Best Places to Visit in Ireland

There are few natural Irish landmarks as impressive as the beguiling Cliffs of Moher. Rising high (214 meters at some spots) above County Clare's west coast in all their rugged glory, it's easy to see why these enthralling sea cliffs have become one of the best places to visit in Ireland.

The artsy vibe found in Galway City is second to no other on the Emerald Isle. An eclectic mix of old world versus contemporary metropolis, you'll find ruins of the town's medieval walls strewn around unique tourist shops and restaurants teeming with life.

Also passed en route are the adorable small towns of Beaufort, Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Caherdaniel, Sneem, Kenmare, Cahersiveen, and, of course, Killarney. You'll want to schedule extra time for a few nights' stay in these sweet villages to soak up their history and ambience.

When it comes to breathtaking scenery, the Ring of Kerry has it all. Dramatic seascapes, majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, mysterious woodlands, and colorful homes pepper this captivating 179-kilometer route circling the Iveragh Peninsula.

Whether you choose to tour the park by foot, bike, boat, or jaunting car (picture a horse and buggy, and you're getting close), an active day in the park will leave you famished and exhausted. Killarney's restaurants value locally sourced food, and many offer lively music to help keep you moving.

County Kerry (on the southwest corner of Ireland) is home to the much-visited Killarney. Those who come here are in search of something a metropolitan high street doesn't have on offer: serenity.

Want a truly Irish experience? Immerse yourself in life on the Aran Islands. A popular spot for day-trippers from County Galway (a ferry leaves from Rossaveal) and County Clare (ferries depart from Doolin), those who want to thoroughly explore these three unique islands opt to stay longer. Visitors with deeper pockets can opt for a 10-minute flight to the area.

In times of old, Belfast was a location non grata. Once an industrial powerhouse (its shipyard produced the doomed Titanic), this capital of Northern Ireland became feared. Today, Belfast has become a big tourist draw.

While you're in Cork, set aside time for a day trip to Blarney Castle. One of the most popular attractions in Ireland, this relic was built almost 600 years ago. It is home to the infamous Blarney Stone, a.k.a. the Stone of Eloquence. If you kiss it while hanging upside down, you'll be gifted with eloquence - a better ability to communicate and speak.

One of the best places to visit in southern Ireland, Cork follows Dublin as the Republic of Ireland's second largest city. It's also on par with the capital for being highly cosmopolitan. Wander the historic streets to soak up cool vibes emanating from small cafés, eccentric shops, unique museums (that means you, Cork Butter Museum), and lurid art galleries.