I’ve lived in Ireland for almost 15 years and I’ll admit I was better at writing tourism posts when I first arrived and everything felt new. But now I have richer insight into what places have soul and keep me returning visit after visit. Over the time living here, many friends have been in Ireland for vacations or business trips, so I’ve put together many light itineraries to accompany their structured visit to make sure they see real Ireland, not just the tourist destinations. I’m going to share one here today. If you’d like me to share more of these, leave a comment and let me know.
Dublin vs Shannon
This itinerary is written for visitors flying into and out of Dublin airport. You’d be traveling counter-clockwise. However, it still works if you choose to fly out of Shannon. If you’re using Shannon airport, you travel the country clockwise and the order of days is: 4, 3, 2, 1, 8, 7, 6, and 5 in that order. Alternatively, you could create your own itinerary or order if you’re using Cork airport, a ferry, or choose to spend time in other places. This is just an inspiration post to get you started. Yep, I didn’t include Cork on this itinerary. You know it’s my favorite city in Ireland, but I’m sharing several of my itineraries and Cork is in other ones. I created these myself and put in a bit of thought, so please don’t be critical.
Day One & Two: Dublin
Dublin is the largest English-speaking city in the EU and with that a vast variety of activities and attractions. If you’ve been to Dublin before and prefer to take a day trip out of the city, I recommend visiting Newgrange, the Hill of Tara, the Rock of Cashel, or Giants Causeway. Within the city of Dublin, some popular activities and attractions include:
- Trinity College and the Book of Kells: Trinity College is the oldest university in Ireland and home to the famous 9th-century Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels. Visitors can take a tour of the college and see the book on display.
- Dublin Castle: This historic castle dates back to the 13th century and has played a central role in Irish history. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its history and architecture.
- St. Patrick’s Cathedral: This grand Gothic cathedral is the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland and the largest church in Ireland. Visitors can take a tour of the cathedral and learn about its history and architecture.
- The Guinness Storehouse: This popular attraction is located at the Guinness Brewery and offers a glimpse into the history and production of the famous Irish stout. Visitors can take a tour and learn about the brewing process and enjoy a pint at the top-floor Gravity Bar with panoramic views of the city. We did it on our honeymoon (which was a week driving around Ireland not knowing we’d move here).
- The National Museum of Ireland: This museum is dedicated to Irish culture and history and features a wide range of exhibits, including artifacts from prehistoric Ireland, medieval manuscripts, and contemporary art.
- The Irish Museum of Modern Art: This museum is home to a collection of contemporary art from Ireland and around the world. Visitors can explore the galleries and enjoy temporary exhibitions.
- The Phoenix Park: This large park is located just outside the city center and is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, and offers a variety of recreational activities such as walking, cycling, and picnicking. The Dublin Zoo is here too!
- The Temple Bar: This historic neighborhood is known for its lively pubs, traditional Irish music, and nightlife. Visitors can enjoy a pint of Guinness and experience the city’s vibrant cultural scene. I love Elephant & Castle or Gallagher’s Boxty House in this neighbourhood.
- EPIC museum: EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, located in Dublin’s Docklands, covers the history of the Irish diaspora and emigration to other countries. One of my fave farm to table breakfast spots in Dublin is across the river from EPIC, it’s called As One. Take a break for a slow breakfast or lunch there because jet lag is about adjusting your meal schedule as much as your sleep.
For casual dinner in Dublin, we love Wagamama asian fusion, Gallagher’s Irish boxty, or Elephant & Castle wings and salad. You can also check the app Deliveroo to have dinner delivered to your hotel for an early night in if jet lag is hitting you hard.
Day Three: Galway
Going across the country now to visit Galway, which is located on the west coast of Ireland and known for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. The best pizza in ireland is there at The Dough Bros so don’t miss that. Highly recommended are also Dela and Kai. Also the origin of the Claddagh ring! Some popular things to see and do in Galway include:
- Galway City Museum: This museum tells the story of Galway’s history, from pre-history to the present day. It features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a replica of a medieval street.
- Galway Cathedral: This impressive stone structure is located in the heart of the city and is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and impressive architecture.
- The Latin Quarter: This is the oldest part of Galway, and is known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and traditional Irish pubs.
- Salthill Promenade: This 2km seaside promenade offers stunning views of Galway Bay and the Clare Hills. It’s a popular spot for walking, running, and cycling.
- Connemara: This region is located just outside of Galway city and is known for its rugged landscapes, traditional Irish culture, and outdoor activities.
- The Galway Arts Festival: This annual event takes place in July and features a wide range of music, theater, dance, and visual arts.
- The Galway International Oyster Festival: This annual festival takes place in September and celebrates the oyster, one of Galway’s most famous products.
Day Four: The Burren & Cliffs of Moher
The Burren National Park is a unique and distinctive region located in County Clare, Ireland. It is known for its unusual and rugged landscapes, which are characterized by a vast limestone plateau and a stark, almost lunar-like appearance. The Burren covers an area of around 250 square kilometers and it is located in the west of Ireland, stretching from Lisdoonvarna to Ballyvaughan. The Burren is known for its unique geology which has created a unique ecosystem that supports a wide variety of plants and animals, many of which are not found anywhere else in Ireland. The Burren has wildflowers not seen anywhere else in the world. It is unique because the cows graze there opposite of most places so the Burren can thrive in summer. The area is dotted with ancient ruins and monuments, including megalithic tombs, standing stones, and ring forts. The region has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and the ancient Celts, Christians and later the Normans have left their mark on the area. The Burren is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and rock climbing. The area offers many walking trails, including the Burren Way and the Burren Greenway.
Exploring the Cliffs of Moher, which offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Cliffs of Moher are a series of cliffs located in County Clare, Ireland. They are among the most visited natural attractions in Ireland, and are known for their spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding countryside. The cliffs rise 214 meters (702 feet) at their highest point and stretch for 8 kilometers along the Atlantic coast. Visitors can walk along the cliff edge and take in the breathtaking views from the O’Brien’s Tower, a viewing point located near the highest point of the cliffs. The cliffs are also home to a wide variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes, which can be seen nesting on the cliffs during the breeding season. The Cliffs of Moher are considered a must-see destination for nature and photography enthusiasts.
Day Five: Ring of Kerry & Killarney
Visiting the Ring of Kerry, a scenic drive that takes you through some of Ireland’s most beautiful countryside. The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive located in County Kerry, Ireland. It is a 179-kilometer-long circular route that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Ireland, including rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. The route starts and ends in the town of Killarney, and some of the highlights along the way include the Gap of Dunloe, Muckross House and Gardens, and the Torc Waterfall. It also passes through the towns of Kenmare, Sneem, and Waterville. Many visitors take a guided tour of the Ring of Kerry, but it can also be driven independently. The route is very popular with tourists and it offers great views of the Atlantic ocean, mountain ranges and rural landscapes.
Killarney is very popular with tourists and so cute. Downtown is walkable and the Killarney National Park could keep you busy for a couple days in good weather. In bad weather, it’s also great but I recommend taking regular hot cocoa breaks.
- The Lakes of Killarney: Killarney is home to three stunning lakes – Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake – that offer beautiful views and are popular for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
- Muckross House and Gardens: This 19th-century mansion is located on the shores of Muckross Lake and offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy landowners who once lived there. The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a popular spot for visitors.
- The Gap of Dunloe: This narrow mountain pass is located just outside of Killarney and offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can take a traditional jaunting car ride through the Gap or hike through the pass.
- The Ring of Kerry: Killarney is often used as a starting point for the famous Ring of Kerry, a scenic drive that takes visitors through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Ireland, including the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland.
- The National Park: The Killarney National Park is the first national park established in Ireland, it offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and picnicking, and is home to a variety of wildlife including the red deer.
- Jaunting Car: A nice way to see the park and muck ross house. https://killarneyjauntingcars.com/#welcome
- Murphys Ice Cream which is THE BEST. Go with Sea Salt, Gin, Elderflower, or one of their unique flavors.
Day Six: Blarney & Midleton
Blarney Castle is a medieval castle located in the village of Blarney, near Cork, Ireland. It is a popular tourist destination, known for the Blarney Stone, which is set in the wall of the castle’s battlements. According to legend, kissing the stone endows the kisser with the gift of eloquence. The castle dates back to the 15th century and is open to the public for tours.
Kindred Spirits sculpture commemorates the 1847 donation by the Native American Choctaw People to Irish famine relief. This was during the Great Hunger and done even though the Choctaw themselves were experiencing great hardship and poverty, having recently endured the Trail of Tears.The sculpture is striking because it is huge, but feels natural in Midleton’s Bailick Park. A circle of nine stainless steel eagle feathers reach skyward. Each 20-foot (just over six meters) feather is unique and unlike any of the others. The symbolism of the bowl shape was to represent the nourishment of a bowl of food. Sculptor Alex Pentek created Kindred Spirits in conjunction with his work at the National Sculpture Factory and with assistance from Crawford College of Art and Design students. You would know Pentek’s work because is has a lightness and openness that engages with its surroundings in unexpected almost whimsical ways while being grounded in something meaningful that connects within others.
Jameson Distillery in Midleton has a tour providing an in-depth look at the history and process of whiskey-making, as well as a chance to sample Jameson’s Irish whiskey. Visitors can also learn about the history of the Jameson family and their role in the development of Irish whiskey. The distillery is located in a beautiful setting and the tour guides are knowledgeable and friendly.Try to stay at the front of the group near the guide when touring and be ready when they ask for volunteers for the tasting!!!
Day Seven: Glendalough
Glendalough is a glacial valley located in the Wicklow Mountains. Glendalough is home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland, founded in the 6th century by Saint Kevin. The monastic city includes the remains of several churches, a round tower, and other buildings, many of which are still standing today. Glendalough is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, and waterfalls. The valley is a popular spot for hiking, nature walks, and outdoor activities. With a rich history dating back to the prehistoric era, Glendalough has a number of standing stones, burial tombs, and other ancient structures located throughout the valley. The Wicklow Mountains National Park, which includes Glendalough, is home to a wide variety of birds, mammals, and other wildlife thriving with a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Then you head back up to Dublin for your return flight. If you fly through Shannon instead, you change the order of days to be clockwise: 4, 3, 2, 1, 8, 7, 6, and 5 in that order.
Menu Recommendations
Enjoying the local food and drink such as traditional Irish stew, soda bread, and of course a pint of Guinness. When you have the chance, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a traditional Irish music session or visiting a local festival. Seafood chowder is a good thing to get in Ireland since it’s all fresh and fairly local. Every place in Ireland will have a ‘toasted special sandwich’ which is basically grilled cheese with ham, sometimes tomato too. Solid choice. Bacon here isn’t crispy usually unless it’s ‘american bacon’ so beware the BLT for texture. Again, if you like fish eat a lot of fish. Cod, salmon, hake, crab, prawns, and monkfish are good ones to order in Ireland. Beef and cheese too. Irish cows are very happy and tasty. If in County Kerry, lamb is a solid choice. If it’s Blasket Island Lamb, it’s like the Kobe Beef of Ireland. Don’t bother with a hambuger. Cheesecakes here are not baked. Not recommended. Local ice cream is always good or pannna cotta. If they make a dessert in-house or in that town, order that one for sure. Get the local alcohol. Guinness is fine at the Storehouse, but go with Orchard Theives cider, Murphys or Beamish stout, or a small local brewery. Lots of gin here. Ireland is known for rhubarb, beetroot, fish, cider, Ballyhoura mushrooms, dairy/cheeses, locally baked breads, black pudding, spiced beef, steak, lamb, boxty, etc…