This list is in no particular order, but these are all places that I highly recommend visiting while you’re in Ireland.
- Dublin- Separated by the famous River Liffey, Dublin offers many attractions for all age groups on both sides of the river. Dublin is home to the Jameson Distillery on Bow Street, Guinness Storehouse and Trinity College. Walk along O’Connell street and Grafton street for plenty of shopping and and enjoy the nightlife on Temple Bar Street.
- Galway- Galway sits due west, about a three hour drive from Dublin. Take time to sit on the harbor wall and enjoy the sunset on Galway Bay. Take a walk, enjoying the brisk sea air, and visit the nearby Spanish Arch, a 16th Century wall that was used to protect the merchant ships while trading in the harbor. Stroll along Abbeygate Street to do a little window browsing and shopping.
- County Cork- While in Cork make sure you take a trip to the world famous Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone and receive the “gift of gab.” Just outside the city of Cork, in the town of Midleton, is the new Jameson Distillery home of the world famous Jameson Irish whiskey.
- County Limerick- King John’s Castle is worth the stop. Walk around a 13th century castle learning about life inside a Norman castle and the history of the town of Limerick. Bunratty Castle is just north of the city Limerick. This is your opportunity to experience Ireland’s past and explore a 15th century castle. Visit the medieval folk park during the day but make sure you reserve a spot at the dinner table for the world famous Bunratty banquet, a medieval feast with theater and song. Adare- Located south-east of Limerick, is known as Ireland’s prettiest village. See the Desmond Castle ruin that sits on the River Maigure.
- Kilkenny- Travel the Medieval Mile and be taken back in time while still enjoying modern day luxuries. Start with a pint of red ale at Smithwicks after completing a tour of the brewery. Across from Smithwicks sits the Rothe House, a 16th century merchant house built by the mayor of Kilkenny, John Rothe Fitz-Piers. Proceed south till you reach Kilkenny Castle built in 1195, enjoy the afternoon sun on the public grounds, stroll through the gardens or picnic on the monolithic lawn.
- Waterford- Situated on the south east of Ireland, Waterford is the oldest city in Ireland. Drop in and check out the Waterford Crystal retail shop it will be well worth the experience. While in Waterford make sure to visit the Viking Triangle. The Waterford Viking Triangle includes Reginald’s Tower, The Medieval Museum and Bishop’s Palace Museum. A must see for all interested in viking history and lore.
- Rock of Cashel- Also known as St Patrick’s Rock, one of Ireland’s best tourist attractions, the Rock of Cashel was once a mighty fortress turned over to the Church in the 12th century. Cormac’s Chapel, a 12th-century Romanesque chapel, a 12th century round tower, and a 13th-century Gothic medieval cathedral both sit on top of a limestone plateau just five minutes form the town of Cashel. Rent a car to get to Cashel or take one of the many tours that leave from Dublin or Cork.
- Cliffs of Moher- Another top tourist attraction, the Cliffs of Moher provides an unforgettable moment of peace and tranquility. With a newly renovated visitor center, exhibits include interactive media displays covering the geology, history, flora and fauna of the cliffs. Take the Cliffs of Moher Coastal walk looking out into Galway Bay displaying the famous Aran Islands along your walk.
- Athlone- In the heart of Ireland half way between Dublin and Galway, Athlone sits on the River Shannon. With its mighty fortress, Athlone Castle stands guard over the land and all ships that pass by. Across from Athlone Castle stands the brilliantly white Church of Saints Peter and Paul known for its magnificent stained glass windows it stands out prominently for all to see. Rest your tired feet and pop into Sean’s Bar for a refreshing whiskey and ginger ale. Recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest pub in Ireland and Europe and hopefully soon be titled oldest pub in the world. Built in AD 900 Sean’s bar still has the original wattle and wicker walls for you to see.
- Tullamore- To be honest I went to Tullamore just to visit and take a tour of the Tullamore Dew distillery. But upon entering the town of Tullamore I found it to be one of the most charming and cleanest towns in all of Ireland. With the Grand Canal that links Dublin to the River Shannon, Tullamore is a day trip worth taking. Just south-west of the town of Tullamore is Charleville Castle which claims to be the most haunted castle in Ireland.
