Ireland Highlights: 4 Magical Experiences on the Emerald Isle

From the friendly locals to the breathtaking scenery, there is a reason the mystical land of Ireland is on many a traveller’s bucket list. Here are 4 of the unforgettable experiences you won’t want to miss when visiting this gorgeous, green land.

1. Immerse Yourself in the Culture of Dublin

The country’s capital of Dublin is a buzzing metropolis of food, pubs, music and art. Popular Grafton Street offers great shopping along with plenty of captivating local buskers for your entertainment. Meanwhile, night owls and party-goers should be sure to check out the thriving nightlife at Temple Bar. Offering something for every traveller, Dublin provides the perfect opportunity to meet some friendly locals and soak up the culture of the Irish.

Top Tip: Care to wet your whistle? Visit the birthplace of Ireland’s most famous brew and have a cold one (or two) at the Guinness Storehouse. You’ll have ample opportunity to do so if you join our Ireland Connection Tour, which begins and concludes in Dublin.

2. Be Enchanted by the Rock of Cashel

No trip to Ireland is complete without a visit to at least one of the many breathtaking castles sprinkled throughout the country. The Rock of Cashel, also known as St. Patrick’s Rock, epitomises Ireland’s reputation for endless rolling green hills and stunning medieval limestone ruins. Prepare to be transported to a whole new world, overwhelmed by centuries of history and the sheer beauty of a castle perched in a perfect postcard setting.

Top Tip: As the Rock of Cashel is just a 5-minute stroll from the town centre, take the time to explore the Cashel Folk Village Museum while you’re in the area, and be sure to make a wish in St. Dominic’s Wishing Well.

3. Pucker Up at the Famous Blarney Stone

For centuries, literary giants and movie stars travelled to Blarney Castle in Ireland to kiss the Blarney Stone in the hopes of gaining the gift of eloquence. Nowadays, visitors from all over the world climb the stairs of the castle, hold onto the secure rails and lean backwards to perform this unusual ritual. Whether or not they actually receive the gift of the gab is still up for debate, but it certainly makes for a fun tourist attraction with an intriguing history.

Top Tip: Near the Blarney Castle you’ll find the Blarney Woollen Mills, where you can discover the famous family-owned business with centuries of history. You can easily (and happily) get lost for hours in this one-stop shop for quality souvenirs and keepsakes.

4. Take a Moment at the Cliffs of Moher

An absolute must-see for anyone visiting Ireland, the magnificent Cliffs of Moher are renowned for their picturesque views. Located in County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher run along the Atlantic coast, offering views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay. As Ireland’s most visited natural attraction, the magic of the Cliffs of Moher will stay with you forever.

Top Tip: If the weather is right, look around for views of the Twelve Pins, the Maumturk mountains, Loop Head and the Dingle Peninsula.

If you have Guinness and greenery on your mind, see more of what Ireland has to offer on our Ireland destination page, or take a look at the itinerary of our wonderful Ireland Connection Tour.