Things to Do in Ireland: 12 Best Spots for Amazing Photos

Ireland’s emerald landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and historic charm make it a photographer’s paradise. Whether you’re seeking ancient castles, rugged cliffs, or vibrant cityscapes, the things to do in Ireland offer endless opportunities to capture breathtaking shots. Here’s your complete guide to the 12 most photogenic destinations across the Emerald Isle.

1. Cliffs of Moher – Nature’s Dramatic Masterpiece

The Cliffs of Moher stand as Ireland’s most iconic natural wonder, rising 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. When you join the From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Burren & Galway City Day Tour, you’ll witness one of the most photographed landscapes in Europe. The best shots come during golden hour, when the limestone cliffs glow against the crashing waves below. Don’t forget to capture the unique Burren landscape on the same tour – its moon-like terrain offers otherworldly photography opportunities.

Photography tip: Position yourself at O’Brien’s Tower for panoramic shots, or venture to the cliff edges for dramatic close-ups of the layered rock formations.

2. Dublin Castle – Medieval Grandeur in the Heart of the City

Your Dublin: Book of Kells, Dublin Castle and Christ Church Tour provides access to one of Ireland’s most significant historical sites. Dublin Castle’s colorful facade and medieval architecture create stunning contrast against Dublin’s modern skyline. The State Apartments offer ornate interiors perfect for detail shots, while the castle’s courtyard provides excellent wide-angle opportunities.

Photography tip: Capture the castle’s reflection in puddles after rain, or shoot during blue hour when the ancient stones are beautifully illuminated.

3. Wicklow Mountains – Ireland’s Garden County

Known as the “Garden of Ireland,” the Wicklow Mountains offer some of the country’s most diverse landscapes. The From Dublin: Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Kilkenny Tour takes you through rolling hills, pristine lakes, and ancient monastic ruins. Glendalough’s twin lakes surrounded by mountains create mirror-like reflections that are pure photography gold.

Photography tip: Visit early morning for mist-shrouded mountain scenes, and don’t miss the ancient round tower at Glendalough for striking architectural shots.

4. Guinness Storehouse – Industrial Beauty Meets Irish Culture

The Dublin: Guinness Storehouse isn’t just about beer – it’s an architectural marvel. The building’s industrial design, combined with modern exhibits, offers unique urban photography opportunities. The gravity bar provides 360-degree views of Dublin, perfect for cityscape photography at sunset.

Photography tip: Capture the iconic Guinness logo against Dublin’s skyline, or focus on the intricate brewing equipment for industrial-style shots.

5. Jameson Distillery – Historic Craftsmanship

Your Dublin: Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour with Tastings reveals the artistic beauty of traditional whiskey-making. The copper stills, aged wooden barrels, and vintage machinery create compelling subjects for detail photography. The distillery’s brick architecture and atmospheric lighting provide excellent opportunities for moody, industrial shots.

Photography tip: Use the warm, amber lighting to your advantage, and capture steam rising from the distillation process for dynamic action shots.

6. Dublin’s Hidden Gems – Hop-on Hop-off Discoveries

The Dublin: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour reveals countless photogenic spots throughout the city. From the colorful doors of Georgian Dublin to the modern architecture of Temple Bar, you’ll discover endless street photography opportunities. Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Phoenix Park each offer unique architectural and landscape shots.

Photography tip: Focus on Dublin’s famous colorful doors, street art in Temple Bar, and the contrast between old and new architecture.

7. Howth Village – Coastal Charm

The From Dublin: Half-Day Guided Coastal Tour to Howth Village showcases Ireland’s stunning coastline. Howth Head offers dramatic cliff walks with panoramic views over Dublin Bay. The charming fishing village below provides excellent opportunities for maritime photography, with colorful boats bobbing in the harbor.

Photography tip: Capture the lighthouse at sunset, or photograph the seals that often bask on the harbor rocks.

8. Connemara – Wild Atlantic Beauty

Your From Galway: Connemara and Cong Tour explores Ireland’s most rugged landscapes. Connemara’s dramatic mountains, pristine lakes, and traditional thatched cottages create quintessentially Irish scenes. The village of Cong, famous as a filming location, offers charming stone buildings and riverside shots.

Photography tip: Use the ever-changing light to capture Connemara’s moody atmosphere, and photograph traditional Irish cottages against mountain backdrops.

9. Book of Kells – Ancient Artistry

The Dublin: Fast-Track Book of Kells & Dublin Castle Tour provides access to one of the world’s most beautiful illuminated manuscripts. While photography of the book itself is restricted, Trinity College’s Long Room Library offers breathtaking architectural photography opportunities with its soaring arches and endless book-lined shelves.

Photography tip: Focus on the library’s symmetrical arches and use leading lines to draw viewers into your shots.

10. Ring of Kerry – Scenic Splendor

The From Cork: Ring of Kerry Day Trip takes you along one of Ireland’s most scenic drives. This route offers diverse photography opportunities, from rugged coastlines to charming villages. Killarney National Park’s lakes and mountains provide stunning landscape shots, while traditional Irish farms offer cultural photography opportunities.

Photography tip: Stop frequently for roadside shots, and capture the contrast between ancient stone walls and modern landscapes.

11. Game of Thrones Locations – Fantasy Brought to Life

Your From Dublin: Game of Thrones Studio Tour with Coach Transfer reveals the real Irish locations that brought Westeros to life. These dramatic landscapes, from coastal caves to ancient forests, offer otherworldly photography opportunities that blend fantasy with Ireland’s natural beauty.

Photography tip: Recreate iconic scenes from the show, or focus on the natural beauty that made these locations perfect for fantasy filming.

12. Giant’s Causeway – Geological Wonder

The Dublin: Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast Tour showcases Northern Ireland’s most famous natural attraction. The Giant’s Causeway’s hexagonal basalt columns create unique geometric patterns perfect for abstract photography. The Dark Hedges’ intertwining beech trees form natural tunnels that are incredibly photogenic.

Photography tip: Visit during different light conditions to capture the causeway’s varying moods, from dramatic storm light to golden hour warmth.

Planning Your Irish Photography Adventure

When exploring these incredible things to do in Ireland, remember to pack weather-appropriate gear. Ireland’s changeable weather can actually enhance your photos – dramatic clouds and sudden rainbows often create the most memorable shots.

Each of these tours and attractions offers unique photographic opportunities, from ancient history to natural wonders. Whether you’re capturing the urban energy of Dublin or the wild beauty of the Atlantic coast, Ireland’s diverse landscapes ensure your camera will never be idle.

Your Irish photography journey awaits – start planning your adventure to these 12 spectacular locations and prepare to capture the magic of the Emerald Isle!