County Clare Travel Guide

Ireland

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park which includes heritage elements, a house and heritage architecture
County Clare
Craggaunowen which includes forests
County Clare
County Clare

Find cosy towns and Stone Age monuments scattered throughout this green-hilled county bound by craggy Atlantic Coast, a serpentine river and a lake.

With its staggering natural beauty and varied landscapes, it’s easy to see why County Clare has been inhabited and revered since the Neolithic era. Discover megalithic tombs and medieval churches sheltered by verdant valleys and limestone uplands. The towering cliffs and offshore rock formations are among Ireland’s most-visited attractions and are interwoven with the region’s history and cultural heritage. Experience the rich tradition of Irish music in Clare’s historic pubs or attend one of the county’s numerous music festivals.

Doolin is a widely spread village on the Atlantic Coast that looks out onto the craggy Aran Islands. Board a sightseeing boat tour from the town’s harbour to take in exceptional views of the islands and the nearby Cliffs of MoherOpens in a new window. Get a different perspective from the towering cliff tops and look out over Galway Bay from the 19th-century structure of O’Brien’s Tower.

Inland, you’ll find the immense karst landscape of the BurrenOpens in a new window. Explore the natural limestone pavement to see rare flora growing within the cracks and fissures. You might see some of the region’s unique butterflies amid the orchids and alpine wildflowers. See some of the Burren’s ancient monuments, such as the Neolithic Poulnabrone Dolmen, the ancient churches at Oughtmama and Corcomroe Abbey.

Learn about the county’s medieval history in the riverside town of Shannon. Visit the 15th-century Bunratty Castle & Folk ParkOpens in a new window and experience a medieval-style banquet. Travel east along Clare’s riverside border to reach the harbour village of Mountshannon on the shores of Lough Derg. This large lake is a popular spot for boating and also contains the intriguing Inis Cealtra, or Holy Island. To the west, the Loop Head peninsula holds several charming villages along its Atlantic and estuarine coasts.

Fly into Clare’s major airport outside of Shannon and get around the county via rented car or bus. A popular tourist route is the Wild Atlantic Way, which follows the county’s stunning coast. County Clare’s enduring traditions and historic landmarks ensure an unforgettable experience.

Popular cities in County Clare

Craggaunowen showing a house, a small town or village and heritage elements
Ennis
Known for Bars, Live music and Entertainment
Explore Ennis: its live music, bars, golf and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Craggaunowen
  • Ennis Friary
  • Abbey Street
The Burren featuring tranquil scenes and wild flowers
Ballyvaughan
Known for Small town, Countryside and Castle
Trip time! Discover the hiking, countryside and castle in romantic Ballyvaughan.

Reasons to visit

  • Aillwee Cave
  • Poulnabrone Dolmen
  • Caherconnell Stone Fort
Cliffs of Moher featuring general coastal views and rocky coastline
Liscannor
Known for Small town, Seafood and Ferries and boats
Escape to quaint Liscannor! Enjoy its countryside, island views and golf.

Reasons to visit

  • Cliffs of Moher
Doolin
Doolin
Known for Islands, Excursions and Boating
Romantic Doolin awaits: its boating, golf, countryside and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Doolin Cave
Kilkee
Kilkee
Known for Golf, Theme parks and Sandy beaches
Experience the golf, theme park and beaches in Kilkee!

Reasons to visit

  • Kilkee Beach
Lahinch
Lahinch
Known for Golf, Sea and Islands
Relaxing Lahinch awaits: its oceanfront, sightseeing, university life and more!