8 Must-See Spots in Ireland & Northern Ireland

Planning a trip to Ireland? You’re probably already dreaming of dramatic cliffs, ancient castles, and charming little towns—Ireland is packed with so many incredible places to explore. To help you out, I’ve put together an itinerary of eight must-visit spots in Ireland!

This guide covers both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland—yep, two countries on one gorgeous island! From historic landmarks and fascinating museums to stunning landscapes and cozy villages, this is your ultimate Ireland bucket list! And if you’re after some hidden gems, be sure to check out my other post.

Ireland has completely stolen our hearts and I know it’ll steal yours too. So grab a pint (you’ve gotta get used to it), get comfy, and let’s dive into this must-see itinerary!

When’s the Best Time to Visit Ireland?

We visited Ireland from late May to mid-June and it was pretty much perfect. Sure, we got a little rain (because, well, it’s Ireland), but we also had tons of sunshine—enough to get sunburnt! The days were long, the landscapes were sooo green, and the crowds weren’t too bad. If you’re looking for a balance of good weather and fewer tourists, late spring and early summer are a great time to go.

The warmest months are June through August, with long daylight hours and the best chance of dry weather. But since it’s peak season, expect more crowds and higher prices, especially in touristy spots like Dublin, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Ring of Kerry.

If you’d rather skip the biggest crowds but still enjoy decent weather, late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are great choices. The days are still long, the countryside is lush, and you get a little more breathing room at popular sites. Just keep in mind that some smaller attractions might have limited hours outside of peak season.

Winter (November to February) is cold, damp, and a little unpredictable, but it has its own charm. If you don’t mind bundling up, you’ll get lower prices, quieter cities, and plenty of cozy pubs to escape the rain. Just double-check that any tours or attractions you’re planning to visit are actually open.

No matter when you go, Ireland’s weather likes to keep you on your toes. Pack layers, bring a raincoat, and be ready for sunshine and showers in the same afternoon!

Your Ireland Bucket List

You know that feeling when you start planning a trip and suddenly your list of must-see places is about a mile long? Yeah, that was us with Ireland. From windswept cliffs to ancient castles, we wanted to see it all—and we got pretty close! But even after driving nearly the entire coastline in two weeks, there are still so many places we missed out on.

Ireland definitely sticks with you. Whether you’re wandering through medieval ruins, taking in ocean views that stretch for miles, or settling into a cozy pub with live music and a pint, every moment feels a little bit magical.

That’s why having an Ireland bucket list is a game changer—it keeps you from missing out on the best experiences and helps you make the most of your time. If you’re planning your own trip, this list will give you a solid mix of iconic sights and lesser-known gems that’ll make your trip unforgettable.

So, if you’re ready to start planning, keep reading for eight incredible places that deserve a spot on your Ireland itinerary!

1. Dingle Peninsula & the Slea Head Drive

If you’re looking for really stunning coastal views, charming Irish towns, and a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, the Dingle Peninsula needs to be on your list. Tucked away on Ireland’s southwest coast, this place feels like a dream—rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, and beaches that look like they belong somewhere tropical (but with much chillier water).

We road-tripped the peninsula and couldn’t get over how stunning it was. The Slea Head Drive is the star of the show here—it’s one of the most scenic coastal routes in Ireland!

Dingle Town itself is also charming. Colourful buildings line the streets, pubs have fresh seafood, and there’s live music pretty much everywhere. We spent an evening at a pub listening to traditional Irish music and I know we’ll remember it forever.

And we can’t talk about Dingle without mentioning the famous Fungie, the friendly dolphin who called the harbour home for decades. Though he’s sadly no longer around, his legend lives on and the town still celebrates his playful spirit.

Drive the Slea Head Drive clockwise! That’s the way the tour buses go and since some sections are only wide enough for one car, you don’t want to be the unlucky one trying to squeeze past a massive bus on a cliffside road. Trust me.

Guided Tours of the Dingle Peninsula & Slea Head Drive

Driving the Slea Head Drive is an unforgettable experience, but if you’d rather sit back and enjoy the views (without navigating those narrow roads), a guided tour is a great option.

Many tours include stops at Dingle Town, Dunquin Pier, and the Fahan Beehive Huts so you can take a deep dive into the history and beauty of the peninsula. Check out some top-rated tours below!

Must-See Stops on the Dingle Peninsula

Slea Head Drive – The views are unreal! Take your time and soak it all in.
Coumeenoole Beach – A stunning, windswept beach with cliffs that feel straight out of a movie.
Fahan Beehive Huts – Ancient stone huts that look like something from Star Wars (and for good reason—they’re similar to the ones on Skellig Michael).
Inch Beach – A massive, golden-sand beach that stretches for miles. You can even drive onto it!
Dingle Distillery – Small but mighty, this distillery produces some of Ireland’s best whiskey and gin.

2. Cliffs of Moher

You can’t plan a trip to Ireland without the Cliffs of Moher making the list. They’re one of the country’s most famous sights! Towering 702 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and stretching for about 14 kilometres along the coast, the cliffs are breathtaking no matter how many photos you’ve seen before you arrive.

We skipped the crowded visitor centre and headed straight for Hag’s Head, the southernmost tip of the cliffs. There’s a small parking lot there and it’s a much easier and more peaceful way to access the cliffs than the main entrance. From Hag’s Head, you can walk along the trail for as long as you like and enjoy the dramatic views without dodging busloads of tourists.

Guided Tours of the Cliffs of Moher

If you don’t want to deal with parking or just want a stress-free way to visit the Cliffs of Moher, taking a guided tour is a great choice. Many tours include stops in the Burren, Galway, or even the Aran Islands which is an easy way to see more of Ireland’s rugged west coast.

Best Ways to Experience the Cliffs of Moher

Start at Hag’s Head – If you want a quieter, more relaxed experience, this is the best entry point. The walk from here to the visitor centre takes about 5 km (1.5 hours) one way, but even just walking a short section is worth it.
Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk – A stunning 18 km trail between Doolin and Liscannor that runs right along the edge of the cliff. If you don’t want to do the full hike, you can walk as far as you like and turn back.
O’Brien’s Tower – This 19th-century lookout tower near the visitor centre has panoramic views of the cliffs and ocean.
Take a Boat Tour – Seeing the cliffs from the water is a really cool experience! Boats leave from Doolin and you might even spot puffins and dolphins.

3. Ring of Kerry

If you want to see iconic Irish landscapes, the Ring of Kerry is the road trip for you!

This 179-km loop winds through cute villages, rugged coastlines, rolling green hills, and dramatic mountain passes. The full loop takes about 3.5 hours without stops, but let’s be real, you’ll be stopping a lot, so it’s more like 7 or 8 hours.

If you drive yourself, go counterclockwise—that’s the direction the tour buses take, so you won’t get stuck trying to squeeze past them on single-lane sections.

Guided Tours of the Ring of Kerry

There are plenty of tours that hit all the highlights, from scenic coastal drives to historic sites. Whether you want a small group experience or a full-day adventure, here are some of the best tours.

Best Stops on the Ring of Kerry

Killarney National Park – Home to Torc Waterfall, the Lakes of Killarney, and Muckross House, this is one of the most beautiful parts of the route. If you have time, take a jaunting car (horse-drawn carriage) ride for a fun, old-school way to explore.
Ladies View – A famous scenic overlook with postcard-worthy views of the Killarney Lakes.
Kenmare – A cute heritage town with colourful buildings, cozy cafés, and great seafood.
Skellig Ring – A must-do detour! This lesser-known coastal road takes you to stunning spots like Kerry Cliffs and St. Finian’s Bay.
Rossbeigh Strand – We absolutely loved Rossbeigh Strand and think it’s one of the best spots in Ireland. The beach is massive with golden sand stretching for miles and the views of Dingle Bay are incredible. It’s the perfect place for a walk, a picnic, or even horseback riding along the shore.
Valentia Island – Connected by a bridge, this island has epic ocean views, ancient sites, and even a chance to see fossilized tetrapod tracks from over 350 million years ago! There are some pretty cool tours you can take.

4. Galway

Galway pulls you in. Our friends spent a day there and came back raving about it—between the music spilling out of pubs, the colourful buildings, and the buzz of people everywhere, they couldn’t stop talking about how much they loved it! Jacob and I needed a rest day, but hearing their stories made us wish we had explored, too.

They wandered through the Latin Quarter in the evening where the streets were packed with musicians, locals, and tourists all blending together in that perfect, slightly chaotic way that makes Galway so special. They ducked into a pub, grabbed a pint, and ended up in conversation with a few friendly strangers—something that seems to happen a lot in Ireland.

And then there was the food. I always make a point to order seafood in coastal cities and based on what they told us, Galway absolutely delivers! They had the freshest oysters and chowder and couldn’t stop raving about it. If you’re anywhere near the Irish coast, you have to try the seafood!

Guided Tours in Galway

Want to dive deeper into Galway’s history, music, or food scene? A guided tour is a great way to experience the city with a local’s insight. Whether it’s a walking tour, a pub crawl, or a day trip, you’ll have a blast on a tour in Galway.

Things to Do in Galway

Latin Quarter: Wander through the lively streets and enjoy the street performances.
Tig Cóilí or Traditional Pub: Grab a pint and listen to live traditional music.
Eyre Square: Stroll through the historic square and learn about Galway’s past.
Claddagh: Take a guided walking tour and enjoy the beautiful views of Galway Bay.
Salthill Promenade: Walk along the waterfront and kick the wall at the end for good luck.
Galway’s Seafood: Try fresh oysters or other seafood at a local restaurant.
Galway Market: Check out local crafts and food, especially on weekends.
Aran Islands or Connemara National Park: Take a day trip if you have extra time.

5. Giant’s Causeway

Giant’s Causeway was the whole reason we came to Northern Ireland—and it didn’t disappoint! The UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that were formed by volcanic activity over 60 million years ago.

But the legend is way more fun. According to Irish folklore, the causeway was built by the giant Finn McCool as a path to Scotland to fight his rival. Whether you believe the science or the story, the result is the same—an absolutely unreal landscape that feels like something out of a fantasy novel.

The best time to go is early in the morning or later in the evening when the crowds thin out. If you’re up for a bit of a hike, the cliffside trails above the causeway have some of the best views in Northern Ireland!

Recommended Tours for Giant’s Causeway

If you want to make the most of your visit, a tour is a great way to go. Most include stops at other famous spots like Dunluce Castle, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and the Dark Hedges so you get to see a bunch of Northern Ireland’s best sights in one trip.

Things to Do at Giant’s Causeway

The Basalt Columns: Walk across the famous hexagonal stones and see them up close.
Clifftop Trail: Take in the sweeping views of the causeway and coastline from above.
The Giant’s Boot: Check out this massive rock formation that looks exactly like a giant’s shoe.
The Organ Pipes: See the towering basalt columns that resemble a church organ.
Visitor Centre: Learn more about the geology and myths behind the causeway.
Sunset Views: Catch the golden light over the rocks—it’s breathtaking.

6. Belfast

We didn’t make it to Belfast, but our friends did—and they loved it! They went in expecting a fun, lively city and weren’t disappointed. Their day was packed with history, colourful murals, and plenty of exploring through the buzzing streets.

They couldn’t stop talking about the Black Taxi Tour—it was such a cool way to learn about Belfast’s history, especially The Troubles. And obviously, they ended the day the right way—with a pint and some live music at a pub. Because, well… that’s just what you do in Ireland!

If you’re heading to Northern Ireland, don’t skip Belfast! It’s packed with history, but it’s also a buzzing, modern city that knows how to have a good time.

Belfast Tours & Experiences

A tour in Belfast is a great way to learn about the city’s culture. Whether you want to dive into history with a Black Taxi Tour, explore the Titanic Quarter, or take a day trip to the Giant’s Causeway, there’s plenty to choose from.

Things to Do in Belfast

Titanic Belfast: A massive, interactive museum all about the world’s most famous ship.
Black Taxi Tour: Hear Belfast’s history straight from a local as you cruise past famous murals.
Crumlin Road Gaol: Walk through this creepy old prison and hear some wild stories from its past.
Cathedral Quarter: Think street art, cozy pubs, and live music on just about every corner.
St. George’s Market: Fresh food, local crafts, and a great spot to pick up souvenirs.
Belfast Castle: A fairytale castle with some of the best views in the city.

7. The Burren

The Burren is nothing like the rest of Ireland! After days of rolling green hills, stone walls, and rugged coastlines, suddenly we were driving through this vast, rocky landscape that felt like another planet. It was so different—huge slabs of limestone stretched as far as we could see, broken up by deep cracks and scattered wildflowers.

I’d been so excited to see those windswept rocks, but I thought they were in just one spot. Turns out, they’re everywhere. And they aren’t just barren, lifeless stone—somehow, even in all that rock, the land felt alive. Tiny plants sprouted between the cracks and ancient ruins blended right into the landscape.

We spent the day pulling over at random spots, climbing across the rocky terrain, and visiting some of the oldest tombs in Ireland. Even after seeing so much of the country, the Burren stands out as one of the most unique places we visited.

The Burren Tours

Guided tours are a great way to learn about the Burren’s history and geology. Whether you want a walking tour, a cave tour, or a day trip from Galway that includes the Cliffs of Moher, there are lots of fun things to check out.

The Burren was nothing like the Ireland I’d imagined—but that’s what made it so incredible. If you’re looking for something totally different from the classic green landscapes, this is the place to go.

Things to Do in The Burren

Poulnabrone Dolmen: A 5,000-year-old portal tomb standing in the middle of the limestone pavement.
Aillwee Cave: A massive underground cave with waterfalls, bear bones, and pitch-black tunnels that’s definitely worth checking out.
Caherconnell Stone Fort: A well-preserved ring fort where you can learn about ancient Irish life.
Corcomroe Abbey: A stunning 13th-century Cistercian monastery tucked away in the hills. The weathered stone carvings and quiet atmosphere made it one of the most peaceful stops of our trip.
Hazel Mountain Chocolate: A small bean-to-bar chocolate factory hidden in the Burren that makes some of the best chocolate in Ireland. The cozy café has rich hot chocolate and tasty pastries—perfect for a mid-road trip treat.

8. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Walking across Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a little nerve-wracking, but worth it. It’s suspended nearly 100 feet above the waves and this wobbly rope bridge connects the mainland to a tiny island once used by salmon fishermen.The bridge itself is only 20 metres long, but when you’re in the middle with the wind blowing, it feels much longer!

The views of the Antrim Coast are unreal, stretching all the way to Scotland on a clear day. We took our time wandering around, soaking in the cliffs and watching seabirds swoop over the waves. Fair warning, it’s a little smelly (thanks fish).

If you’re even a little unsure about heights, just go for it—it’s over before you know it and the experience really are worth it! If you’re making your must-see Ireland itinerary, Carrick-a-Rede needs a spot on your Ireland bucket list.

More Must-See Ireland Spots

Still have time to explore? There are so many incredible places in Ireland and while we couldn’t fit them all into our trip, maybe you can!

Skellig Michael: A dramatic island off the Kerry coast that’s famous for its beehive huts, puffins, and Star Wars filming location. The boat ride is an adventure on its own!
Newgrange: A prehistoric passage tomb older than the pyramids, perfectly aligned with the winter solstice. A must for history lovers.
Kilkenny: A charming medieval town with a stunning castle, lively pubs, and a rich history.
Sean’s Bar (Athlone): Said to be the oldest pub in Ireland (and maybe the world!)—a great spot to soak up Irish history with a pint in hand.
Powerscourt House & Gardens: Beyond the waterfall, the estate has beautifully manicured gardens and an elegant mansion that feels straight out of a movie.
Slieve League Cliffs: Even taller than the Cliffs of Moher but way less crowded. If you love dramatic coastal views, this is a must.
Connemara National Park: Wild mountains, windswept landscapes, and the famous Connemara ponies.

That’s a Wrap on These Must-See Places in Ireland

And that’s a wrap—at least for now! While this is far from a complete list of must-see places in Ireland, it’s a solid start to planning an unforgettable trip. From jaw-dropping cliffs and coastal drives to lively cities and tucked-away ruins, Ireland and Northern Ireland are packed with incredible places just waiting to be explored.

Now it’s your turn! Whether you’re road-tripping through the countryside, diving into history, or just enjoying a pint while soaking up live music, Ireland has a way of turning every moment into something special.

Where are you heading first? And if you need more travel tips, check out my other Ireland and Northern Ireland posts. Happy travels!