From stunning views of nature to unbelievable sights of architecture and castles from the yesteryears, visiting Ireland has long been on the bucket list for many travellers. But what makes this “Emerald Isle” so popular, and why do holidaymakers keep coming back to uncover more of this unique destination?
Come with us as we share 8 things that will make you fall in love with the gorgeous Ireland, and you might end up having an Irish trip as your next vacation destination!
The culture: Experience the warm and inviting vibes of the Irish
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If you’re someone who enjoys getting to know the locals while on a trip, you’re going to love the Irish for their warm and inviting vibes. With small talk being possibly a favourite pastime for every Irish person around town, it won’t be long until you strike up a conversation to learn more about the local cultures everywhere you go. Who knows, you may just discover a slang or two and be roped into the Irish humour along the way!
Be it music or tradition, the Irish are always happy to share what they love, and you might even find yourself enjoying it too. Of course, there’s also an expectation to be polite when you’re visiting Ireland. On that note, it’s important to remember your “please” and “thank you” when speaking with the locals, and you’ll go far while visiting Ireland.
The architecture: Dublin’s gorgeous buildings will amaze you
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As the capital of Ireland, the architecture across Dublin will amaze even those who are uninitiated. Boasting fantastic designs that blend modern and traditional seamlessly, you’ll easily find yourself lost in the treasures and history that Dublin’s architecture has to offer. Plenty of buildings even hold stories from thousands of years past, and discovering each of them is a great way for you to fall in love with visiting Ireland even more.
A walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College is a must while in Dublin, with the campus proudly hosting a variety of architectural styles within its gates. So, whether you’re standing in front of the Old Library with neoclassical vibes or looking through the sleek and contemporary Hub, there’s always something waiting to surprise you at every corner.
The former is also where you’ll find the renowned Book of Kells, a manuscript that is believed to have been created by the Celtic Monks to describe the four Gospels and other introductory texts. Historically recognised to be approximately 1,200 years old, the pages of the books are flipped once every 6 weeks, and you’ll get an opportunity to see it up close, exclusively at the Old Library.
To get different glimpses of Dublin, we recommend exploring the city before and after sundown, as the glow from the building lights lends a unique view that’s truly unforgettable. A romantic stroll down the River Liffey for the evening is a couple’s favourite activity, and with the scenery that Dublin has to offer, we can definitely see why.
The views: Soak in the unbelievable views of the mountains and seas
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Beyond buildings, Ireland also offers plenty of stunning views for those who prefer a vacation in nature. The dramatic route across the Iveragh Peninsula of County Kerry is one such spot that’s not to be missed, as it combines gorgeous mountain skylines that meet the crashing seas.
Measuring 179 kilometres long, this scenic route is popular among holidaymakers who want to soak in the best views while visiting Ireland. Easily doable as a day-trip activity, the slow drive along the Ring of Kerry boasts coastline views that stretch from Killarney and into Skellig Ring. You’ll circle back to the Killarney just east of the peninsula to mark the end of the route, but also leave with fresh memories that make your Irish trip perfect.
Visitors who prefer to view nature on foot will instead love the easy walk along the Cliffs of Moher, a lovely 14-kilometre route that runs along the edge of the Burren region. With an elevation of nearly 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves, this hike attracts millions of guests and is popular among birdwatchers who make return visits each year. In fact, you may just be one of the lucky ones to spot the wildlife, including puffins and guillemots who call these cliffs home. The best time to visit, if that’s on your bucket list, is between May and June!
The scenes: Revisit the filming locations of your favourite movies and TV shows
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With breathtaking views everywhere you turn, it’s easy to see why Ireland is one of the best picks as backdrops to your favourite movies and TV shows. Fans of large franchises such as Star Wars and Game of Thrones will easily spot these locations while visiting Ireland, and this experience almost serves as a pilgrimage for anyone hoping to live their TV dreams.
For instance, the Clock Tower at the historic Castle Ward, which is set near the village of Strangford in Northern Ireland, will seem familiar to anyone who enjoys Game of Thrones. Used as the backdrop of Winterfell, the 18th-century mansion features two contrasting architectural styles with Gothic and classic Palladian influences. Guests are welcome year-round and can even enjoy a cup of tea by the stable yard tea-room.
Lacken Village in Wicklow County is yet another must-see location for movie fans who enjoy the 2007 rom-com “P.S. I Love You” starring Hilary Swank and Gerard Butler. Based on a novel of the same name by Cecelia Ahern, this is where you’ll get to walk in the footsteps of the couple and see where the characters shared their first kiss. Outside the limelight of the movie, Lacken Village offers a charming vibe with spectacular views of Blessington Lake.
The legends: Be rewarded with the “Gift of the Gab” after kissing the Blarney Stone
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Tucked away in Blarney Castle in Cork is where an age-old legend lives, attracting thousands of travellers who are visiting Ireland in hopes of receiving the “Gift of the Gab” after kissing the iconic Blarney Stone. The stone itself was set into the castle towers in 1446, although there’s simply no telling where the legend had come from, except that it’s believed to have started in the 18th century.
However, landing a kiss on the Blarney Stone isn’t a feat for the faint of heart. This is because you’ll first have to climb to the very top of Blarney Castle through its steep, spiral steps. The act of kissing the Blarney Stone must be done by leaning over the castle’s edge, tipping yourself upside down, before you can kiss it. To ensure the safety of visitors, there are always castle assistants who will guide you through the feat. Wrought-iron guide rails and protective crossbars have since been added for extra safety.
If you’re keen to be extra persuasive or want to speak with great eloquence, however, then this rite of passage when visiting Ireland is not to be missed. Staff members are also known to clean and disinfect the stone regularly, making this a fun and adrenaline-inducing addition to any itinerary when visiting Ireland.
The experiences: Stay, wine, and dine at the medieval Ashford Castle
Visitors who prefer a more elegant experience can opt to visit the small village of Cong instead. Located in County Mayo, this small village is popular for its picturesque views in every corner. But the real highlight when visiting Ireland, however, is the opportunity for you to stay, wine, and dine at the historical Ashford Castle.
Built in 1228, this medieval marvel features plenty of Victorian-influenced architecture and spans 140 hectares of grand estate. Once home to many influential Irish families, including the Guinness family, this grand castle is now a 5-star hotel as part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection. In fact, its impressive list of past visitors includes the late John Lennon and Irish poet Oscar Wilde.
Perfect for multi-generational family vacations, you can expect a superior backdrop that offers both relaxation and comfort. This is a far cry from the otherwise busy cities we’re surrounded by, and is often a welcome for anyone looking to return home with one of the most unique experiences when visiting Ireland. What’s more, you can easily melt away your stresses at the spa or uncover your new calling in nature with the hotel’s falconry school.
Before calling it a night, be sure to fill your bellies with Ashford Castle’s fine dining experience. Offering an innovative menu that features locally sourced ingredients that change by the month, this experience often ranks among the best in the world. Do note that a jacket is required for gentlemen who want to satisfy their taste buds for the evening at the George V Restaurant. Jeans and sneakers are not permitted.
The history: Take a sip at Ireland’s oldest pub that’s been open since 900AD
Photo by Sean’s Bar
If the history of castles and mountain views isn’t to your tastes, then perhaps enjoying a pint – or two – over at the “Oldest Pub in the British Isles” as awarded by the Guinness World Record in 2004 will strike your fancy. That’s right, tucked away in Athlone of Westmeath County, is Sean’s Bar, a local bar that’s said to have been open since 900AD and still welcomes locals and tourists daily.
Set with warm vibes on the inside and a brightly painted exterior, Sean’s Bar is impossible to miss as you stroll down the streets of Athlone. Its history was officially recognised following the discovery of the original 900AD wattle walls and tavern tokens during the bar’s refurbishment in 1970, and it had even made it on Lonely Planet’s list of the 25 Most Incredible Bars in the World. Offering premium selections of creamy pints and Irish whiskeys, the unique experience of drinking by an open fire at Sean’s Bar is second to none.
To add to the atmosphere, you can even enjoy live music being played at Sean’s Bar. From traditional Irish fares to modern takes on your favourite tunes, these live sessions often take place in the evening from Sundays to Thursdays. Unique merchandise can also be found at the bar, allowing you to bring home a piece of Sean’s Bar to remind you of the times you were visiting Ireland.
The drinks: Pour the best glass of Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse
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Finally, you wouldn’t be able to say you’ve been visiting Ireland without dropping by the Guinness Storehouse. Home to one of the most popular stouts that originated from Ireland itself, the Guinness Storehouse brings together multiple experiences that invigorate your senses, including sight, sound, and smell, to bring out the renowned taste of Guinness.
Here, you’ll be able to take a self-guided tour across all seven floors of the distillery or upgrade to the connoisseur experience for a fully guided tour where you’ll hear about the history of how Guinness came to be. Guests who prefer a less stimulating time at the Storehouse will also be glad to know that the Guinness Storehouse offers sensory-friendly hours once a month, catering to visitors with autism or other neurodivergences. The Storehouse is fully accredited by Ireland’s national autism charity, and other accommodations such as sensory kits including earplugs and sensory maps can be found at the entrance.
Fans of this iconic stout will also enjoy an optional experience at the Guinness Academy, where you’ll be taken through a 6-step ritual to pouring the perfect pint. A digital certificate will then be issued as proof of completion to this learning experience, and you’ll be able to celebrate with the pint you’ve just poured. And for a truly memorable end to your Irish trip, why not pop over to the Guinness Storehouse’s brand-new Gravity Bar? Set atop the seventh floor of the Storehouse, you’ll be able to savour your fresh pint of Guinness while taking in a 360° view over the Dublin city skyline and beyond.
With floor-to-ceiling windows that offer unobstructed glimpses wherever you choose to sit, this experience is not to be missed and is open to all visitors. As a bonus, your first drink is even included in your entry ticket! Guinness 0.0 and soft drinks are also available for guests who prefer to skip the alcohol but still be rewarded with unforgettable sights of Ireland.
All set to embark on your very own Irish trip? Then come with Holiday Tours and Insight Vacations on an 8-day, 7-night adventure to discover what Ireland has in store for you. And as the saying goes, the luck of the Irish must be with you, as you can now enjoy up to 25% off per person when you book your trip with Holiday Tours!