By Amanda Little
Traveling around the world comes with expenses, but not everything has to cost you cash. There are plenty of free things to do for any kind of traveler.
Thinking about a trip to Ireland? Start planning your itinerary now, and make sure to add in some of these free things to do in Ireland!
Explore the Emerald Isle with our vacation packages to Ireland.
Killarney National Park • County Kerry
Take pictures of Ireland’s first ever national park!
Envelop your senses in Ireland’s peaceful nature with a visit to Killarney National Park. As Ireland’s first established national park, Killarney is something you can’t pass up during your time in Ireland. From rushing waterfalls to scenic hiking trails, Killarney National Park presents some of the most relaxing backdrops you’ll ever see. Learn more about the National Parks in Ireland here!
Giant’s Causeway • Northern Ireland
See the mythical (yet all natural) wonder for yourself.
Take a short journey from Dublin to Northern Ireland to witness the natural wonder known as Giant’s Causeway. Formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts well over a thousand interlocking basalt columns, which ultimately create a surreal landscape composed of geometric shapes. Feel free to explore the site’s hiking trails, or take a tour to learn about the natural wonder’s mythical origins.
Temple Bar District • Dublin
Meet locals, grab a drink, and explore the inner workings of Dublin.
The Temple Bar District in Dublin is well-known for its lively atmosphere. Here, you’ll come face to face with colorful street art, a mix of shops, bars, and so much more. You can spend a whole afternoon wandering through the district’s cobblestone streets and still only scratch the surface of what excitement can be had here. Be sure to really soak in the vibrant ambience of this historic district, admire the ancient architecture, and chat with some locals!
Explore the Cliffs of Moher • County Clare
Witness Ireland’s most famous natural wonder.
Used as a backdrop for movies worldwide (learn more here), rumored to possess magical affinity, and downright spectacular to look at, the Cliffs of Moher are unbeatable in both beauty and personality. Luckily for you, seeing this natural wonder is free! However, it’s recommended that you take a tour so you can learn more about the attraction’s history, importance, and get the best views.
Rock of Cashel • County Tipperary
Stroll through a medieval fortress.
Located atop a limestone hill in County Tipperary, the Rock of Cashel is an incredible testament to medieval Ireland’s architectural supremacy. This medieval fortress has a rich history dating back more than a thousand years ago. Visitors may explore the ruins of round towers, ancient churches, and the surrounding gardens. Perfect for pictures, especially when combined with the backdrop of Ireland’s rolling countryside.
Drive the Countryside • All Ireland
Take a self-guided tour of Ireland’s countryside!
If you plan to travel all across Ireland, it’s best to get a rental car to help you get from place to place. This means that you’ll have unlimited access to exploring Ireland’s lovely countryside, and since you aren’t really paying for the views or experience, this is one of the easiest free things to do in Ireland!
The National Museum of Ireland • Dublin
Learn more about Ireland’s history & archaeology.
Complete all the other items on this list, and you will still not scratch the surface when it comes to understanding Ireland’s interesting history. Take an even deeper look into the country’s past by visiting the one and only National Museum of Ireland! Although there are two locations (Dublin & County Mayo), it’s recommended that you see the one in Dublin for the best experience. Bonus points if you can visit both!
Trinity College and Science Gallery • Dublin
History and education for all to see.
Let’s kick things off with one of the most intriguing free things to do in Ireland: visiting the Trinity College and Science Gallery! Learning is essential when visiting any new country, and exploring a FREE museum is perfect for doing so. You can go on a tour hosted by students or wander the grounds yourself, but make sure not to miss its beautiful Science Gallery just within its gates. A practical approach to science in this gallery shows how things we do everyday involve art and science.
This college also houses the Book of Kells in its library. Entry to the Book of Kells is not free, but highly worth visiting. Consider purchasing a ticket, as seeing the Book of Kells is at the top of the list when it comes to best things to do in Ireland.
Street Performers • Dublin
Entertainment runs rampant along the streets.
Ask anyone who has been to Dublin, and they’ll tell you that among the best things to do in Ireland is to wander around Grafton Street. Yes, shopping is fun, but quite a few of the stores along the pedestrian street are chains that you will likely find near your home. Instead, stroll along the bustling people and pick out street performers to watch. Performances range from Irish violins and singers to full-sized pianos and even a fire-breathing magician that turns up more often than not. Definitely worth the time invested!
Phoenix Park • Dublin
Wander a patch of green in an urban jungle.
You might want to set aside a full day to explore the beauty of Europe's largest inner-city park. You can look for Ireland's national animal, the red deer, that roam openly in the woodlands of the park, or stop in and enjoy the Dublin Zoo, which is also within Phoenix Park and is free to enter. Parks are some of the can’t miss free things to do in Ireland, as they bring you close to the country’s natural beauty without having to leave city limits. Perfect for family fun, too!
The Ulster Museum • Belfast
Take a step back in time to ancient Ireland.
If you crave history, Ulster Museum should be your first stop in Belfast. This magnificent building houses artifacts from Ireland's complex past, as well as international treasures, among them an Egyptian mummy! Along with containing knowledge about the county's history, you can take a walk through the natural history section as well as an art gallery. With several floors to explore, it's a full day of fun, or you can come back again later, since it's free!
Botanic Gardens • Belfast
Find a moment of peace among these sprawling gardens.
Tired of all the hustle and bustle of Ireland’s major cities? Pick out a sunny day to walk among students, dog walkers, and locals in the Botanic Gardens next to Queen's University to not only enjoy some free things to do in Ireland, but also something very relaxing. This peaceful part of the city provides green open spaces and a wonderful place to picnic. You could walk through the Palm House, a greenhouse hosting tropical plants and hanging baskets, or the Tropical Ravine, which has some of the oldest seed plants, banana plants, and orchids.
Views over the city • Belfast
Enjoy the unique points hidden in Belfast with the best views.
Take the walk up to Belfast Castle and look out from its gardens over Belfast Lough, or make the 45 minute climb up Cave Hill from the castle for an even better view. On a clear day, you can even pick out Scotland in the distance. If the climb doesn't appeal, you could also stop in at the Victoria Square Shopping Center in the city and make your way to the glass dome to look out over Belfast's rooftops.
Croagh Patrick & Clew Bay • County Mayo
Emerge triumphant atop the mountain overlooking the water.
Take a long stroll along the beautiful beaches and port of Clew Bay. The choice to explore just ten minutes from Westport or take a full day to wander the shore is yours. Or, if you're looking for a bit more of an adventure, just before Bertra Beach is Crough Patrick. Standing as the third highest peak in County Mayo, the mountain is best known for its holy association with Saint Patrick who is said to have fasted for 40 days on its summit. The most popular trail to the summit begins at the west end of Murrisk on Louisburgh Road.
Aran Islands • Galway
Set sail to the islands laden with ancient sites.
The ferry from Galway to the Aran Islands may not be free (and it's recommended you book ferry tickets in advance), but once you've arrived there are so many free things to do in Ireland, either by foot or bike. Make your way through Inis Mor, Inis Meain, and Inis Oirr as you parade through medieval castles, enjoy beautiful sandy beaches, and make your way through prehistoric forts.
Live Music • Galway
Enjoy the lively Irish music floating through the air.
Nothing brings about the liveliness of Ireland quite like its music. Monroe's Tavern in Galway is known as the place to go for free live music every night of the week. With over 50 years of experience, Monroe's is the place to be on a casual evening. While you're there, maybe you'll get into the spirit enough to order yourself a pint of Guinness!
Lismore Castle • Waterford
Walk the historic grounds of Lismore, and more!
Just beyond Waterford, the scenic town of Lismore sits along the Blackwater River, with Lismore Castle towering above it all. The heritage town hosts walking tours twice a day, and the Heritage Center is open to all for more information about walking the stunning gardens as well as other attractions nearby, such as St. Carthage's Cathedral and the Towers Woodland Trail, which is just outside of town.
Curraghmore House • Waterford
Get a taste of what ancient royal life was like in Ireland.
Explore a fun free thing to do in Ireland, all while learning about history at the same time! Stop in at the largest private dwelling in Ireland, the Curraghmore House. This historic house was built for the La Poer family in 1177 and is still occupied by their descendants. Their grounds, spanning over 2,500 acres of woodlands, gardens, and pastures, are open to the public. Tours through the grounds explain plans for their improvement, and tours through the house are available as well.
The Viking Triangle • Waterford
Take a look at how history and its people have changed the land.
Narrow streets, public spaces, and cultural attractions make up the Viking Triangle in Ireland's oldest city, Waterford. Norse settlers established the city in 914 AD and among their rampaging of Ireland, they also laid the foundations for many towns and cities. Embark on a tour through the heritage sites and maybe stop in at Reginald's Tower for an exhibition of their past.
Mingle with Locals • All Ireland
Immerse yourself in the well-known hospitality of Ireland.
Something that you absolutely cannot miss while on vacation in Ireland is making new friends. If there’s one thing that the local people in Ireland are known for, it is most definitely their hospitality. From wanting to learn about other cultures to wanting to share theirs, the Irish people are among the world’s most welcoming. Visit some bars, shops, or parks to mingle with locals!
Explore Ireland Vacation Packages
