ireland tourist pictures

Ireland in Pictures: 25 Beautiful Places to Photograph

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Jan 31, 2022

Ireland's emerald fields, craggy cliffs, and oceanside vistas make it one of the most varied, beautiful, and well photographed places across the globe. Add in a few white sheep peppering the vast landscape, winding tree-lined roads, and crumbling ancient castles , and you've got an idyllic island bursting with splendor.

Ask any of the friendly locals and he (or she) will agree before recommending hundreds of must-see spots for taking pictures. From magnificent sandy beaches like Inchydoney in County Cork to the majestic mountains found along the Ring of Kerry to vibrant cities like Dublin, every inch of the Emerald Isle lends itself to a seamless holiday filled with picture-perfect postcard views.

Be inspired with our list of the most beautiful places to visit in Ireland.

1. Ha'penny Bridge, Dublin

2. blarney castle, 3. the cliffs of moher, 4. carrick-a-rede rope bridge, 5. ross castle, 6. the dark hedges, armoy, 8. cobh town harbour, 9. killarney national park, 10. dunquin pier, 11. inchydoney beach, 13. skellig michael, 14. belfast, 16. silver strand beach, 17. birr castle, 18. westport, 19. doonagore castle, 20. connemara coast, 21. benbulben, 22. the burren, 23. waterford greenway, 24. newgrange, 25. glendalough, more beautiful places to photograph in ireland.

Dublin's Ha'penny Bridge is even more beautiful when illuminated at night. An iron pedestrian arch bridge that crosses the River Liffey , it's one of the city's most famous bridges. It was manufactured in England , brought over by ship, and assembled on site in 1816. The bridge got its name from the small toll of "ha'pennies" that was required to cross it.

• Read More: Best Attractions in Dublin

You can't come to Ireland without stopping at Blarney Castle. A mere 20 minutes from Cork , the castle is well worth a half-day trip. Don't forget to kiss the Blarney Stone while you're here. Known as the "stone of eloquence," once you kiss it, legend says, you'll never be lost for words.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cork

The unbeatable magnificence of the Cliffs of Moher will take your breath away while recharging your spirit. One of Ireland's top tourist attractions , these captivating cliffs make you realize just how small you are. Listen to the waves of the Atlantic Ocean crash against the ragged shore while taking in the magical vista in this unbeatable County Clare locale.

• From Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher: Best Ways to Get There
• Best Day Trips from Dublin

Northern Ireland's Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge was erected over 250 years ago by salmon farmers. High above the crashing sea, it weaves its way between Carrick Island and County Antrim . A walk along this rickety (but safe) bridge offers spectacular views of the Causeway Coastal Route and is one of the top attractions in this part of the country.

Conveniently located in the Ring of Kerry , Ross Castle lies on the shores of Lough Sheelin in County Meath . Considered by some to be haunted, this castle dates back to the early iron age. Today, you can relive its history and get a taste of royal life by spending the night in one of the beautifully renovated rooms, cottages, or the quarry house.

These enchanting Dark Hedges evoke a mystical feel most famously brought to life in Game of Thrones . This impressive 300-year-old tunnel of beech trees leads into Northern Ireland's Armoy , a charming village spotted by historic stone cottages. The hedges' impressive and haunting beauty has led to them becoming one of "the most photographed monuments in Northern Ireland."

Dublin is the largest city in Ireland and also one of the most vibrant cities in Ireland . It has museums and attractions galore, but most come here to soak up the lively atmosphere. Food of every sort (from curries to fish n' chips) can be enjoyed at restaurants within its snaking streets, and you'll hear Irish music pumping from all directions into the winding, colorful laneways.

The epicenter of colorful Cobh (pronounced 'cove'), the town's harbor is overlooked by the majestic St. Colman's Cathedral (a.k.a. Cobh Cathedral). Famed as the final port of call for the Titanic , Cobh Town Harbour is the second largest natural harbor in the world (behind Australia 's Sydney Harbour ). The city itself is arguably one of Ireland's most beautiful.

The Colleen Bawn Rock on Muckross Lake is an otherworldly and mesmerizing sight. It's set deep in the heart of Killarney National Park, which boasts 26,000 acres of rugged, mountainous land peppered with lakes and waterfalls. Located near the charming town of Killarney in County Kerry , the park is also home to vast woodlands crammed with giant oaks and yew trees. This is a perfect place to get adventurous on a walk, hike, or bike.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Killarney

The Dingle Peninsula is Ireland at its best. From dramatic cliffs to windy country lanes to prehistoric forts, its unique offerings and overwhelming beauty are the stuff of dreams–and now many movie sets. The dramatic, cliff-framed Dunquin Pier can be found at the peninsula's westernmost point, along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Dingle

One of Ireland's most beautiful beaches , Inchydoney boasts the softest, whitest sand on the island. The crystal-clear water at this southern coast wonder boasts waves big enough to surf, and it has been deemed an area of natural beauty. Another plus, it lies only four miles from Clonakilty (a Tidy Towns Competition winner) in County Cork .

The historical Kirwan's Lane is home to eclectic shops and award-winning restaurants set in the heart of Galway's medieval town center. Head to the city's Latin Quarter to wander this famous bricked lane and gape at the impressively maintained buildings from the 16 th and 17 th century. Then grab a bite at one of the bohemian-style, artsy cafés or restaurants.

• Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Galway

Star Wars fans will recognize the mystical, jagged, 217-meter-high Skellig Michael (Michael's rock) as the planet Ahch-To in Episode VIII: The Last Jedi and VI: The Force Awakens . It is the largest of two Skellig Islands , and both are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A boat trip here can take anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours, depending on where you depart.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Ring of Kerry

The capital of Northern Ireland , this vibrant city is filled with an exciting cultural arts scene, as well as enticing shops and a bevy of top-rated eateries. The birthplace of the Titanic (which was built in the local shipyard), Belfast has an entire neighborhood named after the doomed ship–the Titanic Quarter .

• Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Belfast

The pedestrian and cycle Peace Bridge in Derry crosses the River Foyle . Known formally as Londonderry , Derry recently underwent an impressive makeover that included the bridge and a magnificent new waterfront. One of the best things to do here is walk the well-preserved ancient walls, which date back to the 17 th century.

The exquisite Silver Strand beach is framed by the Atlantic Ocean, graceful waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs. It's located in the quaint village Malin Beg and has the bonus of being devoid of massive crowds, even in the summer. If you're looking for peace and tranquility by the ocean's shore, this is where you'll find it.

No trip to Ireland is complete without a visit to a castle. The not-so-secret main attraction at Birr Castle is its giant telescope , once the largest in the land (and world). The spectacular grounds lie in the Irish Heritage Town of Birr , an idyllic Georgian village that transports visitors back in time.

A sleepy, yet vibrant town, Westport's Georgian buildings and tree-lined streets beg to be photographed. Situated on Ireland's west coast, deep in the heart of County Mayo , this beautiful spot is a popular base for those exploring the Wild Atlantic Way . There's plenty to do here –from horseback riding to fishing to sailing to hiking.

County Clare plays host to the lovely Doonagore Castle. Lying above the coastal town of Doolin , this 16 th -century tower provides a flawless view over Doolin Pier to the rolling countryside and crashing vitality of the Atlantic Ocean . While currently a private holiday home with no access to the public, it's still worth a hike to this striking home.

Along Ireland's west coast sits a large section of shore known as Connemara . It's here that you can experience much of what Ireland has to offer. From bogs to mountain vistas to deserted islands, Connemara is as varied as one place can be, making it perfect for explorers. Rent a bike, strap on your hiking boots, or grab a surfboard–there's no chance of being bored in this spectacular place.

A remarkable mountain rises stoically from the lush ground of County Sligo . Known as Benbulben, this majestic table-top peak is so beautiful, it will leave you breathless. Its unique shape makes this a popular tourist attraction for those visiting Drumcliffe village , which lies just five kilometers away. Not surprisingly, this site has inspired numerous myths and legends.

County Clare plays host to a fascinating piece of Irish landscape named The Burren. Spectacularly crafted by glaciers, this rocky limestone terrain feels more lunar than Irish, and its position, perched above the azure waves, makes it stand out even more. Look closely, and you'll spot caves, cracks, and fossils in the rocks. Between the cracks, you may just spy a colorful wildflower or two.

The best way to explore the Waterford Greenway is by bike. This 46-kilometer path runs along an unused railway line from historic Waterford to Dungarvan . En route, you'll cycle over 11 bridges, spy three viaducts, lose yourself in a tunnel, and ogle medieval sites and Norman Castles. A mountainous backdrop ups the glam factor, as do the breathtaking views of the River Suir.

Newgrange is one of the most interesting passage tombs in Ireland. Built by farmers during the Stone Age, this interesting and giant mound (it measures about 279 feet in diameter and 43 feet high) is a true marvel. Set on the northern side of the River Boyne in County Meath , it covers about one acre of land and dates back over 5,200 years.

Glendalough lies in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains . This postcard-worthy wonder is unsurpassable in beauty, especially if you're a fan of sparkling lakes, mountain vistas, and winding trails. Known as the "Valley of the Two Lakes," Glendalough is also home to the Monastic City , which boasts impressive ruins of a round tower, gateway, and multiple churches.

Castles : Ireland's castles make for some of the best pictures of Ireland. Spread across the country, these historical structures are worth taking some time to visit. See our guide to the Best Castles in Ireland to help plan your trip.

Small Towns: To capture scenes from Ireland's everyday life, visit some of the towns. Discover quaint streets, cute homes, and people going about their business. For ideas on where to start, see our list of the Best Small Towns in Ireland .

More on Ireland

61 Photos That Prove That Ireland is the Most Beautiful Place on Earth

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: June 4, 2023

I constantly get emails from people asking to see pictures of Ireland.

At first, this baffled me.

I’d have thought people would just hop onto Instagram or use Google image search.

These emails pop into my inbox every few days. 

And generally, they sound a little like this:

• Hi. Can I see pics of ierland plese ~ Franz
• Kieth. Where can I find photos of irland for my trip planing. Tnks.

See for yourself.

The Best Pictures of Ireland (That I’ve Come Across Over the Past 3-4 years) 

Photos via Shutterstock

I’ve spent some time looking back through the photos of Ireland that I’ve uploaded to this site.

I’ve also taken a flick through my favourite Instagram accounts, along with some of the pics of Ireland that Tourism Ireland makes available to global media.

The result?

49 pictures of Ireland (or ‘ pics of ierland’, for my friend Franz…) that I believe show that Ireland is the most beautiful place on earth.

Let’s hop into it, so!

Ireland Landscape Photos: 10 of my Favourites

In the first section, I’m going to show you a handful of my favourite Ireland landscape photos.

These are photos that I’ve come across over the last few years that I keep coming back to time and time again.

1. The magical Marble Hill in Donegal

Photo left: Gareth Wray. Others courtesy Failte Ireland

When I first saw this snap of the Hill of Tara in County Meath, I’d never been there.

So, the following day, myself and a friend took the handy 40-minute drive from where we live in Dublin to check it out.

If a photo can influence you to visit a place, it’s got that magic sauce.

2. Diamond Hill in Connemara

3. The view at Grianan of Aileach in County Donegal

You can nearly smell the sharp freshness of the air and feel the wind lapping against your face from looking at the photo above.Magic.

4. The Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary

Brian Morrison is easily one of my favourite Irish photographers.

He’s taken many photos on behalf of Tourism Ireland and Failte Ireland, and the result is just out of this world.

5. Loughcrew Cairns in County Meath

6. The view out over Coumshingaun Lake in County Waterford

7. Waterford’s Copper Coast

8. Trim Castle in County Meath

9. Achill Island   looking magnificent

10.  Tintern Abbey in County Wexford looking a little like something from a Harry Potter movie

11. Downpatrick Head and the mammoth of a Sea Stack known as Dun Briste

12. Bantry House and Gardens in West Cork

16. Bull Rock near Dursey Island

17. Lough Ouler in Wicklow – Ireland’s heart-shaped lake

Yes, there really is a heart-shaped lake in Wicklow.

Here’s a guide to getting to Lough Ouler .

18. The sky above Kerry singing at the Dark Sky Reserve

Photo left: Valerie O’Sullivan. Others: Tom Archer (Failte Ireland)

Did you know that there’s a place in Kerry that has been designated as Ireland’s very first International Dark Sky Reserve by the International Dark-Sky Association?

The photo below was snapped there. Find out more about the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve .

19. The tabletop-like mountain of B enbulben in County Sligo

20. Scenes along Slea Head in County Kerry

I could drive along Slea Head for 7 days straight and never get bored.

Regardless of whether the rain is hopping off your roof or the sun is blazing, there’s always something to have a gander at.

There’s also scenery that’ll make you want to pull in, hop out and stare.

The last photo in the little batch above blew me away when I saw it a few years back.

It was snapped from a helicopter by the lads at the Irish Air Corp.

Green fields and rolling mountains collide with the sheer power of the Atlantic Ocean to make this a photo of Ireland that cemented itself in my mind from the second I first laid eyes on it. 

21. Mizen Head – the most southerly point in Ireland

22. Donegal’s ‘secret’ waterfall

23. Kerry’s Skellig Islands

The Skellig Islands in Kerry have been on my bucket list for about 7 years now.

Every time that I’m visiting Kerry and thinking about taking the boat over to them, the weather is terrible, and the tour is canceled.

There’s something immensely special about these two little islands.

24. The rugged cliff face at Dún Aonghasa

I’ve always felt that if there’s a place where Ireland ends, it’s here.

If you visit, please be careful when nearing the cliff edge.

25. The view from the top of Croagh Patrick in County Mayo

Photos courtesy Gareth McCormack/garethmccormack via Failte Ireland

If you manage to get a clear view when you reach the top of Croagh Patrick , you’re in for a treat.

The view out over Clew Bay is just out of this world.

26. The magical Kylemore Abbey in Connemara

27. The windy road at Glengesh Pass in Donegal 

28. The Antrim coast that surrounds the ruins of Dunluce Castle

29. The Carrick-a-rede rope bridge in County Antrim

If you’re thinking about road trippin’ along the Antrim coast, check out our road trip guide that takes in the best things to do on the Causeway Coastal Route over 2 days.

30. Silver Strand in Donegal

31. The gorgeous village of Allihies in County Cork

This is one of my favourite little towns in West Cork.

Follow our 4-day West Cork road trip guide and you’ll end up here.

Wrapping it up

I’ve no doubt that there’s plenty more fantastic photos of Ireland out there.

If you know of one, or if you’ve taken it yourself, pop it into the comments section below.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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The 19 Most Beautiful Places in Ireland, From Inconceivable Rock Formations to Medieval Architecture

By Caitlin Morton

It’s impossible to visit Ireland and not fall in love with it. The small but mighty country is home to friendly locals, historical landmarks, and charming cities—plus staggering natural beauty—that will have you planning your next trip before you’ve even finished your first.

To help you plan your next trip to the Emerald Isle, we’ve compiled a list of the most beautiful places in Ireland (including Northern Ireland). We included colorful small towns , under-the-radar islands, and obvious showstoppers like the Cliffs of Moher, as well as many other attractions to add to your itinerary.

Whether you decide to embark on a multi-week road trip or just visit the country’s greatest hits over a long weekend, be sure to visit at least a few of these stunning attractions—you (and your camera roll) will thank us later.

This gallery was originally published in 2016. It has been updated with new information.

Cliffs of Moher

Location: County Clare

You might know them better as the Cliffs of Insanity from The Princess Bride, but this seaside wonder is actually located just south of Galway . Stretching for five miles along the Atlantic coast, the 400-foot-high cliffs offer one of Ireland’s, shall we say, most inconceivable views.

Trinity College

Location: County Dublin

Dublin ’s Trinity College—the oldest university in Ireland—has no shortage of beautiful buildings and green lawns, but the main attraction is the Old Library’s Long Room. The vast hall holds 200,000 books and 14 marble busts under its barrel-vaulted ceiling—with the intricately illustrated Book of Kells being the centerpiece of a bibliophilic dream .

The Ring of Kerry

Location: County Kerry

The Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile-long drive that loops around the Iveragh Peninsula, is really like several dozen beautiful places packed into one: The route passes by Killarney National Park, Skellig Michael, and several more entries on this list. Driving ( or hiking ) the Ring of Kerry is a great activity for first-time visitors to Ireland, as it perfectly showcases the country’s green spaces and Atlantic coast.

Benbulben Mountain

Location: County Sligo

Formed hundreds of millions of years ago, this limestone formation hovers over Sligo like something from a fantasy novel . Benbulben’s paved trails make it a popular destination for hikers and climbers, but the peak is perhaps best known for its literary associations. Irish poet W. B. Yeats drew inspiration from the mountain and its surrounding landscapes, most notably in his 1938 poem “Under Ben Bulben.”

Emily Saladino

Mark Ellwood

Location: County Galway

Galway is in a prime location on Ireland’s west coast, close to the Aran Islands and Connemara region. But the town itself is so charming, you might find yourself sticking close to the cobblestoned streets and ancient architecture for at least a day or two. During the day, make time to snap some photos of the Spanish Arch and the Claddagh, an area by Galway Bay where you’ll find rows of colorful buildings and swans floating by.

Giant’s Causeway

Location: County Antrim

Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder worthy of its whimsical moniker. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns, which were formed by volcanic activity 40–50 million years ago. Local lore tells the story a bit differently: Allegedly, a giant named Finn McCool tossed parts of the Antrim coast into the sea to beat a hasty path to fight a giant Scottish interloper. No matter how they got there, the rocks fit together as perfectly as puzzle pieces.

Killarney National Park

You could spend an entire day exploring the 41-square-mile Killarney National Park , from the towering Torc Waterfall to the 15th-century Ross Castle. One of the park’s greatest treasures is its population of wild red deer, which have lived in Ireland since the last Ice Age but now only survive in Killarney. Above all else, the park is most famous for its reflective lakes, which cover nearly a quarter of the entire reserve.

Ashford Castle

Location: County Mayo

Overlooking a lake in County Mayo, Ashford Castle has been around since 1228—but don’t go expecting an old-fashioned experience. The hotel underwent a $75 million renovation in 2015, which added a cinema, cigar room, billiard room, and wine cellars to the already luxurious 82-room property. The crown jewel of the property is probably the spa, which is located in a bronze former conservatory and features an indoor pool adorned with white and gold tiles.

Rock of Cashel

This group of medieval buildings (some dating back to the 12th century) situated on an outcrop of limestone is easily one of the most beautiful places in Ireland. Don’t miss the Romanesque Cormac’s Chapel or the Hall of the Vicars, which houses several Celtic relics like the original Cross of St. Patrick. Oh, and the views over the Golden Vale aren’t too shabby either.

Skellig Michael

Although the boat ride out to Skellig Michael from the coast of County Kerry can be a rocky one, it’s well worth the effort. The craggy, emerald-green island houses the remains of a 6th-century monastery, which you can explore after ascending a chillingly steep 600-step climb. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find a brooding Luke Skywalker once you reach the top.

The Dark Hedges

This avenue of beech trees in Northern Ireland dates back to the 18th century—over time, the trees have grown and intertwined to create a natural tunnel-like canopy. The site is both eerie and beautiful, which is probably why it was famously chosen as a filming location for the first season of Game of Thrones .

Location: County Cork

Cobh redefines charming with its rows of candy-colored homes along the water and towering cathedral standing sentry over the harbor. This small town is particularly popular with cruise-lovers—about 60 ships stop there every year. In fact, Cobh was the final port of call for the RMS Titanic, and a commemorative museum stands in the city today.

Kylemore Abbey

Mountains and valleys, lakes and streams, all combine to make Connemara one of the loveliest regions in Ireland. See Kylemore Abbey in the heart of the Connemara mountains for proof. This impressive structure was built in 1868 as one of the great neo-Gothic castles of the period. It is now a Benedictine abbey run by nuns, and the church and gardens have been completely restored.

Location: County Donegal

Inishowen is Ireland’s largest peninsula, occupying over 218,500 acres off the northern coast of the country. Due to its location, the peninsula is the best place in the country to view the Northern Lights; head to places like Dunree or Malin Head (the most northerly tip of Ireland) between November and February for increased visibility. Even if you don’t have luck spotting the aurora borealis, Inishowen’s unspoiled landscapes are fantastic road trip material—it is the last (or first) stop on the Wild Atlantic Way , after all.

Glendalough

Location: County Wicklow

Glendalough is a 6th-century monastery and popular Catholic pilgrimage destination, as the settlement was founded by Saint Kevin (aka Kevin of Glendalough). Religious significance aside, travelers will enjoy the valley for its well-preserved ruins, green countryside, and beautiful lakes .

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands consist of three windswept isles—Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer—off the west coast of Ireland. All three locations have a rugged, bleak beauty, but we might have to pick Inishmore as our favorite—it’s here you’ll find the 2,000-year-old ruins of Dún Aenghus, a Celtic fortress clinging to a cliff top as if declaring this to be the actual edge of the world.

Dingle Peninsula

Pointing into the Atlantic Ocean like a finger, the Dingle Peninsula is an incredible stretch of natural beauty: seaside cliffs , sheep-strewn fields, and Crayola-green hills. A short ferry ride away are the Blasket Islands, which once hosted a thriving community of Irish writers, but were abandoned in the 1950s after young residents emigrated en masse. Today, the on-site heritage museum—and remote, empty landscapes—are lovely yet somber reminders of a community lost.

The Burren (Irish for “great rock”) is not only unearthly and ethereal—it’s a geological rarity. The 150-square-mile area consists of thick layers of limestone dotted with a unique variety of flowers , ranging from arctic wildflowers to 25 different species of orchids. Visit in May to see most of the flora in full bloom.

Carrick-a-Rede

Suspended almost 100 feet above sea level, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was first built by salmon fishermen over 200 years ago. Although the last fish was caught here in 2002, somewhere around a quarter of a million visitors cross the bridge for both thrills and scenery. Tourists walking the 66-foot path are rewarded with views of Rathlin Island, Scotland , and the Irish Sea. A lucky few might even spot some sharks and porpoises below in the water...if they dare to look down.

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Sidewalk Safari | Part-time Travel Blog

136 pictures of ireland that will make you feel like you're there.

Ireland Picture Gallery

Pictures of ireland by theme, pictures of ireland castles.

• 15th century castle that is now home to the Phoenix Park visitor's center in Dublin
• Rock of Dunamase and ruins of Dunamase Castle in County Laoise
• An impressive sand castle on the grounds of Dublin Castle
• Macroom Castle in West Cork
• Malahide Castle on the outskirts of Dublin City
• Kilkea Castle , a 12th century gem that you can stay in
• Carlingford Castle on Carlingford Lough
• Imposing Athlone Castle in the Irish Midlands
• Lismore Castle in County Waterford

Pictures of Ireland Beaches and Cliffs

• North Bull Island near Dublin City and Clontarf
• A rocky beach on a moody day in Waterville in County Kerry
• Starling and a sailboat on the Irish Sea in Monkstown near Dublin
• The cliff walk from Bray to Greystones near Dublin
• Iconic Poolbeg towers and the beach at Sandymount Strand
• Stunning cliff walk and well in Ardmore in County Waterford

Pictures of Ireland's Countryside

• Thatched cottage with a pink door in rural Kilkenny
• A curious sheep in Carlingford
• Sheep crossing the road in County Kerry

Pictures of Ireland's Cities 

• Giant ceramic fish taken on a weekend in Belfast
• Iconic Bord Gais Energy Theatre in Grand Canal Dock in Dublin
• The Gasworks Pub in Dublin
• The Long Hall Pub in Dublin City Centre
• Charming Georgian door and tree in Cork City
• Historic Sean's Bar in Athlone
• Sunrise over the new Google Offices in Boland's Mill
• A view of Boland's Mill in Dublin
• Historic facade in Rathmines
• Sun-dappled buildings in Dungarvan
• Historic facade in Cork City
• The neon bridge connecting the Google office buildings on Barrow St.

Pictures of Ireland by Location

In the neighborhood of dublin, ireland images, i covered pictures of dublin city in a separate post featuring 106 photos of dublin. let's start slightly further afield but in the neighborhood of dublin. these are destinations that you could easily get to on a drive or organized tour from dublin in a day .  the jealous wall at belvedere house near mullingar the wooden roller coaster at tayto park (now emerald park), the world's only potato chip-centered theme park falconry show at tayto park the courtyard at st. patrick's church in maynooth the cairns at loughcrew in the boyne valley ardgillan castle : a great place for afternoon tea in a historic home and one of my favorite castles in ireland ., wicklow ireland images, continuing south from dublin, you'll arrive in county wicklow. wicklow features fantastic hillwalking, irish wildlife, and ancient ruins. county wicklow is accessible by car , public transportation , or on an organized tour . hiking the lakes at glendalough grinning goat on the hiking trails near glendalough historic cannon protecting the black castle  ancient round tower at the monastic settlement in glendalough another view of the round tower at glendalough the ruins of the black castle a curious fox in the woods an infinite forest near glendalough a babbling brook dark with tannins the p.s. i love you bridge a more anonymous but equally idyllic stone bridge stately lion at powerscourt, pictures of ireland: wexford, continue south from wicklow and you'll arrive in county wexford . known for some of the best strawberries in ireland, wexford is also great for birdwatching. greenland white-fronted geese overwinter at the wexford wildfowl reserve .  did you know that wexford is also the ancestral home of former u.s. president john f. kennedy plan a stop to the kennedy homestead on a road trip from dublin to kinsale ., kilkenny ireland photos, kilkenny is one of the best places in ireland to visit by train . if you are ambitious, you can even do kilkenny as a day trip from dublin. take a virtual trip to kilkenny with these photos: the garden at rothe house, a well-preserved medieval dwelling a kilkenny home ensconced in fiery foliage dublin doors may be iconic but dublin isn't the only city in ireland known for amazing doors. check out this pair of irish doors near the historic smithwick's brewery. the park at kilkenny castle remnants of nelson's pillar that was blown up on o'connell street in dublin during the troubles an atmospheric ruined church    , cork ireland photos, cork city (one of the best cities to visit in ireland ) has great craic and county cork (both east cork and west cork) features some of the most beautiful scenery in ireland. join us on a virtual tour of cork below. empty streets of cork city on a sunday morning a historic quad at university college cork (ucc) st. fin barre's church towers in the distance st. fin barre in cork city on a cloudless day gorgeous door on the ucc campus gargoyle drainpipe at st. fin barre's church flags flying over cork city shandon bells and tower at st. anne's church in cork city bright yellow door in clonakilty in west cork a comforting fire at the castle inn pub in cork city a brightly colored building in cork city sundial at the ucc campus nano nagle place red abbey tower the facade of st. fin barre's cathedral youghal clock gate tower in east cork fishing boat in youghal clouds over old head lighthouse in kinsale, photos of ireland: the ring of kerry.

• Muckross Abbey
• Craggy coastline at Parknasilla
• Sunrise over the Ring of Kerry at Parknasilla
• Clouds and reflections near Killarney Town
• The grounds of Parknasilla
• Walking the coastline at Parknasilla

Pictures of Ireland: The Dingle Peninsula

• Driving the Dingle Peninsula
• Sunset over Dingle Town
• An adorable Spring lamb
• Taking a hike along the Dingle Peninsula
• Angry seas and dramatic cliffs on a sunny day at the edge of the Dingle Peninsula along Slea Head Drive
• The colorful facades of Dingle Town
• A moody day at Inch Beach
• Gallarus Oratory, a perfectly preserved beehive church on the Dingle Peninsula
• Green fields that inspire Ireland's nickname (The Emerald Isle)

Limerick Ireland Pictures

• Bunratty Castle
• The grounds of Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
• Limerick's famous Milk Market
• King John's Castle
• Gorgeous red door in Limerick City
• Door to 12th Century St. Mary's Cathedral

Galway Ireland Photos

• Galway Cathedral
• The Quad of NUI Galway covered in red Autumn foliage
• The NUIG Quad at another time of year
• Gingerbread man at the Galway Christmas Market on Eyre Square
• Happy little snowmen on Eyre Square
• Thomas Dillon jewelers, home to the world-famous Claddagh ring

Connemara Ireland Images

West of galway, you'll find one of the most remote and wild parts of ireland: connemara . in connemara some people still speak irish rather than english as their first language. connemara is one of the most scenic places to take pictures in ireland. horse racing at low tide on omey island stone ruins in cong a charming thatched cottage decadent ashford castle where you can spend more than 1000 eur a night for a room a windswept cottage on the atlantic a stone wall on inchagoill island, a place where st. patrick himself is rumored to have spent time, mayo ireland photos, county mayo is one of the most peaceful places in all of ireland. from westport town to ballina and everywhere in between, commune with nature and come away refreshed and rejuvenated. sheep along the cycle path between achill island and westport town colorful flowers framing a mountain landscape between achill island and westport mischievous sheep on the path at mount falcon.  mossy stones in the woods on a walk at mount falcon eyes like a hawk at mount falcon yellow flowers on the great western greenway, one of the best things to do near westport a mother sheep and her lamb on the cycle track between achill island and westport anchor and the bridge to achill island sunset over the octagon in westport town, sligo ireland photos.

• Easkey Castle
• Wooden fence in the countryside
• An affectionate horse guarding the Carrowmore megalithic burial site
• Stunning views of Benbulbin
• The walled garden and sea beyond at Lissadell House
• The sea in Sligo is known for surfing
• Rippling sand near Lissadell House
• An idyllic church in Sligo Town
• The roaring Easkey River
• Lavagh Friary (aka Court Abbey)
• Sheep encounter on the hike to Knocknashee
• A windy view of Benbulbin

Northern Ireland Images

• Commercial Court is lined with pubs and street art
• The twisting staircase at Belfast Castle
• Stone wall looking out to the sea in Bangor

Images of Ireland: Miscellaneous Pictures

• Birr Castle, once home to the world's largest Victorian-era telescope
• Dromoland Castle with a Back to the Future inspired DeLorean parked out front. Did you know that the DeLorean was manufactured in Northern Ireland? Dromoland Castle is location in County Clare.
• Charming thatched roof cottage in Adare

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10 unmissable places to visit in Ireland

Mar 5, 2024 • 9 min read

The sweeping landscape of County Kerry is only the beginning of the most incredible places to visit in Ireland © Matt Anderson Photography / Getty Images

Ireland is a country of contrasts. To the west, its ocean coastline has towering sea cliffs, powder-soft beaches, medieval castles, historic villages and forlornly beautiful islands where locals still nurture ancient traditions. The midlands harbor lesser-seen towns and meandering blue trails that follow the path of the River Shannon along rich green countryside. Dublin and Belfast to the east and north offer all the rich culture and diversity you’d expect to find in a large, modern metropolis.

With so many places to choose from, it’s not always easy to know where to go in Ireland , so we've handpicked the best places to stay to suit every taste and every changing mood.

Choose 3, 4, 5, or 7 top Dublin attractions and enjoy great savings with Go City. Taste the world-famous Irish drink at Guinness Storehouse, enjoy the sights on Big Bus Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, or discover Dublinʼs oldest building, Christ Church Cathedral - the choice is yours!

1. Inishowen Peninsula, County Donegal

Best place for a road trip

This is the final slice (or trailhead) of the magnificent Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal odyssey that connects this most northerly tip of Ireland to the south along the western seaboard. Inishowen has a hundred-mile sign-posted loop trail that covers the major attractions around the peninsula from any starting point. It’s one of the best places to visit in Ireland for a weekend, as it’s easily navigated over a couple of days.

Start the drive north by navigating the easterly contours of Lough Swilly before moving inland from  Fort Dunree to discover a highlight, Mamore Gap. It’s a narrow, curving road that snakes through the Urris Hills with spectacular coastal views. Before weaving on towards Tullagh Strand , there’s a wonderful detour to Glenevin Waterfall. The route passes one beauty spot after another, like Five Finger Strand (which has hazardous swimming conditions) and Knockamany, before arriving at the top of the world at  Banba’s Crown on Malin Head.

Planning tip: Travel in the off-season (November to Easter) for the best chance to catch Inishowen’s famous northern lights (Aurora Borealis) stenciled onto a dark sky.

2. Northwest Mayo

Best places for beaches

With a jagged, vast coastline, towering sea stacks and off-the-radar islands,  County Mayo offers beach settings that are framed by spectacular backdrops. Mulranny , with its bone-white powdery sand, has turquoise water that swirls around its contours. It once lured John Lennon and Yoko Ono on a "second honeymoon," and it’s also the gateway to Achill Island’s Keel Strand, which has miles of dunes to fly kites and jaw-dropping views of Slievemore and the Mweelaun Cliffs. 

Keem Bay is further west on Achill, and it is arguably Ireland’s most beautiful beach. It’s sheltered by giant cliffs that rise up to the north and south like a natural amphitheater. North of Achill is the Erris Peninsula which has Elly Bay, a safe beach with shallow waters, or Glosh and Crosshead Beaches, which offer dangerous, menacing waves. Head off-grid to Blacksod Pier to catch a ferry to the Inishkea Islands and discover a magnificent beach fringed by an abandoned village and pristine ocean waters.

Local tip: Rinroe, a secret cove north of Erris, has caverns that offer a good photo op.

3. Kilkenny

Best city for history

The medieval mile in Ireland’s prettiest city center is a living museum. Yes, there are countless ticketed heritage sites like  Kilkenny Castle and the  Medieval Mile Museum , which offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past (and rooftop views), but a ramble around "The Marble City’s" beating heart is the best way to discover its past. A self-guided walking tour of the Medieval Mile takes in sites like the  Black Abbey ,  Saint Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower and the Butter Slip – an atmospheric laneway that exudes old-world charm.

As one of the best nightlife spots in Ireland for centuries, expect the pubs in this pint-sized city to have a great backstory.  Kyteler’s Inn on St Kieran’s Street harbors a dark past with trumped-up witchcraft convictions, and Kilkenny’s brewing pedigree is showcased at the  Smithwick’s Experience on Parliament Street and  Sullivan’s Tap Room on John’s Street.

4. Limerick City

Best city for sport

Large stadiums and racetracks orbit the heart of Ireland’s third city while its narrow cobbled lanes and broad avenues have pubs, like  Jerry Flannery’s on Catherine Street or  JJ Bowles near  King John’s Castle , for post-match banter. The Limerick team is the reigning national champions at hurling, one of the fastest and oldest field sports on the planet, but it’s rugby that gets pulses racing in "The Treaty City."  Thomond Park Stadium gives the backstory to the 1978 match, when the local team and underdogs beat the famous All Blacks from New Zealand.

A brand new multistory  International Rugby Experience in O’Connell Street has redefined Limerick’s roofscape. Adare Manor , a resort and golf club a short drive from the city center, will host the 2027 Ryder Cup. The  Great Limerick Run draws crowds every May weekend, and cyclists venture to the countryside for mountain biking at  Ballyhoura or to the  Limerick Greenway for off-road trails as far as Kerry.

5. Dublin City

Best city for LGBTIQ+ travelers

A statue of playwright Oscar Wilde reclines on a bed of quartz near his home on Merrion Square with a wry smile that conveys playful puzzlement. About 120 years after he was imprisoned for gross indecency, almost to the day, Ireland became the first country in the world to legalize gay marriage by popular vote, and Wilde’s hometown was engulfed with rainbow flags for the occasion.

The  party continues in the capital’s landmark gay bar,  The George , which is one of the best places to visit in Dublin for members of the LGBTIQ+ community.  Pantibar on Capel Street and Street 66 on Parliament Street are more laid back, and Mother on Grafton Street is for weekend clubbing. The city’s annual Pride Festival rivals the St Patrick’s Day parade for bringing the city to a standstill. Both GAZE , a film event in September, and the International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival in May mark the LGBTIQ+ community’s contribution to Ireland’s performing arts.  

6. Galway City

Best city for food

The scent of aromatic spices is carried on the fresh Atlantic breeze that passes through the cobbled lanes off Quay Street, the medieval heart of Galway . Top local restaurants like  Ard Bia at Nimmos cluster around its southern tip at  Spanish Arch because of its romantic setting, making it one of the best places for couples to visit in Ireland. It was once a trading post where galleons carried cargos of wine and food.

Cava Bodega continues that fusion of the experimental with traditional with their imaginative tapas, and on Middle Street,  Anair , the flagship restaurant of master chef JP McMahon is five minutes away.  Éan , a contemporary space down the moodily lit Druid Lane, sells exquisite artisan pastries. With fresh catch arriving from the ocean to the city by the trawler load, expect humble fish and chips with a difference at  McDonagh’s on Quay Street.  Sheridan’s Cheese on Nicholas Street offers the best dairy produce from the land.

Planning tip: Travel in the September shoulder season for the  Galway International Oyster Festival . 

7. County Clare

Best place to catch a tune

County Clare ’s coastline attracts visitors by the busload for the Micho Russel Festival in  Doolin , near the  Cliffs of Moher , late in February. It’s the place to catch a lively traditional (trad) music session at any time of year, with  Gus O’Connor’s Pub packing in visitors to the rafters.

For something slower and more sentimental, visit the medieval banquet at  Bunratty Castle or Knappogue , where you can listen to harpists and vocalists harmonize Ireland’s past over a glass of honeyed mead and spare ribs. Ennis hosts the annual Fleadh Nua every May, when the entire town moves in rhythm with the bodhrán (Irish drum). Its pubs showcase a nightly blast of trad at  Brogan’s and  Knox’s or contemporary live music at  Nora Culligan's on Abbey Street.

Local tip:  True music aficionados head to the east side of the county towards Lough Derg, where the pubs cupped in fern green valleys –like Shortt’s Bar in Feakle – host top performers nightly. 

8. Causeway Coast, County Antrim

Best place to hike

Located between Belfast and Derry on the north Antrim coastline, the Causeway Coast has a seascape that’s smooth as whipped cream in some locations and jagged as broken ice in others. But it’s always fascinating. At a 20-mile (34km) distance of moderate difficulty, and blessed with spectacular scenery, it’s one of the best places to hike in Ireland.

The eastern leg has stunning settings, like the Gobbins Cliff Path on Islandmagee Peninsula, but if time is restricted, travel west by train to hike to the heavy hitters that are crammed within 10 miles of each other. Starting at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, which jigs and sways over the waves below, head west past the  Giant’s Causeway to the spectacular  Dunluce Castle that teeters on a cliff edge. Round off with a visit to the  Old Bushmill’s Distillery to get the blood flowing.

Planning tip:  Build in a detour to  The Dark Hedges ,  nine miles south of Carrick-a-Rede.

9. West Cork

Best place for families

Ocean spray and homemade ice cream are just a taste of why this expansive, meandering coastline, with its necklace of charming seaside villages, is one of the best places for families to visit in Ireland. Take a walking tour around pretty  Kinsale to discover stories of notorious seafarers like Alexander Selkirk, who inspired Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe, and Pirate Queen Anne Bonny. Or meander by the ramparts of star-shaped  Charles Fort . For another epic activity, take a whale-watching  boat tour from Baltimore to catch a glimpse of a magnificent humpback or baleen rise and fall beneath the clear ocean water.

Days can be spent lazing, surfing and horse-riding by the white dunes of  Barley Cove or  Inchydoney Beach , or k ayaking with seals near Glengarriff.  Ireland’s only cable car leaves from Beara  to cross ocean waters to Dursey Island. Mizen Head, Ireland’s most southerly point, has an interpretive signal station that is accessed by footbridge over wild Atlantic waves.

10. Iveragh Peninsula, County Kerry

Best place for sensational views

For an out-of-this-world excursion, catch the ferry from brightly painted Portmagee to one of the most beautiful places in Ireland.  Skellig Michael, a small mountainous UNESCO World Heritage site, doubles as the windswept island sanctuary on the planet Ahch-To in Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015) and Episode VIII – The Last Jedi (2017).

Back on the mainland, the superlative landscapes will continue to impress with  Ladies View , which has panoramic views over the Lakes of Killarney.  Torc Waterfall on the northern tip of  The Ring of Kerry is better recorded than photographed with the powerful sound of the water pounding in the background. Head to Cronin’s Yard to scale and capture  Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain, which towers over the entire peninsula and ocean.

Planning tip:  The ferry service to Skellig Michael is extremely popular (and weather dependent), so it’s necessary to book months in advance to secure tickets.

This article was first published May 31, 2021 and updated Mar 5, 2024.

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20 of the most beautiful villages and small towns in Ireland

By Vic O’Sullivan

Ireland’s beautiful villages and small towns, with their clusters of whitewashed cottages, mossy churchyards and low-rafter pubs that still sell groceries along with a pint of stout, are living time capsules of the past. Some have only a single street lined with neat rows of slate roofs, rich lime render and solid sash windows, where locals gather in pubs that have had the same family names hanging over their half-doors for generations.

Dingle, Roundstone and Inistioge draw film crews from Hollywood, while Dalkey is awash with famous locals – from rock band U2 to temporary lockdown resident, actor Matt Damon. As remarkable for their setting as their character, they are often discovered around the bend of a road over a high plain or at the foot of a hilly lane, shimmering against the ocean after a summer shower or in the folds of a valley.

Kinsale, County Cork

Kinsale’s narrow, cobbled lanes, 19th-century architecture lacquered in dazzling colours and sturdy-beamed old-world pubs evoke the very essence of a pirate’s enclave. In fact, Daniel Defoe’s inspiration for Robinson Crusoe (Alexander Selkirk) set sail on his misadventure from this handsome port in 1703. Today, Kinsale’s location as the trailhead for the Wild Atlantic Way , its seafood offerings such as the succulent lobster at quayside Fishy Fishy , craft stores and hillside setting draw year-round visitors.

Find out which other towns feature alongside Kinsale on our list of the most beautiful villages in the UK and Ireland

Roundstone, County Galway

Close your eyes – and picture the perfect Irish village in your mind. Chances are it’ll have ocean views, a vibrantly painted streetscape and bobbing fishing vessels in its harbour. Throw in a backdrop of the Twelve Bens mountain range and Connemara’s awe-inspiring landscape and you’ll have visions of Roundstone in Galway . The main street straddles a steep hill overlooking the Atlantic, where visitors linger to drink in the view with a bowl of chowder or glass of creamy stout at O’Dowd’s Seafood Bar .

Inistioge, County Kilkenny

The 19th-century Irish village square was the marrow of rural commerce and Sunday-morning gossip in its time, and the handsome buildings that line Instioge’s green are perfectly formed edifices from that time. The setting has enticed Hollywood – providing a rustic Georgian background for films such as Widow’s Peak (1994) and Circle of Friends (1995.) An elegant 10-arch limestone bridge spans the River Nore and links the village to its farmland surroundings.

Doolin, County Clare

Set on a limestone plateau at the point where the Cliffs of Moher plunge into the ocean, this brightly painted ribbon of thatched buildings has borne the brunt of the Atlantic’s force for centuries. These days summertime visitors clamour beneath the low-hanging joists of Gus O’Connor’s on Fisher Street to hear traditional music. In shoulder season, the village regains the rhythm of a fisherman’s port as ferries dart to and from its pier to the Aran Islands.

Adare, County Limerick

With its neat rows of thatched cottages, Adare could be lifted straight from a John Constable painting of a county shire. The River Maigue weaves its way through the village, and lying by its banks are the ruins of Desmond Castle and a Franciscan Monastery – and the decadently refurbished Adare Manor , one of Ireland’s most opulent hotels. The main street is crammed with cafés, craft shops, pubs and restaurants.

Read our full review of Adare Manor

Baltimore, County Cork

This west Cork village dips and glides down narrow lanes flanked by Victorian cottages with sash windows and sandstone walls. Its shorefront is a hive of activity, with a cluster of small pubs and 13th-century Dún na Séad Castle. Take a whale-watching tour from the harbour, or idle at Casey’s of Baltimore hotel to eat mussels and drink home-brewed beer while looking out at the white sailboats speckled against the cobalt sea.

Dalkey, County Dublin

While Dublin City has absorbed other bordering towns into its suburban sprawl, Dalkey has retained its independent, seaside-village vibe, attracting A-list residents. The centre has remained medieval in character, with rambling narrow lanes that lead into Castle Street, the main thoroughfare. Two Norman castles and an appealing tapestry of granite and redbrick pubs and restaurants line the street. The village tumbles east, towards the sea – while its hillside has panoramic coastal views.

These are the best castles in Ireland .

Dingle, County Kerry

This town's dramatic oceanfront setting near the southern tip of a peninsula, and its comely streetscape, have drawn visitors for decades. Yet its provincial charm remains, due partially to the fact that Dingle is a designated Irish-speaking region – or Gaeltacht. Its terraced pastel buildings wrap around the pretty port, where trawlers dock daily to supply chefs, such as the crew at seafood restaurant Out Of The Blue , with fresh catch.

Cashel, County Tipperary

This quirky, lamplit settlement lies in the shadow of the Rock of Cashel – a medieval ruin set on a colossal limestone outcrop. More than 1,000 years ago it was the palace of Ireland’s High King, Brian Boru. Below, the village’s narrow, twisting streets are a mishmash of an architectural timeline. There’s The Cashel Palace Hotel , a crimson-bricked Palladian mansion; lots of Georgian fanlights; Victorian houses; and compact 15th-century Kearney’s Castle, wedged tightly between 19th-century terraced buildings.

Caitlin Morton

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli

Dunmore East, County Waterford

Snaking around its amber-shaded sandstone coastline, which twists and turns past pristine beaches and secluded coves, Dunmore East’s streetscape is like a pinball ramp that finally plateaus by its Doric column-esque lighthouse on the pier. Dotted along the way is Ireland’s finest collection of thatched cottages, and the uninterrupted view across the harbour bay to another lighthouse – the world’s oldest functioning, on County Wexford’s Hook Head – is spectacular.

Westport, County Mayo

With its neat planned Georgian streets and octagonal marketplace, Westport seems to have been designed with ambitious growth in mind. Luckily, it remains pint-sized in scale, with a mini grid layout that’s defined by the Carrowbeg River. Handsome, cheerfully painted buildings, drenched in flowers, lure visitors to a number of fine-dining options, or to experience the traditional music scene at Matt Molly’s Pub . Westport is the trailhead for the Great Western Greenway – an ocean-view walking and cycling trail that links the town to magnificent Achill Island.

Birr, County Offaly

This miniature Midlands hamlet has many grand edifices and architectural influences, from its Gothic castle to its neoclassical town hall. Every building appears as though it has been carefully placed by a porcelain collector, each emanating from the village square. The grounds of Birr Castle Demesne curve along the village walls and the River Camcor, and visitors can explore the castle’s past as a centre of astronomy by visiting its 19th-century telescope.

Carlingford, County Louth

Nestled on an inlet that splits the Cooley and Mourne Mountains on the shoreline of Carlingford Lough, this comely corner of Louth is steeped in history. The turbulent Cromwellian years, or later, when the village’s economy tanked as herring stocks inexplicably disappeared from the lake, left development in limbo for centuries. The result is that ancient infrastructure is now part and parcel of everyday life in Carlingford Village. Keep your eyes peeled for historical markers, such as the arched gate that offers access to town, a limestone tower that stands like a centurion over a public house, or the crumbling remains of King John’s Castle that keeps watch over the pier. Scattered in the maze of narrow, winding streets are further reminders of times gone by – such as PJ O’Hares , a vintage pub where hearty fare and fresh seafood are served by a roaring fire on days when a chilly wind swirls up from the lake.

Enniskerry, County Wicklow

Harmonious town planning transformed this 19 th -century collection of tenement houses into one of the most stunning villages in Ireland – but, of course, its setting in a lush green valley at the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains doesn’t hurt either. Streets converge onto a small, curved plaza where a copper-capped clock tower has kept with the town’s slow pace of life since St Patrick’s Day 1843. Today, visitors pass time with a scone and a hot beverage in the charming tea shops, or at the Avoca Terraced Café at Powerscourt Estate that lies on the outskirts of town. The 47-acre tiered garden has ornamental lakes, fountains, a waterfall, splendid blooms, and an on-site whiskey distillery. Enniskerry’s character is so beguiling that it attracted Disney executives to film Disenchanted (2022) with actors Patrick Dempsey and Amy Adams.

Kinvarra, County Galway

This pretty harbour-front village is the perfect stop-off for those touring Ireland’s glorious west coast. Its low-lying streetscape overlooks Galway Bay and it has a fine selection of craft shops, cafés, inns and pubs. Just off the main street by the pocket-sized marina, The Pier Head Bar is the place to while away an hour or two over a bowl of seafood chowder or mussels. If you time it right, Cruinniú na mBád, a regatta of local vessels, brings a frenzy of colour against the deep blue backdrop every summer. Perched on a small ocean-ridged bluff on the outskirts of town is one of Ireland’s most beautiful landmarks – Dunguire Castle, standing proudly like a displaced rook from a chess set. Architects of modern Irish literature such as Yeats, Lady Gregory and Synge gathered here to conjure up great theatrical plans as the Atlantic winds scaled the rooftop in the early days of the last century.

Eyeries, County Cork

Like a giant box of macarons, radiantly painted little Eyeries would cheer up even the dullest of days. Its location, at the south-westerly tip of Ireland on the Beara Peninsula, means that it’s off the main tourist trail, but bang central in one of the most remarkably beautiful corners in the country. The village is high on a slope that overlooks Coulagh Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, with unbroken views across the entire peninsula. The sky is big here, with kaleidoscopic sunsets that reflect and ripple off the water below. The village dips and soars over its hilly terrain – and apart from Causkeys Bar and a few cafés there’s little else to do but meander down to the coast and find a quiet cove for the day. A little further south, Allihes is another pastel-shaded village with a copper mining history and a superb white sandy beach.

Bunratty Village, County Clare

Bunratty packs a lot of gorgeousness in its diminutive, winding river-sculpted contour. Dominating the village and surrounding countryside is a sturdy 15 th -century castle that was once the palace of a powerful chieftain. Today it still bears the scars of Cromwellian cannonballs and mixed fortune, but with a sensitive restoration and conversion of its grounds into a model Irish hamlet, it has become a village within a village, attracting visitors throughout the year. Beyond the castle walls is cheerfully painted Durty Nelly’s Pub – it operated as a toll booth in the early 19 th century when Bunratty was a mini-metropolis that served as a water gateway to the Shannon River. A pedestrian limestone bridge, a canopied courtyard, a former stagecoach inn and the garden of the thatched and slated JP Clarke’s Pub draw al-fresco dining aficionados to savour the ripe produce of the local landscape.

Slane, Co Meath

Legend has it that Saint Patrick lit the bonfire that ignited Christianity in Ireland on a hill overlooking Slane. A few fields and a millennium and a half away, rock legends from David Bowie to U2 have ignited the same delirium in people – but this time it’s the fans that gather to hear their music in the natural amphitheatre. However, there’s a lot more to Slane than saints and singers. In the heart of the village, four identical and very handsome mid-18 th -century houses stare each other down diagonally from across an octagonal crossroads. One theory is that they were the homes of warring sisters, which would be typical of Slane’s idiosyncratic charm. Beyond the obvious Georgian symmetry and quadruplet houses, there’s something delightfully quirky and offbeat about the village – such as the broad and narrow architecture on Main Street or the 13 rounded and pointed arches in the bridge that crosses over the River Boyne and into the village centre.

Inisheer, Co Galway

Inisheer is a patchwork of townlands, strewn across the northern region of the smallest Aran Island. It’s darned together by a warren of lanes with dry stone walls that connect cottages to the church, shop, community centre – and of course, the pubs. Tigh Ned is a simple limestone and whitewash spot, where locals go to savour fresh catch and soak up the views. When the weather is wild, the island almost hunches down against the elements, but when it’s fine the setting is full-on tropical, with the village’s bone-white sandy beach leading to impossibly clear turquoise water. The island is virtually car-free, so a venture to the west side to view County Clare’s magnificent coastline is the best way to idle away an afternoon. It’s also a native Irish-speaking location– so a ‘cúpla focal’ (few words) might come in useful.

Killaloe, County Clare and Ballina, County Tipperary

These two distinctly different sister villages are linked by a narrow limestone bridge with 13 elegant arches. In Killaloe, County Clare, a pretty cluster of vernacular buildings slope down towards the waterside where colourful boats are moored and ready to venture out onto Lough Derg – arguably Ireland’s most beautiful lake. The village has higgledy-piggledy streets built into a hillside that shoulders the worst of any rainfall or wind. At the foot of the hill overlooking the lake is a 12 th- century Romanesque cathedral, St Flannan’s, which houses rare inscriptions and carvings from the centuries when local residents, the O’Brien chieftains, ruled Ireland. Across the bridge in Ballina, County Tipperary, visitors can explore Lough Derg aboard the Spirit of Killaloe , a passenger craft – or just drink in the lake views at Goosers , a traditional thatched pub close to the water’s edge.

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25 Photos that will make you want to visit Dublin, Ireland

07/08/2016 By Traveling Canucks 16 Comments Categories: Europe Featured Ireland Photography Pictures Sightseeing Travel Stories

Photos from our trip to Dublin, Ireland

We’ve returned from an epic road trip in Ireland and Northern Ireland and have many photos and stories to share over the coming weeks. Our trip began and ended in Dublin , the capital and largest city of Ireland, so we thought sharing a few photos from our time in Dublin would be a great place to start.

We spent 3 days in Dublin, but 1 of those days was spent battling jet lag. Our boys did awesome on the 9 hour flight, but the 8 hour time difference between Vancouver and Dublin was quite challenging for them. And us. They were wide awake at 3:00 AM and had a tough time adjusting.

Jet lag is not easy on the little ones. It took them 3 days to reset their internal clocks.

Whenever we travel overseas with our boys we like to give ourselves a buffer day to relax and acclimate to our new environment. Dublin was no different.

We didn’t have anything planned for our first day and a half. We arrived at 9:00 AM, which was really 1:00 AM Vancouver time, so we spent most of the first day hanging out in our apartment watching movies and taking long baths. It was the right call.

We spent the following two days wandering around the city on foot. We rented a 2 bedroom apartment in the financial district, two blocks from the River Liffey. It was a decent location, about 20-30 minutes walk to the popular Temple Bar area.

Read next – You must see these top 10 Ireland attractions

Fortunately, kids are allowed in the pubs in Ireland, so we reset their sleep schedules so that bedtime was around 9:30 PM and wake up time was around 8:30 AM. This allowed us to consume an appropriate amount of Guinness each evening while also giving us a reasonable wake up time.

Below are photos from our trip to Dublin.

Samuel Beckett Bridge crossing the River Liffey.

Colourful pub in the popular Temple Bar district.

The Record Tower and Chapel Royal at Dublin Castle.

Inside the grounds at Dublin Castle.

The Temple Bar whiskey and tobacco shop.

The elegant Ha’penny Bridge, built in 1816.

The Custom House, a neoclassical 18th-century building located on the River Liffey.

St. Andrews Church on Suffolk Street.

The infamous Molly Malone Statue  on Suffolk Street.

The exquisite O’Callaghan Davenport Hotel.

Beautiful stone and brick architecture on the streets of Dublin.

Bustling street in the Temple Bar district.

Patio culture on the cobblestone streets of the Temple Bar district.

The Guinness Storehouse, a Guinness-themed attraction at St. James’s Gate Brewery.

Sampling Ireland’s legendary brew!

Cheers to Guinness!

The Convention Centre in the Dublin Docklands.

Retail buildings and street scene on College Green.

Views of the River Liffey. Captured from the Samuel Beckett Bridge.

I love the bright colours and red brick buildings found in the downtown area.

The medieval Christ Church Cathedral on Christchurch Place.

The O’Connell Bridge.

Things to do in Dublin

There are plenty of things to do in Dublin, but most of our time was spent wandering its lively streets. We spent one afternoon at the Guinness Storehouse , which is a must for every Dublin itinerary.

We spent the next afternoon exploring the cobblestone streets of the Temple Bar district on the south bank of the River Liffey. Originally, we planned to visit St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin Zoo and Phoenix Park. However, in typical Irish fashion, the weather did not cooperate and it rained. 

In fact, the weather rarely cooperated during our time in Ireland. I suppose that’s the reason why this island nation is always so lush and green!

Read more posts from Ireland:

• Traveling to Ireland for the first time? Here’s what you need to know
• You can’t go to Ireland and not see these top 10 Ireland attractions
• If you travel to Ireland, you must see the Cliffs of Moher. Here’s why.
• 15 Photos that will inspire you to visit Cobh, Ireland
• The perfect Ireland road trip itinerary for families
• 20 Photos that will make you want to visit the Giant’s Causeway

Related posts:

07/27/2016 at 5:14 am

What a amazing place of Dublin, Ireland…..Nice photography & sharing pictures are beautiful.

07/28/2016 at 12:25 pm

Wow. I never thought that Dublin is that beautiful! I suddenly remembered New Orleans on that colorful pub photo. 🙂

09/07/2016 at 10:05 am

Ireland is famous for the friendliness of its people. I will plan my next family vacation to Ireland. Thanks for nice and wonderful post! These images looks really nice & beautiful.

08/15/2022 at 11:13 am

I would love to visit and stay in Dublin. I’ll also like to showcase my own experience very soon.

09/26/2016 at 1:35 pm

I like the building are modern and old. Nice pictures.

10/14/2016 at 12:09 am

Brilliant post, Cam & Nicole! It was very nice to learn a few previously unknown facts. Love the pictures. Thanks for sharing! I look forward to reading more posts like these! Cheers

10/16/2016 at 9:36 pm

I never imagine that Dublin will be that fascinating. Your photos is really colourful and make everyone wanna go there.The bustling street is just too awesome,Thank u for sharing

10/21/2016 at 12:44 am

Wow. Amazing photography. Thank you for sharing with us all.

10/26/2016 at 11:02 pm

The title is definitely correct: these pictures do want to make me want to visit 🙂 Love the colourful pub with all its flags.

11/01/2016 at 4:44 am

Dublin is such a wonderful tourist destination. The pics you are shared is really colorful and beautiful ,all the streets are awesome especially Bustling street.Thanks for sharing.

11/10/2016 at 1:55 am

The pictures are so beautiful 🙂

01/18/2017 at 10:07 am

02/05/2017 at 10:44 pm

Beautiful pics. These are all such a beautiful & amazing pictures those inspire me to travel for Dublin 🙂

07/21/2017 at 2:09 pm

We were in Ireland a few weeks after you. We flew in/out of Dublin, but did not spend any time there. Thank you for sharing.

07/26/2017 at 11:30 am

That’s too bad, it’s a fun city! 🙂

12/29/2018 at 6:20 am

Thanks for sharing the beautiful pictures about Ireland.The colourful flags in the street with all the bright colors really stands out. I never thought that Ireland was a great tourist destination. I will plan a trip with my family sometime in the near future.

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Discover Ireland’s Highlights

“Cead mile failte” – Welcome to Ireland. The Emerald Isle is one of the most fascinating countries in Europe and a unique holiday destination. On this website you will find everything you need to know for a memorable trip to Ireland. We introduce Ireland’s favourite sights and even more hidden gems off the beaten track. We have also compiled accommodation, car rental, flight offers and much more for you. Enjoy discovering…

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Young woman dies after horrific fall from popular tourist spot

It's one of the most visited sites in ireland.

Jess Battison

A young woman has died following a horrific fall from a popular tourist spot in Ireland.

Aged in her early 20s, the tragic incident happened yesterday (4 May) and it is understood she lost her footing while walking and fell.

Said to be a college student, she was visiting the Cliffs of Moher with three friends.

Found at the southwestern edge of the Burren region in County Claire, the picturesque cliffs run for around nine miles and the maximum height reaches 214 metres.

The Cliffs of Moher stand at about 120 metres at their most southern end at Hags Head, close to where the tragedy occurred.

It’s one of the most visited tourist sites in Ireland, with an estimated 1.5 million visits each year.

The four tourists are believed to be of different nationalities and not based in the country.

The alarm was raised at around 1:20pm yesterday and a search and rescue operation was mounted by watch officers at the Irish Coast Guard’s marine rescue co-ordination centre based on Kerry’s Valentia Island.

Members of the Coast Guard and gardaí (Ireland’s national police and security service) responded to the location and a rescue helicopter was also used in the search, arriving within minutes having been in the air already for a training exercise.

An RNLI lifeboat was also used to assist with the operation and units of the local fire and rescue service were dispatched the scene.

The search of the area was carried out and the Gardaí confirmed the young woman’s body was recovered from the water.

She was then formally pronounced dead as the body was taken to Doolin Coast Guard station.

A Garda spokesperson said: “Gardai and emergency services conducted an operation following reports of an incident at the Cliffs Moher this afternoon.

“The body of a woman, aged in her early 20s, was removed from the water by emergency services.”

The incident is being treated as a tragic accident.

Back in January 2019, a 26-year-old Indian national fell to his deaths at the Cliffs of Moher while taking photos.

And before then, in June 2007, a Hungarian man also in his 20s died after falling at the tourist attraction. It’s understood he was also taking snaps of the site at the time while visiting friends in Ireland for the summer.

Topics:  World News

Jess is an Entertainment Journalist with a love of all things pop culture. Her main interests include keeping up with the Twitter girlies, waiting for a new series of The Traitors and losing her voice at a Beyoncé concert. She graduated with a first in Journalism from City, University of London in 2021 and has previously worked at MyLondon.

@ jessbattison_

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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

______________

ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

______________ Advertisement

SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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UK weather: Met Office warns of heavy rain and thunderstorms

Downpours may cause flooding and travel disruption across much of the country on bank holiday Monday

Bank holiday plans for many could be ruined after forecasters warned thunderstorms and heavy downpours could cause flooding and travel disruption across the UK.

The Met Office issued yellow weather warnings for parts of central and southern Scotland , Wales and parts of England on Monday, warning that spray and sudden flooding could create difficult driving conditions.

The Met Office added there was a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly.

Forecasters said there was a small chance of fast-flowing or deep flood water causing danger to life, while power cuts were also possible and lightning strikes could damage buildings.

Warnings covering part of Scotland, northern and central England , Wales, London, the south-east and part of south-west England are in force until 9pm on Monday.

Later in the week the weather is expected to become more settled and temperatures will climb towards the weekend, possibly reaching as high as 23C or 24C in the south of England by Friday into Saturday and the high teens in Scotland.

Met Office forecaster Craig Snell said: “On Tuesday much of the UK should be dry with a mixture of cloud and sunshine, though probably cloudiest across Scotland.

“Going beyond Tuesday there will be much drier weather for much of the UK and it improves apart from the very far north and Northern Ireland.

“Away from those areas it is generally a dry picture going towards the weekend and on Friday into Saturday we are likely to see temperatures climb probably to 23C or 24C in the south.

“There will be quite warm temperatures for much of the UK, above where they should be for the time of year.

“It will not be wall-to-wall sunshine but the weather will be much more settled.”

Last Thursday, heavy thunderstorms hit southern England and Wales . Forecasters said the thunderstorms could pave the way for the hottest day of the year so far in Britain but this did not come to pass.

The first half of April was warm but that was followed by a chillier, wetter fortnight to see out the month. There was an average of 99mm of rainfall by 28 April, which is 27% higher than usual for the month. Last Wednesday was the warmest day of 2024 so far, with a peak of 22.1C in Santon Downham in Suffolk.

No warnings for the rest of the week have been put in place by the Met Office as temperatures are expected to pick up.

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