The ULTIMATE Must-See Guide in Ireland

Cliffs of Moher: These majestic cliffs on the west coast of Ireland offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands, reaching heights of up to 214 meters (702 feet).

Giant's Causeway: Located in Northern Ireland, the Giant's Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site characterized by its hexagonal basalt columns, formed by ancient volcanic activity.

Ring of Kerry: This scenic drive in County Kerry showcases some of Ireland's most breathtaking landscapes, including rugged coastlines, mountains, lakes and picturesque villages like Killarney and Kenmare.

Trinity College, Dublin: Home to the famous Book of Kells, Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and boasts a stunning campus. The Long Room Library is particularly impressive, with its towering shelves of ancient books.

Dublin Castle: This historic fortress in the heart of Dublin served as the seat of British rule in Ireland for centuries. Today, it offers guided tours that explore its rich history, including the State Apartments and the medieval undercroft.

Newgrange: Older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza, Newgrange is a prehistoric passage tomb located in County Meath. Its intricate megalithic art and alignment with the winter solstice make it a remarkable archaeological site.

Blarney Castle: Visitors flock to Blarney Castle near Cork to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, said to bestow the gift of eloquence. The castle's beautiful gardens and surrounding woodland also make it worth exploring.

Kylemore Abbey: Nestled in the Connemara region of County Galway, Kylemore Abbey is a stunning neo-Gothic castle surrounded by lush gardens and woodlands. It also houses a Benedictine monastery and a girls' school.

Glendalough: This early medieval monastic site in County Wicklow is renowned for its picturesque setting among the Wicklow Mountains and its well-preserved round tower and medieval ruins.

The Rock of Cashel: Perched atop a limestone hill in County Tipperary, the Rock of Cashel is a striking collection of medieval buildings, including a cathedral, a round tower and a high cross, dating back over a thousand years.

Day Trips

One of the best one-day trips to take in Ireland, especially for nature lovers, is a journey through the Wicklow Mountains, known as the "Garden of Ireland," and a visit to Glendalough, an ancient monastic site.

Start your day by departing from Dublin and heading south towards County Wicklow. As you drive through the Wicklow Mountains, you'll be treated to stunning scenery of rolling hills, lush valleys and cascading waterfalls. Make a stop at the Sally Gap, where you can take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and snap some memorable photos.

Continue your journey to Glendalough, a valley renowned for its medieval monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Explore the ancient ruins, including the iconic round tower, St. Kevin's Church and the cathedral, all set against the backdrop of the tranquil Upper and Lower Lakes. Take a leisurely walk along one of the many hiking trails that wind through the valley, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the surroundings.

After exploring Glendalough, head back towards Dublin, making a stop in the charming village of Avoca, known for its hand weaving mill and artisanal shops. This town is the perfect place to browse for unique souvenirs or enjoy a delicious lunch in one of the local cafes.

As you return to Dublin, take the scenic route through the Wicklow Mountains once again, savoring the breathtaking views before arriving back in the city in the early evening.

Leo Burdock - Dublin: Established in 1913, Leo Burdock is Dublin's oldest fish and chips shop, serving up crispy, golden battered fish and hand-cut chips to satisfied customers for over a century.

The Boxty House - Dublin: Specializing in traditional Irish potato pancakes known as boxty, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and hearty Irish fare in Dublin's Temple Bar district.

Bewley's Grafton Street Café - Dublin: A Dublin institution, Bewley's is famous for its historic café on Grafton Street, serving quality coffee, pastries and light meals in an iconic setting

The Quays Restaurant - Galway: Situated in the heart of Galway's Latin Quarter, The Quays is renowned for its seafood and traditional Irish dishes, as well as its lively atmosphere and live music.

The Chart House - County Kerry: Located in Dingle, The Chart House offers fine dining with a focus on seafood, showcasing the best of locally sourced ingredients in a charming coastal setting.

Bunsen - Various Locations: With locations in Cork, Galway and Belfast, among others, Bunsen is a popular choice for delicious burgers made with quality Irish beef and served with simple yet tasty toppings.

The Mustard Seed Restaurant - County Limerick: Set in a charming country house, The Mustard Seed offers contemporary Irish cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, earning it a reputation as one of the best restaurants in the region.

Balloo House - County Down: Situated in Killinchy, County Down, Balloo House is known for its hearty Irish fare served in a cozy and traditional pub setting, with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and classic dishes.

The Winding Stair - Dublin: Overlooking the River Liffey, The Winding Stair is a popular spot for contemporary Irish cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, along with a curated selection of books for browsing.

The Church - Dublin: Housed in a former church, this restaurant and bar offers a unique dining experience with a varied menu and stunning interior.