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things to do

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See below some things we recommend to do around Ireland and the Irish countryside. 

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Since the wedding venue is so near to Dublin City we would start in Dublin, then recommend venturing off to spend most of your trip in the Irish countryside. See below the spots we highly recommend.

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1. Explore Dublin

2. Day trip to Howth

3. Visit Cliffs of Moher

4. Stay near Galway, Ireland

5. Visit Cork or Dingle 

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Ireland has lots of great Bed & Breakfasts so take a look at staying at one of those and we'd also recommend trying to fit in a day of golf if you are a golf fan! The Ryder Cup is at Adare Manor in County Limerick, Ireland September 17–19, 2027 but will not be open to the public.

dublin, Ireland
things to do 

1. Visit the Guinness Storehouse

  • Ireland's most visited attraction.

  • Learn the brewing process and finish with a pint overlooking the city from the Gravity Bar.

  • About $25 for ticket.

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2. Visit Jameson Distillery Bow Street

  • Founded by John Jameson in 1780, today, the former factory stands as a monument to the craft of Irish Whiskey.

  • Visit Jameson Distillery in Dublin for the World’s leading distillery tours, cocktail-making classes, premium whiskey tasting sessions, and blending classes.

  • Then, top it all off with some Jameson at our centerpiece bar.

  • About $30 per ticket depending on the experience you book.

 

3. Walk Through Trinity College & See the Book of Kells

  • The Long Room Library is one of the most iconic interiors in Ireland.

  • The Book of Kells dates to around 800 AD.

  • Long Room/Book of Kells tickets are about $25 per ticket depending on experience. 

 

4. Visit Temple Bar

  • Iconic Irish Pub.

  • Worth experiencing for an hour or two.

 

5. Tour Kilmainham Gaol

  • One of the most important sites in Irish history.

  • Essential if you're interested in Irish independence.

  • Book ahead—tickets sell out.

 

6. Walk Grafton Street

  • Street performers, shopping, pubs, cafes.

  • Best atmosphere during the afternoon and evening.

 

7. Visit St. Stephen's Green

  • Beautiful city-center park.

  • Great place to relax between attractions.

 

8. Take a Day Trip to Howth

  • My favorite day trip from Dublin.

  • Incredible cliff walks.

  • Fresh seafood.

  • Only about 45 minutes from Clontarf by bus and a 25min uber drive.

 

9. Have a Proper Irish Pub Night (Join our joint Stag/Hen Party the night before the wedding, everyone is invited!)

  • The Long Hall

  • The Brazen Head

  • Kehoe's

 

10. See Dublin Castle

  • Important historical site.

  • Nice stop while exploring central Dublin.

 

11. Walk Along the River Liffey

  • Cross the famous bridges.

  • Lots of touristy souvenir shops around.

  • Stick to this area during daylight, would avoid it after dark.

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12. Portmarnock Golf Club

  • One of Ireland's most prestigious championship links courses, located just 30min away from Clontarf.

  • Consistently ranked among the finest golf courses in the world, Portmarnock offers a classic links experience with stunning views of the Irish Sea. 

  • Strict dress code for visitors & cost around €530.00 per player for 18 holes.

  • "One of the most enjoyable links courses I have had the opportunity to play" - TIGER WOODS

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13. Deer Park Golf (Howth)

  • Another great option for golf near the Hotel/Dublin at a better price point.

  • €40.00 per player for 18 holes.

  • Views of the Irish seaside and Howth Castle!

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Ireland beyond dublin
things to do

​1. Drive the Ring of Kerry

  • Ireland's most famous scenic drive.

  • Mountains, lakes, sheep, coastal villages, dramatic views.

  • Allow a full day.

Don't miss: Ladies View and Molls Gap.

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2. Cliffs of Moher​

  • The iconic Irish postcard view.

  • Cliffs rise over 700 feet above the Atlantic.

  • Best early morning or late afternoon.

 

3. Explore Killarney National Park​

  • Ireland's most beautiful national park.

  • Lakes, forests, waterfalls, mountains.

  • Rent bikes if possible.

Highlights:

  • Muckross House

  • Torc Waterfall

  • Ross Castle

 

4. Dingle Peninsula

  • Many Irish people prefer it to the Ring of Kerry.

  • Smaller crowds and spectacular scenery.

  • Slea Head Drive is arguably Ireland's best coastal road.

 

5. Giant's Causeway

  • Unique volcanic rock formations.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • One of the most unusual landscapes in Europe.

 

6. Galway City

  • Best atmosphere in Ireland.

  • Street musicians, pubs, seafood, traditional music.

  • Excellent base for western Ireland.

Many visitors end up liking Galway more than Dublin.

 

7. Aran Islands

  • Traditional Irish culture.

  • Rent a bike and explore stone-walled landscapes.

  • Feels like stepping back in time.

 

8. Blarney Castle

  • Kiss the famous Blarney Stone if that's your thing.

  • The castle grounds are actually more impressive than many visitors expect.

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© 2026 by EMILY LOMBARDI. 

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