We may be a tad biased as two proud Irish folk, but in our humble opinions, Ireland is a land that stirs the soul, with its haunting landscapes, rich folklore, unbeatable nights out, and the best people in the world!
Whether you’re craving to sip Guinness in a cosy pub, explore ancient castles, or marvel at wild coastal cliffs, this Irish guide takes you through the best counties in Ireland to experience all that makes this country unforgettable.
We’ll explore five of the best counties in Ireland – Dublin, Cork, Clare, Galway, and Donegal – each offering a very distinct flavor of Irish charm. Plus, we’ll take a bonus detour to Derry, a cultural gem in Northern Ireland.
Let’s start our journey with the Irish county that keeps Ireland’s pulse beating strong – Dublin.
Don’t have time to read this whole article? Visit all these best counties in Ireland (and more!) for the ultimate 2-week Ireland road trip! We have done all the hard work for you so you can sit back, relax and soak in all the best attractions and must-visit destinations in Ireland!
Dublin – Ireland’s Electric Capital
Located on the eastern coast along the Irish Sea, Dublin is more than just a capital city; it’s a melting pot of history, music, literature, and cutting-edge innovation. As one of the best counties in Ireland, Dublin is the perfect starting point for any Irish adventure.
Start your exploration in the heart of the city at Trinity College, where the Long Room Library, home to over 250,000 books!
You can also witness Ireland’s famous Book of Kells at Trinity College. The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript of the four Gospelscreated by Celtic monks around the 9th century. It’s celebrated for its intricate artwork and profound religious significance.
Trinity College Dublin is truly a gateway into Ireland’s academic and artistic history.
Top-Rated Dublin Tours:
If you want to learn more about our Celtic past, book this top-rated Mythology, Folklore, and Legends Walking Tour in Dublin. Hear about the stories and characters that have shaped Ireland as you stroll through Ireland’s capital city.
A visit to Dublin would not be complete without a wander through the cobbled streets of Temple Bar, where live traditional music pours from every pub.
Visit Dublin Castle, a historic stronghold dating back to the 13th century, then walk to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
One of Dublin’s crown jewels is the Guinness Storehouse – a seven-story sensory journey through Ireland’s most famous export. Finish at the Gravity Bar with a panoramic view of the city and a freshly poured pint.
Be sure to sample some of Ireland’s world-renowned whiskey – but before you dive into the Irish pub scene, take a moment to explore the related articles below to help you make the most of your trip:
- 50 Easy Irish Phrases and Funny Irish Slang Words
- Expert Advice on The Best Dos and Don’ts For Visiting Ireland
- Why Do Irish People Drink? The Real Reasons Behind the Pint
- 60 Best Irish Insults to SURVIVE Your Ireland Trip
Families and wanderers alike will enjoy Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed parks in any European capital, complete with wild deer and the Dublin Zoo.
For something new and playful, check out Dream Point, Dublin’s latest interactive attraction featuring enormous ball pits, glowing tunnels, and imaginative experiences for all ages.
It’s no surprise Dublin ranks high among the best counties in Ireland – it’s the cultural and creative soul of the nation.
Top Dublin Tip: We highly recommend purchasing a Dublin city day pass to save time and money. This pass gets you easily around the city and includes entries to 40+ of Dublin’s main attractions. This pass is valid for up to 5 days!
Find your ultimate tour of Ireland with various itineraries and budgets to suit all needs. You can even create your own Ireland itinerary – Start planning your Ireland trip today
You could honestly spend your entire Irish adventure in Dublin and still not experience all that this Irish capital has to offer. But where’s the fun in that?! It’s time to head to the West of Ireland!
Cork – A Culinary and Cultural Feast
As you travel south to County Cork, you’ll be greeted with a distinctly local pride and a distinct musical Irish accent!
Ok we may be a bit biased because half of Happy Irish Wanderers is from County Cork, but is Cork the true capital of Ireland?! We think so!
Nestled on the River Lee and spilling into one of the largest natural harbors in the world, Cork has grown into one of the best counties in Ireland for foodies and history lovers alike.
Ireland Fact: Did you know that Cork Harbour is the world’s second largest natural harbour after Sydney Harbour?
The city of Cork is a labyrinth of winding streets, lively markets, and friendly banter. Head straight to the English Market, where food vendors sell everything from fresh oysters to traditional black pudding. This Victorian market has been serving locals since 1788 and represents Cork’s deep-rooted culinary traditions.
No visit to Cork is complete without a trip to the legendary Blarney Castle. Here, you’ll find the Blarney Stone, which, according to Irish folklore, will grant the “gift of the the gab” meaning eloquence or persuasive speech to anyone who kisses it. To kiss the Blarney Stone, you have to lean backward over a high drop, which adds a bit of drama to this unique Irish tradition.
Cork’s coast is dotted with quaint fishing villages like Kinsale, and Kevin’s hometown of Cobh, known for its seafood and colorful waterfronts. If you’re dreaming of that postcard-perfect image of Ireland – with colorful villages, stunning ocean views, and charming rural life – County Cork is the ultimate Irish destination.
With its winning combination of charm, flavor, and natural beauty, Cork remains firmly among the best counties in Ireland.
Check out Cork’s best towns you must visit when touring Ireland.
Clare – Where the Wild Atlantic Roars
To experience Ireland’s rugged west coast, head to County Clare, where nature takes center stage. This Atlantic-facing county is one of the best counties in Ireland for outdoor adventures, dramatic landscapes, and ancient landscapes.
We absolutely love County Clare – and truly believe it captures the wild, authentic spirit of our Emerald Isle like no other. And yes, you guessed it – the other half of the Happy Irish Wanderers proudly hails from this enchanting corner of Ireland.
Ireland Fact: Did you know that the ancient capital of Ireland was located in County Clare?
The Cliffs of Moher are perhaps the most iconic natural attraction in Ireland. Rising over 700 feet above the ocean, the cliffs extend for miles, offering a sweeping view of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay. Whether you visit during a misty morning or a glowing sunset, the cliffs of Moher are sure to leave a lasting impression during your Irish trip.
Just inland lies The Burren, a hauntingly beautiful karst landscape filled with limestone pavements, rare wildflowers, and prehistoric monuments. Walking across The Burren feels like stepping into another world – a stark contrast to the green hills people often associate with Ireland.
The Burren landscape was created because its limestone bedrock was formed millions of years ago under a tropical sea, then shaped by glaciers and erosion over time, creating its famous cracked, pavement-like surface. Ireland’s mild climate plus thin soil let a rare mix of Arctic, Mediterranean, and Alpine plants growing side by side.
A visit to the Burren is a unique Irish experience like no other.
History buffs will love visiting Poulnabrone Dolmen, a Neolithic portal tomb that has stood silently for over 5,000 years – older than the pyramids of Egypt!! When archaeologists excavated this megalithic site in Ireland, they found the remains of at least 33 people, along with ancient tools and jewelry, showing it was a sacred burial site for Neolithic people.
Nearby, Aillwee Cave provides a thrilling descent into Clare’s underground, with guided tours through caverns of stalactites, stalagmites, and subterranean rivers. The Aillwee Caves were formed by underground rivers millions of years ago, but they weren’t discovered until the 1940s by a farmer who kept them secret for decades – and inside, you can still see the bones of ancient bears that used the cave as a hibernation den over 10,000 years ago!
See we told you we were giving you a complete tour of Ireland, how interesting is our beautiful little island?!
Top Ailwee Cave Tour:
- From Dublin explore Aillwee Cave’s depths, cruise to the Cliffs of Moher’s base, marvel at towering heights, and end with a breathtaking cliffside walk for an unforgettable Irish adventure.
Ireland Fact: Did you know that Aillwee Cave is home to one of the tallest free-hanging stalactites in Europe. This impressive natural wonder makes the cave a must-see for anyone exploring Ireland’s geological treasures.
In addition to Ireland’s natural wonders, Clare is the home of traditional Irish music. Towns like Doolin offer nightly live sessions in cosy pubs, giving travelers a true sense of Irish spirit.
With some of the friendliest locals in Ireland, you are sure to be in for a good night in Doolin!
With its untamed beauty and cultural depth, Clare earns its place among the best counties in Ireland.
Galway – Bohemian Soul of the West
Crossing into County Galway, you’ll immediately feel the shift – this is Ireland’s bohemian heartbeat, where artists, musicians, and dreamers come together. Situated on the Atlantic coast, Galway offers a vibrant mix of medieval history, youthful energy, and artistic soul.
If you are in search of the most authentic Irish night out filled with traditional Irish music, dancing, laughter, and maybe an odd Guinness or two, Galway is the best county in Ireland, without a doubt. If you come across a more fun Irish destination please let us know and we’ll check that out!
Trust us, once you step foot in County Galway you will be immediately transformed into “holiday mode!” Check out the best Galway hotels to stay in to make the most out of trip to this incredible Irish County.
Start your adventure in Galway City, where street performers light up Shop Street, and medieval remnants like Lynch’s Castle and the Spanish Arch reveal the city’s historic past.
Galway’s Eyre Square is the central hub, surrounded by lively pubs, boutique shops, and bustling cafes.
While you are in Galway, the home of Ireland’s famous Claddagh Ring, make sure to check out the greatest Irish Symbols and their meanings that will blow your mind.
What makes Galway one of the best counties in Ireland is its deep love for festivals. From the Galway International Arts Festival to the legendary Galway Races, the city is almost always in celebration mode. These events draw visitors from around the globe and give Galway its festive, carefree reputation.
Nature lovers should head west to Connemara National Park. Connemara region is a wild and rugged stretch of western Ireland where you can hike up Diamond Hill for epic views, explore bogs and heaths shaped by ancient glaciers, and maybe even spot the famous Connemara ponies grazing freely in the misty landscape. Connemara is another uniquely Irish landscape that will transport you directly into an Irish novel.
Kylemore Abbey is a stunning neo-Gothic castle turned Benedictine monastery, nestled at the foot of a misty mountain and reflected in a peaceful lake in Connemara. Kylemore Abbey was built in the 19th century as a romantic gift. This famous Irish Abbey later became a refuge for Belgian nuns fleeing World War I, and now it’s famous for the fairy-tale vibes and being one of the most photogenic spots in Ireland.
Galway is where old meets new, tradition meets innovation, and locals welcome you like long-lost friends – 100% Galway is one of the best counties in Ireland.
Top-rated Irish Tour:
Explore Ireland’s west on a day trip from Dublin, visiting the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and Galway. Enjoy stunning Wild Atlantic Way views, plus a free whiskey tasting in Dublin – now that’s one awesome Irish tour right there!
Donegal – Wild, Remote, and Spellbinding
In the far northwest lies County Donegal, perhaps the most underrated of the best counties in Ireland, but certainly one of the most awe-inspiring. With its raw beauty, dramatic cliffs, and hidden beaches, Donegal is the adventurer’s paradise.
Slieve League Cliffs rival even the Cliffs of Moher in grandeur, soaring nearly three times higher and offering jaw-dropping views over the Atlantic. Fewer crowds make the experience feel more intimate and untouched.
Inland, you’ll find Glenveagh National Park, a wilderness of mountains, lakes, and woodlands. At its heart sits Glenveagh Castle, a 19th-century fortress built in a romantic Scottish style, complete with manicured gardens and views that stretch for miles.
Donegal’s coastline is dotted with gems like Malin Head, Ireland’s northernmost point, and Fanad Head Lighthouse, standing sentinel over roaring waves. These remote outposts are ideal for photographers, hikers, and anyone seeking solitude during their Irish adventure.
Consider an Irish road trip like no other from the most southern point in Ireland – Mizen Head in County Cork – to Malin Head in County Donegal.
Add in the Gaeltacht regions – where Irish is the first language – and Donegal offers a deeper connection to the Ireland’s heritage and identity.
For those looking to venture off the beaten path in Ireland, Donegal proves it’s one of the most rewarding best counties in Ireland.
After all the fun in Irish pubs in Galway, a refreshing break into the rugged nature of Donegal could be just what you need!
Check out some of the most unique Irish accommodations to make your Ireland trip even more enchanting.
Bonus Irish County: Derry – Where History Meets Resilience
Although not in the Republic, County Derry in Northern Ireland is too culturally significant to leave off this list of the best counties in Ireland.
Known for its layered history, walled city center, and thriving arts scene, Derry offers a powerful and moving experience.
Ireland travel tip: No visit to Ireland is complete without sampling traditional Irish foods – you’ll thank us later!
The Derry City Walls, built in the early 1600s, are the only completely intact city walls in Ireland, originally constructed to defend English and Scottish settlers. Today, you can walk along them for a full circuit with views of the city’s complex history, including murals and landmarks from the Troubles.
*The Troubles were a violent, decades-long conflict in Northern Ireland (late 1960s–1998), rooted in political and sectarian tensions between mainly Protestant unionists who wanted to stay part of the UK and mainly Catholic nationalists who wanted to join a united Ireland – with bombings, riots, and clashes that deeply affected communities until the Good Friday Agreement brought a fragile but lasting peace.
Visit the Museum of Free Derry, which chronicles the civil rights movement and the Troubles with deep honesty and emotion.
Art lovers will be drawn to the Bogside Murals, powerful works of political art that offer insight into the city’s troubled past and hopeful future.
On a lighter note, Derry also hosts one of Europe’s best Halloween festivals, turning the city into a thrilling spectacle of lights, parades, and costumes.
It may sit across a political boundary, but culturally and spiritually, Derry belongs on any list of the best counties in Ireland.
If you decide not to join a guide tour of Ireland, the best way to explore Ireland is by car at your own pace – click to get a free quote for Car Rental in Ireland.
Conclusion: The 5 Best Counties in Ireland
From the metropolitan pulse of Dublin to the windswept cliffs of Donegal, each stop on this journey offers something unforgettable.
Whether you’re drawn to Cork’s colorful towns, Clare’s wild beauty, Galway’s vibrant culture, or the poetic resilience of Derry, the best counties in Ireland are more than just places on a map – they are living stories of Ireland waiting to be discovered.
Exploring the best counties in Ireland means diving into a rich mosaic of experiences. It’s about sharing a laugh in a snug pub, watching the sun set over an ancient ruin, hearing the Irish language spoken with pride, and feeling like, somehow, you’ve come home.
No matter where your travels take you across this incredible island, you’ll quickly understand why Ireland’s true magic lies in its counties – and why these truly are the best counties in Ireland.
What do you think of the suggestions given in this Irish travel guide? Have you visited any of these Irish counties? We would love to hear what you think are the best counties in Ireland.
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Slán go fóil
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