What to visit in Ireland: a tour of the Emerald Isle
What to visit in Ireland: a tour of the Emerald Isle
Also called the “Emerald Isle” for its green and mountainous landscape, Ireland is a destination that will leave no one indifferent when visiting. With a rich history, fascinating legends, stunning landscapes and a vibrant culture, Ireland is a country that offers a wide variety of activities for every type of traveler. From medieval castles to towering cliffs, bustling cities and picturesque coastal towns, there is something for everyone. In this blog, I will take you on a tour of the top destinations and attractions that you should not miss when visiting Ireland.
- Dublin: the cultural heart of Ireland
Dublin, Ireland's capital, is the ideal starting point for any adventure on the island. This dynamic and welcoming city combines the best of modernity and history. One of the must-see attractions is Trinity College , the oldest university in the country, home to the famous Book of Kells , a priceless medieval manuscript.
Don't forget to stroll through Temple Bar , Dublin's most famous district. Although Temple Bar is known for its nightlife and pubs with live music, it also offers galleries, shops and restaurants. Just a few minutes away you will find St. Patrick's Cathedral , one of the largest and oldest in Ireland, named after the country's patron saint.
Finally, a visit to the Guinness factory is a must. Here you can learn about the brewing process of Ireland's most famous beer and enjoy a pint at the Gravity Bar , which offers panoramic views of the city.
- The Cliffs of Moher: natural beauty at its finest
The Cliffs of Moher on the west coast of Ireland are one of the country's most impressive natural attractions. These cliffs rise over 200 metres above the Atlantic Ocean and stretch for around 8 kilometres in length. The views from the cliffs are simply spectacular and on a clear day you can see as far as the Aran Islands.
This place is ideal for nature and photography lovers as it offers a unique atmosphere with the sound of waves breaking against the rocks and the opportunity to spot seabirds. In addition, there are several hiking trails along the cliffs where you can enjoy the landscape at your leisure.
- The Ring of Kerry: a panoramic tour
The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most famous scenic drives, and for good reason. This approximately 179-kilometre-long circuit takes you through some of the country’s most beautiful and varied landscapes. Along the way you’ll pass majestic mountains, tranquil lochs, golden beaches and charming little villages.
One of the highlights of the tour is Killarney National Park , home to the beautiful Killarney Lakes and the famous Ross Castle . Also worth stopping off at Skellig Michael , a former monastic island that served as a backdrop for the Star Wars films.
- Cork: charm and tradition
Cork, Ireland's second largest city, has a very different atmosphere to Dublin. Located in the south of the country, Cork is known for its rich history, culinary culture, and friendly people. One of the city's iconic landmarks is the English Market , where you can sample a wide range of fresh, local produce.
Just outside Cork is Blarney Castle , famous for the Blarney Stone . According to legend, kissing this stone will grant you the gift of eloquence. The castle is also surrounded by beautiful gardens that are well worth a visit.
- Galway: Ireland's artistic heart
Galway is known for its bohemian vibe and vibrant arts scene. This small town on the west coast is famous for its music, art and theatre festivals, as well as its colourful streets filled with street musicians.
The Spanish Arch , a remnant of the city's medieval walls, is one of the historic attractions, while Claddagh , a former fishing village, is famous for the Claddagh Ring , a symbol of love, loyalty and friendship.
Galway is also the gateway to Connemara , a region known for its wild and untamed landscapes with its mountains, marshes and rugged coastlines. If you love nature, a trip to Connemara is a must.
- Belfast: history and rebirth
Although technically located in Northern Ireland, Belfast is a city worth mentioning. After decades of conflict, Belfast is being reborn as a modern and vibrant tourist destination. One of the highlights is the Titanic Museum , which commemorates the construction of the famous ship in the city's shipyards.
Also check out the Belfast Murals , which tell the story of the Northern Ireland conflict through street art. Belfast Castle and the Botanic Gardens are other places worth seeing.
- The Glendalough Valley: an oasis of calm
Located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park , the valley of Glendalough is known for its monastic ruins and tranquil landscapes. Founded by St Kevin in the 6th century, this site has been an important pilgrimage site for centuries.
The site includes an impressive round tower, several ancient churches and two lakes, creating a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. Glendalough is ideal for hiking enthusiasts as there are several routes of varying difficulty.