Planning a Trip to Ireland? Discover What Locals Recommend

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Ireland, though not a massive country, never ceases to fascinate with its captivating coastlines, scenic country roads, and rich historical cities, leaving visitors longing for more. To ensure you get the most out of your Irish adventure, we’ve solicited recommendations from an array of local experts, including food critics, photographers, librarians, and tour guides.

Embark on a legendary mountain expedition

Walking or hiking is an excellent way to experience the real Ireland. John G. O’Dwyer, author of 50 Best Irish Walks, says he’s still discovering new trails and intriguing stories after 30 years of exploring. One of his preferred trails leads to Coumshingaun, a hidden lake in the Comeragh Mountains of County Waterford, purported to be the hiding place of 18th-century highwayman William Crotty’s loot.

For a longer trek, O’Dwyer proposes St. Finbarr, a spiritual 22-mile journey in County Cork. This off-the-beaten-track trail traverses four mountains and three valleys, culminating at the heritage site of Gougane Barra.

Sample authentic Irish cuisine from a food truck

Ali Dunworth, a food writer, points out that Ireland’s casual food scene has significantly evolved. Food trucks, pop-ups, and shacks are now delightful spots to savor traditional pub food, freshly caught seafood, and hot toasties filled with farmhouse cheese. Dunworth’s personal favorite is Misunderstood Heron, a food shack with an enchanting view of Connemara’s Killary fjord.

Explore a castle by kayak

Ireland’s landscape is dotted with castles, from luxurious five-star hotels like Ashford Castle to rustic towers amidst cattle fields. Marnie Corscadden, owner of Ballyseede Castle, recommends visiting Cloughoughter Castle in County Cavan, a dreamy fortress situated on a tiny island, accessible only by boat.

Try your hand at golf in Donegal

While golf in Ireland might conjure images of famous courses like Old Head and Adare Manor, travel writer Fionn Davenport suggests that Donegal’s exceptional yet often overlooked links are worth exploring. He recommends Rosapenna and Dunfanaghy, both nestled along Sheephaven Bay on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Immerse yourself in the charm of traditional pubs

Quincey Fennelly, the managing director of Wicklow Wolf Brewery, recommends experiencing the genuine Irish pub culture at places like Doheny & Nesbitts in Dublin and Harbour Bar in Bray, County Wicklow.

Dabble in the Irish language

Manchán Magan, author of Thirty-Two Words for Field, encourages visitors to learn a handful of Irish words to gain a unique perspective on nature and life. Irish language schools like Oideas Gael and Oidreacht Chorca Dhubhne offer beginners’ courses for those interested.

Witness puffins in their natural habitat

Between May and July, puffins flock to locales like the Saltee Islands in County Wexford and Skellig Michael in County Kerry. Photographer Valerie O’Sullivan encourages visitors to capture these “clowns of the sea” in action.

Discover Trinity’s hidden gems

Helen Shenton, librarian and archivist at Trinity College Dublin, suggests visiting the college’s Old Library, home to the ninth-century Book of Kells. This summer is particularly special as the last of the library’s 200,000 books are being relocated ahead of a significant renovation.

Experience Ireland on a bicycle

Ciaran Cannon, a member of parliament for Galway East, says that the country’s quiet roads and welcoming locals make it an ideal place for cycling. Greenways like the Royal Canal and Limerick offer a relaxing way to see the Irish countryside.

Pól Ó Conghaile, the travel editor of the Irish Independent and author of Secret Dublin: An Unusual Guide, contributed to this article. Follow him on social media.

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More about Ireland Travel Guide

• Ireland’s Official Tourism Site
• Hiking Trails in Ireland
• Culinary Experiences in Ireland
• Golf Courses in Ireland
• Language Schools in Ireland
• Historic Sites in Ireland
• Birdwatching in Ireland
• Cycling Routes in Ireland
• Book of Kells