Things to do & places to visit in Western Ireland, Ireland

From the bustling charm of Galway City to the rugged, otherworldly Burren, Western Ireland offers a wonderful wealth of experiences. Exuberant Galway, City of Tribes, packs summers with festivals and packs pubs with locals and visitors. Westport is another charismatic town, full of colorful shopfronts, pubs and great restaurants. The near lunar landscape of the Burren delights with its unexpected flora. Dont miss its Stone Age burial monuments, fishing village Ballyvaughan or cheerful Lisdoonvarna.

Western Ireland #3 destination in Ireland 2023. The average rating score is 4.73 based on 53.5k traveler reviews, of 50 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Dublin, current date and time: Tuesday, May 07, 2024, 0:14.

Top things to do (51)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Galway Tour Company (5.209 reviews)
- Great day trip to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren!
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Walking Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Bus Tours • Day Trips

My parents, my sister with her boyfriend and I went on the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren day trip on 5th of August. We really enjoyed it! There have been a couple of stops on the way before we hit the port of Doolin to take a boat trip to view the Cliffs from the water level (this was optional and involved additional charge). It was followed by a delicious lunch in a local pub. The fish was so fresh, simply to die for! After that we hit the top of the Cliffs so we could admire them from a different angle. Our driver Tommy was great! Full of stories and jokes, making sure we had enough time to take in beautiful views and enjoy the trip. And most importantly, he had his ways to make the rain stop every time we left the bus He made us all feel welcome and it was a pleasure spending the day out with him! See more..
5.0 Wild Atlantic Way (2.778 reviews)
- Connemara and kylmore abbey day tour
Spent More than 3 hours Scenic Drives

We booked the connemara day tour and took the option of visiting Kylemore Abbey as part of the tour . This I highly recommend . Our driver/guide was Gerry , a more knowledgeable guide we could not have had . He was extremely helpful throughout the day . I would reccoment using this company if you are choosing to tour connemara . I do not normally give any company 5 stars but Gerry gave that bit extra so pushing me in all honesty to award 5 star See more..
5.0 Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours - Galway (2.615 reviews)
- Cliffs of moher with Wild Atlantic Way Day Tour
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Bus Tours • Day Trips

We spent an amazing day with John, he was humours and shared with us useful information about local life, we have also seen different hidden places not just the cliffs. The price comparing to the service is absolutely competitive especially for students, I strongly recommend Wild Atlantic Way Day tours they're professional and we had the chance to start earlier than other tours, so we had chance to take net pictures with no crowds. Thank you WAWD Tour for the trip! See more..
5.0 Lally Tours - Day Tours (2.212 reviews)
- Highly recommend!!
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM City Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Hop-On Hop-Off Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours

Wow! Completely blown away by our day trip from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher via Kinvara, Ballyvaughan, Doolin. Our driver and tour guide was John B. His knowledge of the area, great story telling, sense of humour, wit, charm, warmth and friendliness made the experience that extra bit special and for that reason alone we are planning our next trip with Lally tours! The customer service and professionalism shown to us was simply outstanding. Everything is planned impeccably with Lally's - (e.g., Lally's provide a menu for lunch in a local venue. The driver will call in your order, in advance, which takes the hassle and stress away especially during a busy lunch hour). The tour is certainly value for money, the coach was impeccably clean and comfortable with a w.c. onboard. It really was one of the best tours we've experienced internationally. Thank you John B and team. Looking forward to the next one! See more..
5.0 Trad on the Prom (1.828 reviews)
- WOW. Just… wow.
Tuesday: 8:30 PM - 10:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Theatre & Performances

Performers who have captivated audiences in extraordinary and groundbreaking productions such as 'Riverdance', 'The Chieftains' and 'Lord of the Dance' have gathered together on ONE STAGE to present an unforgettable entertainment experience in Galway, the City of the Tribes. The music will touch your soul and the dancing will take your breath away. It's a truly remarkable experience suitable for all ages and nationalities. See more..
5.0 The Great Western Greenway (1.458 reviews)
- From Achill to Westport
Biking Trails

We got dropped off in Achill with our hired bikes from Paddy and Nellys in town, directly behind the Wyatt hotel. When driving out I began to get nervous but the trek was fantastic , the views were amazing and the bikes definitely made it much easier. By far the most comfortable bikes ever I’d highly recommend this cycle, safe and thoroughly enjoyable . See more..
5.0 Dún Aonghasa (1.430 reviews)
- An Inis Mor Must See
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Dun Aonghasa is the largest of the prehistoric stone forts of the Aran Islands. It is enclosed by three massive dry-stone walls and a chevaux-de-frise consisting of blocks of limestone set vertically into the ground to deter attackers. Originally constructed c.1100BC, it was re-fortified around 700-800 AD. Excavations revealed significant evidence of prehistoric metalworking, as well as several burials. Visitor safety information: The fort is about 1km from the Visitors Centre and is approached over rising ground. The last section of the path is over rough, natural rock and care is needed, especially when descending. Boots or strong walking shoes are recommended. There is no fence or barrier at the edge of the cliff. See more..
5.0 Atlantic Drive (1.315 reviews)
- Dramatic cliffs, rocks and ocean views
Scenic Drives

The drive along the Atlantic Coast of Achill Island is beautiful. We walked around Grace O'Malley's Kildavnet Tower and looked at the fast current in Achill Sound and the sea rescue boat moored there. We drove all the way along the coast to Keem Strand (beach). We made multiple stops along the way to enjoy the views and take photos. We stopped at Beehive Craft & Gifts Restaurant in Keel for tea and a bite to eat. The history about basking sharks in Keem bay is fascinating. The deserted village is a good add-on to this drive. Also, we stopped by Red Fox Press near Dugort and had a great time browsing their prints, books, photographs, etc. See more..
5.0 Arigna Mining Experience (945 reviews)
- Well worth a visit.
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Mines

We really enjoyed our visit to the former mines. Our tour guide, Gerard, was a former miner and hence extremely knowledgeable about the technical side of things but also about the human stories of the many hardships and challenges the miners and their families faced. He was also very entertaining. The tour is about forty five minutes long so it was good value for money. It would also be easily accessible for most people and there was the option of organizing a wheelchair for disabled visitors. There is a gift shop and coffee shop with spectacular views over the mountains and the lake. See more..
5.0 Eagles Flying (778 reviews)
- A Hidden Gem in Co Sligo
Tuesday: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Eagles Flying is a scientifically run Wildlife Sanctuary specializing on Birds of Prey and Owls. We focus on "hands on" interaction between our well trained animals and our visitors. During our educational flying demonstrations members of the audience can have a bird of prey land on their hand or have Eagles, Falcons, Hawks or Vultures stoop inches over their heads while Scientists inform in a friendly and fun way. Our visitors can also visit our unique "Touch-Zoo" where they can play and pet "Tui & Alan" our Foxes, get pick pocketed by "Grizzly" our tame Raccoon, have "Monty" our 4 meter Python around their shoulders or get up close and personal with any of the other unusual animals. Get closer than you have ever been to the masters of the sky. Eagles Flying really is an unforgettable experience and a must see for people of all ages and interests. See more..
5.0 Keem Bay (620 reviews)
- Beautiful Food on the way to Keem Bay
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Bodies of Water

One of the most beautiful beaches in the world and delighted to visit many times in August. If your summer adventures are taking you to Achill Island and Keem Bay , I just spend two weeks there , and they most certainly should, then The Rustic Apron at Lourdies in Dooagh Achill on the way to keem bay needs to be on your radar. You can order ahead to ensure you can get a good haul of dishes packed with locally sourced ingredients to eat by the beautiful Atlantic Ocean . Open Wild Atlantic Smoked Salmon and Home-cooked Ham and Cheese Brown Bread Sandwiches. Their homemade sausage rolls are to die for and beautiful Homemade Soup and Brown-bread. Their homemade Brownies and Lemon Drizzle Cake with their Barista Coffee is an unbeatable way to start a day of exploring the stunning Wild Atlantic Way See more..
5.0 Rathcroghan Royal Site & Visitor Centre (584 reviews)
- Fascinating tour of the mythological landscape
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Visitor Centers • Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins

Rathcroghan, in County Roscommon, is the hidden heart of the West of Ireland. When you visit this area, just off the N5 Dublin to Westport road, you can experience the home of Celtic Warrior Queen Maeve, the Goddess Morrigan, the Cattle Raid of Cooley, and seat of Gaelic Royalty – this is the Land of Legends for over 5,000 years. Here you can walk in the footsteps of the ancestors, imagine yourself transported back through time to the age of warriors and heroes, and enjoy this fascinating slice of Irish Heritage. The Rathcroghan Complex, with over 200 ancient monuments, is the historical royal capital of Connacht, Ireland’s Western province. We have been nominated to World Heritage Status, and Rathcroghan Visitor Centre offers a BRAND NEW Rathcroghan and Medieval Tulsk exhibition (open April 2014) with fully insured guided tours tailored to suit you; whether your interest is History, Genealogy, Literature, Archaeology, Heritage, Spirituality, or Mythology. Rathcroghan Visitor Centre, in the Medieval village of Tulsk, provides professional guided tours with a qualified historian/archaeologist; plus self-guide information, maps and advice; family friendly activities, workshops and special events, and full café facilities. You can shop for unique hand crafted gifts, an unparalleled specialist book selection, and expert advice no matter what your interest in Irish Culture, History or Heritage. See more..
5.0 Glengowla Mines & Family Farm Experience (463 reviews)
- Great way to spend few hours discovering mining and sheep herding.
Tuesday: Spent 1-2 hours Farms

Glengowla Mines & Family Farm Experience offers a fun day out for all the family! There is much to do at Glengowla such as: • Enjoy an underground tour of Connemara’s only show mine, • Be amazed at the bond between farmer and sheepdog as you watch them work together to herd sheep in the Sheep herding demonstration, • Be introduced to the art of turf cutting – a true Irish experience, • Take a leisurely farm walk (1 km), learn about the wild flowers and pet the animals. • Pan for gold in our Gold Panning station and keep the gems you find! Advanced booking required for the Sheep Dog Herding and Turf Cutting Demonstrations. Please see www.glengowlamines.ie Make a day of it and bring your own picnic! Also available on site: Gift Shop, Refreshments and Outdoor Seating Area, Museum & Free Car Parking. #glengowlamines #connemara #thingstodoinconnemara #thingstodoingalway #sheepdogherding #farmwalks #turfcutting #wildatlanticway See more..
5.0 Give It A Go (459 reviews)
- Kayaking on the river Corrib
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Boat Tours • Water Sports • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Kayaking & Canoeing

Just back from a fantastic morning kayaking on the river Corrib with our guide Duncan from Give it a go Ireland .We were a party of four, 2 adults and 2 children aged 9 and 5. We went in double kayaks, so a parent and child to each one. It was such fun. Felt very safe at all times. Saw loads of wildlife from the little ducks ,swans and even a heron. There was a hidden lake which we had to meander through the jungle reeds to get to, felt like a real adventure! The kids loved the interaction with the other people also using the river. Waving and talking across at the passing boats and rowers and the friendly banter back to us was great craic. Highly reccomend the experience. Great family activity and highlight of our holiday so far. See more..
5.0 Killary Sheep Farm (433 reviews)
- Fantastic morning out
Farms

contains some of Ireland's most awe-inspiring and dramatic scenery including Killary Fjord. Sheepdog Demonstrations with highly skilled working dogs, feeding the lambs with bottles, Sheep shearing using the hand shears, turf cutting using the traditional method which visitors can try out this ancient method for themselves, walking trails, Great day out for all the family. See more..
5.0 Micil Distillery (319 reviews)
- Enjoyable afternoon!
Distillery Tours

Would highly recommend the tour- it was a great mix between leaning about gin and poitín, funny stories and tasting the wonderful drinks (including a bonus of tasting the heritage edition poitín!). Pàdraic had a fantastic, easy to listen to style. Well worth an visit! Slàinte! See more..
5.0 Joyce Country Sheepdogs (312 reviews)
- A trip highlight!
Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Farms

An authentic insight into hill sheep farming and rural Irish life with working sheepdog demonstrations. Interaction with puppies and sheep shearing demonstration during high season. This is set against some of the most breathtaking scenery in Ireland. Rest room facilities available along with picnic tables for guest use. Scheduled demonstration times are 11am, 1pm and 3.30 pm Monday -Saturday, however alternative times are available by prior arrangement. See more..
5.0 Kayakmor (309 reviews)
- Lough Corrib Paddle
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Kayaking & Canoeing

This was a marvellous experience paddling the bucolic Lough Corrib, Ireland’s largest lake. Arranged by phone prior to our holiday we met our host Jim at Kilbeg Pier 30 mins north of Galway and after a safety talk we were fully kitted out in wet suits and buoyancy aids. Despite our family being a mix of complete novices and infrequent paddlers we chose individual kayaks. We were blessed with perfect conditions, the only ripples caused by our paddles and spent the next 3 hours exploring the Lough with Jim as our guide, pointing out the local flora, fauna and surroundings. There is nothing negative to say. Weather perfect, the peace and serenity of the water unspoilt by crowds or motor craft, good company and just the right amount of time on the water. Would wholly recommend Kayakmor and Jim if you are looking for an active few hours in this beautiful part of the world See more..
5.0 Aran Celtic Tours (298 reviews)
- Best Mini Bus Tour
Hop-On Hop-Off Tours • Taxis & Shuttles • Private Tours • Bus Tours • Day Trips

Had an excellent experience visiting Inis Mór this past weekend with a group of friends. We decided to take a minibus and Patrick Hernon was our tour guide/bus driver. The bus was in great condition, really comfortable and spacious, with clean windows which is great for picture taking while driving, and Patrick’s narration of the island was great. Along with being an expert, he’s also personable and quite funny! Our whole group loved it. If you’re deciding between a mini bus or a bike tour, they’re the same cost for the day and the bus will make sure you’re to your boat on time (which is a big deal if you’re only going for one day!). Highly, highly recommend Patrick!! See more..
5.0 O`Dalaigh Jewellers (266 reviews)
- Fantastic craftsmanship
Speciality & Gift Shops

Johnny and Annie started creating unique hand crafted jewellery in 1973. Since then the business has developed with the help of their son Jonathan who is carrying on the family tradition and now manages the business. Their full collection of jewellery can be seen at their flagship store in Clifden, where there is a full open plan workshop to see the jewellery being made. They also have a small retail shop at the Cliffs of Moher. See more..
5.0 Pedal Power Galway (235 reviews)
- The craic was mighty
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Bar, Club & Pub Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Bike Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Food Tours

We had so much fun doing Pedal Power as part of a hen weekend in Galway. We sang and cycled our way around the city centre with so many people waving and cheering us on. Paul, our guide, was so much craic. He stopped off every now and then and gave us some history on the area and he wowed us with his singing/rapping. We stopped at 2 bars for free shots as well. 100% would recommend for a group activity in Galway. See more..
5.0 Curraghduff Farm (222 reviews)
- Perfect Alpaca Getaway
Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Farms

Curraghduff Farm: Alpaca Experience and Glamping Farm. BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. The Newton family welcome you to their home at Curraghduff Farm and offer Alpaca Walks, Alpaca Meet and Greets and Accommodation. Book your alpaca experience where you can take plenty of pictures and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lough Corrib, Connemara and surrounding mountains. You will also get to meet all the other animals on the farm. Drinks and a homemade biscuit are provided at the end of your tour. We now offer Glamping accommodation. Contact us to plan your Alpaca Experience. See more..
5.0 The Paddle Shack (216 reviews)
- Family Kayaking
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Stand Up Paddleboarding • Kayaking & Canoeing

Absolutely amazing experience! A great family trip, Aoife and Rory went the extra mile to accommodate us especially with are 2 year 11 month old child who was as good as gold for 2 hours. It is so peacefully out on the water, it’s a physical work out for 2hrs but relaxing at the same time. Highly recommended! See more..
5.0 Sligo Bay Sup (213 reviews)
- Sligo Bay SUP
Stand Up Paddleboarding

My second time stand up paddle boarding with Sligo Bay SUP and it was just as good as the first time. Went on the lake from Hazelwood Forest the first time and went along the river the second time from Doorly Park and both were very good and very scenic. I’d highly recommend this for small and big groups if you’re looking for a relaxing activity. The instructor Niall is very helpful and will guide you along if you’re a little nervous about it. The paddle boards are very sturdy in the water and you’re unlikely to fall off unless you want to. Life jackets are also provided. I’ll definitely be back again. See more..
5.0 Epic Ireland (186 reviews)
- A very fun day in Galway
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Climbing Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Day Trips

This was a great tour with kids in tow. Guide/leader Mi has a nice way with teens, is super patient and the tour lets you see some cool stuff on the Wild Atlantic Way. The caving was great, two of our party declined and that was handled perfectly, and the cliff diving was the highlight, not too scary and very very cool. Do this tour if you are at all interested, you will be glad you did. See more..
5.0 Celtic Chauffeur Services (155 reviews)
- A Special View of Ireland!
Multi-day Tours • Cultural Tours • Distillery Tours • Taxis & Shuttles • Day Trips

Fergus Lally was our driver and guide from Celtic Chauffeur Services and he was a wonderful addition to our Ireland adventure. He provided value-added experiences beyond our expectations. Fergus wiskedd us safely through airport traffic and delivered us to our hotel. Our transportation was always safe and comfortable and colored with his extensive and scholarly knowledge of local customs and history. He loved his work and made our time with him informative and enjoyable. Our tours with Fergus took us to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher and wound through the Wild Atlantic Way. We visited Canberra and the sites around the filming of the "Quiet Man". We visited a sheep farm where we watched a sheep herding dog flawlessly perform. We felt enormously comfortable and pampered by Fergus. We would highly recommend this company for transport and touring! See more..
5.0 Summer SUP School (142 reviews)
- Book it!!
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Gear Rentals • Stand Up Paddleboarding

I would highly recommend an evening session with these guys when the beach is a little quieter and parking isn’t a problem. The staff were super nice, such genuinely lovely instructors. We did a 2 hr session for €35, I think that’s great value. Everything is provided, just show up in your togs and bring a towel. I brought two teenage girls, they both loved it and we will definitely be back. See more..
5.0 Connemara Pub Tours (139 reviews)
- Perfect Stag Party Activity!
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Bar, Club & Pub Tours

We had a fantastic Connemara Pub tour for my brother's stag party. Joe was our driver who was fantastic and joined in on the craic with us while we visited some great pubs around Connemara. Everything was very well planned and were really flexible with specific requests. Definitely a great activity to do in Galway for any party! Everybody had a brilliant time and were raving about it for the rest of the weekend. See more..
5.0 Carrick Quads (132 reviews)
- Quads and Clay Pigeon Shooting
Tuesday: 11:15 AM - 6:00 PM 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours

Had serious time on the quads have a massive trail some experience and you get full gear to cover you. We went clay pigeon shooting after got plenty shots, we had serious craic would recommend this place anyone. Owners and the boys were all lovely. See more..
5.0 Belmullet Boat Charters (84 reviews)
- Wonderful experience for kids , beautiful island & brilliant family business
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Historical & Heritage Tours • Boat Tours • Walking Tours • Day Trips

A holiday in County Mayo would not be complete without a visit to Inishkea with the Lavelles who run Belmullet Boat Charters. I travelled with my family of 2 adults and 2 children (ages 5 & 7). It was the first time our kids had been at sea and the weather was not the best on the mainland so we were worried about bringing our young children. There no need to worry at all as the boat was a super steady catmaran and we were able to watch the huge waves go by with no impact on the boat. When we reached the island, Kea gave us a guided tour - which brought us back in time to imagine what life might have been like for the inhabitants of the island. The kids loved the folklore stories of the Inishkea Island King & Pirates once on the island! After exploring the island we had a picnic on the white sandy beach and went for a paddle in cold but beautiful turquoise waters before we returned to Blacksod. Can’t recommend enough, it was an amazing experience for our kids! See more..