Just after Easter, Jody is heading back to Ireland—and this trip is filled with experiences, stays, and a few surprises that might inspire your own plans.

Ireland trip preview: tours, experiences, and places to stay

This upcoming visit blends guided tours, hands-on experiences, and independent exploring across Ireland—from the Causeway Coast to the southeast, with plenty of memorable stops along the way.

Giants Causeway and Giants Gate viewed from causeway cliffs, County Antrim, Northern Ireland — Giants Causeway from the cliff walk above

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 333. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Flying into Shannon: what to know

Jody is flying into Shannon Airport, a favorite for its easy access to western Ireland. While direct routes can be limited outside peak season, arriving here puts travelers close to highlights like Bunratty Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Wild Atlantic Way.

Travel tip: When possible, choose a direct flight into Ireland or a layover in your departure country for a smoother arrival experience.

Northern Ireland and Donegal: a scenic adventure

One portion of the trip heads north, covering:

The Causeway Coast, home to dramatic cliffs and the famous Giant’s Causeway
The Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal, known for rugged beauty and quieter roads
The Boyne Valley, rich in history and ancient sites
A stay at Cabra Castle for a memorable castle experience

This route is ideal for travelers who want a mix of scenery, history, and unique accommodations.

See the Giant Adventure itinerary

Southeast Ireland: crafts, culture, and hands-on fun

Another part of the journey focuses on the southeast, with interactive experiences like:

Crafting Claddagh rings
Food tours featuring local flavors
Puffin spotting on the Saltee Islands
Falconry in Adare
A visit to The Donkey Sanctuary in Cork

This region is often overlooked, but places like Wexford offer a quieter, more local feel with plenty to see and do.

See the Craft, Culture & Craic itinerary

Welcome to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park! Ireland travel tips | Ireland vacation |IrelandFamilyVacations.com

Returning favorites worth revisiting

Even seasoned travelers return to places they love—and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is one of those spots (I haven't wandered these grounds on my own since 2002!).

Located near Shannon, Bunratty offers:

A restored castle you can explore
A folk park that recreates village life from the past
Seasonal events and demonstrations

It’s especially good for families or anyone wanting an immersive look at Irish history.

Cliffs of Moher updates and what to expect

Work has been ongoing to improve safety along the cliff top trails around the Cliffs of Moher. Travelers planning a visit should check current access updates, as sections of the cliff walk have been closed during improvements.

Note: the Cliffs of Moher site and visitors centre are not closed! The works are on the miles of walking trails along the cliff from Doolin to Hags Head.

Unique places to stay across Ireland

This trip includes a mix of new and noteworthy accommodations:

Barnahown (County Cork): A B&B at the base of the Galtee Mountains
Killiane Castle Country House & Farm (Wexford): A charming stay in a lesser-visited county
The Grace (Westport Estate, Mayo): A newly opened accommodation with estate access
Glamping on Inis Mór (Aran Islands): Beachside pods with easy access to island cycling and coastal views

These options highlight the variety of stays available, from traditional to unique.

A friendly horse on Inis Oirr, Aran Islands, Ireland © 2016 Jody Halsted, Ireland Family Vacations; Halsted Enterprises, Inc.

Island time and coastal experiences

Ireland’s islands offer a different pace—and this trip includes a few standout options:

Inis Mór: Explore by bike, enjoy coastal scenery, and slow down
Clare Island (Mayo): A great day trip with history and views
Saltee Islands: Known for seabirds, including puffins

Ferries can be weather-dependent, so flexibility is key when planning island visits.

New experiences to try in Ireland

Adding hands-on and memorable activities can make a tri...