10 Most Charming Things to See In Ireland

There’s simply no place else on earth like Ireland. There – we said it. Filled with rolling green hills, colorful villages, and charming locals, it’s an incomparable country just waiting to dazzle and delight everyone who touches its shorelines. 

We’ve selected a few charming villages, mixed in with a few charming sights to see, in the hope that you’ll take a moment to absorb the wonder of them all. As you do, you’ll find friendly locals just waiting to befriend you, along with those quiet moments in nature that will remain etched on your soul for all of eternity. 

The Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is much more than a “thing to see.” It’s a roadway paved with enough magic and majesty to transform your life. As a coastal byway that runs from Donegal to Kinsale, it offers breathtaking view after breathtaking view. For so many people, it’s the trip of a lifetime to be able to drive it in its entirety. And, if that’s something at the top of your bucket list, these 15 must-see villages along the way could prove to be the perfect stopping points throughout your journey. 

The Cliffs of Moher

Locals might call this attraction a tourist trap, but that’s nothing more than a red herring. It doesn’t matter how you label these sea cliffs; they’re stunning. With a sheer drop-off, you’ll feel as though you’re standing at the end of the world. Between the Atlantic winds blowing through your hair and the lovely encounters with the locals, you’ll be glad to stand still for a moment and take it all in. Sometimes, the crashing waves of the sea hold the greatest secrets in life. 

Doolin

The local village of Doolin – a stone’s throw away from the Cliffs of Moher – epitomizes the very definition of charming. With a population of no more than 500 people, it’s astonishing that it’s established itself as the mecca for traditional live Irish music, or trad. The cottages are pink, the pints are fresh, and the locals are lively. You have your choice between four main pubs: Gus O’Connor’s, Fitz’s, McGann’s, and McDermott’s. But, one thing remains true: whichever one you choose will deliver some of the best tunes this side of heaven. 

Doonagore Castle

Also in Doolin, you have a round towerhouse called Doonagore Castle. The current structure likely dates back to the mid-16th century but, presently, is privately owned. Still, that doesn’t stop newlyweds from trekking up the hill from the village of Doolin to take wedding photos with the breeze billowing the bride’s beautiful gown. It’s also just a magnificent sunset spot if you drive up one night with a sandwich and a thermos full of tea. Behind you, you’ll have the rolling green hills of Doolin. And, in front of you, you’ll have the crashing waves of the Atlantic, rolling in with their routine rhythm, as the sky bursts into an explosion of color.