The Medieval City of Kilkenny is an easy trip from Dublin – under 2 hours if you travel direct by car – and is a terrific day trip from Dublin by train. But too many travelers consider Kilkenny as a ‘stop through’ in route to another spot (usually Cork), which often leads to regret, as…
If you’ve been dreaming of exploring Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way without getting behind the wheel, good news: it just got a whole lot easier. The brand-new Route 351 now runs from Galway City to Doolin Pier, stopping at Kinvara, Ballyvaughan, and the dramatic Cliffs of Moher along the way. Think of it as your ticket…
The 3 best things to do in Dublin – the museum everyone should visit, a tasty tour, and an amazing castle with fascinating history.
Back in the fall of 2014 I received an email asking for a few Ireland trip tips. The fun twist to this was that the family asking for advice was from my own community in Iowa and had 2 daughters near my own daughters’ ages! (cue ‘It’s a Small World’) The family would be staying…
Learn more about Ireland’s top heritage sites in 2024 & tips for visiting + my favorite sites that you should add to your Ireland itinerary.
It started with a shared love for sea swimming and a chat at a trade show in San Francisco. Orla Leahy and Biddy Hughes, both seasoned professionals in Irish tourism, quickly bonded over their passion for the sea – and soon after, an ambitious idea was born: swim at every single blue flag beach in…
Guinness might be one of the most iconic Irish exports, but did you know it’s the number one selling draft beer in the United States? It’s growing at an impressive rate – so much so that Guinness Brewery Ambassador Zach Berger proudly shared the news at Iowa Irish Fest. That creamy pint? It’s not just…
When a new list of “underrated” Irish attractions makes the rounds, I always take a look. Sometimes I nod in agreement. Sometimes I roll my eyes and wonder who decided the Rock of Cashel was a hidden secret. That was my reaction to a ranking from SumUp, which used everything from TripAdvisor reviews to Instagram…
Ireland’s coastline stretches for over 7,500km, so it’s no surprise the island is home to some truly stunning beaches. Whether you’re into brisk seaside walks, cold-water dips, or just want a peaceful place to breathe in some fresh Atlantic air, Ireland delivers. This year, 89 beaches across the country earned Blue Flag status, an international…
It’s no surprise that most travelers to Ireland have the Rock of Cashel on their list. It’s dramatic, iconic, and completely captivating as it rises unexpectedly from the landscape. But if that’s the only stop you make in County Tipperary, you’re missing so much. Photographer and tour guide John Cash knows the county inside and…
If Newgrange and Kilmainham Gaol are on your Ireland itinerary, you’ll need more than interest to visit – you’ll need a timed ticket. These two OPW-managed sites are incredibly popular, and both strongly recommend advance booking. The good news? Even if you don’t have your OPW Heritage Card yet, you can still reserve your spot….
Blarney Castle and Gardens is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations – and for good reason. But if you show up at the wrong time, your magical visit can quickly turn into a crowded, stressful experience. Here’s a quick planning tip that can make all the difference. How Cruise Ship Schedules Can Make or…
It is likely the most famous rock in all of Ireland… the Blarney Stone. Though there are many stories of where the stone originated, the powers it holds are not argued: one kiss and you’ve gained the gift of eloquence. Maybe that is why it was set so high in the castle wall? Whether you believe…
From ancient monasteries to mighty castles, Ireland’s OPW Heritage Card offers unlimited entry to dozens of incredible sites for one flat fee – making it one of the best travel values on the island. When I travel through the Republic of Ireland, whether it be with my family or hosting a tour group, it is…
If you’re wondering which spots the Irish think are worth visiting- wonder no more! The Independent, an Irish publication, polled its readers to find the top 7 Wonders of Ireland. If you’ve been around here a while, you know that I love to get tips from my Irish friends on places they think visitors should…
If you’ve ever longed for a corner of Ireland that feels untouched, authentic, and refreshingly uncrowded, set your sights on the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare. Tucked away from the tourist-heavy paths of the Wild Atlantic Way, Loop Head offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and heartfelt hospitality that rewards those who take…
Step aboard the Jeanie Johnston in Dublin’s Docklands & hear stories of those who left Ireland for a better life across the ocean.
David Cleary, Head of Sales at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum and The Jeanie Johnston, an Irish Famine Story, shares the experience of visiting the Jeanie Johnston as well as his top tips for visiting Dublin.
County Laois (pronounced leash) may not be on your radar when planning your Ireland itinerary, but if you are traveling between Dublin and Kilkenny, Cork, Kerry, or Clare, you’re likely to pass through this often overlooked county. This article is based on the Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 149, featuring Aubrey Hutchinson, owner of Abbeyleix…
Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital and home to the country’s busiest airport, is a no-brainer starting (or ending) point for your Irish adventure. There’s plenty to see and do in Dublin—you could easily spend a few days soaking up the sights, history, and pints—but don’t stop there! Some of Ireland’s most incredible spots are just a…
Derry or Londonderry? Learn a bit of the city’s history, explore the city walls & murals with Gleann Doherty from Derry Guided Tours.