Top 5 Places to Visit in Ireland this Summer

5. Cork City

This beautiful city in the South of Ireland is often referred to by locals as "The Real Capital". Cork city has much to offer to visitors, it is a lively city full of culture and music. There is always a nice atmosphere around the city. For those looking for retail therapy, Cork city has many shops and shopping arcades with both high-end and budget shops. The nightlife is always lively, there are countless bars throughout the city and a number of Nightclubs, the most popular being Havana Browns and Gorbys.

4. Dingle

The beautiful seaside town of Dingle in county Kerry has long been a tourist favourite in summer time. With many festivals and events such as the Dingle adventure race, there is always plenty to keep you busy in the town. Dingle has a very famous resident, Fungi the bottlenose Dolphin, a solitary male Dolphin who took up residence in Dingle harbour many years ago. Local fisherman and boat-owners offer daily tours to see Fungi. The OceanWorld Aquarium also offers amazing family entertainment at a reasonable cost and contains a wide variety of marine life.

3. Galway City

One of the most lively cities in Ireland. Galway offers an amazing array of nightlife, walk into any of the many bars in the city and it is likely you will encounter lively, traditional music. Or covers of modern songs being performed by talented local artists. Galway also offers some of the best dining experiences in the country, with many restaurants serving food for all tastes. If it's to your liking, you can take a day trip to the Connemara National Park, one of Ireland's most beautiful landscapes. Galway bay offers a spectacular backdrop to the city.

2. West Clare (Loop Head)

Named by the Irish times newspaper as "the best place to visit in Ireland". Loop Head takes second place on my list. It is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil getaway. The scenery in this area of Ireland is spectacular. Towns like Kilkee offer a peaceful base to explore the rest of this region. Just a stones throw from the Burren and Cliffs Of Moher, daytrips to either are easy to undertake. This is also a perfect location for those interested in a fishing holiday.

1. Killarney

Killarney in County Kerry has long been one of the most popular destinations outside of Dublin City and is the perfect tourist town. One can take in the traditional Irish ways, from music to story telling and dancing to farming. Killarney also has a bustling nightlife to suit all tastes, from live bands to nightclubs and cocktail bars. The town is also an ideal base for exploring the Ring Of Kerry. The lakes of Killarney and the National Park are a must see on your trip to Killarney and, for those of you who are interested in the supernatural, there is a  spectacularly spooky Ghost Tour available. For more information on Killarney click here.