Ireland is considered one of the most romantic places in the world. There are so many romantic places in Ireland to choose from. Strolling through quaint cities like Dublin or enjoying the coastal views in Galway are ideal ways to spend time as a couple.
From its stunning landscapes and rich history to its friendly people and vibrant culture, there are countless reasons to visit Ireland. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the stunning scenery of the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry, while history buffs can explore the ancient ruins of Newgrange or the Rock of Cashel. Additionally, visitors can experience the warmth and hospitality of the Irish people in cozy pubs and charming villages. Ireland is also home to a thriving arts and music scene, with festivals and events happening throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in exploring Ireland’s natural beauty, learning about its history and culture, or simply enjoying its warm and welcoming atmosphere, a trip to Ireland is sure to be a memorable experience.
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Achill Island
Beautiful Achill Island in County Mayo is Ireland’s largest island and a great place to visit on Ireland’s rugged west coast.
Crossing Irish waters can always be a bit unpredictable and choppy, but fortunately, Achill Island is easily accessible from the mainland via a 740 ft (approx 220 meters) swing bridge.
Take a romantic drive along the Atlantic Drive, one of the most beautiful stretches on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, or enjoy a brisk hike and admire the stunning scenery. It’s also possible to rent a bicycle and explore the island on two wheels, but be careful, as it can be very windy in exposed areas.
Achill Island is home to thousands of sheep, stunning sandy blue flag beaches, and the third-highest sea cliffs in Europe.
The sheltered horseshoe-shaped Keem Bay, located in a valley between the cliffs of Benmore and Croaghaun Mountain, is perfect for a romantic picnic.
If the weather isn’t cooperating, this is Ireland; after all, why not visit the Achill Island Aquarium or a local pub and enjoy a huge plate of fish and chips and a pint of Guinness?
There are several charming guesthouses to stay at on the island, but visiting Achill Island also makes a great day trip from Galway or Westport.
Aran Islands
Located off the west coast of Ireland, the Aran Islands are a hidden gem often overlooked by travelers. It’s an easy day trip from Galway. In fact, you can do a tour to see the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher together! Couples who explore the Aran Islands will not be disappointed.
The remote destination features breathtaking beauty – from rocky cliffs, grassy fields, and 360 degrees of ocean views, it’s easy to be in awe here. Renting a bike on the island is a great way to see the island, just be careful of the sheep.
The islands are steeped in Irish history and culture. There are a few ruins to explore dating back hundreds of years. Near the ferry there are shops where you can enjoy learning about Irish culture. You’ll hear the traditional Gaelic language spoken around the islands. Pick up Aran knitwear as a souvenir (named after these islands!).
Time seems to slow down when you’re on the Aran Islands, so take your time here and enjoy the tranquility. Taking some time together to relax and learn about Irish culture makes these islands one of the best romantic places in Ireland.
Ashford Castle
One of the most romantic places in all of Ireland is Ashford Castle. This luxurious 5-star castle hotel is located in County Mayo, about 45 minutes from Galway or just under 3 hours from Dublin.
Ashford Castle is stunning both inside and outside. With perfectly manicured gardens and an exceptional interior, it’s perfect for any romantic visit. And, although it is a castle hotel, there is much more to do than just staying in the castle (although I highly recommend it).
If you and your loved one are adventurous, consider going for a peaceful horseback ride through the lovely estate. The grounds are beautiful, and you will enjoy learning about Irish horses.
Or, if you prefer indoor activities, schedule afternoon tea at Ashford Castle in The Connaught Room, which overlooks Lough Corrib. With three lovely courses, including finger sandwiches, tasty sweets, and delicious freshly baked scones, this is an activity you will be talking about for a long time to come.
Be sure to explore the castle and take a stroll through the gardens after your activities at Ashford Castle. It’s the perfect way to end any romantic day!
Next time you visit Ireland, add a stop at the Ashford Castle Estate to your list.
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle is known worldwide and is one of the most romantic places in Ireland. Located near Cork, Ireland, the 600-year-old Medieval castle and its gardens are perhaps best known for being the home of the Blarney Stone, a stone on the fortified castle that is said to grant those who kiss it the gift of gab or eloquence. However, a romantic stroll through the castle gardens may spur another kiss or two among couples.
While Ireland is famous for its castles, among other things, the Blarney castle grounds are perhaps equally as lovely as the stone stronghold itself. With natural rock formations shrouded in folklore and given names such as Druid’s Circle, Witch’s Cave, and Wishing Steps, the enchanting legends, and folklore make the exquisite gardens even more alluring.
While much of the castle is in ruins, touring the parts of the centuries-old fortress that are open to the public will stir the imagination and will conjure up visions of nobles dining in banquet halls and romanticized thoughts of Medieval times.
You can easily visit Blarney Castle as a day trip from Dublin, or for an even more romantic getaway, rent a car, and spend a weekend in nearby Cork, so you can spend a few days exploring Ireland’s beautiful countryside near the castle.
Cobh
Cobh is a picturesque coastal town located in County Cork. While its beautiful waterfront is perfect for a romantic walk, it is its rich history that makes Cobh a unique place for lovers.
As the last stop of the Titanic before its fateful end, visitors can step back in time to learn the stories of lives lost on the ship’s maiden voyage. Cobh is also the site of the 1915 sinking of the Lusitania after being struck by a German torpedo.
And while hearing about such disasters may not immediately inspire romance. Couples can use their time in Cobh as a reminder to hold those they love a little bit closer.
The town also offers so many things to do. But the beauty of “doing” in Cobh means slowing down. Taking a walk along the waterfront, exploring the town’s Victorian architecture or having a pint as the boats come ashore are all great ways to spend time in Cobh.
Also a modern port, many people come to Cobh by cruise ship. But if you are planning to spend more time in Cobh, you can make an easy day trip to Cobh from Cork by train or bus. Both run nearly every 30 minutes between Cobh and Cork.
Coumeenoole Beach
Adventurous couples will love visiting Coumeenoole Beach, a semi-secluded spot along Ireland’s rugged coastline. Coumeenoole Beach is just a short walk from some Star Wars filming locations, which you can access from the beach’s car park. After exploring the beach, you can find several hill walks in the area with stunning views of the Dingle Peninsula, Blasket Islands.
There are wonderful beaches all over Ireland, but Coumeenoole is special because of its beautiful, jagged rock fins that protrude from the sand. The rock features are covered in sea life, and they create small pools where, if you’re lucky, you might find living starfish. When the tide is low, you can walk along the beach and enjoy a few moments of peace while the waves crash over themselves just a few yards away.
This spot in the rustic County Kerry is accessible by car, and the nearest town is Dingle. It can get busy, so go early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid many of the crowds. If you choose to visit early, head to Dingle Town to warm up afterwards with a coffee from My Boy Blue. No matter what time of year you visit Ireland, be sure to pack some warm layers because the weather can get chilly, especially near the coast. Wear comfortable shoes, as the walks down to the beach and up to the filming locations are both rather steep.
Dingle
Dingle is a destination perfect for a romantic getaway or honeymoon in Ireland, nestled on Ireland’s stunning southwest coast very close to the more famous Ring of Kerry and near Killarney. The town is about 4 hours away driving from Dublin with plenty of towns in between to stop along the way.
In the town of Dingle, you’ll find colorful downtown streets, quaint pubs, and small restaurants. Make sure to try Murphy’s Ice Cream while in town, especially the sea salt flavor, and for a romantic dinner, head to the cozy Fenton’s of Dingle restaurant.
The town is a gateway to adventure and romance with plenty to do for couples. You can go horseback riding up the surrounding hills taking in the views together of the town.
For more adventurous couples, sea kayaking is an experience you will not forget. The guide will take you into sea caves and along cliffs above the blue waters in an experience based on the skills and experience of the people on the excursion that day.
For one day of the trip make sure to drive the Dingle Peninsula Loop, which offers stunning views of the unique landscapes, remains from prehistoric civilizations, beautiful beaches, and filming locations from Star Wars, Far and Away, and many other films.
Dublin
Dublin is considered a romantic destination for couples in Ireland for a number of reasons. The city is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, which can be explored through visits to Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Guinness Storehouse. There are plenty of things to do in Dublin that you won’t get bored!
Dublin is home to many beautiful parks and gardens, such as St. Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park, which have picturesque settings for romantic walks or picnics. The city also offers a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and pubs, many of which are housed in historic buildings and offer a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
Couples can take a stroll along the peaceful River Liffey. Take a stroll along the iconic Ha’Penny Bridge. It is called that because it used to cost a half-penny to cross. The city isn’t as busy as other major cities and is pretty idyllic just walking around.
Dublin is also known for its nightlife, which can be enjoyed by couples through live music, theater, and comedy performances. The city also hosts many festivals such as the Dublin Theatre Festival, the Dublin Writers Festival, and the Dublin Fringe Festival which can be enjoyed by couples.
All of these factors make Dublin a popular and romantic destination for couples in Ireland. Be sure to get your Dublin City Card to save money on attractions so you can splurge on the romance!
Galway
Galway is considered a romantic destination for couples in Ireland for a few reasons. First, the city is known for its charming and picturesque streets, which are lined with colorful buildings and traditional Irish pubs. A walk down Quay Street in the Latin Quarter is a must-do for any visitor. You’ll find plenty of shopping which makes it easy to find the perfect souvenir. Indulge your sweetheart with a Claddagh ring!
Additionally, Galway is located on the west coast of Ireland, which means that it has beautiful scenery and easy access to the sea. There are many opportunities for couples to take romantic walks along the coast or by the river. Couples can also take a day trip to the Aran Islands. The islands are a great way to reconnect with nature while also exploring ancient ruins.
There are also many romantic restaurants and cafes where couples can enjoy a meal together. O’Grady’s on the Pier offers traditional Irish dishes and fresh seafood! Additionally, Galway is a cultural hub and hosts many festivals and events throughout the year such as the Galway International Arts Festival, the Galway Film Fleadh, and the (world-famous) Galway Oyster Festival. Even if you’re not visiting during a festival, you’ll find live music at most restaurants in the city (and on the streets during the warmer months!)
All of these factors contribute to making Galway a popular and romantic destination for couples in Ireland.
Garnish Island
Garnish Island off the coast of Glengarriff in West Cork is an unexpected and underrated gem on the Emerald Isle. Sometimes Garnish Island is also called Ireland’s flower island due to its unique botanical gardens. These gardens are unlike any others in Ireland due to its almost Mediterranean climate.
When you visit Garnish Island, you may even forget that you are in Ireland at all! During the 1910s and 1920s the Bryce family, who owned Garnish Island at the time, not only landscaped different gardens onto the island, but also built a Greek Temple and a colourful Italian Garden among others. This makes Garnish Island one the truly unique and romantic locations in Ireland.
Why don’t you just saunter with your loved one through the gardens and enjoy a peaceful cup of tea in the Casita Tea House afterwards? Nowadays, it is easy to visit Garnish Island. It is owned by the Irish State and a major tourist attraction in County Cork. There are four different boat operators in Glengarriff that bring you onto the island almost all-year round. As Garnish Island is located about 1.5 km outside the harbour of Glengarriff, the boat trip normally takes about 15 minutes.
Howth
If you are looking for a romantic destination in Ireland, look no further than Howth. With its easy access by train from Dublin, it makes for a perfect weekend getaway with your loved one. DART trains (Fast trains) leave the center of Dublin approximately every 20 minutes and a return ticket only costs €6,25. The fast train will get you there in about half an hour.
Things to do in Howth or not plenty but what’s on offer is surely romantic. Bring your hiking boots to enjoy a romantic walk along the cliff path loop boasting dramatic cliff views and a visit to Balscadden Bay. The loop is about six kilometers and takes approximately two hours to complete. You can also do an e-bike tour of Howth!
Another romantic thing to do in Howth is take a boat trip. During the day you can visit Ireland’s Eye Island to spend some alone time with your loved one since the island is uninhabited. Another option is to take a sunset cruise during which you will be able to take in stunning views of Dublin Bay.
There are only a handful of accommodation options in Howth. If you want to spend the night then King Sitric is your best bet. For a romantic lunch, visit POG and The Pier House is the perfect place for dinner.
Kenmare
Kenmare is a small town that touts itself as the jewel on the Ring of Kerry. It’s the perfect sized-town to visit for a day or a romantic weekend!
While there are many great things to do in Kenmare, from visiting traditional Irish farms to horseback riding to shopping for lace, couples will be delighted in some of the town’s more romantic activities. In fact, you can easily plan an entire romance-themed day in Kenmare!
Start with a Seafari. This morning boat ride to see the seals in Kenmare Bay is a relaxing way to spend some time together enjoying nature – from the comfort of the boat!
Next head to downtown Kenmare, where you can shop for locally-made chocolates at Lorge Chocolatier. Or go on a romantic walk through the tunnels in Reenagross Woodland Park.
In the afternoon, you can enjoy Afternoon Tea at Sheen Falls Lodge, complete with scones, finger sandwiches, and, of course, something bubbly to drink. You can choose from champagne or prosecco. Sheen Falls has a lovely vintage feel (check out their collection of romantic vintage cars!), so feel free to dress the part.
If you want to end your day with even more romance, reserve one of the lodge’s cozy cottages or romantic suites.
Kilkenny
Kilkenny is a small city located in the southeast of Ireland, in the province of Leinster. It is most well known for its medieval architecture and its many festivals. The city is also home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland. Kilkenny is a vibrant city with lively nightlife, a wide range of shops and restaurants, and plenty of cultural attractions.
The city’s main shopping street, High Street, is full of independent stores, boutiques, and larger retailers. There are also many places to eat, from traditional Irish pubs to modern bars and restaurants.
There are many ways to travel to Kilkenny, either by car, train, and air. If you are traveling by air, you can take the route via Dublin ( Dublin airport), which would take one h and 26 min travel time via M9 Motorway.
And while you are in Kilkenny, visit the beautiful Kilkenny Castle; this 12th-century medieval castle is a must -see. It is one of and best-preserved castles in Kilkenny, surrounded by parklands and gardens, and its grounds offer stunning views over the city. The best place to relax while wandering around with your loved one.
Include Rothe House and Garden in Kilkenny in your itinerary; this stunning 16th-century merchant’s townhouse is a romantic spot for couples; the garden and museum are one of the highlights of this place and is the perfect place to spend a relaxing and romantic day.
Slieve League
Ireland is the land of poets and dreamers and what could be more romantic than taking your sweetheart to the coolest place on earth – Donegal says Nat Geo.
Slieve League is located on the Wild Atlantic Way route in the Gaeltacht region of County Donegal. The Slieve League cliffs are the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe. Here the pure Atlantic winds will clear your head and the scent of Donegal a mixture of turf, salt, moss, and green will fill your heart.
Within the Irish county of “it’s different up here” you and your loved one can explore an Ireland that is virtually pristine in its beauty. The Slieve League sea cliffs in Donegal (also known in Gaelic as Sliabh Liag which means grey mountain) are the ultimate virtually tourist-free cliffs to visit, hike and walk and propose to your loved one in Ireland.
The wild rugged cliffs of Slieve League plummet 1,972 feet/601 meters to the North Atlantic waves are three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher and twice the height of the Eiffel Tower.
If you don’t have a car you can take a tour from Donegal Town to the Cliffs where you can hike the Pilgrim’s Path to One Man’s Pass up to the top of the cliffs and have a romantic picnic with breathtaking panoramic views across the water over Donegal Bay, into Leitrim, Sligo, and Mayo.
Waterford
A romantic place to visit in Ireland is Waterford. Ireland’s first city was founded by the Vikings before Dublin was and is a great place for a romantic getaway in the Emerald Isle.
Waterford is located in the southeast of the country and lies just over 2 hours from the capital. Whether you are staying in the city or visiting on a day trip from Dublin, Waterford has plenty to offer the romantic traveller, including relics from its time as a Viking stronghold.
To discover the city and get your bearings, there is a small tourist train that departs from near Christchurch Cathedral that also has an audio guide to introduce you to the city and point out certain points of interest. Hold hands with your loved one and enjoy the ride.
Waterford is also home to a castle located on its own private island. Situated just outside the city on the River Suir, and accessed by ferry, the Waterford Castle resort is a very romantic place to visit.
Stroll through the grounds and woods and you might come across some of the resident deer. Afterward, you can enjoy a romantic meal in the castle. You can even stay in it as it is one of the top castle hotels in Ireland. Romance at its finest.
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Cut! Lots of great places to go on active dates here. I’ve been to Rothe House and Garden and it would be a lovely place for a walk and a picnic!
Great list!! I love that the first places I took my husband in Ireland included Galway and Achill Island! I didn’t even know I was being romantic. 😉 I think my favourite place for active dates is always going to be hiking the mountain of Connemara, followed by a pint in a warm, cozy pub. I miss Ireland.
Haha I feel like with enough effort most places could be romantic, but it depends on the couple right? Galway’s charming personality (at least in my opinion) can put anyone in a good mood
Ireland is such a romantic place that almost anywhere could be considered and I enjoyed your curated list. I had a house in Ireland and travelled extensively and would probably add Connemara and the Knockmealdown Mountains to the list.
Some lovely places here that I haven’t seen so am interested to explore them more.
Dublin get my vote for romance but also a great entertainment and bar/club scene city.
Ed Sheeran’s song “Galway Girl” is further evidence that the city is a romantic place! haha
Great list and can’t wait to make it back to Ireland 🙂
Haha I’m a fan of Steve Earle’s rendition, but absolutely!!!
There are so many romantic places in Ireland. It’s tough to choose but for me I think the Ashford castle sounds so romantic. What’s more romantic than riding horses together. I also love the idea of afternoon tea.
I gotta say, Ireland doesn’t really spring to my mind when I think about romantic places, so I read your post with a lot of interest and learning more about its romantic side. The weather would put me off big time and put me in a mood 😛 I could see myself strolling through Garnish Island and its beautiful gardens tho and having a nice Afternoon Tea treat somewhere afterwards. The Afternoon Tea session seems popular with a lot of other commenters here, too.
Carolin | Solo Travel Story
Haha the weather is definitely a hinderance, but I feel like that’s true for most of the year in Ireland haha. Someone once told me though that there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing! it’s definitely changed my mindset about colder travel 🙂
If I was already quite curious to see Ireland, right now I feel like packing my bags and getting on the road ahahah Kenmare captured my attention, those seals are adorable doing a Seafari sounds like a genius idea to me. More or less romantic, Ireland is a destination not to be missed!
This is a fantastic list of places to do in Ireland! my husband and i were just talking about visiting in the summer so will use this post as a guide. I always equate Ireland with castles and you have some great suggestions in your post such a Kilkenny castle and Waterford castle. Definitely saving this!