Ireland
Overview
Centuries of ancient stories surround the third largest island of Europe, Ireland. Historic mementos can be found everywhere, from prehistoric monuments to castles, ruins and the cities of Belfast and Dublin that are steeped in history. Ireland’s landscape offers a diversity that is matched by no other: from green rolling hills to majestic mountains and a dramatic coastline, this island has it all. If you are lucky, you might even be able to catch some Northern Lights in the Northern Headlands. Head down to a pub and enjoy a cold beer with the locals, as there is no better way to get to know the true soul of Ireland than a chat with its inhabitants.
Top Attractions
- Explore the stunning landscapes of the Cliffs of Moher, with their dramatic cliffs, panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, and coastal walking trails, as well as opportunities for birdwatching, whale watching, and boat tours.
- Discover the historic city of Dublin, the capital of Ireland, with its vibrant cultural scene, historic landmarks like Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and attractions like the Guinness Storehouse and the Jameson Distillery.
- Visit the ancient sites of the Boyne Valley, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Brú na Bóinne, with its Neolithic passage tombs like Newgrange and Knowth, as well as historic landmarks like the Hill of Tara and the Battle of the Boyne site.
- Experience the natural beauty of the Ring of Kerry, a scenic driving route that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula, with its rugged coastline, picturesque villages, and attractions like the Killarney National Park, the Skellig Islands, and the Dingle Peninsula.
- Explore the cultural heritage of Galway City, known as the “City of Tribes,” with its medieval streets, lively pubs and music scene, and cultural attractions like the Galway City Museum, the Spanish Arch, and Eyre Square.
Local Cuisine
- Indulge in the flavors of Irish cuisine, known for its hearty stews, fresh seafood, and traditional comfort foods.
- Sample iconic dishes like Irish stew (made with lamb or beef, potatoes, onions, and carrots), seafood chowder (a creamy soup made with fresh seafood and vegetables), and boxty (a type of potato pancake), as well as traditional side dishes like colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage) and soda bread.
- Try Irish specialties like Dublin coddle (a dish made with sausages, bacon, and potatoes), black pudding (a type of blood sausage), and Irish smoked salmon, as well as traditional desserts like apple crumble, bread and butter pudding, and treacle tart.
- Savor refreshing beverages like Guinness (a dark stout beer), Irish whiskey (such as Jameson, Bushmills, and Powers), and Irish coffee (coffee with whiskey, sugar, and cream), as well as traditional teas like Irish breakfast tea and Barry’s Tea.
- Don’t forget to try Irish street food like fish and chips, sausage rolls, and beef and Guinness pie, as well as snacks like Tayto crisps, Irish cheese, and oatcakes.
Outdoor Activities
- Go hiking and trekking in Ireland’s national parks and scenic areas, with opportunities for exploring scenic trails, mountains, and coastal cliffs in destinations like the Wicklow Mountains, Connemara National Park, and the Mourne Mountains.
- Visit the beaches and coastal areas of Ireland, with opportunities for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing on destinations like Inch Beach, Lahinch Beach, and Portrush Beach, as well as opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- Experience adventure activities like rock climbing, caving, and mountain biking in destinations like the Burren, the Gap of Dunloe, and the Slieve Bloom Mountains, as well as opportunities for zip-lining, archery, and horseback riding.
- Explore the rivers and lakes of Ireland, with opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on destinations like the River Shannon, Lough Corrib, and the Lakes of Killarney, as well as opportunities for boat tours to explore islands and wildlife reserves.
- Discover the biodiversity of Ireland’s national parks and nature reserves, with opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and nature photography in destinations like Killarney National Park, Glenveagh National Park, and the Burren National Park.
Cultural Experiences
- Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Ireland with visits to museums, galleries, and cultural institutions like the National Museum of Ireland, the National Gallery of Ireland, and the Irish National Stud & Gardens, which showcase the history, art, and culture of the country.
- Explore the vibrant arts scene of Ireland, with opportunities to attend music festivals, theater performances, and art exhibitions showcasing Irish and international talent, as well as workshops and classes in traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and storytelling.
- Experience traditional Irish music and dance performances, such as sean nós singing, céilí dancing, and traditional folk music, as well as contemporary styles like rock, pop, and traditional Irish fusion music, which reflect the diverse cultural traditions of the country.
- Discover the history and legacy of Ireland’s indigenous peoples with visits to historic sites like the Hill of Tara, the Rock of Cashel, and the Skellig Islands, which showcase the art, culture, and traditions of Ireland’s indigenous communities.
- Participate in local festivals and celebrations, such as St. Patrick’s Day, the Galway International Arts Festival, and the Cork Jazz Festival, to experience the vibrant culture and spirit of Ireland firsthand.
