Ah, the emerald isle. There are countless reasons to visit Ireland, and each is more compelling than the last. Live music in quaint pubs, historic architecture along cobblestone streets, electric green fields dotted with sheep, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll find anywhere in the world.

With so much to see and do, it’s hard to know where to start!

To help, I’ve compiled some of the most scenic places in Ireland you should add to your itinerary when you visit this lush, inviting country.

DUBLIN

As the capital of the Republic of Ireland and the main hub for flights in and out of the country, Dublin is an easy one to check off the list.

Located at the mouth of the Liffey River, Dublin features a number of historic buildings like the Dublin Castle and St Patrick’s Cathedral (founded in 1191!) But, for anyone wanting to up their Instagram game, fan favorites are The Temple Bar and the Long Room.

The Temple Bar dates back to the 1600s and is a bit of a tourist trap today. The Temple Bar street is flooded with snap-happy vacationers vying for a shot in front of the bar’s iconic facade. Want a photo without the throngs of people? Better set your alarm, because the best chance of a solitary shot is right after sunrise.

The Long Room at Trinity College is another photographic gem. The 213-foot main chamber of the Old Library houses over 200,000 of the library’s oldest books. In addition, it also features the Brian Boru’s harp, which dates back to the 15th century. One of only 3 surviving Gaelic harps, it was used as the model for Ireland’s coat of arms.

To really experience Dublin, you have to explore its many sidestreet pubs. Here, you’ll find impressive live music and great conversation with locals and fellow globetrotters. One of the best is Doheney & Nesbitt located off Baggot Street. It has an intriguing history and some of the best seafood chowder on the planet!

But, to get the most out of your Irish adventure, I recommend hitting the open road to venture outside the city. A great resource to help you secure an international driver’s license is the International Drivers Association. Just remember to drive on the opposite side of the street!

KILLARNEY

One of the most scenic areas in Ireland (and my personal favorite) is Killarney. Located on the edge of Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry, it’s a nature lover’s paradise!

I highly recommend a stroll along the road to Muckross House. It winds along the Muckross Lake shoreline and expansive fields where you’ll find the abandoned Muckross Abbey. I ventured there on a local’s recommendation and the abbey quickly became a highlight of my trip! Its ancient stone walls were covered in moss, the adjacent graveyard featured celtic crosses emblematic of the country’s heritage, and at the center of it all was a beautiful yew tree in a small courtyard.

A little farther up the road is Muckross House. The estate features jaw-dropping gardens and a lakeside lawn that’s perfect for enjoying a bite outside. Beyond it, a trail to the Torc Waterfall where you’ll find a stone stairway that leads you straight to the top of the impressive falls!

GALWAY

Any fan of Ed Sheeran dreams of becoming his Galway girl. Running through the evening streets, guitar in hand, on an epic Irish adventure.

And while our favorite red-headed musical prodigy may not be there to greet you, Galway is still one of the best reasons to visit Ireland. Its colorful shop fronts, plentiful musicians, and eclectic charm will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Looking for a memorable souvenir? Visit Claddagh and Celtic Jewellery at the end of Quay Street for a Claddagh ring. The traditional Irish ring originated on nearby Claddagh Street and represents love, loyalty, and friendship. It’s a great conversational started for your time in this beautiful city!

CLIFFS OF MOHER

Hold on to your hats (literally!) The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most iconic reasons to visit Ireland and a true marvel of nature. But, beware! The wind gusts can be so strong here they’ve been known to blow visitors off the edge! Definitely not an ideal way to end your vacation.

However, if you exercise common sense (and a little bit of caution) you’re sure to enjoy this massive natural wonders!

Check out the visitor’s center for fun facts about the cliffs and the surrounding area, and top off your visit with a bite at the cafe inside. And, for the chance to photograph them without hoards of tourists, hike along the trail to get away from the crowds!

KILKENNY

A medieval town with deep religious roots, Kilkenny features a number of churches, cathedrals, and abbeys. One such church is St. Mary’s church, which hosts the Medieval Mile where visitors can learn more about Ireland’s colorful history.

Another must-see is the Kilkenny Castle. Built in 1195 by Norman occupiers, few buildings in Ireland have a longer history of continuous occupation (or a more impressive interior!) Today, it’s largely a Victorian remodel of its time as a 13th-century defense castle and hosts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Need a great place to stay? Check out the nearby Butler House for amazing accommodations with an intriguing history. The house has long been associated with the Butler family, dukes, and earls of Ormonde who resided at Kilkenny Castle for over 500 years!

DINGLE PENINSULA – THE SLEA HEAD LOOP

One of the most impressive drives in Ireland is the Slea Head Loop that starts and ends in Dingle. This circular route that forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way hugs seaside cliffs, rolling emerald hills, and dramatic rocky outcrops so stunning they served as a backdrop for The Last Jedi.

Driving the entire 30-mile loop takes about three hours, depending on how many stops you make along the way. And trust me, you’ll definitely want to make a few stops to take in the dramatic beauty of Ireland’s coastline.

Insider Tip: I recommend driving it clockwise to avoid the large tour buses that frequent the road during the summer. If you thought the roads in Ireland were tight, try squeezing past a full-sized bus on a one lane road with a mountain and a cliff on either side of you!

THE DARK HEDGES

One of the most photo-worthy spots in Ireland is The Dark Hedges. Located in Northern Ireland’s County Antrim, the beech tree-lined Bregagh Road between Armoy and Stranocum is a breathtaking sight.

The trees were planted as an imposing approach to Gracehill House, the home of James Stuart and his wife around 1775. Since then, it was used as a filming location in Game of Thrones (making it wildly popular with tourists).

Legend has it, a ghost nicknamed the Grey Lady visits at night and wanders down the road from tree to tree. As if the Dark Hedges couldn’t be any eerier!

GIANT’S CAUSEWAY

Another Northern Ireland treasure is Giant’s Causeway. Nestled at the foot of basalt cliffs on the Antrim plateau, over 40,000 basalt columns line the shoreline. A result of a volcanic eruption around 50–60 million years ago, the unique structures have inspired legends of giants walking across the water towards Scotland.

Now a World Heritage Site, the columns have attracted visitors for over 300 years and have become a symbol of Northern Ireland.

And, there you have it! Some of the most picture-perfect reasons to visit Ireland. A trip to the Emerald Isle is a must for any European bucket list, and these destinations are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of your time here.

Have you been to Ireland before? Comment below with some of your favorite sights, I’d love to hear about them!

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