Surfer looking at the waves crushing on the cliff during winter surfing session

David Sciora / Stocksy United

Ireland

A small island with a memorable punch, Ireland's breathtaking landscapes and friendly, welcoming people leave visitors floored. You'll want to go back for more.

Best Time to Visit

Best Places to Visit

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Newgrange
County Meath
Newgrange is one of the most remarkable prehistoric sites in Europe, famous for the illumination of its passage and tomb during the winter solstice sun…
Kilmainham Gaol
Dublin
If you have any desire to understand Irish history – especially the long-running resistance to British colonial rule – then a visit to this former prison…
National Gallery
Dublin
A magnificent Caravaggio and a breathtaking collection of works by Jack B Yeats – William Butler Yeats' younger brother – are the main reasons to visit…
Slane Castle
County Meath
Slane Castle is a 300-year-old sprawling estate on the banks of the River Boyne in County Meath. The neo-gothic castle and grounds are open to visitors…
Guinness Storehouse
Dublin
The most popular attraction in Dublin is this multimedia homage to Guinness. An old fermentation plant in the St James's Gate Brewery has been converted…
Slieve Bloom Mountains Nature Reserve
The Midlands
A 2300-hectare nature reserve with a mountain range in the middle, full of walking and biking trails. A visit to Slieve Bloom is the perfect excuse to…
Dún Aonghasa
Aran Islands
Dún Aonghasa is one of the largest prehistoric stone forts in Europe and stands guard over Inis Mór on the edge of a 100-metre sheer cliff drop.
St Patrick's Cathedral
Dublin
Ireland's largest church and the final resting place of Jonathan Swift, St Patrick's stands on the spot where St Patrick himself reputedly baptised the…

View more attractions

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

What makes Ireland a truly special place are those intangible moments that stay with you long after you’ve gone home. Here are 15 ways to find them.

Read article

Things to Know

Lonely Planet writer and Ireland native, Fionn Davenport, shares his top 10 tips to have the best time in Ireland.

Read article

Transportation

You don’t need a rental car to explore the Emerald Isle. Here are all the options for getting around beautiful Ireland.

Read article

Visa Requirements

Who wouldn't jump at the chance to visit the Emerald Isle? Here’s how to check if you need a visa before setting off on your Irish adventure.

Read article

Money and Costs

There are plenty of ways to make your money go further during your visit to Ireland. Read on for our local expert tips.

Read article

Traveling with Kids

With its bounty of natural attractions, outdoor adventures and cultural sites, Ireland is packed with family-friendly activities. Here are our top picks,

Read article

Best Road Trips

What’s the best way to get the best of the natural beauty and famous charm of Ireland? Hit the (rural) road on these top road trips.

Read article