Things to do & places to visit in County Donegal, Ireland

County Donegal #4 destination in Ireland 2023. The average rating score is 4.59 based on 24.8k traveler reviews, of 429 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Dublin, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 21:20.

Top things to do (48)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Slieve League (1.711 reviews)
- Stunning Slieve League
Spent More than 3 hours Lookouts • Geologic Formations

Don't miss your opportunity to visit one of Ireland's best kept secrets and a signature point on the Wild Atlantic Way. Located in south west Donegal along this magnificent costal driving route are Ireland's highest Sea Cliffs, Sliabh Liag. A visit to the cliffs and the surrounding region is a must on your Wild Atlantic Way adventure. Experience the local culture, heritage and people of Donegal against the backdrop of our spectacular and rugged coastline. See more..
5.0 Unique Ascent (358 reviews)
- Top class rock & kayak guide
Climbing Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

An amazing day of adventure climbing unclimbed routes with a great guide. Iain Miller was brimming with infectious enthusiasm and is ready to share a treasure trove of knowledge and tips on where to go in Donegal for great climbs and kayak routes far from the madding crowd. I highly recommend him - he inspires confidence and a spirit of exploration - worth every cent... See more..
5.0 Sliabh Liag Boat Tours (311 reviews)
- Amazing and one for everyone’s bucket list
Monday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Boat Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours • Private Tours

Unreal trip and a true living legend in Paddy Byrne the skipper of the boat too. We had originally planned to go on this trip earlier in the summer when weather was poor. The seas were rough and Paddy gave everyone the choice to go out of the bay at least and we all were chomping at the bit. Even though we were out more than an hour and had availed of Paddys knowledge and fantastic story telling, he insisted in not taking a penny off anyone as we hadn’t had the full experience. We took our son who is wheelchair bound back the second time which was this weekend and WOW what a trip. The views, the stories, the people and the relaxed vibe had us all talking to each other and finding out each other’s stories also. This is a must for anyone coming anywhere near the area and I would even say to make it your business to come just for the boat trip. We are still buzzing and our wee man was made feel on top of the world by everyone on the boat especially Paddy the captain and the crew. See more..
5.0 Mount Errigal (295 reviews)
- Excellent Hike
Mountains • Hiking Trails

This was a beautiful hike. I started in the dark by myself at 6am with a strong headlamp. The new path is awesome, a lot of hard work went into constructing it and these workers did one a Hell of a job. I wore running sneakers and didn't even get my feet wet once. The first part is like walking on a compressed gravel path that gradually goes up. To the sides of you are bogs with streams running through them. It must've been a tough, muddy climb before this path went in. As you ascend, it levels off here and there and you will have to hop from rock to rock to avoid puddles. Eventually it starts a climb like stair treads in the rocks. A couple of false peaks before you hit the top. Overall an excellent climb. I started at 6am and was back down before 8:30am and I stayed at the top to take photos for a bit. I climbed early morning in late September and wore a puff style jacket at the summit and a thin fleece under it that I wore most of the way, a winter hat and very thin gloves. See more..
5.0 Hornhead Loop (259 reviews)
- Favourite Headland
Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

I visited all the Peninsula headlands in North Donegal and Horn Head was my favourite. The drive from Dunfanaghy is along narrow roads but plenty of places to pull in if you meet oncoming traffic. There is Parking at the top and from here it is a very short walk to the cliff edges. However for the most spectacular views it best to walk around the cliffs path to the side opposite the car park. It is not a overly difficult walk and definitely worth it. See more..
5.0 Mamore Gap (249 reviews)
- A must : fortune favours the brave!
Scenic Drives

My husband, toddler, baby and I were advised to go through the Gap of Mamore by a local when he heard we were going to Dunree Head and boy oh boy we were not disappointed. I was brave enough to drive up while ascending to the summit but lost my nerve for the descent when I saw the view at the top. Thankfully the fearless husband took over for the descent. Truly amazing drive and views. We missed St Eigne's well which seemingly provides a cure but glimpsed the shrine at the summit. We were bemused when we spotted a sign for the 'Magic Road' on the descent??? Narrow road, hairpin bends but the experience & views were so worth it. We were disappointed to note doughnuts on the road at various points (from boy racers) and litter at the view point. My absolute biggest tip is whatever you do when you descend the gap & come to the junction is go left to Lenankeel beach/Lenan Strand. Heavenly. See more..
5.0 The Art House Ireland (227 reviews)
- Highly recommend a visit.
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries

The Art House is a unique 21st Century Irish Art/Craft Gallery. The gallery is also the Studios of (owner) Independent, Multidisciplinary and Award Winning Artist Brian O'Doherty. The aim of the Art House Gallery is to showcase the best Arts/Crafts of the Wild Atlantic Way. See more..
5.0 Tullagh Bay Equestrian Centre (169 reviews)
- Spring break
Spent 1-2 hours Horseback Riding Tours

Tullagh Bay Equestrain Equestrian Centre is located 4kms from the picturesque village of Clonmany, on the famous coastal route of the Wild Atlantic Way. We are the perfect choice for all your horse riding. We offer instruction in riding, pony camps, beach & road hacks suitable for all levels of rider. We are a family run centre offering a warm welcome and safe environment for everyone to enjoy. See more..
5.0 The Looking Glass Spa Therapy (168 reviews)
- 5 star service
Monday: Spas

Discover the new you through 'The Looking Glass Spa Therapy' Rathmullan! SPA TREATMENT'S INCLUDE; Infra Red Sauna Session, Hot Stone Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Swedish Massage, Matis Skin Care Facial Treatment, Matis Body Care Treatment. BEAUTY TREATMENT'S INCLUDE; Waxing, Tinting, Vita Liberata Spray Tanning, St Tropez Tanning, OPI Nail Care Manicure, Callus Peel Pedicure Treatment. Make Up Application, Wedding Bridal Make Up, Wedding Bridal Call out available on request. Saturday opening hours may vary please telephone to check. The Looking Glass has completed 'The Masterclass London' hosted by Celebrity Makeup Artist Mario Dedivanovic, Mario Dedivanovic's celebrity clients include Kim Kardashian West, Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry, Eva Longoria, Chrissy Taigas, Kendall & Kylie Jenner, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Demi Lovato, Kate Bosworth, Ciara. See more..
5.0 Silver Strand Beach (163 reviews)
- Beautiful Beach.
Beaches

We were thrilled to have found (Malainn Bhig), Malin Beg, Silver Strand Beach. You can see the gorgeous beach and views from the Car Park or you can be adventurous if you are fit and walk down the stairs to the beach. You have to go through a gate, being sure to close it so the sheep can't escape. It's definitely one of the most beautiful, secluded beaches I have seen. We had the pleasure of meeting a fellow who was a guide and he was telling us about the communities that speak Irish. This is one of the areas that still uses the Irish language. I hope they never lose it. It's a fascinating part of Ireland. I hope not to many people find this place and ruin it's charm!! I shouldn't be reviewing it lol. See more..
5.0 Inishowen Tourist Office (155 reviews)
- A definite use for exploring the area
Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM Visitor Centers

Visitor Information Centre providing in depth knowledge/expertise of the Inishowen Peninsula & County of Donegal. Find out what you can do and see in the peninsula from fantastic scenic drives to attractions, activities, cultural sights, arts and crafts. Ask for top tips on where to eat and stay, music & festivals during your visit. Stocking a large selection of locals Arts & Crafts and Souvenirs to remember your Inishowen Experience! See more..
5.0 Magee 1866 (154 reviews)
- A great christmas present
Monday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality & Gift Shops

Magee is an Irish brand 149 years old. It is family run by the Temple family with both 3rd and 4th generations in the business at present and employs over 80 people here in Donegal. Magee Design and Weave fabrics in the mill in Donegal for our own collections but also ship world-wide for international designers. We currently also have 13 part-time hand weavers who still weave cloth in their homes. Our men's and ladies' wear collections are inspired by our heritage with a contemporary Irish twist. We are well known for our Tweeds and Suits but our range is now a full lifestyle collection in both Mens and Ladies. We have a fantastic new SS15 range which is available in our 3 shops in Ireland - Magee of Donegal, Magee at South Anne St. and Magee in Arnotts - and more recently our online shop,we offer free deliveries and returns to Ireland. Magee also supply independent retailers throughout Ireland and the UK. The Donegal shop not only stocks Magee, we also have a fantastic gift department, ladies boutique 'Maggies' with some fabulous new labels, as well as all of our ladies concession shops in store, Wallis, ShoeRack, Quiz, J Vert, Eastex, Dash, Precis,Winsmoor and Kira. See more..
5.0 Swan Park (147 reviews)
- Excellent facility
Parks

What a beautiful space in Buncrana. A beautifully peaceful place to walk, sit and enjoy all the hard workers of the people who curated this space. It has everything, the river, trees, multitude of plantings, carved animals, fairy houses - amazing See more..
5.0 Culdaff Beach (122 reviews)
- Family friendly blue flag beach with appealing playground!
Beaches

My husband, toddler, baby and I checked out this blue flag beach which has lovely golden sand but it's very soft so difficult to walk on and nigh impossible to push a buggy with baby on (hence the 4 out of 5). It has a lifeguard present even when there is a red flag warning for people not to swim & lifebuoy at various points along the beach. Despite it being difficult to walk on, there were plenty of dog walkers. I spotted a guy using a metal detector here. It is very clean but the occasional cigarette butt & plastic particle was noted sadly though. It has a lovely playground with sandy floor which was a big hit with the toddler. It has picnic benches which can be used. It has a decent sized carpark. Best for families and sunbathing once the sun obliges. See more..
4.5 Glenveagh Castle (1.371 reviews)
- Scenic views
Castles

This castle is imbedded in the Glenveagh National Park, and can be reached by trail or bus. I highly recommend taking the paved trail, as it offers some beautiful scenic vistas as you walk along. There are benches along the way if you feel that you need a little break. It takes a little over an hour to make the walk, longer if you walk a bit more leisurely. The castle was not open for viewing, but there are extensive grounds that are well worth seeing. And, if you climb to the top of the hill behind the castle, you can get some beautiful views of the top of the castle. By the way, I used trekking poles to climb to the top, which I did need due to the steep incline. The park and castle grounds are free to visit. I'm not sure if one has to buy a ticket to take the transit bus to the castle from the information center, but I'd really highly recommend walking over taking the bus, unless you are very short on time. See more..
4.5 Doagh Famine village (1.370 reviews)
- Brilliant Experience
Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites

This was my 1st visit, wow what a brilliant place to visit. Such a warm welcome and great value - we enjoyed beautiful home made cake with a coffee. Exhibits were fantastic and the guide was informative and so easy to relate to. Loved the way you can experience Donegal life up to the 1980's, some more up to date and to read and see how hard life was leading up to and during the famine. Did not visit the 'haunted house' but I would recommend this as a place to visit and we'll worth the drive, as the Wild Atlantic Way promises unbelievable scenery irrespective of the weather. See more..
4.5 Glenveagh National Park (772 reviews)
- Serene park with castle & gardens
Monday: 9:15 AM - 5:30 PM National Parks

Glenveagh is set in the middle of gentle rolling hills with lakes and forests - perfect for a quiet and relaxing stroll to blow away the cobwebs. There's a small castle / country house and gardens by a lake which is set 2 miles from the car park - a pleasant walk or a shuttle bus (charge). The castle grounds also houses a very good cafe, so you're set for the day. A very pleasant day trip. See more..
4.5 Malin Head (583 reviews)
- Amazing experience
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts

It was so an unbelievable trip to Malin Head! It felt like another planet, a place full of nature's strong energy... I wanted just to stand still and say no word...Highly recommend visiting this magic location - the northern point of Ireland island. See more..
4.5 The Reel Inn (430 reviews)
- The Perfect Irish Pub
Monday: 10:30 AM - 11:30 PM Bars & Clubs

The Reel Inn is Donegals No.1 venue for live Irish Traditional Music. A family run business providing live Irish music and entertainment 7 nights a week. See more..
4.5 Fanad Head Lighthouse (403 reviews)
- Well worth a visit
Monday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lighthouses

Fanad Head Lighthouse, one of the world's most beautiful lighthouses, is located within the Donegal Gaeltacht on the wild and windswept Fanad peninsula. Join us on a guided tour while taking in the spectacular scenery and exploring the wonderful natural world around us! Learn about the role of the lighthouse and the lives of the light-keepers in our visitor centre or enjoy a unique getaway staying in one of the lighthouse keeper's houses! See more..
4.5 Glenevin Waterfall (385 reviews)
- Nice stop off if close by
Waterfalls

Lovely walk to the waterfall, 1km long, no steep inclines, some bits very slightly uphill. Plenty of picnic benches and rest stops on the way. Great way to pass an hour in. Came across some sheep grazing on the route, we gave them their space as had lambs with them and they happily went back to their grazing. See more..
4.5 Grianan Of Aileach (368 reviews)
- Amazing settlement
Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins

Legend says it was built by the ancient gods; the ring fort was known as the Sun Palace and was held sacred. Traces of ancient earthworks, dating to the early Iron Age, surround the fort, enclosing an area of about 5 acres (0.02 km2). The fort itself was probably built in the early centuries of the Christian era. From the 5th to the 12th century AD it served as the royal seat of the O Neill sept of Aileach; it was destroyed by Murtogh O Brien, king of Munster in 1101. To make the demolition complete, the king ordered each of his soldiers to take away a stone from the fort. Grianan of Aileach was reconstructed by Dr Bernard of Derry in 1870, but archaeologists are doubtful about the inner restoration. Surrounding the stone fort are three concentric low walls which formed part of the original fortification of the fort. See more..
4.5 Tropical World (353 reviews)
- Great family day out.
Spent 2-3 hours Zoos

Open seasonally, Tropical World at Alcorn’s, Letterkenny, has best be described by patrons as both “Donegal’s hidden gem” and the “one must see attraction to visit in Donegal”. Tropical World is a fully licensed zoo with an astonishing array of animals, from a dazzling display of butterflies to the world’s smallest monkeys alike. The incredible butterfly house is still the star attraction, with hundreds of amazing tropical butterflies in free-flight around you as you immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the rainforest. Leave Letterkenny’s own slice of the Amazon and you’re greeted by the sounds from the tree topped canopies, with beautiful birds of all shapes and sizes from around the globe calling you on. Only after you reach the reptile house can you begin to meet the lemurs and miniature primates that call Tropical World home, along with owls,prairie dogs, our family of Meerkats. See more..
4.5 Glencolmcille Folk Village (344 reviews)
- A wonderful insight into the region's past
Historic Sites

A replica of a coastal thatched cottage village that offers a glimpse at life as it was lived in Glencolmcille in past centuries.We will teach you a couple of phrases in Gaelic.Our Amenities includes 6 thatched cottages with original artifacts depicting different era's.a Craft shop which promotes a big range of local crafts.Our Tea House has a variety of Home Baked Goods,Soup,Sandwiches,Paninis,Irish Coffees etc.We are located at a beautiful beach with stunning views of the wild atlantic.We hope to re-open our much loved Nature walk at the back of The Folk Village later this year.Call in for a mug of Tae the Kettle is always on. See more..
4.5 Fort Dunree Military Museum (337 reviews)
- Great day out
Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums

Fort Dunree is situated 7 miles outside Buncrana on the Inishowen Peninsula, housing a Military Museum, Wildlife Discovery Room, Coffee Shop, stunning walks and majestic views of Lough Swilly it is a must for every visitor to Donegal See more..
4.5 Lough Eske (308 reviews)
- Lough Eske Castle, Donegal.
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

My 3 day and night stay at Lough Eske was truly out of this world. From the minute we arrived we literally were treated as King and Queen of the castle. The staff were so friendly and helpful. The room we stayed in was a junior suite and it was very nice. The bathroom was amazing and spacious. We also had an area where we could relax and enjoy the amazing views. The food was scrumptious and delicious. As for the breakfast the best we had on our stay in Donegal. The scenery is amazing. You can walk for miles and take it all in or ride on one of their bikes. Absolutely beautiful. Thank you so much for looking after us. Would highly recommend. See more..
4.5 Wild Ireland (281 reviews)
- Lovely family outing
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Step back in time into an ancient woodland inhabited by extinct creatures to experience some of Ireland’s ancient lost wildlife. Walk among the ancient trees and encounter Bears, Wolves, Lynx and Monkeys on your journey through the past. ‘Wild Ireland’ is located on the Wild Atlantic Way and is the newest and most exciting visitor attraction in the North West of Ireland. Just a few centuries ago, Ireland was clothed in a thick blanket of Temperate Celtic Rainforest. Due to destruction and deforestation, this woodland has all but disappeared, in a small pocket of remaining woodland on the Inishowen peninsula, the hands of time have been rolled back to an era were ferocious beasts ruled the Irish countryside. Come see our Brown bears, European Wolves and Lynx back together in the Irish forest for the first time in thousands of years. Here they live in their natural habitat in the temperate rainforest. Lots of wild birds call our beautiful lake at Wild Ireland their home See more..
4.5 Arena 7 Entertainment Complex (277 reviews)
- Five stars all round, great afternoon!
Monday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM Bowling Alleys • Game & Entertainment Centers

Wood Berry Grill Bar & Restaurant, Laser Quest, Bite & Bowl Diner, Bowling World, Pool Tables, Two Function Rooms, Waynes World Adventure Centre, Arcade Games and Private Karaoke Bar See more..
4.5 Oakfield Park (251 reviews)
- Santa Express at Oakfield Park
Temporarily closed - Closed until Mar 30, 2023 Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks • Gardens

Oakfield Park is one of Donegal’s best-loved attractions. Our award-winning gardens and parklands are the perfect place to spend a wonderful day out in Donegal. Whether you’re on a Wild Atlantic Way adventure or a first-time visitor to Donegal, there’s so much to see and explore. Our beautiful landscape of parkland, woodlands, lakes and formal gardens has everything you need to entertain the whole family. Spend hours exploring the grounds at your leisure: from walled gardens to ponds, lakes, a lakeside Nymphaeum, our hedge maze coming soon, heritage trees and sculptures. Children can make a wish at Oakfield Park’s Faerie tree, while navigating their way through adventures on extensive walks and trails. Our crowning glory is a 4.5km narrow gauge railway with a diesel and steam train operating passenger trips daily. This is a magical way to explore the park’s gardens as the train passes through flower meadows, beautiful woodlands, willow tunnels, oak circles and heritage trees. See more..
4.5 Glengesh Pass (245 reviews)
- Impressive
Historic Walking Areas

not to be missed if traveling by car in the area. The sight from the bottom is larger than life and when you reach the top, you cant take your eyes off the view. Bring lunch and a thermos and chill on the benches looking down if you can. See more..