Traveling in Ireland Podcast Archives - Ireland Family Vacations

The Medieval City of Kilkenny is an easy trip from Dublin – under 2 hours if you travel direct by car – and is a terrific day trip from Dublin by train.

But too many travelers consider Kilkenny as a ‘stop through' in route to another spot (usually Cork), which often leads to regret, as this small city has more than just a magnificent castle to offer visitors.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 264. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

The choice comes down to time: arrive by late morning for a full day in Kilkenny, or wind your way through Wicklow and reach the city by evening.

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This option is quite direct, with only one stop (but it's terrific), allowing you a full afternoon and evening in Kilkenny city.

Depart Dublin by 10am and plan a quick stop at the Rock of Dunamase, a wonderful castle ruin in COunty Laois.Stop at the Rock of Dunamase

Arrive to Kilkenny no later than 1pm and visit Kilkenny Castle first. (Kilkenny Castle is an OPW Heritage site.)

After visiting the castle you'll want to enjoy the highlights of Kilkenny.

I recommend joining the Shenanigans tour for fun history & a terrific overview of the city.

If you want to DIY your explorations,follow the Medieval Mile between the castle and St. Canice's Cathedral.

Highlights

As attractions shut down it's time to think about dinner. A few tasty spots:

Visit a pub this evening – just follow the music or look for the sign that Hole in the Wall is open (it will appear on the Medieval Mile).

This route gives you a full day to explore the natural beauty of ‘the Garden County' and arrive in Kilkenny in the late afternoon or evening.

Wicklow highlights:

Unfortunately you won't make it to all of those sites in one day – 3 may be the limit.

Enjoy your first taste of Kilkenny this evening.

If you enjoy a morning walk, kick off your day in Kilkenny with a stroll along the Canal Walk beginning at Canal Square, passing the hurling statue, and continuing along the River Nore. This trail skirts the Kilkenny Castle grounds, ending at Bennettsbridge Road, which winds back to Castle Road and The Parade past the castle gates.

Plan Kilkenny Castle for your first stop, then I would choose a tour- there are a few options, so you can choose the one that best fits your interests

Break for a wee bite.
I really like the Kilkenny Cafe at Kilkenny Design Centre if you want something quick and easy.
If you would rather have a bite of something sweet and a cuppa, head to Cakeface – it's not far from the cathedral on the Medieval Mile – the flavors and presentation will blow you away.

Sporty types – or those who enjoy a bit of activity with a good laugh – should consider the Hurling Experience. Kilkenny is known as the ‘Hurling Capital of Ireland and getting your hands on a hurley is like connecting with the heart of the Irish people.

Be sure to get to St. Canice's to climb the round tower, and if you enjoy a good pint make sure Smithwick's is part of your itinerary.

And if you have gifts to buy, or just want to pick up something special for yourself, visit the Kilkenny Design Centre across from the castle.

Wrap up your day with a great meal and live music – just follow your ears from pub to pub.

Butler House – charming boutique inn, the former dower house of Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny River Court Hotel – perfectly located, across the river from the castle

Kilkenny Ormonde – 4-star boutique hotel, the only one in the city centre with a pool

Hotel Kilkenny – a great option for families located on the ‘ring road'

The post Dublin to Kilkenny (and why to stay a while in the Medieval City) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

When you rent a car in Ireland, one of the first choices you’ll face is manual vs automatic. For North American travelers, it’s a question you might not even think to ask – but the difference in price is bigger than you imagine.

In North America it’s nearly impossible to rent a manual transmission car – everything is automatic. In Ireland, it’s the reverse. Manuals are the standard, so when you book your rental you’ll have to decide between the two.

Renting a Car & Driving in Ireland
The One-Stop Resource for EVERYTHING You Need to Know

In Ireland, manual transmission cars aren’t the budget option – they’re the default. Manuals are cheaper to buy, easier to maintain, and more fuel efficient, so rental companies fill their fleets with them.

Most Irish drivers also learn on a manual. If you pass your test in a manual, you’re licensed to drive both manual and automatic. But if you test in an automatic, you can only drive automatics. That flexibility keeps manuals in demand.

There’s also a bit of tradition at play: many locals feel manuals handle Ireland’s narrow roads, sharp curves, and hills better.

Here’s where the surprise comes in: automatics can cost two to three times more than manuals.

For example, when I checked rates with my preferred rental company, Irish Car Rentals, a week in a small manual car came in at just $100. The same size car with an automatic transmission? Over $360.

That’s a massive difference – and it’s average. During peak travel season, the gap can be even larger because automatics are in short supply and sell out quickly.

If you know you’ll need an automatic, book as far in advance as possible to secure one and avoid last-minute sticker shock.

Manuals are standard in Ireland, while automatics are limited and cost more. The right choice is the one that makes your trip enjoyable and stress-free.

👉 Once you’ve decided between manual and automatic, the next big thing to understand is insurance and hidden fees. That’s where car rental costs can really add up. Stay tuned for the next article and video in this series, where I’ll walk you through exactly what to expect.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 294

The post Renting a Car in Ireland: Manual vs Automatic appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Ireland is a terrific introduction to Europe for Americans because the Irish speak English. Kind of. But you're likely to hear quite a few words you won't recognize – or maybe words you recognize, but not in the way they are used.

The tips below will help you avoid a scaldy sambo, navigate your morning fry, and give you a few tips for phrases so you don't make a clanger as you chat with the lads at the evening sesh.

Ireland Family Vacations is programmatic ad-free, supported through partnerships with trusted travel brands I personally work with and recommend. We may earn income from purchases made via affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn commission from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. ​See why this is important.

This article is based on podcast episode 109 featuring Irish author Denise Deegan.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

When you visit Ireland you're likely to hear a few words that you recognize – but they are used differently than at home.
A few American to Irish examples…

But there are far more ‘Irishisms' that may leave you baffled. Or just confused as to the actual meaning of a phrase.

Author Denise Deegan has written a charming wee book of ‘Irishisms‘ – words that almost seem to elevate the Irish above the English language.

Irishisms is written under Denise's pen name of Aimee Alexander. This book a very different direction from the novels she usually writes. A chance conversation with an American friend led Denise to take note of all the different ‘Irishisms' that she used, and heard, daily. And it really just built from there.

As Denise was writing the book she shared the progress with her readers and fans who requested other topics to include in the book – like information on Irish names.

Chapters in the book are short and sweet – but really useful. It's perfect for a fun evening in a pub or even as a primer for your trip to Ireland!

The chapter titled ‘Avoid these like the Plague' is especially fun. It's filled with words and phrases you will never hear spoken by the Irish.

Another chapter to dig into is ‘Tricks to Make Your Sentences More Irish'.  The use of a single word in just the right way instantly makes you sound more Irish. Often this is a string of past tense verbs or repeating what you've just said.

Learn more about Denise at her author sites Denise Deegan and Aimee Alexander.
Or connect with her on Facebook or Twitter.

Buy Irishisms on Amazon.

The post Irishisms with Author Denise Deegan appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

It would be very easy to spend most of your vacation in Dublin – Ireland's capital has so very much to see, do and experience.

Most visitors, however, plan one full day in the city – maybe a bit more depending on flights. So how do you get the most out of a short visit?

These are the 3 things I always recommend when asked about the best Dublin experiences.

Visit the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology

Dublin has a number of terrific museums but the one I think every visitor should experience is the Museum of Archaeology. It covers the known history of Ireland – from the first Neolithic farmers, through the Bronze and Iron Age Celts, Viking invasions and the ‘Dark Ages', and through Ireland's Monastic splendor.

Bonus: it's free.

The first two floors of stunning Leinster House are devoted to these collections. The two exhibits I think everyone should explore are Kingship and Sacrifice to view the bog bodies and learn their stories and The Treasury, which is where Celtic metalwork and monastic treasures- including the Tara Brooch and the Cross of Cong – are on display.

Ireland Family Vacations is programmatic ad-free, supported through partnerships with trusted travel brands I personally work with and recommend. We may earn income from purchases made via affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn commission from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. ​See why this is important.

Take a Guided Food Tour

I think you can learn a lot about a place from its food. And when you pair food with a terrific tour guide you are going to have a terrific experience.

I love Flavour Trails. All 3 of their tours – the Irish Food Trail, The Whiskey Trail, and the Storytelling Trail – include delicious food & drink at 3 stops, and along the way you learn about Dublin's history and legends. It's great fun.

Another food tour that I adore is Vintage Tea Trips, an afternoon tea experience on a vintage double-decker bus. While it's not exactly a guided tour you'll hear fun personal narration from your local hosts and get to see the city from a unique vantage point.

Visit Malahide Castle

It's about a 30 minute journey from the city centre to the village of Malahide via DART or bus. But Malahide Castle and Gardens are worth the journey.

The castle was in the same family for 800 years which means the history is fully recorded.

And what a history it is! The docents are wonderful storytellers who are terrific at keeping everyone engaged. And you may just encounter one of the resident ghosts.

Beyond the castle, the gardens are truly spectacular. The west lawn is 20 acres of trees, ornamental sculptures, and a charming fairy trail. It's also a perfect place to have photos taken.

The Walled Garden is filled with winding stone pathways where you can discover a rose garden, a pond, and the Victorian Conservatory. It is also home to the only Butterfly House in the Republic of Ireland.

It's also a perfect spot to have photos taken! I recommend Flytographer.
I shared our experience here.

There is obviously so much more to see, do, taste, and experience in Dublin. To help you make the most of your time in the capital, I've created a County Dublin Travel Guide with my Top 5 things to do, terrific tours and accommodations I recommend, as well as top tips for transportation, travel insights, family tips, and festival highlights.

Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 293

The post Top 3 Dublin Experiences (So Many Tourists Miss These) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

How long is the ‘perfect' Ireland vacation? Everyone has an opinion, but the scientific study may surprise you.

Researchers say that the sweet spot is “not too long, where experiences begin to feel normalized, and not too short, where you don't have enough time to disconnect.”

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 292. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

I'm a member of quite a few Ireland vacation advice groups on various websites and one of my biggest pet peeves is when people respond to a question with “That isn't enough time,” or “You should stay longer.”

Not everyone has unlimited time to spend on vacation. We all have a life to live, and vacation is just a part of that.

So let me begin with this statement – however long you have in Ireland is ‘enough time' for your vacation.

Is it enough time to do ‘everything'? No. But you could stay for years and not ‘see it all'. So let's lose the ‘not enough time' mindset before we begin.

My opinion is based on 23 years of travel from North America – US and Canada. If traveling from Australia or New Zealand this might be too short; if traveling from Europe it could be too long.

I think a 10 day vacation is almost ideal.

Day 1 & day 9 are spent traveling.

Days 2 thru 8 are spent exploring, relaxing, and enjoying Ireland.

And day 10 is your day to regroup before returning to your ‘real life'.

If you can stay longer… great! But 10 days offers a full week in Ireland, travel days that don't have to include anything else, and a day to reset before ‘real life' resumes.

Ready to start planning your Ireland vacation?
Begin at the beginning and follow my expert step-by-step tips!
Bookmark this free guide to plan your dream vacation to Ireland.

According to the Journal of Happiness Studies eight days in the minimum length a vacation should be. The first few days are spent unwinding and disconnecting, with peak happiness and feelings of personal wellbeing around days 7 and 8.

The study also showed that, by day 11, vacation enjoyment tends to drop and people begin to miss their home and regular routines.

So don't worry if you don't have weeks or months to spend in Ireland – enjoy your vacation fully while you are there, bring home amazing memories, and maybe think about planning a return – according to studies trip anticipation boost happiness.

The post How Long Should Your Ireland Vacation Last? appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

When planning a trip to Ireland you’re probably focused on castles, coastlines, and creamy pints – but don’t overlook something far less exciting (yet super important): keeping your valuables safe.

This is part 3 of my Travel Smart series, and we’re talking about packing intentionally, choosing the right bag, and making sure you’re not carrying more than you can keep secure.

In this final installment, we're focusing on packing smart, because what you bring and how you carry it can make your whole trip more relaxed.

Ireland is generally a safe country, but like any popular travel destination, petty theft can happen – especially in touristy areas, crowded city centers, or when you’re distracted by your surroundings (which, in Ireland, is basically all the time).

These are the tricks & tools I rely on to keep my valuables secure. Most are pretty low-key – but a few feel just a little bit spy-worthy.

You don’t have to stick to carry-on only, but you do need to think intentionally about what shouldn't go into your checked bag: jewelry, cash, lithium-ion batteries, electronics, and medications should always stay with you.

If you are considering going carry-on only – either to avoid lost luggage or reduce your risk of theft – I highly recommend SCOTTeVEST travel clothing. The coats, in particular, are spy-worthy. With all those pockets, it’s like sneaking an extra carry-on onto the plane.

I’ve also put together a guide on what to pack in your carry-on to help you keep your belongings safe and make the most of your flight.

And remember: skip the flashy jewelry, extra electronics, and additional credit cards. The less you bring, the less you have to protect.

One of my best travel investments is a theft-proof day bag. I use the Travelon compact crossbody – it has locking zippers and slash-proof straps, making it perfect for days in the city. Travelon makes larger bags too, if you need more space.

Prefer a backpack? The first thing I look for is a hidden compartment that can only be accessed when the bag is off. My current go-to is the ORI London Travel Backpack. While it doesn’t have built-in locks, I use a locking carabiner clip to secure the rolltop. What sold me on it is the zippered pocket on the back – completely hidden while I’m wearing it. That’s where I’ll tuck my wallet if it’s not in my jacket or pants. It’s accessible enough for me, but out of sight and secure from everyone else.

This is one of the simplest but most important rules: don’t keep everything in one place.

Keep a small amount of cash and a credit card on your person, ideally in a zippered or concealed pocket. Split the rest between your day bag and your hotel safe. If something gets misplaced or stolen, you’re not left completely stranded.

Packing smart ties it all together. Combine these habits with the tips from Parts 1 and 2, and you’ll be ready to explore Ireland with confidence.
Part 1: Hotel, Tech & Street Safety
Part 2: Tips for Getting Around Ireland

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 291

The post Travel Smart: Packing for a Safe Trip to Ireland appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Step back into Irish history with modern comfort.

If your ancestors emigrated from Ireland, you’ve probably wondered about the life they left behind. And if you’re planning your own trip, maybe you’ve dreamed of staying in a traditional thatched cottage.

In Mitchelstown, County Cork, one family’s home tells a story that’s been unfolding for more than 250 years.

This article is based on podcast episode 290 featuring Jim Murphy, owner of a historic thatch cottage in Mitchelstown, County Cork, that is available for rental.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Jim Murphy, the current owner, is the sixth generation of his family to care for the cottage. His great-great-great-grandfather built it in the 1700s, and it’s been a witness to family gatherings, emigration, and – most poignantly – the tradition of the American wake.

The American wake was held when a son or daughter left Ireland for the U.S., likely never to return. Families and neighbors gathered for music, food, and prayers. It was both a farewell party and a funeral of sorts, filled with love, loss, and hope.

In Jim’s cottage, the echoes of those gatherings still linger. Old letters, photographs, and family memories keep the connection alive. Guests often remark that the house has a “special feeling,” as if the walls have absorbed centuries of emotion.

By the time Jim began restoring the cottage in 2022, it was in rough shape – damp walls, patched cement, and a thatch roof in desperate need of repair. The restoration was painstaking but authentic, with traditional lime plastering, mud walls, and the help of a master thatcher.

Now, when the Irish rain falls, visitors experience one of the cottage’s quietest charms: the thatch muffles the sound completely. Looking out at a downpour while hearing nothing at all is an oddly magical experience.

One of the biggest surprises for guests is how central Mitchelstown is. From here, you can reach Cork, Limerick, Waterford, or Tipperary in about an hour. The motorway makes travel easy, but the town itself offers plenty: cafés, restaurants, pubs, and a backdrop of the Galtee Mountains.

Mitchelstown has a planned grid layout (rare in Ireland) and even a U.S. presidential connection – President Ronald Reagan visited Ballyporeen in 1984, and the pub he stopped into now lives in two places: its exterior still stands in the village, while its interior was moved to the Reagan Library in California.

Day trips can include castles, distilleries, mountain hikes, and even the coast. Guests often tell Jim they regret not booking more nights once they realize how much there is to do.

The Galtee Mountain range – the second highest in Ireland – for hiking, mountain biking, and beautiful views.

Cahir Castle – the 2nd largest Norman Castle in Ireland, just 20 minutes from Mitchelstown

The Vee Drive in the Knockmealdown Mountains

The cottage remains a one-bedroom home, but it blends historic charm with modern comfort. Family photos, a vintage metal bed frame, and period details like a Sacred Heart image and a portrait of John F. Kennedy reflect Ireland’s 20th-century traditions.

At the same time, guests enjoy thoughtful touches: local butter, cheese, and yogurt, a cozy stove (insurance regulations prevent an open fire), fresh flowers, and even an espresso machine. Every detail is carefully chosen, creating a stay that feels curated rather than decorated.

Staying in a thatched cottage is as much about experience as it is about comfort. It’s stepping into history, feeling connected to generations past, and savoring the quiet pleasures of Irish country life. As Jim says, guests aren’t just visiting—they become part of the story.

Jim's charming thatch cottage in Mitchelstown, County Cork is available on Booking.com and AirBnB. Follow on Instagram.

The post If Walls Could Talk: The Story of a Thatched Cottage in Cork appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Travel days are busy, a little chaotic, and exactly when people tend to misplace things. Whether I’m driving myself or taking the train across the country, I have a few go-to habits to make sure everything stays where it’s supposed to.

This is part 2 of my Travel Smart series, and we’re focusing on how to keep your belongings safe while you're on the move. From rental cars to public transit, these are the habits and tools I use to stay secure without stress.

Different types of transportation come with their own safety considerations – and a few small vulnerabilities if you’re not paying attention. After years of traveling all over Ireland, I’ve learned that how you handle your gear on the move matters just as much as where you store it at your hotel.

The good news? You don’t need complicated strategies. Just a few intentional habits for each situation can make a big difference.

If you’re renting a car, be extra mindful at tourist sites, beaches, or walking trails. These are easy spots for quick smash-and-grab thefts.

A clean, empty-looking car would take too much time to search formsomething to take.

Public transport in Ireland is generally safe – but it's still worth being cautious in stations and crowded compartments.

Packing for public transport should be treated the same as packing for a flight – your most important items (identification, money and credit cards, jewelry, electronics, and medications) should remain with you.

On most buses you will be able to take carry-on bags and personal items on board with you, checked bags will be stowed underneath. When you board the bus watch your bags be loaded, take a photo for proof (this is optional but sometimes it pays to be paranoid), and know which compartment your bag should come out of.

Unless the bus is an Express (meaning no stops), your bag could be removed for access to other bags, so letting the driver (or whoever is loading the bags) know when you are getting off the bus, could be helpful for more secure placement.

On trains your personal item, especially if it contains money or identification, should remain on your lap or at your feet. If storing anything overhead, I recommend placing the item where you can see it – usually that is across from you, not above you. For bags that must remain in the luggage storge you can consider a cable lock to thread through the handles and attach to the storage racks. Because I don't keep electronics or valuables in my larger luggage I usually don't so this – but I will prebook a seat with a view of the bag storage.

No matter the type of transportation you choose, keeping your bag close and your attention up goes a long way.

Ireland’s taxis are safe and regulated, but a few smart habits can help you avoid mishaps:

Every mode of transport has its quirks, but a few simple habits can keep your trip moving smoothly.

In the final part of this series, I'm sharing the packing strategies I use to keep myself and my belongings safe.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 289

The post Travel Smart: Safety Tips for Getting Around Ireland appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

The OPW (Office of Public Works) cares for, maintains, and operates 780 important heritage sites across the Republic of Ireland. The goal of the organization is to preserve and protect structures in its care while providing safe public access and information to visitors.

The OPW Heritage Card is a single-charge card that grants unlimited access to OPW managed historic sites and visitor attractions for one year, including guided tours. Cards are available for individual adults, seniors, and children, as well as a family card that includes 2 adults and 5 children over 12. Children under 12 can access OPW Heritage sites at no cost.

There is no need to purchase an OPW Heritage Card prior to arriving in Ireland, just buy it at the first fee-paying OPW site you visit.

Each year Ireland's Office of Public Works share the previous year's data about visitor numbers and the most visited OPW sites. in 2024, recorded visitors to Ireland's heritage sites exceeded 13.8 million

The two most-visited heritage sites carry no fee, and both are located in Dublin.

St. Stephen's Green, a wonderful green space in the heart of the city centre, saw nearly 4.5 million visitors in 2024. This isn't surprising as the park is a wonderful place for a walk and the playground is quite nice. It is also a pretty ‘shortcut' as you walk point to point in Dublin.

The Phoenix Park visitor centre recorded approximately 2 million visitors. Again, no surprise as this massive park, less than 5km from Dublin city centre and easy to reach via bus or Luas, is a popular spot for recreation as well as home to Dublin Zoo.

Dublin Castle, Dublin – 534,014 visitors

Dublin Castle leapt into first place this year, unseating 2023's most popular castle (which is now at #2).

Located in the heart of Dublin, Dublin Castle was built in the early 13th century and served as the center of power for the English (and later British) government.
Prebooking is recommended for the guided tour as space can be limited. Bookings can be made up to 15 days in advance.

Kilkenny Castle & Parklands, County Kilkenny – 429,546 visitors

The central point of Kilkenny City, Kilkenny Castle has the feel of a royal palace, making it a very grand place to visit. It's important to note that the parklands are free to visit.
Prebooking is not required.

Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary – 365,505 visitors

The magnificent Rock of Cashel was originally built as a fortress in the late 4th or 5th century as the seat of the kingship of Munster and the inauguration place of its kings. In the 7th century St. Patrick baptized a King of Munster here and in 1101 the reigning King gave the fortress to the Church. This impressive structure was given into State care as a national monument in 1869.
Prebooking is not required. I do highly recommend joining one of the guided tours as the hitory of the site is fascinating.
Cormac's Chapel, which contains the only surviving Romanesque frescoes in Ireland, can only be accessed by guided tour. Tickets for this tour ‘extension' are only available on site and space is limited.

Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin – 243,078 visitors

Opening in 1796 as the new County Gaol for Dublin, thousands of men, women, and children were held here for everything from minor offences to organized rebellion. The stories you will hear are powerful in both sadness and strength.
Prebooking is necessary as tickets sell out quickly. Booking opens 28 days in advance of your visit at midnight Irish time. Here's how to book your tickets.

Dún Aonghasa, Inis Mór, Aran Islands, County Galway – 146,089 visitors

Dún Aonghasa is the largest prehistoric stone fort on the Aran Islands. Consisting of 3 massive drystone defense walls further surrounded by a dense band of jagged stones and perched on the cliff edge, Dún Aonghasa is an imposing structure built for defense.
Prebooking is not required.
Visitors should note that there is a 1km walk from the visitors centre to the site that includes rough, natural rock. There is no fencing or barriers at the cliff edge.

Ross Castle, County Kerry – 143,016 visitors

Ross Castle, located in Killarney National Park, is a top spot for the jaunting cars as well being the boat launch location for the Lakes of Killarney and Gap of Dunloe.
This 15th century tower house was one of the last strongholds in the region to surrender to Oliver Cromwell in 1652.
Guided tours are available March thru October, but you can visit the grounds year-round at no charge. Prebooking is not necessary.

Brú na Bóinne (including Newgrange and Knowth), County Meath – 133,991visitors

I have no doubt that the only reason Brú na Bóinne is number 7 on this list is because tour numbers are limited.

This UNESCO World Heritage site consists of 3 prehistoric passage tombs – Knowth, Newgrange, and Dowth – built circa 3200BC and contain the largest collection of megalithic art in Western Europe.
Access to the visitors centre is available to anyone with no booking required.
Access to the tombs of Newgrange and Knowth is by guided tour only and prebooking is essential.
Booking opens 30 days in advance of your visit at midnight Irish time. Here's how to book.

Clonmacnoise, County Offaly – 118,337 visitors

Located at one of the most important crossroads of ancient Ireland, the monastic village of Clonmacnoise has 3 high crosses, two round towers, and nine churches. This site is easy to visit if you are traveling from Dublin to Galway (or vice versa). This is a wonderful spot to explore, especially if you don't visit Glendalough in County Wicklow (which, surprisingly is not among the top 10 visited sites, likely because the grounds are free and numbers reflect paid entry to the visitors centre).
Prebooking is not necessary.

Trim Castle, County Meath – 113,372 visitors

Trim is the largest Norman castle in Ireland, taking 30 years to build. Built in a cruciform shape with 20 sides and surrounded by a ditch, curtain wall, and water filled moat, it was all nearly impenetrable. The grounds of Trim Castle and the charming river walk are free to visit. Visits in the castle are by guided tour only.
Prebooking is not available; daily tours are first come first served and do fill, so plan a bit of time here in case you need to wait. Tour times may change daily.

Charles Fort, County Cork – 104,723 visitors

This star-shaped military fortress guarding the mouth of Kinsale Harbour was constructed in the late 17the century. And while it withstood a 13-day siege during the Williamite Wars, the design and location of the fort ultimately proved to be flawed.
Prebooking is not necessary.

My favorite heritage sites in Ireland didn't make the ‘Top 10' list, but that doesn't mean they aren't spectacular, only a bit off the beaten path.

Cahir Castle, County Tipperary – 87,343

Ireland's second-largest Norman castle is just 30 minutes south of the Rock of Cashel but receives only 20% of the visitor numbers. This is my favorite castle in Ireland due to the small number of visitors and the fact that you can explore nearly every part of the castle and grounds. The lovely island behind the castle is a perfect spot for a picnic, and a short woodland stroll takes you to another OPW site, the Swiss Cottage (which only received 18,295 visitors in 2024).
Prebooking is not necessary. and I highly recommend the included guided tour.

Rock of Dunamase, County Laois – 47,123

If you are traveling between Limerick and Dublin or Dublin and Kilkenny, this is my #1 spot to visit, the ruins of a massive fortress sprawling atop a rocky limestone outcrop. If you're the type to believe in ‘thin places' you'll want to come here as the power of the location can be felt as you catch sight of the ruins. The high situation and views of the surrounding countryside made this a strategic spot for a stronghold, though it appears the castle was abandoned in the 1330s.
This is a free, open site with no visitor centre.

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, County Sligo – 30,594 visitors

While the tombs at Carrowmore in Sligo may not have the recognition of Newgrange this location is host to one of the most densely populated complexes of tombs in Ireland, as well as some of the oldest, dating back to 3700BC (older than Newgrange). Within the OPW site are at least 30 passage tombs in various states of survival, with at least 25 more known to be destroyed since 1800. Tomb 51, the largest on site, has been excavated, revealing a roofed central chamber and megalithic art.
Prebooking is not necessary.
Note: the site has been closed for most of 2025 for visitor centre updates and is due to reopen in August.

Kells Priory, County Kilkenny – 30,349

Locally known as the ‘Seven Castles', the Augustinian Priory at Kells encloses nearly 3 acres. With its seven tower houses spaced along the walls it has the appearance of an enclosed village. The priory has an intriguing past that includes being burned 3 times and, in 1324, it played host to the first known witch trial in Europe. Take your time exploring this site, including a lovely walk by the river to the old mill.
This is an open site, free to visit with no visitor centre. Guides may be available from June – August.

Scattery Island, County Clare – 4,398

Located in the Shannon Estuary, Scattery Island can only be reached by boat, a very calm 30-minute cruise from Kilrush Marina. The monastic site dates to the 5th century and features multiple churches, a cathedral, and a round tower – with its door at ground level. The island is also home to a Napoleonic artillery battery and a working lighthouse built in 1872. Very few people take the time to add Scattery Island to their Ireland itinerary, but its location is a perfect fit if you are traveling the Wild Atlantic Way between the Cliffs of Moher and Killarney.
Though it is free to visit the site – and you can even get a guided tour! – you do need to make a reservation for the ferry with Scattery Island Tours.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 288

The post Ireland’s Most Visited Heritage Sites appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

When you arrive in Ireland, your focus should be on enjoying the trip – not worrying about your stuff. But once you’re on the ground, the small, everyday decisions you make can go a long way toward keeping your belongings secure.

This is part 1 of my Travel Smart series, where I share the simple habits and tools I use to travel with confidence. In this first part, we’re covering how to protect your valuables in hotels and B&Bs, keep your tech and documents safe, and move smart in public spaces.

From hotel rooms to crowded city streets, a few quick precautions can help keep your belongings exactly where they belong.

Before you leave home, make digital copies of your passport, driver’s license, travel insurance, and any essential reservations. Store them in a secure, password-protected cloud folder.

I also recommend leaving a copy of these items – digital or paper – plus your itinerary, with a trusted friend or family member at home. If anything happens it's helpful for someone else to have your information.

Not every Irish hotel or B&B has an in-room safe, but when there is one, I use it – and I have a simple trick so I don’t leave anything behind:
When I pack, shoes are first into the bag. I put one shoe on or in the safe – if I can't find the second shoe in a pair, I immediately remember it is at the safe.

If there’s no safe, I’ll place valuables in my suitcase and hide them in less obvious spots – think inside socks or tucked between bags of dirty laundry. And I always lock my luggage when I’m not in the room.

Phones, tablets, and laptops are easy targets – so make sure yours are locked with a password or biometric ID, and have tracking and remote wipe capabilities turned on.

Also: don’t do banking, shopping, or anything involving sensitive data on public Wi-Fi. Use a VPN or, better yet, a private Wi-Fi device (like a mobile hotspot from WifiCandy) or eSIM to stay secure. I travel with both.

I also highly recommend RFID blocking bags, wallets, or sleeves for your passport and credit cards.

Ireland is one of the safest countries for travelers (especially solo women), but an added dose of confidence never hurts – it's actually one of the best ways to deter petty theft. Walk like you know where you’re going, even if you’re secretly following Google Maps.

Pop in one earbud for navigation, so you can hear directions without constantly looking down at your phone. And try not to flash cash or look overly distracted, especially in very busy spots (think Temple Bar, train stations, the airport).

This is the first step in a safer, smoother trip to Ireland. In the next part of this series, I’ll cover how to protect your stuff while traveling across Ireland, with tips for self-driving and public transportation.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 287

The post Travel Smart: Hotel, Tech & Street Safety in Ireland appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.