Fancy a trip to Ireland? There’s a lot to see. From the rolling hills of County Kerry to the bustling city center of Dublin, it’ll be impossible to find a dull moment on your vacation. Now, there’s only two questions to ask: where should you go, and what should you see when you get there?
10 of the Best Cities to Visit in Ireland (and What to do)
If you want to optimize your Ireland trip, take a tour with a company like Luxury Ireland Tours. They can make sure you get the most out of the following best cities to visit in Ireland.
1. Dublin: James Joyce Cultural Centre
Dublin is the vibrant capital and largest city in Ireland, known for its rich culture and historical sights. The city center is small but jam-packed with world-class museums, galleries, and performance venues, including the Trinity College Library and James Joyce Cultural Centre.
2. Galway: Spanish Arch
Galway is the city of culture, where music and art reign supreme. Here, you’ll find over 475 pubs and sidewalk cafes, perfect spots for enjoying the booming nightlife scene. Don’t miss the city’s iconic Spanish Arch or take a tour of the bilingual NUI Galway campus with its curved facade.
3. Cork: Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral
Cork is the country’s second-largest city, located on the banks of the River Lee, and renowned for its colorful street art and lively atmosphere. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of old-world and modern attractions, including the historic English Market and gothic Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral.
4. Limerick: Thomond Bridge
Limerick is a vibrant city with a mix of great shopping and lively night spots. Located by the River Shannon, the city is known for its artistic heritage and has a number of beautiful cathedrals and monuments to explore. Check out the Thomond Bridge while you’re there.
5. Kilkenny: Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny is a charming and bustling medieval city with a distinctly friendly atmosphere. Here, you can explore the cobbled streets of the city, admire the iconic and carefully-preserved Kilkenny Castle, and explore the city center, where you’ll find independent shops and cafes.
6. Killarney: Killarney National Park
Killarney, in County Kerry, is an enchanting escape from the city. Here, you’ll find an abundance of outdoor activities, including horseback riding and hiking, along with medieval ruins, stunning gardens and lakes, and picturesque Killarney National Park, something you won’t want to miss.
7. Waterford: House of Waterford Crystal
Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city and a haven for art and culture. The beautifully restored city center is the perfect spot to enjoy the city’s friendly atmosphere, sample traditional Irish dishes, and explore local shops and markets. Stop at the House of Waterford Crystal if you can.
8. Sligo: Carrowmore
Sligo is a seaside town with dramatic cliffs and beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. Here, you can explore a number of stunning archaeological sites, including Carrowmore, one of the four major megalithic cemeteries in Ireland. Make sure you visit the nearby private estate of Benbulben.
9. Tralee: Siamsa Tíre
Tralee is a charming town in County Kerry with a proud musical heritage. In Tralee, you can enjoy the lively pub culture, take a boat trip on the picturesque River Lee, check out the views near Blennerville Windmill, or visit Siamsa Tíre, the traditional center of Irish music and song.
10. Westport: Croagh Patrick
Westport, in County Mayo, is a charming seaside town offering everything from shopping and nightlife to spectacular scenery and views. In Westport, you can explore the sleepy coastal villages, hike the ‘holy mountain’ of Croagh Patrick, or take a boat trip through Clew Bay.
