A-listers have been flocking to Ireland in recent years.
Music, film and TV stars have chosen to spend their holiday time on our shores, relaxing on rural breaks, soaking up city life and enjoying time away from the spotlight.
Want to follow in their famous footsteps? These are the Irish holiday hotspots loved by celebrities…
Dublin
Famous Fans: Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Olivia Wilde
Former One Direction star Harry Styles was spotted with then-girlfriend Olivia Wilde on the streets of Dublin (and having a dip in the outdoor Vico Baths) in 2022, while fellow pop singer Taylor Swift is reported to have stayed at an Airbnb in the city called The Coach House.
The vibrant city is known for its friendly locals and buzzing nightlife.
“Don’t miss the lively atmosphere of Temple Bar, famous for its pubs and cultural events,” says Siobhan McManamy, director of markets at Tourism Ireland.
“Enjoy a stroll along the River Liffey and consider taking a tour of the Guinness Storehouse for a taste of Ireland’s famous stout and a panoramic view of the city from the Gravity Bar.”
Cork
Famous fans: Emily Ratajkowski, Kim Kardashian, Kanye West
Following their 2014 wedding in Florence, Kanye West – who has legally changed his name to Ye – and Kim Kardashian (who are now divorced) jetted over to Cork to begin their honeymoon, staying in five-star Castlemartyr Resort.
American model Emily Ratajkowski is also a regular visitor to Ireland’s largest county, as her father, John, is said to be based in Bantry.
Ratajkowski returned to Cork this summer and used the Bantry Bay Boat Hire.
The company posted a picture of the model on Instagram, with the caption: “Delighted to have @emrata and her family join us for another trip on Bantry Bay. We know she loves this place as much as we do so it’s a joy to take her on a boat tour every time she visits West Cork.”
The city of Cork has one of the world’s largest natural harbours and is filled with fascinating museums, monuments, galleries and green spaces.
“Taking inspiration from Ratajkowski’s trip, head to Cork and explore the vibrant English Market, tour the historic Cork City Gaol, and enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere,” says McManamy.
“Discover culture at the Crawford Art Gallery and unwind in Fitzgerald Park.”
Donegal
Famous fans: Ciaran Hinds, Taylor Swift
Located in Ireland’s northwestern region, County Donegal has proven a draw for celebrities.
Belfast-born actor Ciaran Hinds has been spotted holidaying in the region in recent years, as has Taylor Swift, who posted photos that appeared to be taken on Magherawardan beach in 2021.
Head to the coast of Donegal for some magnificent panoramic vistas.
“Hike the cliffs of Slieve League, relax on the shores of Maghera Beach, delve into history at Donegal Castle, and experience the lively arts scene in Letterkenny,” says McManamy.
Waterford
Famous fans: Paul Mescal
Normal People star Paul Mescal, who was born in County Kildare, was spotted staycationing in County Waterford in 2020.
One of Ireland’s oldest cities, Waterford was founded by the Vikings in 914, and has a lot to offer history buffs.
Delighted to bump into @mescal_paul out for a walk in Dungarvan this evening! What an absolute gent! I told him he was the best Phantom of The Opera I ever saw! He told me he’s loving his visit to Waterford! An absolute gent! #NormalPeople #connellschain pic.twitter.com/g5QTgELsXt
— Damien Geoghegan (@damiengeoghegan) July 4, 2020
“Visitors can take a walking tour of the Viking Triangle which takes in ancient sites and the award-winning Medieval Museum,” says McManamy.
Make the most of the stunning scenery with a hike or bike ride along the Waterford Greenway: “A glorious car-free pathway stretching from Waterford city to the pretty seaside town of Dungarvan, passing the breath-taking Comeragh Mountains, the lush banks of the River Suir, medieval ruins and Norman castles.”
