Things to do in Leinster

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Welcome to Leinster, the eastern province of Ireland known for its rich ancient history, natural beauty, and bustling cities. Leinster is made up of 12 counties, and several bustling cities such as Dublin, Kilkenny, and the stunning coastal town of Wexford.

One of the main draws of Leinster is its capital city, Dublin. Known for its lively pubs, world-class restaurants, and thriving arts and culture scene, Dublin also boasts iconic landmarks such as Temple Bar, Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Guinness Storehouse.

Beyond Dublin, Leinster offers a wealth of ancient ruins and historic sites, such as the monastic settlement of Glendalough in Wicklow, the Rock of Dunamase in Laois, and the medieval town of Trim in Meath. You can also explore stunning castles, such as Kinnitty Castle and Birr Castle, both located in Offaly. And if you’re interested in ancient history, make sure to not miss the Boyne Valley in Meath and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Newgrange.

Towards the coast, Leinster’s natural beauty is equally impressive, with stunning beaches such as Curracloe Beach and Brittas Bay, and peaceful hiking areas such as the Wicklow Mountains. On the southern part, the Saltee Islands are home to a range of bird species like Puffins and Gannets.

Leinster is a province with a diverse range of attractions, and it’s waiting for you to explore. So what are you waiting for? Come and discover the beauty and history of Leinster today!

Where are you going?

Ireland’s eastern province, Leinster, is divided into 12 distinct counties, each with its own unique character and a diverse range of attractions, activities, and hidden gems to explore. Click on any of the below boxes to learn more about the county and see all the things there are to do.

1. Carlow: Known for its rich agricultural heritage, the Carlow Castle, and the scenic beauty of the River Barrow.
2. Dublin: The vibrant capital city of Ireland, famous for its bustling streets, world-class cuisine, and lively nightlife.
3. Kildare: Home to the stunning Curragh Plains and the world-renowned Irish National Stud.
4. Kilkenny: A charming city with a medieval past, Kilkenny boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, and is known for its lively pubs and stunning castle.
5. Laois: Home to the stunning Slieve Bloom Mountains and the fascinating Rock of Dunamase.
6. Longford: The perfect place for those seeking peace and tranquility, with its rolling countryside and peaceful lakes.
7. Louth: Known for its rich history and stunning coastline, Louth is home to the historic town of Drogheda and the beautiful Cooley Peninsula.
8. Meath: A county steeped in ancient history, Meath is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Newgrange and the medieval town of Trim.
9. Offaly: Home to the impressive Kinnitty Castle and the picturesque Lough Boora Parklands.
10. Westmeath: Known for its stunning lakes and waterways, Westmeath is the perfect destination for fishing and boating enthusiasts.
11. Wexford: A coastal county with a rich maritime heritage, Wexford is home to picturesque beaches such as Curracloe Beach and the Saltee Islands.
12. Wicklow: Known as the “Garden of Ireland,” Wicklow is a heaven for hikers, with its stunning mountains, lakes, and forests.

If you are not sure yet where you are planning to go, continue scrolling for some inspiration!

Popular places to visit in Leinster:

From the vibrant city of Dublin to the stunning coastline of Wexford, Leinster has an abundance of destinations that will take your breath away. If you’re planning a trip to Leinster and wondering where to begin, look no further than our list of top attractions.

Other popular spots in Leinster include:

• Bru na Boinne (Newgrange)
• Trim Castle
• Hill of Tara
• Powerscourt House & Garden

Lesser-visited & Off the Beaten Path places in Leinster

If you love venturing off the beaten path, Leinster has plenty of hidden gems to explore:

1. Loughcrew Cairns, Co. Meath – A lesser-known ancient site, the Loughcrew Cairns are a collection of passage tombs that date back to around 4000 BC.
2. Russborough House, Co. Wicklow – A stunning Palladian mansion set in beautiful gardens, Russborough House is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit.
3. Dunbrody Famine Ship, Co. Wexford – An immersive museum experience that tells the story of the Irish Famine and the thousands of people who emigrated from Ireland during that time.
4. Irish National Stud, Co. Kildare – A unique attraction that offers visitors the chance to see some of Ireland’s most magnificent horses up close, as well as learn about the history and culture of Ireland’s thoroughbred industry.
5. Slieve Foye, Co. Louth – A beautiful mountain that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Kildare Village, Co. Kildare – A designer outlet shopping centre that is home to a range of luxury brands, Kildare Village is a great destination for bargain hunters and fashion lovers.
7. Altamont Gardens, Co. Carlow – A stunningly beautiful and peaceful garden that is home to a range of rare plants and flowers.
8. Huntington Castle & Gardens, Co. Carlow – A charming castle that has been beautifully restored and is now open to the public as a museum, showcasing the history and heritage of the area.
9. Wicklow Gaol, Co. Wicklow – A former prison that has been turned into a museum, Wicklow Gaol offers visitors a fascinating insight into the history of crime and punishment in Ireland.
10. Kilkenny Castle Parklands, Co. Kilkenny – A stunning park that surrounds the iconic Kilkenny Castle, the parklands offer visitors the chance to explore beautiful gardens, walking trails, and picnic areas.
11. Belvedere House and Gardens, Co. Westmeath – A beautiful Georgian estate located on the shores of Lough Ennell, Belvedere House and Gardens features manicured gardens, a stunning lake, and a fascinating history.
12. The Charleville Forest Castle, Co. Offaly – A Gothic-style castle surrounded by a beautiful forest, Charleville Forest Castle is a hidden gem that is perfect for those interested in history and architecture.
13. Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, Co. Longford – A unique site that dates back to the Iron Age, the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre features a preserved wooden trackway that was once used for transportation across a bog.
14. Kinnitty Castle, Co. Offaly – A beautiful castle with a rich history dating back to the 13th century, Kinnitty Castle is now a luxury hotel and popular wedding venue.
15. Westmeath Waterways, Co. Westmeath – The Shannon-Erne Waterway and Royal Canal both run through Westmeath, offering beautiful views and opportunities for boating and fishing.
16. Curracloe Beach, Co. Wexford – Famous for its appearance in the opening scene of the movie Saving Private Ryan, Curracloe Beach is a stunning stretch of sand and dunes that are popular with both locals and visitors.
17. Slieve Bloom Mountains, Co. Laois/Offaly – A beautiful range of hills and mountains that straddle the border between Laois and Offaly, the Slieve Bloom Mountains offer stunning views and numerous hiking trails.
18. Rock of Dunamase, Co. Laois – An ancient hilltop fortress dating back to the 9th century, the Rock of Dunamase offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into Ireland’s early history.
19. Cooley Peninsula, Co. Louth – A scenic peninsula on the northeast coast of Ireland, the Cooley Peninsula offers beautiful views of the Irish Sea, the Mourne Mountains, and the rolling hills of County Louth. It is a popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

The Best ways to visit Leinster

Rent a Car

With the freedom to stop wherever and whenever you like, renting a car is a great way to explore Leinster and discover the hidden gems that the province has to offer. We would recommend either going on a road trip (meaning changing accommodation each night) or basing yourself in Dublin and taking day trips around. You can easily reach the farthest parts of the province within a couple of hours from the Irish Capital.

Take a tour

If you’re short on time and prefer not to rent a car, we highly recommend taking a guided day trip to explore the best of Leinster. With daily departures from Dublin city, it’s easy to embark on exciting tours to popular destinations such as Glendalough, Kilkenny, and the Boyne Valley.

Check out our list of recommended day trips below to find the perfect adventure for you!

What to pack for a trip to Leinster?

✅ Warm and waterproof clothing

Ireland can be cool and rainy, so pack a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes even in the summer. Consider layering with a sweater and a fleece or a light puffer jacket.

✅ Comfortable walking shoes

Ireland has a lot of hills and cobblestone streets, so be sure to pack comfortable shoes. If you plan on hiking, get a pair of boots that cover your ankle, most hikes are rocky and uneven.

✅ Power adapter

Ireland uses the Type G plug, so make sure to bring the right adapter for your devices if needed.

✅ Cash and credit cards

Ireland is a cash-friendly country, but debit or credit cards are widely accepted in most places. If you plan on driving a car, the driver must present a valid personal credit card.

❌ Do not pack! Umbrella

Leave that one at home. When it rains in Ireland it is often windy and umbrellas never survive the Irish guts.

For more details on what to pack to Ireland, download our Irish packing list! It’s free and you can use it on your phone to tick the packed items as you go!

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