Ireland is a country unlike any other in the world. It’s history, culture, and beauty all coincide to make it a truly unforgettable vacation destination. Really, the hardest part about planning a visit is deciding which sites you’re going to see first! To help make your sightseeing to-do list a bit easier, here are six of the best places to go in order to experience the spirit of Ireland first hand.
The Best Tours of Ireland
When it comes to planning Ireland group tours, consider if you want an urban experience, a historical experience, or if you’d rather take in natural beauty. Deciding this can help you prioritize so that your group can get the most out of their visit.
- Dublin
A cultural hub filled with delightful pubs, stunning architecture, and true Irish pride. The city, resting along the coast of the Irish sea, boasts several museums, restaurants, whiskey distilleries, and the grand Guinness Storehouse where you can sample the best stout in Ireland. In July, the hottest month, it almost never rises above 60 degrees (16C), while in January, at its coldest, temperatures rest at about 41 degrees (5C). No matter what time of the year you decide to go, you’ll always be comfortable touring these amazing streets. - Dingle
Situated between the towering cliffs of County Kerry and the towering Mount Brandon, Dingle is the capital of its own south-western peninsula. A far cry from the grandeur of Dublin, this town provides a colorful and authentic look at life in Ireland. The coastal town features its own whiskey distillery and a chance for dolphin spotting, along with several shopping destinations at boutiques along Quay Street. When it comes to finding the best Ireland group tours, this town has a little something for everyone. - The Rock of Cashel
One of the best tour options for the history lover in your group is the Rock of Cashel. The site, originally a stronghold for the kings of Munster during the Middle Ages, still boasts the original chapel and round tower, as well as stunning Celtic graveyards and panoramic views if the county. If you’re looking for off the beaten path castle tours, this is one to consider. - Glendalough
Glendalough is seated between the breathtaking valley of the same name and County Wicklow. Visitors come not only for the history but for the stunning sights as well. The 6th-century abbey, which serves as the heart of the site, was founded by Saint Kevin of Glendalough, and still stands as one of the best-preserved medieval structures in Ireland. Around this abbey, you can also take in the amazing woodland and hike along trails that run into the Wicklow Mountains National Park. When it comes to planning Ireland group tours, this one has something for both history and nature lovers alike! - Killarney National Park
Killarney plays host to untouched natural oak, ash, and yew forests. Herds of red deer roam free while kingfishers and ospreys chime in overhead. Dotted by beautiful lakes and interwoven with peat bogs and mossy woodland, this is one hiking destination that no nature lover can afford to miss out on. - Cliffs of Moher.
Rising from the cold Atlantic, these monolithic cliffs offer a view that has to be seen to be believed. At 120 meters in height, they offer views of both the coastline and the Aran Islands, all while creating the sensation of standing at the edge of the world. You’d be hard-pressed to find cliffs as majestic as theseanywhere else in the world.
Ireland is a country steeped in history and culture. It’s verdant countryside dotted with vibrant cities and historic sites that offer windows into a rich past. If you are looking for Ireland group tours, consider these six sites above, but don’t be afraid to stray from the beaten path and discover the spirit of Ireland in your own unique way.