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Planning a Trip to Ireland: Your Easy 12-Step Checklist

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Planning a trip to Ireland? You’re in luck – we have a step by step guide on how to do that!

While planning a trip to Ireland, many of our readers have sent us a message asking about the next steps or what they should do.

That’s why we thought we could better organize all of this information into an article that answers all of your questions.

So we came up with this travel checklist to Ireland covering all essential aspects and what you need to keep in mind when vacationing to the Emerald Isle.

Besides the things you should do while planning your trip, we also have a few tips on what to avoid doing – very important!

Cliffs of Moher in Ireland

Planning a Trip to Ireland

We have been to the Emerald Isle many times at this point, and we have made several mistakes along the way.

*Unfortunately*, this has given us first-hand knowledge on how to plan a trip to Ireland and what you should avoid doing.

Whether you’re traveling to the laid-back Galway to the rugged north of Donegal or to the buzzing Dublin, these tips apply to everyone planning a trip to Ireland!

Vacationing to Ireland

Here are 12 steps to plan the perfect trip to Ireland!

Step 1: Before planning your trip to Ireland, check if you need a visa

Well, you can’t travel to Ireland without a visa, can you?

Obviously, many people don’t need a visa for the Emerald Isle. Still, it’s better to be on the safe side. Therefore, before planning your trip to Ireland, do check if you need a visa.

Note that Ireland is not a member of the Schengen area. That means there is no free movement between other European countries and Ireland. The customs officers will check your documents, so be sure to have them right.

We’ll list below the countries that  do not need a visa  to enter Ireland. Mind you, this list might change without prior notice.

Although we continually update this Ireland blog, do check an  official website  before planning your own trip to Ireland.

Irish Franciscans Church in Killarney

Andorra, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic.

Denmark, Dominica, El Salvador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hong Kong (Special Admin. Region), Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kiribati.

Latvia, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau (Special Admin. Region), Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal.

Romania, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland.

Taiwan, Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom & Colonies, United States of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu, and Vatican City.

Step 2: Plan your Ireland itinerary

Planning your Ireland itinerary in advance is better than traveling without a set route for several reasons.

First, because you will have a better idea of how many days to spend in each city and town.

For instance, many tourists spend one day in Dublin or even two days in the Irish capital before going on a road trip through the country.

We went on a 7-day Ireland road trip passing by Doolin and Galway, and we loved every minute!

Dunquin Pier in Dingle Peninsula

Second, because you can save some money by booking accommodation and tours in advance, but more on that later.

Finally, because you can also save your precious time in the country. Instead of searching for all activities and things to do in Ireland, you can do most of the research at home.

Still, that doesn’t mean you should plan your trip to the minute. Let some free time for sightseeing and doing things as you go.

Step 3: Book your flight tickets

You’ve planned your itinerary. Now, it’s time to book your tickets!

Unless you’re already traveling around Northern Ireland, chances are you will fly to Ireland.

While many people find it overwhelming to search for flights online, it doesn’t have to be difficult.

Cathedral Saint Fin Barre in Cork

We always follow some easy steps to ensure we snag the best deals possible, and we want to share them with you.

First, we search for flights on  Google Flights  using different filters, such as one-way or return tickets.

Sometimes it’s well worth it to buy each leg of the trip separately, or even buy the return ticket departing from another airport, which is less touristy. That’s also cheaper.

Then, once we find the tickets for our trip, we buy them directly on the airline website.

Step 4: Plan tours and activities before going to Ireland

You’ve planned your itinerary and booked your tickets. Now, let’s look into some tours to get to know Ireland better!

Booking your tours ahead of time will save time and money. That’s a fact!

For the most popular tours, such as the Cliffs of Moher , tickets might be sold out, especially if you’re planning a trip to Ireland in the high season.

Slieve League cliffs of County Donegal

The very first time Bruna went to Ireland was in the winter. Still, her bus to the Cliffs of Moher was completely full! Can you imagine how it would be in the summer?

What we are trying to say is you’re better off not relying on luck.

When booking tours, we prefer to look for good deals on GetYourGuide and Viator because they are both reliable companies. We trust them!

Oh, and if you would like to broaden your options further than the Cliffs of Moher, you might want to read our guide on the best day tours from Dublin .

These are some of the best tours in Ireland:

  • Cliffs of Moher from Dublin
  • The Aran Islands & Cliffs Cruise
  • Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Doolin

Step 5: Budget your trip to Ireland

After you’ve booked your tickets and tours, it’s time to budget your trip to Ireland.

It’s not a secret that Ireland is an expensive country. Still, you can considerably cut back on your expenses if you spend fewer days in popular cities, such as Dublin.

We are currently working on a guide explaining how much a trip to Ireland costs for different budgets. Once it’s done, we will link to it from here.

In the meantime, we will give you a rough budget idea below.

Cliffs, sea, and castle in Mullaghmore, Sligo

If you want to backpack Ireland, go for shared dorms and be prepared to cook for yourself. You can expect to spend around $60-80/day.

You can have considerably more comfort while traveling in Ireland by spending a little more.

If you want to eat out, enjoy some typical Irish dishes, sip traditional Ir i sh drinks , go on a couple of tours or day trips , and stay in a private room, you’ll spend somewhere between $100-120/day.

Now, if you have a little more budget to fully enjoy Ireland’s high-end restaurants, go on multi-day guided tours, visit some towns, and stay in nicer hotels, know that you’ll need at least $200/day.

The sky’s the limit here. Your vacation in Ireland can be as expensive as your banking account allows.

Step 6: Book your accommodations

Once you’ve sorted out what you want to spend per night on accommodation, it’s time to book your stay!

For starters, we always browse Booking.com for the best deals. We really enjoy using this platform because it is reliable, and it has a straightforward canceling policy.

Here at the blog, we have a few accommodation guides for Irish cities.

Inisheer, one of the Aran Islands

These guides have not only information about the central neighborhoods in each city, but also the average budget and activities in the accommodation’s surroundings.

For instance, we have a guide on where to stay in Dublin , Galway , Cork , and Killarney .

Still, if you want to splurge a little and receive royal treatment, you will want to stay in one of these magical castle hotels in Ireland – some are pretty affordable!

We hope you find these guides useful!

Step 7: Book your rental car

It’s essential to rent a car for vacationing in Ireland.

After all, the countryside covered in undulating lush landscapes is something you can’t afford to miss!

However, if you’re starting your Ireland trip in Dublin, book your rental car only for the day you’re leaving the city. There is no need to drive in Dublin!

Still, having a car will give you much more flexibility when traveling in Ireland, especially if you’re planning a family trip to Ireland.

Grattan Bridge in Dublin

We always browse Discover Cars to find companies with competitive prices. For our first Ireland road trip, for example, we found out Europcar had the best fares at the time through Discover Cars.

Moreover, we recommend Discover Cars because it is a reliable and easy-to-use platform.

Here are some tips for renting a car/driving in Ireland:

  • Irish roads are notoriously narrow, so you will want to rent a small car.
  • Do read the fine print of your rental contract carefully. You will also want to check if you need an IDP, or International Driving Permit, (some companies require it) and whether there are any license restrictions you need to be aware of.
  • The speed signs, as well as the speedometer, are all in KPH.
  • The Irish drive on the left side of the road.

Step 8: Purchase travel insurance

No matter where you’re traveling to, you always need travel insurance .

There is nothing more important than this insurance. Seriously!

Many things that are out of our hands can go wrong before, during, and when returning from your vacation.

Besides, most activities in Ireland are either in touristy cities or outdoors, meaning you can fall victim to theft or have an accident.

Galway City at night

With travel insurance, you can recover any expenses resulting from these situations and finish your vacation hassle-free.

We use and are very satisfied with Safety Wing . This has been our insurance for years in a row, and we’ve never had any problems when making claims. We’re happy to recommend them to our friends and family. Click here to get a quote.

Step 9: Pack some essentials for your Ireland vacation

The Emerald Isle is an incredible place to visit. Still, there is one aspect of this fascinating land that might need some extra attention – the weather.

The weather in Ireland is unpredictable.

For that reason, you will want to add a few essential items to your Ireland packing list . Click to see our complete packing list for all seasons!

For instance, a waterproof /windbreaker jacket ( for him ) is a must to keep you dry. Some people prefer a travel umbrella , but that’s personal.

Anyway, it rains a lot in Ireland!

The Rock of Cashel Castle

That’s especially true if you’re planning to visit the coast, which also happens to be very windy.

And because of that, you might want to pack a wool sweater ( for him ) to keep your body temperature from dropping.

Oh, and waterproof shoes ( for him )! These are a no-brainer. If you don’t want to get wet, you certainly will need it. Oh, that horrible feeling of having wet socks…

In the same line, you will also want to pack a waterproof phone case . This universal pocket is perfect for traveling to Ireland, the beach, and beyond!

All without worrying whether you’ll ruin your phone or not. We can’t recommend it enough!

Another item we were glad we purchased for our Ireland trip was a reusable water bottle .

It was convenient not only in the city but also while hiking in the countryside.

That saved us some money and avoided us from producing so much waste with plastic bottles. Win-win.

Step 10: Learn a few essential words and phrases in Irish

Although people in Ireland also speak English, Irish is their official language.

Therefore, you will find many signs in Irish throughout the island, and it might be handy to learn some sentences while planning a trip to Ireland.

We always study a little of the language of where we are going so that we can communicate with locals.

Newgrange Tomb in Boyne Valley

Often, people are more open and willing to help when you show them you at least tried to learn a little more about their culture.

Besides, it is a fun thing to do!

Basic phrases in Irish:

  • Hello – Dia duit
  • Please – Le do thoil
  • Thank you – Go raibh maith agat
  • Excuse me – Gabh mo leithscéal
  • I’m sorry – Tá brón orm
  • Cheers – Sláinte
  • Open – Oscailte
  • Closed – Dúnta
  • Yes/no – tá/níl

Step 11: Prepare your arrival

You’re almost done with planning your trip to Ireland!

We know you’re excited to travel, but two last steps demand your attention.

First, transportation from the airport to your hotel.

Most tourists find it overwhelming to look for transportation abroad because the local websites are hardly ever user-friendly.

We totally get that!

Beach near Bundoran Town in Donegal

Also, taxis are either untrustworthy in many countries ( taxi scams , anyone?), or are far too expensive. Other times private shuttles will charge excessive amounts. These are just a few examples.

Anyway, considering you’re arriving in Dublin, where Ireland’s biggest airport is, we recommend you take the Airlink Aircoach to the city center.

While you can always get a taxi from the airport, this shuttle bus is very affordable and rides in front or near most hotels in town.

For a thorough explanation, check out the detailed guide we wrote on how to get from the airport to Dublin city . We also talk about other options in this guide.

Second and finally, keep a list of addresses and phone numbers of your accommodations in Ireland.

Step 12: Enjoy your vacation in Ireland!

Last but definitely not least! Enjoy your trip to the Emerald Isle!

Not that you need us to tell you this, but still…

You have done an excellent job of planning your trip to Ireland. Still, don’t stress out too much if things don’t go as planned.

Trinity College Dublin, Ireland

Just be sure to have travel insurance to protect you from unexpected situations.

Also, do buy some souvenirs to take back home, learn some Irish facts and tales over a pint of Guinness, and try to enjoy the country.

We are absolutely crazy about Ireland. We’ve had such incredible moments in the country, and every time we go, we find more reasons to fall in love with it.

We hope you do too!

Some tips while planning an Ireland trip

  • Give your bank a notice about your upcoming trip so that you can withdraw money at ATMs if necessary.
  • Take copies of your documents, including your passport.
  • Save the travel insurance number and policy number on your phone and on a piece of paper.
  • Save the local emergency number on your phone: 112 and 999.

What to avoid when planning a trip to Ireland

  • Avoid doing too much in one day or trying to visit many places in Ireland on a trip.
  • While Dublin is a fantastic city, avoid spending too much time in it. Instead, go visit other cities and towns in Ireland.
  • Most tourists never leave the city center, especially in Dublin. By doing that, they miss out on a lot of the fun and local vibes. Wander through the city!
  • Although we said the Irish roads are notoriously narrow, don’t be afraid to drive in Ireland. It is perfectly safe. You just need to be a little more attentive.
  • Avoid only traveling to Ireland in the summer. Many tourists wait till summer to travel to Europe. Still, if you travel to Ireland in the off-season, you save money and avoid jam-packed attractions.

Did you like this article about planning a trip to Ireland? Then save it to Pinterest or share it with a friend who might like it too!

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Before you leave for Ireland, make sure you have a valid travel insurance policy because accidents happen on the road. We have been paying for Safety Wing travel insurance for a little over a year now, and we happily recommend them to our family and friends.

If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you'll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what was stolen.

Because, for just a couple of dollars a day (depending on how long your policy is for), you're going to get lots of things covered. Be smart and get travel insurance .

Saturday 30th of December 2023

Hi, Your blog and 7 day itinerary has been very helpful but we will have planned a trip from May 31 (we arrive at 11:25) until June 14 ( we fly out at 1:35pm. We have booked a stay at Waterford Castle for June 11-13 at the end of our trip. We decided to start in Dublin, two nights (June 1 being my son and DIL 5th anniversary) leaving on June 2 to drive up to Belfast, take the ferry to Scotland then return to Ireland and drive west,south,west, making a circle. Ending at Waterford for our 2 night castle stay (guys golf) then drive to Dublin for one before flying home. With all of that said, we finding it difficult to schedule Belfast, ferry to Scotland and back to Ireland to begin our journey. I would appreciate any suggestions because we are about to lose our minds trying to schedule.

Blessings, Cynthia McKee

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!

Planning a Trip to Ireland: Your Easy 9-Step Checklist

So, you’ve decided it’s time to visit the Emerald Isle–which means, if you’re anything like us, you probably can’t wait to start officially planning your trip to Ireland!

Ireland is an incredibly beautiful and interesting country, and no matter where you go, you’re bound to find something incredible.

This Ireland travel checklist is designed to make sure your trip is as smooth as possible, so that you spend zero time stressing and instead get to concentrate 100% of your time on those impossibly green landscapes.

Here are the nine steps you need to complete when planning a trip to Ireland!

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.

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Table of Contents

Step 1: Check visa requirements.

Step 2: take the biggest step in planning a trip to ireland: book tickets, step 3: outline your ireland itinerary., step 4: book your rental car (and read the fine print). , step 5: finalize your ireland travel budget., step 6: book your accommodation., step 7: make a packing list (and shop). , step 8: purchase travel insurance., step 9: make your arrival plan..

Based on the geographic readership of this blog, odds are that the vast majority of you will not need a visa to visit Ireland for up to 90 days for tourism purposes. This includes citizens of the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and of course, anyone from an EU member state.

You will want to make sure that your passport has at least six months validity left, a common entrance requirement when traveling.

Please note that while Ireland is an EU member state, it is not part of the Schengen Zone.

Of course, while I strongly doubt that this policy will change in the near future, you should always confirm visa requirements through official sources before traveling!

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

Once you buy your plane tickets, your trip to Ireland is official!

While Dublin is most likely to be the best airport to fly into, don’t forget to search prices at other airports as well. The airports in Cork, Shannon, and Belfast are all worth checking given how little time it takes to run a Google search.

If your dates are somewhat flexible, we also suggest checking prices a few days before and a few days after your intended arrival and departure dates–you never know what deals you may happen across!

Rocky coastline along Slea Head Drive, Dingle Peninsula drive Ireland

Ireland can be a difficult place to narrow down an itinerary for–in large part because nearly every place in Ireland is a delight to visit!

If you’re taking an Ireland road trip, which is easily among the most popular ways to explore the island, we recommend making a loop around the island beginning and ending at a single starting point (which is probably Dublin).

From there, you can add and subtract destinations based on the time you have available.

Popular destinations that end up on most Ireland itineraries include the Ring of Kerry, Killarney National Park, and the Cliffs of Moher.

Less crowded places that we adore include the Dingle Peninsula, County Wexford, County Mayo, and Slieve League Cliffs.

Slieve League Cliffs in Donegal Ireland--definitely consider a stop here when planning a trip to Ireland!

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, most likely, you’re planning to rent a car.

Now is the right time to pick out your rental car–we use and recommend Discover Cars  to find which company has the most competitive prices. For our most recent Ireland trip, that ended up being Sixt.

Be sure to read the fine print of your rental contract carefully, including checking to see if you need an International Driving Permit (some companies require it) and whether there are any license restrictions you need to be aware of.

Also, if you’re planning to travel into Northern Ireland, be sure to let your rental company know–there may be an additional fee for this (and a large fine if you take the car into another country without asking, open border or no).

Check rental car prices for your trip to Ireland with Discover Cars today!

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.

Now that you know how much it’s going to cost to get to and from Ireland and how much your rental car costs will be, it’s time for the next step in planning a trip to Ireland: calculating your travel budget.

We recommend dividing the amount of money you have set aside for your Ireland vacation after paying for the above fixed costs and a travel insurance policy (more on that below) into the number of days you’ll be visiting Ireland.

That will give you a good baseline of how much you can spend each day–remember, this money will need to cover lodging, food, tours and activities, gas for your rental car, and any other travel odds and ends.

Hook Lighthouse in County Wexford Ireland

Once you’ve outlined your Ireland itinerary and decided on a rough nightly budget for your lodging, it’s time to choose all the delightful hotels, bed and breakfasts, and inns you’ll get to stay at during your trip to Ireland.

If you’ll be traveling with a car, keep in mind that staying at country properties a bit outside of major cities can have several benefits: not only will prices be lower, but parking will likely be easier to come by. Plus, staying at small, family-run country bed and breakfasts is an iconic Ireland experience!

This is especially true in Dublin, where prices for lodging are staggeringly high as compared to most places in Ireland. We recommend limiting the nights you spend there to the bare minimum to free up more of your budget for other adventures in Ireland.

Afternoon tea in Belleek Castle Ireland shot from above

If you’d like to stay in a castle for at least one night of your trip, you may be surprised at how inexpensive they can be. We adored our stay at Belleek Castle , for example, and rates there start under $200 USD/night!

Here are a few of our absolute favorite properties we’ve stayed at in Ireland–it’s likely not all of them will be compatible with your Ireland itinerary, but we’d recommend any of them (and in case you’re curious, we personally paid for our stays in all of them).

Hotels in Ireland We Love

Belleek Castle (Ballina) — We knew we wanted to book at least one night in a castle hotel while in Ireland–and we’re so glad we chose Belleek!

The castle itself was stunning, the rooms beautiful, the afternoon tea a complete delight, and the tour of the castle a complete surprise–we definitely didn’t expect to personally handle several-centuries-old weapons on the tour, that’s for sure!

Check rates & book your stay at Belleek Castle today!

Exterior of Belleek Castle Ireland

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!

County Wexford, where Inishross House is located, is a bit under the radar as compared to some of the more popular places to add to an itinerary when planning a trip to Ireland–but it ended up being one of our favorite parts of the trip and we would love to go back to explore it 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.

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 in breakfast room at Findus Farmhouse Ireland

Danloes Thatched Cottage (Kenmare) — This small cottage is hundreds of years old–but you’d never know it from the bedrooms! The property has been beautifully redone, though you do get hints of its history when you admire the gorgeous fireplace in the kitchen.

Located just a short drive from Kenmare and within easy reach of both the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara, we loved our stay at Danloes Thatched Cottage.

Check rates & book your stay at Danloes Thatched Cottage!

By this point of planning a trip to Ireland, you’re almost ready to go! Next up: packing.

Packing for Ireland can be a bit trickier than throwing a standard packing list for travel in Europe together: the climate is both cool and wet, and traveling in Ireland normally leans more toward enjoying beautiful nature with a side of adorable small towns than it does hitting up major cities.

You can read our full suggested Ireland packing list here , including links to our personal favorite gear.

Kate Storm sitting on a wooden split level fence in Ireland with countryside behind her.

In the meantime, here are a few things to be sure to pack for 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.

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.

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 on Slea Head Drive on the Dingle Peninsula in Ireland, facing away from the camera and wearing a yellow raincoat.

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 trip, 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.

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!

trip to ireland planner

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.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm hold tall swords in front of other antique weapons at Belleek Castle in Ireland

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance when planning a trip to Ireland!

While Ireland is an incredibly safe country to travel in, traveling in general opens you up to vulnerabilities you simply don’t have at home: if you lose your luggage, have a fender bender in your rental car, get pickpocketed, or–heaven forbid–get injured, you’ll be glad you have the insurance.

This goes double for those of us used to driving on the right side of the road: while learning to drive on the left in Ireland is definitely doable, those tiny roads don’t leave a lot of room for error!

Given how inexpensive travel insurance is when purchased in advance (especially as compared to the cost of flying to and then renting a car in Ireland), it’s well worth the investment.

We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to Ireland.

Check travel insurance policy inclusions and prices for your trip to Ireland here .

Dunluce Castle in Northern Ireland

Once you finally finish planning your trip to Ireland and board your plane bound for the Emerald Isle, you’ll still have one final logistical hurdle to overcome before kicking off your adventures: getting from the airport to wherever you’re going next.

Depending where you fly into and whether you’re renting a car immediately (if you’re staying around Dublin for a couple of days, we recommend waiting until you’re ready to leave) or not, you may be driving yourself, grabbing a taxi or Uber, or, assuming you land in Dublin, taking the Airlink bus into town (if you do choose the bus option, be sure to price out a transportation pass as well).

All of these options have their pros and cons, but the time to decide isn’t when you’re jetlagged, exhausted, and desperate to be done traveling.

A little advance planning can go a long way, and ensure you step off the plane confident that you’ve planned the perfect Ireland trip.

Torc Waterfall with a woman in a yellow rain jacket looking up at it. Black text on a white background says "Planning a Trip to Ireland What You Need to Know"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, 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.

14 thoughts on “Planning a Trip to Ireland: Your Easy 9-Step Checklist”

This is wonderfully put together. My husband and I have Ireland on our bucket list…next. I am bookmarking this for now, but will look at it closer when get serious about planning this adventure. We’d much rather do it this way than a guided tour. Thank you for putting this together! Annie

Thank you so much, Annie. So glad it was helpful, and hope you guys get a chance to visit Ireland soon!

I am really glad I came across this blog, good information for first timers like me, I plan to start in Ireland and visit a few other places, traveling in a budget can be challenging but I believe it is possible. How do you keep connect with your home base is one of my important concerns.

Thanks, Elizabeth! We stay in touch with loved ones back home primarily through Whatsapp and Facebook Messenger.

thanks for this awesome blog–planning a trip with my 22 year old daughter to Ireland and then she is continuing alone to Scotland–all your information is quite useful….

So happy to hear that, Margie! Hope you guys have a wonderful trip. 🙂

I can’t bear to rent a car knowing we’ll be driving the opposite way that we’re used to. Is it as easy to get around Ireland by train as it is in France or Italy?

Sadly, it’s definitely not as easy! There are trains in Ireland, and paired with buses you can certainly plan a non-driving itinerary.

But, much of Ireland’s charm lies in its nature and small towns, and it will be harder (though not impossible) to access those without a car.

Your best bet, if you want to visit Ireland independently without driving, would be carefully planning your itinerary around certain train and bus routes (be sure to check the timetables!), and combine that with organized day trips to attractions you don’t want to miss.

I love your blog, so much great info and advice. I’m leaving for Ireland in 2 weeks. Being a Navy Vet in the 90s in Japan, I once had an international DL which I’m sure is no longer valid. I’ve booked a hotel Wed-Sat in Dublin then I have 3 days to explore. Do I need to get an international driver’s license again to be able to drive legally? I’d really like to do a B&B Saturday night then the Belleek Castle Sunday night and it seems like driving will be the best, esp since I’m an avid photographer. I’ll fly out Tuesday morning…

Thanks, Larry!

Luckily, international driving permits aren’t required for Ireland, you can drive there on your US license for vacation (but for any future trips–international driving permits have be renewed each year, so it’s good you’re thinking about it!).

One snag with rental cars we’ve run into in Ireland, though (and nowhere else, oddly enough), is the age of your license. Depending on the state in the US, the “date issued” will be the date you last renewed your license, which we of course do once every several years. In Ireland, though, some companies use that as proof of how long you’ve been entitled to drive at all–and you need a license of a certain age to rent a car.

Once we ran into that issue the first time (which we solved by changing car rental companies in the Dublin airport–it was a stressful half hour or so!), we started checking the contracts of each rental company and reaching out in advance to make sure we had the paperwork we need.

Just something to keep in mind, but long story short, you shouldn’t have any issue driving in Ireland. Enjoy the open road!

Thank you so much for taking the time, and sharing, this comprehensive account on travel to Ireland. It has been many many years since we travelled abroad. It is exciting and intimidating!! It has been a pleasure reading this.

So happy to hear that, Gail! Hope you guys have a fantastic time visiting Ireland. 🙂

We just decided to go to Ireland in 2 short months! This was a great read full of tips!!

When we travel we normally like being spontaneous and booking our stays each morning. Is that easy and feasible in Ireland?

Did yall do any train or boat trips?

Thanks so much for the awesome tips and suggestions!! 😆

How exciting! You guys are going to have a great time. 🙂

In general, Ireland is a place we like to book lodging ahead for–the more rural a place is, the earlier we like to plan, and countryside bed and breakfasts with limited rooms in Ireland definitely qualify. 🙂 However, since it sounds like you’re going in March (so well outside of the summer high season), you’ll likely have more flexibility than most visitors.

I’d recommend at least glancing at the options available in advance, to see how many places are open and available (some close for the winter), and see if there’s enough variety for your personal comfort level.

Of course, the more flexible you are on both location and price for your lodging, the less important it is to plan in advance.

If you’re going to be in Dublin over St. Patrick’s Day, I’d recommend booking ahead there, as it’s a popular time for international tourists to visit the city.

As far as trains, we’ve never used them in Ireland–they exist, but not nearly at the density of some places in Europe, and for getting to tiny villages and nature spots, a car is much easier. Ireland is an amazing road trip destination! However, if you want to add in a few trains, you sure can.

Ferries and boats are definitely an option as well, especially for visiting small outlying islands. We’ve taken the ferry from Doolin to Inisheer a couple of times and loved it: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/6-favorite-moments-on-inisheer/

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Ireland Trip Planner

Top destinations in ireland.

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Top attractions in Ireland

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Other notable attractions

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Explore nearby places

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All related maps of Ireland

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The Best Time to Visit Ireland

Weather & Climate

Airports in Ireland

Driving in Ireland

Best Castle Hotels

How to Spend Two Weeks in Ireland

Top Places to See

Things to Do in Ireland

Free Things to Do

National Museums of Ireland

Best Walks to Take

Castles to Visit

Cliffs of Moher

Blarney Stone

What to Do Along the Wild Atlantic Way

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Your Trip to Ireland: The Complete Guide

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Known for its dramatic seaside scenery and idyllic country landscapes, Ireland can offer the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Stop for a live music session in a village pub or head for the big cities of Dublin and Belfast for cutting edge cuisine and cultural activities. While old traditions are alive and well on the Emerald Isle, Ireland has a non-stop social scene as well. Whether you want to hike the sea cliffs or soak up history, here is the ultimate guide to planning your trip to Ireland.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit :  Ireland’s reputation for rainy weather is well deserved and there is a good chance that you will encounter some wet days at any time of year. The weather tends to be mild but cool in April and May, and heading to the country in spring is a good way to beat the tourist crowds that arrive in June, July, and August. September is also a good time to visit Ireland before the winter weather arrives. Keep in mind that the weather tends to be rainy in the west of Ireland at any time of year.

Language:  The Republic of Ireland has two official languages: English and Irish  . It is rare to hear Irish spoken outside of areas known as Gaeltacht, which are found around the west coast of Ireland. However, you will see signs in both English and Irish as you travel. English is spoken in Northern Ireland, as well.

Currency:  The Republic of Ireland uses the Euro, while in Northern Ireland the currency is the Pound sterling  . Credit cards are widely accepted but some smaller businesses will still only accept cash so it is a good idea to carry some cash at all times.

Getting Around:  If you plan to stick to the capital cities of Dublin and Belfast, there is little need for a car. Both cities are compact enough to explore on foot and Dublin has a good public transportation system. Major towns are well connected by private coach bus, but it is a good idea to hire a car if you want to see rural Ireland or crave a bit of flexibility in your schedule. Keep in mind that Ireland drives on the left and automatic cars are fairly rare, so book your rental car ahead of time if you plan to road trip around the Emerald Isle.

Travel Tip:  While traveling in the offseason is a good way to beat the crowds, some accommodations close up for the winter season (between mid-October and April 1 st ). Hotels and B&Bs can be in huge demand in summer, and around holidays and festivals, so it is best to reserve these as far in advance as possible once your trip dates are finalized.

Things to Do

Ireland is the perfect vacation destination for music lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and slow travelers who like to experience local lifestyles by exploring small towns and villages.

  • Take a walk: Ireland has six national parks   as well as incredible hills and landscapes. Walking is a popular pastime and does not require you to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the great outdoors.
  • Go to the pub: No trip to Ireland is complete without a few nights in the pub. This is where you will find live traditional music, homestyle food, local beer and plenty of comradery.
  • Plan a Road trip : To see as much as possible, plan to experience at least one of Ireland’s best drives. Perhaps you want to experience the Beara Peninsula or explore the Causeway coast – the small towns and unexpected scenery you will discover along the way is what makes Ireland a truly special place to visit.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best things to do in Dublin , the 20 places to see in Ireland , and the ultimate guide to the Wild Atlantic Way.

What to Eat and Drink

The most traditional Irish food comes from the produce and livestock that have been a part of the rolling landscape for centuries. Many pubs and restaurants will serve a version of classic dishes such as beef and Guinness stew, roasted lamb, Irish steak, and of course, potatoes. Be sure to start the day with a fry – also known as a full Irish breakfast. The hearty morning meal comes with eggs, sausage, rashers (bacon), black pudding, beans, roasted tomato, and toast. Ireland is also famed for its dairy, so be sure to try real Irish butter on homemade brown bread.

To wash it all down you can order a Guinness, Ireland’s most famous stout which is still brewed to this day in Dublin. Other popular beers include Kilkenny and Harp, though imported beer, like Corona and Coors Light, is also becoming more common. Ireland is also famous for its whiskey, which you can find served with water at most bars. For something non-alcoholic, tea is particularly popular and the most common brands are Barry’s and Lyons. It can be found at all times of day, served with milk on the side.

Hungry? Read more in our article about  the best restaurants in Dublin,  the  best places to eat in Limerick , and the best pubs in Dublin .

Where to Stay

Most flights in and out of Ireland transit through Dublin and the Irish capital city is a wonderful place to spend a few days. Stay in the city center to take advantage of seeing most of the city on foot. After a couple of nights in the big city, you may be ready to experience the rest of Ireland. Many people choose to head south to Cork or Limerick and use these cities as a base to explore the small towns and villages. Belfast in Northern Ireland is also a lively city and the gateway to the stunning Antrim coast. Alternatively, head west out of Dublin for Galway and spend your days hopping between the towns along the Wild Atlantic Way.

For more information on where to stay, explore the   different Dublin neighborhoods to stay in, and our recommendations on the best hotels.

Getting There

The most common way to arrive in Ireland is by plane. However, there are also ferries that travel to the Emerald Isle. Once in Ireland, renting a car is the best way to explore most of the country. It’s not necessary (or recommended) to get a car if you plan to stay in Dublin, but having an independent set of wheels is almost necessary if you want to explore the rest of the country. Buses and trains are available, but the limited schedules will seriously constrain any travel plans.

The main airport in the Republic of Ireland is Dublin Airport . Other airports in Ireland and Northern Ireland include:

  • Shannon Airport, a smaller international airport located in County Clare in the south of the Republic. This was once the busiest stop for transatlantic flights but now serves mainly UK destinations, with limited (i.e. once a week) flights to European cities.
  • Belfast International Airport (BFS) is the larger airport near the Northern Ireland capital (it is located about 20 miles outside the city). Flights to Belfast can be more expensive than flights to Dublin, so many people choose to fly into the Republic and catch a convenient coach bus to the north.
  • George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) is quite small but very close to Belfast, located just over a mile from the city center. It serves mainly UK airports.

For a complete guide, read more about all of the airports in Ireland .

Culture and Customs 

The Irish love to banter and it can feel like teasing, but it is all meant in good fun. You are welcome and expected to join in trading a few verbal jabs and sharing jokes to keep the "craic" going. Irish wit and humor move at lightning speed.

Pubs are the most common place to socialize in Ireland. This is where friends meet up and strangers become friends.

Music is a huge part of Irish culture and traditional live music sessions are commonplace. Some are planned and others come together naturally when enough musicians gather at the same pub. If you hear the crowd singing along, join in.

Tipping is not expected and certainly not needed at a pub. Some restaurants add a service charge for groups of eight or more, but this should be clearly noted on the menu and indicated on the bill.

If someone offers to buy you a drink at a pub, it is fine to accept. Keep in mind that drinking in Ireland works in “rounds” so if someone offers to get the next round of drinks, it is implied that you will return the favor when the glasses get low again.

Money-Saving Tips

  • If possible, avoid traveling to Ireland in July and August when the number of visitors rivals the number of residents. This is when accommodation prices are most inflated and will seriously cut into your budget.
  • Rural Airbnbs are becoming more common in Ireland. Renting a little cottage can be both romantic and budget-friendly. If you prefer a more personal touch, regular B&Bs are also easy to come by and tend to have lower prices than traditional hotels.
  • Beers are relatively cheap if you are planning a night out, but restaurant prices can be steep in comparison. Eat in or try some of the most beloved Irish fast food joints to save some cash.
  • If you plan to spend a few days in Dublin, it is worth buying a Leap Card to save money on public transportation. You can also download the FreeNow taxi app, which sometimes offers discount codes and promotions on cab rides.

Learn more about the cheapest ways to have fun by exploring the best free things to do in Dublin . 

Tourism Ireland . "Languages of Ireland."

Tourism Ireland . "Money in Ireland."

National Parks & Wildlife Service . "National Parks in Ireland."

Dublin Guide: Planning Your Trip

The Top 22 Things to Do in Ireland

How to Spend 5 Days in Ireland

Ireland's 20 Largest Towns and Cities

20 Best Things to Do in Dublin

20 Best Things to Do for Free in Dublin, Ireland

A Guide to Tipping in Ireland

How to Visit Dublin on a Budget

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Plan Your UK Trip

The Best Time to Visit Belfast

Belfast Guide: Planning Your Trip

How to Travel From Dublin to Galway by Train, Bus, and Car.

Driving in Ireland: What You Need to Know

A Guide to Airports in Ireland

Touring Northern Ireland in a Week

Winter in Ireland: Weather and Event Guide

Marcie in Mommyland

How To Plan a Trip to Ireland: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2024

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How To Plan a Trip to Ireland: Step-by-Step Guide

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Dreaming of your first Ireland trip? Let me show you exactly how to plan a trip to Ireland like a pro!

This post about how to plan a trip to ireland for the first time was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Have you dreamed of visiting the Emerald Isle since watching Leap Year and want to know how to plan a trip to Ireland?

No one would question you! With six national parks, more than 7,000 pubs, and the 15th happiest country, Ireland is a great place for an epic road trip or short city break.

But if you’ve never visited before, planning a trip to Ireland can be a difficult task!

This easy-to-follow Ireland trip planner will take you through absolutely all the steps and questions to ask yourself so the planning process isn’t stressful. 

You can tick everything off so you know for certain you haven’t forgotten anything. Once you’re on the plane, you’ll be able to relax knowing you’re about to have a fun, Irish adventure!

14-Step Guide on How To Plan a Trip to Ireland

Step 1: check your passport and visa requirements for ireland.

Ireland is often used as a catch-all name for two countries on the same island: The Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. While the Republic of Ireland is part of the European Union (EU), Northern Ireland is part of the UK which is no longer in the EU. Neither country is part of the Schengen Area.

How to Apply for a US Passport for a Baby or Child, tips featured by top US travel blogger, Marcie in Mommyland: Learn how to get a passport for a child (or baby) with these 8 easy steps. You’ll even find some secret, expert tips to help expedite the application process

However, that all sounds way more confusing than the reality! There is an open border and free movement between the two countries.

As long as you have a valid passport for the duration of your stay, most North American tourists won’t need a visa to visit the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland (for up to 90 days). 

Check your specific circumstances with the US Department of Statement website if you’re unsure. But otherwise, you’re good to go!

Step 2: Figure out the Length of Your Trip to Ireland

The next step of how to plan a trip to Ireland is to figure out the length of your trip. 

With limited paid time off, school breaks, and other responsibilities and restrictions, you might have a good idea of how long you can spend in Ireland!

Check out the best Dublin hotels for families recommended by top family travel blog Marcie in Mommyland. Image of the Dublin skyline

Planning a trip to Dublin? Allow at least four days to enjoy a city break in the Irish capital. 

Planning a road trip around the country? Seven days is the shortest amount of time you need to explore the Republic of Ireland. 10 days is better if you also want to visit Northern Ireland, and two weeks is just enough time to see all the main highlights.

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland and Scotland , you’ll need two weeks minimum (ideally three or more!) to explore both countries.

Step 3: Research the Best Time to Travel to Ireland

When planning an Ireland trip, weather, and annual events are huge considerations. They impact the size of crowds and the expense.

Transport is also a factor. Ferries to the Aran and Skellig Islands shut down over winter.

Check out these tips for visiting Ireland in summer by top family travel blog Marcie in Mommyland. Image of Carrick-a-Rede, Causeway Coast Route in a beautiful summer day, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually on March 17th and is a huge celebration all over the country. If you want to celebrate Ireland’s patron saint during your travels, great! Just be prepared for lots of people, to spend $$$, and to book months in advance.

Ireland has a mild climate with temperatures in winter averaging 45°F/7°C and in summer , 65°F/18°C. You can expect rain on any day, year round!

If you’re not restricted by school breaks, the best time to plan a trip to Ireland is the shoulder season months of April – June and September – October. You’ll avoid the busiest and most expensive seasons but all of the seasonal attractions will be open. But most families visit Ireland during summer .

Step 4: Choose Your Destinations and Plan Your Itinerary

The best way to plan a trip to Ireland is to divide the country into sections. You can then decide which destinations you want (and have time) to visit.

Here are all of the key destinations in each part of Ireland:

  • Northern Ireland – Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway, Derry
  • East – Galway, Connemara National Park, Aran Islands, Cliffs of Moher
  • Southeast – Ring of Kerry, Killarney National Park, Skellig Islands
  • South – Cork, Kinsale, Cobh, Blarney Castle
  • East – Dublin, Wicklow Mountains National Park

If you’re planning an Ireland trip that is two weeks or more, you’ll have time to visit all of these places! If you have less, cross off the destinations you are less interested in visiting.

Step 5: Create a Budget for Your Trip to Ireland

No Ireland trip planner can give you a specific figure for how much your Ireland vacation will cost. Some of the variables include the time of year, the size of your family/group, the length of your trip, and your style of travel.

Travel budget concept. Travel money savings in a glass jar with compass, passport and aircraft toy on world map

However, Trip.com estimates that the cost of a four-night, three-day trip to Ireland for two people will cost an average of $1,600 per person. 

This includes flights, accommodation, travel insurance, souvenirs, food, attractions, and excursions.

Traveling to Ireland on a budget is doable if you swap expensive cities like Dublin and Galway for smaller towns or cities like Doolin and Belfast. Hiking in national parks like Killarney and seeing natural wonders like the Cliffs of Moher are free!

Step 6: Book Your Flights to Ireland

Travelers flying from North America are in luck. There are 24 airports with direct flights to Dublin Airport from San Francisco to New York City. I was able to fly direct from Seattle!

Boston, Chicago, and two New York City airports also offer direct flights to Shannon Airport, a smaller airport on Ireland’s west coast. 

Image of a modern building at the Dublin Airport.

Dublin might only have two terminals, but it’s still a major travel hub. Especially for flights from North America to Europe! You should have no problems finding affordable flights to Dublin year-round if you book a few months in advance.

Step 7: Book Accommodation in Ireland

The next step is to book your accommodation. The good news is that, unlike other European countries such as Italy and Spain, there is no tourist tax in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland.

Hotels are ideal in larger cities like Dublin , Galway, and Belfast. 

Image of Knappogue Castle in Ireland

Guesthouses/bed and breakfasts when traveling through the countryside (in towns like Doolin and Killarney, for example) are a quintessential Irish experience. The owners are usually a lovely older couple and will serve a humongous Irish breakfast in the morning if you’re lucky!

Check out Airbnb for fun glamping options. There are treehouses, beach view pods, and even hobbit houses.

Step 8: Book a Rental Car

You won’t need a rental car if you’re staying in Dublin. It’s mostly a walkable city and using public transport (buses and trams) is much easier and cheaper than renting a car.

But if you’re venturing into the countryside then you’ll need a car! The smaller the better to squeeze down Ireland’s narrow country lanes.

You’ll need an international driving license to rent a car in Ireland. If you’re from North America and are used to an automatic transmission, note that manual is much more common in Ireland. 

It’s often worth paying extra for an automatic car if you’re not used to manual! Especially because you’ll also be driving on the left in Ireland.

Check your credit card benefits to see if it includes complimentary rental car insurance.

Step 9: Purchase Attraction and Ferry Tickets

Most attractions in the Irish countryside, such as Blarney Castle, don’t need to be booked in advance. Some attractions, like the Cliffs of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway, are 100% free!

Image of Guinness Storehouse Barrels, Dublin, Ireland

But in Dublin, it’s much better to be organized. Kilmainham Gaol always sells out so make that a priority. Book tickets to the Guinness Storehouse to avoid waiting in line too.

Ferries to the Aran Islands and Skellig Islands always book up during the peak season.

Step 10: Get Travel Insurance for Your Trip to Ireland

Ideally, you should buy travel insurance as soon as you book your flights. This will ensure you have coverage for every dime you spend on your trip to Ireland.

Find out whether or not you need Hawaii travel insurance by top Seattle blogger Marcie in Mommyland. Image of a toy airplane and travel insurance paperwork.

However, something more important than money is your health! As long as you take out a policy before you fly, you’ll be covered in the event of a medical emergency, 

Check your credit card benefits as they might offer travel insurance as a perk.

Step 11: Figure Out Phone, Credit Card, and Currency

The Republic of Ireland’s currency is the Euro and Northern Ireland uses the Great British Pound. Bring a small amount of cash in both currencies and a travel credit card.

Euro-Money-960x640.jpg

If American Express is your preferred credit card, bring a Mastercard or Visa as a backup. AMEX cards are not widely accepted in either the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland.

Don’t have an international phone plan? Consider getting an eSIM before you fly so that you can use the internet in Ireland as soon as your plane lands. If you’re also visiting Northern Ireland, choose a plan that covers Ireland and the UK.

Step 12: Watch Movies and Read Books Set in Ireland

Ireland is well known for its literary history and plenty of movies have been filmed on the Emerald Isle too. Reading and watching is the best way to get excited about your trip!

Read Ulysses or Dubliners by James Joyce if you prefer classics. Check out Wild Atlantic Women by Gráinne Lyons if you’d prefer a modern memoir.

P.S. I Love You (2007) and Leap Year (2010) are both romantic films shot in Ireland. Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017) and The Quiet Man (1952) are both great Hollywood movies filmed in Ireland from different eras.

Step 13: Pack the Right Outfits for Your Irish Vacation

Since Ireland has a mild climate, it’s unlikely you’ll need snow boots or a sunhat. However, your visit in November could easily coincide with a random snowstorm. Heatwaves in April are not unheard of either.

Pay close attention to the forecast and bring versatile clothing. Sweat-wicking t-shirts and tank tops, jeans, and comfortable boots are handy in most seasons. 

No matter when you visit, pack a good raincoat!

Step 14: Go to Ireland!

Once you’ve finished all these steps of how to plan a trip to Ireland, you can head to the airport.

Don’t forget to keep checking the weather forecast (it constantly changes!) and listen to as much traditional Irish folk music as you possibly can.

Planning a Trip to Ireland FAQs

Is ireland cheap or expensive.

Ireland is not a cheap country to visit, but it’s not very expensive. 

Dublin, Galway, and other Irish cities have expensive accommodation and restaurants. However, staying in the Irish countryside is much more affordable.

How many days do I need to see Ireland?

You’ll need a minimum of four days to see Ireland if you just want to stay in Dublin. Allow at least seven days if you’re planning an Irish road trip.

Two weeks in Ireland is ideal if you want to visit all of the regions, including Northern Ireland.

What is the best way to see Ireland for the first time?

Renting a car is the best way to see Ireland for the first time. Public transport is ideal in cities, but a rental car will allow you access to national parks, the coast, and remote areas of the countryside.

trip to ireland planner

How To Plan a Trip to Ireland Wrap-Up

Figuring out how to plan a trip to Ireland is much less daunting when you follow a step-by-step Ireland vacation planner.

From your passports to packing, this guide will ensure you know the entrance requirements to both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. And all the rental car considerations you didn’t know before!

Witnessing the Cliffs of Moher in a quality raincoat before sitting by the fire in a centuries-old cozy pub will make all your due diligence worth the effort.

Looking for more Ireland travel resources? Check out Ireland in Summer: Tips  + Things to Do , 21 Most Spectacular Hidden Gems in Ireland , 12 Best Day Trips From Dublin by Train , and 10 Best Dublin Hotels for Families Worth Booking !

trip to ireland planner

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Grab The Free Printable Ultimate Ireland Packing List  for the best packing and pre-trip to-do list for Ireland

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31 Helpful Websites For Planning a Trip to Ireland

I am a bit obsessive about Ireland travel planning. I save everything , including tried and true online travel resources.  There are a jazillion (yup—a jazillion) sites available to determine where to stay, what to do, and general advice for planning  a trip to Ireland. Because I am all about making sure everyone can easily plan a trip to Ireland, I thought I would share some of the best online Ireland travel resources with you. I log on to many of these sites daily and can vouch that they are really helpful (and some can even transport you there, if only for a moment).

Whether you need travel tips or a dose of inspiration, these sites have you covered.

Planning A Trip to Ireland

Sheep's Head Way Beach

1.  Discover Ireland : National Tourism Board of Ireland website–details accommodations, activities, events and offers in all regions of Ireland

2.  My Discover Ireland Route Planner : A neat tool that shows what attractions are between point A and point B of a route using Google maps

3.  Trip Advisor Ireland Forums : Most of the regular posters on these boards live in Ireland and are experts in Ireland travel–they’ll go out of their way to answer specific and strange questions

4.  Trip Advisor Hotel/B&B Reviews : Best place to hear from other travelers about their hotel/B&B experiences (always drop the worst and best reviews to get a better sense of the place)

5.  B&B Ireland : Useful site that can be used to either book a B&B or simply as a baseline to begin your accommodation search

6.  AirBnB : An alternative accommodation that ranges anywhere from regular B&B standards to staying in a spare bedroom-–often less expensive than traditional lodging

7.  VRBO:   Vacation rentals for those who want self-catering accommodations (organized by county)

8.  Former Glory : A great site to spend hours dreaming of a stay in (or even the purchase of) a historic home or castle

9.  AA Roadwatch : The best route planner for Ireland

10.  Google Images : Search Google images for pictures of nearby attractions after deciding  which area(s) you will be visiting

11.  US Passport Site : Passport guidelines for US travelers

12.  XE : Easy to use currency converter and live currency rates

13.  Wikitravel Ireland : The who, what, where, when–basic details about Ireland

14.  SeatGuru : Find out which seats are the best on your flight, including those with the most leg room

15. Momondo : An excellent aggregate airfare search engine that will find the obvious and obscure cheap flights around the world.

16.  Abarta Audio Guides : Super interesting and helpful audio guides for popular visitor attractions throughout Ireland (some are even free!)–fantastic for the history buff before or during your trip

17.  Ireland Travel Kit : All the best attractions not found in travel books.

Ireland Travel Tips

Trinity College Dublin Exterior

18.  101 Irish Travel Tips : A great post with over 101 tips compiled by travelers to Ireland

Regional Tourism Websites

Ramelton Quay, Co. Donegal

Just like Discover Ireland, most regions have their own travel resource website with accommodations, activities and event information.

19.  Dublin

20.  Midlands

21.  Inishowen

22.  Connemara

23.  Ring of Kerry

24.  Southeast

25.  Northern Ireland

Ireland Inspiration

Abandoned Village Hike Southwest Ireland

26.  A Fortnight Plus Half : Not a travel website per se but if this video doesn’t inspire you to plan a trip to Ireland I don’t know what will

27. Ireland Family Vacations : Fellow travel writer and Ireland enthusiast, Jody shares her love of Ireland with her family and you

28.  Irish Fireside : A travel, culture, and a little bit o’ everything site about Ireland

Ireland Discounts

Sheep's Head Way Cow

29.  Heritage Ireland Card : Visiting several OPW Heritage locations? Use this site to add up the cost of the entrance fees and decide if it is worth investing in the Heritage Card, which gives you free admission to all Heritage sites

30.  Dochara : A very helpful Ireland travel site including an especially valuable page with a variety of discounts

31.  Skype : Instead of racking up international calling charges—load $10.00 on a Skype account and call anywhere in the world (with free wifi in many B&B’s, who needs a cell phone?)

Of course there are many more travel sites out there. Which am I missing? Are there other sites you use when planning a trip to Ireland?

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Hi Stephanie, You have a fabulous list of blogs & websites here for anyone planning a trip to the island of Ireland to source. Thank you so much for including my blog too.

That’s such an informative list, and thanks for including a photo of our lovely Sheep’s Head peninsula. On our own website at http://livingthesheepsheadway.com , we pull together all the local info on accommodation, walks and activities, and it’s so much more enjoyable for people to plan their holidays when all of that material is available in one place for them.

Welcome Siobhan! We love Sheep’s Head are always happy to promote the area.

Hi Stephanie!

My husband and I are getting ready to leave for Ireland next Tuesday! I already have taken a lot of your advice and bought items on your website. My question is: Is AA Roadwatch an app I can download to my phone? (I looked for it on my phone, but came up empty.)

Thank you very much for your checklists! Trina

Eeeee!! You must be so excited!!

I don’t think AA Roadwatch has an app (although, they really should!). You can g to their regular site https://www.theaa.ie/routes/ or I have found using Google Maps works just as well now (and you can download an offline version of Ireland to save your data!).

I hope this helps! Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!! Stephanie

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Known as the Emerald Isle, explore Ireland’s rolling green hills, amazing historic sites, and lively pub culture.

Ireland, the Emerald Isle, conjures up a unique assortment of images – lush green landscapes, old town charm, traditional folk music, the shamrock – and, of course, ubiquitous cozy pubs. In fact, Ireland is this and much more – it is a beautiful country with stunning nature and vibrant, cosmopolitan cities, offering opportunities for both adventure and retreat.

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Ireland's illustrious capital is known for its literary traditions, an upbeat pub scene, and a wealth of cultural and historic sites.

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The Irish people offer ready smiles and a warm welcome, and the country’s history and culture can be as intoxicating as the local whiskey. And the weather? The locals are known to expect 4 seasons in one day, hence their motto: There is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing!

Dublin , Ireland’s bustling capital, is often the starting point of an Irish vacation. A flat city, divided in two by the River Liffey, has several bridges uniting it, the most famous of which is the O’Connell Bridge, and it is easy to get around the city by foot. Dublin’s historic buildings include the 13th century Dublin Castle , the 12th century St. Patrick’s Cathedral , and the Parliament building. Temple Bar, a riverside area with cobblestoned pedestrian walkways, is one of Dublin’s most visited districts. It is home to the historic Trinity College , Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious university, and the Meeting House Square with its delightful galleries, boutiques, pubs, and a weekly food market. Dublin’s picturesque parks, most notably St. Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park , are city highlights, and the National Museum of Ireland is a destination for archeology enthusiasts and those wishing to explore Irish heritage. End your day at one of the city’s many pubs, reveling in the live traditional Irish music among the native Dubliners.

Kilkenny , Ireland’s smallest city and best preserved medieval town, is a short drive from Dublin. Characterized by its grey limestone architecture, Kilkenny boasts the imposing 12th century Kilkenny Castle . Explore nearby Waterford , a famous Viking port city and Ireland’s oldest, famous for its architecture, culture, cuisine – and its crystal. Tour the renowned Waterford Crystal factory , one of the only that has preserved the craft almost unchanged over the centuries. On your way to a scenic drive on the Ring of Kerry , a 112-mile coastal route spanning breathtaking scenery and medieval ruins in Ireland’s rustic southwest, stop at Blarney , climbing to the top of the Blarney Castle to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone – but only if you’re seeking the gift of gab! The town of Cork , known as the culinary capital of Ireland, is nearby, boasting a trendy foodie scene and cultural revival.

The town of Killarney , famous for its beauty, history, and hospitality – as well as its world class restaurants, is a great base for exploring the nearby Killarney National Park with its pristine lakes and extraordinary mountain and ocean views, and Gap of Dunloe , a narrow mountain pass between two spectacular mountain ranges. A coastal walk along the majestic Cliffs of Moher is an unforgettably beautiful experience.

Galway , a coastal city in the west, is known as the festival capital of Ireland. Its hub is the 18th century Eyre Square, which offers a traditional and bohemian Irish experience – shops, pubs, boutiques, and galleries surrounded by medieval architecture. Don’t forget to taste the famous oysters, their local specialty!

In Northern Island, Giant’s Causeway is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Dubbed “the 8th Wonder of the World” by the Irish, the area’s 40,000 basalt columns - mainly hexagonal - which descend into the ocean are said to have resulted from an ancient volcanic eruption.

Belfast , the cultural heart of the north, has spectacular natural beauty and a rich history as well as outstanding museums, famed wall art, beautiful gardens, and lively markets. It is home to the Belfast Castle and the interactive Titanic Experience which is located on the slipways where the Titanic was built and launched over 100 years ago.

Need guidance? Leave the leprechaun legends aside, and start planning, organizing, and booking your customized dream trip to Ireland using RoutePerfect’s unique set of planning tools. Unlike any other company, Routeperfect offers its exclusive Popular Itineraries written by tourism professionals and experienced travelers to jumpstart your planning, helping you to personalize your travel and book your accommodations so that you can experience the country YOUR way.

Regions in Ireland

Attractions in ireland, suggested romantic itineraries for ireland, suggested other itineraries for ireland, suggested family itineraries for ireland, suggested friends itineraries for ireland.

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The perfect ireland itinerary.

The Perfect Ireland Itinerary

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

the perfect ireland itinterary

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

Planning a Trip to Ireland

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

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

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

Don’t want to do all the planning?

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

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

Ireland Itinerary

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

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

Ireland Itinerary

Our favorite hotels in Ireland

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

Our favorite tours in Ireland

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

Renting a Car in Ireland?

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

Want to See More than Ireland?

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

Getting to Ireland

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

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

Best Time to Travel to Ireland

Where to stay in ireland.

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

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

Airbnb Coupon $55

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

Affordable Airbnbs in Ireland

ireland itinerary

Packing List for Ireland

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

Click here for my full Ireland Packing list

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

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

trip to ireland planner

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

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

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

Perfect Ireland Itinerary 10 days or more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How long will this Ireland road trip take?

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

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

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

the perfect ireland itinerary

10 Places You Must See in Ireland

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

ireland itinerary

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

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

ireland itinerary

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

2. Kilkenny

ireland itinerary

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

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

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

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

Ireland Itinerary Airbnb

3. County Waterford & County Wexford

ireland itinerary

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

ireland itinerary

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

4. Cork & Blarney Castle

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

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

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

5. Killarney

ireland itinerary

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

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

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

Affordable Airbnb Homes in Killarney

Ireland Itinerary Airbnb Killarney

6. Dingle Peninsula

Dingle Peninsula Ireland

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

7. The Burren National Park &   Cliffs of Moher

ireland itinerary

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

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

Ireland Itinerary

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

9. Northern Ireland

ireland itinerary

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

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

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

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

Affordable Airbnb Homes in Northern Ireland

Perfect Ireland Itinerary

10. Belfast

Ireland Itinerary Belfast

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

11. Howth & Back to Dublin

ireland itinerary

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

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

Best Ireland Tours

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

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

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

trip to ireland planner

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

Wanderlust Crew

Practical Tips for Booking your Trip

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

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

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

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

trip to ireland planner

Wanderlust Crew

48 thoughts on “ the perfect ireland itinerary ”.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Thank you, I have just been searching for information about this subject for ages and yours is the greatest I’ve discovered till now. But, what about the conclusion? Are you sure about the source?

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

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

What would be the best time of year to go?

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

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

Have so much fun!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Ireland Road Trip: 7, 10 and 14 day Itinerary

The Republic of Ireland is a beautiful country with a fascinating history, super-friendly people, and SO much to see and do. I had 2 weeks in Ireland to explore by car and was determined to make the most of the time.

If you’re planning your own Ireland road trip, hopefully, the highlights of my epic journey will inspire you. From bumpy boat trips to islands inhabited only by seals, birds and the brutal Irish weather to the exploration of UNESCO Geoparks and dramatic coast paths high above the Atlantic Ocean, there’s something to delight everyone.

I travelled by car, boat, bicycle, and my own two feet. I ate homemade cake in museum tea shops, supped Guinness on seaside piers, and sampled traditional stew in pubs filled with the sounds of Irish music.

This ultimate Ireland road trip planner for 7, 10 and 14 day itineraries will help you create the best route in southern Ireland. 

Ring of Kerry- Ultimate Ireland road trip

Ireland Road Trip Planning Tips

How long to spend in ireland.

Honestly? As long as possible! Ireland is a beautiful country with a fascinating history, super-friendly people, and SO much to see and do. I spent a glorious 14 days in Ireland, and it felt like the perfect time to see everything without rushing.

Touring Ireland by car is ideal if you don’t like sticking to a rigid plan dictated by train and bus times. If somewhere captures your imagination, and you want to explore more, travelling under your own steam allows you to change your itinerary.

When is the Best Time To Visit Ireland?

The best time to visit Ireland depends on the individual. For some, spending St Patrick’s Day in a chaotic and vibrant Dublin would be an amazing experience; for others, it would be a total nightmare! Various regional festivals celebrate Irish culture , The Gathering in Kilkenny, County Kerry is one of the best and would be worth timing your visit to attend. 

Irish weather is unpredictable throughout the year, and sunshine is never guaranteed, even during the height of summer. My tip? Be prepared for anything, take waterproofs and warm layers as well as sunglasses and you’ll have fun, even in the rain. 

For the ultimate Ireland road trip, travel in late April and May for long days of light and mild weather or early autumn when the crowds have left and the winter chill hasn’t yet arrived. During these off-peak times, you will also get better deals on ferry prices, flights, and hotels. 

Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens in Tramore

How To Get To Ireland

I travelled from the UK to Ireland on Irish Ferries, a company that has won the ‘Best Ferry Company’ award more times than any other in Ireland. It was a simple and quick booking process, and the journey was seamless.

Cars are allowed on the boat, and there is no limit on your luggage meaning you can pack all the  road trip essentials . So, for an enjoyable crossing that sets you up for a relaxing and fun holiday of touring Ireland by car, I heartily recommend Irish Ferries; read about  my experience on the Ulysses .

Irish Ferries offer fast and cruise travel options from Holyhead to Dublin and between Pembroke in South Wales and Rosslare. Prices start from £119, and you can book either single or return tickets at   IrishFerries.com

If you’re not arriving from the UK or travelling by ferry isn’t for you, Dublin has an international airport served by 44 airlines, and upon arrival in Dublin, the public transport links for onward travel are excellent, or you may want to hire a car. 

Hiring A Car In Ireland

Don’t leave car hire as an afterthought.

If you do, you’re likely to book in a panic without thinking about what you need and what represents a good deal.

Look Carefully At The Car Insurance

Car rental insurance feels deliberately confusing, so it is worth thinking carefully about what you do and don’t need and what might already be covered by your credit card.

Age Requirements

You need to be at least 25 to hire a car in Ireland and will need a valid driving licence and ID.

Is Public Transport An Option?

Renting a car can be expensive and Ireland has good transport links and plenty of fantastic tours that will take you off the beaten path.

Compare Prices And Choose A Reliable Company

Discover Cars   is an award-winning car rental company with great Trustpilot reviews. I have used them on some previous trips and would happily recommend them.

Methods Of Payment

Some car rental companies will only accept payment via credit card or allow you to u

Travel Insurance For Ireland

Even though you have taken out car insurance, you still need travel insurance to cover other eventualities. Here are some tried-and-tested travel insurance options to check out;

Get 5% off your travel insurance with HeyMondo . Benefit from 24-hour medical assistance, 365 days a year with single, multi-trip, and long-stay insurance, cover for Covid-19 and non-refundable expenses. The handy app makes this a simple process! They give a little back too by contributing to ‘Doctors Without Borders’.

SafetyWing for Digital Nomads . Benefit from 24/7 assistance, comprehensive and medical cover including Covid-19. Buy insurance whilst you are travelling, with the option of global health insurance.

Prefer A Group Tour Of Ireland?

If a self-drive tour of Ireland is not your preferred way, there are plenty of incredible multi-day group tours with knowledgeable guides. So if you decide you’d like to skip the hassle of driving, check out these options;

  • 4 Day Southern + Western Ireland Tour
  • 6 Day Southern Ireland Tour from Dublin
  • 9 Day National Geographic Iconic Ireland Tour 

14 Day Ireland Road Trip

Day 1-3 | dublin.

Dublin is the capital of the Republic of Ireland and it’s a city where you will find delicious food, interesting museums, and the legendary Irish craic. Visit around St Patrick’s Day, and experience parades, street theatre, and a fabulous festival atmosphere. 

The best way to discover the rich history of Dublin is on a free walking tour with a knowledgeable and hilarious guide. The National Gallery of Ireland and the National Museum of Ireland are both feasts for the eyes, and a trip to Trinity College to see the Book of Kels is a must. 

After a few hours of learning about Ireland’s history, you’ll be hungry, so head to The Oval Bar and enjoy a bowl of their famous Irish stew. After lunch, take a walk along the river Liffey to see the iconic bridges of Dublin, the Famine Memorial, and the Custom House. 

Read my  Dublin itinerary  – a great way to start my Ireland road trip 

Long Library, Trinity College Dublin

Day 4-5 | Dublin Bay – Dalkey & Howth

These beautiful towns are the two highlights of Dublin Bay and they are both within easy reach of Dublin City by car, train, or bus. You’ll need at least a day to appreciate the delights each. 

Day Trip To Dalkey 

The interactive tours of Dalkey Castle are fun and informative thanks to the guides who dress in full costume and become historical characters such as a cook and archer. Brilliant! 

A hike along the coast to see the stunning views is an excellent way to blow away the cobwebs before a well-earned lunch of Dublin Bay prawns at The Queen’s Bar. 

Taking the kayaks around the rugged coastline of Dalkey Island, learning the ancient history, and watching seals was a special moment.  My Dalkey experience  was a wonderful day trip from Dublin. 

Day Trip To Howth 

Howth is a lovely village where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The way-marked clifftop walks provide breathtaking views of  Ireland’s Eye , an island that is home to grey seals, rare birds, and ancient relics. It can be reached by boat from Howth harbour.

After locally caught fish and chips and ice cream on Howth Pier, head to the beautifully decorated local church and then go for a windswept stroll at Bailey’s Lighthouse.  Visiting Howth  is the perfect escape from Dublin’s busy streets. 

Baby gull on Ireland's Eye, off Howth, Dublin Bay

Day 6 | Enniscorthy

On a 14-day self-drive tour of Ireland, it’s essential to make a plan so you see all the amazing sights the country has to offer. So, on my way to Tramor, I stopped at Enniscorthy in County Wexford. 

Enniscorthy is a picturesque and friendly town with lots of history. It is the home of the National 1798 Rebellion Centre, the Battle of Vinegar Hill, and a well-preserved 13th-century castle, and some beautiful beaches. 

Enniscorthy Castle

Day 7 | Copper Coast + Mahon Falls

The Copper Coast route is named after the massive mines of the 19th century. The area is now a  UNESCO Geopark , a name given to places with international geological significance, and has some of the most spectacular scenery in Waterford County. 

This awesome route can be driven or cycled. It is 25 km long and runs between Tramore, with its fine beach, and the quaint waterfront town of Dungarvan. On your way back to Tramore, stop at the magnificent Mahon Falls. 

Highlights of the Copper Coast  include Newton Cove, where you can wild swim from the stony shore, and the Metalman statue of a sailor who warns seagoers of tricky waters. Kilfarrasay Strand is a lovely stretch of sand on which to stretch your legs before heading to the mining heritage site at Tankardstown. 

Kilfarassy Beach on Copper Coast - Ireland road trip

Day 8 | Waterford City

Waterford City is the home of the Waterford Viking Triangle, a hub of three museums that tell the story of the Vikings in Ireland and more recent history in compelling ways. New additions to this fascinating learning centre include the Museum of Time and the Museum of Silver. There’s a free walking tour taking them all in. 

In the afternoon, explore the vibrant murals added to the town walls during the annual Street Art Festival. If you have time, the Waterford Crystal Factory is a beautiful and interesting place to visit. The exquisite crystal art it produces will make great souvenirs for your two-week Ireland tour. 

Rain or shine, there is plenty of things to do for a fun-filled day  exploring Waterford City .

Strongbow and Aoife Statue in Waterford Viking Triangle

Day 9 | Drive To Killarney Via Blarney Castle

Before you leave Tramore, start the day with a little zen at the  Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens  which commemorates the Greek-Irish literary figure, Patrick Lafcadio Hearn. The garden displays represent his biographical journey through the different stages of his life from his Victorian childhood to living in the US, travelling extensively, and finally settling in Japan and marrying into a Samurai family. This is just one of the many  beautiful gardens of Ireland .

Blarney Castle  is a two-hour drive away from Tramore and a 90-minute drive from Killarney, my next overnight stop. The castle was built six hundred years ago by an Irish chieftain, Cormac MacCarthy, a charismatic man who managed to stop Queen Elizabeth I from taking his castle with his gift of the gab. The frustrated Queen called his stalling ‘blarney.’

The Blarney Stone, or The Stone of Eloquence, is the source of myth and legend. Was it a stone soaked in the blood of the ill-fated lover of the Queen of the Faeries? Or was it a thank-you gift from Robert Bruce for helping him defeat Edward II and is part of the legendary Stone of Scone on which the Scottish Kings were crowned?

Of course, I couldn’t come all this way without kissing the Blarney Stone. It’s not as easy as you may think as it is built into the castle wall. I had to need to lie down, hold onto metal bars, and tilt my head backward.

Did you know the Blarney Stone is 85 feet off the ground? Just one of the many  interesting facts about the Blarney Stone  you should know before you visit.

Blarney Castle- Ireland Road Trip

Day 10 | Ring Of Kerry Drive

The Ring of Kerry is a magical drive of 179 km. It’s a jaw-dropping route around the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula that reveals panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, pretty villages where you can have tea and cake, dramatic mountain scenes, and swooping seabirds. I drove round clockwise, the opposite way to tour groups, so I had some of these gorgeous places to myself. 

I loved the lake and rolling green hill vista at Ladies Views, the colourful houses at Port Magee, and eating a delicious lunch at the seafront village of Waterville and beautiful St Finian’s Bay. The Stague Stone Fort, an atmospheric 2,500-year-old ruin and the 19th-century Derryanne House that sits proudly in the heart of the National Park are both well worth a visit. 

Journeying through this incredible landscape was the first time I felt rushed on this trip as there was so much to see! If I’d had an extra day in my itinerary, I would have included the Dingle Peninsula too.

Cliffs of Kerry - Ireland

Day 10 | Limerick

Limerick, a Viking town founded in 922AD, is a 1-hour 40-minute drive from Killarney. This pretty place has been at the centre of bloody battles and political intrigue from its inception, and there are many historic places to visit on a day trip here. King John’s Castle and St Mary’s Cathedral are two highlights.

Limerick is on the River Shannon, and that waterside location has made it an important place for trade and commerce in Ireland for generations. It is famous for exquisite handmade lace. The story of Limerick’s more recent history is told in the People’s Museum. Art galleries, the Hunt Museum, and the Limerick Gallery are fantastic too. 

The town was named the Irish City of Culture in 2014 and received lots of investment; new shops, bars, and restaurants appeared, and it is now a great night out. 

Enjoy a friendly welcome from the locals as you discover the charms and  attractions of Limerick .

Day 12 | Cliffs Of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are awe-inspiring vertical edifices that tower over the swirling Atlantic Ocean below. They formed 320 million years ago and run eight miles along the coast of County Clare. The panoramic views from the cliffs toward the Isles of Arran will stay in your memory forever and it is especially beautiful at sunset. 

The paths around the cliffs are well-maintained and perfect for a walk, just stay away from the edge! You can wander south towards Hag’s Head, about 5.6km away. The path north to Doolin is currently closed. 

There’s a visitor’s centre with craft shops, an excellent café and lots of information about the seabirds who call the cliffs home. O’Brien’s Tower is a folly built by a local landlord and MP in 1835 to impress the women he was stepping out with. Climb it in good weather to see extended views of Connemara across Galway Bay. 

The Cliffs of Moher are part of a unique landscape called the Burren and both have UNESCO Geopark status. The archaeological, geological, and botanical significance of this karst limestone-rich area and the seven dedicated geo sites make it an enthralling and eerily beautiful place to visit.

The Burren scenic drive is 41 miles long and starts at Kilfenora, a historic cathedral town. Before you set off, take the time to visit the Burren Visitor Centre to understand the weird terrain you’re about to drive through.

Cliffs of Moher - Tour of Ireland road trip

Day 13 | Ferry To Inishmore From Galway

Inishmore is the largest of the Isles of Aran, and you can reach it by ferry from Galway Bay or Doolin. On the island, you’ll find Ireland at its most authentic. It is the home of traditional music and one of the few places left where Irish is the dominant language. 

I left the car in Galway Bay as only local cars are permitted on Inishmore. Hiring a bike was the best option for me as I wanted the freedom to explore at my leisure. The seal colony was disappointing as I didn’t see any. The huge views were worth the stop, however. 

The Worm Hole cave was a natural marvel, and I loved Dun Aengus Fort, an imposing ancient stone fort with massive walls and a defensive pattern of spikes. My favourite part of my visit to Inishmore was cycling gleefully along the quiet lanes of the old cottage road with the wind in my hair. It felt remote, rugged, and like I was seeing the real Ireland. 

The Aran Islands are a treasure worth experiencing, any traveller will be transfixed with the bucolic  magic of Inishmore .

Inishmore on Aran Islands

Day 14 | Drive To Dublin Via Kilkenny

I didn’t want to waste the last day of my Ireland road trip. So, instead of driving straight back to Dublin for the late-night ferry to Holyhead, I stopped in Kilkenny. The main attraction is  Kilkenny Castle  and Parkland, a Victorian remodelling of a 13th-century castle. It has an absorbing history, informative tour guides, and outstanding homemade cakes in the café. 

Kilkenny  is a medieval town, and it was a joy to wander down the cobbled streets and feel the history underneath my feet. The ancient architecture is remarkably well-preserved, and the Medieval Mile Trail brings old stories to life. 

The Smithwick’s Experience is one of Kilkenny’s newest tourist attractions and is the story of the town’s love affair with their 300-year-old beer. The tour is very hands-on, you’ll be milling the malt and stirring the mash, so it’s good fun.

Dublin is 90 minutes away from Kilkenny, so before I left, I had a bite at Kyteler’s Inn, a pub built in 1324. The food was tasty, and the old building had lots of gorgeous little nooks and crannies to explore. The stained-glass windows are works of art in themselves. 

trip to ireland planner

More Ireland Road Trip Itineraries

Ireland road trip 10 days.

  • Howth + Ireland’s Eye
  • Copper Coast
  • Blarney Castle + Killarney
  • Ring of Kerry
  • Cliffs of Moher

Ireland Road Trip 7 Days

Handy links for your ireland road trip.

Here are some useful links for your Ireland road trip, find tours, and where to stay. These are companies I have used and can recommend with confidence.

Accommodation In Ireland

  • Best accommodation deals with  Booking.com
  • Top hostel deals with  Hostelworld
  • Experience Irish hospitality, stay with locals via  Homestay

Tours In Ireland

  • Multi-day tours in Ireland with  G Adventures
  • Book attractions and multi-day tours with  Viator
  • Discover tours and things to do in Ireland on  Tripadvisor

Transport For Ireland

  • Hire your  own wheels with Discover Cars
  • Check train times with  Irish Rail
  • Travel from the UK to Dublin or Rosslare with  Irish Ferries .

PIN FOR YOUR 2 WEEK IRELAND ROAD TRIP

Guide to the perfect Ireland Road Trip from Dublin

Disclosure : This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. It comes at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

trip to ireland planner

I'm a content creator for She Wanders Miles ♡ Digital marketer, photographer, hiker, and nature lover ♡ Passion for slow, sustainable and responsible travel ♡ Join me in discovering our beautiful world across 7 continents.

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Planning a Trip to Ireland: 21 Hot Tips + Mistakes to Avoid

Home » Blog » Europe » Ireland » Planning a Trip to Ireland: 21 Hot Tips + Mistakes to Avoid

Ireland is a stunningly beautiful country with so much to see and do that it’s easy to get overwhelmed. This guide is full of tips and advice for planning a trip to Ireland so you can have the perfect vacation.

Kerry Cliffs Ireland

Are you planning a trip to Ireland and want to make sure everything goes smoothly?

Well, you’re in the right place because we’re sharing all sorts of practical tips and advice from our own personal experience to help make your time perfect! 

Learn from our mistakes (and our happy discoveries – there are lots!) so that you can plan your dream trip to Ireland with no regrets!

Let’s dive right in!

Want to save time and energy on planning?

In June 2023, we spent 2 weeks traveling around Ireland and living in a campervan. We were lucky enough to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!

We took our 2-week travels and are in the process of  creating the perfect Ireland road trip itinerary .  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice, once it’s finalized! Just click below to get on the waitlist for our  2-week Ireland road trip itinerary !

trip to ireland planner

1. Rent a car (if you feel comfortable!)

Ireland car

Renting a car in Ireland will give you absolute freedom to explore the country at your own pace while stopping at hidden gems and cozy pubs that the tour buses miss.

The country isn’t well-connected with public transportation, so in order to see more than Dublin (which you absolutely should, by the way!), you will need to take a tour bus. 

Don’t get me wrong, you can still have a great trip on a bus tour. However, we think you’ll have an even better time self-driving (as long as you feel comfortable). 

We’re saying this from experience: We’ve done both the bus tour and the rental car route, and we much prefer the latter. So here’s our (honest) opinion on the topic.

Read more: We put together a guide with everything you need to know about  renting a car in Ireland .

Bus tour in Ireland

During our first trip to Ireland, we booked a shuttle from Dublin to Galway, and from there were able to do a bus tour of the Cliffs of Moher and the surrounding countryside. We had a great trip, and if you’re feeling really uneasy about driving, then go for it. 

Here’s a really highly-rated tour that hits many top sights.

Rental car in Ireland

Cliffs of Moher Ireland campervan

On our most recent trip to Ireland, we rented a car (and a campervan , but that’s a whole different topic!), and were able to see so much more of the country than when we didn’t drive ourselves. 

We’d highly recommend going this route if you’re debating. 

Here’s why:

  • Driving ourselves meant we could get off the beaten path . We were able to explore places where it was just us. No other people. There are actually some areas that tour buses simply can’t go due to size limitations, so driving yourself really opens up your itinerary to finding the hidden gems.
  • We could go at our own pace. When we got hungry, we could stop at a cozy restaurant that didn’t need to accommodate a bus load of people. We could pull off to the side of the road when we saw epic views (and go to the bathroom when the need arose!). We were able to spend more time in places we loved, and get back on the road if we were bored. 
  • Plus, we saved quite a bit of money doing things ourselves compared to joining a tour group.

This is the company we personally use to find the best deals on car rentals.

2. Prepare yourself for driving

Ireland car driving

If you’ve decided to rent a car (or campervan!), first of all – yay! We really think you’ll love it.

If you’re feeling at all nervous about driving in another country (specifically one where you’ll be on the left side of the road), let me take a minute to calm your fears a bit.

We have an entire guide to driving in Ireland that walks you through all sorts of tips that will be super helpful. Trust me when I say you’ll want to read it before your trip. Here are a couple of tips to get you started:

  • Choose the smallest possible rental car that will work for what you need. The roads in Ireland are narrow, so larger vehicles can be much harder to drive. We speak from experience!
  • If you know how to drive stick shift then you’ll save some money on your rental car, as the majority of cars in Ireland are manual. If you don’t know how, be sure you choose a car with an automatic transmission (likely more money). 
  • Keep reading the rest of our tips here!

3. Consider making it a campervan trip

Ring of Kerry Ireland campervan

We’re obsessed with campervan travel. Maybe it’s not your thing. That’s cool, skip down to the next tip!

But if you’re intrigued, keep reading…

We’ve rented campervans in 4 countries around the world and have built 3 of our own campervans from scratch. Like I said, we’re obsessed.

We think Ireland makes a great campervan destination because there are campgrounds throughout the country and it gives you the opportunity to explore a bit off the beaten path. You also have a kitchen and bed on wheels, so you’ll likely save quite a bit of money.

Plus, it’s just a great adventure!

If you want to know more about renting a campervan in Ireland, we’ve got all the info you need!

4. Look for unique stays over hotels

Draperstown AirBnb Northern Ireland living area

From cozy treehouses to converted Victorian stables and actual real-life castles, there are tons of dreamy Ireland Airbnbs to choose from for a truly memorable experience.

Some people complain about Airbnb but honestly, I think it’s mostly because people don’t know how to sort through the crap and find the truly excellent stays.

These days, we almost exclusively stay in Airbnbs because we’ve found they’re much easier when choosing accommodation with kids, since you can get multiple rooms and a kitchen. 

And with a few tricks up our sleeves, we almost always have amazing stays. 

  • When possible, we book stays with a rating of 4.9 or above . I’m kind of a snob when it comes to reviews, and I’ve found this to be the magic number for finding a really great stay. Hosts that have high ratings want to keep it that way. Depending on the location and your budget, this isn’t always possible, but this is what we always aim for.
  • Read reviews thoroughly. I think a lot of people skip this step, but I always scour reviews to see what people say about a place in addition to the numeric rating. Is it dirty? Cold? Too hot? Not suitable for children? Far from the city center? Pay attention to the things that matter and ignore the aspects that wouldn’t bother you.
  • Look at all the photos. I always find it suspicious when there are very few photos of a property, or when hosts provide lots of stock images from town. When booking a property. I don’t need to see the city, I want to see the Airbnb! I typically book places that show all corners of a space because I know what I’m getting.
  • Book with superhosts when possible. They are the best of the best hosts.
Psst! Want to experience a super fun and unique stay in Ireland? Check out our Ireland glamping guide !

5. Limit your time in Dublin

Temple Bar Dublin Ireland

Want my completely honest opinion? 

I hope you said yes because I’m going to give it to you anyway…

I think Dublin is just okay. There, I said it.

It’s not that I dislike it (there are actually some really cool things to do in Dublin ), but the rest of the country is so much… better.

Once you’re outside the city, you’ll swap the (sometimes) dirty streets for rolling hills, and the crowded, touristy pubs for local joints with charm. In the countryside, you’ll also find much cheaper accommodation and seriously stunning landscapes.

You’ll likely be flying in or out of Ireland’s capital, so spend a night or two here. But don’t only stay in Dublin. 

In my opinion, 2 full days in Dublin is plenty . You could even do just one day in the city if you’re pressed for time and want to prioritize exploring the countryside.

6. Prioritize your top sights

Dingle Peninsula Ireland

What are 3 things you definitely want to do or see in Ireland? If you’re traveling with a partner, ask them the same question.

Need help deciding? Check out our list of the best things to do in Ireland for inspiration!

Now you should have a list of 3-6 “must do” sights/activities. The things that you’d be really upset to skip. 

Maybe these are the most popular attractions in Ireland (like the Cliffs of Moher or the Guinness Storehouse tour). They’re popular for a reason! 

Or perhaps you aren’t into the super touristy sights and you‘d rather prioritize the hidden gems. 

These are the things that you are going to plan your route around. You’ll certainly be able to do and see more things, but these are your nonnegotiables. The things that you want to allot plenty of time for. 

Fill out your Ireland Bucket List

Plot your 3-6 “must do” things on a map. This should give you an idea of where in Ireland you will be traveling. 

Now, start to add in some “second-tier” activities or sights that you’d love to see but wouldn’t be devastated if you missed.

By this point, you should have a really great list of places you want to visit and things you want to do. This should help you shape a great route!

7. Add Northern Ireland (if you have time)

Giant's Causeway Northern Ireland

I’ve read a lot of Ireland guides that say something along the lines of, “You have to include Northern Ireland on your itinerary.” 

I can agree with this statement to a point. 

It’s true, a lot of people forget about Northern Ireland and skip it completely . Not only are there some really cool hidden gems in the north, but there’s a lot of important history there. And if you have the time, include it on your route.

However, if you are working with limited time, it’s not possible to see everything (more on that in the next tip!). If that’s the case, save it for your next trip because it definitely is worth visiting. (And more than just Belfast!) 

Planning to visit Northern Ireland? Be sure to read #19 on this list!

8. Know that you can’t see everything in one trip

Blarney Castle Grounds Ireland

This kind of piggybacks off of the previous tip, but it is a point that I needed to hear when planning my own trip to Ireland.

Even though it’s a relatively small country (one tenth the size of Texas!), there are so many things to do in Ireland that you could easily spend a month exploring and still not see it all.

Try your best to take our advice and don’t pack your itinerary too full . I know, I know, it’s hard. FOMO is real!

One of the reasons I’d caution you away from squeezing everything in is that many of the country roads are narrow and much slower-going than you’d expect. This means getting from place to place can take longer than Google Maps tells you. 

Use our advice in tip #5 to help prioritize your time. 

And just know that you might want to return for Ireland Trip 2.0. Okay, scratch that – you’ll definitely want to come back! (We’re already dreaming about our third trip!)

Repeat after me: I can’t see it all. I’ll just have to come back again! 

9. Choose the time of year wisely

Sneem Seaweed Baths Ireland

Take a moment to think about what you want your trip to Ireland to look like. 

What things do you want to do? What are your top priorities? 

If you want to prioritize avoiding crowds and saving money , you’ll want to travel at a less-popular time of year. Think late fall, winter, and early spring.

If you visit in summer but hate crowds and paying top dollar (or euro…), you might be disappointed, as this is the busiest and most expensive season.

Alternatively, if you want to do a lot of hiking, camping , and outdoor activities , late spring, summer, and early fall will be best.

If you plan your trip to Ireland in February with dreams of sunny hikes and camping experiences, you might be bummed to find yourself in a cold and drizzly climate.

The best time of year for you might be different from our favorite time (late spring or early fall). It all comes down to your priorities and expectations.

Still unsure? We have a guide that goes over the best time of year to visit Ireland that should help you decide.

10. Know about bank holidays

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If you’re traveling to Ireland from a different country (like the USA), it is a good idea to Google “Ireland holidays” before booking your flight. 

There are several bank holidays in the spring and summer , and if your trip falls over these times, you’ll want to know.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t travel over bank holiday weekends, but it’s good to know when they fall. Many Irish people are off work on bank holidays , making them popular times for travel. This means you will likely need to book accommodation for the bank holiday as well as the adjacent weekend well in advance. 

Our experience: We found that even campgrounds required reservations much earlier than at other times. The campground where we wanted to stay required a 5-night minimum during the holiday weekend, so you might also find requirements for booking. 

11. Give yourself strategic buffer time 

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It should come as no surprise that Ireland sees a lot of rain throughout the year. 

Weirdly enough, we only had one rainy day on our 2-week road trip, so we got very lucky. We’ll cross all our fingers and toes that you get lucky, too, and don’t have too much rain. But it’s a good idea to be prepared nonetheless. 

This means not only packing waterproof gear, but also planning a little bit of wiggle room into your itinerary where possible. 

We’d recommend adding just a little bit of flexibility around your “must do” activities or driving routes (like the Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula ) and sights that are weather-dependent. 

I mean, how disappointing would it be to arrive at the place you really want to see to be met with terrible weather? If your itinerary has no flexibility and you need to move on, you may have to skip over that bucket list place completely. 

It won’t be possible to add buffer time on every single day, but try to make your timing a little “looser” on the days with your top priority places. 

You may even want to come up with a back-up plan if you encounter terrible weather, or have a few “extras” in mind if things go perfectly and you have ample time to explore (yay!). 

12. Come up with a solid budget

Rock of Cashel Ireland

Before booking all the things , come up with a travel budget for your trip to Ireland. 

If you’re traveling with a partner , this is a really important topic to discuss to make sure you’re on the same page.

Once you have a set amount of money in mind, there are some non-negotiable costs (a.k.a. things that you can’t find cheaper versions of) you’ll want to address.

Steps to making your travel budget

  • Flights: Do a little research to see how much flights from your home to Ireland cost. Subtract that amount from your total budget. 
  • Travel insurance: It should take just a few minutes to get a quote for a policy. Subtract this from your total.
  • Alternatively, if you’re planning to rent a campervan (transport and accommodation in one!), do a bit of comparison on Motorhome Republic to find an estimated cost.
  • Bucket list experiences : Subtract the costs of your “must do” experiences (#5 on this list) from your total. We want to be sure you do the things you really want to do, so factor in this cost right away!

Now that you have all the non-negotiable costs addressed, take the total amount of money left and divide it by the number of days you plan to travel. 

What you’re left with is your daily allowance to spend on accommodation, food, and other activities . 

Knowing this number can help you determine whether you should be looking at budget accommodations or whether you have some wiggle room to splurge a bit.

Important: If you don’t think you have enough money for accommodation or food (which are both essentials!), you will need to rethink your total budget.

Other budget tips we swear by

  • We’d recommend giving yourself a 10% “padding” on your budget for incidentals, souvenirs, or last-minute splurges. 
  • We’d also recommend keeping track of your spending on your trip so you stay on budget. It’s really easy to overspend if you’re not watching it!

Working on a tight budget? We’ve got some money-saving travel tips to help !

13. Pre-book everything in Dublin

Teeling Irish coffee Dublin

Tours. Restaurants. Entry tickets.

Book it all.

It doesn’t have to be months out, but be sure you don’t forget because just about everything requires advanced booking. And they do sell out. We learned the hard way with a few of these.

Here are some of the popular things to do in Dublin that you should book ahead of time:

  • this is a combo tour that includes the Book of Kells and Dublin Castle
  • Guinness Storehouse
  • alternative: Teeling Distillery
  • alternative: Roe & Co Distillery
  • alternative: Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery
  • Kilmainham Gaol prison (check for cancellations, we snagged tickets this way!)
  • alternative: Dublin Free Walking Tour  

14. Make reservations at key restaurants

Belfast pub Northern Ireland

If there are any restaurants where you really want to dine in Ireland, go to their website and see if they take reservations. 

You can also look at their location on Google Maps and click on “reviews”. Use the search tool to find any reviews that mention “reservations”. This bit of research will tell you whether reservations are recommended.

We’d advise you to make your bookings at least 2 weeks before your travel dates so you’re not disappointed (set an alarm in your calendar so you don’t forget).

Here are some restaurants we loved that we had to make reservations for:

  • Morans Oyster Cottage , County Galway
  • Ard Bia at Nimmos , Galway
  • we’d recommend booking a snug for £10 here for a fun experience
  • food here is average in our opinions, but the historic venue and atmosphere are great!
  • Gallaghers Boxty House , Dublin
  • Bar 1661 (cocktails), Dublin

Want more Ireland restaurant recommendations? Check out this Reel!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Katie & Ben | Travel Family (@twowanderingsoles)
Psst! In our Ireland itinerary we share the BEST restaurants in Ireland (along with which require reservations) so all the research is done for you.

Insider Tip: If you didn’t get dinner reservations to a restaurant you really want to try, head there for lunch instead. Many restaurants will have much more availability earlier in the day and sometimes the same (or similar) menu.

15. Get an eSIM

Airalo Install

Gone are the days of needing to go into a phone store upon landing in a new country. eSIMs make it so easy to get local cell service around the world.

Essentially, you will download a SIM card onto your phone (kind of like how you’d download an app). 

Confused about how it works? We have an entire guide to the eSIM company we use, Airalo .

We used an eSIM in Ireland and found it essential to getting directions on Google Maps, making reservations at restaurants (though you can only call on WhatsApp), and uploading stories on Instagram. ( Check out our Ireland highlights here! )

16. Pack for all weather 

Connemara Ireland rain

Ireland has a notoriously rainy climate, and you’ll definitely want to be prepared with rain gear.

Pack with layering and waterproofing in mind. 

Here are some things to make sure you pack:

  • small travel umbrella
  • boots or shoes that will do well in the rain
  • dry bag or waterproof backpack (if you plan to spend time outdoors and want to keep valuables dry)
  • wool socks are best for hiking and do well in damp conditions
  • rain cover for stroller (if you’re traveling with a baby or toddler)
  • toddler rain suit (we like this one!)
Good to know: Waterproof is better than “water resistant”. When choosing rain jackets or other gear, we always recommend looking for material that is actually waterproof.

17. Instead of Uber, use these apps

Dublin Ireland

One thing that surprised us in Ireland was that when we ordered an Uber, a taxi showed up. After this happened a few times, we realized that in Ireland, Ubers are not private drivers like we’re used to in the US . 

It essentially just connects you to a taxi.

However, here’s the issue… We found ourselves waiting. And waiting. This happened a lot when we ordered Ubers. And we weren’t quite sure why…

Then we learned from a local that there are far less drivers on the Uber app than are on these other apps:

  • Bolt  

Both are only available in select cities in Ireland. So if you’re in a place where the apps don’t work, simply hail a taxi since it is the same price as the apps anyway.

18. Travel insurance

Slieve League Ireland

It should come as no surprise that we always get travel insurance . For every single trip . No exceptions.

For our trip to Ireland, we got a reasonable policy through Safety Wing that covered the two of us, plus our 1.5-year-old daughter. 

For a 3-week trip through Ireland and England for the 3 of us, it cost $150 . If you break that down, it’s just $7 per day. Or less than $2.40 per person, per day.

It’s a no-brainer.

We always hope we don’t need to use our policy (because that means things have gone wrong), but we did in fact need to make a claim on this trip.

A spontaneous lightning storm meant our flight was grounded and we had to get on a new flight the next day. Our travel insurance reimbursed us for the additional transport to and from the airport, as well as a night at the Airbnb we had to forfeit.

So in the end, our policy more than paid for itself.

Not sure where to start? We’ve got an article that walks you through everything you need to know about choosing the best travel insurance policy for you.

19. Read up on the history of the Troubles

Belfast black taxi

While Ireland has a rich history that spans thousands of years (which you’ll surely learn about on your trip), we’d recommend brushing up your knowledge on the more recent Irish history… a.k.a. “the Troubles”.

In Northern Ireland, tensions between Catholics and Protestants led to a 30-year period of deadly violence which began in the late 1960s and continued through the 90s. 

Even though this was happening during my childhood, I’m a little embarrassed to say I didn’t learn much about the Troubles in school. 

If you plan to visit the north of Ireland, do a bit of reading on the topic. This article on History.com goes through a timeline of events that lead up to the Troubles, and it’s pretty informative.

And definitely take a Black Taxi Tour in Belfast to hear a firsthand account of this time period from someone who actually lived it.

Good to know: While we’ve referred to it as Northern Ireland in this article for ease of explanation, we were told by a couple of Irish people that some people who live in the north don’t like the negative connotations that “Northern Ireland” has and they prefer it being called “the North of Ireland”.

20. Don’t plan to “just wing it”

Connemara Ireland sheep

Don’t get me wrong – I love this type of travel in many situations. But in Ireland, I think it’s important to come with a plan. 

If you don’t, you’ll be disappointed to find the major things are already totally booked, or you’ll totally pass by hidden gems because you just didn’t know they were there.

Before your trip to Ireland, be sure to come up with a solid plan for how you want to spend your time. 

Or, you can cheat and leave the heavy lifting to us… (keep reading for more!)…

21. Let us do the hard work for you

I spent an embarrassing amount of time planning our trip to Ireland. Planning trips is kind of my passion (being that I’m a travel blogger and all!), so I didn’t mind. 

But if you don’t want to spend the wee hours of the night behind a laptop screen (don’t blame ya!) and you don’t want to copy a super basic route that only hits the “must see” places, I’ve got a solution for you…

Grab our Ireland itinerary !

We did the hard work so all you need to do is pack your bags! (Oh, and book that flight!)

Here’s why you need our Ireland itinerary:

  • We actually went to these places, so we have real, personal experience ! (It’s not just an AI robot gathering all the top spots in one place.)
  • We included the must-sees, but we leaned heavily into hidden gems . If you’re like us, getting off the beaten path is always the highlight of your travels, so that’s what we focus on. In this itinerary, you’ll find all sorts of unique experiences that you won’t find in any other Ireland travel guides.
  • We’re huge foodies and do A LOT of research when it comes to choosing restaurants. Trust me, I spent hours scouring reviews, and then actually ate the food ourselves to make sure it’s good advice. 
  • We have a thing for unique, yet budget-friendly accommodation , so we’ve recommended places along this route that aren’t just your average hotel room. They are destinations in and of themselves! 
  • We did half of our trip in a campervan and half staying in Airbnbs. We’ve created this itinerary to work for you whether you’re camping or staying in hotels.
  • Everything is organized for you in a beautifully-designed itinerary that walks you through each day, including driving times, and a curated interactive map just for you .
  • It is incredibly affordable! Itineraries of a similar caliber are upwards of $100. We’re selling ours for just $17. This is truly the cheapest (yet most epic!) Ireland itinerary out there. For just $17, you have the best Ireland trip planned just for you!

Are you planning a trip to Ireland?

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

  • Renting a Car in Ireland: Essential Tips & Warnings
  • Best Time to Visit Ireland: When to Go & When to Avoid!
  • Places to Visit in Ireland You Can’t Miss!
  • Unforgettable Things to do in Ireland: Ultimate Bucket List

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Getting here

Getting to Ireland

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We're closer than you think. Just hop on a plane or ferry and you’re on your way. Travel direct or join us from mainland Europe. However you get here, Ireland will be ready when you are.

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George best belfast city airport.

Named after the famous footballer from Belfast, this airport is right in the city and caters for international and domestic flights.

Getting to Belfast city center

Looking for things to do nearby.

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Titanic Belfast

Belfast’s state-of-the-art museum tells the compelling story of HMS Titanic, from the triumph of her construction to the tragedy of her maiden voyage

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5 reasons Belfast tastes amazing

From the famous St George’s Market to a first-class Titanic menu, Belfast is “buzzing”.

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Belfast in 72 hours

A thriving culture scene, rich history and great restaurants – fall in love with Belfast.

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Causeway Coastal Route

The Causeway Coastal Route is one of Northern Ireland's greatest adventures.

Northern Ireland

Belfast International Airport

This is the main airport of Northern Ireland and is close to the city, offers good transport links and caters for international and domestic flights.

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5 Titanic tales

From the Belfast museum to Cobh harbour, discover the stories behind Titanic

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Giant's Causeway

Take it to the edge at this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site along Northern Ireland's Causeway Coastal Route

Cork Airport

Gateway to the south of Ireland, this busy airport just outside Cork city caters to domestic and international flights and is noted for the punctuality of its flights!

Getting to Cork city center

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Inspiration

Wild Atlantic Way

Marvel at the stunning scenery along the world’s longest defined coastal touring route.

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Destination

Make a beeline for the quirky city of Cork.

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Dingle Peninsula

A trip to the Dingle Peninsula means amazing scenery and incomparable inspiration.

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Food trails in Ireland

Fancy exploring Ireland's food scene? Here are some of our best food trails.

City of Derry Airport

Close to the impressive walled city of Derry~Londonderry and a gateway for the northwest of Ireland, this airport caters for direct flights from Europe and domestic flights.

Getting to Derry~Londonderrry city center

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Derry-Londonderry

Be wowed by the walled wonder of Derry-Londonderry.

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Explore Derry~ Londonderry

This fun city is a great base to explore the Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way.

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Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge

Sway with the wind as you cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, and take in the stunning views of the Causeway Coastal Route

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Inishowen Peninsula

Northern Lights, Star Wars cinematics: there’s nothing quite like the Inishowen Peninsula.

Donegal Airport

You want pretty? Donegal Airport has been voted one of the most scenic airports in the world and offers domestic and UK flights right to the Wild Atlantic Way in the north east of Ireland.

Getting to Letterkenny town center

Looking for things to do nearby.

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6 charming towns of the Wild Atlantic Way

Character, tradition and charm: check out these spots on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Republic of Ireland

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6 coastal walks

Experience an invigorating coastal walking adventure on the island of Ireland!

Dublin Airport

The largest airport in Ireland is where it is at for most visitors. It caters for most of our domestic and international flights and is also close to the city center and the motorway network so your vacation can start as soon as you land.

Getting to Dublin city center

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Dublin: food and drink

Traditional treats, great pubs and cutting-edge chefs make Dublin a taste sensation.

Dublin City

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Dublin city: top attractions

First time in Dublin? Here are some uniquely Dublin attractions you shouldn’t miss.

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Discover adventure in Dublin

Bracing swims, city kayaking and cycling trails: explore Dublin's adventurous side!

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Dublin's talking statues

If ten of Dublin's most famous statues could talk, what stories would they tell?

Ireland West Airport

Bypass the big-city bustle and fly right into this compact airport in the west of Ireland, which caters for domestic and European flights.

Getting to Galway city center

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Galway city

Galway is laid back, relaxed and ready for a party.

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Escape into the “savage beauty” of Connemara.

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Kylemore Abbey

A tragic tale and epic romance; Hollywood’s scriptwriters have nothing on the legendary love story behind Kylemore Abbey

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Lights, camera, Connemara

Ever wonder Connemara has its own film trail?

Kerry Airport

Close to the famous Ring of Kerry in the south west, this small but perfectly formed airport offers direct flights from Europe and also caters to domestic flights.

Getting to Killarney town center

Shannon airport.

An international airport with a laidback feel, Shannon, near Limerick city, was the first transatlantic airport in Ireland and is popular with visitors to the west and south west.

Getting to Limerick city center

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Limerick city

Explore a vibrant city on the River Shannon.

Limerick City

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Discover the Burren, a rocky limestone paradise on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Burren National Park

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Cliffs of Moher

It takes a whole lot to be named a UNESCO Global Geopark – here's what earned the Cliffs of Moher pride of place

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Hidden gems along the Wild Atlantic Way

This is the Wild Atlantic Way like you've never seen it before.

Ballycastle Port

Right on the famous Causeway Coastal Route, Ballycastle welcomes foot passengers from Campbeltown in Scotland.

Transfer times to Ballycastle town centre:

Nearby things to do.

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10 top Northern Ireland experiences

Fantastic food tours, Titanic trails and even walking on water!

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Great food, traditional pubs and incredible Titanic history take Belfast to the next level

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Slow adventure in Northern Ireland

Slow travel is the way to go and Northern Ireland is your first stop!

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Game of Thrones® territory

Go behind the scenes of these Game of Thrones® filming locations in Northern Ireland!

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Northern Ireland: embrace a giant spirit

Experience the larger-than-life attitude that makes Northern Ireland a place like no other...

Belfast Port

Gateway to Northern Ireland, Belfast port is just a short distance from the city center and offers great transport links. Perfect whether you are travelling by cruise liner or ferry.

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Galleries and museums in Ireland

Ireland's museums are brimming with culture and living heritage. Here are 21 to visit.

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10 reasons why Ireland is always in season

No matter the time of year, you’ll find a warm welcome.

Cork Ferry Port

Picturesque Cork Ferry Port on the south coast is located in one of the largest natural harbors in the world. It offers easy city access and good transport links for ferry passengers from the UK and Europe.

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Ireland’s incredible natural phenomena

Be amazed at the amazing natural phenomena that can be found on the island of Ireland.

Dublin Port

Whether you are travelling by cruise liner or ferry, Dublin Port on the east coast is a great place to dock – just a quick journey away from Dublin city center and well connected to the motorway network.

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Dublin city: 9 literary attractions

Discover Dublin's literary heritage with these 9 attractions.

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Dublin city: music

U2 call the city home and Phil Lynott loved this ‘Old Town’. Dublin IS music.

Right on the famous Causeway Coastal Route, Larne is a gateway to Northern Ireland. Good news for ferry passengers sailing direct from Scotland and for cruise passengers who get to explore the northern coast.

Getting to Larne town centre

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The Causeway Coast

Embark on an epic adventure on the Causeway Coast

Rosslare Europort

A location on the "sunny" south east coast of Ireland, direct ferry services from the UK and Europe and good road and rail links make Rosslare a great place to dock in Ireland.

Getting to Rosslare town centre

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Big houses in Ireland

Discover how Ireland’s history is elegantly entwined with our “Big Houses”.

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9 epic castles and conquests

9 castles in Ireland's Ancient East haunted by tales of battle and betrayal.

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Towns and villages of Ireland’s Ancient East

Let yourself be charmed by these charming towns and villages

spring

During your stay...

Discover the promise of spring in the air.

Feel the whole island waking up and unfurling in the warm sunshine. And then, of course, there's St Patrick's Day...

Things to do

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Ireland’s St Patrick’s celebrations

Enjoy these great real and digital events from around the island.

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Ireland’s weather

Ireland’s weather information with weather forecast and everything you need to pack.

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Home of St Patrick Festival

Where better to celebrate the life of St Patrick, than where his legacy runs deep? Get yourself to Armagh for the celebrations at the Home of St Patrick Festival!

summer

Enjoy Ireland's endless summer days

Ireland in summer is a hazy mix of exploring, relaxing and enjoying the fact that you've got nothing but time.

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Slow down in Ireland

Ireland is the perfect destination for a spot of slow travel.

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Join in the fun around the city on 16 June as Dublin celebrates James Joyce’s love for the city and Bloomsday!

autumn

Bring some fall colour to your life

Get spooky in the home of Halloween and enjoy the fruits of the harvest season.

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Photo tips on snapping Ireland in fall

Let these professional photographers share their tips.

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Galway International Arts Festival

Wowing audiences since 1978, head on over to Galway and immerse yourself in the artistic haven that is the Galway International Arts Festival!

Galway City

winter

Coming in 3 months...

Let ireland warm your heart.

Sure, it's cold outside. But the trick is to wrap up, enjoy those gorgeous frosty walks and then warm up in a cozy traditional pub.

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Ireland's Christmas Markets

Take a seasonal trip to six of Ireland’s most festive Christmas markets.

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Irish coffee

Try this original recipe at home, or warm up with a drink at one of Ireland's pubs

The Irish Road Trip

20 Days In Ireland: 56 Detailed Itineraries To Choose From

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

20 Days In Ireland: 56 Detailed Itineraries To Choose From

Yep, we have 56 20-day Ireland itineraries ready and waiting for you.

Ehhhhhh… but why 56 you ask?! The reason for the ridiculous level of detail is that we’ve tried to cover every  (I hope…) way of spending 20 days in Ireland.

Each of our 20-day itineraries was meticulously planned and:

  • Follows logical routes we’re confident that you’ll love
  • Has a detailed stop-by-stop itinerary
  • Makes planning a trip to Ireland very easy

Below, you can pick a 20-day Ireland itinerary based on:

20 day ireland itinerary

WAIT!   Please take 20 seconds to have a glance at the graphic above – it will help you pick your perfect Ireland itinerary below!

As you can see, we have 20-day Ireland itinerary guides that cover every angle imaginable. To find your perfect itinerary, make sure to read section below carefully .

How to browse our Ireland in 20 days library

Slieve League

Photos via Shutterstock

The quickest way to find the best 20-day Ireland itinerary below is to click on your starting point from the list of places below.

We’ve used Ireland’s main airports and ferry terminals for our starting points. Simply click on one of them and you’ll be brought to itineraries that begin from that point:

20 days in Ireland from Dublin

Merrion Square

First is our 20-day Ireland itineraries that start in Dublin. This is one of the more popular routes, as Dublin Airport is where many visitors land into.

There are two sections below and they have been split up into on how you plan on getting around Ireland .

As we outlined in this graphic , ‘Fast Trips’ will suit people looking to see/do as much as possible and who don’t  mind moving accommodation frequently while ‘Slow Trips’ are ones where you’ll change hotel/B&B as little as possible.

For those using a car

  • A 20-day slow trip for those with good fitness
  • A 20-day slow trip for those with low fitness
  • A 20-day fast trip for those with good fitness
  • A 20-day fast trip for those with low fitness

For those using public transport

A speedy overview of this route.

Kylemore Abbey

You’ll spend the first couple of days in Dublin, where you’ll visit the likes of Trinity College , the Guinness Storehouse and some of the finest old-school pubs in Dublin .

You’ll then travel across to Galway for a couple of nights where you can explore the city and take a day trip to Connemara.

The route then takes you down into Clare and Kerry before cutting across to Cork and then back to the start point. Over the course of your 20 days in Ireland you’ll:

  • See many of Ireland’s top attractions
  • Drive the Ring of Kerry
  • See Kylemore Abbey
  • Explore the Dingle Peninsula

20-day Ireland itinerary from Shannon

Loop Head

Shannon is another popular 20-day Ireland itinerary start point as it’s home to the popular Shannon Airport.

We’ve split the itineraries up into two sections – the first is for those of you with a car and the second is those of you relying on buses, trains and tours.

As we explain in this graphic , our fast 20 days in Ireland itineraries are for those who want to explore as much as possible and who don’t  mind moving about a lot.

Our slow itineraries are for those of you who want to move accommodation as little as is physically possible.

St Mary's Cathedral

One of the reasons that I love Shannon as a start point is that there’s very little driving needed to get to a multitude of bases for your first handful of nights.

Our routes use Limerick City as a base for the first night (plenty to see here along with great pubs and restaurants) before continuing down into Kerry and on to Cork.

It then follows the coast around and up to Dublin where you’ll take day trips to Wicklow and the Boyne Valley before making your way back to your start point. If you follow our route from Shannon, you’ll:

  • See some of the best things to do in Clare
  • Visit the largest of the three Aran Islands
  • Explore Killarney National Park
  • Take in some of the most notable castles in Ireland
  • Visit the famous Blarney Castle and tackle the many things to do in Cobh

20-day Ireland itineraries from Belfast

Titanic Experience

Photos by Chris Hill via Tourism Ireland

If you’re spending 20 days in Ireland and you’re beginning your journey from Belfast, this section will be right up your street.

Belfast is a great start point for a trip to Ireland as it gives you plenty of options/routes to play with.

As we outline in this graphic , we’ve split up our itineraries below into two sections – 1 is for those with a car and another is for using buses, trains and organised tours.

Giants Causeway

We’ve given you several ways to spend 20 days in Ireland above, and they vary a lot based on fitness level and mode of transport.

If you’re fit and you have a car, you’ll be visiting the Mourne Mountains early in the trip. You’ll also see the likes of the Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle in Antrim.

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

  • Explore the Causeway Coastal Route
  • See some of the best places to visit in Belfast
  • Explore Glendalough  
  • Get a taste of the Glens of Antrim

20 days in Ireland from Wexford

Hook Lighthouse

If you’re spending 20 days in Ireland and you’re arriving by ferry, the chances are you’ll be landing into Rosslare in County Wexford.

Now, those of you following this route are going to see parts of Ireland that many tourists tend to overlook, including the wild Hook Peninsula .

As is the case with all of our itineraries, we split them up below by the mode of transport that you’re using. If you’re confused about ‘Fast Trips’ and ‘Slow Trips’, refer to this graphic as it’ll clear everything up.

Annestown Beach

A disclaimer: This 20-day Ireland itinerary varies hugely depending on how you’re getting around.

The bus services around some of the more rural parts of Wexford make getting to some parts of the county impossible.

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

  • Explore the often-missed Hook Peninsula
  • See the buzzy little town of Kinsale in Cork
  • Tick-off many of the best things to do in Killarney
  • See Kilkenny City, Waterford City and plenty more

20 days in Ireland from Cork

Cobh

Our 20-day Ireland itinerary guides that begin in Cork focus on the bottom half of Ireland, as you can see from the graphic above.

These routes take in a plethora of gorgeous walking trails, scenic drives and countless historical sites.

As usual, we’ve split them up for those of you with a car and for those of you without.

Kinsale

County Cork is a great start point for a road trip, especially for those visiting for the first time and looking to see Ireland’s ‘main’ attractions.

Our routes begin by giving you a taste of Cork City (English Market, Cork Gaol, etc.) before taking you through the wonders of wild West Cork .

You’ll then follow the coast right the way around to Kerry and up into Limerick before nipping across to the capital and then back down Cork. If you follow our itineraries from Cork, you’ll see:

  • The wild Beara Peninsula
  • Many of the best things to do in Kerry
  • A chunk of Limerick, Tipperary and Clare
  • Plenty more

Ireland in 20 days from Knock

Benwee Walk

Photo left + bottom right: Gareth McCormack. Top right: Anne-Marie Flynn (via Failte Ireland)

Up next is our 20 days in Ireland guides that start and end in Knock in County Mayo. Now, there likely won’t be a huge number of you beginning your journey from here.

However, it’s a popular starting point for some, so here we are. This is one of my favourite routes as you’re thrown straight into a corner of Ireland that many tourists tend to miss – Sligo.

Although it’s wedged between the very popular county of Donegal, many visiting tend to overlook it. If you add it to your itinerary, you’re in for a treat.

Below, you can pick itineraries kicking off in Mayo based on trip speed, your fitness levels and how you’ll get around (we explain how to browse the itineraries in this graphic ).

Streedagh Beach

Those of you kicking off your 20 days in Ireland from Knock are in for a treat, as it’s a stone’s throw from the best the west of Ireland has to offer.

This road trip starts with a bang, taking you straight to the scenic county of Sligo, where you’ll spend the first few days.

You’ll then take in the glorious Mayo coast before moving down through a chunk of the Wild Atlantic Way.

You’ll then cut across to the capital, where you’ll spend a day exploring some of the many things to do in Dublin before taking a day trip to Wicklow and another to the Boyne Valley. If you follow our route from Knock, you’ll:

  • See the magnificent Achill Island
  • Explore scenic ‘Yeats Country’
  • Sample many of the best things to do in Mayo
  • Discover the finest landscapes in Wicklow
  • See some of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland

20-day Ireland itinerary guides beginning in Donegal

Lough Salt 

Photo left: Chris Hill. Others: Nomos Productions (via Failte Ireland)

The last of our 20 days in Ireland guides begin in Donegal. For those of you with a car, you have a lot of flexibility, and you’ll make the most of it if you follow our itineraries.

For those of you using public transport, you’re much more limited as Donegal has very limited services in places.

As always, we’ve split the different itineraries up into sections for those of you with a car and for those without.

Horn Head

Right, a disclaimer – the car itineraries differ  massively  in comparison to the public transport itineraries. The reason for this is that public transport in parts of Donegal is  very  limited.

However, we’re confident that you’ll enjoy the routes we’ve chosen. For those of you travelling by car, you’ll explore a good chunk of Donegal, taking in the best of its scenery.

You’ll then move down along the coast and into Sligo, Mayo and Galway before spinning back up to Belfast and around the coast to a part of Donegal you missed at the start.

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

  • See the incredible Slieve League Cliffs
  • Tackle the Inishowen 100
  • Explore Connemara and many of Galway’s top attractions
  • Visit the lively town of Westport
  • Tick off some of the best things to do in Donegal

FAQs about exploring Ireland in 20 days

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Is 20 days in Ireland enough?’ to ‘What route is best?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Is 20 days in Ireland too long?

Definitely not. While Ireland is no where near as big as the likes of Canada, getting around it takes time. 20 days will give you enough space to explore a nice chunk of the island.

What to do in Ireland for 20 days?

It’ll depend on you and how you like to travel. If you want to see as much as possible, follow one of our ‘Fast-Trips’ above. If you want to take it slow, pick one of our ‘Slow-Trips’.

Where to spend 20 days in Ireland?

Again, this will depend on you and whether you’ve been here before and what you want to do. If it was me and I was visiting for the first time, I’d aim to arrive in Shannon and then explore the lower half of Ireland.

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Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 34 years and has spent most of the last 10 years creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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

A re 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.

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

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.

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

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!

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. For most travelers, starting …

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Ireland Questions From Our Kids (9&6) - Ireland Forum

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' class=

6 Year Old:

1. When do Irish schools get out for the summer? Will I be able to meet new friends at the playground?

2. Where are the best playgrounds?

3. Do you serve hot dogs?

9 Year Old:

1. Do they have food for picky eaters (I like chicken nuggets, cheeseburgers, mac n cheese, peanut butter & jelly)?

2. What is the best museum for kids?

3. What are the best castles to visit for kids?

Thanks so much for helping us plan!

10 replies to this topic

' class=

Very cute questions!

There is plenty of food for picky eaters. Most kids menus will have things like chicken nuggets, sausages, pasta and pizza. I don’t think mac and cheese is that popular, and you’ll never see peanut butter and jelly in my experience. Jelly is a dessert, served with icecream. I think your jelly is our jam.

trip to ireland planner

The Museum of Country Life near Castlebar is brilliant for Children.

Sorry - Best castle for kids - has to be Bunratty Castle and Folk Park . My own gang loved it when they were small. It has lots of animals including Irish Wolfhounds.

' class=

Responses from my kids, ages 8, 11, and 13... (we visited 1.5 years ago and it was the most amazing trip)--

- another fun playground is at St. Stephens Green in Dublin

- agree with the previous poster that Bunratty Castle and Folk Park was a huge hit, if you're going to be west near Limerick

- everyone did great eating at pubs, there was plenty of kids stuff to choose from. What we'd call "chicken fingers" are called chicken goujons and they were a huge hit with my crew

Have a wonderful trip!

Playgrounds can be vary variable. There are six within 5km of my house. Two are very good, but very busy. Three are fairly basic. One gets the balance just about right.

Outside the city, Bandon has a fantastic new playground.

Further afield, the one at Min Ryan park in Wexford is great.

> I don’t think mac and cheese is that popular, and you’ll never see peanut butter and jelly in my experience.

Peanut butter exists, as does jam so just buy the 2 yourselves and some bread and combine that. Irish sliced bread is lovely and fluffy so the kids should like that.

Theres playgrounds everywhere in Ireland but the best ones you need to look up in advance as you likely wont come across them by accident - for instance heres a listing of more interesting playgrounds https://thefamilyedit.ie/explore/?category=playgrounds&sort=latest

Whats also great for kids is just mucking about on the beach digging holes and making sandcastles and little rivers, or looking at rockpools for crabs and little shells.

A specifically irish thing is forests with fairly trails, and your kids are small so they might love something like that, for instance heres an example https://ringofgullion.org/gallery/the-giants-lair-childrens-story-trail/

“ Whats also great for kids is just mucking about on the beach digging holes and making sandcastles and little rivers, or looking at rockpools for crabs and little shells.“

Memories of my childhood come flooding back along with the delicious scent of sea and dune grass! Thank you , munich_ wanderer.

@ Tori B, if checking any luggage, bring your own jar of peanut butter, and then get some delicious Irish jams; as said above, the breads are super, and there is great variety. Also, are there specific areas of Ireland you are planning to visit? Happy planning.

Pirate 🏴‍☠️

trip to ireland planner

School holidays for primary school is around the last week in June, secondary school is the end of May.

Lots of children s menus available in bars serving bar food.

https://www.citylink.ie/media/uk5oeumm/castlebar-dublin-new.pdf

Captain America's at the top of Grafton Street is another option in Dublin:

https://www.opentable.com/r/captain-americas-grafton-street-dublin

i am surprised nobody mentioned Irelands answer to McDonalds, Supermacs, which in my kids opinion is infinitely superior to McDonalds. They have burgers, nuggets, fried chicken and in larger places even pizzas .

https://supermacs.ie/

It is available at coastal resorts/ beaches from kiosks/ shops/ a man in a van but conviently also available in almost all Supermacs including ones in city centres.

Andarma, thank you so much. We have added those playgrounds to our list!

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Planning out Spring Break for the family

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Shanisty Ireland shares her tips on how to keep the family entertained.{p}{/p}

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Most kids are on or about to be on spring break. With trips and itineraries made, sometimes planning ahead a bit more can lead to a much smoother trip away from home. Shanisty Ireland ( She's Becoming Domestic ) has created a list full of tips and ideas you can use this year or next.

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IP Telecoms boss has big ambitions to keep Ireland connected

Shena brien is planning more acquisitions as she looks to build on ip telecom’s success.

Shena Brien says IP Telecom started out using second-hand equipment but these days is looking to acquire new companies and expand overseas

I n one of her first job interviews in the late 1980s, Shena Brien’s potential boss looked her up and down and said: “You’re a bit short.”

The role required the 5ft 2in Brien to carry weighty electronic equipment up and down flights of stairs.

Realising his faux pas in a changing working environment, the interviewer quickly corrected himself: “I can’t really say that any more.” Brien laughed and said: “No, you can’t.” She got the job.

Brien, a qualified electronic engineer, has never let her sex — or her height — get in the way of her career, which has involved climbing up on to roofs and tinkering with antennas.

In 2010, she bucked a trend: becoming one of a small number of female entrepreneurs in the Irish tech space, co-founding and becoming chief executive of IP Telecom, a Dublin-based telephony services company.

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Unlike the Vodafones and Threes of this world, IP Telecom is not a household name. The company did run a radio ad campaign last year and sponsors Peamount United’s women’s team, the reigning League of Ireland Premier Division champions. Yet some 70 per cent of its business is wholesale, providing its broadband and VoIP ( voice over internet protocol ) services through resellers.

Its customer count amounts to more than 4,000 companies around Ireland. They include the recruitment firm Cpl, the sports retailer Decathlon, and Portwest, the global workwear clothing company headquartered in Co Mayo.

Last year, IP Telecom secured a €6 million investment from Development Capital, the BDO-backed venture capital fund headed up by Andrew Bourg and Sinéad Heaney.

That investment, which gave Development Capital a minority stake in the business, has put the company on an acquisitions path, as it aims to double its revenues from €11 million to €22 million in the next three years.

It will do that by executing a buy-and-build strategy. Last week, the company announced its first acquisition, picking up Centrecom, a managed wi-fi and IT solutions provider with an impressive client list including Diageo, the Guinness Storehouse and Sherry FitzGerald.

For IP Telecom it was a case of “buy or be bought”, according to Brien.

“Mergers and acquisitions in this business are huge at the moment,” she says. “You look around the corner and someone else has bought another company. So we decided we would be the ones that would do the acquiring.”

IP Telecom’s competitors, such as Viatel and DigitalWell, have been particularly acquisitive. Viatel bought eight companies between 2021 and 2023 while DigitalWell has purchased five. Kevin O’Loughlin’s Nostra, a managed IT services company, is also on the acquisition trail, announcing its latest purchase last week.

IP Telecom began its search for an investor in 2022, hiring Azets as an adviser. It put an investment memorandum out to the market and fielded potential investors in a Dragons’ Den -style series of meetings.

“It changes as you go through the process as to who’s in the chair,” Brien says. “We chose Development Capital because they are an Irish company, they invest in Irish companies, and we got on very well with the team.”

The IP Telecom link-up brought Development Capital’s investment in Irish businesses since 2013 to €100 million.

IP Telecom is using the money to acquire businesses and to grow its staff headcount.

It has already brought in-house its development team, which was previously outsourced. Headcount has risen from 32 staff in 2022 to 40 employees today.

“It gives us more creative control over our intellectual property,” Brien says.

IP Telecom, which was set up in 2010 by Brien and “fellow techie” Brian Chamberlain, offers broadband and VoIP services, where phone calls are made over the internet instead of via the traditional phone landline.

Brien describes her company as an “over-the-top solutions provider”, meaning it rents out the lines from companies such as Eir and then provides its mobile services on top of them.

In the depths of the recession, Brien and Chamberlain saw a business opportunity. They could offer customers a more affordable telephone solution that wouldn’t involve them paying for line rental.

“It was a good time for us because we were saving people money and they had a better class of telephony service than they had with their old phone system,” Brien says. “They also became mobile, which meant if they had to leave their offices behind, they were able to work from home.”

IP Telecom’s broadband operates on Eir’s network and through BT and Siro, the joint venture between ESB and Vodafone.

“We’re not digging up roads,” Brien says. “The idea is that the IP Telecom service is more secure and offers better connectivity.”

In IP Telecom’s early years money was tight. The company operated off a barter system, offering its IT services in return for offices in the attic of No 1 Leeson Street.

Brien took over the role of chief executive, while Chamberlain, a coder by profession, was appointed technical director. It took about four years before the company could afford to hire a salesperson.

“That’s when our direct sales really took off,” Brien says.

“We invested everything we made back into the business. We started off with second-hand equipment then we replaced the second-hand equipment because we had a bit of cash.”

The youngest, and only girl, of four children, Brien was born in Essex to Irish parents. The family moved home to Dublin when she was three years old.

Her father, John Carter, was a mechanic with Roadstone and her mother Rose spent much of her career working in secretarial roles before opening a driving school. Her parents died within a month of each other in 2016.

Brien says her late mother, Rose, was her inspiration. “My mother ended up living in a tenement in Dublin after her parents lost their business in Cork. Her parents had made sure she got her full education and in turn she expected all of her children to go to college.

“She was always going to have her own business. She always wanted to drive coaches and drive people around Europe on holidays so instead of doing that she became a driving instructor.”

After graduating from Carlow Institute of Technology with an electronic engineering degree in the late 1980s, Brien’s first job in 1989 was for Timas, Aer Lingus’s old airline reservations company.

“Picture the old computer, taking up a whole room, with lots of lights. We provided connectivity for the travel agents so they could make reservations with the airlines. There were physical lines going from our office to all the airlines. I tell the lads in here about my first job and I feel like I am 102,” Brien says.

“Within a few years, we had the internet and it changed everything.”

After Timas, Brien moved to Peterborough in England in the early 1990s to work with Imminus, another tourism and travel tech company. By the end of the decade, however, she had returned to Ireland. “It was a great job, just in the wrong location,” she says.

Jobs followed at 3Com, a multinational which later sold to Hewlett-Packard for $2.7 billion; NTL, which was bought by Virgin Mobile; and the Rory and Charlie Ardagh-founded Leap Telecom, later bought by Magnet Networks.

“When I worked for 3com I realised two things: that I wasn’t an engineer’s engineer because I like my nails too much, and that I never wanted to work for a big multinational again. You get more security in a smaller company. It is more interesting.”

She laments the fact that smaller, indigenous companies get less state support than their multinational counterparts. “Indigenous businesses have historically not got the level of support that multinationals get, or you have to get to a certain level before you get the support,” she says.

The company has only a small presence outside Ireland at present, opening an entity in South Africa in 2019 and providing services in Australia to Portwest.

Brien says she now has a “long list” of target countries where IP Telecom can expand further. “The UK is the obvious one for Irish companies but I think the Netherlands is doing great things with telcos.”

The company is branching out from offering VoIP to broadband. “We’re working with Eir and now we are just about to launch with BT and Siro [which operate a network-sharing agreement]. We’re going to be selling broadband from every spire in the country.”

Its future acquisitions will target businesses that complement its services including those in the artificial intelligence space or product development.

“We want to have control over the infrastructure. We want to have the bits of wire in the ground. We would like to have complete control over how we transmit our voice traffic,” Brien says.

She anticipates that the company’s next acquisition will be completed within six months.

“We definitely want to acquire intelligently. We don’t want to plug in for revenue’s sake. The businesses we buy will add value to what we are doing for our customers.”

Shena Brien appreciates the early Star Wars films

The Life of Shena Brien

Age: 56 Lives: Newcastle, Co Dublin Family: married to Will Brien Education: Loreto College on Stephen’s Green and a degree in electrical engineering in Carlow Institute of Technology. Favourite film: Star Wars — “the early films” Favourite book: “Any books by Kathy Reichs or Patricia Cornwell”

Working day I’m an early riser so tend to do an hour’s work before I head to the office, so I can miss the rush-hour traffic. I hate traffic. I tend to spend my days reacting to things — I am the director of operations as well as CEO. I do five out of ten days in the office. Downtime I spend a lot of time with my dog. I am also very lucky to have a home down in west Cork so spend a lot of time down there.

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