As you might have already guessed, I’m a big fan of castles and palaces. This is one reason why I was so excited to visit Ireland. Ireland is home to some of the oldest medieval castles in the world. We saw so many beautiful castles on our road trip through southern Ireland. If you love castles as much as I do – you have to visit these ones in southern Ireland for yourself!
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle is definitely my favourite castle that we visited in southern Ireland. The castle is located near Cork and is situated on a large estate with various attractions. For over 200 years, people around the world have climbed the steps of the castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. According to legend, kissing the stone grants the gift of eloquence. After kissing the stone yourself, make sure to explore the surrounding estate. Don’t miss the Castle Gardens, Blarney House, and the Rock Close.
Rock of Cashel
Just a short drive from Blarney Castle is the Rock of Cashel. According to legend, the Rock of Cashel was created when St Patrick banished Satan from a cave and the rocks landed in Cashel. This castle has one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture in Europe. Not only are the ruins fascinating, but the views from the castle of Irish pastures are stunning.
Kilkenny Castle
Located in the town of the same name, Kilkenny Castle was built in 1195. You can choose to take a tour of the interior or simply wander around the parkland grounds.
Dunguaire Castle
Sitting on the shores of Galway Bay is the beautiful Dunguaire Castle. From April to October, you can take part in a medieval banquet inside the castle.
Cahir Castle
Cahir Castle is located very close to the Rock of Cashel. Built in 1142, Cahir Castle is one of the largest castles in Ireland. This castle is well preserved and offers tours. I loved that there were swans surrounding the castle – it was like a scene from a fairytale!
Ross Castle
You can find Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane in beautiful Killarney National Park. The castle is open to the public during the summer months only. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic.
Bunratty Castle
Just a short drive from Shannon Airport is Bunratty Castle. Bunratty Castle is well-known for its medieval banquets. In addition, you can visit the Bunratty Folk Park, an open-air museum with 30 buildings in a rural setting.
Doonagore Castle
Overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean is Doonagore Castle. This castle is located near the town of Doolin. Doonagore Castle is a private holiday home and not open to the public.
Malahide Castle
Malahide Castle is just north of Dublin and very close to Dublin Airport. Tours of the castle are available. You should also spend time wandering the vast parkland estate and gardens.
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is located in the city centre. We really enjoyed our tour of Dublin Castle. In addition to touring the interior, you will also see an excavation site of the medieval castle.
I hope you enjoyed this list of amazing castles to visit in southern Ireland!
To read my blog post, “A Road Trip Through Southern Ireland,” click here.
