From dramatic coastlines and ancient sites to lively festivals and tucked-away treasures, the island of Ireland delivers memorable experiences throughout the year. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this curated list highlights both well-loved attractions and lesser-known gems to inspire your next journey.
Ashford Castle © Tourism Ireland
1. Step back in time at Ulster American Folk Park in County Tyrone, which traces the emigrant journey from Ulster to America and explores their influence on events such as the Declaration of Independence.
2. Experience the energy of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast, County Antrim, the world’s premier celebration of Irish music and culture each August.
3. Revisit the landscapes of Westeros at Tollymore Forest Park in County Down, a must for fans of the Game of Thrones series and its recent prequel installments.
4. Take a cruise to Scattery Island, County Clare, to see sacred sites, monastic ruins, and island heritage on a guided boat trip.
5. Explore Ireland’s iconic lighthouses — climb, photograph, or coast along the Great Lighthouses of Ireland, from Hook Head in Wexford to Fanad Head in Donegal and Baily in Dublin.
6. Learn traditional craft in Dublin by making your own Claddagh ring at Silverworks, creating a meaningful keepsake symbolizing love, loyalty and friendship.
7. Enjoy refined hospitality at Lough Eske Castle in County Donegal, where whiskey tastings, carriage rides and elegant dining combine with scenic grounds.
8. Meet the gentle Mullaghderg Highlander cows near Kincasslagh, County Donegal, and take in sweeping views of Errigal Mountain.
9. Try sheep herding at Glenshane Country Farm with fourth-generation shepherd James McCloy — an immersive rural experience that connects you with traditional farming life.
10. Relax with a paint-and-sip session at Ballyness Resort in County Derry~Londonderry, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Benbradagh Mountains.
11. Join a Belfast Taste & Tour Experience to sample Irish baking, learn to pour a perfect pint of Guinness, and enjoy local insights from passionate guides.
12. Design a personalized tweed cap at Hanna Hats in County Donegal, a family-run workshop crafting traditional Irish headwear for more than a century.
13. Rejuvenate with a Voya seaweed bath in County Sligo, a wellness ritual that blends Atlantic sea ingredients with wild coastal scenery.
14. Taste smoked salmon at the Burren Smokehouse in County Clare, a family-run smokehouse celebrated for its artisan seafood.
15. Visit the Irish National Stud & Gardens in County Kildare to learn about Ireland’s world-class equestrian heritage and wander beautiful gardens.
16. Stroll the Cashel Palace Gardens in County Tipperary with a local historian, enjoying panoramic views of the Rock of Cashel and the surrounding countryside.
17. Walk with Irish wolfhounds in County Mayo, meeting these gentle giants and learning about their place in Irish folklore and culture.
18. Celebrate Samhain at Ireland’s Halloween hubs — the island is the birthplace of Halloween, and autumn brings fire, folklore and vibrant community celebrations.
19. Discover Drumshanbo in County Leitrim, home to Gunpowder Gin, scenic floating boardwalks and access to the Shannon Blueway for paddling and exploration.
20. Tour Belleek Pottery in County Fermanagh, Ireland’s oldest working fine china pottery, and see skilled artisans at work.
21. Combine elegance and adventure with falconry and lunch at Adare Manor in County Limerick, a distinctive experience on a grand estate.
22. Try a sea dip, sauna and cold plunge at The Sea Sauna in Portrane, County Dublin, a coastal wellness ritual with open-ocean views.
23. Explore Ireland’s islands — from the Saltee Islands in Wexford to Valentia in Kerry and the Aran Islands in Galway — with private boat tours and expert guides.
24. Trace family roots and national stories at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin, an interactive museum detailing Ireland’s global diaspora.
25. Marvel at Ireland’s mighty sea cliffs: take in Slieve League in Donegal, the rugged Kilkee cliffs in County Clare, and Mizen Head in Cork for dramatic Atlantic scenery.
26. Experience holiday cheer at Ireland’s Christmas markets, from Galway’s cozy stalls to Waterford’s Winterval, one of the island’s largest festive celebrations.
Lough Eske Castle Hotel © Tourism Ireland
Plan your trip around these highlights and tailor your 2026 itinerary to match your interests, whether that’s coastal adventure, cultural festivals, or quiet countryside retreats.
