The best 10 cities and towns to consider moving to in Ireland

Located in the north west of Europe, Ireland is a beautiful country offering many types of landscape: you can find yourself on cliffs with incredible views of the sea and ocean but also in the rolling countryside with lush vegetation. Ireland is also a country with friendly and happy locals who like to go out and socialise.Also, this country has a rich history, known for its Celtic culture, you will find all its fascinating traditions and customs. It’s no wonder that many people dream of moving to this country.

However, with so many cities and towns to choose from in Ireland. From the vibrant city of Dublin to the picturesque town of Killarney, each of these places has its unique charm and appeal. It can be overwhelming to decide where to settle down. To help you out, we have compiled a list of the top 10 cities and towns to consider moving to in Ireland, including its history, culture, and amenities.

So, whether you’re planning to relocate for work, study, or simply a change of scenery, this blog is for you.

DUBLIN

Population :  1,451,000

Dublin is the capital city of Ireland and is home to over 1.4 million people. It’s a bustling metropolis with a thriving economy and plenty of job opportunities. Dublin is also known for its rich history and culture, with numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural events taking place throughout the year.

With excellent transport links, including an international airport, Dublin is an ideal location for anyone looking to live in a vibrant, cosmopolitan city.

You can also discover many activities and places to visit around Dublin. For example for the more sporty, Howth cliff offers you a nice walk with 5 different routes and a beautiful view of the sea. For those who like nature and animals, it is possible to access the Phoenix Park with buses from the city center.

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CORK

Population : 581,231

Cork is Ireland’s second-largest city, located in the south of the country. It’s a friendly and welcoming city, with a strong sense of community. Cork is known for its food scene, with many great restaurants, cafes, and food markets. The city is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy the outdoors.

The West coast is ideal for getaways. Access from Cork city, Cork Airport and Ferryport is really easy. You can go to this area by car, taxi or bus and it is around 53 miles from Cork airport, 55 miles from Cork city and 60 miles from Cork ferry port to get to Inish Beg.

Once there, you can do several activities such as kayaking, walking on Inchydoney beach or even visiting the keeper’s house at Mizen Head by walking on the bridge. You will have the opportunity to observe sharks and humpback whales in the ocean.

GALWAY

Population : 83,456

Galway is a small, vibrant city located on the west coast. It’s known for its lively arts and music scene, with many festivals and events taking place all year-round. Galway is also home to beautiful beaches, parks, and countryside, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Being in Galway you can also easily get to the cliffs of Moher by car (90min). You can also use the bus but this alternative is not fast because there are frequent stops along the way, you can expect it to last about 3 hours. For the more sporty, the Wild Atlantic Way is really nice, by bike or on foot.

The Aran islands are easily accessible from Galway. You just have to take the ferry from Galway and you are there! It takes about an hour and a half to get to Inis Mor.

LIMERICK

Population : 205 444

Limerick is a historic city located in the midwest of Ireland. It’s a friendly and welcoming city with a rich cultural heritage, with many historic buildings and landmarks. You can also find in Limerick many restaurants and cafes, as well as a thriving arts scene.

This city is on The River Shannon, so you can go for a walk along it and enjoy Arthur’s Quay Park. If you are planning to go to Limerick, this is also a good opportunity to see King John’s Castle or even to visit Lough Gur Visitor Centre.

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KILLARNEY

Population : 14,504

Killarney is a beautiful town located in County Kerry, in the southwest of Ireland. It’s a very popular tourist destination, known for its stunning scenery, including the famous Ring of Kerry. Killarney has many great restaurants, pubs, and cafes, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy good food and drink.

Around Killarney, you can enjoy Killarney National Park, it is easy to go there from Killarney city, just take bus 300 or 40.

As far as monuments are concerned, Muckross House is nice to visit. You can also stroll through the gardens and discover the traditional farms.

WATERFORD

Population : 53,504

Waterford is a small city located in the sunny southeast of Ireland and the oldest  city in the country. It’s a historic city with a rich cultural heritage, including many historic buildings and landmarks. This city is on the River Suir and it is very nice to take a walk along it. You can also find many restaurants, cafes and bars along the way.

Several attractions are offered in this city like visiting Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum or even Bishop’s Palace. If you get out of the city, there are walks and hikes to do like Comeragh Drive or Coumshingaun Lough.

KILKENNY

Population : 26,512

Kilkenny is a small city located in the southeast of Ireland. It’s a charming and picturesque city, known for its historic buildings, including Kilkenny Castle. There are of course very nice cafes and restaurants with a good atmosphere.

Things to do in Kilkenny? Visit Kilkenny Castle that was built in 1195, Medieval Mile Museum or even The Black Abbey.

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WESTPORT

Population : 6,198

Located in County Mayo, in the west of Ireland, Westport is a small town known for its stunning scenery, including Croagh Patrick and Clew Bay. Bars and restaurants are very charming, it is ideal to meet your friends for a drink.

Concerning things to do in Westport, Westport House and Gardens is a good historic site to visit. It is possible to go for a horse ride at Carrowholly Stables or to go for a walk at Wild Nephin National Park.

DINGLE

Population : 2,050

Dingle is a small town located on the Dingle Peninsula, in the southwest of Ireland. It is a well-known tourist destination, known for its stunning scenery, including the famous Slea Head Drive.

In this town, it is nice to visit Gallarus Oratory or even Dingle Oceanworld. You can also enjoy the beautiful beaches overlooking the ocean like Coumeenoole Beach, Clogher Strand Beach or Ventry Beach. But you can simply stroll through the colorful little streets and around the harbor.

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KINSALE

Population : 5,281

Kinsale is a town located on the south coast of Ireland, in County Cork. Known for its beautiful harbor and brightly colored buildings, Kinsale has a long history as a fishing and trading port. It is also a town with a vibrant arts and culture scene, with many galleries, festivals, and events taking place throughout the year.

You can visit Charles Fort, a beautiful historic site and for outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports, as well as several nearby golf courses.

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