If you're planning a trip to Ireland and are looking for the prettiest places to visit, this guide will take you off the beaten track to discover fairytale villages, scenic drives and beautiful natural wonders that you and your family will never forget.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for another magical escape, Ireland offers something for everyone – from colourful harbour towns to hidden waterfalls, gorgeous gardens and historic landmarks. So pack your walking shoes, charge your camera, and prepare to fall in love with these stunning places in Ireland you'll want to photograph (and visit again!).
Image by Klaus Hausmann from Pixabay
1. Kinsale, County Cork – A Colourful Coastal Gem
Often described as one of the prettiest towns in Ireland, Kinsale is a vibrant-painted haven on the southern coast. Think winding lanes, flower-adorned shopfronts, cosy cafés and a stunning harbour that catches the golden evening light.
Perfect for families, Kinsale offers:
Charles Fort, an impressive star-shaped fort with views across the sea
Gorgeous walks along Scilly Walk and Compass Hill
Delicious bites from The Lemon Leaf Café and Fishy Fishy Restaurant
Stunning cliff views from The Old Head of Kinsale
More info: Visit Kinsale
2. The Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry – Wild, Wonderous and Whimsical
If you're after wild Atlantic views, golden beaches, and charming villages, Dingle Peninsula is a must. This area is a haven for scenic drives, especially the Slea Head Drive, one of the most beautiful coastal routes in the world.
Highlights include:
The colourful town of Dingle itself – home to artisan shops and award-winning ice cream from Murphy’s
Coumeenoole Beach – perfect for a barefoot walk with the kids
Gallarus Oratory, an early Christian church that looks like something from a Tolkien tale
Dunquin Pier, a gorgeous spot looking out to the Blasket Islands
More info: Wild Atlantic Way - Dingle
3. Glendalough, County Wicklow – Ireland’s Valley of Serenity
For lovers of peace, nature, and a touch of mysticism, Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains is pure magic. It's ideal for family hikes, buggy-friendly lakeside paths and gentle woodland trails.
Don’t miss:
The iconic Round Tower and ancient monastic site
A walk around the Upper Lake – especially in autumn
Family picnics on the grassy meadows beside the water
A look at the beautiful cascading waterfalls
Plan your visit: Wicklow Mountains National Park
4. Adare, County Limerick – Ireland’s Prettiest Village
Adare is often called the prettiest village in Ireland, and once you stroll down Adare’s thatched-cottage lined main street, you’ll understand why.
Top family-friendly things to do:
Enjoy a walk in Adare Park with its fairy-tale bridge
Explore the grounds of Adare Manor (even if you're not staying there – though it’s a dream hotel if you are!)
Visit the nearby Curraghchase Forest Park for a nature-filled day out
Read more: Adare Village
5. Kylemore Abbey, County Galway – A Lakeside Castle Dream
Tucked into the lush Connemara landscape, Kylemore Abbey looks like a scene from a storybook. With its romantic history, lakeside views and Victorian walled gardens, it’s one of the most photogenic places in all of Ireland.
Families will love:
Visiting the miniature cathedral known as the Gothic Church
Running through the garden paths
Learning about the Benedictine nuns who still live there today
Visiting the stunning walled gardens and maybe spotting some pretty Connemara ponies
Plan your visit: Kylemore Abbey
Image by Sharon Fisher from Pixabay
6. Achill Island, County Mayo – Rugged Beauty and Hidden Beaches
Connected to the mainland by a bridge, Achill Island is wild, wonderful, and perfect for a slower pace of travel. The drive alone is worth the trip – think sea cliffs, sheep-strewn hills, and soft, sandy shores.
Must-see spots:
Keem Bay – a postcard-perfect beach
Slievemore Deserted Village – haunting and beautiful
Atlantic Drive – for panoramic views and roadside photo stops
Plan your adventure: Visit Achill
7. Powerscourt Estate, County Wicklow – Gardens That Will Take Your Breath Away
Just a short drive from Dublin, Powerscourt Estate is a floral fantasyland. It’s one of the best family day trips from the capital, especially in spring and summer when the blooms are in full show.
Things to enjoy:
The award-winning Powerscourt Gardens - voted one of the World's Top 10 Gardens
A peek inside the charming Powerscourt House
Nearby Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland’s highest waterfall
Plan your visit: Powerscourt Estate
Planning Your Trip to Ireland – Practical Tips for Travelling Families
When to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May–September) offers the best weather and longer days. May and September usually have the best weather.
Getting Around: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore hidden gems and rural areas.
Where to Stay: Look for family-friendly B&Bs, Airbnbs, or charming country hotels. Many spots like Kinsale and Dingle offer boutique stays that welcome little explorers.
Family Travel Essentials: Pack raincoats, sturdy walking shoes, snacks for long drives and a travel journal to capture the magic.
There’s something truly enchanting about Ireland and this is coming from someone who has lived here all her life and is yet to tire from it! It’s not just the landscapes – although they’ll leave you breathless – but the warmth, the friendliness and the feeling that you’ve stepped into a place where time slows down just enough to let the moments really matter.
Whether you're strolling through the storybook streets of Adare or standing on a clifftop watching the Atlantic crash below, Ireland will leave an imprint on your heart. And these prettiest places in Ireland are just the beginning.
For more family-friendly travel guides and dreamy day trip inspiration, be sure to follow along on Instagram and Pinterest – or visit my Ireland section for lots more travel and days out inspiration!
