From dramatic coastlines and ancient sites to lively festivals and hidden gems, the island of Ireland offers unforgettable experiences year-round. Whether visiting for the first time or returning for more, this list will guide you through both classic favorites and underrated treasures.
Ashford Castle © Tourism Ireland
1. Step into history at Ulster American Folk Park, County Tyrone, tracing the journey of emigrants from Ulster to America and their role in the signing of the Declaration of Independence 250 years ago.
2. Feel the rhythm at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, Belfast, County Antrim, the world’s biggest celebration of Irish music and culture (Aug. 2–9, 2026).
3. Return to Westeros at Tollymore Forest Park, County Down, as the new Game of Thrones prequel, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, hits screens.
4. Cruise to Scattery Island, County Clare with Sionnan Luxury Cruises for sacred sites and island heritage.
5. Climb or coast among the Great Lighthouses of Ireland, from Hook in Wexford to Fanad in Donegal and Baily in Dublin.
6. Craft your own Claddagh Ring in Dublin at Silverworks — a timeless Irish symbol of love, loyalty and friendship.
7. Enjoy whiskey tastings, carriage rides and fine dining at Lough Eske Castle, County Donegal.
8. Brush the gentle Mullaghderg Highlander Cows in Kincasslagh, County Donegal, complete with sweeping views of Errigal.
9. Try sheep herding with Glenshane Country Farm, guided by fourth-generation shepherd James McCloy.
10. Paint, sip and unwind at Ballyness Resort in County Derry~Londonderry, surrounded by the stunning Benbradagh Mountains.
11. Join co-founders Phil Ervine and Caroline Wilson for a Belfast Taste & Tour Experience, from Irish breadmaking to Guinness pouring and city views.
12. Design your own tweed cap at Hanna Hats, County Donegal, a family business crafting Irish style for more than a century.
13. Rejuvenate with a Voya Seaweed Bath, County Sligo, blending Atlantic wellness with wild coastal beauty.
14. Taste smoked salmon perfection at Burren Smokehouse, County Clare, a family-run gem of Ireland’s west coast.
15. Visit Irish National Stud & Gardens, County Kildare, experience the home of world-class equestrianism on the Island of Ireland.
16. Stroll through Cashel Palace Gardens, County Tipperary with a local historian and panoramic Rock of Cashel views.
17. Walk with Irish Wolfhounds in County Mayo, the gentle giants of Irish lore.
18. Celebrate Samhain in Ireland’s Halloween Hubs. Did you know Ireland is the birthplace of Halloween? Enjoy festivals and celebrations across the island as Ireland comes alive with fire, folklore, and festivities.
19. Discover Drumshanbo, County Leitrim, home to Gunpowder Gin, floating boardwalks and the Shannon Blueway.
20. Tour Belleek Pottery, County Fermanagh, Ireland’s oldest working fine china pottery.
21. Try Falconry & Lunch at Adare Manor, County Limerick, where elegance meets adventure.
22. Sea dip, sauna and plunge at The Sea Sauna, Portrane, County Dublin, a coastal wellness ritual with sea views.
23. Explore Ireland’s islands — from the Saltee Islands in Wexford to Valentia in Kerry and the Aran Islands in Galway — with private tours and instruction from Atlantic Powerboating.
24. Trace your roots at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, Dublin, an interactive journey through Ireland’s global story.
25. Marvel at Ireland’s sea cliffs — from Slieve League in Donegal, Kilkee in County Clare to Mizen Head in Cork — for raw Atlantic drama and breathtaking views.
26. Embrace festive magic at Ireland’s Christmas markets, from Galway’s cozy stalls to Waterford’s Winterval, the country’s largest holiday festival.
Lough Eske Castle Hotel © Tourism Ireland
Discover more and book your dream 2026 stay at Ireland.com
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