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Touring Ireland in 2025 is one of the best ways to discover the country’s mix of wild landscapes, historic towns and vibrant culture. From the cliffs of the west coast to medieval cities and hidden coastal gems, there is something here for every kind of traveller.
Here are 13 must-see destinations to include on your Irish tour.
Credit: Ireland.com
The Dingle Peninsula offers some of the most stunning views in Ireland. Known for its wild beaches, rolling hills and winding roads, this part of Kerry has a strong sense of Irish identity. Dingle town itself is full of traditional pubs, music sessions and seafood spots. Don’t miss Slea Head Drive for panoramic views out to the Blasket Islands.
Fun fact: Star Wars: The Last Jedi was filmed here in 2016.
Over one million people visit the Cliffs of Moher every year, and for good reason. These towering sea cliffs stretch for 14 kilometres and rise up to 214 metres above the Atlantic. While the main viewing platform is popular, there are quieter walks along the coastal trail that give you a better feel for the landscape. Birdwatchers can spot puffins here between April and July.
A medieval city with a lively feel, Kilkenny is packed with history and character. Kilkenny Castle is the highlight, but there is plenty more to explore, from narrow laneways to the Black Abbey. The city is also known for its arts scene and craft shops. With a population of just under 27,000, it is big enough to have energy without losing its charm.
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Killarney National Park covers over 100 square kilometres of lakes, mountains and woodlands. It was the first national park in Ireland, and remains one of the best. You can walk, cycle or kayak here. Look out for native red deer, especially in autumn. The area around Muckross House is ideal for relaxed walks and picnics.
Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast is home to the famous Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns. But there is more to this stretch than the Causeway itself. Highlights include Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Ballintoy Harbour and Dunluce Castle. The entire drive from Portrush to Ballycastle is full of dramatic views. Giant’s Causeway has been a staple for tourists booking Ireland vacations for decades and will continue to be a favourite for years to come.
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One of Ireland’s most popular driving routes, the Ring of Kerry is a loop of about 180 kilometres around the Iveragh Peninsula. The route takes in coastal cliffs, beaches, mountains and small towns like Sneem and Cahersiveen. While it is a well-known tourist trail, going with a small group or local guide means you can find quieter stops and hidden viewpoints.
Galway is known as Ireland’s festival city, and it has a creative, youthful energy. Its cobbled streets are full of music, art and food. Just west of the city lies Connemara, one of Ireland’s most remote regions. With its boglands, mountains and winding roads, it feels like stepping into another world. The Twelve Bens mountain range is a favourite among walkers.
Often overlooked by tourists, the Hook Peninsula is one of the oldest known tourist areas in Ireland. Hook Lighthouse has stood here for over 800 years and is the oldest operational lighthouse in the world. The surrounding coastline is great for coastal walks and sea views. It is a peaceful area with real local charm.
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The Burren is a limestone landscape that covers about 250 square kilometres. At first glance, it looks bare and rocky, but it is home to hundreds of rare plants and flowers. You will also find ancient tombs, forts and cave systems. A guided walk with a local expert can help bring its hidden stories to life.
The Wild Atlantic Way is a driving route that runs for 2,600 kilometres along Ireland’s west coast. Along the way, you will pass through some of the country’s most scenic villages. Places like Doolin, known for its traditional music, and Allihies, perched on the Beara Peninsula, are full of charm and character.
Tucked into the Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough is one of Ireland’s most scenic and historic valleys. It’s best known for its 6th-century monastic site, complete with a round tower and stone churches. The two lakes and surrounding trails make it ideal for walking, especially the Spinc ridge for higher views. It’s only about an hour from Dublin but feels worlds away.
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Connected to the mainland by bridge, Achill is the largest island off Ireland’s coast. It offers huge Atlantic beaches like Keem Bay, rugged sea cliffs and boggy hills. The Deserted Village at Slievemore is a fascinating site with around 80 abandoned stone cottages. If you want wild landscapes and few crowds, this is the place.
A short ferry ride from Doolin or Galway takes you to the Aran Islands, where Irish is still widely spoken. Inis Mór, the largest, is home to Dún Aonghasa, a prehistoric stone fort perched on a cliff edge. You’ll see dry stone walls, thatched cottages and donkeys pulling carts, making it a real window into the past.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to see more, these ten destinations offer a mix of adventure, history and natural beauty. Booking a guided tour, such as those offered by Irish Experience Tours, is a great way to explore them all with local insight and minimal stress.
