tourist map of ireland and scotland

Map of Ireland with places to visit

With our interactive Ireland map, all the must-see attractions in Ireland and Northern Ireland are just one click away. Here you’ll find a comprehensive overview of scenic highlights, cliffs, beaches, castles, antiquities, gardens and much more. 

Meeting of the Waters & Old Weir Bridge

The National Monument

Nano Nagle Bridge

White Strand Beach

White Strand Bay

Vartry Reservoir

Vandeleur Walled Garden

Trinity College

Tourmakeady Waterfall

Torc Mountain Walk

Three Castle Head

St. Lua’s Oratory

St. Flannan’s Oratory

St. Brendan’s Well

Srahwee Wedge Tomb

Spinc and Glenealo Valley

Sketrick Castle

Cloghleagh Bridge & Shankill River

Seven Heads Bay

Sandycove Beach

Reefert Church

Ravensdale Dolmen

Rath Strand

Pulleen Loop Walk

Pulleen Harbour Bog

Powerscourt Waterfall

Port an Dorais

Pincher Bay

Old Bawn Beach

Nun’s Cove

Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul

Mullinhassig Wood & Poulanassig Waterfall

Muckross Lake

Muckross House & Gardens

Muckross Friary

Mornington Strand

Moone High Cross

Moloney’s Strand

Glendalough Miners Village

Mahon Falls

Loughane More Ring Fort

Lough Currane

Looscaunagh Lough

Long Woman’s Grave

Lissadell House & Gardens

Lettergesh Beach

Kockaunaniller Cliffs

Carlingford Castle

Kindred Spirits

Kilmacduagh Monastery & Round Tower

Killiney Beach

Kilcummin Bay Beach

Kilcooley Abbey

Kells Priory

Jameson Distillery Midleton

Enniscrone Castle

Hussey’s Folly

Huntington Castle and Gardens

Purteen Harbour

Grotto & Slate Quarry

Golden Castle

Glengarriff Nature Reserve

Glenarm Valley

Glenballyeamon

Gleensk Viaduct

Glebe Stone Circles

Glassilaun Beach

Glanleam Beach

Galley Cove

Split Rock / Fionn Mac Cumhal’s Stone

Eyrephort Beach

English Market in Cork

Dunworley Beach

Dunworley Bay

Dunbrody Castle

Dunany Beach

Dromineer Castle

Dingle Lighthouse

Dhurode Mine Powder House

Derryveagh Mountains

Cuas Pier Caves

Creagh Graveyard

Craigs Lower Passage Tomb

Courtown Beach

Shankill Beach

Coom Wedge Tomb

Cockle Row Cottages

Clonegal Bridge

Castlehaven Strand

Castledermot Friary

Castledermot Round Tower & High Crosses

Cashel Murphy

Carrowmore Lake

Carrowmore Beach

Carnivan Bay

Cahersiveen

Cahermore Pier

Burren Perfumery

Bunowen Castle

Brownshill Dolmen

Brigit’s Garden

Blarney Castle

Blackstairs Mountains

Bird Island

Bellacragher Bay

Barryscourt Castle

Barry’s Cove

Bishop’s Quarter Beach

Ballyvaughan

Ballymoney Beach

Ballymalis Castle

Ballydavid Cliff Walk

Ballinskelligs Pier

Tinnaberna Bay Beach

Dolmen of the Four Maols

Ardmore Point

Annascaul Lake

An Bhinn Dubh

Altagore Cashel

Ahakista Pier

High Mournes Scenic Loop

Coomhola Bridge

St Vincent’s Bridge

Shandon Bridge

Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral

Shandon Bells and Tower – St. Anne’s Church

Toe Head Signal Tower

Benvoy Strand

Roaringwater Bay

Wynn’s Castle

Warren Beach

Grand Canal

Urris Hills

Twelve Bens

Tranabo Cove

Tralong Bay

Traloher Strand

Torc Waterfall

Addergoole Titanic Memorial Park

The Gearagh

Tetrapod Footprints

Templetown Church

Temple of Deen

Pigeon Hole Cave and Teach Aille Cave

Swiss Cottage

St. Saviour’s Priory

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Sigginstown Castle

Shronebirrane Stone Circle

Sherkin Island

Sheen Falls

Rosscarbery

Rossbrin Castle

Ross Errilly Friary

Ross Castle

Rock Art at Letter West

Reenroe Beach / Inny Strand

Rattoo Round Tower

Rathlin Island

Rathfran Priory

Rabbit Island

Puffin Island

Puck’s Castle

Glengarriff

Poulnabrone Dolmen

Poulgorm Bridge

Owenahincha

The Old Barracks

Northburgh Castle

National Museum of Ireland

National Library of Ireland

Mount Gabriel

Mount Errigal

The Mottee Stone

Moll’s Gap

Memorial Garden in Kilmore Quay

Meeting of the Waters

Maynooth Castle

Mare’s Tail Waterfall

Magilligan Point

Macroom Castle

Loughareema

Lough Corrib

Lough Caragh

Lough Aughawoolia

Lough Abisdealy

Long Strand

Leacanabuaile Stone Fort

Lauragh Forest

Larrybane Quarry

Ladies’ View

Labbacallee Wedge Tomb

Kylemore Abbey

Knightstown

King John’s Castle

Kilmakilloge Church and Cemetery

Kilmainham Gaol

Kilcoe Castle

Kilcatherine Church and Cemetery

Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve

Macgillycuddy’s Reeks

Kerry Highlands

Kenmare Stone Circle

Kenmare River

Keelbeg Pier

Kealkill Stone Circle

John D’Arcy Monument

Jerpoint Abbey

Holy Island

Hill of Tara

Guinness Storehouse

Grange Stone Circle

Gougane Barra

Goat Island

Glenveagh National Park

Glenmore Valley

Gleninagh Castle

Glencar Waterfall

Glenbeg Lough

Glen of Aherlow

Gleesk Pier

Glanworth Castle

Glanmore Lake

Garnish Beach

Gap of Dunloe

Foilhommerum Bay

Ferrycarrig Tower House

Ferns Cathedral

Ferns Castle

Glenariff Forest Park

Errew Abbey

Enniscorthy Castle

Dwyer-McAllister Cottage

Scotsman’s Bay – Dún Laoghaire

Merrion Square

Half Penny Bridge

Dublin Castle

Drumlohan Ogham Stones and Souterrain

Downhill Beach

Downeen Castle

Doonbeg Castle

Doonagore Castle

Dooks Beach

Desmond Castle Adare

Derrynane Beg Ogham Stone

Derrynane House

Derrymore Beach

Derryclare Lough

Derreen Garden

Cranny Falls

Craggaunowen

Courtmacsherry Woods

Coppinger’s Court

Coosacuslaun Bay

Coomasaharn Lake

Cloonsharragh Standing Stones

Cloonee Lough

Clontygora Court Tomb

Clonca Church and High Cross

Clogher Strand

Glenevin Waterfall

Causeway Coast Way

Causestown Castle

Castletownshend

Castlepoint

Castlehaven Bay

Castlefreke Woods

Cashelkeelty Stone Circles

Carton House

Carrowmore High Crosses

Carrigaphooca Castle

Carriganass Castle

Carrigadrohid Castle

Carlingford Lough

Cahir Castle

Caha Mountains

Old Bushmills Distillery

Burrishoole Abbey

Buncrana Bridge

Bunagee Old Pier

Bonane Heritage Park

Boheh Stone

Bocan Stone Circle

Blennerville Windmill

The Blasket Centre

Blackstones Bridge

Black Valley

Bishop’s Quarter

Beltany Stone Circle

Beaghmore Stone Circles

Barnancleeve Gap

Barloge Creek

Barley Lake

Bantry House and Gardens

Banagher Old Church

Dún na Séad Castle

Church Strand Bay

Ballyrisode Beach

Ballynahinch Castle

Ballylinchy Signal Tower

Ballylahan Castle

Ballydonegan Beach

Ballydehob Viaduct

Ballycrovane Harbour

Ballycorus Leadmines

Ballybrack Dolmen

Ballaghisheen Pass

Ballaghbeama Gap

Aughadown Church and Graveyard

Athgreany Piper’s Stones

Ardmore Beach

Ashford Castle

Ardclinis Church

Ardgroom Stone Circle

Annagh Killadangan Archaeological Complex

Garrykennedy

Dark Hedges

Downhill Demense and Hezlett House

Dalkey Island

Dalkey Castle

Trawnamoe Cove

Brown’s Bay

Hill of Uisneach

Titanic Belfast

Rogerstown Estuary

Bannow Church

Priest’s Leap

Glanteenassig Forest Park

Dysert O’Dea

Abbey Island

Christ Church Cathedral

Reginald’s Tower

Athassel Priory

Rock of Cashel

Clonmacnoise

Portumna Castle and Gardens

Rock of Dunamase

Kilkenny Castle

Mellifont Abbey

Trim Castle

Hill of Slane

Monasterboice

Powerscourt Gardens

Castle Roche

Glendalough

Bloody Foreland

Ballyhiernan Bay

Isle of Doagh

Kinnagoe Bay

Inishowen Head

Mussenden Temple

Londonderry

Whiterocks Beach

Whiterocks Bay

Dunluce Castle

Giant‘s Causeway

Dunseverick Castle

Dunseverick Falls

White Park Bay

Ballintoy Harbour

Carrick-a-Rede

Kinbane Castle

Ballycastle Beach

Bonamargy Friary

Murlough Bay

Torr Head Scenic Route

Layd Old Church

Red Bay Castle

Garron Point

Carnlough Harbour

Walled Garden at Glenarm Castle

Glenarm Harbour

Antrim Coast Road

Ballygalley

The Maidens

Blackhead Lighthouse

Gobbins Cliff Path

Carrickfergus Castle

Belfast Castle

Cave Hill and McArts Fort – Belfast

Donaghadee Lighthouse

Kearney Village

Mount Stewart House and Gardens

Scrabo Tower

Lightship L.V. Petrel

Strangford Lough

Nendrum Monastic Site

St. Patrick‘s Grave in Downpatrick

Down Cathedral in Downpatrick

Castle Ward

Killard National Nature Reserve

Ardtole Church in Ardglass

St John‘s Point Lighthouse

Rossglass Beach

Dundrum Castle

Murlough National Nature Reserve

Annalong Cornmill

Silent Valley in Mourne Mountains

Greencastle

Cloughmore Stone

Narrow Water Keep

Flagstaff Viewpoint

Cooley Mountains

Carlingford

Kilwirra Church

Proleek Dolmen

Carrig Cultra Wetlands near Blackrock

Dromiskin Monastery

Salterstown Pier

Port Beach or Lurganboy Beach

Termonfeckin Castle

Baltray Beach

Drogheda Port East Lighthouse

Laytown Beach

Balbriggan Harbour

Ardgillan Castle

Red Island Skerries

St. Patrick‘s Footprint in Skerries

Skerries Mills

Skerries Islands

Loughshinny

Lusk Round Tower

Tower Bay Beach

Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk

Balcarrick Beach Donabate

Malahide Castle

Malahide Estuary

The Velvet Strand in Portmarnock

Howth Lighthouse

Howth Castle

St. Mary’s Abbey in Howth

Baily Lighthouse at Howth Head

Martello Tower in Sutton

North Bull Wall

Dollymount Strand and Bull Island

Wooden Bridge in Clontarf

Clontarf Pier

River Liffey

Samuel Beckett Bridge

Great South Wall

Seapoint Beach

Forty Foot in Sandycove

James Joyce Tower in Sandycove

Bullock Harbour

Coliemore Harbour

Sorrento Park

Killiney Hill

The Pyramid at Killiney Hill

The Obelisk at Killiney Hill

Bray Cliff Walk

Six Mile Point Newcastle

Wicklow Harbour

Black Castle Wicklow

Wicklow Head

Brittas Bay

Redcross River

Arklow Harbour

Clogga Strand

Kilmichael Point

Courtown Harbour

Norman Motte Glasscarrig

Cahore Beach

Curracloe Beach

Raven Nature Reserve

Wexford Wildfowl Reserve

Burrow Peninsula Rosslare

Rosslare Strand

Johnstown Castle

Our Lady‘s Island

Tacumshane Windmill

Ishartmon Church

Kilmore Quay

Shell Cottage

Bannow Island

Woods at Tintern Abbey

Tintern Abbey

Shipwrecks near Saltmills

Fethard Quay

Baginbun Head

Hook Lighthouse

St Dubhán‘s Church

Duncannon Fort

Ballyhack Castle

Dunbrody Abbey

Dunmore East

Metal Man Tramore

Garrus Strand

Kilfarrasy Strand

Dunhill Castle

Dunabrattin Bay

Tankardstown Copper Mines

Bunmahon Bay

Ballydowane Bay

Ballyvoony Cove

Stradbally Cove

Ballinacourty Lighthouse

Waterford Greenway

Dungarvan Castle

Davitt‘s Quay Dungarvan

Dungarvan Harbour

Helvick Head

Ballyquin Strand

Ardmore Cliff Walk

Ardmore Round Tower

Youghal Clock Gate Tower

Youghal Lighthouse

Garryvoe Beach

Ballymaloe Cookery School

Ballymaloe House

Ballycotton Lighthouse

Ballycotton Cliff Walk

Ballycroneen

Cloyne Round Tower

Roches Point

Little Island

Fota Island Castle

Fota Arboretum and Gardens

River Lee at Passage West

River Owenabue

Roberts‘ Cove

Myrtleville Beach

Tracton Woods

Rocky Bay Beach

Nohoval Cove

Charles Fort

James‘s Fort Kinsale

Lough Foyle

Dunmanus Bay

Barley Cove

Toormore Bay

Altar Wedge Tomb

Baltimore Beacon

Gurranes Stone Row

Raheen Tower House

Drombeg Stone Circle

Galley Head

Inchydoney Island

Timoleague Abbey

Harbour View

Courtmacsherry Bay

White Strand Garrylucas

Old Head of Kinsale

Ringrone Castle

Kinsale Harbour

Sheep‘s Head

Seefin Viewpoint

Garinish Island – Ilnacullin

Seal Harbour

Dunboy Castle

Pulleen Harbour

Firkeel Bay

Dursey Island

Dursey Sound

Ballydonegan Bay

Ballydonegan

Allihies Copper Mines

Ring of Beara

Hag of Beara

Kilmakilloge

Ardea Castle

Staigue Fort

White Strand

O’Carroll’s Cove

Lamb‘s Head

Derrynane Beach

Coomakesta Pass

Eightercua Stone Row

Ballinskelligs Bay

St. Finian‘s Bay

Coomanaspig Pass

Kerry Cliffs

Skellig Michael

Geokaun Mountain

Cromwell Point Lighthouse

Ballycarbery Castle

Cahergal Stone Fort

Mountain Stage

Rossbeigh Strand

Minard Castle

Kinard Beach

Dingle Town

Dunbeg Fort

Fahan Group

Slea Head Drive

Coumeenoole Bay

Great Blasket Island

Blasket Sound

Dunquin Pier

Clogher Head

Smerwick Harbour

Reask Monastic Site

Wine Strand

Gallarus Oratory

Dooneen Pier

Brandon Point

Fermoyle Strand

Castlegregory

Fenit Beach

Ballyheigue Beach

Ballybunion

Bromore Cliffs

Carrigafoyle Castle

Killimer – Tarbert Ferry

Scattery Island

Shannon Estuary

Carrigaholt Castle

Bridges of Ross

Kilkee Cliffs

White Strand Dunbeg

Doolin Pier

Fanore Beach

Limestone Coast of The Burren

Ballyvaughan Pier

Shanmuckinish Castle

Finavarra Point

Finavarra House

Flaggy Shore

Tawnagh Mill

Dunguaire Castle

Rinville Park

Silverstrand Beach

Spiddal Pier

Ballynahown Pier

Coral Beach

Lettermore Causeway

Illaunnaginga

Pearse‘s Cottage

Gorteen Bay

Aillebrack Beach

Derrigimlagh

Clifden Castle

Omey Island

Knockbrack Megalithic Tomb

Connemara National Park

Rinvyle Point

Rosroe Quay

Killary Harbour

Aasleagh Falls

Doolough Valley

Silver Strand

Carrownisky Strand

Old Head Beach

National Famine Memorial

Croagh Patrick

Carraigahowley Castle

Mulranny Beach

Corraun Peninsula

Kildavnet Castle

Atlantic Drive

Ashleam Bay

Minaun Heights

Trawmore Bay

Moyteogue Head

Achill Head

Deserted Village Achill Island

Doogort Beach

Doohoma Head

Claggan Island

Annagh Head

Doonamo Point

Ballyglass Lighthouse

Benwee Head

Céide Fields

Bunatrahir Bay

Downpatrick Head

Lackan Strand

Moyne Friary

Rosserk Friary

Ballina Quay

Easky Beach

Aughris Head

Dunmoran Strand

Culleenamore Strand

The Fairy Glen

Rosses Point

Raghly Harbour

Streedagh Point

Mullaghmore Head

Tullan Strand

Ballyshannon

Kilbarron Castle

Rossnowlagh Beach

Murvagh Beach

St. John‘s Point

Fintragh Bay

Muckross Head

Teelin Pier

Slieve League

Glengesh Pass

Maghera Beach

Loughros Beg Bay

Kilclooney Dolmen

Fall Island

Carrickfin Beach

Illannamarve

Dunmore Strand

Cara Na Mara Bunbeg

Tory Island

Marblehill Beach

Tranarossan Bay

Boyeeghter Bay

Donaghmore Strand

Kinny Lough

Great Pollet Arch

Ballymastocker Bay

Lough Swilly

Burt Castle

Grianán of Aileach

Inch Island

Lisfanon Beach

Dunree Head

Gap of Mamore

Tullagh Bay

Carrickabraghy Castle

Trawbreaga Bay

Culdaff Beach

Magilligan Point View

Five Fingers Strand

National Wax Museum

Uragh Stone Circle

Keem Strand

Cliffs of Moher

Interactive Ireland Map with sights and attractions

We’ve designed the Ireland map to help you plan your holiday. You can limit the selection of sights to specific topics or regions using filters. You can bookmark the sights you like best. We hope that the interactive tourist map of Ireland will be helpful to you when planning your trip to Ireland.

Recommended travel maps

Official Road Atlas Ireland

Road Map of Ireland

Wild Atlantic Way Pocket Map

Official Dublin City & District Street Guide

• B&Bs and Hotels in Ireland

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• Car Rental in Ireland

Find the best rental car deals from leading car hire companies in Ireland with our car rental search.

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• Ferry to Ireland

Our ferry search engine finds the cheapest ferry crossings to Ireland and compares all relevant shipping companies.

• Flights to Ireland

Find the best flights to Ireland with our flight search widget, which includes all the major airlines.

Maps of Ireland

The Republic of Ireland, or simply Ireland, is a Western European country located on the island of Ireland. It shares its only land border with Northern Ireland , a constituent country of the United Kingdom , to the north. To the east, it borders the Irish Sea , which connects to the Atlantic Ocean . The Atlantic Ocean surrounds the western and southern coasts of Ireland,  and the warm North Atlantic Drift , a major component of the Gulf Stream , is particularly influential on the climate of Ireland. The country's total area is approximately 70,273 km 2 (27,133 mi 2 ).

The Irish landscape generally consists of four geographical regions, several bodies of water and rivers, as well as islands.

The Central Lowlands encompass most of the interior of the country. Dominated by a series of flat plains and low-lying areas, the Central Lowlands feature numerous lakes and peat bogs, which give the region its distinct characteristics. The peatlands constitute roughly 20% of the country's landmass. Over the years, peat extraction and combustion have been ingrained in Irish traditions, but growing climate considerations are prompting a rethink on the stewardship of these peatlands.

The Western Coastal area lies to the west of the Central Lowlands. This coast is a region marked by rugged landscapes. It includes the western coastal counties and is characterized by steep cliffs, rocky outcrops, and isolated peninsulas that extend into the Atlantic Ocean. This area contains the Cliffs of Moher , a notable geological feature that stretches for about 14 kilometers along the coastline of County Clare. The west is also home to many of Ireland's Gaeltacht areas, where the Irish language is still spoken. Last, Carrauntoohil is the country's highest point in this region and it stands at 1041 m (3414 ft). The yellow upright triangle marks its position on the map.

The Eastern and Southern Coastal area sits to the east and south of the Central Lowlands, one encounters the Eastern and Southern Coastal area, a region marked by gentler landscapes compared to the west. Rolling hills, fertile valleys, and sandy beaches typify this region. The east coast, in particular, features the Wicklow Mountains, which provide a striking backdrop to Ireland's capital city, Dublin .

The Northern Uplands , which straddle the border with Northern Ireland, form another distinct region. This area is characterized by hills and mountains, including the Mourne Mountains and the Sperrin Mountains. Although less populated than other regions, the Northern Uplands hold significant environmental and cultural value.

Bodies of Water : The country hosts several large lakes, locally known as loughs. Lough Corrib and Lough Ree , both located in the Central Lowlands, are among the largest. 

Numerous rivers crisscross Ireland. The River Shannon , the longest river in Ireland, flows south from the slopes of Cuilcagh Mountain in the Northern Uplands, through the Central Lowlands, and into the Atlantic Ocean. Other major rivers include the River Liffey, which flows through the heart of Dublin, and the River Boyne.

Islands : The Aran Islands , located off the west coast, are notable for their limestone landscapes. Other prominent islands include Achill Island , the largest island off the coast of Ireland, and the Skellig Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

County Councils of Ireland Map

Ireland (officially, the Republic of Ireland) is divided into 26 county councils, 3 city councils, 2 city & county councils.

The county councils are: Carlow, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown, Fingal, South Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow, Clare, Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, Galway, Leitrium, Mayo, Roscommon, Sligo, Cavan, Donegal and Monaghan.

The city councils are: Dublin city council, Cork city council and Galway city council.

The city and county councils are: Limerick city and county council, Waterford city and county council.

Located in the eastern part of the country is, Dublin – the capital, the largest and the most populous city in Ireland. It is also the major cultural, financial, commercial center and the chief maritime port of Ireland.

Where is Ireland?

Ireland is located off the north western coastline of continental Europe. It is geographically positioned both in the Northern and Western hemispheres of the Earth. Ireland is the 2 nd largest island of the British Isles and lies in the west of Great Britain. It shares a land border with Northern Ireland (a recognised constitutionally distinct region of UK). Ireland is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean – by the Celtic Sea in the south; by the St. George’s Channel in the southeast and by the Irish Sea in the east.

Ireland Bordering Countries : The United Kingdom .

Regional Maps : Map of Europe

Outline Map of Ireland

The above blank map represents the Republic of Ireland, a country located off the north western coastline of European continent. The above map can be downloaded, printed and used for educational purposes like coloring and map-pointing activities. 

The above outline map represents the Republic of Ireland, a sovereign country on the island of Ireland. It is the second largest island of the British Isles and lies to the west of Great Britain. 

This page was last updated on August 1, 2023

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Tourist map of IRELAND

Interactive travel and tourist map of Ireland: click on icons and writings on the map to open web links.

Guinness beer, stunning nature and friendly people will make you forget the inclement weather of the Emerald Isle.

Republic of Ireland

Population: 5.011.500 Area: 70.273 sq.km Official Languages: English, Irish Currency: €uro Drivers Lane: Left When to go: from April to September Book Now Climate Rent a Car Flights

Northern Ireland (U.K.)

Population: 1.885.000 Area: 14.130 sq.km Official Languages: English Currency: Pound Sterling Drivers Lane: Left  When to go: from April to September Book Now Climate Rent a Car Flights

FURTHER LINKS

Tourist map of Dublin Irish best pubs Guinness stout: a taste of Ireland Aran Islands: Dun Aengus Fort County Clare: Bridges of Ross County Cork: Three Castle Head County Mayo: the Lost Valley Croagh Patrick: the Irish Holy Mountain Northern Lights in Ireland Seal Rescue Ireland The Wild Atlantic Way travel guide Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin Strokestown House, Co. Roscommon

Day trips from Dublin Howth Portmarnock beach Bray Malahide Wicklow Mountains National Park The Wonderful Barn, Leixlip new! Treetop in Avondale House and Forest Park

Public transport Leap Card Moovit app Next Bus Dublin Free app GoCar Car Rental Yuko Car Rental COVID-19 info

Discover Ireland’s best tourist attractions and top sights through our map! Which are the best places to visit in Ireland? Simply click on the map’s links to be quickly redirected to images and useful websites for accommodation, activities, transport and much more.

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10 Tips for Planning a Trip to Scotland and Ireland

Last Updated on January 4, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

The rugged landscape and emerald green nature of the British Isles leave many travellers longing to jump on the next flight to explore these two fantastic countries. However, planning a trip to Scotland and Ireland takes a bit more preparation than simply booking a flight and packing a bag.

While these two countries are, on the whole, quite easy to travel in — especially if you’re an English-speaker — there are a number of things you need to be aware of when visiting the wild north of Great Britain and the Emerald Isle.

Before we left on our amazing road trips through the Scottish highlands and the west of Ireland , there are several things we wished we would have known. To help you avoid some of the mistakes that we made, we’ve compiled a handy list of ten helpful tips for your trip to the region!

Table of Contents

10 Tips for Travel in Scotland & Ireland

Though Scotland and Ireland are both highly developed Western countries, there are a few anomalies that can throw a wrench in your travel plans if you’re not adequately prepared.

It is also worth noting that, while the countries are quite similar, there are some suggestions in this list that apply more to one country over another.

1. Rent a car

While it is certainly possible to get around Scotland and Ireland while relying solely on public transport, the further out of the bigger towns you get the more difficult it will become.

If you don’t want to spend the majority of your days either on a bus or waiting for one, one of the biggest travel tips I could give is to hire a car. We recommend searching for cars on Rentalcars.com to compare prices across major companies.

While fuel prices can be steep, most cars have quite good mileage and both countries are fairly small, so you won’t have to fill up often. Hiring a car will definitely allow you to see the sites you want on your own terms and gives you a certain amount of freedom that the bus just doesn’t.

It is worth noting that both countries drive on the left side of the road and it can take some getting used to if you’ve only ever driven on the right.

However, it isn’t too hard and many visitors manage to navigate the change without any incidents. If you’re looking for tips about driving in Ireland for tourists, make sure to tell the rental car company your qualms and they are sure to help you out.

It is also worth spending time in the car park to familiarise yourself with the car before hitting the road.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the majority of rental cars in Ireland and Scotland tend to have manual transmissions. If you are confident driving manually, hiring this kind of car can save you a fair amount of money per day.

There are fewer automatic transmission cars available and they, therefore, tend to be a bit more expensive. However, if you don’t drive a manual or are nervous about driving in Scotland or Ireland , then it might be better to rent an automatic.

2. Wild Camp in Scotland

Camping has long been one of the saving graces for the budget-conscious traveller, with campsites coasting a fraction of the price of even the most discounted of hostel dorm beds.

However, in Scotland, while you can certainly drop some cash on a campsite plot, you don’t have to pay a thing if you choose to wild camp — and it’s perfectly legal almost everywhere.

Wild camping is both a really good way to offset the cost of a car hire and an excellent way to get away from it all and to enjoy the stunning natural scenery all to yourself. So, if you find a good spot, go ahead and pitch a tent and spend the night — this is one of the best Scotland travel tips I could give.

If you do choose to wild camp in Scotland, just make sure to do so safely and respectfully. Exercise leave no trace practices and make sure you leave your sleeping spot looking as if you were never there.

Make sure to camp away from main roads, as well, and be sure that it is legal to park your car where you are overnight. If you are unsure if you’re allowed to camp somewhere, a quick Google search for local laws should set you straight.

This tip applies only when planning a trip to Scotland as wild camping is illegal in Ireland. However, camping is still a popular money-saving option in Ireland , you just need to be at a proper campsite to do it.

As many people choose to camp in Ireland, there are hundreds of campsites throughout the country and they rarely cost more than about €10-15 per night. You also get the added benefit of shower facilities…which isn’t offered if you’re wild camping!

3. Take advantage of petrol stations.

The Highlands of Scotland are the most sparsely populated area of the UK and larger towns become few and far between the farther north you venture. This is much the same once you get outside of the bigger cities and towns in Ireland.

This being said, I would recommend that you consider filling up your tank when you’re about half full as it can be a long time before you come across a petrol station.

No one wants to be stranded with an empty tank in the middle of nowhere, so make sure to take advantage of whatever stations you come across. You don’t know when the next one will come along.

Petrol prices can be high in this area of the world, especially if you’re visiting from the United States so that is something to keep in mind when figuring out a budget.

4. It can take a while to travel short distances

One of the best travel tips to keep in mind while you’re road-tripping is that even though your destination might look fairly close by on the map, it can take a while to get there.

This is especially true in the more rural areas, but it can take close to three hours to travel just 60 miles. So make sure to plan accordingly and be realistic about how long it might take you to arrive at your destination.

The same goes when planning a trip to Ireland, especially if you decide to get off of the main motorway and enjoy the bucolic scenery of the smaller country roads.

We recommend getting off the big roads when visiting both Scotland and Ireland because it will help you find some hidden gems and see parts of the countries that few tourists ever even think to, but this can add to your travel time.

If you’re wondering how long it might take you to get somewhere, make sure to check out the travel times on Google Maps rather than just looking at the distance.

If your destination is 100 kilometres (62 miles) away, for instance, don’t expect it to take an hour to drive there as you might in the USA. It will likely take at least 2 hours to drive there.

5. The roads are narrow and full of sheep

One of the reasons it might take you a while to get from point A to point B while on a Scottish Highlands or Ireland road trip might be due to the narrow roads.

The farther away from the bigger towns you go, the roads get steadily narrower — to the point where there might only be one lane with passing places every 100 meters or so.

Another thing to know is that there often tend to be several sheep grazing on the side of these one-lane roads and they have little concern for oncoming traffic.

Michael and I spent about ten minutes at one point trying to get some sheep to move out of the middle of the road and had no success until someone came along and let his Border Collie chase them off.

6. Be prepared for all weather

It is a well-known fact that this part of the world and rainy weather go hand in hand, so one of the best Scotland travel tips I can give is to make sure that you’re prepared to experience every season in one day.

The most valuable thing you can remember to pack when planning a trip is a waterproof/windproof jacket.

Even though a day might start out bright and sunny with not a cloud in the sky, it can turn at the flip of a switch and, without the proper clothing, you can end up getting completely soaked. So do yourself a favour and dress appropriately.

7. Make sure to book ahead during the high season

Gone are the days where you could just search for a vacancy sign the day of, or expect to find a table at the local pub without a reservation. No, if you’re planning a trip, especially in the high season of June to August you’re going to have to book ahead.

If you’re not planning on wild camping or cooking for yourself, you are going to need to have accommodation and dinner booked in advance.

8. Get off the main highways

If you’re going on a road trip make sure to get off of the main highways!

As I mentioned in tip 4, even though rural backroads might be windy, narrow, and full of sheep, they will also provide you with some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world, with every turn giving way to a gorgeous vista.

The smaller roads are infinitely more scenic than the big motorways and will definitely make your Scotland or Ireland road trip all the more memorable.

9. Eat local seafood

While British and Irish food may come with several preconceived negative stereotypes, much of the UK and Ireland is actively trying to remedy this and food is much better today than it ever has been.

And absolutely nothing is comparable to the incredible seafood available all along the Scottish coast or the wonderful oysters and salmon available along Ireland’s wild Connemara region .

Though there are many chippies to be found and the battered and fried fish is out-of-this-world delicious, there are also fantastic restaurants where you can get beautifully prepared, freshly caught local seafood.

Ireland especially is having its own food revolution with many local chefs reimagining their local cuisine and giving it a modern twist.

While the city of Cork is most notable for starting this trend, many other Irish cities have followed suit and there are myriad Michelin-starred restaurants throughout the Emerald Isle.

Even if these restaurants lie a bit outside of your Ireland travel budget , there are some more affordable restaurants, especially in bigger towns and cities, that serve incredible Irish food that will knock your socks off.

10. Drink (a lot of) whisk(e)y

Nowhere in the world can you find so much phenomenal whisky in such a small area. There are over 100 single malt whisky distilleries actively producing Scotland’s most popular export throughout the country and it would be a shame if you didn’t take this opportunity to tour at least one distillery and see how this wonderful spirit is made.

Ireland is no different and although Irish whiskey dropped in international popularity in the past couple of decades, it is seeing a massive resurgence. There are many fantastic whiskey distilleries throughout the country and it is very worth sampling Ireland’s famous firewater.

If touring a distillery bores you but you still love whisky, most pubs in Scotland and Ireland have impressive collections of Scotch or Irish whiskey at better prices than you could get anywhere in the world.

Head to a cosy pub with some live music and order a peaty dram of a fine single malt. That is a recipe for an unforgettable evening in the Scottish Highlands or Irish countryside.

These ten tips will help you have the best trip possible in the British Isles! Make sure to take time to get off of the beaten path and enjoy all of the things that Scotland and Ireland have to offer — you won’t be disappointed!

Are you planning a trip to Ireland and Scotland? Have you been? Let us know in the comments!

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9 Best Day Trips from Inverness

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Maggie: I appreciate your advice to rent a car and I agree. However, my wife and I are in our 80’s (I’m 88) and driving for us would be unwise. What advice do you have for us for a 10-14 trip to Ireland and Scotland? David

Hi David – if you’re unable to hire a car there are train and bus connections between major cities in Scotland and Ireland. If you want to venture somewhere a bit more rural, I suggest hopping on some organised day tours 🙂

Hi, Would you recommend exploring on your own or going on one of the many tours offered from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher? We are headed to Ireland in June and want to make the most of our time. Thanks, The Jacksons

It makes far more sense to do a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher from Galway city rather than Dublin. You can read about your options here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/cliffs-of-moher-day-trip/

I’m planning on a trip to Ireland and Scotland for 2023-24. What airline do you recommend and what do you think cost would be. I’m planning to visit on my own terms.

My husband and I are planning our first trip to Scotland and Ireland in 2022 to celebrate our 50th Wedding Anniversary. Since we have not traveled abroad before, your website has given me an excellent place to start planning. My ancestral home is a little town called Methven and we would like to do a handfasting ceremony there, if possible. Any ideas on who to contact for something like that?

Hi Linn, thanks for your kind words and I’m happy that our website has proved helpful in planning your trip! Sounds like you’ve got quite the adventure in the works. Unfortunately, I don’t know anything about handfasting ceremonies so I can’t be of any help in that regard. I hope you’re able to find what you’re looking for!

Experiencing a trip to Scotland and Ireland is on “my bucket list”, and I’ve decided to not wait to be invited, so I’m making plans for myself, in two years. Hopefully the world will be back to normal by then! Thank you for the tips and I will be looking for other resources to help plan my future trip.

Glad we could help, Beth! Hope you’re able to plan an unforgettable trip 🙂

Can you give more tips on how to get affordable yet amazing accommodations throughout a 20 day trip to Ireland. After reading your article, might add Scotland. Family of 4 (2 teens). Thanks!

Hi Teresa! I would recommend having a look at booking.com or Airbnb in order to find accommodation that would suit your family’s particular needs.

Hi Hugo. Not sure with the pandemic if you went to Scotland yet. But my husband and I are also looking into a trip to both Scotland and Ireland. We are also from South Africa and are thinking of going next year in September if all goes well. Have you had any luck with the Campervan idea? That sounds kinda brilliant. Thanks for the tips Maggie will definitely use them.

We are planning a Scotland Ireland trip and want to do it with Campervans. We are from South Africa and have never been to these two countries. do you have a prevered company that we can contact for these campervans to rent?

Thanks for your comment, Hugo! Unfortunately, we don’t have a specific campervan company to recommend as we haven’t done this mode of travel before. Scotland and Ireland are the perfect place for it, though!

I’ve physically never been to Ireland or Scotland but my soul has,for sure, and it has been pulling and haunting me to go for some time now!! I’m starting to plan a trip to mark and celebrate turning 50 in my life and I am so glad I came across your site to help me with the planning process where I’m looking to do a more ‘out of the box’ type trip instead of a more typical, traditional,touristy type visit. Thank you for sharing your experiences,suggestions and tips!!!

Thanks for your comment, Janeen! I’m glad you’ve found our website helpful for planning your trip. Scotland and Ireland ar both beautiful countries with so much to offer travellers and I hope you have an amazing time exploring 🙂 If you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to get in contact

Planning a road trip around Scotland and Ireland in September. First time visiting, thank for the info.

Great tips! I have been to Ireland 2 years ago and now I’m planning a 3 week trip in Scotland and Ireland. I will definitely use your tips, thank you a lot for sharing.

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How to Plan The Best Trip to Ireland & Scotland! [2024]

So, you’re looking to see Ireland and Scotland’s beautiful and wild scenery? These European destinations are known for their natural beauty and fun cities. Find out how to plan your trip to Ireland and Scotland to ensure you’re making the most out of your vacation!

Planning a trip to Ireland and Scotland? 

Spectacular coastlines and ancient castles. Loch Ness Monsters and Leprechauns. Guinness beer and world-class whiskey. 

What’s not to love about the Emerald Isle and the wild north of Great Britain? Add to that friendly locals and delicious food, and you’ll want to get the first flight out!

You’ll need a plan when preparing for a trip to these two incredible countries! There are many different things to remember—where to go, how long to stay, where to stay, how to get around, and much more.

The last thing you want is to miss out on anything.

Don’t worry! I’m here to help. I’ve tailored this comprehensive guide to be helpful to any wanderlust-seeking traveler looking to plan a trip to Ireland and Scotland. Get ready for the journey of a lifetime!

How to Plan a Trip to Ireland and Scotland: Step-by-Step

By the way, if you're only planning on only visiting Ireland, we've got you covered with a more comprehensive guide on planning a trip to Ireland . Check it out!

Step 1: Pick Your Destinations

The first thing you need to do is decide where you want to go! Ireland and Scotland may look small on a map, but these tiny countries pack a punch regarding things to see and do. 

Hit the Internet and do some research. Check out different travel websites to find out more about the countries. Read traveler’s blogs, like this one on things to see in Dublin , to get some ideas.

Here’s what I do that I find extremely helpful when making an itinerary of destinations I want to visit:

• Use a travel planning app to list your destinations and the places you want to see. 
• Create a Google Map and pin those places you want to include on your trip.
• Mark your ‘must-sees’ in one color and the ‘not-as-important’ in another color. This makes it easier to trim your itinerary down.
• Make sure you have a good variety of destinations on your list (ex. You probably want to explore bustling larger cities and spend some time in nature-focused destinations!)

If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to see EVERYTHING. But unless you have endless amounts of time, you’ll need to prioritize.

Step 2: Decide on the Best Time to Travel

There’s nothing worse than bad weather ruining your holiday. It’s best to plan your trip around the weather if you have the option to be flexible.

The best time to visit Ireland and Scotland is between April-May and September-October during the off-peak shoulder season. The weather is pleasant, and you’ll avoid the crazy crowds that arrive in summer.

Step 3: Ask Yourself, “How Long?”  

You’ve made a list of the places you want to see. Now it’s time to be realistic and decide how much time you have to see them all. Your answer will help you to create a perfect itinerary, so you don’t miss anything!

How many days does it take to see Ireland and Scotland? Ideally, 14 days is enough time to experience the best of both worlds. 

With at least 14 days on your itinerary, you can explore cities like Dublin and Edinburgh, take a hike in the Highlands from Glasgow , and tour some very cool castles. However, if you only have 10 days, you can focus on one main city in each country.

Step 4: Research Visa Restrictions

It’s essential to figure out if you need a visa to enter the UK and Ireland. Remember that England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland are part of the United Kingdom, but Southern Ireland is not. So, you may need a visa for one country and not the other.

Suppose you’re from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the USA. In that case, you don’t need a special visa to enter Ireland and the UK. You can stay in Ireland as a tourist for up to three months without a visa. In the United Kingdom, you can enjoy six months of visa-free travel as a tourist.

If you are from another country, you can visit Ireland’s Department of Justice and Equality website and the Standard Visitor Visa page of the UK Government to find out what visa restrictions might apply to you.

When you arrive at the airport, you’ll still need to prove your reason for visiting the country to the immigration officer at the border control. They’ll also want to know how long you are planning on staying. 

To avoid any upsets, carry all your travel documents, such as return flights, hotel confirmations, proof of income, etc., with you in a travel pouch .

Step 5: Organize Your Itinerary

An essential step in planning a trip to Ireland and Scotland is to plan your itinerary. Once you have decided on how long you can travel and where you want to go, it’s time to thrash out the details.

Essential details include getting around and finding accommodation in each place. You also want to make sure you have enough time for traveling in between.

Let’s talk about some top tips for planning an itinerary for an Ireland and Scotland trip!

Plan a Route

Google Maps is an excellent tool for estimating travel times between places. Use it to decide the best way to get from one destination to another.

Rome2Rio is another excellent website that offers multi-modal routes between destinations.

Figure Out Mode of Transportation

Once you have decided on your means of travel, check out Busbud , Megabus , and National Express for bus journeys in the UK. For train fares and schedules, go to the National Rail website.

Consider renting a car if your budget allows. It’s a great way of exploring a country or a city in your own time.

Think About Delays

Always schedule extra traveling time between cities for unexpected delays. The last thing you want is silly inconveniences ruining your dream vacation!  

Also, think twice about flying between destinations. While it may seem quicker, if you add all the traveling time in between, it can actually be longer. And far more expensive!

2-Week Itinerary for a Trip to Ireland and Scotland

As I suggested earlier, two weeks is an ideal amount of time to spend exploring Ireland and Scotland. Find ideas for a fabulous two-week itinerary for a trip to Ireland and Scotland below!

Day 1 and 2: Explore Dublin

Don’t miss these must-see attractions:

• Dublin Castle
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Trinity College Library
•  Little Museum of London
• Christ Church Cathedral
• St. Stephens Green
• Lunch at Avoca Wool Shop & Café
• Howth Cliffs

Day 3 and 4: Take an Overnight Trip to the West of Ireland

Check out these top spots along the way:

• Killarney National Park 
• Killarney Town
• Muckross Abbey
• Muckross House & Traditional Farm
• Cliffs of Moher

Day 5: County Wicklow

Be sure not to miss these:

• Wicklow Town
• Wicklow Gaol
• Glendalough
• Powerscourt Estate
• Silver Strand Beach and the Donegal Coast

Day 6 and 7: Northern Ireland and back to Dublin

Don’t forget to check these out:

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

Next stop—Scotland!

Day 8 and 9: Explore Edinburgh

Be sure to make time to see these hot spots:

• Edinburgh Castle
• St. Giles’ Cathedral
• Scott Monument
• Calton Hill
• Grass Market
• Victoria Street
• Princes Street Gardens
• Holyrood Palace
• The Royal Mile

Day 10: Scottish Highlands

Must-visits include:

• Urquhart Castle

Days 11 – 13: The Isle of Skye

Don’t miss these sites:

• Dunvegan Castle
• Neist Point
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Fairy Pools
• The Quiraing 
• Old Man of Storr
• Museum of Island Life & Flora MacDonald’s Grave

Unfortunately, day 14 is when you’ll need to depart from beautiful Edinburgh! But, you’re taking a whole lot of memories, and hopefully stunning photos, home with you.

Get Ready for Ireland & Scotland With Pilot!

After going through all that, I hope you’re starting to dream about your perfect trip to Ireland and Scotland. Now you really know how much there is to do and see!

Remember, with these tips, tricks, and itinerary ideas, you’ll make your next European journey a reality in no time. To ensure you’re keeping yourself organized, why not use a trip planning app to keep all of your ideas and plans in one place?

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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The Best Ireland and Scotland Itinerary

Are you planning a trip to Ireland and Scotland? If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, then you must have seen all of the beautiful pictures from my recent trip to Ireland and Scotland. Now that I am back from my trip and able to get back into the groove of things, I figured I would write a post about my Ireland and Scotland Itinerary. I know most of my readers enjoy these pre-planned itineraries and hopefully, this is one you can add to your collection. Here are some of my favorite things and highlights from my Ireland and Scotland Itinerary.

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a small commission to support this blog at no extra cost to you. Support my blog here . 

Ireland and Scotland Itinerary – best way to see ireland and scotland

Ireland and Scotland are two beautiful countries worth visiting. I feel these two countries are perfect for those of you wanting to take your first solo trip. There are so many things to see and do. Ireland is the country more for those of you who love nature and the beautiful outdoor greenery. Where we visited in Scotland, Edinburgh and Glasgow have a city feel yet, it is a lot slower paced and calm compared to cities like Dublin. We noticed that everyone was very hospitable in all the areas we visited.

RELATED: Most beautiful places in Ireland

TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES  

• Flights :  Skyscanner , Google Flights , and  Expedia  are the best sites to search for the cheapest flights and great deals from your home country.
• Accommodation :  Booking.com ,  Agoda , and  HostelWorld are the only platforms you need to book hotels and hostels anywhere in the world.
• Travel Insurance : The best travel insurance available are  World Nomads  or  SafetyWing .  Safety Wing is also perfect for expats or remote workers.
• Transportation : To book trains, Trainline is the best and cheapest website. To book buses within the US and Europe, try using FlixBus . For travel in Asia, we use  12Go .  
• Car Rental :  Expedia is a reliable platform to book rental cars.
• Tours :  Get Your Guide   &  Viator  are the only platforms you will need for most countries. If traveling to Asia, I suggest using Klook or Trazy .
• Luggage : It depends on what type of bags you like. If you are looking to backpack around Europe, I highly recommend the Osprey Fairview 40L .
• What to Pack : Use this ultimate Carry On Essentials list for things you should pack for every trip.
• Send Money Anywhere:  WISE  is the best account for transferring funds abroad.
• Stay Connected:  Staying connected abroad is important for safety and travel. Using Airalo will save you time and money for your trip by getting an eSIM right from the start. Use NordVPN to keep access to websites in your home country or shows on Hulu abroad!

Ireland vs. Scotland: Looking to choose between Ireland or Scotland?

So you can choose between Ireland or Scotland or you can choose to read this entire post on how to visit both Ireland and Scotland in this detailed Itinerary. There is a big difference between the 2 areas and it is difficult to choose but varies on you.

If I had to choose between visiting Ireland and Scotland, I will definitely choose Ireland. There was just so much more to see there and I felt like Irish people were so welcoming, kind, and so much more. I also find alcohol, especially whiskey better in Ireland than in Scotland. I don’t like the smokey flavors and I’ve done whiskey and bourbon tastings in the US< Ireland, and Scotland.

Scotland is a beautiful place to visit and I do suggest visiting both and making that decision for yourself.

Best Time to Visit Ireland and Scotland – When to visit

You must have come to this page wondering when is the best time to visit Ireland and Scotland. Well usually the best time to visit Ireland and Scotland may vary depending on your budget and whether you want to have better weather. The best weather time to visit would be during the summer times to avoid heavy rainy days. If you want to save money and avoid crowds, you are better off traveling in the fall or spring months. We traveled in October and luckily only had one bad rainy day The bad rainy day did affect our visit to Cliffs of Moher, but we were prepared to be stuck in the rain. I found that the best month to visit Ireland and Scotland was in October. I felt the weather was comfortable, it was easy to see a lot and do a lot, it felt less crowded than most places do during summer, and the prices were quite affordable.

RELATED: One Month Trip in Europe

Language in Ireland and Scotland

The main language of Ireland and Scotland is English. The Irish are also taught Gaelic or the Irish language, but it is not used very often and most Irish people do not use it unless needed to by their profession.

Forms of Currency in Ireland and Scotland

Now the currency in Ireland is the Euro. If you head to Northern Ireland, the currency then changes to the British Pound since they are part of the United Kingdom. Traveling in Northern Ireland, they do, however, accept the Euro in most locations since many people from Ireland travel there.

In Scotland, the currency is the British Pound.

How to get around Ireland and Scotland

The best way to get around Ireland and Scotland is by driving, however, they do drive on the left side of the road. If you do not feel comfortable driving in another country, the best way to get around would be by bus or taxi. Just a fun little tip, many of the taxi drivers in Ireland, especially in Dublin love to talk your head off. It makes it fairly easy to learn more from these locals. Only looking to travel to Scotland? Be sure to read about this Scotland Itinerary . A lot of people will take a road trip through Ireland and Scotland. It can be pretty easy to navigate driving especially outside of the city.

RELATED: Scotland Roadtrip

Tips to Save Money in Ireland and Scotland

One of the best ways to save money in Ireland and Scotland is to take full advantage of free things to do. Additionally, I highly suggest you purchase a tourist travel pass whether that be an all-day pass or a 7-day transit pass, it makes it a lot easier to travel around and save money by taking the public transportation card. In Ireland, we purchased a 7 day Leap Card for about 40 euros which was perfect for us since it was a base location. For Scotland, we purchased a daily travel pass for the day.

Another way to save money is by purchasing your Dublin Pass with Bus Tour which includes Free Entry to over 35 Attractions.

RELATED: UK Travel Itinerary

Ireland and Scotland Tours – Make Travel Planning Easy

Are you worried about making plans for your trip? These are some of the best tours for your trips to Ireland and Scotland.  Don’t worry these tours and guides will make the trip smooth and affordable to do on your own. There are a lot of different tours you can easily take in Ireland and Scotland.

These are a few of the Ireland and Scotland Tours that I recommend:

Ireland Tours

Most of these tours can be taken from Dublin making it easy to stay in one location.

• Celtic Boyne Valley Tour
• Cliffs of Moher Full-Day Tour
• Giant’s Causeway & Belfast City Tour
• Belfast, Monasterboice & Birthplace of Titanic
• Guinness Storehouse: Entrance Ticket  Southern Ireland: 10-Day Small-Group Tour

Take all the guesswork out of planning a trip and book the Southern Ireland: 10-Day Small-Group Tour.

Scotland Tours

• Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, and Whisky Tour
• Underground Vaults Tour
• West Highlands Lochs & Castles Tour from Edinburgh
• Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles Tour
• Alnwick Castle and Scottish Borders Tour

Where you will visit in 8 Days in Ireland and Scotland

• Day 1: Dublin
• Day 2: Dublin
• Day 3: Blarney and Cork
• Day 4: Edinburgh, Scotland
• Day 5: Glasgow, Scotland
• Day 6: Cliffs of Moher
• Day 7: Northern Ireland Belfast, Giants Causeway
• Day 8: Dublin

You can easily add a pit stop to London to this Scotland Ireland Itinerary if you wanted to. I would suggest visiting after Glasgow if possible.

things to do in Ireland and Scotland

Ireland and Scotland Itinerary Day 1 | Dublin

We arrived in Dublin early in the morning, but the first thing was wanted to do before heading out into the world was to shower! It’s one of those things you have to do. So during our adventures and our arrivals, we had an already jam-packed schedule that we needed to attempt to keep and prevent jet lag. We went with the Food Tour with Irish Food Trail, a short visit to the Irish Whiskey Museum, and wandered the Temple Bar area.

RELATED: Best Day Trips from Dublin

Recommended things to do in Dublin Day 1

• Jameson Distillery
• Irish Whiskey Museum
• Visit a Temple Bar
• Dinner at Matt the Thresher

Ireland and Scotland Itinerary Day 2 | Dublin

Today is a jam-packed day full of fun and exciting stuff. Hopefully, now you are starting to get over your jet lag and was so exhausted that you slept well. You will explore the beautiful Dublin Castle which is one of many castles you will explore, then you will check out the famous trinity college with the Book of Kells and the famous Guinness Storehouse . I suggest you save a lot of time to spend at the Guinness Storehouse since it has about 9 floors worth of things to check out and explore. Then afterward, enjoy a whiskey tasting at the Teeling distillery .

RELATED: 2 Days in Dublin

Recommended things to do in Dublin Day 2

• Breakfast at Queen of Tarts
• Dublin Castle
• Trinity College Library and Book of Kells
• Lunch at Klaw
• Guinness Storehouse
• Teeling Distillery
• Dinner at Porterhouse Bar

Ireland and Scotland Itinerary Day 3 | Blarney and Cork

So now there are several Dublin day trips you can take visiting Blarney Castle and Cork. You can either choose to rent a vehicle or there are options to pay to take a day trip with a bus tour . It all depends on your comfort level. We found it very affordable to take the tours and it was more relaxing for us to have someone else drive rather than being exhausted and driving on our own. Book your tour here.  

RELATED: Best Ireland Castle Itinerary

Recommended things to do in and near Cork

• Rock of Cashel
• Blarney Castle and kissing the Blarney Stone
• Cahir Castle

Ireland and Scotland Itinerary Day 4 | Visiting Edinburgh, Scotland

Traveling to Scotland was very affordable by plane. Now the best deal we found was a 22 euro one-way flight from Dublin to Edinburgh with Ryan Air. We were checking at rates and were deciding we wanted to take a visit to Scotland. We were so close and the flights were very affordable that we wanted to make the most of our trip. It was filled with lots of things to do and see. Now I do have to warn you, Ryan Air can be expensive if you travel heavily. Since we were just staying overnight, we decided to make Dublin our home base and leave most of our belongings there.

Edinburgh was a beautiful city to explore especially if you love Harry Potter . Additionally, Edinburgh Castle is one of the most beautiful with the best view of the city. If you want more drinking after all this happens to be a drinking trip lol, be sure to try some Scotch Whiskey at the Whiskey experience. Scotch whiskey is very different than Irish whiskey due to the peat whiskey barrels.

Finally, enjoy some time down Victoria mile where the inspiration for Harry Potter came along. Be sure to read about the Harry Potter Tour in Edinburgh .  Additionally, there is a cute Harry Potter shop you must add to your trip! If you have more time to spend in Scotland, be sure to visit the Isle of Skye. Learn about 10 things to do in the Isle of Skye .

RELATED: One Day in Edinburgh

Recommended things to do in Edinburgh

• Edinburgh Castle
• Whiskey Experience
• Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar
• Royal Mile/Victoria Mile
• Underground Ghost Tour

Ireland and Scotland Itinerary Day 5 | Glasgow, Scotland

Take the train from Edinburgh to Glasgow. I think by this point we were kind of exhausted. We definitely loved Glasgow Cathedral and wish we spent more time at the Riverside Museum. In Glasglow, you will find that most of the things to do there are free like the Cathedral, People’s Palace, the Art Museum and the Riverside Museum. Furthermore, I think we ended up becoming burnt out from all of the museums.

RELATED: One Day in Glasgow

But after you check out the Kelvington art Museum, you must have lunch at the Butchershop Bar and Grill . The food was absolutely fantastic and worth it! Additionally, their customer service was excellent. Finally, take the flight back from Glasgow to Dublin. If you have more time to spend in Glasgow, be sure to visit Argyll.  Read more about things to do in Argyll .

RELATED: Glasgow Tours

Recommended things to do in Glasgow

• Glasgow Cathedral
• People’s Palace
• Kelvington Art Museum
• Lunch at the Butchershop Bar and Grill
• Riverside Museum

Ireland and Scotland Itinerary Day 6 | Cliffs of Moher

Like we did for Blarney Castle, we decided to take a bus tour again to these locations. Unfortunately, it was a very rainy day for us. However, we were lucky since this was the only bad weather day we received and yet we expected a week full of rain. Ireland is known to have ever-changing weather. The Cliffs of Moher was a beautiful location and reminded me a lot of sunset cliffs in San Diego, California. Book your tour here. 

RELATED: Best Cliffs of Moher Tour

Other recommended things to do and places to visit on the way to Cliffs of Moher

• Galway City

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Ireland and Scotland Itinerary Day 7 | Northern Ireland

We took another bus tour, making it one of the best tours we had during the entire trip. Northern Ireland is not part of Ireland the country, they are technically part of the United Kingdom. The form of currency does change from the Euro to the British Pound, however, many of the locations will still accept the Euro because of their close proximity to Ireland. Additionally, the Giant’s Causeway was a beautiful place to wander and explore. We got some of our best photos here. If you are really into Game of Thrones, then the Dark Hedges is the place for you. Supposedly, this location was filmed in Game of Thrones.  Book your tour here. 

Be sure to read about the Game of Thrones Tour .

Additionally, you may have seen famous photos of the Carrick-a-rede bridge. If you have time to stop by Belfast, they are known for building and sending off the Titanic. They are actually very proud of that accomplishment even though most people will say well the ship sunk. However, people in Belfast will tell you well the ship was fine when it left here. If you are traveling with kids, be sure to read things to do in Northern Ireland with kids .

Recommended things to do in Northern Ireland

• Carrick-a-rede
• Giant’s Causeway
• Dark Hedges
• Dunluce Castle

Ireland and Scotland Itinerary Day 8 | Dublin

Unfortunately for us, our time was very limited and we are just heading out of Dublin in the late afternoon. We were a bit jet-lagged on our first day and so it was our time to catch up and see some of the things that we missed out on for the first day. We were able to catch up on some of the things we wanted to see today but our list of places was even more extensive. See below for some other options to check out in Dublin before heading out.

RELATED: Things to do in Ireland

Recommended things to do in Dublin Day 8

• National Museum of Ireland
• Christ Church Cathedral
• National Leprechaun Museum
• Celtic Nights River Dancing
• The Brazen Head

Finally, there you have it, my 8 Day Ireland and Scotland Itinerary! This gives you the option to travel Ireland with or without a car but providing you with daily options. If you have more time or if you are traveling in a better season, be sure to check out the Skellig Michael especially if you are a Star Wars fan. That is the location where they filmed the Force Awakens. If you plan on visiting or moving between Ireland and Germany , this post will breakdown some of the differences and similarities.

Map Scotland and Ireland

You can easily use this map of Ireland and Scotland to plan out your Scotland and Ireland Itinerary.

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Posts Related to this Ireland and Scotland Itinerary

• Edinburgh or Glasgow
• One Day in Glasgow
• One Day in Edinburgh

Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

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Great itinerary, I’ve done parts of it, but not all, so there are some awesome ideas for me to follow up on. I caught the train up to Edinburgh from London because I managed to find a cheap fare (almost as cheap as your RyanAir flight) and I fell in love with Scotland. I wish I’d stayed to go to Glasgow as well.

Scotland was so beautiful and I’m glad I had the opportunity to go. I hope to go to London someday as well, although the bucket list to too big it may be a while til I visit London lol.

We stayed for 6 weeks in Ireland last March and I just fell in love with the country. It’s so beautiful and the people are wonderful. You’re article reminded me of all things that I missed and need to see next time. Scotland’s on my bucket list to and I can’t wait to make that a reality.

This makes my heart so warm. I love Ireland and Scotland and I have such good memories of both. Thank you for this wonderful guide and all the beautiful pictures.

Hi Nie Nie … I’m Wondering if you could give me an idea on your total cost of your Ireland Scotland trip it all sounds wonderful we are debating a cruise but would love to be a bit more adventurous… but of course there’s the budget . Just a rough idea would be wonderful thanks so much Patti

Well it just depends. I was able to save money by going with some friends, so we had a few split costs on the AirBnB. I would say it could be around $2000 per week including the hotel. It’s about $100-150 per night for a hotel. $500 maybe for food, maybe less depending and $500 for activities. This is being generous with your money though. You could definitely do this on a cheaper budget especially if staying at a hostel or not going to a fancy restaurant, etc. Feel free to message me on social media and I can help answer your questions.

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Wanderlust guide – ireland & scotland itinerary.

Want to make your trip to Ireland & Scotland easy and memorable? 

This full Ireland & Scotland Itinerary is for YOU! 

How long does it normally take you to plan a vacation?

If you’re like me, it takes weeks or even months to decide where to go, what to do, where to stay, and how to get there! Don’t worry, I’ve taken care of ALL of that! 

As an avid traveler who has lived in Ireland and Scotland, and taken many trips to both amazing places, I have mapped out an amazing itinerary that will guarantee you see the best sites as well as hidden gems you’ve never heard of! 

What’s Included in the Guide?

• 37 detailed pages
• Day by day instructions
• Daily schedules
• An Interactive Downloadable Map
• Tried and tested tours and classes
• Transportation timetables 
• Accommodation Recommendations
• Tons of Ireland Resources from me
• Ireland Packing List
• Trip Checklist
• Personal Support from me!

Here’s a Preview of my Ireland Itinerary

And 35+ more pages of schedules and information!

Which locations does this itinerary cover?

This guide covers as much of Ireland and Scotland as is physically possible to see in 10+ days . If it’s too much for you, feel free to cut 1 or more of the days out of your schedule. Nothing is set in stone, and I’m not the boss of you ha! Ultimately, your trip schedule is up to you , but this itinerary gives you the best opportunity to see as much of Ireland as you can in a short amount of time.

Have even more time in Ireland? Lucky you! Stay longer in any destination! Here’s where this guide will take you:

• Cliffs of Moher
• Northern Ireland
• Isle of Skye

Why do I need this guide?

“Many people like to go on guided tours of Ireland and Scotland costing thousands of dollars, but you don’t need to! You can ‘virtually’ take me with you by using this detailed itinerary. This is exactly what I’d do if I was taking you through Ireland and Scotland myself. With me as your guide, you can see the best of both countries with confidence! “ -Vanessa

Are you ready to invest in your vacation?

Get this complete itinerary for $24.99

My detailed Ireland itinerary is delivered immediately to your email inbox without any extra spam! 

Not the Trip You Need?

Not exactly the trip you’re looking for? Don’t worry, I also offer custom trip planning by request for many destinations! Learn more here.

Custom Travel Planning

Commercial use is prohibited.

If you love my itinerary please encourage your friends or family to purchase their own copy. 

If you have any questions about this itinerary, please contact me! 

Wanderlust Crew

4 thoughts on “ wanderlust guide – ireland & scotland itinerary ”.

I’m interested in the Ireland and Scotland Itinerary. After purchasing do you send it to me in hardcopy, or is it a download?

Hi Johana, This is a digital download guide.

I would like to purchase your itinerary for Ireland and Scotland, but since I can’t see it without purchasing is I’m not sure if it is all I want. I was hoping you could further help me to fit in Amsterdam for 2 days, and to include a one night stay in a .castle both in Ireland and Scotland, of course I would make the bookings, but just to include those areas. The entire trip is for 10 days. and I would be travelling in late April and it would be myself a senior and my adult daughter. Thanks

Hi Annina. I provide custom itinerary planning if you’d like something more in-depth. You can find more info here: https://wanderlustcrew.com/custom-travel-planning/

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Ireland and Scotland Tours & Trips 2024/2025

Ireland and Scotland are always among our most popular destinations, and these tours visit both! In Ireland you'll find amazing historical sites, traditional pubs and bars, and the famous friendly Irish hospitality, alongside the modern tech scene of Dublin. Over in Scotland, Edinburgh's impressive hilltop castle and winding old streets will enchant visitors, while the Western Highlands have unrivalled scenery. Check out the Highland Games, or if you're here on December 31st, the unforgettable Hogmanay!

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41 ireland and scotland tour packages with 1,555 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural

England, Scotland and Ireland end Dublin

I feel the guides are not wanting to speak to us in English. They would go on and on in Spanish laughing and then 3 or 4 words in English. I was unable to understand Mary our first guide at all. The trip itself was wonderful and beautiful. Loved the bus driver in Ireland he was a better tour guide for me.

• Coach / Bus

Best of Ireland and Scotland (15 Days)

Excellent - the timing was great. Glen was lovely, professional, gracious, and made himself available for us. He went above and beyond. This made our experience wonderful.

Best of Ireland & Scotland (Classic, 14 Days)

My wife and I had a great time. Greg was incredible, so knowledgeable. We loved his stories, choice of music, he made the trip.

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland

Was disappointed we did not go into castle in Edinburg a couple of the hotels were below par and Scottish experience was a disappointment

Best of Ireland and Scotland 2024 (15 Days)

Ed and Nigel, our driver, were outstanding, as were the local experts. Recommend dropping Enniscrone from itinerary. Many of us wondered why we stopped there. It is on a beach but not a pretty one. One should not undertake this kind of a trip if one is seeking to relax; it is hard work being constantly on the move to a rigorous schedule in order to cram in all the “best of” sites in 3 countries. That is not a complaint, but an observation only. We are glad we went and learned a lot. Optional stick-on name/where from tags would help people get to know one another faster. Yes, you can ask; I don’t know about you but I cannot remember X 40-45 people easily! Making clear it is optional should circumvent invasion of privacy concerns. Finally, I booked this thru what I thought was Brendan. Talk about confusing! Your questionnaire - as we’re the people getting us at the airport - were TourRadar. Our tour guide and driver were from Trafalgar. I’m told there were corporate takeovers and shifts, that Brendan technically no longer exists, and I am STILL confused. There was no preparatory explanation and I would highly recommend some attention be paid to your branding profiles.

Taste of Scotland & Ireland - 11 Days/10 Nights

First thing you do is get John Greene as your guide. After that life is a breeze.

• Sightseeing

Taste of Scotland & Ireland - 10 Days/9 Nights

tour was good. But I was very upset with the fact that I was lied to about the Edinburgh Military Tattoo being included in m y tour., All some one with your company or CIE needed to do was tell me when I ask 3 different times to be sure I would see it and was told that I would, that I would need to take a later tour I would of have been happy to do so.

Highlights of Ireland and Scotland (11 Days)

The tour was interesting and great. The guides were good and explain the places well. The scenery was beautiful.

Scotland and Ireland with London

Loved the chosen sites, met great people, had clean hotels and good free breakfasts! Communication during the tour between the tour and travelers, especially in relation to leaving/arriving details and posting places within the hotels caused problems multiple times. We lost time that could have been spent at our destinations. Knowing beforehand that our tour guides would not be native English speakers would have been verfy helpful to those of us who struggle with understanding unfamiliar accents. Having written daily details would have solved that problem.

Celtic Highlights

The itinerary. I do not think we would have ever seen so much of these countries if we had tried to do this on our own. I did feel a little rushed sometimes and would have liked to stay another 30 minutes here and there. So I do think there could be some adjustments made for a few stops.

The plan and execution went very smoothly. Our driver and guide were excellent.

Best of Ireland & Scotland (Small Groups, 14 Days)

The tour itinerary was full allowing a broad experience to be gleaned from both Ireland and Scotland respectively. The quality of the travel, hotels and experiences were a complete delight to share with the whole group. We gelled as a group and this made the excursion thoroughly enjoyable, despite the wet weather! Our driver was exemplary which made for safe and enjoyable travel on the coach throughout. Our tour guide was highly knowledgeable and experienced which added plentifully to the daily tours. A very enjoyable tour, highly recommended.

• Christmas & New Year

England Scotland Ireland – Highlights of UK

Celtic Twist

Ireland & Scotland

What people love about ireland and scotland tours.

As the one year anniversary approaches, I wish I could do this trip again!

Our guide Michelle was excellent. The city sightseeing tours on the bus were a waste of time. Our local tour guide in Edinburgh was awful. Why the laughing through most of her talking? Very irritating. The Fish & Chips dinner in the local dumpy restaurant was the worst meal of the trip. Otherwise just what we expected.

Wonderful trip. Saw a great variety of places.

• Fully Guided (36)
• Family (28)
• In-depth Cultural (23)
• Coach / Bus (21)
• Personalized (10)

Travel Styles

• Small Group (2)
• Singles and Solo (25)
• For Couples (21)
• Seniors (19)
• 2 Week Tours (12)
• 3 Week Tours (11)
• Spring 2024 (19)
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• September 2025 (15)
• October 2025 (12)
• November 2025 (3)

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Exploring Scotland & Ireland

About this tour.

Bask in the warm Celtic culture and majestic scenery of two remarkable lands. Come to know the regal city of Edinburgh on a panoramic coach tour or by foot – it’s your choice! Learn the secrets of making Scotch whisky and enjoy a tasting. Cruise famed Loch Ness and explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle. Enjoy a traditional evening of Scottish food and entertainment. Visit the Titanic Experience in Belfast and remember the century-old tragedy that shook the world. Walk the Giant’s Causeway (UNESCO) and soak up incredible views of the Causeway Coast, one of the world’s most breathtaking rail journeys. Visit Ireland’s bustling capital city of Dublin and tour historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. From rugged natural beauty to vibrant and historical cities, the diverse charms of Scotland and Ireland await.

Your Tour Includes

• 6 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Choice on Tour
• Whisky Distillery

Your Tour at a Glance

11 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $75.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour&#39;s activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel exploring scotland & ireland.

While just about any month is great to visit Scotland and Ireland, there are a few prime times of the year for the Exploring Scotland & Ireland tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Spring: Springtime is a wonderful time to visit the region! The countryside comes alive with flowers and shades of green, and the days of sunlight are growing just a bit longer, giving you more time to explore.

Summer: August is the perfect time to visit Edinburgh, as the Military Tattoo and Edinburgh Festival both take place then. It’s crowded, but the city is alive with many cultural events. And generally, it’s good weather (fingers crossed for not too much rain!).

Fall: Daylight hours grow shorter, and the weather is not quite as hospitable as summer, but the changing colors of the landscape are truly lovely. Fewer crowds make it easier to navigate sites and take your time to enjoy them.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Tour the "Fair City" of Dublin with a local guide.

Embark on a scenic cruise on beautiful Loch Ness.

Set out on a walking tour of Derry featuring its medieval city walls.

Cultural Experiences:

Embark on one of the world’s most breathtaking rail journeys along the Causeway Coast.

Explore the Titanic Experience in Belfast.

Discover the heritage of Glasgow with a local guide.

Culinary Inclusions:

• Sample the "Water of Life" at a Scottish whisky distillery.

Taste apple cider at a family-run farm.

Join in the fun during a night of traditional Scottish food and entertainment.

• Urquhart Castle
• Highland Evening
• Titanic Experience
• Giant's Causeway
• The Causeway Coast Rail Journey

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* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

After visiting Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, choose how you’ll explore Scotland’s hilly capital. For your first choice, get acquainted with the regal city via panoramic tour on your motorcoach. The route will take you through Old Town, including the Royal Mile – a traditional processional route for royalty.The coach will also take you through the Georgian-style New Town, full of elegant squares, terraces, and gardens, including Charlotte Square,and the charming local cafes and shops of Princes Street. For your second choice, explore Edinburgh on foot. Focused on the Old Town, walk along the winding cobblestone streets learning about sites such as the medieval John Knox Houseand the iconic St. Gile’s Cathedral — an integral site during the Scottish Reformation. The walking tour will also show you the vibrant Grassmarket neighborhood, a marketplace dating back to the 15th century that still hosts standing shops and visiting vendors today.

Start your trip with 3 nights in London – the capital of England and the United Kingdom. Use your included Oyster card to navigate the city with a local expert – hopping on the Tube and taking a walking tour along the River Thames, where you can see St Pauls' Cathedral, the Tate Modern Art Gallery, Shakespeare's Globe and the food stalls of Borough market. Take advantage of your included Tower of London pass. You’ll have ample time at leisure to make your stay in London exactly what you want it to be. Your other option is to book a pre night?

• Overnight Flight
• You’re on your way to the United Kingdom. Begin in England and enjoy a 3-night stay in London.
• London, England - Extension Begins
• Experience London, the esteemed capital of the United Kingdom. Often described as a world within a city, London is a sophisticated metropolis with a timeless style all its own.
• Navigate the city with a local expert. Using your included Oyster card, hop on the famous underground Tube. Take a walking tour along the Thames River, where you can see St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tate Modern Art Gallery and Shakespeare’s Globe. End at Borough Market, London’s premier food market, with history dating back around 1,000 years. You will love independently strolling the small, specialty produce stalls and sumptuous street food traders. Enjoy the afternoon to further explore the city.
• See London your way today! Be sure to take advantage of your included ticket to the Tower of London to peek into the city’s storied past and uncover the secrets of this 11th-century fortress.
• London - Edinburgh, Scotland
• Wish London goodbye as you take a high-speed train through the English countryside to Scotland.

Hotel-Radisson Blu Edinburgh

Hotel-Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge

Explore one of Ireland's best-kept secrets. Enjoy a fun and engaging evening with a local singer/songwriter and discover how the tale of Derry is intertwined with many of Ireland's most important events. Come and experience a three-course dinner at a restaurant serving pub-style food. See first-hand why Derry was named the UK City of Culture in 2013.

Join us for a rollicking evening of tastes, sights and sounds that are classically Scottish. Feast on a banquet prepared from a selection of local recipes. Your taste buds will savor the true flavor and goodness of this distinctive country. Tonight will be filled with entertainment including Highland pipers and dancers who deliver the very best in Scottish music, song and dance. Be prepared for a Scottish night of food, fun and many fond memories!

Enjoy a traditional pub lunch at a historic pub where you will soak up the atmosphere of days gone by. After lunch, continue on to the nearby Guinness Storehouse, Ireland's top international visitor attraction. Learn about the brewing process that creates this beloved beverage and discover the technique needed to pour the perfect pint! Classic Guinness ads and memorabilia create a nostalgic ambiance as you indulge in a complimentary pint and learn about a different yet key part of Ireland's history.

Tour the "Fair City" of Dublin with a local guide.

Sample the "Water of Life" at a Scottish whisky distillery.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Radisson Blu Edinburgh From $180 per night

Radisson Blu Edinburgh

Best western palace hotel inverness, hilton glasgow, ac hotel by marriott belfast, city hotel derry, clayton hotel ballsbridge.

Nights 10-11

Stay Longer

Post Night: Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge From $140 per night

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We're Not In Kansas Anymore!

travel inspiration!

Ultimate 2 week trip to Ireland and Scotland itinerary! (photos!)

Planning a vacation to England Ireland Scotland? you can’t go wrong with this epic itinerary that includes some of the most popular sites in each of these these three fabulous European countries!

The original plan: visit the Republic of Ireland. As I puzzled over maps I noted that at their nearest points Scotland and Ireland are a mere 12 miles apart! Only a thin strip of the Irish sea separates them, a short Ferry ride will take you from Scotland to Northern Ireland. So Scotland was added!

While filling out the Ireland and Scotland vacation itinerary I realized that York was an easy day trip from Edinburgh. That is how a two week trip to Ireland morphed into an England Scotland Ireland trip !

other content you may be interested in:

• Ireland Landmarks: 43 popular famous landmarks in Ireland (photos!)

Table of Contents

Two week trip to ireland and scotland itinerary, plus 1 day in england.

We fit a lot into just two full weeks (14 full days! Plus 2 travel days) ! This is a fast paced trip but if you’re determined you’ll have enough time to fit it all in! Pace too fast ? No problem, just pick and choose your favorites.

Travel style for this trip

This itinerary includes some of the most popular destinations in each country. We will be skipping major cities in favor of smaller towns like Edinburgh (our largest city, population 550,000), York, Stirling and Kilkenny . Add the lovely countryside of the Scottish highlands and Ireland ! It makes a great “ first trip ” itinerary to Ireland, Scotland and England!

Here’s what you can look forward to in this itinerary

• 4 days in Great Britain ( Scotland and England) historic cities, stunning scenery, lovely lochs, And much more!
• 10 days in Ireland! Historic pubs with traditional Irish music and dance, ancient castles, ancient sites, more stunning scenery! And much more!

Trip to Ireland and Scotland route

This route was planned to be as efficient as possible, cutting down on travel times , while adding as many highlights as possible via plane, train and automobile rental.

Transportation

public transport

We’ll forgo a car while in Scotland and England , saving money on a rental. Additionally, this was our first time in the United Kingdom / Ireland. We had 4 full days to become accustomed to the new concept of cars driving on the left hand side before getting behind the wheel.

We’ll rent a car in Ireland to allow us to go at our own pace. My husband easily adapted to driving on the left hand side of the road. Have reservations about driving on the opposite side of the road? It may help to:

• rent an automatic.
• remember, the driver is always in the center of the road, right next to the center line

The Best places to search for the best rates are places like Booking.com . Then book with the rental car company directly.

Do yourself a big favor and add the GPS onto your car rental.

Important: Many credit card companies don’t cover rentals in the UK and Ireland. Check with your card issuer and ask for a letter confirming coverage. If they don’t cover you, you will need to pay the additional cost to purchase coverage through the rental car company .

where to stay

I’ve added some recommendations, want more? search for hotels and other accommodations at Booking.com.

where to eat

Find the best options for places to eat on Trip Advisor . Google best places to eat in “blank” and then navigate to the Trip Advisor results. A Good reason to use Trip Advisor: you’ll find listings of the best places to eat with photos and customer reviews!

First up: England and Scotland Itinerary

*** Day 1 *** The historic city of Edinburgh

night 1: Edinburgh travel time: just your flight in

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own.

Edinburgh Scotland

Our adventure starts at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) airport. Try to arrive early in the morning, so you have a full day to spend in Edinburgh.

getting money

We like to hit the ATM before we leave the airport . It’s easy and you’ll get the best rates . Be sure to refuse the dynamic currency conversion. (convert to your home currency no: you want LOCAL currency rates!) In Scotland and England you’ll be using the British pound (GBP)

airport to (Old town Edinburgh)

Either take a Taxi, tram , or bus to your accommodations.

On the first day we explore Edinburgh, a town oozing with Scottish history. The historic buildings in the old town are dark, Gothic and magnificent! Edinburgh is a medieval dream, You’ll feel as if you’ve been dropped down in the middle of one of the Harry Potter Films!

Know before you go: the tourist areas of Edinburgh are horribly crowded , unfortunate because it does detract from the splendor. The best time to explore is either early morning late evening when the day crowds have dissipated. Avoiding crowds can be as simple as getting out of the heavily touristed old town during midday into the lesser crowded areas of Edinburgh, even just a street or two off of the Royal mile! or take a daytrip.

where to stay in Medieval Edinburgh

Johnston Terrace is located right on the steps of the castle! This comfortable 2 bedroom 1 bathroom apartment has an emergency after hours contact.

Arriving before check in? Ask about luggage storage (quite common in Europe.)

Old Town Edinburgh

Our itinerary focuses on the old town, which contains some of the principal sights of central Edinburgh. Many of the popular sites are part of the Royal Mile, a street that runs between Edinburgh Castle on the hill and Holyrood Palace. (Many buildings along the Mile were added during Victorian times.)

sites along the Royal Mile:

• Greyfriars Kirkyard (graveyard) contains a series of beautifully ornate mausoleums, darkened with age. You’ll find names like McGonagall, Moodie, and Riddle. (Closed on Sunday) Just outside the kirkyard is the Greyfriars Bobby statue, Edinburgh’s beloved mascot.
• St. Giles Cathedral (Gothic 15th-19th century)
• 1688 Canongate Church – The Royal family worship here so don’t sit in the front pew, marked with the crown. If the doors are open, go on in! Sunday, late afternoon, is a good time to try and don’t don’t miss the beautiful kirkyard!
• The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official Scottish residence of King Charles III. Closed Tuesday, Wednesday, and when the King is in town. Check before you go. Also here: Holyrood Abbey, and the Scottish Parliament building where the Houses of parliament meet. Get tickets here.

more old town options:

• Harry Potter guided walking tour: daily 2 p.m. 2 hours, free! meet 154 High Street on the Royal Mile. Look for tour guides with YELLOW umbrellas!
• National Museum: this natural history museum has Roman, Viking, witch-burning etc. free!
• How about whisky tasting at the Scotch Whisky Experience ?
• Arthur’s Seat, climb this hill in Holyrood Park for outstanding views of Edinburgh.
• National Portrait Gallery (National Gallery)

This 5 star dining splurge isn’t optional! The Witchery By the Castle. Dark candle lit baroque decor, amazing atmosphere, amazing food. Make a reservation (well) in advance.

Scottish evening entertainment

Frankenstein’s fun gothic venue, eclectic menu and a monster show!

*** Day 2 *** Loch Ness / Scottish Highlands tour

night 2: Edinburgh travel time: 8 hours (total tour time, 12 hours)

Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness

We didn’t have a car but weren’t going to let that stop us from seeing the Scottish Highlands and hunting for the Loch ness monster! So we opted to take the 12 hour day trip with Rabbies .

You can’t go wrong with a Rabbies Highlands/ Loch Ness tour, book it now on Get Your Guide! A local guide takes small groups on day tours from Edinburgh. Tours are by van (16 seat coach) for a more personalized experience. Rabbie’s tours are highly recommended, a good time was had by all. Bonus: our Tour guide was great! funny guy!

Highlights of Rabbies Guided tour: Loch Lomond, Cairngorms National Park, Loch Ness, Ben Nevis (the highest mountain in Scotland) plus more! Price: starting at just £56.00 Per person for first class service!

Read more about the Loch Ness boat excursion here.

Rabbies has a LONG list of Scotland tours including: 3-day Isle of Skye (Isle of Sky) tour 1-day St Andrews & the Fishing Villages tour ( famous golf courses of St. Andrews the home of golf)

*** Day 3 *** Medieval York England

night 3: Edinburgh travel time: 5 hours

York England itinerary

Edinburgh to York, England day trip! York is a short 2.5 hour DIRECT train ride from Edinburgh . Take an early train from Waverley Station and spend the balance of the day in York! WE purchased advance LNER tickets , or purchase at the train station.

Get ready for a packed itinerary that equals a wonderful time! Can’t fit it all in? just pick your favorites!

• First stop, Betty’s Tea room for breakfast! They serve a delightful traditional English tea service….scones, deliciously delicate sandwiches, and delectable pastries!
• St. Mary’s Abbey Benedictine Ruins (11th century Gothic)
• The Yorkshire Museum: Roman, medieval, and natural history. (Due to time constraints you may need to choose between this and the Jorvik Experience)
• Walk the City walls : start at Bootham Bar, then descend the wall at Monk Bar (gatehouse.)
• The York Minster (the largest Gothic church north of the Alps! 1220 AD! This massive church holds 2,000 people (4,000 on holidays!)
• Holy Trinity Church, this 12th-14th century Gothic gem looks exactly that old! free entry
• The Shambles is a crooked little street in York, said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley, of the Harry Potter series. Today, it’s lined with Harry Potter themed shops.
• Jorvik Viking Center: 40,000 real viking artifacts that were dug out of peat bogs here.
• The Ouse river Walk is a 1 mile walk along the riverbanks of York and into the countryside.
• Boat Cruises: City Cruise York offers a short cruise on the River Ouse. Cruises leave from two points: Lendal Bridge or Kings Staith Landing. Every 30-45 minutes. Book here!

where to eat:

York Roast Company is a local restaurant that sells roast meat and toppings wrapped in Yorkshire pudding.

Take a late train back to Edinburgh

for more detailed information on York see my “ 22 Things to do in York ” article! (including Roman baths!)

*** Day 4 *** Edinburgh Castle, Underground Edinburgh, and Stirling Castle

night 4: Edinburgh travel time: 2 hours

Stirling Scotland and more Edinburgh

This is a lot to fit in a day. If you have to choose I would recommend the two castles.

Visit Edinburgh Castle

The castle on the hill was the birthplace of this bustling city 1,300 years ago . The Scottish Crown jewels are kept here . St. Margaret’s Chapel , found inside the castle complex, is Edinburgh’s oldest building (1130). Book a 1.5 hour guided tour with skip the line privileges here on Get Your Guide!

Edinburgh gets even more crowded in the month of August when the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place at the castle. (performances by members of the British armed forces including drills, marching, bagpipes and more)

The Real Mary King’s Close

Tour an underground labyrinth where Edinburgh’s poor lived until the 19th century. Advance tickets recommended, book here on Get Your Guide!

Half day trip from Edinburgh Stirling

After touring the Close we spent the rest of the day in historic Stirling, mini Edinburgh, less crowds (nice!)

Take the train from Waverly Station to Stirling , an easy 1 hour direct train . Purchase return tickets at the train station in Edinburgh.

To fit it all in: upon arrival grab a taxi to the Wallace Monument

• The William Wallace Monument is a very famous landmark in Scotland. The best way to get to the monument is to take the shuttle bus up the hill . You can walk but it’s a haul! Plus, once you get to the monument it is 246 stairs to the top of the tower ( panoramic views of the surrounding countryside! )

You may need to grab another taxi to make the last castle tour. Ask at the ticket counter to have a taxi pick you up and take you to the castle.

• Stirling Castle is a stately 1,000 year old castle perched upon a volcanic crag . Mary Queen of Scots was crowned here in 1543 . We arrived late in the day and joined a small group for the last tours of the day. After the Tour director finished the tour we were allowed to wander the castle unsupervised. We practically had the place to ourselves! a REALLY nice break from the crowds in Edinburgh.

Dinner: The Portcullis, built in 1787, at the base of the castle. Delicious steak and fries!

Get more details in my Stirling Castle article.

*** Day 5 *** Travel day Scotland to Ireland, Kilkenny Ireland

night 5: Kilkenny travel time: 1 hour non stop flight EDI to DUB, PLUS 1.5 hour direct train Dublin to Kilkenny

arrival in Ireland

with its Rich history, spectacular scenery and Beautiful places galore!

fly from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Dublin airport (DUB)

Check the best ticket prices at Google Flights

Hit the ATM before you leave Dublin Airport . You’ll need Euros this time.

getting from DUB to the train station

You can take a taxi to Dublin Heuston Station or for a cheaper option you can take the Airlink bus 747 . It will take about an hour. Cost: around 6 euros.

Train from Dublin Heuston Station to Kilkenny

1.5 hour direct train (we purchased advance flex tickets: ride any train on that day) from Irish Rail.

Kilkenny Ireland

Our Ireland itinerary starts in the great little town of Kilkenny, so full of Irish history, where we’ll spend the next couple of days. You’ll likely arrive sometime mid day.

Here’ what you can do with the remainder of the day:

• Canal Walk -there’s a lovely walking trail along the River Nore. You can access it from just behind Kilkenny Castle.
• Talbot’s Tower, 755 year-old tower, remnants of the town wall.
• Kyteler’s Inn Est. in 1324 by the first convicted witch in Ireland.
• Tynan’s Bridge House Bar , established 1703.
• The Hole in the Wall Tavern Est 1592
• live music? Experience traditional Irish music, song, and dance! What a treat!
• Kilkenny Train Tours: leave from Kilkenny Castle throughout the day. I found it difficult to see anything but it was nice to sit back and relax.

Hibernian Inn

is a cute little Boutique hotel across from the Hibernian House is just around the corner from the castle. (currently not booking but the Hibernian Hotel is just next door.

*** Day 6 *** Historic Kilkenny

night 6: Kilkenny travel time : none…enjoy it!

Day 2 in Kilkenny!

• First thing we took a guided walk from Amanda Pitcairn : Guided tours are a Great way to get to know a new town. On the 1.5 hour city tour: witchcraft, history, 3 historic churches/ cathedrals, and Kilkenny’s fun nooks and crannies!
• St. Canice’s Cathedral, Gothic 13th century cathedral (my favorite of the three, just wow!!!) Don’t miss the 1,500 year old ordination chair!
• Black Abbey is another 13th century Gothic. (be respectful of parishners at worship)
• Kilkenny Castle This castle originated as a wooden fort built by Strongbow in 1172. If you happen to be here on a Thursday don’t miss the market in front of the castle.
• Tea at Langton’s: More tea service? My vote goes to the English on this one but it wasn’t bad!
• Early evening and into the night are a good time for a stroll in Kilkenny. Many of the sites are warmly and romantically lit.
• More lively music in the pubs !

*** Day 7 *** Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castles

night 7: near Cork or Cobh ( Ballintotis Castle?) travel time: approximately 2 hours drive time

Castles of Ireland

It’s time to pick up the rental car, because this trip is now officially a road trip ! We rented through Enterprise and arranged for them to pick us up at the hotel (yay! thank you Enterprise!)

Drive to the Rock of Cashel

The rock of cashel.

was the seat of the ancient Kings of Munster from 300-1100 A.D. Ireland’s famed High King, Brian Boru, who is often credited with banishing viking invaders from Ireland for the last time, once ruled here. Today the hill is topped with a 12th-century Romanesque chapel and a 13th-century Gothic cathedral. Don’t miss the Hore Abbey medieval monastery ruins just down the hill.

additional information: find out everything you need to know about visiting the Rock of Cashel Castle !

Cahir Castle

one of Ireland’s largest and best preserved castles. It has a great feel and was a favorite of our group.

Drive to your accommodations for the night

Need laundry service? Now’s your chance! Once we got into Midleton we dropped off our laundry, pick up your clean laundry tomorrow! Awesome!

Ballintotis Castle

Where to stay? Ballintotis Castle is a super rustic castle that you can rent and have the entire castle to yourself CHEAP (at last check they were not renting the castle to overnight guests. I’ll keep you updated here.)

*** Day 8 *** Relax in your own castle OR spend the day in Cobh

night 8: near Cork or Cobh (Ballintotis Castle?) travel time: minimal drive time

Dealers Choice

I took a break from my tour manager duties and spent a glorious day playing Queen of this castle. I relaxed, read, caught up on my sleep, and took a bath. My idea of a great time!

My husband and his sister headed to Cobh (pronounced Cove) for some sight seeing and a round of golf. See the Ballintotis article for more things to do in the area .

dinner options

The Hunted Hog in Castlemartyr (2.5 miles from the castle) traditional Irish Pub food in Castlemartyr.

Wait, what about blarney castle and the famous blarney stone? Was not in fact on my itinerary but you are close! It’s just north of Cork about 10 km. Consider hitting it your way from Cahir to Cobh, or from Cobh to Dingle.

*** Day 9 *** Dingle Ireland

night 9: Dingle travel time: 2.5-3 hours drive time

Dingle Ireland

Drive to dingle. 2.5-3.5 hour drive.

Dingle is a lively colorful harbor town. Local pubs come alive evenings with traditional Irish music (and step dancing.) Gaelic is still commonly spoken here.

Sea Fishing Excursions, we took a deep sea fishing tour on a shared boat from the harbor with Dingle Boat Tours . Then took our catch to John Moriarity’s Pub where they prepared for us.

If fishing isn’t your thing you can take in the beautiful scenery of Dingle Bay on a tour boat, then spend the rest of the day exploring.

Dingle Harbour Lodge , it sits right on the harbor and is within walking distance of all of the fun stuff!

book it now on booking.com!

*** Day 10 *** Dingle Peninsula Drive ( Slea Head Drive ) for stunning views

night 10: Killorglin travel time: less than 2 hours

Dingle Peninsula drive/Slea head Drive

The Dingle Peninsula / Slea Head drive is a 30-mile loop with stunning scenery and ancient structures. We’ll drive it in the recommended CLOCKWISE DIRECTION:

• Celtic and Prehistoric Museum: ancient artifacts, bones and fossils, some of them millions of years old! You may need to make an appointment, contact information here.
• Dunbeg Fort from Ireland’s Iron Age (500 b.c.-500 a.d.)
• Irish Famine Cottages (hold a baby lamb at the Sheep farm!)
• Dun Chain Pier
• Gallarus Oratory, 11th or 12th century chapel and Kilmalkedar Church , 12th century chapel ruins.

Get all the details here! Slea Head Drive, Dingle Peninsula

drive to Killorglin

You can now either drive directly to Killorglin OR take the scenic drive / panoramic tour instead! Conor Pass is a scenic panoramic drive right here on the peninsula.

Tip: stop for picnic supplies for your Skellig Excursion tomorrow. There’s a Eurostar Grocery just a short walk from Kingston’s.

Home base for 4 nights:

We chose to base ourselves in Killorglin because it was central to our activities.

Kingston’s Bar and Townhouse , Killorglin. This beautiful spotless property is a great home base if you plan to see a lot of the sights in county Kerry. On site beautiful old world themed pub, sauna, and game room. book it here on Booking.com!

unique dining opportunity in Killorglin

10 Bridge street is located in a gorgeous old stone church . Open mid March, weekends only and 5 days per week from June – September. Location: Old Church of Ireland, Bridge St, Killorglin

*** Day 11 *** Skellig Michael Landing Tour / Ring of Kerry

night 11 : Killorglin travel time: 2.5 hours drive time

Skellig Experience and the Ring of Kerry

Drive to portmagee marina: 1 hour drive from killorglin., skellig michael.

is an island in the Atlantic Ocean off of the coast of Ireland. A monk colony lived here over 1,000 years ago . Book a landing tour for this Unesco World Heritage Site . Tours allow you 2.5 hours to explore the island. Climb to the 618 treacherous steps to the top for a 20-minute Guided walk among the “beehives.” Don’t miss the tiny puffins on the island!

IMPORTANT: book as soon as you have your travel dates. It is a ridiculously popular spot (thanks in part to it being a Star Wars filming location) The season is short and permits are limited, it books up fast.

This activity is weather dependent (the Wild Atlantic!) so I worked the next TWO days in as alternate Skellig Days.

Get full details (including which tour company we used) in my Skellig Michael article.

Ring of Kerry

Next stop the scenic Ring of Kerry drive located on the (Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry.)

Leave Portmagee after Skellig and head north to Valentia Island.

Sights along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive:

• Tetrapod Trackway fossilized footprints of a prehistoric animal! (350 and 370 million years old!)
• The Kerry Cliffs . While not as impressive as the Cliffs of Moher you won’t want to miss the Kerry Cliffs. Simply mesmerizing! The intense blue water is indescribable!
• Coom Wedge Tomb -2300 BC?
• Ballinskellig Castle Ruins/Abbey (12th-15th century)
• the photogenic coastal stretch (between Waterville and Caherdaniel.)
• Eightercua Stone Row (1,600 BC)
• Loher Stone Fort (9th Century)
• Derrynane Beach – Caherdaniel Stone Fort (600 AD)
• Staigue Iron Age Ring Fort (400 and 300 AD)

drive back to Killorglin

The Oratory Pizza and Wine Bar , Cahersiveen. Why? it’s on your way back to Killorglin, located in an old stone church, and maye I was just hungry but I had some of the best pizza I’ve ever had!

Day 12: Black Valley and a massage!

night 12: Killorglin travel time: 2 hours 45 minutes drive time

Black Valley and Free time

(Alternate Skellig day #1)

The Black Valley is the perfect place to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Ireland . Get details on how to see the Black Valley here.

After spending the day on one of the best local hikes get some relief from your sore tired muscles with a massage. I am a huge fan of Thai massage. Zen Healing is just around the corner from Kingston’s!

*** Day 13 *** The Gap of Dunloe Ireland Tour

night 13 : Killorglin travel time: 1 hour drive time

(Alternate Skellig day #2)

Gap of Dunloe

The Gap of Dunloe is a scenic mountain pass through Killarney National Park. Take a horse drawn jaunting car ride through the Gap with Killarney Januntings Cars AND a boat ride across the lakes, round trip from Ross castle!

Spend the remainder of the day exploring the national park: 15th century Ross Island/Ross Castle, Innisfallen Island and 7th century monastery, waterfalls and more!

The Tomies Wood hike that includes the O’Sullivan’s Cascade waterfall, I hear it’s better than Torc Waterfall!

*** Day 14 *** Travel Back to Dublin

night 14: Dublin travel time: 1 hour drive time, PLUS 3 hour train ride, Killarney to Dublin

Sadly, all good things must come to an end. We chose not to spend any time in Dublin, Ireland’s capital city as well as its largest city, but if you choose to some popular options are:: Trinity college (with the Book of Kells) Dublin Castle, Phoenix Park,, St. Patrick’s cathedral.

Drop off the rental car

in Killarney and then make your way to the Killarney train station.

Note: Rental car companies often charge extra to drop off at a different location. IF prices are exorbitant you may have to drive the 3 hours back to Kilkenny to drop off the car there .

Train Kllarney to Dublin Heuston Station

3 hours. Consider semi-flex ticket (train before or after). Change trains in Mallow.

Dublin Heuston Station to The Castle Hotel

Red Line Bus OR take a taxi

Where to stay

Castle Hotel has a restaurant in a 19th century wine vault. Live music AND it’s on Airlink 747 route to airport. Book it now on Booking.com!

The pace of the trip was catching up with me so I spent the reminder of the day reading. There is also a massage place close. Nick Angie Guinness Storehouse tour.

at the Castle Hotel, neat looking dining room not far from your bed! Looking for something different?

when in Rome

Things to try “when in scotland”.

• Haggis , minced organ meat with herbs and spices. They served it with neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes.)
• Scotch Eggs , a boiled egg encased in sausage, breaded and deep fried, try them at The Ensign Ewart in Edinburgh (dates back to 1680.)

Things to try “when in Ireland”

• Irish Breakfast , similar to a full English breakfast but the black and white putting isn’t optional! try it!

Two weeks is how much time we had to dedicate to this Ireland and Scotland vacation, (14 days in Ireland and Scotland! plus a bonus day in England!) and that is the absolute minimum! Otherwise, you’ll have to skip some of this fun stuff!

Want to stay in a castle?

Be sure to check out my article on affordable castles to stay at in Ireland !

trip cost and money saving tips

How much does a trip to Ireland and Scotland cost? This 2 week trip to Ireland and Scotland itinerary ” entire trip cost per person ” is based on double occupancy: (as of publication travel prices are quite high now. Let’s hope they go back down!)

Add your airfare ( we fly free, learn here here! ) one-way flight to Edinburgh, Edinburgh to Dublin (prices as low as $87, bag included) Dublin home. Sign up for “Going” (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) to get FREE flight deals sent to your inbox! see the world for less!

Protect yourself with trip insurance

Protect your investment with “cancel for any reason” trip insurance . Did you know that pandemics, as well as a LONG list of other situations aren’t covered by most trip insurance policies (including those airlines offer when purchasing tickets)? MOST of these scenarios are covered when you purchase a “cancel for any reason” policy! Shop for one at Travel Insurance.com! but don’t delay, most CFAR policies need to be purchased within 14-21 days of your initial trip payment, depending on the policy.

Travel Resources

Check out my Travel Resources page to learn how to get the best deals on airfare, rental cars, accommodations, language learning resources and more!

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Scotland vs. Ireland: Which should you visit?

Home » Blog » Europe » Scotland vs. Ireland: Which should you visit?

If you’re debating whether you should visit Scotland vs. Ireland, this guide can help you decide which is the best choice for your travel style and preferences.

We’ve taken road trips in both Scotland and Ireland , and I can tell you (from personal experience!) that both countries are absolutely worth exploring .

In fact, I’d say they both are on our list of best road trips in the world. 

How do they compare, you ask?

If I’m totally honest, I feel like Scotland and Ireland are very similar.

During our recent Ireland road trip , we couldn’t stop comparing it to our road trip through Scotland . Around every turn, we’d say, “That view reminds me of Scotland,” or “This pub brings me back to Scotland!”

There are definitely differences between Scotland and Ireland too, but the good news is that if you like one, you’re nearly guaranteed to like the other!

Wondering where to travel: Scotland or Ireland?

If you’re looking for a short and direct answer, here it is: No matter which you choose, you will have an incredible time.

However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth comparison between Ireland and Scotland , we can do that, too… 

In this article, we’ll discuss the similarities Scotland and Ireland have, as well as what makes them different. 

We’re going over everything from the food to the weather to the landscapes (as well as which country we’d name the winner for each category) so that you can determine where you’d prefer to travel.

Spoiler Alert: If you want to just jump straight to the point and see our personal pick between Ireland vs. Scotland , click here !

Scotland or Ireland: Where should you travel?

• Similarities & Differences
• Hiking  
• Things to Do
• Small Towns
• History & Culture
• Accommodations
• Which is more family-friendly?
• How much time do you need in each?
• Our opinion: Ireland or Scotland

Similarities & differences between Scotland and Ireland

Before we dive into personal opinions, let’s go over the facts and compare the similarities and differences between Ireland and Scotland.

• Scotland: pound sterling (£)
• Ireland: euro (€)

Fun fact: If you travel to the north of Ireland, you will be using pounds instead of euros.

Scotland and Ireland are relatively similar in size.

Scotland is slightly bigger than the Republic of Ireland. However, if you compare the island of Ireland (including Northern Ireland), it is roughly 2,500 square miles larger than Scotland.

• Scotland is 30,090 square miles (77,933 km 2 ) 
• Republic of Ireland is 27,133 square miles (70,273 km 2 ) 

Even the two countries’ populations are similar. The Republic of Ireland and Scotland have roughly the same population. 

• Scotland: 5.5 million people
• Ireland: 5.1 million people (7 million on the entire island, including Northern Ireland)

When you factor in the size of each country, you’ll find that Ireland is more densely populated .

Also, the major cities in Ireland are bigger.

Ireland’s largest city (Dublin) has twice the population of Scotland’s largest city (Glasgow).

• Glasgow: 600,000 people
• Dublin: 1.2 million people

English is the most widely-spoken language in both Ireland and Scotland. However, each country also has pride for their native language.

The native language of both Scotland and Ireland is a form of Gaelic. While they have similar origins, each language is distinctly different. 

• Scotland: Scottish Gaelic
• Ireland: Irish Gaelic

In our experience, we found that Ireland has much more Gaelic across the country (on signs and menus) than we saw in Scotland.

• Scotland: majority Church of Scotland
• mix of Protestant and Catholic in the north of Ireland

Weather in Scotland vs. Ireland

Both Ireland and Scotland are known for drizzly weather and gray, gloomy skies. 

It’s a vibe – lean into it , pack correctly, and you’ll be fine!

This is anecdotal, but we had great weather in both Scotland and Ireland. In fact, when we traveled to Ireland for 2 weeks in early June, we only had (slight) rain one day. ONE DAY. We even had to buy new clothes while we were there because what we had packed was too warm.

The weather between the two countries is relatively similar, and you could get really lucky or really unlucky with either choice. 

If you’re comparing the countries as a whole, Ireland tends to have milder weather and slightly less rainfall than Scotland. 

Scotland weather stats

• Average annual rainfall: 59 inches (1,500 mm)
• Summer temperatures: 52º-66º F (11°-19°C)
• Winter temperatures: 34º-45º F (1°-7°C)

Learn more: Best time to visit Scotland

Ireland weather stats

• Average annual rainfall: 48 inches (1,230 mm)
• Summer temperatures: 60°-70°F (15°-20°C)
• Winter temperatures: 40°-46°F (5°-8°C)

Learn more: Best time to visit Ireland

Compare those rainfall amounts to our hometown of Bend, Oregon , which averages just 12 inches annually, and it is easy to see why both countries are known for being so rainy!

Our winner: Ireland

We wouldn’t recommend choosing Ireland over Scotland based just on weather because you can get lucky or unlucky anywhere. However, if you’re purely looking at the stats, Ireland is slightly more mild and has a bit less annual rainfall.

Food in Scotland vs. Ireland 

This is a toughie… both Scotland and Ireland are known for cuisines that are, well, heavy on the meat and potatoes.

While I love a good comfort food meal every now and again, it’s certainly not on the list of my favorite cuisines (like Thai food or Mexican food ) .

Scottish foods to try

• Haggis (there are also vegan options)
• Cullen skink (fish chowder)
• Fun fact: Chicken tikka masala is said to have originated in Glasgow, and this dish can be found on pub menus even in the countryside

Irish foods to try

• Botxty (like a potato pancake meets a savory crepe)
• Irish whiskey

In recent years, the foodie worlds of both Scotland and Ireland have been growing and elevating. And what were once thought of as – dare I say – bland cuisines have gotten facelifts in pretty major ways.

In the larger cities, you’ll find world-class dining where chefs are taking traditional foods to the next level while still honoring their roots. And in seaside towns of both Scotland and Ireland, don’t miss the seafood, it is incredible.

We had fantastic food experiences in both Ireland and Scotland and we think you will, too.

Good to know: We found vegetarian and vegan options readily available in both countries.

Our favorite food experiences in Scotland

• Taking a food tour in Glasgow
• Fresh langoustines at The Seafood Shack in Ullapool
• Going on a boutique distillery tour
• Afternoon tea in Edinburgh

Love food? Check out our guide to Scottish cuisine , which is packed with tons of tips!

Our favorite food experiences in Ireland 

• Fresh seafood with a lake view at The Misunderstood Heron food truck
• Fresh oysters at Morans Oyster Shack
• Lunch at The Bulman Bar & Restaurant (just outside of Kinsale) was one of our most memorable meals in Ireland
• We splurged on a nice dinner at the super cozy Ard Bia in Galway and loved every bite!

While I think it partially comes down to the restaurants we chose, we personally would pick Ireland as the winner. Almost every one of our meals in Ireland was excellent. ( Psst! I did TONS of research to choose the best restaurants, which I share in our perfect Ireland itinerary !)

Budget for Scotland vs. Ireland 

Overall, we didn’t find the prices to be too drastically different in Ireland vs. Scotland.

If I had to say which is more budget-friendly, I’d probably choose Scotland, but not by much . I think you could travel to either country with the exact same amount of money and be just fine. 

If you’re on a tight budget, then we’d recommend you limit your time in the big cities, as Dublin and Edinburgh are by far the most expensive places in each respective country.

Good to know: The Republic of Ireland uses the euro while Scotland uses the pound. If you’re traveling from the USA, the euro has a slightly better exchange rate.

Our winner: Scotland

While we found Scotland to be a tad more affordable, I wouldn’t solely make your decision based on budget, because like I said, the costs aren’t all that different.

Landscapes in Scotland vs. Ireland

Rushing waterfalls, rugged cliffs that drop into the sea, white sand beaches with turquoise waters, deep blue lakes flanked by towering mountains, thick forests where the fog clings to the treetops…

Do you think I’m describing Ireland or Scotland?

Whichever one you answered with is correct because you can truly find all these landscapes in both places.

Overall, the types of landscapes are somewhat similar. 

But if you pushed me to further contrast the two, I’d tell you that Scotland is more rugged . More remote. The mountains are higher, the coastlines more removed.

On the other hand, Ireland is greener and has some of the most spectacular seaside cliffs we’ve ever seen. So it depends on your preferences, really.

Our winner: Scotland 

Scotland has more varied and dramatic landscapes. Think higher mountains and more remote coastlines.

Hiking in Scotland vs. Ireland

If you love hiking as much as we do, you’ll want to be sure to pack your boots for your trip regardless of whether you choose Ireland or Scotland. 

While Scotland has higher peaks, both countries have a slew of incredible adventures to be had. From coastal trails to long-distance routes to steep-but-rewarding climbs, you’ll find your hiking bliss in both Ireland and Scotland.

Our favorite hikes in Ireland:

• Diamond Hill
• Keash Caves
• Slieve League
• Secret Waterfall
• Giant’s Causeway
• Benwee Head (on our bucket list!)
• Slieve Doan (on our bucket list!)

Our favorite hikes in Scotland:

• Finnich Glenn
• Old Man of Storr
• Happy Valley
• Fairy Glenn
• Steall Waterfall

Our winner: Tie!

We think both countries have amazing hiking opportunities. Personally, the hikes we did in Scotland were a bit more epic, but that was based mostly on our route and the amount of time we had. We think Ireland has just as many great hiking trails.

Castles in Scotland vs. Ireland

If you love castles, then you’ll be pleased to know that you’ll find plenty in both countries. Truly, you might even get a little sick of them because there are so many.

After some digging, I found that there is no exact count of the number of castles in each country. However, it is estimated that Ireland is home to more than 30,000 castles (and ruins), while Scotland has more than 3,000. 

Psst! Check out our list of the best castles in Scotland !

That means there are quite a lot more castles in Ireland than Scotland . That actually surprised me because I personally felt like I saw more in Scotland, but the numbers don’t lie!

Our winner: Ireland 

There are more castles in Ireland; but if I’m honest, you’ll see more than enough in either country.

Fun things to do in Scotland vs. Ireland

Which has more to do: Ireland or Scotland?

Oh, gosh, I don’t think I can answer that question fully. I think both have endless adventures to be had and many ways to get off the beaten track.

We had truly incredible and action-packed trips to both Ireland and Scotland. And we still have huge bucket lists for each country because we didn’t get to it all. (You never can!)

Instead of choosing a winner for this category, I’ll leave you with some of our favorite activities in both Ireland and Scotland:

Best things to do in Scotland

• Trek into Cairngorms National Park to see reindeer.
• Road trip around the Isle of Skye.
• Have afternoon tea in Edinburgh.
• Watch the sunset from the beach on the northeast shore of Loch Ness.
• Go hiking in Glencoe.
• Keep reading our whole list of amazing things to do in Scotland!

Best things to do in Ireland

• Road trip around the Dingle Peninsula on Slea Head Drive.
• Marvel at the cliffs around Ireland (Cliffs of Moher, Slieve League, Kerry Cliffs, and more!)
• Enjoy live music in an Irish pub.
• Take a black taxi tour in Belfast.
• Watch a sheepdog demonstration.
• Keep reading our entire list of fun things to do in Ireland!

Like I said, both countries will keep you plenty busy with all sorts of fun things to do!

Cities in Scotland vs. Ireland

I’ll get straight to the point: We’re not big city people.

When we travel, cities aren’t our main focus. We almost always love the smaller towns and countryside much more than the big cities.

However, we couldn’t very well go to Scotland without seeing Edinburgh, now could we? And same with Dublin in Ireland.

In both Scotland and Ireland, our favorite places were in nature. That said, we really were blown away by the big cities in Scotland. I could live in Edinburgh!

While we didn’t dislike the cities in Ireland per se, we liked the cities in Scotland more. 

Our favorite cities in Scotland:

Read more: We have a whole list of the best places to visit in Scotland .

Our favorite cities in Ireland:

• Dublin 

Read more: We have a whole list of the best places to visit in Ireland .

We liked the cities in Scotland more than those in Ireland. While we didn’t dislike Dublin or Belfast, we really loved Edinburgh and Glasgow (each for different reasons).

Smaller towns in Scotland vs. Ireland

Not to confuse you, but if we change the parameters to small towns, our winner is now Ireland. Again, not by much, but we found so many charming small towns in Ireland that we adored.

Our favorite small towns in Scotland:

Our favorite small towns in Ireland:

There’s just something about the villages in Ireland that beg you to stay!

Culture & History in Ireland vs. Scotland

Both Ireland and Scotland have a shared Gaelic culture, and you can find oodles of historic places and cultural attractions in each.

It’s hard to compare because each country has a vivid and complex history which you can learn about on your trip. 

We personally felt like the pub culture is stronger in Ireland than in Scotland. It’s not by a ton, but noticeably more, which we expected. Irish pub culture and folk music is legendary, after all.

Additionally, in Ireland we felt like there was more Gaelic pride visible to outsiders, as it is on all signs along with English in the Republic of Ireland (we didn’t notice it as much on signs in Northern Ireland).

With more visible Gaelic pride and a stronger pub culture (as well as nightlife, if that’s what you’re into), you can just feel the culture in Ireland.

Driving in Ireland vs. Scotland

We rented motorhomes in both Ireland and Scotland , so we have quite a bit of personal driving experience to speak from. 

Left-hand side of the road 

In both countries, you drive on the left side of the road , so if you’re used to driving on the right (like we are), it can be a bit different at the start.

In both countries, the roads are quite well-marked in towns and cities. Ireland, especially, had a lot of “stay left” indicators.

After a little practice and some chanting (“left side, left side!”), you shouldn’t have too much of a problem remembering which side to stay on. 

Narrow roads

Both Ireland and Scotland have very narrow roads through the rural areas. You’ll quickly get used to single lane roads where you will pull out to let oncoming traffic pass.  

When passing small villages, your vehicle may brush the hedges. For this reason, we’d recommend choosing the smallest vehicle that will work for you in both Ireland and Scotland. 

Between the two, Ireland’s roads seemed narrower.

Driving in cities

Our least favorite part of driving in both Ireland and Scotland was in the major cities. 

Part of this is due to the fact that we were driving large vehicles in each, so maneuvering them on busy city streets in traffic wasn’t fun. 

Plus, parking in big cities can be difficult with a motorhome or campervan, as you can’t enter parking garages due to height restrictions.

With more stretches of open road, Scotland felt slightly easier for driving (especially in a big vehicle).

Accommodations in Scotland vs. Ireland

Both Ireland and Scotland have plenty of accommodation options, from traditional hotels and inns to unique Airbnbs and cozy glamping stays (we have glamping guides for both Scotland and Ireland !). We had memorable stays in both countries.

Where you stay is going to depend a lot on whether you’ve chosen to rent a car or a campervan (more on that in a sec!). 

With the exception of Edinburgh, Scotland’s cities tend to have slightly cheaper accommodations than Ireland’s cities. Both countries have budget, mid-range, and luxury options.

Psst! Make sure you read the secrets to how we never book a bad Airbnb – we’ve basically got it down to a science!

We’ll give this one to Scotland for having slightly better prices, but in terms of quality, uniqueness, and variety, it would be a tie.

Camping in Scotland vs. Ireland

As we mentioned above, we did campervan trips in both Ireland and Scotland, and had incredible experiences in both countries.

We’d highly recommend this as a way to experience both Ireland and Scotland, and we’ve got lots of tips for you if this is how you choose to travel:

• Renting a campervan in Scotland
• Renting a campervan in Ireland

Overall, the campgrounds are very similar in Ireland and Scotland. Sites are not exactly private or wooded like you’d find in much of North America. Instead, you’ll find parking spots and hookups with a range of facilities.

We found the quality of campgrounds was pretty similar in both Ireland and Scotland. We had a couple of really nice campgrounds as well as a few, let’s just say, rustic campgrounds. Prices were also pretty much the same.

Psst! We have detailed camping guides for both Scotland and Ireland !

On a similar note, it is legal to wild camp in both Ireland and Scotland (aka camp in a non-designated campground). If you’re in a self-contained vehicle and looking for a little adventure, then this can be a great option. We did a bit of wild camping in both places and had great experiences. 

Insider Tip: Park4Night is the best app for finding legal places to wild camp in both countries.

Again, this one is too close to call. Both Scotland and Ireland offer great opportunities for camping, as well as for getting a taste of #vanlife .

Crowds in Scotland vs. Ireland

Which is more popular with international tourists: Scotland or Ireland?

The data is understandably a little hard to read over the last few years, but in the last full year of truly “normal” travel (2019), Ireland saw more than three times as many tourists as Scotland .

• Ireland: 11.3 million international tourists (2019)
• Scotland: 3.5 million international tourists (2019)

While there are certainly crowded areas in both Ireland and Scotland, we definitely felt it more in Ireland . Well, except for the Queen’s funeral procession, which we just happened to be in Edinburgh for. But that was obviously a one-off thing.

We visited Ireland at the beginning of peak tourist season, but even still, it didn’t feel nearly as crowded as some European countries we’ve traveled to in the summer (I’m talking about you, Croatia !). 

The Cliffs of Moher were definitely the most crowded place we visited in Ireland. Most other places didn’t feel too terribly crowded, even on the weekends.

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, there are definitely places you can do that in both countries, but Scotland is less touristy overall.

Which is more family-friendly: Scotland vs. Ireland?

We found both Ireland and Scotland to be family-friendly. 

We traveled with our daughter to both places and found we didn’t have to sacrifice much.

Tips for traveling with a baby in Scotland or Ireland

We have tons of tips for traveling with a baby to make your family trips feel more doable! But here are a couple of tips specific to Scotland and Ireland:

• In both Ireland and Scotland, we found that some distilleries allow minors and some don’t, so this is an activity that you’d want to research in advance.
• We found many cocktail bars allow minors until a certain time (usually 6 or 7 p.m.). Pubs that serve food tend to allow children later, but it can be a good idea to reach out and ask if it’s a place you really want to go to.

Round-up of the winners: Scotland vs. Ireland

Are you keeping score? 

If you want to see how Ireland and Scotland compare on all categories in one place, here ya go:

• Weather: Ireland
• Food: Ireland
• Budget: Scotland
• Landscapes: Scotland
• Hiking: Tie
• Castles: Ireland
• Things to do: Tie
• Cities: Scotland
• Towns: Ireland
• History & Culture: Ireland
• Driving: Scotland 
• Accommodations: Scotland
• Camping: Tie
• Crowds: Scotland
• Family-friendly: Tie

Note: I hope you read the descriptions of each category so you can see why we chose the winner and what the differences are. In most categories, they are very close , and choosing a winner was hard.

How much time do you need in Scotland vs. Ireland?

We think 2 weeks is a perfect amount of time in either Ireland or Scotland. Even 10 days can still give you enough time to see a lot in each place. 

Our Personal Opinion: Scotland vs. Ireland

I’ll be honest and tell you we are terrible at choosing favorites. Of anything. 

Ask me my favorite foods and you’ll be in for a 5-minute conversation that you weren’t prepared for. I’ll ramble on about all my favorites and how it changes day to day because, well, I can’t just choose one. That would be crazy talk. 

Okay, now that you know me a little better ( hey, let’s be friends! ), you can understand why I can’t just give you a straight answer to the question, “Which is better: Ireland or Scotland?”

First of all, I don’t think you can ever definitively say one country is better than another. 

But I also know you came here to get some sort of answer, so I won’t just leave you hanging. If you’re wondering which country to travel to – Ireland or Scotland – here’s what I’d tell you:

• Ireland wins just slightly when it comes to culture and history.
• Scotland wins for landscapes that are more varied, and as Ben says, just a little more epic.

They are tied in many other categories and are both excellent choices, so honestly, don’t overthink it. (Easier said than done, I know.)

At any rate, I’ll leave you with this little gem… I hope it helps you make a decision (or at least makes you laugh!).

• Katie: “Hey Ben, let’s play a game.”
• Ben: *looks up from his computer, a little weirded out* “Okay…?”
• Katie: “Summer or winter?”
• Ben: “Summer.”
• Katie: “Hot dog or hamburger?”
• Ben: “Hamburger.” *kind of catching onto the game*
• Katie: “Apple or orange?”
• Ben: “Orange.”
• Katie: “Ireland or Scotland?”
• Ben: *long pause* “Umm… Scotland? Well, wait now…”
• Katie: “Ha. Got it! Can’t change it now!”
• Ben: *stares at me* “Why?”
• Katie: “Because those are the rules. And I need you to pick one because I can’t!”

Ben went on to defend his decision, “In terms of overall epicness, I think Scotland wins by 1%. The mountains are bigger… the coastal drives are… well, actually they’re equal. That’s why it’s only one percent. It’s the mountains!”

So there ya have it. And I kind of agree with him . If I had to choose, Scotland wins by 1%.

Please, no hate mail from our Irish friends. We love you and your country, and can’t wait to return!

Remember, both Ireland and Scoland are truly incredible places to explore and they make amazing road trips. Whichever you choose will be a fantastic choice, I can guarantee it.

And the good news is that if you love your trip, you know you’ll love the other country, so why not plan that as a next vacation!? 

We have quite literally all the resources you need for both trips, after all!

More resources for planning your trip to Ireland

We’re creating lots of resources for travel in Ireland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ireland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Ultimate 2-week Ireland Road Trip Itinerary
• Essential Ireland Packing List: FREE Download!
• Best Time to Visit Ireland: When to Go & When to Avoid
• Places to Visit in Ireland You Can’t Miss!
• Unforgettable Things to do in Ireland: Ultimate Bucket List

More resources for planning your trip to Scotland

We have lots of resources on travel in Scotland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Scotland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Ultimate 2-week Scotland Road Trip Itinerary
• Complete Scotland Packing List: FREE Download!
• Best Time to Visit Scotland: When to Go & When to Avoid
• Best Places to Visit in Scotland
• Unforgettable Things to do in Scotland

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We want to hear from you!

Okay, let’s hear it: what’s your opinion on this debate? Which would be your personal pick in Scotland vs. Ireland? Do you have any other questions for us? Leave your comments below and we’ll try our best to bet back to you!

Comments (2) on “ Scotland vs. Ireland: Which should you visit? ”

As a native of Dublin who lives in Glasgow I can tell you Glasgow is bigger than Dublin in size, Maybe you should research better you only need to use Wikipedia to see Glasgow is bigger your blog is very misleading.

Your article is interesting.

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Call landlines in 70+ destinations and mobile lines in 30+ destinations. Qualifying service required. Get full terms

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Save up to 40% on travel.

Visit T‑Mobile TRAVEL site for details.  See full terms

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• Up to 5GB of high-speed data in 215+ countries and destinations: &nbsp;Go5G Next, Go5G Next Military, Go5G Next 55, Go5G Next First Responders, Go5G Next Puerto Rico, Go5G Next DHH, Go5G Business Next, Go5G Military Business Next, Go5G First Responder Business Next, Go5G Puerto Rico Business Next, Go5G DHH Business Next, Go5G Plus™, Go5G Plus Military, Go5G Plus 55+, Go5G Plus First Responder, Go5G Plus DHH, Go5G Business Plus, Go5G Military Business Plus, Go5G First Responder Business Plus, Business Unlimited Ultimate+, Go5G Puerto Rico Business Plus, Go5G DHH Business Plus, Magenta ® MAX (including 55+, Military, and First Responder), Magenta ® Plus, Magenta ® MAX for Business, ONE Plus, Business Unlimited Ultimate, and Magenta ® Amplified.
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Everyone on a&nbsp;T-Mobile&nbsp;Essentials™ plan gets unlimited texting and calling at $0.25 per minute in 215+ countries and destinations.

• Up to 5GB of high-speed data in 215+ countries and destinations:  Go5G Next, Go5G Next Military, Go5G Next 55, Go5G Next First Responders, Go5G Next Puerto Rico, Go5G Next DHH, Go5G Business Next, Go5G Military Business Next, Go5G First Responder Business Next, Go5G Puerto Rico Business Next, Go5G DHH Business Next, Go5G Plus™, Go5G Plus Military, Go5G Plus 55+, Go5G Plus First Responder, Go5G Plus DHH, Go5G Business Plus, Go5G Military Business Plus, Go5G First Responder Business Plus, Business Unlimited Ultimate+, Go5G Puerto Rico Business Plus, Go5G DHH Business Plus, Magenta ® MAX (including 55+, Military, and First Responder), Magenta ® Plus, Magenta ® MAX for Business, ONE Plus, Business Unlimited Ultimate, and Magenta ® Amplified.
• Up to 5GB of high-speed data in 11 European countries:  Go5G™, Go5G Military, Go5G 55+, Go5G First Responder, Go5G DHH, Go5G Business, Go5G Military Business, Go5G First Responder Business, Go5G Puerto Rico Business, Go5G DHH Business, Magenta ® (including 55+, Military, and First Responder), Magenta ® Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Business Unlimited Select, Business Unlimited Advanced, and Magenta ® for Business. Simple Choice, Select Choice, and ONE plans are also included.
• Unlimited data speeds up to 256kbps:  Go5G™, Go5G Military, Go5G 55+, Go5G First Responder, Go5G DHH, Go5G Business, Go5G Military Business, Go5G First Responder Business, Go5G Puerto Rico Business, Go5G DHH Business, Go5G Plus™, Go5G Plus Military, Go5G Plus 55+, Go5G Plus First Responder, Go5G Plus DHH, Go5G Business Plus, Go5G Military Business Plus, Go5G First Responder Business Plus, Business Unlimited Ultimate+, Go5G Puerto Rico Business Plus, Go5G DHH Business Plus, Magenta ® , Magenta ® MAX, Magenta 55+, Magenta ® MAX 55+, Magenta ® First Responder, Magenta ® MAX First Responder, Magenta ® Military, Magenta ® MAX Military, Magenta ® Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Magenta ® MAX Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Magenta ® Amplified, Business Unlimited Select, Business Unlimited Advanced, Business Unlimited Ultimate, Magenta ® for Business, and Magenta ® MAX for Business rate plans. Simple Choice, Select Choice, and ONE plans are also included.

Everyone on a T-Mobile Essentials™ plan gets unlimited texting and calling at $0.25 per minute in 215+ countries and destinations.

Essentials™ plans get free texting in 215+ countries and destinations. If you need data, purchase International Passes to get high-speed data and unlimited calling for 1, 10, or 30 days.

If you’re a T-Mobile&nbsp;customer on qualifying plan, you can add an International Pass&nbsp;to get more high-speed data and unlimited voice calling in 215+ countries and destinations. \n

• 1-Day (512MB) International Pass: 512MB of high-speed data and unlimited calling, to be used up to 24 hours, for $5.
• 10 day (5GB) International Pass: 5GB of high-speed data and unlimited calling, to be used up to 10 days, for $35.
• 30 Day (15GB) International Pass: 15GB of high-speed data and unlimited calling, to be used up to 30 days, for $50.

Use your International Pass high-speed data however you’d like throughout the designated time. You’re not restricted to a certain amount of data per day.

If you’re a T-Mobile customer on qualifying plan, you can add an International Pass to get more high-speed data and unlimited voice calling in 215+ countries and destinations.

If you’re a primary account holder or authorized user, get an International Pass by using your&nbsp;T-Mobile&nbsp;app, logging on to My.T-Mobile.com, or following the link in the welcome text message you get when you enter an eligible country. Also, you can call our Team of Experts ® before your trip by dialing 611 on your mobile device.

If you’re a primary account holder or authorized user, get an International Pass by using your T-Mobile app, logging on to My.T-Mobile.com, or following the link in the welcome text message you get when you enter an eligible country. Also, you can call our Team of Experts ® before your trip by dialing 611 on your mobile device.

Click here &nbsp;to&nbsp;see if you’re traveling to one of the 215+ countries that gets free data and texting as part of your eligible plan.

Click here  to see if you’re traveling to one of the 215+ countries that gets free data and texting as part of your eligible plan.

You can check your cruise coverage&nbsp; here .&nbsp;We recommend that you turn off roaming while the ship is docked in a US port. Otherwise, your phone may pick up the ship's network, and you'll be charged cruise ship roaming charges for any usage. Once you're out to sea, you can turn roaming back on and pay for the data, text, and voice you use. \n

You can check your cruise coverage  here . We recommend that you turn off roaming while the ship is docked in a US port. Otherwise, your phone may pick up the ship's network, and you'll be charged cruise ship roaming charges for any usage. Once you're out to sea, you can turn roaming back on and pay for the data, text, and voice you use.

International roaming is a service allowing you to continue using your mobile phone or other mobile device to browse the internet, as well as send and receive: emails, voice calls, and text messages while visiting another country.

The price you pay for Wi-Fi calls to international numbers when you're outside the US, depends on your international roaming option. The good news is, with most of our international roaming add-ons, you'll pay less for these calls than you did before. All Wi-Fi calls to US numbers are free of charge.

Our most popular plans include international texting from home and while traveling. Click here &nbsp;to&nbsp;see if you’re traveling to one of the 215+ countries and destinations that gets data and texting as part of your eligible plan.

Our most popular plans include international texting from home and while traveling. Click here  to see if you’re traveling to one of the 215+ countries and destinations that gets data and texting as part of your eligible plan.

Great news, there's no extra charge for voicemail left in your inbox when you are roaming internationally. However, you will be charged for the following:

• If you answer an incoming call, you will be charged for the duration of the call.
• If your phone is on when you get an incoming call, even if you don't answer it and it goes to voicemail, the call is charged one minute for the call coming into the phone, based on the&nbsp; international roaming rate &nbsp;of the country you’re in. (There are no charges at all if your phone is turned off.)
• If you call your voicemail from your mobile phone to listen to messages while traveling internationally, that call will be charged at the international roaming rate of the country you're in. \n

Check out our international roaming checklist for everything you need to know before traveling abroad.

• If your phone is on when you get an incoming call, even if you don't answer it and it goes to voicemail, the call is charged one minute for the call coming into the phone, based on the  international roaming rate  of the country you’re in. (There are no charges at all if your phone is turned off.)
• If you call your voicemail from your mobile phone to listen to messages while traveling internationally, that call will be charged at the international roaming rate of the country you're in.

If you are a T-Mobile customer on qualifying plan, we have you covered with free data and texting in 215+ countries. There are some countries in which international roaming benefits do not apply, and international data passes cannot be used, you can check the list of those countries here .

A Virtual Private Network (VPN), is a way to help keep your connection secure, even while traveling. Be aware, that while on Wi-fi and connected to a VPN, your Internet usage goes through the VPN network you are connected to, wherever it's located. This means that while connected to a U.S. based VPN network, Wi-Fi calls made to non-US numbers, while outside the U.S., will be charged at international long-distance rates. See more details here . \n

Heads up! Many VPN services may connect automatically, or even be included in other services such as AdBlockers.&nbsp; \n

A Virtual Private Network (VPN), is a way to help keep your connection secure, even while traveling. Be aware, that while on Wi-fi and connected to a VPN, your Internet usage goes through the VPN network you are connected to, wherever it's located. This means that while connected to a U.S. based VPN network, Wi-Fi calls made to non-US numbers, while outside the U.S., will be charged at international long-distance rates. See more details here .

Heads up! Many VPN services may connect automatically, or even be included in other services such as AdBlockers. 

You can check your cruise coverage  here . We recommend that you turn off roaming while the ship is docked in a US port. Otherwise, your phone may pick up the ship's network, and you'll be charged cruise ship roaming charges for any usage. Once you're out to sea, you can turn roaming back on and pay for the data, text, and voice you use.

The price you pay for Wi-Fi calls to international numbers when you're outside the US, depends on your international roaming option. The good news is, with most of our international roaming add-ons, you'll pay less for these calls than you did before. All Wi-Fi calls to US numbers are free of charge.

Great news, there's no extra charge for voicemail left in your inbox when you are roaming internationally. However, you will be charged for the following:

• If your phone is on when you get an incoming call, even if you don't answer it and it goes to voicemail, the call is charged one minute for the call coming into the phone, based on the  international roaming rate  of the country you’re in. (There are no charges at all if your phone is turned off.)
• If you call your voicemail from your mobile phone to listen to messages while traveling internationally, that call will be charged at the international roaming rate of the country you're in.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN), is a way to help keep your connection secure, even while traveling. Be aware, that while on Wi-fi and connected to a VPN, your Internet usage goes through the VPN network you are connected to, wherever it's located. This means that while connected to a U.S. based VPN network, Wi-Fi calls made to non-US numbers, while outside the U.S., will be charged at international long-distance rates. See more details here .

Qualifying plan and capable device required. Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network before international use. Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Calls, including over Wi-Fi, are $.25/min. (no charge for Wi-Fi calls to US, Mexico, and Canada).&nbsp;Go5G plans: Up to 10GB high-speed data in select Central European countries; otherwise, standard speeds approximately 256 Kbps.&nbsp;Go5G Next and Go5G Plus: Up to 15GB high-speed data in 215+ countries and destinations, then unlimited at up to 256 Kbps. Additional charges apply in excluded destinations; see www.T&#8209;Mobile.com for included destinations (subject to change at T&#8209;Mobile's discretion). Qualifying postpaid plan and capable device required. Taxes additional; usage taxed in some countries. Voice and text features for direct communications between two people. Communications with premium-rate (e.g., 900, entertainment, high-rate helpline) numbers not included. Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network . Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Calls in 215+ countries and destinations, including over Wi-Fi, are $.25/min. (no charge for Wi-Fi calls to US, Mexico, and Canada). Up to 5GB high-speed data, then unlimited at up to 256 Kbps. Additional charges apply in excluded destinations; see www.T‑Mobile.com for included destinations (subject to change at T‑Mobile's discretion). Qualifying postpaid plan and capable device required. Taxes additional; usage taxed in some countries. Voice and text features for direct communications between two people. Communications with premium-rate (e.g., 900, entertainment, high-rate helpline) numbers not included.&nbsp; Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network. &nbsp;Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Calls, including over Wi-Fi, are $.25/min. (no charge for Wi-Fi calls to US, Mexico, and Canada). Up to 5GB high-speed data in select Central European countries; otherwise, standard speeds approximately 256 Kbps. Additional charges apply in excluded destinations; see www.T‑Mobile.com for included destinations (subject to change at T‑Mobile's discretion). Qualifying postpaid plan and capable device required. Taxes additional; usage taxed in some countries. Voice and text features for direct communications between two people. Communications with premium-rate (e.g., 900, entertainment, high-rate helpline) numbers not included.&nbsp; Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network. &nbsp;Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Qualifying plan required. Speeds and coverage vary based on device and location. Check www.T&#8209;Mobile.com for details. After allotment, data slows to plan speed (up to 128Kbps for plans without international data service). Activating a new pass ends remaining benefits of prior pass. Usage rounded up to the nearest MB each session.

Qualifying plan. On US-based airlines; Wi-Fi Calling functionality, valid e911 address, and one prior Wi-Fi call with current SIM card required for messaging. Where available on select US airlines.

International calling from U.S./Canada/Mexico to landlines in over 70 countries and destinations, plus unlimited calling to mobiles in over 30 countries. Qualifying service required. Calls must originate on our U.S. network or in Canada/Mexico; otherwise international roaming rates apply. Must be direct communication between 2 people; certain numbers not included. See T&#8209;Mobile.com for countries and rates; subject to change at our discretion.

Receive up to 40% off available accommodation bookings in the US including AK, HI, Puerto Rico, and US Virgin Islands and bookings for international travel. Discount is applied to price of room before taxes and any fees, including additional fees collected by the property at check-in. Reservations can only be made up to eleven months in advance of stay and are based on availability. All reservations are subject to the terms of the property and may not be able to be refunded, see individual location for details. Not valid for existing reservations, or with any other promotion, offer, discount, or coupon.

Receive up to 40% off pre-paid (\"Pay Now\") rental cars. Pay Now savings up to 30% discount is automatically applied to the Pay Now price if you select a Pay Now rental option. Up to 10% T&#8209;Mobile Exclusive discount automatically applied to select Pay Now vehicle rentals. Discounted pricing is displayed at the time of booking compared to equivalent Pay Local/Later prices. Reservations can only be made up to twelve months in advance. Pay Now rates and vehicles based on availability. All reservations are subject to the terms of the supplier and may not be able to be refunded; see individual supplier for details. Not valid on existing car rental reservations, or with any other promotion, offer, discount, or coupon.

Solar eclipse 2024: A traveller’s guide to the best places to be when the light goes out

O n 8 April 2024, a total solar eclipse will sweep across North America , providing an astronomical experience in many alluring locations.

Only a tiny proportion of humanity has ever witnessed a total eclipse – but tens of millions of people will be able to experience one as the “path of totality” sweeps from the Pacific to the Atlantic during the course of that magical Monday.

Here’s what you need to know about why you should see it and where to be.

What happens during a total solar eclipse?

The greatest show on earth comes courtesy of the lifeless moon. Normally the orbiting lunar lump merely provides earth with tides, moonlight and somewhere to aim space rockets. But roughly once a year the natural satellite aligns with the sun and, thanks to a geometric miracle, blots out the hub of the solar system to create a total eclipse.

“Even though the moon is 400 times smaller than the sun, it’s also about 400 times closer to earth than the sun is,” says Nasa. “This means that from earth, the moon and the sun appear to be roughly the same size in the sky.”

A narrow band marking the “path of totality” carves an arc of darkness across the surface of our planet. If you are somewhere on that line at the predicted time, and you have clear skies, then the experience will become a lifelong memory.

The closer you are to the centre of the path of totality, the longer the total eclipse will last. The astronomer Dr John Mason, who has guided dozens of eclipse trips (and will be doing so again in 2024), says: “People down in southwest Texas will get about four minutes 20 seconds, and that reduces to about three minutes 20 seconds up in the northeast. That’s a pretty good, long total eclipse.”

What’s so good about seeing an eclipse?

In the days leading up to the eclipse, locations in the path of totality acquire something of a carnival atmosphere as astronomical tourists converge in excited anticipation.

On the day, the cosmological performance begins with a warm-up lasting more than an hour, during which the moon steadily nibbles away at the surface of the sun.

Suddenly, you experience totality. The stars and planets appear in the middle of the day. The air chills.

To testify to the heavenly fit between our two most familiar heavenly bodies, faint diamonds known as Baily’s beads peek out from behind the moon. They actually comprise light from the sun slipping through lunar valleys.

A sight to behold – so long as you can see the moon blotting out the sun and appreciate the mathematical perfection of nature in our corner of the galaxy.

Eclipses are entirely predictable: we know the stripes that the next few dozen will paint upon the surface of the Earth. But the weather is not. Cloud cover, which blighted the Cornwall eclipse in 1999, downgrades a cosmological marvel to an eerie daytime gloom.

Almost as predictable as the eclipse is that traffic towards the path of totality will be heavy on the morning of 8 April 2024.

Accommodation rates are astronomical: even humdrum motel rooms in Niagara, central in the path of totality, are selling for C$600 (£350) for the night of 7-8 April 2024.

Where will the great American eclipse 2024 be visible?

The path of totality makes landfall from the Pacific at Mazatlan on Mexico’s Pacific Coast and sweeps northeastwards to reach the US-Mexican border at Piedras Negras.

In the US, three big Texan cities – San Antonio, Austin and Dallas – are on the extremes of the path of totality; many citizens are likely to drive to locations near the centre of the line.

Arkansas will be an attractive place to see the eclipse , with both Texarkana (on the border with Texas) and Little Rock within the path of totality.

In the Midwest, Indianapolis and Cleveland share the distinction of being fairly central in the path of totality. In upstate New York, Buffalo and nearby Niagara Falls (shared with Canada) could be extremely attractive – though prone in early April to cloudy skies.

In Canada , Montreal is just touched by the path of totality. The line then reverts to the US, passing across northern Maine – which promises to be a superb with clear skies. Then back to Canada’s Maritime Provinces, with New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland all in the line of darkness.

Will I be able to see a partial eclipse from the UK?

Yes. The eclipse ends with the sunset in the eastern Atlantic, about 600 miles off the coast of Cornwall , before it reaches the UK and Ireland . But on the island of Ireland and western parts of Great Britain, a partial eclipse may be visible with the sun low in the sky.

If skies are clear and you have an open view to the west, it will start at around 7.55pm in Cardiff, Liverpool , Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

BBC Weather presenter Simon King said: “With the partial solar eclipse occurring late in the day UK time, the Sun will be low to the horizon and will actually set before the spectacle is over.”

Can I combine an exciting city with a partial eclipse?

Boston, New York and Chicago are among the big cities that will see a sizeable chunk of the sun blotted out. Viewer as far apart as Alaska and the far north of Colombia and the Caribbean will, if skies are clear and they use the correct eye protection, see a partial eclipse. But there is nothing to compare with a total eclipse.

Eclipse guru Dr Mason sums up the difference between a 99 per cent partial eclipse and a total eclipse as far apart as “a peck on the cheek and a night of passion”.

“There will be people who will look at the map and say, ‘I live in Cincinnati or I live in Columbus [Ohio] and I’m just outside the zone of totality. But I’m going to get a 99 per cent-plus eclipse, so maybe I won’t bother to travel’.

“What they don’t realise is there an enormous difference between 99 per cent and 100 per cent. And there’s a range of phenomena that they won’t see if they put up with 99 per cent.”

You must use special eclipse safety glasses or viewers when viewing a partial eclipse or during the partial phases of a total solar eclipse.

Where should I be for the total experience?

There are no guarantees of clear skies: all you can do is play the odds based on the record of cloud cover for the corresponding date in previous years.

Dr Mason says the average expected cloud cover amounts increase from around 40-45 per cent on the Mexico/Texas border to over 80 per cent in Maine, New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

Three particularly tempting locations:

• Southern Texas , close to San Antonio or Austin. Besides clear skies being more likely than not, access is easy with direct flights to Austin. Importantly there is much to explore in the region before and after the eclipse, from Big Bend National Park on the Rio Grande to Space Center Houston – an excellent place to continue the cosmological theme.
• Northern Arkansas , a picturesque part of the state, with the added attraction of Memphis just a couple of hours away.
• Niagara Falls : the dramatic border between the US and Canada could be an eclipse washout due to clouds. But the natural surroundings are impeccable – and there is plenty of accommodation, which will avoid the risk of being caught in severe traffic congestion on the freeways from Toronto and locations in New York State.

However, the most recent forecasts for cloud cover suggest that the Midwest around Indianapolis and the northeastern state of Maine could have the best prospects.

When are the next total solar eclipses?

Summer 2026 – Wednesday 12 August, to be precise – should bring a spectacular eclipse visible in northern Spain at the height of the European holiday season. The path of totality begins in the Arctic and crosses Greenland and Iceland before arriving in the northern half of Spain. The stripe of darkness will traverse the great cities of Bilbao, Zaragoza and Valencia in mainland Spain before arriving in Palma de Mallorca.

The following summer (2 August 2027), the southern tip of mainland Spain is in the path of totality for an eclipse that will sweep across North Africa and the Arabian peninsula : going east from the Strait of Gibraltar, it will encompass Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, the northeasternmost corner of Sudan, Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

Just under 12 months later, on 22 July 2028, Outback Australia will be the place to be. A total eclipse will make landfall in northern Western Australia, sweep across the Northern Territory and part of southwest Queensland – then clean across New South Wales, with Sydney in the middle of the path of totality.

Winter cloud cover could disrupt the experience in Australia’s largest city – and is very likely in the southern portion of New Zealand’s South Island where the eclipse reaches a finale.

Australia also features in the cosmological plans on 25 November 2030. This is early summer in the southern hemisphere, and likely to be good conditions for viewing in Namibia, Botswana and South Africa (Durban is on the path of totality) as well as South Australia.

From news to politics, travel to sport, culture to climate – The Independent has a host of free newsletters to suit your interests. To find the stories you want to read, and more, in your inbox, click here .

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Map reveals where Storm Kathleen will hit with 70mph winds and snow 

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Parts of the UK are expected to be battered by winds and even snow due to Storm Kathleen this weekend – while others enjoy freak temperatures of 20°C.

Weather agency Met Office said the mixed conditions approaching the UK were a ‘smorgasbord of weather types’.

It comes after the forecaster issued a yellow weather warning for unseasonably strong winds , rain , snow, and warm temperatures across the country.

Coastal areas will see large waves as winds will reach 50mph widely on Saturday.

Here are the areas worst affected by Storm Kathleen today and tomorrow…

UK weather forecast for Friday, April 5

Snow is expected during the early hours of Friday in parts of Scotland , especially on higher ground.

Up to 3.9 inches of snow could fall at altitudes over 984 feet during Friday morning, the Met Office warned.

The yellow warning will be in place until 9am in Scotland where snow is likely to cause travel disruption on higher routes.

Heavy rain is expected in the Central Belt between Glasgow and Edinburgh today, with most areas seeing up to 25 mm of rain.

Transport bosses urged travellers to leave extra time and check before they travel if going by rail, ferry or air.

UK weather forecast for Saturday, April 6

The western parts of England , Wales and Scotland along with Northern Ireland will bear the brunt of the heavy winds blowing at up to 70mph.

Warning for wind will be in place from 8am until 10pm on Saturday in western Britain and Northern Ireland.

Deputy Chief Meteorologist Christoph Almond said: ‘Gusts of 50 mph are expected quite widely on Saturday, while some exposed spots, particularly on the coast, will see 60 to 70 mph gusts with large waves also likely.’

But some parts of the UK will be warmer than Los Angeles.

⚠️ Yellow weather warning UPDATED ⚠️ Strong winds across Northern Ireland, southern Scotland and western parts of England and Wales Saturday 0800 – 2200 Latest info 👉 https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs Stay #WeatherAware ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/Ou5lNCiT17 — Met Office (@metoffice) April 5, 2024

A warm weather front from Spain will boost temperatures properly for the first time this spring.

Parts of East Anglia and south-east England could see temperatures hit 21°C or even 22°C.

UK weather forecast for next week (from Monday, April 8)

It might be too early to get the barbeques out.

The north of England is likely to get further rain, the Met Office said.

Conditions will be slightly more settled in the south, especially towards the end of next week, the forecaster said.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

MORE : Map reveals where King Arthur’s famous sword Excalibur could be hidden

MORE : Who named Storm Kathleen? Full list of storm names for 2024

MORE : Mom dies after tree crashes onto her car during crippling storm

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