From Europe’s largest green space to the longest coastal touring route in the world, Ireland is a dream come true. The Emerald Isle is a country brimming with fun and fascinating ways to spend your days, below is a list of my favorite places from our week-long vacation.
Rent a Car
Ireland has the most incredible scenery, and the best way to see it is by car. Master driving on the “proper” side of the road as you explore the Ring of Kerry and the Wild Atlantic Way.
pullover (similar | similar) // jeans // socks // boots // sunglasses
Drink a Beer or Whiskey
Our chauffeur from the hotel on day one told us that you would be judged more harshly for ordering a coffee at breakfast than a beer. We all made it our mission to try as many different beers as possible. There is more to Ireland than Guinness. Every town we visited had their own brewery, so ask your waiter about the local beer. Plus, you get a legit pint unlike in the U.S.
Not a beer drinker? That’s ok. The drink recommended to us was Jameson and Red. Try it; it’s delicious!
Visit a Church
Ireland is dotted with as many churches as it is with sheep and cows. If you are looking for suggestions, then I recommend checking out the following.
Christ Church Cathedral
This church is located in Dublin and was founded circa 1030. The thing I love most about this church is this is where Handel’s Messiah was first performed in Dublin in 1742.
Cathedral Church of St Canices & The Close
St Canice’s Cathedral has been a place of worship since the 6th Century. Located in Kilkenny, the Close consists of the Cathedral round tower and the various buildings in and around the close area. I highly recommend climbing to the top of the monks’ tower.
Related: St. Canice’s Cathedral
Visit a Castle
Castles are a dime a dozen in Ireland, so find one that works for your schedule and check it out. We spent the day at Bunratty Castle and even enjoyed a fun dinner there one evening. This specific castle is a large 15th-century tower house.
Related: Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
Blarney Stone
Hike to the top of Blarney Castle and kiss one of the more famous rocks in the world.
Related: Blarney Castle
Enjoy Pub Life
You cannot walk the streets in Ireland without passing a handful of pubs. One of the pieces of advice provided to us at the beginning of the trip by a local was to eat at the pubs. Pubs have restaurant-level food but are less expensive than some restaurants. Plus you get a more significant interaction with the locals and hear classical pub music, something that is worth the experience alone.
Cliffs of Moher
The cliffs are one of Ireland’s most visited attractions. They definitely live up to the hype and are absolutely stunning.
hat // jacket // sunglasses
