Plan a trip to Ireland

Ireland, the Emerald Isle, conjures up a unique assortment of images – lush green landscapes, old town charm, traditional folk music, the shamrock – and, of course, ubiquitous cozy pubs. In fact, Ireland is this and much more – it is a beautiful country with stunning nature and vibrant, cosmopolitan cities, offering opportunities for both adventure and retreat.

The Irish people offer ready smiles and a warm welcome, and the country’s history and culture can be as intoxicating as the local whiskey. And the weather? The locals are known to expect 4 seasons in one day, hence their motto: There is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing!

Dublin, Ireland’s bustling capital, is often the starting point of an Irish vacation. A flat city, divided in two by the River Liffey, has several bridges uniting it, the most famous of which is the O’Connell Bridge, and it is easy to get around the city by foot. Dublin’s historic buildings include the 13th century Dublin Castle, the 12th century St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Parliament building. Temple Bar, a riverside area with cobblestoned pedestrian walkways, is one of Dublin’s most visited districts. It is home to the historic Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious university, and the Meeting House Square with its delightful galleries, boutiques, pubs, and a weekly food market. Dublin’s picturesque parks, most notably St. Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park, are city highlights, and the National Museum of Ireland is a destination for archeology enthusiasts and those wishing to explore Irish heritage. End your day at one of the city’s many pubs, reveling in the live traditional Irish music among the native Dubliners.

Kilkenny, Ireland’s smallest city and best preserved medieval town, is a short drive from Dublin. Characterized by its grey limestone architecture, Kilkenny boasts the imposing 12th century Kilkenny Castle. Explore nearby Waterford, a famous Viking port city and Ireland’s oldest, famous for its architecture, culture, cuisine – and its crystal. Tour the renowned Waterford Crystal factory, one of the only that has preserved the craft almost unchanged over the centuries. On your way to a scenic drive on the Ring of Kerry, a 112-mile coastal route spanning breathtaking scenery and medieval ruins in Ireland’s rustic southwest, stop at Blarney, climbing to the top of the Blarney Castle to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone – but only if you’re seeking the gift of gab! The town of Cork, known as the culinary capital of Ireland, is nearby, boasting a trendy foodie scene and cultural revival.

The town of Killarney, famous for its beauty, history, and hospitality – as well as its world class restaurants, is a great base for exploring the nearby Killarney National Park with its pristine lakes and extraordinary mountain and ocean views, and Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain pass between two spectacular mountain ranges. A coastal walk along the majestic Cliffs of Moher is an unforgettably beautiful experience.

Galway, a coastal city in the west, is known as the festival capital of Ireland. Its hub is the 18th century Eyre Square, which offers a traditional and bohemian Irish experience – shops, pubs, boutiques, and galleries surrounded by medieval architecture. Don’t forget to taste the famous oysters, their local specialty!

In Northern Island, Giant’s Causeway is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Dubbed “the 8th Wonder of the World” by the Irish, the area’s 40,000 basalt columns - mainly hexagonal - which descend into the ocean are said to have resulted from an ancient volcanic eruption.

Belfast, the cultural heart of the north, has spectacular natural beauty and a rich history as well as outstanding museums, famed wall art, beautiful gardens, and lively markets. It is home to the Belfast Castle and the interactive Titanic Experience which is located on the slipways where the Titanic was built and launched over 100 years ago.

Need guidance? Leave the leprechaun legends aside, and start planning, organizing, and booking your customized dream trip to Ireland using RoutePerfect’s unique set of planning tools. Unlike any other company, Routeperfect offers its exclusive Popular Itineraries written by tourism professionals and experienced travelers to jumpstart your planning, helping you to personalize your travel and book your accommodations so that you can experience the country YOUR way.