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The Ultimate Itinerary for 7 Days in Ireland

Ireland is one of the most beloved countries in Europe, if not the world, because of its 50 shades of green, medieval castles, iconic movie/TV filming locations, scenic drives, delicious cuisine, world-renowned whiskey, and more. Though Ireland is a small country, it has so much to see and explore. Truth be told, 7 days in Ireland was not enough for us because of the number of cities and castles we wanted to explore. 

So I highly recommend spending at least 7 days in Ireland, especially if it is your first trip to the Emerald Isle. And if you are the type of traveler wanting to see it all during your first trip to a new destination, you will definitely want to read through my ultimate itinerary for 7 days in Ireland.

This itinerary is not for the faint of heart, it is for those daring to experience it all. I packed this itinerary to be as perfect as possible, including a day in Northern Ireland. From castles to Star Wars  and  Game of Thrones  filming locations , beautiful landscapes, driving on the Ring of Kerry, touring the famous Jameson Distillery, watching a traditional Irish dance show and more.

So whether you copy this itinerary day by day, or take little bits and pieces to create your own itinerary – this post of 7 days in Ireland has it all!

My itinerary for driving 7 days in Ireland is almost a complete circle of the country that starts and finishes in Dublin. It is all based on my first-hand experience and includes where to stay, places you must visit, tidbits of what you can do with additional time, and more.

At the end of this post, I hope you will walk away with a wealth of information to help plan your own trip to Ireland.

Full disclaimer –  Our post may contain affiliate links. When you click on the link you will have the option to purchase a product at no extra cost to you, but we would receive a small commission. We want to thank everyone for following and supporting us on all of “Our Sweet Adventures.” 

The Best Time to Visit Ireland

In my opinion, I think the best time to visit Ireland is in early May. The trees and flowers should be at full bloom, the weather is fantastic (give or take some rainy days per usual), and there are fewer crowds which mean lower costs as well.

Other great times to visit Ireland are during St. Patricks Day, April, early June, September, and October. After experiencing Oktoberfest in Munich , we can only imagine how much fun St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland must be. However, there are some sights that are not open yet. Some of the “touristy” destinations to visit and tours to enjoy only open after Easter weekend.

If you plan to visit Ireland between late June through August, be prepared for long waiting times to kiss the Blarney Stone or crowds of people along the Cliffs of Moher.

Best Way to Get Around Ireland

The best way to get around Ireland and truly enjoy everything the Emerald Isle has to offer is by renting a car. If you are not used to driving on the left side of the road, do not be discouraged – it is a lot easier than you would think! Furthermore, you can also find automatic cars at a reasonable price.

Here are a few helpful driving tips for an Ireland road trip :

• BUY trip insurance and make sure it covers third-party vehicles. Whether you purchase it through the rental company or through another party, you must have insurance to rent vehicles in Ireland.
• Get comfortable sharing tiny roads. Take your time and allow other cars to pass before you continue.
• Avoid tolls – it not only saves money, but you also get to enjoy Ireland’s beautiful landscape.
• The speedometer and speed signs in Ireland are in KPH, but if you drive to Northern Ireland it changes to MPH.

7 Days in Ireland Itinerary

It took us a long time to come up with the perfect 7 days in Ireland itinerary due to the fact that we wanted to see as much of the Emerald Isle, including Northern Ireland, as possible. The website that helped us plan our Ireland trip is Furkot . It allows you to place each destination you want to visit with the desired time you want to stay. Then it calculates your entire trip with the exact times of when you need to arrive and leave at each destination – it is amazing. To give you an idea of what our 7 days in Ireland itinerary looks like, here is a map.

Day 1: Dublin to Donegal

Day 2: Donegal to Galway

Day 3: Galway to Dromoland Castle – 1 hour

Day 4:  Dromoland Castle to Killarney – 3 hours 15 minutes

Day 5: Killarney to Cork – 1 hour

Day 6: Cork to Dublin – 3 hours 15 minutes

Day 7: Dublin to Flying Home

Day 1: Begin your 7 Days in Ireland Itinerary from Dublin to the Causeway Coast and Donegal

If you love Game of Thrones and beautiful landscapes, then you will LOVE this first day. Once you arrive in Dublin (in the morning), pick up your rental car and hit the left side of the road! This will be a very long, but rewarding day. You start in Dublin, then make your way to Northern Ireland and finish in Donegal.

There is so much beauty to explore and see that you will feel like your next 7 days in Ireland cannot top this first day. I know it seems daunting to drive this far on your first day in Ireland, but trust me, you do not want to miss Northern Ireland and the Causeway Coast.

Visit Your First Irish Castle at Malahide Castle

What better way to start your 7 days in Ireland than with a medieval castle? The first stop is to Malahide Castle. A very picturesque castle you cannot miss in Ireland that dates back to the 12th century. There is plenty to enjoy at Malahide Castle. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the castle, step into the beautiful butterfly house and take a stroll through the botanical garden and fairy trail.

Stroll through the Dark Hedges

Whether you are taking an epic Game of Thrones tour or just love beautiful landscapes, you cannot miss walking through the “Kings Road”. To put it simply, the Dark Hedges are absolutely stunning in person. As a  Game of Thrones fan, I truly felt like I was in Westeros. Just be sure you time this destination well because if you go between 10am to 1pm, you will most likely be fighting the crowds like you are fighting to sit on the Iron Throne.

Walk Across Carrick-a-Rede Bridge

Walking across the famous Carrick-a-Rede Bridge is one of the most popular and sought out experiences to enjoy in Northern Ireland. The 60-foot long rope bridge is about 100 feet above the water and links the mainland of Northern Ireland to the tiny island of Carrickarede. You must visit the ticket booth in-person to pay for a specific time slot to walk across the bridge. So it is recommended to get your ticket in case the next time slot is all taken and you have to wait.

Find Yourself Mesmerized at Giants Causeway

This is by the far the most beautiful landscape in Northern Ireland and should not be missed during your trip! Giants Causeway is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and the most visited site in Northern Ireland. Visitors can easily spend at least an hour exploring and walking along the amazing hexagonal stepping stones. They also have a state of the art visitor center where you can learn more about the history and formation of Giants Causeway.

Explore the Ruins of Dunluce Castle

This is one of the most dramatic landscapes and castles on the entire Emerald Isle. It is also the castle featured in Game of Thrones to create the Greyjoy Castle (or House of Greyjoy) on Pyke Island. When you visit Dunluce Castle, you can find archaeological digs that show Dunluce Town’s street grid system. Furthermore, after exploring the castles’ ruins, head down to the sea cove beneath the castle known as the Mermaid Cave – it is a true hidden gem.

Stay at a Castle Hotel Fit for Royalty

There is nothing more fitting than staying at a castle hotel on your first day in Ireland. So finish your day at Lough Eske Castle Hotel & Spa , a five-star hotel in Donegal, Ireland. In addition to feeling like royalty in a castle hotel, one of the best features of Lough Eske Castle is its award-winning spa. So relax and unwind at their Thermal Suite before you continue your 7 days in Ireland itinerary.

Total driving time:  5 hours and 35 minutes

Where to stay: Lough Eske Castle Hotel & Spa in Donegal or enjoy glamping in Ireland at Portsalon Luxury Camping.

If you have more time: Spend a day in Belfast, tour Bushmills Distillery

Places you cannot miss: Dark Hedges, Carrick-a-Rede Bridge, Giants Causeway

Day 2: Continue your 7 Days in Ireland Itinerary from Donegal to Galway

A trip to Ireland is not complete without a visit to Galway. So of course, I have included it in my 7 days in Ireland itinerary. There are so many beautiful places to visit just outside of the city including several different castles and a beautiful National Park. These remarkable places help break apart the long drive from Donegal to Galway.

Gaze Upon the Marvelous Benbulben

The first stop from Donegal to Galway is Sligo’s marvelous tabletop mountain called Benbulben. Whether you are hiking the trail to the top of Benbulben or gazing upon it from a grass field, it is a breathtaking sight not to be missed during your road trip in Ireland.

Try Handmade Chocolates by the Benedictine Nuns at Kylemore Abbey

Do you love chocolate and castles? If yes, you are going to be in heaven at Kylemore Abbey. The Kylemore Castle and Estate is one of the most iconic destinations in Ireland and the perfect place for a pit stop. The estate is 13,000 acres, so you will be able to stretch your legs and explore some beautiful places. Kylemore Abbey includes a Victorian Wall Garden, a neo-Gothic church, an Old Mausoleum and of course the castle itself. Furthermore, there is a chocolate kitchen where you can take a sneak peek inside the process of the Benedictine Nuns making Irish chocolate truffles and bars. Then head to the Craft & Design Gift Shop to take home some of the most delicious chocolates.

Enjoy a Luxurious Afternoon Tea at Ashford Castle

Check off the most luxurious item on your bucket list , afternoon tea at an Irish castle. More specifically at Ashford Castle, a five-star castle known to be one of the best hotels in the entire world. We have never experienced such luxury than at Ashford Castle and highly recommend this experience for your 7 days in Ireland itinerary. For only $50, you can enjoy unlimited tea from around the world, delicious pastries, scrumptious finger sandwiches, and fresh scones. Yes, I will say it again – everything in the afternoon tea experience is unlimited! Moreover, only guests of Ashford Castle can visit the estate. Whether they are staying at the hotel, dining for dinner, booked an activity, or having afternoon tea, only guests are able to pass through the gates. Trust me, you will want to be a guest to explore the castle grounds.

Sing and Drink the Night Away at Traditional Pubs in Galway

People visit Ireland for many reasons and a few include singing, dancing, and drinking in traditional pubs. One of the cities well known for all of those activities is the one and only, Galway, Ireland. So grab a pint of Guinness and enjoy the Irish culture and lifestyle.

Just note, that you will want to find your pub before 7pm because each one gets packed very quickly. Our friends and I had a very hard time finding our perfect pub at 9pm. A few of the best pubs in Galway are Taaffes Bar, Tig Coili, The Quays, Murphy’s, O’Connell’s, and Naughtons.

Of course, there are plenty of other things to do in Galway , so if you have more time, I recommend booking a Galway tour or exploring the city on your own.

Total driving time: 5 hours and 15 minutes

Where to stay: Eyre Square Hotel in Galway

If you have more time:  Visit Clifden Castle, spend an extra day in Galway

Places you cannot miss: Kylemore Abbey, Ashford Castle

Day 3: Dance Away from Galway to Sleep like Royalty at Dromoland Castle

This is one of the shortest drives during the 7 days in Ireland itinerary, so take your time and enjoy each destination. Furthermore, a few of these can be great day trips from Galway if you have extra time during your trip.

Visit Dunguaire Castle

Dunguaire Castle is one of the most visually stunning castles in Ireland . In addition to marveling at the castle towering over the bay, visitors can also experience a medieval banquet dinner. Though we did not have the time to enjoy the medieval banquet dinner, we have heard nothing but great reviews. So if you have more time than 7 days in Ireland, you should definitely take a step back in time and enjoy this Irish experience.

Eat Chocolate at Hazel Mountain

Leave it to Our Sweet Adventures to find the best chocolate in Ireland. As a former pastry chef, I was more than impressed with the quality, creativity, and flavor of the chocolates by Hazel Mountain. It is perfectly located between Galway and the Cliffs of Moher to get your healthy dosage of chocolate.  Which is why I made sure to include Hazel Mountain in my 7 days in Ireland itinerary. Hazel Mountain is a boutique bean to bar chocolate factory and shop producing handmade chocolate truffles and bars. They only use the finest ingredients in Ireland including milk from local grass-fed cows, seaweed, honey, lavender and of course, whiskey. Be sure to make your own little truffle box featuring their special flavors of the week to enjoy at home.

Explore Ruins at Corcomroe Abbey

Corcomroe Abbey is a great little pitstop to explore more of Ireland’s beautiful ruined abbeys. It was built during the 13 th century and a lot of the structure remains intact. So you can get a real sense of the magnitude the abbey had during its time. It is truly a stunning and picturesque building inside and out. Inside Corcomoroe Abbey are high archways and some incredible carvings throughout the abbey. Just outside the building is a small graveyard with several different tombstones that have also been well preserved.   

Marvel the Cliffs of Moher

Of course, an Ireland itinerary is not complete without a visit to the Cliffs of Moher. The Cliffs of Moher is without a doubt, Ireland’s most popular attraction and beloved sight amongst locals and tourists. It is best to visit as early in the morning as possible to beat the crowds and to capture incredible photos with the morning light. However, with this itinerary, it is unlikely you will be able to visit before 9am. So as long as you visit on a weekday and outside of the months of July and August, you will be okay to visit in the afternoon. Another important tip to acknowledge is the weather and walking trail. We have never experienced such high and dangerous winds than at the Cliffs of Moher, so make sure you read the weather hazard signs. Furthermore, the trail along the Cliffs of Moher is outside the managed service area, so read their safety guidelines and walk with caution. There are NO RAILINGS between you and the ocean. Respect the beauty of mother nature and stay safe.

Learn Falconry and Go Clay Shooting at Dromoland Castle

One of the most exciting and fun activities you can enjoy in Ireland is falconry and clay shooting. Both activities are widely popular throughout the country, so a lot of hotels in the countryside offer them to their guests. One hotel that offers great falconry and clay shooting lessons is at Dromoland Castle. We had the BEST time going for a walk with our falcon. Our guide would place food on our glove and the falcon would come soaring down to grab it – truly a surreal experience. As for clay shooting, that was another thrilling adventure. We each got 30 bullets (3 rounds of 10) to practice our shot and hit the clay flying in the air. Furthermore, we also had the amazing opportunity to stay at Dromoland Castle and live like a King and Queen. I highly recommend everyone booking at least one night at Dromoland Castle to enjoy luxurious accommodations, fun activities, and delicious cuisine.

Total driving time:  2 hours and 40 minutes

Where to stay: Dromoland Castle

If you have more time:  Visit Burren National Park

Places you cannot miss:  Cliffs of Moher, Hazel Mountain Chocolate

Day 4: Drive Along the Dingle Peninsula to Killarney

On this day you will continue to drive along the Wild Atlantic Way and begin your scenic route on the Dingle Peninsula. Though this day might be a semi-long drive, it will be one of the most beautiful drives of your life. Moreover, a 7 day in Ireland itinerary is not complete without some Star Wars fandom. In addition to an amazing scenic route, this is also a great day for any Star Wars lovers because a lot of the Star Wars: The Last Jedi scenes were filmed along the Dingle Peninsula. So let the force be with you during your trip to Killarney.

Visit King John’s Castle

King John’s Castle is one of the more visitor-friendly castles in Ireland and is located in Limerick. The castle is not only fun to explore, but it also includes an engaging exhibit for all ages. The exhibit features touchscreen technology, 3D models, animated projections and an activity room for children. One of our favorite places in King John’s Castle was the top of a battlement which had an amazing 360° panorama view of the city.

Enjoy the Scenic Drive Along the Dingle Peninsula

We saw so many beautiful landscapes throughout Ireland, but none took our breath away like the Dingle Peninsula. We have even driven along the Amalfi Coast and the Dingle Peninsula is almost unmatched. For most of the route, you are driving along dramatic cliffs towering over on one side, while the other side has the endless ocean crashing into the shore. Be prepared to make frequent stops along the Dingle Peninsula for some short hikes up grassy hills to find spectacular views. Words will never be able to describe how stunning this drive is, so it is best you see it for yourself!

Take the Epic Picture at Dunquin Harbour

The best and most popular stop along the Dingle Peninsula is Dunquin Harbour. Why? It is one of the most “Instagrammable” destinations in Ireland. So get your camera ready to take one epic photo. Of course, travel is not about Instagram, so take in the precious moment enjoying one of the most beautiful spots in Ireland.

Visit the Most Western Point of Ireland

Dunmore Head is the most western point in Ireland and features two great places to visit, a beach and an awesome view at the top of the hill. We had the best time at Slea Head Beach, as did many other tourists, surfers, and dogs. Slea Head Beach is known as one of the best beaches in Ireland and we could see why. It is a very lively and safe beach to find hidden coves and watch the waves crash into the towering cliffs. At the top of Dunmore Head, you can see the Great Blasket Islands. More importantly, Dunmore Head is used as part of Ahch-To, a.k.a. the planet in Star Wars  known as the birthplace of the Jedi Order. If you look hard enough along Dunmore Head’s coastline, you might be able to find Luke Skywalker’s X-wing hidden just beneath the water.

Visit the Famous Star Wars Beehives Huts

You do not have to travel to Skellig Michael to find the famous Star Wars beehive huts. The beehive huts can be found driving along Ireland’s scenic Slea Head Drive . You do have to pay 3 euros to visit the beehive huts, but for 3 euros they are definitely worth it. The beehive huts, more formerly known as Ceann Sibéal, existed long before Star Wars . They date back to the prehistoric times, around 2,000 B.C., which is quite incredible. So either take out your lightsaber and feel the force or enjoy some remarkable architecture from the prehistoric times.

Have a Scoop of Ice Cream at Murphy’s

You cannot visit Ireland without enjoying a scoop of ice cream or sorbet from Murphy’s. Murphy’s ice cream has become a little empire in Ireland that started it Dingle and has grown to 5 more locations throughout the country. What makes Murphy’s special is its quality of ingredients. They receive their milk from the Kerry cows, (some of the best cows in the world), use free-range eggs, organic sugar, sea salt from the Dingle sea water and distill Dingle rain to make their sorbets. Murphy’s ice cream is the true definition of sourcing from local resources and farmers. Their dedication truly shows in every lick and bite of ice cream and/or sorbet you enjoy. Furthermore, everyone welcomes you with warm hospitality and their flavor combinations are genius!

Total driving time:  4 hours and 57 minutes

Where to stay:  Cahernane House Hotel

If you have more time:  Visit Inch beach, Skellig Michael and spend an extra day in Dingle

Places you cannot miss:  Dunquin Harbour, driving along the Dingle Peninsula, ice cream at Murphy’s

Day 5: Drive Along the Ring of Kerry to Cork

As you continue your 7 days in Ireland itinerary, you will be driving along another amazing and scenic route, the Ring of Kerry . This drive is more about the beautiful Irish countryside than the Dingle Peninsula. You will also explore several different destinations within Killarney National Park and finish your day with a glass of Jameson.

Visit Ross Castle

Ross Castle is known as one of the strongest and more fortified castles in Ireland because of its defensive wall on the edge of Lake Lough Leane. It was built during the 15th century and still stands tall today. Visitors can explore the castle grounds within the fortified wall on their own or take a guided tour inside the castle.

Hike in Killarney National Park to Torc Waterfall

One of the best places to go hiking in Ireland is in Killarney National Park. Moreover, whether you are an avid hiker or do not hike at all, “hiking” to Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park is a must. I recommend you do this first thing in the morning as it is the most popular destination in Killarney National Park and can get very crowded. In addition, parking is very limited – we had to drive in circles for 30 minutes to find a parking spot just to “hike” five minutes to Torc Waterfall. With that said, everything is worth it when you walk through the beautiful green, mossy forest and come across the water cascading down some of Ireland’s most beautiful landscape.

Visit Muckross House and Gardens

Another fantastic place to visit within Killarney National Park is Muckross House and Gardens. Even if you do not take the guided tour inside Muckross House, just walking around the grounds of the estate to see architectural beauty is enough to make this a destination on your 7 days in Ireland itinerary. Furthermore, walking along Muckross Lake has some breathtaking views and is a great way to spend a nice day in Ireland.

Getting Lost at Muckross Abbey

Visiting Muckross Abbey was one of our favorite experiences in Ireland because it was exactly what we imagined Ireland to be – exploring ruins on our own and getting lost along the way. Muckross Abbey looks just like all of the other ruins in Ireland from the outside, but in the inside, it escapes you into another world. I remember following Adam into a corridor of Muckross Abbey and one minute later not being able to find him for another twenty minutes.

There are several grand opening areas that connect with little nooks that you can travel through until you find another huge room to explore. Then you come across the most beautiful tree in the middle of a courtyard surrounded by stone walls. Needless to say, Muckross Abbey will surprise you with its hidden beauty and you will feel like you have been transported back in time.

Scenic Drive on the Ring of Kerry

Every road trip in Ireland needs to include the Ring of Kerry. This driving route is famous for a very good reason – it is truly breathtaking and one of the most beautiful roads in the world that you will ever encounter in your life.

Two of the most photographic landscapes along the Ring of Kerry are Moll’s Gap and Gap of Dunloe. Both are very close to Killarney National Park which makes day-5 the perfect time to visit for your 7 days in Ireland itinerary. Just make sure you drive slow to not only take in every moment but to also find little parking spots to jump out and take photos.

Kiss the famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle

If you plan to visit any castle in Ireland, you must include Blarney Castle during your 7 days in Ireland. It is one of the most famous castles in the world due to the legendary Blarney Stone. Visitors travel near and far to wait in line just to place their lips upon the cold, wet Blarney Stone and receive the gift of eloquence.

Is it worth it? Absolutely! In addition to the Blarney Stone, this was our favorite castle because it was so much fun to explore. Like Muckross Abbey, there are so many levels with little nooks and crannies that you can easily get lost and feel transported back in time.

Drink Liquid Gold at the Jameson Distillery

Regardless if you drink whiskey, visiting the Jameson Distillery is a must for any trip to Ireland. I do not like any whiskey and even I had a great time. Of course, Jameson is Adam’s favorite whiskey, so he had the BEST time! The guided tour takes visitors throughout the distillery to learn about Jameson’s history, the entire process of making Irish whiskey and what makes Jameson special. The tour lasts around 75 minutes and finishes with a complimentary glass of Jameson.

Total driving time:  3 hours

Where to stay:  Hotel Isaacs Cork in Cork or if you prefer a country house outside of the city, try Ballymaloe Country House Hotel

If you have more time: Visit a cheese factory in West Cork , the English Market, Blackrock Castle Observatory, and the city of Cobh.

Places you cannot miss:  Torc Waterfall, Muckross Abbey, driving the Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle, and Jameson Distillery

Day 6: Finish your 7 days in Ireland Itinerary in Dublin

After 6 days of driving, it is time to relax, drink, eat and explore in the capital of Ireland – Dublin. I cannot think of a better city to finish an epic trip throughout the country than Dublin. The city is vibrant in culture, tradition, and charm.

Explore Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel is the most stunning fortress you will ever see. It sits on top of a hill towering over the city of Cashel. The fortress has several different elements to it that were all built during different periods of time. It has a complete 11th century round tower, a 12th-century Romanesque chapel, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral, a 15th century Hall of the Vicars Chora and a dramatic Gothic graveyard with beautiful Celtic high crosses.

You will find yourself mesmerized by the sheer magnitude of the fortress when you are exploring within the ruins. Furthermore, you can also drive down to Hore Abbey to wander through more ruins that are similar to the ones found at Rock of Cashel.

Visit Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle is one of the very few castles in Ireland that truly let visitors see countless rooms. One of the more well-known rooms is the picture gallery wing with several beautiful portraits hanging on a vibrant red wall.

Another great feature of Kilkenny Castle is the ability to take a guided tour of the castle or a self-guided tour using an informational pamphlet. Overall, it is an amazing castle inside and out that should not be missed.

Explore the Heart of Ireland in Dublin

Exploring the streets of Dublin is the perfect way to finish your 7 days in Ireland itinerary. Simply because it is extremely difficult to drive within the city. Better yet, enjoy one of the best walking tours in Dublin . This is a great way to explore the city.

If you venture out on your own – a few Dublin attractions you should not miss are the Guinness Storehouse, The Brazen Head and The Temple Bar. Some other  things to do in Dublin  that do not involve alcohol are Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ha’penny Bridge, St. Stephen’s Green, Kilmainham Goal, and Trinity College Library, the  most Instagrammable place in Dublin .

Traditional Irish Dance and Craic

There is no better way to spend your last night in Ireland than with traditional Irish food , dancing, music, and craic. So, visit Johnnie Fox’s Pub to experience one of the best nights of your life. Johnnie Fox’s Pub is not only the highest pub in Dublin but also one of the best pubs in Ireland .  

With that said, it is not easy to get to, so I highly recommend booking their shuttle bus. Furthermore, the pub has a wide variety of traditional Irish cuisine and nightly live music, but the real treat is their Hooley Show. Our night at Johnnie Fox’s Pub was one of our favorite experiences of our entire 7 days in Ireland.

The entire show was outstanding! The band played Irish music we had never heard before and then some favorites like Galway Girl and Whiskey in a Jar. In between songs they would tell stories and crack jokes (craic) and then towards the end of the show the Irish dancers came on stage. I honestly cannot put words onto paper (online) to give this show justice so you will have to trust me when I say, go to Johnnie Fox’s Pub Hooley Night!

Total driving time:  3 hours and 33 minutes

Where to stay:  Cliff Townhouse

If you have more time:  Spend an extra day in Dublin and take a day trip to Bray and the Wicklow Mountains

Places you cannot miss:  Rock of Cashel, Trinity College Library, Temple Bar and the Hooley Show at Johnnie Fox’s Pub

Day 7: Fly Home

Unfortunately, all great things must come to an end. On your last day in Ireland, enjoy more of Dublin. Visit any destinations you might have missed the day before or just take a leisurely walk with a cup of coffee and reminisce all the great memories you created over the last 6 days.

Before you know it, you will be back on a plane going home wishing you had one more pint of Guinness or glass of Jameson at a local pub in the land of the Irish.

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Nicci Strickland

Saturday 30th of March 2024

This post has been so helpful planning our trip! We’re doing a 31 day trip to London, Scotland, and Ireland. With 8/9 days in Ireland!

I love all the things you have set to do but am curious if you felt like it was slightly too rushed? Did you get time to still enjoy everything?

Trying to finalize our trip for September.

oursweetadventures

Monday 1st of April 2024

Hi Nicci, I’m so happy to hear that! Sounds like an epic trip! It was definitely slightly rushed but with 8/9 days you should be fine. I think if we don’t have one night at Dromoland Castle, then we could have spent one extra day in Galway or Dublin. That said, if we had an extra day and bigger budget, we would have actually done two nights at Dromoland Castle to relax and enjoy the activities on site. Hope that helps :)

Thursday 29th of February 2024

WOW!! what a list - we have it all plotted on our google maps. Heading to Ireland March 4th 2024

Monday 4th of March 2024

That's awesome! I hope y'all have a wonderful trip!

Monday 5th of February 2024

Hi! we are planning our trip from your itinerary! We will have one extra day- where would you recommend adding this day?

Wednesday 7th of February 2024

Hi Hailey, I love hearing that! I would definitely spend an extra day around the Dingle Peninsula. Or if you are staying at a castle hotel, I would spend time relaxing and enjoying activities. I hope you have a great trip! Let me know if you have any further questions.

Julie Gilbert

Wednesday 20th of December 2023

I am interested in this exact 7 days in Ireland. Do you tours for small groups?

Tony Terrell

Sunday 31st of December 2023

@oursweetadventures,

Great itinerary. We are using it as a template to create our own. A couple of questions I had was…we are going at the beginning of Oct 2024 do you know of anything in your itinerary that is closed during this time? Also how far in advance did you get tickets for the different things you visited? Again thank you for a very well thought out vacation.

On a side note have you visited France? We are looking to either move to Ireland or France.

Monday 25th of December 2023

Hi, thats awesome to hear! Unfortunately, I do not organize tours. We did this by renting a car.

Sunday 18th of June 2023

Very helpful information, certainly we will use it for our 7 days trip. One questions, have you visit Slieve League? Is that too far for 2nd day schedule? thank you.

Saturday 24th of June 2023

Hi, I’m so happy to hear my guide has been helpful for your trip. I do think it’s too far away. We wanted to explore more of Northwest Ireland but didn’t have time for it.

22 Travel Tips For Ireland For First-Time Visitors

Categories Travel Guides

Going to Ireland for the first time? This lush green country, aptly named ‘ Emerald Isle ’ sure packs a punch when it comes to attractions.

There are diverse landscapes, ancient archeological structures, old churches and lots of castles . It’s not the biggest country in the world but daunting nonetheless.

Ireland is an easy country to get around in, the Irish are warm and accommodating, and going there looks like a huge epic adventure. Make the most of your trip by taking into consideration these travel tips for Ireland.

Things you'll find in this article

Travel Tips Before Going to Ireland 

Travel tips for staying in ireland , travel tips in eating in ireland , travel tips getting around ireland, travel tips for enjoying ireland .

1. Ireland is a great place to visit any time of the year because of its mild, temperate climate.

However, if you want to be sure that most attractions are accessible or open, the best time to visit is during the shoulder season.

These are months that are in between the peak and low seasons. There’s March to May and September to November . During these months, temperatures are still mild, tourist sites are less congested and you’d definitely enjoy the beauty of the Emerald Isle.

2. Ireland is beautiful at any time of the year but it also has pretty unpredictable weather. Expect rain, even during summer.

It’s best to be always prepared so pack an umbrella, slip-proof shoes, a cardigan, and a waterproof jacket to stay warm and dry. Check out this packing list for Ireland for all seasons . 

Dark Hedges, Image by Christine Rogador

3. Don’t forget to bring your adapter plug, especially if you travel with multiple electronic devices.

You would surely want to capture and document your trip so your cellphone and camera needs to be fully charged before you leave your hostel or hotel. Pack your adapter to help save time while in Ireland with a busy itinerary. 

4. An essential advice not just when traveling to Ireland but to any other country is to buy travel insurance.

Good travel insurance will protect you and take care of you when you get sick or injured while traveling, as well as during theft and cancellations.

It is pretty much your very own comprehensive protection if anything goes wrong while you’re on vacation. Never go on any trip without it. 

5. Make sure to check first if you need a visa to go to Ireland to avoid unnecessary inconveniences. For Philippine passport holders like me, you can check out this guide on how to apply for Ireland Tourist Visa for Filipinos. 

6. If you’re looking for an easy way to save some cash while in Ireland, it’s best to stay in a hostel. They’re cheap, give you access to the bare necessities and usually includes free breakfast. Check out this list of places to stay by cities . 

7. However, even if it’s slightly pricier, a bed and breakfast is a great option as well. You get to stay in a homey atmosphere, and has additional opportunities to interact with locals.

Bed and breakfasts and guesthouses also often serve Irish food instead of getting them in pricier restaurants outside. These accommodations are often in old or historic houses, some are even in castles. 

8. You can also combine your accommodation choices. For example, stay in a hostel when in big cities like Dublin or Belfast, then book a guesthouse then in smaller cities or towns. 

9. Take advantage of the free food, especially free breakfast in your accommodations. Be sure to eat right before going anywhere. 

10. Ireland has some cool low-cost local supermarkets. Take advantage of these by buying some basic pick-me-ups like canned or bottled juice, cereal bars, digestive biscuits, and crisps.

They come in handy when you get hungry in between exploring sights or during long-distance trips to the countryside. 

11. A great way to save some cash is to eat early, whether it’s lunch or dinner. Many restaurants in Ireland offer budget lunch nor dinner to the’early birds’ and they’re cheaper.

There isn’t a lot of options though as they’re usually set meals. It is another way to experience local cuisine, too! 

12. Try at least any of the food and drinks that Ireland is known for. Have the traditional Irish breakfast , some stew, bangers, and mash or even fish and chips.

Have a pint of Guinness, a glass of whiskey or Irish coffee. Trying these definitely adds to the experience. 

13. Ireland has excellent public transportation, so take advantage of it especially in the big cities. Most offer free wifi, have friendly drivers and are known to always arrive on time. 

14. If you want to save more, get a LEAP card . This is a card you can top up to use on Ireland’s public transportation. With the card, you get discounts on fares compared to cash tickets. It’s very useful in Dublin and Belfast as well as Cork , Galway , Limerick , and Waterford . 

You can also get a Dublin Pass that will give you access to over 30 attractions in Dublin for free and a hop-off and hop-on bus tour. You can get it Dublin Pass . 

15. If you’d like to explore Ireland past the big cities at your own pace, it is best to rent a car. It’s quite easy to rent a car in Ireland and in the long run, it will be your cheapest option. 

Renting (or hiring) a car is also a fantastic way to see most of the Emerald Isle as there’s a lot of scenic drives going from one city or town to another. If you’re unfamiliar with driving rules in Ireland, you can check out this guide for driving in Ireland . 

Where to Book: Rentalcars.

16. Try ridesharing, which is another lowcost means of transportation for visitors in Ireland.

Here, you only have to pass a small background check to get approved. The drivers who rideshare are also registered and vetted. Once approved, the driver will pick you up.

With this option, you only need to pitch in for gas. Two good ridesharing apps you can try are BlaBlaCar and CarpoolWorld

17. Be sure to get a Heritage card — it’s a card you can to up and gives you access to some of the best attractions across Ireland. Specifically, the Heritage card gives free admission to site managed by the Office of Public Works.

These include Dublin Castle , Ennis Friary, the Iveagh Gardens, Glenveagh National Park, Killarney National Park, Ross Castle , and more. This is valid for a year so you can explore as much as you want here.

18. When in cafes, restaurants or even spas, know that Ireland does not have a set culture on tipping.  However, a few euros will be very much appreciated easily especially for exceptional service. Check out this tipping tips for Ireland.  

19. Don’t drink too much when in a pub. If you’re trying to save but want to experience Ireland’s pub culture, go ahead and order a pint of Guinness. Pub drinks are a bit pricer, so stick to just one pint.

A fantastic way to do this is to find a pub with a great atmosphere and especially one with a band that features traditional Irish music. Then, you can order one drink and enjoy the rest of the evening

20. Talk to as many locals as possible — in your hotel or bed and breakfast, a pub or wherever you happen to be. The Irish are a friendly, accommodating lot and are happy to help out visitors to their country. 

21. You should absolutely visit Northern Ireland . It’s a long drive bit truly worth it. Visit Belfast, drive along the Causeway Coastal Route or see the gorgeous town of Portrush . 

22. Ireland is 32,595 square miles (84,421 square kilometers) and is packed full of sights. Pace yourself and don’t squeeze ten attractions in a single day or two.

When in Ireland, you may opt to visit just a few sights or try around two interesting activities in a day. Be sure to really enjoy and savor each place you visit. 

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

The Travel Blogger’s Guide to Ireland

By: Author Monica Stott

Categories Ireland , UK

If you’re looking for a guide to Ireland you’ll already know there’s endless amounts of information out there!  There are so many Ireland guides, road trip itineraries and lists of things to do in Ireland it can be overwhelming so I’ve pulled together some of my favourite blogger’s guides to Ireland into one giant, handy guide.

I love reading travel blogs to hear about real experiences from genuine and authentic people. Blogs are a great place to discover things to do and what to avoid and bloggers often create the best travel guides because they are based on their own personal experiences.

After visiting Ireland recently, I wrote about my 1 week road trip itinerary for Ireland  and 50 of my favourite things to do in Dublin but I wanted to pull together a travel blogger’s guide to Ireland to give you a comprehensive guide to Ireland to help you plan your perfect Ireland itinerary.

Rather than you having to search for the best travel blogs while you’re researching your Ireland trip, I’ve rounded up the ones that I think are the most useful, interesting and inspiring!

The Travel Blogger’s Guide to Ireland

Tips for visiting Ireland

If you’re planning your first trip to Ireland, this useful first-timer’s guide to Ireland will help you to decide when to go, what to pack, where to stay, how to get around, and what activities you can’t miss off your Ireland itinerary when you get there.

From currency to street signs (and plenty of helpful tips in between), the couple behind Pages of Travel really do offer the ultimate resource for planning a trip to Ireland. They even share packing tips and ideas for getting online on the road.

To make sure that you don’t miss any of the best things to do in Ireland, Dave and Deb at ThePlanetD are sharing their 21 favourite things to do in Ireland, in a guide that covers the whole country!

Another brilliant and comprehensive guide to Ireland for first-timers, this post offers a sample Ireland itinerary, as well as some delicious food tips so you can eat your way around the country. There’s also a helpful section on whether a road trip is right for you.

Another gem from the guys at Hand Luggage Only, a blog you can always rely on for great travel guides. This is not your average Ireland guide, this one offers tips for exploring Dublin and the ancient east coast of Ireland, while getting to know more about the Vikings that used to inhabit the area. Visit museums, take virtual reality tours and enjoy an immersive night of Viking-themed entertainment that you’ll never forget!

Ireland Itineraries

With just seven days to explore, you might not feel like you’ll be able to see a lot, but Helene proves just how much you can do in Ireland in a week. She includes a handy map in this post, and also shows you how you can cuddle a sheepdog along the way – sounds like the perfect Irish trip, right?

Got a little bit longer than just a week in Ireland? This Ireland itinerary takes 10 days, covering Dublin, the Rock of Cashel, Galway, the Cliffs of Moher, the Dingle Peninsula, and Northern Ireland. They also offer some extra stop suggestions in case you have time to spare.

Follow in the footsteps of the incredible Amber Fillerup (A.K.A. Barefoot Blonde) as she travels with her gorgeous family for a week in Ireland. This is great inspiration for anyone travelling with small kids, as Amber shares what her two little ones enjoyed, and what they’d do differently next time. A great example of an honest blogger (and so much mum inspo here!)

If you’re not sure how long to travel in Ireland for, this post gives a great idea of how much you can see and do with different amounts of time.

An 18-day road trip for Ireland – The Irish Road Trip

This epic guide is amazingly detailed with day-by-day information for a full road trip around the entire coast of Ireland. This is road trip goals right here!

Food and Drink in Ireland

There’s nothing better than a great cup of coffee before a day of exploring, and Sophie’s guide to the best coffee shops in Dublin will get your day off to the best start. Check out these local caffeine hotspots, which all offer just a bit more character than your average Starbucks!

If you love to eat your way around a destination as much as I do, this food guide to Western Ireland will help you to explore while making sure that food is at the centre of your trip. Caution: don’t read this post while you’re hungry!

Whether you consider yourself a foodie or not, there are certain dishes or items you just can’t leave Ireland without tasting. From soda bread to boxty, and plenty in between, use this guide as an Irish food bucket list.

There’s more to Dublin’s culinary scene than just the Guinness Storehouse, and in this post, the guys over at Hand Luggage Only explore some food experiences that will make your trip to Dublin even more delicious!

Ireland Road Trip Tips

Written by a blogger who’s visited Ireland seven times, this really is an expert guide to an Ireland road trip, and offers tips on where to stop, where to stay, where to eat and what to do in each of the locations in the itinerary.

Loads of guides to Ireland try to cover both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in one massive post, but That Backpacker focuses only on Northern Ireland in a road trip guide that’ll make you want to pack your bags immediately.

Can’t decide which Irish road trip to do? Vicky shares the three road trips she thinks are the most unmissable. The trouble is, after seeing these photos, you’re probably going to want to do all three!

This popular Ireland road trip route is part of the Wild Atlantic Way, and it offers those doing the trail loads to see, do and experience. Christobel Travel lists the must-stop places along the Dingle Peninsula Drive to help you plan your trip.

Having been named one of the best road trip routes in the world, the Causeway Coast is quickly gaining popularity among road trip lovers across the globe. This comprehensive guide to Ireland’s Causeway Coastal route shares tips and hidden gems to discover along the way.

Things to do in Dublin

In this helpful post, Hayley shares her top 20 favourite things to do in Dublin, including where to eat and drink, where to shop, which museums to visit and where to go on day trips from Dublin, if you fancy exploring a bit further afield.

If you don’t have time to see everything in Dublin, Helene has listed the top ten things that she thinks no traveller should leave without doing. Think of it like a bucket list for those who are short on time when visiting Dublin!

If you’ve read a couple of Dublin guides by now, you’ll know about The Temple Bar, the Book of Kells and the Guinness Storehouse. But Sophie shares a few lesser-known attractions in this post, such as the Molly Malone statue and the medieval Malahide Castle.

Once you’ve ticked off your Dublin bucket list, it’s time to see a bit more of the surrounding area. This post shares five amazing day trip ideas that are just a hop, skip and a jump away from Dublin. I never knew some of these famous sights were so easy to reach, so next time I’m in Dublin I’ll be sure to do at least a couple of these!

Want to do something totally unique in Dublin? Visit during the Bram Stoker Festival, which takes place the weekend before Halloween, and which celebrates the Dublin-born author of Dracula. Expect plenty of thrills and a totally different experience of Dublin!

Things to do in Galway

If you’re looking for somewhere to base yourself for your Ireland road trip, this post argues that Galway City is the place to be. With tips on where to fly into, what to do in Galway, and what to see in the area, Karisa shares just how breathtaking this slice of Ireland really is.

Still not convinced that Galway is the destination for you? This post may just change your mind, with 7 great reasons why you’ll love Galway. My favourite? Ed Sheeran used to busk here!

Now that you’ve been convinced to visit Galway, it’s time to start planning what you’ll be doing there. This post shares 15 fantastic things to do in Galway, and the best part is that they’re all free!

Things to do in Belfast

Belfast can sometimes be overlooked, or used just as a gateway to the Causeway Coast, and other attractions in Northern Ireland. But anyone who’s been will attest to the fact that it’s a brilliant and vibrant city, worth getting to know before moving on. This 24 hour guide shares the best things to see and do (and drink!) while you’re there.

Looking for something different to do in Belfast? Lucy’s got you covered with these fun suggestions, from watching an ice hockey game to taking a cooking class. They might not be the best-known things to do, but they certainly are memorable!

Belfast really is beautiful, and in this guide, Jess shares the best that there is to see in this city, from its history to its food, drink, culture and even politics.

If you’ve got a little bit more time to explore, this 48 hour itinerary shares how to spend a weekend in Belfast, seeing the sights, testing the flavours, and exploring the history of this fascinating city. Don’t miss the most Instagrammable restaurant in town!

Ireland Packing Lists

Do you ever get frustrated that most packing lists are geared just towards women? Well, this one’s got the guys covered, too. Get tips on footwear, layering, the best jacket to pack for a trip to Ireland, as well as what kind of weather you can expect. Oh, and don’t forget your umbrella!

If you’re not lucky enough to be visiting Ireland in the middle of summer, packing for your trip might be a little tricky. This packing guide helps you to know what to pack for the off-season, when you will definitely need a few extra layers to stay warm and dry.

Alex from TravelFashionGirl is basically the queen of packing lists, so this post all about what to wear in Dublin is about as comprehensive as they get. This particular post was written with the help of a Dublin local, and it offers tips on what to pack for every season, so it’s an essential resource for your trip to Ireland.

Castles in Ireland

Did you know that there are something like 30,000 castles in Ireland? That’s a lot to choose from, but this post by Wanderlust and Lipstick highlights five of the most amazing castles to visit in Ireland so you don’t have to try to check all 30,000 off your list!

If you’re travelling to Ireland with kids, it can be difficult to know which sights and attractions are going to be family-friendly. This post by BattleMum shares the best castles in Ireland that are kid-friendly (as well as being spectacular) so everyone will have a good time.

If you’re brave enough to visit a haunted castle (which I’m definitely not), this blog post shares 15 castles in Ireland where you might encounter a ghost. Some are hotels (so you can be haunted while you sleep, if you dare), while others are sites you can wander around in – keep your eyes peeled for strange occurrences, though!

One of the most famous among Ireland’s incredible array of castles, Blarney Castle is located in County Cork, and it’s got a lot more to it than just the Blarney Stone, as Julie discovers in this charming post. Even if this is the only castle you see, you’ll get to know it in depth thanks to these 8 secrets.

Film Locations in Ireland

It’s almost impossible to mention a trip to Northern Ireland without also mentioning Game of Thrones, as many of the show’s epic scenes were filmed along the Causeway Coast. Take a look at the best bits of Westeros in Northern Ireland, including the beautiful Dark Hedges and some furry stars!

Anyone who’s watched the romantic comedy P.S. I Love You will know that the real star of the film was the stunning Irish scenery featured throughout. Use this guide to see some of the incredible locations that were used for filming this tear-jerker of a movie.

It’s not only Game of Thrones that brings mega-fans to Ireland from all over the world – Star Wars fans flock here in droves thanks to one short scene in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. The location is Skellig Michael, and although it can be difficult to reach (especially without a booking), this blogger was determined…and found a way!

There you have it, the ultimate travel blogger’s guide to Ireland!

Do you have any more tips to add to this guide to Ireland?

Thursday 19th of August 2021

very beautifull place, keep sharing and thanks

Anna Makridi

Thursday 28th of June 2018

Ireland is amazing! Helpful tips! Thanks for sharing!

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Europe , Ireland , Travel

The perfect ireland itinerary.

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

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

Planning a Trip to Ireland

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

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

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

Don’t want to do all the planning?

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

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

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

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

Our favorite hotels in Ireland

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

Our favorite tours in Ireland

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

Renting a Car in Ireland?

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

Want to See More than Ireland?

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

Getting to Ireland

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

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

Best Time to Travel to Ireland

Where to stay in ireland.

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

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

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

Affordable Airbnbs in Ireland

Packing List for Ireland

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

Click here for my full Ireland Packing list

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

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

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

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

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

Perfect Ireland Itinerary 10 days or more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How long will this Ireland road trip take?

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

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

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

10 Places You Must See in Ireland

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

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

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

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

2. Kilkenny

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

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

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

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

3. County Waterford & County Wexford

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

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

4. Cork & Blarney Castle

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

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

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

5. Killarney

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

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

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

Affordable Airbnb Homes in Killarney

6. Dingle Peninsula

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

7. The Burren National Park &   Cliffs of Moher

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

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

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

9. Northern Ireland

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

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

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

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

Affordable Airbnb Homes in Northern Ireland

10. Belfast

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

11. Howth & Back to Dublin

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

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

Best Ireland Tours

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

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

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

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

Practical Tips for Booking your Trip

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

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

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

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

Wanderlust Crew

48 thoughts on “ the perfect ireland itinerary ”.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Planning on visiting Ireland we can organise This perfect Itinerary for you.

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

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

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

What would be the best time of year to go?

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

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

Have so much fun!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Top 10 things to know before traveling to Ireland

Mar 27, 2024 • 9 min read

From pub etiquette to catching public transport – here's what you need to know before you go to Ireland © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

A lifetime of living in Ireland has given me some insight into the vagaries of my home country, beginning with the number one rule: never assume anything. This is a country that delights in confounding even your most comfortable expectations about pretty much everything, from the weather to the quality of the wifi.

Here are 10 tips that I’m pretty comfortable giving anyone who plans a visit, whether for the first time or the fifth. I’ve got some practical tips around VAT refunds and the most efficient ways to get around, but then there’s a bunch of suggestions on how to crack the mightiest nut of all – the Irish themselves. Because be in no doubt, while Ireland has gorgeous landscapes, a rich history and the best pubs in the world, your visit will only be truly memorable if you get to know the people – friendly and welcoming but often contradictory and inscrutable.

1. Plan on at least seven days to start making sense of the country

Ireland is small, but there’s an awful lot to it. Luckily, distances in Ireland aren’t huge so you can get most anywhere in a few hours, but the list of where to go can get very long, very quickly.

It’ll take you a couple of days to even begin to make a dent in Dublin , but once you go beyond the capital you’ll need at least five days to make a lightening stop tour of the major highlights of the west: Galway and Connemara, Clare (where you’ll find the Cliffs of Moher and the most authentic traditional music in the country), Kerry (you’ll need a whole day just for the Ring of Kerry and another for the Dingle Peninsula ) and Cork , only it’s time to go home so you can only make enough time for Cork City .

Clearly the only solution is to plan for a month; at the end of it, you’ll be wanting to stay a year. 

2. Keep it to casual wear

The Irish aren’t big on formal wear and only pull it out for very specific occasions (a wedding, a ball, the opening of a parliamentary session). Which means you can wear pretty much whatever you want: smart casual is the most you'll need for fancy dinners, the theatre or the concert hall.

Irish summers are warm but rarely hot, so you'll want something extra when the temperatures cool, especially in the evening. Ultimately the ever-changeable weather will determine your outfits, but a light waterproof jacket should never be beyond reach for the almost-inevitable rain. If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking – in cities or on hills – a good pair of walking shoes, preferably waterproof, will do the trick.

Add these top beaches around Ireland to your travel itinerary. 

3. The land of a 100,000 welcomes

Céad míle fáilte – literally, 100,000 welcomes. The famous Irish greeting suggests a country that is big on displays of affection, but nothing could be further from the truth. A firm handshake – with eye contact – is the appropriate greeting when meeting men, women and older children for the first time. Once a friendship is made, then all bets are off and anything goes, from a hug and a kiss on the cheek (primarily amongst female friends) to an air nod and a casual "hey".

Younger Irish are less formal than their older counterparts, but even they generally eschew effusive greetings: more often than not, a quick handshake and a casual nod is the best way to say hello for the first time.

4. The Irish love to talk, until they don’t

The Irish are renowned for their chat, but with people they don’t know particularly well they generally like to keep it to topics that are light and not likely to embarrass. Despite their gregarious nature, the Irish tend to be reserved when it comes to life’s more serious issues and are very mistrustful of "oversharers". 

The old adage that the Irish will talk about anything except sex, religion and politics is something of an over-simplification, but if you do find yourself steering into deeper waters around sensitive topics it’s always better to listen: locals aren’t shy about getting into heated discussion amongst themselves about all kinds of topics but take a dim view of outsiders who express (even legitimate) criticisms of Ireland or the Irish.

5. You’d better learn about the rounds system

It’s a firm rule of drinking with locals. If someone buys you a drink, you’re obliged to buy them one back – this is the bedrock of Irish pub culture. Nothing will hasten your fall from social grace here like the failure to uphold this pub law. 

The time to repay the drink you’re drinking? It’s when the person you’re drinking with is just about to finish theirs. It doesn’t matter if you’re halfway through your own drink at that moment: you can’t let your drinking buddy sit in front of an empty glass. Your greatest challenge will probably be trying to keep up with your fellow drinkers, who may keep buying you drinks in every round even when you've still got a collection of unfinished pints in front of you and you're sliding face first down the bar.

6. The best way to visit cities is on foot or by public transport

Driving and parking in Irish cities is a nightmare. There’s no free parking anywhere; the unrelenting traffic will test even the most patient of drivers; and the one-way systems in major urban centres will confound you to the point of madness (although map apps are pretty good at pointing you in the right direction).

The good news is you don’t need a car to visit any Irish city. Dublin, the biggest by far, has a pretty decent system of public transport, but even then most of the major sights are within walking distance of each other. Same goes for Cork, Belfast, Limerick and Galway, which are more easily explored without a car.

Save this guide to the best road trips in Ireland.

7. The easiest way to explore Ireland is by car

If cities are best experienced without a car, the most effective way to explore the rest of the country is with one. The bus network, made up of a mix of public and private operators, is extensive and generally quite competitive, though journey times can be slow and lots of the points of interest outside towns are not served. The rail network is quicker but more limited, serving only some major towns and cities. Both buses and trains get busy during peak times; you'll need to book in advance to be guaranteed a seat. 

Cars can be hired in every major town and city. The Irish drive on the left hand side; distances and speed limits in the Republic are measured in kilometres, but once you cross the invisible border into Northern Ireland everything switches to miles.

8. Ireland is good cycling country

Ireland's compact size and scenic landscapes make it a good cycling destination, albeit one you need to prepare for. The weather is unreliable, roads can be very narrow and Irish drivers tend to drive quickly, even on those narrow roads. A growing network of greenways, such as the 42km Great Western Greenway in County Mayo and the Royal Canal Greenway that runs through the midlands, are a great and hassle-free way to see the country from two wheels. A good tip for cyclists in the west is that the prevailing winds make it easier to cycle from south to north. 

Buses will carry bikes, but only if there’s room. Intercity trains will also carry bikes, but you’ll need to book a space in advance as there’s limited capacity. Suburban rail services in Dublin won’t take bikes during rush hour (7am to 10am and 4pm to 7pm). A number of Irish companies arrange cycle tours, including Go Visit Ireland  and Cycling Safaris .

9. Pick the right season to travel in Ireland

June to mid-September is high season: the weather is at its best and the most popular parts of the country – Dublin , Kerry and the southern and western coasts – are at their busiest. The downside is big crowds and the highest rates for accommodation and car hire.

Rates drop off from mid-September as the crowds start to thin, but most tourist spots are still open to take advantage of the last weeks of the season. Although weather can never be predicted with any degree of accuracy, the weather can be surprisingly lovely right up to mid-October.

Low season runs from November to the middle of March; Irish winter days are short, damp and cold, but the upside is fewer visitors and some terrific accommodation deals. A lot of the west coast goes into winter hibernation, though, with a lot of attractions and hotels closing down; if you’re planning to visit during this time you should check what’s open before you travel.   

Ready to head to Ireland? These are the best times to visit.

10. Claim your VAT back if you’re visiting from outside the EU

Most goods come with value-added tax (VAT) of 23%, which non-EU residents can claim back as part of the Retail Export Scheme, so long as the purchase was made with a credit card. Visitors from the UK can also benefit from this, but not visitors from Northern Ireland.

Before making a purchase, check with the retailer that they operate the scheme. If they do, you will be issued an export voucher for the purchase, which you need to get certified by customs when you leave Ireland. The voucher is sent back to the retailer who then refunds you the VAT (minus any processing fee). 

Rather than operate the scheme themselves, many retailers use VAT-refunding agencies, whereby you go through the same process of presenting the agency’s own certificate at customs. Some agencies, though, operate a scheme where you don’t pay any VAT upfront, but if you don’t file the paperwork correctly (either sending it back to the agency or presenting it to customs) your card will be charged later. Some goods such as books, children's clothing and educational items are excluded from VAT.

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To the west of Great Britain, the enchanting emerald green landscapes, meandering rivers, and rugged cliffs create the serene beauty that is Ireland, known as the Emerald Isle. On the east coast, Irish folklore and legends come to life in cozy pubs where warm hospitality and traditional music combine to create an authentic Irish experience in the vibrant capital, Dublin. In the harbor city of Galway on the west coast, the Salthill promenade leads to popular beaches, and in town, you'll find eateries, nightclubs, and theaters as you wander through the cobblestone streets. Situated on the northeastern shore of Lough Leane, Killarney is a popular gateway to The Ring of Kerry, a scenic southwest drive that makes its way around the Iveragh Peninsula through coastal landscapes and rural seaside villages. With a history steeped in Celtic traditions, and marked by sites such as abbeys, castles, and monuments, from the East to the West, Ireland invites visitors to immerse themselves in the warmth of its culture and explore its magical landscapes.

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Taste of Iceland & Ireland | 9 Day Escorted

• Gullfoss Waterfall
• The Blue Lagoon
• Blarney Castle
• Cliffs of Moher
• Dublin Castle
• Sheepdog Experience

Inclusions & Extras

• Sightseeing by luxury coach in Ireland
• Professional driver/guides
• Golden Circle Day Tour
• Transfers to/from Blue Lagoon

Accommodation

• Hotel Centrum, Reykjavik (3 nights)
• Clayton Hotel, Dublin (2 nights)
• Killarney Towers Hotel (2 nights)
• Bunratty Castle Hotel (1 night)
• Full breakfast daily except on day 1
• 3 dinners & 1 lunch
• Icelandic Food Tour

Other Inclusions

• Visits, tours and admissions
• Headsets for walking tours
• Deluxe carry-on backpack, ticket wallet, luggage tags & strap
• All local taxes, hotel service charges & porterage for one suitcase per person

Day 1: Reykjavik City Tour and Hallgrimskirkja

Take a walking food tour and begin exploring Iceland’s 1000-year-old history in its beautiful capital city. You’ll be charmed by its mix of modern and traditional architecture and the beautiful brightly colored rooftops. You’ll also discover why it is considered one of the cleanest, greenest, and safest cities in the world. A food tour is a great way to get to know a city and decide where you would like to eat for the rest of your time in Reykjavik.

Day 2: Thingvellir National Park & Gullfoss Waterfall

Head out to spectacular Thingvellir National Park, a meeting place of old Icelandic clans and the home of the Icelandic Parliament from its foundation in 930 AD until 1798. It is also where Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet aboveground. Journey to the Secret Lagoon: smaller and more intimate than the Blue Lagoon, it’s the place where savvy travelers go to enjoy the Icelandic spa experience. Enjoy a unique light lunch at the greenhouse of Fridheimar Farm, surrounded by the tomato plants that have provided the food. Then it’s on to the famous Strokkur Geysir, which erupts every 10 minutes or so. Stop at the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall – fed by Iceland’s second-biggest glacier, the falls are the largest in Europe.

Day 3: Reykjavik & The Blue Lagoon Spa

Enjoy a free afternoon in the capital city Reykjavik and explore on your own some of the city’s historic places. In the evening, travel to the Blue Lagoon, a large lake surrounded by a lava field which is also a geothermal spa. One of the 25 wonders of the world, you can also see the midnight sun in summer or the Northern Lights in winter as you say farewell to Iceland.

The Sky Lagoon is another option that you can substitute here if you wish.

Day 4: Dublin Sightseeing

Transfer to Dublin. Enjoy your day with an independent Dublin Hop-on, Hop-Off bus tour and a visit to one of Dublin’s top attractions — Guinness Storehouse, Teeling Distillery, EPIC Ireland, or the General Post Office Museum. Dine independently this evening.

Day 5: Dublin & Merry Ploughboy Pub

Enjoy the morning exploring Dublin with the included vouchers. Meet your guide at 2:00 PM in the hotel lobby when all participants join a local guide for a tour of ancient and modern Dublin. Drive through the main streets to see historic buildings such as Trinity College; rows of Georgian houses with colorfully painted doorways; and the new buildings around the Financial Centre beside the River Liffey. Take a guided tour through parts of Dublin Castle, which was the seat of power and government for many centuries and today plays a leading role in European Union activities. Return to your hotel for a get-together with your tour group and a welcome drink. In the evening head to the Merry Ploughboy Pub for a great dinner of Irish specialties and a lively show with popular Irish songs and intricate step-dancing.

Day 6: Blarney Castle & Killarney

Depart Dublin and travel through the midlands of Ireland, which has many mixed farms. Stop for photos of the stately ruins on the Rock of Cashel, rising high above the surrounding plain. Continue your drive south and, just a few miles outside Cork, visit Blarney Castle to kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence.” Visit the Blarney Woollen Mills where you can find quality Irish made goods of all types, conveniently displayed under one roof. Drive through Macroom, built around a fine castle, and into County Kerry where the scenery becomes more mountainous. Arrive in Killarney, picturesquely set beside lakes with Ireland’s highest mountains, the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, forming a backdrop. Check in to your hotel and relax before dinner.

Day 7: Ring of Kerry & Skellig Experience

Today embark on Ireland’s most popular scenic drive of 100 miles – the Ring of Kerry. This winding route reveals breathtaking views of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks as well as the scenic coast of beaches and cliffs. As you travel along, there will be plenty of stops for photos at the best vantage points. After a casual lunch in a cozy restaurant you’ll continue your scenic drive. Cross to Valentia Island by bridge where you’ll visit the Skellig Experience. Learn about the off-shore island of Skellig Michael where early Christian monks lived in austere conditions and how it was used as one of the locations for the film “Star Wars VII.” Pause for a stroll around Sneem, with its brightly painted houses, and again at Moll’s Gap for panoramic views of Ireland’s highest mountains and deep valleys. Get a taste of farm life with a sheepdog demonstration of herding flocks, and see different breeds of sheep. Return to Killarney and enjoy a free evening for independent dining or exploring the many pubs in the town.

Day 8: Cliffs of Moher & Bunratty Castle

Leave Killarney and drive north to Tarbert for a 20-minute ferry ride across the wide River Shannon Estuary. Your tour continues along the coast of County Clare to the Cliffs of Moher, a spectacular wall of sandstone that reaches almost 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Drive past Lahinch Golf Course, one of Ireland’s most famous, and through the marketing town of Ennis to Bunratty. Check into Bunratty Castle Hotel, which is located close to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. In the evening head to Bunratty or Knappogue Castle for a memorable experience in a wonderful historic setting with good food and entertainment. Take your place in the Great Hall for a medieval-style feast of excellent dishes and plenty of wine. During and after the meal the lords and ladies will serenade you with song and harp music evocative of the Middle Ages.

Day 9: Depart from Shannon

Your tour ends after breakfast.

We are more than happy to include a flight quote separately to your package so that you can decide if you would like to book with us or on your own.  While booking flights can seem straight-forward, there are often hidden fees or classes of service that do not include seat assignments, meals or checked bags. We have been booking flights since 1985 and know the best routings and have great contracts that mean we often have better prices than what you will see online.

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Ireland Packing List: 17 Essentials You Actually Need for 2024

Even if you have no Irish ancestry, Ireland is a destination that calls out to many people. Blessed with beautiful countryside, compelling history and folklore, and a good presence in pop culture, Ireland is probably among the most well-known countries for American travelers.

Having visited many times myself, I can unequivocally state that Ireland lives up to the hype. I’ll never forget the rolling green fields or the sheep wandering down narrow two-lane roads.

The fish and chips I had along the Wild Atlantic Way were so exquisitely good, they tasted like the first fish and chips I ever ate. Even a monsoon-like downpour that limited visibility and soaked me through couldn’t dampen my spirits about Ireland.

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, you might be curious about what to pack for Ireland. You may plan the most wonderful vacation, but it’s not going to be as enjoyable if you don’t have the right items. I’m here to help with your Ireland packing list, but first…

This post was first written in 2018 and last updated in January 2023.

Table of Contents

Tips for Packing for Ireland

What’s the weather like in ireland.

Ireland has four distinct seasons, which is both a blessing and a curse. It’s a blessing because you can pack exactly what you need given the season you’re visiting; it’s a curse because you have to try and figure out which season you’ll be in and risk bringing the wrong items if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the weather each season so you’ll know what to bring to Ireland:

• Spring in Ireland is from March through May. Average temperatures in this season range from lows around 39°F (4°C) in March to highs around 59°F (15°C) in May. This is a pretty big swing, so it’s best to assume that March weather is a bit more winter-like (thus you pack more winter items) and May is a bit more summer-like (thus pack summer items). Visiting Ireland in April ? Good luck!
• Summer in Ireland is from June to September . The weather is typically sunny, and average temperatures range from 63-69°F (17-19°C). By the end of September, temperatures are starting to drop, so don’t assume it will be as warm on September 30th as it was on September 1st.
• Autumn in Ireland is from late September to November. Temperatures start to drop, from the 60s°F (15°C) to the 40s°F (10°C). You can also expect the weather to turn a bit damper, though to be honest, Ireland gets rain year-round in certain parts of the country.
• Winter in Ireland is from December to February.  Get ready for temperatures in the 30s-40s°F (10°C and colder) on average, and some of the rainier months of the year. Some parts of the country will even see snow! ❄️ Pack layers to stay warm and rain gear to stay dry during these months!

With this in mind, let’s dive into the travel essentials for Ireland that you need.

What You Actually Need on Your Ireland Packing List

I’ll be honest: I pretty much pack 90% of the same things over and over… and I bet you do too.

Most packing lists are about 90% of those same things, right? So instead of giving you an Ireland packing list that’s 90% of what you already know or are already planning to pack ( yes, you do need one pair of underwear for each day… ) , here’s a packing list that’s 100% of things you need specifically for making a packing list for Ireland.

In addition to the list of things to bring to Ireland, you might add other things based on the activities you plan to enjoy. For example, if you’re doing a lot of hiking, you might want to swap out the waterproof hiking boots I recommend for a heartier pair you’ve already broken in. If you plan to take a tip in the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll need a swimsuit (and a brave soul!).

No matter what, though, these items won’t take up unnecessary space in your bag. Here are my specific recommendations on how to pack for Ireland.

1. The  Lonely Planet  Ireland Travel Guide

I love the feeling of a guidebook in my hands, ready to be opened for the first time to start helping me plan my trip.  Whether you need restaurant recommendations or pro tips on scenic viewpoints, the  Lonely Planet guide to Ireland is a worthwhile investment when wondering what to bring when traveling to Ireland. You can read it on the plane over too!

Other good options for helpful guidebooks include Fodor’s Essential Ireland as well as my favorite travel guide Rick Steves Ireland. You can put sticky notes on all the pages of interest as you read through it and go back to create your finalized itinerary later.

Make sure to book your car rental in advance! I love using Discover Cars when I travel.

2. Wind-Proof Umbrella

Did you know that in some parts of Ireland, it rains up to 255 days per year?! It depends on the time of year you visit, but that means, on average, you can expect rain two days out of every three you’re in Ireland, especially when you visit Ireland in November and later into the winter season.

I don’t typically travel with an umbrella, but I was so glad to have one when I was in Dublin in the winter . It’s nice not to be dripping wet when stepping into a pub after an afternoon of exploring!

To combat this, invest in a good umbrella that can withstand the weather and won’t break the first second you step out to admire the view on the Wild Atlantic Way. They come in a variety of different colors if you want your umbrella to stand out from the others. It’s one of the must haves for Ireland travel so you don’t get soaked, especially if you’re visiting Ireland without a car .

3. Raincoat

Similarly, you’re more than likely going to need a solid raincoat while traveling in Ireland. A good rain shell keeps out rain, dries quickly, and packs up small… because we don’t check luggage around these parts! The key is to get one that’s waterproof so you don’t end up getting your clothes underneath soaked.

This one also comes in a delightful Irish green if you want to be totally on-brand with the Emerald Isle when considering what to take to Ireland.

4. Green Blanket Scarf

You already know I love scarves while traveling, and a scarf is essential for what to bring on a trip to Ireland. This Irish scarf is perfect for travel in Ireland for several reasons:

• It’s a blanket scarf you can wrap up to stay warm.
• It has green.
• It also has orange and white, giving it a distinctly Irish vibe.

With black as the base color, you can get away with wearing this every day of your trip, and it’ll look great. There are a variety of colors you can choose from if you want something a little different.

5. Waterproof Boots

I cannot rave enough about these boots from Teva . I bought a pair a few years back, and they have held up so well . They are water-resistant, have great traction, and are comfortable, making them perfect for any adventure. They also have stylish boots to wear out at night or tall boots to wear on colder days.

They can handle whatever you throw at them, from plodding through soggy clover fields to hiking along the Cliffs of Moher or on the Giant’s Causeway. (Note: Teva has redesigned these boots, so they may look different when you click through.) They’re essential for visiting Ireland for 7 days .

6. Moisture-Wicking Socks

Wet socks suck, and so do sweaty socks. I always bring multiple pairs of Merino wool socks everywhere I go so I have warm, dry feet, whether I’m hiking around Dublin or just exploring the city on a rainy day.

These moisture-wicking socks will help keep your feet warm even if you step in a deep puddle or get a bit of rainwater inside your boots. I also love recommending socks because they’re my #1 most forgotten-at-home item!

7. Sunglasses

I know it seems weird to recommend sunglasses right after all that rain gear, but you’ll thank me. When you get to the Atlantic coast, and the sun comes out for two minutes and blinds you with its glare, you’ll be glad you included this in your summer packing for Ireland. Sunglasses also take up zero room in your bag.

If you tend to lose sunglasses on trips, you can always stock up on a few cheaper pairs so you won’t be upset if you break them or forget them somewhere.

8. Universal Adapter

Unless you live in the U.K., you will need an adapter to plug in your electronics. You’ll especially want this if you have a big day of photographing landmarks in Ireland and will need a fully charged camera.

I’m a huge sucker for multi-use anything, and this universal adapter is perfect. It has USB ports and receives any kind of plug – plus, it has the necessary “Type G” prongs for Ireland. You can also buy one with multiple ports so you can charge all your gadgets at the same time.

If you’re confused about voltage converters vs. travel adapters, read all about voltage in Ireland .

9. Phone Transmitter

If you’re a good reader taking all of my advice and planning to travel by taking a 10-day Ireland road trip , this will be your saving grace. This adapter plugs into the car, connects via Bluetooth and allows you to crank up your favorite Spotify playlist anywhere (may I suggest this Ireland Roadtrip playlist ?). It also has a USB charger!

10. Irish Wool Sweater

Okay, so this one isn’t one of the things to pack for Ireland that’s absolutely necessary, but I would recommend leaving space in your bag for it if you don’t bring a sweater.

Irish wool sweaters are known the world over for their warmth and comfort. You can buy one when out traveling, or check out The Irish Store for a bigger selection!

These sweaters are also perfect if you’re looking for Irish gift ideas to get others.

What to Pack for Ireland: On the Plane

Now that we’ve talked about what to pack for Ireland when you’re there, let’s talk about a few Ireland travel essentials for the plane ride.

11. Travel Backpack

I started traveling with a travel backpack years ago and haven’t looked back. If you’ve ever had a trip where you got to the plane with your backpack, only to have everything in a jumbled mess when you open it, you won’t have to worry about that with this pack.

There are numerous compartments to organize absolutely everything, from your laptop to books to snacks to travel documents. You’ll love putting this on your Ireland packing list so you’re ready to hit the road as soon as you land.

12. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Chances are you’ll have a long flight to get here, so you’ll want to ensure you’re comfortable.

I’ve used these noise-canceling headphones for years, whether I’m waiting in the airport or working at a coffee shop on my travels. They’re so comfortable, block out a good portion of noise, and fold up to save space.

13. Portable Phone Charger

You will be taking so many quick photos and videos with your phone, as well as using it for directions. That means it’ll die quickly, which is the worst when you’re traveling. You’ll want to make sure your phone is fully charged and ready to go as soon as you get off the plane.

I learned the hard way that not every airline has a charger in its seat, so be prepared with this portable phone charger . I’ve been using this one for years and love it. Just recharge it when you get to your hotel for the night so you’re ready for the next day.

14. Travel Wallet

This travel wallet is one of the top items my readers buy because it’s so cute plus handy. It comes in over 40 different colors (I have rose gold) and has organized slots for your ID, credit cards, and cash.

You can also put your passport and a pen in it for when you have to fill out forms at customs, so this is a must for your Ireland packing list to ensure you’re prepared as soon as you land. I’ve used this for years and never looked back.

Optional Items to Consider Packing for Ireland

I’ve put together a weekend packing list to help you see some of the basics I pack for every trip. However, here are a few suggestions for what to pack for a trip to Ireland.

I tend to wear my tennis shoes during the day to explore, but sometimes these get dirty or just don’t fit the fancier restaurant I want to go to later. My travel backpack is often with me during the day, so I love having a pair of flats in it that I can quickly throw on to dress up my outfit.

It’s also comfortable to let my feet relax after a day of adventures. I love Rothy’s for both travel and every day because they’re stylish, plus they’re machine washable.

16. Winter Coat

While I listed a raincoat as something to bring anytime you visit Ireland, a winter coat is a must when exploring Dublin during Christmastime or anytime during that general season. It can get really chilly during this time of year, particularly when you’re on the coast and the wind is biting.

If you think you’ll wear it often, I recommend investing in a brand like Columbia . I’ve had their jackets for years, whether I’m hiking or traveling, and they always keep me warm.

17. Packing Cubes

I used to think packing cubes were a waste of money, but I got them at my wedding as a gift and decided to use them for our European honeymoon (which ended in Ireland, in fact!). When you’re bringing a lot of clothes for a longer trip, these are crucial for helping you organize everything.

Sometimes I travel and only stay in one city for a night or two before moving on to the next, so these allow me to keep some items like socks and underwear in the smaller cubes without having them get lost in the sea of other clothes. I consider these essentials for traveling to Ireland if you like being organized like I do!

Additionally, here are a couple of tips to help you know what to pack for a trip to Ireland:

• What you pack for Ireland will vary a lot based on the season you visit. Ireland’s summer months are noticeably drier and warmer than the winter months. As such, you may find you don’t need to pack as many long trousers or waterproof items. Be sure to check the forecast before you start packing for Ireland – and throw in a rain shell anyway because it never hurts to have one!
• Don’t want to pack a guidebook? Snag a digital copy. Lonely Planet offers ebook versions of all their guidebooks, usually at the same price or cheaper. Here’s the link for the Ireland ebook .
• Adjust your Ireland packing list based on how long you’re traveling.  Whether you’re only spending one day in Dublin to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day or making a Northern Ireland road trip to accomplish your Ireland bucket list , add one more top for every two days of travel, and one more pair of trousers for every 3 days. Don’t forget extra undergarments and socks!
• Pack for travel in Europe. Dublin and other Irish cities have a base level of fashion that’s slightly less casual than in the U.S. You can’t go wrong with black pieces and classic items from your wardrobe.
• Visiting Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day? I have a special packing list for St. Patrick’s Day !

Have any other questions about this Ireland packing list or what to pack for Ireland? Let me know in the comments!

Marissa became obsessed with Ireland when she first visited in 2015, and has been back numerous times since to explore more of the Emerald Isle. She started this site to help others plan their trip to Ireland based off her experiences.

8 thoughts on “ Ireland Packing List: 17 Essentials You Actually Need for 2024 ”

Thank you. I’ve seen a few items here I have not seen anywhere else. and they make sense.

I’m so glad to help! Thanks for reading, Kelly 🙂

We are just starting to plan a trip to Ireland in June, and I stumbled across your website. I am very impressed with it, and plan to use it as an important resource . Thank you for all the information! For the backpacks, would you recommend the larger or smaller on?

I like smaller ones for day bags personally.

Going in April (the “good luck” month)! Do you have any recommendations for a 9 hole golf course around Dublin?

Deer Park Golf Course is highly rated.

I love my TEVA sandals and wore them throughout Japan and Greece. When it rained, my feet just quickly air dried and no blistering. Would these also work in Ireland? I am trying to pack the minimum. Thanks for your advice!

It depends on the time of year that you’re coming – summer might be okay, but otherwise you might get a bit cold!

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Cost of a Trip to Ireland & the Cheapest Time to Visit Ireland

The average price of a 7-day trip to Ireland is $1,305 for a solo traveler, $2,014 for a couple, and $2,987 for a family of 4 . Ireland hotels range from $56 to $310 per night with an average of $99, while most vacation rentals will cost $160 to $490 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Ireland (from all airports) are between $545 and $1,593 per person for economy flights and $1,711 to $5,002 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $42 to $85 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Ireland

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Ireland and stay in a Ireland hotel:

• January 1st to April 1st
• September 17th to December 16th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Ireland is usually late January and early February .

Average Ireland Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Ireland for a week is $1,029-$2,597 ($147-$371 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $42 to $85 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $309 to $1,390 for economy

Lodging : $71 to $91 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $84 to $102 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Ireland for a week is $1,638-$4,575 ($234-$654 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $85 to $169 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $617 to $2,780 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Ireland for a week is $3,167-$9,013 ($452-$1,288 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $169 to $338 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,234 to $5,561 for economy

Lodging : $143 to $181 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $125 to $154 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Ireland

How cheap can you make a vacation to Ireland? The cheapest trip to Ireland is about $105 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $20 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $47.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Ireland for a week is $738-$2,506 ($105-$358 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $21 to $42 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $47 to $56 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $106 to $137 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Ireland for a week is $1,193-$4,190 ($170-$599 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $42 to $84 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Ireland for a week is $2,386-$7,974 ($341-$1,139 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $84 to $169 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $94 to $111 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $159 to $205 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is possible but not easy to travel to Ireland cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Ireland Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Ireland.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Ireland for a week is $2,062-$10,496 ($295-$1,499 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $84 to $169 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $766 to $3,457 for first class

Lodging : $118 to $310 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $486 to $976 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Ireland for a week is $3,417-$15,144 ($488-$2,163 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $168 to $339 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,533 to $6,915 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Ireland for a week is $6,847-$27,365 ($978-$3,909 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $337 to $678 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $3,066 to $13,829 for first class

Lodging : $237 to $620 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $730 to $1,465 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Ireland Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Ireland is about average than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Ireland due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Ireland Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Ireland hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Ireland.

Flight Costs to Ireland

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,593 average in early to mid July to a low of $545 in late January and early February. Median flight price is $709. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Ireland our data includes thousands of originating airports, and hundreds of airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Monday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Monday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Ireland, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $1,048, so you can easily save about 192% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Ireland can easily cost $317 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $21 per person. Private tours can cost $633 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Ireland Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Birr, Ireland
• Portumna, Ireland
• Ballinasloe, Ireland
• Athlone, Ireland
• Nenagh, Ireland
• Roscrea, Ireland
• Kinnitty, Ireland
• Moate, Ireland
• Roscommon, Ireland
• Loughrea, Ireland

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• William F Hayden Green Mountain Park, the United States
• Kyoto, Japan
• Johor Bahru, Malaysia

How Much Does A Trip To Ireland Cost? A Guide With Examples

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

If you’re wondering how much is a trip to Ireland, we’ll cut to the chase!

The average trip to Ireland cost, based on a 5-day trip for two people flying from the USA in June is:    

• Budget: €2,523/$2,679 (or €1,261/$1,340 per person)
• Mid-range: €4,281/$4,545 (or €2,141/$2,273 per person)
• Luxury: €6,641/$7,051 (or €3,321/$3,525 per person)

In the guide below, you’ll find both the avoidable and unavoidable costs you need to consider along with several detailed examples of real-life trips .

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about how much a trip to Ireland costs

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There are several factors to consider when trying to determine how much for a trip to Ireland. Take 20 seconds to read the points below as they’ll get you up-to-speed quickly:

1. You can spend anywhere from €89/$95 to €150/$159 per day

There really is no average cost of a trip to Ireland – every trip and every traveller is different. For example, some of our younger readers might be happy to stay in a hostel while some of our older readers won’t. Some people prefer to take organised tours while others like to rent a car and go it alone. All of this impacts your Ireland trip cost massively.

2. You’ll have avoidable and unavoidable costs

Flights, accommodation and food are all unavoidable costs . Now, the cost of each can go up and down depending on 1, the time of year you visit and 2, whether you choose budget, mid-level or luxury options. Some avoidable costs are the likes of drinks in pubs, souvenirs and car rental.

3. What you spend ultimately comes down to you

As is the case with any country, you can do Ireland on a budget if you need to. You just need to be careful when planning your trip to Ireland to make sure you stick within the budget you have to play with.

4. Always add a safety buffer

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of how much you can expect to spend in Ireland. However, please note that it’s always worth adding a buffer of 10-15% to your overall budget just to be safe. Unexpected costs will always arise.

The main things to consider when trying to estimate an Ireland trip cost

Many different variables come into play when trying to figure out a trip to Ireland cost.

Below, we’re going to show you costs for the likes of flights, public transport etc. We’ll use Dublin prices, as it’s one of the most expensive parts of the country.

1. Trip to Ireland cost #1: Flights

The first thing to consider when coming up with an average cost of a trip to Ireland is the price of flying into one of the airports in Ireland .

The cost of flights will vary depending on where you’re flying from, when you fly, the type of seat you book, baggage, etc. Here are some sample prices:

Example 1: Flying from JFK in the USA

• December : From €515/$546
• March : From €415/$440
• June : From €585/$621

Example 2: Flying from Frankfurt in Europe

• December : From €124/$132
• March : From €134/$142
• June : From €127/$145

2. Trip to Ireland cost #2: Accommodation

Your choice of accommodation can have a massive impact on the overall cost of your trip to Ireland. For this section, we’ll be looking at accommodation prices in Dublin.

We’ll use a Friday night and the price will be based on two people sharing. Please note that prices are likely to change – you can browse the latest prices here (affiliate link):

• December : From €66/$70 per night
• March : From €93/$99 per night
• June : From €104/$110 per night

2. Mid-range

• December : From €197/$208 per night
• March : From €174/$185 per night
• June : From €254/$270 per night
• December : From €527/$559 per night
• March : From €548/$582 per night
• June : From €418/$444 per night

3. Trip to Ireland cost #3: Food and drink

Photos via Monk’s on FB

The cost of food and drink is another unavoidable element that can have an enormous impact on the cost for a trip to Ireland.

Location plays a role. For example, the price of a pint of Guinness in rural Donegal will be considerably cheaper than Dublin City.

The type of establishment also has a big impact (e.g. having lunch in a cafe vs a restaurant). Here are some sample costs based on Dublin prices:

1. Breakfast: Between €10/$10.60 and €15/$15.92

If you have breakfast included in your accommodation, happy days. If not, you can expect to pay between €10/$10.60 and €15/$15.92 in a pub or cafe.

2. Lunch: Between €15/$15.92 and €20/$21.22

Lunch (e.g. soup and a sandwich or an Irish stew) can cost between €15/$15.92 and €20/$21.22. If you’re looking to keep your Ireland trip cost down, buy items to make a packed lunch in a shop/store.

3. Dinner: Between €15/$15.92 to €25/$26.53

The cost of dinner varies  hugely . If you opt for pub grub or a mid-range restaurant, allow between €15/$15.92 to €25/$26.53 for a drink and a main course. If you’re opting for higher-end restaurants, allow €60/$63.67 to €106.11 p/p.

4. Drinks:  €5.50/$5.84 to €8/$8.49

Drinking every night can see the cost of a trip of Ireland skyrocket. In Dublin, you’ll now pay a minimum of €5.50/$5.84 for a Guinness, €8/$8.49 for a glass of wine and €8/$8.49 for a low-end whiskey.

4. Trip to Ireland cost #4: How you’ll get around

There are several different ways of getting around Ireland (from rental car to private group tours) and they vary a fair bit in terms of price.

How you get around will not only effect the cost of a trip to Ireland but it’ll have a profound effect on your overall experience. Here’s an overview:

1. Rental car

Renting a car in Ireland can be costly but it gives you  a lot  of flexibility. There are a number of costs to consider with a rental and driving in Ireland in general.

Below, you’ll find prices for a 5-day trip in April 2024. The prices are for an economy car that seats four and that has an automatic transmission (note: prices may change so see latest rental costs here ):

• Cost of the rental : €403/$428
• Insurance : €51/$54
• Fuel : €144/$153 (€1.80 per litre for a 1,000 km trip)
• Tolls : Allow €17/$18

Buses tend to come in two forms – the ones that operate within a county, e.g. Galway, and ones that travel between counties. Here are some price examples:

• The Dublin Leap Visitor Card : Get unlimited travel in Dublin. 3 days costs €16/$17
• Dublin Bus Fares : From €1.70/$1.81 to €3/$3.19
• Dublin to Sligo : €21/$22.30 (single), €29.50/$31.33 (return)
• Cork to Galway : €21/$22.30 (single), €34/$36.11 (return)

If you’re exploring Ireland without a car , the chances are you’ll take a train or three. Here are some sample prices:

• Dublin to Belfast : From €16/$17
• Dublin to Cork : From €21/$22.30
• Dublin to Galway : From €14/$14.87

4. Organised tours

Organised tour prices vary massively . We have seen several 5-day tours for this year that cost in the region of €1,155/$1,227.

This includes your transport, 5 nights in high end hotels, numerous paid attractions, 3 dinners and 1 lunch. You’ll need to add in your flights, other meals, any drinks and tips .

5. Trip to Ireland cost #5: Attractions

Photos via Shutterstock

There’s plenty of things to do in Ireland and, while there are endless places that are free to visit, other attractions will have an admission fee.

This varies quite a lot depending on the attraction. But, to give you a rough idea of what to expect, we’ll go over some of the more popular places below.

1. State owned attractions

Some of the most popular attractions in Ireland are run by the state and, in general, prices tend to be reasonable.

The likes of Dublin Castle , the Rock of Cashel and Kilmainham Gaol are all good value at €8/$8.49 for an adult ticket.

2. Privately owned attractions

There are a number of other privately owned attractions that are well worth a visit on your trip to Ireland. Tickets for these tend to be more expensive.

An adult ticket for Kylemore Abbey , for example, costs €16/$16.97 while admission to the  Guinness Storehouse costs €26/$27.57.

3. Organised full and 1/2 day tours

You can find countless organised day trips throughout Ireland. They typically offer a comfortable coach journey that takes in a clatter of attractions before dropping you back where you started.

For example, you could be staying in Dublin and you take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher or the Causeway Coast . Expect to pay from €75/$78.47 for these tours ( browse prices here ).

6. Trip to Ireland cost #6: Travel insurance

The second last variable in your trip to Ireland cost is travel insurance. There are any number of things that can cause you to cancel your trip altogether, but it’s also worth covering yourself for any issues that might happen while you’re away.

A decent travel insurance policy will give you peace of mind and ensure that should the worst happen, you’ll be protected. For shorter trips, you can easily find travel insurance for less than €20/$21.21 (covering two people), with an excess of around €100/$ to €150/$.

Annual cover typically starts at around €30/$31.81 but can cost more than €100/$106.05 depending on the level of cover and the amount of excess you’re willing to pay.

7. Trip to Ireland cost #7: Souvenirs

Now, if you’re trying to cut the cost of your Ireland vacation cost, avoid souvenirs altogether.

However, if you want to bring a bit of Ireland home with you, here are some examples using Carroll’s Irish Gift prices:

• Claddagh ring : From €15/$15.91
• Magnets : From €5/$15.91
• Aran jumper : From €49/$51.96

8. Trip to Ireland cost #8: Safety buffer

As mentioned earlier, there is no ‘average cost of a trip to Ireland’. Unfortunately, many travel blogs claim otherwise. The result is that people very often underestimate their Ireland vacation cost.

It’s for that reason that we’d  always  recommend adding 15% to whatever figure you come up with.

For example, if you estimate your Ireland trip cost will work out around €3,000/$3,181 add an additional €450/$477 on top to cover unexpected costs.

Calculating the average cost of a trip to Ireland for 2 people and solo travellers

Now that we’ve got an idea of how much you can expect each of the major elements to cost, we can calculate the average cost of a trip to Ireland for 2 people and solo travellers flying from the US.

Of course, everyone will have different experiences, so the following budgets are a rough guideline only. These examples use a departure date of June (peak season).

1. Budget trip for one person:

• Flights from JFK : €415/$440
• Public transport : €122/$130*
• Accommodation : €520/$552**
• Food : €40/$42 per day
• Drinks : None
• Tours/attractions : €80/$85***
• Travel Insurance : €20/$21.21

TOTAL trip to Ireland cost with 15% buffer: €1,561 / $1,658

* Two train journeys at €21/$22.30 each and five bus journeys at an average of €16/$17 each ** €104/$110 per night average *** 5 state run attractions at €8 each and one ½ day tour at €40

2. Budget trip for two people:

• Flights from JFK : €830/$880
• Public transport : €244/$260*
• Food : €80/$84 per day
• Tours/attractions : €160/$170***
• Travel Insurance : €40/$42.42

TOTAL cost of a trip to Ireland for 2 with a 15% buffer: €2,523/$2,679 (or €1,261/$1,340 per person)

* Train journeys at €21/$22.30 each and five bus journeys at an average of €16/$17 each ** €104/$110 per night average *** 5 state run attractions at €8 each and one ½ day tour at €40

3. Mid-range trip for one person:

• Flights from JFK: €415/$440
• Economy rental car: €403/$428
• Rental car insurance: €51/$54
• Fuel: €144/$153
• Tolls: Allow €17/$18
• Accommodation: €1,270/$1,350
• Food: €60/$64 per day
• Drinks: €81/$86**
• Tours: €104/$110
• Travel Insurance: €20/$21.21

TOTAL Ireland vacation cost with 15% buffer: €3,226 / $3,426

* €254/$270 per night ** Based on the person having 2 pints of Guinness at a cost of €5.50/$5.84 each and 2 whiskies at a cost of €8/$8.50 each on three nights of the trip *** 5 state run attractions at €8/$8.50 each and 4 privately run attractions at an average of €16/$16.99 each

4. Mid-range trip for two people:

• Flights from JFK: €830/$880
• Accommodation: €1,270/$1,350*
• Food: €120/$128 per day
• Drinks: €160/$172**
• Tours: €208/$220
• Travel Insurance: €40/$42.42

TOTAL Ireland vacation cost with 15% buffer: €4,281 / $4,545 (or €2,141 / $2,273 per person)

* €254/$270 per night ** Based on the couple having 2 pints of Guinness at a cost of €5.50/$5.84 each and 2 whiskies at a cost of €8/$8.50 each on three nights of the trip *** 5 state run attractions at €8/$8.50 each and 4 privately run attractions at an average of €16/$16.99 each

5. Luxury trip for one person:

• Flights from JFK: €599/$564*
• Large rental car: €603/$640
• Rental car insurance : €71/$75
• Fuel: €224/$238
• Accommodation: €2,090/$2,220**
• Food: €145/$154 per day***
• Drinks: €240/$225****
• Tours: €234/$248*****

TOTAL cost of trip with 15% buffer: €5,546/$5,888

* Includes large carry on bags and extra legroom seat ** €418/$444 per night *** All meals eaten out allowing €20/$21 for breakfast, €35/$37 for lunch and dinner in a high end restaurant at an average cost of €90/$96 per meal **** Allowing for a bottle of wine on three evenings at a cost of €80/$85 per bottle ***** 5 state run attractions at €8/$8.50 each, 4 privately run attractions at an average of €16/$16.99 each and 2 experiences (e.g. private whiskey tasting) at an average of €65 each

6. Luxury trip for two people:

• Flights from JFK: €1,198/$1,128*
• Rental car insurance: €71/$75
• Food: €290/$308 per day***
• Drinks: €480/$450****
• Tours: €468/$496*****

TOTAL cost of trip with 15% buffer: €6,641 / $7,051 (or €3,321 / $3,525 per person)

* Includes large carry on bags and extra legroom seat ** €418/$444 per night *** All meals eaten out allowing €20/$21 for breakfast, €35/$37 for lunch and dinner in a high end restaurant at an average cost of €90/$96 per meal **** Allowing for 2 bottles of wine on three evenings at a cost of €80/$85 per bottle *** 5 state run attractions at €8/$8.50 each, 4 privately run attractions at an average of €16/$16.99 each and 2 experiences (e.g. private whiskey tasting) at an average of €65 each

FAQs about a trip to Ireland cost

We get emails and DMs asking how much does a trip to Ireland cost constantly , and it can be a tricky question to answer as there are so many variables to consider.

I’m going to pop in the most common Ireland trip cost questions that we receive below, but shout in the comments if you have one we haven’t tackled.

How much does the average trip to Ireland cost?

How much does it cost to go to ireland for a week, what is the cheapest month to go to ireland, how much does a weekend in ireland cost.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Saturday 21st of January 2023

Hello Kieth, When was your Example A budget created? We are headed to Ireland May of 2023 and wondering how accurate those figures are. They look on the low side. Kelly

Keith O'Hara

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Hey Kelly - This was all done at the end of last year and I know Andy, one of our senior writers here, put a lot of time into the research of each of the workings. You can click into the google sheet that shows the calculations, also. Shout if there's anything you need!

Thursday 19th of January 2023

Do you have a 14 day recommendation that included N. Ireland. We are traveling end of August.

Hey Debra - if head into

and scroll down to the itineraries starting from Belfast you'll find plenty of 14-day road trips to choose from!

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Queen's historic trip to Ireland ends on high note

DUBLIN - Queen Elizabeth II left Ireland on a triumphant note Friday after finally getting a chance to mingle with cheering crowds despite security concerns.

Adults and schoolchildren roared their delight as the queen walked out of the English Market and chatted with onlookers who had waited patiently for a glimpse of her during her brief trip to Cork.

"She's a very nice lady and she told me she had a very nice time in Ireland," said Adam Ryan, 12. "I never expected her to come talk to us. You can tell she's kind."

The atmosphere in Cork was much more relaxed and jubilant than it had been in Dublin, where a bomb was discovered on a suburban bus hours before her arrival, ratcheting up fears of a dissident attack on the queen, who was making the first visit of a British monarch to the Republic of Ireland.

She seems to have won rave reviews for her speech Wednesday night, when she directly addressed the tense relations that had often left these two neighbors wary, despite strong cultural, family and business ties.

The queen did not apologize for English actions, but expressed sympathy and regret for those who had suffered, striking a chord with many Irish listeners who said they were moved by her sincere and dignified approach.

"It's the best thing that's happened in Ireland in 20 years," said baker Joe Hagerty, who runs Heaven's Cakes in the English Market, the queen's first stop in Cork. "She's been very sweet and very direct and kept it very short. She said the right things. It was absolutely sincere. Everybody on our side of the world was really happy with it."

Pat O'Connell, who showed the queen and her husband, Prince Philip, his vast supply of fresh fish -- including the wild salmon the queen favors -- said the monarch had accomplished her goals for the ambitious trip.

"We are absolutely thrilled, it has been the most wonderful trip," he said. "The woman has just shown such dignity, such grace. You can say 99.99 per cent of the people are thrilled."

His views were echoed by other shopkeepers. Some said they were nationalists who wanted a united Ireland but had still been charmed by the queen.

Radio talk shows were filled with praise for the queen, and TV commentators hailed her visit as a watershed event.

The queen arrived at the market wearing a distinctive green coat dress over a blue floral dress set off by pearls and an emerald and diamond brooch. Some 5,000 people, including a few protesters, lined the streets for her arrival from a visit to the medieval buildings at the Rock of Cashel.

A palace spokesman, speaking on condition of anonymity because of palace policy, said the trip had surpassed expectations.

"It's been the most amazing four days," he said. "It's had a significance above and beyond a normal state visit. It's one of the most significant visits of her reign, without a doubt."

After her impromptu meeting with schoolchildren, the queen and Philip toured The Tyndall National Institute, a high-technology research center that is a showcase for Ireland's scientific skills, before flying home to England.

They met with local residents, including the Benhaffaf twins, who were conjoined at birth and were separated by an Irish surgeon, Dr. Edward Kiely, at London's Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Earlier, the queen and Philip were twice applauded by onlookers as they made their way across the medieval site at Cashel, which sits on a limestone outcropping in southwest Ireland.

She was driven to St. Patrick's Cathedral, an ancient, ruined church in a green Bentley, and was shown around while children from the Cashel Community School choir sang the Gaelic blessing, "May The Road Rise To Meet You."

Cashel Community school music teacher John Murray said, "Everybody in Cashel and the school are honored to have the queen here."

The queen plans to spend the weekend in England before receiving President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle at Buckingham Palace next week.

Queen Elizabeth II, with Dr. Eugene Keane, right, of Ireland's Historic Properties Division, and Ireland's Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Brendan Howlin, leave St. Patrick's Cathedral while visiting the ancient Rock of Cashel on the fourth and final day of the first-ever state visit to Ireland, Friday May 20, 2011.(AP / Peter Morrison)

Queen Elizabeth II, with Dr. Eugene Keane, front left, of Ireland's Historic Properties Division, and Ireland's Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Brendan Howlin, Friday, May 20, 2011. (AP / Peter Morrison)

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Exploring Ireland’s west coast: from Dingle to Donegal, Achill Island and the Cliffs of Moher

D INGLE, Ireland – The west coast of Ireland is the stuff of travel dreams – filled with soaring cliffs, bright green pastures and grazing sheep, glorious beaches, charming towns and ancient ruins. It’s worthy of a week all its own, if you have the time.

I suspected when I planned this itinerary that I was doing it too fast – covering too many kilometers in just four days, not leaving enough time to stop and smell the rhododendrons (which were in full bloom in County Mayo in late May, by the way).

Ireland’s tourism department created the Wild Atlantic Way in 2014, a driving route along the west coast that covers some 1,500 miles through nine counties. Well-placed signage along the route directs drivers to and from sights along the scenic path.

We didn’t cover it all, skipping some sections entirely and occasionally opting for faster highways to get us to our destinations quicker.

But we covered much of it, starting in Dingle, traveling north to the Cliffs of Moher, then driving through Galway to Clifden, biking out to Achill Island and ending our tour in Donegal. I wished I had an extra day in every location.

Ah well. It’s always better to want more than to stay too long.

And who knows — maybe I’ll be back. The new Aer Lingus flight, nonstop between Cleveland and Dublin, makes frequent trips to Ireland pretty tempting.

Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula is one of several scenic peninsulas along Ireland’s southwest coast. The Iveragh Peninsula, with its well-known Ring of Kerry scenic drive, is directly south and more popular. But I chose Dingle because it’s smaller, more manageable, and typically less crowded.

Dingle’s primary attraction is Slea Head Drive, a 24-mile loop route at the far west end of the peninsula that hugs the coastline most of the way. It’s dotted with ancient ruins and more contemporary sites, with dramatic cliffs, lush farmland and beautiful beaches.

The entire route was spectacular, striking and serene all at once. And though just 24 miles, it took us more than six hours to complete, as we stopped nearly a dozen times to check out interesting sites along the way.

Most of the route was uncrowded, although I imagine that will change as the summer tourist season heats up. The route is two-way, except for tour buses, which must travel clockwise. Most of the traffic flows that way too – in part, no doubt, to avoid getting trapped by one of those mega buses we saw maneuvering some very tight hairpin turns. The route is also popular with bicyclists, although it looked like too much of a workout for me, with lots of hills.

Among the stops:

* The Blasket Centre, on the mainland directly across from Great Blasket Island, the one-time home of as many as 175 residents. In 1953, the island was evacuated – too many people had voluntarily relocated, leaving the existing population too isolated and vulnerable. The island’s rich Irish-speaking culture is chronicled and celebrated at this small museum, built in 1994. Don’t miss it. Note: Separately, tours to the island are available from Dingle.

* Dunbeg Fort, a defensive structure dating back some 2,000 years or more. It’s been substantially eroded and rebuilt over the years, and it’s little wonder why – this fort is precariously perched on the cliffs, hundreds of feet above the crashing Atlantic.

* Gallarus Oratory, an elegantly constructed dry stone building – that is, built without mortar — which dates back as many as 1,300 years. The small structure, about 16 feet by 10 feet, was likely used as a small chapel.

* Irish Famine Cottages, a collection of small, spare structures built in the 19th century, and abandoned during the Great Famine, which hit this area of Ireland particularly hard.

And don’t miss a stop at Dunmore Head and Coumeenoole Beach – a gorgeous stretch of sand and the only place in Ireland I dared take my shoes off and walk barefoot in the water. Brrr!

The town of Dingle is the starting and ending point for the drive and a lovely place to spend a couple of nights. Tucked alongside a protective harbor, the charming town is home to dozens of restaurants and shops. It’s also a thriving fishing port, with a downtown marina lined with commercial boats.

I had my best meal in all of Ireland here at Out of the Blue , which offers a seafood-only menu written on a chalkboard, dictated by what the boats bring in. I also heard some of the best Irish music of my trip in Dingle, at O’Sullivan’s Courthouse Pub and Neligan’s.

And don’t miss Murphy’s Ice Cream, with two locations in town, featuring a tasty gin-flavored ice cream, and chocolate whiskey, among many others.

Where we stayed: We spent two nights at the quiet and comfortable O’Neill’s Bed and Breakfast , well-located on a side street in town, operated by Stephen O’Neill, who took over the business from his parents several years ago. At 110 euros per night, it was the most economical accommodation of my 9-night trip to Ireland and included a full Irish breakfast.

Note: There are two routes into Dingle, one along the southern coast of the peninsula and another along the northern coast. The northern route, along R560, cuts through the mountains via Conor Pass, a narrow, twisting mountain road that, after reaching its peak at about 1,500 feet, descends dramatically into Dingle. The roadway, which reduces to one lane in sections, is not for the faint of heart – but it is spectacular. Don’t miss it.

A final thought on Dingle: The afternoon we arrived, a large cruise ship was docked off the coast of Dingle – an increasingly common occurrence, according to O’Neill, who said there are four more ships scheduled to visit town this summer. There is no major pier here, so passengers are shuttled via tender to the mainland, where they descend on the small downtown for a few hours of shopping and sightseeing.

It will be interesting to see whether and how the cruise industry alters the small-town charm of Dingle and other Irish coastal communities. On the one hand, the economic impact of the visitors is certainly welcome, but the long-term effect the ships could have on the town may not be.

Cliffs of Moher

From Dingle, we drove north to the Cliffs of Moher, a scenic drive that included a 20-minute ferry across the Shannon estuary, connecting Tarbert and Killimer (23 euros; shannonferries.com ). The Cliffs were another hour-drive north.

Towering up to 700 feet above the ocean, the Cliffs stretch for nearly 9 miles along the west coast of Ireland south of Galway. It’s one of the country’s top sites for a reason, with dramatic views in every direction.

Access to what’s called the Cliffs of Moher Experience is via a central entryway that includes a visitors center built into the ground. Admission, including parking, is 10 euros per person during midday, cheaper in the morning or later afternoon.

You can also hike to the cliffs from the nearby towns of Doolin and Liscannor and avoid paying admission, although you won’t be able to access the visitors center.

The central cliffs area can get quite crowded, so come early or late if you can. My husband and I arrived at about 1 p.m., with the midday sun straight overhead, which tended to wash out our photographs.

Some of the viewing areas closest to the visitors center got clogged with people during our stay, but it was easy enough to escape the crowds by walking a bit farther along the coast.

We spent about two hours here, most of it walking along the coastal trail. And I would have stayed longer, but our next destination was calling.

A castle in Clifden

After stopping in Doolin for ice cream, we continued north toward Galway, motoring through an area known as the Burren (literally “rocky place”), a region so completely unexpected amid the green of Ireland. The area, approximately 200 square miles, features a stark landscape of rocky mountains carved from limestone. It was like driving on the moon.

The only unpleasant part of the trip came as we maneuvered through Galway, population 80,000, where we got caught in traffic and delayed by road construction. If I had to do it over again, I would have spent the night here.

Our destination was another 90 minutes northwest, in Clifden. We arrived at our hotel – the Abbeyglen Castle Hotel – just in time to hear owner Ronan Hughes recount the history of the building and the region and offer a complimentary champagne toast to some of the people who made it possible. (Read more about our castle stay here: Castle overnight in Ireland: What’s in a name? )

Clifden is in the heart of Ireland’s Connemara region, another starkly beautiful area of Ireland to explore, with jagged mountains, serene inland lakes and a dramatic coastline to explore.

We rose early to drive the Sky Road, a short, 10-mile loop that offers panoramic views of the ocean, islands and surrounding countryside. Then we took a short walk to check out the ruins of Clifden Castle, built by the same man, John D’Arcy, who founded the town and built Abbeyglen.

And here we encountered one more example of that famous Irish hospitality: The gentleman who owns the land that includes Clifden Castle came outside to tell us the property was private and to please not go inside the structure, because it wasn’t safe. And then he invited us along for an exterior tour of the space.

If I had another day here, I would have toured scenic Kylemore Abbey (built in 1868), hiked Connemara National Park and maybe taken a boat ride on Killany Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord. But time was tight, so we continued our drive north to County Mayo.

Biking through County Mayo

For several decades at the turn of the 19th century, a railroad operated from Westport to Achill Island. In 2010, the rail line was turned into a level, paved path, creating what has to be one of the world’s most spectacular bikeways, the Great Western Greenway , which traverses 27 miles through scenic County Mayo.

We started our trip from Newport, skipping the first 7 miles of the greenway, from Westport to Newport, which I had read was the least scenic part of the route, as it parallels the roadway. The route from Newport was spectacular from start to finish – through farmland and forest, past pastures and lakes, with the Atlantic coast within eyesight through much of it.

We pedaled past horses and cows and sheep – and a handful of humans, too. I imagine it will get much busier as the summer progresses. We stopped for lunch in the tiny town of Mulranny, overlooking Clew Bay, then summoned the energy to finish the final 8 miles to Achill.

My only regret was that we didn’t opt for electric bikes because although this was mostly flat, 20 miles is a lot (for me), and I didn’t need to work that hard.

We did opt for the shuttle ride back, however.

The route ends at the bridge to Achill Island – which, at 57 square miles, is Ireland’s largest island, with cliffs and mountains and some of the country’s most spectacular beaches. It’s a sister city to Cleveland, which is why the group of Northeast Ohio government and business leaders who traveled to Ireland last month spent a night here.

I, however, continued my route north, to Donegal.

But first, I asked our shuttle driver, the owner of Greenway Bicycle Hire in Newport, if he wouldn’t mind driving us the few miles west to see the statue of Johnny Kilbane, the Achill native who found fame in Cleveland as a boxer in the early 1900s.

Though he had never heard of Kilbane, or the statue, he graciously agreed. After I thanked him, I told him I might not be the last Clevelander who makes such a request.

Last stop: Donegal

We ended our tour in the town of Donegal, in Ireland’s northernmost county (also Donegal). Unfortunately, we were here mostly to sleep, before heading to our next stop. Next time, for sure, I’ll allot at least a day or two to explore the rugged coastline in Ireland’s most remote region.

For now, though, our tour came to an end at the Reel Inn, a venue well-regarded for its traditional Irish music offerings.

The place was standing-room only when we entered, filled with the sounds of banjo and button accordion. I eventually secured a couple of seats at a table by the door, where we listened for hours to the lively soundtrack of Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast before returning to our hotel.

Then, the next morning, we were off – to Northern Ireland, to the Antrim Coast and Giant’s Causeway, yet another spectacular coastal region on an island that has so many of them.

Driving in Ireland: Narrow streets, insurance extras and staying on the left side of the road

En route from Dublin to Dingle: Rock of Cashel and Kilkenny Castle

48 hours in Dublin: New Aer Lingus flight from Cleveland makes for an easy international getaway

First flight on Aer Lingus: Go to sleep in Cleveland, wake up in Dublin

(Coming next month: Two days in Northern Ireland: Giant’s Causeway, Belfast and the Titanic museum.)

©2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit cleveland.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Donald Trump Is Banned from 37 Countries as Convicted Felon, Including Major Allies Like Canada and U.K.

If elected president again, Trump would need special permission to enter several key countries for maintaining foreign relations

Donald Trump may face travel restrictions with his newfound felon status , potentially complicating his presidency if he were to win another term in office.

Thirty-eight nations, counting the United States, bar felons from entry, according to World Population Review . Those bans stand regardless of whether someone is allowed to retain their passport after conviction.

Countries that turn felons away include several of the United States' strongest allies, like the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada — the final of which will host the G7 summit of world leaders in 2025. The list also includes a number of nations at the center of pressing foreign policy issues, such as China, Israel and Mexico.

AP Photo/Alex Brandon

International governments can, and in some cases would, choose to make an exception for Trump if he requested special permission as president to make a visit.

George W. Bush , who was arrested for drunk driving in the 1970s, ran into issues with Canadian travel restrictions during his presidency while planning an official state visit and, after applying for a special waiver, he was ultimately allowed to enter.

Win McNamee/Getty

In Bush's case, which still proved tedious, the circumstances were a bit different: the crime happened decades earlier, was only categorized as a misdemeanor and was never tried in a court of law (Bush admitted to driving under the influence upon arrest and got off with a fine and temporary license suspension). It's hard to say whether Trump's new 34 felony convictions would be dealt with in a similar manner.

Countries That Deny Entry to Felons

• Dominican Republic
• New Zealand
• Philippines
• South Africa
• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

If Trump were elected to another term in the White House and chose to apply for special travel waivers, the irony would not go unnoticed.

The former president has often characterized foreigners as "criminals," and has campaigned on a promise to tighten U.S. travel restrictions, which would include shutting down the border and instating travel bans on people of certain nationalities and ideologies.

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Level up: Winnipeg gaming company expanding to United Kingdom, Ireland

A gaming business founded in Winnipeg is making the leap across the pond.

Activate Games, an immersive gaming experience, is expanding to the United Kingdom and Ireland, with plans to open 30 new spaces.

The new deal is a partnership between Activate Games and We Do Play in the United Kingdom.

Adam Schmidt, founder and CEO, said expansion has been on his mind since he first started the company with his wife. The pair loved gaming and set up the first escape room in Winnipeg, but felt that the concept, which requires intricate planning and lots of staffing, wasn’t as feasible.

“We set out to create a new business model that was nowhere else in the world, we could expand around the world fairly easily, and also something that we could maintain and create new content, right here in Winnipeg,” he said.

The centres are a blend of physical activity and gaming. Players enter immersive rooms to compete, play, and earn points while playing a variety of games.

“Each of these individual rooms are different than the other,” Schmidt said. “It's a grid floor, or it's a laser room or rock climbing wall that lights up and senses where you are.”

Schmidt added, “We combined all these awesome things together. And if you know you want to come to Activate and not have a physical experience, we have tons of content for you to play. Or if you just want to do a lot of cardio that day, you can come and do that as well.”

All the technology for the games is built and programmed in Winnipeg by roughly 120 staff members, Schmidt said.

The company has locations in Alberta, Ontario, British Columbia, Nova Scotia and Saskatchewan in Canada, as well as several locations in the United States, including Texas, Minnesota, Ohio and Illinois.

Activate is also planning to open 20 new stores across the United States and Canada in 2024, and also expand into Dubai.

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International travel website recommends Galway over Dublin for those visiting Ireland

A world-leading travel website based in the US has warned tourists who are planning to travel to Ireland this summer to avoid Dublin and consider heading west instead.

The Travel Off Path website published an article called 4 European Capitals To Avoid This Summer And Where You Should Go Instead! and it is very clear from the get-go that the writer is not the capital’s biggest fan.

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Journalist Vinicius Costa started his piece by stating: ‘Capitals are often considered the unmissable, number-one destination across most European countries.’

‘That is because they have usually been at the forefront of their history and development as states, and they just happen to have accumulated the most cultural value.’

The travel writer continued to explain that, having been to every European country, he had four capitals on his list that he would not recommend visiting in the near future.

Shockingly, the writer placed Dublin in the top spot, urging tourists to avoid the Irish capital if they can.

‘Don’t get me wrong, I am absolutely obsessed with Ireland as a country, but there’s no love lost between Dublin and I: bar a couple of historical buildings, with Dublin Castle and Trinity College , to name a couple, it’s not exactly the most exciting of capitals,’ he said

He explained that Dublin was a ‘rather flat’ city and lacked any major iconic landmarks that you would promptly identify as being Dublin’s—the same way the Eiffel Tour is associated with Paris or London and Big Ben.

He also took a swipe at the iconic Temple Bar , complaining that the minimum spend for a night out is over €90.

‘Luckily for the odd Bohemian out there, like me, Dublin is not Ireland’s only cultural offer, and certainly not the only city where you can dive into the subworld of Irish pub-crawling and sing-alongs: my top pick would be Galway, on the West Coast of Ireland,’ he said.

The travel writer also commented that Galway isn’t exactly cheaper than Dublin, either, stating that the west of Ireland is ‘weirdly pretty expensive’ to travel around. Despite this, he complimented the city’s colourful Latin Quarter, which he describes as being flanked by traditional pubs and bars.

Taking yet another swipe at the capital, he said that Galway feels more authentic, with traditional pubs and bars rather than the ‘godforsaken Temple Bar.’

Locations such as Tigh Neachtain and The Dail Bar received special mention while the size of the city ‘is more compact, far more quaint, and safer than the crime-ridden capital.’

Against the otherwise uniformly tall skyline, Galway Cathedral is a striking example of ‘a marvel of the Renaissance Revival order’. Meanwhile, remnants of Galway’s medieval past can be seen almost everywhere.

While the American travel journalist has a clear favourite, both cities offer plenty, and tourists coming to Ireland should definitely take the time to explore both and the rest of the spectacular sites that Ireland has to offer.

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We saw the long-term effects of violence in Northern Ireland: The U.S. can avoid the abyss

With the November 2024 elections drawing closer, many people have been discussing the specter of political violence. I recently joined a group of 25 faith and community leaders from across the United States on a trip to Northern Ireland focused on that same topic — by examining the aftermath of the 30-year violence there known as The Troubles. The trip was jointly sponsored by The Carter Center and Rethinking Conflict, a nonprofit working on conflict transformation, peace building and reconciliation.

During our meetings with various leaders of Northern Ireland, which included victims of the political violence, terrorism and bombings, our group got a glimpse into the abyss — the abyss of what a community looks like when it devolves into two armed camps, groups of people who have de-humanized each other, and then tries to pick up the pieces afterwards. The vivid images of violence, destruction, fear and trauma will long remain in my memory.

Rev. Dr. Gary Mason, a Methodist minister who founded Rethinking Conflict in 2015 and who organized most of the meetings for us, gave us perspective on the extent of this violence. With over 3,500 deaths and more than 47,000 people injured during The Troubles, in a country with a population of only 1.5 million, it would be equivalent to over 9 million casualties, with over 750,000 deaths, had it occurred at the same level in the US.

The Troubles: Some are still reduced to tears

The Good Friday Agreement, signed on April 10, 1998, brought peace and compromise to a divided Northern Ireland. Those with whom we met showed deep gratitude for the sustained and cross-partisan role that the US played in bringing about this peace. President Clinton became the first sitting U.S. President to visit Northern Ireland in 1995, and he appointed Sen. George Mitchell of Maine to chair the peace talks.

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The peace agreement involved compromises in many areas, and included a decommissioning of weapons, a commitment to “exclusively democratic and peaceful means of resolving differences on political issues,” the formation of new government structures, and many other solutions to help with economic opportunity and inclusion for both Catholic /  Nationalists and Protestant / Unionists in Northern Ireland going forward.

But what stuck with us was not the details of the peace.

We heard from people on both sides who lost family members, and who are still reduced to tears when they tell the story of how their loved ones died — even 30 years later. We heard from Catholic cab drivers who are still afraid to drive through Protestant areas of town. We saw the wall that still divides Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods — a wall that has been reinforced with additional height two times and has gates that are locked at night. We stayed at the Europa Hotel, that has the dubious distinction of being the most bombed hotel in the world, suffering over 30 bombings through the years of The Troubles. 

Shared faith values are a counter to dehumanization

Yes, there are new buildings going up in Belfast, and the nightlife seems lively, but the pain and trauma are still palpable.

Many Americans are surprised at the violence that occurred between Catholics and Protestants, both Christian denominations, but we learned that these faith identities encompass much more — political connections to the British Empire, cultural identities, history, family connections and more. Our political divisions in the US are similarly complex.

We returned home with new energy to help America avoid sliding into a similar abyss of political violence. We returned to the several states where The Carter Center is working on violence mitigation, including most of the political battleground states. With us came a determination to focus on shared faith values in our communities, and not to let differences in ideology devolve into hatred or de-humanizing of our neighbors.

Political violence leaves scars that do not heal easily — and some never heal. Violence turns many against the original cause, and leaves a path of destruction and pain in its wake that impacts generations to come.

Support democracy and a peaceful transfer of power

We in America can say no to this type of partisan and sectarian polarization and violence. As all major faith traditions teach, we should treat each other with dignity and respect, however much we may disagree. We can support democratic solutions through engaging with our elected officials, being active and informed citizens, encouraging others to vote and even contributing to political campaigns.

And in the end, we should peacefully accept the results of secure elections. If our candidate does not win, we look to the next election and still engage with those in office to share our concerns. Faith leaders are trusted messengers in their communities and can play a pivotal role by sharing such messages during this election season — and beyond.

We call on others to share in this vision, and to support democracy, with all its flaws. We can speak out against violence, whenever it occurs, and encourage others to do the same. We can vote, and encourage others to do so.  If you are interested in joining our Faith Forward Democracy network, you can learn more at our website,  NCTrustedElections.org . 

In the end, democracy is a system that provides for the peaceful transfer of power. The future of our freedom and justice — and peace in our communities — depends on all of us supporting that.

Jennifer Watson Roberts is a former mayor of Charlotte. She is Co-Lead for the North Carolina Democracy Resilience Network, which is supported by The Carter Center, a nonprofit that seeks to prevent and resolve conflicts, enhance freedom and democracy and improve health outcomes.