Discover Ireland

Within the rolling green hills and lively cities that make up The Republic of Ireland, are endless ways to engage with a culture that’s been shaped over centuries. World-famous legends, the arts, and a strong food and drink scene converge here in a heady mix that has long drawn adventurous spirits.

What’s so special about Ireland?
A shorter question to answer might be, what’s not so special? Along with the vast range of monasteries, castles, and fortresses that are dotted across its spectacular countryside, Ireland is home to several cities and towns that each possess their own, unique character: from the energetic hustle and bustle of Dublin to the colourful streets of quaint Kinsale.

things to know
about Ireland

  • Population: 5 million+
  • Capital: Dublin
  • Currency: Euro
  • Largest Airports: Dublin, Shannon, Cork, Kerry, and Belfast
  • Language: English is universally spoken here, though Irish Gaelic is the first official language
  • Getting around: If you hire a car, drive on the left side of the road. There are plenty of ways to get from A to B via public transport, too, including train, bus, and taxi. See the Transport for Ireland website for more information
  • Fun facts: Ireland is actually divided into two countries – the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Its patron saint is St. Patrick, who’s celebrated annually on March 17
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MODERN IRISH CULTURE

Dublin has been voted the friendliest city in Europe more than once, and for good reason. Irish people are known for their warm and welcoming demeanor, as well as sense of humour and community ties.

What’s more, music, dance, and drink are deeply intertwined with the spirit of the country – hence its bustling pub scene, which is renowned the world over. You haven’t really had a traditional holiday here until you’ve sampled a Guinness and taken part in some karaoke…

Monastic sites

Ireland is unique in the sheer wealth of sacred sights it offers. You can seemingly find a religious site around every corner, and with them, gripping ways to connect with the country’s history and culture through a more spiritual lens.

A country for
golf lovers

Ireland’s credentials as a golfing superpower are so impressive that making a list of its best courses feels askin to making one for the best courses in the world. Here’s our shortlist.

EXCITING IRISH CITIES

Dublin

Dublin is a spirited city that balances its storied past with modern pleasures like shopping, wining and dining. In particular, you’ll find several ways to appreciate the arts, as an impressive range of museums, theatres and more pepper the capital’s streets… including historic sightseeing spots like O’Connell Street, the widest street in Europe.

Cork

Cork was founded by the Vikings in 814 AD, and was once the capital of Ireland. Today, it’s a captivating city with a strong community and plethora of cultural sights, many of which can be found in its famous Victorian Quarter. Between its buzzing nightlife, impressive architecture and esteemed arts and music venues, it’s impossible to get bored here.

Limerick

The west of Ireland is partly defined by dazzling Limerick – the host city of the country’s largest festival, the Fleadh Cheoil, where Irish culture is celebrated through music, dance, and other revelries. As one of Ireland’s oldest cities, Limerick is also a hotbed of history, and boasts the largest Georgian Quarter in the country outside of Dublin.

Galway

Many artists and writers have made this city their home over the years, including the Nobel Prize-winning author, James Joyce. There’s a good reason why. Galway melts gorgeously into the Wild Atlantic Way’s rugged coastline, combining city and country life to breathtaking effect. Did you know it also has the largest Irish Gaelic speaking community in the country?

River Dance Leading Irish entertainment

Riverdance has been astounding audiences for decades with its use of ‘stepdance’ – a style of dance defined by quick-footed maneuvers – set to traditional Irish music.

Regions in Ireland

The North West

The wild beauty of the counties Sligo and Donegal appeal to die-hard hikers and nature wanderers, set against a rugged coastline and filled with deserted mountains, moors, and lakes. Just as excitingly, this region is filled with rare archaeological remains to explore.

The West

The vast, unspoiled landscapes of Connacht, which include the Cliffs of Moher and awe-inspiring Connemara, represent the ideal image of Ireland for many. Along with its fantastic feats of nature, you’ll find this region’s city of Galway a haven of Gaelic culture and language.

The South West

Filled with attractive fishing villages, West Cork is a favourite spot for foodies (particularly those that enjoy the fruits of the ocean). Several of this region’s best sights hardly need advertising: from the panoramic roads of the Ring of Kerry to the magnificent scenery of Killarney National Park and the Dingle Peninsula.

County Meath and Central Lake District

Chief of the incredible monuments that make up this pocket of Ireland are Newgrange – a huge passage grave from the Neolithic Age – and Clonmacnoise, which was once the spiritual and intellectual center of the island. The Lakelands here are ideal for anglers and boaters, too.

Dublin and the Wicklow Mountains

Everything can be explored on foot in Dublin… but you’ll want to wear good shoes! Between its legendary pubs, culture hotspots, hip boutiques and national museums, there’s so much to see. If you’ve had enough of the city buzz, the wondrous Wicklow Mountains are just a short drive away.

The South East

Sandy beaches and a variety of water sports are the main attractions of this sunny region, though further inland there are some surprising treasures, including the Rock of Cashel and picturesque medieval city of Kilkenny.

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