Walking at the edge of Ireland's Cliff of Moher

6 Places to visit in Ireland that aren't Dublin

By: CAA North & East Ontario
Published Date:
Modified Date: May 29, 2024

2 Minute Read

There is more to visit in Ireland than just Dublin. While the Temple Bar District and Trinity College are incredible, some of the top sights are outside of the city.

Ireland offers something for everyone, and here are six places you'll want to experience for yourself.

Cliffs of Moher

Walking at the edge of Ireland's Cliff of Moher

Visit Cliffs of Moher on Member Choice Vacations' Countryside of the Emerald Isle tour

One must-see sight along the Wild Atlantic Way is the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. The UNESCO Global Geopark is one of Ireland's top tourist attractions and well worth the hype.

A long stretch of vertical cliff edge rises above the crashing blue waves below. Visitors can hike along the marked coastline trail to explore the striking landscape formed over 320 million years ago.

Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park

Explore Killarney National Park on Member Choice Vacations' Shades of Ireland tour

If you rent a car in Ireland, head to the famous driving the Ring of Kerry. The famous driving route takes you to Killarney National Park, where you can see mountains, lakes, woodlands, and waterfalls.

For a short hike, visit the towering Torc Waterfall. It is only a five-minute walk from the parking lot to the viewing platform.

Another great choice is the Ladies View, one of the best-known views of Killarney. The easy-to-reach lookout point offers a panoramic view of the rugged landscape, including the Middle and Lower Lakes. But the main attraction of the park is Muckross House and Gardens, where you can tour the majestic buildings and lush gardens.

Rock of Cashel

Aerial view of the Rock of Cashel in Ireland

Visit the Rock of Cashel on Member Choice Vacations' Irish Splendour tour

Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland's most visited tourist attractions, and it feels like stepping back in time. The archaeological site has several medieval buildings. Including a 12th-century round tower, the ruins of a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, and a castle.

According to legend, St. Patrick converted King Aenghus to Christianity here. While visiting the castle's Hall of the Vicars, you can see the original cross of St. Patrick.

Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey in Ireland and the Pollacapall Lough

See Kylemore Abbey with Member Choice Vacations’ Shades of Ireland itinerary

For the perfect afternoon adventure in Connemara, head to the picturesque Kylemore Abbey. You can tour the beautiful abbey that looks like a fairy tale castle. Then, you can stretch your legs and explore the magnificent Victorian walled garden bursting with sweet-smelling flowers and herbs.

The Giant's Causeway

Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland

Explore the Giant's Causeway on The Best of Ireland tour

No visit to Northern Ireland's coastline would be complete without seeing the striking Giant's Causeway. It is a surreal sight, with approximately 40,000 hexagonal-shaped stones. Here, you can have fun walking on the unique rocks that look out of this world.

Powerscourt House and Gardens

Powerscourt Estate in County Wicklow, Ireland

Visit the Powerscourt House and Gardens on Member Choice Vacations' Shades of Ireland, featuring Northern Ireland tour

The Powerscourt House and Gardens are only 35 minutes from Dublin. They are the filming location for many television shows and movies, including The Count of Monte Cristo, Ella Enchanted, The Tudors, King Arthur, and Fate: The Winx Saga.

While visiting, you can tour the opulent estate, the 121-metre-tall cascading waterfall and breathtaking formal gardens full of statues and terraces.

Plan your vacation with CAA Travel

Are you planning a trip to Ireland? CAA Travel Consultant or call 1-800-705-1803 for expert travel advice or to book your vacation.

CAA Travel Consultant