Discover Ireland’s Must-Visit Regions

Brimming with breathtaking landscapes and rich history, Ireland is one of the most underrated holiday destinations in the world. From rugged coastlines and rolling green hills to charming villages and lively cities, there are plenty of things to do and places to explore in the Emerald Isle.

You can take a scenic road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way and its windswept shores or embark on a historical excursion to Ireland's Ancient East.

Whether you're an adventure seeker or a history buff, Ireland's scenic regions offer unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Destinations to Include in Your Ireland Itinerary

If you're having trouble coming up with the ultimate itinerary for your Ireland trip, here are places you shouldn't miss!

Dublin

A trip to Ireland is incomplete without a visit to its vibrant capital, Dublin. Steeped in history and buzzing with lively nightlife, Dublin combines the isle's old-world charms with modern city life.

Start your day with a tour of Trinity College's Long Room Library, where you can find over 200,000 ancient books, including the Book of Kells.

For lunch, wander down Grafton Street and stop by one of the cosy cafes tucked within its Georgian buildings. Take some time to enjoy performances from street musicians before heading to Dublin Castle and Kilmainham Gaol.

To cap your night off, stroll down the historic cobbled streets of the Temple Bar District and take in the city's legendary nightlife. You can also stop by the Guinness Storehouse for a pint and a panoramic view of the city's twinkling skyline.

Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is a 2,500-km-long coastal road stretching from Donegal's Inishowen Peninsula to County Cork's Kinsale.

One of the trail's most iconic natural attractions is the Stunning Cliffs of Moher. Located along the west coast of County Clare, these towering 214-metre cliffs rise dramatically above the Atlantic Ocean.

In addition to its incredible views, the cliffs are also a haven for wildlife. Birdwatchers will be delighted to see puffins nesting along the cliffs' rock edges and peregrine falcons soaring in the sky.

Those who want to see the rest of the Wild Atlantic Way can find various hotels along the route, from luxury lodges to cosy seaside accommodations.

Ancient East

Ireland's Ancient East is known for its many historic sites, including the famed Blarney Castle and Gardens.

Built during the 1400s by Irish Chieftain Cormac McCarthy, this impressive fortress is home to the world-famous Blarney Stone. Anyone who kisses the Barley Stone while hanging upside down from the wall drop receives the "gift of gab", or the ability to speak with eloquence and charm.

Beyond the famed stone, there's also the intriguing Poison Garden. Behind its iron gates, visitors will find an eerie yet fascinating collection of toxic plants, some of which have been linked to myths and legends.

Shrouded in history and myth, Blarney Castle and Gardens are a must-visit for an unforgettable trip to the Emerald Isle.

The Aran Islands

The Aran Islands consist of three fascinating islands: Inis Mór, Inis Meá and Inis Oírr. Nestled off the westernmost tip of Ireland, the islands offer visitors a glimpse into the country's past.

Inis Mór, the largest and most popular island, is where the Dún Aonghasa is located. This 2000-year-old fortress is perched on a 100-metre-high cliff right off the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.

The island is also home to Kilronan, a quaint town with several pubs, restaurants and a few B&Bs. It's an ideal destination for anyone who wishes to experience true Gaelic life.

Galway

Galway is another must-visit city in Ireland. The university town is known for its annual Art Festival, where the streets come alive with theatre performances, live music and visual art installations.

However, the town's charm doesn't end there. Galway also has a Latin Quarter filled with colourful shopfronts and lively pubs. Stroll through the cobbled streets and stop by the Spanish Arch, a remnant of the city's medieval walls.

Sligo

Sligo, a gem nestled in the isle's northwest coast, is home to a fascinating megalithic site: the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery.

This sprawling collection of passage tombs, stone circles and dolmens was used for burial and ritual ceremonies 5,000 years ago. It's one of Ireland's largest and oldest megalithic sites.

You may also visit the mythical Knocknarea, the resting place of Queen Maeve, Connacht's warrior queen. Knocknarea is one of the isle's most striking landmarks, dominating the Coolera peninsula's skyline.

Cork

Gastronomes who want to taste Ireland's best food scene should never skip a day in Cork.

Cork is the island's culinary capital, where visitors can enjoy traditional Irish flavours made with the finest local ingredients.

Start your culinary journey in the English Market. It's the oldest market of its kind in Europe and has been serving Cork and its locals since 1788.

The English Market is filled with fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, homemade breads and locally sourced meats. Here, you can sample some delicious traditional black pudding and warm, buttery sausage rolls straight from the oven.

When is the Best Time to Travel to Ireland?

The best time to travel to Ireland is between May, June and September. This is when the island enjoys longer daylight hours, so you'll have more time for scenic explorations.

However, it's important to note that this is also the island's peak tourist season. If you visit during this time, you must expect more crowds, especially in popular destinations like the Cliffs of Moher.

For a more relaxing trip, we recommend visiting during the island's shoulder season, which runs from April through May.

Discover the Magic & Wonders of Ireland

With enchanting cities and historical treasures, Ireland deserves a spot on everyone's travel bucket list.

This majestic land is filled with diverse landscapes and exciting activities for all types of travellers. Whether you're a history enthusiast curious about its past or a foodie eager to taste the best local cuisine, Ireland has something special waiting for you.

Start packing now and let Entire Travel Group help you build the best itinerary for your Ireland holiday!