Both Giant’s Causeway and Cliffs of Moher are iconic natural sights of Ireland. They are a wee bit out of the way for a short trip to Ireland and are tourist traps to put it lightly. Most of my travels include the outdoors and exploring natural beauty. I was a unimpressed with the cost of these sights. Not to mention we added hours of driving to our trip on narrow roads that are slow going for these “must-see” sights.

I still am glad we fit them into our trip since I am not sure when the next time I will be going to Ireland will be.

Giant’s Causeway

I did not learn until after we returned from Giant’s Causeway that we did not have to pay admission. They have people standing at all the entrances within the Visitor Center to make sure you purchased a ticket. As long as you do not have to use the restroom, you would be fine to miss the Visitor Center. It costs £8.50 per adult to enter. The price does include audio headsets, which my dad did use. However, the Visitor Center is a large gift shop and cafe with a small exhibit on the geology of the basalt formations. Take my advice and read the necessary information on Wikipedia or in your guidebook and save yourself some money. There are other restaurants and gift shops in the area that will probably let you use the toilets.

Giant's Causeway

Giant's Causeway

Giant's Causeway

Cliffs of Moher

I highly recommend going to Slieve League over Cliffs of Moher if possible. Slieve League has some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Cliffs of Moher charges €6.00 per person for parking! The Visitor Center here is a little more impressive than Giant’s Causeway. However, if the weather is its typical rainy self, then there is not much to do. Walking along the cliffs gives great views of the ocean, but that is about it. Also, there is a path that goes beyond the tourist maintained area. There are warnings to continue at your own risk onto private land. It is fun to actually walk along the cliffs because you are exposed. Within the tourist area, there are high walls blocking views for anyone who is probably under 4 ft 5 in.

Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher

If you are only in Ireland for a short amount of time. Consider spending more time in another area than venturing off to either or chose one between the two. I am sure if we would have taken a cruise to the Aran Islands, the Cliffs of Moher area would have been worth it.

What are your opinions on these sights?

Ireland series:

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