There’s no doubt that Ireland is a stunningly beautiful country, with its rolling green hills, charming villages, and lively cities. Ireland is also home to some friendliest people, so you will feel welcome wherever you go.

Whether you’re visiting Ireland for its natural beauty, rich history, and culture or to enjoy a pint of Guinness in a traditional Irish pub, there are plenty of great things to do in this fascinating country.

Here are some of the best things to do in Ireland:

1. Take a drive along the Wild Atlantic Way

The wild Atlantic Way is a 2,500km coastal route that winds its way along the west coast of Ireland. It’s one of the most scenic drives in the world and a great way to see the country’s stunning coastline. There are plenty of places to stop to explore the many beaches, cliffs, and islands. Driving along the Wild Atlantic way will be one of the highlights of your trip to Ireland.

Aerial view of the Wild Atlantic and Inis Mor, Ireland
Looking over the Wild Atlantic from Inis Mor, Ireland | @lemonlimod

2. Visit the Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions and most famous natural landmarks. It is located on the west coast of Ireland. These towering cliffs rise to 200m above the Atlantic Ocean and offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as being home to a large number of seabirds, so keep your eyes peeled for puffins, gannets, and kittiwakes. There is also a visitor center where you can learn more about the cliffs and the wildlife. There are several walking trails along the cliffs, so you can explore at your own pace. You can also take a boat trip to see the cliffs from the water. And also find several other attractions in the area, including a golf course and restaurants. You can reach the Cliffs of Moher by car or take a short walk from the nearby village of Doolin.

Picturesque sunset over the cliffs of moher and atlantic ocean - The 22 Best Things to do in Ireland
Sunset over the cliffs of Moher | @lemonlimod

3. Go hiking and biking in the Wicklow Mountains

The Wicklow Mountains are located just south of Dublin and are a great place to hike. There are plenty of trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The scenery is breathtaking, and you might even spot some wild deer. It is also a great place to go for a bike ride. In the mountains, you’ll find plenty of both lakes and trails. Hiking and biking in the Wicklow Mountains is a great way to spend a day.

Dreamy village scenes in the Wicklow Mountains - The 22 Best Things to do in Ireland
Dreamy village scenes in the Wicklow Mountains | @ronanhdphotography

4. Take a tour of the Guinness Brewery

No trip to Ireland is complete without a visit to the Guinness Brewery in Dublin. This famous brewery offers tours that take you behind the scenes to see how Guinness is made. At the end of the tour, you’ll enjoy a pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar, which has stunning views over Dublin. The tour is very popular, so it’s advisable to book in advance.

Steph and Ayesha Curry at the Guinness Brewery
Steph and Ayesha Curry at the Guinness Brewery | @ayeshacurry

5. Explore the Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is an area of unique rock formations located on the north coast of Ireland. It is located on the north coast of Ireland and is made up of around 40,000 hexagonal columns of basalt rock, which were formed by an ancient volcanic eruption. The causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can walk along the causeway or take a boat trip to see it from the water. Today, it’s a popular spot for walking, picnicking, and simply taking in incredible views.

The Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland - The 22 Best Things to do in Ireland
The Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland | @mikeyknighty

6. Visit Dublin

No trip to Ireland would be complete without spending some time in its capital city, Dublin. This lively city is home to many of the country’s best museums and art galleries. And a wide variety of bars and restaurants. You can also explore Dublin’s rich history by visiting some of its most famous landmarks, such as Trinity College, Christ Church Cathedral, and the Guinness Storehouse. Dublin is a great city to explore. And is one of the highlights of any trip to Ireland.

7. Go fishing in Lough Neagh

Lough Neagh is the largest lake in Ireland and is a popular spot for fishing and water sports. Plenty of companies offer boat hire so that you can enjoy a day out on the water. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at windsurfing or sailing. Lough Neagh is the perfect place to enjoy a day of fishing. Or relax by the water’s edge and enjoy the stunning views.

Man in red jacket looking out over Lough Neagh
Moody weather over Lough Neagh | @paulmcconvillephotography

8. Take a trip to the Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are located off the west coast of Ireland and can be reached by ferry from Galway. The islands are well known for their traditional Irish culture, and you’ll find many locals speaking Gaelic. Aside from its culture, the islands are also stunningly beautiful, with cliffs, beaches, and rolling hills. You can find several other attractions on the Aran Islands. The Aran Islands are a great place to spend a day or two. The best time to visit is during the summer months.

9. Visit County Mayo

County Mayo is located in the west of Ireland and is well known for its stunning scenery. The coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, while you’ll find mountains, lakes, and forests inland. Mayo is also home to several important historical sites, such as Croagh Patrick, where Saint Patrick.

The 40 shades of green at Downpatrick Head, County Mayo
The 40 shades of green at Downpatrick Head, County Mayo | @colinmannion

10. Visit King John’s Castle

KingJohn’s Castle is a 13th-century castle located in the city of Limerick. The castle has been beautifully restored and today is open to the public. You can explore the grounds, learn about the castle’s history, and watch a medieval jousting tournament. Today, the castle is open to the public and houses a museum with exhibits on the city’s history.

A winter sunrise over King John's Castle
A winter sunrise over King John’s Castle | Piotr Machowczyk

11. Go horseback riding in Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is located in the southwest of Ireland and is a great place to go for a horseback ride. The park is popular with tourists and is well known for its picturesque scenery. Some companies offer horseback riding tours to explore the park at your own pace. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at cross-country riding. Since they have different routes, it’s a great place to go for a horseback ride because you can find a perfect route for your skill level.

The Gap of Dunloa, Killarney National Park
The Gap of Dunloa, Killarney National Park | @melf_fielding

12. Go horse riding on Inis Mor

Inis Mor is the largest of the Aran Islands castle in Limerick and is a great place to go horse riding. Unlike other parts of Ireland, Inis Mor has a very different landscape with cliffs, beaches, and rolling hills. Horse riding on Inis Mor is a great way to explore the island and its unique landscape.

The blue wormhole, Inis Mor
The Wormhole at Inis Mor | @brendajayne

13. Take a ride on the Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula is located in the southwest of Ireland and is a great place to go for a drive. Its stunning scenery, cliffs, beaches, and rolling hills are known. The peninsula is also home to several important historical sites, such as the Gallarus Oratory and the Blasket Islands. It is recommended to stay here for at least a day or two to explore all the peninsula has to offer.

oceanside paths on the Dingle Peninsula
Dunquin, on the Dingle Peninsula | @always_travelynn

14. Visit the Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel is located in Tipperary and is home to many historical sites. It is one of the country’s most famous landmarks. The rock is home to several historic buildings, including a 12th-century castle. You can also explore the surrounding countryside, which is full of beautiful green fields and quaint villages. You can explore the castle or take a walk through the town.

The Rock of Cashel
The Rock of Cashel | @shareatrip_

15. Go hiking in Glenariff Forest Park

Glenariff Forest Park is located in the north of Ireland and is a great place to hike. The park is home to several trails, a waterfall, and rivers. You can also find some picnic areas where you can stop for a rest. Glenariff is the best way to explore the Belfast countryside, where you can find several small towns and villages.

Getting lost in Glenariff Forest Park
Getting lost in Glenariff Forest Park | @thehikelife

16. Take a trip to Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael is an island located off the coast of Kerry. It is the site of an ancient monastery. The monks who lived here were some of the earliest Christians in Ireland. Today, the island is home to several different bird species and seals. You can take a boat trip to the island or hike up to the monastery. You can find various activities in Skellig Michael, such as bird watching, hiking, and exploring the monastery. You can also find many other attractions on the island, including a lighthouse and some beaches.

Walking on the edge of a cliff at Skellig Michael - The 22 Best Things to do in Ireland
Living on the edge at Skellig Michael | @paulbdeering

17. Visit Cong Abbey

Cong Abbey is a 12th-century abbey located in Mayo. It is known for its beautiful architecture and is one of the best-preserved medieval abbeys in Ireland. The abbey is open to the public; you can explore the grounds and the abbey itself. You can also learn about the abbey’s history and see some of the artefacts found on the site. Cong Abbey is a great place to learn about the history of Ireland and see some of the country’s most beautiful architecture.

The doorway into Cong Abbey
The doorway into Cong Abbey | @abartaheritage

18. Go fishing in Lough Derg

Lough Derg is a freshwater lake located in Tipperary. It is a popular spot for fishing and where you can find different fish species. You can also find walking and hiking trails around the lake. Lough Derg is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can also explore the surrounding countryside, which is full of beautiful green fields and quaint villages.

Op Station Island in Lough Derg - The 22 Best Things to do in Ireland
Op Station Island in Lough Derg | @garethwrayphotography

19. Visit Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is a 15th-century castle located in Cork. The castle is home to the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to give you the gift of the gab. It is renowned for its imposing size and is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions. You can explore the castle grounds, as well as the gardens. You can also take a walk through the town of Blarney. In the town, you can find different shops and restaurants. Visiting the castle is a great way to learn about the history of Ireland and see some of the country’s most beautiful architecture.

Blarney Castle surrounded by a halo of clouds - The 22 Best Things to do in Ireland
Blarney Castle | @irishpix

20. Take a trip to Inisheer

Inisheer is the smallest of the Aran Islands and is located off the coast of Galway. The island is home to different beaches, as well as historical sites. To reach Inisheer, you can take a ferry from Galway. Once on the island, you can explore the beaches or visit the Dun Aengus fort. You can also find different walking and hiking trails around the island. Inisheer is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can also learn about the island’s history and see some of the country’s most beautiful scenery.

21. Visit Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison located in Dublin. The prison is now a museum and is home to different exhibits. It is a site of historical importance and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland. You can also learn about the history of Kilmainham Gaol and see some of the artefacts found on the site. The tour will also provide an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of Dublin and see some of the city’s most famous landmarks. You can explore the prison grounds or take a tour of the cells.

22. Go hiking in the Mourne Mountains

The Mourne Mountains is a mountain range located in Northern Ireland. It is a popular spot for hiking and is home to different walking trails. It also has waterfalls and scenic views. The Mourne Mountains are a great place to escape the city and enjoy the fresh air. You can also learn about the history of the mountains and see some of the country’s most beautiful scenery.

Slieve Doan in the Mourne Mountains - The 22 Best Things to do in Ireland
Slieve Doan in the Mourne Mountains | @briaincoleman_

Conclusion

These are just a few ideas for things to do in Ireland. There are many more activities and attractions that you can explore, depending on your interests. Ireland has something to offer everyone if you want to experience the country’s history, culture, or natural beauty. So start planning your trip today and see all that Ireland offers!