Visit the most Instagram-worthy, off-the-beaten-path places with a trip to Ireland.
If you're a fan of adventure, Irish culture, and St. Patrick's Day, then plan on creating the ultimate celebratory experience for yourself by taking a trip to Ireland! Whether you're planning this trip for next year or the year after that (maybe hold off this year, as coronavirus concerns led the Irish government to cancel all major festivities!), one thing that never seems to change is that the entire country will be in celebration mode. That means you're sure to have a great time no matter where you end up.
You should also know that the Irish start celebrating St. Patrick's Day well before March 17th. You can plan on seeing festivities begin at least 4 days out so when planning your trip opt for a week-long celebration! So, where do you go for a good time?
Many people, including the locals, gather in Dublin where there are tours, parades, and the like celebrating the history and landmarks of Ireland. Even though this is a hot spot on any trip to Ireland, don't count it out just yet. You can ditch the usual tourist spots and opt for a more adventurous celebration by taking private tours of the Guinness Factory or pub-hopping with the locals. If you want more off-the-beaten-path destinations then you have to dig a little deeper into Ireland’s history.
Seeing that there is no shortage of places to visit, it’s best to look into landmarks that offer a rich experience and dive into the Irish culture. Let’s say we’re venturing “beyond the brew” here. The Blarney Castle in Cork, Ireland definitely fulfills that. The Blarney Castle, more specifically the Blarney stone built into the castle walls, is believed to endow you with the gift of the gab and eloquence after you kiss the stone. Interesting, right?
The Ring of Kerry is an exciting destination for those who are always game for a scenic drive around the countryside. Starting at Killarney, you’ll travel through this “ring” that surrounds lush hills and waterways as well as rural seaside villages. Killarney is home to the Killarney National Park as well as the Victorian Mansion, called the Muckross House, where Queen Victoria actually visited. If you're into gorgeous landscapes and are looking to escape your monitors and smartphones, you'll really appreciate the scenery and the peace that comes with this countryside visit. You’ll even be able to look out across the Atlantic and see the Skellig Islands. We recommend booking a boat tour or cruise to and around Skellig Michael to see the well-preserved Christian Monastery (and see if you notice something familiar).
This is a great alternative for anyone who wants to skip the parades and relax into some good old Irish culture. Galway is pretty well-known by locals and travelers alike, but there are a few places you can visit that won’t be crawling with tourists. If you're in the mood for food, the arts, or a good brew, then this is the place you want to visit. There are plenty of places to shop, eat, and listen to live Irish folk music. The Latin Quarter also promises a rich experience with its art galleries and other attractions to enjoy.
Even though the Burren is filled with castles, beautiful pavements of limestone, cliffs, and caves, this place isn’t just for fairytale enthusiasts. This magical place is a must if you love the idea of dwelling in the lands of Irish ancestors. Seaside you’ll see the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher, which are just as breathtaking.
The Cliffs of Moher are home to many ancient Irish legends. The unusual rock formation at the southern point of the cliffs is known for a famous folk story about a woman who fell in love with the famous Irish hero, Cú Chulainn and chased him all over Ireland. How romantic!
Ireland proves that it is known for things other than drinking and having a good time. Yes, that may be a part of the culture, but the country itself is beautiful and has a lot to offer. You can avoid the crowds and explore treasures off the beaten path by venturing to different cities, all with their own Instagram-worthy backdrops. No matter what, this is a celebration of an entire country — you’ll see plenty of people out enjoying themselves, and these destinations will give you more than a good time. It offers you culture… but don’t forget to pop into a pub for a dose of the Irish social scene! A trip to Ireland might be what you need this St. Patty’s Day!
UPDATE: March 12, 2020
Please note all the current restrictions on travel as indicated in your country. Read the latest regarding the US.
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