11 Best Things to do in Donegal Town (With Map)

While the main things to do in Donegal Town are the castle and the abbey, there’s plenty on offer in ‘Dún na nGall’ – the “fort of the foreigners”.

This popular tourist town (note, there’s no such thing as ‘Donegal City’!) is finely located on the River Eske at the head of picturesque Donegal Bay.

Its port was invaded by the Vikings in the 8th century, giving the town its name, Dún na nGall, which means “Fort of the Foreigners.”

Below, you’ll discover what to do in Donegal Town at any time of year.

The best things to do in Donegal Town

Before I hop into the guide, if you fancy basing yourself in Donegal Town for a night or two, there’s plenty of great central hotels and B&Bs.

• My go-to hotels in Donegal Town: The Abbey Hotel and The Central Hotel
• My go-to B&Bs in Donegal Town: Ros Dún House and Farmleigh House

1. Donegal Castle

Located on the banks of the River Eske, Donegal Castle was built in 1474 by the ruling O’Donnell family.

This Norman tower house resembles a workhouse more than a fairytale castle and has witnessed its fair share of adventure and intrigue. It was burnt in the early 1600s by the fleeing O’Donnells.

The ruins were later handed over to Sir Basil Brooke, who fought for the English in the Nine Years’ War (1593–1603), and he rebuilt the castle in the early 17th century.

Recently restored, the castle now features barrel-vaulted storerooms, a magnificent carved fireplace, and an uneven “trip” stairwell designed to catch enemy intruders off guard.

If you’re wondering what to do in Donegal Town when it rains, the Donegal Castle tour is a solid (and dry…) option!

2. Donegal Abbey

Donegal Abbey, or Mainistir Dhún na nGall, was once a Franciscan priory established in 1474 by Hugh Roe O’Donnell and his wife, Finola.

Set at the mouth of the River Eske, where it meets Donegal Bay, this abbey remained a significant site of Christian learning even after its partial destruction during the Nine Years’ War.

The abbey witnessed dramatic events, including a meeting between Irish rebel leaders and Spanish envoys, as well as a fierce battle during the Siege of Donegal in 1601.

Today, its peaceful ruins offer a glimpse into Donegal’s rich history and stand as a poignant reminder of the area’s ancient past.

3. The Donegal Waterbus

Next up is arguably one of the most unique things to do in Donegal town.

The Donegal Waterbus offers a memorable sightseeing experience aboard a purpose-built, luxury passenger boat that accommodates up to 160 guests.

With comfortable seating both indoors and on open-top decks, passengers can soak in the stunning views of Donegal Bay.

• Departs From: Donegal Town pier, just 500m from the town centre
• Cruise Duration: Approximately 75 minutes
• Points of Interest: Seal colony, Donegal Abbey, the ruins of St. Ernan’s Island, and historic sites like the Hassans and the Old Abbey

4. The churches and the four masters monument

If you’re a history buff looking for things to do in Donegal Town, here’s a mini walking tour for you.

In The Diamond, right in the centre of town, you’ll see The Four Masters Memorial (on the right above). It was built in 1934 as a nod to the Franciscan monks who compiled the Annals of the Four Masters.

These Annals are a chronicle of ancient Irish history, compiled in the early 17th century (1632-1636).

Your next stop, the Gothic-style Donegal Town Church of Ireland, is a 2-minute walk away and it was constructed between 1825 and 1828.

The impressive structure is characterised by high-quality cut stone detailing, particularly on the tower, spire, and pinnacles.

You’re then a 5-minute walk from the Catholic Church of the Four Masters – a striking example of Hiberno-Romanesque architecture.

Built between 1930 and 1935, the church features a distinctive round tower belfry, steeply pitched slate roofs, and an interior witu Romanesque arches, mosaic flooring, and stained glass windows.

5. The River Bank Walk

If you’re looking for active things to do around Donegal Town, the River Bank Walk is worth considering.

It starts here, just across the bridge past The Reel Inn pub, and it follows the river bank for around 1.4km.

It’s a linear, there-and-back trail and you’ll want to allow roughly 45 minutes to tackle it.

6. Donegal Railway Heritage Museum

The Award-Winning Railway Heritage Museum, just 300 metres from Donegal Town Centre, is a must for history enthusiasts and railway buffs alike.

Housed in one of the few remaining original station houses, dating back to 1889, this museum celebrates Donegal’s rich railway history, once home to the largest narrow-gauge railway network in the British Isles.

Highlights include the original 1907 steam engine “Drumboe,” Ireland’s first interactive railway cab, fascinating artefacts, and model railways.

7. Live music and traditional pubs

You’ll have likely worked up a thirst after winding up your Donegal Road Trip for the evening.

If you need a feed, nip into one of the restaurants in Donegal Town, first, and then try one of the pubs below:

• Mccafferty’s/Sonny McSwines: A cozy, traditional-style pub with vintage decor, a classic wooden interior and music sessions featuring Irish musical instruments
• The Forge:  Like stepping back in time. One of the finest examples of an old-school Irish pub that you’ll find anywhere
• The Reel Inn:  One of the more popular pubs in Donegal Town with live music 7 nights a week

Things to do near Donegal Town

OK, so, now that we’ve tackled what to do in Donegal Town, it’s time to have a look at the various things to do nearby.

Below, you’ll discover everything from castles and cliffs to waterfalls, craft fairs and lots, lots more. 

1. The Slieve League road trip

While there are plenty of things to do near Donegal Town, people often find it hard to form any clear itinerary.

The map above outlines this Slieve League Peninsula road trip, which follows a logical route from Donegal Town.

Over the course of 1 day you’ll visit the some of the finest attractions on the Wild Atlantic Way, including:

• Slieve League Cliffs
• Malin Beg
• The hidden waterfall
• Plenty more

2. Lunch at Lough Eske 

Lough Eske Castle is the only five star hotel in Donegal (it’s also one of the best spa hotels in Donegal, but that’s a different story!).

Why not treat yourself to a fine lunch in an unforgettable setting at Lough Eske Castle?

Dine like a king at this five star castle hotel which includes the Cedars Restaurant and Father Browne Bar.

The highly talented culinary team prepare food with a passion, whether it’s a special event or a Sunday lunch.

3. Donegal Franciscan Friary 

You’ll regularly see our next stop topping guides to the best things to do in Donegal Town, and for good reason – it boasts a wealth of history.

Founded by Red Hugh O’Donnell in 1474, the ruins of the Franciscan Friary are on the outskirts of the town overlooking Donegal Bay.

The most famous abbey resident was Friar Bernard MacGrath whose life echoes that of St Francis of Assisi.

This once-wealthy friary was hugely influential from the 15th century until a devastating explosion by English troops in 1601.

Much of the stone was used to rebuild Donegal Castle and other local buildings. You can walk through the evocative ruins of the cloisters, chancel, nave and south transept.

4. Visit one of many nearby beaches

There’s some stunning beaches in Donegal and, luckily enough, many are a short drive from the town centre.

The closest beach to Donegal Town is Murvagh Beach at a 15-minute drive away, however, Rossnowlagh Beach (20-minute drive) and Tullan Strand in Bundoran (25-minute spin) are within easy distance, too.

Explore beyond Donegal Town

There are plenty of things to do near Donegal Town and beyond, once you’ve finished with the various Donegal Town attractions

Here’s some more ideas for you with the drive times:

• Glengesh Pass (35-minute drive)
• Mullaghmore Peninsula (35-minute drive)
• Assaranca Waterfall (40-minute drive)
• Benbulben Forest (40-minute drive)
• Caves of Maghera (40-minute drive)