25 Free Things to do in Ireland A weekend break in Europe can be quite pricey - and Ireland is no different.

But if you know where to look, youll be able to find a number of things to see and do which wont cost you a single penny (or cent). Weve rounded up some of the very best: 1. National Museum of Ireland: Offering Irish art, culture and natural history, this fascinating museum has four branches (3 in Dublin and 1 in County Mayo). 2. National Botanic Gardens: Located in Dublin, the gardens are home to over 15,000 plant species from around the world. 3. Cliffs of Moher: These 214 metre-high cliffs in County Clare offer free guided tours, which provide stunning views out over the Atlantic Ocean. 4. Phoenix Park: A huge area of grassland in Dublin thats home to a herd of wild Fallow deer. 5. Wicklow Mountains National Park: Breath-taking mountains on the east coast of Ireland. 6. Irish Museum of Modern Art: This museum in Dublin provides various exhibitions throughout the year and is the best place in the country for modern and contemporary art. 7. English Market: A vibrant food market in Cork. 8. Trinity College: Located in Dublin, this is the oldest university in Ireland with beautiful Georgian architecture. 9. Beaches: Various beaches can be found across the country in Cork, Donegal, Sligo and more. 10. Howth Costal Path: A beautiful walking spot where you can even feed seals at Howth Harbour. 11. Street Performance World Championship: Taking place in Dublin and Cork, find jugglers, magicians, dancers, contortionists and more. 12. National Gallery of Ireland: Home to the national collection of Irish art, as well as various courses workshops. Can be found in Dublin. 13. Irish Jewish Museum: Housed in a former Synagogue in Dublin.

14. Scattery Island Centre: The ruins of six churches and a 120 feet high tower are located in this area of County Clare. 15. The Burren Perfumery: Home to 700 species of flowering plants, used to make perfume. 16. Claypipe Visitor Centre: Learn all about the production of pipes. Located in County Roscommon. 17. Corkagh Pet Farm: A selection of farm animals and birds can be seen here. 18. War Memorial Gardens: Beautiful gardens in Dublin designed by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. 19. Listen to Music: Numerous pubs have live music on every night, while there are excellent buskers in many big cities. 20. Kilkenny Castle Park: Pretty gardens around Kilkenny Castle with a lake, woodland area and childrens playground. 21. Surfing: Great waves can be found in Bundoran, County Donegal and Lahinch, County Clare. 22. Rose of Tralee Festival: Five days and nights of free events in August with markets, performers and music - Jedward even performed here in 2012! 23. Blackrock Castle: A 16th century castle near Cork, with workshops, lectures and stargazing. 24. Farmers Markets: Wander around one of the many farmers markets that offer an authentic Irish atmosphere. 25. Chester Beatty Library: A museum in the gardens of Dublin Castle, thats home to various artefacts from around the world. If youre visiting Ireland on a budget, why not download and print off this handy checklist of free things to do in the country to save you a few quid?
Images: Wicklow Mountains by Claire Gribbin / Blackrock Castle, Cork by K.ristof