Ireland’s Main Cities
Ireland boasts a collection of cities that are as diverse as they are enchanting. Each city offers a unique tapestry of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, inviting you to delve into the heart and soul of the Emerald Isle. Join us on a journey as we explore the rich heritage, warm hospitality, and captivating experiences that await in these six main cities of Ireland.
Belfast
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Derry / London Derry
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Dublin
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is an exciting and vibrant mixture of old and new. The city has a long history, from an ancient Celtic settlement, a thriving Viking port, enduring under British rule, to a modern-day capital. Dublin has that ‘bit of fresh air’ about it, and it truly surprises you at every visit. Today’s Dublin offers visitors top class hotels and meeting venues, culinary delights and world class entertainment. It is a shoppers’ paradise, and home of literature and music.
Dublin is also a hub for celebrities and talents of all kinds. It retains its small-town feeling, while still being able to meet anyone there, probably one of its best qualities amongst the capitals of the Europe. No wonder it is often called ‘The Fair City’. With the Dublin Airport less than half an hour’s drive from the city centre, Dublin can be reached and experienced within short stays as well as long stays. If there is more time at hand, make sure to visit one of the whiskey distilleries or home of ‘the black stuff’ or take a tour down to the countryside and Wicklow Mountains to see the true Irish scenery.
Cork
Cork is the Republic’s second biggest city and lies on the banks of mighty River Lee. The often called ‘Rebel City’ is surprisingly hilly with main shopping fair Patrick’s Street and the Patrick’s Hill majestically in its background. With Cork having a relaxed and easy-going atmosphere, it is no wonder the city is home to hip coffee shops, exciting art galleries, off-beat museums and seriously good pubs where you can find the true Corkonians.
The city centre has plenty to see, from great historical buildings to colourful shops and traditional pub fronts. It also boasts some very unique visitor attractions and you may end up at a ghost tour or other curious activity tour that the city has to offer. Cork Opera House promises concerts for many tastes and Crawford Gallery is the most delightful art gallery that any city could stage. With many festivals and cultural events, Cork is an interesting and vibrant city to visit at any time of the year.
Galway
On the top of the list of Irelands enthusiasts, is Galway, a county steeped in history, enriched with arts and culture, and pubs singing with traditional music. During medieval times, Galway was ruled by 14 tribes and became known as the ‘City of the Tribes’. Many of the ancient buildings and monuments have been well preserved and are an integral part of day-to-day life in the city, housing shops, pubs and restaurants.
The old town centre is very small and full of narrow lanes, ready for exploration. In the centre you will find The Eyre Square, and many medieval features surrounding with some parts of the old town walls still visible today. Galway is a gateway to Connemara’s epic coastline, majestic mountains and boglands, but also to the rare and beautiful scenery of The Burren. With a little over two hours’ drive from Dublin Airport, this west of Irelands top destination is very easy to travel.
Limerick
Limerick is magnificently situated on one of Europe’s finest rivers, The Shannon, where its fresh waters meet the salt waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The city has a history stretching back 800 years to Vikings, and its old town hails from medieval era with the majestic King John’s Castle standing tall along the river. Today’s Limerick is well known for its surrounding medieval castles that nowadays have evening entertainment and banquets.
Limerick also offers modern, new hotels and event venues, with the city having an abundance of shops, pubs and restaurants to choose from. As capital of Irelands Shannon Region, Limerick is the ideal base to explore the beautiful countryside and the west coast of Ireland, which can be reached within a short drive. The Shannon airport is only few minutes’ drive from the city and Dublin Airport is mere two hours’ drive travel.
“Tourwise Ireland provided an unforgettable experience, giving us the opportunity to explore and appreciate the breathtakingly beautiful scenery of the Emerald Isle. From our friendly and knowledgeable guide to the customized itinerary, it was truly the trip of a lifetime!”
Belfast
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a city alight with culture and industrial accomplishment. With a history from times of industrial revolution and engineering, famine and political conflict, to an exciting and vibrant modern city, it is well worth a visit. Today’s Belfast has excellent modern hotels, superb conference venues and a vast range of activities and attractions to suit visitors with many tastes and interests. It is the home of the ill-fated yet magnificent Titanic, and the epicentre of industrial revolution on the island. From this Victorian era, many historical buildings and locations are still visible in the cityscape. A black cab tour is a must to understand the city’s political past.
If you are interested in culinary tours, Belfast is one of the best places to explore gourmet and fine dining restaurants on the island. There is so much to choose from and foodies can also visit St George’s Market, the last surviving covered Victorian market.Belfast is well connected and has two airports; The George best Belfast City Airport with just 8km from the city and Belfast International Airport just mere half an hour drive away.
Derry / London Derry
Derry/Londonderry, the city with two official names, is located just at the border of Northern Ireland and The Republic. It is a vibrant and ever-changing place with a lot of history, culture, and plenty to see and do. The most visibly striking historic feature of Derry city is the historic walls. It is the only remaining completely walled City in Ireland and one of the finest examples of Walled Cities in Europe, and in a splendid state of preservation. The Walls, approximately 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town.
Today’s Derry has much more than the Walls and there are many modern hotels, superb restaurants, shops and pubs to enjoy and cultural events for everyone’s tastes to enjoy.
Ireland: Your Premier Business Event Destination
Wherever you choose to travel in Ireland, we can assure you of exceptional service and tourism partners willing to go the extra mile to fulfil all your expectations and desires.
The island of Ireland is truly the perfect destination, offering a multitude of adventures. Let’s start planning your tour today.