Looking to discover the very best that the Emerald Isle has to offer? If so, read on. Here are the five most popular Irish tourist destinations you need to add to your bucket list.
If you want to spend a holiday in Ireland and visit some of the most beautiful tourist destinations in a couple of days to a week time range, don’t be too lazy to plan your trip in advance.
The natural beauty of Ireland, particularly its coasts, cliffs, and islands, is the country’s most valuable asset for the tourism industry.
If you seek an authentic Irish atmosphere and architecture, then you may find tiny towns like Wexford or Kinsale the best places to visit.
You can get to most tourist destinations pretty easily, even if you don’t have a car; in Ireland, you can get anywhere using rail or bus. Listed below are the top five most popular Irish tourist destinations you need to visit.
5. Newgrange Passage Tomb, Co. Meath – discover ancient Ireland
Newgrange is a tomb that dates back to 2500 BC and is located 40 km (25 miles) north of Dublin. It has a similar appearance and significance to Stonehenge.
Newgrange is considered a ‘fairy hill’, according to Celtic mythology. According to legend, the fairies will emerge from here on the first night of November.
Address: Newgrange, Donore, Co. Meath, Ireland
4. Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare – one of the most popular Irish tourist destinations
Every year, hundreds of thousands of tourists go to Ireland to specifically visit the Cliffs of Moher. The cliffs rise roughly 330 ft (100 m) above sea level, with the highest point at more than 656 ft (200 m) above sea level.
These photogenic cliffs are also famous places for local and foreign celebrities. Justaminx is Irish, and she loves this place. Also, notably, one of the movies from the Harry Potter series includes scenes that were shot in the area.
Address: Cliffs of Moher, Lislorkan North, Liscannor, Co. Clare, V95 KN9T, Ireland
3. Howth, Co. Dublin – a quaint seaside town
Howth is a small fishing village that you can get to in half an hour or less by taking the train from Dublin city center.
Howth is said to be based on a collapsing mountain that overlooks the shore, providing a view of some of the most breathtaking seascapes in Ireland.
Many Dublin locals visit this place on weekends to take a walk along the river and enjoy the sights. Foreign tourists might do the same, and after a lengthy stroll, they may reward themselves with excellent fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
The town has been a popular tourist destination for many decades, meaning that many local restaurants and hotels are top-notch in terms of service and food quality.
You have to order a local classic called Irish Seafood Chowder, which is a seafood stew cooked with cream and milk. It is pretty tasty and highly recommended!
Address: Howth, Dublin, Ireland
2. Galway, Co. Galway – Ireland’s iconic Capital of Culture
No list of the most popular Irish tourist destinations would be complete without mentioning the famous City of Tribes. Galway is a port city on Ireland’s west coast, and it is only two and a quarter hours away from Dublin.
Quiet walks, live music at local bars, and festivities are all things that will appeal to visitors to this city. It is also an excellent starting point for trips to the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, so why wouldn’t you visit?
Address: Galway City, Co. Galway, Ireland
1. Glendalough, Co. Wicklow – one of the most stunning natural attractions in Ireland
Glendalough is the famed ‘Valley of the Two Lakes’, located around half an hour from Dublin. It has since been transformed into a forested valley with hiking routes winding through it.
Tourists adore the tranquility and natural beauty of the area, making it the perfect location to escape the hustle and bustle of the nearby capital city.
For those who enjoy outdoor adventure, Wicklow is a must-visit, as it is one of the country’s best hiking locations!
Address: Lugduff, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
