Ireland's Must-See Sights & Experiences
A list of the best things to see and do around Ireland on your private tour
Dublin Castle
A former seat of British power in Ireland, Dublin Castle now hosts exhibitions and guided tours showcasing its Viking foundations, grand State Apartments, and elegant Chapel Royal. A key historic site that blends old and new Dublin.
Dame Street, Dublin 2, D02 V240
Phone: +353 1 645 8813
Website: https://www.dublincastle.ie/
Guinness Storehouse
A pilgrimage site for beer lovers, the Guinness Storehouse offers a multi-sensory journey through the history, craft, and legacy of Ireland’s most famous export. Cap it off with a pint at the Gravity Bar overlooking Dublin’s skyline.
St. James’s Gate, Dublin 8, D08 VF8H
Phone: +353 1 408 4800
Website: https://www.guinness-storehouse.com/
Kilmainham Gaol
This former prison turned museum tells the raw and powerful story of Ireland’s path to independence. The guided tour is deeply moving, walking visitors through cells once occupied by Irish revolutionaries.
Inchicore Road, Kilmainham, Dublin 8, D08 T2X5
Phone: +353 1 453 5984
Website: https://kilmainhamgaolmuseum.ie/
Trinity College & The Book of Kells
Ireland’s most prestigious university is home to the stunning Long Room Library and the illuminated 9th-century Book of Kells. An essential stop for lovers of history, literature, and awe-inspiring architecture.
College Green, Dublin 2, D02 PN40
Phone: +353 1 896 1000
Blarney Castle & Gardens
One of Ireland’s most famous landmarks, Blarney Castle draws visitors from around the world to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone and receive the “gift of the gab.” The surrounding gardens are equally enchanting, with a Poison Garden and hidden trails.
Blarney, County Cork, T23 Y598
Phone: +353 21 438 5252
Website: https://www.blarneycastle.ie/
Cobh Heritage Centre
This moving and beautifully curated museum tells the story of Irish emigration, including Titanic and Lusitania connections. Located right by the harbor, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Cork’s maritime and social history.
Deepwater Quay, Cobh, County Cork, P24 CY67
Phone: +353 21 481 3591
Website: https://www.cobhheritage.com/
English Market
A vibrant, covered food market in the heart of Cork City, this 18th-century treasure is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Expect artisan cheeses, fresh seafood, and local chatter under beautiful vaulted ceilings.
Grand Parade, Cork City, T12 NC8Y
Phone: +353 21 492 4258
Spike Island
Once known as "Ireland's Alcatraz," this island in Cork Harbour has a long history as a monastery, fortress, and prison. Now a fascinating heritage site, it’s accessible by ferry and offers guided tours through its eerie, evocative past.
Kennedy Pier, Cobh, County Cork, P24 KX65
Phone: +353 21 237 3455
Website: https://www.spikeislandcork.ie/
Clifden & Sky Road
The charming town of Clifden serves as the gateway to the stunning Sky Road—a scenic coastal drive offering panoramic views of the Atlantic, rugged cliffs, and islands. A must-see for photographers and nature lovers.
Clifden, County Galway, H71 E230
Phone: +353 95 21800 (Clifden Tourist Office)
Connemara National Park
A vast wilderness of bogs, heaths, and mountains, perfect for hiking and spotting native wildlife. The park offers several trails with breathtaking views of the Twelve Bens mountain range.
Letterfrack, County Galway, H91 F2YT
Phone: +353 95 41038
Galway City Museum
Situated on the historic city’s waterfront, this modern museum showcases Galway’s rich heritage from its Viking origins to contemporary culture. Exhibits include archaeology, art, and maritime history.
Spanish Parade, Galway City, H91 HXP8
Phone: +353 91 532460
Website: https://www.galwaycitymuseum.ie/
Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
Nestled in the Connemara hills, this stunning abbey was built in the 19th century and is surrounded by enchanting gardens and woodlands. Visitors can explore the abbey, the neo-Gothic church, and beautifully restored Victorian gardens.
Kylemore, Connemara, County Galway, H91 YR52
Phone: +353 95 41047
Website: https://www.kylemoreabbey.com/
Dingle Peninsula & Slea Head Drive
This rugged peninsula offers coastal cliffs, golden beaches, and Gaelic culture in full bloom. Slea Head Drive is a loop route with views of the Blasket Islands, ancient beehive huts, and windswept Atlantic drama.
Route begins and ends in Dingle Town, County Kerry
Phone: +353 66 915 1188 (Dingle Tourist Office)
Website: https://www.dingle-peninsula.ie/
Killarney National Park & Muckross House
A jewel of natural beauty, this national park features lush forests, sparkling lakes, and red deer roaming freely. Muckross House, a stately Victorian mansion, offers a glimpse into 19th-century life with stunning gardens and views.
Muckross, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 EW28
Phone: +353 64 663 1440
Ring of Kerry
This iconic 179-km scenic drive offers jaw-dropping views of mountains, lakes, and the Atlantic coastline. Expect charming villages, ancient ruins, and postcard-worthy stops like Ladies View and Moll’s Gap along the way.
Starts and ends in Killarney, County Kerry
Phone: +353 64 663 1633 (visitor info via Killarney Tourist Office)
Website: https://www.discoverkerry.com/
Skellig Michael
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remote, sea-battered island is home to an ancient monastic settlement and dramatic stone stairways. Also featured in Star Wars, it’s accessible only by boat in good weather—wild, unforgettable, and sacred.
Boat departures from Portmagee, County Kerry (May–Oct)
Phone: +353 66 947 5113 (Skellig Experience Visitor Centre)
Website: https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/skellig-michael/
Bushmills Distillery
One of the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distilleries, dating back to 1608. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about traditional whiskey-making processes and enjoy tastings of their renowned single malts.
32 Main Street, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8SX
Phone: +44 28 2073 1313
Website: https://www.bushmills.com/
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Spanning a 20-meter chasm over the Atlantic, this thrilling rope bridge connects the mainland to Carrick-a-Rede Island. Visitors enjoy spectacular sea views and a chance to spot seabirds and marine life.
Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy, County Antrim, BT54 6LD
Phone: +44 28 2073 1389
Dunluce Castle
Dramatically perched on a cliff edge overlooking the North Atlantic, this medieval castle ruin tells tales of Gaelic lords and pirate attacks. It’s a picturesque spot with sweeping sea views and plenty of history to explore.
Dunluce Road, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8PT
Phone: +44 28 2073 1600
Website: https://www.historicenvironmentni.com/dunluce-castle/
Giant’s Causeway
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant’s Causeway features around 40,000 unique basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. This natural wonder offers stunning coastal views and fascinating geology with visitor center exhibits.
Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8SU
Phone: +44 28 2073 1396
Cliffs of Moher
One of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders, the Cliffs of Moher offer breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean from towering cliffs that reach 214 meters at their highest point. The visitor center provides interactive exhibits about the geology, wildlife, and history of the area.
Lislorkan North, Liscannor, County Clare, V95 KP28
Phone: +353 65 708 6143
Website: https://www.cliffsofmoher.ie/
Doolin
Famous for its traditional Irish music scene and as the gateway to the Aran Islands, Doolin is a charming village with cozy pubs and stunning coastal scenery. It’s also a popular spot to catch boat trips to the Cliffs or islands.
Doolin Village, County Clare
Phone: +353 65 707 4004 (Doolin Tourist Office)
Website: https://www.doolin.ie/
Kilfenora Cathedral & High Crosses
This historic site features a 12th-century cathedral, medieval ruins, and one of Ireland’s finest collections of Celtic high crosses. It’s a must-see for fans of Irish medieval art and heritage.
Kilfenora, County Clare, V95 YX23
Phone: +353 65 708 4505
Website: https://kilfenoraclare.com
The Burren National Park
A unique karst landscape of limestone pavements, rare flora, and archaeological sites, The Burren is a paradise for hikers, botanists, and history enthusiasts. Trails wind through wildflower-filled hills and ancient tombs.
Carran, County Clare, V95 VY04
Phone: +353 65 683 7707
Website: https://www.burrennationalpark.ie/
Donegal Town & Donegal Castle
Donegal Town is a charming hub with colorful streets and lively pubs. Donegal Castle, a 15th-century stronghold, showcases impressive stonework and offers a window into the region’s turbulent history.
The Diamond, Donegal Town, County Donegal, F94 HH28
Phone: +353 74 972 1309
Website: https://www.donegalcastle.ie/
Glenveagh National Park & Castle
This stunning park covers 16,000 hectares of rugged mountains, lakes, and native woodlands. Glenveagh Castle, set on the shores of Lough Veagh, offers guided tours and beautifully maintained gardens.
Glenveagh National Park, Churchill, County Donegal, F94 X927
Phone: +353 74 913 6100
Malin Head
Ireland’s northernmost point, Malin Head features rugged coastal landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and panoramic ocean views. It’s a popular spot for birdwatching, star-gazing, and spotting dolphins or whales.
Malin Head, Inishowen Peninsula, County Donegal, F93 YX49
Phone: +353 74 937 2288 (Inishowen Tourism)
Website: https://inishowen.ie/
Slieve League Cliffs
Rising dramatically over the Atlantic Ocean, Slieve League boasts some of Europe’s highest sea cliffs with breathtaking views and thrilling hiking trails. A less crowded alternative to the Cliffs of Moher, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers.
Slieve League, County Donegal, F94 W679
Phone: +353 74 953 1250 (Donegal Tourist Office)
Website: https://www.donegal.ie/
Kilkenny Castle
A majestic medieval fortress overlooking the River Nore, Kilkenny Castle has been beautifully restored with lavish interiors and extensive gardens. It’s a centerpiece of the city’s rich history and a popular spot for cultural events.
Castle Yard, Kilkenny City, R95 XT29
Phone: +353 56 777 4000
Website: https://kilkennycastle.ie/
Medieval Mile Museum
Located on Kilkenny’s famous Medieval Mile, this museum offers an engaging journey through the city’s medieval past, featuring artifacts, exhibitions, and interactive displays housed in a former church.
Kieran Street, Kilkenny City, R95 FT25
Phone: +353 56 775 1213
Website: https://medievalmilemuseum.ie/
Rothe House & Garden
A unique Tudor-era merchant’s townhouse complex with a museum and beautiful restored gardens. It offers fascinating insights into Kilkenny’s mercantile history and architecture.
Kilkenny City, R95 XW24
Phone: +353 56 776 1123
Website: https://www.rothehouse.com/
St. Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower
This stunning 13th-century Gothic cathedral features impressive stained glass and medieval architecture. Climb the adjacent round tower for panoramic views of Kilkenny and the surrounding countryside.
The Parade, Kilkenny City, R95 YE22
Phone: +353 56 776 2177
Website: https://www.stcanicescathedral.com/
Copper Coast Geopark
A UNESCO-recognized Geopark featuring stunning cliffs, sea stacks, and fossil sites along a 25 km stretch of coastline. Perfect for hiking, photography, and geology enthusiasts wanting to explore Waterford’s natural beauty.
County Waterford, X91
Phone: +353 51 289 340
Website: https://www.coppercoastgeopark.com/
Mount Congreve Gardens
One of Ireland’s finest gardens, Mount Congreve is renowned for its vast collection of plants, especially rhododendrons, camellias, and azaleas, set in a beautiful woodland estate beside the River Suir.
Kilmeadan, County Waterford, X91 E977
Phone: +353 51 389 610
Website: https://www.mountcongreve.com/
Reginald’s Tower
This ancient round tower is the oldest civic building in Ireland, standing proud on Waterford’s Viking Triangle. The museum inside explores the city’s Viking and medieval history with fascinating artifacts.
Viking Triangle, Waterford City, X91 HD77
Phone: +353 51 849 687
Website: https://www.waterfordvikingtriangle.com/reginalds-tower/
Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre
Discover the art of crystal making at this world-famous factory where master craftsmen create exquisite pieces. The guided tours showcase the history, skill, and sparkle behind Waterford’s iconic brand.
The Mall, Waterford City, X91 K5EK
Phone: +353 51 874 200
Glendalough Monastic Site
Nestled in a glacial valley, Glendalough is one of Ireland’s most important monastic settlements, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Explore ancient round towers, stone churches, and serene lakes surrounded by walking trails.
Glendalough, Laragh, County Wicklow, A98 HC80
Phone: +353 404 45325
Website: https://www.heritageireland.ie/en/south-east/glendalough-monastic-site/
Mount Usher Gardens
This hidden gem blends wild romanticism with careful horticulture along the River Vartry. With over 5,000 plant species, it's a paradise for garden lovers and a peaceful retreat off the tourist track.
Ashford, County Wicklow, A67 YV04
Phone: +353 404 40205
Website: https://www.mountushergardens.ie/
Powerscourt Estate & Gardens
Voted among the world’s greatest gardens, Powerscourt offers sweeping terraces, classical statues, a Japanese garden, and the backdrop of Sugarloaf Mountain. The 47-acre gardens are a masterpiece of landscape design.
Enniskerry, County Wicklow, A98 W0D0
Phone: +353 1 204 6000
Website: https://powerscourt.com/
Wicklow Mountains National Park
Ireland’s largest national park is a dramatic expanse of heathered uplands, deep glens, and cascading waterfalls. Ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, or just absorbing the stillness and scale of the landscape.
National Park Information Office, Glendalough, Co. Wicklow, A98 HC80
Phone: +353 404 45425
Hill of Tara
Once the ancient seat of Ireland’s High Kings, the Hill of Tara is a spiritual and archaeological landmark with standing stones, burial mounds, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Tara, County Meath, C15 A9W2
Phone: +353 41 988 0300 (Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre)
Website: https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/hill-of-tara/
Loughcrew Cairns
These Neolithic passage tombs are famous for their spring equinox light phenomenon and intricate megalithic art. Set on a scenic hill, Loughcrew offers stunning views and a deep connection to ancient Ireland.
Loughcrew, Oldcastle, County Meath, A82 YX32
Phone: +353 49 854 3810
Website: https://www.loughcrew.com/
Newgrange
This prehistoric monument is over 5,000 years old, older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. Famous for its winter solstice alignment, Newgrange is a remarkable passage tomb surrounded by ancient stone art and history.
Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, Donore, County Meath, A83 PX02
Phone: +353 41 988 0300
Website: https://www.worldheritageireland.ie/visit/bru-na-boinne/
Trim Castle
Ireland’s largest Norman castle, Trim Castle impresses with its massive stone walls and well-preserved medieval architecture. It has featured in films like Braveheart and offers guided tours highlighting its rich history.
Castle Street, Trim, County Meath, C15 VY54
Phone: +353 46 948 1207
Website: https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/trim-castle/
Cahir Castle
One of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved castles, Cahir Castle sits on a rocky island in the River Suir. Its imposing walls and towers offer a fascinating glimpse into medieval military architecture and history.
Cahir, County Tipperary, E21 DK70
Phone: +353 52 744 2598
Website: https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/cahir-castle/
Holy Cross Abbey
A beautifully restored 12th-century Cistercian abbey, Holy Cross is an active pilgrimage site housing a relic of the True Cross. The peaceful grounds and impressive stonework attract visitors interested in history and spirituality.
Holycross, County Tipperary, E41 Y2C6
Phone: +353 52 744 5161
Website: https://www.holycrossabbey.ie/
The Rock of Cashel
This spectacular historic site, once the seat of the Kings of Munster, features medieval architecture including a round tower, Cormac’s Chapel, and a cathedral. The dramatic limestone outcrop offers panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.
Cashel, County Tipperary, E25 P920
Phone: +353 62 61147
Website: https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/rock-of-cashel/
The Swiss Cottage
A charming 19th-century ornamental cottage located in Cahir’s town park, the Swiss Cottage is known for its unique architecture and intricate woodwork. It offers insight into rural life and design during the Victorian period.
Cahir, County Tipperary, E21 F7Y5
Phone: +353 52 744 2248
Website: https://www.heritageireland.ie/en/south-east/the-swiss-cottage/