I'm a Top Ireland Travel Advisor—and These Are the Country's Lesser-known Gems

Travel + Leisure

2 days ago

Steeped in myth and legend, yet humming with fresh energy, Ireland is a place where tradition meets modernity. From Michelin-starred restaurants and a rising film scene, to cultural experiences and contemporary art, the Emerald Isle is just waiting to be explored. Here are the parts of Ireland that absolutely can't be missed on your next trip.
An Overview of Ireland's Lesser-Known Gems
An aerial view of the Dingle Peninsula on the Irish Coast.
Oleh_Slobodeniuk/Getty Images
In Ireland, there's more to explore beyond the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry. In Donegal, a town and county in the northernmost part of Ireland, wild beaches and rugged peaks meet a rich political history. It is quickly becoming a cultural capital too, with its traditional music, Gaelic language, and world-class festivals and events, such as the Arranmore Country Fest, that celebrates the arts scene here.
In West Cork, a municipal district in the country's southernmost county, artists' studios, sea-kayaking tours, and artisan producers offer immersive, off-the-beaten-path experiences.
About four hours north of Cork lies Sligo, a small west coast town that has dramatic views of the Atlantic. For more coastal adventures, head to one of Ireland's teacup-sized island communities, like the Aran Islands off the coast of Galway. Another beautiful destination is Kerry Seas National Park, Ireland's first marine park in County Kerry.
Where to Eat
Ireland's culinary scene is experiencing a renaissance, with meals that are more innovative, sustainable, and exciting than ever. In Cork, food trucks and pop-up street eats are transforming unused spaces into dynamic dining hubs. Marina Market Cork, for example—once the location of the Henry Ford & Son's factory—is now a diverse food and drink market with over 35 vendors.
In Belfast, a new generation of chefs are fusing global flavors with local ingredients; establishments like Stix and Stones, a premier steak and seafood restaurant; and Hendrix, a modern restaurant with cuisine ranging from Italian pastas to tacos—can't be skipped. There are also Michelin-starred restaurants that continue to draw global acclaim, like Homestead Cottage in Doolin, a small village on the west coast of the country known for its local and seasonal produce.
Cultural Events and Activities
Picturesque views of Ireland and the Wild Atlantic Way.Thousands of years ago, Irish culture stunned the world with its language, music, and mythology—but it didn't stop there. In present day, the country's festivals, fashion, film, literature, and more continue to influence pop culture on a global scale.
Film & Music
With the global success of The Banshees of Inisherin and stars like Paul Mescal, Cillian Murphy, and Saoirse Ronan rising to fame, Irish cinema is having a breakout moment. While here, visit filming locations along the Wild Atlantic Way, a 1,600-mile driving route along the country's western edge, or catch a screening at an indie festival like Galway Film Fleadh, which takes place in July each year.
There is always good live music to listen to in Ireland, too. From the gritty lyrics of Belfast hip-hop trio, Kneecap, to live Irish traditional sessions in cozy countryside pubs, Ireland's music scene is louder, prouder, and more diverse than ever.
Fashion
Irish textiles use distinctive materials like linen and tweed. Perhaps the most famous of them being Donegal tweed, a rustic staple that is still sold in stores in the area, like Hanna Hats of Donegal and the Irish Tweed Store. Across Ireland, boutique ateliers offer a chance to shop locally made, sustainable fashion that effortlessly reimagines Irish heritage through its fabrics. My favorite ones are Oh!By Gum Galway, for its eco-friendly garments; Dublin's Scout, for its cotton staples; and Stable of Ireland, a shop in Dublin known for its for silk tops and wool knitwear.
Language
Once under threat, the Irish language is making a powerful comeback. You'll hear it in contemporary music or when passing by school children, or even see it in street art. Gaeltacht regions (where Irish is still spoken daily and Gaelic culture is preserved) like Donegal, Mayo, and Galway, offer a deeper connection for travelers curious about Ireland's linguistic heritage.
Sports
Few experiences match the buzz of a live Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) match, where locals cheer on their regional teams in football and hurling. Ireland also has a growing presence on the global sports stage; the country snagged medal wins in boxing and rowing at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Literature
Home to countless writers and storytellers like James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett, Ireland's literary legacy is renowned. But it's not all history—modern voices like Sally Rooney, Claire Keegan, Paul Lynch, and Donal Ryan are reshaping the landscape. For a deeper dive, you can visit the Museum of Literature Ireland, in Dublin; explore sites like the James Joyce Centre; or take a walking tour that focuses on novels, like the Dublin Writers Walking Tour.
Louise Kavanagh is a member of Travel + Leisure's A-List and specializes in Ireland trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Kavanagh and her company Wilderness Ireland by contacting her at [email protected].