Read update
- 18 Most Beautiful Towns & Villages In Ireland
The beautiful landscape of Ireland is best seen from its small towns and villages. Many are positioned in coastal areas featuring beautiful oceanfront scenery and are also surrounded by towering mountains, which makes them even more scenic. Unlike the country’s larger cities, towns and villages here are laid-back and beautiful and also have plenty of things to offer visitors. This makes them perfect for a relaxing vacation. There are so many such towns and villages in the country, but these 16 stand out as the most beautiful towns in Ireland.
UPDATE: 2023/06/30 23:23 EST BY REENA JAIN
18 Most Beautiful Towns & Villages In Ireland
This list has been updated to include two more of beautiful towns in Ireland, including Ardara and Birr, for offering visitors a range of exciting explorations and adventures to enjoy some thrills, as well as serene surroundings to connect with nature.
18 Ardara, Donegal
Photo by Brian Kelly on Unsplash
Donegal's charming Ardara is the ideal launching point for exploration for being close to a limitless number of attractions. The village, once named one of the best villages to live in Ireland, is also known for its bustling festivals and excellent food and drink scene. There are several traditional taverns and restaurants where guests can enjoy a variety of delectable cuisine as well as local beverages. From the Cup of Tae Festival (May) to the Ardara Bluegrass Festival (July), there is always something going on.
- Where: County Donegal, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Ardara: Assaranca Waterfall, Glengesh Pass, Caves of Maghera, Narin/Portnoo Beach, Malin Beg, Slieve League
17 Birr, Offaly
Photo by Lisa Fecker on Unsplash
Birr is a great spot for taking a vacation from the city's bustling life for good reason. The well-preserved Georgian architecture transports visitors back in time. From appreciating the majestic architecture of Birr Castle Demesne to meandering through the gorgeous gardens and witnessing the famous Great Telescope, every experience provides insight into the town's rich history. But Birr has more to offer than history, such as live plays at Birr Theatre, horseback riding across the gently sloping countryside, photographing the Seffin Stone, and visiting the gates of St. John's Hall, known as the "Centre of Ireland."
- Where: County Offaly, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Birr: Birr Castle Demesne, Birr Theatre & Arts Centre, Birr Equestrian Centre, St. John's Hall,
16 Sneem, Kerry
One of Ireland's smallest towns on this list, Sneem is a popular tourist destination for its breathtaking views and a wide range of fun activities like biking, hiking, sightseeing, and dining. At Blueberry Hill Farms, visitors can pet and feed farm animals, take in the picturesque surroundings, and discover how to make candles. The Way the Faeries Went is a short walk along the water dotted with miniature faerie homes and sculptures, providing visitors with beautiful photos and pleasant memories. Sneem is a great pit stop for those traveling the Ring of Kerry, offering many mystical, picturesque locations.
- Where: County Kerry, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Sneem: Bull Rock, Skellig Michael, Brushwood Studios, North Square, South Square, The Way the Faeries Went
15 Howth, Dublin
Howth, one of Ireland's most picturesque towns, is just 30 minutes drive from Dublin, and has a rich historical background and modern appeal. From views and experiences to countryside charm, this small Irish town has it all! While the Howth Cliff Walk Loop is a must-see for its amazing vistas, Ireland's Eye is a major draw for its breathtaking views, sandy beaches, and variety of activities, such as fishing and bird watching. There is also an 800-year-old castle that provides insight into the region's rich history.
- Where: County Dublin, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Howth: Howth Cliff Walk, Howth Castle and St. Mary’s Abbey, Ireland’s Eye, Howth Pier, Howth Market
14 Clifden
Clifden is a charming coastal town in Galway's Connemara region with many lovely castles, sunset viewing vantage points, hiking loops, and magnificent beaches. After a long day of activities and exploration, one can unwind in one of the city's many restaurants and pubs. One of the prettiest towns in Ireland, Clifden can meet the needs of any traveler, whether looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed vacation.
- Where: County Galway, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Clifden: Connemara National Park, Derrigimlagh/Marconi walking loop, Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens, Clifden Castle, Dog's Bay Beach
13 Dalkey
Dalkey is a charming fishing port and an affluent neighborhood for Dubliners. It is a medieval town renowned for its fortified castle and spectacular coastal landscapes. The presence of the vacation homes of affluent Irish people makes it referred to as the "Beverly Hills" of Dublin. Furthermore, being so close to the Irish capital makes it the ideal location for a getaway if one wants to enjoy the tranquil surroundings as well as the city's highlights.
- Where: Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County, Dublin, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Dalkey: Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre, Killiney Hill Park, Dalkey Island, Coliemore Harbour, Sorrento Park, Vico Baths, White Rock Beach
12 Cobh
Located in Cork Harbour, Cobh is the most beautiful town in Ireland with a fascinating history. From daring adventures to historical experiences and lovely trails to heart-pumping activities, it offers something for all ages and tastes. Renowned as the Titanic's final European port of call, Cobh has so much to see and do that a visitor could stay there for days without getting bored.
- Where: County Cork, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Cobh: Fota Wildlife Park, Deck of Cards, The Promenade, The Queenstown Story, Spike Island, Cobh Heritage Center
11 Lismore
Visitors are drawn to Lismore by its magnificent historical buildings, such as the eight-hundred-year-old medieval Lismore Castle, as well as by the surrounding natural beauty of the River Blackwater and the Knockmealdown mountains. Besides historical sites, Lismore is home to many lovely eateries and bars where tourists can sample the local cuisine and beverages and experience true Irish nightlife.
- Where: County Waterford, Munster, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Lismore: Lismore Castle, Saint Carthage's Cathedra, St. Carthage's Catholic Church, Fortwilliam, Lismore Farmers & Craft Market, Cotton Library, Lismore Heritage Centre
10 Adare, Limerick
Adare is a small village that comes with a natural and historic appeal. Large parts of the town are covered with trees and grasses, while the town itself is lined up with colorful and thatched-roofed buildings. Walking through the streets is a must-do in this village as it takes one through the enchanting scenery it has to offer. Adare has restaurants and hotels and a couple of historic attractions like Desmond Castle, which was built in the 12th century, and the Trinitarian Abbey - the only Trinitarian monastery in Ireland built in the 13th century.
- Where: County Limerick, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Adare: Desmond Castle, Holy Trinity Abbey Church, Adare Town Park, Adare Heritage Centre, Old Trinitarian Abbey
9 Kinsale, County Cork
There is so much to love about Kinsale, from the beautiful natural and architectural scenery to the rich history it has accumulated throughout its existence. Famous for being a fishing town, Kinsale has seen a fierce battle and has been used as a port for a long time.
Visitors from all over the country now come to this town to enjoy a charming seaside vacation filled with fishing and food adventures. One will enjoy wandering the streets of Kinsale as it is where to find the beautifully colored buildings and numerous pubs and restaurants that serve sumptuous meals. The town is also a great place to shop, relax, or learn some interesting Irish history.
- Where: County Cork, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Kinsale: Town Centre, Ramparts of Charles Fort, Kinsale Museum, Kinsale Loop, Blacks Brewery, Shannon River
8 Allihies, Cork
Allihies, Ireland
A visit to Allihies is sure to be memorable as the village welcomes all visitors with incredibly natural and architectural scenery. This village is quite small and remote, but there are plenty of things that make it worth visiting. The town sits majestically on the Beara Peninsula and overlooks the scenic coast. Within the village, one will find colorful villas, outdoor bars and restaurants, and several historic sites. One historic site to visit here is the Allihies Copper Mines, as it played a major role in the development of the area. For those who want more adventure, Allihies has several amazing viewpoints from which to see the incredible scenery of the area, and it also has a sandy beach where one can relax and watch birds.
- Where: County Cork, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Allihies: Allihies Copper Mine Museum, Allihies Beach, Allihies Copper Mine Trail, Beara Way, Dursey Island, Sheeps Head Peninsula, Mill Cove Gallery, Mizen Head
7 Carlingford, Louth
Sitting at the foot of the towering Slieve Foy mountain and on the shores of Carlingford Lough, this town is one of Ireland’s finest. The town comes with a medieval view as its streets are narrow and filled with colorful buildings. Carlingford has plenty of historic structures, from castles to monasteries which visitors can spend their time exploring. It is also surrounded by beautiful green areas where one can enjoy a walk in nature. In and around the town of Carlingford, there are opportunities for horse riding, biking, and water sports such as - kite surfing, diving, and boating.
- Where: County Louth, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Carlingford: King John’s Castle, Carlingford Abbey, Taaffe’s Castle/Merchant House, The Tholsel, The Mint, Ghan House, Church of the Holy Trinity, Town Wall
6 Dingle, Kerry
Dingle is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in the world as it sits on the Atlantic Coast and presents incredible ocean scenery and even mountain scenery. Like many other destinations in Ireland, the town also features beautifully colored houses that make it look like a painting. As a fishing town, one will find lots of opportunities to fish and enjoy some seafood here.
When it comes to infrastructure and facilities, Dingle is endowed with an abundance of pubs, restaurants, and even a distillery where one can enjoy some spirits. Besides fishing and exploring the town’s attractions, things to do in this town include - boat tours, relaxing at the beach, riding horses, diving, hiking, and taking scenic drives to nearby places.
- Where: County Kerry, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Dingle: Inch beach, Dingle Peninsula Drive, Lios Stone Circle, Coumeenoole Beach, Slea head drive, Sybil’s Head or Ceann Sibéal, Conor pass
5 Dunmore East, Waterford
At Dunmore East, one will be met with beautiful seaside scenery and streets filled with unique thatched-roof buildings. The town has beautiful beaches that have sea caves, several ancient sites, restaurants, pubs, and hotels with incredible views of the sea.
Besides walking through the streets and gazing at the town’s impressive architecture, visitors to this city will have the opportunities to cliff walk, cruise the scenic ocean, relax on the beach, enjoy delicious meals with amazing views, and enjoy golfing on a cliff edge. That’s not all, however. There’s more to do in this laid-back picturesque town, and the only way to enjoy all the town has to offer is by visiting.
- Where: County Waterford, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Dunmore East: Dunmore East cliff, Councillors Strand, Ladies Cove1, Dunmore Strand, Dunmore Adventure, Tramore
4 Kenmare, County Kerry
Kenmare comes with a vibrant atmosphere and amazing natural scenery. From any part of the town, one will be met with views of colorful structures backdropped by towering mountains. The town has a scenic lake where one can enjoy some kayaking and fishing adventures, and it is also surrounded by lush forest areas where one can enjoy a nature walk. Visitors here will have opportunities to walk through streets lined up with beautifully colored buildings, some of which are restaurants and bars where one can enjoy some of Ireland’s delicious food and drinks.
- Where: County Kerry, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Kenmare: Molly Gallivan’s Cottage & Traditional Farm, Gleninchaquin Park, Old Kenmare Road, Derreen Gardens, Reenagross Park, Cromwell’s Bridge, Holy Cross Church, Verart Sculpture Garden
3 Cong, County Mayo
Cong is a charming and historic village endowed with a huge selection of ancient sites. With so many trees and streams around the village, visitors here will feel like they are in a fantasy land. It really feels medieval here, especially when one is visiting the town’s numerous historic attractions, one of which is Cong Abbey - a site that dates back to the 12th century and the world-famous Ashford Castle which is also a five-star hotel, by the way. Here are more castles in the country that also pass as hotels.
It may look like an abandoned little village, but Cong has hotels, bars, and pubs, and it also offers opportunities for hiking and fishing.
- Where: County Mayo, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Cong: Cong Abbey, The Quiet Man Museum, Bridge between Galway and Mayo, Cross of Cong, Cong Love Tokens, Statue of John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, Monks Fishing Hut, Cong Nature Trail
2 Doolin, Clare
Doolin is one village that presents the incredible coastal scenery that Ireland is known for. Like a typical settlement in Ireland, this village is also lined up with several colorful buildings, and it is particularly famous for being a place to enjoy Irish traditional music. Doolin has restaurants, bars, and historical/natural attractions to keep visitors busy. It is also close to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, and activities one can do in the area include hiking and rock climbing.
- Where: County Clare, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Doolin: Doolin Cave, Burren Scenic Drive, Aillwee Caves, Cliffs of Moher, Doonagore Castle
1 Westport, County Mayo
Located in County Mayo, Westport is one of the most beautiful towns in Ireland characterized by streets lined up with beautifully colored buildings and surrounded by towering mountains and gorgeous trees. The town has picturesque beaches as well as charming lakes that add to its scenery.
When it comes to things to do, Westport has plenty of them. If one does not want to relax on the beaches or hike in the nearby mountains, one can wander the streets of the town and patronize the bars and restaurants in it. The town also has some historic attractions one can visit, some of which include - the old stone bridge and a house known as the Westport House, which is more than 200 years old.
- Where: County Mayo, Ireland
- Places To Visit In Westport: Westport House & Gardens, Great Western Greenway, Croagh Patrick, Pirate Adventure Park