Ireland and Iceland: the best locations of these island countries

These two island nations are real treasures for avid travelers in search of new experiences. They hide so much that is beautiful and interesting that it is impossible to tell you in a few hours even if you talk non-stop. That's why today we're going to tell you about the most popular locations that every tourist should visit. So read on to plan your next vacation in detail.

Ireland

This small country is considered one of the best places to travel for a reason. Emerald meadows where cute sheep chew grass, ancient fortresses, rocky fjords, and world-famous noisy pubs: almost everyone on the planet wants to see all of this.

Traditionally, tourists start their exploration of a country from the capital. Dublin is very beautiful and has a unique charm. It is not at all like the main cities of Europe. Among many foreigners, it is known as the birthplace of Jameson whiskey. Therefore, the first place to go is to the distillery. Here you can book a tour and listen to the history of the brand, learn how the drink is made, and have a tasting.

Guinness beer is another hallmark of the city. The Irish even built an interactive museum in its honor. Here you can see the production process, learn the rules of consumption, buy souvenirs, and, of course, drink the brew.

Next, head to the oldest neighborhood of Temple Bar. As the name implies, it's home to the best hotels, restaurants, and, of course, pubs. This place is never quiet. Music, laughter, and noise are always heard here. We do not encourage you to drink alcohol. On the contrary, it is better not to order a single glass at all. It is worth going here to feel the local flavor, admire the architecture and visit two theaters: the oldest in Europe (The Clarence) and the smallest in the country (The New Theater).

Be sure to visit the most prestigious educational institution in the state, Trinity College. Famous figures of science, literature, culture, and art graduated from it. Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett, Chris de Burgh, Oliver Goldsmith, Jonathan Swift, and others studied here.

When you've explored every corner of the capital, go to other regions. Many Irish people believe that to get to know their native land, you need to spend less time in Dublin. They unanimously recommend taking a train ticket and traveling as far as possible.

We recommend going to Dingle, the smallest peninsula in Ireland. Here you can get to know the traditions of the country, communicate with the locals, and try national dishes. You can also live in a small house and see the harsh ocean in all its glory, which constantly argues with rocky shores. County Cork is also worth a visit. Here you can go to Blarney Castle and Cobh Cathedral.

Iceland

While in other countries tourists traditionally start their exploration with the capital and the oldest district, here everything is different. The most popular is the so-called Golden Circle. This is a small tour that includes the three most popular locations: Valley of Geysers, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Only here can you truly appreciate the beauty and wonders of the untouched nature of this region.

Imagine for a moment: you are looking at a vast plain, where every 10-15 minutes tall columns of hot water appear from small lakes. Further along the road, you will come across a mighty waterfall that forms beautiful cascades from a height of 600 meters. The picture is completed by the unique flora and fauna of the reserve.

But this is not the end of the journey through the beautiful places of Iceland. There are actually a lot of them. Be sure to visit the icy blue cave of Skaftafell. Here you seem to find yourself in a completely different world or in the kingdom of the Looking Glass. By the way, you can visit the location only from November to March. It is at this time that it is safest here, because there is no risk of ice collapse.

For those who like extreme sports and want to tickle their nerves, we recommend going to the volcano of Hekla. We think you have already realized that it is active and can "wake up" at any moment. The last time it attracted attention was in 2000. Back then, lava destroyed the entire forest cover. But the Icelanders did not despair, and now they are planting trees. This is how the local authorities want to make the "giant" even more picturesque.

Of course, don't miss the country's capital, Reykjavik. Go to the Lutheran Church, which is 75 meters high. The design of the church is very unusual for us and for the whole of Europe. The building itself resembles a high mountain. According to the architect's plan, the building was to become part of the natural landscape of Iceland. Here is a secret: he succeeded.

Be sure to visit the National Museum, to walk through the central district of the city and to visit the thermal pools. Finally, take a walk along the Laugavegur shopping street. Here you can buy unusual souvenirs.

These two countries are best traveled in winter. So do not delay the trip: plan a tour and go on vacation.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA told you about the most snowy countries in Europe.

Only verified information is available on our Obozrevatel Telegram and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!