Our journey begins with the most impressive castles that once guarded Irish lands and served as residences for the mighty. The first stop is Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Built in 1172, it impresses with its massive 20-meter tower. It's a place where history comes alive - you can climb the ramparts and enjoy the panoramic view of the area. The castle is perfectly preserved and offers fascinating guided tours that take visitors back to medieval times. For movie fans, an added attraction is the fact that it was here that scenes for the film 'Braveheart' were shot.

Another point on our map is Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. This 15th-century castle has been painstakingly restored and furnished, presenting medieval Irish life in minute detail. The open-air museum that surrounds it is a real gem - here you can see what life was like in an Irish village centuries ago. It's an ideal place for families, offering not only a history lesson, but also plenty of interactive attractions. Evening medieval feasts at the castle are an unforgettable experience, combining traditional music, dance and cuisine.

Malahide Castle, located near Dublin, is another jewel in the crown of Irish castles. This 800-year-old fortress was home to the Talbot family for nearly 800 years, making it one of the longest inhabited castles in Ireland. Its magnificently preserved interiors, beautiful gardens and fascinating ghost story make it a place that stirs the imagination. The castle offers a variety of attractions, including interactive exhibitions and workshops for children, making it an ideal destination for the whole family.

Kilkenny Castle, towering over the town of the same name, is an example of medieval architecture at its finest. Built in the 13th century, it witnessed many key moments in Irish history. Today the castle impresses with its restored chambers, impressive art collection and extensive gardens. It's a place where history mixes with culture - the castle often hosts concerts and contemporary art exhibitions, offering visitors a unique blend of past and present.

Continuing our journey, we arrive at one of Ireland's most famous castles - Blarney Castle. This place is famous for the legendary Blarney Stone, which, according to tradition, bestows the gift of eloquence on anyone who kisses it. The castle itself, built in the 15th century, is a fascinating example of medieval defensive architecture. In addition to the castle itself, explore the surrounding gardens, including the mysterious Druid Garden and the Witch Garden. This is an ideal destination for families looking to combine history with a touch of magic and adventure.

Less well-known, but equally fascinating, is Drimnagh Castle in Dublin. It is the only castle in Ireland surrounded by a water-filled moat, which gives it a unique character. The castle offers fascinating guided tours that explore its turbulent history dating back to the 13th century. The castle gardens are perfect for a picnic, and the medieval craft workshops held here are a great opportunity for children to learn through play.

Cahir Castle, picturesquely located on a rocky island, is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland. Built in the 13th century, it has witnessed many sieges and battles. Today it offers visitors a fascinating journey back in time thanks to its perfectly preserved defensive walls, towers and chambers. The castle is famous for its fantastic views of the surrounding hills and the Suir River, making it a dream destination for photography enthusiasts.

Aughnanure Castle, a hidden gem in County Galway, is an excellent example of a 16th century Irish residential tower. Located on the shores of Lake Corrib, the castle offers a unique glimpse into the lives of Irish nobility in medieval times. Though smaller than some of the more famous castles, Aughnanure impresses with its authenticity and atmosphere. It's the perfect place for those who want to escape the crowds and experience the real, unspoiled history of Ireland.

Each of these castles offers unique experiences and attractions. Blarney Castle and Cahir Castle are more popular with tourists, which means bigger crowds, but also better tourist infrastructure. Drimnagh Castle and Aughnanure Castle, on the other hand, are quieter places, ideal for those who prefer a more intimate visit. Admission prices vary from castle to castle - from about €5-8 per person at the smaller sites to €15-20 at the most popular ones. Look out for family tickets, which often offer significant savings.

To conclude our tour of Ireland's medieval castles, we will visit two unique sites that combine history with modern attractions. The first is Knappogue Castle, a 15th-century fortress that is famous for its medieval feasts. This place offers an unforgettable experience, allowing you to travel back in time to the era of knights and ladies of the court. Guests can enjoy authentic period dishes while sipping mead, all accompanied by musicians and dancers in medieval costumes. This is an ideal opportunity for the whole family to soak in the atmosphere of the old days.

Knappogue Castle stands out for its perfectly preserved interior, which has been carefully restored to reflect the spirit of the 15th century. In addition to feasting, the castle also offers fascinating guided tours where you can learn about the turbulent history of the building and the family that inhabited it. The gardens surrounding the castle are ideal for a relaxing stroll after a busy tour.

Last but not least on our trip is Johnstown Castle. This neo-Gothic castle from the 19th century, while not as old as the others on our list, is noteworthy for its impressive gardens and modern agricultural museum. The castle is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens, ponds and woods, making it the perfect place for a family picnic or stroll. The Museum of Agriculture and Rural Life, located on the estate, offers a fascinating journey through the history of Irish agriculture.

Johnstown Castle stands out for its versatility - combining historical with educational and recreational elements. It is an ideal place for families with children, who can not only learn about history here, but also learn about traditional Irish agriculture and life in the countryside. The castle also offers interactive exhibitions and workshops that are great fun for young and old.

Comparing the latter two castles, Knappogue offers a more immersive medieval experience, especially with its famous feasts. It is an ideal place for those who want to feel the atmosphere of the old days. Johnstown Castle, on the other hand, with its museum and extensive grounds, is a better choice for families looking for a variety of attractions and opportunities to spend a day outdoors.

Admission prices to both castles are comparable, hovering around €10-15 per adult, with discounts available for children and family tickets. However, it is worth remembering that participation in the medieval feast at Knappogue Castle is an additional attraction that requires a separate reservation and is more expensive.

To sum up our tour of Ireland's medieval castles, each of the featured sites offers unique experiences and attractions. From massive fortresses like Trim Castle, to legendary sites like Blarney Castle, to more intimate but equally fascinating sites like Aughnanure Castle, there is something for everyone. Irish castles are not only a history lesson, but also an opportunity for family adventure, relaxing in beautiful gardens or participating in extraordinary cultural events. Whether you're a history lover, looking for picturesque places to photograph, or just want to spend an unforgettable time with your family, Ireland's medieval castles certainly won't disappoint you. Be sure to check the current opening hours and ticket prices before you visit, as they can change depending on the season.