin 2, D02 KX03, Ireland
4. Blarney Stone, Cork – crowded and underwhelming
For those keen to kiss the Blarney Stone, we must admit that this is one of the country’s most overhyped, overrated tourist traps.
Why? Well, the landmark, which is said to give the gift of the gab, is somewhat underwhelming in person and is almost always crowded, to say the least.
Address: Blarney, Cork, T23 Y598, Ireland
3. Temple Bar Pub, Dublin – an expensive tourist trap
Don’t get us wrong, the Temple Bar pub is an eye-catcher, a great place for an iconic photo when strolling the cobbled streets of Temple Bar. But this is one of the most overhyped, overrated tourist traps in Dublin.
If you are looking for the country’s most expensive pint, you will undoubtedly find it here. Otherwise, go elsewhere.
Address: 47-48 Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 N725, Ireland
2. The Cliffs of Moher, Clare – there are much better alternatives
Believe it or not, the Cliffs of Moher are indeed one of Ireland’s most overhyped, overrated tourist traps.
While the cliffs are one of the country’s most visited landmarks, we must admit that the much higher Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal or Croaghaun Cliffs in County Mayo are much more impressive and less crowded.
Address: Co. Clare, Ireland
1. The Book of Kells – a crowded and pricey attraction
While Trinity College in Dublin is a must-see for any visitor to the city, the same cannot be said for the Book of Kells.
Viewing the 1,200-year-old manuscript involves a hefty entrance fee and long queues, and you will hover over the small display with a roomful of people. You are better off visiting the Chester Beatty Library nearby for free.
Address: Trinity Long Room, The University of Dublin Trinity College, College Green, South-East Inner City, Dublin, Ireland
So, these are some overrated tourist traps you can find across Ireland. If the Emerald Isle is on your bucket list, visit some of the country’s hidden gems rather than these tourist traps – you won’t regret it!
