Ireland, in the North Atlantic, is an island blessed generously by nature. Nature in all shapes and forms can be found here abundantly displaying some of the most heavenly views on earth. Its stunning mountains, dramatic cliffs, scenic beaches and amazing country sides are second to none. It is home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites. No doubt Ireland welcomes millions of tourists from all over the world each year. Here is a list of some of the must see tourist attractions in Ireland.
Must See Places in Ireland Map
1. Giant's Causeway
Giant's Causeway is one of the top tourist destination in Ireland and rightfully. Unfortunately, it is also very crowded so be prepared or to avoid crowd come early. The best time to take pictures is Sunset.
Find out: How to Explore Giant's Causeway
2. Cliffs of Moher
The top tourist attraction in Ireland. The 2km walking trail which starts from Visitor's centre and ends at the Hag's Head is highly recommended. If you have more time in the area then do visit Burren National Park as well.
Find out: Best Way to Explore Cliffs of Moher
3. Dingle Peninsula
Dingle Peninsula one of my favourite area in Ireland. Take the small mountain road R560 which passes through Conor Pass towards Dingle. Take a break at Lough Doon a beautiful lake and waterfall right next to small parking. Dingle itself is a very beautiful town. In Dingle there are many tours to take you to remote Blasket Islands, Dingle Peninsula or see the Fungi Dolphins. Slea Head drive towards Dunquin Harbour is not to be missed.
Find out: Driving in Dingle Peninsula
4. Slieve League Cliffs
Slieve league cliffs are remote, less touristy, three times bigger than Cliffs of Moher and even better. I spent two days in the area unfortunately weather was terrible so couldn't get good pictures.
5. Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is a circular 179km tourist route. Few of my favourite stops on the route are Torc Waterfall, Ladies viewpoint, Molls Gap, 19th-century Mansion Muckross House and its impressive gardens. County Kerry is home to Carrauntoohil which is the highest peak in Ireland at 1039m. This is a great hike in good weather.
Find out: Driving the Ringe of Kerry
6. Rock of Cashel
The Rock of Cashel, also known as Cashel of the Kings and St. Patrick's Rock, is a historic site located at Cashel, County Tipperary, Ireland. It is one of Ireland's most visited sites and is a spectacular and archaeological site. A collection of medieval ecclesiastical buildings set on an outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale.
7. Aran Islands
The Aran Islands are 3 rocky isles guarding the mouth of Galway Bay, in western Ireland. They're known for their ancient sites. Take a trip to the Inishmore, the largest island which is home to the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa, perched on top of a high cliff. Nearby is the Worm Hole, a rectangular natural pool.
Find out: Day trip to Inishmore, Aran Islands
8. Michael Skellig
Michael Skellig is a set of two islands off the coast of Iveragh Peninsula, in County Kerry. There are only boat or Landing tours which usually starts mid of May. Only a limited number of people are allowed to walk on the Island every day. The touring boats usually leave from Portmagee harbour. Featuring briefly at the end of the 2015 Star Wars: The Force Awakens film (Episode VII), the island of Skellig Michael, along with the neighbouring Little Skellig Island, featured prominently in the new 2017 Star Wars: The Last Jedi (Episode VIII).
9. Mizen head
Mizen Head is one of the extreme points of the island of Ireland and is a major tourist attraction, thanks to its dramatic cliff scenery. There is a signal station, a weather station and a beautiful bridge.
Find out: How to Explore Mizenhead Cliffs
10. Kinbane Castle
A tiny castle on a long, narrow limestone headland projecting into the sea. Its all about the location of this castle and a chance to see two waterfalls.
Find out: How to Explore best of Northern Ireland in One Day
11. The Dark Hedges Experience
The Dark Hedges is an avenue of beech trees along Bregagh Road, Northern Ireland. The trees were originally planted in 18th century to create a unique expeprience for visitors. Even today they bring a huge number of tourists to Ireland and it's considered to be among the most photographed locations in Ireland.
The Dark Hedges became famous worldwide yet again after they became a location in the popular TV series Game of Thrones. In the series, it is known by the name of of King's Road.
Find out: How to Explore best of Northern Ireland in One Day
12. Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a famous rope bridge near Ballintoy in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The bridge links the mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede.
Find out: How to Explore best of Northern Ireland in One Day
13. Downpatrick Head Walk
Downpatrick Head walk is another must do thing while you are in Ireland. It is an area of unrivalled coastal beauty and historical importance. It's located just a few kilometres north of Ballycastle village in County Mayo.
Downpatrick Head opens up into the sea like a natural viewing stage that offers remarkable and umatched views of the Atlantic Ocean. The view of the lonely rock, the Dun Briste Sea Stack with its multi layered rock formations is a sight that you do not want to miss. Besides, Downpatrick Head is also home to the ruins of a church associated with Saint Patrick, imparting it religious significance.
14. Wicklow Mountains National Park
A popular day trip idea is to visit Wicklow Mountains National Park from Dublin to do the Lough Tay hike or The Guinness Lake hike. It is a privately owned lake in the Wicklow mountains and it's hardly an hour drive from Dublin.
Wicklow National Park also holds the honor of being the filming location of a number of major films such as Braveheart and P.S. I Love You.
15. Dublin
Dublin, capital of Republic of Ireland and the biggest city in Ireland. Its historic buildings include Dublin Castle, dating to the 13th century, and imposing St Patrick's Cathedral. Dublin is also home to Guinness.