Touring the Emerald Isle can be great go-to family vacation. Enjoy idyllic Ireland’s many incredible historic landmarks and castles, otherworldly natural landscapes, charming Celtic lore and hearty cuisine. With so much to see and do spread over the country’s quaint towns, villages and famous cities, there is something for adventure-seekers, historians, luxury travelers and nature-lovers.
Scenic History
Explore Irish folklore and ancient castles and monasteries from Blarney to Kilkenny Castle. Hear the stories of the land and people passed down through the generations and add a hint of whimsy for young children and adults. Venture through the country’s countless ruins and scenic trails including Jerkpoint Abbey in Count Kilkenny; Lismore Castle and gardens in County Waterford; Powerscourt House and gardens in County Wicklow; and Bunratty Castle and Folk Park in County Clare — just to name a few.
Rural Culture
Take the rural route and visit Molly Gallivan’s more than 200-year-old cottage and farm — complete with livestock and traditional machinery. Visit Kissanes Sheep Farm along the famous Ring of Kerry. Watch working sheepdogs round up more than 1,000 mountain sheep on the farm.
Family Hiking in Ireland. Photo: Daniel Nagy | Dreamstime
Natural Beauty and Adventure
The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most famous destinations in Ireland for good reason. Take in the incredible sweeping views of the Atlantic from cliffside reaching nearly 400 feet high. On a clear day visitors can see the Aran Islands in Galway Bay and trek the steep paths along the cliffs’ edge.
Just a short ride from the Cliffs of Moher near Doolin in County Clare is another natural wonder, The Burren. This unique landscape is made up of small villages, rugged landscape and picturesque views. Walk along the rugged beach and climb the steep terrain in one of the largest Karst landscapes in Europe.
Cliffs oh Moher, Ireland. Photo: Ocskay Bence | Dreamstime
Head up to Northern Ireland and take a tour of The Giant’s Causeway. Walk across the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and hear the local legend of how the tiny islands were linked.
For adventure-seekers, Ireland’s sweeping coastline and incredible beaches offer more than just epic vistas. Visitors venture through caves along the cliffs and scuba dive, surf and sail their way through Ireland’s scenic coasts.
Photo: Angelique Platas
City Life
Enjoy high-end shopping in Dublin on Grafton Street and dining in Temple Bar. Stroll downtown and take in the historic sights. Don’t forget to stop in Trinity College for a breathtaking view of the famous institution’s library.
Head north of the River Liffey to Phoenix Park and enjoy a scenic walk and some wild deer spotting. Check out the Dublin Zoo and historical homes in the area before heading back to the city.
Dublin is impressive and walkable, so families can easily make their way through the cobblestone streets and over ancient bridges discovering diverse shops, restaurants and quaint pubs boasting live music and entertainment.
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