10 Best Cities in Ireland for an Amazing Visit!

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Full of lush rolling hills, more sheep than people, a stunning coastline, and the nickname ‘The Emerald Isle’, it’s no secret that Ireland is beautiful. This small country has something for all travelers whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or to hit the pubs in the old cobbled streets of Ireland’s cities.

With a rich history involving Vikings, subjugation, rebellion, and famine, the cities of Ireland tell the country’s story in their world-class museums, traditional Irish culture, local cuisine, and their historic architecture.

As Phil’s home country, we know Ireland well, and we’ve spent a lot of time exploring and visiting its beautiful cities and towns as we travel Europe. We’ve put together this list of the best cities in Ireland to visit that offer traditional Irish charm, history, and culture to help you plan your perfect Ireland itinerary.

Best Cities To Visit in Ireland

Dublin

Straddling the River Liffey, Dublin is Ireland’s largest city and it is also the capital city, making it one of the most important cities in the Republic of Ireland.

Dublin city is a global hub for multinational companies like Google, so parts of the city lack the charm of the rest of Ireland. If you want to spend your time in small Irish towns and see beautiful greenery and historical sites, Dublin may not be the best for you. However, it is a stop that all travelers should (and most likely will have to!) make, so lean in and experience Dublin like you mean it!

Dublin has a complex history full of Vikings, famines, and wars, and much of the city center still has a historic feel, with streets of cobblestone, castles and ancient churches. One of the best ways to see Dublin is by wandering and meandering along the river, down interesting streets and past architectural splendours and reminders of this intimate city’s character.

Where to Eat in Dublin and What to Try

We can personally recommend the Brazen Head. This Irish Pub is a bit of an institution among locals and tourists alike so you’ll have to search for a table at all times of the day, but it’s worth it. 

This very lively spot is known for its Guinness and stick-to-your-ribs Irish Stew and the person sitting next to you will likely strike up a conversation with you here. This is just the Irish way! If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic dinner this may not be the spot for you.

Things to Do in Dublin

• Go on a Dublin Food Tour to immerse yourself in the local cuisine and learn about the city.
• Visit the Guinness Storehouse, one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions, to see how the black stuff is made, and of course, try a pint of Guinness!
• Visit THE Jameson Whiskey Distillery to taste their famous spirit – or do both and get skip-the-line tickets for Guinness and Jamesons!
• Take a walk around Oscar Wilde’s Dublin, from his favourite childhood haunts to his house in Merrion Square.
• Visit the famous Temple Bar Area to spend a night pub-hopping and listening to live Irish music.
• Learn about Irish history at the Kilmainham Gaol Museum and former prison.
• See the Book of Kells, Old Library and Long Room at Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest university.
• Explore EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum at Dublin’s Docklands and get under the skin of what it really means to be Irish.
• Enjoy a stroll in Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed public parks in any capital city in Europe, and one of the best places to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Where to Stay in Dublin

We stayed in the Parkway Guesthouse and it was the perfect place from which to explore. It is clean, walkable to downtown, has friendly staff, and is a reasonable price considering accommodation in Dublin can be expensive.

RELATED POST: One Day in Dublin – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide 

Belfast

The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is a vibrant city and the second largest city on the island of Ireland. A vibrant and historic city, Belfast has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a fun day out, Belfast has plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

A very walkable city, much of what you’ll want to see can be reached on foot. A walking tour with a local guide will help you understand the complex history of the Troubles and the complex relationship between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Where to Eat in Belfast and What to Try

Whenever we’re in Belfast we head to our nearest Maggie Mays (there are three; Malone Road, Botanic Avenue and Castle Street) for a traditional Ulster Fry, a cooked breakfast with thick back bacon, fried eggs, local pork sausage, black pudding and the key ingredients of potato bread and soda bread.

Things to Do in Belfast

• A top attraction in Belfast is the Titanic Quarter, with the Titanic Experience dedicated to the ill-fated liner that was built in the city.
• Visit the Ulster Museum to explore the past, the present and the future of Northern Ireland.
• Explore the historic Crumlin Road Gaol, one of Belfast’s historic landmarks.
• Take this brilliant political taxi tour to see the famous murals around the city and discover Northern Ireland’s recent troubled history.
• Enjoy a pub-crawl through the lively pubs and buzzing nightlife of the Cathedral Quarter.

Where to Stay in Belfast

The Malmaison Belfast is an urban haven in the city centre, and combines historic charm with modern amenities and comfortable rooms.

RELATED POST: Belfast in A Day: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Cork 

Ireland’s second-largest city, and the capital of County Cork, Cork city is home to one of the top universities in Ireland and is popular wih international students, so its no surprise that the city has a hip and eclectic vibe, with a bit of a rebellious streak.

Cork city sits on an island between two branches of the River Lee, and this beautiful setting makes it one of the most popular cities in Ireland!

Cork is known as the food capital of Ireland and has a diverse offering of food choices from homey, traditional Irish food to artisan cheese and beautifully smoked fish. If you want a great experience and the best Irish food culture, Cork is where you want to be!

Like much of Ireland, Cork also enjoys incredible nightlife. However, it also offers a tranquill riverside escape for those wanting to get out of the hustle and bustle of the busy downtown area.

Where to Eat in Cork and What to Try

With so much great food in the city, there are no wrong choices. However, Gallagher’s Cork is a local pub that’s signature dish of beef and Beamish ale pie, braised beef with vegetables and puff pastry, is a must-try.

Things to Do in Cork

• Taste your way through the English Market, one of the oldest covered markets in Europe.
• Visit the Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone, just a short 10km drive outside the city center.
• Visit St Patrick Street, which locals call Pana, to buy souvenirs and listen to the live music coming from the pubs.
• Take the train along Cork Harbour to Cobh, the great embarkation point for countless thousands of Irish emigrants leaving their native shores for North America. 
• Explore the wild and dramatic West Cork landscapes on the Beara Peninsula and at Mizen Head.

Where to Stay in Cork

The Imperial Hotel Cork City is a hotel that feels like a palace upon walking in. It is in the heart of downtown and has an excellent breakfast included in many of the booking options. 

RELATED POST: Wild Atlantic Way: Exploring Ireland’s West Coast

Kinsale

While Kinsale is less of a city and more of a small town it is worth a stop as you travel through Ireland, and is located at the start or finish of the Wild Atlantic Way, just outside of Cork. What once was an old fishing port, this adorable Irish town is known for its cobblestone streets lined with brightly colored buildings.

The mix of color among the medieval buildings of the rest of the town is what we thought made Kinsale special and one of the most beautiful cities in Ireland, and why it’s included on this Irish cities list!

Where to Eat in Kinsale and What to Try

The Black Pig Winebar serves local and seasonal, modern European food with a cozy atmosphere. The most popular menu items are their oysters and amazing charcuterie.

Things to Do in Kinsale

• For history buffs, visit the two 17th century fortresses that overlook the River Bandon: the huge Charles Fort to the southeast, and the smaller James Fort on the river’s opposite bank.
• Spend some time on the River Brandon sailing, fishing, or kayaking.
• Visit the Lusitania Museum & Old Head Signal Tower where you can find out about the 1915 sinking of the RMS Lusitania.
• Discover mead, an alcoholic drink made with honey, at Kinsale Mead Company, Ireland’s only meadery.
• Take a pottery class at Kinsale Pottery and Arts Center where you’ll use the potter’s wheel and learn traditional techniques.

Where to Stay in Kinsale

The Kinsale Hotel and Spa is in a great location and is also surrounded by water and forest so it has something for all travelers. 

RELATED POST: Best Things to Do in Ireland: 34 Amazing Highlights

Kilkenny

Kilkenny, a medieval city located in Ireland’s Ancient East is known as the ‘Marble City’ due to the many buildings constructed with the local Kilkenny stone.

The city has an incredible vibe and feels like the quintessential Irish city built along its Medieval Mile street of shops, pubs, restaurants, and more. The Mile stretches from Kilkenny Castle to St. Candice Cathedral and, along with its medieval history, it is one of the highlights of this small city that feels larger than it really is.

Because the main attractions are on one street, Kilkenny is one of the most walkable cities in Ireland. Travelers can spend time eating Irish food, stroll between the traditional pubs, explore the shops, or wander along the River Nore.

Where to Eat and What to Try in Kilkenny

Matt The Millers Bar and Restaurant is a local favorite with great live music and an incredible Guinness and beef stew, served with colcannon – basically mashed potato with spring onions, known as scallions in Ireland.

Things to Do in Kilkenny

• Explore 12th century Kilkenny Castle, the principal seat of the butlers, earls, marquesses, and dukes of Ormond for almost 600 years.
• Visit the Medieval Mile Museum, on the site of 13th century St Mary’s church and graveyard, for a treasure trove of artifacts encompassing more than 800 years of Irish history.
• Listen to classic Irish Trad (folk music) at a local pub. For us Kytelers Inn is the best stop, and so it should be, they have been going since 1324!
• Take a guided tour of Smithwick’s Brewery and enjoy a taste of Ireland’s oldest ale.

Where to Stay in Kilkenny

We recommend the Club House Hotel for those who want to watch their budget while still being downtown. It’s clean and has an incredible breakfast included. Note that there are a lot of stairs and no elevators.

Galway

Fans of Ed Sheeran may have heard of this cute city in Ireland from his song Galway Girl. One of our favorite Irish cities, Galway is another university city with an old town of medieval buildings on the dramatic and wild west coast of Ireland. 

In 2020, this medieval city by the sea was voted the European Capital of Culture due to its bohemian, artsy vibe and plenty of festivals!

When wandering through the narrow lanes visitors will hear traditional Irish music from the many buskers and vibrant pubs, but there are also plenty of cozy and quiet cafes if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience! No matter what you prefer, Galway City is one of the best cities to visit in Ireland!

Where to Eat in Galway and What to Try:

Galway’s most famous seafood, you must try the oysters straight from the Atlantic Ocean at the Seafood Bar at Kirwans.

Things to Do in Galway

• If you’re looking for a reprieve from the bar scene, try exploring the west coast in Connemara National Park, a short drive away in nearby County Mayo.
• Wander through Quay Street – the main city street where you’ll find the shops, traditional pubs, and restaurants.
• Visit the 1958-built Galway Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas.
• Explore the Galway City Museum where you can discover the archaeology, history, and local culture.
• Take a day trip to explore the mysterious Burren and the mighty Cliffs of Moher, as they rise dramatically from the sea.
• Get a boat to Inishmore, or Inis Mór, the largest of the beautiful Aran Islands that guard the mouth of Galway Bay.

Where to Stay in Galway

We had an incredible stay at The Huntsman Inn. It is on top of an old bar but the rooms are surprisingly spacious, modern, and beautiful. It’s a 10 minute walk from the center of downtown but provides a nice respite from the noise of sleeping.

RELATED POST: Beautiful Ireland: 22 Most Scenic Places To Visit

Limerick

Think of Limerick as the ‘Portland, Oregon’ of Ireland with its street art, awesome restaurants, and great craft beer scene. It has a rougher reputation than other Irish cities, but this should not stop you from visiting the first-ever Irish European City of Culture.

Whether you prefer medieval or more modern architecture, more traditional and homey food, or more upscale fine dining, or want to drink Guinness or local, craft beer, Limerick city has something for all travelers. 

Where to Eat in Limerick and What to Try

The Locke Bar is on the River Shannon and has live traditional music and Irish dancing in the summer months. For the adventurous traveler, try the fisherman’s pie which is like a shepherd’s pie, but with fish. 

Things to Do in Limerick

• Head to Limerick’s Milk Market, one of Ireland’s biggest foodie markets for more than milk! You’ll find local arts and crafts, locally produced food and drink, and lots more.
• Explore some Viking history with a walking tour of 13th century King John’s Castle, also known as Limerick Castle.
• Stop by Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum and taste Irish Coffee where it was invented, right in the Foynes Irish Coffee Lounge.
• Visit 1856 St John’s Cathedral which boasts one of the tallest spires in Ireland.

Where to Stay in Limerick

The Absolute Hotel Limerick is right in the city’s medieval quarter with an incredible view of the Abbey River. It’s clean, chic, and very central with an option to include breakfast in your stay.

Waterford

Waterford is a hidden gem in Ireland as most tourists stop at large cities like Dublin or Cork and pass by, but Waterford is definitely worth visiting. Known for its Waterford Crystal, Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city, founded by Vikings in the 9th century. The city’s name comes from a Viking word that means ‘windy Fjord’.

The beautiful city is home to many museums and historic buildings within walking distance, making Waterford a great place to stop for those who want to get into the history of Ireland.

Where to Eat in Waterford and What to Try

Take a break from hearty Irish food and head over to Emilianos for some incredible Italian foods that rival what you’ll find right in Italy.

Things to Do in Waterford

• Visit the House of Waterford and watch beautiful Waterford crystal being made.
• Visit the Viking Triangle, a series of old streets that connects Reginald’s Tower, The Bishop’s Palace, and Christ Church Cathedral, and includes the Medieval Museum and the Irish Museum of Time.
• Discover Waterford’s 49 beaches, perfect spots for water sports like surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and coasteering.
• Hire a bike and cycle the Waterford Greenway, a 46km cycling and walking trail between Waterford and Dungarvan.

Where to Stay in Waterford

The Granville Hotel is a high-class hotel that feels very old-world European inside. It overlooks the River Suir and is in a central location, walkable to all the main attractions.

Derry-Londonderry

Derry-Londonderry is fast becoming a popular destination in Northern Ireland. One of the finest examples of a fortress city in Europe, Derry is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland.

Derry is the last stop on the Causeway Coastal Route, which encompasses the whole of the Antrim Coast from Belfast and takes in top attractions like the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, and the Bushmills Distillery.

Close to the border with County Donegal and on the shores of Loch Foyle, Derry enjoys some of Ireland’s best beaches in the Binevenage Outstanding Area of Natural Beauty and is in a great position for exploring Malin Head and the Wild Atlantic Way.

Where to Eat in Derry and What to Try

The Walled City Brewery in Ebrington Square has a classic gastropub menu showcasing locally sourced and produced ingredients alongside an eclectic mix of flavors from around the world. We vote for the McAtamney’s sirloin, from a local Coleraine butcher.

Things to Do in Derry

• Walk the 17th century walls and spot the ornate Guildhall and the Derry Girls mural.
• Stroll over the contemporary Peace Bridge to Ebrington Square which was once a British Army barracks.
• Take a Bloody Sunday and Bogside walking tour, a great way to see the political murals and learn about Derry’s recent history, which has shaped how the city has developed in the last century.
• Discover three of the 25 Northern Ireland Game of Thrones filming locations nearby: the Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbour, and Downhill Strand.

Where to Stay in Derry

Positioned within the walls, the listed Bishop’s Gate Hotel is well-situated and offers a boutique vibe with luxury rooms.

Killarney

Situated in County Kerry’s scenic southwest region of Ireland lies the busy town of Killarney. One of Ireland’s top tourist destinations Killarney is on the edge of Killarney National Park and Lough Leane, and is the starting point for the Ring of Kerry Coastal Route around the Iveragh Peninsula.

Killarney is surrounded by pretty lakes and spectacular vistas of Ireland’s highest mountain ranges and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, especially hiking and mountain biking.

For cultural activities, visit Derrynane, the ancestral home of the ‘great liberator’ Daniel O’Connell, where you can find out more about Irish political history at Derrynane House.

Where to Eat in Killarney and What to Try

We loved Bricín Restaurant and Boxty House for its cozy traditional decor, but mostly for its amazing boxty, an Irish specialty made with mashed potato and grated raw potato, bacon fat, and sometimes cheese. An old Irish rhyme tells the importance of this historic staple dish; “Boxty on the griddle, boxty on the pan; if you can’t make boxty, you’ll never get a man.”

Things to Do in Killarney

• Visit Killarney National Park to see the top attractions of Muckross House and Abbey, Ross Castle, the Gap of Dunloe and Ladies View, and Torc Waterfall, all surrouned by the beautiful scenery the national park is known for.
• Take a brewery tour at the Killarney Brewing and Distilling Company to see how Irish craft beer is made.
• Go kayaking on Lough Leane and see if you can make it to Innisfallen Island!
• Hike the Devil’s Ladder to the summit of Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain at 1,038 meters above sea level.
• Take a drive along the Dingle Peninsula, ringed by sandy beaches and craggy cliffs, to Dunmore Head, Ireland’s most easterly point.

Where to Stay in Killarney

The Great Southern Killarney stands in six acres of beautiful gardens in the heart of Killarney with easy access to the town and a ten minute drive to Killarney National Park.

The Island of Ireland

The Republic of Ireland is officially described as the Republic of Ireland and is a member state of the European Union. There is no such country as Southern Ireland, although it is often incorrectly used to differentiate between Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland (or ‘Norn Iron’ as it is affectionately known by residents) is a part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, also known as the UK. The other countries in this sovereign state are England, Scotland and Wales.

Together, the two countries make up the island of Ireland. Upon the partition of Ireland in 1921, the 32 counties were split, with Ireland encompassing 26 and Northern Ireland, six.

Best Time To Visit Ireland

While there is no bad time to visit Ireland, but planning a visit in late spring or early fall is best. During the shoulder seasons, you will find fewer crowds at popular attractions, cheaper accommodation prices, and mild temperatures without too much rain – although this is Ireland, so make sure to pack your umbrella and a waterproof.

To experience a true Irish party, visit for St Patrick’s Day on March 17th. The anniversary of St Patrick’s death in the 5th century, this is a global celebration of Irish culture, and no more so than in Ireland itself. Known in Ireland as Paddy’s Day, there are public parades and festivals, céilithe (a traditional Irish gathering with music and dance), the wearing of green and orange outfits and shamrocks everywhere!

Another popular festival in Ireland is Halloween, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm. This is possibly because the roots of Halloween can be traced back to pagan Ireland over 2,000 years ago when the ancient festival of Samhain was celebrated to mark the beginning of winter. Head to the birth Púca Festival at Athboy in County Meath said to be the birthplace of the festival for folklore, fun, and feasting.

Ireland Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Ireland will be a better experience if you use some of these top tips: 

• Ensure you remember to drive on the left of the road and not the right in the whole of the island or Ireland.
• Driving on the left side of the road also means that you have to look in the other direction when crossing the road, so look RIGHT before crossing and not left.
• Life moves slowly in rural Ireland, and no more so than on the roads! Watch out for sheep, cattle, herders and slow moving tractors, and enjoy the relaxed pace!
• Public transport can be sparse, especially in rural areas, so traveling by car and taking an Irish road trip, or even campervanning around Ireland, is the best option for seeing as much as possible.
• The food is heavy and comforting and portion sizes are generally large. You may struggle with vegetarian and vegan options outside of the cities.
• It’s customary to leave 10-15% of your of the bill in a restaurant, if the service has been good and there is no service charge on the bill. It is not expected to tip taxis but its a welcome gesture to round up the bill.
• If you’re crossing the border from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland, you’ll need both euros and pounds, as Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom.
• Don’t be offended by the people. Poking fun at people, even travelers that they just met, is the way of the Irish People. We were harassed for being American in our Uber within the first few minutes but it’s all lighthearted and you’ll have a great time once you get the craic, an Irish word for having a good time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Irish Cities

What is the most walkable city in Ireland?

All of the cities in Ireland are quite walkable but Kilkenny, with all of its main shops, pubs, and restaurants on one street, is the most walkable city in Ireland.

What is the most touristy city in Ireland?

Being the largest capital city of Ireland, the most touristy city in Ireland is Dublin. Although this means it will be busier, Dublin is also home to some of the best attractions in Ireland.

What are the ten largest cities in Ireland?

The ten largest cities in Ireland by population are Dublin, Belfast, Derry-Londonderry, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Craigavon, Waterford, Drogheda, and Dundalk.

What is the nicest part of Ireland?

While all of Ireland is beautiful, the Wild Atlantic Way is a must-see on a tour of the Emerald Isle. At 1,600 miles, it is one of the longest-defined coastal routes in the world and winds from County Donegal in the north to County Cork in the south, following the gorgeous west coast of Ireland.

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