Ireland is a country that captures the heart like few others. From its green rolling countryside and dramatic coastlines to its charming villages, every corner of the island feels alive with beauty and history. What truly makes Ireland unforgettable, though, are its people—warm, welcoming, and full of stories, music, and laughter. I send so many clients to Ireland, so when I finally had the chance to experience it firsthand with other agents, I couldn’t wait. Traveling in November wasn’t my first choice, since these trips usually happen just before or after the busy season, but there were definite perks: the minimal crowds gave the towns and sights a wonderfully local feel. I loved wandering the countryside, exploring ancient castles, and spending time in cozy pubs filled with music and laughter. Experiencing it this way reminded me that the heart of Ireland isn’t just in its landscapes or sights, but in its people, its pubs, and its rolling, unforgettable countryside.

Experience the Culture

I love learning a bit of a destination’s history before I go, but there’s nothing like seeing it come alive with a local guide. On this trip to Ireland, I spent a week on a guided tour—not my usual style—but our guide from Killarney was amazing. He seemed to know everyone on the island and shared stories ranging from Irish history to pop culture. While I soaked in the countryside and the camaraderie of fellow travelers, he brought Ireland to life. For anyone wary of driving in Ireland, a guided tour is a stress-free way to see the country.

Ireland’s history is rich and layered. From its Celtic roots to the devastating Great Famine of the 19th century, and on through the struggles for independence marked by events like Bloody Sunday, the country has endured tragedy and emerged resilient. This history shapes its culture, stories, and people, making every town, castle, and museum feel full of meaning.

Tracing family roots is another way to connect with Ireland. Many clients love visiting ancestral towns, castles, or villages—if that’s important to you, let me know early in the planning process so we can make it happen.

And then there’s the food and drink—hearty, flavorful, and unforgettable. Fresh fish and chips in Galway, classic pub stews, and cozy pubs filled with music and laughter capture the heart of Irish cuisine. Pair it all with a pint of Guinness or a local whiskey, and you’ve got the perfect taste of Ireland.

For golf lovers, spending time on the links is often a top priority. Planning ahead is key, and having a playing partner makes it even better. I work with vendors who can handle tee times and make the whole process effortless, so you can focus on enjoying the game amidst Ireland’s stunning landscapes.

How to Explore Ireland

There are so many ways to explore Ireland, and each comes with its perks. Cruise and land tours are easy and stress-free, though they follow a set schedule. Self-drives give freedom to explore hidden spots, but Ireland’s narrow, winding roads can be tricky. Trains are relaxing and scenic, but routes are limited. Guided tours bring history and culture to life with a local expert, while a private driver offers the ultimate flexibility—just be prepared for the premium. The best choice depends on whether you want independence, convenience, or a mix of both.

Dublin

I had a couple of nights in Dublin and managed to cover a lot of ground—over 31,000 steps in a single day! It’s a very walkable city, and though I explored on my own, guides can be fantastic for making the history and stories come alive. Stops at Temple Bar and Grafton Street are always a must. I carved out some time to Trinity College’s Book of Kells myself since opinions of it can be mixed. I also popped into St. Patrick’s Cathedral for a quick tour, because visiting a city’s historic church is always a highlight.

Food and drink are a huge part of the Dublin experience. A food tour is a fun way to dive in, or for a more relaxed pace, simply stopping at a cozy pub works perfectly. Of course, I had to try my first Guinness, so the Guinness Storehouse was a must—not just for the tour, but also for the stunning views over the city. And since the Irish are passionate about their whiskey, a distillery tour was also on my list. Dublin is a city where history, culture, and great food and drink come together seamlessly.

Waterford

On our way to Waterford, we stopped at Glendalough Monastic Site, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. The old stone churches, ancient graves, and serene lakes made it feel like stepping back in time, and the surrounding landscape was simply breathtaking.

Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, displays its Viking roots everywhere, and the city’s Christmas charm added a festive glow to our visit. The Waterford Crystal factory is enjoyable —the craftsmanship is absolutely stunning. I love the city’s coastal charm and the mix of maritime heritage and artistic traditions, making it perfect for travelers who enjoy history without the crowds. Of course, we couldn’t resist sharing some Irish whiskey with new friends and sharing travel stories.

Killarney

On our way to Killarney we stopped at Blarney Castle—one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the 15th century, it’s famous for the legendary Blarney Stone: kiss it, and you’re said to gain the “gift of the gab.” Beyond the stone, the castle is a fascinating maze of medieval architecture, with winding staircases and ancient walls to explore. The gardens are just as enchanting, with rock paths, wooded trails, and tranquil ponds perfect for a stroll. Visiting Blarney is about more than history—it’s about magic, charm, and whimsy, the kind of experiences that make Ireland unforgettable.

Visiting a castle is a must for many travelers. I love helping clients pick the perfect ones, and for a truly memorable trip, some even choose to spend a night in a castle, turning their journey into a real fairy-tale adventure.

Killarney is pure magic—lush landscapes, mountains, and sparkling lakes wrapped in warm Irish hospitality. The town itself is charming, but the surrounding scenery steals the show. I came down with a stomach bug one day, but as luck would have it, a rare snowfall canceled our Ring of Kerry tour anyway. The next day, I wandered the adorable town, popped into wool shops, sipped some tea to warm up and of course, visited a pub or two. I can’t wait to return to this cozy town and explore more of its breathtaking countryside.

Galway

On our way to Galway, we stopped at the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Rising nearly 700 feet above the Atlantic, the rugged cliffs and crashing waves offer panoramic views that stretch for miles. The quiet and peacefulness here was truly captivating—I felt blessed to experience it firsthand.

We wrapped up the day in Galway, where a small Christmas market added festive cheer. With two colleges in town, the city has a youthful energy that spills into its pubs, filled with live music. Now, whenever I hear Ed Sheeran’s “Galway Girl,” I can’t help but think of my time in this charming city.

Galway has a creative, colorful heartbeat that makes it one of Ireland’s most joyful destinations. Vibrant streets lined with artisan shops and lively pubs showcase the city’s culture, while the music and artistic flair give it a welcoming, bohemian charm that makes visitors want to stay longer.

Our next stop was to watch a local sheep farmer in action. With his loyal sheepdog at his side, he expertly herded the flock with precision and ease—a fascinating glimpse into traditional Irish farm life. It was mesmerizing to watch the farmer signal the dog, each command perfectly understood, with each dog responding to its own unique signal.

Northern Ireland - Londonderry and Belfast

Northern Ireland is a region rich with history, and I love how the past and present coexist so thoughtfully. We began our visit in Londonderry (Derry), where its storied past is beautifully preserved in city walls dating back to the early 17th century. The city is famous for its political murals, particularly in the Bogside neighborhood, which vividly tell the story of Northern Ireland’s Troubles and the resilience of its people. Another iconic landmark is Hands Across the Divide, a striking sculpture symbolizing reconciliation and hope between communities once divided. Beyond its history, Londonderry has a lively arts scene, charming streets, and a strong sense of pride, making it a great stop in Northern Ireland.

Driving along Northern Ireland’s rugged northern coast, we reached the Giant’s Causeway, a truly stunning natural wonder. Famous for its thousands of interlocking basalt columns formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, walking among the geometric rocks with waves crashing nearby felt completely otherworldly—a must-see on any trip to the region. The wind was so strong that day, it actually knocked me to the ground, landing me on the rocks. Needless to say, my bum ended up with a bruise the size of one of those columns—yikes!

We wrapped up our time in Northern Ireland with a stop in Belfast at the Titanic Museum, an incredibly immersive experience that brings the story of the Titanic—and the city’s shipbuilding heritage—to life. From the ship’s construction to its fateful maiden voyage, the museum offers fascinating exhibits, interactive displays, and a chance to truly connect with this iconic piece of history.

On the way back to Dublin, we stopped at a quaint eatery by the water, complete with live music. Fun fact: this was the same spot where C.S. Lewis wrote one of his books. It was the perfect way to end our time together, soaking in the charm, history, and magic of Northern Ireland.

We packed a lot into just one week on our guided tour—that’s the trade-off compared to a custom trip. Traveling on your own lets you slow down, soak in the scenery, and enjoy more downtime, but it takes longer to see the same sights. I’m definitely a “slow down and savor it” kind of traveler, but experiencing a guided tour firsthand was invaluable—it helps me advise clients on whether it’s the right fit for them.

From castles to pubs, rolling countryside to rugged cliffs, Ireland stole my heart—sláinte (slawn-cha) to an unforgettable adventure!

Want help planning your trip to Ireland, reach out to me by clicking on the button below.

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Ireland and the Luck of the Irish

Experience the Culture

How to Explore Ireland

Dublin

Waterford

Killarney

Galway

Northern Ireland - Londonderry and Belfast

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