Ireland is a country where myth meets history and stunning natural beauty is never far from reach. Known as the Emerald Isle for its rolling green hills, Ireland boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped by centuries of Celtic tradition, Viking invasions, British rule, and a fierce pursuit of independence achieved in the 20th century. Today, Ireland is a vibrant blend of old and new, where medieval castles and ancient stone circles stand alongside modern cities, lively pubs, and world-renowned music and literature.

The Four Regions of Ireland

📍 Leinster – Home to the capital city of Dublin, Leinster is the most populous region and the cultural and economic heart of Ireland. Visitors can enjoy historic sites like Trinity College and Kilmainham Gaol or sip a pint at the Guinness Storehouse.

📍 Munster – Located in the south, Munster offers dramatic coastlines, charming towns, and a rich Gaelic heritage. Highlights include the Cliffs of Moher, the Dingle Peninsula, and the lively city of Cork, known for its food scene and friendly locals.

📍 Connacht – In the west, Connacht is known for its wild beauty and traditional Irish culture. This region includes Connemara, the Aran Islands, and the city of Galway, a hub of music, arts, and festivals with a youthful energy.

📍 Ulster – Spanning both Northern Ireland and part of the Republic, Ulster is a region of rugged landscapes and complex history. While Belfast and Derry showcase the urban side, natural wonders like the Giant’s Causeway and Donegal’s coastline steal the spotlight.

The Same

The family visited Ireland as one of their first international trips together, even before having kids. They rented a car and explored most of the country, covering everything from coastal cliffs to countryside villages. The DINKs, on the other hand, had a much shorter stay, spending their time based in Dublin with just one excursion outside the city.

Dublin

Join us as we explore Dublin through two different lenses. From historic landmarks and iconic pubs to quiet riverside strolls and lively music-filled nights, we each found our own version of magic in the Irish capital. Steeped in tradition yet full of modern flair, Dublin swept us off our feet with its charm, warmth, and unforgettable energy. Whether you’re visiting for history, food, or fun, you’ll find something that speaks to your soul—just like we did.

• Eat – We savored hearty Irish stews, fresh oysters at Boxty House, and traditional pub fare at spots like The Brazen Head and Hairy Lemon. Dublin’s food scene was a favorite for both of us, filling, flavorful, and full of heart.
• Drink – From sipping a perfect pint at the Guinness Storehouse to whiskey tasting at Jameson and hopping between iconic pubs like The Long Hall and Temple Bar, we experienced Dublin’s legendary drink culture two very different (but equally fun) ways.
• See – Whether we were visiting Trinity College and the Book of Kells, wandering through St. Patrick’s Cathedral, or enjoying street music along the River Liffey, Dublin offered countless moments that made both of our trips memorable in unique ways.

Local Cuisine

Ireland’s local cuisine is hearty, comforting, and rooted in tradition. Drawing from the island’s lush green pastures and rich coastal waters, Irish food features simple ingredients prepared with care. From warm stews to freshly baked breads and seafood straight from the Atlantic, every bite tells a story of Ireland’s culture and history.

• Irish Stew – A classic comfort dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions simmered to perfection.
• Boxty – A traditional potato pancake that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside—often served with eggs or smoked salmon.
• Soda Bread – A dense, hearty bread made without yeast, best enjoyed warm with Irish butter.
• Smoked Salmon – Fresh from the Irish coast, it’s often served on brown bread with lemon and dill.
• Oysters – Galway Bay oysters are a delicacy, especially during the annual oyster festivals.
• Colcannon – Mashed potatoes blended with cabbage or kale, often served as a side with meats.
• Black Pudding – A savory blood sausage commonly served at breakfast alongside eggs and toast.
• Shepherd’s Pie – A baked dish of minced lamb (or beef) topped with creamy mashed potatoes and browned in the oven.
• Coddle – A Dublin specialty made by slow-cooking sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions in a savory broth.
• Seafood Chowder – A creamy soup packed with fresh seafood like mussels, salmon, and cod, often served with soda bread.
• Beef and Guinness Pie – Tender chunks of beef slow-cooked in Guinness stout, tucked into a flaky pastry crust.

The Family

Exploring Ireland by car gave us the freedom to uncover the country’s magic at our own pace—from coastal cliffs and medieval castles to lively cities and winding mountain roads. It wasn’t without its challenges (hello, driving on the left!), but the reward was an unforgettable adventure filled with breathtaking views, rich history, and warm welcomes.

Driving in Ireland

Driving on the other side of the road for the first time in Ireland was definitely not the easiest adjustment. Navigating roundabouts, shifting gears with the opposite hand, and staying left, especially on narrow country roads, made for a few tense moments (and some colorful language). But with each passing day, it started to feel more natural, and by the end of the trip, we were cruising along like locals. It turned out to be one of those challenges that made the adventure even more memorable and gave us a few good stories to laugh about later.

Cliffs of Moher

Standing at the edge of the Cliffs of Moher was one of the most awe-inspiring moments of our trip. As we looked out over the Atlantic, the wind whipped through our hair and the sea crashed below—it felt like we were at the edge of the world. We walked along the cliff-top path, taking in different angles of the dramatic landscape and snapping more photos than we could count. The views were absolutely unforgettable, and the natural beauty left us speechless.

Ring of Kerry

Driving the Ring of Kerry was like flipping through a storybook of Ireland. Every twist in the road brought something new—sheep-dotted hills, ancient ruins, coastal cliffs, and postcard-worthy villages. We stopped often to take photos, stretch our legs, and grab a bite at roadside cafes. Killarney National Park was a favorite stop, with its lush forests and serene lakes. We took our time, let the road guide us, and soaked in the peaceful pace of rural Ireland.

Galway

Galway had a vibe all its own—artsy, energetic, and endlessly welcoming. We loved wandering through the colorful streets of the Latin Quarter, listening to street musicians, and popping into quirky shops and cozy cafes. One night we found ourselves in a packed pub with live traditional Irish music and ended up singing along with locals. Between the friendly people, fresh seafood, and creative spirit, Galway quickly became one of our favorite cities in Ireland.

Blarney Castle

Climbing to the top of Blarney Castle to kiss the famous stone was both thrilling and a little nerve-wracking—we had to lean backward over a gap with just iron bars to hold onto! But once we did it, we couldn’t stop laughing and joking about the “gift of gab” we supposedly earned. Beyond the stone, we were enchanted by the grounds—mystical gardens, winding stone paths, and hidden corners like the Poison Garden. It felt like walking through a fairy tale with a bit of legend sprinkled in.

The Dinks

We only spent a few days in Irland. One of the highlights of our time in Dublin was taking a guided day trip to Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains. It was a perfect escape into the heart of the Irish countryside. Just a short drive from the city, this tour gave us a taste of Ireland’s raw natural beauty and fascinating history. From ancient ruins to cinematic landscapes, the day was filled with unforgettable sights and fresh mountain air.

Wicklow Mountains

The Wicklow Mountains are a stunning stretch of rolling hills, deep valleys, and winding mountain roads just south of Dublin. Often called the “Garden of Ireland,” this region is known for its wild beauty, peaceful lakes, and scenic drives through heather-covered peaks. It’s home to Glendalough’s ancient monastic ruins, the shimmering Guinness Lake (Lough Tay), and countless trails perfect for hiking, photography, or simply soaking in the fresh Irish air.

• Marvel at the Wild Beauty – We were blown away by the lush green valleys, rolling hills, and peaceful lakes that stretched in every direction.
• Wicklow Mountains National Park – The panoramic views here were simply breathtaking, every twist in the road revealed another postcard-worthy scene.
• Movie Locations – It was fun spotting filming locations from P.S. I Love You and Braveheart as we drove through the rugged terrain.
• Guinness Lake (Lough Tay) – Nestled in the Wicklow Mountains, this lake is named for its dark waters and white sandy beach that resembles a pint of Guinness. The view from above was absolutely stunning and one of the most photographed spots of the tour.

Glendalough

Glendalough, meaning “Valley of the Two Lakes,” is a place steeped in spiritual and historical significance. It was founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, a hermit priest who sought solitude in the valley’s peaceful surroundings. Over time, it became a thriving monastic settlement, drawing pilgrims and scholars from across Ireland and beyond. Today, visitors can still see the impressive round tower, medieval churches, and ancient graves that hint at the valley’s sacred past, all set against a backdrop of serene lakes and forested hills.

• Step Into History – Our guide shared the incredible story of Glendalough’s 6th-century monastic site, bringing the ancient stone structures to life.
• Hike to the Upper Lake – We followed a peaceful 2.5 km trail past the Lower Lake and through a forested boardwalk, eventually reaching the serene Upper Lake. The air was crisp, and the silence of the valley made it feel almost spiritual.

Tour From Dublin: Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Kilkenny Tour

Summary

From the sweeping coastal views and cozy village pubs to the ancient ruins and the friendly strangers who quickly felt like old friends, every moment added to a journey that felt both deeply personal and universally magical. Whether we explored most of the country by car or spent just a few days soaking in the spirit of Dublin and the Wicklow Mountains, Ireland welcomed us with open arms. It’s a land that invites you to slow down, look closer, and let its stories—both old and new become part of your own. We’ll carry those memories with us, and something tells us… we’ll be back.