Most Searched Places on Google Maps in Ireland
Google maps was launched in 2004, and it has revolutionised the way we perceive and navigate the world. Since its launch 20 years ago, it is now the main essential tool for over 2 billion users each month, influencing how people explore and travel. To mark the occasion, Google Maps Ireland has revealed the most searched Irish destinations on its platform. The platform provided 1 trillion kilometres of directions in 2024. There are 250 million businesses and locations on the map, with 500 million users contributing reviews, photos, ratings, and reports on driving disruptions annually. Google reports that 100 million updates are made to the map daily. Here are the most searched places on Google maps in Ireland.
Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s top tourist destinations, offer an unforgettable visitor experience. Rising dramatically from the west coast of County Clare, these iconic cliffs provide breath-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands. Stroll along the safe, paved pathways and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring scenery. A haven for artists, musicians, and poets, the cliffs have also captivated scientists and geologists with their unique landscape. Designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA), they are home to thriving colonies of nesting seabirds, making them a vital bird-breeding site. A visit to the Cliffs of Moher is a journey into nature’s grandeur, leaving lasting memories.
The Book of Kells Experience
The Book of Kells is housed in Trinity College Dublin, Ireland’s oldest university. Explore this cultural treasure in the Old Library, where you can view the Book of Kells, the iconic Long Room, and the Gaia installation. Enhance your visit with an immersive digital exhibition in the Red Pavilion. This unique experience takes place across two buildings: the Old Library and the Red Pavilion.
The Book of Kells is a precious 9th century manuscript containing the 4 gospels of the New Testament. The book is in the old library. Display you will also find the Gaia, Luke Jerram’s awe inspiring illuminated artwork. Gaia features detailed NASA imagery of the earth's surface, showcasing how the planet floats at 3 dimensions as it might be viewed from space. Continue your journey into a digital exhibition at the Pavilion next to the Old Library, where captivating stories, dynamic animations, and mesmerizing sculptures come to life before your eyes. Immerse yourself in a world where art and technology blend seamlessly, transforming the space into an interactive experience that engages your senses and sparks your imagination. Finally, step into the reimagined long room, where stunning set designs and immersive projections bring the library's rich past and promising future to life.
The Rock of Cashel
The Rock of Cashel is a historical landmark and is one of Irelands most spectacular archaeological sites located in County Tipperary, situated on a green rocky hilltop surrounded by countryside. There are many famous monuments found there including a round tower, a gothic cathedral, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, an abbey, a 15th century tower house, and the hall of the vicars choral. In 1101, the site was bestowed upon the church, swiftly establishing Cashel as a pivotal centre of ecclesiastical power in Ireland. Its surviving structures are extraordinary, with Cormac’s Chapel preserving the nation’s only remaining Romanesque frescoes. The Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most stunning landmarks, continues to captivate visitors. Tickets are required for entry and can be booked online.
Hook Lighthouse
Hook Lighthouse, located at the tip of the Hook Peninsula in County Wexford, Ireland, is celebrated as the world's oldest intact operational lighthouse. Constructed approximately 800 years ago by Knight William Marshal, the structure has been a beacon for mariners since the 13th century.
Visitors can embark on guided tours that traverse the lighthouse's 115-step spiral staircase, exploring its thick-walled chambers and delving into its rich history. The journey includes encounters with life-sized holograms, such as St. Dubhán, who maintained a beacon on the headland in the 5th century, and William Marshal, who commissioned the current tower to guide ships to his port at New Ross.
At the summit, guests are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding seascape, often spotting dolphins, seals, and even whales. The visitor centre, housed in the former keepers' residences, features a gift shop and a café that proudly serves local produce, including offerings from Wexford Home Preserves and Ballyhack Smokehouse.
Hook Lighthouse is open year-round, with seasonal variations in operating hours. Standard guided tours last approximately 45 minutes, and it's advisable to pre-book, especially during peak times, to ensure availability. The site also offers unique experiences such as sunrise and sunset tours, providing visitors with memorable vistas of the Irish coastline.
For those planning a visit, Hook Lighthouse is accessible via the R734 and is approximately a one-hour drive from Waterford City. The site provides free parking and welcomes dogs on leashes within the grounds. However, only service animals are permitted inside the café and lighthouse.
Embracing sustainable tourism, Hook Lighthouse strives to minimise its environmental impact while offering a captivating glimpse into maritime history. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a unique experience along Ireland's Ancient East, Hook Lighthouse offers a compelling destination.
Torc Waterfall
Experience the Magnetic Beauty of Torc Waterfall nestled deep within Killarney National Park in County Kerry, Torc Waterfall is a breath-taking 20-meter cascade formed by the Owengarriff River as it flows from the Devil's Punchbowl, a glacial lake on Mangerton Mountain.
Sit on a rock at the water’s edge, and you’ll be enveloped in the profound tranquility of this mystical landscape—one that has captivated visitors for centuries. In Irish, Torc means "wild boar," a name rooted in local legend. One tale tells of the golden-haired warrior Fionn MacCumhaill, who is said to have slain a magical boar on Torc Mountain.
For those seeking an even more spectacular view, climb the 100 stone steps immediately to the left of the waterfall. At the top, you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramas of Killarney’s lakes and surrounding countryside.
As one of Killarney’s most famous attractions, Torc Waterfall is a popular stop for visitors and coach tours. While the serenity of this enchanting spot is best experienced in the quieter months, its beauty remains undeniable year-round.
Take a moment, find a quiet place, and let the magic of Torc Waterfall stir something within you.
Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park, located just 2–4 km west of Dublin's city centre, is one of Europe's largest enclosed public parks, spanning approximately 707 hectares. Established in 1662 as a royal hunting ground, it was opened to the public in 1747. Today, the park is renowned for its expansive green spaces, tree-lined avenues, and a resident herd of wild fallow deer that have roamed the area since the 17th century.
The park houses several notable landmarks. Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the President of Ireland, is situated within its grounds. Dublin Zoo, one of the world's oldest zoos, established in 1831, is also located here, attracting numerous visitors annually. The Wellington Monument, a 62-meter tall obelisk commemorating the Duke of Wellington's victories, stands as a prominent feature in the park.
Visitors can explore the Victorian Flower Gardens, the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, and Ashtown Castle, a restored medieval tower house dating back to the 15th century. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including walking, running, polo, cricket, and hurling. Numerous walking and cycling trails are available, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the park's natural beauty.
The Phoenix Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. The main gates at Parkgate Street and Castleknock are accessible at all times, while side gates operate from approximately 7 am to 10:45 pm. Visitors are advised to respect park regulations, such as refraining from feeding or approaching the wild deer and adhering to guidelines regarding dog control.
For those interested in events, the park hosts various activities throughout the year. A calendar of events is available on the official website, providing details on upcoming tours, educational programs, and recreational opportunities.
Titanic Experience Cobh
Located in the original White Star Line Ticket Office in Cobh, County Cork, the Titanic Experience Cobh offers a captivating journey into the story of the RMS Titanic. This historic building, the departure point for the last 123 passengers who boarded the ill-fated ship on April 11, 1912, provides an immersive and poignant visitor experience.
The Experience
Upon arrival, each visitor receives a boarding card bearing the name of one of the 123 passengers who embarked at Queenstown (now Cobh). A knowledgeable guide then leads guests through a compelling tour, which includes:
- A virtual journey simulating the experience of boarding the tenders that ferried passengers to Titanic for its maiden voyage.
- A view of Heartbreak Pier, the last point of contact with land for the Queenstown passengers.
- Insights into life aboard Titanic, showcasing the stark contrasts between first-class luxury and third-class conditions.
- A cinematic reenactment of the tragic sinking, bringing history to life in a moving and immersive way.
The guided tour lasts approximately 35 minutes, followed by access to an exhibition area featuring interactive audio-visual displays and storyboards exploring:
- The sequence of events leading to the disaster.
- The heroic rescue efforts of the RMS Carpathia.
- The British and U.S. inquiries that followed the tragedy.
- The discovery of the Titanic wreck.
The Story Room & Exhibits
The experience concludes in the story room, where visitors learn the fate of their assigned passenger. The exhibition also features a collection of artifacts, including:
- Items from the rescue ship Carpathia.
- Personal belongings from the Odell family collection.
- Original serving pieces from the White Star Line fleet.
A Must-Visit Maritime Experience
The Titanic Experience Cobh provides a deeply moving and educational insight into one of history’s most famous maritime tragedies. For those fascinated by the Titanic’s legacy, it is an unmissable destination.
The Blarney Stone
The Blarney Stone is one of Ireland’s most famous attractions, located at Blarney Castle in County Cork. Visitors from around the world come to kiss the stone, believing it grants the gift of eloquence or the ability to speak persuasively. The stone is set high in the castle’s battlements, and reaching it requires climbing a steep staircase and leaning backward over a gap with the help of an assistant.
The origins of the Blarney Stone are surrounded by myths and legends. Some say it was a gift from the goddess Clíodhna, while others believe it was part of the Stone of Scone used in the coronation of Scottish kings. Another theory suggests it was brought to Blarney Castle during the Crusades.
The tradition of kissing the stone dates back centuries, with stories of Irish leaders using their newfound eloquence in diplomacy and politics. Today, the site is a major tourist destination, attracting thousands each year.
Beyond the stone, Blarney Castle offers stunning gardens, mysterious rock formations, and scenic walking trails. Whether for legend or fun, visiting the Blarney Stone remains an unforgettable experience for those seeking the gift of persuasive speech.
The Irish Museum of Modern Art
The Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) is Ireland’s leading national institution for modern and contemporary art. Located in the historic Royal Hospital Kilmainham in Dublin, IMMA is a cultural hub that showcases a dynamic mix of exhibitions, artist residencies, and public programs. The museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and presenting modern and contemporary works, making art accessible to diverse audiences.
IMMA’s collection includes significant works by Irish and international artists, spanning various mediums such as painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art. The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, featuring both emerging and established artists, fostering a space for creative exploration and dialogue.
In addition to exhibitions, IMMA supports artists through its residency program, providing a collaborative environment for artistic development. The museum also offers a wide range of educational programs, including workshops, lectures, and guided tours, engaging visitors of all ages.
Set in 48 acres of beautiful gardens and historic grounds, IMMA provides a unique cultural experience, blending contemporary creativity with Ireland’s rich heritage. Free to visit, the museum is a must-see for art enthusiasts and tourists alike, offering an inspiring insight into the ever-evolving world of modern art.
Muckross House
Muckross House is a stunning 19th-century Victorian mansion located in Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland. Built in 1843 for Henry Arthur Herbert and his wife, the house is renowned for its beautiful architecture, elaborate interiors, and breathtaking surroundings. It played a significant role in history when Queen Victoria visited in 1861, prompting extensive renovations to impress the monarch.
Surrounded by lush gardens and scenic landscapes, Muckross House offers visitors a glimpse into Ireland’s aristocratic past. The elegantly preserved rooms showcase period furnishings, artwork, and tapestries that reflect the opulence of the time. The estate also includes traditional farms, providing insight into rural Irish life in the 19th century.
Muckross House is set within Killarney National Park, home to lakes, mountains, and diverse wildlife, including the native red deer. Visitors can explore the gardens, enjoy a guided tour of the house, or take a stroll along picturesque trails leading to Muckross Abbey and Torc Waterfall.
Now a major tourist attraction, Muckross House is managed by the Irish government and serves as a cultural and historical landmark. It remains a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the rich heritage and natural beauty of Ireland.
