County Tipperary has been recognised in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 list, which highlights the top 25 destinations to visit around the globe in the year ahead.
The globally renowned travel authority has praised Tipperary for its dramatic landscapes, thriving culinary scene and iconic heritage sites. The county joins destinations such as Barbados, Botswana, North Island in New Zealand, and the Spanish city of Cádiz Spain, underscoring Ireland’s continued appeal to international travellers.
In its announcement, Lonely Planet described Tipperary as a destination where visitors can “indulge in the best of Irish culture and food”, highlighting the Rock of Cashel as a must-see landmark and noting its farm-to-table dining experiences, from traditional pubs like Larkin’s in Garrykennedy to Michelin-starred excellence at The Bishop’s Buttery.
Tipperary offers visitors a compelling combination of history, culture, food and outdoor adventure. Its most famous attraction, the Rock of Cashel, stands proudly on a limestone outcrop overlooking the surrounding countryside and offers a remarkable window into Ireland’s medieval past. Other heritage highlights include Cahir Castle and Roscrea Castle, both beautifully preserved and among the country’s finest examples of medieval architecture. Alongside these historic landmarks, Tipperary’s thriving food scene has become a defining part of its appeal, with everything from cosy pubs and lively farmers’ markets to high-end dining celebrating the best of local produce.
The county’s natural beauty is equally striking. The Lough Derg Blueway provides a serene setting for kayaking, paddleboarding or leisurely cruising, allowing visitors to explore its tranquil waters and discover charming lakeside villages. The nearby Galtee Mountains, Ireland’s highest inland mountain range, offer spectacular hiking routes for all levels, with sweeping views across the heart of the island. At the water’s edge in Garrykennedy, Larkin’s Pub is a beloved stop for a meal, a drink and live music – the perfect way to round off a day of exploring. Tipperary is also world-famous for its equestrian traditions and is home to leading studs, training centres and racing heritage, making it a key destination for horse enthusiasts. Sport is woven deeply into local identity, with the county regarded as a heartland of hurling — the fastest field sport in the world — offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience one of Ireland’s most exciting cultural traditions at Semple Stadium.
Tipperary is also exceptionally well connected, lying within easy reach of two international airports — Shannon and Dublin. The county is just 90 minutes from Shannon Airport and two hours from Dublin Airport, both offering extensive transatlantic and European flight connections. With excellent road and rail links, Tipperary is easy to access and perfectly positioned as a base for exploring Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and beyond.
For more information on travel to Tipperary, visit www.ireland.com.
