The Landmarks that Make Ireland Incredible

In Europe February 26, 20265 min read

Consider a country with an enriching history, comprising over 126,000 registered archaeological sites and 30,000 castles. And then consider a European country that was part of the UK from 1801 to 1922, and attracted over 520,000 visitors in December 2025 alone. 

Ireland fits this bill perfectly because of its gorgeous, captivating landmarks that entice visitors to learn more about them, as it did for me in 2024. Some of Ireland’s landmarks are not only historical but also picturesque, making them a good choice, particularly for keen photographers like me. 

Here are seven examples of these landmarks that I feel help make Ireland the incredible country it is today.

1. The Cliffs of Moher (Clare)

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this landmark is beautifully positioned along the Wild Atlantic Way. It offers the keen hiker limitless views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands.

At a maximum height of 214 metres, you can still hear the crashing of waves against the cliffs. An extended 14km walk allows you to make the most of these cliffs and also become enchanted by the wildlife surrounding you.

Tours of these cliffs are available via boat if you wish to view the towering cliffs from the sea.

2. Croagh Patrick (Mayo)

Those looking for the best hikes in Europe will love spending 4-5 hours adventuring up Croagh Patrick, given its popularity. This mountain, located in County Mayo near Westport and also known as ‘The Creek’, reaches a height of 2074 feet and can be tackled by hikers of all abilities.

Also read: Best Hikes in the World

St Patrick himself has a connection to this mountain thanks to his 40-day fast in 441AD. Many pilgrims in the past hundreds of years have also been known to ascend to this mountain’s summit. Hikers can follow in these pilgrims’ footsteps to reach the summit and enjoy the views of Clew Bay and its cluster of islands.

3. Kylemore Abbey (Galway)

Innovation, tragedy, and romance combine to create a landmark found on millions of Ireland’s postcards – Kylemore Abbey. Built in 1867, it has been home to Benedictine nuns since 1920, after they fled Belgium during the First World War.

An entry ticket will give you access to the abbey’s Victorian walled garden, neo-Gothic church and Kylemore Woodlands. Visiting this landmark will make it clear why it is worth the drive from Galway.

In 2016, the abbey partnered with the University of Notre Dame to deliver a wide range of student programmes, including spiritual programmes.

4. King John’s Castle (Limerick)

Lying on River Shannon’s bank is King John’s Castle, suitably located on King’s Island in Limerick. Built in the 1200s, it has survived significant periods of history, including the Viking and Roman eras.

King John himself had previously ordered the construction of this castle, which then became one of Ireland’s best-preserved castles. To this day, visitors to Limerick can explore this castle and its rich history and be guided around by guides in period costumes.

5. Dunbrody Famine Ship (Wexford)

Located approximately 45-50 minutes’ drive from Rosslare Harbour, this ship can be one of the first landmarks that visitors to Ireland can visit. This is especially when they catch a ferry from Wales to Southern Ireland.

Constructed in 1845 in Quebec, it played an important role during Ireland’s Great Famine. To this day, the ship remains docked in New Ross, where families can visit and educate their kids about what life was like during the Great Famine.

6. The Guinness Storehouse (Dublin)

A personal favourite of mine, lovers of Guinness will be in heaven once they visit Dublin’s very own Guinness Storehouse. Put simply, it involves visiting a building with 7 floors dedicated to Guinness, dubbed the world’s greatest stout.

You can wander around these floors and become well educated on Guinness. A visit to this storehouse will also include available options to sample different flavours of Guinness. It can then be completed by heading up to the Gravity Bar for a delicious, smooth pint of Guinness. You can even sample a pint with your own personalised selfie appearing on the head.

7. Dun Chaoin Pier (Kerry)

Social media users will no doubt recognise this landmark, which has cropped up on many occasions on different platforms. Dun Chaoin Pier (also known as Dunquin Pier) is conveniently located and easily accessible for residents of Dun Chaoin village.

Here, you can park and then catch a ferry to Blasket Island. It will be safe to park there so long as visitors do not even attempt to drive down the winding path.

It is no doubt one of the Dingle Peninsula’s most breathtaking coastal views.