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7 Day Ireland Itinerary – Ultimate Road Trip Guide For The South

Last Updated March 26, 2024 William Tang

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This 7-day Ireland itinerary guide is broken into three main parts – trip planning decision points, the comprehensive breakdown of each day, and my personal planning tips.  This is meant to be super comprehensive and is everything I would have wanted to know when I planned this South Ireland road trip, along with what to see in 7 days.

Ireland is a place where legends, epics, and science fiction become reality.  Ireland is a breathtaking ancient landscape, rolling green hills and craggy sharp rock. Ireland is céad míle fáilte (a hundred thousand welcomes).

Read more about Ireland

• Things you have to see and do on your Ireland road trip
• 6 of the Best Things to do in Galway
• Must-read Ireland travel guide

TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELING IRELAND

• Our favorite spot – You’ll discover this as you go through the itinerary but if I had to pick, I’d say it was our day at Skellig Michael , not only as a Star Wars nerd, but our timing in being able to see the puffins in droves.  Truly a special day.
• Where to stay – We used Booking.com for all of our stays and is great for finding those charming B&Bs. Alternatively, you can always see if hotel corporate codes might work for you.
• Renting a car – An important part to a road trip is obviously a car. Save the most money through car rental coupon codes and always start your search with Discover Cars and RentalCars so you know what the best deals are.
• Flights – International flights are never cheap, but with the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature you can find the best deals. Check how much it would be for you to get to Ireland!
• Insurance – This is a must for a road trip! Check out the best travel insurance .
• Hottest deals – Bookmark our frequently updated travel deals page .

In This Article

Recommended travel time

Areas to focus, best time to go, packing essentials, where to stay, flying into ireland, interactive map, itinerary day 1 – a peek inside the ancient east, itinerary day 2 – from castles to a ring called kerry, itinerary day 3 – magic on skellig michael, itinerary day 4 – a day in killarney, itinerary day 5 – coastal adventures on dingle peninsula, itinerary day 6 – mighty cliffs and the burren, itinerary day 7 – clash of gaelic sport and dublin delight, itinerary flexibility and changes, frequently asked questions, travel resources for your next trip, ireland road trip planning.

Planning a South Ireland road trip isn’t hard.  There’s a few things to consider as you put everything together before you start planning.

For more details make sure to read everything you need to know when you plan a trip to Ireland .

There’s three scenarios here: 1) You have limited vacation days, 2) you found a flight deal with specific dates, or 3) there’s flexibility.

If it’s #1 or #2, you already know your answer but if it’s #3, things become intriguing.  It’s in part dictated by your decision on how much you’d like to see and the pace at which you travel.

Our week in Ireland wasn’t enough to see everything we wanted in the south but was the perfect amount to see the highlights.  I’d say Ireland in 7 days is a bare minimum and your itinerary will be decently packed.  Any less, you’ll have to focus on less regions or drive aggressively which isn’t recommended.

Two weeks is the perfect amount whether you decide to deep dive in a specific area or see the whole island.  For the sake of keeping this guide focused, let’s say you only have 7 days to work with.

A week in the Emerald Isle is certainly not enough but if you’ve got limited time like we did, you’ll have to make a pretty critical decision.  Do you focus on the North, South, or the whole island?  Do you want to take it slow or hit up as much as you can? 

The island of Ireland is divided into two parts.  The majority of the land is covered by the Republic of Ireland (officially named Ireland) and the other sixth is Northern Ireland which is part of the United Kingdom to the northeast.

One of the most recognizable places of Ireland is Giant’s Causeway and it’s the reason you’ll want to come to this part of the island.  The unusual basalt pillars are incredibly unique and will boggle your mind.  In the north, it’s cities like Belfast and Derry which present the most compelling and fascinating political history if you’re interested in learning about that and the complicated past around Ireland’s independence.  There is plenty to see here and it’s just as beautiful as the southern part of the island.

Other highlights include:

• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Dark Hedges
• Donegal – There’s a reason why this region was picked as ‘Coolest Place on the Planet for 2017’ by  National Geographic Traveler

There is no official “southern Ireland” borderline but we’re labeling that as everywhere below the line connecting Galway to Dublin.

Southern Ireland is dramatically different in terrain and sights than the north.  The south is where you’ll find a majority of the larger cities of Ireland including Dublin, Cork, Galway city, and Limerick.

Our main reason for doing a South Ireland road trip is to experience the Ring of Kerry, Skellig Michael, Dingle, Connemara National Park and explore castles and ancient ruins.

The full loop

The island itself isn’t that large (area wise, it is in fact smaller than Iceland) and doing a loop is certainly possible in 7 days.  It’s an ambitious schedule but definitely possible.

Ultimately we chose to do the south because we had done Northern Ireland on a separate short stopover trip and wanted to see a different side to Ireland.

The summer months are short and in the winter most things in the country are shut down.  As a result, it kind of makes it simple in terms of when to plan your trip.

July and August are the peak of high season; school is out and you contend with the large hoards of tourists, both domestic and international.  On average these months have a high of 20C.

Spring and fall are going to be a bit temperamental but, if you’re okay with rain, you’ll find awesome flight deals and cheaper hotels.  Expect the temperatures to be colder though with highs of 15C.

The sweet spot, however, has to be June .  It’s during the summer solstice with the longest days of the year and it’s the start of high season.  You get the best of amazing weather and smaller crowd sizes.  It was incredible that there was enough light to sightsee until 10PM.

Packing for a South Ireland road trip shouldn’t be too hard as you’ll be staying at B&B’s and hotels all the way through.

Since you’ll have access to a car you don’t have to pack ultra-light.  You will want to rent the smallest car possible though, which means minimal trunk space.

Waterproof – You’re not going to skip every spot you have on your itinerary because of rain.  This means that you’ll have to brave the elements.  Have rain gear with you in case you need it.

GPS – If you have a data plan, using your smartphone for GPS will be your first choice so you can leverage any traffic information to take the most optimal route.  If not, a stand-alone unit will work just as well. Don’t assume your car will have GPS built in.  Before your trip, make sure you save areas offline on Google Maps and Save/Star all your destinations.  Google Maps will work offline (minus traffic adjustments).

Money – Ireland is part of the EU and as such, Euro is the currency.  Cash or credit is widely accepted.  If you’re from Canada, make sure you have the right credit card to either minimize on foreign exchange fees or maximize points.

Always cool – In the summer, it tops out in the low 20Cs.  Evenings drop down to the 10Cs or lower so pack accordingly.  I had a light Quiksilver hoodie always ready to go in the car in case things got chilly.

Other gear that I recommend for a trip to visit Ireland .

After deciding the focus area of your trip and having a rough idea of the spots you want to see, the next step is figuring out where to stay.

The best part about Ireland is the hospitality and it’s a big reason we had such a great time.  The scenery blew our minds, but those conversations with the owners of the B&Bs and hotel staff made for a lasting impression.

B&B’s:   You’ll only find hotels in the big cities. In the country-side you’re going to rely on family owned B&B accommodations.  Each one is unique and the best part is the delicious breakfast included.

Hotels:   In the bigger cities you’ll have the option to stay at a hotel.  We quite enjoyed our big rooms, luxurious beds, and room cleaning when we had the opportunity.  Not to say we didn’t have that at the B&Bs, but it was nice to go into a hotel knowing the level of service and quality that you’d expect.

Glamping:   When I found out about Galway Glamping with Mongolian yurts, I knew we had to try it.  You get an experience that gets you into the charming countryside setting while not sacrificing the comforts of a hot shower, kitchen, and lounge rooms.  Similar to B&Bs, the hosts are just as accommodating, friendly, and helpful.

Places we stayed across Ireland in 7 days:

• Kilkenny – Newlands Lodge
• Portmagee – Skellig View White Room Airbnb
• Killarney – The Lake Hotel
• Dingle – An Portán
• Lisdoonvarna (near Doolin) – Slieve Elva B&B
• Galway – Galway Glamping
• Dublin – The Croke Park Hotel

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Tips and Advice:

• Be careful about check-in times.  Typically there are very specific time slots where they expect you to come in.  If you aren’t able to, make sure you reach out to them beforehand, give the owners an estimate of when you’ll arrive, and get approval.
• When glamping, make sure to ask what facilities are available so you come prepared.  In Galway Glamping’s case, they did not provide towels so we had to bring our own travel towel .

The main international airport is Dublin (DUB) but there are also airports in Shannon (SNN), Belfast (BFS), Cork (ORK), and Knock in West Ireland (NOC).

Coming from Canada, Dublin airport will be your primary access point into Ireland.  Our choice of airline is Air Transat .  We flew economy and were greeted with great leg room, a solid entertainment system, excellent service and amazing food.

If you’re coming from another part of Europe, you have even more airports open to you.

• Kerry Airport : Served by flights from Dublin, Manchester, London-Luton, London-Stansted and Frankfurt.
• Waterford Airport:  Served by flights from London-Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Bordeaux, Lorient.
• Galway Airport:  Served by flights from Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradfort, London Luton, Manchester, Newcastle, Southampton.
• Donegal Airport
• Sligo Airport
• George Best Belfast City Airport
• City of Derry Airport

These options allow you to get creative with your itinerary.  For instance, instead of doing a round trip journey in and out of Dublin, you could start in Dublin on the East side of the island to Shannon on the West.

Table of Contents

The 7 Day Ireland Itinerary

With the basics covered, the next step is to plan your day by day Ireland itinerary.

This high level outline shows everything we did across the 7 day road trip including sights, restaurants we tried, where we stayed, and invaluable insight we learned through adventure and misadventure.

This is meant to be a guideline because everyone’s situation will be different.  That said, if you’re looking for a baseline to start from, this guide is probably the best out there.  Sign up to become an insider and get access to the downloadable spreadsheet .

If you’re coming from North America, you’ll most likely be taking a red-eye flight, flying out in the evening and arriving the next morning.  This means you may be too tired to hit the ground running.  For us, we tried to sleep through the flight so that we’d have enough energy to last the first day.

Upon landing in Dublin and out of the airport by 1PM, we made an explicit decision to hit the road right away.  There’s more details in the driving section of our road trip guide but since I knew driving in Dublin was going to be a headache, it seemed more logical to finish there, return the car in the city and then rely on local transportation.

After picking up our rental car from Europcar we found our way to Glendalough in the gorgeous Wicklow Mountains region.  Glendalough Monastic City ruins were very impressive and almost fairytale-like with the Round Tower, Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul, the high crosses in the graveyard, and the priest’s house.  Make sure not to miss the walk up to the Upper Lake which has a postcard worthy view.  It’s roughly a 30 minute walk each way.

We then drove to the city of Kilkenny, our final destination of the day.  We arrived too late to do the Kilkenny Castle tour but there was plenty to see walking around the grounds, including the massive green park on one side and the rose garden on the other.

After dinner, we treated ourselves to Murphy’s Ice Cream.   Our favorite flavor has to be their Dingle Sea Salt, try it!

If we had more time:

Smithwick’s Experience – Smithwick’s ended up being our beloved beer for the trip and would have loved to have done this tour.  They also had an evening experience that sounded fun.

PETRONELLA RESTAURANT & CAFE

Quaint restaurant down a small alleyway in Kilkenny that serves excellent European dishes that span Irish to Italian.  Ordered the Baked Goatsbridge trout and Pappardelle pasta and both were very good.  Loved the decor here as well.  Best part was when the manager, Frank, came out to greet all the customers to see how everything was.

TripAdvisor

NEWLANDS LODGE

Just outside of Kilkenny, this B&B is a lovely property that will exceed all expectations whether it comes to the spacious rooms that are impeccably clean, friendly service from owners Mairead and Jimmy, and delicious all-inclusive breakfast.

Booking.com

Tips and Tricks:

• Car rental and driving tips – See everything you need to know to plan a trip to Ireland . We found our car rental via Discover Cars .
• Parking at Glendalough – We parked at the first parking lot we saw which turned out to be the Glendalough Hotel.  The parking was “free” and we weren’t ticketed although I’d say in high season it may not be as easy as it was for us.
• Glendalough Monastic City – No admission required.
• Relieve and hydrate – The walk to the Upper Lake is long and there isn’t much cover at the main site so either use the visitor center or Glendalough Hotel for the bathroom facilities.
• Kells Priory – This is an off-the-beaten-path spot that would be worth considering in your itinerary.  Read more about it here .

With a full stomach from our Irish breakfast, we hopped into our car and made our way to the Rock of Cashel .  

On a green hill with banded limestone, ancient fortifications create a ring around the Gothic cathedral, round tower, and chapel.  We were able to walk through the open, yet remarkably intact, ruins while also enjoying the rolling countryside of Tipperary.

Next stop was the famed Blarney Castle just outside of Cork.  The grounds of Blarney Castle and Gardens are huge and require a half day to fully explore everything.  We walked straight to the castle tower to line up to kiss a stone famed for giving the gift of eloquence.  

Wrapping up at Blarney Castle, we rushed through Killarney and connected to the Ring of Kerry to start our counter-clockwise rotation.  

The scenery at this point dramatically changed from tree lined country roads to coastal cliffs and crashing waves.  This is where you’ll appreciate having your own car .

After a few impromptu stops along the way, we made our final stop of the night at Kells Bay House & Gardens .  Here, we had a lovely and surprisingly authentic Thai meal at their in-house Sala Thai Restaurant.

We had the Summer Solstice on our side and there was still a ton of light out after dinner.  This made navigating the road to Portmagee and over to our Airbnb much easier.  Sadly, we had to skip pretty much everything along the way along this part of the Ring of Kerry except a quick stop at a gas station to pick up breakfast and snack items for the next day.

• Cork – It would’ve been nice to explore Cork and their English Market and visit the Cobh Heritage Centre.
• Blarney Gardens – I would have loved to have spent more time doing the various walks around the Poison Garden, Fern Garden, Arboretum, and the endless other garden walks that explore the mystical and magical landscapes.
• Killorglin – This is the first town we passed by along the Ring of Kerry.  We zipped right through but I would have loved to have stopped here even for a few minutes to get a feel for a small town like this one.
• Cahirciveen – This is home to the Ballycarbery Castle and the Old Barracks which is built in the Schloss style.  Legend says they mixed up plans for this and a building designed for somewhere in Punjab, India.

SALA THAI RESTAURANT

This is the in-house restaurant as part of the Kells Bay House property.  As someone that’s had a lot of Thai food, I have to say that the curries, noodles, and skewers we had were all very good and very authentic.  The only knock I’d have on this place is the service.  Our order took way too long to get to the table and only after following up did they realize that they missed our order completely and had to make it from scratch at that point.

SKELLIG VIEW WHITE ROOM AIRBNB

A no frills kind of Airbnb that I booked pretty early on because I was worried that the town of Portmagee would sell out.  Our host, Marie, was very accommodating of our late check-in request and I appreciated the free passes to Kerry Cliffs.  The room was just the right size and in relatively clean condition.  Wifi included as well.

Check rates

Tips and Tricks :

• Rock of Cashel – Parking is right up the narrow road right at the base of the hill.  It’s an automated parking system where you pay the machine when you’re leaving.  This parking costs 4.50 EUR.  To save money you could park in town and walk up.  Entrance is 8 EUR per person.
• Blarney Castle  – Be ready for lines to kiss the Blarney Stone.  If you’re not in a rush, I recommend doing the other parts of the garden, waiting for the line to subside and then doing the castle itself.
• Blarney Gardens –   Entrance is 14 EUR per person booked online.

Thinking about what to see in Ireland in 7 days, this is my #1 must-do.  The entire pilgrimage experience of zipping across the North Atlantic to discover that the white tipped Little Skellig was in fact covered by white gannets and adorable puffins that made Skellig Michael their home.  Then following in the ancient footsteps of Luke Skywalker and Rey up to the monastery itself was pure magic.

The 2.5 hours we had on the island seemed like a lot initially but once we started climbing the steps and exploring the beehive huts of the monastery, time passed quickly.

Back on the mainland and after lunch, we explored the lesser-known Valentia Island.  We wouldn’t have known about this part of the Ring of Kerry if it wasn’t for incredible photos I had seen from this area.  With the higher vantage points of Geokaun Mountain (5 EUR per car) and the slate quarry behind Valentia Lighthouse (5 EUR per person), the scenery was as close to postcard perfect as it gets.

We then continued along our ring road journey by joining up with the Skellig Ring where we stopped by Kerry Cliffs (4 EUR per person) which is an impressive view of the jagged edged rocky coast.  It’s at the edge of the peninsula where the land rises and then sharply drops into the ocean.

The driving adventure continued along until rejoining the main Ring of Kerry.  Due to time, we couldn’t stop in the towns along the way.  From Waterville and onwards, it was straight driving.  Since we weren’t close to the coast there wasn’t much to stop and see.

At Molls Gap , we took a quick break before descending into Killarney National Park with sunlight starting to wane.  We were able to make quick stops at Ladies View where you can see where the glaciers carved through the valley before the opening into Killarney itself.

It was late by the time we checked into The Lake Hotel so no restaurants were open.  We hopped downstairs to the Devil’s Punchbowl Bar , grabbed a pint, and ordered a sandwich.

• Waterville, Sneem, Caherdaniel, and Kenmare – It would’ve been nice to take our time through these idyllic coastal towns but I feel the trade off of spending more time on Valentia Island and the Skellig Ring was worth it.

THE BRIDGE BAR

With barely any time to snack on Skellig Michael, we were famished by the time we arrived back in Portmagee.  Right along the main street is this nice little local restaurant which gets all the Skellig tourists.  Their fish and chips definitely hit the spot.

THE LAKE HOTEL

A historic hotel that is full of character but doesn’t show its age.  The rooms here are incredibly spacious and comfortable.  Breakfast as part of the B&B package was of the highest quality and the perfect charge-up for the day.  Location wise, it can’t be beat either being practically on Killarney National Park Grounds with that amazing view of the old castle ruins at the footsteps of Lough Leane.

• Booking:  You must book at least 4-5 months in advance in order to guarantee a spot for a specific date.  If you haven’t, don’t fret because cancellations happen all the time.
• Casey’s Tours to Skellig Island
• Skellig Michael Cruises
• The Skelligs – Force Awakens Boat Trip – Leaves from Ballinskelligs which is a totally different pier from Portmagee
• Skellig Boat
• Skellig Walker Cruises
• Skellig Michael Voyage
• The Skelligs Tour – Departs from Caherdaniel
• Skellig Experience Visitor Centre also has a page for boat tours here .
• Weather:  If the weather is poor for the boats, they’ll cancel the trip.  That’s why Skelligs Rocks ensured we called the morning of to confirm whether the trip would be a go or not.  There’s not much you can do here other than perhaps planning 2 days in the Ring of Kerry area so that if one day doesn’t work, you can reorganize things so you can have a second day to attempt a trip out.
• Boat ride:   With the speed of the boat, you’re not going to get that rocky, nausea inducing feeling that folks sensitive to being on the water get.  That being said, the water does get choppy especially on the way out which is why you have to wear the waterproof gear provided by the boat.  For those that get sea sick easily, they do offer medicine on board prior to leaving the pier if you need it but nobody on our boat ride had issues.  Make sure you tuck your camera away once the boat is out in open water because you will get very wet especially if you sit near the back.  The captain was also nice enough to provide big zip-loc bags in case.
• Difficulty:   There are two main sets of steps to the Monastery but I would say it’s relatively easy.  The first set slowly winds up with some natural spots for breaks.  The steps are wide enough to allow people to pass.  The second set of steps are more steep but if you take your time, you’ll make it up with no issues.  Compared to the Inca Trail where altitude was in effect , this felt very easy since it only required short spurts of energy.
• Tour:  Make sure you stick around for the educational talk given by one of the rangers when you get to the Monastery.  I don’t think there’s a fixed schedule but I could be wrong.  It felt like it was every hour.
• Valentia Lighthouse  – Admission to here was 5 EUR per person but didn’t think it was worth it.  The lighthouse and the small museum weren’t too interesting and the views weren’t anything special.  What was a nice view was in fact from the slate quarry which is visible when you look back inland from the lighthouse.  From here you get sweeping views of the lighthouse and the sprawling peninsula fingers that meet here.
• Skellig Ring – The Skelligs are in view for most of the drive around here and was honestly more of a joy to drive through compared to the Ring of Kerry because the large coaches don’t come here.  There weren’t designated stops per say but it was a joy to find pullovers to see the villages below.
• Ring of Kerry –  I would recommend driving counter-clockwise which is the official designated route for all the coach buses.   I’d much rather be stuck behind one and feel comfortable that opposing traffic will have to yield and when the opportunity arises to pass.  The driving section will cover this in more detail but I’ll say two things. 1) The speed limit is way too high so don’t feel pressured to drive that fast and 2) As scary as everyone made driving the ring sound, it wasn’t that bad because you’re never at a cliff’s edge and there are usually tiny pull offs for oncoming cars.

After a hearty breakfast at The Lake Hotel , we ventured about the hotel grounds.  The hotel backs right into the largest lake of the national park and as part of that, there’s also the ruins of The McCarthy Mór Castle.

You’ll need a full day exploring Killarney National Park because it’s huge.  For us, we wanted to hit up the main sights.  We were able to see Muckross Abbey, Muckross House, Torc Waterfall, and Ross Castle.  I was probably most impressed with the Abbey and its courtyard that must’ve inspired Tolkien.

Wanting to spend time in the town of Dingle, we hit the road right after we finished at the castle.  The drive through the southern coast of the peninsula was amazing with views of the water as you winded through.  The Ring of Kerry side was always visible across the water and we made quite a few stops along the way.

We quite enjoyed our time in Dingle as we were able to take a relaxing stroll along the main streets of town, popping into the small shops that were painted in a variety of colors.   After dinner, we also made sure we tried a few more flavors at Murphy’s Ice Cream.

• Killarney National Park – I would’ve loved to have done a few hikes in the park.  I was also sad that we weren’t able to take the boat across from Ross Castle to the Meeting of the Waters and Old Weird Bridge.
• Gap of Dunloe – This was part of the plans but had to be cut.  There’s an awesome hike there that takes around 2 hours with breathtaking views of the lake, a heritage cottage, and the surrounding mountains.
• Killarney City – If there’s one city we completely skipped because of time, it was Killarney.  It’s supposed to be a charming city with great food options like Quinlan’s Seafood Bar and Lane Cafe Bar.

OUT OF THE BLUE

If you love seafood, this is your spot.  The seafood chowder is out of this world.  The fish is all locally caught and fresh and it comes through in the two dishes we had – sea bass and pollock were probably the best of the entire trip.

This is one of the few B&Bs located on the western part of Dingle Peninsula which is the perfect spot to launch into the main sights along Slea Head Drive and the ferry out to the Blasket Islands.  The owners, Rónán and Geraldine are warm and friendly hosts that also serve up delicious breakfast.  The rooms are spacious, clean, and even come furnished with a rocking chair.

Starting in Dunquin, which is where our B&B was located, was a bit of a blessing and a curse because it allowed us to jump right into Dunquin Harbour and The Blasket Centre but since driving counter to traffic is highly inadvisable as we were told, we had to cut across the mountain in order to drive on Slea Head Drive in the clockwise direction.

When it comes to Slea Head Drive , there really wasn’t a specific sight that you’re looking for.  It’s very much a look out into the ocean as you’re driving around.

We were told that the Famine Cottages are a tourist trap so we skipped that.  There are also beehive huts along the way but because as we had done Skellig Michael, we passed as well.  Cross at Slea Head is a good spot for a quick stop where you’ll see great views of the Blasket Islands.  From there, you can see Coumeenoole Beach .  The beach is a good spot for a picnic and there’s a nice hike to the peninsula’s edge.

We continued around the peninsula with stops at Clogher Head, which is more or less another beach, and the Louis Mulcahy Pottery studio (good for a bathroom break and quick peek).

We drove back into town for another quick stop before detouring north to cross Conor Pass.  At the peak, there’s a carpark where we stopped briefly to check out the magnificent sights here.  You can see the coast in the distance, farms at the valley floor, along with lakes and cliffs.

This is when the heavy driving started as we had to wind up Northeast towards Limerick before turning Northwest.  Along the way, we stopped in the city of Ennis where it started pouring but we ducked into Cruises Pub for dinner.

• Gallarus Oratory – This was on our itinerary for the drive around Dingle but because we didn’t have enough time, I quickly flew the drone and continued along our way.
• Quaint small towns of Dingle – Our B&B hosts recommended that we stop by Ballydavid but short on time, we had to skip them.
• Blasket Islands – This is a full day kind of event but if you had a couple of days in the area, we recommend getting a ferry over to the Great Blasket Island to create your own eco adventure.

CRUISES PUB

This spot was a bit of a happy accident for us.  Originally we wanted to eat at The Cloister Restaurant & Bar but they weren’t taken anyone without reservations.  This pub was full of energy when we stepped in with a Gaelic football match televised with live Irish music.  There was a good selection of local beer here on top of comfort Irish bar food.  The Guinness meat pie and bangers and mash were perfect.

SLIEVE ELVA B&B

Just outside the town of Lisdoonvarna is this amazing B&B which features cosy guest rooms which are both spacious, clean, and modernly renovated.  What makes any stay special is the hospitality of the owners Kris and Ireen who will go out way to make you feel at home.  Their breakfast is marvelous and you will love their personal touch of home made bread and jams.  On top of that, each room gets Ireen’s homemade biscuits.  This would be my B&B of choice for anyone want to visit Cliffs of Moher or The Burren in County Clare.

• Driving in Dingle – Having done the drive myself, I can confidently say that you do not want to drive counter-clockwise.  Slea Head Drive is designated as a two way road but some parts along the coast are only wide enough for one car.
• Tarbert to Killimer Ferry – Instead of driving through Limerick as we ended up doing, there’s an alternative route that involves a ferry from Tarbert and goes across to Killimer.  We were originally going to do this but it didn’t save us any time so we just kept on driving.  However, if you plan it well or just have a more flexible schedule, check the schedule beforehand and this’ll be a great way to cut down driving time.  It costs 19 EUR per car or 17.10 if you book online .

We started off by crossing through the countryside before dropping to the coast.  Where there were rolling valleys before, large forested areas popped up and the ground burst with streams of sharp jagged limestone.

The Cliffs of Moher were staggeringly impressive with its continuous sheer drop of 214 meters that winds out as far as the eye can see.  Where the vistas truly opened up was beyond the fences of the maintained park.  There, I only dared to walk to the death-defying edges a few times before following the ridge line down to the most northern point.   We ended up spending quite a bit of time here.

Our next stop was Burren Smokehouse .  What we learned was that the Smokehouse itself is just a store and next to it on the same street is the Storehouse.  We grabbed a sample platter to eat one of our few lunches on the trip.  It was so good that after lunch we picked up a few for home.  The tricky part was figuring out how to keep it refrigerated the remainder of the trip.

The rest of the afternoon was spent in Burren National Park , followed by a quick walk around the portal tomb, Poulnabrone .  The Burren region is out of this world.  Even though we didn’t get to do a full hike in this geopark, it shows the power of glaciers that carved through and left behind limestone pavement with fissures created by rainwater dissolution.  The end result is something that is so dramatically different from anywhere else in Ireland.

We closed out the day in Galway , my favorite city in Ireland.  We didn’t get to stay there long but it was somewhere that was full of energy with all the street performers.  Pedestrian streets ruled the downtown core, making it easy to walk and so approachable with its many shops and restaurants.

At the end of the night, we drove outside of the city to get to Galway Glamping where we had a chance to meet the owners and get a full tour of the grounds.  This night was hands down the most memorable of stays with an eclectic assembly of furniture in the Mongolian yurt which was surprisingly very cozy and warm thanks to the electrical heater.

We closed out the day in Galway which has got to be my favorite city in Ireland.  It’s not like we even got to stay there that long but it was somewhere that was full of energy with all the street performers.  Pedestrian streets ruled the downtown core which made it easy to walk and so approachable with its many shops and restaurants.

At the end of the night, we drove outside of the city to get to Galway Glamping where we had a chance to meet the owners where they gave us the full tour of the grounds.  This night was hands down the most memorable of stays with eclectic assembly of furniture in the Mongolian yurt which was surprisingly very cosy and warm thanks to the electrical heater.

• I put together an article about top things to do in Galway .  Head over there for more ideas.
• Ballyvaughan Fairy Fort – A hidden spot in The Burren, this ring fort is said to be on the road up to Poulnabrone, just opposite the left hand turn into the Ailwee Caves. Access is restricted but it’s supposedly easy to walk in.
• Ballyvaughan – Pretty thatched cottages, nice crafts shops, and restaurants.
• Aran Islands – The easiest way to get there is by catching a ferry from Doolin.  I’d recommend staying overnight at a minimum.  There are 3 islands in the chain but the most interesting is Inis Mór which features the cliff tops prehistoric ring forts.  A ton to see and explore here.
• Burren National Park – I’m still a bit disappointed in the hike we attempted here.  With a little better planning, I would’ve picked a better marked hike.
• Aillwee Cave/Pollnagollum  – Pollnagollum is a secret spot but if you know where to look, you can find the cave that inspired Lord of the Rings’ character, Gollum.  Entrance to the longest cave in Ireland, the more accessible way is through Aillwee Cave which is open to the public.  The best way to see it is to join up with a local caving tour ( Back West Adventures ).

THE BURREN STOREHOUSE

Everyone raved about The Burren Smokehouse and their restaurant (Storehouse next door) and it sure didn’t disappoint.  After our morning at the Cliffs of Moher, we made our way over here for a quick bite.  While they have a ton of other great menu items such as their pizza, what we really wanted to try was a sampling of their smoked fish. Luckily they have the Smokehouse Platter which has 6 of their products.  Two of us shared one plate and it was just right for a half lunch.  There’s often live music playing here as well.

GALWAY GLAMPING

The most unique accommodations of our Ireland itinerary.  Who would’ve thought we’d be able to stay in a Mongolian yurt in the middle of the Irish countryside.  What used to be an estate in ruins, the grounds have now been converted to this eclectic mix of yurts, axe-throwing, group games, party rooms, and other funky rooms.  What makes it glamping is that all rooms are furnished and powered while also including super clean bathroom, kitchen, and lounging facilities next door.

Book Directly

• What the entry ticket is actually for – The entry ticket is only to get into the mass lot across the street.  Once you’re parked, all you do is cross the street and that’s it.  This kind of makes sense because there’s no way to police the cliffs to the north and the south.  Anyone can walk in.  They just bank on everyone driving.  You do have to get in the same line as everyone regardless if you purchase your ticket online ahead of time.
• How to get in for free – There’s a farmer that has land right next to the most northerly edge of the cliffs who is apparently super cool with people parking along the road as long as his car can still drive through.  The photo below is the spot that you should be looking for.  If you’re coming from the north, you’ll see this before the mass parking lot.  You can use either side as you can see.
• Best time to go – If I were to do it again, I’d definitely plan to go after 4PM.  During the middle of the day, there are way too many tourist buses and the sun is right above you which creates incredibly harsh shadows.  I’ve seen the photos and sunsets are epic here.
• Best spots for photos – To get that postcard perfect shot, you need to leave the official bounds of the tourist site (there are signs that let you know).  We couldn’t do both ends but chose to hike to the northern edge which gives a full view of the pinnacle and a long depth of cliffs front to back.

• Burren National Park – This park is unique because there aren’t any specific boundaries and isn’t run like a national park that we’re used to.  That’s why the visitor center is in the nearby town of Corofin.  We didn’t go there and just plotted a route to the park via Google Maps.  In retrospect it wasn’t a good idea because I had no clue where the hike trails were.  At the Gortlecka Crossroads, we saw a bunch of cars parked here so we did as well.  Thing is, there’s only one board here that indicated there was a trail here.  We tried to follow it but eventually got side tracked by a gate opening that we thought was the right way.  Long story short, we gave up and turned back.  Either we are terrible at hiking or the trails are just poorly marked.  Lesson learned:  Get a trail map from the visitor center first.
• Tunnel toll – When driving up to Galway, we hit an unexpected toll since there’s a tunnel you have to go through.  This is an unattended machine so you have to make sure you have enough coins for this.  The toll is 1.90 EUR.
• Galway parking – You’re probably not going to find free parking here.  We circled around for a bit to see if we could get free parking to no avail.  In the end, we found a paid lot.

On our last full day in Ireland we started early.  We had an exciting morning planned with Clash Gaelic Games and we needed to travel East to get there.  While that sounds daunting, it was mostly on the motorway (highway) and took about 2 hours.

One thing you need to understand about Ireland is that while European football is popular, it pales in comparison to the Gaelic sports.  Gaelic Football and Hurley are the top two sports in the country and what better way to end off the trip than to get to learn how to play these two sports.  I had found out about Clash Gaelic Games through my research and I thought it was such a fun way to learn about culture while burning a few calories and making a fool of ourselves.  

After our mini workout, we had to get into the city, check into our hotel, cab over to Kilmainham Gaol prison, then make it late to Trinity College’s Old Library to see the Book of Kells .  We were able to stroll the streets and get some retail therapy at the hyper cheap Penny’s following.

With one night to make it count, we had dinner at L. Mulligan Grocer and spent the rest of the night drinking Guinness and listening to live Irish music at The Temple Bar .

• Dublin  – I would have liked to have seen St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St. Stephen’s Green, done more shopping, tried more restaurants, and drank a little harder.
• Pubs – The Temple Bar is the most popular one in the city but there are so many other good ones including The Dame Tavern and The Brazen Head.
• Guinness – While we weren’t big fans at the beginning, this famous stout grew on us throughout the trip.  The Guinness Storehouse is in Dublin and would be a fun place to visit for any lover of this beer. You can get advance tickets here .
• Newgrange – While technically not in Dublin, north of the city is a large and ancient burial site built of stone and architectured to only let light into the ritual chamber at sunrise on Winter Solstice.
• Howth – This is a village north of Dublin and near Portmarnock.  Located on a bulbous peninsula and featuring sweeping coastal views, it includes a superb food and crafts market.  It’s a place that gives you a flavor of everything we saw on the west coast without driving too far from Dublin.
• Malahide Castle & Gardens – While I’m sure this would’ve been impressive, we couldn’t fit this in with how long Clash went.  I wasn’t too sad in this case though since we had seen Blarney Castle & Gardens and I imagine it would be somewhat similar.

L. MULLIGAN GROCER

It’s a peculiar name for sure and it’s a bit far from the city centre but well worth it for the wide range of craft beers on tap and menu items.  We tried a most interesting watermelon wheat beer which tasted like…you guessed it…watermelon!  Our Moules Frites and Free Range Chicken Kiev were most excellent.

THE CROKE PARK HOTEL

This Doyle Collection hotel is located right next door to the famed Croke Park stadium where all the biggest Gaelic sport matches are held.  This signature hotel in the Dublin is a contemporary hotel that is big on comforts.  Their mattresses are heavenly with velvety duvets, there’s good table space to work, comfy furniture to relax, and the marbled bathrooms.  If you get the packing that includes breakfast, you’ll be treated to a wide buffet selection including honey straight from the honeycomb and my favourite, the croissants, which were delightful.  The staff was incredibly friendly and lastly, parking is included for free.  It’s the perfect hotel to launch your Dublin adventures from.

• Clash Gaelic Games  – While it was a bit of a specialized session with just the two of us, if you’re traveling with a big group of friends or if you’re a family, this is a great way to stay active and honestly try something you’d never be able to do anywhere else.
• Driving in Dublin – Everyone said “don’t do it” and they were right.  The core is a mess especially with the construction going on.  You do not want to drive in the city.  Taking a cab or local transit is the way to go so make sure you either return the car rental, wait to rent the car later, or your hotel has free parking.
• Uber – I experienced the most peculiar thing with Uber in Dublin.  There were numerous times when I’d order a cab and while it was on its way, they could cancel the ride.  I couldn’t understand why this kept happening until I realized that all the Uber drivers were regular cabbies essentially.  Every cab had Uber and another local app running on their phones and so they had to allegiance to any one of them and if they found a more convenient ride along the way, they’d take it.  On top of that, Uber also doesn’t display prices because it’s all standard meters.  At the end of the day, just understand that hailing a cab or ordering an Uber is no different.  In Dublin, I’d say hailing is just easier if you’re in a busy area because you won’t get canceled on.
• Kilmainham Goal is 8 EUR per person (plus booking fees online) and Book of Kells is 10 to 13 EUR depending on peak or off-peak hours per person.

Trips never go as planned.  This one was no different.  For the most part though, nothing dramatically changed where we had to restructure things around.  This trip was one where I simply packed too much in and had to make the call to fast forward if time was running low.

Here’s a little insight into why I feel that our plans deviated to help in your own planning:

• Not starting the day early enough – We could’ve fit more in if we hit the road after breakfast by 8AM instead of 9 or 10AM on most days.
• Taking too long in each spot – Between photos, videos, drone, and eyes, we spent more time than we had planned for.
• Driving time according to GPS is inaccurate – If you drove by Ireland’s ridiculously high speed limit and didn’t stop, sure, but the reality is that you’ll be making stops to take photos of the views and you’ll be slowing down around all corners and when there’s opposing traffic.
• Skipping meals – This is more of what happened as a result of a packed schedule.  Since we always had breakfast included by our B&Bs or hotels, lunch was the first thing to go out the window.
• Unexpected stops – You can’t plan for these but we stopped along the Ring of Kerry to help a couple with their flat tire which put us behind.  Alternatively, I didn’t have much planned for Dingle but we got a long list of suggestions from the B&B, so we ended up spending more time there before driving out of the peninsula.
• Losing track of time – As much as it was a massive advantage to have incredibly long days (usable light up until 10PM), it was also easy to just keep going.  As a result, there were a few times where we got to our dinner spot too late and had to make alternate plans.

So there you have it, the itinerary guide for a south Ireland road trip.  It was an ambitious trip for sure, but we only covered a small portion of everything Ireland has to offer.

Hopefully you’ll be able to use this as a starting point for your trip planning and if you have any questions don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!

Make Trip Planning To Ireland A Breeze Make sure to read this companion travel guide to planning the best road trip in Ireland.

No, as long as you have a valid driver’s license you do not need an international one. A valid driver’s license allows you to rent a car as well. Note that there are different age requirements in Ireland when it comes to renting a car, be sure to look into that if concerned.

The amount of days really depends on what parts of Ireland you’d like to see and if you’d like to take your time seeing them all or not. You’ll need to decide if you want to do the north part, the south or the full loop. In our case, 7 days was barely enough to tour southern Ireland, but to do the full loop we would recommend more.

The best month to travel Ireland is June. There’s not as much rainfall during this month and the days are longer due to summer solstice, therefore you get more time to do and see more.

What you should read next

• A Week in Ireland – Enchanting Castles, Wild Coastline, and Star Wars
• 10 Must-See and Do Things For Any Road Trip in Ireland
• Ireland Road Trip Travel Guide – Everything You Need To Know
• Why You Absolutely Must Do A Road Trip Around Ireland In Photos

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Data: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices like PokeFi because their rates are so good and you can use it globally but recently, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The best one is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• Insured Nomads – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
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• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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A Week in Ireland: Dublin, Cork & Galway

4.6 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

Waste no time getting to the core of Irish culture.

Luck of the Irish? We prefer to call it charm. Filled with trademark emerald landscapes, loaded with intriguing history, and burnished by its people’s sparkling wit, the island nation of Ireland has dazzled visitors time and again. On this tour, you’ll roam its leading cities, savoring pub culture and diving into the country’s past. And we couldn’t forget about its natural wonders: You’ll see all the heavy hitters, from the rocky Burren to the Cliffs of Moher, over the course of one magical week—and if you aren’t quite ready to stow your carry-ons, tack on an extra couple of days in London.

Special departures of this itinerary

St. Patrick's Day

Your tour package includes

• 6 nights in handpicked hotels
• 6 breakfasts
• 3 dinners with beer or wine
• 5 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides

Included highlights

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Temple Bar district
• Cobh Heritage Centre
• Blarney Castle

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Dublin today.

Fáilte! (Pronounced “FALL-cha,” this expression means “welcome” in Irish, and you might hear it a fair bit over the next few days.) Head to your hotel and settle in, then get to know your Tour Director and fellow travelers over a welcome dinner, served with beer or wine. 

Settled by the Gaels and disputed over centuries by the Vikings and Anglo-Normans, Dublin traces its history back more than 1,300 years. Today, you’ll peel back some of the Irish capital’s layers on a comprehensive tour, led by a local expert.

• Stop in Phoenix Park, the largest enclosed public park in any European capital city. First established as a royal hunting ground by government decree in 1662, this 1,750-acre greenspace today houses Áras an Uachtaráin—the presidential residence.
• Pass by St. James’s Gate Brewery, the legendary 260-year-old brewery behind Guinness dry stout. More than 50 million barrels ship out of the plant each year, making it the world’s most prolific producer of stout-style beers.
• Walk through Old Dublin, then step into St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the country’s largest church. Founded in 1191, it serves as the national cathedral for the Church of Ireland, and its arresting Gothic architecture befits a building of its stature.
• Traverse Dublin’s city center, passing 17th-century St. Stephen’s Green as you go. Afterward, take some time to admire the Georgian architecture of Merrion Square. Another gardened area in the heart of Dublin, it’s been called home by some of Ireland’s foremost writers—Oscar Wilde and W.B. Yeats among them.
• See the dignified facade of Trinity College—Ireland’s oldest university.

Fill your afternoon with an excursion out into County Wicklow and pay a visit to gorgeous Glendalough, the well-preserved ruins of a once-influential abbey. Or, if you’d prefer some free time, head down to the shores of the River Liffey and breathe in the ambiance of the lively Temple Bar district.

Glendalough

From $55 per person

Make your way to Ireland’s largest region: County Cork. Sprawling across 2,900 square miles of the country’s southern reaches, it lays claim to a number of tourist attractions. Today, you’ll visit one. 

• From Dublin, head southwest to Cobh, a seaport town of roughly 14,000 on the other side of massive Cork Harbor. Here, you’ll enter the Cobh Heritage Centre: Learn about Irish life, emigration, and maritime tradition over the centuries. (Did you know that Cobh was the Titanic ’s final port of call before its doomed maiden voyage?) 

Later, chart a course for Cork—Ireland’s second city, hugging both shores of the River Lee—and settle into your hotel. Enjoy some free time, then sit down with your group for an included dinner, served with beer or wine. 

Now one of Ireland’s most famous tourist sites, Blarney Castle was first built in 1210, then rebuilt in 1446 as a stronghold of the local MacCarthy of Muskerry dynasty. Today, you’ll set out into the Irish countryside and visit this famed fortress, completing a popular quest in the process: planting a peck on the Blarney Stone. Originally added as a defensive structure, this slab of limestone supposedly grants all who kiss it “the gift of gab.” Stretch out over the parapet and give it a smooch—then let us know how you feel! 

Cap your day with an evening excursion to the historic town of Kinsale and enjoy walking winding streets and tucking into a traditional Irish meal. Feeling some alone time? Spend the night in or take some free moments to explore the neighborhood around your hotel.  

An Evening in Kinsale

From $109 per person

Board your bus and roll north to County Galway, a beautiful lake-dotted region with a backstory to match. Before arriving in Galway proper, stop to enjoy some of the best views in all the Emerald Isle. 

• Redefine “taking the scenic route” with a quick detour into County Clare and a walk along the mesmerizing Cliffs of Moher. (Sheer crags stretching into the distance, crashing waves below—you know this one!) 
• Drive on through the Burren. Distinct from the lush greens that typify the rest of the Irish landscape, greys dominate this limestone plateau, punctuated by bursts of wildflowers. Botanists will surely delight in this journey: More than 70% of Ireland’s flower species grow here. 

Arrive in Galway, then let your Tour Director take the lead on a walking tour of the city’s highlights.  

• Stroll past a trio of Galwegian icons: Lynch’s Castle, a castle-turned-bank that dates to the 16th century; the rustic home of “Ireland's most prestigious theatre (troupe),” the Druid Theatre Company; and John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, a popular greenspace better known to locals (and the world) as Eyre Square. 
• Get a grasp of Galway’s Norman history by viewing its medieval walls—12th-century fortifications that once encircled the city—and the Spanish Arch. First erected in 1584 as an extension of Galway’s protective walls, its name alludes to the Spaniards who moored their ships and lived in the area. 
• Peruse authentic Claddagh (said “CLA-da”) rings in a local shop. Steeped in legend and symbolism, these pieces of jewelry have been produced in their current guise—two hands clasping a crowned heart—since at least 1700 and are inextricably linked to Galway. 

For architecture and vistas plucked out of a fantasy novel, you’ll want to come along on our visit to Kylemore Abbey and Connemara National Park. If you’d rather get to know Galway a bit better, spend a free day taking The Long Walk through the seaside neighborhood of Claddagh, or see where your feet take you. (The city was named the European Capital of Culture in 2020—there’s plenty to do!) 

Later, celebrate your trip with your group during a farewell dinner, served with beer or wine. 

Kylemore Abbey & Connemara National Park

From $89 per person

Transfer to Dublin’s airport for your flight home, or continue to Europe’s most popular tourist destination on your trip’s extension. Can you guess where that is? 

Please note: Some airport transfers may leave very early in the morning to accommodate return flights.

Fly to England this morning and get comfortable at your London hotel. (If you fancy some exploration, ask your Tour Director for recommendations.) 

Few places have influenced world history like London has: This city of roughly 8.8 million people boasts close to 2,000 years of history and four UNESCO World Heritage Sites; serves as a global financial hub; and is the most-visited place in all of Europe. Today, you’ll explore the landmarks of England’s cosmopolitan capital on a guided sightseeing tour.  

• Pass grand Trafalgar Square—named in honor of the Royal Navy’s decisive triumph over Napoleon Bonaparte’s fleet—and Baroque St. Paul’s Cathedral. Perched atop Ludgate Hill, at the highest point in London’s historic center, this Anglican church is recognizable by its soaring dome. 
• See Westminster Abbey, the Gothic church that has hosted 40 coronations and 16 royal weddings since 1066. A further 18 English, Scottish, and British monarchs were laid to rest within, further cementing Westminster’s place in London lore. 
• Spot the Elizabeth Tower (the Palace of Westminster’s clock tower, better known as Big Ben); the 440-foot-tall London Eye observation wheel; Tower Bridge, with its stone handiwork and turquoise accents; and the notorious Tower of London. 
• Stop by Buckingham Palace, the official residence and administrative headquarters of King Charles III. If you’re lucky, you might catch the Changing of the Guard. 

Bask in a getaway of royal proportions on this afternoon’s excursion to Windsor Castle. Alternatively, hang back and spend some free time in London. If you need a recommendation, the British Museum’s millions of priceless antiquities are all just a half-hour’s walk from Buckingham Palace. 

Windsor Castle

From $125 per person

Add the excursion to Stonehenge and Salisbury to your itinerary. (It’s a truly monumental way to spend a day.) Or, have a day to yourself in London, and maybe visit a stadium or two: Wembley, Twickenham, and dozens more call the city home. 

This evening, enjoy a farewell drink with your group and celebrate a trip well-spent. 

Stonehenge & Salisbury

From $149 per person

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.6 out of 5

5 out of 5 stars

The Week in Ireland: Dublin, Cork, and Galway tour was the perfect introduction to Ireland. We enjoyed a few key cities, and saw an array of stunning and varied landscapes and major sites. We came away feeling like we learned and experienced a lot and got a true “feel” of Ireland, its history, cultu...

Hi Namita, Thank you for taking a moment to share...

2 out of 5 stars

4 out of 5 stars

I just got back yesterday from this tour. As a group leader with EF for my high school students, I knew what to expect as far as how busy we would be and how much time we’d spend on the bus. I took this trip on my own and though I was extremely nervous about it, it worked out really well - and there...

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This charming hotel is located in Parnell Square in the Dublin city center. Guests enjoy a restaurant and lounge, bar, and free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you'll ...

This country-house hotel is located near the Glashaboy River in County Cork. Guests enjoy a restaurant, manicured gardens, and lounge. Nearby you’ll f...

This comfortable hotel is located near the center of Galway. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a hotel bar, and a restaurant. Nearby, you’ll find the Galway Sh...

This upscale hotel is located in London, steps away from the St Pancras railway station. Guests enjoy on-site restaurants, the leisure club, and a fit...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter Ireland (and the United Kingdom on the tour extension), U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• There is no visa required for U.S. or Canadian citizens.
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code IRL.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in and depart from Dublin (or London on the tour extension).
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost if they are arriving or departing on the standard day.
• When you arrive in Dublin, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.

Physical Activity Level

This is a moderate physical activity-level tour. You can expect casual walks and plenty of time to explore throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a brisk-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• Most days full of included activities (more if you add excursions)
• Most transportation by motor coach
• Daily bus time varies and can be lengthy

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2 miles per day- this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
• Cobblestone streets can become slick when wet.
• While visiting Blarney Castle, travelers have the opportunity to kiss the Blarney Stone. In order to kiss the Blarney Stone, travelers must climb 128 very steep, narrow stairs.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
• Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.

Climate Considerations

• Travelers can expect cool, cloudy, and rainy days throughout the year, with occasional heatwaves in the summer months (June-September).

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
• If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
• Most transportation on this tour is by private motor coach. Private motor coaches have steps required to board and often do not provide access to ramps or lifts.
• A flight from Dublin to London is included in the price of the tour extension.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches, and on-tour flight for those on the London extension.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights. Please note that your included on-tour flight for the London extension may have more restrictive baggage limits.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels and airports.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• We recommend packing your Insurance Card (from your primary insurance provider) in your carry on luggage.
• Go Ahead handpicks every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm.
• Accommodations are typically three and four star hotels.
• All accommodations include a private bathroom.
• Most rooms will include a safe for valuables.
• Your hotels will have Wifi, but it may be limited to common areas.
• Elevators in hotels are not guaranteed.
• Some hotels on this tour require travelers to walk with their luggage a few blocks as buses cannot drop travelers off right out front.
• Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• We cannot guarantee that your hotel accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with the hotel once they are confirmed about 30 days prior to departure.
• Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov .
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
• The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
• This tour includes 3 dinners. Included meals may be plated set menus, buffet or family style depending on the location. Dinners include one glass of beer, wine, or soft drink and water, coffee and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• Irish pubs serve up hearty lunches, such as the traditional stew of bacon and boiled cabbage. Soda bread is delicious, very filling, and served with many meals. Nibble a scone at afternoon tea, with a pat of high-quality butter from County Kerry. Guinness stout is an international sensation, but locals might favor Murphy's, depending on where you are.
• Dublin has seen something of a culinary revolution, and the city now boasts an impressive array of new restaurants offering exciting cuisine with continental Europe, Asian, and even American influences.
• For traditional English fare at a reasonable price, try a pub meal of fish and chips or bangers and mash. Stilton cheese, steak and kidney pie, and Cumberland sausages are also worth a try. Sip afternoon tea with delicious finger sandwiches and scones at Harrods in London for the ultimate in English tradition.
• Modern-day London boasts an array of diverse international restaurants. Popular options for the adventurous palate include Indian, Thai, Chinese, Indonesian, Greek, and West African cuisine.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• If you are traveling to multiple countries with different currencies and the same Tour Director, ask them what currency they prefer for their tip.
• The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
• You will use the euro in Ireland (and the Pound sterling in the United Kingdom on the tour extension).
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
• To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
• Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
• The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
• The United Kingdom and Ireland are on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is 5 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 5pm on tour.
• When you travel with EF Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit, and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer
• Travel, when done responsibly, can make an enormous socio-economic impact to communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at local businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend
• Prepare for your trip: be aware of the monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market, learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette, and take some time to learn a few words in the local language
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind
• EF Go Ahead Tours encourages our travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single use plastics. You can avoid single use plastics by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle
• Environment: On this tour, we recommend the use of a reusable water bottle, as the local drinking water is safe for travelers. Your Tour Director can provide additional guidance on local water standards. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastics.
• Environment: When visiting national parks, reserves, or other protected areas, please do not remove anything from the natural environment or leave any litter. Carry out what you carried in.

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4.7 out of 5 stars

Drive this fab 5 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin to Galway!

By: Author Megan Singleton

Posted on Last updated: March 6, 2024

If you are planning a southern Ireland road trip, I hope you will be inspired by my five-day itinerary driving a loop from Dublin around cute-as-a-button southern Ireland via Galway and back to Dublin.

The best way to truly see Ireland is to self-drive along the narrow roads of villages and country lanes and the occasional motorway between cities.

I absolutely love this Ireland road trip itinerary, taking just long enough to stop at a pub (or two) for lunch, to photograph the beautiful countryside, to pull over and dash into a little shop or a castle that took our fancy…

But if you’d like a Game of Thrones road trip in Northern Ireland from Belfast, visit Ireland.com for some more ideas.

My cousin Kate and I had a ball driving around this very little country and this post covers my picks for the best places to stop and stay and some fun things to do on a fabulous self driving Ireland tour. (See our route on the map below).

If you only have 5 days in Ireland, this itinerary is for you !

It starts in  Dublin , goes around the south coast to Cork , via the Waterford Crystal Factory, then a kiss of the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle , skims above the Ring of Kerry (an optional 179km loop in south west Ireland and visiting the stunning Killarney National Park – if you have more time) before visiting the cute seaside town of  Dingle , a night in  Limerick , visiting the rugged  Cliffs of Moher , and finishing in beautiful  Galway before dropping the car back in Dublin.

If you want to test your knowledge with a car game (or your kids have a school project!) you will be amazed at these 25 little known facts about Ireland .

As you can see from this map, you could do this entire trip in 13 hours, but we took five days!

>> By the way, if you love a campervan road trip, click on this link to find campervan sites in Ireland and all the info and things you need to know for renting a camper.

The cool thing about an Ireland road trip is driving here is really easy!

The roads are well signed, they drive on the left (if you’re from New Zealand, Australia or Britain, you’ll feel like you’re at home) and cute, colourful villages make for great pit stops and photo opportunities at every turn. (But you will find random round-abouts in the middle of highways!)

Ireland is a small island to the west of the UK. At its widest it is only 275km, so theoretically you could drive west from Dublin to Galway in two hours. Except you wouldn’t. You’d take the long way round and spend a week (or two!) exploring southern Ireland.

This road trip I did is only four nights (after we had stayed in Dublin for a few nights first) and to be honest, it was too quick to really do so many gorgeous places justice.

I’d take at least seven nights, as well as about three nights in Dublin, next time. If you need some packing tips for Ireland read this post.

So with my GPS from home (we weren’t using our phone data), preloaded with UK maps, and the recommendations of friends ringing in our ears, my cousin Kate and I set off on our whirlwind tour.

Day 1. Dublin

Starting in Dublin, we loved Temple Bar , which isn’t a single bar but a neighbourhood of hopping bars with live music to tap your toes to all night. It’s a very touristy area, but as we were tourists, we loved it. We found it very safe, but if you’re concerned and wonder is Dublin safe you can read more here.

Wander along the cobble stone streets and you’ll find plenty of places to choose from for shopping, dining, drinking and making much merriment. It’s honestly one of the best things you’ll do in Dublin!

Accommodation options run from these hostels near Temple Bar to a beautiful luxury hotel like the Merrion with its 2-Michelin star restaurant.

Tip: Head here for a night out – or an afternoon out and you’ll soon realise everyone in Ireland is musical!

I also did a photography tour  in Dublin. This had been on my wish list for ages, so it was great to finally make it happen.

My tutor, Darren McLoughlin (of Panoramic Ireland ), allowed me to pick my location and time frame, so I decided to learn how to capture the sights of the melee of Dublin’s busy Grafton Road. It’s a pedestrianised street edged in shops and a magnet for street musicians. You can click the link to that post (above) of what I saw – and what I learned!

Oh and you can’t possibly stay in Dublin and not visit the Guinness Storehouse where I learned how to pour a pint (in 119.5 seconds!) And if you love whiskey, you’ll want to also tour the Jameson Distillery . In fact, you can get a tour that give you skip-the-line access to both attractions.

Book a tour that covers both Guinness Storehouse and Jameson Distillery >>

Another tip: We found the Hop on Hop off bus excellent to 1) get our bearings, and 2) to get around easily from attraction to attraction.

Book a Hop On Hop Off bus tour with Do Dublin >>

I’m a big fan of these orientation bus trips in any city that I visit and if you get a 2-day pass, use it the first day to get familiar with where things are and the second day use it as a taxi to return to the places you want to spend more time at.

My one regret was not seeing the ancient Book of Kells at Trinity College. That’s on the bucket list for my next visit. And I’d also book an early tour too, and get there before the crowds. Life’s too short to stand in queues!

Book an early tour to see the Book of Kells and tour the castle grounds >>

When we left Dublin to embark on our road trip we only got 20-minutes down the road before our first stop of the tour for morning tea at the stunning grounds of Powerscourt Estate .

Allow enough time for a scone and jam on the veranda, a browse through their gift shop, and ideally an extra hour to roam the gardens that sprawl as far as Sugarloaf Mountain in the distance.

I regret not having time for the gardens and would love to have wandered through the pet cemetery to pay respects to ponies, cows and Doodles Chow who have been lying here for years.

Day 2. Cork

Driving time: Dublin to Cork – just under 3 hours

Where to stay: Gabriel House

I only included Cork because this is near Waterford, where the Waterford Crystal factory  is and I thought I’d pick up a cheap memento. Wrong!

I was wrong on the “cheap”, but touring the factory and meeting the guys who train for eight years to be Waterford crystal cutters is fascinating. If it’s cheap (in one of the nearby gift stores for example) it’ll be fake.

Tip:  Two nights here would be better in Cork city (considering we checked into our B&B at dinner time). We didn’t have much time to be able to browse the shops, visit museums, ring the bells at St Anne’s Church, shop at the English Market (the oldest of its kind in Europe), and have dinner at a traditional Irish pub.

However I had some kissing to do, so we shot off bright and early the next morning to  Blarney Castle , just 10 minutes away. Then a full day of driving to Limerick via Dingle on the west coast.

Day 3. Limerick via Dingle

Driving time: Cork to Dingle – 2 hours 20 mins

Driving time: Dingle to Limerick – 2 hours 15 minutes

OR Driving time: Cork to Limerick (and forget Dingle) – 1 hour 30 minutes

Where to stay: George Hotel

On our way to Limerick we went via cute-as-a-button Dingle on the Dingle Peninsula. Sadly the rain was coming in sideways so we found a pub (it’s never too hard in Ireland) and had a yummy lunch before leaving Dingle to the elements and heading two hours drive away to Limerick.

If you have more time (and the weather is nice!) you might like to do the Slea Head Drive , a loop road from the green hills of Dingle and rated one of the top things to do from here. You should allow around three hours to stop and take photos on your way round.

Limerick dates back to the year 812 and is built on the River Shannon with both an historic and a new part.

Fans of author Frank McCourt can take an Angela’s Ashes walking tour and The Locke Bar is a really nice waterfront pub serving traditional Irish music and hearty fare, so I’d suggest heading there of an evening.

Day 4. The Cliffs of Moher

Driving time: Limerick to the Cliffs of Moher – 1 hour 30 minutes

The Wild Atlantic Way is 2,600km of west-coastal roads stretching top to bottom from Donegal to Cork on the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a rugged, untamed and breathtaking scenic road trip.

Fortunately for me, there was hardly any traffic on the snippet of the Way on the remote roads we drove today so I could stop to take photos every 200 metres.

The Cliffs of Moher is a pilgrimage for road trippers and only an hour from Limerick or Galway (in a triangle), so we set off for here after brekky in just over an hour and spent another two hours wandering around admiring the views out to the Aran Islands and taking copious photos.

Tip: Stay in Limerick another night so have some time after your day at the cliffs to look around.

Book a tour from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher including the Wild Atlantic Way and Galway >>

OR book this day trip to the Cliffs of Moher from Galway >>

Day 5. Galway

Driving time: Limerick to Galway – 1 hour 20 minutes

Where to stay: G Hotel

If I did this road trip again, I’d base myself in Galway for three or four days and take day trips from here (which could also include the Cliffs of Moher). Or you even spend two days in Galway and not run out of things to do.

The G is a glamorous hotel with a spa over the 2 top floors and really cool decor with art and rooms designed by iconic milliner Philip Treacy. One of the best hotels in Galway.

Galway is also the cutest city I saw in Ireland with brightly-painted shops and pubs standing shoulder to shoulder along cobblestoned streets spouting off from Eyre Square. Buskers add to the ambience, or pop into a pub for a shindig and a pint.

I also met some Kiwis over here playing rugby for Connacht under coach Pat Lam, so you’re never far from home!

From Galway it’s only a two-hour drive to Dublin, so take your time and stop when the mood strikes (or ask your concierge for tips).

Day 6. Dublin

Driving time: Galway to Dublin – 2 hours 20 minutes

Where to stay: Clontarf Castle

I’ve ended with Dublin again as you’ll probably need to be back here the night before you fly home from Dublin Airport.

We stayed in the amazing Clontarf Castle on our final night. A real fair dinkum, honest to goodness castle. Of course it’s been totally made over into a hotel with cosy rooms and cool bars and a restaurant and sits on the outskirts of Dublin with plenty of tales to tell.

For St Patrick’s Day fun facts , including that St Patrick was not actually Irish, you might like this post, including how they dye the Chicago River bright green every year.

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About Megan Singleton

Hi, I'm Megan Singleton and I'm the word slinger of this travel blog as well as on radio in NZ every Sunday. Former Travel Editor at Yahoo NZ and current freelance writer for a few newspapers and mags from time to time, I set off on this travel writing journey 20 years ago and I've pretty much always got a suitcase half packed (or half un-packed!) I'd love you to join me on Facebook or Twitter and sign up for my newsletters if you want loads of travel tips, advice and deals!

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The perfect ireland itinerary.

Heading to Ireland and not sure where to go? This is the perfect Ireland itinerary!

Happy St. Patricks Day! We were lucky enough to be in Ireland for St. Paddy’s last year and it’s a country we really fell in love with. To celebrate, I wanted to share my idea of the perfect Ireland itinerary.  If you’re planning a trip to Ireland , having this itinerary will make your life easier.

Planning a Trip to Ireland

In all my trips to Ireland, I’ve discovered some real gems on this beautiful emerald isle. It has so much natural beauty that it almost hurts your eyes to look at all that green! There are also so many cultural and historical sites that you must see in Ireland that it could potentially take you a lifetime!

For a more in-depth look at some amazing places in Ireland, check out this massive list of the  best places to visit in Ireland   before planning your Ireland itinerary.

When you’re planning a trip to Ireland, it’s important to know that you won’t be able to see it ALL, even though you’ll REALLY want to! I’ve tried to pick the best things to see in Ireland that will give you a really good feel for both countries! I hope this Ireland trip planner will be helpful as you choose where to go and what to do.

Don’t want to do all the planning?

Are you feeling overwhelmed with all your options in Ireland? I can’t blame you! There’s a lot to do and see and the Emerald Isle is a lot bigger than it seems. Luckily, you’ve got me do the planning for you. The best trips to Ireland are planned by someone who’s been and lived there. 

I’ve created this detailed Ireland Road Trip Itinerary that has everything you need in one convenient place. It really takes the guesswork out of deciding where to go, where to stay, what to do, and where to eat. I’ve spent years researching this itinerary and I truly believe this will give you the most amazing trip! 

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Ireland Itinerary complete with interactive maps and daily schedule? Click the yellow button below.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts here are our top picks for visiting ireland:, get an easy ireland itinerary.

Our favorite hotels in Ireland

• Castle Hotel: Ashford Castle
• Dublin Hotel: Moxie Dublin
• Killarney: Killarney Royal Hotel
• Northern Ireland: The Fitzwilliam

Our favorite tours in Ireland

• Cliffs of Moher
• Northern Ireland Tour
• History Tour of Dublin
• Dublin Food Tour
• Book a Photoshoot in Ireland

Renting a Car in Ireland?

If you want to see authentic Ireland, I recommend you drive yourself. If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use:  Rental Cars  and  Expedia Cars.  We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

Want to See More than Ireland?

If you’re interested in extending your trip to Ireland, it’s easy and super cheap to hop a flight over to  London ,    Scotland ,  or the rest of Europe. I love combining trips to Ireland with a trip to Scotland as well. You can find the   perfect itinerary for Scotland and Ireland here. 

Getting to Ireland

Ireland is a truly beautiful country and one of the cheapest places to fly to in Europe from the United States right now. I’m constantly finding good deals to Ireland.

In fact, we just purchased tickets to Shannon, Ireland from Boston for $500 TOTAL for our entire family of six through Norwegian Air’s killer sale a few weeks ago and I also helped my sister book from New York to Dublin for $450 round trip per person. If you want to know how we get crazy deals on flights read How to Fly for Cheap or Nearly Free.

Best Time to Travel to Ireland

Where to stay in ireland.

Just as Ireland can be one of the cheapest countries in Europe to fly into, it’s also quite affordable to stay in Ireland. While there is an abundance of beautiful luxury castles and hotels to stay in , there are also really affordable Airbnb houses all over the island. We stayed in a beautiful 4 bedroom house on the coast for two months and fell in love! You can find our Airbnb here. 

We stayed in a beautiful, huge farmhouse in Wexford for 2 months for only $2,000. For a party of 7, that’s a great deal! Be sure to grab this $55 coupon for Airbnb

I’ve created this Airbnb Wishlist for you that holds just a fraction of the affordable housing on the island! If you’ve never stayed in Airbnb before, please read my 16 Rules for Airbnb. 

Affordable Airbnbs in Ireland

Packing List for Ireland

It’s no secret that the weather in Ireland can be a little…insane…I’m not sure there’s a better word to describe it. You want to be sure you’re prepared for the elements, but also be sure you don’t overpack. Here’s what to pack for Ireland:

Click here for my full Ireland Packing list

I personally own these two raincoats and these two pairs of boots and I LOVE them!

The  pink raincoat   is not lined and is good for warm days or good if you want a waterproof raincoat to go over a regular jacket. The  yellow raincoat   is nice and lined for a good medium weight waterproof jacket. You’ll need a really good pair of rain boots that you can also be comfortable walking in.

These  Eddie Bauer boots   are quite possibly the best thing that have ever happened to me! Not only are they the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned (ask anyone I know…they’ve heard me rave about these boots), but they are waterproof, AND they come with a lifetime warranty. I bought a pair over 5 years ago and I wear through the soles about every year and a half because I wear them everywhere! When they wear out I just bring them to any Eddie Bauer store (even though I bought them on Amazon)  and they give me brand new ones! They’re the BEST investment I’ve ever made. You can buy them  here.

These  Hunter rain boots   are really high quality, last forever, are completely waterproof, and have a good grip on the bottom for walking. I really love my Hunters, but they’re definitely not as comfortable as the Eddie Bauers.

For more info on what to pack for Ireland, follow  my packing list for Ireland or Scotland   or   this detailed Ireland packing list .

Perfect Ireland Itinerary 10 days or more

While I am not an Ireland expert, we did live there for 2 months and were able to see most of both countries (yes Ireland and Northern Ireland are separate countries). And I’ve since been able to visit Ireland two more times, and we plan to go again this year. 

I think I’ve created the perfect Ireland itinerary for the first time visitor who wants to see as much of the island as possible. The good thing about this itinerary is that you can cut out whatever you want and move on to the next location if it’s too much for you.

I realize that I’m missing a lot of amazing things Ireland has to offer and I will probably receive some backlash for this, but these were some of OUR favorite finds in Ireland!

When you go to Ireland, I suggest that you rent a car. There is so much to see and driving will be the best way to see  Ireland and everything it has to offer. An Ireland road trip is my favorite way to see the island. 

Please, for the love of Ireland, do NOT spend your whole trip in Dublin! There is so much more that this beautiful island has to offer!

You can do this Ireland itinerary f orwards or backward, it doesn’t matter. I selfishly like this route (clockwise) because while driving along the coast, the passenger has a good view out the window and since that’s usually me, and I’m the one with the camera, that’s the way I’d go!

Remember you’ll be driving on the LEFT! Honestly, it’s easier than you think and your brain picks it up pretty well after a day or two. Just be alert!

How long will this Ireland road trip take?

Well, that’s really up to you! I’ve seen people do this Ireland road trip in only 10 days. That’s a little ambitious if you ask me. If you really want to hit all of these best places to visit in Ireland in one trip, then I would plan about 2 weeks for your whole journey. If you have less time in Ireland, simply cut out a few stops. It’s not the end of the world, and you’ll have an excuse to come back!

So without further ado, here is the perfect Ireland itinerary:

• Stop 1: Dublin
• Stop 2: Killkenney
• Stop 3: County Waterford & County Wexford
• Stop 4: Cork
• Stop 5: Killarney National Park
• Stop 6: Dingle Peninsula
• Stop 7: Cliffs of Moher & The Burren
• Stop 8: Galway
• Stop 9: Northern Ireland
• Stop 10: Belfast
• Stop 11 : Back to Dublin

10 Places You Must See in Ireland

These are my top ten picks for what to see in Ireland. You can pick and choose which cities look good to you and skip over the ones you aren’t interested in. Don’t feel like you need to do it all unless you’ve got the time. For me, this is the best of Ireland!

Arrive! If you’re flying into Dublin (be sure to check other airports in Ireland like Shannon and Cork for good deals ), spend a day and a half or so in this beautiful city. See the book of Kells, eat in a few pubs, take a tour. Here is a great list of things to do in Dublin.

Stay the night in Dublin and take a day to get over your jetleg before heading out on your Ireland road trip. There are some beautiful hotels and great Airbnbs in Dublin. Here is a list of affordable Airbnbs in the city. 

Here is a great guide for spending one day in Dublin.  And if you’re heading to Ireland with kids you can find great information here. 

2. Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a charming and historic town with lots to see and do. There is a great little farmers market outside the castle and street performers usually line the streets. It’s a great town to wander and enjoy the cobblestone streets and ancient buildings. 

This town has deep religious roots with well-preserved churches and abbeys that are amazing to see. Be sure to visit Black Abbey and St. Canice’s Cathedral.

You can tour the castle, the old abbey, pop into the shops and sup in a pub! Here are more cool things to do in Kilkenny .

You’ll want to stay at least one night in Killkenney to enjoy the scenery and atmosphere. Here are affordable Airbnbs in Killkenney.

3. County Waterford & County Wexford

South East Ireland or “Ireland’s Ancient East” is one of the most overlooked areas of Ireland in my opinion. Don’t skip this if you want the perfect Ireland itinerary! There are so many hidden gems that I’m going to bring to light!

You’ll want to stay in Wexford or Waterford. We stayed for two months, but two days will do if you must. We rented this gorgeous Airbnb near Tintern Abbey.

4. Cork & Blarney Castle

For most, Blarney Castle is a must see when visiting Ireland. You can kiss the Blarney stone and receive the gift of gab!

Cork is a beautiful city to wander. Visit the English Market, an indoor sort of farmers market with lots of interesting things to see and eat! Here are 33 things to do in Cork city.

If you’re interested in seeing more castles, Ireland will not disappoint! Read about the top 5 Castles to visit in Ireland.

5. Killarney

Killarney is home to the beautiful Killarney National Park, Muckross House, Traditional Farms, Ross Castle and more. It’s definitely worth a visit and could really be considered for an entire vacation. I recently spent a whole week in Killarney and fell in love. You can r ead more about what to do in Killarney here,   but here are the main stops you won’t want to miss:

• Muckross House
• Muckross Traditional Farms
• Muckross Abbey
• Ross Castle
• Innisfallen Island
• Murphy’s Ice Cream
• Quinlin’s Fish n Chips

I would recommend staying in Killarney for several days. There is so much to do and see in this beautiful National Park that you may not want to ever leave. There are some great hotels in Killarney as well as charming Airbnbs.

Affordable Airbnb Homes in Killarney

6. Dingle Peninsula

If you’re on a tight schedule, I recommend you skip the more popular and time-consuming Ring of Kerry and instead drive the Dingle Peninsula. It’s a beautiful stretch of land with some of the most stunning scenery in all of Ireland. Read about what you can see on the Dingle Peninsula here .

7. The Burren National Park &   Cliffs of Moher

The Burren: The word “Burren” comes from the Irish word “Boíreann” which means a rocky place. This is a pretty fitting name because it is covered in Limestone Pavement. It’s like visiting another planet. Read more about the Burren here .

The Cliffs of Moher are something that you just have to see for yourself! They are beyond breathtaking. Don’t skip this stop! Plan on several hours to see the Cliffs of Moher. There is a really neat visitor’s center where you can learn about the cliffs and also about the puffins who nest there. There’s also a great cafe with lots of options.   Here are some tips for taking kids to the cliffs .

Galway is a gorgeous Irish town and a must visit. Here is a guide to visiting Galway .

9. Northern Ireland

Named as one of Lonely Planet’s regions not to miss in 2018, Northern Ireland is truly a treasure! There is so much to see in Northern Ireland, but it is small enough that you can see most of it in 2 days if you’re quick. Be sure to see these top sites:

• Giant’s Causeway
• Carrick-a-Rede Bridge
• Dark Hedges

Remember that Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom and will use the pound sterling instead of the Euro. You will not need your passport to cross from Ireland to Northern Ireland. Here are some things you will not want to miss in Northern Ireland .

I would plan for 2 nights in Northern Ireland. It’s a beautiful place to slow down and take in the sites. We stayed in this lovely Airbnb next door to a field of sheep.

Affordable Airbnb Homes in Northern Ireland

10. Belfast

Drive to Belfast and spend a day seeing the city. Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland (a separate country and part of the United Kingdom). There are so many awesome things to do in Belfast, even though it often gets overlooked as a destination in Ireland. Here is another guide to visiting Belfast .

11. Howth & Back to Dublin

Visit the Howth Cliffs and eat fish and chips in Howth. There are a million pubs and fish and chips shops. I’ve tried several and they’ve all been good. You can read more about walking the Howth Cliff path loop here. Also, read about taking kids to Howth here .

And now you’re back to Dublin! See as much as you can, eat in as many pubs as possible and don’t forget to catch your flight back home! This is the perfect Ireland itinerary for us and we hope it helps you out on your visit to Ireland!

Best Ireland Tours

While I love a good Ireland road trip and exploring on my own, it’s sometimes nice to have someone else do all the work. If you’re looking for a little more ease in your travel or don’t want to drive, check out these best Ireland tours from Get Your Guide.

Have you been to Ireland? What did we miss? Shoot us an email  or get in touch on Facebook or Instagram . We’d love to hear from you and we’d love if you pinned this for later…

Be sure to follow my Ireland Board on Pinterest for more great ideas for your trip!

If you would like to follow along with us day by day you can follow @wanderlust.crew on Instagram or on Facebook   or on Twitter or sign up for our newsletter! We would love to hear from you!

Practical Tips for Booking your Trip

Book Your Flight s and Car Find a budget airlines by using  Skyscanner . This is my favorite way to search for flights because they crawl websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know you’re getting the best deal. Learn more tips for finding the best flight deals here. For cars, I like to use Rental Cars because they have good filters and its easy to search for multiple companies.

Book Your Accommodation My preferred way to stay around the world is VRBO . I find it usually gives you a unique local experience in any destination. If you want to stay in a hotel, use  Booking , as it consistently gives the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. I use them both all the time.

Always Get Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you and your family against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. I never travel without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for the last few years and love how easy it is to use. I have also used Allianz . Compare rates to see which is best for the coverage you need.

Looking for ways to save money on travel? Check out my  resource page  for the companies I use for traveling! I share everything I use to save me time and money.

Wanderlust Crew

48 thoughts on “ the perfect ireland itinerary ”.

Wow I badly want to go! We are planning a 6-12 month Euro road trip in a few years so this is going on the planning board! How long did you spend in total and how long at each spot? I find the hardest thing to do is budget time.

I totally agree. It’s so hard to budget time, when you’ve never been somewhere. I think 2 weeks is a good amount of time to pack it all in. Of course longer is better! We stayed for 2 months and still missed so much of this beautiful place! How exciting about your Euro trip! We fell so in love with Europe last year that we are going back next year!

Great itinerary! My husband has always wanted to go to Ireland…we’ll have to check out those deals! I was wondering the same as Christine…how long do you think a family would need to really see everything on this itinerary to the fullest?

Oh I think 2 weeks would be ideal to do all of this and not be too rushed, but you could technically do it in a week. I hope you make it there. It’s such a special place!

Great itinerary! I’m a travel consultant and went to Ireland 2x in a year and just fell in love with it. I mention a lot of these points to my clients…also, note how amazing traveling by the Wild Atlantic Way is. Another place, the Ballynahinch Castle Hotel in the Connemara area is wonderful! Such beautiful grounds with a lot to do. Be sure to check out the pretty Connemara ponies ? [email protected]

Oh yes! I’ve had several people suggest those to me! I haven’t done any of those, but we are heading back in February so I will put those on my list for sure! Thanks!

The Connemara region IS lovely. We enjoyed our staff at the Ballynahinch Castle — Twp days of rest and relaxation in the middle of a three-week visit. Beautiful grounds.

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lovely itinerary Vanessa, but one small detail – the Hook lighthouse is in Co. WEXFORD!!! Still a great place to visit. Makes me want to go to the West, love the Wild Atlantic Way. Happy travels x

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Ii did this same trip about 5yrs ago I thoroughly enjoyed it. I am saving to go back a second time. The scenery is amazing and the people are so friendly

So excited for your trip back! It’s truly an amazing country!

What would be the best time of year to go?

Any time is a good time to go to Ireland, but I love it in the Spring if you don’t mind some rain!

I only have 3 days to go to Ireland to visit thank you for the recommendation in advance

Have so much fun!

Planning an Ireland trip next year 2020, for my 60th birthday. Want to travel at our leisure in a rental car but I would like to know what you suggest as far as reserving places to stay before going. I know we must pre-pay ABNB but what would availiblity look like if you just show up in many of the places you recommend seeing? Want to have flexibility but don’t really want to sleep in the car! Probably travelling April or May 2020. Thanks!

Hi Gayle, I totally understand wanting flexibility. With hotels I think that is fine, but many Airbnbs require at least 24 hour notice for booking. I’ve never done last minute accommodations, but I also have 4 children, so it’s harder to find. In general, I don’t recommend it. My advice is to really decide what you want to see and to be realistic about driving times. Map everything out before going. Best of luck, please let me know if you need any help planning. I’m excited for your trip!

Love this! My husband and I are planning to go end of August and are trying to decide if we need a travel agent. About how long does it take to get from place to place driving? Would you suggest staying in a new hotel each night? Our plan is 7 days right now.

Hi Taylor! How exciting. You’re going to LOVE Ireland! I would recommend staying in Dublin (1 night), Co. Waterford (1 or 2 nights), Cork (1 night), Killarney (at least 2 nights), near the Cliffs of Moher in Co. Clare (1-2 nights), Northern Ireland (at least 2 nights), then Back to Dublin. You might not have time to do this entire route. It’s quite a bit of driving. I’d pick maybe 4 things that you really want to see and stick to that for 7 days. Let me know if you need any help planning. Have so much fun! -Vanessa

Hi! I just completed my isle tour, and most of it was based off of your suggestions! I landed in Dublin, then traveled to Portstewart, then back down to Kilkenny (which turned out to be my absolute favorite!), then headed over to Cork, then Galway, then back to Dublin. I just have to say I had an amazing trip and I wanted to thank you for your article!! Giants Causeway was impressive, Blarney Castle and the property surrounding it was stunning, Cliffs of Moher was breathtaking, and I simply can’t wait to go back!

Hi Malli! Thank you SO much for letting me know how your trip was! It sounds like you had an amazing time. Ireland never disappoints! I hope you’re able to make it back sometime soon. I was randomly looking up houses for sale in Ireland today haha! Just love that island! Thanks again! It means the world! xo Vanessa

This May, I and my husband are travelling to the emerald country for the second time. Two years ago we decided to explore Dublin solely, but this time we’d love to stay longer and see more of local nature. Thank you for this elaborate itinerary. We’ll try to make most of it.

Hi Lynn! That is so exciting! You’re going to love it even more than Dublin, I promise! May is a wonderful time to go! The daffodils are just poking their heads up now and everything should be in glorious full bloom and nice and green for you by then. Have an amazing time. I’d love to know what you ended up doing when you return! Keep in touch. Thanks again! xo Vanessa

Your guide to Galaway with the link doesn’t work or doesn’t take it to a correct source. Thanks for this post though!

Thank you so much for letting me know! I’ve just updated the link. Have an amazing time in Ireland! xo

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Routes and Trips Travel Guide with Maps and Photos

Road trip in ireland: dublin to galway, moher and cork.

Posted by: Liisa Nygård

In this post I’ll show you our road trip in Ireland, from Dublin to Galway Doolin Cave, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick and Cork. I will give you my best tips for planning a self drive trip around the emerald isle. You will also get our itinerary map. 

Me and three of my friends spent a week driving around in the beautiful, green landscape of Ireland. We flew to the capital of Ireland, Dublin and our  Ireland road trip could start.

– Guest post by Emma Nygård –

Road trip in Ireland: the Cliffs of Moher

Ireland is a country that is known for both its beautiful green landscape and its unique culture.

The green country has a oceanic climate, which means that both the summers and winters are quite mild. The rainfall in Ireland is abundant. We were lucky with the weather on our trip to Ireland. It rained only once during our stay, and that was only a shower.

Pubs and Irish folk music pops into your head anytime you think of Ireland. My friends and I are all fans of Irish music, so we spent a lot of time on our trip exploring Irish pubs listening to Irish troubadours. The Irish pub culture is definitely something worth exploring while in Ireland!

Road Trip in Ireland on the Map

Our Ireland road trip map

This is our Ireland road trip itinerary on the map. We made a loop trip from Dublin and started west towards Galway. After the West Coast we returned via Limerick and Cork.

Many of our expectations about Ireland and its people were met. The landscapes really are that green in Ireland, and the cliffs really are that steep. The pubs really do have troubadours that play Irish music and the Irish people really do have an unique dialect.

Road Trip in Ireland: the Itinerary

Nights 1-3: dublin.

A major part of international flights to Ireland fly to the capital of Ireland, Dublin. That is also where we landed in the beginning of September 2014.

We had pre-ordered a rental car via Internet before the trip. It is easy to find different car rental companies located nearby Dublin airport.

Our road trip in Ireland was a week long, we spent our three first days in Dublin. We noticed that it is a lot cheaper to rent a car for a full week than just for five days, so we did rent a car for the full week. This is worth taking notice of, many car rental companies offer week-long “value” deals, so if you’re thinking about just renting a car for 5 or 6 days also do a search for a full week as it is often cheaper than the 5 or 6 days. It might be best to leave the car at the hotel while visiting the bigger cities. It saves the trouble of finding your way around and finding a parking spot.

Temple Bar and the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin

What to See in Dublin

Dublin is a lively city with a lot of sights to see. Since we wanted to experience the culture in Dublin, we didn’t focus that much on sightseeing. We walked around in Dublin and explored a big part of the city by random.

One of the things we did in Dublin was a visit to the Guinness Storehouse as Guinness is one of Ireland’s most famous export products. The Guinness Storehouse is located quite close to the city center. It took us about half an hour to walk there from O’Connell Street, which is kind of the main street of Dublin.

We explored all off Guinness’s history and how the world famous stout is made. We also got a chance to learn how to tap our own pint of Guinness. It is actually more complicated than I first thought! The Guinness Storehouse is definitely worth a visit while in Dublin.

Ireland road trip: Temple Bar, Dublin

Like many other tourists, we also visited the area of Temple Bar. Temple bar is a nice area full of Irish pubs in the city centre of Dublin. There were a lot of people in the pubs even though it was a Wednesday.

The prices in Temple Bar are quite high compared to other areas. Temple Bar is a nice enough place with it’s traditional tunes and crowded pubs, but at the same time it doesn’t really offer you a genuine Irish feeling. It’s very touristy and unless your image of Irish culture is tipsy middle-aged american men with a “Kiss me I’m Irish t-shirt” then don’t waste too much time there.

More about Dublin, Ireland:  Self-Guided Dublin Walking Tour: Dublin’s Top Sights

Nights 3-4: Galway

After our stay in Dublin we headed off to Galway on the west coast of Ireland. Halfway from Dublin to Galway, there is a small town called Kilbeggan . We stopped there to have lunch and visit Kilbeggans whiskey distillery. Kilbeggan, where whiskey has been distilled since 1757, is the oldest whiskey distillery in Ireland.

On our stop at Kilbeggan we got to learn how whiskey is made and at the end of the tour we got a chance to taste some of the whiskeys. Even though I’m not a friend of Whiskey, I still enjoyed the tour very much. Kilbeggan is located by the River Brosna, the scenery is gorgeous and you get a different sense of Irish authenticity than you get in say Temple Bar.

Kilbeggan, Ireland

We only spent one night in Galway, so unfortunately we didn’t have so much time to explore Galway. The city is quite small with a few sights worth visiting such as the Galway Cathedral and the Spanish Arch.

Right in the city center there is a very nice and lively pedestrian street with small shops, restaurants and pubs. We had a great time strolling down the street.

Walking in Galway

Nights 4-5: Limerick

After our one night stay in Galway we continued our road trip in Ireland. We drove south on the Wild Atlantic Way towards Limerick. This is when we noticed that it is indeed very good to have a car when exploring Ireland. It is possible to get around with public transport as well, but with the car we were able to adjust our route and timetable in any way we pleased.

We drove the whole day in these scenic landscapes of the coast. We made frequent stops in tiny villages and just enjoyed the stunning scenery. There is a lot to explore on the coastline of Ireland, and in order to get the most out of it, it is good to plan where to stop in advance. Enjoying the old castles, caves, steep cliffs, beautiful villages and much more made the day go by very quickly. Two definite must-do’s when and if you decide to make a similar journey:

Road trip in Ireland: Cliffs of Moher

1. Cliffs of Moher

Admiring the scenes at Cliffs of Moher is an absolute dream. The rocks and the huge waves crashing in over 200 meters below your feet is an image i will cherish forever.

There are few places on earth that capture natures beauty as good as this one! If you go to Ireland, visit the West Coast and Cliffs of Moher!

The fantastic Doolin Cave

2. Doolin Cave

The Irish West Coast is home to many caves due to the amount of limestone in the ground. As we were driving, we figured we’d stop at one of them and boy was it magical!

The place we visited is called Doolin Cave and we were lucky to have a tour group just heading down to the cave as we walked in to the reception. It costs under 20 euros to go down into the cave with a guided group. You walk down over 10 flights of stairs (with that said it’s not wheelchair accessible) after which you’re given hard-hats before entering the actual cave.

The cave itself is quite narrow at some points and you might bump your head in the ceiling. After a while of walking in the cave we reached a room where the tour-guide turned off all lighting. The purpose of this was to give each one an idea of just how pitch-black it is down there without lighting. When he flicked on the lights again everyones jaw dropped. Hanging before our eyes was the longest free-hanging stalactite in the Northern Hemisphere. With a length of a whopping 7.3 metres it really is a breath-taking sight!

The tour-guide was an older gentleman and one of the nicest fellows you’ll meet, he knew everything about the cave and was keen to answer any questions you had. If you go to Ireland, visit Doolin Cave!

Driving on the Irish West Coast

In the evening we were exhausted, and it was good that we had booked a hotel in Limerick for the night. There would have been even more to see along the coastline but unfortunately we didn’t have time for it all.

If you’re looking to really see the West Coast in detail you should reserve at least a couple of days for it. We didn’t have the time for it though so when dawn broke we woke up in a sunny Limerick.

There was a big festival going on in the city, so we spent the day walking around Limerick just watching people have fun and enjoy the sunny weather. The festival was about a huge granny, yes you read that correctly granny as in grandmother, she waddled through the streets assisted by a big crane. It seemed a bit strange at first glance but people really seemed to enjoy it, and come to think of it now she was actually pretty funny!

View of Limerick

Nights 5-7: Cork

From Limerick we drove south towards Cork. On the way to Cork we stopped by at the historical Blarney Castle. Blarney Castle has a stone, the Blarney Stone, that is believed to give you the gift of gab if you kiss it, the Irish certainly have that so there might be something to it. Other people (apart from us) who have kissed the stone include Mick Jagger, Winston Churchill and The Simpsons (well not actually but they did in a show).

Although we went to Blarney Castle mostly to kiss the stone, we were surprised over how much else there is to see in the surroundings of Blarney Castle. There are beautiful grounds to walk around in, a poison garden and much more! I’m glad we made a stop in Blarney Castle.

Blarney Castle, Cork

Pub Crawling in Cork

In Cork we met my friend, who showed us around the city. In the evening we got to take part in a pub crawl, and we all had a ball! We stayed in Cork for two nights, so we had time to get to know the city.

The beautiful town of Cork is full of colorful houses surrounding the river that floats trough the town. Cork is a town that never sleeps, it’s widely popular among students which means that there are loads of things going on, regardless of what time of the day it is.

Me and my friend in Cork, Ireland

On the last day of our  road trip in Ireland we had planned to drive the whole way from Cork to Dublin airport. To make the trip seem shorter, we made a stop at Rock of Cashel , a historical site located between Cork and Dublin. We did a very reasonably priced guided tour in and around the castle.

As it was in Doolin Cave it was at Rock of Cashel, the tour-guide was phenomenal. He had a rich Irish brogue, a great sense of humor and superb knowledge of the castle and its surroundings. This beautiful place really was an ideal place to end our journey in Ireland.

Rock of Cashel

Tips for a Road Trip in Ireland

I would definitely say that it is a great idea to explore Ireland by car. Although Dublin is a beautiful city you will miss a big part of Ireland if you don’t visit other parts of the country.

The west coast is amazing, and I wish that we could have had more days to explore that part of Ireland. I would also have liked to drive to the most southwestern point of Ireland, since there is a big national park there with supposedly amazing landscapes.

 Castles, Cliffs and Green Landscapes

However I still think that we got to see a big part of Ireland, and got to experience many different sides of the country. We saw the green landscapes, the castles, cliffs, caves and rocks of the west coast, and we also experienced the rich culture of Ireland by visiting pubs and restaurants in both small towns and big cities.

Road trip in Ireland, the travellers

When planning the itinerary for a road trip in Ireland, it is important to reserve enough time. There are so many places that you can stop at, and driving the tiny roads is slower than expected. Also note that if you don’t mention separately that you would like an automatic gearbox in your car you will most likely get a manual one.

Even more important than that, Ireland is one of the countries that still has left-hand traffic! This takes some time getting used to, but you’d be surprised how quickly you get accustomed to it though.

The route we made for our road trip in Ireland is just an example of a trip and you should make your own route, one that suits you. There are many similar journeys offered by travel agencies. You can get great ideas of where to go by inspecting what routes the travel agencies offer.

I’d be happy to answer any questions about planning a road trip in Ireland, or any other trip to Ireland. ‘Til next time  Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ral  my friends…

-Emma Nygård

Other Routes and Trips Posts on Ireland Travel

• What to see in Dublin:  Self-Guided Dublin Walking Tour: Dublin Top Sights
• Maybe you want to make a day trip by bus from Dublin? Check out my post Giants Causeway Day Trip from Dublin
• Or rent a car and head to the Wicklow Mountains?  Wicklow Mountains Scenic Drive from Dublin

I’m planning a trip to Ireland and would love to hear your suggestions. I have a week. Planning to do a road trip starting and ending in Dublin.

Hi I would suggest what this post is about or alternatively Galway, Burren, cliffs of Moher, down to Killarney and Ringof Kerry and then straight back to Dublin.

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One-Week Ireland Road Trip from Dublin to Waterford City Metropolitan District and Cork

Description

Have the adventure of a lifetime with this 8-day road trip through Ireland.

This incredible self-drive vacation package will take you through the best destinations in Ireland. With this perfectly planned travel package, you will stay 4 nights in Dublin, 1 night in Waterford, and 2 nights in Cork, experiencing the ultimate road trip in Ireland. Your road trip will enable you to discover the country's most popular attractions and restaurants in Dublin, Waterford, and Cork. We'll help you experience the best 8 days in Ireland you can imagine so you can leave happy and inspired.

Upon arriving in Dublin, you'll collect the rental vehicle of your choice. From there, you'll be off to discover some of the most popular attractions in Ireland, including the stunning Phoenix Park and National Botanic Gardens.

You'll have an extensive selection of accommodations to choose from throughout your road trip. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, catering to all budgets. Whether you're in the mood for luxurious five-star hotels or cozy, budget-friendly accommodations, we've got you covered.

Your road trip will bring you close to the best attractions and most incredible sights in Ireland. From the magnificent Dublin Castle to the breathtaking Guinness Storehouse and St Stephen's Green, your journey will take you on a thrilling adventure through some of the most iconic travel destinations in the country. Your discovery doesn't end there. As you hit the open road and drive through Dublin, Waterford, and Cork, you'll also have plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Ireland. Whether you're exploring enchanting small towns, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there's always something new and exciting to experience in Ireland.

Add tours and tickets to each day of your trip to make the most of your time in Ireland. You'll have the opportunity to choose from the best tours and activities that your travel destinations have to offer, meaning you'll never have a boring moment on your road trip through Ireland.

Your travel plan itinerary also gives you multiple opportunities to look for souvenirs to memorialize your road trip in Ireland.

You'll return home having experienced the very best of everything Ireland has to offer. Each twist and turn of the journey adds a unique charm to your travel tales.

You can customize each day of your road trip vacation itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking. Enjoy the benefits of exploring all these great attractions at your own speed.

Your travel plan includes everything you need to experience the best of Ireland. You'll be booked at the best hotels for 7 nights, with plenty of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll provide you with the best car rental for 7 days during your self-drive road trip, including CDW insurance.

You'll have access to 24/7 travel support, a personal travel agent, and a step-by-step guide via our flexible mobile app. You can choose and add your flight preferences as needed. Make your vacation in Ireland extra special by adding tours and tickets to each day of your itinerary.

The best services in Ireland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your self-drive road trip in Ireland today!

Destinations

Attractions

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Personalize your itinerary, day 1 – dublin - arrival day.

• Dublin - Arrival day
• Ha'penny Bridge

Your road trip adventure in Ireland begins as soon as you reach the incredible city of Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 4 nights, experiencing all the best things to do and see in the city.

Dublin has many popular destinations you can explore. You could visit attractions like the incredible Ha'penny Bridge. This attraction is a footbridge and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,192 visitors.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Your stay promises to be a delightful continuation of your exploration, providing comfort and tranquility to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

When you’re ready for dinner, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Dublin, FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,660 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Dublin is PHX Bistro. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,038 customers.

Locals recommend The Vintage Kitchen as one of the best restaurants in the city of Dublin. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 911 customers.

Dublin also has several great bars that will fit all travel budgets. One of the best bars in the city of Dublin is Shouk. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,608 customers.

Another of the best bars in the city of Dublin is The Temple Bar Pub. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,491 customers.

Locals also enjoy The Brazen Head. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,980 customers.

Enjoy toasting the start of your 8-day vacation in Ireland!

Experiences

Day 2 – dublin.

Drive 20 km, 1 hour 4 min

• Phoenix Park
• National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts and History
• National Botanic Gardens

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

There are plenty of attractions, markets, and restaurants for you to experience today in the city of Dublin. Your accommodation will be conveniently located close to several of the best attractions you won't want to miss.

You'll be able to visit more of the best travel destinations in the city of Dublin, like the extraordinary Phoenix Park. This attraction is a park and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,056 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations in Dublin, which gets around 313,790 annual visits, is the spectacular National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts and History. This attraction is an art museum and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,264 visitors.

You could then travel to the amazing National Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,536 visitors.

This is a popular destination among visitors in Dublin.

Your discovery of Dublin does not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Dublin on this day of your trip.

After a long day of exploring some of the most popular attractions in Ireland, be sure to eat at Chapter One Restaurant, which is considered one of the best restaurants in the city of Dublin. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 849 customers.

Alternatively, another of the top restaurants in the city of Dublin is the popular Mr Fox. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 690 customers.

Another great restaurant we recommend in the city of Dublin is The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,719 customers.

When you’ve finished your meal, The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant is one of the best bars in the city of Dublin for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,779 customers.

Porterhouse Temple Bar is another of the most popular bars in the city of Dublin. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,884 customers.

Alternatively, a great bar that locals enjoy in the city of Dublin is Light House Cinema. Light House Cinema has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,744 customers.

Stopping at one of these popular bars is the perfect way to celebrate another incredible day in the magical city of Dublin!

Day 3 – Dublin

Drive 8 km, 1 hour 27 min

• Iveagh Gardens
• Dublin Castle
• Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin
• Guinness Storehouse

Day 3 of your road trip across Ireland is another day in the magnificent Dublin. You now have 2 nights left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Dublin offers plenty for you to see and do, and your hotel will be conveniently located near several of the area's best attractions.

One of the best travel destinations you can travel to in the city of Dublin is the stunning Iveagh Gardens. This has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,930 visitors.

You could also spend some time visiting the spectacular Dublin Castle in the city of Dublin. This attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 31,135 visitors.

Another attraction you could visit in the city of Dublin is the incredible Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. This attraction is an anglican or episcopal cathedral and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,428 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit the fantastic Dublinia. This museum and travel destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,717 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to the outstanding Guinness Storehouse. This tourist attraction is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 18,823 visitors.

Today you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in a popular tour. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of options for top-rated tours and activities in Dublin you could sign up for on this day of your vacation. Choose among the best tours before or after booking.

When it’s time to eat, the city of Dublin has restaurants and bars to fit all budgets.

We recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Dublin, O'Donoghues Bar. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,110 customers.

Alternatively, if you’re hungry to try a top restaurant in the city of Dublin that locals enjoy, eat at Lemon Jelly Cafe. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,104 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city of Dublin, The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,719 customers.

For one of the best bar experiences that locals enjoy in the city of Dublin, we recommend the cocktails at The Stags Head. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,691 customers.

Another of the best bars in the city of Dublin is The Celt. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,507 customers.

Toast to another amazing day in the city of Dublin!

Day 4 – Dublin and Waterford City Metropolitan District

Drive 166 km, 2 hours 35 min

• Trinity College Dublin
• Book of Kells
• National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
• St Stephen's Green
• St Patrick's Cathedral

Day 4 of your road trip through Ireland gives you the opportunity to experience two places in one day. You'll start your day with some exploring in the city of Dublin and end it at a top-rated hotel in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District. You will stay in Waterford City Metropolitan District for 1 night. Have a hearty breakfast and get excited for a wonderful day ahead!

One of the best places to visit today in Dublin is the amazing Trinity College Dublin. This attraction is a university that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,943 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible codex, Book of Kells. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,007 visitors, this attraction is one of the top sights in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination in the Dublin is the outstanding National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. This popular national museum and travel destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,172 visitors.

The spectacular St Stephen's Green is another popular attraction you can visit today. This fascinating park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,325 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to the fantastic St Patrick's Cathedral. This attraction is a popular anglican or episcopal cathedral that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,815 visitors.

You can make the most of your new day in Dublin by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else the city has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your road trip in Ireland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before it's too late.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District, where you will access the best hotels and places to stay.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Emiliano's, one of the best restaurants in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 945 customers.

Locals also recommend Momo Restaurant as one of the best restaurants in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District. Momo Restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 854 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District is McLeary's Restaurant. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 620 customers.

After dinner, visit Geoff's Cafe Bar, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,480 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like The Reg. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,344 customers.

Alternatively, Uluru Bar is one of the best bars that locals recommend in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,037 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Ireland!

Day 5 – Cork

Drive 195 km, 3 hours 16 min

• Jameson Distillery Midleton
• Fota Wildlife Park
• Titanic Experience Cobh
• Charles Fort

Rise and shine on day 5 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you'll wake up in Waterford and embark on a scenic drive to Cork, where you'll stay at one of the best hotels for 2 nights. Seize the opportunity to explore spectacular attractions in Waterford and County Cork before you reach your end destination for the day.

It’s hard not to feel excited about visiting attractions in a destination as lovely as Waterford. When you’re eager to explore the city and nearby areas, we recommend visiting some local favorites, such as the wonderful House of Waterford Crystal. This attraction is a top-tier point of interest that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,065 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible Seasonal Tramore Amusement Park. This attraction, a beloved amusement park, has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,714 visitors.

If you have time, another site you could explore in Waterford is the stunning Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens. This park and travel destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,141 visitors.

One of the most popular attractions you can visit is the remarkable Jameson Distillery Midleton. This attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,523 visitors.

If you want to explore more, visit the incredible Titanic Experience Cobh. This museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,040 reviews.

Another site you could visit today is the top-rated Charles Fort. This fort and travel destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,370 visitors.

When you're done with your sightseeing in County Cork, it's time to continue your drive to the city of Cork. When you arrive in Cork you’ll check in at one of the best hotels in the area.

We recommend you end the day with a dinner at a popular restaurant near your accommodation, like Liberty Grill. This restaurant offers various delicious and comforting meals and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,609 customers.

Locals also recommend Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House, another of the best restaurants in Cork. Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 792 customers.

If you feel like having something else, check out the menu at Izz Cafe. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 731 customers and is a great place to enjoy a lovely meal.

After dinner, visit Sin é to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Cork, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,654 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like The Oliver Plunkett. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. The Oliver Plunkett has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,192 customers.

End your day by raising your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure in Ireland, and look forward to more great days to come!

Day 6 – Cork

Drive 205 km, 4 hours 8 min

• Ross Castle
• Muckross Abbey
• Muckross House
• Killarney National Park
• Torc Mountain

You still have 1 night left in Cork.

One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Ross Castle. This incredible attraction is a castle and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,044 visitors.

Muckross Abbey is another popular attraction you'll visit. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,835 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations you can visit is Muckross House. This amazing attraction is a house and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,269 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit the outstanding Killarney National Park. This park and place of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,542 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to the fantastic Torc Mountain. This mountain is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,583 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Ireland to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Cork.

We recommend eating at one of the best restaurants in the city of Cork, like Market Lane. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,609 customers.

The SpitJack Cork is another of the best restaurant options in the city of Cork. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,934 customers.

Locals enjoy Luigi Malones Cork, one of the most popular restaurants in the city of Cork. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,073 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Cork, The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,534 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Cornstore Cork. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,516 customers.

An Bróg Bar + Kitchen is another of the best bars in the city of Cork. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,592 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Ireland!

Day 7 – Cork, Muenster, and Dublin

Drive 281 km, 3 hours 44 min

• Fitzgerald's Park
• Blarney Castle & Gardens
• Blarney Stone
• Cahir Castle
• Rock of Cashel

You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night.

One of the best places to explore in the city of Cork today is Fitzgerald's Park. This excellent attraction is a park that has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,130 visitors.

We also recommend you visit the amazing Blarney Castle & Gardens, an outstanding park, in the city of Cork. Around 10,638 travelers rated this attraction with 4.7 out of 5 stars.

To experience the local culture, see more of Ireland, and meet new people at the same time, we highly recommend you go on a tour. You’ll find many top-rated and popular tours in the city, offering unique experiences that will inspire you. On this tour, you can go on an epic adventure to some of the best places to visit in Ireland. You also get to admire popular places of interest.

You could then travel to Fitzgerald's Park for some unforgettable sightseeing experience. This popular attraction is a park and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,130 visitors.

This outstanding park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,638 travelers.

You can also stop at the popular Cahir Castle. This attraction, a stunning castle, has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,990 visitors.

If you’re interested in exploring even more, visit the fantastic Rock of Cashel. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,334 travelers, the magnificent Rock of Cashel is clearly one of the top sights in the area.

You’ll have your choice of the best hotels and places to stay in the city of Dublin.

After dinner, visit one of the top bars in the city of Dublin, O'Donoghues Bar. This popular bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,110 customers.

You could also relax with a drink at a popular bar like The Bank on College Green. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,043 customers.

Café en Seine is a popular bar that locals recommend in the city of Dublin. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,282 customers.

Be sure to celebrate another day of your incredible road trip adventure through Ireland with a toast!

Day 8 – Dublin - departure day

• Dublin - Departure day
• Molly Malone Statue

Day 8 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch one last glimpse of Dublin before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. When you have time to explore the area before you make your way home, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Molly Malone Statue is an extraordinary attraction you could visit to enjoy your last day in Dublin. This best-rated sightseeing destination and popular site of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,653 visitors.

Take a stroll along the main shopping streets of Dublin and find some souvenirs to remind you of your road trip in Ireland.

You’ll then say farewell to Dublin. We wish you a pleasant journey home, with many wonderful memories of your unforgettable vacation in Ireland!

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Dublin, Cork and Galway: exploring three Irish cities in three days

Go on a whistle-stop tour of the Emerald Isle

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“Dublin, Cork and Galway in three days – in winter – are you serious?” responded the man working in the car hire kiosk at Dublin Airport after hearing my forthcoming travel plans.

A weekend in Dublin: travel guide, attractions and things to do

Incredulous as he was, a 72-hour tour of these iconic (but not particularly close-by) Irish cities did indeed loom ahead of me. But, much to my relief, my whistle-stop trip amounted to three heavenly – albeit fairly rushed – days.

An entire long weekend (and more) could easily be devoted to Ireland’s capital and largest city – but in my 24-hour window I managed to squeeze in an impressive amount. Central Dublin is easily reached from the airport by train, bus or car (although parking is a nightmare), which means you can start soaking up the sights shortly after stepping off the plane.

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Where to stay

I stayed at The Dean Dublin , a 51-bed modern boutique hotel, which was the first of its kind in Ireland when it opened its doors in 2014. Located smack bang in the city centre, a stone’s throw from St Stephen’s Green, the hotel has a Soho House feel with its dark interiors, bold colours and buzzy lobby/bar area. Attention-grabbing works by artists adorn the Instagram-worthy communal areas and suites, my favourite being an original Tracey Emin neon sign which hovers over the reception desk reading “I fell in love here”.

A small outdoor swimming pool, which you currently have to reserve a spot for in advance, is heated to Jacuzzi levels of warmth and provided some great late-afternoon entertainment – thanks mainly to the old-school style phone at the side of it through which guests can order cocktails.

Adjacent to the pool is a swanky boutique gym which runs high-intensity cardio classes that are free for guests, and features a modern sauna and steam room.

Outside of The Dean’s amenities, Dublin is packed with attractions. For any Normal People fans, a stroll around Trinity College Dublin is essential. I enjoyed pretending to be a student as I mingled around the campus and perused the university gift shop, umming and ahhing over the purchase of an exorbitantly priced Trinity College hoodie.

A tour of the Guinness Storehouse – pretty much Disneyland for stout lovers – is another must. There’s no doubt that this is an incredibly touristy experience (I think there must be a rule dictating at least three stag dos’ attendance at any one time) but it’s still a highly educational one.

Learning about the entire Guinness-making process, from hop-growing to fermentation to marketing, was fascinating – plus the Guinness-themed gift shop is pretty fun. I recommend visiting in the late afternoon, to time the end of your (unguided) tour with sunset as the panoramic view from the Storehouse’s rooftop bar is unparalleled.

The Irish claim that Guinness tastes better in Ireland and as I sipped a pint overlooking twinkling Dublin stretching as far as my eyes could reach, I couldn’t help but agree.

Food and drink

Dublin is famous for its food scene and 24 hours is certainly not enough time to explore the best of its gastronomic offerings. That said, I did have two delightful meals: brunch at Sophie’s Rooftop and Terrace , on the top floor of The Dean, and dinner at Doolally , an Indian restaurant just around the corner from the hotel.

With 360-degree views of Dublin and a gorgeous central bar, Sophie’s is a great spot for a traditional full Irish breakfast – plus a mimosa or two. Doolally, on the other hand, offers authentic and delicious Indian dishes like paneer and corn saag, bhindi masala and tandoori prawns (my stand-out order).

It would be remiss to not visit an Irish pub while in Dublin and there are countless ones to choose from. I enjoyed a pint of bitters from Devitts Pub , round the corner from The Dean, which claims to serve the best Guinness in the capital. This is also a good spot for homemade traditional Irish food like seafood chowder, and beef and Guinness stew.

Next stop was Cork, via an hour or so in Tipperary to break up the journey and check out Cahir Castle . Ireland boasts around 3,000 castles but the 13th century Cahir is one of the largest and best preserved, making it a perfect mid-way stop. Opening times vary throughout the year, with entry costing around £5 per adult.

If driving from Dublin to Cork, I recommend leaving the former in the afternoon, to time your arrival in Ireland’s second-largest city with sunset. Because the roughly three-hour journey takes you from east to west of the country, watching the sun descend over Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes is a truly magical experience.

The Dean also has a branch in Cork, which opened in December 2020 – a brave decision during the pandemic. Designed by Irish firm Wilson Architecture, the striking seven-storey structure forms part of a relatively new development of Cork’s Horgan’s Quay and overlooks the River Lee.

The Dean Cork ’s 114 stylish rooms and suites feature everything you could ever want from a boutique hotel – think gorgeous freestanding copper bathtubs, smart TVs which you can hook up to your steaming accounts, swish record players and open-style mini-bars with all the essentials.

Like The Dean Dublin, promoting and supporting the work of talented local artists is a core value of the Cork hotel, with the walls covered with more than 400 pieces of striking Irish art. Again, a neon sign hangs over the reception area – this one created by Irish artist Domino Whisker, reading: “non stop beauty”.

This hotel also has a swimming pool – a slightly larger, less Jacuzzi-like indoor one – and an adjacent phone designed for ordering some pool-side cocktails. Two ropes hang directly over the pool for practising pull-ups – or posing for a highly Instagrammable photoshoot. There’s also a decent-sized sauna and a steam room, and down the corridor is a high-spec gym which offers a similar range of toning and cardio classes.

The winner of the 2022 Council of Europe Museum Prize is located in Cork – and it’s well worth a visit. Nano Nagle Place celebrates the inspiring story of Nano Nagle, a Roman Catholic who enabled the learning of thousands of Irish schoolchildren who were denied access to an education in the 1700s. As well as an interesting museum, the sprawling complex – a calming oasis in the heart of Cork’s city centre – features two shops, pretty walled gardens, a deli and the actual site where Nano Nagle is buried.

It sounds counterintuitive, being in Ireland, but a visit to Cork’s historic English Market is also a must. The market has been trading since 1788, making it one of Europe’s oldest of its kind, and it offers an incredible range of local produce for browsing and sampling.

I had a fantastic lunch at Farmgate Café , which sources ingredients directly from the English Market, which it overlooks. The Irish lambs’ stew with Ladysbridge jacket potatoes was particularly tasty – and the door-stopper of a bread and butter pudding was a hearty, delicious dessert that I still can’t believe I managed to finish.

The Dean Cork also features a Sophie’s Rooftop Restaurant & Bar on its sixth floor, offering 360-degree views of the river and city skyline. When I visited on a Monday night, the place was buzzing with birthday celebrations, creating a fun, party atmosphere. The cocktails were exceptional, especially the Rated-R , which is made with Absolut mango vodka and lychee liqueur and finished off with a scorched meringue topping.

It’s a roughly three-hour drive from Cork to Galway, a stunning city on Ireland’s western coast that’s famous for its vibrant music scene, internationally recognised university and being the subject of a hit – and slightly controversial – Ed Sheeran song. Galway is also known for its inconsistent weather and during my short stay I experienced an entire medley of seasons, from torrential rain to beautiful sunshine.

I stayed at The Dean Galway , which only opened its doors in April 2022 but already feels like a well oiled joint. The 100-bed property – Galway’s first design-led boutique hotel – is a short walk from the town centre and 3km from Salthill, the seaside area.

Rooms here are bright and comfortable, with playful interiors and bold artwork making them feel distinctively Dean-like. As with Dublin and Cork, The Dean Galway has a heated swimming pool (this one is large and outdoors) and a top-of-the-range gym, sauna and steam room, all of which are free to access for hotel guests.

A day is definitely not enough time to fully explore Galway, but a good way to see a lot of a city in a short space of time is by electric bicycle. I highly recommend a guided electric bike tour led by Galway-born Martín Lally, who has an encyclopaedic knowledge of the city’s past and present.

Stops included the University of Galway (and the oak tree planted in 2015 by then-Prince Charles after his historic meeting with Sinn Féin), the National Organ Donor Commemorative Garden, Galway Bay and Menlo Castle. Lally provided electric bike helmets, which meant that in spite of Galway’s excessive windiness, the other participants and I could ask questions and hear his explanations while on the move.

Galway was described by National Geographic as the “beating heart of Ireland’s culinary scene” and after just a few hours in the city, I could clearly see why. Practically every street features a cosy looking pub, and restaurants serving traditional Irish fare – specifically fresh seafood – are everywhere. I loved The Seafood Bar @ Kirwan’s , where a speciality is mussels with a blue cheese and bacon cream sauce (sounds odd but trust me, it worked).

I also ate in Elephant & Castle , a low-key, New York-style restaurant on the ground floor of The Dean Galway. Named after the Underground station in south London, the eatery is one of two Irish branches of a small chain which originated in lower Manhattan in 1973. Elephant & Castle is best known for its decadent chicken wings – which come with celery sticks and tangy blue cheese dressing – but its menu also features steaks, burgers, salads and spaghetti.

The Dean also has a speakeasy-style bar on its ground floor called Peg’s (formerly Hogan’s Bar), which often hosts live music nights.

How to get to Ireland

Flights from London to Dublin Airport can start from as little as £9.99 (without luggage). I flew home from Shannon Airport which is very close to the city of Limerick, but just an hour and a quarter’s drive from Galway. Aer Lingus, British Airways and Ryanair all offer flights from Shannon to London.

For a more environmentally-friendly trip, you can catch a ferry from Holyhead in Anglesey, Wales, to Dublin, which can take between 2hrs 15mins and 3hrs 15mins, depending on the operator. Prices vary but can start from around £35 for one way.

The verdict

Although I wouldn’t necessarily recommend squeezing in so much in such a short period, if you have more time on your hands, exploring Dublin, Cork and Galway in three days is certainly doable. I returned from Ireland thoroughly exhausted – but already excited to return to each city in the future.

Kate Samuelson was a guest of The Dean hotel group. Room rates at The Dean in Dublin, Cork and Galway all start from €150 (£133) per room per night; thedean.ie

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Kate Samuelson is the newsletter editor, global. She is also a regular guest on award-winning podcast The Week Unwrapped, where she often brings stories with a women’s rights angle. Kate’s career as a journalist began on the MailOnline graduate training scheme, which involved stints as a reporter at the South West News Service’s office in Cambridge and the Liverpool Echo. She moved from MailOnline to Time magazine’s satellite office in London, where she covered current affairs and culture for both the print mag and website. Before joining The Week, Kate worked as the senior stories and content gathering specialist at the global women’s charity ActionAid UK, where she led the planning and delivery of all content gathering trips, from Bangladesh to Brazil. She is passionate about women’s rights and using her skills as a journalist to highlight underrepresented communities.

Alongside her staff roles, Kate has written for various magazines and newspapers including Stylist, Metro.co.uk, The Guardian and the i news site. She is also the founder and editor of Cheapskate London, an award-winning weekly newsletter that curates the best free events with the aim of making the capital more accessible.

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The best places to visit around Ireland on a daytrip

If you’re planning to go daytripping, where should you venture fionn davenport offers some suggestions.

Glendalough is one of the country’s most significant and beautifully located monastic sites. Photograph: Chris Hill

Whatever you think of the name, the concept of “daycations” is pretty straightforward: take a day to explore the region around where you live and then return to sleep in your own bed at night. It’s the chance to break up a regular routine, plus it’s a great way of engaging in a little tourism without spending a fortune on accommodation, usually the heftiest expense of any holiday.

And in Ireland, where tourist accommodation is squeezed by seasonality and availability – in the last couple of years, up to a third of all hotel beds have been tied up in public contracts – that can mean significant savings.

The idea is simple: be a tourist in your own area. Take a visit to a nearby attraction, or maybe explore some ruins. Go for a hike in the mountains, or kayak on a nearby lake. Everyone’s version of the ideal day out is different and can change depending on the season and the weather.

Here are some ideas on where to explore from the base of a number of Ireland’s largest populated areas – Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway.

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Have you ever visited Marsh’s Library in Dublin?

Of course, you could devote plenty of days to exploring without leaving the city centre: when was the last time you went to the Natural History Museum, for example? Have you ever visited Marsh’s Library or the Casino at Marino? And while we all know it’s there, have you ever actually been to the Guinness Storehouse? But there’s a lot to explore within a couple of hours’ drive of O’Connell Street – including some genuine surprises.

Brú na Bóinne, just west of Drogheda, is one of the most known neolithic sites in the world, a Unesco world Heritage attraction that draws hundreds of thousands of yearly visitors. If you have never been, you should go.

But if you like your neolithic sites without the crowds, there’s the cairns at Loughcrew , 50km to the west, near Oldcastle along the R154. Of the 32 tombs here, Cairn T is the most accessible, a 15-minute walk up the hill from the car park. Although it mightn’t seem as impressive as Newgrange, the passageway is illuminated during the spring and autumn equinoxes, and the passageway is visible when Heritage Ireland guides are present; otherwise, the key to the gate is available from the cafe at Loughcrew Gardens.

If you like your neolithic sites without the crowds, there’s the cairns at Loughcrew

Glendalough is one of the country’s most significant and beautifully located monastic sites, but it does get busy. A far less visited alternative is the Fore Valley in Co Westmeath, about 5km east of Castlepollard near the shores of Lough Lene. There’s nary a visitor here, but the setting for the ruins of St Féchín’s 7th century monastic village is stunning: a cluster of ruins huddled at the base of a beautiful valley, that is looped by a 3km walking trail. If you do visit, be sure to pick up a guide map at the Fore Abbey Coffee Shop, which will also explain the “seven wonders” of the valley – the monastery in the bog, the water that flows uphill, the tree that won’t burn, the water that won’t boil, the anchorite in a stone, the mill without a race, and the lintel raised by the prayers of St Fechin. And even if you don’t believe, it’s a beautiful place to linger.

The particularly arresting artwork in Spike Island by inmates is on display upstairs in the punishment block

Corkonians are spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do beyond the city limits. The train ride to Fota Island, for instance, is one of the most scenic in the country, as you chug past marshy Harper’s Island and over the bridges on Lough Mahon and the Slatty Water.

Fota has plenty to keep you entertained for the day with the wildlife park and, just by the tiger enclosure, Fota House , which can be visited by guided tour. Even if you don’t step inside, take time to walk around the gorgeous arboretum.

While it may lack the high-tech razzmatazz of its sister museum in Belfast, the visit to the old White Star Line building is a stirring one

Although most Corkonians are well familiar with Cobh, how many have set foot inside the excellent Titanic Experience ? While it may lack the high-tech razzmatazz of its sister museum in Belfast, the visit to the old White Star Line building (the last port of call before setting out into the North Atlantic) is a stirring one: when you enter you’re given a ticket with a real passenger’s name on it; you then go through the exhibits and find out at the end if they survived or not. Further along the seafront is the dock for Spike Island , whose 1300-year history is told in compelling detail; particularly arresting is the artwork by inmates upstairs in the punishment block.

Cork has no shortage of terrific hikes, including the wonderful cliff walk that starts at Knockadoon Pier, 45km east of the city on a headland looking out over Capel Island. The 7km-long looped cliff walk is stunning, taking you along the coastline past the old signal tower (which dates from 1803) and back to the pier, which is a popular spot for a swim. About 500 metres offshore, Capel Island is an uninhabited bird sanctuary; you’d need permission from Birdwatch Ireland to visit.

King John’s Castle has stood on the banks of the Shannon for 800 years, but when was the last time you went inside? Photograph: Eye Ubiquitous/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

There’s a lot to see in Limerick these days, from the relatively new to the very old. The wonderful International Rugby Experience opened in 2023 and tells the story of the sport as well as providing a chance to test your kicking skills. King John’s Castle has stood on the banks of the Shannon for 800 years, but when was the last time you went inside? If it’s been a while, you might enjoy the primer on Irish history (there’s a lot of gore) and the chance to try some medieval games in the courtyard, like a proper game of hopscotch.

What about experiencing Limerick from the water? Nev Sail has kayaking tours that start just behind the Hunt Museum and take you up and down the river, under the bridges and up close to the sturdy walls of the castle.

If you’re looking for more watery adventures outside the city, head north to Killaloe, where Aoife O’Mara’s My Next Adventure has a range of kayaking tours: the Brian Ború Experience is a two-hour trip through 1000 years of history (and 13 of Killaloe’s stone bridges) as far up as Lough Derg. The Full Moon Kayaking takes you right out into the middle of Lough Derg at sunset before returning to Killaloe.

For an even more active day out, the Ballyhoura Mountain Bike Trails are, at 98km, the largest of its kind in Ireland, weaving in and out of thick forest and gorgeous mountain views – and they’re only a 45km drive south of the city, just beyond Kilmallock. There are five loops of varying length and difficulty, from gentle, family-friendly slopes to rugged speed tracks designed to challenge the most intrepid riders (you might even catch world champion rider and local lad Oisin O’Callaghan going for a spin). If you don’t have a bike, you can rent everything – including helmets and protective pads – from the Ballyhoura Mountain Bike Centre at the base of the mountain. If you prefer to do your wandering on two feet, the waymarked Ballyhoura Way wends its way through 90km of forest trail, field paths, moorland and tarmac road.

Outside of Galway city, a journey around Lough Corrib is a fantastic day trip option

With Connemara, the Aran Islands and the Burren on its doorstep, Galwegians have no shortage of day trip options from the City of the Tribes. But even within the city there are some interesting ways to discover, not least with a tour that takes full advantage of Galway’s reputation as a capital of fine food.

Galway Food Tours is a local outfit that operates a range of food tours where you get to sample lots of different local produce, from sushi to chocolate. Day tours start outside McCambridge’s on Shop Street include six food and drink stops and you finish in the Soul Garden at the back of Massimo’s in the West End (where you bid farewell with a goody bag). They also offer whiskey and craft beer tours as well as a food and cycling tour that uses e-bikes.

Outside of the city, a journey around Lough Corrib is a fantastic day trip option. Just before you get to Oughterard, Aughnanure Castle was once home to the “fighting O’Flaherty’s”; these days the six-storey tower house on a rocky outcrop overlooking the lake is open to visitors. If you fancy getting out on to the lake, Corrib Cruises has twice-weekly summer sailings from Oughterard that take you out to explore the monastic ruins of Inchagoill, the largest island on the lake.

The bridge at Maam, Connemara, Co Galway, used in the 1952 film The Quiet Man. Photograph: iStock

Just beyond Oughterard is the Quiet Man bridge, the idea of which has raised collective eyebrows since the 1950s film starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara became part of the Irish-American cultural lexicon, but there’s no denying that it’s an absolutely gorgeous spot. In Cong, there’s the Quiet Man Museum (strictly for the hard-core fans) but far more interesting is the 3km forest loop walk that brings you to Leonard’s Tower, aka the Guinness Tower, on the grounds of Ashford Castle. Climb the 85 steps to the top for views and a decent leg workout. One final stop, on the eastern side of the lake, are at the ruins of Ross Errilly Friary, just beyond Glencorrib, the most complete Franciscan monastic ruins in the country. From here, it’s 27km back to Galway City along the N84.

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Ireland road trip - A scenic 10 day round trip from Dublin

If a scenic road trip is what you're after, there's nowhere better than Ireland, with its diverse cities and majestic castles nestled between miles of stunning mountains, lakes and parks.

With so many places to visit, coming up with the perfect itinerary is definitely a daunting task, but fear not - we've done all the planning for you!

From drinking Guinness in Dublin to navigating the incredible Wild Atlantic Way and seeing the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, here's how to spend 10 days exploring Ireland by car.

We'll start in capital city Dublin, which has an international airport, ferry connections to the UK, and loads of car hire options.

Day 1: Dublin - sightseeing & a pint at Guinness Storehouse

What better place to kick off an Irish holiday than in the capital, Dublin? Not only does it have a well-connected international airport and ferry links to Holyhead in Wales, but it's also the perfect place to introduce you to Ireland and the vibrant culture you'll experience throughout the drive.

Because the airport is so close to the city centre, we recommend holding off on hiring a car for now and hopping on the Airlink bus (number 747 towards Heuston Station) into the centre to explore on foot.

There are loads of stops on the service, so find one close to your hotel to drop off your bags. Don't worry, there are plenty of car rental companies in Dublin so you'll have no trouble picking up a car once you're ready.

If you've arrived in Dublin by ferry from the UK and have brought your own car with you, it's best to park up before you explore.

There are ten Q-Parks available in the city, so you shouldn't have any issues finding a spot.

Start with a scenic walk through Dublin

You'll spend the rest of the day exploring Dublin before hitting the road on day two, so take to the streets for a spot of sightseeing.

Once you've checked in to your hotel and freshened up after your journey, we recommend heading down O'Connell Street, one of the central roads in the city, to begin your walking tour of Dublin. Here you'll find the statues of two important Dubliners to introduce you to the city's heritage.

The first, around halfway down the street, is a sculpture of the iconic writer James Joyce, and the second is the O'Connell Monument built in honour of Daniel O'Connell, a famous campaigner for Catholic emancipation in the 19th century.

Giving a glimpse into two key areas of Dublin's history, this popular street is the perfect place for your first stroll in Dublin.

After admiring the statues you'll want to cross the river, but instead of crossing busy O'Connell Bridge, head slightly west to the famous Ha'penny bridge, a cast iron walkway which used to cost half a penny to cross (hence its name). This is a much more scenic option for your walking tour.

Visit Trinity College Dublin and Dublin Castle

Once across the bridge, head east to Trinity College Dublin, one of Ireland's world-ranking universities, boasting a whole host of famous graduates including writer Oscar Wilde.

It was recently made compulsory to view the university on one of their guided tours, rather than solo, but this isn't a bad thing as the tours are super interesting and informative. Buy a ticket at the front gate and enjoy the next available tour.

Top tip: Be sure to buy a combined ticket for the college, the Book of Kells Exhibition and the Old Library to get the full picture of Dublin's scholarly past (€14 altogether). Trust us, you won't want to miss any of it.

Once you've had enough of Trinity College, head to The Pig's Ear Restaurant across the road for a late lunch of sophisticated traditional-meets-modern Irish food, before wandering west to explore Dublin Castle.

The castle was thought to be the centre of British power in Ireland for 700 years, and was commissioned by King John in 1204.

Although the Record Tower is the only surviving original feature, the 18th-century rebuild is still quite the sight to behold.

Finish day one at the Guinness Storehouse

For a chilled end to a busy day, take a short walk west to the Guinness Storehouse to learn all about the quintessentially Irish pint.

Make your way up through the seven floors of Guinness's brewing heritage, or just make a beeline for the rooftop Gravity Bar for a well-earned drink. There are also two restaurants here, so stick around for dinner, if you fancy.

Note: The Guinness Storehouse closes at 8pm in July and August, and 7pm the rest of the year, so make sure you arrive with enough time to explore.

After all that walking, head back to your hotel and relax, ready to set off early on day two for the first part of your scenic drive!

Day 2: Dublin to Kilkenny - the Wicklow Mountains National Park & Kilkenny's Medieval Mile

Wake up early and head out to pick up your hire car - the real road trip starts here!

The route today takes you from Dublin to Kilkenny through the stunning Wicklow Mountains in around three hours, but you'll probably want to stop off to admire the views, so expect the total journey to take a bit longer.

Drive to Kilkenny via the Wicklow Mountains National Park

Make your way out of the city, heading south to meet up with the R115 which will take you all the way down through the Wicklow Mountains National Park.

As one of six national parks in Ireland, the Wicklow Mountains are the pinnacle of Irish natural beauty, surrounding you with lush green hills, blue lakes, and dramatic valleys within an hour of leaving Dublin.

Travel tip: Look out for the magnificent Glenmacnass Waterfall as you're driving through the park.

Follow the R115 down to Glendalough, the most visited area of the park, then take your first scenic detour and drive west on the R756 up through Glendalough Valley. The road snakes through the hills and can be quite narrow, but it's worth it for the dramatic views.

Definitely stop once you get to the top to take a moment to admire your surroundings and the beautiful road you've just driven.

Once you're ready to move on, continue to follow the R756, joining up briefly with the R747 to connect you with the M9.

The M9 will take you most of the way to Kilkenny, with a few extra little roads at the end of the journey to get you into the city.

Explore Kilkenny's Medieval Mile

Find your hotel, drop off the car and get ready for some more city exploring.

A great place to start is by heading straight to Kilkenny Chamber Office to purchase a Medieval Mile Pass, which allows you to enter many of the attractions in the city's famous Medieval quarter.

The pass also gets you discounts in various cafes and restaurants on the mile, so grab lunch before you start your sightseeing as you'll be hungry after the morning's drive.

Once you've refuelled, head to St. Canice's Cathedral which book-ends the north end of the Medieval Mile (with Kilkenny Castle in the south).

This 13th-century cathedral is a key feature of Kilkenny's heritage, with the city's name deriving from the Irish Cill Chainnigh meaning 'Church of Canice.' so this is definitely an important landmark to prioritise.

As well as the beautiful stained-glass windows, impressive marble floors and fascinating tombstones of the cathedral's interior, check out the accompanying Irish Round Tower, the only original feature of the building still standing (the cathedral itself is thought to have been re-built three times in its history).

Wander down the rest of the mile, dipping in to any of the attractions that take your fancy. Highlights include Rothe House and The Medieval Mile Museum which are both included in the Pass.

Discover arty Kilkenny

Once you reach the south end of the mile, stroll around the castle grounds and the surrounding park (go into the castle, if you want), then check out the National Craft Gallery across the road to discover the arty side to Kilkenny.

The gallery is housed in old stables and showcases a range of contemporary Irish arts and crafts, including ceramics, jewellery,and textiles.

A visit to the gallery will complete your authentic Kilkenny experience, checking two of the city's main identifiers off your list.

Spend the rest of your afternoon/evening relaxing and exploring the city on your own terms, and grab dinner at one of the many restaurants in the centre (you won't struggle to find somewhere good!)

Day 3: Kilkenny to Cork - MADE in Kilkenny craft trail, the Rock of Cashel & an evening at the Triskel Arts Centre

Go hunting for handmade kilkenny souvenirs and grab lunch.

Continue on your art-themed tour of Kilkenny this morning by following the MADE in Kilkenny Craft Trail to find some great souvenirs.

MADE in Kilkenny was set up to gather all of Kilkenny's craftspeople together to help the industry grow and promote the county as one of the best destinations for handmade crafts in Ireland.

Download the map from the Visit Kilkenny website and follow the trail for some local treasures.

Once you're happy you've found the best crafts, head to Mocha's Vintage Tea Rooms, a popular cafe with vintage French vibes, for some lunch before getting ready to hit the road again for Cork.

Drive to Cork via the Rock of Cashel

Leaving in the early afternoon of day three, take the R693 north west to join up with the M8. Yeah yeah, we know that Cork is south of Kilkenny, but this route is the best way to get to the Rock of Cashel, your next scenic stop off.

Come off the M8 to join the R639, and the Rock of Cashel is around an hour outside of Kilkenny.

The Rock of Cashel, also known as St. Patrick's Rock and Cashel of the Kings, is a group of dramatic Medieval buildings perched on a limestone rock thought to have been the seat of the High Kings of Munster.

Most of the buildings you can visit today date back to the 12th and 13th centuries when the rock was given to the Church, and include a round tower, a chapel, and a cathedral.

If you fancy a longer stop, buy a ticket and head inside (admission costs €8), or if you're eager to get to Cork, just pause to admire the dramatic buildings and their surroundings.

Back on the road, rejoin the M8 and cruise all the way down to Cork, arriving in the late afternoon/early evening.

As Ireland's self-proclaimed 'rebel city', you'll be welcomed into a lively atmosphere with a diverse mix of ancient architecture and trendy venues and eateries.

Catch some evening entertainment at the Triskel Arts Centre

Drop off your things at your hotel, and go in search of some dinner to perk you up for a night of entertainment at the Triskel Arts Centre.

This cultural hub is one of Cork's go-to spots for all manner of events ranging from live music to international cinema to visual art.

Check ahead to see what's on the evening you arrive, or take a chance and go for whatever starts next. This is a great way to get acquainted with the quirky atmosphere you'll find all over Cork on day four.

Day 4: Cork to Killarney - Explore Cork, lunch at the English Market & drive to Killarney

Explore cork.

Start day four with a leisurely stroll to take in the city, starting at the National Monument. This Irish Gothic statue was unveiled on St Patrick's Day in 1906 and commemorates those that died in Ireland's fight for independence.

After admiring the dramatic tribute, head down the famous Oliver Plunkett Street. Dubbed by some the best street in Ireland, it's a long, partially pedestrianised street lined with shops, buskers, historic buildings, and over 100 independent businesses which have been passed down through generations of Corkonians.

There is a real sense of community here, making it a joy to include this street on your stop in Cork. See if you can spot the statue of the Evening Echo Boy commemorating the old tradition of young homeless boys selling the Evening Echo newspaper.

After you're done exploring the street, head over St Patrick's Bridge and walk to the top of St Patrick's Hill for the best view over the city.

Be warned, the hill is super steep, but its pretty pastel-coloured houses and the panoramic views at the top make it completely worth it (though if you wanted to, you could always hop in a taxi to the top and walk back down).

Discover Cork's foodie side at the English Market

Cork is also known for its incredible food scene and is often thought of as the food capital of Ireland, so head back down the hill and across the river to spend your last few hours here at the English Market.

Admire the beautiful Victorian architecture as you browse the amazing range of fresh, local produce, and chat to the friendly vendors about their stalls.

All the ingredients are bound to make you hungry, so before you leave head to the in-market Farmgate Cafe for a late lunch overlooking the busy stalls.

The cafe's aim is to celebrate the Irish ingredients on sale in the market, making this one of the best ways to experience Cork's foodie heritage.

Drive straight to Killarney and explore the town

After lunch head back to your hotel for your things and set off for Killarney; no detours this time, just drive straight there.

It should take around an hour and a half so you'll arrive in the late afternoon.

We'd recommend spending the whole of day five enjoying the Killarney National Park, so use today to get to grips with the town.

Much of the tourism in this small town is geared towards day trips to the National Park, so don't expect loads of attractions to visit. Nevertheless it's still an immensely charming place to spend an afternoon exploring.

Wandering down the central high street is a good place to start, checking out the local shops and businesses, before heading west to admire St Mary's Cathedral on the edge of the National Park.

This cathedral is relatively modern compared to some others you'll encounter on this trip, with the Great Famine preventing it from opening until the 1850s, and the interior having been almost entirely reconstructed in the 1970s.

The cathedral is also unusually located in the middle of a big field rather than in the town, so it's a beautiful setting for a spot of late afternoon sun (fingers crossed…) and a taste of the stunning natural landscape you'll discover on day five.

Dinner in Killarney

For dinner, heading back to the high street is your best bet and a great restaurant to try is Treyvaud's .

This family-run eatery specialises in both Irish and international cuisine, with many local Kerry ingredients on the menu.

Plus, one half of the brother/head chef duo Paul Treyvaud is fast becoming a foodie celebrity in Ireland, so it's a no-brainer to nab a table here.

Day 5: Killarney - Killarney National Park

Explore killarney national park.

Get those walking boots on; it's time to explore the beautiful Killarney National Park.

You can either leave the car behind and; walk to historic Muckross House, which is around 5.5 kilometres from Killarney High Street (it should take just over an hour). Or, to save some time and energy, you could drive there and park up at one of the free parking lots.

Muckross House is a great starting point for exploring the National Park as it's situated between two of the park's three famous lakes.

The house itself is a well-preserved Victorian mansion with many original artefacts to tell the story of how the land-owning classes would've lived at the time. There are also beautiful gardens surrounding the house adding to its stunning backdrop.

Grab lunch at the Garden Restaurant at Muckross, a relaxed self-service restaurant in the house grounds, or pick up a sandwich here to take with you on the remainder of your walk.

After you've spent a few hours exploring the house and gardens, continue walking south into the park for another 2.8 kilometres to reach idyllic Torc Waterfall (it should take you around 40 minutes).

This beautiful 70-foot-high waterfall is nestled in lush green woodland, and discovering it feels like you've stumbled upon an oasis.

For the best views of the lakes, push yourself to walk up the steps to the side of the waterfall; your feet may ache (there are around 100 steps), but the photo opportunity is unmissable.

Travel tip: The falls are at their best after heavy rain, so embrace the wet Irish weather!

If you've walked rather than driven here, we'd recommend doubling back to reach Killarney town (unless you'd rather walk the 270 kilometre Kerry Way in a loop back…), so you'll get double the satisfaction from this scenic route.

If that walk sounds a bit too rigorous, there are some alternatives.

The first option is to take a traditional Jaunting Car (horse and cart) Tour of Killarney National Park, complete with a local guide to tell you all the facts. Drive to Muckross House and pick up the Jaunting Car here for a tour of the house and gardens and Torc Waterfall.

Alternatively, if you still fancy a stroll but want something a little shorter you could walk to Ross Castle instead.

For the more scenic route it's about 3.7 kilometres, taking 45 minutes, or there's a more direct 2.9 kilometre route, which takes around 35 minutes.

The castle dates back to the Middle Ages, and is just as beautiful as Muckross House if you'd prefer a less taxing walk (you may want to bring a picnic for this option as there's no cafe).

Note: There is a very steep incline to access the castle, so it may not be suitable for visitors with mobility issues.

Return to Killarney for a relaxed evening

Enjoy a relaxing evening back in Killarney town, and try to get an early night; you'll want to leave as early as possible for your day six drive.

Head back to the high street and try another restaurant for dinner, then retire to your hotel to rest your tired legs!

Day 6: Killarney to Dingle - scenic drive along the Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring, & dinner in Dingle

Drive the ring of kerry and skellig ring.

Wake up bright and and early for the longest, and most scenic, part of your trip.

On your way out of Killarney grab a picnic from one of the supermarkets in town, fill up the car with a full tank of fuel, and hit the road travelling south out of town on the N71 to join up with the Ring of Kerry road just south of Muckross.

This famous 179 kilometre-loop of the Iveragh Peninsula is one of the most popular driving routes in Ireland thanks to its spectacular views of the Atlantic, deserted beaches, mountains, and lakes.

Follow the Ring of Kerry past the Upper Lake before stopping at Ladies View for a final panoramic view of Killarney National Park. From here you basically want to follow the ring as it meets the ocean and hugs the coastline, stopping wherever you fancy to snap a photo or just gaze at the stunning sights.

Roughly halfway round it's time for a detour to Skellig Ring, a loop which extends off the Ring of Kerry.

Take the R567 west to join up with the R566 which becomes this slightly shorter, much lesser known circuit. The great thing about Skellig Ring is that it's too narrow for tour buses, so it's a much more off-the-beaten-track drive you're unlikely to share with many others.

Follow Skellig Ring past Ballinskelligs Castle, around the dramatic coastline to the Kerry Cliffs near Portmagee village, which is a great spot for lunch.

These rugged cliffs are, in our opinion, totally underrated and under visited, so definitely stop here for a very scenic sandwich.

Continue to follow Skellig Ring until it reaches the R565 which will connect you back to the Ring of Kerry. Continue on the ring until you reach Killorglin, where you should head north on the N70 towards the Dingle Peninsula rather than looping back around to Killarney.

Drive on to Dingle for dinner

At Castlemaine, head west on the R561 and cruise down the Dingle Peninsula.

As you drive along the coast make a note of how to get to Inch Beach, you'll be back here on day seven. For now, though, join up with the N86 and head straight to Dingle town for dinner.

A great option for a local meal is seafood-only restaurant Out of the Blue . The dishes served here depend entirely on the catch of the day; if nothing has been caught, it simply won't open (don't worry, this is rare!)

The restaurant itself is cosy with a brightly coloured nautical theme, so you'll feel right at home in this coastal town in no time.

Day 7: Dingle to Limerick - the Dingle Peninsula, & dinner and a traditional Irish pub in Limerick

Explore the dingle peninsula.

Have another early morning today to make the most of the beautiful peninsula you passed through on your drive to Dingle Town.

Everyone knows Irish weather can be a little unpredictable, so we're giving you two suggestions of how to spend day seven.

Either way, aim to be back in Dingle Town by mid-afternoon to set off for Limerick.

Option one - water sports at Inch Beach

Option one is a trip to Inch Beach (which you spotted on the drive in) for some outdoor activities.

This three-mile spit of sand which juts out from the Dingle Peninsula is a beautiful, spacious beach that's completely flat, so it's perfect for some water sports or a scenic walk along the shore.

If you're brave enough to face the waves, have a go at surfing or sea kayaking; there are a few places at the top of the beach where you can hire the equipment if you don't have your own.

Travel tip: Always say yes to hiring a wetsuit as well as a board or kayak - even if the weather is warm, the North Atlantic Ocean certainly won't be…

If you don't fancy getting wet, the beach is equally lovely from the sand, so you could always walk its length and check out the views along the peninsula.

Option two - the Slea Head Drive

If it's wet and cold, option two might sound more appealing - another scenic drive, this time around the Slea Head Loop.

Take the R559 out of the town and follow it as it loops around the end of the peninsula. This drive is reminiscent of the Skellig Ring, so you know you're in for some spectacularly rugged Irish coastline and beautiful views.

If the weather isn't too wet and windy, stop for a minute at Slea Head (there's an area where you can pull over), the westernmost point of the Dingle Peninsula, for a break and a photo before following the loop back around to the town.

There are a couple of places you can stop on your way round if you fancy it, including the Celtic Prehistoric Museum, the collection of Beehive Houses (drystone huts which resemble beehives) in Fahan, or Caifé Na Trá for an incredibly scenic cup of tea (this is also a great spot for lunch).

The whole loop is around 39 miles long so will take an hour or two to drive straight, but it's much better to take your time and prolong the drive as much as you can.

Note : It's advisable to only follow the loop clockwise (which this route does) to avoid having to face oncoming tour buses, and be warned, this is one of the areas where the signs will be in Gaelic, so try to get familiar with the route before you set off from town.

Drive straight to Limerick

After all the scenic detours of the last few days, the drive from Dingle to Limerick is a straight two and a half hour drive, so aim to leave Dingle by around 4pm to arrive in time for dinner.

The drive is really simple - essentially you just need to take the N86 out of Dingle Town, following it until you get to Tralee where you'll join up with the N21 which goes all the way to Limerick (leading into the M20 for the last stretch).

Once you've arrived, park the car, freshen up and head out for dinner.

Spend an evening in Limerick

For some more fresh Irish food (we know you won't be able to get enough of the incredible ingredients) head to Freddy's Bistro - a cosy restaurant run by three sisters.

Generally regarded as one of Limerick's best eateries, it has a great range of fresh cooked-to-order dishes served in a candlelit 19th-century building; the perfect place to wind down after a busy day, we think.

If you're not completely shattered by this point, take a short walk to Dolan's for a traditional Irish pub experience. Grab a drink and enjoy the daily live music and lively atmosphere of this beloved venue.

Note: Anyone is welcome to join in the music, so get stuck in, we dare you!

Once you've had enough, head back to your hotel and relax. Don't worry about getting up early on day eight, it's about time for a lie in!

Day 8: Limerick to Galway - Sightseeing in Limerick & the Cliffs of Moher

Explore limerick, starting with king john's castle.

Start exploring Limerick mid-morning of day eight.

Having suffered from a spate of violence in the past, this city has really come into its own since winning the Irish City of Culture award in 2014. There's loads to see here that will definitely make you change your mind about Limerick.

Start your tour at King John's Castle in the north. It's located on King's Island, a portion of the city surrounded by rivers Shannon and Abbey, standing proud as one of the best preserved Norman castles in Europe.

The castle itself is thought to have been built in the 13th century, and much of it remains today for you to explore, however its shining feature is the brand new visitor centre complete with 3D models, hands-on exhibits, animations, and videos.

Start in this contemporary section of the castle to learn all about its history, before checking out its original rooms, many of which are furnished as they would have been back when the building was in use.

Be sure to top off your visit with a climb up the castle towers for amazing views of Limerick.

Head south to the Milk Market and People's Park

After the castle, head south and check out the iconic Milk Market located on Mungret Street.

Nowadays the market sells more than just dairy products, but the name does come from a time when markets were prolific in the city, including the Butter Market, the Pig Market, and the Hay Market, each selling their specific item.

Whilst many of these markets were relocated to a common area in the mid-19th century, the Milk Market continued to thrive and diversify the products on sale, and today it remains a bustling food market in the heart of Limerick.

You'll find loads of different things to buy, including fruit and veg, baked goods, preserves, handmade chocolates, arts and crafts, and of course dairy products.

Wander around the stalls and enjoy the market's atmosphere, picking up any souvenirs that take your fancy, and grabbing some delicious food for an on-the-go lunch.

From here, wander down the road to People's Park, a leafy green space in the middle of the city.

The park was originally intended to be a private area surrounded by Georgian terraced houses, however the Great Irish Famine caused a decline in the economy which meant this work was never completed. The park was officially opened and given to the people in 1877 (hence the name) in honour of local businessman Richard Russell.

The best thing to do is wander round the park with no true direction, and stumble upon the Thomas Spring Rice Memorial Monument (a tall pillar dedicated to this highly regarded politician), the original 19th-century bandstand, and the ornate drinking fountain provided by employees of Russell Flour Mills. Just roam around and enjoy the park's quirky features.

The Limerick City Gallery of Art is also located in the park, and is well worth a visit if the weather's a bit grey and you're in the mood for some contemporary Irish art.

Drive to Galway via the Cliffs of Moher

Set off for Galway in the afternoon with enough time for a diversion via the famous Cliffs of Moher before it gets dark.

This stunning stretch of coastline runs for just under nine miles and has become one of the most popular destinations to visit in Ireland.

There's a visitor centre built on the hillside approaching the cliffs which blends in seamlessly to the surrounding natural beauty, so a stop here will feel like it's just you and the wild Irish coast.

It costs €8 to go into the centre, but the cliffs are just as amazing if you simply park the car a take a short walk around without going in.

The drive to the cliffs takes around an hour and a quarter, with your total drive to Galway taking just under three hours.

Bearing this in mind, you're likely to arrive in Galway pretty late, so find somewhere to ditch the car and head out for dinner before bed.

Parking tip: The best option for parking in Galway for more than a few hours is in one of the long-stay car parks, which cost €5 per day (there are three: The Greyhound Track, Dyke Road and Galway Cathedral Car Park).

Day 9: Galway - the Aran Islands, Galway walking tour & dinner

Wake up early and fly to the aran islands.

Wake up early to make the most of your last proper day of the trip; it's going to be super busy!

Save the city sightseeing for later and grab a picnic and hop in the car to Aer Arann Connemara Airport, around 30 kilometres away from Galway city centre, for your flight to the largest of the Aran Islands, Inishmore. You'll drive along the coastal road (R366) which is a super scenic route, with amazing views of Galway Bay.

Although you can get the ferry which is (only slightly) cheaper, think of the incredible views you'll get from flying, giving you a new perspective of the beautiful country you've been touring for eight days.

Plus, the flight only takes about ten minutes, as opposed to an hour and a half on the ferry, so it leaves you way more time to explore.

Once you land on the island, the best way to get around Inishmore is to hire bikes, so head to the hire shop at Kilronan Pier to begin your Aran Adventure.

Alternatively, you can go on a minibus tour of the island or walk to the different landmarks - it's totally up to you.

Once you've decided on your mode of transport, do a loop of part of the island (or the whole 14 kilometre stretch if you're feeling energetic).

Go north from Kilronan Town, past the remains of St Ciaran's Church and Holy Well, continuing along the coast to the Seal Colony Viewpoint (definitely stop here and see if you can spot the seals) and along to Kilmurvey beach for a picnic.

After lunch cut across the island to the prehistoric Dun Aengus fort (there's a bit of a climb), before heading back to Kilronan via the opposite side of the island.

Aim to fly back at around three or four in the afternoon to leave a little time to explore the city when you return.

Take a whistle-stop walking tour of Galway and head for dinner

Although it will be later in the afternoon by the time you get back to Galway, there'll still be time for a quick self-guided walking tour of the city centre.

You'll probably be pretty tired after your trip to the Aran Islands, so don't try and cram too much into this afternoon - you'll get a feel for the city from a short loop of the centre of town.

Start at the Lynch Memorial Window where the mayor is famously thought to have hung his son in 1493 (a bit morbid, apologies!), head past St Nicholas' Collegiate Church and south to the famous Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum.

From here, head north east past the docks aiming for Eyre Square, a park that forms one of the central hubs of Galway.

Although it's surrounded by big-name shops and busy restaurants, the square itself feels decidedly calm, particularly as there are many tributes and memorials scattered around the park.

Take a walk around the square and spot the Browne Doorway (the doorway from the house of one of Galway's merchant rulers), the Quincentennial Fountain, the statue of famous writer Pádraic Ó Conaire, and the memorial dedicated to John F. Kennedy.

Okay, so by this point you'll probably be desperate for a sit down, so grab dinner wherever takes your fancy (there's loads of places around the square), and spend your final evening reminiscing about the amazing trip...

Day 10: Galway to Dublin - Galway Cathedral, brunch, & one final pint of Guinness in Dublin

Pay a quick visit to galway cathedral and have brunch before leaving.

If your flight/ferry doesn't leave until later and you can spare an hour or two on the morning of day ten, we'd recommend a quick visit to Galway Cathedral before you set off.

Considered one of the largest and most impressive buildings in the city, it was built relatively recently, with construction starting in 1958 on the same site as the old city prison.

The cathedral was completed and opened in 1965 and has been active ever since.

Check out the colourful stained glass windows which shine dramatically against the grey brick walls, and the impressive ceiling dome surrounded by beautiful painted scenes.

The cathedral is open from 8.30am, so get there as early as you can for a calming start to your final day.

After leaving the cathedral head across picturesque Salmon Weir Bridge (see if you can spot some Atlantic salmon in the water) and wander back towards Eyre Square for a spot of brunch at Merchant Cafe and Bar (the Eggs Benedict is particularly tasty), before getting ready to return to Dublin.

Drive straight to Dublin and have one final pint of Guinness

The drive to Dublin is around 130 miles and should take roughly two and a half hours, so bear this in mind when planning when you need to set off from Galway.

The route pretty much follows a straight line across the width of the country, with the M6 taking you the majority of the way there.

For the last activity on your Ireland road trip we can't think of anything more suitable than one final pint of Guinness (or any other tipple of choice) at one of those quintessentially Irish pubs; the driving's done, you're feeling nostalgic, and this epic holiday deserves to be toasted.

The Palace Bar on Fleet Street is a great option; with its old-school Victorian interior and a reputation as one of Dublin's best-loved pubs, it's the perfect place to finish off your Irish drive.

Travel tips

• Do your research on where to hire your car from and book in advance. This avoids the stress of organising it once you've arrived in Dublin, and gets you the best price. Arrange to pick it up early on day two.
• Bring comfy shoes and wet-weather clothes - there are lots of great opportunities for exploring the great outdoors on this trip, and Irish weather is notoriously unpredictable...
• Book your flights to the Aran Islands for day nine in advance - this is better for both organisation and making sure you get seats on your plane of choice.

Driving in Ireland

Before you set off, there are a few things you need to know about driving in Ireland:

• Carry a valid driver's licence - Visitors from certain countries also have to carry an International Driving Permit, so check before you set off! For UK license holders, a Check Code is also necessary when hiring a car to provide the company with full details of your licence (penalty points etc.). Each code is valid for 21 days and can only be used once.
• Drive on the left - This means clockwise around roundabouts!
• Road signs - In the Irish speaking areas of the country, expect all the road signs to be in Gaelic. This is true in counties Cork, Kerry, and Galway on this trip, so take your own map in English to avoid confusion.
• Tolls - Expect to encounter a couple of toll roads on the route. They all vary in price, and don't all accept card payments, so make sure you have some cash at hand.
• Parking - In Dublin, Cork, and Limerick you'll find Q-Park car parks dotted across the cities. These are a great choice as they're secure, clean, and reliable, as well as being easy to locate. Although Q-Parks don't exist in the smaller towns and cities on the trip, parking in these places is much easier anyway, with local car parks readily available.

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6 Days In Ireland: 56 Different Itineraries To Choose From

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

Yes, we have  56  different 6-day Ireland itinerary guides for you to choose from…

Why 56 you ask?!

The reason for this is that we’ve covered  every  (we hope…) possible want or need you could have.

Each of our 6-day guides:

• Has been meticulously planned
• Follows logical routes we’re confident you’ll love
• Has a detailed hour-by-hour itinerary
• Makes planning a trip to Ireland easy

In the guide below, you can pick a 6-day Ireland itinerary based on:

Please take 15 seconds to read the graphic above as it’ll help you pick the most suitable Ireland itinerary down below!

As you can see, we have 6-day Ireland itinerary guides that cover every angle we could think of.

All you need to do to find your perfect itinerary is read the section below  carefully .

How to browse our Ireland in 6 days itineraries

The handiest way to browse our itineraries is to select, from the list below, where you’re starting your road trip from/near.

We’ve used the main entry points to Ireland for those of you flying in or arriving by ferry.

Simply click one of the start points below and you’ll be taken to 6 days in Ireland itineraries that start at that location:

6 days in Ireland from Dublin

If you’re looking to explore Ireland in 6 days and you’re starting from County Dublin, this section is for you.

There are two sections below, split depending on how you plan on getting around Ireland .

As we explained in this graphic , ‘Fast Trips’ are for those of you looking to see/do as much as possible and who don’t  mind moving hotel regularly and ‘Slow Trips’ are ones where you’ll move accommodation as little as possible.

For those of you with a car

• A 6-day slow trip for those with good fitness
• A 6-day slow trip for those with low fitness
• A 6-day fast trip for those with good fitness
• A 6-day fast trip for those with low fitness

For those of you using public transport

An overview of the route from dublin.

Photos via Shutterstock

If you’re starting your 6-day Ireland itinerary in Dublin, the route above is hard to beat.

Although it varies slightly depending on how you’re getting around Ireland, both the car rental and the public transport itineraries take in many of Ireland’s top sights.

Over the course of your 6 days in Ireland you’ll:

• Explore the many things to do in Dublin
• Explore the Clare Coast, including Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher
• Take a day trip to Wicklow, Meath and Louth
• See Galway City, Connemara and Cong
• Tackle the Ring of Kerry Drive , explore the Dingle Peninsula and see a chunk of West Cork

6 days in Ireland from Shannon

If you’re looking for a 6-day Ireland itinerary that kicks-off in Shannon, this section should tickle your fancy.

We’ve split up the different itineraries into ones for those of you using a car and ones for those of you that aren’t.

As we mentioned in this graphic , our fast 6 days in Ireland itineraries are for those of you looking to explore as much as possible and who don’t  mind moving about a lot.

Our slow itineraries are ones where you’ll move accommodation as little as is physically possible.

An overview of the route from Shannon

A lot of people start their 6-day Ireland itinerary from Shannon due to the convenience of flying into Shannon Airport.

One of the benefits of starting from here is that you’re kicking off your 6 days in Ireland a stone’s throw from some of the country’s most popular attractions

If you follow our route from Shannon, you’ll:

• Explore Connemara National Park
• See the mighty Inis Mor Island
• Visit Bunratty Castle before heading into the ancient Limerick City
• See Killarney National Park and it’s many attractions
• Visit Blarney Castle and tackle the many things to do in Cobh

Ireland itinerary 6 days from Belfast

Another great way to tackle Ireland in 6 days is to fly/get the ferry into Belfast and take it from there.

Belfast is a great starting point for a road trip as you can explore the Antrim Coast before continuing on to Derry and Donegal.

Like we explain in this graphic , we split up our itineraries below into two sections – 1 section is for those using a car and the other is for those that aren’t.

An overview of the route from Belfast

This 6-day Ireland itinerary is one of my favourites in this guide as it takes in some of the most scenic parts of the country.

You’ll kick things off by spinning along the Antrim Coast, with a whole host of stops to choose from along the way.

If you follow our route from Belfast, you’ll:

• Explore the Causeway Coastal Route
• Tackle some of the best things to do in Belfast
• See the best of the Boyne Valley
• Spin around a good chunk of the Wild Atlantic Way

6 days in Ireland from Rosslare

If you’re spending 6 days in Ireland and you’re arriving into the ferry terminal at Rosslare, we’ve plenty of itineraries ready for you.

Now, as was the case with the ones above, we’ve split them into 2; 1 section is for those of you with a car and another for those of you using public transport.

If you’re wondering what ‘Fast Trips’ and ‘Slow Trips’ are, refer to this graphic at the top of the guide.

An overview of the route from Wexford

Now, this 6-day Ireland itinerary varies a lot  depending on whether or not you’re getting around in a car.

The public transport around some of the more remote parts of Wexford, in particular, are what causes there to be such a contrast in the different itineraries.

If you follow our route from Wexford, you’ll:

• See the glorious Hook Peninsula
• Ramble around the town of Kinsale
• Tackle some of the best things to do in Killarney
• Explore the mighty Dingle Peninsula

6 days in Ireland from Cork

Our 6-day Ireland itinerary guides that kick off in Cork take in some of the best that Ireland has to offer.

You can choose (or opt out of) some magnificent walking trails, soak up spectacular scenery and step back in time at heritage sites.

These are some of our more popular 6 days in Ireland itineraries. As usual, we’ve split them up for those of you with a car and for those of you without one.

An overview of the route from Cork

Photo left: The Irish Road Trip. Others: Shutterstock

Cork is a great starting point for a road trip. At the start of the trip, you can spend a bit of time in the city before moving into the wilds of West Cork.

Our itineraries from Cork then take you around the coast, into Kerry and up towards Limerick before heading to Dublin and back to Cork.

If you follow our route from Cork, you’ll see:

• The beautiful Beara Peninsula
• Wild West Cork
• The Ring of Kerry
• A chunk of Limerick, Tipperary and Clare

Ireland in 6 days from Knock

Although there likely won’t be a huge number of people looking for a 6-day Ireland itinerary that starts in Knock, we felt it important to include it as a start-point.

I can safely say that the public transport road trips from Knock were  very  tricky to research and map out. However, it was worth it.

Below, you can pick a 6 days in Ireland itinerary kicking off in Mayo based on trip speed, your fitness and how you’ll get around (we explain how to browse the itineraries in this graphic ).

An overview of the route from Knock

If your 6-day Ireland itinerary kicks-off in Knock, you’re in luck – Mayo is home to an endless number of adventure opportunities.

Now, the public transport itineraries vs the car itineraries vary a fair bit due to the lack of buses and trains in places, but both versions pack a punch.

If you follow our route from Knock, you’ll:

• Explore Achill Island
• Tackle some of the best things to do in Galway
• See some of the finest beaches in Ireland
• Spend time in Sligo and plenty more

6 days in Ireland from Donegal

The last of our 6-day Ireland itinerary guides kicks off in Donegal.

This was by far the hardest one to map out for public transport, and as a result, the itineraries vary a lot.

As always, we’ve split the different itineraries up into sections for those of you with a car and for those without.

An overview of the route from Donegal

The route from Donegal for those of you driving is a peach. You’ll see parts of the county that rarely make it into tourist guidebooks and you’ll see many of Donegal’s historic sites.

You’ll then move into Sligo before heading to Mayo, Galway and beyond. For those of you using public transport, the route is  very  different due to Donegal’s poor public transport.

If you follow our route from Donegal, you’ll:

• Explore some of the best things to do in Donegal
• Soak up some of Sligo’s finest views
• See the Connemara coast

FAQs about exploring Ireland in 6 days

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Is 6 days in Ireland enough?’ to ‘What route should I follow?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Is 6 days in Ireland too long?

What to do in ireland for 6 days, where to spend 6 days in ireland.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Tiny Footsteps Travel

Cork or Galway: Which Should You Choose in 2024?

Heading to Ireland and trying to choose between Galway or Cork? You’re in the right place.

Both, Cork and Galway are touristy cities, and two of the four main cities in Ireland (which also include Dublin and Limerick.) They’re both very walkable, and you don’t need a car for either – at least not in the downtown core. You will love just strolling around, taking in the scenery of the historic buildings and the setting of these Irish cities.

They both have a strong feel of Irish cultural heritage, have medieval buildings, and things to do both in outside of the city – full day or half day trips.

I am an Ireland fanatic, have travelled all through the whole country and can offer you insight on both, Cork and Galway.

If you’re wondering which one to spend your time in – Cork or Galway- then we’re going to break it down for you here. Let’s go through the highlights of Cork and Galway, and the pros and cons of each, so you can determine which one is best for your trip.

Cork vs Galway: What are they Known For?

Here is what you need to know about the ‘essence’ of each city- what makes them unique from other cities in Ireland?

What is special about Cork?

Cork has one of the oldest food markets in the world, and also, interestingly, one of the oldest yacht clubs in the world. It was founded by the Vikings circa 922, and also has rich medieval history

What is special about Galway?

Galway is the festival capital of Ireland and there are hundreds of festivals held there every year. Galway as a city was founded in the 13th century , but it has the remains of the building from the 1100s

Cork vs Galway: Population and Size

Cork is the second largest city in Ireland, after Dublin and before Limerick . Galway is the 4th largest city.

Cork’s population in 2023 was 223,657. Galway’s population is 84,572. So, if you’re looking to visit a smaller city, then Galway would be the one for you.

However, you’re the kind of person who likes a big city with more to do – then I think you’d be happier in Cork.

Cork vs Galway: Things to Do

There are a few really cool things to do in both cities, check out the most popular tourist attractions below

Things to Do in Cork

-The English Market, a food market which has been running since 1788 . This is one of the oldest markets in Europe, and is perfect for foodies

– Fitzgerald Park , an 18-acre Victorian park established in 1902 in the city centre of Cork. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll

– Blackrock Castle , a 15th century castle just 2 km (1.2 miles) from the Cork city centre

– Cork Butter Museum , which shows you about Ireland’s history of butter production, and how it became the biggest exporter of butter in the world

-Beautiful medieval churches Cork City Gaol , St. Finn Barre’s Cathedral , and St. Anne’s Church

Things to do in Galway

-Visit the Spanish Arch , a 16th century arch that is the extention of a Normal wall built in the 1200s

-Take a stroll through Quay Street and hang out in the Latin Quarter

-There are plenty of day trips with an hour or two of Galway; such as Oranmore Castle , The Burren , the village of Cong, taking a ferry to the Aran Islands , or Connemarra National Park . -Stay nearby in a castle hotel (there are a handful of them within an hour or two from Galway city)

-Visit abandoned castles , there are dozens of them in the outskirts of Galway city

Cork or Galway: Conclusion

Since Cork is a larger city, there’s more to do directly in the city centre. You could easily spend three days in Cork , and it has some excellent day trips as well. I did not list the day trips in Cork above because the list of things to do would have been too long for Cork. But here are some ideas:

• a full day trip along Ireland’s southern coast
• a day trip to The Ring of Kerry (the most beautiful place in Ireland, in my opinion)

Between the two cities, I found centre of Galway to be the ‘prettier’ one to look at, and take pictures of. I could not stop taking pictures. However, everything you want to see in Galway is within walking distance and you could probably see it within a day .

If you are looking for somewhere to spend 3 nights in, then I think you would need to consider day trips outside of Galway as well during that time, because there isn’t enough right in the city of Galway to spend three days seeing.

However, the day trips possibilities outside Galway are excellent. The village of Cong is very quaint, with its 1000s year old ruins, Connemarra National Park , Aran Islands and The Burren are all incredible. For more info, read about if Galway is worth a visit.

Also, in Galway, you’re a bit closer to the Cliffs of Moher which makes it easier to see them with less crowds, such as at sunset.

If it were up to me? Having been to both, Cork and Galway (but spent more time in Galway) I would probably choose Cork , because of all the interesting things there are to see and do right in the city. I didn’t have enough time for all of them last time and wish I’d had more time in Cork.

So if you’re short on time, I’d probably stick to Cork, but I think that you cannot go wrong with either option.

Places to Stay in Cork city centre

• Budget: Yugo Amni’s House
• Mid-range: The Metropole Hotel
• Luxury: Jury’s Inn Cork

Places to Stay in Galway city centre

• Budget: S noozles Galway City Centre
• Mid-range: The Western Hotel
• Luxury: Jury’s Inn Galway

Cork vs Galway: Safety and Places to Avoid

Both Cork and Galway are safe cities for tourists. As a tourist, you would be spending most of your time in the downtown area of these cities, where any crime would be very rare.

Neither Cork or Galway are the most ‘dangerous’ cities in Ireland. ( Limerick is known for being statistically the most dangerous city in Ireland. )

Cork vs Galway: Which is more family-friendly?

Ireland is generally a family-friendly place to travel through. I travelled to both Cork and Galway with my 3 (almost 4) year old, and she enjoyed both cities. She enjoyed listening to the music of the buskers, which are common in both cities in the summertime.

Since both cities are walkable and car-free in some areas, I found them both to be great places to walk around as a family. We didn’t use a stroller, but you could use a stroller in the downtown core of either city.

Cork has Fitzgerald Park, the English Market, and the Butter Museum which I think would all be fun with kids of all ages. I think Cork has a bit more in the way of things to do with kids.

But in terms of safety, and welcoming for families? Both Cork and Galway are family-friendly cities.

Location of Cork vs Galway

Part of making the decision between Cork and Galway is looking at their location, and where else you’re planning to visit on your Irish itinerary.

Galway is much closer to the Wild Atlantic Way, Cliffs of Moher, Northern Ireland and so if you’re planning to visit these then it makes sense to add Galway to your trip.

If you’re planning to spend some time on the Ring of Kerry (in my opinion, the most beautiful place in Ireland!) then Cork makes an easy stop from there, if you’re driving back to Dublin from Kerry.

It might be worth noting that both cities – Cork and Galway – are similar in distance from Dublin. Galway is a 2 hour and 15 minute drive, and Cork is just half an hour longer – 2 hours and 45 minutes.

They’re also both similarly close to Limerick. Galway is an hour and 15 minutes away from Galway, whereas Cork is an hour and 29 minutes.

Ultimately Cork is further than the two other desirable Irish cities (Limerick and Dublin) than Galway is, but not by much.

Shopping in Cork vs Galway

If you’re the kind of person who loves to buy souvenirs, then you will love the different options for souvenirs from Ireland . They embody the country’s unique folklore, heritage, and farming industry and there are many special items that you can only get in Ireland.

If you want to shop, and are deciding between Cork or Galway, then I’ll say this: Cork is larger and has more stores. However, there are some specific souvenirs that are much easier to find in Galway, because of its location being on the Wild Atlantc Way.

Cork vs Galway: FAQ

Here are some commonly asked questions about visiting Cork or Galway.

Is Cork near Galway?

It would take about 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive from Cork to Galway, and that doesn’t include stopping at any toll stations. Both of them are near the famous scenic coastal road, the Wild Atlantic Way.

Is Cork Ireland worth visiting?

Yes, Cork is well worth a visit. It is one of the Irish cities founded by the Vikings (along with Limerick, Dublin among others.) It has a walkable downtown, a food market open daily that has been running since the 1700s, a famous park, and a castle and some great day trips.

Is it better to go to Galway or Cork?

Both cities, Cork and Galway, are great for tourists. They both have a lot of history, buskers (live street music) in the summertime, great food, and things to do. Cork is a larger city, so there are more things to do to keep you busy for a few days. Galway is smaller and quainter.

Cork or Galway: Final Thoughts

You can’t go wrong with Cork or Galway. They’re both amazing cities with rich history.

Galway is small and compact, and almost everything you’d want to see in the city centre is within walking distance. However, if you want to spend a few days in Galway, then you would need to be willing to take day trips, because many of the nearby attractions aren’t right in the city itself – they’re up to 1-2 hours away. You don’t necessarily need a car, there are many tours you can book right out of Galway.

Cork, on the other hand, is a larger city. It doesn’t have the same ‘small, quaint feel’ in the downtown core as Galway, but there are a lot of exciting and unique things to do in the city and nearby.

Ultimately, whichever city you choose, I don’t think you’ll regret your decision.

Experience the Best of Dublin and Galway in One Week

Spending one week in Ireland is ample time to discover the beauty and charm that the Emerald Isle has to offer. When it comes to breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, Ireland never disappoints. 

From the vibrant city life of Dublin to the fascinating cultural scene of Galway, this week-long itinerary promises an unforgettable journey through two of Ireland’s most captivating cities. 

Get ready to explore ancient castles, revel in traditional music, and savor the finest Irish cuisine.

2 Days in Dublin

Two days in Dublin is just about the right length to explore the capital of Ireland. It’s a culturally rich city with numerous museums and tourist attractions to visit. And of course, it’s absolutely packed with countless bars and restaurants. 

Dublin Day 1 Itinerary

Take in the magnificence of Trinity College

A visit to Trinity College, Ireland’s most prestigious University is a great way to begin your trip to Dublin. Here you can go on a tour of the ‘Book of Kells’. This is a medieval religious manuscript considered to be one of the oldest books in the world. 

It is believed to have been crafted by Celtic monks back in a monastery on the Isle of Iona circa 800. The tour is a huge tourist attraction where you can learn all about the creation of the book in fine detail. 

And this tour also allows you access to the main chamber of the College’s Old Library, known as the: ‘Long Room’. This incredible 65-foot-long chamber is one of the most impressive libraries in the world and is simply a magnificent sight to behold. 

Although at the time of writing the Long Room is going through an expensive restoration process, so nearly all of the countless shelves are empty. But there are some books on display on the ground floor, along with the oldest harp in existence. 

Visit Oscar Wilde’s home

Not too far from Trinity College is another cultural and historical point of interest; Oscar Wilde’s childhood home. It’s possible to visit the interior of one of Ireland’s most celebrated poets and literary darlings of the 1800s for the price of 12 Euros. There’s also the option of a full guided tour that lasts 90 minutes and costs 20 Euros per person.

This is a fascinating opportunity to gain insight into Oscar Wilde’s upbringing firsthand. The house is of Georgian architecture and still features period furnishings from his time there. And directly opposite the house, you have Merrion Square Gardens. 

This is a lovely park to stroll around and you also have a famous sculpture of Oscar Wilde which is well worth seeing as well. 

By the way, if you’re fascinated by architecture and planning to visit Dublin, you won’t want to miss this complete Dublin Architecture Guide . 

Visit some Dublin museums

There are over 40 museums to discover in Dublin, which is a huge amount and it’s impossible to discover all of these in just two days of course. Many of these museums are free of charge as well.

Continuing with our day one itinerary of Dublin, let’s explore two of the most popular free museums within the city:

National Gallery of Ireland

Based just across the road from Merrion Square Gardens is the National Gallery of Ireland, which is well worth a visit if you like your art. The permanent collection is totally free to enter and features an extensive number of Irish and European paintings dating back to the Middle Ages. 

The building itself is a pleasure to walk around and the gallery is considered one of the best in all of Europe. It’s highly recommended to spend at least 1-2 hours here to appreciate all the great artwork on show. 

National Museum of Ireland-Decorative Arts & History

Next on our list is the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History, located at Collins Barracks, a former military barracks. This is another totally free museum to enter, which focuses on historical and contemporary collections and gives a deeper insight into Ireland’s cultural heritage, military history, and more. 

There are numerous collections housed here which are really fascinating and you can easily spend a couple of hours appreciating the many antiques, costumes, and decorative items from Ireland’s past and present. 

Experience the many pubs of Dublin

After a busy first day experiencing the cultural highlights of Dublin, it’s time to end it with visiting one (or several) pubs that can be found in the city. 

Of course, no trip to Dublin is complete without savoring a pint of Guinness in one of Dublin’s many pubs. The idea of providing hospitality with a drink and a place of rest is deeply ingrained into Irish history. 

Drinking establishments really became fashionable in Dublin back in the 17th and 18th centuries and they’re still just as popular to this day. The city’s Temple Bar district is the liveliest place you could wish to discover, located on the south bank of the River Liffey. 

This area is full of traditional Irish pubs, most of which feature live Irish traditional music. The most famous of these pubs is of course Temple Bar, which always appears full and crammed with tourists enjoying a rather costly pint of the black stuff (around 9-10 Euros here!).

But there are a whole host of bars that are just as lively and entertaining and have cheaper Guinness (typically around 6 Euros). Getting some typical Irish food such as Irish stew and a drink in this district is a must!

Dublin Day 2 Itinerary

Dublin Castle

Day two in Dublin begins with a visit to Dublin Castle, a historic site with remarkable architecture and beautiful gardens. The castle is the highest point in all of Dublin and is based handily in the city center. 

It’s one of the most important sites in the city with a long, complex history dating all the way back to 1204. You can learn all about the castle on a self-guided tour here and tickets cost 12 Euros for adults. 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

After Dublin Castle, the next stop is a visit to the magnificent St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Based in the historical Liberties District of Dublin, the Cathedral was founded in 1191 and is famous for its daily choir and its stunning interior. 

There are daily, free guided tours of the Cathedral which you can request in advance via the Cathedral’s website, and entry is free if you have a Dublin Pass which you can purchase in advance as well. Otherwise, it costs 9 Euros to enter for adults, and around an hour should suffice to take in all of its glory. 

Guinness Storehouse Factory Tour

Following lunch, it’s time to enjoy a tipple or two of the black stuff at the famous Guinness Factory or Storehouse as it’s called these days. This place is one of the top tourist attractions in all of Dublin, as of course, Guinness is its most famous product that it’s given to the world. 

The storehouse consists of several floors full of history about the famous Irish beer, all within the factory that has been producing it for over 250 years. On the top floor is what’s called the Gravity Bar, which features amazing 360 views of Dublin. 

Tickets cost around 29 Euros which is a bit steep, but you do get a complimentary pint of Guinness upon reaching the Gravity Bar. 

Jameson Whisky Distillery Tour

And having experienced the Guinness Factory, you can follow that up with a tour of Dublin’s other favorite drink at the Jameson Distillery Whisky Factory. Founded in 1780, here you can learn all about this famous Irish spirit. Plus, you can learn how to make your own whisky and get to taste some of it as well!

Tickets cost 25 Euros per adult, which similar to the Guinness Factory price is certainly not cheap, but an enjoyable and fun experience nevertheless.

Traveling from Dublin to Galway

After two days in Dublin sampling all of its many delights (and probably recovering from those delights too!), it’s time to head over to the west coast of Ireland, to the beautiful city of Galway. 

Traveling from Dublin to Galway is relatively straightforward. The best option, if relying on public transport , is to catch a train from Heuston Station, which is situated just outside of the city center and certainly within walking distance. 

The train ride to Galway takes around three hours and is a pleasant journey, passing through a lot of Ireland’s glorious countryside and stopping off at several small towns. Tickets cost around 30 Euros and the train itself has comfortable seating with plenty of space. 

You can catch a bus to Galway which is cheaper but takes longer and the views are quite as aesthetically pleasing.

3 Days in Galway

So how does Galway compare to Dublin? It’s a much smaller city but still has a lot to offer. It reminded me a little bit of what Brighton is to London in England; it’s a different vibe, quirky yet historical as well. It feels more like traditional Ireland compared to Dublin, which of course is a major European city. 

3 days in Galway is a good length of time to discover all of the city’s many attractions. Let’s have a look at some of the many things that there are to do and see in this lively, coastal city. 

Galway Day 1 Itinerary

Galway City Museum

The best way to start your itinerary in any city in my opinion is to learn a bit about its history, and there’s no better way to do that in Galway than a visit to the Galway City Museum. This is a really good museum that has three floors of interesting exhibitions. 

These exhibitions delve into Galway’s past, with lots of fascinating artifacts and historical items. The exhibitions explain what life was like for the Gaelic people several hundred years ago, up to the past century, and the political revolutions that the city has experienced.

It also features Galway’s proud musical history and the many famous rock bands that have played here over the years. It’s free entry into the museum and you can easily spend 1-2 hours here educating yourself.

Visit the Magnificent Galway Cathedral

Galway Cathedral is probably the city’s most impressive building to visit. It’s a Roman Catholic Cathedral that used to be the city’s prison until it was converted in 1958. 

The interior of the Cathedral is truly a place of wonder. It’s a huge space inside with amazing brickwork and stained glass windows. Entry to the Cathedral is free, though donations are appreciated.

Enjoy the Atmosphere of the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is undoubtedly the beating heart of Galway City. It is known for its vibrant, colorful streets, boutiques, and traditional Irish pubs, most of which have live music most nights.

This can be a surprisingly busy place, in the middle of August all the bars and restaurants were packed to capacity, with a lot of people queuing outside waiting for a table. I would go so far as to say it was busier than Dublin, with tourists from all over the world enjoying the Latin Quarter. 

It’s a lively old place with great nightlife, making for an enjoyable end to your first day in Galway. 

Galway Day 2 Itinerary

Go on the Long Walk of Galway

Moving on to day two of our Galway itinerary, and we’re starting it with some exercise on what’s known as the ‘long walk’ of Galway. You can begin the long walk by passing under the Spanish Arch; which was built in 1584 where goods were transferred from ships to the quays. 

After passing through the arch you can continue down the Lough Corrib, where you’ll pass by a row of traditional colourfully painted houses, with views of Galway’s harbour where you’ll see several fishing boats. 

If you’re still feeling energetic then you can continue across the harbour all the way to Mutton Island Causeway. Although you can’t actually enter Mutton Island, the causeway offers beautiful ocean views, with Salthill visible in the distance. 

Bask in the sun at Salthill Promenade

Good weather is not necessarily the first thing you think of when planning to visit Ireland, but you may be in for a surprise! If you visit Galway during the height of summer then it’s possible you may enjoy some good sunshine and beautiful blue skies if the weather Gods are kind to you. 

Visiting Ireland in Winter? Check this out

Don’t expect super high temperatures, but you may experience some nice days around 20-25 degrees Celsius. And if this is the case, then there’s no better place to soak up the rays than Salthill Promenade, located just outside of Galway. 

There are a few sandy beaches along the promenade, as well as shops, restaurants, and cafes. 

To finish off a full day of exercise, you can walk (or maybe bike) a nature trail that leads to Menlo Castle. This is a lovely, peaceful nature walk alongside the River Corrib and also passes several University campuses. 

After around 30 minutes of walking, you’ll see opposite the river the remains of Menlo Castle. Although it’s not possible to enter the castle as it’s just ruins, it’s still an impressive sight even from across the river. 

The castle dates back to the 16th Century and is a reminder of Galway’s rich history. It’s the perfect place to take in Galway’s lovely countryside as well, especially on a nice sunny day. 

Galway Day 3 Itinerary

A Day Tour to the Cliffs of Moher

The cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most famous natural attraction, and a visit there is the perfect ending on your last day in Galway. 

It is possible to travel there by public bus, but I’d highly recommend booking a day tour in advance. There are many tours to choose from and a lot of them include various tourist spots that you’ll visit on your way to the cliffs of Moher. 

My tour was an eight-hour round trip that left Galway at 10 a.m. The tour guide (who was also the bus driver) was very informative throughout the journey, giving info on the numerous villages that you drive through and the history behind them. 

Let’s look at some of the stops you can expect to make on your way to the cliffs:

Dunguaire Castle

This was the first stop on the tour and we were given around 20 minutes to explore the castle. Dunguaire Castle is one of the most famous castles in all of Ireland. It overlooks the shores of Galway Bay and dates back to 1520. 

There are a couple of gift shops inside the castle and you can pay to go up to the top level of the castle to have a better view of the shoreline.

Poulnabrone (Portal Tomb)

The second stop on the tour was Poulnabrone, a portal tomb that is the oldest megalithic monument in all of Ireland. It dates back to the dawn of man and is a fascinating site when you consider that’s it older than the Egyptian Pyramids!

What exactly is a portal tomb I hear you ask? Well, it’s a prehistoric stone chamber consisting of two upright slabs and a vertical slab on top, which resembles a table, kind of. They were used for several different reasons, with Poulnabrone being a burial site. 

That may not sound very interesting, but when you consider the ancient history of these portal tombs then it is quite an astonishing thing to behold. There are around 180 portal tombs scattered around Ireland as well and they are a unique glimpse into the country’s ancestral past. 

Lunch at a Traditional Irish Pub

After visiting Poulnabrone, it will be time for lunch. Included in my tour was a quick stop at a traditional Irish pub. Considering there were around 60 people on the tour, the staff at the pub we visited was extremely efficient and the food (and the Guinness) was very good too. The price of the lunch wasn’t included in the tour price however, which is worth keeping in mind. 

Cliffs of Moher

After lunch it is time for the main attraction; the iconic cliffs themselves. Expect dramatic and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, which really are breathtaking. There are two routes you can take at the cliffs; towards the right, you can head towards O’Brien Castle which has an observation tower if you really want the most spectacular views of the cliffs. 

I visited the cliffs in the middle of August and there were a lot of tourists there, which meant a long queue to access O’Brien Castle. The other route is over the main cliffs and stretches for several kilometers. 

It is possible to do this but bear in mind how much time you have to spend at Moher; our tour had two hours so not enough time to complete the hike over the cliffs. There’s also a cafe, gift shops, an information center, and even a small cinema that has been built into the cliffs. 

They really are awe-inspiring and spending a whole day to see them is totally worth doing and a strong recommendation. 

Looking to meet fellow travelers and stretch your budget for more adventures? Consider booking your stay at this Galway Hostel .

This one-week itinerary for exploring both Dublin and Galway provides a balanced blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and local experiences.

Ireland’s charm is truly captivating, and whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Dublin or embracing the artistic spirit of Galway, each day promises a new adventure and a deeper connection with this enchanting land. 

Keep reading:

• Just have 2 days in Galway? Here’s a quick weekend guide to Galway
• Looking for more inspiration and ideas for things to do in Ireland? Check out this comprehensive guide on the top things to do in Ireland
• Discover the countless reasons why Ireland should be at the top of your travel list
• 27 Pictures from our first Ireland trip , more than a decade ago.
• Traveling with your little ones? Belfast is a very family-friendly destination
• From the iconic Giant’s Causeway to the mesmerizing landscapes of the Mourne Mountains, discover the beauty and adventure that Northern Ireland has to offer
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Mark Jeavons runs Solo Travel Man

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Hi, would you recommend train or bus between these sites? (some don't have a train possibility but i'll just list them all anyway)

1. belfast to dublin

2. dublin to galway

3. galway to cork

4. cork to killarney

5. killarney to dublin

thanks for any advice

15 replies to this topic

Thanks again, Michael

You’re welcome Michael!

You can purchase tickets online for the 350 bus on http://www.buseireann.ie or else just pay the driver when boarding the bus (make sure you have the correct cash fare for the driver if you buy on board). It looks like it’s first come first served on this route, no guarantee of a seat even if you buy a ticket from the machine in the bus station before boarding. Be there early.

On the return journey on 9 May, the last bus from Lahinch is at 18.08 (the 19.08 service only goes as far as Lisdoonvarna) so once again be there a bit early. I have been in the town a good few times around that time and have always seen people (mostly students) waiting at the stop in Lahinch for that service, never a huge crowd there so you should be okay to get on it. Not sure about how the queue works there, don’t be afraid to speak up if you spot someone that just arrived at the stop trying to get on ahead of you.

One last thing, you could buy a normal Leap Card (need to pay a €5 deposit for it on purchase) and get cheaper fares for that journey-€10.50 Leap fare v €15 normal fare). It could also save you money on other bus journeys if you plan to travel that way. Look on http://www.leapcard.ie for more details. Good luck.

Michael & Kathy

We usually go to Danny Macs in Lahinch for a good breakfast and their pub grub is also nice and well priced. Vaughans on the Prom, overlooking the sea is a bit pricier and we haven’t been there in a while. They have another restaurant out the road in Liscannor, which is well known for top class seafood. Not walkable to it, maybe you can get a taxi from the town and arrange to be picked up after your meal/drinks. Joseph McHughs is also a nice spot in Liscannor for decent food or a nice pint, plenty of locals usually in there. Think kitchen closes at 8 there.

The Nineteenth or P Frawleys pub in Lahinch have lovely Guinness, well worth a visit. O’Gradys on the Pier is THE spot for great seafood in Barna but make sure to book a table there well in advance as it is always very busy. https://www.ogradysonthepier.ie

Have a great time in Lahinch, lovely town with a great walk down the prom and around the golf course back into town (not at high tide though). Have a ball!

Thank you so much, Nordie. We'll ensure that we follow your recommendations and, as you imply, to HAVE FUN and not worry too/so much about the small stuff!

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The best Irish towns to visit for their unique pubs

S ome Irish towns are full of brilliant pubs nearly everywhere you turn . While a pub is a staple in any Irish town, some of them have more than a few to offer.

Tourists travel to Ireland for many reasons. Some of them are looking for interesting history while others are looking to experience the country's most breathtaking beauty. However, many dream of a proper pint of Guinness in a proper Irish pub .

If it's lively traditional Irish pubs you're after, then there are some towns where you will find plenty of them on offer. Here are the best towns to visit in Ireland for their pubs.

Read more: Tourists have their say on the best things to do in one of Ireland's underrated counties

Galway City, Co Galway

Galway City is arguably the best city to visit in Ireland . With its lively pubs, such as An Púcán, Tig Coilli, and O'Connor's, the small yet buzzing city comes alive every day and night with music and craic.

Kinsale, Co Cork

Kinsale is known as Ireland's most colorful town thanks to its vibrant buildings. Additionally, it is known for its great pubs.

Standout boozers in the lovely seaside town on Ireland's south coast include The Tap Tavern, The Spaniard, and Kitty Ó Sé's.

Dingle, Co Kerry

Dingle in Co Kerry is a popular tourist destination where people stay to experience perhaps the most beautiful county in all of Ireland . As well as it's stunning natural surroundings, Dingle offers a great pub scene.

Some of the best pubs in the town of Dingle include Foxy John's, Kennedy's, and Dick Mack's. On a summer's day, heading here after an excursion in beautiful Co Kerry is a stellar reward.

Sligo Town, Co Sligo

Sligo is perhaps one of the most underrated counties in all of Ireland. It boasts a seriously beautiful coastline and a huge array of things to do including hiking and surfing.

Sligo town is also home to some great pubs including Thomas Connolly, The Snug Bar, and Hargadon Bros.

Carlingford, Co Louth

Even though Co Louth is Ireland's smallest county , it certainly doesn't have its shortage of things to do. Perhaps the best town to visit in Co Louth is Carlingford .

Not only is this place surrounding by stunning natural beauty and great things to do, it's one of the best towns in Ireland for a boozy getaway with stand-out pubs including PJ O'Hare's, Carlingford Arms, and Ma Baker's.

Kilkenny, Co Kilkenny

Kilkenny is Ireland's smallest city with a huge concentration of pubs, restaurants, and things to do. After a day of learning about the interesting history of this place and maybe even trying your hand at some hurling, head to one of Kilkenny's fins pubs.

Some of the best pubs in Kilkenny include Matt The Millers, Kyteler's Inn, and Syd Harkin's.

Dublin City Center

Most tourists who visit Ireland will stay in Dublin City Center. An they will likely hit up some of the famous pubs of Temple Bar after visiting attractions like The Guinness Storehouse , Kilmainham Gaol, and The Book of Kells.

Other areas with great pubs in Dublin include Capel Street, Camden Street, and Dame Street.

Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim

Carrick-on-Shannon is lovingly known as the 'marina of Ireland' . Here, you will find plenty to do such as cruising down a portion of the River Shannon.

After that, hit up some of the great pubs in the town including Dunne's Bar, McHugh's, or Gracie's Bar.

Athlone, Co Westmeath

Athlone in Co Westmeath is home to Ireland's oldest pub , Sean's Bar. This 1000-year old watering hole has been open since 900AD and stepping in here is like stepping back in time.

However, it isn't the only great pub in the town. Athlone is also home to The Snug Bar, Gertie Browne's, and Biddy O'Dowd's.

For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here .

A Week in Ireland: Dublin, Cork & Galway

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Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

Waste no time getting to the core of Irish culture.

Luck of the Irish? We prefer to call it charm. Filled with trademark emerald landscapes, loaded with intriguing history, and burnished by its people’s sparkling wit, the island nation of Ireland has dazzled visitors time and again. On this tour, you’ll roam its leading cities, savoring pub culture and diving into the country’s past. And we couldn’t forget about its natural wonders: You’ll see all the heavy hitters, from the rocky Burren to the Cliffs of Moher, over the course of one magical week—and if you aren’t quite ready to stow your carry-ons, tack on an extra couple of days in London.

Special departures of this itinerary

St. Patrick's Day

Your tour package includes

• 6 nights in handpicked hotels
• 6 breakfasts
• 3 dinners with beer or wine
• 5 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides

Included highlights

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Temple Bar district
• Cobh Heritage Centre
• Blarney Castle

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Dublin today.

Fáilte! (Pronounced “FALL-cha,” this expression means “welcome” in Irish, and you might hear it a fair bit over the next few days.) Head to your hotel and settle in, then get to know your Tour Director and fellow travelers over a welcome dinner, served with beer or wine. 

Settled by the Gaels and disputed over centuries by the Vikings and Anglo-Normans, Dublin traces its history back more than 1,300 years. Today, you’ll peel back some of the Irish capital’s layers on a comprehensive tour, led by a local expert.

• Stop in Phoenix Park, the largest enclosed public park in any European capital city. First established as a royal hunting ground by government decree in 1662, this 1,750-acre greenspace today houses Áras an Uachtaráin—the presidential residence.
• Pass by St. James’s Gate Brewery, the legendary 260-year-old brewery behind Guinness dry stout. More than 50 million barrels ship out of the plant each year, making it the world’s most prolific producer of stout-style beers.
• Walk through Old Dublin, then step into St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the country’s largest church. Founded in 1191, it serves as the national cathedral for the Church of Ireland, and its arresting Gothic architecture befits a building of its stature.
• Traverse Dublin’s city center, passing 17th-century St. Stephen’s Green as you go. Afterward, take some time to admire the Georgian architecture of Merrion Square. Another gardened area in the heart of Dublin, it’s been called home by some of Ireland’s foremost writers—Oscar Wilde and W.B. Yeats among them.
• See the dignified facade of Trinity College—Ireland’s oldest university.

Fill your afternoon with an excursion out into County Wicklow and pay a visit to gorgeous Glendalough, the well-preserved ruins of a once-influential abbey. Or, if you’d prefer some free time, head down to the shores of the River Liffey and breathe in the ambiance of the lively Temple Bar district.

Glendalough

From $69 per person

Make your way to Ireland’s largest region: County Cork. Sprawling across 2,900 square miles of the country’s southern reaches, it lays claim to a number of tourist attractions. Today, you’ll visit one. 

• From Dublin, head southwest to Cobh, a seaport town of roughly 14,000 on the other side of massive Cork Harbor. Here, you’ll enter the Cobh Heritage Centre: Learn about Irish life, emigration, and maritime tradition over the centuries. (Did you know that Cobh was the Titanic ’s final port of call before its doomed maiden voyage?) 

Later, chart a course for Cork—Ireland’s second city, hugging both shores of the River Lee—and settle into your hotel. Enjoy some free time, then sit down with your group for an included dinner, served with beer or wine. 

Now one of Ireland’s most famous tourist sites, Blarney Castle was first built in 1210, then rebuilt in 1446 as a stronghold of the local MacCarthy of Muskerry dynasty. Today, you’ll set out into the Irish countryside and visit this famed fortress, completing a popular quest in the process: planting a peck on the Blarney Stone. Originally added as a defensive structure, this slab of limestone supposedly grants all who kiss it “the gift of gab.” Stretch out over the parapet and give it a smooch—then let us know how you feel! 

Cap your day with an evening excursion to the historic town of Kinsale and enjoy walking winding streets and tucking into a traditional Irish meal. Feeling some alone time? Spend the night in or take some free moments to explore the neighborhood around your hotel.  

An Evening in Kinsale

From $149 per person

Board your bus and roll north to County Galway, a beautiful lake-dotted region with a backstory to match. Before arriving in Galway proper, stop to enjoy some of the best views in all the Emerald Isle. 

• Redefine “taking the scenic route” with a quick detour into County Clare and a walk along the mesmerizing Cliffs of Moher. (Sheer crags stretching into the distance, crashing waves below—you know this one!) 
• Drive on through the Burren. Distinct from the lush greens that typify the rest of the Irish landscape, greys dominate this limestone plateau, punctuated by bursts of wildflowers. Botanists will surely delight in this journey: More than 70% of Ireland’s flower species grow here. 

Arrive in Galway, then let your Tour Director take the lead on a walking tour of the city’s highlights.  

• Stroll past a trio of Galwegian icons: Lynch’s Castle, a castle-turned-bank that dates to the 16th century; the rustic home of “Ireland's most prestigious theatre (troupe),” the Druid Theatre Company; and John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, a popular greenspace better known to locals (and the world) as Eyre Square. 
• Get a grasp of Galway’s Norman history by viewing its medieval walls—12th-century fortifications that once encircled the city—and the Spanish Arch. First erected in 1584 as an extension of Galway’s protective walls, its name alludes to the Spaniards who moored their ships and lived in the area. 
• Peruse authentic Claddagh (said “CLA-da”) rings in a local shop. Steeped in legend and symbolism, these pieces of jewelry have been produced in their current guise—two hands clasping a crowned heart—since at least 1700 and are inextricably linked to Galway. 

For architecture and vistas plucked out of a fantasy novel, you’ll want to come along on our visit to Kylemore Abbey and Connemara National Park. If you’d rather get to know Galway a bit better, spend a free day taking The Long Walk through the seaside neighborhood of Claddagh, or see where your feet take you. (The city was named the European Capital of Culture in 2020—there’s plenty to do!) 

Later, celebrate your trip with your group during a farewell dinner, served with beer or wine. 

Kylemore Abbey & Connemara National Park

From $119 per person

Transfer to Dublin’s airport for your flight home, or continue to Europe’s most popular tourist destination on your trip’s extension. Can you guess where that is? 

Please note: Some airport transfers may leave very early in the morning to accommodate return flights.

Fly to England this morning and get comfortable at your London hotel. (If you fancy some exploration, ask your Tour Director for recommendations.) 

Few places have influenced world history like London has: This city of roughly 8.8 million people boasts close to 2,000 years of history and four UNESCO World Heritage Sites; serves as a global financial hub; and is the most-visited place in all of Europe. Today, you’ll explore the landmarks of England’s cosmopolitan capital on a guided sightseeing tour.  

• Pass grand Trafalgar Square—named in honor of the Royal Navy’s decisive triumph over Napoleon Bonaparte’s fleet—and Baroque St. Paul’s Cathedral. Perched atop Ludgate Hill, at the highest point in London’s historic center, this Anglican church is recognizable by its soaring dome. 
• See Westminster Abbey, the Gothic church that has hosted 40 coronations and 16 royal weddings since 1066. A further 18 English, Scottish, and British monarchs were laid to rest within, further cementing Westminster’s place in London lore. 
• Spot the Elizabeth Tower (the Palace of Westminster’s clock tower, better known as Big Ben); the 440-foot-tall London Eye observation wheel; Tower Bridge, with its stone handiwork and turquoise accents; and the notorious Tower of London. 
• Stop by Buckingham Palace, the official residence and administrative headquarters of King Charles III. If you’re lucky, you might catch the Changing of the Guard. 

Bask in a getaway of royal proportions on this afternoon’s excursion to Windsor Castle. Alternatively, hang back and spend some free time in London. If you need a recommendation, the British Museum’s millions of priceless antiquities are all just a half-hour’s walk from Buckingham Palace. 

Windsor Castle

From $175 per person

Add the excursion to Stonehenge and Salisbury to your itinerary. (It’s a truly monumental way to spend a day.) Or, have a day to yourself in London, and maybe visit a stadium or two: Wembley, Twickenham, and dozens more call the city home. 

This evening, enjoy a farewell drink with your group and celebrate a trip well-spent. 

Stonehenge & Salisbury

From $215 per person

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.6 out of 5

5 out of 5 stars

The Week in Ireland: Dublin, Cork, and Galway tour was the perfect introduction to Ireland. We enjoyed a few key cities, and saw an array of stunning and varied landscapes and major sites. We came away feeling like we learned and experienced a lot and got a true “feel” of Ireland, its history, cultu...

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2 out of 5 stars

4 out of 5 stars

I just got back yesterday from this tour. As a group leader with EF for my high school students, I knew what to expect as far as how busy we would be and how much time we’d spend on the bus. I took this trip on my own and though I was extremely nervous about it, it worked out really well - and there...

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Hotels, flights & FAQ

This charming hotel is located in Parnell Square in the Dublin city center. Guests enjoy a restaurant and lounge, bar, and free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you'll ...

This country-house hotel is located near the Glashaboy River in County Cork. Guests enjoy a restaurant, manicured gardens, and lounge. Nearby you’ll f...

This comfortable hotel is located near the center of Galway. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a hotel bar, and a restaurant. Nearby, you’ll find the Galway Sh...

This upscale hotel is located in London, steps away from the St Pancras railway station. Guests enjoy on-site restaurants, the leisure club, and a fit...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter Ireland (and the United Kingdom on the tour extension), U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• There is no visa required for U.S. or Canadian citizens.
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code IRL.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in and depart from Dublin (or London on the tour extension).
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost if they are arriving or departing on the standard day.
• When you arrive in Dublin, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.

Physical Activity Level

This is a moderate physical activity-level tour. You can expect casual walks and plenty of time to explore throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a brisk-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• Most days full of included activities (more if you add excursions)
• Most transportation by motor coach
• Daily bus time varies and can be lengthy

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2 miles per day- this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
• Cobblestone streets can become slick when wet.
• While visiting Blarney Castle, travelers have the opportunity to kiss the Blarney Stone. In order to kiss the Blarney Stone, travelers must climb 128 very steep, narrow stairs.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
• Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.

Climate Considerations

• Travelers can expect cool, cloudy, and rainy days throughout the year, with occasional heatwaves in the summer months (June-September).

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
• If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
• Most transportation on this tour is by private motor coach. Private motor coaches have steps required to board and often do not provide access to ramps or lifts.
• A flight from Dublin to London is included in the price of the tour extension.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches, and on-tour flight for those on the London extension.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights. Please note that your included on-tour flight for the London extension may have more restrictive baggage limits.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels and airports.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• We recommend packing your Insurance Card (from your primary insurance provider) in your carry on luggage.
• Go Ahead handpicks every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm.
• Accommodations are typically three and four star hotels.
• All accommodations include a private bathroom.
• Most rooms will include a safe for valuables.
• Your hotels will have Wifi, but it may be limited to common areas.
• Elevators in hotels are not guaranteed.
• Some hotels on this tour require travelers to walk with their luggage a few blocks as buses cannot drop travelers off right out front.
• Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• We cannot guarantee that your hotel accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with the hotel once they are confirmed about 30 days prior to departure.
• Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov .
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
• The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
• This tour includes 3 dinners. Included meals may be plated set menus, buffet or family style depending on the location. Dinners include one glass of beer, wine, or soft drink and water, coffee and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• Irish pubs serve up hearty lunches, such as the traditional stew of bacon and boiled cabbage. Soda bread is delicious, very filling, and served with many meals. Nibble a scone at afternoon tea, with a pat of high-quality butter from County Kerry. Guinness stout is an international sensation, but locals might favor Murphy's, depending on where you are.
• Dublin has seen something of a culinary revolution, and the city now boasts an impressive array of new restaurants offering exciting cuisine with continental Europe, Asian, and even American influences.
• For traditional English fare at a reasonable price, try a pub meal of fish and chips or bangers and mash. Stilton cheese, steak and kidney pie, and Cumberland sausages are also worth a try. Sip afternoon tea with delicious finger sandwiches and scones at Harrods in London for the ultimate in English tradition.
• Modern-day London boasts an array of diverse international restaurants. Popular options for the adventurous palate include Indian, Thai, Chinese, Indonesian, Greek, and West African cuisine.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• If you are traveling to multiple countries with different currencies and the same Tour Director, ask them what currency they prefer for their tip.
• The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
• You will use the euro in Ireland (and the Pound sterling in the United Kingdom on the tour extension).
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
• To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
• Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
• The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
• The United Kingdom and Ireland are on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is 5 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 5pm on tour.
• When you travel with EF Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit, and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer
• Travel, when done responsibly, can make an enormous socio-economic impact to communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at local businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend
• Prepare for your trip: be aware of the monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market, learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette, and take some time to learn a few words in the local language
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind
• EF Go Ahead Tours encourages our travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single use plastics. You can avoid single use plastics by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle
• Environment: On this tour, we recommend the use of a reusable water bottle, as the local drinking water is safe for travelers. Your Tour Director can provide additional guidance on local water standards. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastics.
• Environment: When visiting national parks, reserves, or other protected areas, please do not remove anything from the natural environment or leave any litter. Carry out what you carried in.

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4.7 out of 5 stars

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• Arts and culture

Music, Management and Sound is thrilled to announce the return of Live ‘n’ Gigging to the Triskel Arts Centre for the final performance of the college year. Outstanding emerging solo artists and bands have been selected to perform for this very special end-of-year showcase.

Tramore Road Campus, formerly known as CSN, has a long-standing relationship of promoting new talent with Triskel Arts Centre, delivering its very first showcase at the venue thirty-five years ago. A consistent contributor of talent to the Irish music industry, many acclaimed artists have spent their formative years as students on the course including Sinead Lohan, Mick Flannery, Stephanie Rainey, O Emperor and The Love Buzz.

Triskel Arts Centre is a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Cork City. The main auditorium Triskel Christchurch is a multidisciplinary space housed in a neoclassical Georgian Church.

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• Entertainment

Woman left in tears after being asked to remove breast prosthesis at Dublin Airport

A cancer survivor was left in tears after being asked to remove her breast prosthesis at Dublin Airport, she revealed on Joe Duffy’s Liveline.

Belfast native Réaltán Ní Leannái, who is now living in Lucan, underwent a mastectomy after battling breast cancer over 15 years ago.

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Ms Ní Leannái was asked for the first time in her life to remove her breast prosthesis after the security scanner alarms went off while she was travelling through the Irish capital’s Airport.

‘I sat and cried the whole way on the flight to Donegal after realising what the hell had just happened. I am 15 years out from diagnosis and 15 years wearing a prosthesis.

‘I still find it has affected me more than any single other aspect in those years. It surprised me how much it ­upset me,’ she said on the RTÉ Radio One programme .

Informing a female member of staff why the alarm was going off, Ms Ní Leanná was asked to remove her breast prosthesis in front of everyone.

‘I still want to know when I travel what do I say to them. I want to know that no other woman post-breast cancer or post-mastectomy will be affected by the implementation of the new technology.

‘Glasgow, Donegal and Amsterdam seem to be coping with the new scanning technology much more sensitively than Dublin,’ she told Mr Duffy.

According Ms Ní Leannái, the new security scanner technology shows a triangle and a warning light when it detects the prosthesis at an airport’s security point.

The DAA confirmed that a full investigation into the incident was carried out and determined ‘the situation should have been handled better’.

They said in a statement: ‘All passengers in such situations can request a private screening, which is then facilitated by a trained member of staff.

‘We offer a full apology to the passenger and can assure her that steps have been taken to ensure a similar situation is avoided in the future.’

Woman left in tears after being asked to remove breast prosthesis at Dublin Airport

Dublin airport warns of travel chaos as storm kathleen grounds dozens of flights, galway bay fm’s valerie hughes provides update after cancer diagnosis, must read news.

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