20 Best Places to Visit in Ireland for Stunning Natural Beauty, Small-town Charm, and More

"When I visited Ireland for the first time, my four-day itinerary included time in Dublin, Galway, the Wicklow Mountains, and Howth. And while I certainly covered a lot of ground, I quickly realized that four days was barely enough time to discover one region, let alone the entire country-the Emerald Isle boasts many more charming villages, natural wonders, and historic landmarks, each worthy of a visit in their own right."

""I find that first-time visitors to Ireland often misjudge how large and expansive the island is, and therefore underestimate the time they need to fully explore and enjoy Ireland's myriad attractions, sites, hotels, rich history, and cultural heritage," he tells Travel + Leisure. If your schedule is flexible, Leahy recommends extending your trip beyond just a few days to ensure a "well-rounded Irish experience.""

"Inishmore (Inis Mór), Inishmaan (Inis Meain), and Inisheer (Inis Oirr) make up the Aran Islands, a place known for its ancient ruins and sacred sites. "The islands unfold a tale of timeless elegance against the backdrop of the Atlantic's gentle embrace," says Leahy. If you're already in Galway or Doolin, you can take the seasonal ferry directly to the islands-there's year-round ferry access from Rossaveel as well."

First-time visitors commonly underestimate Ireland's size and the time needed to see its varied attractions, heritage, and accommodations. Travel time should be extended beyond a brief stay to allow a well-rounded experience. Key destinations include the Aran Islands—Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer—for ancient ruins and sacred sites with ferry access from Galway, Doolin, or Rossaveel. The Old Head of Kinsale offers a world-class golf experience close to Kinsale. Popular natural highlights like the Cliffs of Moher sit alongside many lesser-known towns, islands, and mountains that merit separate visits.

Read at Travel + Leisure