Geraghty Darragh - DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Ireland

Inspire / plan / Discover / experience

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t The Ring of Kerry, from Valentia Island

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t Mussenden Temple at sunset, perched on a cliff edge along Northern Irelands north coast.

Rugged coastlines and lush green landscapes. World-class museums and cosy pubs, packed with locals only too happy to prove that their reputation for Celtic charm is well deserved. Culture and craic; the Emerald Isle provides both in spades. Whatever your dream trip to Ireland includes, this DK Eyewitness Travel Guide is the perfect companion.

Ireland is a small island, but a spectacular one. Divided since 1921 into Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, there are dazzling locations aplenty across both countries, from the famed Cliffs of Moher to Antrims stunning Causeway coastal route, one of Europes most dramatic drives. Hollywood agrees, and visitors may recognize Irelands natural beauty from the sets of Star Wars and Game of Thrones.

The cities, too, will not disappoint. Once battle-scarred, Belfast today is a rejuvenated place, with a fast developing foodie scene and Cathedral Quarters impressive array of quirky bars and nightlife. In Dublin, trace the footsteps of the citys most famous literary sons, from James Joyce to Oscar Wilde, while sports fans shouldnt miss a visit to the imposing Aviva stadium. In the west, vibrant Galway has a festival for every occasion, while Cork city counts picturesque waterways and the nearby Blarney stone among its many attractions.

Small enough to travel easily around, Ireland can still overwhelm with the sheer number of unmissable sites on offer. Weve broken the island down into easily navigable chapters, with detailed itineraries, expert local knowledge and colourful, comprehensive maps to help you plan the perfect visit. Whether youre staying for a weekend, a week, or longer, this Eyewitness guide will ensure that you see the very best Ireland has to offer. Cad mle filte a hundred thousand welcomes from one of the friendliest islands on earth. Enjoy the book, and enjoy Ireland.

St Colmans Cathedral rising above the colourful fishing boats moored in Cobh harbour, County Cork.

Ornate, tight-packed graves in Glasnevin Cemetery, Dublin.

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Its scenery is spectacular. Its people are great craic. Its history is emotive. Ask any Irishman and youll hear a different reason why they love their country. Here, we pick some of our favourites.

t Roughly translated as good times with friends, this is at the very root of Irish friendliness. An indefinable and irreverent humour, it prompts many a return visit to Ireland.

Discover Reasons to Love Ireland

t From Spielberg to Kubrick, and Star Wars to Game of Thrones, Irelands jaw-dropping landscapes have long been fertile ground for filmmakers.

Discover Reasons to Love Ireland

Newgrange

t Take a trip to Newgrange, older than Egypts pyramids and just as mysterious. It's one of the world's most important prehistoric sites, and the oldest known solar observatory.

Discover Reasons to Love Ireland

The Giants Causeway

t Visit Northern Irelands only UNESCO World Heritage Site, the surreally beautiful , formed from thousands of interlocking basalt columns.

Discover Reasons to Love Ireland

Two capital cities

t Barely a two-hour drive apart, visitors to Ireland are easily able to experience the pleasures of both each offering their own rich history.

Discover Reasons to Love Ireland

Burgeoning local food scenes

t Once with a reputation for mainly meat and potatoes, Ireland is now in full culinary bloom. Head to the capitals for creative chefs and great local ingredients.