By Discover The Best Of Irish Counties
If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, you’re in for a treat. The Emerald Isle is home to stunning landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. One of the best ways to explore Ireland is by visiting its counties, each with its own unique character and attractions. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve created a comprehensive travel guide for the map of Irish counties.
Top Attractions
Ireland is famous for its castles, and you’ll find some of the most impressive ones in the counties of Cork, Limerick, and Kilkenny. Other must-see attractions include the Cliffs of Moher in Clare, the Ring of Kerry in Kerry, and the Giant’s Causeway in Antrim.
Hidden Gems
If you want to get off the beaten path, head to the counties of Donegal and Sligo. These areas are known for their rugged beauty, with stunning coastlines, rolling hills, and charming villages. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, a scenic driving route that stretches along the western coast of Ireland.
Food Scene
Ireland is home to some of the best food in Europe, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. In Cork, be sure to try the seafood chowder, while in Dublin, head to the Temple Bar area for traditional Irish pubs and restaurants. Other foodie hotspots include Galway and Kilkenny.
Budget-Friendly Tips
While Ireland can be an expensive destination, there are plenty of ways to save money. Consider staying in hostels or B&Bs instead of hotels, and look for deals on attractions and tours. Eating at local pubs and markets can also be a great way to save money while experiencing traditional Irish cuisine.
Outdoor Adventures
Ireland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, surfing, and more. Some of the best places for outdoor adventures include Wicklow, Connemara, and the Burren. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Aran Islands, a group of three islands off the coast of Galway.
Historical Landmarks
Ireland is steeped in history, with landmarks dating back thousands of years. The most famous of these is Newgrange, a prehistoric monument in Meath that’s older than Stonehenge and the pyramids of Egypt. Other historical landmarks include the Rock of Cashel in Tipperary, the Hill of Tara in Meath, and the Dingle Peninsula in Kerry.
Family-Friendly Activities
Ireland is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Visit Dublin Zoo, explore the Viking Splash Tour in Dublin, or take a boat trip to see Fungie the Dolphin in Dingle. Other family-friendly activities include horse riding, falconry, and visiting petting farms.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you want to experience the real Ireland, head to the counties of Mayo and Donegal. These areas are known for their rugged landscapes, traditional music, and friendly locals. Take a guided tour of the Connemara region, hike the Slieve League Cliffs, or visit the deserted village of Port in Mayo.
Natural Wonders
Ireland is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. In addition to the Cliffs of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway, don’t miss the chance to visit the Burren in Clare, the Skellig Islands in Kerry, or the Glendalough Valley in Wicklow.
Vibrant Nightlife
Ireland is famous for its pubs and nightlife, with live music and traditional Irish dancing on offer in many places. Head to Temple Bar in Dublin for a night out, or visit Galway, which is known for its street performers and lively atmosphere.
Local Markets
If you want to experience the true flavor of Ireland, head to one of the many local markets. The English Market in Cork is one of the most famous, with a wide range of local produce and artisanal products. Other markets to check out include the Galway Market, the Limerick Milk Market, and the Temple Bar Food Market in Dublin.
Beaches and Mountains
Ireland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with stunning beaches and mountains to explore. Some of the best beaches include Inch Beach in Kerry, Curracloe Beach in Wexford, and Tramore Beach in Waterford. For mountain lovers, head to the Wicklow Mountains, the Mourne Mountains in Down, or the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks in Kerry.
Cultural Immersion
Ireland is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in Irish culture. Take a traditional Irish music lesson, learn how to make soda bread, or visit the Gaeltacht regions to learn the Irish language. Other cultural experiences include visiting the W.B. Yeats Museum in Sligo, the Jameson Distillery in Dublin, or the Titanic Belfast museum in Antrim.
Art and Music Scene
Ireland is home to some of the most talented artists and musicians in the world. Visit the Crawford Art Gallery in Cork, the Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin, or the Model Arts and Niland Gallery in Sligo to see some of the best contemporary Irish art. For live music, head to Whelan’s in Dublin, the Roisin Dubh in Galway, or the Spiegeltent in Wexford.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Ireland is on foot, and there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. Take a historical tour of Dublin, explore the Ring of Kerry on foot, or hike the Wicklow Way, a 131-kilometer walking trail that passes through some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes.
Architectural Marvels
Ireland is home to some of the most impressive architectural marvels in Europe. Don’t miss the chance to visit the St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, the Blarney Castle in Cork, or the Kilkenny Castle in Kilkenny. Other architectural landmarks include the Rock of Cashel in Tipperary, the Bunratty Castle in Clare, and the Trim Castle in Meath.
Historical Sites
Ireland is a country with a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. Visit the Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin to learn about Ireland’s struggle for independence, explore the Cahir Castle in Tipperary, or visit the Ulster American Folk Park in Tyrone to learn about Irish emigration to America.
Biking Routes
Ireland is a great destination for cycling enthusiasts, with plenty of scenic routes to choose from. The Great Western Greenway in Mayo is one of the most popular, with a 42-kilometer trail that passes through stunning landscapes and charming villages. Other great biking routes include the Waterford Greenway, the Ring of Beara in Cork, and the Causeway Coast Cycle Route in Antrim.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking to relax and recharge, Ireland is home to some of the best wellness retreats in Europe. Head to the Monart Destination Spa in Wexford, the Inchydoney Island Lodge and Spa in Cork, or the Lough Eske Castle in Donegal for a pampering getaway.
Adventure Sports
Ireland is a great destination for adventure sports, with opportunities for surfing, kayaking, rock climbing, and more. Head to Lahinch in Clare for some of the best surfing in Europe, or try your hand at kayaking on the Lakes of Killarney in Kerry. Other adventure sports to try include coasteering in Antrim, rock climbing in Donegal, and zip-lining in Galway.
With so much to see and do in Ireland’s counties, you’re sure to have a trip to remember. Use this travel guide to plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in the Emerald Isle.