Is Blarney Castle Worth Visiting If You Don't Kiss the Blarney Stone?

Is Blarney Castle Worth Visiting If You Don't Kiss the Blarney Stone?

Is Blarney Castle Worth Visiting If You Don't Kiss the Blarney Stone?

Blarney Castle seen through the gardens, County Cork, Ireland

October 24, 2026

Destination Reviews

Is Blarney Castle Worth Visiting If You Don't Kiss the Blarney Stone?

You can visit Blarney Castle without kissing the famous stone. I did - and the castle, climb and views were still worth it.

Blarney Castle seen through the gardens, County Cork, Ireland

October 24, 2026

Destination Reviews

Is Blarney Castle Worth Visiting If You Don't Kiss the Blarney Stone?

You can visit Blarney Castle without kissing the famous stone. I did - and the castle, climb and views were still worth it.

Blarney Castle seen through the gardens, County Cork, Ireland

October 24, 2026

Destination Reviews

Is Blarney Castle Worth Visiting If You Don't Kiss the Blarney Stone?

You can visit Blarney Castle without kissing the famous stone. I did - and the castle, climb and views were still worth it.

Csilla Dali

Csilla Dali

evyssa vacations

evyssa vacations

Yes. I did not kiss the Blarney Stone. There, I said it. And I still think climbing Blarney Castle was worth doing.

I made it all the way up - and passed

I stood in the long line. I climbed the steep, narrow staircase. I suffered through rain and wind, enjoyed a few teasing moments of sunshine, and eventually reached the famous stone.

Then I looked at what was required - lying back, head tilted toward a stone kissed by an impressive number of people - and decided I was good.

Legend says kissing it gives you the ‘gift of the gab’: eloquence and persuasive speech. If you’ve ever met me, you’ll understand why I decided I probably didn’t need the upgrade.

The climb is part of the experience

I enjoyed discovering the old castle chambers and imagining what life might have looked like inside them. The staircase is steep, narrow and slippery. When it gets crowded, you get very friendly with the people around you very quickly. If you’re claustrophobic, know that before you climb.

But the views from the top are gorgeous. That alone made me glad I went up.

Blarney Castle tower among the trees, County Cork, Ireland

Touristy does not mean bad

This trip reminded me several times that ‘touristy’ and ‘not worth doing’ are not synonyms. The better question is whether the experience earns the time it takes from the rest of your trip. For me, Blarney did. I just left the kissing to everyone else.

Csilla Dali

Csilla Dali

Founder & Lead Travel Advisor

Itineraries to consider

Are You Planning Your Next Vacation?

Check out our top recommendations!

plan your travel

today

Anticipation is killing you? Let’s get ahead of the game.

We know the feeling, that spark when you start imagining the next adventure. So why wait? Set the direction, and we’ll refine it from there. Explore how your journey could unfold, then let us make it unmistakably yours.

plan your travel today

Anticipation is killing you?
Let’s get ahead of the game.

We know the feeling, that spark when you start imagining the next adventure. So why wait? Set the direction, and we’ll refine it from there. Explore how your journey could unfold, then let us make it unmistakably yours.

plan your travel today

Anticipation is killing you?
Let’s get ahead of the game.

We know the feeling, that spark when you start imagining the next adventure. So why wait? Set the direction, and we’ll refine it from there. Explore how your journey could unfold, then let us make it unmistakably yours.

plan your travel today

Anticipation is killing you?
Let’s get ahead of the game.

We know the feeling, that spark when you start imagining the next adventure. So why wait? Set the direction, and we’ll refine it from there. Explore how your journey could unfold, then let us make it unmistakably yours.

Hire Your Luxury Travel Agent!

To ensure we provide you with the most accurate and timely information, please let us know a convenient day and the best time for us to contact you. This way, we can ensure that our response reaches you directly, avoiding the clutter of the digital realm. Whether it's through a call, email or text message, we want to make sure our communication is received!

Hire Your Luxury Travel Agent!

To ensure we provide you with the most accurate and timely information, please let us know a convenient day and the best time for us to contact you. This way, we can ensure that our response reaches you directly, avoiding the clutter of the digital realm. Whether it's through a call, email or text message, we want to make sure our communication is received!

Hire Your Luxury Travel Agent!

To ensure we provide you with the most accurate and timely information, please let us know a convenient day and the best time for us to contact you. This way, we can ensure that our response reaches you directly, avoiding the clutter of the digital realm. Whether it's through a call, email or text message, we want to make sure our communication is received!

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

As Seen In

We’re grateful that our passion for extraordinary travel experiences is recognized and shared by trusted voices and storytellers.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

As Seen In

We’re grateful that our passion for extraordinary travel experiences is recognized and shared by trusted voices and storytellers.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

As Seen In

We’re grateful that our passion for extraordinary travel experiences is recognized and shared by trusted voices and storytellers.

Latest Stories

Blarney Castle seen through the gardens, County Cork, Ireland

Is Blarney Castle Worth Visiting If You Don't Kiss the Blarney Stone?

You can visit Blarney Castle without kissing the famous stone. I did - and the castle, climb and views were still worth it.

October 24, 2026

Destination Reviews

Castle tower beside a lake in Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland

Is Killarney Worth Visiting? The Ireland Stop I Would Give Two Nights

Killarney may be touristy, but it became one of my favorite Ireland stops. Here's why I would give it at least two nights.

October 24, 2026

Destination Reviews

The Temple Bar pub in Dublin, Ireland

Is Temple Bar a Tourist Trap? Yes. Should You Still Go? Also Yes.

Temple Bar is touristy, crowded and exactly what you expect. Here's why I still think first-time Dublin visitors may want to experience it once.

October 24, 2026

Destination Reviews

Kotor city walls on the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro, a Mediterranean cruise port

Regent vs Silversea vs Seabourn: Which Ultra-Luxury Cruise Style Fits You?

Compare Regent, Silversea and Seabourn by inclusions, butler service, dining, shore experiences and atmosphere to find your best fit.

October 22, 2026

Cruise & River Cruise Reviews

Explora Journeys ship at sea at sunset

Ship-within-a-Ship or All-Luxury Cruise? The Retreat, The Haven and Sanctuary Collection Explained

Compare Celebrity’s Retreat, Norwegian’s Haven and Princess Sanctuary Collection with all-luxury ships by service, dining, privacy and family fit.

October 22, 2026

Cruise & River Cruise Reviews

Nautilus Club youth space on Explora Journeys

Family-Oriented or Simply Kid-Permitted? Choosing a Luxury Cruise for Children and Teens

Compare family-oriented, family-capable, and kid-permitted cruises by youth programs, cabins, dining, age rules, and exact sailing fit.

October 22, 2026

Cruise & River Cruise Reviews

What you will receive

First-hand knowledge

Our team brings you a wealth of expertise built from personal visits to destinations, industry certifications, participation in leading travel conferences, and strong local connections through our land operators. This extensive knowledge allows us to provide practical insights and insider recommendations for your journey.

Handpicked Premium Partners icon

Handpicked Premium Partners

We aim to connect you with trusted partners—including accommodations, guides, and local providers—selected through rigorous standards and direct experience. Our recommendations are intended to offer quality and unique opportunities, while allowing flexibility based on your preferences and budget.

Around the Clock Support icon

Around the Clock Support

Travel with peace of mind knowing you have assistance before, during and after your trip. Whether you encounter an issue or need assistance, dedicated support is available to help you resolve problems.

End-to-End Travel Planning Services icon

End-to-End Travel Planning Services

We can handle every detail of your journey, from the first idea to your return home. Our advisors design seamless itineraries, anticipate challenges, and ensure nothing is overlooked, making your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible—while giving you the flexibility to choose the extent of services that fit your preferences.

Hassle-Free Planning icon

Hassle-Free Planning

Preparing for your trip can be straightforward with our guidance. We assist you every step of the way with information about entry requirements, sharing practical travel tips, in-depth destination information, proper travel insurance options, and more. We aim to help you stay organized and confident, so you can focus on looking forward to your journey rather than worrying about the details.

Personal Travel App icon

Personal Travel App

Itinerary details, tickets, and travel confirmations—all in one place. Our platform keeps your essential travel documents organized and easy to access whenever you need them. With everything consolidated in a single location, you can quickly review your plans, make updates if needed, and travel with greater peace of mind knowing that all your important information is at your fingertips.

What you will receive

First-hand knowledge

Our team brings you a wealth of expertise built from personal visits to destinations, industry certifications, participation in leading travel conferences, and strong local connections through our land operators. This extensive knowledge allows us to provide practical insights and insider recommendations for your journey.

Handpicked Premium Partners icon

Handpicked Premium Partners

We aim to connect you with trusted partners—including accommodations, guides, and local providers—selected through rigorous standards and direct experience. Our recommendations are intended to offer quality and unique opportunities, while allowing flexibility based on your preferences and budget.

Around the Clock Support icon

Around the Clock Support

Travel with peace of mind knowing you have assistance before, during and after your trip. Whether you encounter an issue or need assistance, dedicated support is available to help you resolve problems.

End-to-End Travel Planning Services icon

End-to-End Travel Planning Services

We can handle every detail of your journey, from the first idea to your return home. Our advisors design seamless itineraries, anticipate challenges, and ensure nothing is overlooked, making your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible—while giving you the flexibility to choose the extent of services that fit your preferences.

Hassle-Free Planning icon

Hassle-Free Planning

Preparing for your trip can be straightforward with our guidance. We assist you every step of the way with information about entry requirements, sharing practical travel tips, in-depth destination information, proper travel insurance options, and more. We aim to help you stay organized and confident, so you can focus on looking forward to your journey rather than worrying about the details.

Personal Travel App icon

Personal Travel App

Itinerary details, tickets, and travel confirmations—all in one place. Our platform keeps your essential travel documents organized and easy to access whenever you need them. With everything consolidated in a single location, you can quickly review your plans, make updates if needed, and travel with greater peace of mind knowing that all your important information is at your fingertips.

What you will receive

First-hand knowledge

Our team brings you a wealth of expertise built from personal visits to destinations, industry certifications, participation in leading travel conferences, and strong local connections through our land operators. This extensive knowledge allows us to provide practical insights and insider recommendations for your journey.

Handpicked Premium Partners icon

Handpicked Premium Partners

We aim to connect you with trusted partners—including accommodations, guides, and local providers—selected through rigorous standards and direct experience. Our recommendations are intended to offer quality and unique opportunities, while allowing flexibility based on your preferences and budget.

Around the Clock Support icon

Around the Clock Support

Travel with peace of mind knowing you have assistance before, during and after your trip. Whether you encounter an issue or need assistance, dedicated support is available to help you resolve problems.

End-to-End Travel Planning Services icon

End-to-End Travel Planning Services

We can handle every detail of your journey, from the first idea to your return home. Our advisors design seamless itineraries, anticipate challenges, and ensure nothing is overlooked, making your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible—while giving you the flexibility to choose the extent of services that fit your preferences.

Hassle-Free Planning icon

Hassle-Free Planning

Preparing for your trip can be straightforward with our guidance. We assist you every step of the way with information about entry requirements, sharing practical travel tips, in-depth destination information, proper travel insurance options, and more. We aim to help you stay organized and confident, so you can focus on looking forward to your journey rather than worrying about the details.

Personal Travel App icon

Personal Travel App

Itinerary details, tickets, and travel confirmations—all in one place. Our platform keeps your essential travel documents organized and easy to access whenever you need them. With everything consolidated in a single location, you can quickly review your plans, make updates if needed, and travel with greater peace of mind knowing that all your important information is at your fingertips.