Things to Do in County Clare: The Ultimate Guide to Ireland’s Banner County
From towering sea cliffs and ancient limestone landscapes to traditional music, world-class food and charming villages, County Clare is one of Ireland’s most rewarding destinations.
Situated along the Wild Atlantic Way, the Banner County is home to some of the country’s most iconic attractions, including the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Bunratty Castle, and the lively village of Doolin. Yet beyond these famous landmarks lies another Clare—one of hidden beaches, artisan food producers, welcoming country hotels and unforgettable coastal drives.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a family holiday or a Wild Atlantic Way road trip, here’s our guide to the very best things to do in County Clare, including many unique things to do in County Clare for all types of travelers.
At a Glance
| Location | West of Ireland |
| Province | Munster |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September |
| Ideal Stay | 3–5 days |
| Perfect For | Families, walkers, food lovers, photographers and road trips |
| Famous For | Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, traditional music and dramatic Atlantic scenery |
Why Visit County Clare?
County Clare offers an extraordinary mix of natural beauty, heritage and hospitality.
You can spend the morning exploring a medieval castle, walk along cliffs towering above the Atlantic in the afternoon, enjoy freshly smoked salmon for lunch and finish the evening listening to traditional Irish music in a cosy village pub.
Few counties in Ireland offer such variety within such a compact area.
Go Wild Tip: Base yourself in the heart of Clare for a few nights rather than rushing through. The county is best experienced at a relaxed pace.
Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher
Make sure to capture the beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, as they are among the top things to do in County Clare.
No visit to Clare is complete without standing at the edge of the Cliffs of Moher.
One of the most popular things to do in County Clare is visiting the famous Cliffs of Moher.
Besides the cliffs, there are many other things to do in County Clare that are equally breathtaking.
Exploring the Burren is one of the best things to do in County Clare for nature lovers.
Rising more than 200 metres above the Atlantic Ocean, these world-famous cliffs stretch for around 8 kilometres and offer breathtaking views across Galway Bay towards the Aran Islands on a clear day.
Walking the cliff paths reveals dramatic viewpoints at every turn, while seabirds, including puffins during the nesting season, add to the magic of this remarkable landscape.
For a completely different perspective, take a Cliffs of Moher Cruise and admire the sheer scale of the cliffs from the sea.
Photographer’s Tip: Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light, fewer crowds and some of the best photography conditions.
Top Things to Do in County Clare
Just minutes from the cliffs, Moher Hill Open Farm is a favourite with families.
For families, there are numerous things to do in County Clare that will keep everyone entertained.
Children can meet alpacas, goats, donkeys and other friendly animals, while the adventure playground, mini-golf course and picnic areas make it easy to spend several enjoyable hours here.
It’s an excellent addition to any family itinerary exploring West Clare.
Enjoy Family Fun at Moher Hill Open Farm
Explore the Extraordinary Burren
The Burren is unlike anywhere else in Ireland.
Its distinctive limestone landscape, shaped over millions of years, is home to rare wildflowers, ancient monuments and fascinating geological formations.
There are many local eateries where you can enjoy the food as part of your things to do in County Clare.
Dining at these restaurants is a fantastic way to experience things to do in County Clare.
Whether you’re walking quiet trails, discovering prehistoric sites such as Poulnabrone Dolmen, or simply taking in the unique scenery, the Burren is a place that rewards curiosity.
Did You Know? Despite its seemingly barren appearance, the Burren supports an extraordinary diversity of plants, with Arctic, Alpine and Mediterranean species growing side by side.
Savour Clare’s Outstanding Food Scene
County Clare has become one of Ireland’s most exciting culinary destinations, where local producers and talented chefs make the most of exceptional regional ingredients.
Homestead Cottage
Nestled in the Burren, Homestead Cottage has earned national acclaim for its Michelin-starred dining experience. Seasonal tasting menus celebrate the very best of local produce, offering a memorable journey through the flavours of County Clare.
Advance booking is highly recommended.
Don’t miss out on the traditional music scene; it’s one of the most fun things to do in County Clare.
Experiencing the vibrant music culture is among the essential things to do in County Clare.
Burren Smokehouse
Seafood lovers should make time for the Burren Smokehouse in Lisdoonvarna.
This family-run business has perfected the art of smoking Irish salmon for decades. Visitors can learn about the traditional smoking process and sample beautifully prepared products that make wonderful gifts to take home.
Visiting Bunratty Castle is another historic activity among the unique things to do in County Clare.
Discover the stories behind the castle, which is a must on your list of things to do in County Clare.
In addition to the castle, enjoy the local pubs as they offer some of the best things to do in County Clare.
Australian travel journalist and presenter David Whitehill during filming at the Burren Smokehouse
Experience Traditional Music in Doolin
Doolin has earned an international reputation as one of Ireland’s great centres of traditional music.
Relaxing in local hotels is a great way to wind down after all the things to do in County Clare.
As evening falls, the village’s pubs fill with the sounds of fiddles, flutes and bodhráns, creating an atmosphere that feels authentic rather than staged.
A visit to Taylor’s Bar offers the chance to experience these legendary sessions while enjoying the warm hospitality for which Clare is renowned.
You may arrive for one tune and stay for the entire evening.
Discover Bunratty Castle and Durty Nelly’s
Coffee shops offer a perfect break during your exploration of things to do in County Clare.
History comes alive at Bunratty Castle, one of Ireland’s finest medieval fortresses.
The present castle, completed in the fifteenth century, stands on a site with a history stretching back to Viking times. Explore its beautifully restored rooms, learn about the families who lived within its walls and enjoy panoramic views across the surrounding countryside.
Make sure to take time to discover some hidden gems, as these are also things to do in County Clare worth seeking out.
Among these hidden gems, there are unique things to do in County Clare that will surprise you.
Just outside the castle gates sits the legendary Durty Nelly’s, a pub that has welcomed travellers for centuries.
Combining a castle visit with lunch or a pint here is one of County Clare’s classic experiences.
Relax in Clare’s Charming Hotels
Carrygerry Country House
Near Shannon Airport, Carrygerry Country House offers elegant accommodation within a beautifully restored historic home. Its peaceful setting and acclaimed restaurant make it an ideal base for exploring the county.
Every season provides different things to do in County Clare that are equally delightful.
Plan your visit accordingly to experience the best things to do in County Clare.
Stop for Coffee in Ennistymon
No road trip is complete without a good coffee stop.
The Coffee Hatch in Ennistymon has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike, serving expertly brewed coffee alongside locally sourced sweet treats in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
It’s the perfect excuse to slow down before continuing your journey.
Hidden Gems Worth Exploring
While Clare’s famous attractions deserve their reputation, don’t overlook some of the county’s quieter treasures.
- Take a boat trip to Scattery Island, where a fascinating monastic settlement awaits.
- Drive the spectacular Loop Head Peninsula, one of Ireland’s most scenic coastal routes.
- Visit Spanish Point for a peaceful beach walk.
- Explore Fanore, where the Burren meets the Atlantic in spectacular fashion.
These places reveal another side of County Clare that many visitors miss.
Best Time to Visit County Clare
Each season offers something different.
Spring brings colourful wildflowers to the Burren.
Summer is perfect for festivals, walking and coastal adventures.
Ultimately, your journey through County Clare will be filled with memorable things to do in County Clare.
Autumn offers quieter attractions and wonderful food events.
Winter transforms Clare into a peaceful retreat, with cosy pubs, dramatic Atlantic scenery and fewer crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is County Clare famous for?
County Clare is famous for the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Bunratty Castle, traditional music in Doolin and spectacular scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way.
How many days do you need in Clare?
Three to five days allows enough time to explore the county’s major attractions while also discovering some of its hidden gems.
Is County Clare good for families?
Yes. Attractions such as Moher Hill Open Farm, Bunratty Castle and the Cliffs of Moher make Clare an excellent destination for families.
What is the best time to visit County Clare?
Late spring through early autumn offers the best weather for sightseeing, although the county has something to offer throughout the year.
Why County Clare Should Be on Every Ireland Itinerary
County Clare is a place that stays with you long after you’ve left.
It might be the roar of the Atlantic beneath the Cliffs of Moher, the haunting beauty of the Burren, the warmth of a traditional music session in Doolin or a memorable meal crafted from local ingredients.
Whatever draws you here, one thing is certain: Clare rewards those who take the time to explore beyond the obvious.
From iconic landmarks to hidden corners waiting to be discovered, the Banner County captures the very best of Ireland—its landscapes, its heritage and, above all, its people.
If you’re planning a journey along the Wild Atlantic Way, make sure County Clare isn’t simply a stop along the route.
Make it a destination in its own right.
