Letterkenny Travel Guide

Get to know Letterkenny, a charming town in County Donegal, Ireland. Discover its cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodations, and local customs.


Introduction to Letterkenny

Located in County Donegal, in Northwest Ireland and Lakelands, Letterkenny is a charming town known for its friendly people, lively culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do in Letterkenny. This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey to discover the best attractions, accommodations, and local tips to make the most of your stay in Letterkenny.

List of Places to Visit in Letterkenny

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in history, Letterkenny has many culturally important attractions that you should visit. One of the best places to start is the Donegal County Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and photos that showcase the region’s history from prehistoric times to the present day. Another place to visit is the Isaac Butt Heritage Centre, which tells the story of one of Letterkenny’s most famous residents, who was an Irish political leader and founder of the Home Rule League.

Natural Attractions of Letterkenny: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Letterkenny is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, and there are plenty of outdoor adventures to embark on during your stay. For scenic views, the Glenveagh National Park is a must-visit destination, with its lush forests, pristine lakes, and rugged mountains. You can go on guided walks, birdwatching, and hiking trails here while taking in the breathtaking views. If you love water activities, Lake Gartan is also a fantastic attraction nearby. You can rent a kayak or a canoe to explore the tranquil waters surrounded by the valley’s hills.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Letterkenny

Letterkenny has no shortage of hiking and biking trails to explore, and the surroundings are perfect for it. One of the best hikes starts from the car park of the Glenveagh National Park, where you can follow the Glen Walk through the magnificent and scenic landscape of the park. Another hiking challenge is the nearby Mount Errigal, which offers stunning views of the rugged landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Letterkenny: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Letterkenny, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can take a guided tour of the town, exploring its historic buildings, bustling markets, and a lively cultural scene. Another exciting destination is the Arena7, a multifunctional entertainment complex that features a bowling alley, laser quest, and a game arcade. For an even more thrilling experience, you can also go bungee jumping or zip-lining at the nearby Gartan Outdoor Centre.

Week-Long Itinerary for Letterkenny

To make the best of your stay in Letterkenny, follow this week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Monday Explore the town center and visit the Donegal County Museum.
Tuesday Take a guided tour of Glenveagh National Park.
Wednesday Go kayaking or canoeing at Lake Gartan.
Thursday Visit the Isaac Butt Heritage Centre.
Friday Embark on a hike on Mount Errigal.
Saturday Enjoy the entertainment at Arena7.
Sunday Take a day trip to the nearby Derry city and explore its historic landmarks and streets.

Food and Drink Scene of Letterkenny

Must-Try Dishes

Letterkenny is known for its traditional Irish and seafood cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes that you must try include:

  • Donegal Bay Prawns
  • Fresh fish and chips
  • Irish stew

Local Beverages

No trip to Letterkenny would be complete without trying some of the local beverages, such as:

  • Guinness
  • Bushmills Irish Whiskey
  • Smithwick’s Ale

Where to Stay in Letterkenny: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Letterkenny has a wide range of accommodations to fit all budgets and preferences. Some of the best hotels in the town include the Radisson Blu Hotel, the Clanree Hotel, and Mount Errigal Hotel. There are also plenty of cozy guesthouses and hostels to opt for a budget stay. Some of them include Dillon’s Hotel, McGettigan’s Hotel, and Burndale House.

What to Buy in Letterkenny: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home, Letterkenny has plenty of options. Some of the most popular items include:

  • Donegal Tweed clothing and accessories
  • Handcrafted pottery and ceramics
  • Jameson Irish Whiskey and Bushmills Irish Whiskey

Local Culture and Customs of Letterkenny

Letterkenny’s local culture is deeply rooted in Irish traditions, and the people are known for their warm hospitality. Respect for the elderly, courtesy towards others, and sharing food and drink is considered an essential aspect of the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Letterkenny

The best time to visit Letterkenny is during the spring and summer seasons, from April to August, when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are lush green.

Do’s and Don’ts of Letterkenny

Do:

  • Greet people with a smile and a wave
  • Take part in local customs and traditions
  • Try the local foods and drinks
  • Be patient with the language barrier if you don’t speak the Irish language

Don’t:

  • litter
  • disrespect the local culture or customs
  • be loud or obnoxious in public places
  • forget to tip your servers

Safety and Health

Safety in Letterkenny

Letterkenny is a safe and friendly town, and there is no significant security threat to visitors. However, like any other place, be mindful of your surroundings, and always lock doors and windows.

Health in Letterkenny

Letterkenny has a high-quality healthcare system, and there are many medical facilities available if you need assistance. Pack your essential medications and travel insurance to avoid any health and safety issues.

Getting to Letterkenny: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Letterkenny

The nearest airport to Letterkenny is Donegal Airport, which is around 40 miles away from the town center. You can also fly into Belfast International Airport, which is around two hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Letterkenny

Letterkenny also has many bus services to other major towns and cities in Ireland, including Dublin, Galway, and Derry. The town’s bus hub is located in the town center, and there are many bus connections available.

Other Options

You can also drive your way to Letterkenny, with many scenic routes and road trips that you can take for a memorable experience.

How to Get Around in Letterkenny

The best way to get around Letterkenny is by foot or bicycle. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, with many roads and alleys that you can explore on foot. Renting a bicycle is also a great option, with many bike rental shops available around town. There are also many taxi services and public bus routes if you need to commute to other locations outside of Letterkenny.

Where to Go Next from Letterkenny: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time, you can also explore some nearby destinations from Letterkenny, such as:

  • The Inishowen Peninsula
  • The Wild Atlantic Way
  • The Malin Head

Conclusion

Letterkenny is a hidden treasure in Northwest Ireland and Lakelands, with its unique blend of culture, history, adventure, and charm. The town has something to offer every traveler, from outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs. We hope this guide has inspired you to pack your bags and plan your trip to Letterkenny, the gateway to exploring the beauty and wonder of Northwest Ireland and Lakelands.

"Polestar": just so you know where you are Citizens in Market Square in 1928 discussing the need for a bypass. It opened in 1999. Citizens in Market Square in 1928 discussing the need for a bypass. It opened in 1999. St Eunan's Cathedral St Eunan's Cathedral Beltany Stone Circle Beltany Stone Circle Newmills corn and flax mills Newmills corn and flax mills Take your time at Glebe House gardens Take your time at Glebe House gardens Glenveagh Lough and Castle Glenveagh Lough and Castle Letterkenny's Celtic Cross is modern Letterkenny's Celtic Cross is modern