Top Things To Do In Ireland That Will Make You Never Want To Leave

When visiting the Emerald Isle, know you’re in for an adventure. It’s understandable to be overwhelmed when picking out all the fun things to do, but this post breaks down the top things to do in Ireland so you can focus on enjoying yourself. From the scenery to the history and the culture, don’t even get me started because Ireland truly has it all. Ireland may seem like a small country, but you can easily get lost in Dublin’s bustling pub culture, Galway’s hidden gems, and the beautiful landscape of the Ring of Kerry. Trust me, after embarking on my solo trip here for seven days, I am itching to go back! Presenting, Top Things To Do in Ireland (From An Irish American) who had the best time.

Top Things To Do In Ireland: FAQs

1. Why Ireland? I went here with a personal agenda. Since I am half Irish and half Hispanic, it was a MUST for me to explore my roots and see where my ancestors once lived. I grew up Irish Step dancing and felt connected to the culture. I was anticipating having the time of my life, and well, to say the least, it blew me away. As a solo female traveler, I felt safe and loved how friendly everyone was. 
2. How Long Should You Travel To Ireland For? If you’re someone who doesn’t get a lot of PTO and can only go away for a week or less, then this is the destination for you. The country is small enough that you can rent a car and explore that way, or if you’re like me and don’t trust yourself behind the wheel, there are plenty of affordable tour guides that can take you around the country in no time! 
3. When Should You Travel To Ireland? The best times to travel to Ireland are from March through May and from September through November. That’s because the weather is perfect. It’s not too cold or hot and, more importantly, not too rainy, which means magnificent views of Ireland’s finest. I traveled to 4 cities in the span of 7 days (Dublin, Galway, Cork, and Kerry) and am so excited to share with you my top recs!

Check Out My Ireland Highlights & Favorite Experiences

My Favorite Experiences/Top Things To Do In Ireland

Top Things To Do In Ireland: Dublin’s Main Attractions

Since Dublin is home to the biggest airport in Ireland, it makes sense to start your journey here. I’d recommend spending 1 or 2 days here so you can see the other beautiful towns in Ireland.

1. Guinness Warehouse: One of the top things to do in Ireland is going to the iconic Guinness Warehouse. Even if you don’t like beer, everyone needs to check this out. Starting around 22 euros, you get every bang for your buck. The museum is immersive and takes you through the process of how barley grain turns into one of the most popular beverages in the world. Guinness put Ireland on the world map as its popularity spread like wildfire overseas. With your ticket comes an interactive tasting session where you learn the p r o p e r way to drink it and a pint of your very own with a viewing room overlooking Dublin, what more could you ask for! Get tickets here!
2. The Book of Kells at Trinity College: Add this to the top things to do in Ireland, because it’s truly remarkable. So what is the Book of Kells? In short, it’s one of the most famous medieval manuscripts. It’s a handwritten and drawn copy of the life of Jesus in the 4 gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke & John). It was said to have been written in 800 AD, 600 years before the printing press, and 400 years before St Patrick arrived in Ireland. They used incredible natural pigments in the drawing that were so intricate for their time. You even get to see the real Book of Kells on display. Talk about time travel! The museum encouraged you to download their app, which included informative and interactive audio guides and displays. One of the best feelings that I get after going to a museum is retaining the information, and with this museum, you get exactly that. You actually leave remembering and learning about it, rather than observing and learning surface-level information and forgetting it right away. 
3. Library at Trinity College: After, head over to the Library at Trinity College, where you get lost in time for real. It’s been a working library since 1732, where it’s home to over 200,000 books. In here, you can smell the original book materials that are aging day by day. Some people say it smells like Vanilla, chocolate, and even musk! Here, you’ll also find Ireland’s oldest harp, which is a surviving example of the national symbol of Ireland. Along the library walls are marble busts of famous Greek & roman philosophers. These individuals were great thinkers of the Western world and influenced the college’s students. Some famous individuals are Plato, William Shakespeare, Johnson Swift (author of Gulliver’s Travels & an old student of Trinity), William Hamilton (an Irish astronomer, inventor of quantum equations, which were the same formulas we used later to get to the moon, and later moved on to becoming a student and professor at the college)
4. Irish Dance Show: This show was such an experience, and the talent was just out of this world. The show I went to was such a steal for 49 euros, I not only got to see amazing Irish dancers perform but also a three-course meal and incredible service. The show I went to was right in the heart of town and very convenient to get to. I mean, you can’t go to Ireland and NOT watch Irish dancing, right? Well, now you know where to go !! Check it out here!

Images By: TheBrooklyniteAbroad.com

Top Things To Do In Ireland: For the Foodies & Bar Lovers

1. The Wooden Whisk: Grab breakfast here, and you will not regret it. This place has so many locals, which really shows that it’s not one of those tourist traps ready to kill your bank account. I got the eggs Benedict, but what killed me inside was that the egg yolk was HARD. AHH. That’s not my thing, but besides that, everything else was delicious. This place was so close to town and super convenient when planning your day! 
2. Fish n’ Chips at Leo Burdocks: Presenting one of the oldest Fish and Chips spots in Dublin. Make sure your stomach is ready for the food you are about to eat. The portions are pretty filling, but of course, your girl ate it all hehe. The people there are so nice and it’s affordable for the amount of food you get. Pro Tip: Stick it in your bag and head over to the next spot to eat it and enjoy the views.
3. Temple Bar: This is 1000% a touristy spot. I was always convinced that it was a local spot and super popular for that reason, but it was a bit underwhelming. Recommend checking this out and then heading to more local bars along the way!
4. Hairy Lemon: This place gets insanely packed, so plan ahead! If you can’t find a spot here, there are tons of neighboring bars. I was really attracted to go here because they have free Irish dance classes, and I wanted to check it out, but they didn’t have it when I got there! I would go here if I had traveled with a group of friends, since it seemed more of a social bar. 

Images By: TheBrooklyniteAbroad.com

Top Things To Do In Ireland: Gardens Galore

1. St. Stephen’s Park: One of my favorite things to do when I travel is go to a local park with some food, eat lunch and then take a quick power nap. If you’re a little high maintenance and need that luxury mattress, maybe don’t nap but soak in that golden hour sun, enjoy the views, and take in the moment. This park reminded me of Central Park in a way and helped me feel a little bit of home if that makes sense haha. This park has so many cute spots and I automatically felt a level of peace.
2. Dubh Linn Garden: If you’re looking for ANOTHER cute park head to Dubh Linn Garden. This park is right next to St.Patrick’s Cathedral and is just the right amount of relaxation you need to get you through the walking tour of Dublin. If you’re from NYC, this park reminds me of Washington Square Park (in short, it’s a tiny park filled with enthusiasm and good vibes all around!  

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Top Things To Do In Ireland: Additional Monuments

1. St. Patrick’s Cathedral: I’m not super religious, but I always like to go to the local churches/ cathedrals because you get to learn about the history that shaped the community. Unfortunately, this is not like the Book of Kells museum in that it was hard to retain the information from the tour. The man was so nice and had so much information, so I would 100% go here, but if you would like to retain, make sure you take some notes and ask questions! 
2. Kilmainham Gaol: a county prison that was more modern for its time and was meant to help prepare prisoners for society after their sentence; however, that soon changed when it started to become overcrowded, and mass famine spread. Source https://www.historyireland.com/kilmainham-gaol-dublin/
3. Leprechaun Museum: So basically, my uncle went here and said it was a fun museum. I didn’t personally go, but knowing my uncle and how well-traveled he is, I would definitely check it out! 
4. Dublinia: Viking Museum: Fun Fact: I am OBSESSED with Vikings. Everything about Scandinavia interests me as well. If you have ever watched the show Vikings, then you know about 85% of the entire museum. This was another really fun and interactive museum that really deserves all of the love and attention it can get. After, head to St. Michael’s Tower and get some cool views of Dublin
5. St. Michael’s Tower: Right after the gift shop of Dublinia, you’ll see signs to go to St. Michael’s Tower, and do not hesitate. Go go go !! There aren’t that many steps so even if you had a long day, the end is worth it! I probably spent about 15 minutes here, and that’s all you need!

Top Things To Do In Ireland: Galway

When it comes to the top things to do in Ireland, this is where it starts to get really good. Welcome to Galway. If you love nature, especially in a country like Ireland with so many landscapes, you’ll really only want to spend most of your time in the countryside.

Galway is a place I consider close to home. My family is from County Mayo, which was once a region called Connacht, and just so happens to be South of Galway *cues Ed Sheeran’s Galway Girl*. Even though I haven’t been here before this trip, it’s so symbolic of my family’s upbringing, and I  had that experience where I could visit family here! I took a really quick 2.5-hour bus from Dublin to Galway. It took me a block away from the pick up spot for my day trip to…..

The Best of Galway: Cliffs of Moher 

You cannot go to Ireland without stopping here, which is exactly why it’s a part of the Top Things To Do In Ireland. For only 36.90 euros, you get a full-day tour of not only the infamous Cliffs of Moher but also so many other amazing sights. The tour really gives you a bang for your buck, hitting up so many spots with informative guides giving you all the background history and context.

1. Water Well: Back in the day, a priest would bless the water in the well in hopes that the farmers would have good crops. Now visitors sit on the stone and make a wish!
2. Corcomroe Abbey: So my ancestor King Henry O’Brien had ordered workers to make the nicest Abbey, and after they did, he killed them in fear that they would make an even better Abbey somewhere else!
3. Dunguaire Castle: a beautiful castle right on top of a lake
4. Beauty of the Burren Walks: a scenic overlook.
5. Fit’s Pub: a great spot to dine and drink in between all of the beautiful sights!
6. Cliffs of Moher: Behold, what we have been waiting for this whole time! I was in awe when I saw this. AHH, there is something about the water, the cliffs, the birds, the air, the refreshing smell, and something else, there are cows right next to us! We were feeding them cows, and they were so cute!! I took amazing footage on my drone, although I think it isn’t allowed, so make sure you ask!
7. O’Brien’s Tower: This is a lookout point to see the Cliffs of Moher from new heights. I am telling you it’s truly impeccable.
8. Doolin Pier: If you are an ocean lover, you’ll love seeing the bright green grass, the sharp black rocks, along the crystal blue waves crashing. It was so relaxing to see, and you just have to see it in person to know exactly what I am talking about!
9. Doolin Pier: If you are an ocean lover, you’ll love seeing the bright green grass, the sharp black rocks, along the crystal blue waves crashing. It was so relaxing to see, and you just have to see it in person to know exactly what I am talking about!

Images By: TheBrooklyniteAbroad.com

The Best of Galway: Places You Cannot Miss

1. Tig Choili: This place is the spot, and as local as it gets in Galway. So many locals were hanging out here, and you feel like such a local! So you can prepare, I would come here early so that you can snag a table (there are only a few). Some live performers play traditional music, so if you know how to step dance, this is your time to shine.
2. TDillion & Sons Jewelry: This spot is a must and is added to the Top Things To Do In Ireland for a reason. For a little background, Irish claddaghs are a huge symbol in the country. It represents friendship, love & loyalty – values that have been instilled in the Irish for generations. This store is home to the original makers of the Claddagh, a place that teaches you the importance of keeping tradition and appreciating culture, one set of earrings, ring, and necklace at a time.
3. Salthill Beach: This beach is relaxing and the perfect way to feel the wind rushing on your face. It was a little chilly, so I didn’t go in the water or anything, but it was super peaceful!
4. Brasserie on the Corner: I heard about this restaurant on a blog post, and they said they had the best mussels, which means you know I had to try it. Everything about it screamed authentic and fresh. I mean, every bite into that mussel tasted like a dream. I was again blown away. Ireland, chill for a second, please, it’s too much to handle. The vibes here felt fancy, but everything was affordably priced. So many locals were here, so you know, in my book, that is a plus. 
5. Tour of the Aran Islands: If you have an extra day, I would highly recommend touring the Aran Islands. They have affordable boat tours on Get Your Guide that take you there and back with some magnificent views along the way.

Images By: TheBrooklyniteAbroad.com

Top Things To Do In Ireland: Cork & Kerry

So it only makes sense if you’re in Galway to take a 3-hour bus to Cork and Kerry. Cork is another hidden gem in Ireland, and I was lucky to have a friend studying abroad there who showed me the IT spots! It’s best to spend around two days here, and trust me, you will NOT regret it. The reason I paired these two cities together is that I went on a day tour from Cork to the Ring of Kerry. Let’s get started and explore Cork & Kerry together.

1. Crack Jenny: Presenting Crack Jenny’s one of the tastiest chicken burgers I have had in my life. The vibes here were sooo cool. I really felt like I was at a chill bar in NYC. What is cool about this spot is that right above was a club. If you want chill vibes to wine and dine, go there, and if not, head upstairs to have fun. Something else that’s good to note is that they soundproofed the place pretty well, so you barely heard anything! 
2. Conway’s Yard: If you like clubbing in Ireland, bless your soul, ahaha, just kidding. It wasn’t really my vibe, but a lot of people were having fun here so it’s a local favorite!
3. Sin E: You know me and my traditional music, and well, hidden gems too. Behold Sin E, the perfect local bar for enjoying Irish culture and sipping on the one and only Murphy’s (the Irish local’s version of Guinness). The local music here was so nice, but it went by so fast!!! Afterward, we headed upstairs because they had a lovely seating area. The place’s aesthetic screamed antique vibes. Most of the furniture looked thrifted, and they used old handles as candle holders. I loved every inch of this place, so if I ever were to come back to Cork, you best believe I would be going right back.
4. Cork City FC: If you are a fan of soccer, then you should add watching a local game to your bucket list. My friend and I went here and we had a great time. The Cork City FC fans are intense, and the team definitely brought the heat, and they won 3-0!
5. Blarney Castle: If you’re in Cork, be sure to go to Blarney Castle. It’s one of the touristy things to do, but the medieval fortification was once home to the kings and queens of Ireland. What is most fun about going here is being able to kiss the Blarney Stone. The tale of the Balrney stone dates back years ago when a, “witch cast a spell on the stone to thank the sing who saved her from drowning and referred to it as ‘The Gift of Gab’” (History.com) “The word ‘blarney’ itself means skillful flattery or nonsense and the head of the McCarthy family” stalled the earl who was sent to steal the castle and his persuasiveness is the reason that the castle was never taken! So legend has it, when you kiss the stone, you are given “The Gift of Gab,” which means the gift of persuasion.

Images By: TheBrooklyniteAbroad.com

The Ring of Kerry Tour (Top Things To Do In Ireland)

Now it wouldn’t be a “Top Things to Do in Ireland” post without highlighting the Ring of Kerry. This tour was a whopping 10 hours. Yes, I had to be at the bus stop at 7:30 and got back at around 6. I love Get Your Guide because they partner with local tour guides to ensure a fulfilling trip. The guides were amazing. So informative throughout the ride and helpful to everyone throughout the trip. They showed us all the best stops, and we took more than a few stops!

1. Killarney: This was a charming village right in the Killarney National Park, where we rode a horse and carriage and learned about all of the biodiversity of the area. 
2. Sneem: This is coined as one of Ireland’s most colorful and charming villages. We got to see a man with his pet goat!
3. Caroll’s Cove: Another breathtaking spot with amazing views. You’ll for sure want to take some nice photos here! 
4. Waterville: Another great beach spot, welcome to Waterville. This is also home to Charlie Chaplin, and we got to see his estate! 
5. Dingle Bay: We took a rest stop at Dingle Bay. Fun Fact: my family loves the gin that is distilled from here, hehe!
6. Killorglin: In this town, we went to the Kerry Bog Village, which is home to the Puck Fair, an ancient Celtic Festival.
7. Torc Waterfall: This was for sure one of my favorite parts of the trip. Torc Waterfall. I mean, take a look at this beauty and its 18-meter-high waterfall. 

Images By: TheBrooklyniteAbroad.com

There You Have It

To say the least, Ireland was a blast, and in just 7 days, I did so much. This blog post covers the Top Things To Do In Ireland, but I highly encourage you to explore more places beyond this if you have the opportunity to. Ireland is a beautiful country, and I am so happy that I was able to explore my family’s roots. I explored so many hidden gems and cannot wait for you to see Ireland for yourself, but until then, enjoy it from the perspective of The Brooklynite Abroad.

Veronica

Hi everyone! My name is Veronica, but you can also call me Vee! I grew up in the iconic city of Brooklyn, NY, the cultural hub of the world, and hence learned about so many different cultures. It was those experiences that inspired me to travel and from then on, I had learned the power of travel. In return, I want to give others that same experience, to help inspire others to unleash their inner travel enthusiast no matter the trip.

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