With 32 counties full of beautiful scenery, historic sites, and great pubs, it can be hard to know where to begin on a trip to Ireland. So, we’ve narrowed it down to five you simply can’t miss.
If you’re limited on time, planning a trip to Ireland can be a difficult task. With so much to see and do across the 32 counties, it can be hard to know where to begin.
With gorgeous coastal stretches, like the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal Route, fantastic historical sights like the Rock of Cashel and Dunluce Castle, and lively cities, such as Cork and Dublin, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to see and do.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Ireland and don’t know where to begin, we’ve got you. Here are the top five counties in Ireland to visit on your next trip.
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5. Cork – for a vibrant city and stunning natural sights
First on our list of counties in Ireland to visit is the magnificent County Cork, in the southwest of Ireland.
Home to Ireland’s second-largest city, several beautiful islands, and wild and rugged coastal stretches, Cork is a must-visit destination for all kinds of travellers.
Some of the top attractions that County Cork has to offer include the historic Spike Island, the beautiful towns of Cobh and Kinsale, and the mythical Blarney Castle and Gardens.
Offering a truly authentic Irish feel at every turn, with friendly locals there to greet you, your time in County Cork is sure to be the trip of a lifetime.
4. Antrim – a diverse and beautiful county
County Antrim can be found in Northern Ireland and stretches along the northeast coast of the island. Taking in some of the most iconic sights that Northern Ireland has to offer, this county is a must-visit if you’re visiting the north.
Start by visiting Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland. Here, you can learn about the troubled history of the city at incredible spots, such as Crumlin Road Gaol and the Peace Walls. It is also worth taking a trip to Titanic Belfast, where you can discover all about the famous ill-fated ocean liner.
After visiting Belfast, we recommend heading north towards the iconic Causeway Coastal Route. Along this drive, you can take in the stunning views of beaches and the Atlantic Ocean stretching out for miles in the distance.
Make sure to stop off at attractions, such as the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and the Dark Hedges.
3. Dublin – for the country’s historic capital
No trip to Ireland is complete without visiting the historic capital city of Dublin. Thus, County Dublin is certainly one of the counties in Ireland to visit.
While here, make sure to take a walking tour of the city, where you can learn all about its fascinating past and visit historical sites in Dublin, such as Kilmainham Gaol, the GPO, and Dublin Castle.
Other must-visit attractions in Dublin City include Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse, and Phoenix Park.
Travelling outside of the inner city, we recommend paying a visit to the seaside towns of Howth and Dun Laoghaire. These peaceful seaside escapes provide the perfect tranquil contrast to the hustle and bustle of inner-city Dublin.
2. Galway – for the Capital of Culture
Located at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way on the west coast of Ireland, County Galway is a truly remarkable place that steals the heart of visitors from all around the world.
From Galway City, with its cobbled streets, historic feel, and vibrant cultural scene, for which it gained the title of Ireland’s Capital of Culture, to the wild and rugged natural landscape of Connemara National Park, County Galway is a truly inspiring piece of Ireland.
With numerous songs inspired by the beauty of this fantastic place, we can bet your first trip to Galway will not be your last.
1. Kerry – discover the Kingdom
Topping our list of counties in Ireland to visit is the emerald gem in Ireland’s crown, County Kerry.
Located in the southwest of Ireland, along the Wild Atlantic Way, taking a trip to County Kerry is the kind of experience that will change you for life.
Boating the famous Ring of Kerry route, which plays host to some of the most magical scenery in all of Ireland, you will be constantly in awe at the natural beauty that abounds here.
Must-visit places in County Kerry include Killarney National Park, Skellig Michael, and the Dingle Peninsula.