Why Ireland's cities reward a closer look
Ireland is small enough to cross in a day, yet each city has its own accent, history and rhythm. These six are the ones travellers come back for.
Dublin
The capital is compact and walkable, packed with Georgian squares, world-class museums and the famous Temple Bar nightlife.
- Highlight: The Book of Kells and the breathtaking Long Room library at Trinity College.
Galway
On the wild west coast, Galway is Ireland's most bohemian city, full of buskers, oyster bars and trad music sessions.
- Highlight: The Latin Quarter and Shop Street, then sunset at Salthill promenade on Galway Bay.
Cork
Ireland's proud "real capital" in the south sits on an island in the River Lee, with a brilliant food scene.
- Highlight: The English Market, a covered Victorian food hall trading since 1788.
Kilkenny
A perfectly preserved medieval city, compact and easy to explore on foot along its Medieval Mile.
- Highlight: Kilkenny Castle and its sweeping riverside parkland.
Limerick
On the River Shannon, Limerick blends Georgian streets with a regenerated riverside and strong sporting passion.
- Highlight: King John's Castle, an 800-year-old Norman fortress with interactive exhibits.
Belfast
In Northern Ireland, Belfast has reinvented itself as a confident, creative city with shipbuilding heritage.
- Highlight: Titanic Belfast, the striking museum where the famous liner was built.
Getting around
Intercity trains and buses link all these cities affordably; Dublin to Galway is about 2.5 hours, Dublin to Belfast about 2 hours. A rental car unlocks the coastal scenery in between.
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