If you're looking for an amazing place to visit that has plenty of pubs, then look no further than Ireland! With its stunning scenery and welcoming people, you'll love this island.
Did you know that Ireland is the third-largest island in Europe? It is a magical place that has something for everyone. It is known for its ancient and breathtaking scenery, friendly and welcoming people, exciting history and art and last but not least - beer and pubs. In the words of the famous writer James Joyce: "A good puzzle would be to cross Dublin without passing a pub".
Not long now, and summer will be here, the days will be longer and the temperatures higher. Shorts will replace heavy jeans, flip flops will rule the pavements, and we'll finally be able to enjoy some summer nights out in the company of great friends, delicious drinks and the smell of freedom. Are you thinking about a vacation yet? Ireland is an excellent idea if you're sick of traditional destinations, palm trees, and sandy beaches and are ready for something different. Plus, summer is an ideal time to visit.
The weather in Ireland
From May to June, the monthly average temperatures are between 17°C and 20 °C, and from July to August, it is even warmer, practically ideal. But still, Irish weather can be a bit like a box of chocolates; you never know what you will get. So our friendly advice would be to remember to pack waterproof walking shoes and a windproof and waterproof jacket, along with sunglasses and sunscreen. You never know.
But it would be best if you didn't worry about the weather. Instead, focus on other things - the historical sights, the stunning nature, the majestic cliffs and the vibrant social pub life. Remember that summer in Ireland is known for its fiestas and festivals. The Irish know how to celebrate everything from flowers to art, music and literature.
Dublin
Dublin is the capital and also the largest city in Ireland. It has a rich history, outstanding museums and many galleries. A perfect way to explore Dublin is by bike. Many bikes are available for public use, and you can also join tourist-guided tours (Dublin City Bike Tours).
It is said that Guinness tastes better in Dublin than anywhere else in the world. Ten million pints of Guinness are made in Dublin every day. So it's evident that you can't go through Dublin without passing by a pub. The oldest pub is in Dublin and is called Brazen Head.
It is interesting to note that Dublin has the youngest population in Europe. About 50 per cent of the population is under the age of 25. So if you like to hang out and be around young people, Dublin is the place for you.
Don't let Dublin take all the credit for itself.
Even though Dublin is a great city and you should visit it, don't judge Ireland by its capital. Rent a car, make an itinerary and let the magic happen.
Ireland has something for you if you are a music lover, history lover, nature admirer, or architecture lover. Here are some excellent places you must see when in Ireland. Just a little tip before you read on. Public transport can be a bit expensive and won't take you everywhere you want to go. So for the most freedom and the best experience, rent a car.
Sights for architecture lovers
You will see tons of architectural masterpieces during your trip that will blow your mind and transport you to another time. Here are just a few of them that you definitely shouldn't miss:
- Trinity College in Dublin is a masterpiece of landscaping and architecture. The college was founded in 1592, and most of the buildings date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Century. It has some memorable graduates, including Oscar Wilde and Bram Stoker, creators of Dracula.
- Galway City is a beautiful city in the west of Ireland in Connacht, known as a city of music and culture where you can spend all day walking around and listening to the locals perform. The buildings are unique and colourful, and the music that surrounds you at every turn is intoxicating.
- Located in Celbridge, 23 km west of Dublin, Castletown House is the largest and oldest Palladian-style house in Ireland. It was built in 1792 and is one of Ireland's most important houses with a significant architectural heritage.
- Dun Aengus (Dun Aongasa) is a popular tourist attraction in the west of Ireland in County Galway and an important archaeological site. It is a semi-circular stone fort situated on a 100-meter cliff, sloping steeply down to the sea. You can sit with your feet dangling over the edge and observe the surroundings. An unforgettable experience!
Sights for nature lovers
There are many nature parks and forests in Ireland; we have made a list of some natural gems:
- The Cliffs of Moher, which are 215m high at their highest point, stretch for 8km along the Atlantic coast in County Clare, in the west of Ireland. It is one of the busiest attraction points, so make sure you plan your visit.
- Killarney National Park, located in County Kerry, southwest Ireland, was founded at least 4,000 years ago. It offers a wide range of services for tour groups, such as guided walks, slide shows, treasure hunts, etc. You can also rent a bike and observe beautiful views of the spectacular Killarney countryside.
- Glendalough is a valley in County Wicklow, known as "the valley of the two lakes". Here you can admire spectacular scenery while hiking or simply relaxing by the lake, meditating and inspiring your heart and soul.
Sights for horror fans
If you're a horror fan, stay at the Ballygally Castle Hotel, located on the scenic Antrim Coast Road, 26 miles north of Belfast. It is said that this hotel is the most haunted of its kind. It is said that the castle is haunted by the ghosts of the previous owners - Lord James Shaw and his wife, Lady Isobella Shaw. The current owners are proud of their resident ghost and dedicate a room to him in one of the towers in the older part of the castle.
If you're more on the safe side and don't want to sleep with ghosts, you can visit the most photographed place in Ireland - The Dark Hedges. It is an old beech avenue that lines the Bregagh Road near the town of Ballymoney in County Antrim. A ghostly Gray Lady, which appears among the trees, haunts the old road.
What and where to eat and drink?
Some people like Irish cuisine, and some don't. We'll let you taste it and then decide. It would be best if you didn't miss some places when you're out and about in Ireland.
- It's all about the cheese - When you're in Ireland, trying different types of cheese is a must. Cheesemaking dates back to the monasteries, so the Irish have perfected their recipes. For the best cheese experience, head to Dromoland Castle (8 miles from Shannon Airport). Here you can enjoy an Irish cheese plate for breakfast. The second place you must visit is Temple Bar in Dublin. Try the traditional potato dumplings with delicious Cashel blue cheese sauce.
- Seafood - It is said that Ireland has the best seafood globally. So if you love seafood, this is the place for you. Have you ever tried salmon with eggs? At Liberty Grill in Cork, you can have a lick-my-ass breakfast; smoked salmon and scrambled eggs on sourdough toast with hollandaise sauce. If you're travelling through Galway, stop by The Front Door Sonny's Bar and Restaurant. Indulge in fresh fish buried under lettuce and topped with chorizo butter.
- Lamb - Irish sheep farming is a primary industry in Ireland, so it's no wonder their high-quality product has a good reputation. Head to Galway and check out The Malt House Restaurant for the best lamb. It's a cosy restaurant, perfect for a romantic dinner. They have fresh ingredients and a creative menu so that you won't be disappointed.
- Beer, whiskey, and music - There are so many pubs in Ireland that it's almost ridiculous. But these two gems are not to be missed. The first is The Stag's Head, located on Dame Court and Dame Lane in Dublin. When we say that this has been a favourite drinking spot for famous people like James Joyce and Quentin Tarantino, we're saying enough. This place has tons of beer bottles, traditional live music, comedy shows, and beer events.
- The second place you should not miss is Henry Downes Bar, a great and authentic pub in Waterford City. They have been mixing their No9 Irish Whiskey for more than two centuries. It consists of several bars, each with its character. This place is not the easiest to find, but definitely worth the effort.
