Vibrant Galway is a great place to visit with your pooch. Discover scenic hikes, cute cafés, and there’s plenty of dog-friendly accommodation too. With its beautiful beaches and national park, Duke the Irish Red Setter is a big fan of Connemara.

Get inspiration from Duke’s epic adventures, starting with a visit to Connemara National Park. Then it’s time for a walk along the aptly-named Dog’s Bay Beach and after, spin into Clifden for some refreshments at Market 57.

Discover Ireland tip: Stop off at The Secret Garden, one of the adorable dog-friendly cafés in Galway. Admire the quirky interiors, choose from their wide range of teas and enjoy a relaxing afternoon with your furry friend. Check out the pet menu at The Twelve Hotel in nearby Barna, and if you want to extend your break in Galway, book into one of the dog-friendly rooms.

Photo credit: @dukeirishredsetter

Jagged sea cliffs, spectacular golden strands and the rolling waves of the Atlantic Ocean – Donegal’s dramatic beauty takes your breath away every single time. From glorious walks to great scenery, dog owners around Ireland tell us exactly why they love this stunning county.

Gorgeous Iggy and his owner, talented photographer James O’Donnell, are big fans of Tory Island in Donegal. Make your way to the monochrome lighthouse, it’s a special place for an Instagram shot with majestic mountains in the distance.

Speaking of dramatic summits, Peter and Loki tell us Errigal is their favourite place to go in Ireland. “It was our first hike together and we keep coming back as much as we can”.

Sharon Sweeney Lynch and her dog Madden love to visit Narin near the village of Portnoo in Donegal. Sharon says it’s one of the country’s most impressive beaches and we’d have to agree, judging by our list of the best beaches in Donegal.

Discover Ireland tip: Travel to Ards Forest Park with your pup, follow the signposted woodland walking trails and break for a picnic to soak up the views. If you want to stay on, treat yourself with a stay at Harveys Point where there’s a dedicated dog-friendly suite.

Photo credit: @james_odonnell_photography

With its amazing cliff walks and stunning strands, you can’t beat Clare for a memorable holiday. Experience outdoor adventures with your pup and don’t forget your camera to capture shots of the Clare coast. Take it from Kailen, a big fan of the Banner County - his owners have plenty of recommendations for dog-friendly places in Clare.

“We stayed in a dog-friendly cottage located along the Shannon Estuary Way, which has a private pebble beach for a back garden. The beach was a big hit with our pooch, who loved the freedom of a swim each morning before heading off for a walk to explore some famous sights along the Wild Atlantic Way, the Kilkee Cliffs and Loop Head Lighthouse”.

Discover Ireland tip: Bring your pup for a walk in the Dromore Nature Wood Reserve just outside Ennis.

If time allows, extend your stay in Clare with a visit to Doolin Village Lodges. Relax in one of the cosy armchairs while your four-legged friend snuggles up beside the wood burning stove. Take it from us, this place is a little piece of paradise and the best bit is, it’s dog-friendly.

Photo credit: @smilingkailen

From Barleycove to Inchydoney, travel to Cork’s spectacular beaches. Let your pup splash around in the glimmering blue waters of the Atlantic and spend an afternoon strolling along vast stretches of golden sand.

Cork is one of the country’s top foodie destinations and better still, some of the restaurants and cafés are dog-friendly. Hamish, or "Hungry Hamish" as he’s affectionately known, and his owners are big fans of Cork and have shared their favourite places to visit in the Rebel County.

“We absolutely love The Anglers in the city. The food is great, the staff make a big fuss welcoming Hamish and there’s a covered beer garden with access to a large area of grass if your dog needs a quick walk. Another great dog-friendly restaurant is Ferrit & Lee in Midleton. 

Discover Ireland tip: When in Cork city, drop by Alchemy for coffee and sit outside with your dog to watch the world go by. Take a stroll to nearby Fitzgerald Park and look out for the sculpture of Michael Collins. 

Continue your visit to Cork with a stay at Castlemartyr Resort, one of the best dog-friendly hotels in Ireland. Your pup is welcomed with a doggie gift and there’s even a pet concierge service. Or check into one of the pet-friendly holiday cottages at Vienna Woods in Glanmire just outside the city. For a dog-friendly hotel with plenty of spots for outdoor activities, head to The Kingsley in the heart of Cork city. Nestled along the River Lee, enjoy a stroll along the water or escape the city and take a short trip to the beautiful coastal town of Kinsale nearby. 

Take great walks in Tipperary

The land of the Golden Vale, Tipperary sports rich green countryside that’s perfect for dog walks. The Three Kings Loop Walk in Cashel is a great place to walk your dog according to Mary, who says it's “clean, well-kept and very scenic”.

Start in Cashel and take the Golden Road out and back for incredible views of the Rock of Cashel and Hore Abbey, don’t forget to bring your camera to snap some photos. It’s a flat route bringing you through quiet country roads and woodland trails, a great way to see the historical sights of Cashel.

Discover Ireland tip: After working up a thirst on your walk, drop into Mikey Ryan’s Bar in Cashel so that you and your pup can refuel. Chill out in the garden with a pint and a bowl of water, or time your visit for brunch - we recommend the French Brioche Toast.

Photo credit: Casey Jones

Enjoy dog-friendly places in Leitrim

Retreat to Leitrim and uncover its hidden gems. It’s heaven for dogs with quiet laneways and languid lakes, perfect for an impromptu dip. Whether you opt for peaceful strolling or go canoeing on the waters of Fenagh Lake, this is a break to delight you and your canine companion.

Discover Ireland tip: If you’re looking for dog-friendly accommodation, The Old Rectory in Ballinamore is worth checking out. The self-catering cottages are charming, the owners Julie and Patrick love dogs, and there’s spacious grounds to let your pal roam free.

Discover dog-friendly restaurants in Dublin

Dublin’s coastal towns are full of stunning spots to walk your pup and the city has plenty of dog-friendly restaurants to relax over a cup of coffee. One place that you’ll see lots of people walking their dogs is Killiney Hill. Adorable dachshund Slinky and his owner have high praise indeed, describing it as “the best place for a walk with a view”.

“Killiney Hill has a gorgeous woodland feel as you walk it, with stunning panoramic views of Dublin Bay when you reach the top. There is also a lovely cafe called the Killiney Hill Tearooms, perfect for your coffee/tea fix and they always have water bowls out for your dog”.

Sausage dog, Bobby Dassler and his dog mum Gillian have lots of recommendations for dog-friendly places in Dublin City.

“Irish Rail allows small dogs to travel 'free' on the DART so that's how we usually travel. First is a stop off for treats in Two Pups coffee shop. St Patrick’s Park is just around the corner and is always full of dogs so it's the perfect opportunity to run around. On Drury Street, there’s lots of dog-friendly shops and cafés such as Industry & Co., Irish Design Shop and Kaph".

Discover Ireland tip: When in Dublin city, a visit to the Fumbally Café is a must for dog lovers. Relax in its rustic interiors, order from the varied menu and get chatting to other dog owners. If you have time, head to Howth with your pup and have dinner in the Dog House Blue’s Tea Rooms. Order wood fired pizza, sip on delicious wine and see if you can spot the best seat in the house, the snug double bed.

Discover more dog-friendly restaurants in Dublin.

Find pet-friendly places in Wicklow

With wonderful walks and gorgeous gardens, Wicklow is the perfect choice for a dog-friendly holiday in Ireland. Slinky and his family recently visited the Avon at the Blessington Lakes and highly recommend it.

“Take the pet-friendly walking trail that stretches along the Blessington Lakes, it’s so tranquil. There’s also activities at The Avon including wall climbing, ziplines and kayaking."

Treat your pup to a puppuccino from the walker’s café, enjoy pizza and barbecue dishes and if you want to stay overnight, there’s plenty of dog-friendly accommodation too.

Discover Ireland tip: Packed with pretty trails, Glendalough is perfect for leisurely walks but remember to keep your dog on a lead here. Extend your stay in Wicklow with a stroll along the prom in Bray. After, visit Dockyard No.8 where there's an outdoor tap and dog bowls so you can keep your furry friend hydrated.

Photo credit: @slinkythedog20

Explore gorgeous gardens in Wexford

The Model County is a fun place for outdoor adventures, and we have it on good authority that Johnstown Castle and Gardens is a top spot for your hound. Head Gardener Ciáran tells us that “four-legged friends are very welcome at Johnstown Castle in Wexford as part of their dog staycations and as members for daily walks”.

Another place to bring your pup for a stroll is Cahore Pier in Gorey, a particular favourite of Cookie the pug. Feel the sea air on your face and after, visit the Greenhouse Café in Springmount Garden Centre. Dogs are welcome on the outdoor terrace and it’s a lovely spot for an afternoon coffee.

Discover Ireland tip: Organise a dog-friendly holiday with a stay at Glendine Country House in New Ross. Book in to one of their luxurious rooms, where your pet is allowed to stay under supervision, and make the most of the estate's picturesque grounds and the local walking routes. 

Celebrate your dog’s birthday in Waterford

Glorious coastal scenery and golden beaches, Waterford is another county to consider when planning dog-friendly holidays in Ireland. Walk the Waterford Greenway or take inspiration from Joan Duhuig who hired a puppy trailer from Waterford Greenway Bike Hire for her dog Bono and was able to bring him along for the ride.

The very cute Casey Jones went on his holidays to Dunmore East and had a ball. Casey’s owner tells us there’s lots of dog-friendly places to eat including the Bay Café and The Strand Inn. The Waterford Estuary Coastal Path was a big hit with Casey, and the nearby hidden coves and sea caves are perfect for a splash around.

Photo credit: Joan Duhig