If you are looking for a holiday that offers plenty of culture and charm, you can't go wrong with Ireland. Ireland is renowned for its cultural history and lively nightlife and is visited by thousands of people each year from all over the world.

The following is an article on some of Ireland's popular attractions. If you are planning a trip to Ireland the following suggestions should help you make the most of your stay.

Dublin Zoo is one of Irelands most popular attractions and is a great day out for all the family. Dublin Zoo is the largest zoo in Ireland and is located in Phoenix Park, a sprawling expanse covering over 1,700 acres of parkland.

Dublin Zoo stands out from others zoos for a number of reasons. One of the main features of Dublin Zoo is its strong support of conservation programs. The zoos mission statement is to "work in partnership with zoos world wide to make a significant contribution to the conservation of the endangered species on Earth". Dublin zoo is renowned for its variety of animal life on display including World of Primates, Fringes of the Arctic and numerous other endangered species.

As well as having a diverse selection of animals the zoo is also important for its history. Dublin Zoo is the fourth zoo to be established in the world. Created during the nineteenth century, Dublin zoo upholds the original conversationalist values of early zoos whilst also providing a fun day out where everyone can learn more about animals.

Blarney Castle is one of Ireland's most famous attractions. Travellers and tourists have been making pilgrimages to visit Blarney Castle and in particular the Blarney Stone for hundreds of years.

The Stone of Eloquence, otherwise known as The Blarney Stone, is allegedly half of the fabled Stone of Scone. The Stone of Scone is well known in British folklore and there are several different tales about its movements from Scotland to Ireland. Some tales suggest that the stone was originally the pillow stone of Jacob, delivered by the prophet Jeremiah. Others believe that the stone played an important role in the liberation of the Israelites from Egypt.

Regardless of the exact origin of the Blarney Stone numerous people are in agreement of the blessings it can offer. Visitors to Blarney Castle travel to the top to find the gift of eloquence. In order to receive the blessing people are supported whilst lying upside down and kiss the stone.

Blarney Castle is situated near the city of Cork which has one of Ireland's largest harbours. The Castle is surrounded by gardens which feature rock formations such as The Druid's Circle and The Wishing Steps as well as a traditional mansion dating back to the nineteenth century. With plenty to see inside and out, Blarney Castle is the ideal day out for all the family all year round.