If you’re planning to delve deeper into Ireland in 2026, you’ll find a wealth of remarkable places waiting to be explored.
From immersing yourself in Samhain customs in County Meath to dipping your toes into the brisk Atlantic waters at Inis Mór, there’s no better moment than the present to set your travel plans in motion.
Have a look at some of the top spots to add to your 2026 list.
Tipperary
If there’s one county you should add to your 2026 itinerary, it is Tipperary. Ranked fifth in Lonely Planet’s “25 Best Destinations for 2026,” this Munster county is highlighted as a haven for nature lovers. They recommend hiking the Glen of Aherlow for sweeping views of the Galtee Mountains and Slievenamuck. Other must-see spots in Tipperary include the Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle, and if all that wandering works up an appetite you’re in luck—the region is famed for Cashel Blue cheese and top-quality crisp brands like O’Donnells and Blanco Niño.
Dingle, County Kerry
If there’s anywhere in Ireland that rarely fails to entice visitors, it’s Dingle in County Kerry—and it’s easy to see why. Although spring and summer are typically the best seasons to explore the West, Dingle truly comes alive in December. Each year, the Other Voices music festival unfolds in early December, and careful planning is essential. Featuring a mix of international performers and local talents, the weekend offers a magical immersion into music and the arts. When you’re not tapping along to tunes over a pint of Guinness in a local pub, you can circle the Ring of Kerry or the Slea Head Drive to tick off more sights. The 2026 dates for Other Voices have yet to be announced.
Belfast, County Antrim
If you’re chasing a lively festival this year, Belfast delivers. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is slated to take place in Belfast from August 2–9, 2026. Nestled on the banks of the Lagan, you’ll discover vibrant pub sessions, spontaneous street performances, and dramatic stage shows in Ireland’s only UNESCO City of Music. A northern excursion deserves a place in your diary, as Belfast will host a week full of music, culture, and craic.
Meath
As part of Ireland’s Ancient East, County Meath is celebrated as the birthplace of Halloween, traditionally known as Samhain. Each year Trim and Athboy host and honor the ancient Celtic festival with the Púca Festival, featuring fire performances, music, comedy, and cultural happenings. The celebrations typically occur toward the end of October, with exact dates to be announced in due course.
Inis Mór, The Aran Islands
A quick glance at the photos from our latest cover shoot with Maura Derrane will spark a desire to visit Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran trio. Reachable by ferry or a rapid flight, the island’s beauty is truly captivating. To get around easily, you can hire a bicycle and visit well-known sites such as Dún Aonghasa, the Seven Churches of Aran, and the Worm Hole. If you happen to land on a sunny day or you feel particularly daring, you might take a dip at one of the island’s many beaches. Warm up afterward with a hot drink or whiskey in one of the island’s pubs like Joe Watty’s Bar or Tigh Mheaic.
Galway
Galway is always worth a visit. Rich in culture and with friendly locals, you can time your stop to coincide with events like the Galway Comedy Festival (October 20–26) or the Galway International Arts Festival (July 13–26). Beyond the festivals, the city has plenty to offer, from guided walking food tours to a Claddagh Ring making workshop. Galway also serves as a superb base for day trips to Connemara, the Aran Islands, and the Burren.
Clare
Many of us forget to play the tourist in our own country, which means we may overlook some of the island’s most iconic landmarks. The Cliffs of Moher attract over a million visitors annually, and for good reason. These cliffs are celebrated for their breathtaking beauty, geological importance, and rich biodiversity, towering at 214 metres and extending 14 kilometres along the Clare coast. After ticking off the cliffs, you can cruise through Burren National Park, explore the lively village of Doolin, and watch surfers at Lahinch Beach.
