6 Alternative Things To See as an International Student in Ireland

Studying your Masters or PhD in Ireland is an opportunity to gain a world-recognised postgraduate degree at a top-ranked university – but it’s also a chance to experience the Irish culture and visit the sights! You’ve probably heard of the Guiness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, the National Leprechaun Museum and the Giant’s Causeway (although technically that’s Northern Ireland). These are all great things to tick off you list, but there are lots of other cultural and natural attractions that the country has to offer!

To fill up your weekends, holidays, or odd days off from lectures, we’ve listed six alternative things you should see as an international student in Ireland.

#1 Killarney National Park

Ireland’s first ever national park and protected UNESCO site, Killarney National Park covers over 100 square kilometres. Experience breath-taking views of forestland, mountain peaks and the Lakes of Killarney, and catch a glimpse of Ireland’s native red deer!

Neighbouring town Killarney has transport links to all of the major cities in Ireland and can be reached in around two hours from student hotspots Cork and Limerick. Nothing better than the outdoors to help you tackle that problematic equation or inspire your next piece of writing.

#2 The Little Museum of Dublin

For the inquisitive researchers among you, the Little Museum of Dublin boasts over 5,000 quirky and unique artefacts showcasing the city’s history, which have been donated by members of the public since 2011.

Among them are the lectern used by John F. Kennedy during his 1963 visit to Ireland, a first edition of James Joyce’s famous Ulysses and memorabilia donated by members of Dublin’s own U2.

#3 Smithfield Chimney

This whiskey distillery chimney turned observation tower is a 10 minute walk from Dublin’s centre and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The 200-stair climb is well worth it for the cityscape you’ll see from the top – plus, tickets are just €5!

#4 Blackrock Castle

For the historians, take a trip to Blackrock Castle, a historic fortification just outside of Cork city centre. The fortress was built during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I to repel seaborne invaders. It now functions as an observatory, restaurant and visitor’s centre boasting gorgeous views over the River Lee (with pirates now much less likely to ruin your afternoon).

#5 Limerick Milk Market

If you want to sample some of Ireland’s best known foods, look no further than Limerick’s famous Milk Market. One of Ireland’s oldest open-air food markets, you’ll be welcomed to a vast selection of locally produced foods and handcrafted gifts.

Make sure you chomp down on some local soda bread, Irish stew and colcannon (mashed potato with cabbage) while you’re there (and get the recipes to cook back at your student accommodation!). The market is sheltered under a huge canopy, meaning it remains open all year round. It is also doubles as an entertainment venue dubbed The Big Top, which has hosted world-famous artists including Sinead O’Connor and Calvin Harris.

#6 Brigit’s Celtic Garden

A beautiful wildlife garden full of historic intrigue, Brigit’s Celtic Garden is themed around the four ancient Celtic seasonal festivals, located just outside of Galway. Explore over 11 acres of woodland and wildflower meadows and discover a Neolithic roundhouse and Ireland’s largest calendar sundial.