Top 5 must-visit Tourist Places in Ireland
Explore the best places to visit in Ireland 2025. Get travel info on tickets, hotels, airports, and top attractions for an unforgettable trip.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Ireland, often called the “Emerald Isle,” is a dream destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. In 2025, Ireland remains one of the best places to visit, offering a perfect blend of ancient heritage, scenic coastlines, and lively cities. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Ireland has something to offer.
From the towering Cliffs of Moher and the mystical Giant’s Causeway to the bustling streets of Dublin and the picturesque Ring of Kerry, every corner of Ireland tells a unique story. The country is home to majestic castles, lush green valleys, and stunning coastal drives, making it an ideal destination for road trips and outdoor exploration.
Beyond the landscapes, Ireland’s culture is equally captivating. Traditional Irish music, warm hospitality, and legendary folklore add charm to every visit. 2025 also brings exciting events, including the St. Patrick’s Festival, Galway International Arts Festival, and lively Irish pub scenes.
Top 5 places in Ireland
Cliffs of Moher
Overview
The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders, attracting over a million visitors every year. Towering 700 feet (214 meters) above the Atlantic Ocean, these cliffs stretch for 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) along the western coast of Ireland in County Clare. The cliffs offer panoramic ocean views, dramatic rock formations, and incredible sunsets, making them a photographer’s paradise. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and the Twelve Bens mountains in Connemara.
Entry Ticket Details
- General Admission: €7 per adult (online), €10 at the gate
- Children under 12: Free entry
- Students & Seniors: €5
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (summer), 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (winter)
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Things to Do at Cliffs of Moher
- Hiking: Walk along the Cliff Walk Trail (starting from Doolin or Liscannor) for breathtaking views.
- Birdwatching: Spot puffins, razorbills, and peregrine falcons nesting along the cliffs.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of the sea stacks, rolling waves, and golden sunsets.
- O’Brien’s Tower: Climb the historic O’Brien’s Tower for a higher vantage point (€2 entry fee).
- Visitor Center: Explore interactive exhibits on geology, wildlife, and local history.
Nearby Attractions
- Doolin (6 km away)
- Aran Islands (Boat Ride from Doolin)
- The Burren (15 km away)
- Lahinch (10 km away)
Hotels Near Cliffs of Moher
- Hotel Doolin – A cozy, eco-friendly hotel in Doolin with live Irish music and great food.
- Cliffs of Moher Hotel– Located in Liscannor, perfect for easy access to the cliffs.
- Vaughan Lodge Hotel – A luxury boutique hotel in Lahinch with ocean views.
- Aran View Country House – A traditional countryside retreat with stunning cliffside scenery.
- The Burren Atlantic Hotel– Budget-friendly stay near Doolin and The Burren.
Dublin City & Trinity College
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a vibrant city rich in history, culture, and modern charm. Founded by the Vikings in the 9th century, the city boasts historic landmarks, lively pubs, and a thriving arts scene. Walk along the cobbled streets of Temple Bar, explore the impressive Dublin Castle, or visit the famous Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland’s most iconic beer.
Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest university, houses the Book of Kells, a stunning 9th-century illuminated manuscript. The Long Room Library, with its 200,000+ ancient books, is one of the most breathtaking libraries in the world.
Entry Tickets & Guided Tours
- Book of Kells & Library Entry: €18 per adult, €15 for students/seniors
- Guided Tour: €29 (includes campus & library access)
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
Things to Do in Dublin
- Guinness Storehouse: Learn how Guinness is brewed & enjoy a rooftop pint.
- Temple Bar: Experience Dublin’s nightlife with live Irish music.
- Dublin Castle: Explore Irish history and stunning gardens.
- St. Patrick’s Cathedral: A must-visit medieval church.
- Phoenix Park: Home to Dublin Zoo and scenic trails.
Hotels Near Dublin City Center
- The Shelbourne – 500m from Trinity College
- The Westbury – 600m from Temple Bar
- Jurys Inn– 800m from Trinity College
- Maldron Hotel– 1km from Dublin Castle
- The Dean Dublin– 1.2km from Grafton Street
Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Ireland, spanning 179 km (111 miles) through rugged coastlines, charming villages, lush mountains, and pristine beaches. This scenic drive in County Kerry is perfect for road trip lovers looking to experience Ireland’s natural beauty, history, and culture.
Best Viewpoints & Stops Along the Route
- Ladies View – Stunning panoramic views of Killarney National Park.
- Torc Waterfall – A beautiful 20-meter waterfall surrounded by woodland.
- Moll’s Gap – A scenic mountain pass with breathtaking landscapes.
- Caherdaniel & Derrynane Beach – White sandy beach & historic Derrynane House.
- Skellig Ring – A detour offering views of Skellig Michael, a UNESCO site.
- Kenmare – A picturesque town with colorful streets & great food.
Things to Do
- Hiking: Explore trails like the Kerry Way and Bray Head Loop.
- Cycling: Rent a bike to enjoy one of the best cycling routes in Ireland.
- Photography: Capture Ireland’s wild Atlantic coastline, rolling hills, and dramatic cliffs.
Nearby Attractions
- Killarney National Park – One of the most scenic places to visit in Ireland, home to Muckross House & Ross Castle.
- Skellig Michael – A remote island with ancient monastic ruins and stunning ocean views, made famous by Star Wars.
Accommodation Along the Ring of Kerry
- The Europe Hotel & Resort – 5-star luxury with lake views (Killarney).
- Parknasilla Resort & Spa – Elegant seaside stay (Sneem).
- Kenmare Bay Hotel– Family-friendly stay with spa (Kenmare).
- The Royal Valentia – Cozy stay near Skellig Michael (Valentia Island).
- The Gleneagle Hotel –Great budget option with entertainment (Killarney).
Blarney Castle & Gardens
Blarney Castle, one of the most famous places to visit in Ireland, dates back to 1446 and is located in County Cork. This medieval fortress is best known for the Blarney Stone, a legendary stone believed to grant the “gift of eloquence” to those who kiss it. Over the centuries, visitors from around the world, including world leaders and celebrities, have visited to receive this special blessing.
Entry Fee & Visiting Hours
- Adults: €20 (online), €22 (at the gate)
- Students/Seniors: €16
- Children (8-16 years): €9
- Under 8: Free
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (March–October), 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (November–February)
Things to Do at Blarney Castle & Gardens
- Kiss the Blarney Stone – Climb to the castle’s top and receive the “gift of gab.”
- Explore the Gardens – Walk through the Poison Garden, Fern Garden, and Rock Close, filled with mystical scenery.
- Blarney House Tour – A stunning mansion open to visitors during summer.
- Dungeons & Castle Ruins – Explore the hidden tunnels and medieval structures.
Nearby Attractions
- Cork City (8 km away): A lively city known for its English Market, Shandon Bells, and vibrant pubs.
- Jameson Distillery (20 km away): Visit Midleton’s Jameson Distillery to learn about Irish whiskey-making and enjoy tastings.
- Fota Wildlife Park (18 km away): A unique open-space zoo with exotic animals roaming freely.
Hotels Near Blarney Castle
- Blarney Castle Hotel (€€) – 200m from the castle, cozy stay with a traditional Irish pub.
- Blarney Woollen Mills Hotel (€€) – 300m away, boutique hotel with shopping options.
- Hayfield Manor (€€€€) – Luxury 5-star hotel in Cork city (8 km away).
- The Kingsley Hotel (€€€) – Riverside stay in Cork city (7 km away).
- Maldron Hotel Shandon Cork (€€) – Budget-friendly and centrally located (8 km away).
Blarney Castle is one of the top places to visit in Ireland, offering history, adventure, and stunning landscapes—a perfect stop on any Irish itinerary!
Giant’s Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Ireland and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. This natural wonder features over 40,000 basalt columns, formed by volcanic activity 60 million years ago. According to Irish legend, the columns were built by Finn McCool, a giant who created a pathway to Scotland.
Entry Fee & Guided Tour Options
- Self-Guided Entry: Free via the public right-of-way.
- Visitor Experience Ticket: £13 per adult, £6.50 per child (includes exhibition, audio guide, and parking).
- Guided Tour: £15 per person, available daily at the visitor center.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Winter), 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Summer).
Things to Do at Giant’s Causeway
- Cliff Walks: Hike the Red Trail or Blue Trail for incredible views.
- Myths & Legends Tour: Discover Finn McCool’s story and geological history.
- Photography: Capture the stunning rock formations and dramatic coastline.
- Visit the Giant’s Boot & Wishing Chair: Famous rock formations shaped by nature.
Nearby Attractions
- Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (10 km away): Walk a 30-meter-high rope bridge with stunning sea views.
- Dunluce Castle (8 km away): Explore a medieval castle ruin perched on the cliffs.
- Bushmills Distillery (5 km away): Visit the world’s oldest whiskey distillery for a tour and tasting.
Best Hotels Near Giant’s Causeway
- Causeway Hotel – Located at the entrance to Giant’s Causeway.
- The Bushmills Inn– A luxury boutique stay in Bushmills (5 km away).
- Bayview Hotel – Seaside accommodation in Portballintrae (4 km away).
- Finn McCool’s Giant’s Causeway Hostel – Budget-friendly, walking distance to the site.
- Royal Court Hotel – Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, 6 km away.
Best Time to Visit Ireland in 2025
The best time to explore the places to visit in Ireland is spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are smaller. Summer (July–August) is great for festivals and long daylight hours but can be crowded. Winter (November–February) offers fewer tourists and budget-friendly travel.
Best Festivals & Events in 2025
- St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) – Celebrations across Ireland.
- Galway International Arts Festival (July) – A cultural highlight.
- Dublin Theatre Festival (September–October) – Showcasing world-class performances.
- Cork Jazz Festival (October) – A must-visit for music lovers exploring the places to visit in Ireland.
Top Hotels in Ireland
Ireland offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious five-star resorts. Whether you’re exploring the places to visit in Ireland or looking for a relaxing getaway, here are the top options:
Budget Hotels (Under €100 per night)
- Generator Hostel (Dublin) – Affordable stay near Temple Bar.
- Kinlay Hostel (Galway) – Great location with free breakfast.
- Neptune’s Hostel (Killarney) – Perfect for Ring of Kerry travelers.
Mid-Range Hotels (€100-€250 per night)
- Maldron Hotel (Cork) – Comfortable stay with modern amenities.
- The Bushmills Inn (Near Giant’s Causeway) – Cozy hotel with Irish charm.
- The Mont (Dublin) – Stylish and centrally located.
Luxury Hotels (Over €250 per night)
- The Shelbourne (Dublin) – A historic 5-star hotel near Trinity College.
- Ashford Castle (Cong) – A fairytale castle stay.
- The Europe Hotel & Resort (Killarney) – Overlooking the lakes of Killarney.
No matter your budget, Ireland has fantastic accommodation options near all the places to visit in Ireland!
Conclusion
Ireland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a dream destination for travelers. From the Cliffs of Moher and Giant’s Causeway to the lively streets of Dublin and Galway, there are countless places to visit in Ireland that offer unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re exploring ancient castles, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying traditional Irish music, every corner of the country has something special. Plan your trip based on the best time to visit, choose comfortable accommodations, and immerse yourself in the magic of Ireland. Start your adventure and discover the best places to visit in Ireland in 2025!
FAQs
What are the must-visit places in Ireland?
The Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway, Dublin, Ring of Kerry, and Blarney Castle are top attractions.
What is the best time to visit Ireland?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
Do I need a visa to visit Ireland?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality; check with the Irish embassy before traveling.
What is the best way to travel around Ireland?
Renting a car is ideal for exploring scenic routes, but buses and trains are available.
Is Ireland expensive for tourists?
Ireland can be pricey, but budget options like hostels and public transport help save costs.
Can I visit Northern Ireland with an Irish visa?
No, Northern Ireland is part of the UK, requiring a separate UK visa.
What are the best castles to visit in Ireland?
Blarney Castle, Ashford Castle, and Dunluce Castle are among the most famous.
What currency is used in Ireland?
The Euro (€) is used in Ireland, while Northern Ireland uses the British Pound (£).
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Disclaimer: Travel details like ticket prices and timings may change. Check official sources before visiting.