Things to Do in Ireland

The ruins of Blarney Castle date back to the 13th century. An austere medieval stronghold, the castle contains the Stone of Eloquence (or the ‘Blarney Stone’, as it’s more commonly known) which visitors kiss (while hanging upside down) for good luck.

The monastery of Clonmacnoise includes a handful of small churches that date back to the 6th century. Once a center of learning for monks, the site is now dedicated to teaching visitors the rules and rituals of the past.

This prehistoric tomb dates back 5000 years. A massive stone and earthen mound, it contains many stone engravings and a secret passage illuminated by the sun during the winter solstice.

This trio of islands in the Galway Bay (to the west of Ireland) are battered by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean and defined by a barren beauty. Empty beaches, dramatic cliffs, stone forts and other prehistoric sites dot their stunning coastlines.

Arthur Guinness began brewing his now legendary dark and bitter stout in 1759. Today it is one of the most popular drinks worldwide, with breweries in Ireland, Nigeria and Indonesia. The Guinness Storehouse retells the drink’s history, and includes a bar to sample its singular taste.