Ireland was on my travel bucket list, but I'm not going to lie, it wasn't top of the list. I always have what seems like a zillion other places I want to go to, and really I thought of Ireland as a place where old people go and pile into a tour bus as they navigate the crowds while they stand on sidewalks and take photos. Oh, and maybe they go to a pub and drink a beer while wearing a cozy sweater. I was blindsided by the rich history, stunning landscapes, and legendary hospitality, and it turns out, the perfect destination for an unforgettable adventure! Nothing could have prepared me for the reality of what this enchanting country had to offer. From the food to the music, the pubs to the people, the scenery to the adventure, Ireland is a place that surprises and delights at every turn. These are the six things that surprised me so much about my first visit to the Emerald Isle that I'm currently on my second visit because I just couldn't stay away!
6 Things That Surprised me on My First Visit to Ireland
1. The Food: A Culinary Delight
When I first thought of Irish cuisine, I'll admit that my expectations were pretty modest. I kind of envisioned overflowing portions of potatoes with a side of a hearty stew. While those traditional dishes can be found {and should be tried!}, the reality of Irish food far exceeded my expectations.
One of the first surprises was the emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Farm-to-table isn't just a trend in Ireland; it's a way of life. The flavors of the countryside come alive in every bite, from the creamy butter churned from local dairy farms to the seafood that's caught fresh from the surrounding waters. You can find everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafes serving up delicious pastries and gourmet coffee.
Perhaps the biggest surprise of all was the variety of cuisines available. From Italian to Indian, sushi to tapas, Ireland's food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. There are so many global influences but is still a strong sense of Irish identity in every dish. You can tell there's a real sense of pride in their heritage, and that shows in the care and creativity you'll find in nearly every dish!
2. The Music: A Living Tradition
Irish music is known around the world for its infectious energy and soul-stirring melodies. Before visiting Ireland, I kind of romanticized the idea of traditional Irish music. I figured I'd stumble on groups of musicians gathered in a cozy pub, playing fiddles and flutes all while locals and tourists huddled together in tight quarters singing along. That idea wasn't too far off of the truth, but it was that and more.
What surprised me was just how ingrained and interwoven music is in the fabric of Irish life. It's not just something that happens in pubs or during festivals; it's a living, breathing tradition that's deeply embedded in the culture. Music is a way to bring people together and you'll find people singing on the street corners, in the shops and in the local pubs.
One night we were having dinner in a restaurant on a coastal town on the Wild Atlantic Way. We heard rumblings that the bartender was planning a small intimate set with our tour group. We packed into a small room while he sat on a chair and strummed on his guitar singing the most beautiful music. Everything from covers to traditional songs to his own music he had written. This wasn't a scheduled performance; it was just something that happened, and I kind of think that these random happenings happen less randomly than I ever could have imagined.
The diversity of the music scene was also a pleasant surprise. While traditional Irish folk music is certainly a big part of it, there's also a thriving contemporary music scene that spans genres from rock to jazz to electronic. On my first day after arriving in Dublin, I found myself wandering on Grafton Street and I was blown away by the buskers I found. I could have listened all day!
Music in Ireland isn't just entertainment; it's a way of life and an expression of identity. It's a way of keeping the past alive while embracing the future, and I'm here for it! Whether you're listening to a busker on Grafton Street or dancing to a live band in a rural pub, you can't help but be swept up in the rhythm and spirit of it all.
3. The Pubs: More Than Just a Place to Drink
Before visiting Ireland, I had heard tales of legendary Irish pubs, places where the Guinness flows freely, and the conversation is always in full swing. While I was eager to experience all of this firsthand, I didn't expect the pubs to be quite as varied or as central to Irish social life as they are.
Irish pubs are more than just a place to grab a drink; they are the heart and soul of the community. Think of them as an extended living room where everyone {yes, even the kids!} is invited! Each pub has its own unique character, shaped by its history, its regulars and its location. In some, you'll find the walls adorned with vintage photographs and old advertisements, and still others will have a more modern, minimalist vibe. What they all have in common is the warm welcoming atmosphere where you'll feel like an old friend.
One of the things that surprised me most was the sense of tradition that seeps from walls. Many pubs have been in the same family for generations, and the owners take great pride in preserving the character and the charm of the place. It's not uncommon to find a pub where the bartender knows every customer by name, where stories are shared, and where a newcomer is welcomed with open arms.
And then there's the music. In most Irish pubs, especially those in smaller towns and villages, live music is a nightly occurrence. It might not be a full band but a solo performer with a guitar or an open mic night for the locals. The music adds an extra layer of magic to the experience. There's something incredibly special about sharing a pint with strangers-turned-friends while a soundtrack of beautiful live music plays in the background.
Of course, I can't talk about Irish pubs without mentioning the Guinness. I had always heard that it tastes different in Ireland, and I am confirming that it does. There's a creaminess and richness to it that's unlike anything you'll find off of the Emerald Isle. Plus, there's something special about enjoying a pint of Guinness in a centuries-old pub, surrounded by history and good company that makes it taste just that much better.
4. The People: The Warmest Welcome
The Irish are renowned for their hospitality, and I had high expectations for the warmth of the people I would meet during my travels. But even with those expectations, I was blown away by the genuine kindness and friendliness that greeted me at every turn.
From the moment I landed in Dublin, I was struck by how approachable and helpful everyone was. Whether I was asking for directions, seeking recommendations, or simply striking up a conversation, I was met with smiles, stories, and a willingness to assist that felt truly sincere.
One of my favorite things to do when traveling is to find the local grocery store. I was looking for a good Irish Whisky to take home to my young adult son for the holidays. I looked lost and was wandering back and forth in the aisle when a man struck up a conversation with me. He went out of his way to be helpful, even flagging down one of the salesmen to help me find something that was behind a counter. He shared more time with me than he needed and I left feeling like I met a new friend.
This kind of hospitality happened everywhere that I went. The Irish have a way of making you feel like you're not just a visitor, but a welcome guest. They're genuinely interested in where you're from, why you're visiting, and how they can help you have the best experience possible.
There's a deep sense of pride in their heritage and culture, which they're eager to share with visitors. The people of Ireland have a way of turning strangers into friends, and it's this warmth and hospitality that I'll remember most about my trip.
5. The Scenery: Beyond Words
Ireland's landscapes are the stuff of legend. I had seen countless photos of its rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, and ancient castles, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer beauty of seeing it all in person. The scenery in Ireland is nothing short of breathtaking, and it was one of the biggest surprises of my trip.
What struck me most was the diversity of the landscapes. In just a few hours' drive, you can go from the rugged coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way to the tranquil lakes of Killarney National Park, from the otherworldly landscape of the Burren to the lush, forested glens of Wicklow. Each region has its own unique character and charm, and exploring them felt like stepping into a different world with each new destination.
It's also not just famous landmarks that make Ireland's scenery so special. It's the little things too-the patchwork fields dotted with sheep, the colorful wildflowers that line the roadsides, the misty mornings that give the landscape the most ethereal quality. Even the weather, which can be quite unpredictable, adds to the charm.
Another thing that surprised me about Ireland's scenery was just how accessible it is. You don't have to venture far off the beaten path to find yourself surrounded by natural beauty. Even a short drive or hike can lead you to some of the most stunning vistas you've ever seen.
6. The Adventure: A Thrill at Every Turn
When I think of adventure, Ireland isn't the destination that is top of my mind. That all quickly changed once I arrived though! The country offers a surprising array of activities for thrill-seekers and outdoor adventurers, and that was probably the most surprising part of my whole trip!
Did you know that Ireland's coastline provides some of the best watersports? From surfing to kiteboarding, you can all kinds of ways to make use of all that surrounding water! The Burren Region is home to a whole network of underground caverns and you'll find that Ireland's natural beauty doesn't stop above ground! You'll find it under your feet as well.
One of my favorite adventures was cycling along the Great Western Greenway, a series of scenic bike trails that takes you through some of Ireland's most picturesque landscapes. The trail is mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it accessible to cyclists of all levels. You'll pass through charming villages, lush countryside, and coastal cliffs all with plenty of opportunity to stop and take in the views.
Ireland is a country that surprises and delights at every turn. From the food to the music, the pubs to the people, the scenery to the adventure, there's so much more to this beautiful island than I could have ever imagined. My first visit to Ireland left me with a deep appreciation for its culture, its landscapes, and most of all, its people. It's a place that feels both timeless and ever-changing, where old blends seamlessly with new. I can't wait to explore Ireland again!
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