There’s plenty to see around Sligo, from the local stretches of untamed coastline to the mountains that frame the edge of the city. But if you’re basing yourself in Sligo town, it’s well worth putting time aside to explore the town itself, whether you want to amble around a gallery or soak up the local café scene. When you’re ready to explore further afield, hop the border into Leitrim to spend some time in the pretty market town of Carrick-on-Shannon, just a short train ride away.

Ready for a day at the beach? Well pack up your togs and a towel, because there are plenty to choose from in Sligo, and you don’t need a car to get to them. To the west of Sligo town, you’ll find the coastal village of Easkey and the wide beaches of Enniscrone, both known for their surf, swimming and cosy old pubs. It’s easy to tick off both on a day trip from Sligo, on a bus that snakes along the coast on its way to Ballina.

With the seaside village of Rosses Point to the north and surfer's paradise Strandhill to the west, Sligo has a slew of excellent beaches just a short hop from town. And it’s not just the shoreline that’s worth exploring – you can also climb one of Sligo’s distinctive peaks.