Popular Regions in Ireland

If you’re an architectural enthusiast, why not try walking a trail past some of the city’s more notable buildings? From medieval churches to the Georgian quarter, Dublin has a host of architectural gems from every important period in history — golden oldies like Christ Church Cathedral (c.1028) and Dublin Castle (1230) never fail to disappoint, and mid-century fanatics will get a kick out of Busáras (1953). For those who prefer something more contemporary, the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre (2010) and The Convention Centre Dublin (2010) await near the Dublin Docklands; both are particularly compelling when lighting up a nighttime stroll.

Dublin holds the written word close to its heart and there are some truly heart-warming literary spots scattered around the capital — from statues and busts, to bridges and plaques. There are many ways to approach a literary tour of Ireland’s capital; why not embrace Joyce’s Dublin and follow the steps Leopold Bloom walked in Ulysses? Alternatively, visit some of the talking statues dedicated to Ireland’s most famous writers (Oscar Wilde and George Bernard Shaw to name but a few) to stage an impromptu reading.

Dublin is steeped in history that dates back over 1,000 years. History buffs will have plenty to explore, whether they’re interested in our Medieval Viking past or the Irish Civil War in the early 20th century. Some essential activities include spotting the battle scars outside the General Post Office left over from the 1916 Easter Rising; taking a walk through The Liberties (once a semi-independent fiefdom with its own laws); and visiting College Green to picture the 18th Century scenes as a grand new parliament house (now the Bank of Ireland) rose in 1728, and an imposing gateway and façade for Trinity College followed in 1759.

While Dublin is known around the world for its literary past and rich history, it also has a buzzing street art scene. An easy city to walk around because of its compact size, Dublin is the perfect setting in which to organise a street art crawl — and there’s no better place to start than Drury Street in the Creative Quarter, which is simply bursting with colour. Francis Street in the Liberties and the streets close to Smithfield Square often see new pieces popping up, while Temple Bar has an ever-evolving backdrop of creative expression on show, perhaps most spectacularly in the form of the exterior of Blooms Hotel on Anglesea Street, where James Earley’s vivid public art dazzles on a truly grand scale.

What better way is there to experience the great outdoors, than enjoying early sunsets that never fail to offer a symphony of colour while filling your lungs with crisp morning air. Dublin offers plenty of bracing walks all year round for every level of hiker. Visit Killiney Hill for incomparable views of the sea and the city, grab a coffee in Clontarf and enjoy a stroll out to Bull Island or head to the Dublin Mountains for a bit of magic and mystery at the Hellfire Club.

Though big gatherings, cultural outings and indoor dining are off the table for the moment, there’s no shortage of things to do in Ireland’s capital city while staying within your local area: and despite the restrictions, there are plenty of ways to prepare for an enjoyable — and safe — time in Dublin.

The County of the Gaels
Discover spectacular views at every turn of the road in majestic Donegal and hit refresh with a visit to one of the most scenic parts of Ireland.

The vast Derryveagh Mountains rule the raw landscape, explore its walking trails and loops. Find some of the world’s best beaches here and make time for the white sand of Ballymastocker Bay.

Experience the charms of this stunning county, plan your Donegal visit now.

The Garden of Ireland
Visit County Wicklow, a place with endless natural beauty and captivating history. See one of our most important monastic sites in Glendalough and learn about St Kevin who lived and worked here. Follow in his footsteps as you walk the trails and see panoramic views of Glendalough’s Lakes.

Powerscourt Waterfall is one of the most unique places in Ireland. At any time of year, you can watch water cascade down the rocky outcrop of Ireland’s biggest waterfall. It’s a must-see when in County Wicklow.

Enjoy a relaxing getaway to the banks of Lough Derg.

Take a leisurely stroll along part of the Lough Derg Way, through peaceful, mature woodland with uninterrupted views across the beautiful lake. Pop into quaint towns and villages along the way and enjoy some incredible, locally sourced food.

Book in for a Stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tour or rent a cruiser and get out onto the water for an unforgettable experience. Plan your stay now.