Travel to Ireland with Contiki

Things to do in Ireland

Whether you fancy a bit of city sightseeing in Dublin or feel game for a weekend exploring the outstanding Glenveagh National Park, there’s so much on offer here that it can be difficult to work out what to see in Ireland. We’ve listed a few of our favourites.

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  Be awed by the cliffs of Moher

  Nothing encapsulates the wild spirit of the country more than the incredible Cliffs of Moher. Reaching heights of 214m above the Atlantic and stretching for 8km along the coast, this is one the first places to visit in Ireland. It’s impossible to tire of its sheer drama, however familiar you are with Ireland.

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  Smooth talk at Blarney Castle

  One of the most legendary things to see in Ireland is the famous Blarney Stone. Taking its name from the old Irish meaning ‘gift of the gab’, anyone who kisses the stone is said to be gifted with the ability to smooth talk their way through any situation. Blarney Castle itself tends to play second fiddle to the stone’s reputation, but this spectacular medieval stronghold is easily one of the top places to visit in Cork.

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  Get volcanic at the Giant's Causeway

  If you’re heading to Northern Ireland, sights like this extraordinary rock formation are a must on your Ireland travel itinerary. These bizarre hexagons made from volcanic rock are a real otherworldly sight.

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  Stadium love at Croke Park

  Europe’s fourth largest stadium has been described as Irish culture’s spiritual home. While the hyperbole is up for debate, Croke Park Dublin is home to two very Irish sports: hurling and Gaelic football. Acting as headquarters for the Gaelic Athletic Association, the museum dedicated to the GAA is one of the top tourist attractions in Dublin.

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  Go whiskey tasting in Cork

  And no, we don't just mean at the local pub - although of course you can do that too. Head to the Jameson's distillery in Cork and take a journey through history with a tutored whiskey tasting session. Not only will you brush up on your whiskey knowledge and your history at the same time, you can also become a certified Irish Whiskey taster.