Top Places to Visit in Ireland: Must-See Spots to Add to Your Next Adventure

If you’ve been dreaming of visiting Ireland, this guide will help you plan a trip that’s both unforgettable and easy to navigate. Ireland is filled with dramatic coastlines, ancient history, and charming small towns, and the best way to make the most of your time here is to plan smartly. Below are some of the most beautiful and must-see spots in the country, along with tips on what to do, when to go, and how to make the most of every stop.

On the north coast of Northern Ireland, you’ll find one of the most fascinating natural wonders in the world, the Giant’s Causeway. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns created by ancient volcanic activity. It looks almost like a giant staircase leading into the sea, which explains the local legends that gave the site its name.

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the tour crowds and catch beautiful lighting for photos. You can book tickets in advance through the National Trust website, especially during peak season when the £15.50 tickets sell out fast. Once you’re there, take time to walk along the basalt formations and listen to the audio guide, it adds fascinating myths and geology insights to the experience. Bring comfortable shoes because the rocks can be slippery, and don’t skip the visitor centre, which explains how the columns were formed millions of years ago.

About a 20-minute drive from Giant’s Causeway, you’ll find one of Northern Ireland’s most thrilling experiences, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Suspended almost 100 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, this bridge connects the mainland to a small rocky island once used by salmon fishermen. Crossing it feels like an adventure, especially when the wind picks up and the bridge sways slightly beneath your feet.

The walk to the bridge takes around 15 minutes from the parking lot, and even if you decide not to cross, the views are incredible. Tickets cost £14 and include parking. If you just want to explore the area without crossing, you’ll still need to pay a £10 parking fee. To avoid long lines and get the best photos, visit early in the morning or just before closing. You can check updated hours and prices on the National Trust Carrick-a-Rede page.

While driving from Giant’s Causeway toward Belfast, make a short stop at The Dark Hedges. This tunnel of beech trees looks like something out of a fairy tale, and it actually was, since it appeared in Game of Thrones as the “Kingsroad.” It’s an impressive sight, but unless you’re a big fan of the show or a photographer, it’s not essential.

Crowds can be heavy throughout the day, so if you’re aiming for that iconic empty-road photo, try going very early in the morning or late in the evening. Otherwise, a quick walk and a few snapshots are enough.

Next, head to the Kerry Cliffs in County Kerry. Towering over 1,000 feet above the Atlantic, these cliffs offer some of the most breathtaking views in Ireland. On clear days, you can even see the Skellig Islands on the horizon, where puffins nest and where scenes from Star Wars: The Force Awakens were filmed.

The walk from the parking lot to the viewpoint is short but steep, so wear good walking shoes and take your time. Along the way, you might spot alpacas grazing, an unexpected but charming surprise. Once at the top, spend some time soaking in the view or bring a small picnic if the weather allows. The site also has small local stalls where you can grab snacks and coffee. For updated visiting details, check the Kerry Cliffs website.

No trip to Ireland is complete without standing on the edge of the Cliffs of Moher. These dramatic cliffs stretch for about 14 kilometers along the Atlantic coast and rise over 700 feet at their highest point. You can follow the coastal trail for panoramic views or simply admire the view from O’Brien’s Tower, which offers a great vantage point on clear days.

Arrive early to avoid crowds and parking issues, and wear layers as it can get windy. If you have time, stop by the visitor center for an interactive exhibition about local wildlife and geology. Check the official Cliffs of Moher website for ticket prices, hours, and weather updates before your trip.

Back in Dublin, make sure to visit Trinity College to see the Long Room inside the Old Library. This 65-meter-long hall houses over 200,000 of the library’s oldest books and is one of the most photographed spots in the city. The room also displays the Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript of the four Gospels dating back to around 800 AD.

If you’re a Star Wars fan, you’ll love knowing that this room inspired the Jedi Archives in Episode II: Attack of the Clones. To visit, you must pre-book your ticket on the Trinity College website, and it’s best to reserve at least a few weeks ahead because spots fill up quickly. Plan to spend about an hour exploring, and don’t rush. It’s truly a special place to slow down and admire Ireland’s academic and artistic heritage.

In the seaside town of Cobh, you’ll find one of Ireland’s most colorful streets known as the Deck of Cards. These brightly painted houses sit on a steep hill with Saint Colman’s Cathedral rising majestically behind them. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Cobh, so take your time walking around and capturing different angles.

After visiting the cathedral, known for its gothic architecture and stunning stained-glass windows, have dinner at Jacob’s Ladder Restaurant at the WatersEdge Hotel nearby. Their seafood dishes and cozy atmosphere make it the perfect spot to end the day. You can read reviews or book a table through the WatersEdge Hotel website.

When you’re exploring Connemara National Park, treat yourself to a stay at Rosleague Manor Hotel. This boutique hotel combines classic Irish charm with beautiful sea views and warm hospitality. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, room 6, for instance, comes with a private garden patio and both a bathtub and a shower.

Even if you’re staying elsewhere, you can stop by their garden for tea or dinner and enjoy the peaceful view. Nearby, check out Veldons Seafarer Bar and Restaurant for local food, live music, and a real Irish pub feel. For more details or booking options, visit the Rosleague Manor website.

Driving around Ireland is one of the best ways to experience the country, but remember that cars drive on the left side of the road. Roads in rural areas can be narrow and winding, so take your time and enjoy the scenery rather than rushing from one destination to another. Public transport works well between big cities, but if you want flexibility, especially in areas like Connemara or Kerry, renting a car is worth it.

The weather in Ireland can change several times in a single day, so always carry a light rain jacket and wear comfortable shoes that can handle both rain and uneven ground. Don’t let a little drizzle stop you from exploring—the mist often adds to the country’s charm, especially along the cliffs and coasts.

Plan your days with a bit of flexibility. Some of the most memorable moments in Ireland happen when you least expect them, like finding a small local pub with live music or stumbling upon a hidden beach. Use this guide as your starting point and make it your own by exploring beyond the main tourist paths.

For more detailed itineraries, local tips, and personal travel stories, you can check out our blog here for inspiration and planning ideas. It’s a great resource if you want to discover more places like these and get practical insights from real travelers who’ve explored Ireland up close.

Above all, take your time, stay curious, and enjoy the simple joys that make Ireland unforgettable, from warm conversations with locals to quiet moments overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo