Ireland

Shop

Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.

Ireland

$29.99

Shop Book

Surfer looking at the waves crushing on the cliff during winter surfing session

David Sciora / Stocksy United

Overview

A small island with a memorable punch, Ireland's breathtaking landscapes and friendly, welcoming people leave visitors floored. You'll want to go back for more.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Newgrange
County Meath
Newgrange is one of the most remarkable prehistoric sites in Europe, famous for the illumination of its passage and tomb during the winter solstice sun…
St Patrick's Cathedral
Dublin
Ireland's largest church and the final resting place of Jonathan Swift, St Patrick's stands on the spot where St Patrick himself reputedly baptised the…
Phoenix Park
Dublin
The hugely impressive 707 hectares that comprise Dublin's Phoenix Park are not just a magnificent playground for all kinds of sport—from running to polo…
Kilmainham Gaol
Dublin
If you have any desire to understand Irish history – especially the long-running resistance to British colonial rule – then a visit to this former prison…
National Gallery
Dublin
A magnificent Caravaggio and a breathtaking collection of works by Jack B Yeats – William Butler Yeats' younger brother – are the main reasons to visit…
Slane Castle
County Meath
Slane Castle is a 300-year-old sprawling estate on the banks of the River Boyne in County Meath. The neo-gothic castle and grounds are open to visitors…
Museum of Natural History
Dublin
Affectionately known as the 'Dead Zoo', this dusty, weird and utterly compelling museum is a fine example of the scientific wonderment of the Victorian…
Christ Church Cathedral
Temple Bar
Its hilltop location and eye-catching flying buttresses make this the most photogenic of Dublin's three cathedrals, as well as one of the capital's most…

View more attractions

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Curious travelers will find plenty to keep them busy in Ireland. Here's our hit list of the best experiences.

Read article

Best Places to Visit

For such a small island, Ireland doesn’t lack for beautiful spots to visit. We’ve rounded up our favorites.

Read article

Best Time to Visit

From summer sun and fabulous festivals to off-season bargains and crowd-free attractions, here's everything you need to know about when to visit Ireland.

Read article

Things to Know

Lonely Planet writer and Ireland native, Fionn Davenport, shares his top 10 tips to have the best time in Ireland.

Read article

Transportation

You don’t need a rental car to explore the Emerald Isle. Here are all the options for getting around beautiful Ireland.

Read article

Visa Requirements

Who wouldn't jump at the chance to visit the Emerald Isle? Here’s how to check if you need a visa before setting off on your Irish adventure.

Read article

Money and Costs

There are plenty of ways to make your money go further during your visit to Ireland. Read on for our local expert tips.

Read article

Traveling with Kids

With its bounty of natural attractions, outdoor adventures and cultural sites, Ireland is packed with family-friendly activities. Here are our top picks,

Read article

Best Road Trips

What’s the best way to get the best of the natural beauty and famous charm of Ireland? Hit the (rural) road on these top road trips.

Read article