It’s decided: this year you’re off to Ireland! But the key question remains: will you go to Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland? The island of Ireland is divided into 2 distinct territories, each with its own geopolitical considerations, cultures and landscapes. Both offer a mosaic of cultures, landscapes and histories.
In other words, it’s not always easy for a traveler to choose between the two!
In order to guide you to your future destination, this article aims to reveal the differences between the two territories, their advantages, their disadvantages… etc. What’s up? Between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland… it’s time to make your choice!
We might as well start with some geographical considerations: the Republic of Ireland is the largest territory on the island of Ireland. With its 26 counties, the country occupies almost 2/3 of the island.
As for Northern Ireland, it’s much smaller: 6 counties, on a reduced surface area.
In other words, there’s more to see in the Republic of Ireland than in Northern Ireland: it’s a question of surface area!
A traditional Irish music session in an Irish pub – © Stephen Power – Tourism Ireland
To better understand these “two Irlands”, we need to go back in time. For many centuries, the island of Ireland was united as a single entity. Unfortunately, centuries of colonial invasions eventually separated them: British settlers took over the whole island in the Middle Ages, before restoring independence to the south in the 20th century, and retaining Northern Ireland as a dominion.
In other words, the island of Ireland has a common cultural foundation… However, the British presence in the north has left its mark on this culture.
The two Irelands share the same attachment to their common origins. They all celebrate Gaelic culture, Irish music and a taste for generous gastronomy that goes straight to the heart of the matter.
However, Northern Ireland combines its attachment to Irish traditions with British influences… and that’s where we see some notable differences.
This is particularly evident in terms of religion (there are many Protestants in Northern Ireland, while the Republic of Ireland is predominantly Catholic), but also in terms of currency (the pound sterling in Northern Ireland, the euro in the Republic of Ireland).
In addition, Northern Ireland, because it belongs to the United Kingdom, is no longer part of the European Union, unlike its neighbor.
Last but not least, Northern Ireland continues to be plagued by palpable tensions over its geopolitics. It is exposed to inter-communal tensions between Republican and Loyalist Northern Irish. (Nothing dangerous for tourists, as long as they avoid sensitive neighborhoods used to tensions).
The Republic of Ireland has been completely pacified. There is no such tension in the region, thanks to its independence.
The Conor Pass – © Jürgen Hamann
If you’re hoping we’ll decide in favor of the beauty of the sights in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland, you should know that’s impossible. Each territory has its own exceptional places, and it would be hard to argue in favor of one or the other.
Nevertheless, it’s fair to say that the Republic of Ireland is renowned for its spectacular scenery, ranging from wild open spaces to towering cliffs and lush valleys. After all, this is where you’ll find the famous Wild Atlantic Way, a 2,500km coastal path along the Atlantic Ocean… and it’s also where you’ll find some of the most beautiful, wild and historic places on the island of Ireland! Lighthouses, castles, museums, distilleries, breweries… not to mention views of the Irish countryside that will make you feel very small!
Dunluce Castle – © Artur
Add to this the presence of no less than 7 national parks in the area: Connemara National Park, Killarney National Park, etc. The country offers a multitude of playgrounds for lovers of wilderness and outdoor activities! Hiking, fishing, water sports… There’s something for every taste and every age!
As for Northern Ireland, it’s a perfect match for the Republic of Ireland!
It’s just as much a province renowned for its scenery and tourist activities as its neighbor. With its seafront, it offers breathtaking cliffs, beaches and wild views. Add to that ruined castles, such as the famous Dunluce Castle, and you’ll understand how the British province is just as interesting!
The Ha’Penny bridge in Dublin – © Madrugada Verde-
If you’re more into urban discovery, each territory has its own exciting cities.
There are Dublin, Cork and Galway in the Republic of Ireland, and Belfast and Derry in Northern Ireland.
Each has its own history and atmosphere. But one thing connects them all: they all seem to be on a human scale! Whether you’re in Dublin or Belfast, you feel like you’re in a big village. The Irish are extremely hospitable, and there’s plenty to do on site: museums, breweries, parks, distilleries… there’s something for everyone!
What’s more, these towns offer the chance to visit historic Irish pubs, some of which are centuries old: the perfect introduction to Irish craic!
In conclusion, both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are exciting places to explore. Unless you have the opportunity to visit them both on the same trip, each is still a fascinating place to explore.
The Republic of Ireland is certainly richer in opportunities than Northern Ireland, due to its size. It also takes longer to get around.
For the rest, the two Irelands have a common base, but Northern Ireland’s past history has generated some important specificities to take into account, such as the currency and the tensions observed within certain community districts. Northern Ireland may be more complex to understand than the Republic of Ireland, but it’s just as exciting to discover!
