12 Best Irish Towns to Visit

Located at the mouth of the River Bandon in County Cork, Kinsale is recognized as the “Gourmet Capital of Ireland.” The town’s harbor and center paint a colorful picture of architectural beauty and historical significance, with the added gift of outstanding cuisine.

Savor dishes of locally sourced seafood if you book a table at the Michelin-starred Bastion restaurant. Compact in size, you will be able to explore the narrow streets of Kinsale with ease. Discover corner cafés and embrace the town’s maritime past with intriguing artifacts housed in the Kinsale Museum.

Set off on the nearly four-mile Scilly Loop leading to Kinsale’s Charles Fort, keeping the star-shaped bastion fort in your sights, a chance to learn about the historical events of the Irish Civil War within its walls. As you make your way around the Scilly Loop, take in the captivating views of the harbor, the lively and colorful boats gently bobbing in the tranquil marina.

Highlights: Michelin-starred Bastion Restaurant • Charles Fort • Painted Cottages

Standing proudly in County Kerry as the only town on the Peninsula, Dingle is one of the best towns to visit in Ireland. The waters of the Atlantic Ocean lap up against dramatic cliffs, with salty winds swirling up to large skies.

Dingle is historically significant as a trading port since the Norman invasion, once standing as a key Irish port for exporting fish and hides. You may wish to visit the Scenic Slea Head Drive and its nearby beaches, such as Inch Strand, taking in splendid views of cliffs and mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, water sports, and exploring the nearby Blasket Islands.

Dingle is famous for its colorful buildings and is a food-lover’s haven, with over 80 restaurants and more than 50 hardware pubs, where you can buy a pint of beer and a pair of rain boots. Discover the Dingle Distillery, recognized for its role in the rekindling of independent distilling in Ireland, and experience traditional Irish music with live events at local pubs.

Highlights: Dramatic Cliffs and Coastline • Colorful Buildings • Dingle Distillery

A charming town nestled between the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara, Kenmare is an ideal base for exploring the picturesque scenic landscape of southwest Ireland. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you can enjoy activities like hiking in Reenagross Woodland Park or watching seals at play in Kenmare Bay.

Discover Kenmare’s rich blend of history and culture when visiting the Kenmare Stone Circle, a prehistoric site of egg-shaped rocks creating a ring believed to date back to the Bronze Age.

The Molly Gallivans Visitor Centre, a preserved 200-year-old cottage and traditional farm, offers you a glimpse into rural Irish life from two centuries ago, while the Kenmare Heritage Centre uncovers the essence of Irish life.

Kenmare is renowned for its vibrant streets, lined with colorful shop fronts, local markets, and eateries. Get a taste of Kenmare’s culinary delights, with food stalls and restaurants serving local favorites such as the Kenmare Bay mussels. Harvested from nearby waters, you could enjoy these steamed with garlic and herbs or a slice of traditional Irish soda bread.

Highlights: Kenmare Stone Circle • Molly Gallivans Visitor Centre • Kenmare Heritage Centre

Often referred to as the “capital of Connemara,” the picturesque town of Clifden lies between the majestic, sharp-peaked Twelve Bens mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean. A lively Irish west coast town, Clifden’s storefronts and buildings bring color to the streets, with the stone, brick, and concrete walls often adorned with bright paint and intricate details.

Clifden’s location in County Galway serves as a wonderful gateway to explore the stunning landscapes of Connemara, including rugged coastlines and serene bogs. Driving along the scenic Sky Road will offer you captivating views of Clifden Bay and its surrounding countryside, a must-see for photographic opportunities.

Discover the Clifden Castle, a historic ruin overlooking the Bay, providing insight into the town’s founder, John D’Arcy, and its past. The castle boasts a Gothic Revival style, its exterior now partially overgrown. Commemorating the first non-stop transatlantic flight in 1919, the Alcock and Brown Landing Site near Clifden celebrates aviation history with a monument marking where the pioneering aviators landed.

Highlights: Clifden Castle • Alcock and Brown Landing Site • Sky Road

Adare in County Limerick is renowned for its well-preserved thatched cottages that line the streets, creating a postcard-perfect setting. As you stroll through the village, you will encounter craft shops, antique stores, and boutiques, with Adare fast becoming a fashion center for the mid-west of Ireland.

Discover the 13th-century Desmond Castle, which provides fascinating insights into the area’s heritage. The massive stone keep, described as the most impressive feature of the castle, is located inside the inner ward. You can feel the haunting vibes of the dark cellar located at ground level in the keep.

The only art gallery in County Limerick can be found in Adare, enhancing the cultural vibe of the town. The village is also home to tranquil parks and colorful gardens, which create the ideal setting for leisurely walks or a picnic.

Highlights: Well-preserved thatched cottages • Desmond Castle • Adare Art Gallery

Inistioge is a picturesque village located in County Kilkenny, nestled along the scenic River Nore. Renowned for its charming atmosphere and rich history, Inistioge offers a serene escape into nature and history, its quaint streets perfect for a relaxing stroll.

One of the most picturesque villages in Ireland, Inistioge features stunning attractions such as the Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum, dating back to the 18th century. These beautifully restored gardens offer a variety of landscapes, including walled and rose gardens, a rockery, and a collection of rare trees.

Hiking along the River Nore, or taking a boat ride or fishing trip on the river, is a popular pastime when visiting Inistioge. You can set out and explore local trails or pay a visit to nearby historical sites or medieval ruins, such as the Jerpoint Abbey. The abbey, with its intricate stone carvings and well-preserved ruins, offers insight into the religious, cultural, and architectural practices of medieval Ireland.

Highlights: Woodstock Gardens • River Nore Activities • Jerpoint Abbey Medieval Ruins

Killaloe is a charming Irish town in County Clare, uniquely positioned where the River Shannon meets Lough Derg. Noted as one of the best towns to visit in Ireland, Killaloe’s natural beauty and cultural heritage make it an ideal destination for relaxation, sightseeing, and outdoor adventure.

Outstanding waterfront views draw you in as you wander through local neighborhoods, soak up a lively, local atmosphere, and enjoy a host of delightful eateries. The town is a hub of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking along scenic trails.

Killaloe holds the title of the birthplace of the last High King of Ireland, Brian Boru, and its historic features include medieval churches and the iconic 13-arch stone bridge connecting Killaloe to Ballina. St Flannan’s Cathedral offers a striking stone roof, a bell tower housing eight bells, and intricate arabesque decorations adorning the facade.

Highlights: St Flannan’s Cathedral and the 13-Arch Bridge • Lough Derg Walking Trails •  Sunday Farmer’s Market

Located in Connemara, County Galway, Roundstone is a charming fishing village renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and brilliant artistic community. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and majestic Errisbeg Mountain, Roundstone offers a wonderful, captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Roundstone’s picturesque harbor is particularly popular, with colorful fishing boats painting a bright picture. Beaches such as Gurteen and Dog’s Bay are simply beautiful, the ideal location to go for a walk after a day of exploring. In contrast, discover ancient monuments on Inishnee Island, a strong historical landmark.

Known to attract many artists, Roundstone’s dramatic landscapes and tranquil atmosphere make the village a true artist’s haven. Local craft stores and a strong sense of community make Roundstone a must-visit destination for an authentic Irish experience.

Highlights:  Inishnee Island’s Ancient Monuments • Artistic Community • Stunning Beaches

Sneem in County Kerry is a gem among Irish villages, known for its scenic beauty and nestled in the estuary of the River Sneem, with captivating scenes of the Macgillycuddy's Reeks and Kenmare Bay. The village serves as a wonderful stop along the famous Ring of Kerry.

Sneem boasts a peaceful atmosphere where friendly locals open their brightly-colored doors to share their rich heritage and traditions. Irish hospitality is boldly displayed when you step inside any of the traditional pubs in Sneem, with events that highlight dance, music, and art from the region, attracting locals and tourists in the summer.

Outdoor activities include following the artistic Sneem Sculpture Trail, where creativity is displayed in sculptures erected throughout the village. Spend time on nearby Derrynane Beach, a short drive from Sneem, where the picturesque beach and crystal-clear waters provide the ideal setting for a day of swimming or relaxing amid stunning views.

Highlights: Sneem Sculpture Trail • Derrynane Beach • Colorful Architecture

Location is key when it comes to the Irish village of Doolin, located in the renowned region of County Clare. The village stands along the coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way, serving as a gateway to the iconic Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, an extremely popular stop on your Irish adventure.

Doolin is particularly famous for its traditional Irish music and you can experience lively sessions in most pubs, with violins and popular folk songs proudly performed. Paying a visit to the boutiques and craft stores in Doolin will introduce you to quality Aran wool. You may wish to grab your favorite sweater during your visit.

The great outdoors around Doolin include visiting the famous and simply stunning Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most famous natural landmarks, or discovering one of Europe’s largest stalactites in the Doolin Cave. Explore a little further with a ferry ride to the picturesque Aran Islands.

Highlights: Doolin Cave • Aran Wool • Cliffs of Moher

One of the best towns in Ireland in which to spend time is Tipperary Town, located in County Tipperary. Tipperary is known for its fertile rolling hills, boasts strong historical significance, and serves as an excellent base for exploring some of Ireland’s most iconic sites.

One of the most famous is the nearby Rock of Cashel, a spectacular medieval fortress that dominates the skyline and is steeped in legend. Another site of extreme interest is the impressive 12th-century Cahir Castle, where a tour will unveil fascinating information about Ireland’s feudal past.

Tipperary also boasts quality produce. Have your pick from over 60 varieties of apples grown on a local Cahir farm or savor creamy blue cheese and the buttery mushroom flavor of celebrated Cooleeney Cheese. You can catch a traditional Irish dance or music performance at the Bru Boru Cultural Center and, heading outdoors, you can enjoy hiking or biking adventures.

Highlights: Rock of Cashel • Cahir Castle • Bru Boru Cultural Center

Located in County Waterford, Glencomeragh is a serene and picturesque retreat that offers a perfect escape into nature and tranquility. It provides a space for reflection and spiritual growth, with a warm welcome by friendly locals.

Explore stunning landscapes with scenic walking trails that wind through lush countryside, perfect for taking a stroll or enjoying a vigorous hike. Local wildlife experiences in the area include superb bird-watching opportunities and wandering through brilliant flora and fauna in surrounding natural habitats.

Home to the Holy Family Mission Retreat Centre, Glencomeragh invites you to enter an architectural haven and tranquil house where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You can enjoy cultural events during the year, where celebrations of Irish tradition and community spirit combine to bring you an authentic experience of Waterford’s rich heritage.

Highlights: Stunning Landscapes • Tranquil Retreat • Authentic Irish Tradition Celebrations

With a common theme of incredible scenic landscapes and locals sharing rich Irish traditions through their music and meals, exploring the 12 best Irish towns will deliver one unforgettable moment after another.

Discover these Irish gems and more on your custom Ireland tour. Explore our Ireland travel guide for more tips and insight into visiting the best towns in Ireland and making your dream trip a reality.