10 things to do in Ireland in 2025.

The island of Ireland is a holiday destination for everyone. Whether you like to indulge in rich culinary traditions or wander rolling green landscapes, explore buzzing city centres or head out on scenic mountain hikes, there are so many places to visit and things to do in Ireland. And as a frequent visitor to the island, I have done so many of them.

Here’s my rundown of ten things to do in Ireland this year.

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1. Take a boat tour along the coast of Howth and Ireland’s Eye.

Just under an hour from Dublin is the village of Howth, which sits within the Howth Head peninsula. Howth offers sweeping sea views, cliff top hikes and an excellent fisherman’s pie at The Abbey Tavern. For nature and bird lovers, a boat trip along the coast and around the island of Ireland’s Eye is a must.

Book a boat tour with Ireland’s Eye Ferries and set off from Howth Pier for a chance to see seals, guillemots and gannets, to name just a few – and if visiting between June and September, you could even see puffins. Pick a dry day for your one-hour tour to get the best experience (but always pack a raincoat, just in case – this is Ireland, after all).

2. Hike from Giant’s Causeway to Dunseverick Castle.

If a challenging cliff top hike is your bag, look no further. Images of the unique formation of Giant’s Causeway’s basalt columns make it renowned worldwide, but the setting makes the area ripe for exploration beyond the hotspot. Take in the view, snap your photos and use Giant’s Causeway as your starting mark for a 9km hike towards the remains of Dunseverick Castle. This hiking route is also known as the North Antrim Cliff Path.

The hike takes you along cliff tops, with some steep hills and inclines along with steps to navigate – but the payoff makes it all worth it. Your end destination of Dunseverick Castle is perched atop a basalt stack and offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the green-topped cliffs beyond. Jump on a bus back to the Giant’s Causeway area or return on foot for a bigger challenge.

3. Enjoy seafood, shopping and Salthill in Galway.

Much more than just the inspiration for an Ed Sheeran song, Galway is an unmissable stop in a road trip around the island of Ireland. Seafood lovers rejoice – Galway has so much to offer you. For those looking for a fine dining experience, Michelin-starred Aniar is the place to be, but don’t forget to book in advance. For those with a smaller budget, I recommend Oscar’s Seafood Bistro.

If you love to shop from independent businesses, Galway has an abundance. Creatives must stop by Just Art It, and Ór Jewellery has a stunning range of Celtic and contemporary jewellery that are the perfect keepsake to remember your trip. Once your bellies and shopping bags are full, head to the promenade at Salthill, just a stone’s throw away from a 3km seafront wander.

4. Visit Torc Waterfall near Killarney.

Torc Waterfall is a short drive from Killarney and can be accessed by either parking at the (very small) car park a few minutes from the falls, or via a 6km circular hike from Muckross House.

The 20-metre-high waterfall is beautiful, hidden away amongst the luscious greenery that the island of Ireland is famed for. If you have time, start your day early at the falls and explore more of Killarney National Park after – it’s a really special spot

5. Explore Mitchelstown Caves.

Forty minutes from Cork is Mitchelstown Caves, a seriously impressive and beautiful caves system that’s one of the largest in Ireland. The guided tour takes you through three huge caverns, with the largest spanning 20 metres high. The lit walkways throughout the dim caves make the experience feel almost magical as you wander beneath stalactites and calcite pillars. Book ahead to secure your tour spot.

6. Foodies, head to Cork’s English Market.

Cork’s English Market is a foodie haven, packed with local suppliers offering artisan cheeses, fresh seafood, traditional meats, and seasonal produce. With over 50 stalls, many family-run for generations, it blends history with top-quality flavors. Trading since 1788, its charming architecture adds to the experience.

7. Visit the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin.

Guinness is Ireland’s most iconic beer (and really does taste better on there) so no trip is complete for fans of the beverage without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. Get a ticket for the 1.5-hour storehouse experience and take a self-guided tour, explore the Guinness Tasting Rooms and get entry to the Gravity Bar. Here, you can enjoy a complimentary pint of the stout with 360-degree views across Dublin

8. Join a Walled City tour in Derry~Londonderry.

Derry~Londonderry is packed with history, heritage and places to explore. A great place to start is with a tour of the 1.5km walls that have surrounded the city since the 17th century. The elevated promenade offers sweeping views of the city and a chance to step back in time with a knowledgeable tour guide as you learn about Derry~Londonderry’s past and present.

If you have time, don’t miss out on a walk over The Peace Bridge, which is particularly special at night. Pop into the Blackbird pub while you’re in the area for a pint of the black stuff and the ‘cod father’ burger and fries – you won’t regret it.

9. Try your hand at hurling in Kilkenny.

Hurling is a quick-paced Irish team sport played with a stick and a ball. It shares some similar traits to Gaelic football and is really good fun to watch – and even try your hand at.

You’ll learn the key skills needed to play hurling, visit the Legends Hurling Museum and then watch a hurling match while you enjoy a meal at the bar. There are both tourist and family packages available to book, as well as hen and stag party experiences for those looking to put the bride or groom through their paces.

10. Step inside King John’s Castle in Limerick.

Perfect for history lovers and families alike, King John’s Castle was built in the 13th century and has been carefully preserved to maintain its medieval form with added fun. Courtyard games like archery and horseshoe throwing, the opportunity to try on 18th century chainmail tunics and an interactive exhibition detailing the castle’s expansive history all await you – and much more too.