Ireland is a beautiful island country in Western Europe. It is the only country in the world with a musical instrument, the harp, as its national symbol. Ireland has two official languages, Irish Gaelic and English. Irish Gaelic is the native language of the country, but English is spoken more widely.
Ireland is divided into two nations: the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The Republic of Ireland is independent, while Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom. The country is also known as the Emerald Isle because of its green landscape, kept lush by abundant rainfall. This place has a long tradition of storytelling, folklore, and music. Some famous Irish writers include James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, W.B. Yeats, and Bram Stoker.
Before planning a trip to this beautiful country, it becomes essential for you to check tourist places in Ireland to ensure you do not miss any.
Top Places to Visit in Ireland
- Dublin
- Cork
- Limerick
- Galway
- Waterford
- Dublin
The history of Dublin dates back more than 1,000 years, when the Vikings established it as a trading port on the River Liffey. The name “Dublin” comes from the Irish word Dubhlinn, meaning "black pool", referring to a dark tidal pool where the Vikings moored their ships. Over the centuries, Dublin was ruled by the Normans, the English, and the British.
Dublin played a crucial role in Ireland's struggle for independence, especially during the 1916 Easter Rising and the 1919-1921 War of Independence. It became the capital of the Irish Free State in 1922 and of the Republic of Ireland in 1949.
Of all the places to visit in Ireland, Dublin is a must. Experience the city’s charm and craic (fun) in its many pubs while listening to traditional Irish music, tasting a pint of Guinness, or joining a friendly conversation.
Things to do in Dublin
- Explore the Guinness Storehouse and learn how the iconic stout is made. Enjoy a pint at the Gravity Bar while admiring the city’s beautiful views.
- Visit Trinity College, the oldest and most prestigious university in Ireland. You can also explore the stunning Long Room of the Old Library that houses the ancient Book of Kells.
- Experience the stories of Irish immigrants who left their homeland for a new life abroad at the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.
- Cork
It is the Republic of Ireland's second-largest city and the third-largest on the island of Ireland. Cork is located on the south coast, at the head of Cork Harbour, on the River Lee.
Cork's history dates back to the sixth century when it was founded as a monastic settlement by St Finbar. Modern Cork was shaped by the Viking invaders, who established a trading community between 915 and 922. The Anglo-Normans took over the city in 1172, and Prince John granted its first charter in 1185.
Today, Cork is known for its cultural and artistic scene, food and drink industry, educational institutions, and friendly and welcoming atmosphere. For visitors, it is one of the best places to visit in Ireland.
Things to do in Cork
- Visit the Crawford Art Gallery and Cork Public Museum, showcasing Irish and European paintings, sculptures, and ceramics from the 18th century.
- Head to the Blarney Castle, a medieval fortress dating back to the 13th century. Kissing the fortress’ stone while hanging upside down from the battlements is believed to bestow the gift of eloquence.
- If you are looking for fun and entertainment, check out the Temple Bar area, which is full of pubs, restaurants, shops, street art, and cultural venues.
- Limerick
A city in the west of Ireland, Limerick lies on the banks of the River Shannon. Its history dates back to the Viking Age when it was founded as a trading port. Limerick was also a key site of political and military conflict, especially during the 17th century, when it endured two sieges by the English forces.
One of the best tourist places in Ireland, Limerick is now the third-largest city of the Republic of Ireland and the fourth-largest on the island of Ireland. It has many attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Limerick’s compact old town area is famous for the St. Mary’s Cathedral and St. John’s Square, built in the medieval era, now lined with Georgian townhouses.
Things to do in Limerick
- Visit the 13th-century King John's Castle, which offers interactive exhibits, stunning views, and a café.
- Learn about the region’s 6,000-year-old history and archaeology at the Lough Gur Visitor Centre.
- Enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the Coolwater Garden, a private garden featuring exotic plants, sculptures, and a floating pagoda.
- Experience the culture and heritage of Limerick at the Hunt Museum.
- Have fun at the Terra Nova Fairy Garden, a magical place to view fairy houses, doors, villages, and trails.
- Galway
A city in the western part of the country, Galway lies along the River Corrib between Lough Corrib and Galway Bay. It was a key site of political and military conflict, especially during the 17th century, when it endured two sieges by the English forces. Galway was primarily controlled by merchant families known as the Tribes of Galway, who dominated the city's economy and politics for centuries.
Today, Galway is the best place to visit in Ireland, especially for its festivals and events, such as the Galway Arts Festival, the Galway Races, and the Macnas Halloween Parade. Galway was named the European Region of Gastronomy in 2018. It is an excellent base for exploring the countryside, where you can find scenic walks, historic sites, and charming towns and villages.
Things to do in Galway
- Explore the Latin Quarter to enjoy traditional Irish music and dance. Sample the local cuisine and browse crafts and souvenirs.
- Visit the Galway City Museum to see exhibits from the medieval city, the Claddagh fishing village, the 1916 Rising, and more.
- Admire St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church, Ireland's largest medieval parish church. Founded in 1320, it has a beautiful Gothic interior with stained glass windows, carved tombs and a 17th-century organ.
- Walk along Quay Street, a pedestrian street that slopes down to the river Corrib.
- Waterford
Located on the south bank of the River Suir, Waterford is a city and port in southeastern Ireland. It is among the oldest towns in Ireland that Vikings founded in the 9th century. The Anglo-Normans conquered it in the 12th century, making it one of medieval Ireland's most important Old English centres.
Waterford has a rich history of sieges, invasions, and economic ups and downs. Among the top tourist places in Ireland, it is famous for its glassmaking industry, especially the Waterford Crystal, known worldwide for its quality and beauty.
Waterford is also a major export centre for agricultural products and has diverse industries, including food processing, brewing, papermaking, chemical, pharmaceutical, and light manufacturing. Waterford is the headquarters of extensive salmon and sea fisheries.
Things to do in Waterford
- Travel back in time to Reginald's Tower, Ireland's oldest civic building and Viking stronghold.
- Discover Viking treasures in the Viking Triangle. It is a historical area that includes the Medieval Museum, the Bishop's Palace, and the Christ Church Cathedral.
- Visit the House of Waterford Crystal. You can watch the making of fine crystals in the factory and showroom.
- Wonder through Bishop's Palace, a Georgian mansion that showcases the history of Waterford from 1700 to 1970.
Best Time to Visit Ireland
Summertime, or the months of June, July, and August is Ireland's peak season for tourism. During this time, you can enjoy long days and plenty of festivals and events. Some highlights include the Bloomsday Festival in Dublin, the Galway Arts Festival, and the Rose of Tralee International Festival. Winter, or the months of December, January, and February, can be called the off-peak season. You can enjoy affordable prices and the least number of tourists. The weather is cold, and there is frequent rain and snow. However, you can also experience some bright and crisp days, especially in December, when the Christmas lights and markets add festive cheer to this island nation. Hence, there are plenty of tourist places in Ireland to mesmerise visitors, and the time to visit the country is solely at the personal discretion of the visitor.
Travel Insurance for Ireland
Securing travel insurance is a wise move for spending your days full of adventure in Ireland. Travel insurance covers unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost baggage. Most importantly, travel insurance covers emergency medical and hospitalisation expenses, something that cannot be ignored. If you are stuck in an emergency in Ireland, or if you have a cash shortage, your insurance provider ensures you get immediate assistance. The policy also covers expenses if you need to extend your trip because of unavoidable circumstances. Always remember to compare the various travel insurance policies provided by different insurers, and to choose the one you feel covers your needs in the best manner possible as you explore the many tourist places in Ireland.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.
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