Things to do in Ireland – 25 attractions and experiences

Text and photo: Helena Bergström

Updated: June 2026 | What to see and do in Ireland? The green island in the Atlantic offers dramatic coastal landscapes, historic sites and charming cities. Here, mythical history, vibrant pub culture and some of Europe's most beautiful roads meet.

Things to do in Ireland

Ireland is a country where nature and history go hand in hand. Here you will find everything from monasteries and castles to dramatic cliffs and green landscapes. At the same time, it is a modern and easy-to-travel destination, where distances are manageable and experiences are plentiful.

We have travelled around Ireland on several occasions, not least on a road trip with a small (!) campervan – which we can really recommend. The island consists of both Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, and it's easy to combine both in the same trip. Here we've gathered our best tips for things to see and do around the island.

Things to do in Ireland – our best tips

Nature experiences, adventures and much more – here you will find a list of 25 things to do in Ireland.

1. Explore Dublin

Dublin is a vibrant capital city with a perfect blend of history and modern urban pulse. Here you can visit classic pubs, historic buildings and museums or stroll along the River Liffey. The city is just as suitable for a weekend away as it is for a road trip.

2. Visit Trinity College and the Book of Kells

Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and one of Dublin's most famous landmarks. Here you will find the beautiful library and the famous Book of Kells. Walking through the long library hall was an experience in itself. It almost feels like stepping into another time.

3. Experience Belfast

Belfast in Northern Ireland has gone from an industrial city to an exciting destination with a lot to offer. There is history, culture and a growing restaurant scene. We found the city to be both interesting and easy to explore on foot. A perfect stop on a round trip.

READ MORE: Things to do in Belfast – 10 attractions and experiences

4. Visit Titanic Belfast

Titanic Belfast is a modern museum which tells the story of the famous ship. The exhibition is interactive and very well done. You get to follow the entire journey – from construction to the tragic end. Even for those who are not particularly interested in history, this is really impressive.

5. Feel the atmosphere of Galway

Galway is one of Ireland's most charming towns and is known for its lively atmosphere. It is a place where colourful houses, street musicians and a rich cultural life meet. We particularly liked the relaxed feel and proximity to the west coast. The town is also a perfect starting point for exploring Connemara and the Wild Atlantic Way.

6. Discover Derry and the city walls

Derry (Londonderry) is one of the few cities in Europe that still has its city walls. Here you can walk along the walls and get a nice view of the city. We liked the relaxed atmosphere and the history of the city. A good stop in the north of the island.

7. Drive the Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the world's longest coastal drives and one of the most beautiful. The road runs the entire length of Ireland's west coast and offers dramatic views. We drove parts of it and never really wanted it to end. Perfect for a road trip.

8. See the view at the Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher is one of Ireland's most famous attractions. The mighty cliffs plunge straight into the Atlantic and the view is spectacular. It can be windy, but that's almost part of the experience. It's best to arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds.

9. Experience The Burren

The Burren is a unique landscape with limestone formations that almost look like a lunar landscape. It is home to unusual plants and is full of history. We were surprised by how different it felt compared to the rest of Ireland. An exciting stop along the west coast.

10. Explore Connemara National Park

Connemara offers wild nature, mountains and open landscapes. There are nice walking trails and fantastic views. We especially liked the peace and the feeling of untouched nature. We can also highly recommend a visit to Kylemore Abbey – a beautiful monastery that has a sad tale to tell.

11. Visit the Giant’s Causeway

Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland is a natural phenomenon with thousands of hexagonal basalt columns. According to legend, they were created by a giant, which makes the place even more fascinating. It is both beautiful and unique. No wonder it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

12. Drive the Causeway Coastal Route

This coastal road in Northern Ireland is one of the most spectacular we have driven. The road winds along the sea and passes small villages, castles and viewpoints. There are plenty of stops along the way. A real highlight of the trip.

READ MORE: East Coast of Northern Ireland: Causeway Coastal Route

13. Discover the Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a classic tour of southwest Ireland. It takes you through green landscapes, coastal stretches and small villages. We took our time and stopped often. It is a route that truly lives up to its reputation.

READ MORE: Ring of Kerry - a classic road trip in Ireland

14. Explore Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is one of Ireland's most beautiful national parks and a must for nature lovers. There are lakes, waterfalls, forests and beautiful walking trails. We visited Torc Waterfall and Muckross House, which were real highlights. The area is perfect for exploring both on foot and by car.

15. Drive the Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula is a little less well known than the Ring of Kerry, but just as beautiful. The landscape here is dramatic and the views are fantastic. We found the area to be a little quieter and more genuine. A real gem.

16. Visit Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael is a dramatic rocky island off the west coast of Ireland and one of the country's most spectacular places. Here is an old monastery clinging to the cliffs high up, and the island is also famous from Star Wars. We tried to book a boat trip here, but it was too windy so the boat trip was cancelled. Maybe you'll have better luck!

17. Experience Game of Thrones locations

Northern Ireland was the filming location for many scenes in Game of Thrones. We visited Dark Hedges and Ballintoy Harbour, among others. Even if you haven't seen the series, the places are impressive. The nature here is truly special.

READ MORE: 10 Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland

18. Visit the monastic village of Glendalough

Glendalough is one of Ireland's most famous historical sites, beautifully situated in the Wicklow Mountains. Here you will find the ruins of an old monastic site surrounded by lakes and lush greenery. We found the combination of history and scenery to be extra special. Perfect for both a leisurely stroll and a bit of history at the same time.

19. Explore Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a charming town with a beautiful castle and a cozy town center. There are also many pubs and restaurants. We liked the relaxed atmosphere. A perfect town for an overnight stay.

20. Visit the Rock of Cashel

Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland's most iconic historical landmarks. The impressive buildings are perched high on a hill and can be seen from afar. Here you get both history and stunning views of the countryside. We were really impressed by how well preserved everything is.

21. Try Guinness and experience pub culture

Drinking Guinness in Ireland is a completely different experience than at home. In addition, the Irish pub culture is something very special. Here people gather to socialize, listen to music and have a pint. We often got stuck longer than planned. This is also an important part of the trip!

22. Taste Irish whiskey

Ireland is famous for its whiskey, and there are many distilleries to visit. During a visit, you can learn more about the production process and try different varieties.

23. Ride along the coast

Horse riding in Ireland was one of our most memorable experiences of the entire trip. We rode both through green landscapes and along the coast, in County Kerry. The environment was made for this experience!

24. Celebrate Halloween in Derry

Halloween in Derry is something out of the ordinary. The city is filled with parades, costumes and celebrations. Peter was lucky enough to experience this celebration once and he was truly impressed. Wow!

25. Experience St. Patrick's Day in Dublin

St. Patrick's Day is Ireland's biggest holiday and is celebrated with parades and festivities. The whole country dresses in green. We haven't yet experienced the festival in Ireland, but we have seen the parade in Stockholm a few times. Experiencing it in person is on our wish list!

More guides in the same series

Here you will find more guides with tips on what to see and do in different countries. This type of article is perfect for those who want to get an overview, inspiration and ideas for their next trip.

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