**UPDATED – I just spent three weeks road tripping all over Ireland and Northern Ireland and made it to (almost) all of these locations! Check out my posts for more best things to do in Ireland.
I’ve technically been to Ireland. Dublin and Cork. However, I was on a cruise which means I didn’t get to experience anything. Ireland has always been one of my favorite places, even before I went. I have Irish in my roots (just like everyone else says on St. Patrick’s Day, but I really do…promise) and just have always loved everything Irish related. Here are some of the best places to see in Ireland that I have not been to, but will definitely be making the list the second time around.
Trinity College’s Old Library
The Book of Kells, one of the world’s oldest manuscripts, is housed here. This library is a must for book lovers. If you’re like me, just walking through a library, running your fingertips along the books is one of the best feelings in the world. Even though I broke down and bought a Kindle doesn’t mean I love books any less. Don’t hate. The ‘Long Room’ is definitely one of the best things to see in Ireland.
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Giant’s Causeway
Located in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is made of mostly hexagonal rock formations that jut out of the sea.
Source
Cliffs of Moher
Another location that gets a lot of tourists, but for good reason. The cliffs of Moher look absolutely breathtaking. Just don’t get too close and hope for a clear day! There’s a reason why people say its one of the best things to see in Ireland.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
This famous rope bridge is in County Antrim in Northern Ireland which connects the main island to a tiny island called Carrickarede. It’s kind of touristy, but I kinda love bridges so whatever.
Sally Gap
The Sally Gap is located in the Wicklow Mountains. It’s been the film location for Braveheart and P.S. I love you so you know that the scenery is great!
Rock of Cashel
Rock of Cashel is a historic site located in Cashel, South Tipperary. It includes several buildings including a round tower, a 13th century Gothic cathedral, and a 15th century castle. It’s an architecture lover’s dream.
Have you been to any of these places in Ireland? What do you think are the best things to do in Ireland? Tell me in the comments!
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I have been to two places on your list! Cliffs of Moher and Sally Gap.
We started the cliffs of Moher walk at the village of Doolin (great little pub that has live music on an evening, fiddles and bodhrans, and mum got zapped by an electric fence around a sheep field on the way to the cliffs). The first time I visited here though was with college in 2006, and we couldn’t go right to the very edge as a few days before a young man, part of a college group, fell to his death after the overhang he was on collapsed. So sad. But the cliffs themselves are beautiful.
As well as Sally Gap we walked the Gap of Dunloe, about 6 miles or so to mid-way point, where you can still see and go inside the ruined police houses along the roadside.
I love Ireland, and can’t wait to go back! I recommend going to Innisheer, where they filmed part of Father Ted, and where you can hire a bike to cycle around the island and see the shipwreck. Also a trip to Muckross House is worth it, drive around the Ring of Kerry, a walk from the road to see ancient Christian beehive huts on the Dingle peninsula, and visit the Burren National Park, a huge area of limestone pavement. If you want somewhere to stay try the Boghill Centre near Lisdoonvarna, where you can eat and live simply for your stay and take part in music lessons and meditation (we stayed there on my college trip and it has a place in my best memories 🙂 )
Ahhhh, I have to go back!!
Haaa Ireland, always loved that country and the people there! Thanks for the article 🙂
Thanks and no problem! Ireland is definitely one of those places I can see myself returning to over and over again. 🙂
Beautiful! Love the pic with the bridge.
Frank (bbqboy)
We hit the Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede, and Cliffs of Moher among others – just a beautiful country and perfect for traveling with kids!
Ireland is just amazing – simple as that! Glad you had a great time 🙂