The 17 best places to visit in Ireland

Located in Northern Ireland and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant's Causeway is a natural and somewhat surreal landscape of 40 000 interlocking basalt columns. The result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption has made this site one of the country's main attractions, open to visitors everyday. Several footpaths will lead you around the reserve including Shepherd's Path, a trail that runs along the cliff. This path offers stunning views and sunsets that make the scenery all the more magical.

Kinsale is a small fishing village nestled in the Bandon Estuary of County Cork. A quaint, quiet atmosphere that allows tourists to wander its narrow streets and admire the colorful houses. Visit Desmond Castle, a castle that was converted into a prison in the 17th century. You can also admire the bay views from the imposing medieval castle of Charles Fort.

Achill Island is the largest in the country and is accessible by car via a bridge connected to the mainland. Nature lovers will also enjoy the rugged wilderness and the orange shades of surrounding landscapes. The island is home to many archaeological sites and remnants of the past, including the deserted village of Slievemore that visitors can explore.

Head to Galway Bay and discover the three Aran Islands: Inishmore, Inishmaan and Inisheer. A half an hour ferry ride will get you to the main island of Inishmore, but it takes up to an hour to reach the other two islands. The karst limestone landscapes are some of the least spoilt in the country and are one of Ireland's coastline treasures. Visit the prehistoric fort of Dun Aengus on Inishmore or go to Inisheer to admire the island's lighthouse. If you're looking for a souvenir, then you can purchase a traditional Irish sweater made from Aran wool.

The town of Cashel sits at the base of a 200-foot rock and is a high place of Christianity. This historical site is home to medieval and religious dwellings such as Saint Patrick's Cathedral and Cormac's Chapel, one of the oldest chapels in the country. The «Fortress of Kings» overlooking the city was the seat of the high Kings of Munster and other historical figures such as King Aengu and King Brian Boru. A trip there is also the chance to taste «Cashel Blue», a creamy, unctuous cheese with a mild blue character!

Legend has it that Saint Patrick himself climbed to the top of this mountain, began a 40-day fast and rid the country of all of its snakes. This holy mountain is now a place of worship that attracts over 40,000 Irish pilgrims each year. You can also hike up to the top but be careful as the climb is rather steep, and it takes about 5 hours to get there and back. The reward is definitely worth the struggle with stunning views overlooking the Connemara and Achill Island.

Cork is a buzzing city that offers plenty of things to do and see. Enjoy a delicious day out every Saturday morning with the Fab Food Trail or hop on a double-decker bus and enjoy a tour of the city centre and its iconic monuments. Visit the Crawford Art Gallery and discover the works of Canova or wander around the English Market to shop for Irish handicrafts. If you're planning on visiting Cork in October, remember to book your ticket for the Guinness Jazz Festival.

Connemara, region of County Galway, lies west of the country with a rugged coastline made up of multiple peninsulas. The Connemara Park spreads over 5000 acres and is a haven of lush, green vegetation. Nature lovers will enjoy hiking through mountains and rivers or stopping to observe the different bird species. While you're there, head to Sky Road and drive along the rugged coastline that splits into three winding lanes: Beach Road, Sky Road and Low Road, and admire the spectacular surroundings.

The Dingle Peninsula or «Corca Dhuibne » looks like a postcard. Home to Gaelic folklore, its impressive landscapes are enough to make you feel dizzy. From the sheer cliffs of Slea Head to the sandy shores and green meadows, Dingle boasts rich wildlife with hundreds of different species of orchids. Visit the popular Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium and admire the enchanting underwater world with over 150 species of fish and turtles.

Temple Bar
Wander around the pedestrian streets of Temple Bar and discover the famous district's special vibe. This trendy neighbourhood is home to all sorts of unusual thrift shops, record stores, art galleries and cultural events. There is plenty to do and see. This is also where you'll find the most bars and pubs and the streets usually liven up after 5.30pm. Get into the Irish spirit and enjoy the live bands and street music with a pint of Guinness. Temple Bar will definitely make your evening one to remember.

Trinity Collège/The Book of Kells
Located in the very heart of the city, Trinity College has many early buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th century. Unveiled by Queen Elizabeth 1st in 1952, the Victorian style edifice is open to the public, allowing tourists to visit the grounds, courtyards and of course the Old Library. This two-storey library is one of the most beautiful in the world and holds rare works of inestimable value such as the Book of Kells. Also known as the «Book of Columba», this illuminated manuscript was created by Celtic monks over 800 years ago.

Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Storehouse is not only a key venue for all beer lovers. Located 10 minutes away from the city centre by bus or by taxi, this massive warehouse is a shrine to Guinness beer. Visit the six floors to learn all about the brand's history and discover the secrets of making Guinness beer. Finally, you can head up to the top floor and enjoy a cold beer while admiring the city's magnificent skyline.

In Skerry County, Skellig Michael and Little Skellig form part of the Skellig archipelago, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can access Skellig Michael by boat from Portmagee or Ballinskellig. Head up the 618 steps to the monastery and enjoy the impressive surroundings where the last part of the Star Wars saga was once filmed. When you get to the top you can explore the ruins of the monastic village, its old chapels and huts where monks used to live. We recommend you organize a tour in advance, especially during the summer. In order to protect the natural surroundings, the number of visitors is limited.

The vibrant city of Kilkenny is both medieval and modern. Known worldwide for its Kilkenny beer and for hosting an annual hot air balloon festival that attracts visitors from around the world. Admire the 13th century St Canice's Cathedral which is particularly well-preserved or visit the city's Victorian castle where you will get a glimpse of what an aristocrat's life was like during the Middle Ages.

The Burren National Park in County Clare is unlike any other. It's rocky landscape and limestone pavement give the impression that you're walking on the moon. The park is home to an exceptionally rich and diversified flora and fauna. However, the park's main attraction is the 5800 year old Poulnabrone dolmen.

Belfast is the second largest city on the island. After years of industrial and commercial development, this reborn city is a globally respected trading hub. Start you visit of the city centre from Donegall Square and head down the back streets to explore the neighbourhoods. The impressive street art depicts a darker time and the painful past between Catholic and Protestant communities. The Botanical Garden is worth visiting but you cannot miss out the city's main attraction: The Titanic Belfast Experience. This state-of-the-art museum will take you back in time to relive the tragic story of the RMS Titanic, using interactive technology and special effects. Remember to book your ticket in advance. A 30-minute drive will lead you to the Mount Stewart manor located in Newtownards. Enjoy a pleasant walk around the lake and discover its well-kept gardens.

The cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's many treasures. Take one of the safe paths or head off on a sea excursion for half a day to explore these 300-year-old cliffs. Both stunning and impressive, the 700-foot precipices tower over the Atlantic sea for over 5 miles of rugged.

If you're near Kerry Ring then you must visit Killarney. Wander down the narrow streets and discover the many craft shops and local pubs. Visit the city's cathedral or head further down towards Ross Castle and observe the medieval architecture. You can also visit what is left of the charming McCarthy Castle that overlooks Loch Lein Lake. Don't forget to go to Killarney National Park and discover the mystical beauty of the Mossy Woods Nature Trail.

Also known as the Iveragh Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry is a tourist trail over 100 miles long ideal for hiking, cycling or a fun road trip. Don't forget to fill your tank up with fuel before you start your adventure. Explore Killarney National park and fully connect with nature in one of Ireland's largest wildlife park. Ladies View, the Gap of Dunhole and O'Sullivan's Cascade are some of the main stops you will make along the way. Embrace Irish culture and stop off for a delicious Kerry Lamb lunch!