The Ireland Bucket List: Best Experiences & Things To Do In Ireland

If you’re looking for a bucket list destination, Ireland has it all. From breathtaking natural wonders to unique cultural experiences, this country offers plenty of unforgettable adventures.

With its lush green landscapes, rugged coastlines, and charming villages, Ireland provides a wealth of bucket list experiences that are sure to leave you in awe.

From breathtaking natural wonders, like the Cliffs of Moher, to experiencing incredible Irish step dance shows, you’ll be sure to have an incredible trip after checking out this bucket list. The grandeur of ancient ruins and castles nestled among picturesque countryside landscapes make Ireland a living masterpiece that tells a story of centuries past. Add these unforgettable experiences to your Irish bucket list and get ready for a trip you’ll never forget!

The Ireland Bucket List: Best Things To Do In Ireland

• Visit the Medieval Ruins of Ireland for a glimpse into the past
• Take a day trip to the Aran Islands and rent an electric bike to explore.
• Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher and don’t forget to look for Atlantic Puffin in late March.
• Explore the charming small towns and villages that give you a glimpse into the culture and history of Ireland.
• Buy an Aran Sweater for a truly unique Irish experience
  Connemara National Park: Must-visit destination on the west coast of Ireland, boasting sprawling hills, mountains, and stone kingdom, as well as breathtaking coastline with towering cliffs and beaches
• Enjoy a pint of Guinness and take part in Irish pub culture in Dingle Town.
• Have a pint of Guiness and pub hop in Dingle town.
• Try a full Irish breakfast for an authentic culinary experience.
• Visit Dunquin Pier for its dramatic views
• Enjoy horseback riding on the beach, an unforgettable adventure.
• Witness step-dancing, a traditional Irish art form with global appeal.
• Visit Prehistoric ruins scattered across Ireland dating back to ancient times

Visit Medieval Ruins

If you are creating your Ireland bucket list, make sure to include visits to the countless medieval castle ruins scattered throughout the country.

As you travel around Ireland, keep your eyes peeled for the ruins of abbeys and castles that are waiting to be explored. These ruins are not hard to find, in fact, wherever you go in Ireland, chances are there will be a castle ruin close by. During our trip, I fell in love with the beauty of decay the Irish Medieval Ruins. As we drove from town to town, we were constantly on the lookout for the next castle ruin to explore. I would search for “ruins near me” just to see what I could find.
With most of these castles being free to enter, you can climb and wander at your own risk, unhindered by signs or fences, or security guards making sure you don’t use the flash.

Unlike restored castles that have lost some of their original charm, the beauty of the ruins takes on a life of its own. So, add a visit to these abandoned castles to your Ireland bucket list and experience the thrill of exploring a time that once was.

Bike around Aran islands

If you’re making a bucket list of things to do in Ireland, taking a day trip to the Aran Islands should definitely be on it. This stunning cluster of islands off the country’s western coast is a true gem, with Inishmore being the largest of the lot. While there are plenty of things to see and do on the island, it’s hard to beat the stunning bike route that takes you around the entire perimeter. The bike ride is picturesque and allows you to explore everything from ancient ruins to sandy beaches.
But don’t make the mistake of renting a regular bike! To fully explore the island, rent an electric bike. The wind on the island can be extremely strong and the terrain hilly, so having that extra boost to your pedal power will make for a much more enjoyable day.

Visit charming small towns

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, add these charming towns and small villages to your Ireland bucket list. While the country’s landscapes may be breathtaking, exploring these hidden gems provides an authentic Irish experience and a glimpse into the country’s past. From Cong’s historic charm to Adare’s colorful streets, each town and village offers its unique atmosphere. Take a step away from the bustling cities and immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Ireland, where the locals greet you with a warm welcome and the pub culture thrives. Take advantage of these must-visit destinations during your trip to Ireland.

Buy Aran Sweater

These unique sweaters, also known as Fisherman sweaters, are named after the Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland. They are adorned with complex textures and stitch patterns, making them quite distinguished and unique.Known for their complex textured stitch patterns, Aran sweaters are also called Fisherman sweaters, given that they were initially designed to withstand the harsh weather conditions of the sea. Adding Aran knitwear to your Ireland bucket list is a must-do.

Have a pint of Guinness

If you are making a bucket list trip to Ireland, then something has to be at the top of your list: enjoying a pint of Guinness. With its rich and smooth taste, this iconic Irish drink is a staple in Irish culture and something that everyone should try at least once in their lifetime. Pouring a Guinness isn’t just a matter of filling up a glass, it’s an art form that follows a rigorous six-step process. And with a tradition going back centuries, it’s clear that Guinness represents the true spirit of Ireland. So whether you’re a seasoned Guinness drinker or a newcomer, no trip to Ireland is complete without experiencing the taste of this iconic beer.

Connemara National Park

If you’re looking for an ultimate Ireland bucket list experience, Connemara National Park is a must-visit destination. This piece of land on the west coast of Ireland is truly wild and untamed, with sprawling hills, mountains, and a kingdom of stones that leaves a looming impression. It’s a photographer’s dreamland, with ponds, bogs, rivers, and waterfalls that offer endless photo opportunities. But it’s not just the land that’s breathtaking; the coastline is also not lacking with cliffs that tower over the sea, and unforgettable beaches where farm animals roam freely. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the offshore islands that rise from the sea like sea monsters, some of which can only be seen every seven years.

Horseback riding on the beach

Ireland is the ultimate bucket list destination for anyone who loves horseback riding. From beginners to professionals, there are horseback riding centers that cater to every level of experience. What makes horseback riding in Ireland truly unique is the stunning scenery that surrounds you. nce like no other.

The must-do activity on any Irish horseback riding adventure is riding along the beach. The views are spectacular as you glide along the white sand beaches on majestic Irish horses. It is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. So, come and explore the breathtaking beauty of Ireland by horseback riding on the beach – a truly unforgettable adventure and a must-try in your Ireland bucket list.

Dunquin Pier

If you’re building your Ireland bucket list, make sure to add Dunquin Pier to it! Nestled in the quaint village of Dunquin, this pier is renowned for its spectacular views, making it a must-see destination when visiting Dingle. Even if you’re not taking the Blasket Island ferry, a visit to Dunquin Pier is still a must. From here, you’ll witness the breathtaking scenery of clear blue waters and untarnished natural beauty. Positioned at the westernmost point of the peninsula, Dunquin Pier offers panoramic views that are nothing short of dramatic.

Catch a live step-dancing performance

If you’re compiling a list of must-do activities in Ireland, catching a live step-dancing performance should definitely be on there. With its origins in traditional Irish dance forms and a rich history dating back to the eighteenth century, step-dancing has become a global phenomenon thanks to iconic productions like Riverdance and Lord of the Dance. It’s amazing to witness the athleticism and precision of the dancers as they take to the stage with their intricate footwork and rhythms.

Full Irish breakfast

Adding a full Irish breakfast to your Ireland bucket list is a must-do. Not only is it a delicious meal, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to dive into the country’s culture. Depending on where you are in Ireland, a full Irish breakfast might contain different elements, but typically it includes bacon, sausages, eggs, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, baked beans, and more. And don’t forget the toast, butter, and marmalade, accompanied by gallons of tea. So whether you’re a foodie or just looking to experience a true taste of Ireland, adding a full Irish breakfast to your bucket list is always a good idea.

Pub hopping in Dingle town

If you’re looking for an unforgettable Ireland bucket list experience, then pub hopping in Dingle town is a must. This charming little town is packed with character and rich history, making it a dream destination for any traveler. With less than 1,500 residents, Dingle may seem small, but it’s big on charm, and more importantly, big on pubs. In fact, locals will tell you that there’s a pub for every day of the year in town. And with everything conveniently located within walking distance, exploring this delightful town’s vibrant pub scene has never been easier.

Pre historic ruins

Ireland has countless treasures for any traveler’s bucket list.
Ireland’s spectacular ruins are a testament to the drama of early Irish history. They are sure to leave a lasting impression. These ruins span from the Mesolithic tribes who arrived via wooden boats to the Neolithic farmers from Britain, and finally the Celts. Not to mention, Ireland’s transition to Christianity in the 5th century AD profoundly impacted its culture, leading to centuries of golden age monastic learning. However, as history shows, it was not all sunshine and rainbows as the Vikings came through and wreaked havoc on these same ruins.

Walk along cliffs of Moher

Ireland has no shortage of stunning natural sights, but none quite compare to the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher. This iconic landmark is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and it’s easy to see why. As you stand at the top of the cliffs and gaze out over the vast expanse of ocean, it’s hard not to feel a sense of wonder and amazement. The cliffs’ sheer scale is breathtaking, with some rising over 700 feet above the sea. If you’re lucky enough to visit in late March, you may even get to see colonies of Atlantic Puffin. If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, don’t forget to add the Cliffs of Moher to your bucket list.

Conclusion:

I hope you add these Ireland bucket list experiences to your itinerary. Ireland is home to some of the world’s most stunning landscapes, including the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry. But it’s not just about the scenery. You can also have an unforgettable experience by holding a baby lamb, which is an incredibly cute and cuddly animal.

And let’s not forget about the incredible Irish step dance shows, which are a cultural phenomenon that you cannot miss. Whether you are exploring the countryside or the cities, Ireland provides a wealth of bucket list experiences that will leave you in awe and ensure that you have an unforgettable trip.