Top 20 attractions in Ireland

This small country in the north of Europe receives almost 6.2 million tourists every year, which is 1.4 times the entire population of Ireland itself! Agree, solid proof that this corner of the planet is definitely worth a visit. In addition, in 2011, readers of the authoritative publication Lonely Planet called Ireland "the best holiday destination in the world." Another reason to go on vacation here.

A visit to Ireland usually begins with Dublin, the largest city in the country, which is home to almost a quarter of the population. This is a beautiful city with a very unusual architecture that has retained its unique charm and is very different from other European capitals. Another very popular Irish city among travelers is Cork, known for its ancient history, famous residents and numerous attractions. In general, Ireland has something to offer tourists - medieval Gothic castles, magnificent cathedrals, magnificent architecture, unique natural monuments, original culture and local customs.

What to see in Ireland?

The most interesting and beautiful places, photos and a brief description.

Vale of Glendalough

An incredibly picturesque valley that appeared thanks to glaciers in the eastern part of Ireland. Glendalough is famous for its monastery, built in the sixth century! Now this object is recognized as one of the main attractions of the country and attracts thousands of tourists. There are also cleanest lakes in the valley, unusual round towers, green hills and many small hotels for tourists.

Skellig Michael

"Rock of the Archangel Michael" is a beautiful island with a monastery, which was built at the end of the sixth century. Now the ruins of ancient buildings, a functioning lighthouse and many beautiful natural places remain on the island. Excursions to Skellig Michael Island are organized, because getting there on your own is difficult.

Museum Estate Makross House

This manor-turned-museum is located in the heart of Killarney National Park. The estate is known for its unusual architecture, perfectly preserved interiors, as well as a picturesque garden and arboretum. Every year, the Makross House estate hosts a cultural festival that attracts many travelers.

St Stephen's Green

This is the central park of Dublin, created back in 1664. St Stephen's Green is known for its waterfowl pond, a garden for blind visitors, a walkway lined with cafes and shops, lush flower beds and fountains. In addition, there is a medical college in the park, and an old cemetery adjoins it from the north.

Great Western Greenway

This is Ireland's longest cycling route. It starts in the city of Westport and passes through very picturesque areas of the country - past ancient villages, green hills and the rocky coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Breathtaking views and a lot of impressions will be a reward for lovers of outdoor activities.

Powerscourt Manor Garden

This is the most beautiful garden and park complex in the country, which is often called "the main garden of Ireland." The castle itself was built in the 13th century and then repeatedly rebuilt and restored. Today, the castle is surrounded by an unusually lush themed garden with fountains, sculptures, ponds, stairs, pavilions and an old tower.

St. Patrick's Cathedral (Dublin)

The largest cathedral in Ireland, dedicated to the country's most revered saint. It is believed that it was St. Patrick who freed Ireland from snakes, did a lot to form the national consciousness of the country's population. Anglican cathedral, very beautiful and austere. At one time, its dean was the famous writer Jonathan Swift.

blarney castle

The castle that has survived today is already the third fortification building erected in this corner of County Cork. The massive walls of the castle survived several attacks and reliably protected its inhabitants. Blarney Castle is known for its Speechstone, which grants such a talent to anyone who kisses it.

Aran Islands

Three picturesque islands - Inishmaan, Inishmore and Inisheer - are located off the western coast of Ireland. It is noteworthy that the inhabitants of the islands, who lived in isolation from the rest of the country, managed to preserve their unique customs, in particular, they still build low currah boats and wear national clothes.

Shop Wash in Galway

You can come to Ireland not only for visiting pubs and hiking in medieval castles. Here you can also walk along the shopping streets and buy amazing, unusual things from local designers. So, Shop Street in County Galway, in the west of the country, is famous for its numerous shops where you can find literally anything.

Guinness Beer Museum

A cult landmark of Dublin, which not only lovers of the "foamy drink" seek to visit, but also avid teetotalers. In the museum, you can learn about the brand's traditions, see a collection of beer barrels, listen to a lecture on the dangers of alcohol, and, most importantly, taste the most famous varieties of Irish beer at the Gravity bar. By the way, admission to the museum is free.

Kinsale

One of the most famous "small towns" in Ireland, which became the first city in which the country's government runs a program to solve environmental and energy problems. Kinsale is known for its many restaurants, unique architecture and the annual Gourmet Food Festival.

Kilkenny Castle

Another pearl of Ireland, the pride of the country is a perfectly preserved castle of the 12th century. Known for its glorious history, well-preserved interior decoration, as well as a regular park laid out around it. You should definitely take a walk in the park to see the beauty of flowerbeds with strict lines, as well as an old fountain.

newgrange

One of the most ancient sights of the country, a national treasure of Ireland. Newgrange is a megalithic cult building, whose age exceeds 4.5 thousand years! This is a corridor tomb with burial mounds and burial chambers, spiral patterns and drawings on stones. Newgrange is often compared to Stonehenge.

Kilmanham Prison

Built in the 18th century, the prison has now become a very popular museum. At one time, thousands of prisoners were kept here, including fighters for the independence of Ireland. Among the inhabitants of the prison were both women and children from 7 years old, and the conditions of their detention cannot be called comfortable and even simply acceptable.

Ring of Kerry

A very popular tourist route that passes through the territory of County Kerry, along the picturesque Iverach Peninsula. The length of this path is 166 kilometers, several castles, a waterfall, a monastery, a medieval church, beautiful villages and many other interesting things await tourists along the way. You can get around the Ring of Kerry by bus, car, bicycle, and there are also pedestrian roads.

Cliffs of Moher

A visit to these cliffs is recognized as the most popular Irish attraction - every year this corner of the country is visited by over one million people! The Cliffs of Moher offer stunning views of the Aran Islands and the Atlantic Ocean, which have been featured in several clips and films. Today, there is an ecologically clean center for tourists.

Grafton Street

One of the busiest shopping streets in Dublin. Almost its entire length is pedestrian, replete with shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. Musicians, poets, actors, jugglers and mimes constantly perform on the street. For many of them, Grafton Street has been a permanent place of work for many years.

Trinity College (Dublin)

One of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher education not only in Ireland, but throughout the planet. Trinity College was founded in 1592; over the years, many famous personalities have become its graduates, in particular, Jonathan Swift and Oscar Wilde. By the way, Trinity College was one of the first in Europe to start accepting women for study.

Rock of Cashel

She is St. Patrick's Rock, the ancient residence of the Irish kings. It was here that the patron saint of Ireland himself lived and preached in the 5th century. The Rock of Cashel is known for its rather well-preserved ancient buildings, in particular, the fortress walls, the Romanesque church, the Gothic cathedral, the highest and most ancient round tower of the country.