THE DONEGAL COAST, Ring of Kerry and Brú na Bóinne are among the destinations recommended in a new Lonely Planet guide to Ireland.

The list gives a peek at 21 things to see and do across the island, ranging from coastlines and golf courses, to pubs and city sightseeing.

Dublin tops the list, with Lonely Planet lauding the capital as having “all the baubles of a major international metropolis”.

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The second spot goes out west to the wilds of Connemara, Co Galway, with its rugged hills and lakes.

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In third position is the pub. Any pub. Lonely Planet notes: “Every town and hamlet has at least one: no matter where you go, you’ll find that the social heart of the country” there.

Traditional music takes the fourth place. Again, readers are advised to find a pub to enjoy “western Europe’s most vibrant folk” scene.

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Galway City - ”Ireland’s liveliest city” – comes in in fifth position. “Join the locals as they bounce from place to place” at night, “never knowing what fun lies ahead”, Lonely Planet says.

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In sixth place is Dingle, Co Kerry, both the “picturesque peninsula strewn with ancient ruins” and its “delightful” main town.

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Lonely Planet says Glendalough in Co Wicklow, in seventh spot, is “one of the country’s most beautiful sites”, an “unforgettable” sight.

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Coming in at number eight is the Rock of Cashel fortress in Co Tipperary, the old seat of kings who ruled over Munster before the Norman invasion.

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Links golf is listed at number nine. Lonely City says: “Some of the world’s best-known courses share spectacular scenery with lesser-known gems.”

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In 10th spot is Cork City, with the English Market getting a special shout-out.

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Also recommended, in the following order, are:

Walking and hiking
Brú na Bóinne, Co Meath
Ring of Kerry
Causeway Coast
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, Co Sligo
Kilkenny City
Titanic Belfast
Donegal coastline
GAA or hurling
Derry
Clare coast

The guide – which includes travel advice, profiles of must-see attractions and a new section on craft beers – is out in shops on Friday.

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

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