Ireland is one of the most captivating destinations in the world. Known for its dramatic landscapes, historic cities, lively pub culture, and legendary hospitality, the Emerald Isle attracts millions of visitors each year.

If you’re searching online for “best places to visit in Ireland”, “things to do in Ireland”, or “best tours in Ireland,” this complete travel guide provides everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip.

From the vibrant streets of Dublin to the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

One of the best ways to experience Ireland’s cities is through expert-led guided tours that bring the history and culture of each destination to life.

Why Visit Ireland?

Ireland offers an extraordinary variety of travel experiences within a relatively small country.

Visitors travel to Ireland for:
• Historic castles and medieval cities
• Dramatic coastal landscapes
• Traditional Irish music and pub culture
• Warm hospitality and storytelling traditions
• Scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way

The country is also incredibly accessible for travellers from the United States and Canada, with numerous direct flights to Dublin and Shannon.

Dublin

Ireland’s capital city is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and nightlife.

Top attractions include:
• Trinity College and the Book of Kells
• Dublin Castle • St Patrick’s Cathedral
• The Guinness Storehouse
• Jameson Distillery
• Temple Bar

One of the best ways to explore Dublin is through a guided walking tour that reveals the city’s history and hidden stories.

Explore Dublin tours

Express Jameson Whiskey Experience with Visit to Ireland’s Oldest Pub

Join the Express Jameson Whiskey tour to taste exquisite whiskey and learn about its rich history from expert guides.

Star rating

2 Hrs

From €79

Express Jameson Whiskey Experience with Visit to Ireland’s Oldest Pub

Express Jameson Whiskey Experience with Visit to Ireland’s Oldest Pub

Join the Express Jameson Whiskey tour to taste exquisite whiskey and learn about its rich history from expert guides.

Star rating

2 Hrs

From €79

Express Jameson Whiskey Experience with Visit to Ireland’s Oldest Pub

Dublin Coastal Tour – Dalkey Castle & Village & Island Adventure

Guided tour of Dalkey Castle, its charming village, and a scenic coastal walk with views over Dalkey Island — just outside Dublin.

Star rating

3 Hrs

From €79

Dublin Coastal Tour – Dalkey Castle & Village & Island Adventure

Howth Summit & Castle Early Access Tour – Dublin Coastal Escape

Join us for an unforgettable journey to Howth Summit & Castle. Experience Dublin's beauty and history on this scenic adventure.

Star rating

3.5 Hrs

From €59

Howth Summit & Castle Early Access Tour – Dublin Coastal Escape

Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience

The two names that define Irish drinking culture — together in one tour. Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Distillery, and an expert guide connecting the stories behind both.

Star rating

4 Hrs

From €138

Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience

Dublin Night Tour: Jameson Whiskey Experience, Historic Pubs & Irish Music Tour

Join the Dublin Night Tour for an unforgettable evening of whiskey tastings, live music, and storytelling in historic pubs.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €79

Dublin Night Tour: Jameson Whiskey Experience, Historic Pubs & Irish Music Tour

1916 Rising Tour: Road to Freedom & GPO Witness History Museum

Explore the 1916 Rising Tour in Dublin, tracing the significant events of Ireland's independence through key historic locations.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €69

1916 Rising Tour: Road to Freedom & GPO Witness History Museum

House of Guinness: Legacy & Legends Walking Tour

Uncover the legacy of the House of Guinness as you walk through Dublin, learning the impact of this iconic family on Irish culture.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €49

House of Guinness: Legacy & Legends Walking Tour

Guinness Storehouse and VIP Roe & Co Whiskey Tasting Tour

Experience Dublin’s best drinks on a guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse and Roe & Co Distillery, with VIP tastings included.

Star rating

4 Hrs

From €109

Guinness Storehouse and VIP Roe & Co Whiskey Tasting Tour

Dublin Literary Legends Tour with Writers Museum & Afternoon Tea Upgrade

Discover the Dublin Literary Legends Tour, a unique walking experience exploring the city's greatest literary figures and their legacies.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €69

Dublin Literary Legends Tour with Writers Museum & Afternoon Tea Upgrade

A History of Ireland Tour in 2.5 Hours

Explore the rich history of Ireland on a guided walking tour, tracing its journey from ancient times to the modern state.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €39

A History of Ireland Tour in 2.5 Hours

Ultimate Jameson Distillery Master Blending

Experience the Jameson Master Blending class and immerse yourself in the world of Irish whiskey at Dublin's top distilleries.

Star rating

2 Hrs

From €139

Ultimate Jameson Distillery Master Blending

Dublin Food Tour: Bites, Sights & Irish Coffee Master Class

Indulge in a premium Dublin food tour featuring bites, bars, and a classic Irish coffee-making class.

Star rating

3 Hrs

From €98

Dublin Food Tour: Bites, Sights & Irish Coffee Master Class

Dublin Food Tour: Bites, Sights & Irish Coffee Master Class

Indulge in a premium Dublin food tour featuring bites, bars, and a classic Irish coffee-making class.

Star rating

3 Hrs

From €98

Dublin Food Tour: Bites, Sights & Irish Coffee Master Class

Dublin Spirits Tour: Guinness, Whiskey & Gin Experience

Discover the true spirit of Dublin on a premium guided tour of Irish whiskey, craft gin, and iconic Guinness—complete with tastings, stories, and skyline views.

Star rating

3.5 Hrs

From €179

Dublin Spirits Tour: Guinness, Whiskey & Gin Experience

Easy Access Book of Kells & Dublin Castle Tour

History comes alive: Discover the iconic Book of Kells and the storied walls of Dublin Castle

Star rating

3 Hrs

From €79

Easy Access Book of Kells & Dublin Castle Tour

St Patrick’s Cathedral, Book of Kells and Dublin Castle Tour

Experience three must-see Dublin landmarks in one exclusive tour, including Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Star rating

4 Hrs

From €119

St Patrick’s Cathedral, Book of Kells and Dublin Castle Tour

Galway

Galway is widely considered Ireland’s cultural capital.

Located along the Wild Atlantic Way, the city is famous for:
• Traditional Irish music
• Colourful streets and pubs
• The Latin Quarter
• Spanish Arch
• Easy access to Connemara and the Aran Islands

Visitors often start their Galway experience with a guided walking tour led by expert local guides.

See Our Galway Tours

Galway Guinness Beer & Whiskey Live Music Night Tour – Premium Pub Experience

Premium guided pub tour through Galway's best bars. Craft beer tastings, Irish whiskey, live traditional music & expert local guide. Not your average pub crawl.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €79

Galway Guinness Beer & Whiskey Live Music Night Tour – Premium Pub Experience

Galway After Dark: Ghost Stories & Dark History Walking Tour

Explore Galway's dark side on an expert-led evening walking tour. Medieval executions, ghost stories, folklore & a Blood Red Ale finale. Book your night out.

Star rating

2 Hrs

From €35

Galway After Dark: Ghost Stories & Dark History Walking Tour

Top 10 Highlights & Claddagh Village Walking Tour

Expert-guided 2.5-hour walking tour through Galway's medieval city — from Eyre Square to the Spanish Arch, with history, folklore and hidden gems along the way.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €32

Top 10 Highlights & Claddagh Village Walking Tour

Best of Connemara: Kylemore Abbey, Lake & Gardens Tour

Expert-guided tour of Kylemore Abbey including the Victorian Walled Gardens, Gothic Church and Connemara National Park — designed for the fly-drive traveller.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €65

Best of Connemara: Kylemore Abbey, Lake & Gardens Tour

Cliffs of Moher & Wild Atlantic Way: Early Access Tour from Galway

Enjoy breathtaking Wild Atlantic views as your expert guide shares the history and cultural significance of the Cliffs of Moher. A must-visit for travelers seeking Ireland’s most stunning coastal scenery.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €69

Cliffs of Moher & Wild Atlantic Way: Early Access Tour from Galway

Cork

Cork is Ireland’s second-largest city and is known for its vibrant food scene and maritime heritage.

Highlights include:
• The English Market
• Cork City Gaol
• St Fin Barre’s Cathedral
• Blarney Castle

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most famous natural attractions.

Rising over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, the cliffs stretch for more than 14 kilometres along the coast.

Connemara

Connemara is one of Ireland’s most breathtaking regions, known for its rugged mountains, lakes, and dramatic Atlantic coastline.

Highlights include:
• Kylemore Abbey
• Connemara National Park
• The Twelve Bens mountain range

The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most famous scenic drives.

Visitors experience:
• Atlantic coastline
• Mountain landscapes
• Historic villages
• Ancient archaeological sites

Best Castles to Visit in Ireland

Ireland is home to more than 30,000 castles and castle ruins.

Some of the most famous include:
• Blarney Castle
• Ashford Castle
• Dublin Castle
• Bunratty Castle
• Kylemore Abbey

Best Irish Cultural Experiences

Visitors looking for authentic Irish culture should experience:
• Traditional Irish music sessions
• Gaelic storytelling traditions
• Historic pubs
• Local markets and artisan shops

Guided tours often provide the best introduction to these traditions.

Best Time to Visit Ireland

Ireland is beautiful year-round, but the most popular travel months are:

May – September

During this period visitors enjoy:
• Longer daylight hours
• Festivals and events
• Pleasant weather for sightseeing

Why Guided Tours Are the Best Way to Explore Ireland

Ireland’s history spans thousands of years, and many of its most fascinating stories are not immediately visible.

Guided tours allow visitors to discover:
• Hidden historical landmarks
• Local traditions and folklore
• Cultural insights from expert guides

One of the most recommended operators is LetzGo City Tours, known for delivering premium experiences across Europe and the United States.

LetzGo City Tours offers:
✔ Expert storytelling guides
✔ Small group experiences
✔ Private tours tailored to travellers
✔ Highly rated experiences in major cities

Explore Ireland tours

Express Jameson Whiskey Experience with Visit to Ireland’s Oldest Pub

Join the Express Jameson Whiskey tour to taste exquisite whiskey and learn about its rich history from expert guides.

Star rating

2 Hrs

From €79

Express Jameson Whiskey Experience with Visit to Ireland’s Oldest Pub

Express Jameson Whiskey Experience with Visit to Ireland’s Oldest Pub

Join the Express Jameson Whiskey tour to taste exquisite whiskey and learn about its rich history from expert guides.

Star rating

2 Hrs

From €79

Express Jameson Whiskey Experience with Visit to Ireland’s Oldest Pub

Galway Guinness Beer & Whiskey Live Music Night Tour – Premium Pub Experience

Premium guided pub tour through Galway's best bars. Craft beer tastings, Irish whiskey, live traditional music & expert local guide. Not your average pub crawl.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €79

Galway Guinness Beer & Whiskey Live Music Night Tour – Premium Pub Experience

Dublin Coastal Tour – Dalkey Castle & Village & Island Adventure

Guided tour of Dalkey Castle, its charming village, and a scenic coastal walk with views over Dalkey Island — just outside Dublin.

Star rating

3 Hrs

From €79

Dublin Coastal Tour – Dalkey Castle & Village & Island Adventure

Howth Summit & Castle Early Access Tour – Dublin Coastal Escape

Join us for an unforgettable journey to Howth Summit & Castle. Experience Dublin's beauty and history on this scenic adventure.

Star rating

3.5 Hrs

From €59

Howth Summit & Castle Early Access Tour – Dublin Coastal Escape

Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience

The two names that define Irish drinking culture — together in one tour. Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Distillery, and an expert guide connecting the stories behind both.

Star rating

4 Hrs

From €138

Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience

Dublin Night Tour: Jameson Whiskey Experience, Historic Pubs & Irish Music Tour

Join the Dublin Night Tour for an unforgettable evening of whiskey tastings, live music, and storytelling in historic pubs.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €79

Dublin Night Tour: Jameson Whiskey Experience, Historic Pubs & Irish Music Tour

1916 Rising Tour: Road to Freedom & GPO Witness History Museum

Explore the 1916 Rising Tour in Dublin, tracing the significant events of Ireland's independence through key historic locations.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €69

1916 Rising Tour: Road to Freedom & GPO Witness History Museum

House of Guinness: Legacy & Legends Walking Tour

Uncover the legacy of the House of Guinness as you walk through Dublin, learning the impact of this iconic family on Irish culture.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €49

House of Guinness: Legacy & Legends Walking Tour

Guinness Storehouse and VIP Roe & Co Whiskey Tasting Tour

Experience Dublin’s best drinks on a guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse and Roe & Co Distillery, with VIP tastings included.

Star rating

4 Hrs

From €109

Guinness Storehouse and VIP Roe & Co Whiskey Tasting Tour

Dublin Literary Legends Tour with Writers Museum & Afternoon Tea Upgrade

Discover the Dublin Literary Legends Tour, a unique walking experience exploring the city's greatest literary figures and their legacies.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €69

Dublin Literary Legends Tour with Writers Museum & Afternoon Tea Upgrade

A History of Ireland Tour in 2.5 Hours

Explore the rich history of Ireland on a guided walking tour, tracing its journey from ancient times to the modern state.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €39

A History of Ireland Tour in 2.5 Hours

Ultimate Jameson Distillery Master Blending

Experience the Jameson Master Blending class and immerse yourself in the world of Irish whiskey at Dublin's top distilleries.

Star rating

2 Hrs

From €139

Ultimate Jameson Distillery Master Blending

Dublin Food Tour: Bites, Sights & Irish Coffee Master Class

Indulge in a premium Dublin food tour featuring bites, bars, and a classic Irish coffee-making class.

Star rating

3 Hrs

From €98

Dublin Food Tour: Bites, Sights & Irish Coffee Master Class

Dublin Food Tour: Bites, Sights & Irish Coffee Master Class

Indulge in a premium Dublin food tour featuring bites, bars, and a classic Irish coffee-making class.

Star rating

3 Hrs

From €98

Dublin Food Tour: Bites, Sights & Irish Coffee Master Class

Legends of the Rock of Cashel: Guided Tour of Cashel Town & Folk Village Museum

A storied town where medieval ruins crown limestone heights, echoing with legends of kings, saints, and the soul of ancient Ireland.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €69

Legends of the Rock of Cashel: Guided Tour of Cashel Town & Folk Village Museum

Galway After Dark: Ghost Stories & Dark History Walking Tour

Explore Galway's dark side on an expert-led evening walking tour. Medieval executions, ghost stories, folklore & a Blood Red Ale finale. Book your night out.

Star rating

2 Hrs

From €35

Galway After Dark: Ghost Stories & Dark History Walking Tour

Blarney Castle, Gardens & Village Tour

Expert-guided tour of Blarney Castle including the Blarney Stone, fern gardens, Rock Close and a visit to Ireland's oldest Woollen Mills.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €66

Blarney Castle, Gardens & Village Tour

Top 10 Waterford City Highlights Walking Tour

Step into Ireland's oldest city and uncover Waterford’s rich history, from its Viking roots to its famed crystal craftsmanship.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €39

Top 10 Waterford City Highlights Walking Tour

Top 10 Highlights & Claddagh Village Walking Tour

Expert-guided 2.5-hour walking tour through Galway's medieval city — from Eyre Square to the Spanish Arch, with history, folklore and hidden gems along the way.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €32

Top 10 Highlights & Claddagh Village Walking Tour

Best of Connemara: Kylemore Abbey, Lake & Gardens Tour

Expert-guided tour of Kylemore Abbey including the Victorian Walled Gardens, Gothic Church and Connemara National Park — designed for the fly-drive traveller.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €65

Best of Connemara: Kylemore Abbey, Lake & Gardens Tour

Cliffs of Moher & Wild Atlantic Way: Early Access Tour from Galway

Enjoy breathtaking Wild Atlantic views as your expert guide shares the history and cultural significance of the Cliffs of Moher. A must-visit for travelers seeking Ireland’s most stunning coastal scenery.

Star rating

2.5 Hrs

From €69

Cliffs of Moher & Wild Atlantic Way: Early Access Tour from Galway

Dublin Spirits Tour: Guinness, Whiskey & Gin Experience

Discover the true spirit of Dublin on a premium guided tour of Irish whiskey, craft gin, and iconic Guinness—complete with tastings, stories, and skyline views.

Star rating

3.5 Hrs

From €179

Dublin Spirits Tour: Guinness, Whiskey & Gin Experience

Easy Access Book of Kells & Dublin Castle Tour

History comes alive: Discover the iconic Book of Kells and the storied walls of Dublin Castle

Star rating

3 Hrs

From €79

Easy Access Book of Kells & Dublin Castle Tour

St Patrick’s Cathedral, Book of Kells and Dublin Castle Tour

Experience three must-see Dublin landmarks in one exclusive tour, including Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Star rating

4 Hrs

From €119

St Patrick’s Cathedral, Book of Kells and Dublin Castle Tour

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Ireland

Is Ireland expensive to visit?
Ireland can be moderately expensive, but planning ahead and booking experiences in advance helps manage costs.

What is the best month to visit Ireland?
June, July, and September offer some of the best weather and festival experiences.

What should you not miss in Ireland?
Top highlights include:
• Dublin’s historic sites
• Galway’s cultural atmosphere
• Cliffs of Moher
• Connemara
• Traditional Irish music

How Many Days Do You Need in Ireland?
Recommended itinerary:
5 days – Dublin and Galway
7 days – Dublin, Galway, Cliffs of Moher
10 days – Dublin, Galway, Ring of Kerry, Cork

Final Thoughts

Ireland offers one of the most rewarding travel experiences in Europe.

From medieval cities and dramatic coastlines to vibrant pub culture and unforgettable landscapes, every region has its own unique character.

To truly understand Ireland’s history and culture, many visitors begin their trip with expert-led guided tours.