Things to Do in Ireland: 12 Unforgettable Experiences

Things to Do in Ireland: 12 Unforgettable Experiences From Castles to Sheep Jams

Wondering what to do in Ireland? You could sleep in a real castle, climb to Luke Skywalker’s island, or sip a pint with a view over Dublin. You might even find yourself in a traffic jam full of sheep!

But there’s something most travelers don’t find out until it’s almost too late. One of Ireland’s most famous movie stories isn’t true, and you might need a permit for half the things on your bucket list.

I’ll explain both in a moment. But first, here’s why so many people fall in love with this island.

The hills are so green they almost don’t look real. Turf smoke rises from cottage chimneys. Fiddle music drifts out of pub doors onto the wet cobblestones. Whether you’re into history, movies, hiking, or a good whiskey, Ireland has something just for you.

Let’s get started!

1. Sleep in a Real Irish Castle

Ever wanted to be royalty for a night? In Ireland, you can!

Many real castles let you stay overnight. Imagine sipping tea by a stone fireplace and waking up to mist drifting across the grounds.

Castle stays worth a look:

• Ashford Castle (County Mayo): 800 years of history, falconry and lake views
• Dromoland Castle (County Clare): about 15 minutes from Shannon Airport
• Cabra Castle (County Cavan): Gothic turrets on 100 acres, and it’s often more affordable than other castles

Check if your room is in the original castle or a newer section. Arrive early to have time to explore the grounds.

2. Sleep Upstairs From a Cozy Irish Pub

This is one of my favorite things to do in Ireland. Enjoy dinner and a pint, listen to live traditional music, and then just head upstairs to bed.

Lots of village pubs and inns offer simple, cozy rooms. In Kilkenny, for example, the Woodstock Arms is a B&B and pub in an 18th-century building on the village square. In the morning, you’ll wake up to the smell of rashers, sausages, and brown soda bread.

Why you’ll love it:

• It usually costs less than a hotel
• You’ll chat with locals over a drink
• No driving after a night out

Before booking, ask how late the music goes. If you’re a light sleeper, bring earplugs.

3. Visit Skellig Michael, the Real Star Wars Island

There’s a common myth: The Force Awakens wasn’t filmed at the Cliffs of Moher.

The unforgettable final scene where Rey finds Luke was filmed on Skellig Michael. This rugged island sits about 7 miles off County Kerry and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where monks lived from the 6th century. I’m not sure how the rumor got started that it was filmed at the Cliffs, but it wasn’t. Harry Potter was, though!

What to know before you go:

• The climb is 618 steps to the monastery
• Boats run roughly May to September, weather permitting
• Children under 12 aren’t allowed on the island
• It’s closed for 2026 and reopens in 2027
• Many tour companies only let you land if you’re 14 or older

If tickets to land on the island are sold out, you can book a boat tour that circles the island instead. You’ll still enjoy beautiful views.

More Star Wars Spots In Ireland

The Last Jedi also filmed at Malin Head in Donegal, Loop Head in Clare, Sybil Head on the Dingle Peninsula and Brow Head in Cork.

4. Step Into Westeros: Game of Thrones Locations

Winter is coming to your itinerary! Most Game of Thrones scenes were filmed in Northern Ireland, at over 25 real locations!

Must-see stops:

• The Dark Hedges: the beech-tree tunnel used as the Kingsroad
• Castle Ward: Winterfell in Season 1, with archery on site
• Ballintoy Harbour: the Iron Islands
• Tollymore Forest Park: where the Starks found the direwolf pups
• Downhill Beach and Mussenden Temple: Dragonstone
• The Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge is about 30 minutes from Belfast and features real sets, costumes, and props.

I recommend visiting the Dark Hedges at sunrise. When fog settles in the branches, it looks just like a painting!

5. Stand on the Breathtaking Cliffs of Moher

The wind whips your hair, seabirds fly below, and waves crash far beneath your feet. The Cliffs of Moher are just as dramatic as they look in photos.

Harry Potter fans will spot them from Half-Blood Prince!

A Trail Update

The coastal walk from Liscannor is closed for safety. From Doolin, you can walk only as far as Surfers Path, but you can’t reach the Cliffs from that side.

Instead, use the paved paths at the Cliffs of Moher Experience. Check the official website before you visit, since closures may change.

6. Hike the Trails Tied to St. Patrick

Legend says St. Patrick drove all the snakes out of Ireland. In reality, most scientists think snakes never lived there. Still, it’s a great story!

Croagh Patrick in County Mayo is where Patrick is said to have fasted for 40 days. The climb takes about three to four hours round trip. The top is steep and rocky, but the view over Clew Bay’s small green islands is worth it.

Looking for an easier walk? The Tóchar Phádraig pilgrim path is about 22 miles from Ballintubber Abbey to the base of the mountain.

In the north, Saint Patrick’s Way is an 82-mile trail from Armagh to Downpatrick, where Patrick is buried. The route passes rolling hills and Tollymore Forest.

7. Get Stuck in a Sheep Traffic Jam

Have you ever been stuck in traffic caused by sheep? In rural Ireland, it really happens!

You turn a corner on a narrow road with stone walls on each side. Suddenly, you find yourself in the middle of a flock of fluffy, bleating sheep, followed by a shepherd and a hardworking border collie.

What to do:

• Stop and turn off the engine
• Don’t honk or try to squeeze past
• Follow the farmer’s signals

Roll down your window and take it all in. This might be the most enjoyable traffic jam you’ll ever experience!

Driving tips: Remember to drive on the left, consider renting a smaller car, and give yourself extra time between stops.

8. Meet the Gentle Giant Irish Wolfhounds

Irish wolfhounds are among the tallest dogs in the world, and they’re famously gentle.

If you’re staying at Ashford Castle, you can join morning walks with the resident wolfhounds or stop by for a meet-and-greet. These activities are just for guests.

Not staying at Ashford? You can still meet these gentle giants through the Wolfhound Experience, which offers walks starting at around €59.99 per adult.

9. Tour the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin

At the Guinness Storehouse, you’ll explore seven floors filled with brewing history. The tour finishes at the glass-walled Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy a pint and take in views of Dublin from all sides.

• Classic self-guided tour: from €24, about 90 minutes
• Guided tour: from €48, adults 18 and over only
• If you don’t drink alcohol, you can choose Guinness 0.0 instead

Be sure to book timed tickets online, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend.

10. Taste Whiskey at Old Bushmills Distillery

Bushmills is known as the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery. During your visit, you’ll see shiny copper stills and oak casks, and the air is filled with warm, grainy aromas.

• Tours: about £15 to £50, depending on the experience
• Kids under 8 can’t join the guided tour
• Under 18s can’t go into the premium tasting

Pair your visit with the Giant’s Causeway, which is just up the road. If you plan to taste whiskey, arrange for a driver or join a tour. Ireland’s drink-driving laws are strict.

11. Don’t Miss This: Crossing Into Northern Ireland

Dublin and the Cliffs of Moher are in the Republic of Ireland. Bushmills and most Game of Thrones sites are in Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK.

There’s no border checkpoint on the road, but three things often surprise travelers:

1. You’ll need a UK ETA. US visitors must get this digital permit for Northern Ireland, even if driving in from Dublin. It costs £20 and is valid for two years.
2. The currency changes too. The Republic uses euros, while Northern Ireland uses pounds.
3. Speed limits are different as well. The Republic uses kilometers per hour, but Northern Ireland uses miles per hour.

Make sure your rental car company allows you to drive across the border. You don’t want to get turned away when you’re about to cross!

12. Build an Ireland Itinerary That Doesn’t Feel Rushed

Plan your trip by region instead of by individual attractions. This will save you hours of driving.

• Dublin and the West: Guinness, the Cliffs of Moher, pubs and a castle night
• Kerry and the Southwest: Skellig Michael and Atlantic coast drives
• Belfast and the North Coast: Game of Thrones, Bushmills and the Giant’s Causeway

Wondering how many days you’ll need? Set aside 7 to 10 days for one or two regions, or about two weeks if you want to see all three at a relaxed pace.

What should you pack? Bring a waterproof jacket, layers, and shoes with good grip. The weather can change quickly—you might experience four seasons in a single afternoon!

Ready For Your Irish adventure?

In Ireland, you can sleep in a castle, explore the island from Star Wars, and finish your day with a pint and a song—all in one trip!

Maybe you’ll meet a gentle wolfhound, get stopped by sheep on the road, or enjoy your first sip of Guinness overlooking Dublin. No matter what, something here will steal your heart!

Bring your rain jacket and your sense of adventure. Choose a few regions to explore, stay open to surprises, and let Ireland work its magic. Sláinte!