Haunted castles, dramatic landscapes, Celtic folklore, and Glencairn glasses overflowing with Jameson Whiskey…that’s Ireland in a nutshell for you!
An excellent destination for travellers looking for outdoor adventures in between cheeky pints down at the pub. Ireland may be on the smaller side, but it’s replete with awe-inspiring attractions that are bound to get you all giddy.
One of the (many) great things about Ireland is that it has something for just about every type of traveller. There are endless options for a picturesque picnic for couples while parents travelling with kids will no doubt enjoy the vast moorlands.
Partygoers will be glad to learn that there’s nothing quite like a night out in Ireland, complete with flowing beer and live music- as evidenced by the pubs that are generally overflowing with both tourists and locals.
Whether you’re in the mood for Dublin’s city vibes or want to connect with nature in Killarney, you’ll never run out of things to do in Ireland!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
20 Top Things to Do in Ireland
Ireland is a land where magic can be found at every turn – especially if you know where to look. While the luck of the Irish may be on your side while travelling in Ireland, a little planning ensures you’ll experience all the wonders this country has to offer.
From historic castles and cosy pubs brimming with Guinness to awe-inspiring coastlines and breathtaking mountains… the land of the Irish is oozing with charm, just waiting to be explored.
So, let’s go through the BEST things to do in Ireland.
1. Cruise down the River Shannon
Let’s start off with a relaxing cruise down the longest river in the region!
In my opinion, there’s no better way to take in Ireland’s natural beauty than from a barge cruise. While the river snakes all the way from Cuilcagh Mountain to end in the sea at Limerick City, the most navigable parts are usually from the Lower Lough Erne to Limerick.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
This river is engrained in the local history – so don’t be surprised if you’re regaled with tales of ancient mystical creatures, queens, and kings during your cruise!
Perfect for travellers who would like a small preview of what Ireland has to offer, River Shannon cruises usually take you past iconic sites like King Johns Castle, Clonmacnoise, and Athlone Castle.
- Entrance fee: Dependent on the cruise
- Hours: N/A
- Address: River Shannon, Ireland
2. Explore the Ring of Kerry
Exploring the Ring of Kerry is one of the things that everyone should add to every traveller’s itinerary while travelling in Ireland. A comfortable, air-conditioned coach will take you through the Iveragh Peninsula, home to rugged coastlines, brooding peaks, and some of the best heritage attractions in Ireland.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
There’s plenty to see along the way, including Sneem, a charming village known for its multi-coloured buildings, and Killorglin which usually hosts the Puck Fair.
You’ll also be treated to lush views of Ballinskelligs Bay, Inch Beach, and Dingle Bay. Outdoor enthusiasts will undoubtedly enjoy strolling through the woods of Friers Glenn in search of the gorgeous Torc Waterfall.
- Entrance fee: $50
- Hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Address: County Kerry, Ireland
3. Stay in a Castle
Okay, I know there’s no shortage of great places to stay in Ireland but if you’ve always dreamt of sleeping in a castle, here’s your chance!
This Airbnb places you right in an ancient stone castle in Ireland that dates all the way back to 1804. Commanding an excellent location in Dublin, the castle retained plenty of its original features, including a stone staircase.
Spend a day exploring Dublin’s vibrant centre, then whip up a meal in the castle’s modern, well-equipped kitchen. With two bedrooms for four guests, this castle in Ireland also provides direct access to a pebbled beach. As the evening winds down, kick back on the veranda to enjoy a glorious sunset over Dublin Bay.
- Entrance fee: $946
- Hours: Check-in after 4 p.m., Check-out before 11 a.m.
- Address: Sutton, Dublin, Ireland
4. Be Awed by Bend of the Boyne
Visiting Bend of the Boyne- or Brú na Bóinne as it’s locally known – is often said to be among the unmissable things to do in Ireland. Not only is this megalithic site one of Ireland’s most historically significant structures, but it’s also older than the Egyptian pyramids.
Recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Bend of the Boyne features a staggering assortment of grave passes, chamber tombs, henges, and standing stones.
- Entrance fee: $19.63 (free for children under 12)
- Hours: Visitors Center, 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.
- Address: Drogheda, Co. Meath, A92 EH5C, Ireland
5. Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher
No trip to Ireland is considered complete without a quintessential visit to the Cliffs of Moher!
Towering over 300 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, Ireland’s most famous natural landmark featured in its fair share of movies, including cult classics like The Princess Bride.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
On a clear day, you can even see those mighty Atlantic Ocean waves crash against the Aran Islands. After spending some time on the cliffs, the coach will take you to Doolin Village.
I can totally vouch for this activity that’ll take you on a day trip from Dublin to those majestic cliffs in a luxury, air-conditioned coach alongside an experienced guide. This activity also includes a stop by Burren National Park, known for its otherworldly limestone landscape.
- Entrance fee: $84
- Hours: 6.50 a.m. to 7.50 p.m.
- Address: Suffolk St, Dublin 2, D02 KX03, Ireland
6. Hike Through Killarney National Park
There’s no shortage of national parks in Ireland, but if you only have time for one, then Killarney has my vote!
A UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve since 1981, this national park is positively brimming with different types of fauna and flora. In fact, this is probably the only place in Ireland where you can spot red deer in the wild.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
With an abundance of hiking opportunities, the park is also home to the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains, parks, moorlands, and glistening lakes. Locals usually go there to fish since the glacial Lough Leane Lake is packed with an abundance of salmon, trout, and perch.
The park also features old buildings that you can explore through guided tours.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Address: Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry, Ireland
7. Grab a Pint at Sean’s Bar
Looking for indoor things to do in Ireland? How about a visit to Sean’s Bar, a century-old watering hole located between Galway and Dublin?
It’s no secret that the Irish know how to party and for me, there’s no better place to enjoy that buzzing pub vibe than at one of the oldest bars in the country. According to the locals, this pub was once owned by an innkeeper who used to help travellers cross the River Shannon back in 900 A.D.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
With traditional Irish music every night, this place offers the ideal setting for taking in that legendary Irish craic! The pub doesn’t serve food, but you’ll find an extensive drinks menu, complete with its own blend of whiskey.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Hours: 10.30 a.m. to 12.30 a.m. (Monday to Tuesday & Thursday to Saturday), 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 p.m. (Wednesday), 12.30 p.m. to 11.30 p.m. (Sunday)
- Address: 13 Main St, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 DW76, Ireland
8. See the Giant’s Causeway
Leave the bustle of the city behind as you head to the Giant’s Causeway, another legendary site that’s ingrained in the local folklore! According to Irish legends, the Causeway was created by Finn McCool, a giant who needed to cross the Irish Sea to face his Scottish rival.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Whether you believe the legend or not, there’s no denying that the Giant’s Causeway is quite a sight to behold with 40,000 massive basalt columns. What adds to the allure of the place is how the columns are perfectly shaped and spaced to form a pavement.
This activity offers round-trip transportation from Dublin alongside an experienced guide. The tour also features a stop by the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle.
- Entrance fee: $89.06
- Hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Address: Molly Malone Statue: Tourist Office, Suffolk Street, Dublin, Ireland
9. Trek Through the Mourne Mountains
Whether you’re looking for outdoor things to do in Ireland or simply want a break from cityscapes, you really can’t go wrong with a good ol’ hiking session through the Mourne Mountains, one of those hiking trails to try before you die.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Towering above the Northern Irish landscape, this granite mountain range was even recognized as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty by the CROW Act – so lush are the views and landscapes that await.
Don’t worry if you’re not a regular hiker: the mountains feature over 100 trails, some easier than others. Beginner hikers can check out the family-and dog-friendly Castelwellan Lake loop that requires just over an hour to complete.
Experienced trekkers can always attempt the steep yet popular Devil’s Coach Road Gully ascent.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Hours: N/A
- Address: Mourne Mountains, Newry BT34 5XL, UK
10. Drive the Wild Atlantic Way
If you’re short on time and would like to cover more ground in a day, this is one activity that you really don’t want to miss!
A quintessential experience for tourists visiting Europe, driving the Wild Atlantic Way is an absolute adventure that passes through three provinces and nine counties. The road stretches all the way from the Malin Head in County Donegal to the Celtic Sea Coast.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
There are heaps to see along the way, including the Old Head of Kinsale, the Skelligs Viewpoint, and the Dingle Peninsula. Best of all, the Wild Atlantic Way has over 150 viewpoints where you can stop to stretch your legs and soak up the views.
- Entrance fee: N/A
- Hours: N/A
- Address: Atlantic Way, Co. Donegal, Ireland
11. Discover the Local Whiskey and Guinness Scene
Jameson Whiskey is a drink that needs exactly zero introduction. After all, this is literally one of the most famous drinks in Ireland – that and Guinness, of course! This activity provides a guided tour of both the Guinness Storehouse and the Jameson Distillery on Bow Street.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
As you tour the facilities, you’ll learn more about how each drink is produced and the complex blend of ingredients that go into them. And yes – the activity does include a tasting session at each location!
In fact, the Guinness Storehouse tour ends at Dublin’s highest bar where you can admire stunning views of the city skyline while sipping on your complimentary drink.
- Entrance fee: $108
- Hours: Various time slots
- Address: The Old Jameson Distillery, Bow St, Smithfield, Dublin 7, Ireland
12. Mosey Around The Dingle Peninsula
Wondering what to do in Ireland on a beautiful summer day? How about a trip to the Dingle Peninsula?
Located on the most western point of the European continent, the Dingle Peninsula features a dramatic coastline fringed by lush green hills.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
For something relaxing, you can always check out the Peninsula’s scenic routes like the dramatic Conor Pass, a high mountain pass known for its waterfall views. Kayaking and boat tours are quite common in the area and if you head out early enough, you may even spot dolphins frolicking in the wild!
I met some cool people at a hostel in Dingle who filled me in on all the other incredible spots to explore around town, with the most popular ones being the Eask Tower and Mt. Brandon.
- Entrance fee: N/A
- Hours: N/A
- Address: Dingle Peninsula, Co. Kerry, Ireland
13. Catch a Rugby Game at Aviva Stadium
It won’t take you long to realize that rugby culture is huge in Ireland. If you’d like to learn more about Irish rugby, there’s no better place for it than Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Even if you’re not necessarily into rugby, believe me when I say there’s nothing quite like the thrill of an adrenaline-filled game – complete with locals cheering from all sides!
With a capacity for over 51,000 spectators, this bowl-shaped stadium was actually built to replace the Landsdowne Road Stadium which was once the oldest in the country. While stadium tours are no longer available, you can always check Aviva’s event calendar to see if there’s anything you may wish to catch while you’re in Dublin.
- Entrance fee: Dependent on the match
- Hours: Dependent on the match
- Address: Lansdowne Rd, Dublin 4, Ireland
14. Kiss The Blarney Stone
Dublin is easily among the most visited attractions in Ireland, and for good reason. Visiting this nearly 600-year-old castle almost feels like stepping back in time. Take the narrow flight of steps from the parapet and step into the Banqueting Hall where you can admire the massive fireplace.
Take a moment to wander the gardens and battlements where you’ll find the famous Blarney Stone. Legend has it that if you kiss the stone, you’ll receive the ‘Gift of the Gab’- or 7 years of eloquent speech!
For a memorable day trip from Dublin, I can recommend this activity which combines a visit to the castle with a stop at Cork City where you can check out the gourmet English Markets.
- Entrance fee: $88
- Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Address: Ballinastoe, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!15. Soak Up Some Culture at Trinity College
If you’re wondering why a university made this list, wait until you visit Trinity College for yourself! Packed full of culture, the university schooled some of the greatest literary minds, including Samuel Beckett and Oscar Wilde.
First established way back in the 16th century, Trinity College is home to a 65-meter-long library that has around 200,000 books and manuscripts – including the Book of Kells which dates from 800AD.
If the library seems familiar to you, that’s because it was featured in the Harry Potter movies!
- Entrance fee: Dependent on Activity
- Hours: 8.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (April-September), 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (October-March)
- Address: College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
16. Learn the Local History at the National Museum
Looking for the best places to visit in Dublin? Or maybe you would like to learn more about the country’s conflicted and complex history? Then, I suggest visiting the National Museum of Ireland, located in the capital.
First things first though: the museum has numerous branches spread across Dublin, so you may need to move around a bit depending on what you’d like to visit first. For example, the Archeology and Natural History branch is found on Kildare Street while the Decorative Arts section is found in Collins Barracks.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Tuesday to Saturday), 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (Sunday and Monday)
- Address: Several branches across Dublin
17. Discover the Secrets of the Titanic
The Titanic Experience Cobh takes you to the historic White Star Line Ticket Office which is where 123 Irish passengers boarded the ill-fated vessel in 1912. This hour-long experience is split into two parts.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
During the first part of the tour, you’ll retrace the steps of the Irish passengers. Complete with an immersive audiovisual experience and set replicas to give you a glimpse of what life was on board. Fourth Office Boxhall, a virtual guide will accompany you as you explore the reconstructed set.
Then, you’ll learn little-known facts about the sinking through personal stories and hologram projections based on the accounts of the Queenstown passengers.
- Entrance fee: $13.06 (adults), $8.70 (children)
- Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Address: 20 Casement Square, Kilgarvan, Cobh, Co. Cork, P24 DW63, Ireland
18. Wander Around Galway
Visiting Galway should absolutely feature on your list of unmissable things to do in Ireland! Galway is a compact yet ridiculously charming city that is bursting with incredible things to do.
From delish eats to vibrant cultural offerings and an abundance of music festivals, Galway has rightfully earned its title as the ‘Festival Capital of Ireland’, hosting over 100 lively events annually.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Celtic jam sessions await in every corner and Galway’s pubs beckon with the enticing aroma of Irish fare. The city is also an excellent jumping point to the Aran Islands and their many ancient sites. Delightfully peppered by medieval buildings, Galway also features ancient castles, most notably Menlo Castle and Dunguaire Castle.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Hours: 24/7
- Address: Galway, Ireland
19. Venture Underground at Doolin Cave
Perfect bucket list adventure, this activity takes you 70 feet below ground to explore the Doolin Cave, home to the largest stalactite in Europe. With a unique limestone landscape, this cave takes you in the footsteps of explorers JM Dickenson and Brian Varley.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
If you’re not familiar with them, rest assured that your guide will tell you all about how these two men first discovered the cave!
For a more authentic experience, you’ll be led into the main chamber of the cave in complete darkness, re-creating the same conditions faced by the explorers back in 1952. You’ll also be taken to a viewing platform that provides a 360-degree view of the Great Stalactite.
- Entrance fee: $38.18
- Hours: Various time slots are available
- Address: Craggycorradan East, Doolin, Co. Clare, Ireland
20. Go Green for St. Patrick’s Day Festival
Let’s conclude our list of top things to do in Ireland with the ultimate Irish experience: St. Patrick’s Day Festival!
Celebrated each year on 17th March, St. Patrick’s Day is easily the biggest holiday in Ireland. An assortment of events is held throughout the island in the days leading up to St. Patrick’s Day, culminating in a lively street parade with everyone dressed in leprechaun green!
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
While tourists often flock to Dublin to experience St. Patrick’s Day, I’m personally more partial to the Galway celebrations. The Galway parade usually kicks off at University Road and ends at Prospect Hill.
The pubs are even more animated than usual, with locals and tourists ready to raise a glass of Irish Whiskey to St. Patrick.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Hours: N/A
- Address: N/A
20 Things to Do in Ireland: Country Map
Ireland is a seemingly small but actually rather large land and a lot of these activities are far from one another. So, to make your life a little easier, I’ve created this handy dandy map to help you to plan your adventures:
How to Get Around Ireland
Getting around Ireland is quite convenient. A lot of the country is highly walkable within the towns and cities, although rain showers can occasionally dampen the experience. There are different means of transportation available that offer different options for getting around. Here’s an overview.
Ireland is very well connected by both public/private bus and by train.
Whether you are backpacking around Europe or just Ireland you should consider buying a Eurorail pass. It’s the best and cheapest way to travel by train in Europe.
Buses are best for trips like getting from Dublin to Galway or Belfast to Dublin, but you will not be able to get off the beaten path much, if at all.
By far the best way to get around Ireland is by campervan. They’re great because you are traveling with a mobile shelter and kitchen that is capable of parking just about anywhere for the night.
Whilst campervan rentals in Ireland are not cheap, you do end up saving money on accommodation and cooking for yourself.
Remember that campervanning life offers unprecedented freedom, which is the biggest win!
I did not personally go hitchhiking in Ireland, but I have been told by friends that they had a fair bit of success.
You’re doing this at your own risk, so trust your instinct and stay safe. You’re ALWAYS best to wait for a ride that makes you feel 100% comfortable.
Getting a car rental is easy. Booking in advance is the best way to ensure you score the lowest price and your choice of vehicle.
Often, you can find the best car rental prices when you pick up the rental from the airport.
Make sure you also purchase a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages.
Don’t Forget your Travel Insurance for Ireland
Do you need travel insurance? ABSOLUTELY! Before you head off on the trip of a lifetime, make sure one mistake can’t ruin it all. Get that travel insurance and enjoy the trip.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Things to Do in Ireland
Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in Ireland.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Ireland
From ambling along a cliffside path to pottering around ancient castles, the list of adventures that await in Ireland is pretty much endless!
Ireland is welcoming, gorgeous, and undoubtedly one of the best places to explore in Europe. Regardless of the activities you’d like to indulge in, I do not doubt that you’ll find something with your name on it.
Just remember to grab your wellies (that’s Irish for waterproof boots!), as well as a good rain jacket – and you’re all set for one heck of an epic time in the Land of the Leprechauns!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking in Ireland.
- Have a look at our guide to where to stay in Ireland to choose the perfect area!
- You’ll need a hostel in Ireland – it’s a great way to start your trip!
- Find out the cost of travel in Ireland.
- Sort your international SIM card out to avoid unnecessary hassle.
- Get yourself covered with travel insurance for Ireland before you leave.
- Check out our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
- Our in-depth backpacking packing list has all the info you’ll need for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
