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Top 19 free things to do in Ireland
Enjoy Ireland's variety of free activities on your next short break.
When exploring Ireland, it's good to know that the stunning views and gorgeous coastlines are not the only things you can enjoy for free. Discover amazing museums, spectacular landscapes and insightful visitor centres. There's no end to the exciting things to do across Ireland.

Here's a list of 19 free things to do in Ireland on your next short break.

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1The Chester Beatty, Dublin

With free admission, the Chester Beatty is one of the best places to visit in Dublin without spending a cent. The only museum in Ireland to ever be awarded European Museum of the Year, its rich collections from Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Europe give visitors a glimpse into the artistic treasures of the great cultures and religions of the world.

Explore manuscripts, miniature paintings, prints, drawings, rare books and decorative arts all thanks to the collector Sir Alfred Chester Beatty.

An exhibition in the Chester Beatty in Dublin city
Comb the rare artefacts on display in the Chester Beatty.
2James Joyce Museum and Martello Tower, Co Dublin

The iconic Martello Tower in Sandycove was one of a series of Martello Towers built to withstand an invasion by Napoleon many moons ago. Today, it's a museum devoted to the life and works of James Joyce, who made this tower the setting for the first chapter of his masterpiece, Ulysses

The James Joyce Museum has a vast collection of letters, photographs, first and rare editions, and personal possessions belonging to the writer himself. 

The exhibit in the James Joyce Museum in Co Dublin
Learn about the life of James Joyce.
3The Forty Foot, Co Dublin

Head to the coast and join the locals for a refreshing afternoon of sea swimming. There are lots of great sea swimming spots in Ireland, but one of the most notable is The Forty Foot in Sandycove. Many Dubliners take a dip here every day, so it's a real must-visit if you are in the area.  

Even at low tide, the depth of the Forty Foot means you can still enjoy a swim year-round, especially on Christmas Day when people gather in their festive get-up for an invigorating plunge. 

People jumping off rocks at The Forty Foot in Sandycove, Dublin
Swim at the famous Forty Foot in Sandycove.
4The National Archives of Ireland, Dublin

Don't miss a visit to the National Archives of Ireland when in Dublin. Home to records dating as far back at the 14th century, the archives hosts a bounty of information relating to the cultural and intellectual life of the Irish nation. 

Pop in for a visit and dive deep into the country's history, or explore your own family tree and discover forgotten stories in each branch. 

5Lough Boora Discovery Park, Co Offaly

Take the Lough Boora Mesolithic Loop Walk and discover the serene habitats, flora and bogland of Lough Boora Discovery Park. This well-trodden trail brings visitors to the shores of Lough Boora, through the Leabeg Wetland and old railway embankment before reaching the Mesolithic settlement, which dates back to 6500 BC. 

Keep your camera handy in case you spot the native whooper swans, skylarks and foxes that call this place home – plus, the unique artwork dotted along the Lough Boora - Sculpture Route is also worth a snap or two.

People on the Sculpture Loop in Lough Boora Discovery Park in Co Offaly
Explore the eye-catching sculptures in Lough Boora Discovery Park.
6Jerpoint Glass Studio, Co Kilkenny

This Irish glass company, Jerpoint Glass Studio, is a family-run business based in Kilkenny and has been creating colourful glass products since 1979. Take a peak behind the scenes on a tour of the studio and watch the expert glassblowers as they transform the fiery molten glass into stunning shapes. 

Keep an eye on their website for their 'Blow a Glass Bubble' events where the team allows visitors to try their hand at glassblowing.

7The Waterford Greenway, Co Waterford

While there are many greenways in Ireland, the Waterford Greenway is one of the longest and offers coastal views that are hard to beat. Take your time as you travel on foot or by bike along the 47.8km scenic greenway from buzzing Waterford city to beautiful Dungarvan

The greenway traces the route of the old Waterford Suir Valley Railway line along the coast, with many places to visit along the way like Mount Congreve Gardens or Kilmacthomas. When you reach your final destination, you're greeted with an incredible panoramic view of Dungarvan Bay, which is well worth the effort alone. 

Cyclists on the Waterford Greenway in Co Waterford
Soak up the views along the Waterford Greenway.
8Killarney National Park and Visitor Centre, Co Kerry

You could easily spend a week exploring Killarney National Park and its 10,000 hectares of impressive landscape. This corner of Ireland includes the highest mountain range in Ireland, the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, which reaches an impressive height of over 1,000 metres. 

If heights are not your thing, enjoy a relaxing day along the stunning Lakes of Killarney or roaming the wild woodland under ever-changing skies. 

Killarney National Park in Co Kerry
Choose your adventure in Killarney National Park.
9W.B. Yeats' County, Co Sligo

Set against the striking backdrop of Benbulben, Drumcliffe in Sligo is best known as the final resting place of Irish Nobel Laureate W.B. Yeats. The Irish poet was one of the foremost figures of 20th-century literature and was also the co-founder of the Abbey Theatre in Dublin.

Many parts of Sligo's natural beauty inspired his work, and his grave in Drumcliffe is marked with a simple headstone with the inscription 'cast a cold eye on life, on death, horseman, pass by.' The graveyard also contains a high cross and is set near the site of a 6th-century Columbian monastery. Pay a visit to the Yeats Building in the heart of Sligo town and attend a talk or tour at the Yeats Society — or head on a self-guided tour with the Yeats Unwrapped app.

Pay a visit to W.B. Yeats' final resting place.
Pay a visit to W.B. Yeats' final resting place.
10Sliabh Liag (Slieve League), Co Donegal

Experience the best free things to do in Donegal with a visit to Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) – the highest accessible marine cliffs in all of Europe. Leave your car at the car park and walk the few miles to the viewing point so as not to miss the breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay. The cliff face rises 600m above the Atlantic, but experienced walkers can venture beyond the viewing point onto One Man's Pass, which loops around onto the nearby Pilgrim's Path.

People at the viewing platform at Sliabh Liag (Slieve League), Co Donegal
Admire the views stretching across the Atlantic.
11Croagh Patrick, Co Mayo

Hiking up the rocky slopes of Croagh Patrick in Mayo is a bucket list item for many enthusiastic hikers. Pack your backpack with a flask of tea and sandwiches before setting off on this famous trail. As you ascend, enjoy endless views of Clew Bay and spot remote islands in the shimmering water below.

Plan a trip with friends and family to tackle the four-hour-long hike to the top. Catch your breath at St Patrick's Chapel at the summit and don't forget to take a photo to mark your achievement.   

Two people preparing for the ascent up Croagh Patrick, County Mayo
Spend the day climbing Croagh Patrick.
12The Burren, Co Clare

Clare's wild and stunning landscapes mean there's no end to the amazing free things to do outdoors. For an out of this world experience, visit The Burren and its truly unique, karst landscape. The limestone and warm microclimate make this region unlike any other. See the result of over 330 million years of weathering as you feel the cracked landscape beneath your feet, admiring the colourful flora as you go.

Come for a few hours, or extend your visit and spend a few days exploring the region along The Burren Way

Large boulders and bright flower at The Burren, Clare
Experience the striking landscapes of The Burren.
13Lough Gur, Co Limerick

Spend time by the water at Lough Gur and have a gorgeous day out without breaking the bank. Listen to the water gently lapping against the shore and relish in the tranquillity and peacefulness of the Limerick countryside. 

Humans first left their mark in Lough Gur 3,000 years ago and you can still see their impact today. Wander around the Grange Stone Circle, see the dolmen, three crannogs and even the remains of Stone Age buildings at the Lough Gur Visitor Centre. There is a small fee to enter the centre, but everyone is welcome to enjoy the picnic area, roam the walking trails and relive history for free.

A family walking at Lough Gur, Co Limerick
Enjoy a stroll along Lough Gur.
14Galway city, Co Galway

With so many things to see in Galway city, some of the best experiences are found simply by walking the cobbled streets of this vibrant city. Feel the buzz of the Galway Farmers Market and bask in the aroma of beautifully cooked food and freshly cut flowers. Stroll down to the historic Spanish Arch and watch buskers performing songs and magic tricks, and entertain the whole family.

Visit Eyre Square, the city's bustling epicentre, and experience life as a true Galwegian. Once you've explored the city, head for the coast and enjoy a stroll along Salthill Promenade, and if you're feeling brave throw on your swimsuit and leap into the refreshing sea.

Sunset at a stony beach in Salthill, Galway
Watch amazing sunsets at Salthill.
15Lough Muckno, Co Monaghan

Treat yourself to a peaceful day spent on the shores of Lough Muckno just outside of Castleblayney in Monaghan. If you fancy a walk, there are four short trails ranging from a quick 340m long stroll to a 1.7km route, each taking in the forest's bluebells and birdsong.

Bring your rod and perch up at one of the fantastic fishing spots dotted around the lake. Lough Muckno has healthy stocks of bream, roach and pike so you're bound to catch something. Check out the nearby White Island and Black Island for even more great places to cast a line.

Person in a red t-shirt fishing at Lough Muckno, Monaghan
Unwind on the shores of Lough Muckno.
16Carlingford, Co Louth

Relive history, take in spectacular views and explore the Cooley Mountains, all without putting your hand in your pocket on a visit to Carlingford. The medieval streets are lined with traditional pubs, colourful flower pots and signs from days of old. 

Start your hike up Slieve Foye from the centre of the town, keeping an eye out for the trinket-laden fairy trees along the way. The loop includes some steep inclines, but the views at the top are well worth it. Take in the sights of the gorgeous Cooley Mountains and the Mourne Mountains in the distance, gaze over Carlingford Lough and watch boats sail into the harbour below. 

Once back in Carlingford, head out to the pier and cool off with a swim in the clear waters for the perfect end to your day.

A boat at the harbour at Carlingford Lough with a backdrop of mountains
Enjoy a free day out in Carlingford.
17Hill of Tara, Co Meath

The ancient Hill of Tara in County Meath is a great choice if you're looking for something fun to do with the kids. Once the most important centre of political and religious power in the country, inspire your little ones' imaginations with stories of the High Kings of Ireland and past civilisations going as far back as the Stone Age. There's a short 1.2km long walk that leads you around the mounds, past the old banquet hall and the Stone on Destiny – legend has it that the stone will roar at the touch of a rightful king, so, why not see if you have little members of royalty in the family. 

An aerial view of the remains of Hill of Tara, County Meath
Take the family to see the Hill of Tara.
18Cathedral of Saint Patrick and Saint Felim, Co Cavan

Towering over the heart of Cavan town is the Cathedral of Saint Patrick and Saint Felim, known locally as Cavan Cathedral. Although this fine structure was built in 1938, the site has been a place of worship since the 1400s and continues to be an important location for the people of Cavan

Admire the six stained glass windows made by famed Irish illustrator and stained glass artist Harry Clarke, sculptures by Edward Smith and the 70m tall spire. The cathedral is free to visit and a great way to spend a few hours in Cavan town.

People in Cavan Cathedral in Co Cavan
Appreciate the architecture of Cavan Cathedral.
19Glencar Waterfall, Co Leitrim

Look up in amazement at the Glencar Waterfall as water cascades down the 15m high rock face through a lush forest in County Leitrim. Then, explore the woodland that inspired W.B. Yeat's poem 'The Stolen Child,' where there's a short 1km long walk nearby for keen hikers and a playground to help entertain the kids.

Extend your free day out in Leitrim and take the short drive over to Hag’s Leap – Ireland's tallest free standing rock tower. This striking rock formation can be admired from the viewing point adjacent to the carpark, but there is no access for walking or hiking in this area. 

A cascading waterfall with a backdrop of rich greenery
See the beautiful Glencar Waterfall in Leitrim.
Find even more free things to do in Ireland

Having fun in Ireland doesn't need to cost a pretty penny. Discover even more free things to do across the country and start planning your next pocket-friendly adventure. 

More to discover
Free things to do5 wonderful walks in Killarney National Park

In the heart of Kerry, you’ll find endless hiking trails in Killarney National Park. The park is a UNESCO biosphere reserve that is home to the magnificent MacGillycuddy's Reeks, hectares of lush woodland and legendary lakes as far as the eye can see. Whatever route you chose, base yourself in the lively town of Killarney for some culture, fun and great food on either side of your hiking adventure.

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