11 Best Places to Visit in Ireland that Isn't Dublin

This blog post is all about the best places to visit in Ireland, outside of Dublin.

This should hopefully not come as a surprise to you, but I’m Irish.

Born and bred in the north of County Armagh and where I lived for the first 18 years of my life before moving across to Liverpool, England at the first opportunity.

I’m kidding. But not really, as there’s nothing to do where I come from.

However, in saying that, the remainder of Ireland is absolutely stunning and I recommend it to absolutely everyone.

I’ve become increasingly patriotic ever since moving away from home, and was annoyingly so when I moved to New York and had a lot of Americans tell me they were also Irish even though they had never actually left America before.

So I’ve put together this list of the best places to visit in Ireland if you’re planning a trip to the emerald isle.

I’ve purposely left out Dublin because as much as I love that city a lot, there are so many places besides this that are worth visiting.

RELATED Places to Visit in Ireland blog posts to read:

This blog post is all about the best places to visit in Ireland.

Table of Contents

11 Places to Visit in Ireland that Isn’t Dublin

Ireland is so much more than its capital city.

While Dublin is brilliant, the real magic often reveals itself once you head west, south, or north, into places shaped by wild coastlines, medieval streets, music-filled pubs, and communities that still feel deeply local.

If you’re planning a trip and want to experience the heart of the country, these are the best places to visit in Ireland outside of Dublin.

1. Galway City, Co. Galway

Galway isn’t just a city you visit, it’s a feeling. The moment you arrive, there’s a hum in the air.

Music drifting out of pubs in the middle of the day, conversations spilling onto cobbled streets, and that unmistakable Atlantic breeze reminding you that the wild west of Ireland is just beyond the city limits.

It’s creative, youthful, and deeply traditional all at once.

What makes Galway special is how effortlessly it blends culture with chaos in the best way.

One minute you’re sipping a flat white in a modern café, the next you’re watching a fiddle player belt out tunes that feel centuries old.

It’s also one of the friendliest places to visit in Ireland. You don’t feel like a tourist here for long.

Best Things to Do in Galway:

Lose yourself in the Latin Quarter and Shop Street, stopping for buskers, pubs, and people-watching
Walk the Salthill Promenade, ideally with a 99 ice cream and the sun setting over the famous Galway Bay
Use Galway as a base for day trips to Connemara, the Aran Islands, or even the Cliffs of Moher

Where to Stay in Galway:

Kinlay Eyre Square Hostel (budget): Great central location and social vibe
The Galmont Hotel & Spa (mid-range): Steps from Eyre Square
Park House Hotel (luxury): Stylish rooms and excellent service

Where to Eat in Galway:

Esquires Coffee: Great coffee & creative brunch dishes
Hooked: Fresh seafood that feels uniquely Galway
Ard Bia: Local comfort food in an amazing setting

2. Killarney, Co. Kerry

Killarney is Ireland at its most cinematic. Lakes that mirror the sky, moss-covered trees, mist rolling over mountains, and horse-drawn jaunting cars clopping past ancient stone walls.

It feels timeless, like a place that exists slightly outside the modern world.

What really sets Killarney apart as one of the best places to visit in Ireland, is its access to nature. You don’t need to be an experienced hiker or outdoorsy person to enjoy it.

The beauty here is easy to reach and deeply rewarding. It’s also incredibly welcoming, especially for first-time visitors to Ireland.

Best Things to Do in Killarney:

Explore Killarney National Park, whether on foot, bike, or jaunting car
Drive the Ring of Kerry for dramatic coastal views and postcard villages
Visit Muckross House, Abbey, and Gardens for history and scenery in one place

Where to Stay in Killarney:

Killarney Railway Hostel (budget): Clean, central and social
The Lake Hotel (mid-range): Views over Lough Leane
Muckross Park Hotel & Spa (luxury): Grand historic property

Where to Eat in Killarney:

Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder: Great small plates and drinks
Bricin Restaurant: Traditional Irish with finesse
Rozzers Restaurant at Killeen House Hotel: Fine dining views

3. Kilkenny City, Co. Kilkenny

Kilkenny feels like Ireland in miniature. Compact, historic, and full of character, it’s one of the easiest cities to explore without a plan.

Medieval streets lead to cosy pubs, independent shops, and one of the most impressive castles in the country.

There’s a relaxed pace here that makes it one of the perfect places to visit in Ireland for a city break.

It’s romantic without trying to be and historic without feeling stuffy. Everything is close, walkable, and beautifully preserved.

Top 3 Things to Do in Kilkenny:

Wander Kilkenny Castle and its vast parklands
Walk the Medieval Mile and discover hidden lanes and historic buildings
Spend an evening in a traditional pub soaking up the local atmosphere

Where to Stay in Kilkenny:

Kilkenny Tourist Hostel (budget): Friendly and central
Kilford Arms Hotel (mid-range): Historic charm
Lyrath Estate (luxury): Sprawling gardens & upscale dining

Where to Eat in Kilkenny:

Cafe La Coco: Great brunch stop
Ristorante Rinuccini: Classic Italian favourites
Kyteler’s Inn: Atmospheric medieval pub

4. Cork City, Co. Cork

Ireland’s second-largest city, Cork is a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history and lively atmosphere.

Cork has a loud confidence as one of the best places to visit in Ireland. It doesn’t need to shout about itself, but once you’re there, you understand why locals swear it’s Ireland’s real capital.

It’s creative, food-obsessed, and refreshingly unpolished.

The city centre wraps around the River Lee, giving it a relaxed, lived-in feel. Cork is also one of the best places in Ireland for food, from market stalls to award-winning restaurants.

It’s a city that rewards curiosity and wandering.

Another town in Cork worth visiting is the beautiful town of Kinsale, famous for its colourful buildings and located at the beginning of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Top 3 Things to Do in Cork City:

Eat your way through the English Market
Explore the city’s bridges, streets, and independent shops
Take a short trip to Cobh or kiss the Blarney Stone nearby

Where to Stay in Cork City:

Glengarriff Hostel (budget): Beautiful, natural surroundings
Hayfield Manor (luxury): Elegant and welcoming
The Montenotte Hotel (luxury): Often good deals
The River Lee Hotel (luxury): Modern comfort by the water

Where to Eat in Cork City:

Market Lane: Seasonal, Irish flavours
Cornstore: Hearty and upscale casual
The Oliver Plunkett: Rooftop vibes

5. Dingle, Co. Kerry

Dingle feels like the edge of the world in the best possible way.

Colourful houses line the harbour, fishing boats bob in the water, and beyond the town lies some of the most dramatic coastline in Ireland.

It’s one of those places to visit in Ireland where days are shaped by weather, tides, and music sessions.

Dingle is lively but never overwhelming, and the sense of community here is strong. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.

Top 3 Things to Do in Dingle:

Drive the Slea Head Drive for jaw-dropping Atlantic views
Spend an evening hopping between pubs with live traditional music
Visit the beaches and viewpoints along the peninsula

Where to Stay in Dingle:

Dingle Benners Hotel (mid-range): Historic & central
Dingle Bay Hotel (mid-range): Cliffside views
Dingle Skellig Hotel (luxury): Often friendly pricing

Where to Eat in Dingle:

Out of the Blue Seafood: Seafood with sea views
Solas Tapas and Wine Bar: Local produce & great wine list
O’Flaherty’s Bar: Hearty classics

6. Westport, Co. Mayo

Westport is often described as one of the best towns and places to visit in Ireland, and it earns that title easily.

It’s colourful, well-planned, and surrounded by some of the country’s most underrated scenery.

There’s a strong outdoorsy energy here, but it’s balanced with great food, friendly pubs, and a welcoming town centre.

Whether you’re climbing mountains or just strolling with a coffee, Westport feels effortlessly enjoyable.

Top 3 Things to Do in Westport:

Climb Croagh Patrick or admire it from below
Cycle the Great Western Greenway
Explore Westport House and the town’s lively streets

Where to Stay in Westport:

The Wyatt Hotel (mid-range): A homely stay with live entertainment
Westport Plaza Hotel (mid-range): Heart of the town
Westport Coast Hotel (luxury): Elevated comfort

Where to Eat in Westport:

Christy’s Harvest: Great local start
This Must Be the Place: Local Irish dishes and a great spot for lunch
An Port Mór Restaurant: Upscale pub dining, part of the Michelin Guide

7. Belfast City, Co. Antrim

The capital city of Northern Ireland, Belfast offers a rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and fascinating history.

I might be biased since I only live 20 minutes away from the city, but in my opinion, Belfast is one of the best places to visit in Ireland for things to do, food, music, culture, bars, shops.

It has everything you’d need for a great trip to Ireland.

Belfast is a city with layers. Its history is complex and at times heavy, but its present is creative, energetic, and full of pride. The transformation Belfast has undergone in recent years is remarkable.

From world-class museums to buzzing food markets and music venues, Belfast feels modern yet deeply rooted.

Belfast is also the gateway to some of the most stunning coastal scenery on the island.

Top 3 Things to Do in Belfast:

Visit Titanic Belfast for an immersive museum experience
Take a Black Taxi Tour to understand the city’s past
Drive the Causeway Coastal Route from the city

Where to Stay in Belfast:

Vagabonds Belfast Hostel (budget)
Maldron Hotel Belfast City (mid-range): Central & polished
The Fitzwilliam Hotel (luxury): Elevated Belfast city stay

Where to Eat in Belfast:

The Pocket: Hearty breakfast and brunch food
Coppi: Great cocktails and even better food
The Crown Liquor Saloon: Most historic pub in Belfast

8. Waterford City, Co. Waterford

Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city, and you feel that history as you walk through it.

Viking roots, medieval streets, and centuries of craftsmanship give it a unique sense of place.

It’s quieter than the other places to visit in Ireland on this list, which makes it ideal if you want history without crowds.

Combined with coastal walks and the Greenway, Waterford offers a brilliant mix of culture and nature.

Top 3 Things to Do in Waterford:

Explore the Viking Triangle
Visit the Waterford Crystal Experience
Cycle or walk the Waterford Greenway

Where to Stay in Waterford:

Tom’s Cottage (budget): An eco-friendly, cost stay in Waterford
Granville Hotel (mid-range): Heritage elegance
Fitzwilton Hotel (luxury): River views and modern comfort

Where to Eat in Waterford:

The Granary Cafe: Casual local stop
The Grattan: A local favourite
Bodega Restaurant: Quality Irish cuisine

9. Limerick City, Co. Limerick

Limerick is a city that surprises people. Once overlooked, it has quietly reinvented itself with a strong cultural scene, river walks, and a growing food offering.

There’s a real sense of authenticity here. It feels lived-in, local, and proud of its identity.

Add in its location along the Shannon and proximity to some beautiful villages, and Limerick becomes one of the most rewarding places to visit in Ireland.

Top 3 Things to Do in Limerick City:

Visit King John’s Castle overlooking the River Shannon
Walk the riverside paths and explore the city centre
Take a short day trip to Adare

Where to Stay in Limerick City:

The Old Quarter Townhouse (budget)
Limerick City Hotel (mid-range): Great river views
The Savoy Hotel (luxury): A refined stay

Where to Eat in Limerick City:

The Locke: A local favourite
The Buttery: Classic Irish dishes
Nancy Blakes: Lively, traditional vibes

10. Derry City, Co. Derry

Derry is one of the most powerful places to visit in Ireland.

Walking its intact city walls, you’re surrounded by centuries of history, stories, and resilience. Yet the city today is vibrant, creative, and full of warmth.

It’s a place that encourages reflection while also offering great food, music, and culture. Derry feels proud of who it is and eager to share that with visitors.

Top 3 Things to Do in Derry:

Walk the historic Derry city walls
Visit the Museum of Free Derry
Explore the murals and riverside areas

Where to Stay in Derry City:

Iona Inn (budget)
Everglades Hotel (mid-range): Located near the walls
Bishop’s Gate Hotel (luxury): Wam, boutique charm

Where to Eat in Derry City:

Shipquay Restaurant: Amazing fresh seafood
Blackbird Derry: Local brews and great food
Quaywest: Modern Irish menu

11. Ennis, Co. Clare

Ennis is the beating heart of traditional Irish music.

Pubs here aren’t just places to drink, they’re where sessions happen naturally and regularly, often without fanfare.

It’s a brilliant base for exploring County Clare, but also a destination in its own right. Ennis feels authentic, welcoming, and wonderfully unpretentious.

If you’re looking for the real Ireland from the stories and movies, Ennis is one of the best places to visit in Ireland for just that.

Top 3 Things to Do in Ennis:

Experience live traditional music in local pubs
Visit the Cliffs of Moher nearby
Explore The Burren’s otherworldly landscape

Where to Stay in Ennis:

Queen’s Hotel (budget): Cosy B&B in the centre of Ennis town
Old Ground Hotel (mid-range): Historic & atmospheric
Hotel Woodstock (luxury): Boutique comfort

Where to Eat in Ennis:

Sweet N Green Cafe: Casual and tasty
Knox’s Pub: Seasonal local food
Brogan’s Bar & Restaurant: Music & great food

The Best Places to Visit in Ireland, Outside of Dublin

If you really want to understand Ireland, you have to leave Dublin behind, even if just for a few days.

This list of the best places to visit in Ireland show the country in all its variety.

Lively cities, rugged coastlines, ancient history, and communities where music, storytelling, and warmth still matter deeply.

These are the best places to visit in Ireland outside Dublin, and each one offers something different, memorable, and uniquely Irish.

Venture beyond the capital and you’ll be rewarded with experiences that feel richer, slower, and far more personal