The Best Activities to Try in Ireland

Ireland is a tiny island in the North Atlantic Ocean, but it’s a place that packs a punch when it comes to activities. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature-lover, or a culture vulture, you’ll find plenty of things to stimulate your senses in this Emerald Isle. From outdoor adventures to food experiences, here are some of the best activities to try in Ireland.

Explore the Wild Atlantic Coastline

Ireland’s rugged coastline is its defining feature, and exploring it is one of the best activities to try. Whether you take a boat trip along the wild Atlantic coastline, or take to the cliffs on a hiking trail, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the emerald green sea and the rocky shore. Head to the Wild Atlantic Way for the ultimate coastal adventure.

If you’re feeling brave, why not take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean? Wild swimming is a popular activity in Ireland, and there are plenty of spots where you can take a plunge. Alternatively, you can try your hand at surfing or windsurfing in the waves.

If you’d rather stay on dry land, you can explore the coastline by bike or on foot. Pack a picnic and take your time to explore the hidden coves and picturesque villages.

Experience Irish Culture

Ireland is a nation of storytellers, and experiencing its culture is one of the best activities here. A great way to get to grips with Irish culture is to visit a traditional Irish pub. Enjoy a pint of Guinness, and listen to traditional Irish music being played by the locals.

If you’d like to explore Ireland’s literary heritage, why not visit one of the country’s many libraries or bookshops? In Dublin, the Trinity College Library is a must-visit, and houses some of the country’s rarest books.

To get a better understanding of Irish history, pay a visit to a museum or historical site. Learn about the country’s turbulent past, and explore ancient monuments such as Newgrange.

Experience the Great Outdoors

Ireland’s countryside is full of natural beauty, and exploring it is one of the best activities to try. From the rolling hills of the Wicklow Mountains, to the wild coastlines of the west, there are plenty of places to get your fill of fresh air.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not go rock climbing, abseiling or mountain biking. Or, if you’d rather stay on the ground, you can hike one of the many trails across the country.

If you’d like something a little more peaceful, why not go fishing or kayaking? Ireland is also home to some stunning gardens, such as the Gardens of Powerscourt and the National Botanic Gardens.

Taste the Local Cuisine

Ireland is a food-lover’s paradise, and experiencing the local cuisine is one of the best activities to try. Start your culinary journey in Dublin, where you can enjoy traditional pub grub such as Irish stew and Guinness pie.

Head to Cork for some seafood delicacies, such as smoked salmon and oysters. Or, for something more unusual, why not try some black pudding or soda bread.

In the countryside, you can sample some of the country’s excellent cheeses and artisanal breads. Alternatively, you can take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Irish dishes such as colcannon and boxty.

Explore the Cities

Ireland is home to some charming cities, and exploring them is one of the best activities to try. Dublin is the capital, and is the perfect place to start your city-hopping adventure. Stroll through the cobbled streets, and explore the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Cork is the country’s second-largest city, and is renowned for its food scene. Head to the English Market for some delicious local produce, or take a tour of the city’s craft breweries.

Galway is the perfect place to indulge your inner culture vulture. Explore the city’s many galleries and music venues, and take a stroll along the banks of the River Corrib.

Go Shopping

Ireland is a great place to go shopping, and there are plenty of activities to try. You can find all the big-name brands in the capital, but for something more unique, why not explore the city’s many independent stores?

For something a little more traditional, you can explore the country’s many craft markets. Here, you’ll find handmade goods such as pottery, jewellery and knitwear.

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir, why not visit one of the country’s many flea markets? Here, you’ll find all manner of antiques and collectables.

Visit the Castles

Ireland is home to some stunning castles, and visiting them is one of the best activities to try. Start your castle-hopping adventure in Dublin, where you can explore the 800-year-old Dublin Castle.

Head to Kilkenny for a visit to the impressive Kilkenny Castle, or take a trip to the Cliff of Moher to explore the ruins of the 12th-century Moher Castle. Alternatively, take a boat trip to the island of Inishmaan, where you can explore the ruins of the 12th-century Dun Aengus castle.

For something a little more modern, why not take a tour of the stately homes and gardens of the Emerald Isle? From the Gothic halls of Powerscourt to the gardens of Birr Castle, you’ll find plenty of things to explore.

Visit the Islands

Ireland is home to some stunning islands, and exploring them is one of the best activities to try. Take a day trip to the Aran Islands, where you can explore the rugged landscape and ancient monuments. Or, take a ferry to the island of Inishbofin, where you can experience the unique culture of the islanders.

For something a little more off the beaten track, take a boat trip to the Blasket Islands. Here, you can explore the wild landscape and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

If you’d rather stay on dry land, why not explore the islands of the west coast? From the rugged beauty of Achill Island, to the sandy beaches of Clare Island, there’s plenty to explore.

Listen to Live Music

Ireland is renowned for its music, and listening to live music is one of the best activities to try. Take a trip to a traditional Irish pub, and you’ll be rewarded with some toe-tapping tunes. Or, if you’re feeling brave, why not take to the stage and join in?

Alternatively, you can take a trip to a music venue in one of the country’s cities. Here, you can experience some of the best live music in the world, from up-and-coming artists to international superstars.

If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten track, why not take a trip to a music festival? From the traditional music of the Fleadh Cheoil, to the indie vibes of the Sea Sessions, there’s something for everyone.

Go Horse Riding

Ireland is renowned for its equestrian heritage, and going horse riding is one of the best activities to try. Head to the Wicklow Mountains for some exhilarating trails, or take a leisurely ride along the coast. If you’re feeling brave, why not take a beach ride and gallop along the sand?

Alternatively, you can take a guided tour of one of the country’s many stud farms. Here, you can learn about the breeding and training of Ireland’s famous racehorses, and even take a ride on one.

If you’re looking for something a little more laid-back, why not take a carriage ride through the countryside? Here, you can take in the stunning views of the rolling hills and lush green pastures.

Take a Road Trip

If you’d like to explore Ireland at your own pace, why not take a road trip? From the winding roads of the Wild Atlantic Way to the stunning scenery of the Ring of Kerry, there are plenty of routes to explore.

For something a little more off the beaten track, why not take a road trip to the north of the country? Here, you can explore the rugged coastlines of Donegal and Mayo, and discover some of Ireland’s hidden gems.

If you’re looking for some adventure, why not take a road trip to the west coast? Here, you can explore the wild landscape of County Clare, and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Climb a Mountain

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take on one of Ireland’s highest peaks? Climbing a mountain is one of the best activities to try in Ireland, and there are plenty of routes to choose from.

Take on the challenge of Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest peak, or take a more leisurely hike up one of the country’s other mountains. If you’re feeling brave, why not try your hand at rock climbing or abseiling?

If you’d rather stay on the ground, you can explore the country’s many hills and valleys on foot. Pack a picnic and take your time to soak up the scenery of the Irish countryside.

Experience the Nightlife

Ireland is renowned for its lively nightlife, and experiencing it is one of the best activities to try. Dublin is the perfect place to start your night-time adventure, with an array of bars, pubs and clubs to choose from.

Head to Cork for a taste of the city’s unique music and culture. Here, you can experience some of the city’s best live music venues, or take a tour of its many craft breweries.

For something a little more off the beaten track, why not take a trip to one of the country’s many traditional music festivals? From the ancient sounds of the Fleadh Cheoil to the folk vibes of the Oireachtas, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Ireland is an enchanting country with plenty of activities to try. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature-lover, or a culture vulture, you’ll find plenty of things to stimulate your senses in this Emerald Isle. From outdoor adventures to culinary experiences, there’s something for everyone in Ireland. So why not explore the Wild Atlantic Coastline, experience Irish culture, taste the local cuisine, explore the cities, go shopping, visit the castles, explore the islands, listen to live music, go horse riding, take a road trip, climb a mountain or experience the nightlife? The possibilities are endless!