Top Things to Do and Places to Visit in Ireland

Want to know some surprising facts about Ireland? Well, the famous ship Titanic was built in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and the Titanic Belfast museum tells about its history. Also, many think Halloween began in the U.S. But it actually began in Ireland as a Celtic festival called Samhain!

Ireland or the Emerald Isle, is a lush, green country in Northwest Europe. If you are planning a trip to this beautiful place, ensure you secure yourself with travel insurance from Bajaj General Insurance that covers trip delays, baggage and passport loss, and medical emergencies.

Understanding Ireland’s Geographical Structure

Ireland is an island in the North Atlantic Ocean and is split into two political regions:

• Republic of Ireland (independent country)
• Northern Ireland (part of the UK)

The country Ireland that we discuss here is officially the Republic of Ireland, while Northern Ireland is not part of it but is a constituent country of the United Kingdom.

Now let us delve into how the geographical architecture of Ireland is.

Central Ireland

The central lowlands or middle part are the heart of Ireland. They are filled with fertile soils and big lakes and are great for farming. Ireland’s longest river, the river Shannon flows through this area.

Coastlines

East Coast: The east coast is flat with sandy beaches and is perfect for exploring historic sites, pubs, museums, and beaches. The capital of Ireland, Dublin is on the east coast.

West Coast: The geography of west coast is rugged; it is full of high cliffs, rocky beaches, and Atlantic waves.

South Coast: The south coast is known for its mild climate, vibrant cities, and a mix of beaches and mountains. It is sunnier compared to the west and pleasant for long road trips.

Surrounding Mountains

Around the edges of the island, there are mountain ranges. It is like a ring of highlands around a flat centre.

Rivers and Lakes

The River Shannon, as already discussed, flows through the central plains. The country also has around 12,000 beautiful lakes.

Also Read: What Is Norway Famous For?

Places to Visit in Ireland

The top must visit places in Ireland are:

Dublin

Dublin is the best starting point for your trip, as it connects to other cities and attractions easily. The River Liffey runs through the middle of Dublin, where you can see beautiful bridges if you walk along the river. You can also visit Phoenix Park, one of the largest city parks in Europe. You can rent a cycle, see wild deer roaming around, or just relax on the grass. There is also Trinity College, the country’s oldest university, and Temple Bar, a lively area with colourful streets, pubs, music, and street performers.

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most visited attractions in Ireland. These sea cliffs rise up to 214 metres (702 ft) above the Atlantic Ocean and stretch for about 14 kilometres. If you stand here, you will see the endless ocean on one side and the green Irish landscape on the other.

The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is one of the most famous road trips in Ireland. It is a circular route of about 179 kilometres and the drive takes you through mountains, lakes, forests, small villages, and along the Atlantic coast. You will pass through Killarney National Park, which has waterfalls, lakes, and deer. Also, there are sandy beaches and cliffs along the way. The route is peaceful and less crowded than big cities.

Galway

Galway which is famous for music, art, and festivals is a lively city on the west coast of Ireland. The city has a young and cheerful vibe because many students live here. The Latin Quarter is a street full of pubs, cafes, and colourful shops. Musicians play live on the streets, and it feels very festive if you walk down the lane. Galway is also close to nature as it is near to Aran Islands, Cliffs of Moher, and seaside area.

The Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is made up of about 40,000 basalt stone columns that look like steps. These were formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity. The stones are hexagon-shaped and fit together like puzzle pieces. You can climb on them, take photos, and enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the rocks.

Also Read: How Long Does It Take to Get a France Visa from India?

Top Things to Do in Ireland

If you want to have some unique experiences in Ireland, these are the top things you should do. One memorable experience is to kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle near Cork. People believe that kissing this stone gives you the power to speak confidently.

If you are someone who enjoys history, you can try sleeping in a real Irish castle hotel. Some castles have been turned into luxury stays.

And for nature lovers, there is some exciting news. You can go on a sheepdog demonstration in the countryside where local farmers show how trained dogs guide sheep across the fields.

Another exciting thing to do in Ireland is to watch the Northern Lights in winter when the sky is clear. The sky lights up in green and purple colours and it is a wonderful experience.

Do you know that Ireland has produced famous writers like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde? If you are a literary lover, you can take a literary walking tour in Dublin. The guides tell stories and walk through the same streets these writers once knew. They stop at old cafés, bookshops, and statues connected to their lives.

Conclusion

Ireland is called Emerald Isle due to its green fields and rolling hills. The country is small but has rich experiences to offer. There are calm lakes, high cliffs, Northern Lights, and sunny south beaches. Also, there is entertaining music and culture, pubs, festivals, and street performances.

But, remember, before you start your journey, get yourself and your family insured with an international travel insurance plan. Emergencies can strike with the least warning. At such times, Bajaj General Insurance is your steady partner to help you navigate such difficult times with ease.

FAQs

Q1. What is Ireland famous for?

Ireland is famous for lush green landscapes, historic castles, friendly locals, traditional music, Guinness beer, and iconic spots like the Cliffs of Moher and Giant’s Causeway.

Q2. Which are the best places to visit in Ireland for first-timers?

Dublin, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, and Killarney National Park are the places you must visit as first-time travellers.

Q3. What is the best time to travel to Ireland?

The best time to visit Ireland is between May and September. The weather during this time is mild and the days are long, so you can visit many places and plan your trip well.

Q4. Do I need travel insurance for Ireland?

Travel insurance is not mandatory but is essential to cover unexpected issues like medical emergencies. Bajaj General Insurance offers comprehensive plans for Irish travel.

Q5. Can I buy travel insurance online before my trip?

Yes, you can buy travel insurance online from Bajaj General Insurance in a few easy steps before your departure.

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***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.