Many countries have so much to offer, but Ireland is unique in a way that the country has so much an adventurer can want and more — just on one island. If we’re only referring to Ireland as the republic — you’re already in for a treat. Widen your choice to include Northern Ireland — even better. In this article, though, we’re focusing on the Republic of Ireland.

So why do we say that they have it all? Here are five reasons why.

Its nature and the best place to have a road trip

It’s not for nothing that Ireland has green on its flag, as the greenery of this country is one of the reasons why the natural landscape is so iconic. But it’s not just that: it’s stunning from the top of their mountains to the coast.

For hikers, take in the view at Wicklow and McGill cuddy’s Reeks. Ireland is also the home of the gorgeously cinematic Cliffs of Moher, which served as backgrounds of some of our biggest cultural phenomena: Harry Potter and the Princess Bride.

This spread of natural beauty is why Ireland is one of the best places to go on a road trip. And they know Ireland is home to the Wild Atlantic Way, which stretches for thousands of miles along the Irish west coast, looking into the ocean. You can truly feel the “main character energy” on these roads!

Its ancient history

Ireland can not only be proud of what Mother Nature’s done to the island but also to humanity throughout history.

The country is home to humankind’s masterpieces since ancient times: take a look at the largest neolithic site in the world, The Céide Fields, Newgrange Stone Age Passage Tomb — which lines up with the winter solstice, and so much more.

Ireland is also dotted with medieval castles and ruins, such as Blarney, Bunratty, and so many more castles.

Well, with this history and nature, it’s no surprise they shot Game of Thrones in Ireland.

Its more recent history

Alright, we cannot talk about Irish history without acknowledging the elephant in the room, its more recent history.

Throughout Ireland, you can learn about the more painful parts of its history — from British rule, through The Troubles, how they worked to the peace they have now, and beyond.

If you’re open to learning the grimmer parts of humanity, some top destinations include Kilmainham Gaol and Spike Island, which held many Irish revolutionaries.

Its vibrant traditional and modern culture

One of the results of such a long and complicated history is Ireland’s culture. With its extensive diaspora, including in the United States, Irish culture is one that exists well within the mainstream audience’s mind. But how authentic is the Irish culture that you know?

To understand the history of the Irish diaspora and how their culture spread, visit EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.

If you’re interested in traditional music — Dublin holds the traditional festival TradFest every January. In general, throughout the islands, and in the counties, you can see how the Irish celebrate their culture.

The Irish have enriched their modern culture by being so warm and welcoming. Through globalization, immigrants from other countries contribute to modern Irish life, especially in bigger cities, making cultural life more vibrant.

The culinary culture that accompanies it

We had to make a different point about the culinary side of Ireland. Sure, Ireland isn’t that iconic for its food, like Italy and France. But is that what you would expect from this island?

Ireland’s made the best of what they have. Irish dairy is famous worldwide for being one of the finest, and the soda bread is unmissable. And where would we be without the potatoes?

It’s not just the food, though, it’s about the culture. Where would this article be if we didn’t mention Irish pub culture? P.S. on the pub culture: the Guinness Storehouse is not to be missed.

Being an island, Ireland is also shining in the seafood side of things. Make sure you don’t miss their high-quality seafood!

We also mentioned the cultural mixing of modern Ireland. It has shown its effects on the culinary scene, too. Dublin, especially, can pride itself on its mix of international cuisine.

Did we convince you?

We could go to even more extraordinary lengths to convince you to visit Ireland, but there’s only so much we can say in one article. We believe, though, that these five reasons are enough, as Ireland is unmissably stunning.

If we did, and now you’re thinking about visiting Ireland, you will most likely need a visa. To apply for a visa, you will need your passport, visa application photos, national ID, and documents that prove your travel purpose to Ireland, such as invitations, proof of accommodation, and others.

We know what’s the purpose: to witness Ireland’s beauty! But in terms of visa applications, the answer is less poetic and more bureaucratic, but if you prepare well, you’re in for an adventure of a lifetime.