From intimate candlelit basements to legendary 10,000-seat arenas, Ireland punches far above its weight when it comes to live music. Here are the ten venues every music lover should experience.
1. Vicar Street, Dublin
Arguably the finest mid-size venue in Ireland, Vicar Street holds around 1,500 people in a layout where every seat feels intimate.
2. The Olympia Theatre, Dublin
Built in 1879, The Olympia is a riot of Victorian splendour. The Victorian balconies, ornate plasterwork, and warm acoustics make every show feel like an event.
3. Whelan's, Dublin
The heartbeat of Dublin's indie music scene. Every major Irish act of the last 30 years has played Whelan's on the way up.
4. Cyprus Avenue, Cork
Cork's premier independent music venue has an unrivalled reputation for booking emerging talent before they break.
5. King John's Castle, Limerick
For outdoor summer concerts, the backdrop of a 13th-century Norman castle on the River Shannon is hard to beat.
6. Croke Park, Dublin
When the stadium rock gods come to Ireland, they come to Croker. With a capacity of 82,000, an evening here is unforgettable.
7. The Ulster Hall, Belfast
A Victorian gem with extraordinary acoustic properties, hosting everyone from Led Zeppelin to Snow Patrol.
8. The Limelight, Belfast
Two rooms, seven nights a week, consistently great programming.
9. Leisureland, Galway
Galway's premier large-venue space, with capacity for up to 3,000.
10. National Concert Hall, Dublin
Ireland's flagship classical venue, with acoustics that are among the finest in Europe.