Tralee
#7 in Best Places in Ireland
Base yourself in Tralee if seeing the Wild Atlantic Way and the Ring of Kerry are two of your Ireland must-dos. In addition to sitting close to these two top scenic routes, the town is home to several noteworthy attractions, including the Kerry County Museum (a local history museum), Tralee Town Park (one of Ireland’s largest urban parks) and Ardfert Cathedral (a historical property with medieval and Romanesque features). What’s more, Tralee is where you’ll find the Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre, a wildlife haven with opportunities for everything from canoeing to fishing to water zorbing.
Inishowen Peninsula
#8 in Best Places in Ireland
Situated just northwest of Ireland’s border with Northern Ireland, the Inishowen Peninsula is the country’s largest peninsula. Its remote location 170 miles northwest of Dublin plus its otherworldly scenery create a peaceful setting you won’t find in Ireland’s more tourist-heavy peninsulas. Must-see natural wonders here include Malin Head, Trawbreaga Bay and the Gap of Mamore. If you’ve always dreamed of seeing the northern lights, be sure to visit in winter when the aurora borealis’ beautiful hues are visible throughout the peninsula.