Marco Polo’s list of the top 10 things not to be missed in Ireland! Our best recommendations – from the top down – help you to plan your tour of the Emerald Isle’s most important sights.
1. RING OF KERRY
This circular route from Killarney passes through some of the island’s most magnificent countryside; the breathtaking views and superb coastline earn the Ring first place.
2. BLARNEY CASTLE
Ireland has castles galore, yet everyone has heard of this imposing bastion and dreams of
ascending to its vertiginous peak to kiss the Blarney Stone.
3. KILKENNY
The Republic’s most beautiful little town is located on the banks of the River Nore and charms visitors with its medieval centre of narrow streets and centuries-old buildings.
4. CLIFFS OF MOHER
The cliffs drop steeply into the Atlantic the view is best from the water below. Take a trip in an excursion boat and enjoy the awesome spectacle offered as you look up.
5. TRINITY COLLEGE & BOOK OF KELLS
In Trinity College this priceless and totally unique book is protected behind glass. The two
pages on show are regularly changed.
6. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF IRELAND
Already an architectural highlight in its own right, this museum houses treasures of indescribable value; it is the pride of Ireland and respected around the world.
7. NEWGRANGE
The burial mound from the Neolithic age offers fascinating insight into Ireland’s past and provides visitors with an incredible experience once a year on the winter solstice.
8. GIANT’S CAUSEWAY
40,000 pillars of basalt, all over 60 million years old. No wonder that Unesco has declared this place to be a world heritage site.
9. ROCK OF CASHEL
Mythology and history unite in a 65 m (213 ft) mountain, which is crowned by a round tower, a
church and a castle. It is regarded as one of the symbols of Ireland and was even blessed by Saint Patrick.
10. DINGLE PENINSULA
The most northern of the five peninsulas in the far southwest of Ireland is steeped in the austere
beauty and history of freedom and adventure.
Content taken from the Ireland Marco Polo Spiral Guide
Buy the Ireland Marco Polo Spiral Guide
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