Many of the castles in Ireland have been left in their natural state while others have undergone vast restoration. Visit the Moydrum Castle in County Westmeath. The band U2 used this castle for an album cover.
Ireland is filled with history and you don't have to be a historian to enjoy some of the most famous museums in not only Ireland, but in all of Europe, as well.
If you are a fan of literature visit the Dublin Writers Museum, in Dublin. This museum is set in the time period of the 18th century.
When you think of Irish holidays you naturally think of St. Patrick's Day, but Ireland doesn't limit its festive nature to March 17. Londonderry plays host to the largest Halloween festival in Ireland. This is also the Celtic new year so if you plan to visit Ireland in the month of October this is one festival you won't want to miss.
Combined with picturesque scenes and rare rock formations, the Burren (which received its name from the Gaelic meaning "a rocky place") makes an exciting visit for nature lovers and hikers.
Mixed with artistic performances and an exciting tour, the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl on Duke street in Dublin is a must for all lovers of literature. This "Crawl" spices up the night with famous performers that re-create the beauty of Ireland's literary history.
Similar to the Literary Pub Crawl, the Traditional Irish music pub crawl offers a tour that is filled with musicians that play historical Irish tunes. The tour performances occur at pubs and bars. This musical journey also takes place in Dublin.
Visit the Newgrange Passage Tomb. Tourists have the wonderful opportunity to be guided into one of the oldest tombs in the world, which dates back to 3,000 B.C.--which is older than the pyramids in Egypt.
If you plan on taking a trip to West Cork in Ireland you can go whale watching. Whale Watch West Cork (see link in Resources) offers tours to see not only whales, but dolphins and porpoises in the Irish sea. The most popular months for whale watching are July and August and the company suggests early booking.
The Lemon Tree in Village Green, Blarney, Ireland has a wide variety of authentic Irish dishes. Get your fill of steak, stew, fish and chips, salmon, and some of the best hot chocolate in Blarney.
If you are looking for a hot spot to dance the night away then head over to the Velvet Room (see link in resources) in Kempten Promenade, Sligo. Selected as the best night club in Ireland, this establishment boasts great dance music and a high-class party scene.