Beyond the well-known tourist traps and crowded streets lie the places where Irish people actually go to escape.
For many visitors, a tour of Ireland involves visiting the famous cliffs, major cities, and the famous Irish castles. However, the true magic of the country is found in the towns and villages where the pace of life has slowed, and nothing seems to happen.
We’ve identified the spots that rarely get international attention and are ideal for a quiet weekend getaway. Here are the ten Irish towns that locals love, but tourists have never heard of.
10. Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny – a riverside paradise for outdoor lovers
This town is a hidden sanctuary for those who prefer the natural sound of flowing water over noisy city traffic.
Locals adore this town for its stunning, unspoiled charm and rich monastic history. Graiguenamanagh is famous for Duiske Abbey, the beautiful 13th-century Cistercian monastery located at the heart of the village.
For many years, the town has managed to stay under the radar of international visitors because of its strategic location away from major tourist routes or motorways.
Unlike most commercial Irish destinations, this beloved small town is one of Ireland’s most peaceful destinations.
9. Dunmore East, Co. Waterford – the thatched-cottage village that feels like a secret
Most tourists often visit the Viking Triangle in Waterford City, but locals of Dunmore East cherish this “secluded” fishing village on the eastern edge of Waterford Harbour.
The town is easily recognisable by its traditional thatched cottages and picturesque red sandstone cliffs. While it’s a popular destination for domestic travellers, it remains largely unknown to foreign tourists.
It has gained a reputation as a foodie destination, where you can find some of the freshest seafood in the country.
Dunmore East is made up of a series of sheltered, cliff-edged strands, rather than one massive beachfront, which naturally keeps the coastal crowds contained.
8. Birr, Co. Offaly – a Georgian gem with a cosmic history
Birr is one of the few Irish towns that has retained a refined and uncommercialised atmosphere. Locals cherish this elegant heritage town for its well-preserved wide streets and Georgian architecture.
While most international tourists head to the rugged coastlines along the Wild Atlantic Way, residents prefer the quiet, serene atmosphere away from the crowded tourist destinations of the west.
Tourists driving between Dublin and Galway rarely branch off to County Offaly. The people in Birr are left to enjoy the artisan craft shops and the traditional pubs in the town.
7. Strandhill, Co. Sligo – the coolest surf town on the Wild Atlantic Way
This legendary coastal village is popular among Irish surfers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a relaxed and unspoiled atmosphere.
Despite its international recognition as a world-class surf destination, most international tourists often overlook Strandhill, opting to visit Donegal or Mayo.
After a busy day, locals usually reward themselves with a soak in the famous Voya Seaweed Baths. They also get a delicious scoop of homemade honeycomb ice cream from Mammy Johnston’s on the seafront.
6. Carlingford, Co. Louth – a peaceful medieval fortress that locals cherish
Locals describe Carlingford as a “drop-dead gorgeous” medieval coastal town that they absolutely adore.
The town is hidden away on the Cooley Peninsula, and is one of the few places in Ireland where you can truly enjoy a lively, modern Irish atmosphere.
For decades, Carlingford has remained a peaceful local treasure known for its famous Carlingford oysters.
The town is made up of narrow streets and well-preserved fortified townhouses, which have helped retain the town’s dramatic history.
Tucked between the mountains and the sea, the town is the perfect gateway for local hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Ardara, Co. Donegal – the traditional home of tweed and music
Ardara is a spectacular heritage town that locals are extremely proud of. It was once named the best village to live in Ireland, because of its genuine welcoming atmosphere.
Residents call it the “Festival Capital” of the Northwest due to its packed calendar of events.
While neighbouring towns often feel crowded and commercial, Ardara has maintained its authentic, rugged Irish charm.
The town is famous for its hand-woven tweed. You can still experience this part of Ardara’s history at the town’s Heritage Centre or by visiting small shops such as Triona Design, where the weavers work right behind the counter.
The nightlife experience is defined by the “trad” sessions in local pubs. Some of the finest musicians in the country gather here for spontaneous performances that often last until the early morning hours.
4. Killaloe & Ballina, Co. Clare/Tipperary – the twin towns divided by a bridge
While Killaloe and Ballina are two towns in different counties, they share so much in common.
Besides being joined by a beautiful 13-arch bridge along the River Shannon, the area was once the seat of Brian Boru, the High King of Ireland. It has retained a sense of royal importance without becoming a tourist trap.
These twin towns are located at the southern end of Lough Derg and the river. This makes them a favourite spot for locals who enjoy sailing, paddleboarding, or simply hiking.
The towns offer an excellent food and drink culture free from the noise and tourist crowds.
3. Schull, Co. Cork – the bohemian gateway to the islands
Schull is a charming Irish seaside town in West Cork, hidden at the foot of Mount Gabriel, away from many international tourists.
The town has a distinctive laid-back bohemian feel and scenic tranquility that locals love. It often attracts a mix of sailing enthusiasts, local farmers, and European artists.
Despite having so many attractions and so much to do, Schull remains undiscovered by many tourists who prefer more popular routes. The village is home to Ireland’s only planetarium.
It’s also close to less-visited sites such as Barley Cove Beach and the quieter trails of the Sheep’s Head Peninsula. It’s a favourite town for local holidaymakers who prefer a serene coastal environment with fewer crowds.
2. Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh – the most underrated island town
Local and regional holidaymakers deeply love this town, which was recently named one of Ireland’s most underrated towns. Enniskillen is a unique town because it’s geographically located on an island between the Upper and Lower sections of Lough Erne.
Unlike many touristy towns that feel generic and commercialised, Enniskillen has a vibrant main street consisting of independent, family-run shops and traditional pubs.
Locals particularly love Enniskillen for its seamless blend of heritage and modern leisure. You can visit the historic Buttermarket craft centre for shopping or take a water taxi directly from the high street to explore the nearby landscapes.
1. Westport, Co. Mayo – the town that consistently wins the “best place to live” title
Locals and tourists alike love Westport town. It’s a unique town in the way it handles immense popularity without losing its local charm.
It has previously topped the rankings as one of the best places to live in Ireland, and it’s easy to see why. The town has an incredible sense of community, which keeps visitors coming back.
Westport town perfectly balances traditional charm with a high quality of life. It features beautiful architecture and a picturesque mall lined with lime trees and colourful shopfronts.
Locals are highly protective of their town, ensuring it remains aesthetically appealing and free of souvenir clutter.
