Immerse yourself in vibrant Irish cities
Ireland’s cities invite walking and are packed with fantastic experiences. Whether foodie, history buff or nature-lover, you’ll be dazzled! Going by foot is a one way to explore a city — but how about paddling along its river on a kayaking tour? The Liffey bisects Dublin, a flowing barrier that keeps the friendly rivalry between “northsiders” and “southsiders” alive.
Taking to the water is truly memorable: Glide under the Ha’penny Bridge; cruise past the 18th century Custom House; or gaze at the masts of The Jeanie Johnston from up close to appreciate just how central the river has been to Dublin’s remarkable evolution from Viking settlement to modern capital.
Seeking a real taste of the city? Run by food writers, photographers and chefs, the Dublin Tasting Trail is made for foodies, by foodies. Over a three-hour tour, you’ll visit six or seven venues to enjoy a deliciously authentic taste of Dublin.
For a coastal jaunt, take the DART train to explore Dublin’s seaside towns and villages such as Dalkey, Killiney and Howth, where award-winning seafood restaurants, quaint shops, and beautiful scenery are all in store.
Explore bustling Belfast with a Black Cab Tour. With a local guide, you can take in the famous peace wall and hear the incredible stories behind the city’s colorful political murals.
Beginning in the Cathedral Quarter in The Dirty Onion bar, the Belfast Traditional Music Trail takes you on a whirlwind tour of some of the city’s finest trad music establishments. With two professional musicians as your guides, this two-hour experience trails along cobbled streets and into three famous Belfast pubs for live traditional music sessions.
For a great day tour, the iconic Giant’s Causeway is just an hour away, while fans of the Seven Kingdoms can embark on the nearby Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge.
As one of National Geographic’s Best of the World Destinations for 2025, Cork city is a must-see destination on your trip to Ireland. Ireland’s second largest city is surprisingly compact and walkable, with fantastic attractions including St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Cork City Gaol, and The English Market.
Fancy going further afield? Set off to enjoy a day trip to take in some of Cork’s most picturesque locations, including Gougane Barra, Mizen Head, and Clonakilty town.
Derry~Londonderry is one of Europe’s best-preserved walled cities, and a walk along the top of the beautiful 17th-century walls gives a bird’s eye view of the city and the River Foyle. The Unlocking the Walled City tour guides mix humor and history while telling tales of the city from its 6th– century origins to the present day.
Want to walk in the footsteps of the Derry Girls? Several tours run from the city that take you to some of the show’s most notable locations, such as the Guildhall and the Bogside shops. Make sure you visit Badgers Bar, where an already iconic Derry Girls mural is proudly displayed on the wall.
Which cities will you visit on your next adventure in Ireland?
