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 places in Ireland for you to visit if you’re planning a trip there and 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.
11 Places to Visit in Ireland that Isn’t Dublin
1. Galway City
Located on the west coast, Galway City is known for its vibrant atmosphere, traditional Irish music scene, and charming cobblestone streets.
Visitors can explore historic landmarks like Eyre Square and Galway Cathedral, shop for unique crafts at the city’s many artisan boutiques, and enjoy live music in the local pubs.
2. Killarney, County Kerry
Killarney is a picturesque town situated near Killarney National Park.
Visitors can explore the stunning landscapes of the park, including pristine lakes and rugged mountains, visit historic sites like Muckross House and Ross Castle, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boating.
3. Kilkenny City
Known as the “Marble City,” Kilkenny is famous for its medieval architecture, including Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral.
Visitors can explore the city’s rich history at attractions like the Medieval Mile Museum, stroll along the scenic River Nore, and enjoy traditional Irish music and culture in the local pubs.
4. Cork City
Ireland’s second-largest city, Cork is a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history and lively atmosphere.
Visitors can explore historic landmarks like Cork City Gaol and the English Market, stroll along the picturesque River Lee, and sample delicious food and drink at the city’s many restaurants, cafes, and pubs.
Another town in Cork worth visiting is Kinsale, famous for its colourful buildings and located at the beginning of the Wild Atlantic Way.
5. Dingle, County Kerry
Situated on the stunning Dingle Peninsula, Dingle is a charming fishing town known for its scenic beauty and traditional Irish culture.
Visitors can explore historic sites like the Gallarus Oratory, take boat trips to see dolphins and other wildlife, and enjoy fresh seafood at the town’s many restaurants.
6. Westport, County Mayo
Voted the “Best Place to Live in Ireland,” Westport is a picturesque town located on the west coast.
Visitors can explore historic sites like Westport House and the Great Western Greenway, hike or cycle along scenic trails, and enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and golfing.
7. Belfast City, County Antrim
The capital city of Northern Ireland, Belfast offers a rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and fascinating history.
Visitors can explore historic landmarks like Belfast City Hall and the Titanic Quarter, learn about the city’s troubled past at the Ulster Museum, and enjoy live music and nightlife in the Cathedral Quarter.
8. Waterford City, County Waterford
Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford is known for its rich maritime history, medieval architecture, and world-famous crystal.
Visitors can explore historic sites like Reginald’s Tower and the Waterford Museum of Treasures, take guided walking tours of the city, and visit the House of Waterford Crystal to see master craftsmen at work.
9. Limerick City
Located on the River Shannon, Limerick is a historic city with a vibrant arts scene and lively atmosphere.
Visitors can explore historic landmarks like King John’s Castle and St. Mary’s Cathedral, stroll along the scenic riverfront, and enjoy cultural events such as the Limerick Literary Festival and the Limerick Jazz Festival.
10. Derry City, County Derry
Situated in Northern Ireland, Derry is a historic walled city with a rich cultural heritage and fascinating history.
Visitors can walk along the city walls for panoramic views, explore historic sites like the Guildhall and St. Columb’s Cathedral, and learn about the city’s troubled past at the Museum of Free Derry.
11. Ennis, County Clare
Ennis is a charming market town located near the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.
Visitors can explore historic landmarks like Ennis Friary and the Clare Museum, shop for local crafts at the town’s traditional markets, and enjoy traditional Irish music sessions in the local pubs.
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