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Epic Ireland Family Vacation: 7-day Itinerary for Ireland with Kids

Posted by Anna | Aug 18, 2023 | Ireland | 1

The biggest highlight of this summer was our Ireland family vacation. If you are into fun, fast-paced trips, and love making the most of your time at a new destination – this 7-day itinerary for Ireland is for you.

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Table of Contents

Our Ireland Family Vacation

To begin with, Ireland has always been one of the places in Europe that I wanted to visit the most.

Therefore, this summer our whole family was excited about making this trip happen. My kids haven’t taken a plane since the pandemic (although we have done two Mediterranean Cruises together and traveled extensively across Spain in search of new child-friendly destinations ). My husband wanted to celebrate his Bday with a memorable getaway. As for me, I have always been mesmerized by the Celtic myths, mysterious Irish castles, and ancient ruins.

So, even planning an Ireland family vacation felt special, since there were so many things we wanted to experience on this trip. I have tried to include a bit of everything into this 7-day Itinerary for Ireland: museums, nature, castles, places for the kids, a few guided tours, and even a mini road trip.

Nevertheless, those of you who have more than one week for this Ireland trip – can still easily use my itinerary, just without any rush.

Why visit Ireland?

Is Ireland for you? – Based on my Ireland family vacation, I have put together everything I genuinely loved about this country, so that you could check for yourself whether Ireland matches your personal expectations and travel cravings.

So, what makes Ireland unique?

Stunning landscapes

First of all, Ireland is an extremely beautiful country.

Its unique landscapes were featured in numerous iconic movies. You can watch them to fuel your wanderlust: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and The Princess Bride ( filmed – The Cliffs of Moher), Braveheart ( filmed – Trim Castle), Star Wars (filmed – Skellig Islands), Saving Private Ryan (filmed at Curracloe Beach), P.S I love you ( filmed – County Wicklow’s Blessington, Sally Gap, and Dublin). As to the Tv Shows – Normal People ( filmed – Sligo and Dublin), The Vikings (filmed – County Wicklow), and of course, there are lots of Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland.

Celtic cultural heritage

Ireland is known for its unmatched Celtic heritage since Romans have never conquered it (unlike the rest of Europe). Most of the things we know today about the lifestyle of the Celtic people are actually based on what Romans wrote about them (let´s take for instance, Julius Cesar´s memoirs of the Gallic Wars). Most European countries today, for instance, Spain – are full of Roman Ruins and legendary battle stories (like the one of Numancia in Soria ), but the Celtic People of Europe were absorbed by The Roman Empire at some point (some destroyed, others conquered).

But in Ireland, those original Celtic traditions have always been a part of national folklore and were passed through myths and legends to the next generations. A few Celtic landmarks we visited on this Ireland family vacation were absolutely unique – the Boyne Valley and The Rock of Cashel.

Our Ireland Family Vacation - Blarney Gardens

Irish roots

There are more people with Irish ancestry outside Ireland than in it.

Chances are high that you (or someone you know or admire) might have Irish roots. Ireland has lately got trendy thanks to genetic tests. Throughout the complicated and dramatic history of the Emerald Isle, many locals were forced to immigrate across the globe. As a result, today some of the biggest politics and pop icons have Irish roots.

Traveling to Ireland to discover the land of your ancestors has a unique personal touch. Plus, there’s a new interesting Dublin museum on this topic – The Museum of Immigration.

When to visit Ireland

Typically, late spring and early autumn are always the best for getaways in Europe.

However, my Ireland family vacation took place at the beginning of July. By and large, it was an enjoyable experience.

It might be just me ( living on the Mediterranean coast of Spain with everywhere getting extremely touristy during the summer months), but I didn´t suffer from the summer peak season during this Ireland family vacation. Obviously, Dublin was not empty. It has always been a popular city break destination for Europeans. But it was still fine (can’t even compare it to Madrid or Barcelona in the summer months).

So, to my surprise I felt like summer was a good moment to visit Ireland.

How much time do you need in Ireland

To see most of the landmarks in Ireland you’d need 2-3 weeks.

Yet, a 7-day itinerary for Ireland is a great chance to get your first impression of the country. Even though Ireland is a relatively small country and you can cover a lot of ground just in 7 days: if having one single week for this trip – you´d have to set your travel priorities and skip lots of national landmarks.

Nevertheless, it is all entirely possible. We were visiting Ireland with kids (4 and 5 y.o) and had a blast on the road. In fact, for family travels I lately prefer shorter trips (I feel like this way all of us get less tired).

What you need to know about Ireland

On the island of Ireland, you find two countries – the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The first one is a part of the EU, and the second one – the UK. Consequently, in the Republic of Ireland, you’ll pay with euros, and in Northern Ireland – with pounds. While for now there´s no actual border control between the two, visa requirements might differ for both (depending on your country of origin).

Also, note that if you rent a car in Northern Ireland and then leave it in the Republic of Ireland (or vice versa) – you’ll be charged extra costs.

As you will see on this post: during this 7-day Itinerary for Ireland we briefly visited both countries – the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, and I haven’t regretted it.

How to get to Ireland

This whole idea of an Ireland family vacation was born by accident, while we were comparing our Europe Bucket List to the current flight deals . We discovered budget flight tickets to Belfast in Northern Ireland and decided it was time to make our dream trip happen.

While our flight was to Belfast, upon arrival we immediately took a bus to Dublin and left Northern Ireland for the end of our 7-day itinerary

The best way to reach Ireland is to find flights either to Belfast or to Dublin. From the States, there are seasonal flights to Londonderry (or Derry), but locals don’t recommend it. One of the taxi drivers told us the story of how he once drove to Derry an American couple all the way from Dublin (there was an error with the car booking, and they were forced to take a taxi for 600 euros just not to miss a flight back home).

Unique hotels in Ireland

During the research for our Ireland family vacation, I have discovered lots of cool places to stay and have marked them for the future trips to the Emerald Isle. Unfortunately, for this road trip, none of these srentals was a match for us (some were far away, others were fully booked). But I am sure it´s not my last time in Ireland anyway, so saved it all: Lough Mardal Lodge , Cosy stone built Thatch Cottage , Rural Tipperary bordering Kilkenny , Beautifully Restored Cottage , Roundwood House , Country lodge rental with wood burning stove . A few cute glamping places: Castledarcy Glamping , Ceide Glamping and Gateway Glamping .

Bucket-list tours&experiences in Ireland:

During this Ireland family vacation, we enjoyed the Northern Ireland Tour and The Celtic Boyne Valley Tour . Both were a great match in our case: we were able to see lots of new places without walking non-stop or staying inside the bus for too long.

Nevertheless, there are still a few more unique experiences left on my Ireland Bucket List:

Newgrange Tour
Fastnet Rock Lighthouse and Cape Clear Island Tour
Irish Music and Dance Show with Dance Lesson
The Ultimate Skellig Coast Cruise Tour
Dublin Mythology and Folklore Walking Tour
Dublin Local Food Tour
From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise
Game of Thrones Studio Tour
Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Kilkenny Tour

If I get a chance to visit the Emerald Isle without kids (or perhaps, when they grow up a bit) – I would not miss the Game of Thrones Studio Tour , Irish Music and Dance Show with Dance Lesson , and Dublin Mythology and Folklore Walking Tour (even though my girls adore myths&legends, I felt like walking non-stop across Dublin might feel a bit exhausting for them).

Also, I would not miss the Skellig Coast and the Aran Islands Cruise , if we were to spend more than one week in Ireland.

Driving in Ireland

Driving in Ireland for the first time? – You might find helpful this Tripiamo Driving in Ireland Guide .

Ireland for kids: Is Ireland good for a family vacation?

My biggest conclusion after this Ireland family vacation is the fact that this country is way more child-friendly than I have ever expected. Usually, as parents, we go for obvious child-friendly holidays – like a Mediterranean cruise or a family beach getaway to Spain . The Emerald Isle is known for its scenic cliffs, endless greenery, and mysterious castles. But since it is a rainy destination, I was honestly hesitating. To me, it was not clear whether my kids would enjoy it.

But they absolutely did. Here is why.

Friendly locals

I have come across a few travel opinions stating that the most friendly Europeans were in Iceland . Well, in my experience, they were in Ireland.

Especially when it came to the kids – my girls were given lollipops at train stations and hotel reception desks. My youngest daughter came up to me after a few days in Ireland with words: “ Mom, for some reason everyone loves us over here ..” lol

Let´s agree – it´s wonderful when locals make children feel this way.

Budget-friendly with kids

Overall, Ireland is not the most budget-friendly destination: the hotels are overpriced and have average quality. But when it comes to traveling with kids, Ireland actually wins over many other family travel destinations in Europe.

Large families are common across the country, so you can go with kids almost anywhere. The little ones under 6 years old always get in for free, whether it´s at landmarks or on public transport. The hotel breakfasts for the kids were free as well. In Jurry Inn Cork we were even given little handcraft gifts for the little ones.

Culture&legends in Ireland

Irish local myths and legends are infused with magical creatures. No wonder this Ireland family vacation was so culturally enriching and exciting for my little ones.

Even if you’re not a history geek yourself, I highly recommend you fuel your kids´ wanderlust before the trip with some Irish books and animated movies. I plan to make a separate post on Inspiring reads about Ireland , but in the meantime, you can check what we saw and read via my IG Highlight Ireland .

7-day Itinerary for Ireland with Kids

Day 1 – dublin.

I bet that almost every 7-day Itinerary for Ireland starts in Dublin since it´s the largest city in Ireland with the biggest international airport. (However, I honestly enjoyed flying to Belfast, since the airport was way smaller and we went through the controls fast).

Dublin is one of the most unique cities in Europe, famous for its pubs and commemorated in World Literature by James Joyce (although for many the U2 band might be the most famous thing from Ireland).

Dublin is an easy city to explore on foot since the 6 sq km around River Liffey contains most of the city´s museums and landmarks. We were staying at Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane . So, the first day of our Ireland family vacation started with a relaxing walk along River Liffey towards the city center of Dublin. However, a popular alternative to walking is River Liffey Sightseeing Cruise .

Note, that if you plan to stay in Dublin for a few days and want to see it all, you could get Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 40+ Attractions .

The first place we visited in Dublin was The Arc – a cultural center for children aged from 4 to 14. During our Ireland family vacation, there was a free temporary exposition dedicated to the animated movie Wolfwalkers . It was such a cool step into a world of hand-drawn animation. I loved getting a glimpse of the vast work involved in creating Wolfwalkers : my girls were given paper and pencils to try to draw the main characters.

Hairy Lemon

Since this 7-day Itinerary for Ireland was initially planned as a child-friendly one, we knew that the Irish pub culture would need to wait for the next trips (kids are not allowed after 9 p.m. inside the pubs).

But we still wanted to have at least a nice lunch in a trendy local pub, so we picked Hairy Lemon . Both the food and service were great. I really enjoyed their Irish stew, and the kids tried Fish&Chips for the first time in their lives.

St.Patrick´s Cathedral

St.Patrick´s Cathedral is one of the most emblematic landmarks of Dublin, known for its association with writer and satirist Jonathan Swif t, who was a dean there.

The works on St.Patrick´s Cathedral began in 1190, but it is said that St. Patrick himself preached on this spot centuries earlier. Inside the cathedral there were lots of activities for the kids, so all of our family enjoyed the visit. Except for my husband, perhaps, whose attention was brought to the giant souvenir shop – so, he said that the place reminded him more of a giant fair, than of a religious cult.

We got in without a prior booking, but depending on the season, it might be helpful to get your entrance in advance .

The Library of Trinity College Dublin

The Library of Trinity College Dubl in is one of the most visited places in Dublin (you need to book a tour in advance ).

It contains one of the biggest Irish treasures – The Book of Kells , made by monks around 800. Kids were really excited to see it, especially after we watched together The Secret of Kells (2009).

However, I have to admit that as a bookworm and Harry Potter fan, I was even more excited to see the College Library with its magnificent barrel-roofed Long Hall.

So, you can imagine how disappointed I was to discover the library was empty due to their Old Library Redevelopment Project. I wish I had known this before buying tickets (especially since the entrance fee was 18.50 per adult).

For dinner, we headed to another popular food&drinks spot in Dublin – The Bank on College Green . Here, the name speaks for itself. Back in 1892, the building was acquired by Belfast Bank. Nowadays, the central banking hall with its Franco-Scottish interiors is a trendy bar and restaurant. While the menu was very brief, I really enjoyed their Irish Seafood Chowder (a traditional creamy seafood soup).

Unique Dublin Tours

If you want to make the most of your day in Dublin, booking a tour with the local guide might be an amazing idea. Check Dublin Walking Street Food Tour , Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour , Dublin Afternoon Tea Vintage Bus Trip , Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour , River Liffey Sightseeing Cruise , Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour with Tastings . If I were traveling to Ireland without kids, I would love to experience Generation Pub Crawl and Music and Dance Show at The Irish House Party .

Experiences that I regret missing out and will definitely try on my next Ireland family vacation – Traditional Irish Dance Class , Mythology and Folklore Walking Tour , Ghostbus Kids Tour , and Irish Literature Walking Tour .

Popular foodie experiences in Dublin include Irish Craic & Cuisine: Cooking Class & Dinner with local host in Dublin home , Irish Whiskey Tasting with Local Whiskey Specialist in Irish Pub, Afternoon Tea the Irish Way, and Bread, Beer & Bia: Irish Cooking Class & Dinner.

Of course, beer lovers can not miss Guinness Storehouse .

Top Dublin Day Trips

Those of you who plan to spend in Dublin more than one day might enjoy a few unique day trips – Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Kilkenny , Coastal Tour to Howth Village , Blarney Castle Full-Day Tour from Dublin or Cliffs of Moher, Burren & Galway City Day Tour .

Day 2 – Ireland Road Trip

While one can easily spend a few days in the city of Dublin, we had a busy schedule for these 7 days in Ireland. So, on the second day of our Ireland family vacation, after breakfast at cute cafe Nutbutter Grand Canal Docks (where I got to embrace my inner porridge lover), we rented a car to set on a 3-day road trip across the island.

We were initially hesitating about renting a car in Ireland since the only time we have ever had to drive on the left-hand side of the road was in Cyprus years ago. However, it turned out to be easier than I expected (especially since we did not get to cross big cities with lots of traffic).

Nevertheless, the biggest challenge of driving in Ireland for me turned out to be its narrow countryside roads. Somehow we even scratched a car and got to use travel insurance for the first time in our lives. On this Ireland family vacation, we did not feel the need for a 4×4 at any time: I honestly felt like the smaller the car, the easier moving around was.

Athlone Castle

Our first stop on the road was Athlone Castle, which we initially picked only because it was on the road to the Cliffs of Moher . But all of our family enjoyed this landmark so much.

By the way, here, we had our first encounters with friendly Irish people. While desperately searching for the parking spots (there was some kind of event in Athlone when we visited), we almost gave up, but then one of the locals waved us out of nowhere to indicate the spot (since he had just parked nearby himself). Then he approached my husband explaining that there was some kind of event going on and it was usually not that busy ( since my husband was having a hard time with the Irish accent that´s all he could explain to us lol).

Surprisingly, the 13th-century Athlone Castle has turned into one of the highlights of this Ireland family vacation for the kids since they had lots of interactive panels, folk artifacts, and even medieval costumes to dress up.

Cliffs of Moher

One of my personal highlights of this 7-day itinerary in Ireland was visiting the Cliffs of Moher . As much as I love talking about the stunning cliffs in Spain , those in Ireland were the one and only for me.

These dramatic 214m-high cliffs, confronting the might of the Atlantic Ocean, are the horizontal layers of flagstones that extend for 8 km from Hag´s Head to beyond O’Brien´s Tower.

The Cliffs of Moher are open all year round, but winds are usually high during the winter months. We arrived around 4 p.m. and it was honestly not too crowded. While The Cliffs of Moher is a natural wonder available for anyone, the only place you can park nearby costs 12 euros per person (not per car). But I honestly felt it was worth it.

In case, you don’t want to drive in Ireland, there are lots of organized tours to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin.

After a few hours at the cliffs we headed to our next road trip stop – Longcourt House Hotel in the small town of Newcastle West . This was probably the nicest hotel of our Ireland family vacation. Although I did not like that they accepted card payments only (like most of the hotels across Ireland, by the way) – a client should always have several payment options.

Especially since a few remote restaurants we visited on the road across Ireland, had problems with payment terminals. So, you can never fully rely on the card. Generally, I would suggest you always have a card for hotels and landmarks and some extra cash with you ( euro for the Republic of Ireland / pounds for Northern Ireland).

Day 3 – Ireland Road Trip

Ross castle.

Our morning started with a traditional Irish Breakfast at the restaurant of Longcourt House Hotel . Afterward, we drove all the way to the Killarney National Park . I definitely plan to return one day to drive the famous Ring of Kerry. But even getting a quick sneak peek of several local landmarks was worth making a stop.

A few popular experiences to book here are Private horse carriage tour of Killarney National Park and Ring of Kerry Full-Day Tour from Killarney .

First thing in the morning we headed to Ross Castle, a grand example of a medieval Irish stronghold. It was probably built in the 15th century by one of the O´Donogue Ross tribal chieftains. Boats from here will take you to Innisfallen Isle in the middle of Lough Leane (you should book ahead in the high season).

Since we have only planned to make a quick stop at Ross Castle, we got there before its opening around 9 a.m. The views were so serene – suddenly, were approached by a group of local deers. This was one of the most magical moments of our 7-day itinerary in Ireland.

Torc Waterfall

Only 9km away from Ross Castle, we enjoyed another must-stop of K illarney National Park – Torc Waterfall.

Here, I was initially a bit concerned about the parking (since I read on Google it was hard to find a spot). But I guess, since it was still relatively early (around 10 a.m) we found a place to leave our car easily and then walked a few minutes through the magical forests towards the Torc Waterfall.

I have honestly enjoyed this natural setting – there were a few hiking trails around the waterfall area (would be great to test those if having more time at Killarney National Park ).

Muckross House

The last stop before lunch was Muckross House – a splendid estate and the 19th-century Victorian Museum.

Since it was different from all the other places we planned for this Ireland family vacation, I was excited to get inside for the interiors. The tour cost 9 euros per person and even the kids really loved all the furniture and decor. There was a small child-friendly table with pencils and activity sheets (which included quizzes about the history of the Muckross House).

The Muckross House is currently owned by the state But it used to belong to the Herbert family, then was purchased by Lord Ardilaun . In 1910 it was purchased again by a wealthy American William Bowers Bourn as a wedding present for his only daughter Maud . After her death in 1932, the family sold the property to the state (since sustaining it had become too big an undertaking for any private individual).

It´s curious that back in 1861 Queen Victoria and Prince Albert stayed in The Muckross House during their trip to Ireland.

After visiting the Muckross House we drove to the restaurant The Kerry Way for lunch and then headed to our last stop of the day – Blarney Castle & Gardens.

Blarney Castle & Gardens

If I were to pick only one place to visit during this Ireland Family Vacation – I´d go with Blarney Castle & Gardens . You can easily spend here the whole day. In our case, we only had an afternoon to enjoy this place. If you plan to visit Blarney Castle & Gardens in the morning – you should book in advance, since it is one of the most popular places on the Emerald Isle.

Before planning this Ireland family vacation, I had honestly never heard of Blarney and had no idea that it was one of the most iconic places in the country. According to tradition, one can get a gift of blarney by kissing the Blarney Stone. Here, you’ll need to watch your kids, as they’ll be clambering to the top of the castle. Usually, the lines to kiss the stone are huge. But since we got inside only 1h30 min before the closing time, our family almost had the place to ourselves.

We did not kiss the stone, even though I usually enjoy following local legends and superstitions. Many believe that kissing Blarney gives you the ability to talk your way out of any difficult situation and give anyone the runaround. The phrase was coined by Queen Elizabeth I as she told the castle´s owner that he was speaking nothing but blarney , while he tried to avoid doing what she demanded.

Can’t stress enough how much I loved the surrounding 1000 acres of woodland and gardens. My kids could not stop playing fairies. Although, here, at Blarney Castle & Gardens I have followed another local legend of the Wishing Steps . According to it, one is supposed to walk down back up with eyes closed and ask for a wish that would be granted in a year by the Blarney Witch .

After this magical afternoon at Blarney Castle & Gardens , we headed to our hotel Jury Inn in Cork . After the check-in, we went for dinner and walked around the city center of Cork. Popular activities in Cork include Guided Historical Walking Tour, Harbour Scenic Cruise , and Midleton Distillery Tour with Whiskey Tasting.

We honestly didn’t click with the city of Cork. It was Thursday around 8 p.m. and the main street was full of drunk people (to the extent that some could barely walk). I don’t know whether it was our luck, or that was what a regular evening in Cork looked like. One of our Irish guides had once made a joke that there was a nasty rumor about the Irish drinking a lot – so not true, since the Irish always spill most of it …

Anyway, if I will get a chance to visit Cork again, I plan to use it to make a Full-Day Guided Tour to Dingle Peninsula .

Day 4 – Ireland Road Trip

On the last day of our Ireland Road trip, we were supposed to return to Dublin and leave a car at the airport. But we still had a whole day for sightseeing.

Cahir Castle

First thing in the morning we headed to Cahir Castle, one of Ireland´s largest and best-preserved castles.

It was founded by Conor O´Brien in 1142 and passed on to the Butler family in 1375. The Cahir Castle has survived nearly intact through centuries, largely because it surrender to Cromwell in 1650 without a fight. Kids really enjoyed the Cahir Castle Siege 1599 in miniature, where certain areas were lightened up after pressing the button.

Rock of Cashel

If I were to pick my second favorite place for this Ireland family vacation, that would be the Rock of Cashel.

This landmark possesses the most impressive cluster of all the medieval buildings in Ireland. According to the legend St.Patrick himself came here to convert a local king to Christianity.

Since the 9th century, Cashel even rivaled Tara as Ireland´s center of power. It all lasted till the 10th century when the local clan lost to O´Brians , and in 1101 the King gave this place to the Church. It was a great ecclesiastical center until Cromwell ´s army killed here 3000 Catholic devotees back in 1647.

Our last stop on the road to Dublin was the picturesque town of Kilkenny, considered one of the most attractive medieval towns in Ireland. Here, we enjoyed lunch at Kyteler´s Inn , a local medieval tavern trading back to 1324. However, I was a bit disappointed that during the day everyone was seated at their Courtyard Bar , which I did not like. But to access the toilets you´d walk through their medieval-tavern room and it all looked really cool.

Kilkenny turned out way more touristy than we expected. While walking around the center we made a stop at a local bookshop Khans Books Limited , where I got a coloring book Book of Kells for the kids, as well as a few new reads for the road.

One of the top local landmarks is Kilkenny Castle. But as it was really busy with the visitors, we decided to hit the road back to Dublin earlier in order to have some rest before the next few days.

In Kilkenny, you have a few interesting guided tour options – Historical and Hysterical Guided City Walking Tour and Historical Highlights Walking Tour .

After arriving at the Dublin Airport we left the rented car and headed to Maldon Dublin Airport Hotel . The initial plan was to take the bus from Dublin Airport to Belfast the next evening (after the Boyne Valley Tour ). But things got a bit complicated…

Day 5 – Boyne Valley Organized Tour

While I usually prefer traveling independently, for this Ireland family vacation we thought of reducing the days of driving and booking a few organized tours instead.

I initially thought of Newgrange Tour , but it was sold out (even though I was booking 2 weeks before the actual trip: so maybe, should have done it earlier). But another exciting alternative we found was The Celtic Boyne Valley Tour .

For this Boyne Valley Tour was a bit concerned about the kids since they don’t always have the patience to listen to the guides on the subject of history.

Plus, the last time I recall us doing a guided tour was at the Mommies Museum of Quinto during the Aragon road trip – we did not make it to the end (even though it was in Spanish and the whole subject of mommies tends to grab kids’ interest way better).

But the whole tour experience turned out surprisingly good. Our local guide David was extremely knowledgeable, and we were able to learn more about the culture and history of Ireland. Plus, lots of comments were made on the bus while the kids were busy painting, so it was easy to attend. At times, I was even translating a few stories and legends for the little ones (since they are only learning English).

During this Celtic Tour along Ireland’s Ancient East, we explored the Boyne Valley situated in County Meath (from where the high kings of Ireland ruled). We made stops at the Neolithic tombs of Loughcrew , Hill of Tara , Trim Castle , and Fore Abbey .

The only drawback of the day was the weather.

For the first time on this Ireland family vacation, I realized how lucky we were with the weather before. The heavy Irish rain caught us at the Hill of Tara . All of us were wearing waterproof boots, pants, and jackets. Additionally, I had an umbrella. But since it was also windy, the raindrops were coming from everywhere and everyone got wet. However, our guide comforted everyone that he had done the same tour under worse conditions.

While I was still preparing our 7-day itinerary for Ireland, I obviously read lots of other travel stories, most of which were full of statements like: “ We planned to do this, but it started to rain ”. At first, I could not get it: I mean, you have waterproof everything , what´s the problem? – But now, based on this personal experience, I understand how the Irish rains perform.

For what it´s worth, the day did not end with the bad weather. After the tour, which ended around 5 p.m., we were supposed to pick up the suitcase and take a bus back to Belfast . But to our huge surprise, there were no tickets online (due to a local football game everything was sold out and the city´s public transport collapsed).

This was the most stressful moment of our Ireland family vacation.

Since there were no bus or train tickets to Belfast available online , we took a taxi to the train station and bought tickets there. At the info desk, they warned us that the train would be extremely full ( everyone was returning home after the game in Dublin). I was already imagining sitting on the suitcases with the kids during the ride, but it had turned out surprisingly well.

I could even say that we enjoyed traveling from Dublin to Belfast by train more than we did by bus (as it was way more spacious).

After arriving in Belfast, we took a taxi to the Leonardo Hotel . At Belfast train station they had a curious taxi-call system : there was a public phone – you would pick it up and it would automatically call the operation center, so you´d get a taxi sent under your name.

My first impression of the night in Belfast was honestly a bit alarming. At our hotel, there was a double security check at the entrance (which I do not recall anywhere else in Europe). So, I immediately started to research online whether Belfast was actually safe.

Day 6 – Northern Ireland Organized Tour

The following day we woke up very relaxed since we had booked a Northern Ireland tour that started around 10 a.m.

Being early birds we had plenty of time for an excellent breakfast in Belfast before the tour. This was when I started to notice the beautiful architecture of Belfast . If Dublin city center was more about pubs and small colorful buildings, the facades of Belfast were tall and sophisticated.

The tour bus picked us up near the hotel and we headed to our first stop in Northern Ireland – The Dark Hedges , one of the emblematic Game of Thrones filming locations.

The Dark Hedges is an avenue of beech trees along Bregagh Road. My kids really loved the mysterious legend about this place: it states that the hedges are often visited by a local ghost Grey Lady, who travels across the road while flitting across it from tree to tree.

Our next stop of the day was Giant´s Causeway – one of the most-visited landmarks in Northern Ireland and a World Heritage Site (as well as a GOT filming location).

Once there, you could clearly notice that Giant´s Causeway is the number one local tourist attraction. We spent 1.30 hours exploring the polygonal columns of layered basalt rocks and caves, formed by a volcanic eruption 60 man-years ago. There was a bus taking travelers to the Giant´s Causeway from the visitors center, but we opted for a 15-minute walk (since there was a long line to get on the bus and none of us wanted to wait).

Giant´s Causeway is known for an ancient local legend of Finn McCool . My kids enjoyed it so much that I later bought them the book in Belfast .

By and large, both The Dark Hedges and Giant´s Causeway were way more touristy than anything else we have previously visited during these 7 days in Ireland. It was a surprise to me – I would have honestly placed all of my bets on The Cliffs of Moher being the top-visited site of the Emerald Isle.

The last stop of our Northern Ireland tour was Dunluce Castle : the dramatic ruins on a rocky chalk headland, dating from the 15th and 17th centuries.

Since the tour ended up around 4 p.m. we still had plenty of time to walk around Belfast’s city center. Here, I shopped for souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts . It was not any more budget-friendly than the usual airport souvenirs. But I loved the wide variety. Also, we made a stop at a local bookshop Waterstones (which I loved so much) for new Irish children’s books.

Day 7 – Belfast

On the last day of our Ireland family vacation, we left the suitcases at the reception desk to enjoy the last moments in Belfast .

Thanks to our late flight back to Spain, we had the whole morning to take the kids to W5 – one of the coolest interactive museums I have seen in my entire life.

While the top sight of Belfast is definitely the Titanic Museum , we were not sure whether the little ones would enjoy it. But with W5 I was honestly impressed even myself: we could barely drag the kids out, they were having a blast and did not want to leave. It was definitely one of the highlights of the whole Ireland trip for them. You can check more details via my IG Highlight Ireland .

Souvenirs from Ireland

I do not recall bringing that many souvenirs from any of my recent trips.

Our family enjoyed this Ireland family vacation so much that we wanted to bring a piece of the Emerald Isle back home to Spain. Aside from local souvenir shops and Irish books , I have discovered a few unique local businesses and craftspeople.

Magee offers a beautiful collection of Irish clothing and accessories while being present on the market since 1866. I especially loved their cozy throws and tweed caps .

Irish socks looked so comfy that I could not resist and bought a few pairs for me, Carlos, and my parents. IrishTweedStore and KinsaleCrafts both offer cute collections of warm socks from Ireland.

Inside the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, I got a pair of Silver Emerald Shamrock earrings for each of my girls (I secretly wear these myself cause they are so beautiful) – SilverRainSilver and CelticJewelryDesign offer similar designs. You can find the most unique Irish Jewelry at IrishJewelleryGifts . If you like ceramics, check Celticclaysireland to shop for traditional Irish pottery. GiftsofIrelandCrafts and CeltGift offer a wide selection of different gifts from Ireland.

Here are a few more cool shops to find handmade Irish gifts and support local craftspeople: KateIrishTweedStore , GAELDesignStoreIre , MiniInish , TheDribblyYak , DonegalNaturalSoap , QuillsWoollenMarket , and EIREMusic . I so regret discovering TheCrochetDollGifts late – these could have been the most memorable gifts from Ireland for my girls.

By and large, I loved how this 7-day itinerary for Ireland has turned out.

It was definitely a fast-paced trip, but except for the Dublin-Belfast return trip, it all went on really smoothly. We were able to test both driving and organized tours in Ireland, try local foods, and explore the most iconic landmarks.

For me, Ireland felt like a very child-friendly destination, a perfect one to bring along the family. We definitely plan to return one day to see more of the Emerald Isle.

The most crowded landmarks were the ones of Northen Ireland. At the same time, in my opinion, it was Belfast , having the most interesting places for kids (rather than Dublin ).

While we have only visited W5 in Belfast , I am currently considering planning another 4-day getaway to Belfast with kids in order to visit all we had no time for:

Belfast Walking Food Tour
Ulster Museum
Crumlin Road Gaol – Belfast’s infamous prison, during a tour you get to explore the jails cells, execution chamber and graveyard, as well as to learn about the prison’s 150-year history
Political Taxi Tour to explore the murals
Botanic Gardens
Belfast Zoo
Colin Glen Forest Park ( the official Gruffalo trail)
Andersonstown Leisure Center
Aunt Sandra Candy Factory
Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park
Lagan Valley LeasurePlex
Railway Preservation Society of Ireland
Interactive Sensory Cocktail Experience in Belfast
Game of Thrones Studio Tour Admission and Transfer from Belfast

For more travel tips check my Pinterest boards Europe Travel and Ireland .

ireland family vacation at lifestyle crossroads 2

For more travel stories check my Pinterest boards Best of At Lifestyle Crossroads and Europe Travel

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October 17, 2023

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The Perfect Ireland Itinerary & Road Trip

The Best One Week Ireland Itinerary to plan a perfect Ireland vacation (16)

Visiting Ireland

I just got back from an amazing trip to Ireland. While the country wasn’t necessarily at the top of my list, a work opportunity in Killarney popped up and I jumped at the chance to stick around after to explore the country.

I’m SO glad I did!

The natural scenery, food and hospitality of Ireland really stuck with me. While the entire country is beautiful and scenic, with lots of rolling green hills, each county and region of Ireland offers a slightly different look and feel.

We spent about 3 weeks in the Republic of Ireland, exploring the coastal Wild Atlantic Way and the cultural Ancient East on a self drive route. I thought I’d share some advice and helpful tips about planning a trip to Ireland in today’s post.

Keep reading below for advice on how to plan the perfect trip to Ireland!

Travel Guide to Planning an Ireland Vacation | Table of Contents

Ireland Itinerary
Galway and Connemara
The Cliffs of Moher
Dingle Peninsula
Killarney and Kenmare
Before You Go: Ireland Travel Checklist
When is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?
What to Pack for Ireland
Getting around: Self-drive Road Trip vs. Public Transportation

Where to Stay in Ireland

Or save this article to read later by pinning it ⇟

See more photos on my Instagram account, @shershegoes

Where Should You Go in Ireland?

The island of Ireland is politically divided in two.

The southern portion constitutes The Republic of Ireland while a section of the north, called Northern Ireland , belongs to the United Kingdom. Unless you have significant vacation time, I would recommend choosing one or the other for a first time visit.

The Republic of Ireland has 2 main regions that are popular for first time visitors:

On the western coast from north to south is the famous Wild Atlantic Way , a coastal driving route which offers dramatic views of the Atlantic ocean juxtaposed against cute hamlets and fishing villages.

Must-see attractions along this route include Kylemoore Abbey, the Cliffs of Moher and the Dingle Peninsula, to name a few!

On the eastern coast is Ireland’s Ancient East , a region rich in 5,000 years of storytelling and legends as a result of the Viking invasion and subsequent Norman conquerors.

If you like museums, history and culture you’ll love journeying back in time to visit places like Waterford, Wexford and Cork – sites which inspired epic battles and strange tales.

Must See Cities and Destinations in Ireland

If you have:

A short trip , base yourself in Dublin, explore the city and do some nearby day trips.
If you have 1 week , I recommend checking out Western Ireland, where the lush countryside meets the Atlantic – small towns like Dingle, Adare and Killarney National Park in County Kerry offer dramatic, beautiful views!
With 2 weeks or more , you can make a circular loop and see Dublin, Western Ireland and explore Ireland’s Ancient East to learn more about the country’s Viking past. Explore harbor front cities like Wexford and Waterford , picturesque Cobh and kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork! The eastern section was my favorite part of visiting Ireland.

3 Week Ireland Itinerary

What’s Not in the Itinerary Below: Northern Ireland.

I didn’t have time to see everything and made the decision to skip Northern Ireland on this trip so it’s not included in this article. Northern Ireland itineraries frequently include a tour of Giant’s Causeway, the dark hedges and lots of the Game of Throne locations.

County Donegal, on the northwest, was recently voted by National Geographic as ‘the coolest place on earth’ and has gotten great recognition for outdoor adventure sports so that’s high on our list of places in Ireland to visit.

Northern Ireland is geographically close to Scotland, with ferry options from Belfast and since we’re hoping to road trip Scotland next year, we decided to save Northern Ireland for a later date!

Below is a suggested itinerary for visiting Ireland, which takes into account my personal favorite Irish cities and attractions. You can use it as a starting route planner!

Update : I visited Northern Ireland!

My Belfast travel guide is up here, and I’m working on more posts about Game of Thrones, the Giant’s Causeway and other great experiences to have in Northern Ireland.

The Best Ireland Itinerary

After spending 3 weeks in Ireland, I had an amazing time and felt like I covered a lot!

We slowed down in some areas and sped up in others so I wanted to offer some tips on Ireland itineraries of various lengths, since I know not everyone has the luxury of three weeks.

Below, I’ve featured 7 of the best Irish cities to visit, including notes on the places I loved most, to give you an idea of what there is to experience in Ireland.

I find that it helps to see a visual summary when mapping out my trip so modify your Ireland travel itinerary depending on your preferences!

County Dublin

Most international airlines offer nonstop flights to Dublin. You can set a flight alert here for airfare deals.

2 full days is a must to explore the Irish capital but if you have more time, you can add in a couple noteworthy nearby day trips!

Dublin reminded me a lot of London, with gorgeous stone architecture, local pubs on every other corner and green spaces.

Best Things to Do in Dublin

Visit the Guinness Factory!

This is the #1 attraction in all of Ireland and for good reason, it’s an entire experience. Learn about how Guinness is made, try new flavors and eat at their cafe for some hearty Guinness-made cuisine.

Even if you’ve been before, come again – they add new experiences constantly to keep things fresh. On our last trip, they added the option to 3D print your face into the beer foam!

2. See The Book of Kells , an illustrated Latin manuscript of the four Gospels.

Dating back the early 9th century, you can see a whole host of beautiful ornate manuscripts in Trinity College’s Old Library.

3. Have a drink at Temple Bar , the colorful Dublin pub which inspired a whole area of pubs.

4. Relax in St Stephen’s Green, a large park with a Victorian layout

5. Also visit the Jameson Whiskey factory to learn about whiskey production

Where to Stay in Dublin

There’s just no way around it, accommodation in Dublin is expensive.

Even in “low season” in mid to late October, all the Dublin hotels I searched for my trip were about $350-$500+ per night on a weekday – I’m talking even the airport hotels. Crazy, right?!

It turns out Dublin has a hotel bed shortage so the limited number of hotels can charge sky high prices. Enter a great affordable pick like Generator Hostel, part of the new wave of chic, “not so hostel” hostels.

Overnight: Generator Hostel Dublin

Located right in the city center, Generator Hostel Dublin is set in the hip neighborhood of Smithfield – conveniently next to the Jameson Distillery and a quick walk to Temple Bar.

The space is brilliantly designed in a industrial chic vibe, with exposed brick beams and original stonework. The best part is, you can book a private bedroom and still make new friends in Generator’s many social lounges & spaces.

Check rates: Hotels.com , Booking.com | Read reviews: TripAdvisor

More Recommended Hotels in Dublin:

1 | Shelbourne Hotel – If you want historic, iconic and luxurious you’d best stay at Shelbourne. Lots of US presidents and anyone of importance has stayed here! Or just admire the splendor during afternoon tea in their gorgeous parlor overlooking St. Stephen’s Green.

Book: Hotels.com , Booking.com | Check prices: TripAdvisor

2 | O’Callahan – This well priced chain of hotels offers a good location and breakfast. Trinity College often puts up its guests and visiting professors here so it’s a solid, mid-range hotel!

Book: Hotels.com , Booking.com | Check prices : TripAdvisor

3 | Airbnb – Lots of locals are opening up rooms or entire apartments.

While these aren’t cheap by any means (you’re paying what you would for a hotel in another city!) it can be much more affordable than a Dublin hotel, so check out Dublin airbnb listings as well.

Browse Airbnb listings here .

2. Galway & Connemara

County Galway

On Ireland’s western coast is the city of Galway, a harbor town where the River Corrib meets the Atlantic Ocean. Galway has great shopping, colorful buildings and a large student population.

We enjoyed a quick day trip into town and then continued westward to the district of Connemara, a gorgeous rugged landscape home to Atlantic coastline, bogs, heathlands, mountains and lakes.

Best Things to Do in County Galway

Explore Galway’s shops and traditional pubs at Eyre Square . Pop in for some traditional Irish music!
Visit Kylemoore Abbey , a stunning castle now owned by Benedictine Nuns with magnificent Victorian Gardens.
Drive the exhilarating 11km circular loop known as the Sky Drive , a breathtakingly beautiful coastal route from Clifden
Hike through Connemara National Park and spot the herd of wild Connemara ponies
Explore the outdoors in Clifden – hiking, beaches and wild Atlantic seascapes are all nearby

Where to Stay in Connemara

Overnight: Rosleague Manor

Pulling up to the ivy-decked pink exterior of Rosleague Manor, we knew we were in for a treat. This cozy country manor occupies 30 acres of private woodland and overlooks Ballinakill Bay.

The highlight of our stay was playing fetch with local resident, Tyson, who had the most human-esque understanding of any dog I’ve ever met! All the rooms are spacious and if the weather gets too rainy.. just cozy up to the parlor and have afternoon tea by the fireplace !

Check rates: Booking.com | Read reviews: TripAdvisor

3. Cliffs of Moher & The Burren

County Clare

You can’t visit Ireland and not see the dramatic Cliffs of Moher! Even on a cloudy rainy day, these natural rock formations are quite dramatic.

We also explored the Burren, a stunning landscape characterized by rock karst formations all over the ground. It’s a barren region that reminds me of the moon and was J R Tolkien’s inspiration for The Lord of the Rings.

He actually was a guest of Gregans Castle Hotel , the manor house that I stayed at, which I discovered while I was exploring the grounds!

You can read my hotel review here .

Fun Things to Do in County Clare

Cliffs of Moher : Ireland’s most visited natural attraction. Just don’t go too close to the edge, it’s a vertical drop!
Poulnabrone dolmen: a dramatic portal tomb dating back to Ireland’s Neolithic period
Check out Bunratty Castle , a large 15th century tower house in the center of Ballyvaughan
Visit Aillwee Cave , underground karst caves full of stalactites and stalagmites.

Where to Stay in County Clare

Overnight: Gregans Castle

A stunning luxury hotel in the heart of beautiful Ballyvaughan village.

This historic Irish hotel was once an 18th century manor house, but has been beautiful restored and I really loved the Irish country interiors! We also had dinner here,which I highly highly recommend.

Check room rates: Hotels.com or Read reviews on: TripAdvisor

4. The Dingle Peninsula

County Kerry

Dingle is a charming seaside town perched on the Atlantic.

As the only town on the Dingle Peninsula, the joke is that the next town over is Boston. From its dolphin resident to waterfront pubs, Dingle is a family friendly favorite to both Irish and international visitors.

The town is mainly supported through fishing and tourism and has a great street full of shops, pubs and restaurants.

Dingle is one of Ireland’s largest Gaeltacht towns, where Irish is the official language and the town is technically called An Daingean or Daingean Uí Chúis. You’ll see this listed alongside Dingle on all the road signs!

Fun Things to Do in Dingle:

Grab a scoop of Murphy’s Ice Cream – try their Dingle gin and salted caramel flavors!
Stop by an authentic Irish Pub for dinner and enjoy the traditional Irish music
Take a boat tour around the harbor and spot Fungie , the local dolphin resident
Circle the Dingle peninsula by driving dramatic Slea Head Drive .
See the remains of Minard Castle , now just ruins along the Atlantic

Overnight: Dingle Skellig Hotel

Dingle Skellig is a family run hotel and one of the best hotels in Kerry. With friendly staff, a heavenly spa and epic views of the Atlantic Ocean, staying here is a treat!

Check room rates: Hotels.com | Booking.com or Read reviews on: TripAdvisor

5. Killarney and Kenmare

Killarney remains one of my favorite areas to explore in Ireland.

It’s quaint, colorful and a little touristy – but in my opinion, it has a great mix of the outdoors and the comforts of luxury.

You can hike or ride a horse & buggy through Killarney National Park during the day and then come back into town for some shopping, afternoon tea or a massage.

Best Things to Do in Killarney

There’s no shortage of things to do, excellent pubs and Irish food, and overall the charm of Killarney really won us over!

Kenmare is a similar twin to Killarney so if you have time, check out both towns. If not, pick whichever is more convenient to access on your road trip!

Ride a horse and buggy through Killarney National Park – or hike!
Explore magnificent Muckross Castle , Ross Tower and row across the lakes
Relax with a blissful spa at The Brehon’s Angsana Spa
Take a day trip to Derrynane beach
See the fairy huts and sculpture garden in Sneem

Where to Stay in Killarney

The Killarney Royal occupies a great location right in the center of town.

It’s a short walk from the Killarney train station and its luxurious, comfortable beds are just what you need after all the adventure and outdoor pursuits in Killarney!

There’s also a wonderful on site restaurant with a very reasonably priced set menu, if you’re looking for a great place to eat in town.

Book: Hotels.com , Booking.com | Check prices: TripAdvisor

More Recommended Hotels in Killarney:

1 | Old Weir Lodge – A cozy, family run hotel in between Killarney town and the Convention Center.

This is a great pick for families or business travelers! We also like their breakfast options, which include oatmeal with Baileys :)

Book: Hotels.com | Booking.com | Check prices : TripAdvisor

2 | The Brehon – If you want 5 star luxury, there’s no place better in Killarney than the Brehon hotel. Just step into the lobby for a drink and you’ll experience the glam firsthand!

We also had deep tissue massages at the Angsana Spa – such a treat! Their Thai masseuses really know how to work out any tension.

Book: Hotels.com | Booking.com | Check prices: TripAdvisor

County Wexford

Wexford is a coastal haven in southeast Ireland.

There’s miles of spectacular coastline, quaint villages and an abundance of historic sights. We’ve heard the county is quite popular with local Irish, and that many buy vacation homes near the sea.

Best Things to Do in Wexford

Hook Lighthouse is the oldest operational lighthouse in the world, with a classic black and white exterior and incredible views of Hook Peninsula.
Enniscorthy is a picturesque town dating back 1500 years. We checked out the castle, met locals for a step back into Irish / British history and visited some local pubs!
To explore Ireland’s cultural evolution, visit the Irish National Heritage Park , an open air museum with lots to do. We had a fun Viking meal here and also got to meet the park’s falcons!
Local Wexford weavers have created Ross Tapestry , a series of colorful, elaborate tapestries illustrating the Norman invasion and history of Ireland. It’s a completely volunteer led community project and was a nice way to learn more about the city and Irish history.
Genealogy trips to Ireland are a common reason for overseas Irish to visit the country. If you’re interested in learning about the Irish famine period and Irish history, visit the Dunbrody Famine ship for an interactive experience.

Where to Stay in Wexford

Overnight: Brandon House Hotel

A 4 star country manor house, Brandon House is a comfortable hotel midway between Waterford and Wexford. It’s conveniently located on the N25 road (on route to Dublin) and is close by to many of Ireland’s best beaches.

We ate dinner here and it was an excellent meal – in particular, they have a huge dessert menu and a group of us ordered everything off it and literally everything was amazing. Try the cheesecake!

Book: Hotels.com , Booking.com | Check prices: TripAdvisor

More Recommended Hotels in Wexford:

1 | The Clayton – Clayton Whites is located right in Wexford’s city center and a great choice for sight seeing and shopping. It’s within walking distance of the train and bus station and rooms are large and comfortable.

Book: Hotels.com , Booking.com | Check prices: TripAdvisor

2 | The Talbot Hotel – The Talbot Hotel is located in downtown Wexford, right on the harbor. With huge, apartment style rooms this is an ideal hotel for families visiting Wexford. Free parking and a pool on site!

Book: Hotels.com , Booking.com | Check prices: TripAdvisor

7. Waterford

County Waterford

Waterford is Ireland’s maritime getaway and has a vivid past.

First invaded by Viking raiders, then Norman conquerors and medieval merchants, it was notably also the last port of call for many Irish seeking their fortunes overseas.

Best Things to do in County Waterford

Waterford Crystal is headquartered in duh, Waterford! They offer a really fun guided tour that I highly recommend. You can read more about the crystal and tour in this post here .
For medieval history fans, check out Waterford Treasures and the Bishop’s Palace .
Into adventure? Head to Dunmore East and jump in the ocean for kayaking, stand up paddle boarding or try the adventure obstacle course!
Make sure to try Dungarvan Brewing Company beer while you’re in the area. Try the Copper Coast Irish Red Ale!
Understand Ireland’s Viking past through virtual reality at The Viking Museum
Cycle along the Waterford Greenway , the longest off-roading and cycling experience in Ireland!
Explore Mount Congreve mansion and gardens, a must if you like dahlias!
Make sure to eat at the Irish pub, The Reg . The food here is incredible. Again, don’t skip dessert!

Where to Stay in Waterford

Overnight: Dooley’s Hotel

Located right on The Quay harbor front, this family run hotel has cozy rooms and a full Irish breakfast. It’s near the city center, shopping and sights and is a great affordable hotel pick in Waterford.

Book: Hotels.com , Booking.com | Check prices: TripAdvisor

How to Plan a Trip to Ireland

I planned my Ireland vacation itinerary quite quickly and relied heavily on Rick Steves Ireland and Lonely Planet .

The reason I used both guidebooks is that Rick Steves’ tends to cover his favorite Irish cities and he omitted Killarney entirely. Lonely Planet covers more places but lacks Rick Steves’ warm commentary and insightful suggestions.

P.S. Get a 30 day trial free of kindle unlimited here !

If you’re like me, you enjoy a healthy dose of travel inspiration through popular culture. I’ve always loved reading about the Celts and Irish folklore and in high school, Irish authors like James Joyce were part of our curriculum.

And of course, most people wanting to visit Ireland nowadays are hoping to see locations made famous from Game of Thrones! Below are some popular books and movies written about Ireland should you want some inspiration before your trip.

Recommended Books, Shows & Films About Ireland:

Guidebooks : Rick Steves Ireland & Lonely Planet Ireland
Films : P.S. I Love You (filmed in County Wicklow), Star Wars: The Last Jedi (filmed at Skellig), Laws of Attraction (Humewood Castle)
Books : Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt, Ulysses and Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce
HBO: Game of Thrones (scenes shot mostly in Northern Ireland)

Should You Plan a Self Drive Ireland Itinerary?

In my opinion, the best way to tour Ireland is by self driving.

Ideally, plan an Ireland itinerary for enough days to cover a full circularly loop around the island, so that you get to experience a bit of scenery from the Wild Atlantic Way and the rich culture of Ireland’s Ancient East.

It’s best to rent a car and self drive so you have the freedom to stop and go as you wish. If you’re hesitant to drive on the left, I wrote about our experience driving in Ireland here .

Driving in Ireland

While Ireland is a small country, the roads are really curvy and narrow compared to driving in America.

Add the uncertainty and hesitation that comes with driving on the left, we found that it took a bit longer to get from place to place than Google Maps suggested. So if you want to self drive a Dublin to Dublin loop, I would budget at least 10 days and ideally 2 weeks .

We rented a small, 4-door sedan and extra collision insurance.

Most cars are manual, so specify if you need an automatic. You can also pick up and drop off in different cities.

I have an in-depth post here covering everything you need to know about renting a car in Ireland, with helpful information about costs, extra fees and advice so you can check out that post for more info!

Ireland in 1 Week

If you have less time of course, you can speed through and/or cut out towns.

We added the Dingle Peninsula and Connemara to our driving itinerary in Ireland, but both are geographically a bit west, so you can cut these out if you have just 7 days and keep to a tighter route.

Or, you can fly into Dublin and out of Shannon or Cork to save additional time.

Public Transportation in Ireland

Regarding public transportation, there isn’t a wide spread bus or train network that covers the entire Irish countryside. Instead, you can take buses from city to city and book individual tours to day trip to popular sites.

For example, you can take the bus from Cork to Killarney and then book tours for the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney National Park, Muckross House etc. It’s a little more piece meal this way and requires a bit of planning but Irish bus route schedules are available online.

A third option is to book a package tour if you’re not comfortable with driving and don’t want the hassle of booking public transportation.

I saw loads of tour buses all over the entire journey, everything from Trafalgar to Globus. I’m always curious how self-planning trips compares to tour packaged itineraries so I looked online afterwards – they do hit all the popular cities and sights in their “best of Ireland” tours and so if you wanted to avoid driving on the left yourself, I think they would be a good option.

Or you can book individual day tours to popular places. I’ve included some of the most popular day tours below:

Ireland of course offers 3, 4 and 5 star hotels, just like you would find anywhere else. Some glamorous, some bare bones – there’s lots to choose from. You can browse current hotel deals for Ireland here .

If you want standout and unique accommodation in Ireland, look for one of the typically Irish bed & breakfasts and castles!

Country Houses & Historic Hotels

Ireland’s Blue Book has a stunning portfolio of Irish country houses, historic hotels and manor houses.

All of them remain family run, with charming exteriors and brilliantly decorated interiors and for a romantic Ireland vacation, you will definitely want to stay in one of these!

Historic Ireland hotels also tend to have incredible chefs running their on site restaurants. I’m not typically one to eat at a hotel but in Ireland we ate dinner at so many hotel restaurants because they’re excellent!

Then after, we would head over to the bar / pub area inside and there would be so many people, both locals and tourists, listening to live Irish music and having a great time.

Here are some of the charming hotels we experienced on our trip to Ireland:

Where to Stay in County Waterford: The Cliff House Hotel Review

Where to Stay in County Galway: Rosleague Manor Hotel Review

Where to Stay in County Clare: Gregans Castle Hotel Review

Where to Stay in County Kerry : The Killarney Royal and The Brehon

Staying in an Irish Castle

Most of Ireland’s castles lay in ruins and there aren’t many castle attractions remaining in Ireland. Instead, the most dramatic castles are privately owned and have been restored into luxury 5 star hotels.

Most all the castle options are luxury hotels, given the cost of maintenance but even if you just splurge on 1, it’s such a treat.

Staying in a castle in Ireland gives you an insider look at some really gorgeous architectural details and the grounds typically have masterpiece gardens to explore.

For kids, there’s archery, falconry, horse back riding and other medieval pursuits to enjoy while parents can relax at the spa or play a round of golf.

And that’s it! Hope this Ireland itinerary guide was helpful. Feel free to ask any questions in the comments!

Essential Tips for Visiting Ireland

Getting In | Aer Lingus, the national Irish airline, offers non-stop flights from select US cities. Two reasons to recommend Aer Lingus: low nonstop fares from many US cities and their pre-clearance facilities. We found cheap flights to Ireland in October – you can check for flight deals and routes here .

When returning to the U.S., take advantage of the U.S. pre-clearance facilities at Dublin and Shannon airports, where you complete U.S. immigration, customs and agriculture controls before departure so that when you land in the U.S., you can just collect your bags.

Getting Around | If there’s one thing I can recommend, it’s to rent a car and drive around Ireland. Not only is the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route one of the world’s most scenic drives, transportation in Ireland is a bit difficult without your own vehicle. We were nervous about driving on the left but ultimately renting a car was the best decision! Check car rental prices for your dates here .

Where to Stay | I highly recommend staying at an Irish country house during your trip. Irish hospitality is truly something else. For unique luxury accommodation check out out Ireland’s Blue Book. Or, take advantage of Airbnb for a local experience!

Protect | Lastly, be sure to visit Ireland with travel insurance . Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, your phone gets stolen, or a flight delay leaves you with nothing but the clothes on your back, travel insurance will help when you need it most. Hurricane Ophelia hit the country smack in the middle of our road trip! Get a quote for your trip here .

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Hey Sher, great write-up…very comprehensive. I agree, Ireland was never really tops on my list either, but I’m so glad I had a chance to go. I love it when a place exceeds my expectations. How did you do with the driving? Did you fall in love with Tyson at Roseleauge?

Ha I wrote about our experiencing with the driving in this post .

It ended up being fine so now I want to road trip Scotland! The main thing I found strange was how you had to pay inside at the gas station, there would also be like empty parked cars while everyone waited to pay ha!

I read your Tyson story – loved the interview with Mark! Funny enough I wrote my post about Rosleague last night.. will be publishing it in a couple weeks :) Which was your favorite of the blue book properties?

Hello Mike. Yes it’s true. Ireland is a nice place to visit. Even I never thought of going to Ireland but somehow we made a plan with friends and my experience to travel Ireland was one of my best trip ever.

Love this post! I’ve always wanted to do a trip to Ireland so this is so much food for thought and really comprehensive! I’m based in Dubai at the moment but definitely one for the bucket list when I’m based in the UK again. Thanks for sharing all your tips! : )

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Hi Sher: Love all your articles! We are budget travelers, but would like to splurge 1 night to stay in a castle or another luxury type accommodation. Do you have a suggestion for one that will accommodate 4 per room? We’re open to any location at this point as we are still working on our itinerary for 8-9 days. I looked at Gregan’s Castle and it appears we would have to get 2 rooms there which would be out of our budget even for a splurge! Thanks for all the great info!

Hi Donna! Thanks for the kind words. Yes – I would definitely recommend splurging a night in one of Ireland’s cool castle hotels. Have you seen my post on the list here ?

Hm, I’m not sure if they have room for 4 at Gregans , perhaps you could email them to ask if one of their suites could accommodate? Gregans is a more cozy house. If you can’t get rooms there, I would still recommend making a dinner reservation. It was very good!

At Rosleague , in Connemara, the rooms are HUGE and they might be able to fit 4.

In Killarney there’s lots of options for bigger parties. We had 4 of us in a loft style room at Old Weir Lodge for incredibly affordable rates.. I think we each paid around $30/night but this was also off season. I wouldn’t say it’s luxury but definitely very comfortable.

We also stayed at the Killarney Royal in one of their corner rooms which had 2 queen size beds and I’m sure 4 would be comfortable there.

If I went back to Ireland I would love to stay at Adare Manor or Ashford . Both are pricey (depending on the season) but they seem like once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Falconry, boating, archery, golf etc. Adare opened right after my trip ended but we saw the outside renderings and it looks FAB. Ashford books out months in advance, even in the off season. They also have a cottage on the grounds which are converted into rooms, I believe those are cheaper and you still get to experience the castle + grounds.

I will say in general the Irish are very hospitable and friendly. We made a mistake one night and booked a last minute room in Dingle which only came with a twin (there were 2 of us). It was meant for a single. They were very nice at the front desk and didn’t force us to upgrade rooms. Instead, they added in an extra cot / rollaway bed.

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Hi!! This was an amazing guide! I was wondering what your opinion on staying at one hotel in Dublin for the duration of the trip and taking multiple day trips to certain sights?! It seems to be less expensive and less stressful than trying to find a bunch of different hotels, but I also don’t want to miss anything since this is a once in a lifetime thing! Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!!

Hi Savannah – glad the guide was helpful! Hm, so do you mean you don’t plan to rent a car? If that’s the case then yes, a great way to see Ireland is to base yourself in Dublin and do day trips. Dublin is on the northeast of the Republic of Ireland and a lot of the famous sights are on the western coast, so it will be a bit of a longer drive. It’ll also probably be much more expensive than if you rented a car to drive around Ireland on your own and Dublin hotels tend to be much more expensive than in other cities. But, a guided tour will take care of all your transportation! so, there’s pros and cons :)

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This is the best itinerary of an Ireland trip I have read yet! Thank you so much. I traveling with children (3.5 years and 8 months) is there any of the stops that you would recommend NOT going to? Or ones that you would recommend on adding? I often wear the baby in a carrier, so needing to use a stroller is not necessary.

Thanks in advance.

Thanks so much for the kind words!! I am actually planning to head back to Ireland this year!

Hm… So let me preface this by saying I don’t have kids so I may not aware of all the do’s & don’ts for young children. I would suggest spending less time in Dublin, which is most popular for its bars, and seeing the countryside. I think kids would like Dingle, with the dolphin, boat tours and the Slea Head drive is very beautiful. Skip Minard Castle, it is a long drive and they are ruins, not a still standing & furnished castle like Kilkenny. The town of Kilkenny is nice too.

Kerry is probably very kid friendly. The town center is very cute, lots of shopping, great food + ice cream, Killarney park is beautiful and kids probably like the horse buggy rides. If you have time, pop over to Wexford and the Irish National Heritage Park – the park itself is a open air museum, and then they have some excellent activities you can book like falconry, archery, dressing up like Vikings, etc. I wrote some more about it here , and you can check out their Youtube channel to get a feel for it.

Hope that helps!

Thank you so much for this! Just a quick 1uestion re Itinerary…Does the number of days include the previous days’ plans? I.e. for the 5 day itinerary, is the idea that you’d do the itinerary for days 3 and 4 as well? (i.e. Dublin, Newgrange, Howth, Galway, Kylemore Abbey, Connemara Galway)? Thank you!

Hi! It’s flexible depending on how many days you have and whether or not you’ll be renting a car! If you have 3-4 days, I would recommend staying in Dublin and taking a day trip or two :)

Thank you so much for this post. We will be first time overseas travelers with a “once in a lifetime” trip next year. It’s a 2 week trip and we are hoping to see as much as we can. You gave me some feedback initially when we were thinking of taking a Viking Cruise. We’ve changed our minds and are now looking at Ireland, England, and Germany. Do you think we could see enough of Ireland in 4 days? Dublin looks great but we aren’t as interested in the bigger ‘cities’ so we are thinking only 1 day there. After I mapped out your recommendations, it looks like we would be most interested in the Galway/Clare areas. Thinking maybe we fly into that side of the island and out of Dublin to England. Interested in how many days you think we would need to see Kylemore/Clifden/Connemara Park/Aran Island/Mohr/Bunratty Castle?

Hi! You can see a lot of Ireland in 4 days, but you’d probably need to rent a car (and be comfortable driving on the left). I don’t think Galway has its own airport, so you have to check for the closest airport + factor in driving time.

Aran Island would be a full day trip. Connemara you could drive through or you could spend all day hiking and exploring. Kylemore Abbey might still be under construction, in which case, just a couple hours (it’s mainly the garden as the castle was under renovation when I visited) The Clifden drive is beautiful – it would take maybe a couple hours. Galway would be nice to spend a day in, we just drove through and had lunch. Galway is a smaller city and known for its pubs so if you like nightlife you could spend the night.

It depends on how long you want to linger in each place, and the driving. Typically what do is I add all the destinations I want to see in Google Maps and use their driving distance as a benchmark. The roads in Ireland are very narrow, and we were unused to driving on the left, so I’d add 30-45 minutes longer to the Google Maps driving estimates.

At a quick glance, I’d estimate 5 days at minimum for the places you listed, and 6-7 if you wanted to take it leisurely? Hope that helps!

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Hi! I live your Ireland pages, but I wish your pictures were labeled. They are all so nice! :)

I am going to visit Ireland month of June 19, and these tips are very helpful for me before landing there. Thanks for sharing these wonderful tips <3

You failed to mention The Quiet Man in your list of films! The best movie ever made. Cong was the filming location. If you haven’t seen this movie yet it is a must see!! John Wayne at this best.

Can you recommend which areas to begin and end on a 4 night country trip. Leave from Dublin on Tues AM. Spend Tue/Wed/Thur/Friday night in country. Picked these areas:

Doolin – Doolin Inn or Limestone Lodge? Cliff Walk/Caves Clifden – Cong – Ashord Lodge What is best base for Connemara National Park area – want beautiful scenery

Don’t know where to go first. Dublin to Doolin, night in Doolin. Doolin to Clifden night in Clifden. Clifden to Cong 2 nights Cong then home to Dublin. Can you recommend a better itinerary. 2 Teenage boys in tow. First time in Ireland. Thanks.

Help please. Hope for somewhat relaxing trip.

For the best route, plug in all the stops you want to make in Google Maps and then order your itinerary by the most efficient driving route. That’s what we did, and I recommend trying to keep driving to no more than 2.5 hours a day if you can.

Haven’t been to Doolin!

Ashford Lodge is gorgeous, you will love it. They have lots of add on activities like salmon fishing, golfing, archery, falconry etc which kids would enjoy.

We stayed in Clifden and Delphi Mountain in Connemara. Both were great, but slightly different experiences. Clifden is closer to Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey. We stayed at Rosleague – fabulous hotel, great service but slightly older clientele. Our review post is here if you want more photos.

Delphi Mountain Lodge was our second overnight. The hotel is more of a casual hunting lodge style and they sit on 1,000 acres so pretty scenery and also add-on activities. We tried ziplining and archery, very fun. Some more photos of that on our Facebook, here .

I am loving your information! I am planning a trip with my 23 year old daughter. Could you share your google map?

Hi Shannon, Sorry I don’t have a saved Google Map for Ireland. I just plugged in the destinations I was interested in when I was planning my trip. That gives me an idea though – I’ll start creating maps with saved locations for the future!

Great itinerary! We definitely need to go back to visit more of the places on your list, and ours. We were excited to see you mention Minard Castle on the Dingle Peninsula. Judging by how remote it seemed, and the complete lack of people visiting, we felt like we stumbled onto our very own stunning secret spot! Looks like the secret is out! ;)

The link for the best time to visit Ireland wasn’t working and my apologies if I missed it in the comments section but when is the best time to visit?

Oh, thanks for letting me know! I will fix the link.

Generally the shoulder season (May, September) is best. Summer can get pretty crowded. We’ve visited in both April and October and had a great time! There’s always on and off rain so be sure to pack a good rain jacket and some rain boots if you have.

When is the best time to visit Ireland?

Excellent introduction to Ireland

Thank you for such a thorough post with so much information for planning my trip to Ireland. I really appreciate it. There is so much information here I will need to study it to take it all in. Many thanks.

Wow! Incredible blog, thank you so much for taking the time to put this together. Very helpful for planning my Ireland 2021 trip!

Thanks for the help, we want to go if the virus allows us in the fall, and your post has helped us learn more about what it takes to go. We hope to enjoy Irish culture and cuisine.

I was lucky to know Ireland because I went for a study trip and I had the opportunity to know almost the whole country, very modern and quiet to stay for good.

My family and I are going in June. I was wondering if the places to stay book up in early June? I was wondering if we need to book ahead or can we wing it?

Hi James – definitely recommend booking ahead for summer travel!

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My Ideal Ireland Itinerary 7 Days Road Trip (+ Map)

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: March 11, 2024

Are you itching to visit the Emerald Isle but only have a week to explore? It’s a relatively small country, so it’s doable. This Ireland itinerary for 7 days will show you how to enjoy the natural beauty of the countryside and lively Irish culture in a one-week Ireland road trip.

kim-sitting-on-bench-northern-ireland-coast

For most travelers, starting and ending your Irish road trip at Dublin Airport makes logical (and financial) sense. But for those who can start their trip in Dublin and end it at Shannon Airport, there are other destinations in this beautiful country you can squeeze into your 7-day Ireland itinerary.

My detailed guide below suggests two different routes for both options. Either way, you’ll have an epic and memorable time in Ireland! It’s one of my favorite countries! Keep in mind, this itinerary does not take into account travel time, most flights from the US will depart in the evening and arrive the next morning.

Ireland Itinerary 7 Days: Option 1 (Dublin to Dublin)

This 7-day Ireland itinerary is based on my actual road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland with my teen daughter. We had a wonderful time, so I’m sharing many of our lessons and stops to help you make the most of your visit.

Day 1: Dublin to Belfast Day 2: Belfast to Derry Day 3: Derry to Westport (or Galway) Day 4: Westport to Galway Day 5: Galway to Dublin Day 6: Dublin Day 7: Leave Dublin

Alternative Route Thoughts:

If you’re willing to drive and tour at a faster pace, you could try to combine parts of the Northern Ireland itinerary in order to allow you to visit the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula in the southwest of Ireland if you’re set on flying in and out of Dublin.

The Dingle Peninsula Slea Head Drive is considered one of the highlights of the area and the star of the Wild Atlantic Way region. But it is on the opposite end of the island from Northern Ireland, so with only 7 days, adjustments are needed. My route includes some of the Wild Atlantic Way between Westport and Galway, and is more accessible. However, some feel strongly about visiting the Dingle Peninsula.

Look at my list of things to do and see and decide which are your priorities if the Dingle Peninsula (pretty drive that will take about 3 hours) is a priority, AND you have to fly in and out of Dublin. If you want to prioritize Northern Ireland and the southwest area of Republic of Ireland, you might look at a route like this: Dublin – Derry – Galway – Dingle/Killarney (2 nights) – Dublin (2 nights)

I wouldn’t choose this fast pace, but it is an option if you’re trying to make the most of a limited week. The better option in my opinion would be to try to add on a day or two. Ideally, you’d plan a 10 day Ireland itinerary if you want to see most of the highlights. Or just plan to come back again!

My recommendation if you only have 7 days and want to see most of the popular regions is to fly into Dublin and out of Shannon Airport, which I list that alternate itinerary farther down in my post.

Day 1: Arrive in Dublin Airport and Explore Belfast

Waste no time at Dublin Airport by renting a car and driving north to Northern Ireland. Many flights from North America are red eye so you can start your 7 day Ireland itinerary in the morning. Don’t worry, you’ll end your trip in Dublin.

Renting a Car in Ireland

Take note that, unless you specify, your rental car will have a manual transmission. Request an automatic if you don’t want to tackle switching gears and driving on the left side of the road! Trust me, this isn’t the time to learn to drive standard or to try and remember that time in your childhood when you borrowed your buddy’s stick shift car.

You will need to have full coverage auto insurance for accidents or damage. Many times I rely on my credit card for car rental insurance, the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Reserve both have primary rental car coverage. But, confirm that Ireland and Northern Ireland aren’t excluded from your coverage.

Also, be prepared to show proof of the coverage at the rental counter. This can typically be printed from your benefits page but consider calling or chatting with customer care to ask for written proof of rental coverage. Otherwise, you’ll need to add collision coverage to your rental.

You can use Google Maps to navigate Ireland’s narrow roads, but it will often take you the fastest way which isn’t always the best way for tourists. We had a GPS device added to our rental and found it would sometimes route us differently than Google Maps.

Most of the time Google Maps was great but twice we should have listened to the GPS, one of which was driving back to Dublin from Cliffs of Moher when Google Maps took us back roads that were very tight and slow going and the GPS would have gotten us onto a highway much faster.

On your first day, head to Northern Ireland. The total drive time from Dublin to Belfast is just under two hours covering 162 km/100 miles, so you should have plenty of time to explore Killeavy before traveling to Belfast and staying there one night.

Note: The Republic of Ireland measures speed in kilometers/hr while Northern Ireland measures in miles/hr. Money is also different as Northern Ireland uses the British Pound Sterling (￡) and Ireland uses the Euro (€).

Malahide or Killeavy

You’ll hop in your car and start heading to Northern Ireland but I recommend at least one stop along the way to help get outdoors and help your body adjust to the time change. There are two stops I’d recommend as you make your way to Belfast, either Malahide or Killeavy. Both will help you get outdoors and have a castle.

Malahide is what I’d consider a Dublin suburb. It’s home to the popular Malahide Castle and Gardens, which is a more touristy operated castle with decor and extensive gardens. Malahide is also on the coast and there is a popular 4 km Malahide to Portmarnock Coastal Walk to get an outdoor fix on your first day. The town itself has a large number of cute restaurants and shops for a great afternoon break on your first day.

If you’re looking to get out of the city on your first day, plan for a stop in Killeavy instead. Located just over the Northern Irish border, Killeavy is a small town and a great place to stop for a break in an official area of natural beauty.

Check out Killeavy Castle Estate (there’s a hotel there now but you can still check out the castle grounds) or the Slieve Gullion Forest Park. This area of woodland has links to Celtic mythology! If you’re in Killeavy around lunchtime, stop at Johnny Murphy’s Bar and Restaurant for a bite to eat.

And if you’re not in a rush and have an extra night beyond this 7-day itinerary, consider booking a stay at the Killeavy Castle Estate. It’s absolutely beautiful and a great way to unwind after a busy travel day. We overnighted in Killeavy and even visited their spa to help us relax after traveling. The extra day helps you relax and start to acclimate to the time change.

If you’re not staying overnight in Killeavy and following my 7 day itinerary, hop back in your car and head to Belfast next.

Political Mural Black Cab Tour

When you arrive in Belfast, park your rental car and let a tour guide drive you around for a change! From the 1970s to the 1990s, Belfast was at the center of a pivotal moment in Irish history called ‘the Troubles’.

A great way to learn more about it is to book a Black Cab Tour around all the neighborhoods and dozens of political murals that document the era. Driving is much faster than a walking tour which is ideal because there are lots of things to do in Belfast!

Shopping in Belfast

Need souvenirs or just have lots of room in your suitcase to fill? St. George’s Market is a 19th-century covered weekend market selling everything from street food to antiques. Born in Belfast is a great place to shop for local, artisanal gifts. Note that it’s only open on the weekend.

Note: Ireland’s currency is the Euro but Northern Ireland uses Great British Pounds. Bring a good travel credit card with no foreign exchange fees so you can pay in both currencies with no problems. We didn’t need cash at all during our trip as everywhere we visited accepted credit cards.

Ride Hydrobikes on the River Lagan

Dublin has the River Liffey, but Belfast has the River Lagan. Take a fun, self-guided tour down this river on hydro bikes and see landmarks like the Prince Albert Clock, the yellow Harland & Wolf cranes, and the Big Fish. Check out Lagan Adventures to learn more about booking this fun water activity!

This is a fun activity that is unique, but can be skipped if you’re running low on time or would rather have more time at the Titanic museum.

Titanic Belfast Experience

titanic belfast sign in belfast northern ireland

While riding the hydro bikes you’ll sail past the Titanic Quarter, home of Belfast’s docks and where the infamous ship was built in the early 1910s. Titanic Belfast is a state-of-the-art experience that opened in 2012, the 100th anniversary of the tragic sinking of the Titanic on its first voyage.

You can learn more about the ship’s design, the people who built it, and everything else there is to know about the Titanic. You can even find violins and deckchairs found on the Titanic’s wreckage among the exhibits. It can be an emotional experience for some, but is a must-do for anyone who is fascinated by the Titanic story.

Evening in Belfast

Belfast has tons of fantastic restaurants in its Cathedral Quarter. Check out The Dirty Onion and Yardbird for a more relaxed meal or The Muddlers Club for fine dining. Don’t forget to check out the cool neon signs down Commercial Court which look best on a dark, rainy evening.

Overnight in Belfast

You’ll spend your first night in Belfast and I have two great hotel recommendations for you. Ten Square Hotel was where I stayed most recently and is in a central location with a view of the beautiful City Hall building.

And the Maldron Hotel Belfast City is also centrally located, upscale, and has amazing reviews. I also love that both these hotels have restaurants in case you’re too tired to go out after arriving and just want to grab dinner, or breakfast, at your hotel.

Day 2: Drive the Scenic Causeway Coast

On the first full day of your Ireland itinerary for 7 days, you could drive straight to Derry from Belfast along the motorway (the name for highways in Ireland). But then you’d miss the scenic drive along the Causeway Coast. This drive was possibly our favorite part of the entire trip!

This coastline stretches across the top of Northern Ireland and features otherworldly landforms, medieval castles, rope bridges, and more. You can even see out to Scotland on this scenic route (on a clear day).

Driving from Belfast to Derry via the coast is approximately 114 miles in distance and will take three hours without stops. Set off early so you have as much time to make stops as possible, trust me, the views are amazing and you’ll want plenty of time to enjoy the trip.

Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge

With a history dating back 250 years, fishermen used to cross this rope bridge (an older version of the one installed in 2008!) to catch salmon on a small island. Carrick-A-Rede is a 66 ft-long rope bridge suspended 100 ft above the Antrim coast and offers an exciting experience as well as incredible sea and coastal views. The water around the coast here is so blue, you’ll think you’re in the Caribbean.

The hike is about 1.8 miles and will take you about an hour to an hour and a half to explore. I would consider it a simple walk for people used to physical activity, but does require effort and stamina. I highly recommend pre-booking your visit as they do limit access and you don’t want to show up and have access sold out for that time frame.

If you’re craving a snack or drink, stop by Carrick-A-Rede Bar & Restaurant before or after your bridge walk. It’s located past the rope bridge if you’re driving from Belfast, so works well as a stop after your walk on your way to the next stop, Giant’s Causeway.

Giant’s Causeway

Your next stop is one of the best things to do on the entire island of Ireland, hands down. The Giant’s Causeway is Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a four-mile-long stretch of coastline comprising thousands of basalt columns that interlock in an otherworldly form.

You can walk over these columns as much as you want for as long as you want, it’s completely free to visit! You just need to pay for the parking lot and visitor center.

I’ve walked town below on the rocks on a trip and most recently we did the cliff hike above the coastline and it offers a completely different view of the landscape. A great activity for active visitors, although there is a shuttle you can pay for to help drive you from the visitors center down to the main rock formations if you have mobility issues.

Afterwards, head into the nearby town of Bushmills for lunch where you can eat at Lorna’s Kitchen or Flash in the Pan fish and chip shop.

Dunluce Castle

Just a few minutes along the coast from the Giant’s Causeway is a beautiful ruined castle overlooking the coastline, Dunluce Castle. This 16th-century castle was once the main stronghold of Clan MacDonnell. Of all the castles to visit in Northern Ireland, this one is convenient and offers some amazing coastal lookout views!

Overnight in Derry

Derry (aka Londonderry) is Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, so you’ll have no trouble finding places to eat for dinner or things to do. If you arrive in Derry early, make sure you see the Peace Bridge over the River Foyle, Free Derry Corner, and The Derry Walls. These are 17th-century defensive walls that circle the city and offer the best views.

One of my daughter’s absolute favorite stops on our trip was our overnight in Derry. While many itineraries will have you skip this city so that you can immediately get to the west coast of Ireland, I’m chiming in to say it’s worth stopping here.

We arrived in Derry in the evening and walked the entire circle of the walls. The walls encircle the central part of the city and it’s about a mile walk. There are multiple access points on and off the walls, so it’s a convenient and fun way to get around the city.

For dinner, Castle Street Social is a cool, laidback bistro and The Bentley Bar is better for live Irish music and grills. We loved our upscale pub dinner at the Wig Champagne Bar in Bishops Gate Hotel . I’ve stayed at this hotel twice and have loved it every time. It is a luxury property, but the price is not as crazy as you might expect.

Day 3: Explore Derry and Drive to Westport (or Galway)

Derry is Northern Ireland’s second city, so spend enough time visiting the main sites. But don’t linger too long, because on the third day of your Ireland itinerary for 7 days, you’ll be driving back into the Republic of Ireland and along the west coast.

Driving from Derry to Westport in County Mayo will take approximately three hours to cover 149 miles/240 km. It will take a little longer to make a stop well worth visiting en route ! Spend one night in Westport or the surrounding area. If you don’t spend too long in Derry, you could overnight in Galway instead of Westport.

walls around Derry/Londonderry Northern Ireland

If you like visiting eclectic museums, you’ll spoiled for choice in Derry. Museum of Free Derry covers the region’s local civil rights history, The Siege Museum specifically covers a specific historical moment in 1689, and the Foyle Valley Railway Museum with lots of old-timey trains.

If you haven’t already, watch the hilarious Netflix sitcom Derry Girls which is set in this city. There’s a mural of the main characters on Orchard Street, as well as lots of other murals you’ll see as you walk around.

Make the first stop on this part of your road trip to the city of Sligo, a place known for its literary heritage (W.B. Yeats was born here). Make a stop for lunch at the traditional Walker 1781 pub which serves a mix of light, European fare.

Ashford Castle

Continue driving towards Westport but make a slight detour south to Ashford Castle. This 13th-century estate is now a hotel, but you’re free to wander its lavish interiors and well-manicured gardens.

If you have the bank balance, you could always stay overnight here instead of Westport. Keep in mind that this five-star hotel could set you back around $1,000 a night!

Overnight in Westport (or Galway)

Since Westport is a large town on Ireland’s west coast, you have plenty of dinner options. Cobbler’s Bar & Courtyard is a relaxed grill or check out Friends Bistro which is a good all-rounder for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For overnighting, consider staying at The Wyatt Hotel in the heart of town or the Westport Coast Hotel on the water.

If you have time, take a stroll along the Carrowbeg River. There are lots of cute medieval bridges like the Doris Brothers Bridge.

Alternative option: if you’re willing to leave Derry early and drive farther, you can try to combine parts of days 3 and 4 and overnight in Galway. This will allow you to use day 5 to drive the Dingle Peninsula and possibly see Cork on your way back to Dublin.

This will not be a relaxed road trip and will require early starts, but it will give you the chance to see one of the other most popular tourist regions of Ireland during your 7 days. If you choose to overnight in Galway, consider staying in the main central city area at the well-rated Park House Hotel or The Huntsman Inn .

We stayed at the g Hotel and Spa and found the location out of the way and not ideal for strolling the streets of Galway. But the property does have nice rooms and restaurants, plus a spa. It reminded me of a US casino hotel experience.

Day 4: Explore Connemara National Park and Galway

Ireland has six national parks, and you’ll be able to visit at least one by following this Ireland itinerary for 7 days. Visiting during the summer months is a great time to visit Ireland as you can take advantage of the long days and good weather (well, better weather) for outdoor activities.

Westport is only 78.5 km/49 miles north of Galway City (which will take just over one hour to drive without stopping) but there are some great things to do on your journey along the west coast.

Ireland’s entire stretch of coast along the Atlantic Ocean is called the Wild Atlantic Way. It stretches 2,600 km/1600 miles from Malin Head in County Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork. You won’t have time to drive the entire scenic route during your week in Ireland, but you will see some of it on Days 4 and 5. Stay in overnight in Galway.

Kylemore Abbey & Gardens

While there are tons of beautiful stately homes across the country, none are as special as Kylemore Abbey. This 19th-century mansion has been occupied by Benedictine nuns since the 1920s and they’re still there today. You can tour the house and walk around the gardens as well as visit the nearby Kylemore Church.

One of the best things about this abbey is its stunning location. It’s surrounded by woodland and sits on the banks of the Pollacapall Lough on the edge of Connemara National Park.

Connemara National Park

Speaking of the national park, it’s also worth a stop on your drive. Poke your head into the Visitor Center and if you have the time, tackle the nearby Lower Diamond Hill Trail. It’s only a 1.8-mile loop walk and you can continue onto the Upper Diamond Hill Trail if that trail is too easy.

Just a stone’s throw further than Connemara National Park is Clifden, a cute, small town on the coast. Off The Square Restaurant is the perfect stone-walled café to stop for lunch, and there are some interesting memorials dotted around the hills outside the town.

Walk along the coast to the John D’Arcy Monument, dedicated to the founder of Clifden, or drive to the Alcock and Brown Memorial. These British pilots completed the first nonstop transatlantic flight in 1919 which landed right outside of Clifden.

As the home of traditional Irish music and other Celtic legends, Galway is an essential stop on any Ireland itinerary for 7 days. Head to the colorful Latin Quarter where there are dozens of colorful pubs. Many licensed pubs allow accompanied children to enter until 9 pm, so check for notices around the door before entering.

Galway’s main street, Quay Street, stretches through the Latin Quarter and this is where you can find stores selling the famous Claddaugh jewelry. These Celtic pieces have a unique symbol with two hands to represent friendship, a heart to represent love and a crown for loyalty. They are the perfect souvenir!

Head under the Spanish Arch to the harbor and check out the Galway City Museum if you want to learn more about the city’s local and maritime history. Check out the Róisín Dubh for the best live music performances in the city.

For dinner, The Dough Bros is budget and kid-friendly. Tigh Neachtain Pub & Restaurant has the best of both local Irish cuisine and traditional folk performances.

Day 5: Witness the Cliffs of Moher and Drive to Dublin

It’s time to get back to Dublin so you can explore Ireland’s capital city before hopping on your flight back home. Not before swinging by one of the most beautiful places in Ireland, of course.

Driving from Galway to Dublin via the famous Cliffs of Moher in County Clare and Limerick will take approximately five hours as you’ll need to cover 356 km/226 miles. Stay overnight in Dublin for the last two nights of your 7-day itinerary in Ireland.

Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk and Visitor Center

Drive from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center and learn more about the formation of these incredible sea cliffs. They climb 702 feet tall at their highest point and stretch 14km/nine miles along the coast.

Then, walk out to the coastal path and explore different vantage points. On a clear day, you should be able to see out to the Aran Islands. Many companies run day tours to the Aran Islands from Galway, but you might not have time on your 7-day Ireland itinerary.

Lunch in Limerick

Stop for lunch in Limerick, the fourth-largest city on the island. You have lots of options but Story Café is perfect if you want to eat something light while The Locke Bar Gastro Pub is perfect for a filling sit-down meal.

Hang around before continuing to Dublin as there are lots of things to do in Limerick. Visit the 19th-century Milk Market where you can pick up souvenirs or snacks for your ride. King John’s Castle is an imposing medieval fortress that sits right on the River Shannon that you can visit too.

Evening in Dublin

Since you have a pretty long drive, you probably won’t reach Dublin until the evening. Walk to the historic Temple Bar neighborhood for dinner. It’s named after an actual 19th-century, bright red pub in the area that you can’t miss.

If you’re traveling with kids and you’ve struggled to find pubs that will admit those under 18 (the drinking age in Ireland) then head to Temple Bar before 9 pm to listen to music. If you’re not visiting with kids, walk a few minutes west along the River Liffey to Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub.

Old Storehouse Bar or Cobblestone Pub are perfect places to enjoy dinner in Temple Bar. They both boast life music too.

Overnight in Dublin

You’ll have plenty of places to choose from if you want to stay in Dublin. My experiences have been with The Davenport and Trinity City Hotel , both are gorgeous upscale properties in convenient locations to walk to many of the popular sights. If you don’t want to deal with city driving and parking and can stay a bit outside of the city center; I’ve stayed at Clontarf Castle , which is a unique property and near a bus route with easy access into Dublin.

Day 6: Explore Dublin

Dublin is the perfect place to spend the last day of your trip. If it’s your first time in Ireland, you can’t miss it! But it’s a big city and there are many options for spending your final full day. Book two nights’ accommodation in the city.

One great option is to find a parking lot for your rental car and check out the top tourist attractions in Dublin’s city center. Or, if you’re not keen on visiting a city or checking out day tours, you can drive out to County Dublin’s picturesque coastal towns like Skerries, Malahide, and Howe.

If you want to stay in the capital, this itinerary will show you the best way to enjoy the city. I have a two day Dublin itinerary that might be useful, but find some of the highlights below.

Trinity College Library & Book of Kells

socrates bust in trinity library long room

Start in the southeast part of the city at Trinity College Dublin. This is the most prestigious university in Ireland, and where you’ll find Trinity College Library. It’s famous for its 16th-century Long Room which features two stories of stacked bookshelves (it looks like something out of Harry Potter !).

It’s also famous for the Book of Kells . This is one of the oldest books in the world which was handpainted in the 9th century. They just launched a brand new experience that has made seeing the book a little more exciting than the previous old plaque style exhibit.

Something important to note is that almost all of the books have been removed from the Long Room as part of a redevelopment project. However, the new tour experience uses projections to help you still appreciate the history of the space.

St. Stephen’s Green

Dublin has lots of adorable parks so you have to see at least one during your trip. Merrion Square is a great choice, but St. Stephen’s Green is more central. It’s small but has a small pond, statues dedicated to some of Ireland’s literary greats, and is surrounded by rows of Georgian townhouses with colored doors.

Grafton Street

Walk underneath the Fusiliers’ Arch in the northwest corner of St. Stephen’s Green and you’ll be standing at the top of Grafton Street. This is a pedestrianized shopping street that is always lined with musicians playing for money (aka buskers). If you’re not a fan of pubs then this is the best spot to listen to local music.

Grafton Street also has a number of great shops for souvenir shopping. A couple of my favorites are the Aran Sweater Market for authentic wool sweaters and clothing, Claddagh Jewellers for Irish jewelry, and Seasons of Ireland for cheesy tourist gifts.

Dublin Castle

Continue walking west to Dublin Castle. This is a well-preserved castle dating back to the 13th century with museums, libraries, and state apartments. There’s also a small garden that you can explore and an onsite café which is perfect for lunch.

Christ Church Cathedral

Just across the road from Dublin Castle is Christ Church Cathedral. St. Patrick’s Cathedral (named after the country’s famous patron saint) is arguably a more important building as it’s Ireland’s national cathedral, but it’s a little further away.

Christ Church Cathedral started as a Viking church almost 1,000 years ago although the current building dates back to the 13th century. Inside, you’ll find a mummified rat and cat (they both got stuck in the organ) and a ‘homeless Jesus’ statue on the bench outside.

Guinness Storehouse

One of the most popular attractions in Ireland, you have to check out the Guinness Storehouse during your first visit. In 1749, Arthur Guinness signed a legendary 9,000-year lease on a disused brewery at St. James’s Gate. Today, the famous dark ale is brewed elsewhere but the original location is now a visitor center.

The Guinness Storehouse covers the brewing process, the history of the company, and fun advertising displays. It’s surprisingly family-friendly and everyone either gets a pint of Guinness or a soft drink in the Gravity Bar at the end of the tour. It offers 360-degree views across the whole city of Dublin!

You can make reservations for one of the restaurants at Guinness Storehouse, or head back towards your hotel and check out the Temple Bar area for food and drinks.

Temple Bar Neighborhood

Return to Temple Bar for your last night in Ireland. There are lots of restaurants serving a range of cuisines if you’ve had more than enough savory pies, potatoes, and root vegetables during your seven-day trip!

Day 7: Depart from Dublin Airport

It’s time to head back to Dublin Airport and finish up your seven days in Ireland. Depending on the time of your flight back, you may have a little time to see parts of Dublin you missed the day before.

Leave plenty of time to travel to Dublin Airport as you will have to return your rental car too.

Ireland Itinerary 7 Days: Option 2 (Dublin to Shannon)

Day 1: arrive in dublin and explore.

The first day of this alternative 7-day Ireland itinerary starts in Dublin. Instead of traveling to Northern Ireland immediately, explore Ireland’s capital city first. You’ll spend one night in Dublin. This part is almost identical to Day 6 of the first itinerary.

You can either travel into Dublin by bus or taxi and pick up a rental car in the city center the next day, or pick up a car at the airport and find a parking lot near your hotel. You won’t need a car to get around Dublin! It’s super walkable and traffic is a nightmare.

Note: It may be more expensive to pick up a rental car at Dublin Airport and drop it off at Shannon Airport. Since traveling around Ireland using public transport is difficult to impossible, factor this extra cost into your budget.

Day 2: Travel from Dublin to Belfast

The next stop on this alternative Ireland itinerary for 7 days is Belfast. It’s similar to day 1 of the first itinerary, except you might not have time to stop in Malahide or Killeavy. You may also have to visit a Dublin attraction or two in the morning before you set off, like Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral.

Spend a couple of hours in Dublin wrapping up the top attractions before driving north and exploring the Northern Irish capital. Driving this 105-mile/166 km journey will take around one hour and 45 minutes. Spend one night in Belfast.

Day 3: Drive the Scenic Causeway Coast

This day of this alternate itinerary is pretty much exactly the same as Day 2 on the first itinerary. Drive from Belfast to Derry via the coast which is approximately 114 miles in distance and will take three hours without stops.

But you will absolutely want to stop as many times as possible on this stunning scenic drive! Check out all the best places to stop under Day 2 before staying overnight in Derry.

Day 4: Explore Derry and Drive to Galway

In this itinerary, you’re essentially combining Days 3 and 4 of the first itinerary and driving from Derry to Galway, returning to the Republic of Ireland. This will be your longest driving day at over three and a half hours, covering 172 miles/277 km.

You will most likely have to compromise on road trip stops. This will probably include skipping Westport and Clifden.

If you want to see Connemara National Park, you’ll have to head in a different direction to Ashford Castle. And if you want to see more of Galway, spend less time in Derry.

Day 5: View the Cliffs of Moher and Drive to Killarney

The biggest change from the first itinerary to this one is that you get to visit Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry. Many people who visit Ireland say that County Kerry is one of the best places in the country, so it’s well worth visiting!

Driving south from Galway to Killarney takes around two and a half hours, but you will want to extend that drive for another 90 minutes to make a special road trip stop. Follow the Wild Atlantic Way from Galway so you can check out the Cliffs of Moher. This will make your whole drive take around four hours, covering 263 km/163 miles.

If you have any time left at the end of the day, take that time to explore Killarney National Park. Spend the next two nights in Killarney, using it as your home base.

Killarney National Park

Although Connemara National Park is beautiful, everyone who visits Ireland gushes about Killarney. It boasts such natural diversity including huge lakes, rolling green hills, waterfalls, and historic sites.

If you have time, hire a kayak or canoe and sail on Lough Leane. You can visit the ruined structures of Ross Castle and Innisfallen Abbey.

Head to Muckross House, a 19th-century mansion in the park where Queen Victoria once stayed. Torc Waterfall is nearby which is an impressive site only a short walk into the woods from the parking lot.

Evening in Killarney

Killarney has lots of pub restaurants serving traditional Irish food and some even have live music playing every night. Murphys Bar & Restaurant and John M. Reidy are both great options.

Day 6: Drive the Scenic Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula

The Ring of Kerry is a 179 km/111-mile coastal loop drive around the Iveragh Peninsula. If you were to drive without stopping, it would take around three and a half hours. Along with the Dingle Peninsula drive, they are two of the most beautiful coastal drives in the country.

Unfortunately, you won’t have time to drive around both routes. But no matter which one you pick, you’re guaranteed to have the best time exploring the Kerry countryside and you can head back to Killarney for dinner.

Option 1: Ring of Kerry

Due to the narrow roads, drive in a counter-clockwise direction so you can lessen the chance of having to reverse for local traffic.

Some of the highlights of the Ring of Kerry drive are Rossbeigh Beach and Kells for views across the sea to the Dingle Peninsula. Cahergal Stone Fort in Cahersiveen dates back to the 7th century and there are lots of other cool ruined castles and forts in the area.

Stop in Portmagee for a fish and chips lunch from Fisherman’s Bar. It’s a cute little colorful port town with ferries to the Skellig Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off the Kerry coast.

Kenmare is another essential stop on the Ring of Kerry Route. You can check out Kenmare Stone Circle (over 4,000 years old!) and Ladies View at the end of Killarney National Park. It’s one of the best vantage points in the park.

Option 2: Dingle Peninsula

If you choose to drive around the Dingle Peninsula instead, drive clockwise to follow the most popular direction of traffic. Head first to Inch Beach, a 5 km-long sandy beach that juts out into the sea and is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in Ireland.

Continue along the coast to Dingle Town, the start and finish of the 30-mile-long scenic Slea Head Drive around the tip of the peninsula. You can stop for lunch before or after completing this part of the drive where you can have your pick of fish and chip shops like The Fish Box.

After Dingle, stop by the Beehive Huts which are the well-preserved former homes of early Christian monks. They’re over 1,400 years old! Stop at Dunmore Head for the best views of the Blasket Islands before continuing to the unique Dunquin Pier.

Back at Dingle, take the N86/N70 road back to Killarney which is much wider and more pleasant to drive on.

Day 7: Depart from Shannon Airport

On the last day of your Ireland itinerary for 7 days, drive back up north from Killarney to Shannon Airport. This will take just under two hours covering a distance of around 175 km/84 miles.

If you have a late flight, you can check out parts of the Ring of Kerry or Killarney National Park that you might have missed over the previous two days. Leave in plenty of time in case you have any unforeseen delays! You’ll need to return your rental car as well as go through security.

Use This Ireland Itinerary for 7 Days as Your Guide

No matter your flight plans, you can use one of my Ireland itinerary for 7 days to navigate your entire trip! Both include all the major cities like Dublin and Belfast and beautiful scenery like the Giant’s Causeway and Cliffs of Moher. You can’t go wrong!

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The perfect Ireland road trip itinerary for families

04/01/2023 By Traveling Canucks 36 Comments Categories: Family Travel Tips Ireland Top Lists Travel Stories Travel Tips Trip Ideas

Ireland road trip itinerary for families, old castle in Cahir

A few years ago, we took an unforgettable family road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland. Shortly after returning, we wrote a blog post that shares the highlights from this road trip . However, I realize that we did not write a detailed blog post about the actual Ireland road trip itinerary.

Let’s fix that today, shall we!

Skip ahead using the Table of Contents below.

Ireland Road Trip Itinerary for Families

Table of Contents

This post was originally published in 2017. We reviewed and updated this post in April 2024. That’s why our boys look much younger in the photos.

Ireland road trip itinerary for first time visitors

Road trips are always a good idea. Especially with young kids.

We love the freedom and flexibility you get while being on the open road. The freedom to choose where you want to go, when you want to go, and how fast you want to go. You can slow things down or speed things up – it’s entirely up to you!

The first cut of our itinerary was built around visiting the top attractions in Ireland – Dublin, Blarney Castle , Cliffs of Moher and Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. This post shares a solid 10 day Ireland itinerary.

Reflecting on previous road trips with our boys, we’ve added a few more requirements:

Spend no more than 3 hours of drive time each day
Find hotels that have a swimming pool
Try to spend two nights at each hotel to reduce the packing and unpacking
Include one kid-friendly activity each day
Pick-up and drop off the car rental at the Dublin airport

We spent a few weeks experimenting with different itineraries. Our flights arrive and depart from Dublin. This provides an easy start and finish point. However, after spending a few days in Dublin , should we go north, south or west?

This post shares our recommended 2 week Ireland road trip.

sightseeing Tempe Bar area in Dublin on Ireland road trip with kids

Dublin – Nights 1, 2 & 3

We spent our first 3 nights in Dublin. Our first night was spent recovering from jet-lag and getting used to our new environment. It’s a 9 hour time difference from Vancouver, so that messed with our boy’s internal clocks. Big time. It took a solid 3 days for them to adjust.

We did NOT pick up the rental car when we arrived at the Dublin airport.

We knew we’d be very tired after the 10 hour overnight flight and we didn’t want to risk getting lost or in an accident because we weren’t thinking straight.

Remember – Ireland drives on the left side of the road.

It wouldn’t have been a good idea to drive on the opposite side of the road, in a new city, after 13 hours of travel with two boys under five years old. It sounded like an awful idea, actually.

Related: 25 Photos from our trip to Dublin

Ireland road trip itinerary for families

Fortunately, we had a family member pick us up at the airport and bring us back to her place. Our flight arrived at 8:00 AM but the apartment rental was not available until 4:00 PM. We needed sleep and didn’t want to deal with the hassle of picking up the rental car with low energy.

We did not intend to actually start the road trip until Day 4, so it didn’t make sense to pay for additional car rental days and expensive city parking (30 Euros per day).

Instead, we picked up the rental car on Day 3 (the day before leaving Dublin).

This gave us plenty of time to explore Dublin, acclimate to the new city and get some experience with left-handed cross walks. We took a taxi to the airport and drove the car back to the apartment.

Day 1 was spent adjusting from the nasty jet-lag, which left us with two full days to explore Dublin. We did a lot of walking along the River Liffey and Temple Bar Distric t and we visited the Guinness Storehouse , which was a lot of fun and worth the visit.

Family travel tip – the pubs in Ireland are very kid friendly. Unlike Canada, this means you can enjoy a pint of Guinness at the pub/bar with your kids in tow. No babysitters, yeah!

Where to stay in Dublin?

We rented an apartment in the Spencer Dock neighborhood. It’s located on the east side of Dublin, north of the River Liffey. It’s a nice, clean area that is relatively central. From here, you can easily walk to the Temple Bar district in 25 minutes.

We stayed at the IFSC Dublin City Apartments . It’s a two bedroom apartment with a full kitchen and separate living space. It’s modern, clean and priced well. We would recommend staying here.

Search for more Ireland vacation rentals here .

visit the Blarney Castle on Ireland road trip

Blarney & Cobh – Night’s 4 & 5

We chose Blarney as our next destination because of it’s close proximity to both Cork and Cobh.

Blarney is most famously known as home of the Blarney Castle (and kissing the Blarney Stone).

We decided to spend two nights in Blarney because we wanted one full day to visit the castle and also visit Cobh, an adorable seaside village that was the Titanic’s last port of call in 1912.

The drive from Dublin to Blarney

Leaving Dublin, we traveled south on the M50 and connected to the N11. We drove through Bray and continued south to the M11. This was a nice, easy stretch of highway.

We stopped in Enniscorthy for lunch. It took us an hour to drive from Dublin to Enniscorthy . Although, we did get a little lost trying to get out of Dublin. It’s a cute town with an old castle in the center. We spent 1.5 hours in Enniscorthy and then continued south on the N30, towards New Ross. Then we travelled south on N25 towards Youghal, passing Waterford and Dungarvan.

We spent about an hour in Youghal. The drive from Enniscorthy to Youghal took us about 1.5 hours. We ran into some construction on the way, so that slowed us down. We continued from Youghal to Blarney, which took about 45 minutes. The full trip took about 6 hours, with two stops that accounted for 2.5 hours.

At most, we spent about 1.5 hours in the car between stops.

If you want to get from Dublin to Blarney or Cork faster, take the M8, which is the main highway. This would take approximately 3.5 hours of straight driving.

Cobh, Ireland road trip itinerary for families

Related: Top 10 Ireland Attractions you must visit

Cobh, County Cork

Although the weather was wet and overcast, we really enjoyed visiting Cobh. It’s one of our favourite spots on this Ireland road trip itinerary.

We love the old architecture and colourful buildings in Cobh (see photos above). We hopped on a tourist train that took us around town and showed us the highlights. After a delicious lunch of seafood chowder and warm bread, we strolled along the historic waterfront and snapped a few photos before leaving.

We spent about 3 hours in Cobh. It took us about 45 minutes to drive from Blarney to Cobh.

Blarney Castle, Ireland road trip, Family travel

After Cobh, we visited the iconic Blarney Castle.

When we arrived at the front entrance it was pouring rain. We contemplated skipping the attraction but decided to brave the rain. Good thing we did. By the time we made it to the top of the castle it was sunny and warm (see above photo).

We wrote a blog post about our visit to the Blarney Castle. You can read it here .

Where to stay in Blarney?

We stayed at the Blarney Golf Resort , located just outside the town of Blarney in the countryside. We stayed here because it’s located very close to Blarney Castle and, most importantly, it has a swimming pool. Our boys love pool time much more than sightseeing.

We really enjoyed our stay at this hotel. The restaurant is nice and the rooms are spacious. Because the property is in the country, it’s quiet and peaceful in the evenings. Our boys had fun running on the grass fields, swimming in the pool and playing in the mini-playground/kids room.

If you’re travelling with kids, we would recommend this property.

Related: The Blarney Castle – is it worth visiting?

Limerick castle on the river, Ireland road trip

Ennis or Limerick – Night 6

This is the point in the road trip where you have decisions to make..

If you want to tackle the southern part of the Wild Atlantic Way , you can head south from Cork towards the coast. You can also venture west, towards Killarney. The southwestern coast of Ireland is said to have some of the most beautiful landscapes on the island.

You could dedicate an entire week to this region.

We made the decision to skip this coastal region because it would have meant many hours of driving each day. If we weren’t traveling with our boys we probably would have spent more time driving the southern section of the Wild Atlantic Way . However, asking them to spend 6-7 hours per day in the car is too much for them at this age.

architecture in Limerick, Ireland road trip, Family travel

Drive from Blarney to Limerick

We traveled from Blarney to Limerick and stayed one night at the Absolute Hotel Limerick . It’s a nice boutique hotel with modern decor and spacious rooms. The breakfast buffet is awesome.

However, if we had to do it over, we would probably stay in Ennis instead. Limerick is fine, but there wasn’t much to do and the traffic was quite frustrating. The riverfront walk is nice and King John’s Castle is quite impressive.

Ennis is a traditional Irish town that’s loaded with character. It has narrow streets, historical buildings and it is much smaller than Limerick.

If you decide to stay in Ennis , check out the Treacy’s West County Hotel . It has fun bunk beds for kids and a swimming pool. Overall, it looks like a great family hotel. And it’s priced well.

The drive from Blarney to Limerick

We left Blarney and drove north on the N20, towards Mallow. The goal for the day was to visit the Rock of Cashel , another top attraction in Ireland. It’s not really on the way to Limerick, but it only adds an hour or two to the drive time. At Mallow, we took the N73 east towards the M8.

We stopped in the town of Cahir to have lunch and check out Cahir Castle . We were pleasantly surprised by Cahir Castle and didn’t understand why it’s not higher on the list of top tourist attractions in Ireland .

After about two hours in Cahir we realized we didn’t leave enough time to properly visit the Rock of Cashel. It also started to rain heavily, so we decided to skip it and push on to Limerick.

We arrived in Limerick during rush hour, which was not a good idea.

The traffic congestion and one way streets in Limerick are quite frustrating. You can bypass Limerick and take the N18 to Ennis instead. Add another 30 minutes of drive time.

Cliffs of Moher

The reason we spent a night in Limerick was because we wanted to visit the magnificent Cliffs of Moher (pictured above). Arguably Ireland’s most impressive natural attraction, the Cliffs of Moher should be included on every Ireland road trip itinerary.

It took us about 1.5 hours to get from Limerick to the Cliffs of Moher. We passed the charming seaside towns of Lahinch and Liscannor along the way. Both of these towns are also good options for a one night stay, instead of Limerick.

If you have a stroller, bring it with you. It can get quite windy along the cliffs, so jackets and sweaters are recommended (evening if it feels warm outside). We also suggest you bring a blanket for the kids and plenty of snacks. There is a cafeteria at the facility.

We spent about 2 hours at the Cliffs of Moher.

Related: You MUST see the Cliffs of Moher. Here’s why.

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland road trip, Family travel

The drive from Limerick to Galway City

After the Cliffs of Moher we drove a section of the Wild Atlantic Way towards the city of Galway. The coastal drive is quite narrow and windy. Although the actual distance is not far (about 75 km), it took us about 3 hours to get from the Cliffs of Moher to Galway. We couldn’t drive much faster than 30-40 km/hr.

The views and landscapes on the south side of Galway Bay are spectacular. Rolling green hills, stone-walled twisty roads, dramatic sea cliffs, ancient stone castles. It’s exactly what you’d expect when you think of Ireland.

Family travel tip – bring children’s Gravol for the drive. When we say the roads are windy, we mean really windy. Our oldest boy is prone to car sickness. He did not enjoy this part of the road trip.

Make sure you spend time at Dunguaire Castle . See below.

Cliffs of Moher, Castle, Ireland road trip, Family travel

Galway – Night’s 7 & 8

Next on our Ireland road trip, we spent two nights in Galway . We wanted one full day to explore the city and knew we’d arrive late after our day at the Cliffs of Moher. Galway City is a big, bustling city. It’s one of the bigger cities in Ireland.

Unfortunately, our sightseeing plans were dampened by the rain.

We decided to escape the rain by visiting the Galway Atlantaquaria , Ireland’s largest Native Aquarium. It’s not a big aquarium but it has plenty of exhibits to keep the little ones entertained on a rainy day.

Where to stay in Galway?

We stayed at the Clayton Hotel Galway . The location is ideal for road trippers because it’s next to the N6 highway. But there’s nothing else around and it’s far from the city center. You will need to drive or taxi to the city center from this hotel.

The room we stayed in was quite big and spacious. The hotel has a swimming pool and the onsite pub is quite good. It was a comfortable stay. We would recommend this property for road trippers, but not for people who want to be closer to the action.

Sligo Abbey, Ireland road trip, Family travel

Sligo – Night’s 9 & 10

After Galway, we drive north to the town of Sligo. A highlight from our time in Sligo was exploring the Sligo Abbey , an old abbey ruin originally built in 1253 and restored several times over the years.

The boys had fun running around the grounds pretending they are brave knights fighting the ghosts that lived in the shadows of the old stone buildings. They make us laugh.

After Sligo Abbey, we visit Strandhill , an Atlantic facing coastal village located 5 miles west of Sligo. We explored the tall grassy sand dunes on the beach and stopped into Mammy Johnston’s Ice Cream Parlour for some tasty homemade ice cream and hot cafe lattes.

Where to stay in Sligo?

We stayed at the Radisson Blu Hotel Sligo . The hotel has a great indoor swimming pool and the food at the pub style restaurant is quite good. The breakfast spread is also very good. Our room was clean and modern but it was small and the air conditioner did not work, so it got quite hot at night.

The hotel is located outside the city center but it’s still a great location. It’s about a 10 minute drive from the hotel to the city center.

The drive from Galway to Sligo

We decided to break up our drive from Galway to Sligo with a visit to the Kiltimagh Pet Farm . It was a good idea to add a kid-friendly activity each day. It gave us negotiating power when they started getting cranky and resistant to the long drive times in the car.

The Kiltimagh farm is not very big, but it has enough animals to keep the kids busy for an hour or two. We had a little trouble finding the place because it’s located in the countryside.

The drive took about 4 hours, including the visit to the farm.

Portrush, Northern Ireland road trip, Family travel

Portrush, Northen Ireland – Night’s 11 & 12

The next stop on our Ireland road trip is Portrush in Northern Ireland. Our plan is to visit the popular Giant’s Causeway, so we need a home base for a few nights.

Portrush is a perfect family destination in Ireland.

It’s home to Barry’s Amusement Park , the largest theme park in Northern Ireland. It first opened it’s doors in 1926 and it still has a 1950’s vibe. The town has several other arcades and game rooms, which made our boys quite happy.

The seaside resort town is widely known for its sandy beaches and world class golf courses. We enjoyed wandering the streets and admiring the architecture in the old part of town.

It’s not very big, but it’s very walkable and stroller friendly (in most places).

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Where to stay in Portrush?

We stayed at the Portrush Atlantic Hotel . The location is excellent. It’s located in the heart of the old town, a stone’s throw from the water. Our room was ocean facing, which was nice. The rooms are small but functional and comfortable.

The restaurant in the hotel is good. We ate dinner there twice and enjoyed the food, service and atmosphere (but that might be the delicious Guinness talking). Breakfast was included. It was a traditional buffet style with the standard British items you’d expect.

We would recommend staying at this hotel.

The drive from Sligo to Portrush

It rained heavily on our drive from Sligo to Portrush, so we decided to skip the sightseeing and drive directly to Portrush. We stopped at a gas station to fuel up and get a snack, but that was it. The whole trip took about 3.5 hours, from door to door.

Related – 20 Photos that from the Giant’s Causeway

Portrush, Northern Ireland road trip, Family travel, Giant's Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

Similar to the Cliffs of Moher, every Ireland road trip should include the Giant’s Causeway . It’s no surprise that this mythical place has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Located on the northeast coast of Northern Ireland, near the town of Bushmills, the Giant’s Causeway is an area of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of intense volcanic and geological activity.

We visited this popular attraction because it came highly recommended by almost everyone we know that has visited Ireland. It did not disappoint. The massive sea cliffs on the northern coast are truly out of this world.

This was a clear highlight from road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Belfast – Night 13

After Portrush and the Giant’s Causeway we drove directly to Belfast , the capital of Northern Ireland. We had originally planned to visit the Dark Hedges in Ballymoney but our boys fell asleep shortly after we hit the road (we visited the amusement park in Portrush before the drive). We decided it was best to not wake them.

The drive from Portrush to Belfast is actually quite short. It only took us 1.5 hours from hotel to hotel.

We were pleasantly surprised by Belfast.

It’s much more modern that we had envisioned. We only dedicated one night in Belfast, but that was an oversight. If we were to do it all over again we would spend at least two nights in Belfast.

The weather wasn’t great during our time in Belfast, but we did spend some time walking around the city. We also visited the popular Titanic Museum .

If you plan to visit the Titanic Museum (you should, it’s awesome), we suggest you look at when cruise ships are in town – and plan around that. A cruise ship was in port when we visited and it was very busy.

Where to stay in Belfast?

We stayed at The Hilton Belfast . It’s located on the banks of the Lagan River, only a two-minute walk to the city center and 15 minute drive to Belfast City Airport. It’s also only a 10 minute drive to the Titanic Museum and it’s close to the main highway that connects Belfast to Dublin.

We scored big time at this hotel!

We were upgraded to the Executive Suite on the penthouse floor. The luxurious suite we stayed in was incredible. We felt like royalty. Our boys loved watching the trains, planes and boats from the amazing 15th floor views (see above photo). We would recommend this property.

Belfast to Dublin – Night 14

Our final day was spent driving from belfast to dublin..

We visited the Titanic Musem in the morning, which is stop 5 on the hop on hop off belfast tour, and hit the road after lunch. The drive is all highway, so it’s fast and easy. It took us about 2.5 hours with a roadside bathroom break included.

We stayed at the Crowne Plaza near the Dublin Airport.

We had an early morning departure the following day, so we decided to return the rental car the evening before. One less headache to deal with on a travel day. We spent our final evening at the hotel before our long flight from Dublin to Vancouver.

We had a blast on this Ireland road trip.

Of course, there are still so many Ireland attractions that we missed. I suppose that means we’ll just have to come back again!

Have you visited Ireland? Did you do a road trip?

What did we miss? What would you do differently?

Share your feedback and recommendations in the comments section below. We’d love to read about your adventure and our readers are grateful for the additional information.

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Ireland Family Vacations: Our Top Tips & Places to Visit

by Orla Spencer

A review of the places that we think are the best for an amazing family trip to Ireland!

Here at Irish tourism we have been planning and organizing Ireland family vacations for more than 20 years, so we know a thing or two about the places in Ireland that you should feature on your itinerary. All over Ireland we have ancient buildings such as castles and other monuments that are waiting to be explored. We have amazing national parks and along Ireland’s coast your family can uncover miles and miles of unspoiled sandy beaches where activities include surfing and horse-riding to name but a few. For the purposes of this blog post I’d like to focus on a few specific locations that have great activities that will suit both the most discerning adult and child alike!

Dingle, County Kerry

While you may wish to explore the adjacent Ring of Kerry, which is probably Ireland’s most popular short driving route, the Dingle Peninsula has a lot to offer for a balanced and enjoyable family trip to Ireland. For adults, you have the Slea Head Drive where you can enjoy sweeping views across south Kerry and across to the Blasket Islands. In Dingle town you will find the best traditional Irish Pubs and dozens of restaurants serving delicious local seafood. For kids (and big kids) you can take a boat trip to see Fungie; Dingle’s famous resident bottlenose Dolphin! Across the road in Dingle Ocean World you can see some fantastic marine wildlife including Sand Tiger Sharks, Gentoo Penguins and Asian Short-Clawed Otters. Dingle is also a haven for artists and craftspeople so there is no shortage of galleries, craft shops, potters and jewellers.

Doolin, County Clare

While you could really base yourself anywhere in Clare, Doolin is a good base location for Ireland family vacations due to its fantastic pub & restaurant scene and its proximity to the nearby Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands. All generations will love a day trip to the Aran Islands , and a walk around the Cliffs of Moher is a must. In Ballyvaughan, you have the Aillwee Caves and Birds of Prey Centre and a short skip over the border into County Galway you have Kinvara Harbour with its adjacent Dunguaire Castle and the Burren Nature Sanctuary. The Burren Nature Sanctuary has a fantastic indoor and outdoor play area for kids as well as a lovely visitor farm and nature trail. One other Clare attraction which is much loved by Kids and the older generation alike is Bunratty Castle and Folk Park where visitors can explore one of Ireland’s most historic and completely furnished castles and the adjoining folk park where visitors can walk in around various different types of Irish cottage to get a real sense of what life was like in different parts of Ireland in the early 19th century.

Again, there are a few places in Cork that you could base yourself in for a fantastic Ireland family vacation but Cork city has an abundance of accommodation and some fantastic evening entertainment and you can use the city as a base to travel to other nearby towns. One of Ireland’s most loved and most famous Castles is located in Cork, Blarney Castle where visitors can climb to the top and kiss the famous Blarney stone and then forever have the gift of eloquence or as the Irish put it; “the gift of the gab”! Another great spot for families is Cobh, the final port of call for the ill-fated Titanic. The town has two museums dedicated to the Titanic and you can also take a boat trip out to Spike Island from here, the island is now a living history museum but once held a monastery, a fortress and the worlds largest prison. Speaking of prisons, in Cork City itself Cork Gaol is another family favourite!

Dublin City

Many of our customers start and end their family trip to Ireland in Dublin as it offers the most choice in terms of international airport connections, but the city also has some amazing sightseeing opportunities for families. For Kids you have the Phoenix park where you will find a large herd of native Irish deer & Dublin Zoo, one of the world’s oldest Zoos. Other family favourites include the national museums and Christchurch Cathedral which has an adjoining museum dedicated to the Vikings and its exhibitions are very family focused. The Guinness Storehouse is a great day out for all generations and kids will really enjoy The National Wax Museum where you can take a voyage through Irish cultural traditions and history. There is lots more to see in Dublin – check out some of these other blog posts for more: 10 popular things to do in Dublin & 10 more things to do in Dublin

Get in Touch-

The best way to learn about Ireland is to come and visit us! Contact our travel team today to start planning what will be one of the most memorable family vacations that you will ever experience!

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12 Amazing Must-Try Tips to Try Right Now for Your Family Traveling to Ireland

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12 Amazing Tips to Know When Your Family is Traveling to Ireland

You’ve put off visiting the Cliffs of Moher, Killarney National Park, and Blarney Castle for long enough. It is finally time to take that trip to Ireland with your family for the first time! But how to prepare your family for a trip to Ireland can have you completely confused, especially if you’re traveling to Ireland from the USA.

What if traveling to Ireland wasn’t confusing at all, but something you and your family can do with complete ease. Ireland has so much to offer you and your loved ones on your family trip to Ireland. And the only problem your family will have is which experiences to choose.

Are you ready to have some of the best tips for traveling to Ireland?

Cars in Ireland-Family Travel Planning Specialist

This go-to list of tips for family traveling to Ireland, from The Travel Between, will inspire and empower you to know how to travel in Ireland with your family easily and in a stress-free way.

Regardless of what your family does, here are my top 12 must-know tips for families traveling to Ireland for the First Time. Let a feeling of possibility wash over you and your family. Who knows, your family might just end up on the top of those castle towers or at the end of the rainbow.

12 Must-Know Tips for Families Traveling to Ireland for the First Time

Tip #1: traveling by airplane to ireland.

Since your family is coming from the US, you’ll arrive on this beautiful island by air. Long flights with your kids don’t have to be intimidating. By arriving prepared, pack your luggage and carry-ons smart, and ship items ahead of your arrival will make your family’s experience flying to Ireland stress-free.

Purchasing a seat for your child, no matter their age is something you should always do. If your child is still sitting in a car seat, you’ll be able to use it on the airplane. It is something familiar to them and will help make this new experience less frightening for them.

Shopping in Ireland-Family Travel Planning Specialist

Tip #2: Ireland’s English

While the Irish speak English and most signs you and your family will be reading are also in English, it will be helpful for your family to know just a few Irish words.

As you move into the western part of Ireland, your family will notice more signs are in Irish than English. It can be tricky to read, but once you have the hang of the way the Irish alphabet works, it will be pretty fun for your family to speak. You’ll even impress many people along the way!

Euros in Europe-Family Travel Planning Specialist

Tip #3: Considering Car Travel for Your Family

Your family will see the best sites in the Emerald Isle via public transportation or tour buses.

But renting a car is not a terrible idea to get to those more obscure sites. You’ll be able to set your family’s schedule. From where you and your family’s interests and intrigue lead you to staying as long as you want in some places, you will be able to decide this.

Be sure the vehicle your family rents is a small one, as rural roads in Ireland are narrow.

Oh, and just a reminder. The Irish drive on the left side of the road and pass on the right. So the driver in your family will sit on the “wrong side” of the car and shift with their left hand.

Expert Tip: Car rental in Ireland isn’t as straightforward as in other locations. Learn what your family needs to know about car rentals in Ireland before you arrive.

Clothing in Ireland-Family Travel Planning Specialist

Hiring a Drive Guide in Ireland

Suppose you and your family think that a self-driven vacation will be too stressful. How about considering hiring a professional driver guide. With a driver-guide, everyone in your family can sit back and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving the narrow and winding roads, oncoming traffic, or missing a turn. Your family’s driver-guide will also be a knowledgeable tour guide who will tell you and your family stories of places you visit, as well as those you don’t.

Tip #4: Choosing the Right Ireland Accommodations for Your Family

Ireland accommodations are as varied as Ireland’s landscape around it. From luxury castles to family-friendly hostels, your family will find lodging options to fit your family’s lifestyle. When traveling through Ireland with your kids, choose your accommodations based on your goals for your family vacation.

Hotels in Ireland

If your family stays at a hotel, confirm that you choose either a family room or connecting rooms with interior connecting doors. Additionally, when your family chooses an Irish castle hotel , be sure the hotel is a castle and not named for a nearby fortress.

Irish Bed & Breakfasts

The Irish bed & breakfast will offer your family the best Irish hospitality and céad míle fáilte (hundred thousand welcomes), which is often accompanied by tea and biscuits and a home-like atmosphere that will be easy for your family to settle in to.

Your family’s B&B host is an invaluable resource that no guidebook can match. Your host can guide you to ‘hidden’ places to visit, offer you family tips on what to avoid, and lead you and your family to the tastiest restaurants.

Plus, the traditional Irish breakfast that will be served to your family every morning is a bonus.

Ireland Vacation Rental Homes

If your family likes to have their privacy and space, self-catering property or holiday home is a terrific option for you. Ireland is filled with properties available for your family to rent from owners and rental homes at resorts and castles.

Expert Tip: For a well-rounded and exciting tour of Ireland, don’t be afraid to mix and match your family’s lodging choices.

Train in Ireland-Family Travel Planning Specialist

Tip #5: Tax-Free Shopping for Your Family

All those goodies you and your family will find to shop for on Grafton Street are tax-free! That’s right, travelers who live outside the European Union can shop tax-free in Ireland.

Make sure to apply for a Fexco Horizon Card before your family trip to Ireland so you and your family can register and swipe it in affiliated stores within the country and claim sales tax back on the purchases.

Dublin City Gallery in Ireland-Family Travel Planning Specialist

Tip #6: The Differing Currencies of Ireland

And while we’re on the topic of shopping, it’s important to note that there’s a currency difference within Ireland.

As a part of the UK, Northern Ireland uses the British pound instead of the euro. At the same time, the rest of Ireland is using the euro.

Tip # 7: Northern Ireland, UK

Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom, was probably not on your family’s radar as a tourist destination. Luckily, those days are past as Northern Ireland has dramatic coastlines, gorgeous walled cities, and stories just waiting for your family to explore.

Tip # 8: Bring your family to a castle in Ireland.

Ireland has castles, abbeys, and walled towns that are in all states of restoration, repair, or ruin around every bend, just waiting for your family to explore them.

A night in an Irish castle will be the stuff of dreams for your family. Many of the Irish castles, such as Dromoland Castle in Clare or Ashford Castle in Mayo , have kid-sized slippers and robes for your children, as well as great family activities on the estate for your family to experience.

Tip #9: Take your kids to an Irish pub.

Pubs are short for public houses, which is like the community center. The Irish pubs are a place for everyone, including your kids, to gather for food, music, fun, entertainment, and good company.

Don’t expect your family to be waited on at the pub. Instead, go up to the bar to place your order and have a chat, and get advice from the people who know it the best while you’re there.

In the early evening, you’ll find many families out at pubs in Ireland. Their numbers drop as the night goes on.

Many pubs feature live music. You and your family may be treated to live entertainment by either a local band or an impromptu session. Your family can participate in a session, even if just clapping along, which is a great way to feel part of the community.

Expert Tip: Ask your hotel or B&B which pubs are most child-friendly and, if any, offer live music.

Tip #10: Dress Appropriately for Ireland’s Weather

Irish weather isn’t extreme, but the country does get tons of rain. Particularly along its west coast. Think of layers, and don’t forget to pack an umbrella or rain jacket for everyone in your family.

And if your family is traveling to Ireland during winter, know that the season’s days are short. The sun rises at about 8 am and sets at about 4 pm. Which means you have to cram a lot of sightseeing into a few hours.

But during summer, the sunsets are as late as 10 pm. Be mindful of these seasonal changes, pack light layers of clothing and a pair of rain boots or waterproof shoes, and you and your family should be just fine.

If it’s too wet to be outside, your family will likely find much of the village “down the pub.” Be sure to join in with them.

Expert Tip: Irish wool is one of the best souvenirs you and your family can buy. Whether you get socks, a hat, or a sweater — they will not only keep you warm, but also they’ll keep you dry.

Tip #11:Public Transportation Pointers

The trains in Ireland can carry your family in comfort, but they are pricey. So if you intend to travel on one during your trip, make sure to book it in advance for your family to take advantage of online discounts that the Irish Rail offers.

If your family chooses to travel by bus, know that you must flag the bus to get it to stop.

Tip #12: Heritage Cards Are Helpful

If your family plans to visit the country’s many cultural attractions, picking up a Heritage Card from the Office of Public Works is a brilliant idea.

This card entitles you and your family to free admission to all heritage sites managed by the state for an entire year. These sites include castles and national parks, like Rock of Cashel, Muckross House & Gardens, Kilkenny Castle, and Sligo Abbey, to name a few.

This card can save your family hundreds of dollars during a week-long trip. The card will pay for itself after your family visits 4-5 sites.

Well, there you have it! These are just some of the must-know tips for families traveling to Ireland for the first time.

You now know how to travel to Ireland with your family easily and in a stress-free way.

Wondering more about Ireland as a whole, how about finding out why families travel to Ireland , to begin with.

Want to know if Ireland will fit your family’s lifestyle and needs? I have a fantastic gift for you to download that will help you decide that.

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The Ultimate Family Vacation Guide in Ireland for Traveling

52 Comments

Getting a heritage card is such a great idea. It sounds like a fantastic way to visit all the cultural attractions, and national parks! I love hiking and exploring the outdoors wherever I travel. Do you have one you recommend?

Thank you very much! I have two recommendations. At Castlewellan Forest Park, you’ll be able to take mile-long lap around the lake, visit the hedged Peace Maze (which is one of the world’s largest), and cycle or walk around the summit of Slievenaslat. The other is Divis and the Black Mountain ridge trail. You’ll be able to get a bird’s eye view of Belfast. Plus it ends where it begins, so you still have the rest of your day to explore other parts of Belfast while there.

You have some great information. I love your blog! Hope we can all travel again soon

Thank you very much that means a lot! I hope we can travel again soon too. Even if we have to start small and work our way back up to our normal travel.

This is fantastic information! I haven’t been to Ireland yet…but it’s definitely on my list. Which seems to grow longer by the minute 😉

Thank you very much! I know how you feel, the longer I haven’t been able to travel the longer my list seems to get for when I can.

This is great to know, after Corona Virus I would love to visit Ireland!

You’re welcome! I hope you get to visit Ireland once we can travel again.

I really appreciate this post! I love Ireland; went to Dublin for a few days a few years ago and love it. Can’t wait to go back some day when it’s safe to travel. Didn’t know about the tax-free shopping!

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Thank you very much! I know, being able to save on the taxes means you’ll have more money to start your next travel experience with. I hope you get to make even more memories in Ireland soon.

I would so looove to visit Ireland one day, Dublin especially. Especially for the tax-free shopping! 😛

I know! Especially, since being able to save on the taxes means you’ll have more money to start your next travel experience with. I hope you get to visit Ireland soon.

It’s on my list of places to visit! Thanks for the tips! One day they will come in handy!

You’re very welcome! I hope that day will be soon.

Great tips!! Especially the currency info! Wish I had known some of this before my first trip to Ireland.

Thank you very much! The currency situation is something that always seems to catch people. I’m glad I could be of help for your next trip to Ireland.

amazing tips! makes me want to book a ticket to travel through the country! thanks for sharing!

Thank you very much and you’re welcome! I hope you get to experience Ireland soon.

Great tips, thank you

You’re very welcome!

These are awesome tips!! I visited Dublin last year on a solo trip with only 48hrs, it was a record time and I could do a lot, but honestly gave me the taste of “I want to go back” thank you so much for sharing these tips I’ll definitely use them once in Ireland again 🙂

Thank you very much! I know the feeling of getting a taste “I want to go back” of a destination. It always ends up with an even longer bucket list. You’re welcome and I hope you get to make more memories in Ireland soon.

These are useful tips that only a local would know and probably wouldn’t appear through research. I love the idea of no tax. Everywhere should be like that to promote tourism

Thank you very much! The no tax works amazingly for the countries that do do it. Hopefully, more think about this as a way to promote tourism once all of this has settled.

You are right. I should stop postponing my trip to Ireland. But now that I am ready only essential travel is advised. Nevertheless, I take your tips to heart!

I know exactly how you feel! Hopefully next year everything will be open again for us to travel freely.

Ireland is such an amazing place! I had no idea that it’s a free tax country. Thank you for sharing!

You’re very welcome! It truly is an amazing place. I hope you get to visit it soon.

I was supposed to be in Ireland this summer, but due to COVID19 we could not go. I really hope to be going next summer for my 30th birthday. This made me so excited to visit!

I hope you get there for your 30th birthday. I’m glad I could bring you some excitement for visiting there.

Visiting Ireland is high on my list. I’m especially looking for a road trip. I can’t wait to explore once travel is back to normal -ish.

I hope that you get to Ireland when everything has gotten back to normal-ish.

Great tips! I did Ireland about a year and a half ago. We opted for a driver while we were there – and I’m glad we did! Some of those roads were soooo narrow I would have had a hard time driving them myself lol.

Lol thank you very much! Having a driver works perfectly fine too. As long as you got to experience Ireland.

Great information. I hadn’t even thought of there being more than one currency in Ireland.

Thank you very much! It’s one of the things most people don’t think about since we normally think of Ireland as one place instead of two.

WOW! This blog post is right on time. We are going to Ireland for 3 days next year and this was perfect! Making me more excited to plan a trip!

I’m glad I could get your excited about it! I hope you enjoy your trip to Ireland. Also if you need any help with anything be sure to ask.

What a thorough and helpful post about taking your family to Ireland! Pinned for later to take my kids. Can’t wait to try some of the pub food!

I’m glad that it could be of help for you. The pub food was one of the most exciting parts for us as well.

I would absolutely love to travel to Ireland with my family, so will be keeping this post in mind!

I’m glad that the post could be of help. I hope you and your family get to travel to Ireland soon.

I love all these tips about traveling to Ireland. I cannot wait for my next trip there and I will definitely be saving this for reference. I did not realize car rental was trickier there, it’s definitely something to keep in mind. I love the fact you mention to look for pubs with live music – sounds like a great time!

I’m glad that the post could be of help. The live music is definitely part of what makes visiting the pubs so exciting.

What a great list of things to see and do, the heritage card looks great. I never knew Ireland had tax free shopping either, how great!

I’m glad that the post could be of help. It’s always great to know which countries you can find tax free shopping in!

These are terrific tips! I especially like your idea to hire a driver who doubles as a guide!

I’m glad that the post could be of help. A driver that can be a guide will always be an enhancement to your vacation. They’ll even be able to show you places that you didn’t even think to go to.

I love all the tips you suggested in this guide to Ireland. I have been there three times, but I would love to explore outside Dublin. It has outstanding nature 🙂

When you get a chance you definitely should go explore outside of Dublin. There’s an amazing mix of towns and natural landmarks to explore while there. Also a lot of great places to take a hike

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Italy Family Vacations

Spain family vacations, japan family vacations, australia family vacations, favorite places to visit in ireland with kids.

By Kate Moran

Safe, stunning and packed with family-friendly adventures, Ireland is a perennial family favorite. We asked local expert Kate Moran to share her best tips for traveling to Ireland with kids, and the best spots around the Emerald Isle for families. Be sure to read her advice to help you plan future Ireland family vacations!

Best Things to Do in Ireland with Kids

Itinerary and planning.

Because Ireland is a relatively small country, visitors tend to try and see “everything” in the course of one week. Lots of friends and family fly into Dublin , drive through Wicklow, kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, head to Cork City, eat lunch in Kinsale, drive the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula, ascend the Cliffs of Moher, cruise through the amazing Burren, throw back a Guinness and listen to live music at a trad session in Galway , marvel at awe-inspiring Connemara and pose in front of Kylemore Abbey before heading back to Dublin to fly home. They are literally in tatters upon their return.

In our opinion, this is a bit mad — and may even spoil the transcendent impact of an Irish holiday. While Ireland shares aspects of both America and continental Europe, it is distinct in so many ways. Pick a couple of must-sees and then try and slow down a bit – park the car and walk the landscape, repose in front of the fire, order the kids a pack of crisps from the barkeep, savor a Guinness and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.

Need help planning a trip to Ireland with kids?

Our Family Travel Advisors can book vetted accommodations, recommend the best family activities, arrange private tours and guides, and more. Click to get started! >

Transportation

Although public transportation is available in Ireland, driving is the best way to see the country with kids in tow. Parents and children alike will be delighted by the winding country roads, stone walls and animals out to pasture. However, please note when renting a car that most are manual. If you need an automatic car, make sure to specify this when making your reservation — you’ll pay extra for the pleasure, but this is not the time to teach yourself how to drive a stick shift. Remember, the Irish drive on the left side of the road, so sticking to the correct side should be where your focus lies.

Accommodations

Of course, Hollywood has made traditional Irish bed-and-breakfasts quite famous. As with any other accommodation, there is a wide range of variety and quality. However, there are also lovely country houses, traditional independent and chain hotels and holiday homes that are available for rental. Many visitors to Ireland love traveling the countryside, stopping in a village whenever they fancy it and finding a place to bunk without reservations. This is a fun thing to do if you’re visiting as a couple to Ireland; family dynamics suggest you might want to plan a bit more in advance. You may need a crib for a baby or don’t intend to share your bed with your toddler. And teenagers might want a room of their own.

If this is the case, it’s worth booking into a hotel and requesting a crib and an extra bed. Due to the huge property-driven boom over the past decade-plus in Ireland, you’ll find amazing 4- and 5-star hotels (think renovated country estates, farmhouses and castles) throughout Ireland, some in very unlikely, off-the-beaten-path locations.

Eating Out with Kids

The Irish food scene has really exploded in recent years and can offer visitors a good range of choices. A plethora of organic ingredients and a resurgence of traditional dishes will delight those unfamiliar with Irish cooking. In the countryside, pubs remain the center of village life and are very family-friendly during the day (most pubs prohibit kids after 8 p.m. but welcome them before that). In the major cities of Cork, Galway and Dublin, you’ll have many more options.

If you plan on bringing a stroller, smaller is better. The doors to most shops and restaurants tend to be narrower than in America — forget about surviving with those double-wide strollers. Most mums of two or more little ones in Dublin seem to have the buggies that stack one kid on top of another, like the Phil and Ted’s brand. Oh, and always have your rain cover in the bottom of the stroller, even if it looks bright and sunny. Trust me.

A word about the famous rainy weather: Yes, it does really rain a lot. It needn’t slow you down too much, but if you plan spending the day outside, always bring a light windbreaker with a hood. The kind that can be scrunched down into the bottom of your bag or stroller are perfect.

Great Family-Friendly Places to Visit

Dublin and environs.

The country’s capital and cultural heart has lots for families to enjoy. Wander through Trinity College ’s cobblestone paths; up the main shopping street, Grafton Street ; and to St. Stephen’s Green, where the kids can spend some time at the playground. Entry into most museums is free, so they are great to pop into to get out of the rain. In fact, the National Gallery of Ireland has a fantastic gift shop to buy gifts for home as well as a reliable cafe.

The Guinness Storehouse is a requisite stop for many adults — and we can report that it works for a family trip, too. The displays (like the massive waterfall in the front hall) will engage most children for a while and the Gravity Bar is bright and lively. There are baby-changing facilities and, well, there is something strangely gratifying about taking your baby’s picture next to a pint of Guinness. Finally, for older children, visit Kilmainham Gaol for a tour of the famous jail where the leaders of the 1916 uprising were imprisoned and executed.

Wicklow Mountains and Powerscourt House & Gardens

This is one of our all-time favourite day trips from Dublin. Drive south of the city to the Wicklow Mountains to find Powerscourt Estate . On a sunny day, the drive is spectacular. The tour/video show of Powerscourt isn’t all that interesting (the original building burned down and the existing interior is a recreation), but the planned gardens and Japanese garden are lovely to walk through, and the kids can run wild.

The cafe and shop are feasts for the eyes and stomach — the former, run by the venerable Avoca Cafe , serves delicious Irish food with a twist. The shop is an eclectic mix of Irish goods, kitchen treats and funky clothing and books for adults and kids. If you can, take turns browsing; it’s usually a bit hectic to bring the kids into, as there are a lot of breakables and it’s hard to navigate a stroller through. But you’re sure to find souvenirs for the family members and friends stuck back at home!

TIP: There are several Avoca cafes throughout the country; the food is fantastic and they are always great for kids. The cafes are casual and usually noisy and crowded, but there are always high chairs, places to park a buggy and helpful staff to help carry your trays if you have a baby on your hip!

Browse the complete CB! collection of kid-friendly Ireland hotels

See our hand-curated list of tried and tested accommodations for families, and request one-on-one booking support >

Howth Village and Cliff Walk

The magnificent hills of Howth, just outside Dublin, are well worth a trip to check out. However, the cliff walk literally hugs the cliff’s edge and is only appropriate for adults with babies in a pouch or backpack — the paths are narrow and the drops very steep. There are other, less perilous, paths to the top, so some of your gang can take the more navigable route and meet at the top. The views are stunning and you can’t beat the fresh air! And the rumors are true: A great pint awaits at the end of your hike at The Summit Inn. (During the Cliff Walk, you are really exposed to the elements, so if it’s particularly windy and rainy, skip it. The views won’t be all that great and cliffs and windy days don’t mix. However, a little drizzle — “a soft day” — need not be a deterrent.)

Howth has some great eating establishments, so working up an appetite is a brilliant move. Our suggestions? The House is our new favourite home away from home. Imagine warm, crumbly scones, great coffee and a bacon sandwich served with greens dressed in vinaigrette, and a perfect selection of seafood for dinner. They welcome families with open arms, happy to stash buggies at the door, pull a high chair out for your little one and provide coloring supplies. The adventurous children’s menu offers smaller portions from the regular menu. A close runner-up is a picnic made with fish & chips from Beshoffs of Howth .

Ireland has some seriously impressive playgrounds — really! Indulge the kids with a visit to Ardgillan Castle . The adults will marvel at the gorgeous grounds and view of the sea while the nautical-themed playground provides a bounty of entertainment guaranteed to tucker the kiddies out. If you are hankering for a snack before arrival, nip into Olive on the main drag in Skerries for take-out sandwiches, lattes, and sweets. Planning on a meal after? Visit the excellent Stoop Your Head in Skerries Harbour for its first lunch seating at noon, and dig into some of the freshest, most delectable seafood around. Despite it being a popular (and small) place, they are happy to have children and offer a kids’ menu and highchairs.

Beyond Dublin

The cliffs of moher.

These majestic cliffs rise out of the sea and are truly awe-inspiring for both parents and kids. The visitors’ centre provides some background to this natural wonder. If you are approaching the cliffs from the north, make the drive doubly stunning by choosing a route through the Burren.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a tourist favourite, so some try to avoid it — but it’s a favourite for good reason. Dotted with beautiful Irish villages, dramatic overlooks and stunning beaches tucked below the cliffs, it’s beautiful! Again, opt for driving yourself and be sure to spend lots of time out of the car; make stops wherever inspires you. Killarney makes a great home base, and you’ll want to devote at least a day to exploring the national park there.

Magnificent natural landscapes make West Cork a delight to visit. Schull, in particular, is one of the loveliest villages. While there, visit the Mizen Head Signal Station for a thrilling walk and view, and stop at gorgeous Barley Cove Beach for a stroll.

Galway City

Galway’s streets are lively and full of university students, though it feels like a very small city compared to Dublin. Stroll the streets, listen to the music and be sure to get some great seafood. If you’ve got more time here, spend a day visiting the Aran Islands. Treat everyone to one of their iconic sweaters and you’ll stay warm and cozy throughout your trip.

Driving through Connemara offers breathtaking scenery (I know we keep saying this, but it’s true!). Nestled behind the mountains is Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens . The children will be delighted to see this amazing castle on the shores of Lough Pollacappul. There are lots of wooded paths to explore, and the walled gardens will inspire the gardener in you.

It’s clear: Ireland with kids is a family travel bucket list winner for a reason. So much to do, so much to see, so much beauty. Family-friendly Ireland vacations are a crowd pleaser and one of our favorite travel experiences.

Relevant Links

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in Ireland on Ciao Bambino

8 of our favorite Ireland family hotels

From coast to coast in Ireland with kids

Dublin: 5 favorite kid-friendly activities

10 things to do in Ireland off the beaten path

A perfect 10-day itinerary in Ireland with kids

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Pingback: Parknasilla Resort Family-Friendly Review | Ireland Family Hotels | Ciao Bambino
Pingback: Dromoland Castle Family-Friendly Review | Ireland Family Hotels | Ciao Bambino

We had an amazing trip to Ireland and Northern Ireland while I was pregnant and I can’t wait to take our toddler back! We stayed in some of the best B&Bs while I was there and I’ve put up some pictures and reviews on our website – https://goo.gl/wOuhdx

Love the review. Quick correction: The Blarney Stone is in Cork, not Waterford

Thanks for catching the blooper, JT! We’ve fixed that.

Amie- Thank you so much for the mention. IrelandWithKids.com is designed to help families plan a magical trip to Ireland. We visit annually (if not more often) and I do my best to lay out the good and bad of attractions, as well as tips for visiting. We are actually heading back to Ireland in May and exploring some new places!

Sadly no … but Michelle Duffy from Wandermom.com is a family travel blogger from Ireland and also has some wonderful Ireland related insight on her blog. Also, Jody Halstead publishes IrelandwithKids.com – another fabulous resource!

Do you have any idea what happened to mummymaps.com? It sounds like it was a great resource, but I am coming up empty when doing searches.

Great suggestions! We are heading to Ireland in May with our 3.5 and 1.5 year old boys and are planning to do some of the Western Ireland suggestions. We will be there for 9 days and will spend all of our time in the west. Can’t imagine trying to see the whole country in a week – especially with kids in tow!

Great overview. I would recommend the Dingle Peninsula with kids. It’s even prettier than the Ring of Kerry with ancient ruins to explore, stunning beaches to stroll, and the best ice cream in Ireland at Murphy’s in Dingle Town. Oh, and if you do plan to kiss the Blarney Stone, it’s not in Waterford. It’s in Blarney, north of Cork.

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Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park, a must-see during your 10 day Ireland road trip!

The Ultimate 10 Day Ireland Itinerary: Ireland Road Trip Extravaganza

There is nowhere on the planet better for a road trip than Ireland–and this 10 day Ireland itinerary will show you how to pull off the absolute best Ireland road trip!

After more than a month across multiple visits spent exploring Ireland, we’ve fallen completely head-over-heels with the impossibly green landscapes, the jaw-droppingly beautiful cliffs, the quaint farms, the delightful country inns, the colorful small towns, and the quirky cities that the island is known for.

We’ve watched the sunset at the Cliffs of Moher, become obsessed with Slea Head Drive on the Dingle Peninsula, explored Dublin, sipped Guinness in countless pubs, fallen in love with colorful villages like Cobh, and sought out lesser-known destinations like the Slieve League Cliffs, Hook Peninsula, and County Mayo.

Colorful pub painted red in Kenmare Ireland

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

This 10 day Ireland itinerary is a careful whittling down of our absolute favorite things we’ve found in Ireland–with plenty of choose-your-own-adventure style options thrown in.

We want to make sure that this Ireland road trip itinerary leaves you completely smitten with the country, while also helping you narrow down the overwhelming number of amazing places to see in Ireland (which, let’s be honest–can’t all be covered with only 10 days in Ireland).

Ready to start planning your Ireland road trip? Here’s what we suggest.

Table of Contents

10 Day Ireland Itinerary Map

How we structured this 10 day ireland itinerary, the ultimate 10 day ireland road trip itinerary, important ireland road trip tips, more (or less) than 10 days in ireland, the best time to visit ireland, what to pack for ireland.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

We structured this 10 days in Ireland itinerary so that you circle around the entire island and avoid doubling back during your trip.

This makes for a fun and, most importantly, flexible Ireland road trip itinerary, so if you have more or less than 10 days in Ireland, you’ll still be able to complete the trip with some adjustments.

It also means that you don’t have to follow our suggested stops to the letter–we’ve made notes on some of the days of this 10 day Ireland itinerary showing where there are a few logical choices to fill your time, so feel free to choose whichever adventure most appeals to you!

Kate Storm standing against a split level fence with Irish countyside in the background--plenty of this to be found on an Ireland road trip!

We’ll cover more alternate ideas and suggestions for your Ireland itinerary if you’re working with more or less than 10 days in Ireland closer to the bottom of this post.

The way this Ireland itinerary is structured does mean that you move most nights, so be prepared for that!

This 10 day Ireland itinerary does also cover destinations in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland (which is part of the United Kingdom).

Though the border is open between the two countries, keep this in mind as it will have a small impact on your trip (most noticeably, you’ll need to alert your rental car company of your plans to leave the Republic of Ireland, and you’ll need to change currencies during your trip).

Jeremy feeding lambs along Slea Head Drive Ireland

Day 1: Arrive in Dublin.

Most likely, you’ll land in Dublin exhausted and jetlagged, so plan to take it easy on your first afternoon in the city!

If you land early enough in the day and want to hit some of the best things to do in Dublin , this would be a great opportunity to check out Trinity College and the Long Room, stroll across the Ha’Penny Bridge, duck into some of Dublin’s many gorgeous bookshops, and grab a cozy dinner in a traditional Irish pub.

Cobblestone streets surrounding colorful buildings in Dublin Ireland

Day 2: Explore Dublin.

Dublin is a fun, quirky city, so it’s definitely worth taking one full day to explore it during your 10 days in Ireland!

We recommend covering anything you didn’t get to from the above afternoon arrival suggestions, plus a visit to the Guinness Storehouse and/or Jameson Factory , a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral , and some time spent wandering around the pricey-but-picturesque Temple Bar district.

Want to visit both the Guinness Storehouse and the Jameson Factory during your 10 days in Ireland? Then this popular tour is for you!

Depending on time, you may also want to check out St. Stephen’s Green, the General Post Office, or Kilmainham Gaol.

You can read our full suggestions for spending a couple of days in Dublin here .

Temple Bar as seen on a summer day, with flowers over the entrance to the bar--an iconic bar, it's worth at least stopping by during a 2 day Dublin itinerary.

Day 3: Kick off your Ireland road trip and visit Kilkenny, Rock of Cashel, and Hore Abbey.

This is the day your Ireland road trip truly begins: pick up your car as early in the morning as possible, and hit the road!

We recommend sleeping wherever you plan to spend day four (we’ll cover our suggestions below), but on your way down south, you have a few stops to make!

This colorful little village is exactly the sort of small Irish town you’ve no doubt been dreaming of seeing during your 10 days in Ireland: full of colorful buildings, pretty, winding streets, and a castle, it’s the perfect first stop on your Irish road trip.

Cathedral in Kilkenny Ireland, an essential stop on your 10 day Ireland road trip itinerary!

The Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel’s history dates back far longer than its current buildings, which are “only” 700-900 years old.

Rumored to be the sight of the King of Munster’s conversion to Christianity in the fifth century, the Rock of Cashel served as the seat of Munster kings long before the Normans arrived in Ireland.

Today, an impressive Celtic art collection is located at the sight, and the views overlooking the nearby countryside are stunning.

Photo of a cow in Ireland with the Rock of Cashel in the background--a fairly typical scene during an Ireland road trip!

Built in the 13th century as a Cistercian Monastery, Hore Abbey practically lies in the shadow of the Rock of Cashel–but unlike the former, it is both free and uncrowded to visit.

We highly recommend a quick stop here–it’s an absolutely beautiful set of ruins, and worth seeing during your 10 days in Ireland.

Kate Storm in the distance walking into Hore Abbey--this dress and tights combo is one of my go-to outfits when packing for Ireland.

Day 4: Check out County Waterford + County Wexford OR visit Cork, Cobh, and Blarney Castle.

Sadly, 10 days in Ireland isn’t enough to cover absolutely everything–so we’ll outline two suggestions for this part of your Ireland road trip: either a visit to County Wexford and County Waterford, or a visit to Cork, Cobh, and Blarney Castle.

Here’s what to expect at either place.

Option 1: County Waterford + County Wexford

If you’re looking for a more offbeat option for this part of your Ireland road trip, head to County Wexford and County Waterford for the day!

The Hook Peninsula, home to the adorable Hook Lighthouse, the fascinating (and haunted) Loftus Hall, the lovely Tintern Abbey, and the John F. Kennedy Arboretum (yep, it’s named for the US president), is an absolutely delightful place to spend a day.

Hook Lighthouse in County Wexford Ireland

We adored our time in this area and highly recommend it.

Glassblower working in the Waterford Crystal Factory--a tour here is definitely worthy of a place on your 10 day Ireland itinerary

Once you finish up around the Hook Peninsula, head to Waterford to tour the Waterford Crystal Factory , which is an incredibly cool (and affordable!) experience that blew both of our expectations out of the water.

Where We Stayed in County Wexford

Inishross House (New Ross) — If I had to sum up Inishross House in a word, it would be hospitable . This is exactly the kind of B&B you come to Ireland for: everything from the colorful breakfast room to the comfortable room to the helpful and attentive couple who ran the B&B was an absolute delight.

The included breakfast was phenomenal and kept us full for most of the day!

We adored this property, and when we return to New Ross in the future, we’ll absolutely try to stay there again.

Check rates & book your stay at Inishross House!

Full Irish breakfast served at Inishross House New Ross--when planning a trip to Ireland, definitely keep in mind which hotels serve delicious breakfasts like this.

Option 2: Cork, Cobh & Blarney Castle

Want to stick to the classics? Beautiful Cork, with its gorgeous English Market and historical center, and famous Blarney Castle, the home of an (apparently) very kissable stone, are popular options for a 10 day Ireland itinerary for a reason!

You definitely won’t be disappointed by these classics–especially if you have your heart set on receiving the “gift of the gab” from the Blarney Stone.

Nearby Cobh is a delightful and colorful port town that packs a huge history–as the last stop for the Titanic before it met its tragic fate and a huge center of Irish emigration, Cobh’s history is impressive, heavy, and well worth learning a bit about during your trip to Ireland.

Kate Storm in Cobh Ireland wearing the red dress recommended on this packing list for Ireland

Where We Stayed Near Cork

Find Us Farmhouse (Macroom) — Located in the countryside and nestled between a few farms, the Find Us Farmhouse is the most peaceful place we stayed in Ireland.

In addition to the comfortable rooms and wonderful hospitality, the breakfast–and the beautiful breakfast room–were enormous highlights.

We loved staring out our bedroom window and watching the cows graze just a few feet from us, and it was definitely an experience worth having at least once on a trip to Ireland!

Check rates & book your stay at Find Us Farmhouse!

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm sitting at a breakfast table at a bed and breakfast near Cork Ireland.

Day 5: Visit Killarney National Park.

Technically part of the Ring of Kerry, famous Killarney National Park lives up to its reputation. The views are nothing short of magnificent, and the park is an incredibly relaxing and beautiful place to pass a day.

There are endless hikes and highlights that you can find inside Killarney National Park, but here are a few popular sights that are easily accessible and that you should be sure to add to your 10 day Ireland road trip itinerary!

Muckross House

Built in the 19th century, the magnificent Muckross House is glitzy enough that it once played host to Queen Victoria itself.

The family who built the home had to sell it off less than a century after it was built, and that sale created the basis for Killarney National Park.

Muckross House in Killarney National Park, Ireland--well worth seeing during 10 days in Ireland!

Torc Waterfall

Measuring around 20 meters high, Torc Waterfall barrels through thick, green vegetation in Killarney National Park, giving off a beautiful and otherworldly vibe.

It’s also incredibly easy to access–despite looking like it’s in the middle of nowhere, it’s actually only about a 5-minute walk from the road!

Kate Storm in a yellow raincoat standing in front of Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park Ireland

Ladies View

Looking for one of the best views in all of Killarney National Park? If so, be sure not to drive past Ladies View without stopping for a quick peek!

If you’re looking for a great place for a picnic lunch during this part of your Ireland road trip itinerary, you can’t go wrong with bringing a meal here.

Kate Storm in a blue long-sleeved shirt overlooking Killarney Natoinal Park--a must-see spot when planning a trip to Ireland!

Muckross Abbey

This beautiful abbey is located a quiet and lovely walk away from Muckross House, but it feels a world apart: incredibly well-preserved and home to a gorgeous cemetery out front, Muckross Abbey is absolutely worth seeing during your 10 days in Ireland.

Be sure not to miss the gorgeous and gigantic yew tree in the courtyard, nor the chance to head upstairs and admire the area from a different vantage point.

Muckross Abbey in Killarney National Park, as seen during an epic Ireland road trip!

Lakes of Killarney

You really can’t miss the Lakes of Killarney, given that they make up more than a quarter of Killarney National Park–but it’s definitely worth noting that the upper, middle, and lower lakes are all stunning and worth paying attention to during your visit.

If you’re as lucky as we were, perhaps you’ll even stumble across some golden retrievers playing in one!

Lakes of Killarney in Killarney National Park, Ireland, with a golden retirever playing in the water in the foreground.

Day 6: Tour the Dingle Peninsula OR the Ring of Kerry OR the Beara Peninsula.

Driving out along one of western Ireland’s magnificent peninsulas and admiring the coastal scenery is an absolute must on your Ireland road trip–but while the Ring of Kerry is the most popular ring to drive, you’ll see we have a different opinion on the best option!

We’ve driven all three of these peninsulas personally, and, well–let’s just say we have our favorites.

That being said, any one of these peninsula drives makes for an excellent addition to your 10 day Ireland itinerary, and you can’t go wrong with any of them.

Colorful street in Dingle Ireland with a bright yellow building. Dingle is the starting point for Slea Head Drive.

Option 1: Slea Head Drive + Dingle Peninsula

Slea Head Drive is home to some of the best scenery in all of Ireland–as is the Dingle Peninsula as a whole.

This drive is easy to make, chock full of interesting sights ranging from archaeological wonders to adorable lambs to beautiful beaches, and is far less crowded than the Ring of Kerry.

In our biased opinion, the Dingle Peninsula is one of the loveliest places in all of Ireland, and since this 10 day Ireland itinerary really only leaves time to drive one of Ireland’s ring roads, we vote that you head right to this one.

We wrote an entire guide to driving Slea Head Drive , so we won’t repeat ourselves too much here–but if you head this way, be sure not to miss Slea Head Beach, Dunquin Pier, or the Sleeping Giant + the Three Sisters!

Plus, of course, there are plenty of things to do in Dingle itself–the colorful little village is quite the delight to explore!

Dunquin Pier on Slea Head Drive, an unmissable place to see on a 10 days in Ireland itinerary. There's a photographer with a tripod and red jacket on the right side of the photo.

Option 2: The Ring of Kerry

I’ll be honest: the Ring of Kerry is iconic, beautiful, and you won’t be disappointed by including it on your 10 day Ireland itinerary… but Slea Head Drive on Dingle Peninsula is better, and unless you have your heart set on the Ring of Kerry, we’d drive that one instead!

However, the Ring of Kerry is absolutely gorgeous, and we don’t want to undersell it–the scenery is stunning, especially at the end of the peninsula near the Skellig Islands.

If you’re lucky enough to experience the Ring of Kerry on a beautiful day, definitely wake up early and plan to make Skellig Michael part of your Ireland itinerary!

It’s worth noting that Killarney National Park is part of the Ring of Kerry, so this Ireland road trip itinerary does cover a portion of the ring regardless of what you choose to do on day six.

Keep in mind that the Ring of Kerry is undoubtedly the most popular of these three peninsula options, and the only one where you’ll have to contend with passing enormous tour buses on relatively tiny roads (though the Ring of Kerry does have the biggest–though I use that term loosely–roads of these Ireland road trip options as well).

Photo of a rowboat in a lake in Killarney National Park Ireland--definitely be prepared for all weather when putting together your Ireland packing list!

Option 3: The Ring of Beara

Are you the type of traveler who likes to stray off the beaten path, who would rather avoid crowds than see the most famous sights, and who is enchanted by the idea of being on a road trip in Ireland where you might even go a few minutes without seeing another car or human being (I’d say living thing, but you know, this is Ireland–there’s always a shep around somewhere)?

If so, the Ring of Beara–the easternmost and least-touristed of these three peninsula road trip options–is an excellent choice for you.

As you drive from Cork through the Caha Pass and then wind your way down the Beara Peninsula, the scenery only grows more and more remote and beautiful.

McCarthy's Bar as seen along the Ring of Beara on an Irish road trip

Small fishing villages dot the peninsula–we loved Castletownbere–and by the time you reach the end of the peninsula, words like “desolate” start coming to mind.

If this sounds like the right peninsula to you, bear in mind that it also has some of the hardest driving of the three options–traffic is thin, yes, but the roads are very small, and you might find yourself having to back up quite a distance to let other vehicles pass more than once!

Irish coastline as seen along the Ring of Beara--the perfect Ireland road trip destination for those looking for something offbeat!

Day 7: Explore Doolin + the Cliffs of Moher.

The colorful village of Doolin is extremely tiny–but it’s adorable, interesting, and also the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher!

How you structure this part of your Ireland itinerary really comes down to exactly how you want to explore the cliffs.

Looking to soak in the iconic views quickly and then explore a bit of the town, or maybe even spend half a day on the island of Inisheer ? Head to the visitor’s center (and try to get there early).

Cliffs of Moher in Ireland with O'Brien's Tower visible on the left and the Stack visible on the right

More of a hiker? The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Route runs 18km from Doolin to Liscannor and can be completed in one day–but even those looking for a shorter hike are in luck. Hiking from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher takes about 2 hours each way, and from the Cliffs of Moher visitor’s center to Hag’s Head takes about one hour each way.

Rather view the cliffs from the sea? A Cliffs of Moher cruise can be a great way to get a unique perspective on the cliffs. This is the cruise that we enjoyed.

Book your Cliffs of Moher cruise today!

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm standing in front of the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland shortly before sunset

Day 8: Head to Northern Ireland (and maybe stop by the Slieve League Cliffs).

For the final part of your 10 day Ireland itinerary, we’ll be leaving the Republic of Ireland behind and heading into Northern Ireland–so don’t forget to swap your Euro for pounds before paying for anything with cash!

On your way to Derry, the easiest stopping point for the evening before kicking off your Northern Ireland explorations, consider a detour to visit the absolutely stunning Slieve League Cliffs: significantly taller and just as beautiful as the Cliffs of Moher, these cliffs are located in Donegal and get just a fraction of the visitors as the Cliffs of Moher.

Other stops to consider along the way between Doolin and Derry are County Mayo (especially Belleek Castle , which we absolutely adored), and Galway.

This part of your Ireland road trip itinerary will include a fair bit of driving–it’s about a 5 hour drive if you go directly from Doolin to Derry–so you won’t want to overstretch yourself, but you definitely have time for at least one detour for some sightseeing!

Slieve League Cliffs in Donegal Ireland, as seen during a fabulous Ireland road trip

Day 9: Drive the Causeway Coastal Route.

The Causeway Coastal Route follows the northern coast of Northern Ireland (say that five times fast!) and is home to some of the most popular tourist sights in the area, including Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede, and Dunmore Castle, among others.

Be sure to add the following sights to your Ireland road trip itinerary when you drive the Causeway Coastal Route!

Open road in Northern Ireland with green fields on either side

Before taking off, though, I do want to provide one other alternative idea for this section of your Ireland itinerary: if you’re a big Game of Thrones fan, you may prefer to book a GOT tour rather than doing a self-drive of the Causeway Coastal Route.

This well-reviewed GOT tour covers most of the spots outlined in this Ireland road trip itinerary, while also including stops at plenty of other film locations!

Book your Game of Thrones tour of Northern Ireland today!

Dunluce Castle

Dating to the 13th century and once the seat of Clan McDonnell, Dunluce Castle is best known today for its impressive location on a small island just off the mainland, accessible by bridge.

Giant’s Causeway

The famous coastline of Giant’s Causeway is made up of about 40,000 basalt columns–definitely not an everyday sight!

Like at the Cliffs of Moher, a trip to the visitor’s center (and resulting fee) isn’t required to see the basalt columns, but if you’re not interested in a 2-mile hike, you’ll want to pay to enter the more traditional way.

Grab your tickets to Giant’s Causeway today!

Mussenden Temple

This 18th-century temple-like building was once part of a grand estate.

While it’s lovely up close, if you want to get beautiful views of it perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean during your 10 day Ireland itinerary, head to Downhill Beach.

Downhil Beach with Mussenden Temple in the background, as seen during our most recent Irish road trip!

Carrick-a-Rede

Want to cross a rope bridge suspended 30 meters above cold water and rocky, unforgiving coastline? At Carrick-a-Rede, you can!

The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge is delightfully picturesque, and for a fee you can cross it from the mainland to the tiny island of Carrick-a-Rede.

Because of the enormous popularity of the bridge, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance , especially if your Ireland road trip falls over the summer.

The Dark Hedges

In the 18th century, an impressive number of beech trees were planted to line the path to a manor. They grew, twisted and beautiful, and eventually gave the road an eerie feel… which is how Game of Thrones came to use them briefly for a film location, causing their 21st-century popularity to skyrocket.

Though the Dark Hedges aren’t technically located on the Causeway Coastal Route, they’re a very easy detour from Giant’s Causeway, and absolutely worth adding to your 10 day Ireland road trip itinerary if you’re a GOT fan!

Kate Storm in a red dress facing away from the camera at the Dark Hedges, one of the most popular locations to see on a Northern Ireland road trip itinerary

Day 10: End your Ireland road trip with a visit to Belfast + a drive back to Dublin.

Depending on what your flight plans look like, the last day of your 10 day Ireland itinerary might include a full day worth of sightseeing, or it may mean a quick hurry back to Dublin.

If you have a full day ahead, we recommend checking out the impressive Titanic Experience in Belfast and also learning about the important history of The Troubles on a walking tour .

Central Belfast is located less than 2 hours by car away from the Dublin airport, so while you do want to be cautious with time, the two cities really aren’t as far apart as it might feel given the highly inefficient way you initially traveled between them on this Ireland road trip!

In the afternoon, as you drive back to Dublin, consider stopping at the Howth Cliff Walk for an easily accessible set of stunning views–a last goodbye to Irish cliffs and delightful seasides, if you will.

Howth Cliff Walk in Ireland, a fun bonus stop for your 10 day Ireland road trip itinerary. Wildflowers are in the foreground and a lighthouse in the background.

Remember: drive on the left during your Ireland road trip!

Sounds obvious, I know, but based on the vast number of reminders in our rental car, on the roads, and at the rental agency, I think it’s safe to say that Ireland sadly suffers a fair bit from right-side-of-the-road drivers such as ourselves giving into muscle memory and driving down the wrong side of the road.

Be extra-careful, and if you’re not used to driving on the left, be sure to chuckle a bit at yourself the 73rd time you walk around to the wrong side of the car to get in!

Leperchaun Crossing sign as seen in Ireland--keep an eye out for quirky details like this during your 10 days in Ireland

Rent the smallest car you possibly can.

If the car can hold your travel group and your (reasonable amount of) luggage, it’s big enough–trust us.

Irish roads can get very, very narrow–like, we’ve had to back up 300 yards to find somewhere to pull over and let someone past narrow–and any kind of large or luxury car will be a liability during your Ireland road trip, not an asset.

Keep an eye out for bikers and pedestrians.

Pedestrians and bikers–even children–are not a remotely uncommon sight along the road when taking an Ireland road trip, so be very careful!

This is especially common along scenic drives like the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula, as well as in villages, but be extra-careful regardless of where you are.

Photo of car parked on the side of the road during an Ireland road trip. Two bikers are visible passing by on the right side of the photo.

You may need an International Driving Permit (and a license of a certain age).

While International Driving Permits aren’t required in Ireland for licenses that are already printed in English, we’ve encountered stricter contracts with more obscure requirements when renting a car in Ireland than just about anywhere else–on our first trip to Ireland, we were actually turned away from several rental agencies, including the one we had a reservation with!

Be sure to check and double-check the requirements for your rental car before taking off for your 10 days in Ireland–you definitely don’t want any unpleasant surprises when you land.

Discover Cars sent our rental contract to us almost immediately after booking on our most recent trip to Ireland, and we were able to review it with plenty of notice.

Speed limits are only loosely correlated with safe driving speeds.

Err on the side of caution, always–especially on small roads where you might not have much advance notice to stop if another car turns around the corner.

A sheep on the road in Ireland--keep an eye out for this on your Ireland road trip!

Gas stations are self-service, and you usually pump, then pay.

In Ireland, don’t expect to pay for gas at the pump: generally speaking, you’ll first pump your gas, and then go into the shop to pay for it.

This is a reversal from what we’re used to in the USA, where you either pay by card at the pump or, if you’re paying by cash, pay and then pump.

Don’t start your car rental until the day you leave Dublin.

You definitely won’t need a rental car in Dublin, and it’ll be a hindrance to have to worry about parking.

Instead of picking up your rental car the moment the plane lands, wait until you’re ready to start your Ireland road trip in earnest to save yourself both money and hassle.

Ready to kick off your Ireland road trip? Book your rental car with Discover Cars now!

Jeremy Storm with a white rental car on the Ring of Beara during an Ireland road trip

Working with a different number of days for your Ireland road trip itinerary than what we’ve outlined here? Here are a few suggestions if you’re trying to put together a trip to Ireland on a different timeline!

With One Week in Ireland

With one week in Ireland, you’ll be best served by cutting your stops dramatically–consider sleeping in exactly 3 places during your week in Ireland: a night in Dublin/the city you fly into when you first arrive, 3 nights on either the Dingle Peninsula or the Ring of Kerry, and 3 nights in/near Doolin to visit the Cliffs of Moher and surrounding area.

You certainly could move faster and see a bit more, but by basing yourself in a few spots and taking day trips, you’ll be able to see a surprisingly large percentage of the most popular things to see in Ireland with limited time.

Interior of McCarthy's Bar in Ireland, with liquor bottles on the back wall

With 2 Weeks in Ireland

With a few extra days tacked onto this 10 day Ireland itinerary, we would recommend adding 1-2 of the optional suggestions we cover during this Ireland road trip itinerary: maybe you drive both the Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry, maybe you see both Cobh and County Wexford, maybe you take a Game of Thrones tour in Northern Ireland and drive the Causeway Coast independently.

The options are limitless, but with 2 weeks in Ireland, you definitely have a bit more flexibility!

Afternoon tea in Belleek Castle Ireland shot from above

With 3 Weeks in Ireland

With 3 weeks in Ireland, you truly have the opportunity to dive deep into the country.

While it’s tempting to add in enough cities and towns to cover new places every day, we definitely recommend spending at least some time slowing down and exploring a region that interests you more deeply–perhaps for 4-5 days.

You will be able to add in a lot of extras with a full 3 week Ireland itinerary to work with, though: consider dedicating more time to Derry and/or Belfast, exploring Donogal or County Mayo more thoroughly, spending a night or two on the Aran Islands, or heading down to Kinsale… just to name a few options.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm hold tall swords in front of other antique weapons at Belleek Castle in Ireland

If you’re hoping for sunshine and the warmest weather possible, summer–especially late June, July, and August–is absolutely the best time to visit Ireland.

It probably comes as no surprise that Ireland has a rather short summer, but that also means that its peak tourist season can come with lots of crowds.

While we found it fairly easy to avoid the worst of the crowds during our most recent Ireland road trip (we’ve spent time in Ireland in June, July, and August), if you would rather feel like you have the country to yourself, aim for shoulder season.

Cows standing in a green field with the sun setting behind them--plan to see a lot of sights similar to this when taking a trip to Ireland.

Visiting Ireland in the spring or fall naturally means cooler weather, more rain, and even more crowds, but the trade-offs of sharing the roads and villages with fewer tourists can be worth it.

Winter in Ireland is rather mild as far as temperatures go, so if you’re willing to bundle up, you can even have a delightful off-season Ireland road trip.

However, some seasonal businesses like inns, especially in the countryside, do close for the off-season, so be aware that by spending 10 days in Ireland over winter, you might find your plans need to be a bit more flexible.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm sitting on a split-level fence in Ireland while on an Ireland road trip

We’ve created a complete, detailed suggested packing list for Ireland here –but in the meantime, here are a few things we absolutely recommend bringing with you as you complete your 10 day Ireland itinerary!

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and an Ireland road trip (hello, driving on the left) is definitely a time to be better safe than sorry. We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to Ireland.

Travel Adaptors for Ireland — Ireland uses the same plugs that the UK does–and note that these are different from the bulk of mainland Europe. Double-check you add the right ones to your Ireland packing list! We use these and have never had any issues.

Comfortable Day Bag — We currently use Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this 10 day Ireland itinerary, that’s totally understandable. Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a Northface Jester backpack for years and loved it as well.

Jeremy Storm carrying a pacsafe backpack and wearing a gray jacket, looking out over Conor Pass in Ireland

Waterproof Boots — In my opinion, waterproof boots are an absolute must-have item on your Ireland packing list year-round. They’ll keep your feet warm and dry regardless of the circumstances, they’re comfortable to wear, and they can be fashionable, too!

This is my pair , and I adore them. Even when my jeans got completely drenched (like just-climbed-out-of-a-pool levels of drenched) during a rainstorm in Dingle, they still kept my feet completely dry. Jeremy wore these and loved them.

Kate Storm feeding sheep on Slea Head Drive--definitely stop at at least one farm during your 10 days in Ireland!

Rain Jacket — Having a rain jacket is a huge asset when visiting Ireland, and if you don’t already have one, we absolutely recommend picking one up when planning a trip to Ireland.

This is mine , and I love and recommend it. It folds up incredibly well to fit into your suitcase, it’s comfortable and flattering for photos, and–most importantly–it’s completely effective at keeping you dry.

Jeremy opted not to bring one and definitely had plenty of regrets whenever the rain started pouring! This one is a great choice for men.

Kate Storm in a yellow raincoat on the ferry from Inisheer to Doolin. You can see the Cliffs of Moher far off in the distance.

Binoculars — Coastal regions in Ireland are home to all sorts of delightful creatures, including a wide variety of birds (like puffins!) and beautiful dolphins. Binoculars are an inexpensive & easy-to-pack item for your Ireland packing list, and they’ll greatly enhance your trip to the coast!

Definitely plan ahead and pack these as precautions! I’m always so glad to have it along, including on our recent ferry to Inisheer in Ireland.

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Photo of Dunluce Castle. Black text on a white background reads "The Ultimate Ireland Road Trip Guide"

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

24 thoughts on “The Ultimate 10 Day Ireland Itinerary: Ireland Road Trip Extravaganza”

Kate, thank you so much for this detailed review! My daughter and I are planning to visit Ireland next spring for her college graduation gift and I’ve been so overwhelmed. This is exactly what I needed. We’re going to follow most of your itinerary and I’m bookmarking your blog now!

Thank you, Melisssa! I’m so glad you found our itinerary helpful. Hope you and your daughter have an amazing trip to Ireland, and tell her congratulations on her graduation from us!

Love your blog! And this is a perfect itinerary! My mom and I did a similar route 2 years ago – only 7 days but started in Shannon (flights & car rentals are MUCH cheaper than to Dublin) and skipped N. Ireland. All of your suggestions are exactly what I would recommend as well – definitely worth a few days on Ring of Kerry. We wandered off the main hwy a couple times when we saw an interesting road sign and found some hidden gems in cemeteries, abbeys, etc. Driving was definitely an adventure and I feel the speed limits were set as a personal challenge vs a maximum speed – makes for some great videos of the narrow roads vs oncoming traffic.

Thanks so much, Marianne! Those roads sure did make for some great videos. We loved Ireland too–fingers crossed we get to go back before too long!

This is a fount of knowledge I truly needed! Thank you! Do you have an area on your blog that details lodging recommendations at all of the locations? Thank you for letting us all live vicariously through y’all!

Thanks, Onni!

I don’t have any separate posts on where to stay, but we have suggested B&Bs under each location on this itinerary!

Hi Kate, thanks for your review! The pictures are lovely!! Would you share how much would it cost in average for a couple 10 days there? thanks

Hi Constanca! The cost can vary quite dramatically depending on your taste, but your rental car + hotels will generally make up the bulk of the budget.

We break down details of planning an Ireland budget here: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/trip-to-ireland-cost/

My daughter and I plan on going to Ireland June of 2023!! This sounds just what we were looking for. So excited to plan our trip! Thank u so much!!! Kathy

So happy we could help! Ireland is such a wonderful place for a mother/daughter trip!

Kathy, thankyou for a detailed descriptions and beautiful pictures. We are planning to use your itinerary when we go in September for 13 days. We are thinking of doing both the ROK and the Slea head Peninsula. Also spending one day exploring the Killarney park. May be spend a day in London Derry. Do you think this will be too much?

So glad it was helpful!

With 13 days, you’ll probably want to cut a few things from our itinerary to work in Slea Head Drive, Ring of Kerry, and Londonderry, but you can definitley reach all of your most important spots in that timeframe!

Hi! I can’t tell in your 10 day itinerary how many different cities you stayed/slept in and how many nights in each . Do you have this written anywhere ? I may have missed it ! Thanks !

I listed the places we stayed under the day where the sightseeing is closest–so the place we stayed in Dingle is listed that day, etc. We’ve loved everywhere we stayed in Ireland!

How many nights you spend where is a bit flexible in Ireland and the drive times are often pretty short for a road trip. Some people prefer to move almost every night to avoid doubling back on driving, and others would rather drive another couple of hours a day and pack/unpack fewer times.

If you want to complete the itinerary without doubling back, you’ll move every 1-2 nights.

This itinerary is a cut down, optimized version of our roughly one month spend in Ireland over 2 trips, so we spent a bit longer in each place (and visited some places that didn’t make the cut).

Kate: Thanks for this great information. I am planning to go to Ireland for approx. 9 days and wanted to see if I could fit most of these items for my trip to travel most of the island. Is there anything that you would suggest skipping to maximize my time? Please advise. Thanks!

That’s really just down to personal preference–whichever bits and pieces fall in, say, the bottom 10% of what you want to do, I’d trim it–especially if it’s out of the way. Spots like the Slieve League Cliffs and the Hook Peninsula probably aren’t ideal if you’re wanting to condense the route (though both are wonderful, of course).

Hope you have a wonderful time!

I came to find your blog and it’s so interesting ✨ I lived in Ireland back in 2006 for a couple of months, and went back to Dublin for a weekend 8 years ago. I love this country. I’m planning to go on a road trip in May/June with my best friend. I was just wondering, haven’t you been to Connemara or Wicklow Mountains National Park? One question, I’d love to spend a night or two in a cute little cottage somewhere. Any suggestions? 🙂

Unfortunately, we haven’t had a chance to visit either Connemara or Wicklow yet, but they’re both earmarked for our future trips to Ireland! We hope to visit many, many more times. 🙂

We’ve opted for bed and breakfasts instead of cottages for most of our trips, but we did stay in Danloes Thatched Cottage outside of Kenmare and loved it!

Hello and thank you for the 10 day road trip itinerary suggestions. Would you recommend reversing the route and starting out from Dublin, touring the city for two days then heading to Belfast first? Thank you. Monica

There’s no reason why that can’t work! Just keep in mind that with limited exceptions (like Giant’s Causeway), you’ll mostly spend your trip starting in less-crowded areas and end up in progressively more popular/crowded ones by the end, so be prepared for the shift!

Hi Kate Really appreciated your blog-just the right amount of information-comprehensive without becoming too overwhelming. Thank you! One question: If you had to choose between using Killarney or Dingle as a hub, which would you choose?

Thanks so much, Rob!

Personally, we’d opt for Dingle–the Dingle Peninsula is one of our absolute favorite places in Ireland! You really can’t go wrong, though, both are wonderful in their own way.

I am using all of your advise and will follow a lot of your itinerary. I am having trouble scrolling up and down this blog. Can you please list the towns you stayed over night at and the places you stayed?

For a 10 day trip , how many diff hotels should I be at ?

I am looking to do a 10 day trip but going from Dublin to the Wicklow Mountain Nat Park – do some hikes but then going on your route to the south and then over to the west seeing the Blarney stone the Ring of Kerry and Dingle . But also doing some hike in that national park and up to the Cliffs of Moore. Then would drive back over to Dublin.

I know the places I want to see but am not sure how many hotels/ overnight spots to stay at??

This is a distillation of about a month worth of traveling in Ireland for us, so our exact itinerary was a bit different. For this route, though, I included overnight stops in Dublin (2 nights), the Ancient East (we stayed in New Ross, but anywhere in County Waterford or Wexford works) OR in the Cork/Cobh area (we stayed at the FindUs Farmhouse in Macroom when in that area), Killarney and either the Ring of Kerry, Ring of Beara, or Dingle Peninsula (our personal favorite of the 3), Doolin/the Cliffs of Moher, and the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland with a final stop in Belfast.

Of course, this is just one option of many–part of why this itinerary is one of the longest we’ve published is because there are so many wonderful options within a short drive in Ireland.

Your route sounds extremely doable in 10 days, and I’d spend at least one night in Wicklow, Cobh or Cork, and the Dingle Peninsula. Depending on how fast you want to move, you can make a day of driving from the Cork area to the Ring of Kerry, exploring that drive, and then heading to Dingle to spend the night and start your next day of travel.

Personally we like to spend at least 2 nights in each place in Ireland, which is actually a bit faster than we travel in other places–but it gives you time to appreciate each area (and each B&B’s breakfasts, a big highlight of Ireland road trips for us).

What are you looking for?

2024 ireland travel guide: how to plan the perfect trip.

We were fortunate enough to spend 16 days travelling around all of Ireland in June and July 2019.

We designed a route, rented a campervan and set off on what proved to be a pretty epic journey!

Our route took us around the entire country, starting and ending just outside Dublin.

As Cazzy is from Ireland herself, we have already visited a number of Northern Ireland’s best sites over the years.

However, neither of us were prepared for just how breathtakingly beautiful the rest of Ireland is; and it’s safe to say that our Ireland vacation is one of the best adventures we have been on to date.

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland this year (which you 100% should be) then hopefully this full-on Ireland travel guide will help you with everything you need to know.

Including the best places to visit right through to some of our favourite Ireland travel tips .

Whether you are travelling to Ireland alone, or backpacking with a group of friends, this should be a one stop Ireland guide to help you on your way.

So, without further ado, let’s get started ...

Travellerspoint

Quick Things To Know About Ireland

The island of Ireland is made up of 2 countries. Northern Ireland uses Pound Sterling (£) and Ireland uses the Euro (€).

They speak English all across Ireland. There are also a number of Gaeltacht areas where they predominantly speak Irish.

Power sockets

They use the standard Type G plug socket, the same as you will find all across the UK.

Travel vaccines

Standard travel vaccines are advised for trips to Ireland . If you are from the UK, then you may have received almost all of these during school education. For other countries, this will vary. Here's a list of recommended vaccines for visiting Ireland.

Malaria risk

Non-existent.

You will find ATMs all across Ireland, with numerous different banks. They are all fine to use and generally highly reliable. To get the best exchange rates and avoid hefty charges from your bank at home, you should get a travel card before you visit. We always use Revolut , Monzo or Starling regardless of where in the world we go, as they offer the best exchange rates. If you can’t access these, then perhaps a TransferWise debit card would work well. I use them for getting paid in foreign currencies, however their card charges you fees to use it, whereas Revolut, Monzo and Starling do not.

The best places to go partying in Ireland are the big cities; notably Belfast , Dublin , Galway , Cork and Kilkenny. In these towns and cities you will find live music every night of the week and even some bars open till the early hours. As well as this, you will find traditional Irish bars literally EVERYWHERE in Ireland. However, if you want big nights of drinking and live music, the villages and towns tend not to liven up until the weekend.

If you’re from inside the EU, then your regular sim should work for free in Ireland. Cazzy and I are on O2 sims and we had great data connection almost everywhere we went. If you’re visiting from outside the EU, then I’d recommend picking up a local sim as they are pretty cheap and you could even then use it if you plan on going to other EU countries. Both in Northern Ireland and Ireland, you can get these sims from local shops in all towns.

You don’t have to tip in Ireland, however 10% is the customary rate if you do wish to. Some bars and restaurants will add it onto the bill as an option.

Christianity is the dominant religion all over the island of Ireland. In the Republic of Ireland, Catholicism is more widely spread, but in Northern Ireland there is an almost 50/50 split between Protestant and Catholics.

Where do we begin!? Ireland has a very rich history, stretching back hundreds of years when invaders first came to the shores from Britain. The British have had a tumultuous relationship with the Irish for a long time, particularly throughout the late 20th century. This period, often called The Troubles, saw a number of atrocities committed on both sides as the IRA fought for a united Ireland and the British fought to maintain control. In 1998, the Good Friday Peace Agreement was signed which formally recognised Northern Ireland as a part of the UK and the rest becoming the Republic of Ireland. Even today, however, Northern Ireland is highly divided, with many wanting to join Ireland and the rest wanting to remain a part of the UK. It would take too long to divulge the full history here, but it’s worth familiarising yourself. I recommend reading more here , here and here .

Ireland is, generally speaking, a very safe country to visit. That being said, you should exercise common sense to avoid getting yourself in trouble. This includes not flashing money out and about in busy cities and not being out drunk late at night on your own. Also, if you are planning on driving in Ireland (more on this below) then take it careful on narrow country roads when it is dark or wet. Also, avoid upsetting any drunk locals by calling them Brits or referring to Derry as Londonderry.

Best Places To Visit In Ireland

With so many incredible spots, the only problem you’ll have with planning your trip is deciding where to travel in Ireland!

Ireland is without a doubt one of the most beautiful countries in the world; filled with rolling hills of green and breathtaking castles.

Personally, my favourite part of the country is the western coast where all along it you are greeted with dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. To make full use of this area though, you'll need at least 7 days in Ireland (ideally more though!)

But to help you with planning a rough route, here’s a quick look at my 10 favourite places to visit in Ireland .

Dublin is by far Ireland’s most popular city for tourists (according to official tourism statistics ), with millions flocking here every year, regardless of whether they are on a calm family holiday or an outrageous stag do.

Attractions such as the Guinness factory and Temple Bar are among Ireland’s most visited attractions, and this city definitely lives up to the hype!

It can be a little pricier than other parts of Ireland, but if you only have a few days to spend in Ireland, then it’s a good choice.

There are tour companies offering day trips to many great sites outside of the city, so it’s a good place to base yourself for a few nights.

Real Also: The Best Things To Do In Dublin, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

2. Killarney

This is perhaps my favourite town in all of Ireland.

Because the nightlife is so much fun!

Every night of the week, the dozen or so bars in town are pumping out traditional Irish music; and the atmosphere was better than anywhere else we visited.

It’s hard not to love live music and the packed-out bars and pubs are so alive with craic.

Also, in the day time you have many of Ireland’s best things to do located right on your doorstep, such as the Gap of Dunloe and the Killarney National Park.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Killarney, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

I’ve been to Belfast a number of times now, and each time have found new fun things to see and do.

I’m particularly fond of this city around Christmas time, when they open the Belfast Christmas markets.

The whole city is lit up with decorations and lights and it’s such a cosy place to stroll around with a nice hot cup of coffee in hand.

In the summer it’s another great place to be, with an array of bars and clubs located all across the city; as well as attractions such as the Titanic Quarter and Cathedral Quarter.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Belfast, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

The number one reason people head to the small town of Blarney is to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone.

Well, yes this certainly is a great experience, as it's one of the Ireland’s most mythical sites, shrouded in myths and legends dating back hundreds of years.

As well as this, the town itself is quaint and lovely, complete with local bars and restaurants and narrow streets to explore.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Cork, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

5. Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula, as a whole, is really lovely and I would recommend it as a place to spend a relaxing few days away from the stresses of everyday life.

The Main town of Dingle is filled with shops and restaurants, as well as some of the best fish & chips joints you’ll find in Ireland.

It has the feel fairly typical seaside town and you could really unwind and take it easy here.

Aside from the main town, the peninsula offers some of the best views you'll find in Ireland, particularly out on the western tip near Coumeenoole Beach.

Inch Beach is another really unique spot on this peninsula and well worth a brisk, windy walk.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Dingle, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

Once again, if you are looking to escape and unwind for a few days, then Doolin is a perfect choice.

It’s a small village, which can’t have more than a few hundred people living there.

But what they do have is a small strip in town with 4 or 5 real traditional pubs; we visited Gus O'Connors and found it to be lively and packed full of tourists all enjoying the great food and live music.

From the village, it’s possible to walk all the way to the Cliffs of Moher, following a path that go the whole way along the coast.

On the way, you also pass by one of my top 5 best castles in Ireland : Doonagore Castle.

Finally, it’s from Doolin pier that you can take day trips across to the Aran Islands.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Clare, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

If you’re looking for buzzing nightlife and typical Irsh charm, then Galway is another top choice, aside from Dublin and Killarney .

When we visited, the weather was amazing and we enjoyed a number of pubs and beer gardens all throughout the town.

When the sun's out, the Latin Quarter is literally packed full of people either drinking or listening to live street performers.

Further on up, you’ll also find Eyre Square another great spot for Irish bars.

Aside from drinking, Galways has a lot more to offer, and we really enjoyed the hour or so walk along the seafront taking us all the way from Galway to Salthill.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Galway, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

8. Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a great place to visit, especially if you want to head out of Dublin, but don’t have enough time to visit the western coast.

It’s a Norman town, with the castle and many of the buildings dating back more than 800 years.

The Kilkenny Castle and the grounds around it are the best attraction, and I recommend stopping off here and having your lunch on the big lawn next to the castle.

There are other great things to do in Kilkenny as well, including visiting the cathedrals, the abbey and a whole array of small shops and pubs that line the cobbled high street.

9. The Causeway Coast

The Causeway Coast is easily one of the top 5 places to visit in Ireland, and from here you can explore Northern Ireland's best attractions. Including Dunluce Castle, Bushmills Distillery, The Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and, of course, the Giant's Causeway.

If the weather is clear and calm, then there are few better places to be in Ireland than the Causeway Coast.

From there, you can also head across to Derry, or down to the Dark Hedges.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Northern Ireland

10. County Donegal

As a whole, county Donegal is one of my favourite places to visit in Ireland.

The landscape up there is very different to other parts of Ireland, and the barren rugged countryside makes for awesome hiking and road tripping.

Some of my favorite spots in Donegal are the Slieve League Cliffs, Lough Derg and Malin Head.

There are also some great wild camping spots here, notably Lough Derg and Mullaghderg Beach.

As well as some of Ireland’s best castles, such as Doe Castle and Lough Eske Castle.

Next time we visit, I fully intend on spending more time around Glenveagh National Park, one of my favourite national parks from across Ireland.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Donegal, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

Our 10 Favourite Things To Do In Ireland

There are incredible experiences to be had all across Ireland.

There are famous sites to visit all across the country, many of which are located well outside of the popular tourist towns and cities.

Well, by having our own campervan, we visited the entire country from south to north and east to west, and along the way kept track of all of the best things to see and do in Ireland .

Here’s my top 10 (in no particular order) ...

1. Walk along the cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s biggest tourist attraction outside of Dublin.

Why do you think that is?

Well, it’s because they are awesome!

They rise up 700 feet above the water and are such an impressive site on a clear day.

Best of all, you can walk all the way along them to the town of Doolin if you wish; just be careful as the path gets very busy during peak times.

That’s why we got there early, as by 10am the cliffs are packed with people and you don’t get the same experience.

2. Visit Giants Causeway

Arguably Northern Ireland’s best attraction, Giant's Causeway is a geographical phenomenon that has amazed people for generations.

It has also brought about a number of myths and legends, notably those about Finn the Giant who once lived there, and who’s chimney stack you can still see smoking some days.

When you visit for the first time, I recommend paying to get the audio headset so you can learn more about the causeway on the walk down.

After you’ve walked over them and caught some really cool photos, head further round and then right up the mountain to the top of the cliffs.

The views from up there are awesome and well worth the climb.

3. Rent a campervan and drive Ireland yourself

I would say that the number one thing to do in Ireland is to hire a vehicle and drive yourself around Ireland .

Most of the best things to see and do aren’t in the towns and cities, but are instead located by the coast in hard to reach places.

Well, having a car or campervan gives you complete control over where you go and what you do and will allow you to experience Ireland to the max.

We rented a campervan with Spaceship Rentals and had the most amazing time ever!

You can read more about our epic 16 day Ireland road trip here .

4. Walk the Gap of Dunloe

The Gap of Dunloe is perhaps Ireland’s most magical spot; a 6 km long valley that takes you through some truly awe inspiring scenery.

What I loved most was that the farther you travel through it, the more the landscape seems to keep on changing.

It looks almost entirely different from one end to the other, making it a pleasure to walk in both directions (which you’re going to need to do!).

If you head there nice and early, you can get there and back in a couple hours and then head into Kate Kearney’s Cottage for a spot of well-earned brunch.

5. Spend a night listening to Irish traditional music

Some of my favorite memories from Ireland is our time spent in old-fashioned Irish pubs listening to Irish music late into the night.

I’ve always been a big fan of Irish music, but nothing beats listening to it in person.

Typically, pubs are more likely to have live music on Friday and Saturday night; unless you are visiting a big city like Dublin or Galway when you should find it most nights.

6. Wild camp by a lough

If you choose to rent a vehicle and drive yourself around, you’ll soon discover that Ireland is filled with beautiful loughs.

For years now, Cazzy has been campaign with her family to Lough Derg in Donegal , arguably one of Ireland's most scenic spots.

However, if you just drive around the country you will find large, secluded loughs everywhere, many with possible wild camping spots.

To find out more, you can read this guide Cazzy wrote on wild camping in Ireland.

7. Kiss the Blarney Stone

Kissing the Blarney Stone is perhaps one of the most famous things you must do in Ireland.

Located not far outside of Cork , Blarney Castle is a 570 year old castle shrouded in myths and legends, most notably those about the Blarney Stone.

There are numerous tales on how the Blarney Stone came to be at Blarney Castle, and you can learn all about these on your way up through the castle to kiss the stone.

Regardless of which tale you believe, you cannot deny the magical gift of eloquence that it bestows upon all that kiss it.

8. Check out the Rock of Cashel

From a distance, the Rock of Cashel is possibly the most breathtaking castle in Ireland.

For hundreds of years it served as the seat of the kings of Ireland, and it is certainly worthy of such a role.

Over the years, the Rock of Cashel grew in size, but the oldest remaining parts of the site date back as far as the year 1100, making it more than 900 years old!

From the inside, a lot of it has fallen into disrepair, but is still well worth a walk around.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Tipperary, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

9. Go hiking in the national parks

Ireland has a number of national parks and we were lucky enough to pass through a number of them on our road trip.

My favourites being Wicklow, Killarney, Connemara and Glenveagh.

What’s nice is that each of them is unique in it’s own way and it’s great taking time to go for a walk through them wherever possible.

10. Learn about Irish history

I first started learning about Irish history in 2015 when Cazzy first took me to Ireland to meet her family.

I quickly learned that the Irish have a VERY lengthy and tumultuous history with the English. After years of conflict and violence the country was split in two ( Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland), but the drama didn’t stop there.

Northern Ireland has a rich history with regards to the Troubles that followed.

It’s an intense and recent history that’s very important and you can see real life examples of what it was like in cities like Belfast , Derry and Dublin .

When Is The Best Time To Visit Ireland?

Really, Ireland is a great country to visit at all times of the year.

As the seasons change, the landscape changes with it and you can expect to find a whole another country.

However, if you're looking for warm weather and clear skies, then the best time to travel to Ireland is in the Summer months of June to August.

We visited in June/July and the weather was absolutely amazing almost the entire time; we had clear blue skies and excellent views wherever we went.

The shoulder months of April/May (Spring) and September/October (Autumn) might also be nice as well, however, you're more likely to have a lot of wind and rain during your visit.

If you are happy to put up with much colder weather, then Ireland can be nice and snowy in December and January.

This is also when it’s the cheapest time to visit Ireland as most tourists won’t be there.

That being said, a lot of Ireland’s best attractions won’t be open either.

The only thing I will say is this … Ireland is famously unpredictable when it comes to its weather.

Though we had excellent weather in June and July on our visit, it is just as likely that you visit in this time and its wet and windy the whole time.

Similarly, weather can change from one hour to the next with mist descending out of nowhere and then clearing as if it was never there.

It’s all a part of the mystery that makes Ireland what it is.

Read Also: The Best Things To Do In Kerry, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

Travelling In Ireland: Sorting Your Ireland Visa

Seeing as both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are in the EU, you can visit either country without hassle if you also hold an EU passport.

If you are from outside of the EU, then your visa requirements will differ.

Here is a list of all countries that need a visa to enter Ireland and here’s a useful page on applying for a visa if you do need one.

How Do You Get To Ireland?

You have two main options for getting into Ireland, these are:

1. Flying to Ireland

The 2 main airports that you will likely be flying into are Dublin and Belfast.

Typically speaking, these have the most available flights and are cheapest.

Especially if you are entering from another European country and book your flights with Ryanair .

If you are flying in long haul, such as from America, then chances are it will be Dublin or Belfast that have the cheapest flights.

That being said there are a number of other airports in Ireland to fly into.

Though they may be a little pricier, you can then save money on getting buses across the country if that’s where you plan on spending a weekend; for example in Galway or Cork.

To find the cheapest flights into Ireland, I recommend using Skyscanner .

In the “To” box, you can select “Ireland (IE)” and it will tell you which airports offer the cheapest deals.

Be aware, however, that this will not include Northern Ireland . For that you will need to search for “Northern Ireland (UK)” separately.

2. Taking a ferry to Ireland

It is possible to drive over to Ireland by ferry, and there are a number of ports up the coast.

Personally, I’ve taken the ferry from Liverpool to Dublin before, as well as the ferry from Rosslare to Pembroke.

Each of them takes no more than a few hours and the weather is typically pretty cold.

I always book my ferry crossings to Ireland using Direct Ferries.

Getting Around Ireland

When it comes to getting around Ireland, you’ve got a few main options, these include:

1. Hiring a campervan or car

By far your best option for getting around Ireland is to hire a campervan and drive yourself around.

Not only does this give you complete flexibility over your schedule, it also means you get to wild camp in some pretty cool places!

There are a variety of campervan companies you can choose from, but we recommend Spaceships Rentals and you can check out our review of them here .

If you would rather, just can rent a car you’ll be happy to hear there are lots of great car rental companies in Ireland .

A good place to start your search is with Rentalcars.com .

Read Also: The 35 Best Castles In Ireland That You Need To Visit

2. Using buses

Buses travel between major cities all across Ireland and there are a variety of different companies to choose from.

You can find links to all major cities from the airports, but also connections from city to city. These buses will be comfortable, air conditioned and generally have WiFi.

Local buses for day trips within cities and getting around are also common and easy to use.

The bus network in Ireland is quite well established and to find your way from A to B, I suggest you head to a local tourism office for advice.

There is a tourism office in almost every little town in Ireland, so you’ll always find someone who can help you with Ireland bus routes.

3. Private tours

Tours in Ireland are the most common way to get around for lots of visitors.

Whilst I’ve never done a tour myself, I know there are a wide range of tour companies and the tours in Ireland are generally quite high quality and great value for money.

You can opt for group tours or pay a little extra for private tours. I suggest using GetYourGuide for all your tour needs!

The train network is quite established, but it’s more expensive, and I wouldn’t rely on it to get everywhere.

I’ve never actually used the train, but you can get all the information and prices you need on the Irish Rail Network website . It is a good way to get around towns.

For more information, check out Cazzy’s blog post on getting around Ireland .

Real Also: The Best Things To Do In Mayo, Ireland: Complete Travel Guide

Finding The Best Accommodation In Ireland

Regardless of how you plan on getting around the country, you’re probably wondering where to stay in Ireland. Well, here you go!

Accommodation for camping and caravanning

If you’re planning on hiring a campervan in Ireland , then you have two main options when it comes to accommodation.

1. Use campsites

There are campsites located all across Ireland, and even in peak summer months you should be able to call up on the day and book somewhere to stay that same night.

To find campsites when we were travelling across Ireland we mostly used a guidebook from Camping Ireland .

Alternatively, if you don’t have a guide book, you can use websites such as:

Camping Ireland
EuroCampings

You can expect a pitch in a typical caravan site to set you back between €20 and €30 per night.

2. Wild camp

One of the best things about having your own campervan or motorhome in Ireland is the opportunity to wild camp.

There are awesome wild camping spots located all across Ireland; any of which are online, but most of which you can discover yourself!

For more info, check out this guide Cazzy wrote on wild camping spots in Ireland .

Other Accommodation in Ireland

If you’re planning on getting around Ireland by bus, train or car, then you will find tonnes of great hotels, hostels and B&Bs all across the Emerald Isle.

Great sites for finding the best places to stay in Ireland include:

Booking.com (Top choice for hotels in Ireland)
Airbnb (Top choice for homestays and B&Bs in Ireland)
Hostelworld (Top choice for hostels in Ireland)
CozyCozy (easy-to-use price comparison tool for options given above)

A mid-range double hotel room or Airbnb stay will set you back anywhere between €50 and €80 per night.

A single bed in a hostel dorm room ranges from €15 to €25.

To make a quick booking, here's a roundup of the best places to stay for each major part of Ireland:

Ireland Travel Guide: What to wear in Ireland

Generally speaking … wear warm clothes!

Even if you plan on visiting in the summer months, you can never guarantee clear weather, so take warm clothes, like jeans and a jumper, as well as a waterproof coat.

If you are visiting in colder winter months, then make sure you take plenty of warm comfy clothes, especially if you plan to be out walking in the national parks.

That being said, in the summer months the weather can also be very nice, so take some shorts and t-shirts or dresses with you to make the most of it.

If you’re by the coast when the weathers nice, then you’ll see lots of pale Irish people walking down the beach with their t-shirts off; this is because everyone makes full use of the hot weather when it does arrive!

Read More: What To Pack For Ireland

Eating and Drinking in Ireland

If you want to experience good old fashioned Irish cooking, then the best place to go is a traditional Irish pub.

Here, you will find a number of homemade classics, with my favourite being Irish stew.

If you can, the best way to enjoy Irish stew is with a few pieces of wheaten bread, which is a type of bread only really made and sold in Ireland and is much stodgier than regular bread.

On that note, Ireland sells a few different types of bread that you don’t really get elsewhere; including potato bread and soda bread.

Aside from these few classics, a lot of the food you’ll find in Ireland can be found elsewhere in Europe, particularly the UK.

This includes typical pub grub like bangers & mash, fish & chips and lasagne.

If you’re heading out for a busy day of sightseeing, then a good way to start your day is with an Irish/Ulster fry.

This consists of a variety of things including bacon, sausage, beans, potato bread, soda bread, mushrooms and tomatoes.

As you’d imagine, its with alcohol that Ireland really comes into its own!

Their two big specialities being Guiness and whiskey (not spelt “whisky”, that’s Scottish).

If you ask me, then Guinness really isn’t all that, and I would much rather have a nice cold pint of cider, which is also becoming extremely popular now across Ireland.

If you’re a fan of whiskey then you will love Ireland as most bars tend to have at least half a dozen to a dozen different varieties on sale.

You will also find large distilleries located all across Ireland, including the Bushmills Distillery next to the Giant's Causeway .

There are a number of smaller homegrown distilleries cropping up, such as the Slane Distillery at Slane castle .

Useful Online Tools For Your Ireland Trip

When you're planning a vacation in Ireland, then there’s all kinds of online tools out there that will help make your trip ten times better.

Here’s the online websites and applications that we used when travelling Ireland:

Skyscanner - For booking flights
Spaceships Rentals - For organising a campervan
Google Maps - For saving places to visit, as well as day-to-day navigation
Booking.com - For finding the best deals on all kinds of hotels
Airbnb - For finding the most affordable homestays
Revolut / Starling - For avoiding any fees when converting our money to Euros

The cost of Travelling Ireland

Ireland certainly isn’t the cheapest country to visit, but nor is it the most expensive.

Here a rough overview of how much things typically cost in Ireland.

Groceries - €5-10 per day each (Lidl and Aldi are the cheapest supermarkets to use)
Eating out - €15-20 for a decent meal with a drink
Alcohol - €4.50 for a pint in a pub / €1.50 for a can of beer/cider in supermarkets / €7 for a single spirit with mixer in a pub (35ml) / €13 for a 70cl bottle of vodka in a supermarket
Tours & activities - Entrance fees to most castles are around €10, day trips to other islands are €30 or more. Here’s a list of popular tours in Ireland
Transport - Buses and trains can cost €15 and upwards, depending on the length of journey
Fuel - We spent €7.50/day each and were driving 4 to 5 hours every day (here’s a list of current fuel prices in Ireland )

So, how much did we spend on our visit to Ireland?

It’s worth pointing out that our Ireland road trip was in collaboration with Spaceships Rentals , who covered much of the cost of the campervan rental.

If we include the full cost of the rental into our overall expenditure, then here’s how much we spent overall for 16 days around Ireland:

€1400 (or €87.50 each/per day)

As a rough breakdown, per day this included:

€50 for the van and insurance
€5-10 on groceries
€10 on entrance fees
€7.50 on fuel
€10 on drinks/food in a pub
€5 on campsite fees (we only stayed in a campsite 6 nights)

Obviously, on some days we spent more on eating out, but on the other days we cooked for ourselves so only spent money on groceries.

Drone Laws In Ireland

First up, yes, it is legal to fly a travel drone in Ireland.

That being said, there are a number of rules and regulations in place that you need to follow; as set by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA).

The biggest thing that you need to know is that you must register your drone before legally being allowed to fly it there.

Registering it is relatively straightforward, and you can find the simple 2-step process for doing so on this page here .

DO NOTE: It took 5 weeks after registering for the paperwork to get shipped to me.

In this paperwork is a small sticker that you are meant to attach to your drone, to show that it has been registered properly.

I’m not sure how long it’s meant to take, especially if you live further afield than England, like me; so I advise registering as far in advance as possible before you are due to arrive.

When in Ireland, you will need to follow a number of regulations involving how far you can fly it, how high you can fly and where you can legally fly it.

You can read all about up-to-date Ireland drone laws here .

My favourite drone spots in Ireland

What’s nice is that Ireland is filled with incredible drone spots. Here were 5 of my favourite spots for filming with a drone in Ireland:

Anywhere up the Wild Atlantic Way (Ireland’s rugged western coast)
Doonagore Castle
Gap of Dunloe
Achill Island
Glenveagh National Park

Final Thoughts And Advice

If I could advise you of just one thing when planning a trip around Ireland, it would be to find a way to drive your own vehicle.

I can honestly say that the best part about seeing Irealand are the in-between moments.

Sure, many of the towns and cities are lovely, but if this is all you see then you are truly missing out on the best sites Ireland has to offer.

We had such a great time driving the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Beara and the Ring of Kerry , as well as through Ireland’s many breathtaking national parks.

It is so liberating having complete control over your schedule and your day-to-day itinerary, and you will find hidden villages and pubs that you’d otherwise be unable to explore unless you have control over where you travel to.

I’d highly recommend renting a campervan from Spaceships Rentals , but if you don’t like the idea of camping or want a smaller vehicle, then I’m sure renting a car would be equally as amazing.

A good place to start your search for that would be something like Rentalcars.com .

Other than that, if you have any other questions and think I’ve missed anything from this ridiculously in-depth Ireland travel guide, then just drop a comment below!

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

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!

Family Traveling in Ireland

FUN, SCENIC & HISTORIC

EPISODE PREVIEW: Season 6 on Family Travel with Colleen Kelly

The Wild Atlantic Way in IRELAND

Joined by her daughter Shea and niece Keelin, Colleen embarks on a journey through Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, where the family takes on some brand new adventures. They zipline through the Delphi Forest, meet some birds of prey at Dromoland Castle, learn how to herd sheep and even feed lambs at Glen Keen Farm, enjoy traditional afternoon tea, and go fly fishing for the very first time.

A GREAT FAMILY GETAWAY

Learn about Ireland

The Emerald Isle is home to some of the most beautiful castles and manors throughout the world. The Wild Atlantic Way has such a unique and robust history that your family will enjoy the numerous activities all while learning all about Irish traditions.

Whether you are staying at or just visiting Lough Eske Castle , be sure to make time for some afternoon tea. Originally created by Duchess Anna Russell of Bedford, this light meal was thought to be the perfect afternoon refreshment between lunch and dinner. As the name suggests, the meal features tea, as well as small sandwiches, biscuits, and pastries. By the end of your meal, you’ll feel like real royalty.

Translated as “Lake of the Fish”, Lough Eske offers visitors the chance to try their hand at fly fishing. Whether you’re a first time fisher, or a true expert, you will enjoy soaking in the beautiful lake and surrounding countryside, and perhaps even catch a fish or two. If you’re lucky like my daughter Shea, you may even catch four! The lake is filled with brown trout, sea trout, and salmon all throughout the May thru September fishing season.

Located in County Mayo, the Lost Valley is the perfect combination of history and scenery. During the Irish Potato Famine, many farmers living in the Lost Valley were evicted from their homes, leaving many of the fields and potato beds untouched. The land eventually became a large grazing farm that would develop a unique landscape. Due to its remote location, this area has been mostly untouched by machinery for hundreds of years, leaving behind a natural landscape that is truly something to behold.

There are so many fun activities to do while staying in Ireland. And what better way to have fun than to learn something along the way!

THE EMERALD ISLE’S ATTRACTION

SO MUCH TO DO. SO MUCH TO SEE.

Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is known for its picturesque views of its beautiful countryside and high rising bluffs. But that’s not the only reason to visit the Emerald Isle. There are so many fun activities to do that will make your family want to travel to Ireland over and over again. Here are some of the activities from our trip!

All along the countryside, one can see one of Ireland’s greatest resources, sheep. But how do farmers keep track of all these sheep that are sprawled out over hundreds of acres? Well with the help of a furry friend of course! If you want to test out your sheep herding abilities, head over to Glen Keen Farm . Here you can learn about Ireland’s long history of sheepherding, try your hand at commanding the dogs, and if you’re lucky enough, feed some of the farm’s newborn lambs.

If you and your family enjoy spending time with animals, then you won’t want to miss Dromoland Castle , where you and your family can tour the grounds of this historic castle with a hawk in hand. Known as a Hawk Walk, you can learn about the sport of falconry while getting to interact with the castle’s majestic hawk, Alice. When you are done, you can meet some of Alice’s other feathery friends, such Pickles, the castle’s famous barn owl. With falconry known as a sport of kings, you’ll feel like real royalty as you take in the beautiful sites.

If you ever wondered what it was like to soar across the sky like a bird of prey, then be sure to checkout the Delphi Resort ’s Zipline. Located in County Mayo, the Delphi Resort is the perfect place to relax and unwind, as you can visit their award winning spa. However, if you are in for a challenge, try out their rockwall, rope, and ziplining course! You can fly down the 720 ft course through the beautiful forests of Connemara with stunning views of the Irish landscape. It truly is a site to behold.

Now with so much to do and so much to see, wouldn’t it be nice to have your own personal driver? How about someone who could act as your own personal tour guide? Well, with a driver from CIE Tours , you can get both! This is the perfect combination for those who wish to take in the beautiful Irish countryside while not having to worry about any distractions or driving on the left side of the road. It will really make your trip that much easier.

These are just a few of the activities we got to experience on our trip to Ireland. There is so much to do and so many beautiful things to see, your family will feel as if they’ve experienced the true luck of the Irish.

MORE PLEASE

Fabulous Family Restaurants

When dining with your family, it isn’t always easy to find places to go where everyone will agree on a menu. However if you are lucky, you may just find a great restaurant that your whole family will agree on. And while visiting these restaurants in Ireland , that is exactly what you will find.

At first glance, Glen Keen Farm appears to be just a normal sheep herding farm. However, they offer so much more. Whether it’s sheepherding lessons or wool-spinning classes, Glen Keen Farm has activities that will keep you and your family busy throughout the day. However, while there, you are sure to build up an appetite. That is why it is important to check out the Glen Keen Farm’s visitor center restaurant. With delicious seasonal meals, your family is bound to love dining together all while overlooking the farm’s beautiful countryside.

If you are planning on staying at Lough Eske Castle , be sure to check out Cedars Restaurant . Run by head chef Richard McGee and his brother, sous chef Andrew McGee, Cedars offers a variety of seasonal meals all while basking in the ambience of Lough Eske Castle. As part of most Irish meals, fish is the main staple and you’ll hardly find a restaurant that does fish better than Cedars. This family run restaurant is a great place for all of your family to enjoy!

Overlooking the beautiful Connemara mountains, guests visiting the Delphi Resort can enhance their stay by dining at the resorts top notch restaurant, the 814 Restaurant . Named after the height of the regions’ tallest mountain Mweelrea, the 814 Restaurant prides itself on providing fresh and locally sourced food. With freshly caught mussels from Killary Fjord and organically farmed lamb from nearby hillsides, this menu draws upon true Irish cuisine and certainly does not disappoint.

While each place provides their own unique brand of food, they nevertheless embrace the importance of a quality cooked meal. Each of these restaurants will leave you and your family wanting seconds of Ireland and its fare.

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Celebrate Juneteenth at these Maine events

The holiday is Wednesday, but events start this weekend and run through the end of the month.

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Westbrook Middle School students Bella Zollarcoffer, Priscila Nzolameso and Sarikong Oak held tables educating and informing the community on Black hair history at Westbrook’s Juneteenth celebration last year. Cullen McIntyre/Staff Photographer

Juneteenth, which became both a federal and state holiday in 2021 , celebrates the anniversary of federal troops’ arrival in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, to ensure all enslaved people had been freed. This year, the holiday falls on Wednesday, but celebrations are happening over the next two weeks.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Indigo Arts Alliance presents The Welcome Table, an intergenerational symposium celebrating global cultural and culinary histories. Activities include art, movement and meditation workshops led by activists and cultural workers. 60 Cove St., Portland. indigoartsalliance.me

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Victoria Mansion is hosting a community day with free admission and a recitation of the Emancipation Proclamation by local actors. 109 Danforth St. Portland. victoriamansion.org

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Space and the Tate House Museum are putting on a Juneteenth community day with free admission and tours of Ashley Page’s “Imagining Freedom” exhibit at the museum. The historical art piece puts viewers into the shoes of an enslaved woman named Bet. 1267 Westbrook St., Portland. space538.org Advertisement

1-6:30 p.m. – The first event of “The City that Carries Us: Pain, Streets, and Heartbeats” will take place at the Public Theatre in Lewiston. The celebration will have a parade and a block party with performances, as well as scheduled activities and rituals throughout the day. It is hosted by the organization Maine Inside Out. 31 Maple St., Lewiston, maineinsideout.org

2-3 p.m. – Through “Poems of Reckoning and Resilience,” the Portland Museum of Art and Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance seek to honor the legacy of Black Americans. Featured poet Nathan McClain will join local poets in the Great Hall at the museum to celebrate Black liberation and creativity. The museum is also offering free admission Saturday through Monday, in celebration of both Juneteenth and Pride Month. 7 Congress Square, Portland. mainewriters.org

11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. – The fifth annual Juneteenth Celebration on House Island in Casco Bay will focus on Black joy, as well as nature, health and economic opportunity. Guests can stay for one or two days, and partake in activities like camping, hiking, yoga and games, all led by BIPOC leaders. Fortland, House Island, Portland. eventbrite.com

4:30-7 p.m. – The Community Organizing Alliance is putting on an event with speakers, live performances, poetry readings, a voter registration drive and catering by Bab’s Table. There will also be opportunities to get involved in the racial justice movement. The Atrium at Bates Mill, 36 Chestnut St., Lewiston. eventbrite.com

1-3 p.m. – Riverbank Park in Westbrook will host a community event with art, poetry, music and guest speakers. There will also be a barbecue picnic, a student fashion show, hair braiding, pick-up soccer and more activities sponsored by the city. 667 Main St., Westbrook. On Facebook.

7-8 p.m. – The Portland Yoga Project is putting on a class called “Liberated Breath: A Juneteenth Yoga Experience” that seeks to reflect on the holiday through yoga. The class is free for BIPOC community members and is sponsored by the Portland Public Library. 7 Bedford St., Portland, allevents.in

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Plans of holiday makers across Europe in disarray after German travel company collapse

Irish customers of loveholidays and others caught up in unexpected liquidation of fti, germany’s third largest tourism operator.

FTI, which is the third largest tourism operator in Germany with around 200 subsidiaries, shocked the leisure travel sector when went into liquidation on Monday. Photograph: Steve Parsons/PA Wire

The travel planes of thousands of holiday makers across Europe including people in Ireland are in disarray following the collapse of a leading German tour operator earlier this week.

FTI, which is the third largest tourism operator in Germany with around 200 subsidiaries, shocked the leisure travel sector when went into liquidation on Monday after a refinancing deal collapsed.

The initial filing involved FTI’s tour operator brand, but it warned that “corresponding applications will be filed for other group companies”.

One of its subsidiaries is the UK-based YouTravel which supplies accommodation to multiple travel agents in Ireland as well as online travel agents which have a significant footprint here, including LoveHolidays.

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All accommodation bookings made via YouTravel until later this month have been cancelled while customers already in destinations overseas are being asked to pay the hotel directly for their stay.

In a statement on its website, YouTravel said that “it goes without saying that this has an impact on Youtravel.com. For arrivals until June 14th (inclusive), we have taken to the decision to cancel to avoid guests arriving and not having a booking or being asked to pay again whilst we navigate through these challenging times.”

The UK travel company LoveHolidays which does a significant amount of business in the Republic, posted an update on its website which said that “a very small portion of our customers’ accommodation arrangements will be affected. However, we’re working hard to honour these bookings with other suppliers to minimise disruption to any holidays.”

It advised people with upcoming holidays that “there is nothing you need to do. Our team is working hard to honour any impacted bookings with another partner to make sure your holiday goes ahead as seamlessly as possible.”

Paul Hackett of Irish-based online travel agency Click&Go said his staff had been “been working flat out” since Tuesday to secure all bookings.

“We have been making payments direct to hotels where the hotel says they need payment from us or they seek payment direct from the customer,” he said.

He added that there was a team of people working on the issue and “to date our clients are all fine. We are rebooking at extra costs and not passing that on, we are paying hotels direct, and we are doing all we can to minimise the impact on our customers”.

He said one customer, who had not yet travelled had to move to a different hotel, 700m from the original hotel as the booking was cancelled by YouTravel and when Click&Go went to reconfirm it, the hotel had resold the room.

“Any other bookings we have are re-protected and we absorbed the additional cost,” he said.

In response to queries from The Irish Times a spokesman from the Irish Aviation Authority said that its role in relation to customers of travel agents and tour operators “only takes effect when an entity we licence collapses. We do not licence FTI.”

He said that while FTI “may be a supplier to some entities we licence, it is for the seller of the package to resolve in the first instance or if the seller does not do so it would be for the CCPC to engage. We would only have a role if an entity collapsed because of the financial impact of the FTI collapse.”

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Conor Pope is Consumer Affairs Correspondent, Pricewatch Editor

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Money blog: Taylor Swift makes £450 kebab shop order

The Money blog brings you personal finance and consumer news, plus all the latest on the economy. Let us know your thoughts on any of the stories we're covering in the comments box below.

Wednesday 19 June 2024 19:54, UK

Inflation news

Big moment in cost of living crisis as inflation falls to 2%
Watch : Ed Conway breaks down inflation numbers - and shows chart that tells very different story
Interest rate cut will be delayed - markets
One concerning figure in today's data could delay interest rate cut - economists
Analysis : Welcome news but question marks remain

Money blog essentials

Taylor Swift makes £450 kebab shop order
'One guy wanted to rent my room for a few hours to meet a friend...' What I learnt from putting my home on Airbnb
Women in Business : 'How I went from mum with no qualifications to owner of big law firm'
Holiday money - where to buy it, how to avoid fees, and one thing you must not do
Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

Couriers for delivery giant Uber Eats will now pick, pack and pay for customer orders inside supermarkets.

Co-op, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose are among the supermarkets to sign up to the scheme in the UK.

Uber global head of grocery Susan Anderson said: "It's very clear that grocery shopping trends have fundamentally changed.

"Our busy lifestyles mean we physically go to the supermarket for a big shop less frequently and prefer to rely more on apps like Uber Eats to order fresh grocery ingredients when we want them."

The couriers can engage with customers in real time as they shop - so they can ask shoppers what substitutions they want if items are out of stock.

The driver will then checkout using a pre-authorised payment method before delivering in the normal fashion.

It's not yet clear how much more this will cost customers.

Wall Street's biggest bank is lifting Brussels' bonus cap for its London-based staff , weeks after rival Goldman Sachs fired the starting gun on a post-Brexit era in industry pay.

Sky News can reveal that JP Morgan Chase was in the process of notifying staff on Wednesday that it would preserve some elements of the remuneration packages introduced after the European Union's cap on variable pay came into force in 2014.

The system prevents material risk-takers (MRTs) working in lenders' operations in the EU from earning more than twice their fixed pay in variable compensation.

Sources said that JP Morgan, which employs 22,000 people in the UK, including roughly 14,000 in London, had decided to preserve a significant proportion of the fixed pay allowances used to calculate eligible employees' maximum bonuses.

You can read more of our City editor Mark Kleinman's story here ...

McDonald's is ending its AI drive-thru trial after customers reported errors in their orders - including bacon being added to ice cream.

The fast food chain's AI ordering system, developed by IBM, uses voice recognition to process orders and has been rolled out at more than 100 McDonald's locations in the US since 2021.

However, the technology's reliability has been called into question in recent months, with members of the public sharing videos of order mix-ups on social media.

As well as topping a dessert with bacon, the AI drive-thru assistant added $211 (£166) worth of chicken nuggets to another customer's order.

Mastercard has announced it will be changing the way customers make payments to bring them a contactless experience at online checkouts.

The card company has said it wants all online transactions to be "tokenised" by 2030.

The way it will work means you will input your card details to pay for a product once and then you'll receive a "token" - a randomly generated number.

That number can then be used to make future payments, instead of you having to type in your card details each time.

"Contactless payments have made in-person payments seamless and ubiquitous – there’s an opportunity to bring that same experience to online checkout," it said in a statement.

Mastercard said the move will reduce fraud, improve approval rates, and make it online checkouts "faster and safer".

"As physical and digital experiences continue to converge, we're pushing the boundaries of what's possible," said Jorn Lambert, chief product officer at Mastercard.

"We're focused on bringing best-in-class digital services together to deliver more value, access and safety to our customers and the end-consumer."

It's been a really difficult few years for millions of families paying for their energy.

Many have expressed their anger and distrust in energy suppliers as a result of spiralling prices and shifting goalposts.

But there are signs that's beginning to change.

Overall customer satisfaction is up 10% since last year, a survey of 15,030 energy customers by Uswitch.com has revealed.

The survey found that Utility Warehouse and Octopus Energy were the best and second-best at providing customer service and for value for money.

However, satisfaction with value for money from providers overall is still 17% lower than before the energy crisis, according to the poll.

Uswitch also announced its top five cheapest energy tariffs - see below...

Every Wednesday we ask Michelin chefs to pick their favourite Cheap Eats where they live and when they cook at home. This week we speak to Sofian Msetfi, executive chef at Mayfair's one-starred Ormer restaurant.

Hi Sofian - what are your picks for a meal for two for less than £40 in London?

Berenjak in Soho and London Bridge offers a traditional Persian dining experience - I'd recommend ordering a charcoal grilled kebab for that tables plus a selection of the mezeh-style sharing plates to accommodate a budget of £40 for two. A brilliant dining experience with high-quality and fresh ingredients.

BAO (with locations around London) is known for its creative take on Taiwanese street food. They offer some of the best bao buns in the city which start from just £6, plus there's affordably priced small plates, allowing for a diverse tasting experience without overspending. The restaurants also have a weekday set menu with three courses for £15, which is a steal.

Secret Sandwich Shop in Notting Hill elevates the humble sandwich to new heights – the sheer size of the Japanese Wanpaku sandwiches are incredible and so filling. It's a great find, hidden behind a secret door in Notting Hill, with the signature "Secret Sandwich" priced at £9, meaning you can each get a sandwich plus a generous selection of classic snacks and even some Japanese drinks for £40.

What's your go-to cheap meal at home?

A braised lemon chicken with green olives. You can use chicken thighs or legs in this recipe (which are often much cheaper). It's easy and quick, everything goes in the dish together and cooks at the same time. One of my favourite tips is to use some of the olive brine from the jar when cooking as it really enhances the flavour of the dish.

We've spoken to lots of top chefs and bloggers - check out their cheap eats from around the country here...

Taylor Swift has reportedly ordered 45 large kebabs for her team ahead of her Wembley Stadium show.

The singer is set to perform in front of up to 90,000 fans on Friday in the first of eight Eras Tour shows at the London venue.

But before that, her staff will be tucking into £450-worth of chicken donor kebabs made by Kentish Delight, according to The Sun.

The takeaway restaurant is thought to be a favourite of Taylor's, having featured in the music video for End Game in 2017.

"Taylor adds garlic sauce to hers, as well as heaps of salad," a source told The Sun.

The newspaper previously reported the star bought hundreds of Greggs sausage rolls, steak bakes and bakery goods for her team when performing in Edinburgh.

Cricket salads, lab-grown steaks and azolla burgers could be staples on British menus in 30 years' time, according to the Co-op.

Using AI and research from experts from FixOurFood and the University of York, the retailer predicted what mealtimes could look like in 2054.

They predict a rise in urban indoor farming across Britain, which will in turn see lab-grown meat and seafood - cultivated from animal tissues to produce steaks, burgers, tuna and lobster - become more mainstream.

Another part of the report suggested climate change would result in the likes of avocados and olives being grown in Surrey by 2054 - meaning less reliance on importing vegetables.

"By 2054, British people will have edible insects on their dinner plate, and we may see the crushing up of crickets quicker than wholegrain," project researcher Bob Doherty said.

"We may even see the introduction of 3D-printed food. As we navigate the challenges of climate change, we'll need to embrace these innovations to ensure that we can feed a growing population sustainably."

After spending the morning reacting to the positive news on inflation (and less positive news on interest rates), we're going to start posting other personal finance and consumer news again now.

We'll still have any reaction coming in on the economy.

Our economics and data editor Ed Conway has been poring over this morning's data drop from the Office for National Statistics.

"In one sense this is a watershed moment," he says, inflation having dropped to the target 2%.

But looking at the data another way - at overall inflation over the last three years rather than annual figures - the numbers tell a different story.

By doing so, you can see there's closer to a 20% increase in prices since the start of the cost of living crisis - rather than the 2% increase we've recorded in the 12 months from May last year to May 2024.

And this figure - basically, prices - is still going up, just slower than it was before.

Watch Ed's full analysis here...

We have one more chart to show you in response to inflation having fallen to the target of 2% in May.

Like much of today's data, it is primarily good news - wages are going up significantly more than inflation.

For workers to whom this applies, it's rightly a cause for some cheer after a period of falling living standards and skyrocketing prices.

But for the economy, there's a flipside - high wage growth is inflationary, as businesses either have to absorb wage increases or put up prices. It also means people have more money to spend - again, when this happens prices tend to go up faster.

This chart illustrates how wage growth - after lagging behind price rises for some time - is now ahead...

May's fall in inflation cannot disguise "the worst period for living standards in modern times", Trades Union Congress (TUC) general secretary Paul Nowak has said.

Reacting to today's data, he said: "Over the last three years UK families have suffered the highest price rises in the G7 - with inflation going up more over that period than it usually does over an entire decade.

"Ministers can try to rewrite history all they like. But the Conservatives have presided over the worst period for living standards in modern times.

"Food and energy bills have surged. Rents and mortgages have skyrocketed. And real wages are still worth less than in 2008."

There are nearly 50 affiliated unions under the TUC banner with a total of about 5.5 million members.

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Day 7 - Belfast. On the last day of our Ireland family vacation, we left the suitcases at the reception desk to enjoy the last moments in Belfast. Thanks to our late flight back to Spain, we had the whole morning to take the kids to W5 - one of the coolest interactive museums I have seen in my entire life.
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Explore magnificent Muckross Castle, Ross Tower and row across the lakes. Relax with a blissful spa at The Brehon's Angsana Spa. Take a day trip to Derrynane beach. See the fairy huts and sculpture garden in Sneem. Read more: 7 Epic Things to Do in Killarney, Ireland.
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We had a wonderful time, so I'm sharing many of our lessons and stops to help you make the most of your visit. Day 1: Dublin to Belfast. Day 2: Belfast to Derry. Day 3: Derry to Westport (or Galway) Day 4: Westport to Galway. Day 5: Galway to Dublin. Day 6: Dublin. Day 7: Leave Dublin.
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Days 5 & 6: Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher. It's time to leave Bruff and head north to Doolin to hit up the one item on your dream vacation to Ireland- the Cliffs of Moher. On your way you'll stop at one of the best restored castles for families- Bunratty. In fact, you probably saw it as you left the Shannon Airport.
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Full-Day Howth and Malahide Castle Tour. Duration: 7.5 hours. 4.5 (29) Powered by GetYourGuide. Join our travel affiliate program. Explore off the beaten path in this Ireland 7-day itinerary packed for thrill seekers and adventurers. Kayak, hike, castles, and more from Dublin to Sligo and back.
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Table of Contents. Ireland Road Trip Itinerary for Families. Dublin - Nights 1, 2 & 3. Blarney & Cobh - Night's 4 & 5. Cobh, County Cork. Ennis or Limerick - Night 6. Cliffs of Moher. Galway - Night's 7 & 8. Sligo - Night's 9 & 10.
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Here at Irish tourism we have been planning and organizing Ireland family vacations for more than 20 years, so we know a thing or two about the places in Ireland that you should feature on your itinerary. All over Ireland we have ancient buildings such as castles and other monuments that are waiting to be explored.
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Traveling in Ireland Podcast episode 192. These 'County Pairings' Work Really Well for Ireland Family Vacations. There are a few county pairings that work really well for family trips in Ireland. Wicklow & Kilkenny. County Wicklow is just south of Dublin and is a perfect spot to spend 2-3 days enjoying the 'garden of Ireland'.
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A to Z : 26 Tips for Family Travel in Ireland. A is for Airplane: Most travelers to this beautiful island arrive by air. Long flights with kids don't have to intimidating; arrive prepared, pack smart and ship items ahead to make life simpler for you. You should always purchase a seat for your child- no matter their age.
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Itinerary #2: Family Road Trip: Dublin, Cork & the West Coast. This family road trip brings travelers to western Ireland to experience castles, caves, farms, and the mystical landscapes and lore of the Hidden Heartlands. Little ones will be especially excited about Tralee's woodland fairy treasure hunt.
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2 Weeks in Ireland - 3 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas. View Map. Road-tripping for two weeks in Ireland is manageable, even with young children. You can visit at least six destinations, though focusing on the country's north or south is best. Explore Belfast and the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland using Dublin as a jumping-off point.
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Colleen Kelly will guide us from coast to coast across the Emerald Isle, the home of her ancestors. She meets up with several of her relatives and friends throughout the country starting with the hustle and bustle of Dublin. We begin on Grafton Street for some shopping and lunch with an American mom who is now living full time in Ireland.
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7. Kiss the Blarney Stone. Kissing the Blarney Stone is perhaps one of the most famous things you must do in Ireland. Located not far outside of Cork, Blarney Castle is a 570 year old castle shrouded in myths and legends, most notably those about the Blarney Stone.
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Ireland Road Trip: A Two Week Itinerary for Exploring the Emerald Isle - Birdgehls. 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.
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The Wild Atlantic Way in IRELAND. Joined by her daughter Shea and niece Keelin, Colleen embarks on a journey through Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, where the family takes on some brand new adventures. They zipline through the Delphi Forest, meet some birds of prey at Dromoland Castle, learn how to herd sheep and even feed lambs at Glen Keen ...
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Epic Ireland Family Vacation: 7-day Itinerary for Ireland with Kids

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