Ireland (known affectionately as the Emerald Isle) is a welcoming land of green hills, music-filled pubs, and ancient stones.
This travel guide will help you explore Ireland’s highlights with ease.
Let’s get going!
Getting Around
Ireland may look small on a map, but give yourself time to travel – roads can be winding and distances deceptive. Many first-time visitors underestimate how long it takes to get around, often packing too much into one trip.
If you plan to drive, remember that Irish (and Northern Irish) motorists keep to the left side of the road. Take it slow on country lanes, which are often narrow and curvy. Renting a car offers flexibility to reach rural gems, though be sure to read the fine print on insurance and fees.
Public transportation is a convenient option between major destinations. Trains and buses connect cities like Dublin, Galway, Cork, and Belfast. You can see a lot without a car by using bus tours and rail lines – just note that some remote areas have limited service.
For example, in far-flung counties like Donegal, buses might be infrequent. Taxis and rideshares are available in cities, and guided tours can help with hard-to-reach sights (such as day trips to the Cliffs of Moher or Giant’s Causeway).
Ireland is an island, but crossing the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland is seamless and requires no special checks.
Flights into Ireland typically arrive at Dublin or Shannon for the Republic, or Belfast for Northern Ireland. Once there, getting around is part of the adventure.
And don’t worry – locals are friendly and happy to give directions if you need help on your journey!
Top Places to Visit
One iconic landscape of Ireland is the Cliffs of Moher – sheer rock cliffs towering over the Atlantic Ocean on the west coast.
But natural wonders are only part of the charm. Ireland’s rich tapestry of attractions ranges from historic castles to lively cultural cities.
Here are some top places to include on your Irish adventure:
Dublin
The capital city is often the first stop. Stroll the cobbled streets of Temple Bar (Dublin’s famous pub district) and visit Trinity College to see the illuminated medieval Book of Kells.
Don’t miss the Guinness Storehouse, Ireland’s number one visitor attraction, where you can learn about the iconic stout and enjoy a pint with a view.
Dublin also offers plenty of museums, like the National Museum and EPIC Irish Emigration Museum, plus shopping along Grafton Street.
Cliffs of Moher (County Clare)
These world-famous sea cliffs are a must-see for nature lovers. They rise to about 214 meters (700 feet) at their highest point, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic waves below.
The Cliffs are part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, and there are safe viewing areas and a visitor center to enrich your experience.
For fewer crowds, try visiting early morning or late afternoon. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike a portion of the coastal trail that links the nearby villages – just be cautious on windy days!
Galway
A colorful harbor city on Ireland’s west coast, Galway is known as the “Cultural Heart of Ireland” for its thriving arts and music scene.
Walk the pedestrian-friendly Latin Quarter with its street performers and shops. In the evenings, pop into a local pub for live traditional music – Galway’s pub sessions are legendary.
The city’s vibe is youthful and creative, and it serves as a gateway to natural sights like Connemara National Park and the Aran Islands.
Ring of Kerry & Killarney (County Kerry)
The Ring of Kerry is a scenic 179 km circular drive around the Iveragh Peninsula, famed for its coastal panoramas and quaint towns. Starting near the town of Killarney, this route takes you past sparkling lakes, rugged mountains, and beaches.
Highlights include Killarney National Park (home to Muckross House and Torc Waterfall), the charming village of Sneem, and lookout points like Ladies View.
You can drive it yourself or join a coach tour – either way, the landscapes will leave you in awe.
Cork City & Blarney Castle
Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city, has a lively food scene and a history of rebel spirit. It’s a great place to wander local markets like the English Market for artisanal cheeses and seafood.
Just outside Cork, visit Blarney Castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. Legend says kissing this stone gives you the “gift of gab” – the gift of eloquence in speech.
The castle’s gardens are beautiful for a stroll, and climbing the old spiral stairs to the stone is a fun adventure (if you don’t mind heights!).
Belfast & the Giant’s Causeway (Northern Ireland)
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, offers a mix of history and modern culture. Learn about the ill-fated ocean liner at the Titanic Belfast museum, an impressive attraction on the site where the Titanic was built.
Take a Black Cab tour to see the city’s famous political murals and learn about its complex history. North of Belfast, the Antrim coast holds the legendary Giant’s Causeway – an area of about 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity (or, as Irish myth claims, by feuding giants!).
It’s Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site and truly lives up to the hype. Be sure to walk the coastal trails above the Causeway for stunning sea views and pack a rain jacket, as the weather can change quickly by the coast.
Kilkenny & Ireland’s Ancient East
For a dose of medieval charm, visit Kilkenny in the southeast. This small city is home to a magnificent 12th-century castle and a network of narrow lanes with shops and pubs. Kilkenny is part of what’s marketed as “Ireland’s Ancient East,” a region rich with history.
Nearby, you can explore the Rock of Cashel (a dramatic hilltop ruin of a cathedral and fortress) or Glendalough in County Wicklow, where an ancient monastic site nestles in a valley of two lakes. These sites offer a glimpse into Ireland’s early Christian heritage and Celtic past.
Of course, this list is just a start. Ireland has countless other gems – from the lunar-like Burren in Clare, to the lake-filled lakelands of Fermanagh, to the Donegal highlands. But the spots above are perennial favorites that showcase the variety of experiences on offer.
Food & Drink
Irish cuisine is hearty, simple, and filling – perfect after a day of exploring. The Irish Stew is often called Ireland’s national dish. This slow-cooked stew usually features tender lamb (or beef), potatoes, carrots, and onions in a rich broth – just the thing to warm you on a drizzly day.
Another staple you’ll encounter is Irish soda bread, a dense, chewy bread traditionally made with baking soda instead of yeast. It’s delicious spread with butter and jam or served alongside soup.
If you’re in Northern Ireland, try an Ulster Fry, which is a platter of fried eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding, white pudding, tomatoes, and potato farls (fried potato bread) – basically a mega-version of the full Irish breakfast.
Seafood lovers will also delight in Ireland’s offerings: along the coasts, you can savor fresh fish and chips, hearty seafood chowder brimming with Atlantic fish, and native oysters (Galway hosts an international oyster festival each year).
Don’t forget to sample local cheese and chocolate; Ireland’s dairy is top-notch thanks to all those grass-fed cows.
No trip to Ireland is complete without experiencing its pub culture. An Irish “pub” (short for public house) is much more than a place to grab a drink – it’s a community living room, a music hall, and a dining room all in one. Even if you don’t drink alcohol, it’s worth visiting pubs for their atmosphere and food.
Try a pint of Guinness, the famously dark Irish stout with a creamy head, born in Dublin and now beloved worldwide.
(Fun fact: in Dublin you can tour the Guinness Storehouse, ending with a panoramic pint in the Gravity Bar.)
If beer isn’t your thing, perhaps sample an Irish whiskey. Ireland has a long whiskey-making tradition, with well-known distilleries like Jameson in Dublin or Bushmills in the north.
Beyond drinks, pubs often serve classic meals – think beef and Guinness pie, fish and chips, or bangers and mash (sausages with mashed potatoes). Many pubs also showcase live traditional music.
On a given night, you might find local musicians gathered in a corner playing fiddles, flutes, guitars and singing Irish folk songs. It’s a joyous, toe-tapping experience and a great way to immerse yourself in the culture.
Families are usually welcome in pubs during the day for meals (in the evenings, minors may have to leave, typically by 9pm, depending on the establishment).
Quick Travel Tips
Weather
Be prepared for changing weather – it’s said you can experience all four seasons in a single day in Ireland. Pack layers and carry a light rain jacket or umbrella, no matter the season.
A sunny morning can turn rainy and windy by afternoon, so dressing in layers will keep you comfortable.
Northern Ireland vs Republic
The island of Ireland is divided into two jurisdictions. Northern Ireland (in the northeast) is part of the UK, while the rest is the Republic of Ireland.
This means Northern Ireland uses the British pound sterling, and the Republic uses the euro. There’s an open border, so you likely won’t even notice when you cross – just keep the currency difference in mind if your travels include both areas.
Driving Tips
If you rent a car, remember to drive on the left-hand side of the road. Take extra care at roundabouts (traffic circles) – yield to traffic coming from the right.
In rural areas, roads can be one-lane or have sharp bends. Drive slowly and be ready to pull over for oncoming cars or farm tractors on narrow roads.
Also note that distances are posted in kilometers in the Republic and in miles in Northern Ireland.
Plan Realistically
Don’t try to see everything in one go. Ireland is bigger than it seems once you’re on the ground. Rather than rushing, pick a few regions to explore deeply.
A logical itinerary (without too much backtracking) will save you time and stress.
For example, instead of day-tripping from Dublin to far corners of the country, consider staying overnight in the west or south to fully enjoy those areas.
Best Time to Visit
Ireland is beautiful year-round, but each season has its pros and cons. Summer (June–August) brings longer days and milder weather, but also the biggest crowds and higher prices.
Spring and fall can be wonderful “shoulder seasons.” In April–May or September–October, it’s quieter and often cheaper, yet you still get decent weather.
Winter travel (November–February) means cold, wet weather and short daylight hours, but you’ll experience a more local, uncrowded Ireland (and cozy evenings by the pub fireplace!).
Pack accordingly for the time of year you choose.
Language
English is the main language spoken in Ireland, so communication is easy. You’ll also notice Irish Gaelic (Gaeilge) on many signs, especially in the west and south.
Don’t worry, everyone speaks English, but it can be fun to learn a couple of Irish words: “Fáilte” means welcome (you’ll see it on welcome signs), and “Sláinte” (pronounced slawn-cha) means cheers!
The Irish people are generally very proud of their heritage and enjoy it if you take an interest in their native language and traditions.
Enjoy your Irish Adventure!
Ireland offers something for everyone: bustling cities and quiet villages, misty mountains and coastal cliffs, ancient history and lively modern culture.
The locals are famously friendly – you might find yourself in conversation with a stranger who feels like an old friend. With these tips and highlights in mind, you’re ready to explore the Emerald Isle.
So go n-éirí an bóthar leat – may the road rise to meet you, and happy travels in Ireland!
