Ireland is a country of beautiful and diverse landscapes. 

Here you’ll see rugged coasts lined with glacial-era limestone, vast peninsulas made up of sandy white beaches and green hills that roll off into the distance. In Ireland, you also get to experience modern cityscapes, Georgian architecture, and delicious Irish food and drink. 

Curious about where to go in the Emerald Isle to enjoy the best views (and pints of Guinness)? Look no further. Read on to find out the best places to visit in Ireland and add them to your travel wish list.

1. Dublin

Make sure to roam the capital city of Ireland and its pretty canals lined with cobbled streets. Here you’ll discover some of the best live Irish folk music you’ll ever tap your foot to.

Once you explore some of the capital’s historical and cultural attractions, you’ll wonder why you didn’t take a trip to Dublin sooner. 

Tour Ireland’s oldest university, Trinity College Dublin, where you can see the Book of Kells. Another historical highlight you should visit is the grand St Patrick’s Cathedral.

2. Galway

The colorful harbor city of Galway is effortlessly cool, with its burgeoning art scene, rich musical background, and roots in Irish history and language.

You’ll enjoy the best sightseeing in Galway by exploring the city on foot. Stroll down the Salthill Promenade, dating back to the 19th century, and breathe in the sea air that rolls in from Galway Bay. 

You also shouldn’t miss passing by Galway Cathedral, the Galway City Museum, and the medieval Kirwan’s Lane. This will give you a fascinating taste of the city’s heritage and architecture.

3. Cork

Nestled on the banks of the River Lee, Cork is a bustling city with a history that can be traced back to the 6th century. Today though, Cork flaunts a reputation for being the foodie capital of Ireland.

The city has so many inviting cafés, traditional pubs, and enticing restaurants serving everything you could want to sink your teeth into. You’ll be able to enjoy a bit of everything, from hearty farm-to-table Irish fare to modern and flavourful vegan cooking.

Be sure to visit the English Market, with its high ornate vaulted ceilings and grand marble fountain. This market sells some of the best fresh produce in the region.

4. Ring of Kerry

If you only take one Irish road trip, make it the Ring of Kerry. Whichever window you peer out of, you’re guaranteed impressive views along these 179 kilometers (111 miles) on the southwest coast of Ireland.

This circular route, part of the Wild Atlantic Way, takes you across the green hills and stunning coastlines of the Iveragh Peninsula.

You’ll get to enjoy activities such as fishing, golf, and water sports, and stay the night at cozy hotels to experience the warm Irish hospitality. On clear nights, you may even be able to watch the sun melt into the vast North Atlantic Ocean.