Research is a big part of trip planning. Pretty much every traveller does it. It gets everyone more excited about the upcoming trip.
The top attractions usually get checked first. Ireland has wonderful attractions and stunning scenery.
However, even the most famous places have to deal with criticism. You can’t make everyone happy – even if you’re a stunning attraction.Â
Some people were disappointed, and they didn’t hold back on TripAdvisor. We’re looking at some of the worst-reviewed Irish attractions on the platform. Let’s see which famous sights made the list with their bad reviews.
Kilmainham Gaol – can’t get into prison
Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin’s famous prison, has a lot of stories to tell. If you can get in. According to reviews, it’s apparently impossible to get tickets. So a lot of people are missing out on this experience.
It might take a lot of patience to get tickets online, but it’s worth it. You might even have seen it before without knowing – Kilmainham Gaol has been used for several movies, like In the Name of the Father with Daniel Day-Lewis.
Cliffs of Moher – too many people
Some reviews complain about the number of people there. Popular attractions do come with other humans. That’s just how it is.
The Cliffs of Moher are no exception. Being stunning like that does attract visitors – and it’s a huge selfie spot. Your best bet is to arrive before the tour buses get there.
If you arrive early in the morning, you can enjoy the peace and quiet, take lots of photos, and have the Cliffs almost to yourself. The other option would be to arrive a bit later, after all the tour buses have left.
St. Stephen’s Green – simply wet
Interestingly enough, there is more than one review on TripAdvisor that complains about the rain when visiting St. Stephen’s Green. It’s a known fact that Ireland gets its fair share of rain. The green has to be thoroughly watered, doesn’t it?
However, that also means that not every outdoor attraction might be enjoyable. It’s not St. Stephen’s Green’s fault, though, is it?
Giant’s Causeway – a pile of rocks
Although it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant’s Causeway does get some funny reviews at times. Overall, it is one of the top attractions on the island of Ireland. Yes, the Causeway is basically oddly shaped rocks.
That just adds to its allure, though. The scenery there is just breathtaking. However, the part about the non-existent giants is true. Unfortunately, there haven’t been any giant sightings in centuries.
Blarney Stone – a hyped-up kiss
Kissing a stone? Why? The gift of the gab. That’s what you’re promised at Blarney Castle. Except that it’s a partial ruin. So this is about managing expectations. It’s not a functioning castle any more.
Add the huge number of people hoping to boost their eloquence, and you get long lines. The kiss itself is the experience, though. You’re on your back, leaning down, trying to kiss the spot that millions of people have kissed before you.
Which of these reviews has surprised you the most? Yes, even Ireland’s top attractions have to deal with some negative comments. That doesn’t take away from their beauty, though. So try to avoid the crowds when you can and just enjoy wonderful Ireland.
