Stretching along Dublin Bay on the east coast of Ireland, County Dublin is home to the vibrant city of Dublin, the country’s colourful capital. Aside from the lively capital, the county features rolling green hills scattered with a collection of character-filled villages, an array of beautiful beaches and a rich history. Visitors can enjoy an iconic black beer - the traditional Guinness; learn about Viking history at the Dublinia, a fascinating heritage centre; and discover the seaside towns of Malahide and Howth, which both offer scenic coastal paths to explore. Other highlights include the Ardgillan Castle and Demesne in the seaside town of Balbriggan, the charming seaside town of Skerries, and the bustling town of Swords.
Located in southeast Ireland, north of Waterford in the province of Leinster, the exquisite medieval city of Kilkenny has been dubbed ‘the Oasis of Ireland’, with its its countless country pubs, prolific arts scene and profusion of historical sites. The city’s primary attractions are concentrated along its famously beautiful 'Medieval Mile', with historic buildings strung between the extravagantly turreted Kilkenny castle and the cathedral along the banks of the gorgeous River Nore. Several immaculate parks and gardens provide a leisurely way to spend the day, as do the many luxurious world class spas. Numerous scenic walking routes, beautiful surrounds of picturesque wheatlands and stud farms, and world-renowned golf courses offer the chance to get some exercise in the fresh air. Make sure to visit the famous Dunmore Cave, home to relics from the tenth century.
The Irish city of Cork is situated in the province of Munster in south-west Ireland. The city’s compact centre rests on an island in the River Lee, surrounded by a maze of intricate waterways and reclaimed marshland islands linked by limestone bridges, grand Georgian avenues, and quaint 17th-century alleyways lined with gorgeous Georgian facades. An eclectic range of arts and culture is on offer, as well as a slew of atmospheric tapas bars and exotic restaurants. Popular attractions include the Crawford Art Gallery, with its fine 18th-20th-century collection, and the hi-tech cosmological displays of Blackrock Castle Observatory. The main drawcard is the chance to pull up a chair in one of Cork’s cosy traditional pubs, order a locally brewed Murphy’s or a Beamish stout, and engage in some lively banter with the city’s friendly locals.
Resting on the scenic shores of Lough Leane Lake in southwest Ireland’s County Kerry, the town of Killarney is surrounded by spectacular scenic landscapes. The countryside is dotted with cascading waterfalls, sparkling rivers, lush woodlands, glittering lakes, and soaring peaks. It makes for the perfect stopover for visitors road-tripping along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. Killarney offers visitors a variety of comfortable accommodation, quaint traditional Irish pubs and excellent restaurants. Visitors can view the 19th-century St. Mary’s Cathedral; hike the 200-kilometre Kerry Way walking trail, which starts and ends in Killarney; and explore the Killarney National Park, the first national park in Ireland. Other popular attractions in the area include: the 15th-century Ross Castle, Torc Waterfall and the ancient ruins of the Innisfallen Abbey, a 7th-century monastery situated on Innisfallen Island.
Set on the spectacular north shore of Galway Bay, where the River Corrib flows from Lough Corrib to the sea, Galway is a large, sprawling university city, commonly referred to as the 'most Irish' of Ireland's cities. Despite Galway’s considerable size, the historical city centre is tiny, with a bohemian atmosphere emanating from its colourful facades, buzzing markets and laid-back inhabitants. Dubbed ‘the city of festivals’, Galway is known as the liveliest place in the republic with its internationally acclaimed theatre scene, vibrant nightlife bolstered by a spirited student population, and plenty of quirky hidden cafes and restaurants with some truly excellent food. Highlights include: the constant impromptu performances of traditional music, the pretty Salthill beach with waters suitable for swimming, and beautifully wild surrounding nature.
