The Most Enchanting Small Towns in Ireland

Spend some time in a quaint Irish town, and you’ll begin to notice unique features: a monument in the town square, a traditional pub with a family lineage spanning generations, or the intricate designs on doors that echo the past.

Some of the country’s most stunning villages break the mold of traditional layouts. Their streets twist and turn in a complex pattern that has developed over a thousand years, while others feature a grid system so perfectly symmetrical it appears decorative.

These eight picturesque towns in Ireland are among the finest in the nation, where history harmoniously coexists with modern life—and even visitors can become part of its continually evolving story.

Kenmare, County Kerry

• Location: 25 miles south of Killarney

Kenmare is characterized by its charming streets and the distinctive copper steeple of Holy Cross Church, but it’s the breathtaking scenery where the Caha Mountain Range meets the Atlantic Ocean that has attracted visitors since it became a village in the mid-17th century.

This town in southwest Ireland sits beside the tranquil waters of Kenmare Bay and boasts an impressive array of fine dining establishments and pubs, including O’Donnabhains’ Bar, known for its eye-catching red exterior. On the outskirts, you’ll find the Sheen Falls Lodge, a former fishing lodge offering stunning views of the cascades flowing into the bay, where you can savor dishes like scallops or duck at its restaurant, the Falls.

Kenmare lies at the junction of two stunning peninsulas—Beara and the Ring of Kerry—allowing visitors to explore hidden coves and breathtaking ocean vistas for days on end.

Graiguenamanagh, County Kilkenny

• Location: 15 miles southeast of Kilkenny City

A mid-18th-century, seven-arch bridge links this County Kilkenny village to County Carlow across the River Barrow. Nestled in a valley between the Brandon Hill and Blackstairs Mountains, Graiguenamanagh exudes a nostalgic charm as mist drifts off the river and envelops its winding, lamplit streets.

The name Graiguenamanagh translates to village of the monks, a nod to the prominent Cistercian Duiske Abbey, which has stood at the heart of the town for over eight centuries. In its shadow lies Mick Doyle’s, an epitome of the traditional Irish pub featuring wooden accents and an ample supply of smooth Guinness. Before unwinding, take a leisurely four-mile walk along the contours of the River Barrow, partially on a historic towpath once used by horses to pull barges. The gentle ascent up Brandon Hill leads through ancient woodlands filled with oak, ash, and hazel trees.

Adare, County Limerick

• Location: 16 miles south of Limerick City

Adare's picturesque landscape, characterized by thatched cottages and charming plaster buildings, radiates an enchanting old-world allure. The standout attraction is Adare Manor, a magnificent 19th-century mansion and golf course sprawling over 850 acres in the heart of the village. Notable features of this Gothic revival gem include its stained-glass windows, grand crystal chandeliers, cut stone arches, and an impressive 26-foot-high gallery. Guests can also savor the distinct flavors of modern cuisine at the manor’s Oak Room Restaurant, where executive chef Mike Tweedle delights diners with dishes like Dooncastle Oyster Teriyaki. In the village, Restaurant 1826 showcases the best of local gourmet fare, including game Scotch egg and pan-fried black sole on the bone.

Newport, County Mayo

• Location: 7 miles north of Westport

The impressive seven-arch viaduct connecting Newport to the southern edge of the Black Oak River was once part of a railway and stands as a remarkable achievement of 19th-century engineering. Today, it serves as one of four key hubs along the 30-mile Great Western Greenway, Ireland’s longest off-road trail, linking Westport Town in the south to the stunning white beaches of Achill Island in the north. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Newport’s winding streets and Clew Bay.

In the village, St Patrick’s Church is a must-see for a morning visit, where you can admire the early light filtering through its stained-glass windows designed by the esteemed Harry Clarke, who crafted over 150 stained-glass pieces during his lifetime. Afterward, treat yourself to a hearty Irish breakfast at Kelly’s Kitchen, featuring sausage, egg, bacon, black and white pudding, fresh bread, and coffee.

Quin, County Clare

• Location: 12 miles north of Shannon Airport

Quin invites curious visitors to explore its winding country lanes, showcasing a rich array of buildings dating back to the Bronze Age. The village center is vibrant with colorful pubs that hug the medieval ruins of Quin Abbey.

Embark on a six-mile trek along a marked trail beside the 3,000-year-old Mooghaun Hillfort—an ancient series of circular stone walls once home to a powerful clan. This path offers stunning views of the countryside and the River Shannon, meandering past streams and forests leading to Dromoland Castle. This neo-Gothic hotel, set on a 500-acre estate overlooking a lake and golf course, features regency-style bedrooms. The Earl Thomond Restaurant delights diners with a menu highlighting house-grown vegetables and fresh seafood, including poached Doonbeg lobster and roast rump of Burren lamb.

Kinsale, County Cork

• Location: 15 miles south of Cork City

The coastline of County Cork is a stunning array of seaside villages stretching from Ballycotton to Castletownshend, with Kinsale being the most captivating. Once a pirate haven, this town lies in one of Ireland’s southernmost areas and was historically significant during the Battle of Kinsale in 1601, marking England's conquest of Gaelic Ireland. Today, its historic streets are alive with restaurants, art galleries, cafés, fine dining, and charming pubs—perfect for any pirate, especially since it’s the birthplace of the infamous Anne Bonny.

Enjoy a stay at the Victorian-era Acton’s Hotel overlooking the harbor, while next door, Fishy Fishy offers the freshest seafood. Follow the scenic waterfront path to the Bulman Bar for pints. Kinsale also serves as an excellent launching point for adventures along the Wild Atlantic Way, a winding route that spans 1,500 miles along Ireland’s western coastline.

Cong, County Mayo

• Location: 24 miles south of Castlebar

If Cong seems like it was lifted straight from a fairytale or film, you’re not mistaken: Director John Ford showcased its charming streets and cottages in his 1952 Oscar-winning film The Quiet Man.

A bridge spans the river, connecting the town to Ashford Castle, a stunning palace styled like a French château, with construction dating back to 1228. Guests can enjoy falconry classes or leisurely strolls across its sprawling 350-acre estate. The on-site restaurant features seasonal dishes, including lobster ravioli, roasted quail, wild rabbit, and champagne sorbet.

Roundstone, County Galway

• Location: 48 miles west of Galway City

The vibrantly painted buildings lining Roundstone’s main street cozy up the hilly landscape, where the Atlantic breeze can suddenly sweep in from the sea. This picturesque mountain-ocean backdrop is best enjoyed with a bowl of steaming seafood chowder or a chilled pint of Guinness from O’Dowd’s Pub. Here, you can soak in the haunting beauty of Connemara as fishing boats navigate Roundstone Bay, bringing in their daily haul to the village harbor.

Just a 10-minute drive away lies the town of Ballynahinch, home to its charming castle, nestled in woodlands alongside rushing waters. To end the day, unwind with a nightcap on a leather chesterfield by the fire at Fisherman’s Pub.