County Clare is filled with spectacular places to explore, but when I think about the places I've returned to multiple times and the ‘wish list' so many people have for their Ireland vacation, these are my top 3 recommendations: the Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle, and an evening of live trad music. Together they offer an unforgettable mix of landscape, history, and culture.

Whether you’re drawn to dramatic landscapes, medieval stories, or the energy of a lively pub session, these three experiences capture the heart of County Clare. They’re easy to plan, enjoyable for all ages, and offer a true sense of what makes this county so unforgettable.

Bonus: if you are short on time, you can absolutely fit them all into one day.

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The Cliffs of Moher are undeniably the number one natural tourism spot in Ireland, often described as a bucket-list destination. Travelers frequently express that seeing the cliffs is essential to feeling like they’ve truly visited Ireland. The cliffs offer dramatic views that change with the weather and time of day, making each visit unique.

For visitors, the Cliffs of Moher provide various ways to explore. The visitor center offers informative exhibits about the history and lore of the site. Adventurous guests can embark on a guided cliff walk with local experts from Ollie's Tours or Pat Sweeney, ensuring a safe and enriching experience. Alternatively, a scenic cruise from Doolin Pier allows visitors to appreciate the cliffs from a different perspective.

For the best experience, it's advisable to visit early in the morning (before 10am) or later in the afternoon (after 4pm) to avoid the majority of tour buses.

Bunratty Castle, the best-preserved tower house in Ireland, presents a fascinating look into medieval life. Fully restored and furnished, the castle is a superb representation of how it would have been used in its heyday. Visitors can explore the castle’s dungeons, climb the circular staircases to the battlements, and immerse themselves in its rich history.

Adjacent to the castle is the Bunratty Folk Park, which offers a glimpse into traditional Irish life. The park features authentic houses and buildings, creating a living history museum where visitors can witness daily activities as they were centuries ago. For families and history enthusiasts alike, spending at least two and a half hours here is recommended to fully appreciate both the castle and the folk park.

Additionally, Bunratty Castle hosts a medieval banquet year-round, making it a delightful culinary experience for those seeking evening entertainment. Reservations are essential, especially for the first seating, which often fills up quickly.

Pro Tip: if the first seating is full, book into the second seating then email and request to be added to the wait list for the earlier seating. Often times these are booked by tour operators and seats can become available if the tour isn't completely full. Be sure to follow up as your trip approaches.

While traditional Irish music can be found throughout the country, County Clare is particularly renowned for its vibrant music scene. Doolin, a charming village near the Cliffs of Moher, bills itself as the ‘home of traditional Irish music'. With numerous pubs hosting live sessions and events, visitors are never far from the sound of fiddles and flutes.

The Doolin Music House, hosted by Christy Berry, offers an authentic experience where guests can enjoy music alongside stories and camaraderie in a cozy setting.

Throughout the year, County Clare hosts various music festivals, ensuring that every visit is filled with melodic moments.

County Clare offers so much more to see, taste, and experience beyond these top three picks. To help you plan your time in the west, I’ve created a County Clare Travel Guide with my Top 5 things to do, recomhttps://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-vacation-planning/clare-lodging-attractions/mended tours and places to stay, transport tips, family-friendly suggestions, and practical insights to make your visit easy and enjoyable.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 312

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