DoChara.com is an independent guide to Ireland, providing unbiased information, advice and tips for anyone who plans to travel around Ireland. The sort of things a friend might tell you.

Over 700 articles cover the good, the bad and the indifferent, the must-see places and best events, hidden gems and tourist traps, where to find value and how to avoid being ripped off.

What to See & Do

Casita Garinish Island

Ilnacullin (Garinish Island)

A lush, green garden full of surprises, Garinish is on an Island in the Gulf Stream off the coast of Cork.

Brú na Bóinne

The cluster of ancient structures around Bru na Boinne are designated as a World Heritage Site pre-date the pyramids and are extremely sophisticated in their construction.

Westport House in the Evening

Westport House and Estate

An interesting old house in a beautiful location with Clew Bay on one side and a serenely lovely lake on the other.

Bunratty Castle

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

Bunratty is a large park, which in addition to the Castle has many reconstructed rural Irish dwellings and a complete 19th century village.

Freshwater Swimming in Ireland

Best Places for Freshwater Swimming in Ireland

Mostly when you think of swimming outdoors it's the sea you imagine, but there are lakes in Ireland where it's possible to swim, and those on the map below are...

Delphi Activity Centre

Delphi Adventure centre is located in one of the most remote and beautiful parts of Ireland and provides a range of water sports and mountain activities for both adults and...

Touring Ireland

The Absolutely Essential Heritage Card

If you are touring Ireland for more than a couple of days, this card will certainly save you money, possibly quite a lot of money!

Shannon to Galway

Off the Motorway: Shannon to Galway

An easy and interesting tour that is perfect for those arriving in Shannon and spending their first night in Galway.

A Walk around James Joyce’s Dublin

This walk takes you on a stroll around Dublin to places associated with James Joyce or with characters from his books or short stories.

A Guide to Touring Ireland with Kids

Children are welcomed almost everywhere in Ireland, but touring anywhere as a family can have its moments!

Aran Knitwear

Aran sweaters, hats and scarves are a popular purchase in Ireland, with their fascinating history and intricate patterns.

Packing for Ireland

It's tempting to bring nothing but waterproof gear when packing for a trip to Ireland, but the sun does shine sometimes - honestly!

Upcoming events in Ireland

Lisdoonvarna Matchmaker Festival

Tuesday, September 1st - Wednesday, September 30th 2026

Non stop merrymaking for an entire month with the chance of meeting your life partner thrown in - who could resist? Well, lots of people.

Cork Folk Festival

Tuesday, September 8th - Sunday, October 11th 2026

A feast of folk music and dance events of all kinds to more than 40 venues, including an outdoor ceili with more than 10.000 dancers.

Clifden Arts Festival

Thursday, September 17th - Sunday, September 27th 2026

With music, song, dance, drama, comedy, poetry, readings and concerts as well as an always imaginative and strong children's programme, the festival has something for everyone.

New Ross Piano Festival

Wednesday, September 23rd - Sunday, September 27th 2026

The New Ross Piano Festival continues to attract some of the most interesting and talented pianists on the International circuit for a feast of music that draws ever larger crowds.

Ireland & the Irish

Tracing Your Irish Roots

It's often said that people are Ireland's most important export. Millions of people left their homes here to seek a better life in another country.

Most Popular Irish Names 2005 vs 2025

Fashions in names come and go and while Ireland was once full of Johns and Marys, that's all changed. The twenty years between 2005 & 2025 show just how fast.

History of Irish Food

The food people ate in the past in Ireland has always been closely interwoven with other aspects of our history, particularly so because for a signigicant chunk of our history...

Vikings

The Vikings in Ireland: 800AD–1160

While not remembered fondly in Ireland, as seafarers, merchants and traders the Vikings had much to teach the Irish and left a lasting legacy.

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