Routes & Points of Interest

01

Cliffs of Moher

📍 County Clare Natural

Description

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most spectacular natural attractions, rising 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. These dramatic sea cliffs stretch for 8 kilometers along the Wild Atlantic Way, offering breathtaking views and a rich diversity of birdlife.

History

The cliffs have been formed over 320 million years ago. The name "Moher" comes from an old fort called "Mothar" that once stood on Hag's Head. The cliffs have been a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and filmmakers for centuries.

02

Dublin Castle

📍 Dublin Historic

Description

Dublin Castle served as the seat of British rule in Ireland for over 700 years. Today, it stands as a symbol of Irish independence and houses important government offices and state apartments.

History

Built in the 13th century on the site of a Viking settlement, Dublin Castle has witnessed many pivotal moments in Irish history, including the handover of power to the Irish Free State in 1922.

03

Ring of Kerry

📍 County Kerry Scenic Route

Description

The Ring of Kerry is a 179-kilometer circular route that takes you through some of Ireland's most stunning landscapes, including mountains, lakes, beaches, and charming villages.

History

This scenic route has been traveled for centuries, originally as a trading route. Today, it showcases the natural beauty of the Iveragh Peninsula and its rich cultural heritage.

04

Giant's Causeway

📍 County Antrim Natural

Description

The Giant's Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption.

History

Formed 60 million years ago, the causeway is steeped in Irish mythology. According to legend, it was built by the giant Finn McCool to cross the sea to Scotland.

05

Blarney Castle

📍 County Cork Historic

Description

Blarney Castle is famous for the Blarney Stone, which is said to give the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it. The medieval castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

History

Built in 1446, the castle has been a stronghold of the MacCarthy family. The tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone dates back over 200 years.

06

Trinity College Dublin

📍 Dublin Educational

Description

Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university, founded in 1592. It houses the famous Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from the 9th century.

History

Established by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity College has educated many notable figures including Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett, and Mary Robinson.

07

Killarney National Park

📍 County Kerry Natural

Description

Killarney National Park is Ireland's first national park, covering over 10,000 hectares of mountains, lakes, and woodlands. It's home to Ireland's only native herd of red deer.

History

Established in 1932, the park was created to protect the unique ecosystem of the Killarney area, including ancient oak woodlands that date back thousands of years.

08

Rock of Cashel

📍 County Tipperary Historic

Description

The Rock of Cashel is a historic site featuring a collection of medieval buildings set on an impressive limestone outcrop. It was the traditional seat of the Kings of Munster.

History

According to legend, St. Patrick converted the King of Munster here in the 5th century. The site contains a 12th-century round tower, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral, and a 15th-century castle.

09

Newgrange

📍 County Meath Archaeological

Description

Newgrange is a prehistoric monument built around 3200 BC, making it older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. It's a passage tomb aligned with the winter solstice.

History

This Neolithic monument is part of the Brú na Bóinne complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The precise alignment with the solstice demonstrates the advanced astronomical knowledge of its builders.

10

Connemara National Park

📍 County Galway Natural

Description

Connemara National Park showcases the wild beauty of the Connemara region with its mountains, bogs, heaths, and grasslands. It offers stunning views of the Twelve Bens mountain range.

History

Established in 1980, the park protects one of Ireland's last remaining areas of blanket bog, a unique ecosystem that has been forming for over 10,000 years.

11

Temple Bar

📍 Dublin Cultural

Description

Temple Bar is Dublin's cultural quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife, traditional Irish music, art galleries, and cobblestone streets.

History

Once a run-down area, Temple Bar was revitalized in the 1990s to become Dublin's premier cultural and entertainment district.

12

Skellig Michael

📍 County Kerry Historic

Description

Skellig Michael is a remote island monastery dating from the 6th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was featured in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

History

Monks lived in beehive-shaped stone huts on this inhospitable island for over 600 years, creating one of Europe's most remarkable early Christian settlements.

13

Guinness Storehouse

📍 Dublin Cultural

Description

The Guinness Storehouse is a seven-story visitor experience dedicated to Ireland's most famous export. Learn about the brewing process and enjoy a pint at the Gravity Bar with panoramic views of Dublin.

History

Built in 1904, the Storehouse was originally a fermentation plant. It opened as a visitor attraction in 2000 and has since become Ireland's most popular tourist destination.

14

Aran Islands

📍 County Galway Cultural

Description

The Aran Islands are three islands where traditional Irish culture and the Irish language are still very much alive. Known for their dramatic cliffs, stone walls, and traditional knitwear.

History

The islands have been inhabited for over 5,000 years. The distinctive stone walls, built without mortar, are a testament to the islanders' resilience and connection to the land.

15

Kilkenny Castle

📍 County Kilkenny Historic

Description

Kilkenny Castle is a 12th-century castle that was the principal seat of the powerful Butler family for almost 600 years. It stands majestically on the banks of the River Nore.

History

Built by Strongbow in the 12th century, the castle has been restored to its Victorian splendor and houses an impressive art collection.

16

Dingle Peninsula

📍 County Kerry Scenic Route

Description

The Dingle Peninsula offers some of Ireland's most spectacular coastal scenery, with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages. It's also one of the strongest Irish-speaking regions.

History

The peninsula is rich in archaeological sites, including over 2,000 monuments from the Iron Age, Early Christian period, and medieval times.

17

Cobh

📍 County Cork Historic

Description

Cobh was the last port of call for the Titanic before it sank. This colorful Victorian town is known for its steep streets, St. Colman's Cathedral, and maritime heritage.

History

Cobh was a major emigration port, with over 2.5 million people leaving Ireland from here between 1848 and 1950. It was also known as Queenstown during British rule.

18

Glendalough

📍 County Wicklow Historic

Description

Glendalough is a glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains, home to an early medieval monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. The site includes a round tower, stone churches, and beautiful lakes.

History

St. Kevin established the monastery around 618 AD. It became one of Ireland's most important monastic centers and a place of pilgrimage for over 1,000 years.

19

Phoenix Park

📍 Dublin Natural

Description

Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed public parks in Europe, covering 707 hectares. It's home to Dublin Zoo, Áras an Uachtaráin (the President's residence), and herds of wild deer.

History

Established in 1662 as a royal deer park, Phoenix Park has been open to the public since 1747. It's a vital green space in the heart of Dublin.

20

Bunratty Castle

📍 County Clare Historic

Description

Bunratty Castle is a 15th-century tower house that stands on the site of earlier castles. The adjacent folk park recreates 19th-century Irish village life with authentic buildings and costumed interpreters.

History

The current castle was built by the MacNamara family around 1425. It was restored in the 1950s and opened to the public with the folk park in 1960.

21

Wicklow Mountains

📍 County Wicklow Natural

Description

The Wicklow Mountains are known as the "Garden of Ireland," offering stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and the famous Powerscourt Estate with its magnificent waterfall.

History

The mountains have been inhabited for over 4,000 years. The area was a stronghold for Irish rebels during various uprisings against British rule.

22

St. Patrick's Cathedral

📍 Dublin Historic

Description

St. Patrick's Cathedral is the largest church in Ireland and the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland. It's said to stand on the site where St. Patrick baptized converts.

History

Founded in 1191, the cathedral has been rebuilt and restored several times. Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels, was dean here from 1713 to 1745.

23

Dunluce Castle

📍 County Antrim Historic

Description

Dunluce Castle is a medieval castle dramatically perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the North Atlantic. Parts of the castle have fallen into the sea over the centuries.

History

Built in the 13th century, the castle was the seat of the Earls of Antrim. The kitchen and its staff fell into the sea during a storm in 1639.

24

Kylemore Abbey

📍 County Galway Historic

Description

Kylemore Abbey is a beautiful neo-Gothic castle set in the Connemara mountains. Since 1920, it has been home to the Benedictine nuns who run a boarding school and maintain the Victorian walled garden.

History

Built in 1868 as a private residence, the castle was purchased by the Benedictine nuns after World War I. It's now a popular tourist destination and working abbey.

25

Causeway Coastal Route

📍 County Antrim Scenic Route

Description

The Causeway Coastal Route is one of the world's most scenic drives, stretching from Belfast to Derry. It passes the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and numerous castles.

History

This route showcases Northern Ireland's dramatic coastline and has been traveled for centuries. It's part of the Wild Atlantic Way extension.

26

Jameson Distillery

📍 Dublin Cultural

Description

The Jameson Distillery offers tours explaining the whiskey-making process and the history of Irish whiskey. Visitors can enjoy tastings and learn about Ireland's distilling heritage.

History

Founded in 1780, Jameson is one of Ireland's most famous whiskey brands. The distillery tour provides insight into traditional Irish whiskey production.

27

Muckross House

📍 County Kerry Historic

Description

Muckross House is a 19th-century Victorian mansion set in Killarney National Park. It features period furniture, beautiful gardens, and traditional farms showcasing rural Irish life.

History

Built in 1843, the house was visited by Queen Victoria in 1861. It was donated to the Irish state in 1932 and is now a major tourist attraction.

28

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

📍 County Antrim Natural

Description

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a 20-meter-long rope bridge suspended 30 meters above the sea, connecting the mainland to Carrick-a-Rede Island. Originally used by salmon fishermen.

History

The bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen over 250 years ago. The current bridge, built in 2008, can support the weight of visitors while maintaining the original thrill.

29

Dublinia

📍 Dublin Educational

Description

Dublinia is an interactive museum that brings Viking and medieval Dublin to life. Visitors can experience what life was like in Dublin over 1,000 years ago through reconstructions and exhibits.

History

Located in the heart of medieval Dublin, Dublinia uses modern technology to recreate the sights, sounds, and smells of Viking and medieval life.

30

Burren National Park

📍 County Clare Natural

Description

The Burren is a unique karst landscape of limestone pavement covering 250 square kilometers. It's home to rare Arctic-Alpine plants and contains over 90 megalithic tombs.

History

The Burren has been inhabited for over 6,000 years. Its unique geology supports plants from both Arctic and Mediterranean climates, creating a botanical wonderland.

31

Irish National Stud

📍 County Kildare Cultural

Description

The Irish National Stud is a thoroughbred horse breeding facility and tourist attraction. It includes the Japanese Gardens, St. Fiachra's Garden, and the Horse Museum.

History

Established in 1946, the stud has been instrumental in breeding some of the world's finest racehorses. The Japanese Gardens were created between 1906 and 1910.

32

Clonmacnoise

📍 County Offaly Historic

Description

Clonmacnoise is an early Christian site founded in the 6th century. It includes the ruins of a cathedral, seven churches, two round towers, and high crosses, all set in a beautiful riverside location.

History

Founded by St. Ciarán in 544 AD, Clonmacnoise became one of Ireland's most important centers of learning and religion. It was attacked and destroyed several times by Vikings and Normans.

33

Hook Lighthouse

📍 County Wexford Historic

Description

Hook Lighthouse is one of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world, dating back 800 years. It offers stunning views of the Irish Sea and guided tours.

History

The current tower was built around 1172, though there may have been a beacon here since the 5th century. It has guided ships safely for centuries.

34

Belfast City Hall

📍 Belfast Historic

Description

Belfast City Hall is an impressive Edwardian building completed in 1906. It features beautiful gardens, memorials, and offers free guided tours showcasing the city's history.

History

Built to reflect Belfast's status as a major industrial city, the City Hall is a symbol of civic pride and has witnessed many important events in Northern Ireland's history.

35

Titanic Belfast

📍 Belfast Cultural

Description

Titanic Belfast is a visitor attraction that tells the story of the RMS Titanic, which was built in Belfast. The building's design is inspired by the ship's hull.

History

Opened in 2012, the museum is located on the site of the former Harland and Wolff shipyard where the Titanic was built. It's one of the world's largest Titanic-themed attractions.

36

Malahide Castle

📍 County Dublin Historic

Description

Malahide Castle is a 12th-century castle that was home to the Talbot family for almost 800 years. It features period furniture, beautiful gardens, and a butterfly house.

History

The castle was granted to Richard Talbot in 1185. It remained in the Talbot family until 1976, making it one of the longest family occupations of any Irish castle.

37

Dun Aonghasa

📍 Aran Islands Archaeological

Description

Dun Aonghasa is a prehistoric hill fort on Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. The fort is dramatically perched on a 100-meter cliff edge overlooking the Atlantic.

History

Dating from the Bronze Age (around 1100 BC), this fort is one of the most impressive prehistoric sites in Europe. The defensive walls are up to 6 meters thick in places.

38

Waterford Crystal

📍 County Waterford Cultural

Description

Waterford Crystal is famous worldwide for its hand-cut crystal. Visitors can take factory tours to see master craftsmen at work and learn about the 200-year-old tradition.

History

Waterford Crystal was established in 1783. The company has created some of the world's most prestigious crystal pieces, including trophies and chandeliers.

39

Lough Gur

📍 County Limerick Archaeological

Description

Lough Gur is an area of exceptional archaeological importance, with evidence of continuous human settlement from 3000 BC. It includes stone circles, standing stones, and a visitor center.

History

The area contains over 2,000 archaeological sites, making it one of Ireland's most important prehistoric landscapes. Excavations have revealed evidence of farming, metalworking, and ritual activity.

40

Derry City Walls

📍 Derry Historic

Description

Derry's city walls are the most complete in Ireland and among the finest in Europe. Built between 1613 and 1618, they are approximately 1.5 kilometers in circumference.

History

The walls were never breached, earning Derry the nickname "The Maiden City." They withstood the famous Siege of Derry in 1689, a pivotal event in Irish history.

41

Ross Castle

📍 County Kerry Historic

Description

Ross Castle is a 15th-century tower house on the edge of Lough Leane in Killarney National Park. It was the last stronghold in Munster to surrender to Oliver Cromwell.

History

Built by the O'Donoghue Ross chieftains, the castle was restored in the 20th century. It offers boat trips to Innisfallen Island and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

42

Glenveagh National Park

📍 County Donegal Natural

Description

Glenveagh National Park is Ireland's second-largest national park, covering 16,000 hectares. It features a 19th-century castle, beautiful gardens, and the largest herd of red deer in Ireland.

History

The park was established in 1981. Glenveagh Castle was built as a hunting lodge in the 1870s and is now open to the public, showcasing Victorian elegance in a wild landscape.

43

Charles Fort

📍 County Cork Historic

Description

Charles Fort is a 17th-century star-shaped fort overlooking Kinsale Harbour. It's one of the finest examples of a star-shaped fort in Europe and offers panoramic views of the harbor.

History

Built in the 1670s, the fort was designed to defend Kinsale from sea attack. It remained in military use until 1922 and is now a national monument.

44

Slane Castle

📍 County Meath Historic

Description

Slane Castle is an 18th-century Gothic revival castle on the banks of the River Boyne. It's famous for hosting major rock concerts, including performances by U2, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan.

History

Built in the 1780s, the castle has been home to the Conyngham family for over 300 years. The concert venue in the castle grounds has hosted some of the world's biggest music events.

45

Irish Museum of Modern Art

📍 Dublin Cultural

Description

The Irish Museum of Modern Art is housed in the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, a 17th-century building. It features contemporary Irish and international art in a beautiful historic setting.

History

Opened in 1991, IMMA is Ireland's leading national institution for the collection and presentation of modern and contemporary art. The building itself is a masterpiece of 17th-century architecture.

46

Céide Fields

📍 County Mayo Archaeological

Description

Céide Fields is the most extensive Stone Age monument in the world, covering 12 square kilometers. It contains the oldest known field systems in the world, dating back 5,500 years.

History

Discovered in the 1930s, the fields were preserved under blanket bog for thousands of years. The visitor center includes a pyramid-shaped building with panoramic views.

47

Belfast Castle

📍 Belfast Historic

Description

Belfast Castle is a 19th-century Scottish Baronial castle set on the slopes of Cavehill. It offers stunning views of Belfast and houses a restaurant and visitor center.

History

The current castle was built in the 1870s for the 3rd Marquess of Donegall. It was given to the city of Belfast in 1934 and is now a popular wedding and event venue.

48

Mount Usher Gardens

📍 County Wicklow Natural

Description

Mount Usher Gardens is a beautiful 20-acre garden featuring over 5,000 species of plants from around the world. It follows a naturalistic style with winding paths along the River Vartry.

History

Created in the 1860s, the gardens represent one of Ireland's finest examples of the "Robinsonian" style of gardening, which emphasizes natural plantings and informal design.

49

Kilmainham Gaol

📍 Dublin Historic

Description

Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison that played a crucial role in Irish history. Many leaders of Irish rebellions were imprisoned and executed here, including the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising.

History

Opened in 1796, the prison closed in 1924. It was restored and opened as a museum in the 1960s, becoming one of Dublin's most important historical sites.

50

Dingle Oceanworld

📍 County Kerry Educational

Description

Dingle Oceanworld is Ireland's largest aquarium, featuring marine life from Irish waters and around the world. It includes a walk-through tunnel and interactive exhibits.

History

Opened in 1996, the aquarium showcases the rich marine biodiversity of Irish waters and promotes conservation awareness through educational programs.