The Best Places to Stay on the Island of Ireland

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The island of Ireland is home to a rich culture and thriving economy. It is also known for its breathtaking landscapes, landmarks and unique history.

People from all over the world have come to love Irish culture and its unique traditions. You can see this first-hand by visiting Ireland.

Sligo

Sligo (/slago/ SLY-goh), a county of Northwest Ireland, is known for its haunting scenery of limestone scarps. Its brooding mountains and lakes inspired WB Yeats, and a wealth of prehistoric monuments draws intrepid visitors from across the globe.

The peaks of Benbulben, a flat-topped mountain visible throughout the west of the county, are particularly impressive. You can climb it to the summit, or venture along laneways and trails to get a better idea of its sheer sides and otherworldly shape.

Tobernalt Spring, 11 kilometres from Sligo, is another must-visit for those in the know, as it was once a meeting place for Pagans before Christianity came to Ireland. It is now a popular spot for pilgrims on Garland Sunday, the last Sunday of July.

Dublin

Dublin, Ireland’s capital city, is an historic and contemporary center for education, the arts, administration, economy and industry. It is a major hub for the world’s largest pharmaceutical, technology and financial services companies.

Dublin has long been the centre of Ireland’s literary, philosophical and political history. Famous authors such as James Joyce, George Bernard Shaw and Samuel Beckett composed much of their work here.

The Irish Writers Museum, in an attractive 1700s home in Parnell Square, explores the lives and works of some of these great writers. You’ll also discover the many books that have influenced the country’s culture.

Galway

Galway, also known as the City of the Tribes, is a cultural heart and a destination of choice for travelers to Ireland. It is renowned for its rocky wilderness, energetic bohemian vibes and incredible coastline.

The city is home to the Galway International Arts Festival and a plethora of other festivals and civic events. In addition, it is well-known for the Galway Races, which are one of the most famous horse racing races in the world.

There is a lot to see and do in Galway but one of the best ways to get to know the city is by taking a stroll through Eyre Square. Here you will find an abundance of pubs, cafes and other places to visit.

Cork

Cork is a spirited, independent city with cosmopolitan vibes and a diverse selection of sights and attractions. It attracts a steady flow of students each year, and there’s plenty to do for everyone.

It’s also a great place to sample some of Ireland’s top-notch cuisine, with plenty of places to satisfy your hunger. From tiny seaside cafes to award-winning restaurants, Cork’s gastronomy scene is legendary.

Whether you’re into seafood, cured meats or sweet treats, Cork has something for you. You can even take a food tour to try some of the best dishes in the area.

Belfast

Located on the east coast of Ireland, Belfast is home to a unique blend of British and Irish cultures. This vibrant city is known for its world-class restaurants, lively music scene and a wide variety of accommodations.

For starters, visit the Cathedral Quarter for beautiful cobblestone streets, street murals and a number of popular pubs. Afterward, check out the Titanic Museum for a glimpse of the ill-fated liner’s history.

During the Industrial Revolution, the city was a center of Irish linen, tobacco and rope manufacture as well as shipbuilding. But by the 1970s, these industries began to decline. New industrial sectors (service activities, food processing and machinery manufacture) took their place.