As the capital of Ireland, Dublin provides ample opportunities for art, entertainment, recreation, shopping, dining and drinking. While in Dublin, visit historic landmarks like the Old Parliament House, Dublin Castle, the Kilmainham Gaol Prison and Wood Quay, a Viking settlement. Also enjoy frolicking good times in Dublin's network of pubs, as well as shopping on Grafton Street, a major Dublin shopping area. To get out of the city for a day, take a trip to Howth Head, where you can climb the summit and see panoramic views of Dublin and the Dublin Mountains.
Spend time in one of Ireland's country villages. Cottage rentals are widely available, and a vacation in a village will allow you to get to know the townsfolk, enjoy the natural setting and take day trips to nearby attractions. You might want to visit Drogheda, a coastal town with a strong medieval history where day trips can include a visit to the Bru na Boinne ancient burial ground; Wicklow, in the geographically rich area of Wicklow County, where you can visit the Mount Usher Gardens and the historic St. Kevin monastery in Glendalough; and Dunmore East, which is close to the shore and offers fishing and the beach.
Take a tour of Irish castles and explore Ireland's rich medieval and Renaissance history. Several travel agencies provide escorted tours with transportation, lodging and activities prearranged. Examples of typical castle tours are Ross Castle in Killarney National Park, home of the O'Donoghue clan; Carrigafoyle Castle near Ballylongford, a castle with a stormy battle history; Ashford Castle near Cong, an enormous estate that has been continually expanded throughout history; and Dromoland Castle in County Clare, which is now a luxury hotel and golf resort.
