26 Best Things to do in Ireland (2025 Bucket List)

Ireland is a land where ancient history and breathtaking landscapes weave together seamlessly at every turn.

Towering cliffs, rolling green fields, and winding coastal roads meet ancient castles that once housed kings, colourful towns, and majestic mountains.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best things to do in Ireland, from the Ring of Kerry and the Antrim Coast to Connemara, Wicklow and everywhere in between.

Why you can trust this guide: I have called Ireland home for 35 years and spent the last 11 years helping people plan their Irish Road Trip. The attractions you’ll discover below are the ones that I return to over-and-over again and that I’m confident you’ll love.

The best things to do in Ireland

Trying to decide what to do in Ireland can be a struggle, especially when you are presented with hundreds of worthy options.

The map above will give you a sense of the spots that you must see in Ireland. I’ll take you through them below!

1. The Ring of Kerry

The mighty Ring of Kerry starts and finishes in the town of Killarney on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Best tackled over at least one day, this 179km long (111 miles) route takes in areas of immense natural beauty.

One of the reasons that this is one of the more popular things to do in Ireland is the sheer volume of attractions you encounter along the way.

You’ll explore Killarney National Park, watch the water ‘plop’ at Torc Waterfall, tackle the bendy Moll’s Gap, saunter along Derrynane Beach and gaze out at Ladies View.

Related read: Check out my guide to 42 of the best things to do in Kerry in 2025

2. Yeats Country

Few corners of Ireland boast as much to see and do in such close proximity as Yeats Country, spanning Sligo and parts of Leitrim. Yeats himself rests in the grounds of Drumcliff Church.

Here, rugged landscapes and timeless myths blend to create an atmosphere of quiet enchantment. Picture yourself cycling the Gleniff Horseshoe on a fine summer’s day—pure magic!

Two iconic landmarks dominate the Sligo coastline: the flat-topped Benbulben mountain, and Knocknarea, crowned by Queen Medbh’s grave.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Ireland, carve out some time to see the Caves of Keash (ancient passage tombs that predate the Pyramids of Egypt) and the Devil’s Chimney (one of Ireland’s highest waterfalls).

Related Read: Check out my guide to 36 of the best things to do in Sligo in 2025

3. The Inishowen Peninsula

The Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal is one of the most magnificent corners of the island.

Long, sweeping beaches, towering mountains and (plenty!) of hidden gems are found dotted along a route known as the Inishowen 100.

This 100 mile/161 km scenic route takes in many of Donegal’s top attractions, including Malin Head, Mamore Gap, Five Finger Strand.

However, Inishowen offers more than just stunning scenery—its greatest charm lies in its people. Here, you’ll experience the true essence of an ‘Irish welcome.’

If you’re wondering what to do in Ireland that’ll take you away for the crowds, make a beeline for the Inishowen Peninsula – you won’t regret it.

4. West Cork wonders

It’s back to the Wild Atlantic Way, this time heading to West Cork—a place I’ve returned to time and time again, and its breathtaking scenery never fails to impress.

With its vibrant fishing villages, rugged shores, rolling hills speckled with sheep, and secluded coves where time seems to pause, West Cork radiates a charm that is both timeless and untouched.

While Mizen Head, Ireland’s most southwesterly point, often steals the spotlight, there’s so much more to explore.

Gougane Barra, Cape Clear Island, Glengarriff Nature Reserve, Dursey Island are just a glimpse of what awaits.

5. The Causeway Coastal Route

There’s more to the Antrim Coast than the Giant’s Causeway and you’ll discover the best it has to offer on the Causeway Coastal Route drive!

The route begins in either Belfast or Derry City and follows the coast through the nine Glens of Antrim for 313km.

Over the course of the spin you’ll see everywhere from the Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge and the Old Bushmills Distillery to Glenariff Forest Park, Torr Head and plenty more.

This route is regarded as one of the top things to do in Ireland by visiting tourists as there’s endless places to visit all within close proximity to each other.

Related Read: Check out my guide to 36 of the best things to do in Antrim in 2025

6. Coumshingaun Lough

If you’re wondering what to do in Ireland that’ll get heart-rate boppin’, head to Coumshingaun Lough in Waterford.

This is a tough, 3-4-hour hike that requires good navigational experience. However, on a fine day, there are few views like the one from the half-way-point.

There are some other great hikes in Ireland, including:

• Carrauntoohil in Kerry (Ireland’s highest mountain)
• Croagh Patrick in Mayo (Ireland’s holy mountain)
• Cuilcagh in Fermanagh (aka the Stairway to Heaven)

7. Achill Island

A day spent on Achill Island is another one of the best things to do in Ireland, in my opinion.

Now, one of the beauties of this island is that you can drive onto it and follow the Atlantic Drive or you can cycle onto it via the brilliant Great Western Greenway.

When you arrive, you’ve everywhere from Keem Bay and the highest sea cliffs in Ireland (Croaghaun – 2,257 feet/687 meters) to Minaun Heights, Keel Beach and plenty more to see.

Related Read: Check out my guide to 33 of the best things to do in Mayo in 2025

8. Connemara

Galway’s Connemara is a breathtaking region characterised by wild bog lands, sheep, rugged mountains, sheep, shimmering lakes, and a windswept coastline… and more sheep!

It’s arguably best known for the fairy-tale-like Kylemore Abbey, which was built in 1868, but there’s plenty more to see and do here.

Spend a sunny morning exploring Connemara National Park on foot or saunter along one of the many beaches in Connemara, like Dog’s Bay.

Or you can kick-back in Clifden, spin along the Sky Road or set-off on one of the many hikes in Connemara, like Diamond Hill.

9. Wicklow Mountains National Park

Wicklow Mountains National Park is a sprawling landscape of rolling hills, glacial valleys, sparkling lakes, and dense woodlands, spanning over 20,000 hectares of wilderness.

Due to its proximity to the capital, it’s one of the most popular day trips from Dublin, drawing visitors eager to explore its beauty.

As there are plenty of things to do in Wicklow, you need a plan.

Here’s how to make the most of your visit:

• First: Tackle the Sally Gap Drive and see Lough Ouler, Djouce Mountain, Guinness Lake and Ballinastoe Woods
• Second: Head past Laragh and embark on one of the walks in Glendalough (you’ll explore one of the most beautiful places in Ireland)

10. The Rock of Cashel

Some of the best things to do in Ireland involve taking a little step back in time, and where better to sample a chunk of the past than at one of the many castles in Ireland.

The Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most impressive castles, and you’ll find it perched on top of a grassy hill in Tipperary.

Some other wonderful castles in Ireland include:

• Blarney Castle: Iconic Cork castle, home of the legendary Blarney Stone
• Bunratty Castle: Restored medieval fortress near Shannon
• Dunluce Castle: Dramatic cliffside ruins in Antrim, steeped in myth and mystery
• Dublin Castle: Historic heart of Dublin, once a Viking stronghold and seat of power

Fancy spend the night? There’s a handful of castle hotels in Ireland that you can book into!

11. The Dingle Peninsula

Kerry’s Dingle Peninsula is a must see in Ireland for visitors (and yes, it’s here that you’ll find Conor Pass – one of the highest mountain passes in the country!).

Start in Dingle Town, a lively hub brimming with traditional pubs and colourful shopfronts. From there, venture along the famous Slea Head Drive.

This scenic route takes you past dramatic coastal views, the windswept Blasket Islands, the iconic Dunquin Pier, and the golden sands of Coumeenoole Beach, with glimpses of the Skellig Islands adding to the magic.

Finish off your visit in Foxy John’s or one of the many traditional pubs in Dingle.

12. The Doolough Valley

The Doolough Valley is situated between the villages of Louisburgh (Mayo) and Leenaun (Galway) and it’s one of my favourite drives on the Wild Atlantic Way.

If you drive this route outside of the busy summer months, it often feels like you’re the last person left in the world – the landscape is barren and beautiful and it has an almost other-worldly feel to it.

You’ll find an overview of what to expect from it in my guide to the Leenaun to Louisburgh Drive.

Related read: Check out my guide to 41 of the best things to do in Galway in 2025

13. The Ring of Beara

If you’re looking for some top things to do in Ireland, slap the Beara Peninsula on your to-visit list and head off on your merry way.

Part of the Beara Peninsula stretches into Kerry, while the rest lies in Cork, and it’s best explored on the Ring of Beara drive.

This places boasts bucket-loads of scenery around every (often narrow!) twist and turn and some gorgeous towns and villages, like Eyeries and Allihies.

The peninsula is also home to some of the more unique things to do in Ireland, like Dursey Island, Bull Rock, Priest’s Leap (beware!) and the Healy Pass.

Related read: Check out my guide to 44 of the best things to do in Cork in 2025

14. Valentia Island

There’s some gorgeous Irish islands and the spectacular Valentia Island in County Kerry is one of the most rewarding to explore.

Rugged cliffs and historic landmarks like the Skellig Experience Centre and the site of the first transatlantic cable station await!

When you drive onto the Valentia, head for the Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs (see my map above).

You can drive right the way up to the viewing point and, if you’re in search of things to see in Ireland that’ll paint themselves upon memory forever more, few places compare.

15. Kinsale

There are plenty of charming small towns in Ireland, each offering its own unique vibe.

For those sticking to the tourist trail, well-known spots like Doolin, Cong, Westport, and Kinsale are likely already on your list.

Kinsale, in particular, is steeped in history, with its colourful streets and landmarks like Charles Fort, telling stories of Ireland’s maritime past.

But if you’re eager to explore smaller, less-traveled gems, consider Union Hall in Cork, Killaloe in Clare, or Dunmore East in Waterford.

These quieter spots showcase Ireland’s beauty in a more intimate way.

16. Ireland’s cliffs

Ireland’s cliffs are among its most dramatic and awe-inspiring natural features, where sheer rock faces plunge into the sea, creating breathtaking landscapes.

The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland’s most famous cliffs, stretch for 14 km along the Clare coastline.

In Donegal, the Slieve League Cliffs are nearly three times as tall as Moher, rising a lofty 601 meters above the waves below.

In Kerry, the Kerry Cliffs offer panoramic vistas of the Skelligs and Puffin Island meanwhile, the Fair Head Cliffs in Antrim are steeped in mythology.

Some other notable cliffs include the ones on Arranmore island in Donegal and the Kilkee Cliffs in Clare.

17. The Burren National Park

The Burren National Park in Clare covers an area of around 1,500 hectares while the wider Burren region boasts 200 sq km and includes everywhere from the Aran Islands to Father Ted’s House.

Although it’s one of the more popular things to see in Ireland, many people visit and leave underwhelmed, as they visit without a good plan of action.

If you follow the Burren Drive (map above), you’ll visit:

• Doonagore Castle
• Doolin Cave 
• Poulnabrone Dolmen
• The Aillwee Caves

18. The Aran Islands

Set at the mouth of Galway Bay, the Aran Islands are a trio of rugged islands where the landscape is unspoiled and Irish tradition thrives.

The islands are easily accessible by ferry from Doolin, Rossaveal, or Galway City, or via plane from Galway.

There are three islands:

• Inis Mor (largest island): Home to the prehistoric Dún Aonghasa fort and the Wormhole
• Inis Oirr (smallest island): Boasts Trá Inis Oírr, one of Ireland’s best beaches, O’Brien’s Castle and the Plassey shipwreck
• Inis Meain (middle island): Home to Dún Chonchúir fort, Synge’s Chair and the Dún Fearbhaí trail

19. The Boyne Valley

Dedicating adequate time to exploring the Boyne Valley is one of the best things to do in Ireland.

While Brú na Bóinne, with its iconic Newgrange and Knowth, draws countless visitors, the Boyne Valley offers so much more, showcasing the very best of County Meath and County Louth.

From the imposing Trim Castle and historic Slane Castle to the ancient Hill of Tara, the mystical Loughcrew Cairns, and the scenic Cooley Peninsula, this region is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Related read: Check out my guide to 27 of the best things to do in Meath in 2025

20. The Mourne Mountains

A day spent exploring the Mourne Mountains in County Down is another of the more frequently missed things to do in Ireland.

The Mournes are the highest mountain range in Northern Ireland and they boast endless adventure opportunities.

There’s plenty of hikes to get stuck into here, from Slieve Donard to Slieve Binnian, Slieve Doan, Slieve Bearnagh, Slieve Meelbeg and Meelmore and plenty more.

If hikes aren’t you’re thing, don’t worry – Tollymore Forest Park (above) is located within the Mournes and it boasts several easy-going-trails.

Related read: Check out my guide to 56 of the best things to do in Northern Ireland in 2025

21. The Copper Coast

Waterford is home to some of the best coastline in Ireland and it’s a great place to explore by foot or on bike.

The Copper Coast is named after the massive mines that operated here in the 19th Century and it’s home to countless beautiful beaches.

If you fancy a long walk/cycle, the brilliant Waterford Greenway is well worth tackling!

Although the Greenway is Ireland’s longest off-road trail, you can complete it in a couple of hours by bike. 

Related Read: Check out my guide to 34 of the best things to do in Waterford in 2025

22. Belfast

Belfast gets a bad rep from some.

Usually those that have never visited the city and base their opinion on hearsay.

The fact is that there’s plenty to see and do here, from the Cave Hill Walk and the Cathedral Quarter to the Black Cab Tours, Black Mountain and plenty more.

It also makes a good base to explore Northern Ireland from, as there’s plenty of day trips from Belfast that require very little driving.

Related Read: Take a look at my guide to 25 of the best things to do in Belfast today.

23. Spike Island and Cobh

A visit to Cobh is another of the best things to do in Ireland if you like to go off handbooks. I don’t, personally, but I’d have to agree.

Now, don’t get fooled into think that the Deck of Cards are all that Cobh has to offer – this is far from a one horse town.

You’ll find Spike Island, a 103-acre island that’s been used as a place of worship, defense, confinement, and punishment a short ferry ride from the village of Cobh in County Cork.

There’s also St Coleman’s Cathedral, Fota Wildlife Park, the Titanic Experience and much more.

Related Read: Check out my guide to 11 mighty things to do in Cobh in 2025

24. Dublin

Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital, often faces unfair criticism, much like Belfast.

Yet, it’s a city where rich history, a dynamic culture, a thriving food scene, and a stunning coastline come together in perfect harmony.

There are plenty of things to do in Dublin, including:

• Historical sites: Trinity College, the Book of Kells, Kilmainham Gaol, Christ Church and St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Walks: The Howth Cliff Walk and the Ticknock Hike are some of the finest walks in Dublin
• Culture: There are some outstanding galleries and museums in Dublin, including the National History Museum

24. The North Mayo coast

The North Mayo coastline boasts dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches, and, above all, a profound sense of peace and tranquility.

This remote corner of Ireland remains well off the typical tourist trail, meaning many visitors never venture this far.

But if you can carve out some time, it’s well worth exploring.

Here, you’ll discover the towering Dun Briste sea stack, the ancient Ceide Fields, the rugged beauty of the Mullet Peninsula, and so much more.

25. Tourist favourites

So, as I mentioned in the intro, this guide is packed with what I think are the best things to do in Ireland.

However, as you’ll probably have noticed, many of the more popular places to visit in Ireland are missing.

If you’re visiting Dublin, the likes of the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, Temple Bar and Dublin Castle are all popular spots.

Other notable omissions that are often considered must do in Ireland are Kilkenny Castle, Dún Aonghasa, Muckross House, Blarney Castle and Bunratty Castle.

Regardless of who you ask about what to do in Ireland, the answer tends to change, which is why it’s always worth taking any recommendations with a pinch of salt!

26. Ancient pubs

There are thousands of pubs in Ireland but not all are equal.

If you can, aim to visit a (or many…) traditional Irish pub during your visit.

Highlights include Sean’s Bar in Athlone, reputedly Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 900 AD, and the historic Brazen Head in Dublin, which has served patrons since 1198.

In many old-school pubs you’ll get to chance to soak up some traditional Irish music while sampling Irish whiskey and/or Irish beer.

Explore on an Irish Road Trip

Now you know what to do in Ireland, it’s time to plan your visit.

Several years back, I published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries.

You can pick your start point, your trip length, your mode of transport and more.