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5 Best Cities to Visit in Ireland

Me (right) at the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland

Ireland is blessed with many stunningly beautiful cities that are perfect for a visit. From the winding streets of Dublin to the dramatic cliffs of Clare, there’s something for everyone, and I don’t just say that because I’m Irish.

Ireland is a small country, comparable in area to Indiana in the United States. The greatest distance from north to south on the island is 302 miles (187 kilometers), and from east to west, it’s 171 miles (106 kilometers).


Me (right) at the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland
Me (right) at the Cliffs of Moher

During your stay here, you’ll be able to travel from city to city and quickly tick them off your to-do list. This article will provide you with the best cities to visit in Ireland from start to finish.

Irish Culture

Irish people are incredibly hospitable. So much so that if you are offered tea and biscuits in an Irish home, you’re better off saying yes from the get-go, or else you’ll be offered again and again until you eventually give in.

Irish people are also generally “up for the craic.” Meaning they love to have fun, tease, and joke.

You’re likely to get “the piss taken out of you,” so best to come with a thick skin, but all jokes are intended endearingly. I’ve considered the people aspect when ranking the best cities to visit in Ireland.

As a tourist, you’ll likely want to see what the best cities to visit in Ireland have to offer. Here are my top five.


A church in Cork, one of the best cities to visit in Ireland (photo: Jason Murphy)
A church in Cork, Ireland (photo: Jason Murphy)

Top Cities in Ireland

1. Cork

Cork is the second largest city in Ireland, with a population of more than 210,000. It’s also the second most populous city in the Republic of Ireland after Dublin.

The city is on the River Lee, famous for its many bridges, including the Samuel Beckett Bridge and the Shandon Bridge.

Cork city is known as the culinary capital of Ireland, so be sure to wear loose clothing as you gorge and visit landmarks such as the English Market in the city center or one of its vibrant new cafes on McCurtain Street.

Cork is a great place to walk, with plenty of parks and gardens to explore, and there are some beautiful beaches just a short drive away.

What sets Cork apart is West Cork, an area known for its beautiful scenery. From the rugged coastline to the many small islands accessible by ferry, West Cork is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

There are also plenty of charming villages in the area, offering a taste of traditional Irish life. Be sure to visit Baltimore, Schull, and…

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