Ireland Filming Locations: Star Wars on Skellig Michael and The Banshees of Inisherin

A monastic island perched above the Atlantic, windswept cliffs, villages with whitewashed houses: western Ireland has inspired great filmmakers. Visit the filming locations in Ireland, It's about following Luke Skywalker on Skellig Michael or the heroes of Banshees of Inisherin on the Aran and Achill Islands. Based in the UK and Ireland since 2012, we organize these tailor-made trips. Here are the places to see and our recommended itinerary.

In short: The most famous filming locations in Ireland are Skellig Michael, off the coast of Kerry, Luke Skywalker's island in Star Wars, the Dingle Peninsula, and Malin Head, in Donegal. The Banshees of Inisherin, Head to Achill Island in County Mayo and Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands. Allow 5 to 8 days to combine these destinations with the Wild Atlantic Way.

Star Wars: Filming Locations in Ireland

Skellig Michael, Luke Skywalker's Island

This is the final scene of The Force Awakens Rey meets Luke Skywalker atop a rocky island. This island is Skellig Michael, about twelve kilometers off the coast of Kerry. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is home to an early medieval monastery and its beehive-shaped stone huts, accessible by more than 600 steps carved into the rock.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? Filming locations in Ireland: Star Wars at Skellig Michael and The Banshees of Inisherin "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

Your ideal coastal spot?

Cliffs and sweeping panoramasBeaches, harbors and small villages

Question 2 of 5

You're exploring instead…

On foot along a pathBy car with several stops

Question 3 of 5

Need a break?

A beautiful viewpointA cafe or pub by the water

Question 4 of 5

What appeals to you most?

The wild sideThe atmosphere of the villages

Question 5 of 5

The perfect end to the day?

A sunsetA good local dinner

Please note that landings are very limited. Boats mainly depart from Portmagee, from late spring to early autumn, and only when sea conditions permit. Therefore, it is essential to book well in advance and allow an extra day. Alternatively, cruises circumnavigate the islands without stopping. More information is available on the official website. Discover Ireland.

The Dingle Peninsula and Malin Head

For The Last Jedi, The team also filmed on the Dingle Peninsula in Kerry and at Malin Head, the northernmost point of Ireland, in Donegal. These wild coastlines are easily explored by car. Read our guide to the Dingle Peninsula and our guide to Ring of Kerry.

The Banshees of Inisherin: Filming Locations in Western Ireland

Martin McDonagh's film, released in 2022, takes place on a fictional island, Inisherin. In reality, it was filmed on two very real islands off the west coast.

Achill Island

In County Mayo, Achill is connected to the mainland by a bridge, making it easily accessible by car. Its cliffs, beaches like Keem Bay, and deserted roads served as locations for many scenes in the film. It is also one of the most spectacular sections of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands

Off the coast of Galway, Inis Mór lent its stone walls, narrow roads, and stark landscapes to the film. The island is also home to the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa, perched on the edge of the cliffs. It can be reached by ferry from Rossaveal, near Galway, or by small plane. See also our guide What to do in Galway.

Our 7-day itinerary to filming locations in Ireland

• Days 1 and 2: Kerry, Portmagee and Skellig Michael (weather permitting).
• Day 3: the Dingle peninsula.
• Day 4: route to Galway via the Cliffs of Moher.
• Day 5: Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands.
• Days 6 and 7: Connemara and Achill Island.

Finally, this route largely follows the Wild Atlantic Way. For other filming opportunities, please visit our page. trip to the filming locations and our guide Game of Thrones in Northern Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions about Filming Locations in Ireland

Can we land on Skellig Michael?

Yes, but the number of visitors is limited each day and outings depend on the weather. That's why you need to book early and keep your schedule flexible.

Where was The Banshees of Inisherin filmed?

Primarily on Achill Island, in County Mayo, and on Inis Mór, in the Aran Islands. The island of Inisherin, however, does not exist.

What is the best time for this trip?

From May to September, boats to Skellig Michael and ferries to the islands operate most frequently. Outside of this period, Skellig Michael is generally inaccessible.

How much does this trip cost?

Expect to pay from €1,300 per person for 7 days including accommodation, car and support, excluding flights, boat to Skellig Michael and ferries. The price varies depending on the season.

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