Castles
Travel Guide

Castles in Ireland

Vue aérienne du Dunluce Castle - © kilhan
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Castles : Must-See Attractions

clifden castle 2

Clifden Castle

Lost in the midst of green coastal countryside lies a ruined castle with an indescribable atmosphere!
3.35/5 (757 votes)
Le Bunratty castle - © robnaw

Bunratty Castle

A perfectly preserved castle! Explore its banquet halls, chambers and kitchens!
4.10/5 (540 votes)
blarney castle

Blarney Castle

A must-see castle, famous for its "stone of eloquence"! A must-see!
3.54/5 (404 votes)
Belfast Castle - © kilhan

Belfast Castle

Take in views over the city of Belfast from Cave Hill, the hill where Belfast Castle was built!
3.72/5 (238 votes)
howth castle 1

Howth Castle

A perfectly preserved 14th-century castle overlooking Dublin Bay.
3.67/5 (225 votes)
cahir castle

Cahir Castle

Here's a typical Anglo-Norman fortified castle that's well worth a visit!
4.04/5 (203 votes)
donegal castle 1

Donegal Castle

An iconic Irish castle dating from the 15th century. A must-see if you love medieval Irish history!
3.65/5 (152 votes)
Le Dublin castle - © Kit Leong

Dublin Castle

Located in the heart of the city centre, Dublin Castle is an unmissable landmark in the Irish capital.
3.74/5 (109 votes)

Castles

What would Ireland be without its mythical castles, bearers of indescribable charm? Whether intact or in ruins, they are all steeped in mystery and history… Seats, battles, coronations, turf wars – discover what lies behind these timeworn buildings. Find out more about them here!

Castles in Ireland

More than 3,000 Irish castles scattered all over the country!

Castles have a special place in Irish history… Remains of great historical value, they alone evoke the many centuries of conflict with the Kingdom of England. Whatever their condition, they all have their own charm and history. Seats, battles, victories, defeats… The episodes are many and exciting! They’ll reveal the country’s medieval past in all its splendor, between Anglo-Irish conflict, clan warfare and bitter power struggles…

Not to mention the architectural beauty: Ireland’s castles are home to many wonders! It has to be said that the country has benefited from multiple influences in the construction of its castles. The Viking and Anglo-Norman presence gradually shaped the architecture of several thousand forts.

There are over 3,000 castles throughout Ireland (including Northern Ireland). Most of them are available free of charge. For the others, a guide will be happy to show you the sites from every angle! (All for between €5 and €15 maximum). Take care when exploring them from the inside: some ruined castles are impassable and even dangerous! We advise you to admire them from a distance and not to venture out: your safety is paramount, as is the protection of Ireland’s historic heritage!

Note that some buildings may also be located on private property. Don’t hesitate to consult our guide before venturing out!