Spend two nights in vibrant town of Dingle

"You don't get to Dingle by accident; it is on the way to nothing but itself"

Andrew McCarthy, National Geographic Traveller

There is something truly encapsulating about Dingle. This small peninsula, jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, encapsulates the very best that Ireland has to offer. No tour of Ireland is complete without Dingle. It simply doesn't get better than this.

When you arrive from the northeast, the majestic Slieve Mish mountains come into view as you leave Tralee.

When you arrive from the southeast, through countless rolling, patchwork fields, the one hour drive from Killarney is richly rewarded. Dingle is well known for the warm welcome that visitors experience from locals.

Active Things To Do In Dingle

If you're feeling energetic, choose from sea-kayaking, horse riding, fishing, surfing and golf.

That's not even mentioning all the wonderful hikes in Dingle; from deserted coastal trails to the summit of Ireland's second highest mountain, Mount Brandon.

The Dingle Peninsula has some of the finest scenery in Ireland including the highest pass in Ireland, the Conor Pass.

Cultural Things To Do In Dingle

For history buffs, the peninsula has approximately 2,000 listed antiquities.

These include the wonderful Kilmokedar Church as well as countless stone circles and ancient monuments. It's impossible to tour the area without witnessing reminders of the past.

Ireland's most westerly road, the Slea Head Drive, is a staggering clifftop route. It includes the village and spectacular harbour of Dun Quin, locally referred to as "the next parish to America".

Crafts In Dingle

If you love crafts, you'll be astounded at all the creativity of this little town.

Meet crystal cutter Sean Daly on a guided tour of his working studio.

The fabulous jeweler, Brian De Staic, was commissioned to create a piece for Pope John Paul II in 1978.

Wonderful weavers such as Fiadh Durham and Lisbeth Mulcahy. Throughout Dingle there are crafts people who work with clay, stone, wool, wood, metal and paint. If you are a fan of traditional Irish music, Dingle is second to nowhere.

Pubs In Dingle

You've probably already heard about the amazing choice of pubs in Dingle, each with their own character.

Dingle even has its own distillery, as well as two breweries.

Where To Eat In Dingle

It's not for nothing that Dingle is widely seen as the "Foodie Capital of Ireland."

Best Restaurants in Dingle

Global Village - The best of Irish produce served with global panache. Go all out with the tasting menu. Or eat a la carte. Vegan options.

Charthouse - Fine dining with a dollop of Irish heartiness. Try the lamb or scallops.

Mask - Irish classics on the menu like steak, lamb and salmon. Great atmosphere. Good value to be had on the early bird menu. Interesting wine list. Lovely spot.

Random - Nestling in a tasty place between pub grub and fine dining sits Random. Find great steaks, pies and fish and chips down a back street between the harbour and Main Street.

Best Pub Grub in Dingle

Geaney’s - Geaney’s on Main Street offers the best all round pub grub in Dingle.

Dingle Bay Hotel - Find good value on the bar menus at the Dingle Bay Hotel. Stick to old faithfuls like fish and chips and hearty stews and you won’t go wrong!

Best Vegan/Vegetarian in Dingle

Pantri Café - This family-owned lunch spot features a Ballymaloe-trained chef (Irish foodie royalty) and plentiful vegan-friendly options. Relax for brunch, lunch or dessert in a charming dining area that’s kind of outside, kind of inside! On the pricey side - but worth it for a treat.

Best Lunch in Dingle

Goat Street Social - A real gem of a cafe at the top of Goat Street. Feeling healthy? Enjoy great salads. Feeling traditional? Go for the ever-satisfying sandwich and soup option.

Bean in Dingle - Great fresh soups, pastries and sandwiches. Excellent coffee. Buzzy setting. Possibly the nicest staff in Dingle, nay, the earth.

Best Snacks and Street Food in Dingle

Fish Box - Fish and chips is not meant to look as good as this! You can go traditional at Fish Box with crispy fish and fresh chips. Or go exotic with choices like monkfish goujons or thai red seafood curry.

Dingle Doghouse/Dingle Ahoy! - Grab a luscious fish burger, traditional fish and chips or even a tasty hot dog from this charming little trailer. Large portions. Outdoor seating.

Reel Dingle Fish Co. - It’s hard to stand out making something as traditional as fish and chips. Reel Dingle Fish manage it by sprinkling their menu with interesting twists such as more sustainable fish recommendations and homemade tartare sauce. Bonus points for serving in paper bags!

Murphy’s Ice Cream - Dingle’s answer to Ben and Jerry’s. OK, so the chain only has three outlets so far. But this is some seriously good ice cream. Try the classic Dingle Sea Salt or Brown Bread flavours. Uber-friendly staff.

Best Shop/Supermarket in Dingle

SuperValu - Fancy a picnic? Looking for edible souvenirs? Want to see amazing Irish produce in one place? Admittedly, the SuperValu is part of a nationwide franchise. But this family-owned outlet prides itself on stocking locally-sourced food. Browse the store and chat to the friendly staff for a good introduction to the range of Irish goods on offer.