Why St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

Luck of the Irish

Every year, cities around the world throw on their green, pour the Guinness, and call it a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. But nothing compares to being in Ireland for the holiday.

If you’re thinking of taking a trip to Ireland, here is one big tip: don’t stop at Dublin. Yes, the capital is lively and worth visiting but if you only explore Dublin, you’re missing the soul of the country. Two or three days there is plenty. Then, get out into the countryside, where the stories run deeper and the scenery opens wide. Sure, you’ll want to visit major sites like the Blarney Stone, the Cliffs of Moher, or the Giant’s Causeway but to really feel Ireland, it’s the lesser-known experiences that leave the biggest impression.

Here are five unforgettable ways to experience Ireland—drawn directly from the Irish Adventure itinerary—but that you might not have known were part of the journey.

Temple Bar District in Dublin

1. Tour the Dunbrody Famine Ship

This full-scale replica of a 19th-century emigrant vessel offers a moving glimpse into what Irish families endured during the famine. Located in New Ross, it’s more than a museum—it’s a living reminder of survival and history.

2. Walk the Streets of Cobh, the Titanic’s Last Port

Cobh is a picturesque harbor town with a heavy past. As the Titanic’s final port of call and a key emigration hub, its guided walking tours bring personal stories and maritime history to life in a way that sticks with you.

3. Ferry Across the River Shannon

Rather than drive around, this itinerary includes a peaceful ferry ride across Ireland’s longest river. It’s a small but scenic detour that gives you a different perspective on the Irish landscape—and a bit of calm between destinations.

4. Visit a Working Sheep Farm in the Mountains

Outside of Donegal, you’ll get to see a real working farm in action, complete with a sheepdog demonstration. This isn’t a staged show—it’s an honest look at rural Irish life, and a highlight for many travelers.

5. Enjoy a Traditional Dinner at the Glyde Inn

For your farewell, you’ll sit down to dinner at the Glyde Inn, complete with live Irish music and regional specialties. It’s not just a meal—it’s an invitation to enjoy Ireland the way locals do: with good food, good music, and good company.

Sheep Hearding in Ireland

While St. Patrick’s Day brings extra energy and celebration, the beauty of Ireland is that you can experience these moments all year long. The mist still rolls in over the hills, the pubs still welcome you in with music and stories, and the countryside remains just as inviting in June as it is in March. That said, if you're going to be in Dublin for St. Patrick’s Day—even for just a couple of days—it’s absolutely worth it. The festival atmosphere, the pride of the people, and the way the whole city comes alive is something you’ll never forget.

Working with a travel advisor who specializes in immersive, small-group travel makes all the difference. These kinds of experiences—quiet hikes, local storytellers, off-the-map moments—don’t just fall into place on their own. They take insider knowledge, strong local connections, and a thoughtful hand to bring them together in a way that feels personal, not packaged.