“Emerald isle” become synonym for Ireland long time ago because of inspiring and breathtaking green landscapes. Wherever you look its a huge green field with leprikons running around ( I’m joking, there is no leprikons ). You probably wonder where to go and what to see in Ireland. Well, if your only location is Dublin I’m afraid that you will miss so many great places. Dublin is excellent place to be but this green island have so much more to offer. So, this is my list of best things you can see and do.
DUBLIN
Yes, I know that I said it’s not a only place to go but you must visit Dublin because it is the capital and largest city in Ireland. I would recommend Guinness house, St. Patrick cathedral and Dublin castle. I like Dublin because of its bridges and even though it’s big city it feels small and cozy. The best thing to do is hanging out in pubs and drinking a traditional pint of beer.
GALWAY
Galway is artistic and bohemian town which lies on river Corrib. Galway will be European Capital of Culture in 2020, alongside Rijeka, Croatia.
At any time any day you can see a lot of musician, dancers and artists. Galway is special place because people here are unreal nice and everyone is so chatty and friendly. My favorite place here is Spanish Arch, there is always something going on and a lot of young people are having picnic or just enjoying a day. You can also visit market in the Eyre square where you can find a lot unique jewelry or artistic paintings. So many festivals are in Galway, such as Art festival, Seafood festival and Galway races.
CLIFFS OF MOHER
The Cliffs of Moher are located in County Clare and they rise 120 meters (390 ft) above the Atlantic Ocean at Hag’s Head, and eight kilometers to the north, reach their maximum height of 214 meters (702 ft) just north of O’Brien’s tower which is a round stone tower near the midpoint of the cliffs that was built in 1835 by Sir Cornelius O’Brien. So, you are probably wondering how to get there. It is really simple, you can go on your own from Dublin or Galway with bus or you can go with agency if you want organized transport and someone to guide you all the way there.
GIANT’S CAUSEWAY
The Giant’s Causeway is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. It is located in County Antrim on the north coast of Northern Ireland, about three miles (4.8 km) northeast of the town of Bushmills.
According to legend, the columns are the remains of a causeway built by a giant. True story or not, it’s definitely worth of visit.
ARAN ISLANDS
The Aran Islands are located just off Galway on the west coast. Local people speak Irish and English as well, so you can experience true Irish culture here. You can came here from Galway by bus then ferry on daily trip or stay longer. Best way to explore Aran island is on bike because it’s so peaceful and charming to ride by the coast. If you are fan of camping there is a lot of great spot to relax. Also, they have “glamping” area there, if you would like to feel more comfortable.
CONNEMARA NATIONAL PARK
Situated in the West of Ireland in County Galway, Connemara National Park covers some 2,957 hectares of scenic mountains, expanses of bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands. Some of the Park’s mountains, namely Benbaun, Bencullagh, Benbrack and Muckanaght, are part of the famous Twelve Bens or Beanna Beola range. Connemara National Park was established and opened to the public in 1980. I would highly recommend for hiking and camping.
