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Attractions
Ireland is truly one of the great sightseeing destinations. The local people are wholehearted in their welcome, there is an abundance of charming natural landscapes and historical sights, and the Guinness really tastes better here at the source. The country also has a wider significance for many American visitors whose ancestors came from these shores in great numbers.
Although there are must-see attractions like Blarney Castle, Trinity College and the soaring cliffs of Moher, the real magic of Ireland lies in the unexpected encounters with the local people and unplanned evenings in country pubs where impromptu gigs can set your soul alight.
Winter is not the best time to visit as it is cold and rainy so plan your trip for the summer months between April and September when Ireland is at its best. The ideal way to get around is by rented car (although petrol prices are among the highest in the world), and by bicycle which you can use to explore the photogenic country lanes.
Kinsale
Kinsale is an old fishing village just 18 miles (29km) south of Cork. Best known for the world renowned Old Head Golf Links, with its spectacular setting on a narrow head leading out into the Celtic Sea, Kinsale has a number of sights... see full details
Trinity College Dublin
Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and counts Jonathan Swift, Samuel Beckett and Oscar Wilde, along with many other great thinkers and writers, amongst it past-students. This 16th century complex is home to many glorious buildings, beautifully... see full details
Temple Bar District
The hub of Dublin's nightlife is to be found in this quaint, cobbled district, which is full of shops, traditional pubs, theatres, cinemas and trendy clubs laid out on pedestrianised streets. Busking fiddlers, an overwhelming choice of restaurants and beautifully restored buildings add to... see full details
Guinness Storehouse
Guinness is now brewed all over the world but St James's Gate, in the heart of Dublin, was where Arthur Guinness set up the business in 1759. The Guinness Storehouse celebrates Ireland's favourite brew by taking visitors on a journey, floor by floor, through... see full details
St. Patrick's Cathedral
Ireland's largest church, St Patrick's Cathedral is erected on the site where St. Patrick is believed to have baptized his converts to the Christian faith. The current building dates back to the 12th century, although it's been restored and altered over the years. Jonathan... see full details
James Joyce Museum
Nine miles (14km) south of Dublin, the Martello Tower is one of 34 towers built in 1804 to protect Ireland against a possible Napoleonic naval invasion. The tower was demilitarised in the 1860s and is now home to the James Joyce Museum. In... see full details
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle is one of Ireland's oldest and most historic castles, built around 1446. An ancient stronghold of the MacCarthys, Lords of Muskerry and one of the strongest fortresses in Munster, its walls are 18ft (5m) thick in places. Located on the parapet of... see full details
Adare
Known as one of the prettiest villages in Ireland, Adare is conveniently located just ten miles (16km) from Limerick City, and connected to many other Irish towns by bus. The small village is centred on a street of thatched Tudor-style cottages and hedges, surrounded... see full details
County Kerry
Kerry County is widely considered to be the most beautiful region in Ireland, and is the country's most popular tourist destination with its rugged scenery, picturesque villages, coastal resorts and wealth of attractions. The panoramic Ring of Kerry drive on the Iveragh Peninsula affords... see full details
Cliffs of Moher
The majestic Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's top visitor sights overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in County Clare. The majestic cliffs rise from the ocean to a height of 702ft (214m) and extend for a distance of five miles (8km). Formed by... see full details
The Old Jameson Distillery
Located in the heart of Dublin, The Old Jameson Distillery sums up the essence of Ireland. This museum illustrates the history of Irish whiskey, known in Irish as uisce beatha (the water of life) and the expert guides will answer any questions whiskey lovers... see full details
Killarney National Park
Deep in the countryside of Kerry, Killarney National Park is a 26,000 acre expanse of rugged mountains, tranquil lakes, peaceful woods and magical waterfalls that entices millions of visitors every year to enjoy the Irish countryside. One of the most famous attractions within the... see full details