ireland trips for families

Ireland family vacations

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5 tours met your criteria

Explore Ireland with us on this family vacation which includes a combination of our favourite family hotels and an unforgettable overnight family stay in the 5* Dromoland Castle

Ireland with Kids – 5 Star Castle Adventure

This package includes seven nights’ in Adare’s most family friendly hotel and on booking your package with us you will receive a comprehensive tour pack which will include several day tours that you may choose to take from this historic location. .

Ireland with Kids - Adare

Ballycotton Bay in East Cork is your base location for this Ireland Family Vacation. With a rich maritime and historical heritage, East Cork has a unique variety of attractions to offer the discerning family.

Ireland with Kids - Ballycotton 7 Nights

For this Irish Tourism family vacation we have chosen Dingle as your base location. The Dingle Peninsula offers some of Ireland’s most stunning scenery from the towering Brandon Mountains to the spectacular seascapes of Dingle Bay.

Ireland with Kids - Dingle 7 Nights

Kilkenny is famous for its medieval building and castle. The atmosphere and character of this unique city makes it a great base for touring Ireland with kids.

Ireland with Kids - Kilkenny

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It is a little known secret that Ireland is one of the best family vacation destinations around. Your kids will love to climb to the top of our many round towers, visualise fairy’s gathering at some of our famous Stone Age forts and imagining themselves as lords and ladies in our magnificent authentic castles. In other countries historic landmarks continue to be off limits to inquisitive travellers but the ancient buildings and monuments of Ireland are just waiting to be explored. Your family vacation in Ireland is not just about historical landmarks however. Our national parks encompassing hundreds of kilometres of natural woodland, diverse ecology and serene freshwater lakes can be found in Connemara and Kerry and along Ireland’s coastline your family will discover miles and miles of pristine sandy beaches where activities include surfing and horse-riding.

The beauty of our family vacations is that they are ‘one-centred’ and set up in a way that you would just collect our family car rental, drive to your family hotel and check-in for your entire vacation. When you book your family vacation with us you will get an extensive touring pack which will include several day tours which you can take from your base location. You can chose to do all of the day tours, some of them or your family may choose instead to enjoy your hotel and its surroundings. The hotels we have selected for these packages are all family orientated with facilities for kids such as kids club, kids playground and games rooms and facilities for adults including spa treatment rooms and traditional Irish pubs with frequent live music.

We realise that it can be difficult for families to move from hotel to hotel so these tours are ‘one-centred’ (or multi centred if that is your preference) and designed in such a way as you would just pick up your rental car, drive to your hotel location and check in for the duration of your vacation. When you book your tour with us you will get a comprehensive tour pack which will include several day tours that you can chose to take from your base location.

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Visiting Ireland with kids: all you need to know

All you need to know to plan a family trip to Ireland: info, recommendations and insider tips by a local mum to help you plan your perfect family vacation in Ireland.

I love traveling around Ireland with my kids.

We live in Dublin and even if Ireland is home for our family, we seem to never tire of admiring it with the eye of the visitor.

After 15 years here, I still explore with the same awe I had when I first set foot on Irish soil and my husband and kids, both born and raised here, seem to share the same experience.

It is from this specific point of you, that of the visitor turned local, that I write this post today.

It is my family guide to Ireland and contains all my best tips for visiting Ireland with kids.

Wishing you a wonderful Ireland family vacation!

Table of Contents

The best time to visit Ireland with kids: Ireland in each season

If you are planning a family trip to Ireland, you may have to arrange it around school holidays and if that is the case, you will be happy to hear that no matter when the school break falls, it can be a good time for visiting the Emerald Isle!

Ireland has a reasonably temperate climate, considering how far North it is, and while your experience of the place will be very different if you come in summer or winter, there is something fun to do in all seasons.

If you can choose, however, without a doubt some times are better than others to plan a trip to Ireland. In particular, it is useful to know the following.

The best time to visit Ireland is the spring / summer , and specifically the months between May and August.

At this time, Ireland his reasonably dry, you are likely to get nice sunny, bright days and the days are long, meaning you get a good amount of light for sightseeing well into the evening.

The summer is a great time to visit Ireland with kids who love sports and outdoor pursuits; hiking, zip-lining and adventure centers here abound!

Another fun time to visit Ireland with kids can be Christmas .

Christmas in Dublin, Galway and Cork, in particular, is lovely as they have some of the best Christmas markets in Ireland .

While undoubtedly a cold time, the cities dress up with Christmas decorations and it can be a fun time for shopping, meeting Santa, indoor play centers (there are many in the big cities) and hot chocolate!

Documents needed to enter Ireland with kids

The documents you need to enter Ireland depend on your country of origin.

Ireland is inside the EU but outside the Treaty of Schengen and this may affect your travels and require additional paperwork.

The best source of information for documents needed to enter Ireland is your nearest Irish embassy or consulate. You can find the complete list here (official sire of the Irish departments of Foreign affairs).

Good to know : if you are traveling to Ireland alone with a child with a surname different from yours, you may be asked to show their birth certificate stating you are their parent or an equivalent document that proves you are their legal guardian and are allowed to travel with them. I have been asked this document occasionally only but since it can happen, I believe it is important to know about it and be ready.

How to get around Ireland with kids: car, train or bus?

By far the easiest way to travel around Ireland with kids is by car.

Ireland has an ok network of buses and trains.

However, without your own vehicle, you are very much limited in your choice of accommodation.

In many cases, the most atmospheric and budget-friendly accommodation options in Ireland are a little away from the main centers and they can be hard to reach if you are relying on public transport and trains only.

If you can, a car in Ireland is your best friend!

You can find my tips for driving in Ireland here

If you prefer not to drive, another good alternative is taking day trips and day tours.

Ireland has a very good selection of days tours offered by several companies that allow you to visit many of Ireland’s main attractions without having to get behind the wheel.

In many cases, you can even choose a home base and simply take day trips from there: Dublin, Cork and Galway are all good options for this type of trip.

This is a quick selection of some of the most interesting offers.

Need to know: rules for the use of car seats in Ireland . The use of car seats in private cars is mandatory in Ireland for kids up to age 12. Make sure you book one when renting a car or bring your own! Taxis are exempt from this rule: if you only need to hop on a taxi on arrival, you may want to consider going without a seat. However, please be advised that the transfer from the airport to your hotel is likely to involve motorway driving.

Ireland sightseeing with kids: tackling Ireland’s main sites as a family

Ireland is very kid-friendly and many of the places you are likely to have on your Irland bucket list are easy to visit even with kids in tow.

Visiting Dublin with kids

Dublin is a very family-friendly city and I know its kid-friendly side very well, Dublin being our city!

If this is your first time visiting, I highly recommend you find a hotel in the city center and explore some of the city’s main sites as well as plan additional time just for the kids.

My tops things to see in Dublin with kids are Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Dublinia (interactive Viking Museum), Dublin castle and maybe surprisingly, the Guinness storehouse!

Kid specific attractions to seek out, in my opinion, are Stephen’s green park, the Dublin splash tour, the zoo and Imagnosity, Dublin’s children museum (outside of the center but great for a rainy day!)

Dublin has also many parks and playgrounds , perfect for a break from sightseeing.

Exploring Glendalough with children

Glendalough is a gorgeous monastic site only 40 Km from Dublin, in Country Wicklow.

It is a lovely place for sightseeing with kids as it has a lake and ample space to run around.

The best way to reach is by car. With kids, I suggest you skip the visitor center and simply walk towards the lakes and the monastic site.

The visit is free, the forest is lovely for a walk or a picnic (it is also stroller friendly if you have younger kids) and the Glendalough hotel has a decent, kid-friendly restaurant for food and facilities.

You can find mi tips for visiting Glendalough here.

The Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most famous attractions in Ireland and while they may not strike you as the most ki-friendly place (350 mt cliffs plunging into the ocean anyone?), they actually are a bit of a treat with kids.

The area is very well equipped for small visitors (they have a nice visitor center and cafe) and the cliffs are protected by tall slabs of rock that make them safe.

However, cautious here is needed: if you have over-enthusiastic kids, make sure they don’t run too far ahead and make sure they do not go on the parts of the path that are marked as unmanned!

While you ill see a string of adult visitors ignoring the warning signs, these paths are not safe and especially for kids, they can pose a real danger.

Good to know : not fr from the cliffs there are the Ailwee caves, a wonderful place for kids. Here, you can go on a guided tour of a real cave (easy, no experience necessary) and experience what total darkness is! It is slightly scary but also cool. You also have a falconry center in the same complex with really fun and educational flight displays of falcon and owls.

Driving the Ring of Kerry with children

The Ring of Kerry is a wonderful drive following the coast of the Kerry peninsula, in the West of Ireland and it is one of the most famous places and drives in the whole of Ireland.

It is indeed a lovely area and it can surely be visited with kids. However, it can also be hard to take.

The problem here is that the road is long and winding and while the scenery is stunning, you find yourself in the car a lot – this can be too much for many kids and frankly awful if they suffer from motion sickness.

If you want to visit Kerry with kids, I recommend you take a few days and break up the drive as many times as you need. Even better, you can explore the National Park with a home base in Killarney , which is lovely and family-friendly.

If you prefer not to tackle it at all but still see nice scenery, I would recommend considering Dingle or the Beara peninsula instead: they both have amazing scenery and require less time in the car.

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is one of the most famous attractions in Ireland and one of my favorite.

The castle itself is atmospheric, imposing and romantic, and towers above a stunning estate with gardens, forests and grottoes.

It is a fantastic place to spend a day outside with the kids and it is packed with stories and things to see: you will learn stories of the local witch and you will also have the chance to visit a poison garden. Super fun!

You can read our guide to visiting Blarney Castle with kids here .

Connemara is an area of great natural beauty and a very popular destination in Ireland not just for visitors but for local families.

It is an area many Irish people use as a base for the summer as it is remote, beautiful and not too awfully expensive.

Visitors usually want to see Kylemore Abbey and Clifden but families should also add a stop in a farm.

A stop in one of the local farms can be really fun for the kids and it can also be a way to tap into a slightly more local experience than what you get in main tourist sites.

You are also likely to meet many Irish families having a fun day out, which can be a fun way to make local friends and play for a few hours!

A fantastic place for families in Connemara is the Delphi centre and resort: this is a hotel and adventure center with lots of activities for kids and adults, in one of the most stunning locations in Ireland!

Newgrange is an incredible place for adults and kids and one I recommend visiting especially if you have school-age children who can appreciate the marvel of it.

A passage tomb dating back to the neolithic, Newgrange can only be visited by booking a guided tour.

I do not recommend it with little kids, who may find the dark and small space distressing, but it is a place school kids tend to love.

Good to know if you have toddlers with you: almost in front of it there is a nice farm open to visitors with animals and a nice cafe.

Please note: in 2020, visiting inside the tomb are suspended for health and safety reasons.

Kilkenny is a small city in the center of Ireland with a lot on offer for kids: a castle (with amazing playground ), a city train for tourists, lots of shops and restaurants and a plethora of outdoor certifies in the area such as kayaking!

We go to the city often, sometimes as a day trip from Dublin and sometimes for a weekend and the city never lets us down.

You can read why we love it and the best things to see in Kilkenny here .

Kids attractions in Ireland

As well as kid-friendly sightseeing, Ireland has many kid-centered attractions that I highly recommend you add to your Ireland itinerary.

Among the many, I recommend

Farms, castle and manor houses

Ireland has many castles, farms and manor houses now open to the public and often offering kids’ activities. Some we know and love are:

• Killruddery House and gardens (amazing play area and activities), Co Wicklow
• Russborough House (maze, falconry center, fairy walk, playground), Co Wicklow
• Avondale house (forest walk and playground), Co Wicklow
• Wells house (forest Gruffalo walk, archery, playground), Co Wexford
• Ardgillan castle (a fairy walk, playground), Co Kildare
• Malahide Castle (amazing playground), Co Kildare
• Birr Castle (playground, walk, an amazing science center and a historic, record-breaking telescope), Co Offaly
• Trim Castle (castle visit to feel king for a day), Co Meath
• Powerscourt House and Gardens (lovely manicured gardens with lots of space to run and Santa visits at Christmas), Co Wicklow

Parks and Adventure centers for kids

Over the last few years, adventure centers have pen up in several parts of the country and they can be real fun for kids.

Tayto Park is a theme park while the others are adventure centers with outdoor adventurous activities such as ziplining, treetop rope course and more.

Some we love are:

• Tayto Park , a kids favorite, super fun theme park (think rollercoasters etc)
• Castelcomer Discovery Park , Co Kilkenny
• Lough Key camping and adventure center , Co Roscommon
• Delphi Adventure Resort , Co Galway (great for a family weekend getaway too!)
• Kippure Adventure Center, Co Wicklow

Where to stay in Ireland with kids

Ireland has a vast choice of accommodation choices for families ranging from hotels to holiday rentals to guesthouses etc.

Hotels tend to be the most expensive option. They come in all shapes and sizes and often have good facilities for families including indoor pools, kids’ activities and restaurants onsite – very handy!

You can find here >>> our selection of the best family hotels in Ireland .

Guesthouses and B&Bs are smaller and have a more personal feel. They are usually in local homes and kids are welcome, although not all can accommodate 3 or 4 people in a room. My favorite website to book guesthouses and B&Bs is booking.com which allows choosing the best rooms for your party taking your kids’ age into account and also has good cancellation options. You can find deals and options here

Rentals can be a good option for longer stays

For all these bookings I usually trust booking.com which has always served us well and has amazing free cancellation policies on most properties. See all they have in Ireland here

Visiting an Irish pub with kids in tow

if you are in Ireland, chances are you may want to experience a real Irish pub and there is no need to skip on this just because you have kids.

While not all pubs are kid-friendly, many are: pick those that serve food and ask for a kids menu – many will surprise you with a good one!

Please note: In 2020, new rules have been introduced with timed slots for meals and pub visits. Make sure you make dinner plans in advance by ringing the pub or making a reservation online to secure a table.

What to pack for visiting Ireland with kids

You can find my packing lists for Ireland here, however, these are the main things I suggest you add if coming to Ireland with kids:

• Stroller for babies and toddlers. I recommend one with bigger wheels, so it can tackle country paths and longer walks. All terrain strollers are the best in Ireland as they seamlessly go from town to country.
• An extra change of clothes and shoes for rainy days
• Books about Ireland they can read as the go
• A small pair of binoculars for birds and wildlife

I hope you enjoyed this quick guide to visiting Ireland with kids and it helped you plan your Ireland family vacation. Safe travels!

Mama Loves Ireland

Céad míle fáilte! A thousand times welcome! I am a travel-loving Italian Mama lucky enough to call Ireland her home. Let my articles help you plan your trip to Ireland and get ready to fall in love with the Emerald Isle, just like I did. With love. M x

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Ireland Family Tours & Vacation Packages

Let TourRadar take the hassle out of finding a trip for the whole family. With 210 tours of Ireland lasting from one day up to 15 days, you're sure to find a great family-friendly adventure. Looking beyond Ireland? See all family holidays .

210 Ireland Family trips with 8,591 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

Our Tour Director Maeve was incredibly knowledgeable and gave the best free time suggestions. Couldn’t imagine having a better time.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

It was fantastic! Our Travel Manager, James Creegan was excellent. He kept us ontrack the whole tour. Love his accent. Its obvious he is from Dublin. His knowlege of places, history, people, music was outstanding. He took us to a couple places off the beaten which I appreciated very much. We met some nice locals which made the experience even better. I would love to go on another of his tours again! Kris was a great tour bus driver. He made it into places I didn't think possible. He got us to our destinations safely. He and James, are very nice guys. I would go anywhere with James and Kris. I have dreamed about coming to Ireland all my life. This tour met and exceeded my expectations.

Irish Elegance (Classic, 8 Days)

Our Irish Elegance tour would not have been as magical without the guidance and imagination of our Travel Director, Greg Colgin. From greeting to good-bye, Greg shepherded us around Ireland with aplomb. He engaged us with his wit, wisdom and comprehensive knowledge of the country. Without exception, all of our needs were met and queries answered, making this tour a worry free trip. Greg’s choice of stops, pacing, hotels and sights enhanced our visit and encouraged instant camaraderie among the sojourners. In addition, the teamwork between Greg and Anthony, our excellent and fearless driver, made the coach a happy place in which we travelled across the country. It is our hope that Insight realizes what an asset Greg is and how much he projects a positive image for Insight.

Irish Elegance (Small Groups, 8 Days)

Traveling with Greg was an unexpected delight! I had imagined a guide who would point things out and give some history or information. What I didn’t expect was a funny and vibrant young man who was willing to go the extra mile at any and every opportunity. From spurring us on to sing “Here Cones the Sun” every single morning as we drove off (and in our case in Ireland it actually worked!) to walking the full length of the bus to ask each of us if we had questions or thoughts, several times a day, to providing us with what he called “little flourishes”—a refreshing mint after we had been walking, or a sample of Butler’s chocolate or tastes of different local beverages— all of it thoughtful and enriching to the trip. His love of music kept us energized as he played songs in the bus to match different locales. He took requests! He gauged the overall feel of the group regularly, getting us off on the road earlier on some days, making sure we had some moments of relaxation to revive before the next stop, or adding in extra things along the way if he heard different members chatting about something. He was quite willing to take hold of someone’s cell phone and capture photos of them at key points. He was consistently upbeat even in some tough moments, like having to chase after a couple who were waylaid for 4 days from catching the tour through no fault of their own and who were terribly sad about it. Greg made sure to save as many events for them as he could and to enfold them into the group so they felt welcomed and supported as soon as they finally caught up with us. I feel that Greg was a fabulous person to travel with and cannot recommend him highly enough.

Countryside of the Emerald Isle (Dublin to Ennis) (2024)

7-Day Great Atlantic Adventure Small Group Tour

Exceeded my expectations. Culture, landscapes, language, history, activities…so much in just a week. Accommodations were very comfortable, food was delicious and plentiful, people were welcoming and generous. Our guide (Pat O’Mara) made the entir3 experience an absolute joy. He was knowledgeable, told stories and histories in a folksy and humorous tone. He was competent, flexible, and inspired with a clear love of his own country that made us love it too.

Shades of Ireland (Dublin to Kingscourt) (2024)

7-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour

Weather was iffy for a few days, but then cleared up to show the beautiful countryside. Pat O’mara, our driver and guide, had excellent plan B’s. He was so knowledgeable about so many topics! Accommodations were OK. So much was packed into 7 days!

The Celtic Voyage - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

The tour was amazing, the guides were very kind and friendly. And the different sites were incredible. Thank you very much Wild N' Happy!!!

Irish Wonder (9 Days)

Introduction to Ireland

This was our first ever guided tour trip and it was fantastic! Fiona our guide and Gary our driver were absolutely wonderful. The schedule of excursion was diversified and informative. We will do this again!

7 Day Atlantic Way Experience - Small Group Tour

Kieran was a wonderful tour guide. Great driver. Always paying attention to our needs. Food, restrooms, if we had extra time, he asked us if we wanted to stop for another attraction. Always describing the history of Ireland and answered questions. We were very happy to have him as our tour guide. Thank you.

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

- Lee, our tour guide/driver, was excellent. He was informative, helpful, humorous and handled the variety of people on his bus well. He helped luggage and arranged meals and tours for the group. -We liked the opportunities for self directed time at some of the stops. -The bus was clean and comfortable. Lee was a great driver. We felt safe in his hands. -The lodgings were very nice. The breakfasts were good and plentiful.

Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

Excellent tour and company. Tour guides and accommodations were second to none. If you want to know the real Ireland and it’s rich history in a comfortable setting and without the stress of driving you will not be disappointed. This was a trip of a lifetime and we would recommend to anyone.

Great Tour of Ireland ( 7 days )

Reviews of ireland family tours.

The entire trip was wonderful, very well organized, and satisfying. Peter Flood was an excellent tour guide. He was as knowledgeable as could be, funny, and helpful; and really seems to love what he does.

This was my first time in Ireland. I absolutely loved everything about this trip. Tour guide and bus driver were amazing. Totally worth every penny. Would go back in a heartbeat

Excellent guide and driver. Saw a lot of things I would not have on my own. Nice bus and great people to hang out with.

Regions in Ireland

• Southern Ireland (132)
• Ireland Wild Atlantic Way (132)
• Munster (57)
• Ring of Kerry (21)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Family Travel Agencies 2024
• Ireland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Irland Familienreisen
• Français: Irlande : Circuits en famille
• Español: Circuitos en familia por Irlanda
• Nederlands: Familie Rondreizen in Ierland

Family Tours in Ireland

• Family Tours

Enjoy a family vacation in Ireland - one of the world's best destinations for family tours.

Whether you are a family of four or more, a trip to Ireland is the perfect choice. It is a little known secret that Ireland is one of the best family vacation destinations around. When it comes to things to do in Ireland with kids, the Emerald Isle we have plenty of ideas.

Family Vacation Ideas

On trips to Ireland, kids love to climb to the top of the many round towers, visualise fairies gathering at some of our famous stone age forts and imagining themselves as lords and ladies in our magnificent authentic castles. In other countries, historic landmarks are off limits to inquisitive travellers but the ancient buildings and monuments of Ireland are just waiting to be explored.

Your family  vacation in Ireland  should not just be about historical landmarks however. There are many national parks, encompassing hundreds of kilometres of natural woodland, diverse ecology and serene freshwater lakes can be found in Connemara and Kerry and along Ireland’s coastline.   Your family will discover miles and miles of pristine sandy beaches where activities include surfing and horse-riding.

Family Vacation Packages

You can chose to do all of the day tours, some of them or your family may choose instead to enjoy your hotel and its surroundings. The hotels we have selected for these family packages are all family orientated with facilities for kids such as kids club, kids playground and games rooms and facilities for adults including spa treatment rooms and traditional Irish pubs with frequent live music.

We realise that it can be difficult for families to move from hotel to hotel so these tours are ‘one-centred’ (or multi centred if that is your preference) and designed in such a way that you would just pick up your rental car, drive to your hotel location and check in for the duration of your vacation. When you book your tour with Discovering Ireland Vacations you will get a comprehensive tour pack which will include several day tours that you can chose to take from your base location. Check out our all inclusive family vacations to Ireland and our regular special offers for more.

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

• By Kate Moran

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

Best Things to Do in Ireland with Kids

Itinerary and planning.

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

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

Need help planning a trip to Ireland with kids?

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

Transportation

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

Accommodations

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

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

Eating Out with Kids

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

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

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

Great Family-Friendly Places to Visit

Dublin and environs.

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

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

Wicklow Mountains and Powerscourt House & Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

Howth Village and Cliff Walk

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

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

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

Beyond Dublin

The cliffs of moher.

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

Ring of Kerry

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

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

Galway City

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

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

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

Relevant Links

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

8 of our favorite Ireland family hotels

From coast to coast in Ireland with kids

Dublin: 5 favorite kid-friendly activities

10 things to do in Ireland off the beaten path

A perfect 10-day itinerary in Ireland with kids

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• Pingback: Parknasilla Resort Family-Friendly Review | Ireland Family Hotels | Ciao Bambino
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We had an amazing trip to Ireland and Northern Ireland while I was pregnant and I can’t wait to take our toddler back! We stayed in some of the best B&Bs while I was there and I’ve put up some pictures and reviews on our website – https://goo.gl/wOuhdx

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• This post contains affiliate links from which I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you). For more info, please read  my disclosure . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Our Ireland Family Vacation

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

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

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

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

Why visit Ireland?

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

So, what makes Ireland unique?

Stunning landscapes

First of all, Ireland is an extremely beautiful country.

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

Celtic cultural heritage

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

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

Irish roots

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

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

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

When to visit Ireland

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

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

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

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

How much time do you need in Ireland

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

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

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

What you need to know about Ireland

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

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

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

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

How to get to Ireland

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

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

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

Unique hotels in Ireland

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

Bucket-list tours&experiences in Ireland:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But they absolutely did. Here is why.

Friendly locals

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

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

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

Budget-friendly with kids

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

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

Culture&legends in Ireland

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

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

7-day Itinerary for Ireland with Kids

Day 1 – dublin.

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

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

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

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

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

Hairy Lemon

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

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

St.Patrick´s Cathedral

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

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

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

The Library of Trinity College Dublin

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

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

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

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

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

Unique Dublin Tours

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

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

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

Of course, beer lovers can not miss Guinness Storehouse .

Top Dublin Day Trips

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

Day 2 – Ireland Road Trip

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

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

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

Athlone Castle

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

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

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

Cliffs of Moher

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – Ireland Road Trip

Ross castle.

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

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

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

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

Torc Waterfall

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

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

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

Muckross House

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

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

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

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

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

Blarney Castle & Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4 – Ireland Road Trip

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

Cahir Castle

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

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

Rock of Cashel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – Boyne Valley Organized Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

The only drawback of the day was the weather.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6 – Northern Ireland Organized Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7 – Belfast

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

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

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

Souvenirs from Ireland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Accommodation : For short stays, I usually book via Agoda , Booking , and Hotellook
• Tours&excursions : My favorites for guided tours are GetYourGuide and Viator
• City breaks&sightseeing: Go City helps to avoid multiple entry fees and paper tickets
• Travel Insurance : find the best trip insurance plans via VisitorsCoverage , EKTA , and Insubuy
• Flights : To find the best deals I like WayAway and Aviasales
• Airport Lounge: Get independent airport lounge access worldwide via   Priority Pass
• Train&bus tickets : Currently, I book via RailEurope , Omio , and Busbud
• Car rental: To find the best deals I use Rental Cars , Discover Cars , and GetRentalCar
• Transfers: For individual transfer services I like Kiwitaxi
• For Foodies:  Eatwith  is great for finding culinary experiences with locals
• Suitcases&Luggage : To eliminate problems of early arrivals/late departures I find helpful Radical Storage
• Compensation for delayed/canceled flights: AirHelp is useful for all flight cancellation or delay claims
• To avoid roaming fees I use Airalo eSIMs around the world
• Budget-friendly stays: Check   Hostelworld to find the best deals around the world
• Events: To find the best offers I use  Ticketmaster  and    TicketNetwork
• Renting Bikes: to find motorcycles, scooters, quads, and bicycles I use   BikesBooking
• Package Tours: head to  CheapOair ,  Expedia UK ,  Tourhub, and   loveholidays
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Epic itinerary! Your Ireland family vacation guide is a treasure trove of practical tips and scenic wonders. Thanks for sharing, ready to turn your recommendations into unforgettable family memories!

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Best family vacations in Ireland

By Europe specialist Lily

Turreted castles like something out of a fairytale, wide-open countryside ideal for burning off pent-up energy, and hands-on experiences that range from Gaelic games to medieval banquets — Ireland is ideal for families who are intrigued by tradition and eager to get out into the wilderness.

Whether you’re visiting the Emerald Isle to retrace ancestral footsteps or simply to experience new cultures and landscapes without the complication of a language barrier, I’ve recommended some of the best places in Ireland for family vacations along with things to do while you’re there.

Dublin for families

Ireland’s capital is best known for its traditional pubs and breweries, but there’s plenty of family-friendly fun to be had too. That said, much of what there is to do and see in Dublin is better suited to children eight and above. If you have younger children, a night or two in the city will likely suffice — enough to unwind after your flight before heading out to the countryside in Killarney, where there’s plenty more space to run free.

With older children, there’s a lot more to do. You could take a tasting tour through the city, sampling sweet treats with a local chef, food writer, or critic. Or head out on an e-bike to cover more ground, passing by the castle, cathedrals, and Georgian streets of Dublin. I can arrange this as a private tour so your guide can slow down the pace, take quieter paths, or make extra storytelling (and snack) stops along the way.

For a more in-depth (but darker) introduction to Dublin’s history, head to Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison that held some of Ireland’s most prolific political and military leaders. The guides are very engaging as they share the stories of the prisoners and, more generally, the Irish people’s struggle for independence. As such, I’d only recommend it for children who aren’t particularly sensitive or easily frightened. But if they’re fascinated by history, warts and all, it’s well worth a visit.

Finally, if you’re in Ireland to return to your roots, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is a must-see. Besides browsing the many interactive exhibits that delve into what it means to be Irish, you can also spend time with a genealogist. They’ll research your ancestry ahead of time for an in-depth look into your family heritage, an experience that sets the scene for the rest of your time in Ireland — and no doubt long after you return home.

Best family-friendly stays in Dublin

The Davenport is very central, just a ten-minute walk from Grafton Street, Trinity College, and O’Connell Street. There’s also a nearby park with a playground. Most room options can include a crib or an extra fold-out bed, so it’s ideal for smaller families. If you need more space, though, I suggest the interconnecting rooms at the equally central (albeit less characterful) Radisson Blu Royal Hotel.

Killarney for families

Moss-green mountains reflected in pools of inky water, herds of deer grazing in the long grass, and an ivy-covered mansion that once hosted Queen Victoria — Killarney will be your first foray into Ireland’s untamed countryside, and I find the dramatic scenery has a way of capturing the imagination of all ages.

For small children, there’s ample space to run and play during short outings into the national park and the chance to watch sheepdogs rounding up their flocks at a local farm. Older children and teenagers can enjoy more adventurous pursuits. I can arrange for you to head out on a guided kayaking tour to the tiny Innisfallen Island on Lough Leane or take a two-hour ‘jaunting’ ride in a horse-drawn cart.

Around 45 minutes away in Kenmare, there’s another opportunity to get out onto the water. This time, just after sunset, when the bioluminescent plankton lights up the water in sparks of electric blue, as if by magic.

If getting to bed early isn’t an issue, I can also book tickets for you all to go and watch Celtic Steps, an Irish music and dance show so upbeat and sparkly that you can’t help but clap and bob along.

Best family-friendly stay in Killarney

Perhaps one of the best child-friendly hotels in all of Ireland, the 19th-century Great Southern Killarney has large family rooms with bunk beds, interconnecting rooms, an onsite playground and playroom, and a swimming pool. There’s also a babysitting service if you’d like to take a quiet stroll in the landscaped gardens or relax at the spa.

County Clare for families

Evoking scenes from fairytales, fantasy novels, and period dramas, the castles and manor houses of County Clare are a hit with children and parents alike. You can even stay at one, allowing you all to indulge in the world of make-believe.

There are plenty of ways to keep children entertained within the grounds of your period hotel (more on that below), but to immerse yourselves further in times gone by, you can spend the evening at the 15th-century Bunratty Castle for an elaborate medieval-style banquet.

More than a feast, the evening unfurls into rambunctious storytelling, Irish music, and a chance to interact with the ‘Earl’ himself. While it’s very interactive, it does involve a lot of sitting and there’s no separate children’s menu (though eating with hands is more than encouraged), so I typically recommend the experience for ages eight and above.

County Clare is also home to the Cliffs of Moher, sheer, ocean-battered rock faces that plunge into the Atlantic on one side and plateau into a carpet of emerald-green grassland on the other. I’d say a visit here is best suited to children who have a love for the great outdoors and don’t mind spending a while admiring the view. It might also help that the cliffs featured in a pivotal scene in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

You can take a boat out onto the ocean to see the cliffs from the water, but it often gets canceled due to the weather. To avoid disappointment (and potential sea sickness), I think it’s best to gaze out across the Atlantic from the lofty clifftop instead. There are pathways suitable for various levels of fitness and mobility, and walled areas for viewing at a safe distance. Before you visit, you could read up on some of the myths and legends that encircle these famed cliffs, from sunken cities to the Moher mermaid, helping to make your visit all the more magical.

Best family-friendly stays in Country Clare

Dromoland Castle , just outside Ennis, offers family rooms for up to three children, as well as interconnecting rooms in the newer annex. There are also plenty of activities to try within the grounds, including falconry, fly-fishing, and a woodland fairy trail for smaller children.

Adare Manor is another of my favorite stays for families — not quite a castle, but still as grand (and, personally, I think the decor here is a little fresher).

Galway for families

A port town on Ireland’s west coast, Galway is a lovely setting for a family stroll, with its multi-colored streets alive with music and cafe culture. But, it’s what lies just outside the town that I think will entice little ones the most, including one of my top recommendations for things to do in Ireland with family.

Just a 15-minute drive from the city is Liam Mellows GAA Club. At first glance, it’s nothing special, just a regular-looking sports center with indoor and outdoor playing fields. But it’s where your family can partake in your own Gaelic games. Hurling, handball, football (the Gaelic kind), and rounders are all on the agenda — as well as a good dose of competitive spirit. It’s a surefire way to burn off some energy, giving you a chance to relax come dinnertime.

Galway is also a gateway for exploring nearby Connemara National Park, where stocky native ponies roam the grasslands. I suggest spending a day driving and walking around the countryside, stopping by the tiny rural villages for lunch to get a glimpse into traditional Irish culture.

Another outing you might like to take is to Inis Mor, one of the three Irish-speaking Aran Islands. It’s about an hour on the ferry from Galway, and it can be choppy, in case any of you suffer with sea sickness. Once there, you can go cycling or take a horse and cart ride around the island, soaking up its vast karst landscapes and stone-walled patchwork fields as you go. You’ll head out with a local guide who grew up there and can regale your family with stories of island life and point out the resident wildlife along the way.

Best family-friendly stays in Galway

If you’re traveling with teenagers or adult children, you can’t go wrong with the g Hotel & Spa. It’s very modern and funky, and there are interconnecting suites, if you need them.

For younger children, there are two options I recommend: The Galmont , if you want to stay near the city center, or Glenlo Abbey , if you want to stick with heritage houses in the countryside. Both have family and interconnecting rooms.

Sligo for families

The laid-back town of Sligo is the place to go if your family is musical — or if you simply want to uncover more of Ireland’s cultural heritage. The surrounding coastal countryside is also ripe for adventure backdropped by mountains, loughs, and cliffs so striking they were the inspiration behind many of Nobel Laureate W B Yeats’s poems.

During your trip, you’ll likely watch an Irish dance show or two, but, here in Sligo, you and your children can learn to do it yourselves. I’ll pair you with a private instructor, who can adapt the class to suit your children’s ages. Soon enough, you’ll all be skipping around to the beat of the bodhrán, a traditional Irish drum, which you can have a go at playing, too.

Alternatively, I can arrange for a musician to come to your hotel and play a few tunes, giving your children the option to dance along if they please or play games among themselves while you sit back and enjoy.

Out in the wilderness, you can kayak on the woodland-fringed Lough Gill or go horseback riding along the Wild Atlantic Way. Your private guide will carefully match each of you with a horse and will slow down or speed up the ride as you wish. As you plod (or trot) along country tracks and sandy beaches, you’ll discover more about the history, mythology, and ecology of the landscapes around you.

Best family-friendly stays in Sligo

Close to the city’s restaurants, shops, and museums, the Glasshouse Hotel tops my list for families with older children or babies. There are no family rooms, but they can provide a crib for infants and there are connecting rooms available, too.

The Radisson Blu is a little further out but offers family rooms for up to two children if you want to keep the little ones close by.

Belfast for families

Though Belfast is part of the UK, it’s just a two-hour drive from Dublin and crossing the border is simple (you just need your passport). If you have teenagers or adult children, I’d definitely add on a couple of days here.

For food-loving families, there’s a walking tour of the city that can be tailored to your tastes. As you move between market stalls, independent shops, and restaurants, you might try black-pudding-infused soda bread, artisan chocolate, and Ulster fry, a traditional Irish breakfast.

For a more hands-on experience, I can arrange for you to make soda bread at a local farmhouse with Tracy, who I know firsthand is a wonderful host. After working up an appetite, you’ll sit down to a family lunch to enjoy your creations — and some of Tracy’s homemade sweet treats, too.

If you’re into history, the Titanic Belfast museum gives an immersive introduction to the sights, sounds, and stories of the iconic ship in the very place it was built. At one point, you ride a cable car, which takes you behind the scenes of the Titanic’s construction. Another history-focused experience I love is the Belfast Story, a private show in a classic Irish pub that uses music and dance to illustrate Belfast’s complex past and present.

And, finally, if your children are old enough for Game of Thrones, you can also visit the sprawling grounds of Castle Ward, which might be more familiar to you as Winterfell. Donning your own House Stark costumes, you’ll embark on an action-packed day of axe throwing and archery with your own skilled instructor.

Best family-friendly stays in Belfast

My top choices for family stays in Northern Ireland’s capital are The Fitzwilliam , a luxury boutique hotel close to the opera house, and the history-steeped Europa Hotel . They’re both central and have family rooms, suites, or interconnecting options. You could also stay just outside the city at Culloden Estate and Spa , where there are self-catering apartments, ideal for more relaxed family meals.

Getting around with children in Ireland

If you have young children, I recommend hiring a car so you can drive from one destination to the next at your own pace. I’ll organize the hire for you and will help find the car best suited to your family (we have vans that seat up to seven people, if you need lots of space).

Most drives on my suggested Ireland family vacation route take around two to three hours, but I’ll point out cafes and landmarks that you can stop at along the way, helping to break up the journey if your children get restless. I can also arrange a driver to take you from place to place if you don’t feel comfortable driving on the other side of the road, though this is more expensive.

If you’re traveling with teenagers or adult children, driving is still the best way to get around, but you could also take a couple of scenic train journeys to soak up Ireland’s countryside from a different vantage point. The journey between Dublin and Belfast is particularly beautiful, passing through lush farmland speckled with sheep, alongside coastline, and along the top of the 19th-century Craigmore Viaduct.

Best school vacations to travel to Ireland

Though going during summer break will give you the best weather, it’s the busiest and most expensive time of year for a family trip to Ireland. I prefer April, when temperatures start to rise and the flowers are in full bloom. So, if spring break gives you enough time for vacation, I’d go then. At this time of year, you might experience rain, so be sure to pack some layers.

Read more family trip ideas to Ireland

Family self-drive tour of Ireland

8 days from $5,105pp

Game of Thrones tour of Northern Ireland

8 days from $6,640pp

Wild Atlantic Way

10 days from $8,625pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• What to do in Dublin: a first-hand guide
• How to see traditional Ireland
• Natural Ireland: the coast, cliffs and countryside
• Discovering food in Ireland
• More family vacation ideas with Audley

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How to Plan a Family Trip to Ireland

By Amy Tara Koch

After inhaling The Land of Stories, Chris Colfer’s children’s series about twins who slip into a fairyland where Red Riding Hood has her own kingdom and Mother Goose is a babysitter, my 12-year-old daughter Brette made a request: Could Ireland top the list for our annual summer trip? Its picturesque landscape—castles on craggy cliffs, mossy woodlands potentially enchanted by sprites and trolls—was the stuff of fantasy fiction. To her credit, she broadened the appeal to really land the pitch: “Mom, I looked and there are fancy hotels.” Those family members entrenched in reality, my husband and 16-year-old daughter, ratified the proposition. It helped that the mystical land of Yeats, James Joyce, U2, and spectacular bacon-infused breakfasts was made even more appealing by affordable fares on Aer Lingus .

Our summer tradition is to take lengthy vacations that often make no sense on paper. Instead of being driven by what's nearby, our choices are guided by new experiences—often offbeat—and the goal of getting the kids to 21 countries by the time they are 21 years old. It starts with brainstorming in October (" Venice is sinking —we need to go!" "Hiking in Switzerland sounds fun—I read that you can have lunch in an alpine hut and swim in green rivers of glacial water." "Where are the San Juan Islands ? You can kayak with Orcas there!") By late December, we have enough of a framework to book flights (during the year, we stockpile credit card points and airline miles to apply toward plane tickets), and then we fill in the blanks along the way.

Here’s the kicker: The kids are our designated tour guides. To prep, they have to plot out the itinerary on a map—an actual paper map!—and complete Mom-made worksheets that require investigation into local cuisine, attractions, regional peculiarities (like later dinner times in France and Italy, and seafood for breakfast in Scandinavia), and the designated region’s historical significance. Sure, the research produces eye-rolls and teen-sized groans. But the prep work is non-negotiable and delivers a quantifiable payoff: nods of recognition and appreciation for real-life contact with a landmark or experience baked into the master itinerary.

For Ireland, the focus was Dublin and a country estate in the Midlands. Here's how our itinerary looked:

Family-friendly activities are almost all just a short walk from the city center—near St. Stephen’s Green, up to Temple Bar, and over to Trinity College—so we made it our goal to stay in the middle of it all.

Stay: The Merrion

As Brette predicted, this glamorous hotel —four restored Georgian townhouses with an exquisite interior garden and crowd-pleasing 60-foot swimming pool—was the perfect perch.

Not to be missed: the Art Tea, served in the grand drawing room, which riffs on the hotel’s extensive collection of 19th- and 20th-century Irish paintings. Whimsical pastries (like an abstract Madonna and Child by Mainie Jellett interpreted as a pouf of passion fruit and orange cheesecake encircled by cubist-style white chocolate panels) are displayed alongside mini cards of the paintings, plus tiered platters of traditional Irish sandwiches, scones, and Battenberg cake, a colorful checkerboard sponge cake.

Herd of wild deer grazing in the Phoenix Park.

Phoenix Park

On top of exploring the medieval tower-house of Ashtown Castle and the Dublin Zoo, catching sight of the resident fallow deer is the draw at this 1,700-acre walled park, a former royal hunting ground. “The deer remind me of the Patronus Charm in Harry Potter,” said Brette, referring to the silver doe conjured by Severus Snape. According to Irish lore, the bush-like hawthorn trees on the park perimeter are where the fairies meet.

Dublin Castle

Originally created as a Viking fortress, this 13th-century castle (with additions in later centuries) has functioned as a prison, treasury, court of law, and royal residence. Its vibe—part Hogwarts, part Beauty and the Beast (post-curse) palace—is fully appreciated after a visit to the elaborate state apartments that are still used for state functions.

Old-School Book Shops

With Dublin’s rich literary heritage, it’s no surprise that independent book shops abound. We popped in to a few—The Winding Stair, The Village Bookshop, The Gutter Bookshop—each buying a book by an Irish artist. Brette picked Spellbook of The Lost and Found , a tale of magic and friendship by Moira Fowley-Doyle; Doyle and I scooped up Nora Webster by Colm Tóibín, who also authored Brooklyn , the book behind the recent film starring Saoirse Ronan.

A morning spent with Context Travel investigating the historic nooks and cobblestoned crannies with a local expert. A family favorite is the group's 2.5-hour Book of Kells tour, exploring the history of the ninth-century manuscript with a visit to Trinity College's Old Library and the National Museum of Ireland. I opted for a custom tour—also a 2.5-hour experience—to incorporate historic and literary sightseeing (visiting Oscar Wilde’s home and a few James Joyce haunts) as well as food experiences, like trying Durrus Ógb cheese and soda bread.

My husband picks a sporting activity for most places we visit (baseball in Tokyo, soccer in London, hockey in Sweden). In Dublin, it was hurling , a gladiatorial form of field hockey played with a wooden stick and small ball. Attending a match makes for a thrilling family activity.

Andrea Cheng

Jessica Puckett

Sophie Yun Mancini

Playing lords and ladies at Ballyfin.

BALLYFIN ESTATE, CO. LAOIS

Next up? Ballyfin, the Regency mansion of Sir Charles and Lady Caroline Coote turned 20-room hotel on 614 acres of parkland and wildlife-filled ancient woods. The kids channeled their inner aristocrat by horseback riding, trekking through the demesne, interacting with eagles, hawks, and owls during a falconry session, boating, fishing, picnicking alongside the property’s lake, and playing croquet on the meadow. Kid-sanctioned highlights: an Agatha Christie–style secret door hidden in the bookcase of the library; a Roman-looking grotto “folly”; and a fantastic dress-up experience where guests pluck period costumes from a selection culled from the Lyric Opera of Chicago and sport them a la Downton Abbey throughout the evening.

A morning at the nearby Slieve Bloom Mountains to hike and visit Birr Castle, pictured, an Anglo-Norman fortress (celebrated for formal gardens and a landscape of rare trees and plants) still used as a private residence by the Earls of Rosse.

Recommended

The Westbury

The Morrison Dublin, Curio Collection by Hilton

Dublin Travel Guide

Packing list.

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For Families in Ireland

Traveling with children is always a bit of an adventure, and you’ll want all the help you can get. Luckily Ireland—with its vast open countryside, farm hotels, and castles—is like a fairy-tale playground for kids. You may have trouble finding babysitters outside major towns, so just take the kids with you. Most restaurants, sights, and even pubs (during the day) welcome children. The best part of the country for those traveling with kids is arguably Cork and Kerry, where everything seems to be set up for families. Here’s a sample itinerary to give you some ideas.

Days 1 & 2: Dublin The sprawling greens of  Phoenix Park  are a great place for little ones to let off steam (it’s the best place in the city for a picnic, too, if the weather’s good). Within the park, Dublin Zoo is designed to appeal to the younger ones (you can take a train ride around the zoo, for instance). Inquisitive young minds will be inspired by the cabinets of curiosity at the National Museum of Ireland:  Natural History , and have their interest piqued by Number Twenty-Nine: Georgian House Museum , a house that has been kept exactly as it would have been at the turn of the 19th century. The guides at another museum, the Little Museum of Dublin , do a great job of putting the ordinary lives of Dubliners in the last hundred years into context for younger visitors. But if your youngsters’ attention spans demand something a little flashier, try a Viking Splash Tour , a historical whirl around the city in a World War II amphibious vehicle, complete with headlong splash into the River Liffey. Kids with a high threshold for the ghoulish may get a kick out of the creepy crypts at St. Michan’s Church ; if that’s too scary, even younger kids are all but guaranteed to love an evening aboard the Dublin Ghost Bus .

Day 3:  County Cork 

Okay, so it’s not exactly untouched by the tourism fairy, but kids find plenty to love about Blarney Castle , just outside Cork City. They can kiss the famous stone if they don’t mind an attendant holding them upside-down. A few miles away, the Fota Island & Wildlife Park is a well-designed zoo where the docile animals (those that don’t bite, kick, or stomp) roam among the visitors.

Days 4 & 5: County Kerry Kerry is probably Ireland’s most kid-friendly county, so there’s enough to keep you busy here for at least a couple of days. On the Dingle Peninsula, Fungie, star of the Dingle Dolp hin Boat Tours has been entertaining kids and grown-ups alike for the last 30 years. On the Iveragh Peninsula, Kenmare’s Seafari cruises and seal-watching trips teach kids about conservation issues by putting them in touch with the underwater residents of Kenmare Bay. Blueberry Hill Farm , in Sneem, is a working, old-fashioned farmstead where kids can help milk cows, make butter, and take part in a treasure hunt. Meanwhile, an underground tour of the atmospheric Crag Cave is a surefire winner—as is a stop for high-energy playtime at the Crazy Cave  adventure playground. And don’t overlook what Killarney National Park  has to offer little ones—what could be better than a ride around the mountains and lakes in an old-fashioned horse-drawn “jarvey”?

Day 6:  Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

If you have time before the drive back to the airport, head into the otherworldly landscape of the Burren , where young imaginations will be fired up by dolmens and other ancient sites. It’s also where you’ll find the Burren Birds of Prey Centre at Aillwee Cave , a working aviary full of buzzards, falcons, eagles, and owls in flight.

Beyond a Week...

If your trip extends beyond a week, your family will find plenty of standout attractions for kids farther north.

The Atlantaquaria , just outside  Galway City   , is a state-of-the-art aquarium, while pony trekking across Connemara National Park  is a unique way to see this beautiful, windswept landscape.

In Mayo, Westport House and Pirate Adventure Park has all the ingredients for high-activity fun; young girls in particular will enjoy learning about the region’s real-life pirate hero, Grace O’Malley .

If you’re going as far as Belfast, the attractions around the new Titanic Quarter hold plenty of youthful appeal. Try the hands-on science center, W5 , and the state-of-the-art Titanic Belfast museum .

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Top 10 things to know before traveling to Ireland

Mar 27, 2024 • 9 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Keep it to casual wear

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

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

Add these top beaches around Ireland to your travel itinerary. 

3. The land of a 100,000 welcomes

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

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

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

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

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

5. You’d better learn about the rounds system

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

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

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

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

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

Save this guide to the best road trips in Ireland.

7. The easiest way to explore Ireland is by car

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

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

8. Ireland is good cycling country

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

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

9. Pick the right season to travel in Ireland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Exploring Ireland With Family, From The Wild Atlantic Way To Dublin

Article By: Nicky Omohundro

The winding road beckons and the scent of adventure hangs in the air as you explore Ireland with family. Taking generations to the Emerald Isle is sure to be an unforgettable experience, and the perfect chance to bond. 

Ready for a grand exploration of hidden gems through Ireland and Northern Ireland? Starting in Dublin, the journey takes you along an ancient route that meanders through picturesque small towns and iconic fishing villages. Then the dramatic cliffs of Sligo Bay provide breathtaking views over miles of white sandy beaches.

In this article, we’ll guide you on a remarkable adventure, weaving through the heart of Ireland’s culture, history, and landscapes. We’ll take you from the vibrant streets of Dublin to hidden gems like Carlingford and Enniskillen . We’ll explore the rich history of Armagh County and delve into the subterranean wonders of Fermanagh. And, of course, we’ll set our sights on the stunning Wild Atlantic Way , where the rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs will leave you in awe.

Multi-Generational Adventure: In Ireland With Family

Ireland is the perfect destination for multi-generational trips because it has something to offer everyone in the family. From grandparents to parents and children alike, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Grandparents can explore historic sites such as Dublin Castle or take a drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, while parents can take in stunning coastal scenery or bike through charming villages. Meanwhile, active children and teens will love kayaking past castles or problem solving in an escape room-like experience with no rules called Boda Borg .

There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, from hiking and biking trails to pubs and restaurants serving up delicious traditional Irish cuisine. Ireland’s friendly people make your family feel right at home as you explore off-the-beaten path.

Get ready to be inspired by the beauty of the Irish landscape and discover what awaits you on your next trip. Our adventure begins in Dublin, where history, culture, and laughter await.

Start Your Ireland Family Trip With Dublin Delights

As we set off from Dublin on this incredible journey, you’ll quickly discover that the Irish capital is a delightful melting pot of history, culture, and good old-fashioned fun. The city pulses with life, and your children ages 12 and up will be captivated by the vibrant streets, small parks and lively atmosphere.

Trinity College

A visit to Trinity College will transport them back in time as they gaze upon the ancient Book of Kells . You will be the first and last person in your century to see the particular page on display as staff carefully turns the page every few months. During my visit, I saw a page from the Book of Luke (cameras weren’t allowed).

Avid readers appreciate that Trinity College is that alma mater of Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift, and Bram Stoker. It’s impossible not to be inspired as you explore the grounds, where students have been coming to study since 1592.

The Long Room Library offers an impressive collection of books and artifacts. Wander spellbound under the library’s towering arched ceiling to see busts of famous authors. Old wooden furnishings add to the atmosphere of mystery and wonder.

Take a guided tour of the campus to hear stories of its history or stop and take in the atmosphere sitting on the common area lawns. You may even get the chance to watch a rugby match on College Park — a unique experience for visitors and students alike!

Guinness Storehouse Is A Memorable Irish Sight With Family

The Guinness Storehouse is a must-see for adults and kids will love it too. Discover how Guinness ale is made, learn about the history of this famous Irish beer and discover some quirky facts along the way. Kids are sure to take away lots of interesting information.

Visit Grafton Street To Shop And Dine With Kids

Grafton Street is the perfect place for families to explore Dublin’s vibrant city center. From street performers, to shopping, to ice cream stands, there’s something for everyone on Grafton Street.

Kids can get up close to the lively street performers, take a break and enjoy a sweet treat. Adults discover unique items that they won’t be able to get anywhere else. Grafton Street offers an amazing atmosphere where you can spend time as a family. Grafton Street is also a great place to visit and distract yourself from jet lag. For more ideas, see this what to do in Dublin Ireland your first day.

And what’s an adventure without good food? Dublin’s eateries cater to all generations. From traditional Irish pubs serving hearty stews to trendy cafes with global flavors, there’s something for every palate in this area.

The Road to Northern Ireland With Family

Leave the vibrant streets of Dublin behind and hit the open road. Venture into the heart of a country where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. The journey from Dublin to Northern Ireland is not just about miles covered but the stories you’ll gather along the way.

Dublin to Carlingford: A Scenic Drive

Leaving Dublin, you family heads through the tunnel under the city and north towards Carlingford , a hidden gem nestled on the Cooley Peninsula . The drive itself is a scenic adventure, with lush landscapes and winding roads that make you appreciate the beauty of the Emerald Isle.

The journey from Dublin to Carlingford is full of  experiences to share along the way. Conversations flow naturally, landscapes inspire awe and everyone anticipates what lies ahead. This is the essence of multi-generational travel, and you’re just getting started.

Note about border crossings : The border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland is difficult to see as there is no physical designation or border checkpoints. Once you cross over, you’ll just notice the road signs switch from kilometers to miles and vice versa.

Carlingford: Medieval Charm

As you arrive in Carlingford, the family will be greeted by medieval charm. This town seems to have emerged from the pages of a storybook. The winding streets where history and myth come alive are perfect for leisurely strolls.

Hike And Bike To Appreciate Ireland With Family

For the more adventurous members of the family, consider tackling the Tain Way . The hiking trail winds through Carlingford and offers spectacular views of the Mourne Mountains and Carlingford Lough. Your teenagers, in particular, might love the sense of exploration and achievement as they conquer the trail.

For something less strenuous, rent e-bikes from Carlingford Greenway Bike Hire (30€ for 4 hours) and pedal along the Carlingford Greenwat trail to or from O’meath along the lough. This is a perfect activity for all ages, as it’s flat and full of natural beauty.

If the family would prefer to stay in town, there are plenty of attractions to keep everyone entertained. Start the day with a visit to King John’s Castle (admission is free) and learn about the history of Carlingford while taking in panoramic views of the town.

Afterwards, enjoy lunch at one of the town’s many restaurants or pubs. PJ O’Hare’s is a classic pub serving fresh seafood and traditional Irish fare.

Slieve Guillon – Mountain of the Dead

Just outside Carlingford is Slieve Guillion , a flattop mountain in the Ring of Guillon. At 573 meters above sea level, it is the highest point in the county and from the peak, hikers can enjoy stunning views of Carlingford Lough, the Mourne Mountains and Cooley Peninsula .

Hikers can also see a passage through a tomb that dates back to 3000 BC. It’s an interesting stop for history and archaeology buffs. It is similar to Newgraves Passage Tomb , but reservations aren’t required and it’s free to hike.

Slieve Gullion holds the legendary origins of the heroic figure Cú Chulainn, also known as Cuhullin, who earned his name and spent his childhood as Sétanta in this very place. According to myth, the mountain draws its name from Culann, a skilled metalsmith. Culann graciously invites Conchobhar mac Neasa, the noble king of Ulster, to a splendid feast at his humble abode nestled amidst the majestic slopes of Slieve Gullion.

Top Off Your Ireland With Family Trip With A Castle Estate Stay Experience

After a full day of outdoor activities, you’ll arrive at nearby Killheavy Castle Estate . This private estate is home to the Killheavy Castle and new boutique hotel located amidst the beautiful Irish countryside. The family-run business offers unique self-catering stays and a warm welcome for each and every guest.

The on-site spa and thermal suite provide a luxurious retreat and the perfect way to recover from a day full of adventure. Guests can also explore the grounds with landscaped gardens and an enchanting woodland garden walk. Enjoy a meal in the castle’s atmospheric restaurant before turning in for the night.

If you’re looking for a memorable stay full of charm and character, Killheavy Castle Estate is perfect for any special occasion. The estate team have tailored packages to suit each individual needs so your break away can be as unique as you are.

County Fermanagh – Lakes, Caves, and Green Spaces

Lesser-known treasures often don’t make it onto the usual Ireland with kids tourist itineraries. Yet, County Fermanagh is the perfect destination. From lakeside strolls to hidden caves, there’s plenty of adventure and exploration to be found in this rural part of Northern Ireland.

Todd’s Leap Activity Centre

Todd’s Leap Activity Centre is a great spot for multi-generational families to visit. This family-friendly destination offers lots of fun activities like ziplining, off-road driving, and safari rides to get the adrenaline pumping. The centre also offers lunch packages for groups so everyone can refuel before tackling more adventures.

For those looking for something a little different, there are archery and airsoft games as well as paintballing available. With so many activities on offer, Todd’s Leap Activity Centre can be a great reward for children and young adults to look forward to after a few days of sightseeing.

Enniskillen – Island Magic

Enniskillen , situated between the Upper and Lower Lough Erne, is a haven for nature-loving families. The surrounding lakes create a unique and peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for a tranquil family escape. Boat rides offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, while visitors can take a guided tour to the local castle or explore Enniskillen’s vibrant cultural scene.

Devenish Island Kayak Experience

For a unique experience, book a kayaking experience with Blue Green Yonder and paddle out to Devenish Island, located in the middle of Lower Lough Erne. The island is home to a medieval monastic settlement founded by St Molaise and now contains interpretive plaques, ruins, and graveyard. After a picturesque paddle to this historic site, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the lake and countryside.

Blue Green Yonder also offer a range of other activities as well such as bike hire, fishing trips, and boat excursions. So whatever your interests, there’s something to suit everyone.

Lakeside Resort Stay

When touring Ireland with family, enjoy a stay at Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel and Lodges . Located on the banks of Lower Lough Erne , it offers a range of activities and facilities. Enjoy a swim in the indoor pool, take advantage of the watersport center, relax in one of the spa treatments rooms or try your luck at fishing for pike. Kids will love playing in the children’s play area and taking part in organized kids’ activities.

Marble Arch Caves

The Marble Arch Caves are an underground limestone cave network located near the village of Florencecourt . As one of Europe’s finest showcaves, these caves offer an incredible opportunity to explore a subterranean river system as well as a boat ride to the entrance.

Guided tours of this cave system run all year round, so it’s the perfect activity whether you’re looking to explore the area or just getting some fresh air. You can also join a guided tour of the arch caves and learn from knowledgeable guides about the history of this fascinating area, discovering the unique flora and fauna as well as plenty of interesting facts.

Be sure to bring your camera so you can capture those special moments along the way. The amazing views from the caves are some of the best in Europe, so you’ll want to make sure you take plenty of pictures. Whether you’re a photographer looking for a unique experience or just an avid explorer, these caves will not disappoint!

The Wild Atlantic Way Unveiled

Finally, we continue west and reach the crescendo of this adventure – the Wild Atlantic Way . This breathtaking coastal route is not just a place; it’s an experience that will bond generations even further.

Whether you’re gazing at the cliffs, hiking along the rugged coastline, or simply enjoying the endless sea views, the Wild Atlantic Way offers something for everyone. Kids aged 12 and up will love the outdoor adventures, from birdwatching to water-based fun. Grandparents can appreciate the raw beauty of the landscape and share stories of their own travels.

This journey, through Dublin, Carlingford, Enniskillen, Armagh County, Fermanagh, and the Wild Atlantic Way, is a testament to the magic of multi-generational travel. And while the scenery is stunning, don’t forget to explore the culture and history too; from ancient castles to majestic cathedrals, charming villages and vibrant cities – there’s something for everyone! So join us as we discover all that this remarkable adventure hasl

Strandhill Beach

Strandhill Beach is great for multi-generational groups on an Ireland with family trip. Its long strip of sand provides plenty of space to spread out and relax, with stunning views across the Atlantic Ocean. Kids can build sandcastles and even take a surfing lesson if they’re brave enough. Grandparents can enjoy a stroll along the shore or take in a long soak in a seaweed bath.

Surf Destination in Ireland

Strandhill Beach is a great destination for surfers in Ireland. Discover waves crashing against the shoreline, and plenty of options for different levels and styles of surfing. Even beginners can find surf schools like Sligo Surf Experience operated by Seamus McGoldrick which is voted the best school in the area.  Experienced surfers also can find plenty of great spots to take on the waves.

There is also a new National Surf Centre that offers changing areas and an area information center. The beach is stunning in its own right, with the cliffs adding to the picturesque view. Strandhill offers plenty of amenities for families and visitors, including cafes, restaurants and pubs. Shells Café & Little Shop is a great spot for lunch or dinner after a day of surfing.

Pamper Your Ireland Family With A Seaweed Bath

If you prefer to pamper yourself, schedule a soak at Voya Seaweed Baths . Here, enjoy a unique experience of relaxation and detoxification with wild harvested seaweed from the Atlantic waters.

Book a room and enjoy a sauna and soak at the spa. The rooms are perfect for couples or individuals.

In Ireland With Family? Pause In Sligo

With its picturesque architecture, ruins of the 12th century Abbey of Drumcliff , diverse shopping options, and tasty restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Learn about the history of William Butler Yeats through a journey to his birthplace at Coleman’s Rock and take in the stunning views.

Spend time exploring the streets and shops around Sligo Town. A centrally located hotel is The GlassHouse Sligo , offering modern rooms with views of the city and the river.

No matter what your preference, you’ll be sure to find lodging to suit. From romantic getaways nestled in nature at hotels like Strandhill Lodge & Suites to the bustling vibrancy of Glasshouse Sligo, there are plenty of accommodation choices that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to explore.

Ireland’s Forest Paths and Problem Solving

Today we start the trek back towards Dublin and the airport. About 45 minutes east from Sligo is Lough Key Forest Park , where you can find some of the best forest walks in Ireland. Enjoy a lazy stroll along woodland trails and across open meadows.

Lough Key Forest Park

The 350-hectare Lough Key Forest Park sits on the grounds of the former Rockingham Estate and offers a unique blend of natural and man-made features. Take in stunning views, explore the 800-year-old castle ruins, admire beautiful lakefront scenery, wander through ancient forests and solve problem solving activities along the way.

The adventure playground offers zip-lining, a tree-top walkway, underground tunnels, and a 9-meter-high observation tower. The lake offers boat rentals and relaxing views for a peaceful moment during your travels.

A great indoor, rainy day activity here is Boda Borg , a problem solving experience and team building activity. Take your time and get creative with problem solving as you traverse the spectacularly crafted Boda Borg mazes. Here you’ll need to work together with family and friends to advance through a series of puzzles — physical and mental — with a group of three to five people. It’s more than just fun!

Stay In Malahide And Learn How Affluent Dubliners Live

Malahide is a coastal village located just north of Dublin and makes for a great stopover before you head to the airport. As one of Dublin’s most affluent suburbs, Malahide is an ideal spot to explore and experience some local culture.

Not only are there some beautiful beaches here, but also many historic sites including Malahide Castle and Talbot Botanic Gardens . The area is full of pubs, restaurants and cafes, so you can enjoy the nightlife while savoring some traditional Irish fare.

For a peaceful place to stay, the stunning Grand Hotel Malahide is a great option. The hotel overlooks the marina and sea and is perfectly situated for you to explore the area while still being close enough to Dublin City Centre.

A Journey of a Lifetime

As your adventure through Ireland and Northern Ireland comes to a close, you’ll realize that this journey has been about much more than just sightseeing. It’s about the laughter, the shared experiences, the bonds forged between grandparents, parents, and children.

Multi-generational travel is a unique opportunity to bridge generations, learn from one another, and create a treasure trove of memories that will last a lifetime. It’s about appreciating the diverse interests and passions of each family member. Celebrate the beauty of exploration as a collective endeavor.

So, whether you’re standing at the edge of Strandhill Beach, gazing in awe at the wonder of nature, or simply sharing stories and smiles over a meal in Dublin, remember that you’re not just on a journey through Ireland and Northern Ireland.

You’re on a journey through time, creating moments that transcend generations.

Acknowledgment: Thank you to Tourism Ireland for inviting us on this grand journey through the island of Ireland! Accommodations and travel were provided for editorial purposes. All opinions are our own.

Nicky Omohundro is the editor of LittleFamilyAdventure .com , an online resource for families who are passionate about exploring the world. She and her family live in Oklahoma and love to take as many adventures as possible.

Nicky’s goal is to show her children that the world is filled with beauty, wonder, and joy and that everyday life should be celebrated, explored, and cherished. She also hopes to inspire others to explore the world around them through her stories and photos.

Find her on Instagram at @ lilfamadventure or Facebook .

Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.

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An Ireland Itinerary 7 Days for the Entire Family

Are you looking for an Ireland itinerary 7 days with the family? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

Ireland is an ideal spot for an unforgettable vacation with something to engage everyone. From majestic castles and rolling green hills to charming towns and incredible food, this magical land offers no lack of memorable experiences.

With our comprehensive 7-day Ireland itinerary, your entire family will get a taste of all this beautiful country has to offer!

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps us continue to provide helpful and free content for you.

Best Time to Visit Ireland

There is never a bad time to visit the Republic of Ireland, otherwise known as the Emerald Isle.

However, as so many attractions are outdoors, the longer, drier and warmer days of Spring and Summer are the best seasons in which to visit.

But if you choose to visit in peak season, Irish school holidays run from mid-June through to late August/early September , so your Ireland itinerary will encounter higher prices and busier locations. Whatever time of year you visit, come prepared for all weather.

A good waterproof coat for kids and closed-toe shoes are a must. A robust umbrella is also a useful packing item.

Best Way to Get Around Ireland

The best way to explore Ireland is by car , as you will be able to pack more into your Ireland itinerary. 7 days is a short time to tour the country , so traveling by car is the best way to make the most of your time in Ireland.

Self-driving enables you to travel at your own pace and explore quieter off-the-beaten-track locations. It also means you can stop whenever you want to in order to savor views of the famous Irish countryside. 

However, as there aren’t many motorways in Ireland , you will find that driving times may be slower than what you are used to or what you may expect from your research and planning.

Plus, once you leave urban areas, rural roads are narrow and winding, so even the shortest journey may take a long time: if you get stuck behind a tractor, it will take even longer.

There is a good public bus network between major Irish cities but buses in rural areas are irregular , with a limited network of routes . 

The Irish train network, Iarnród Éireann, is comfortable, reliable, and reasonably priced . It can be used for intercity travel and for travel to rural towns, but the rail network will not take you to rural attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher.  

There are several tour groups running multi-day tours of the Republic which cover all the major attractions.

Paddywagon Tours has its own hostel network, and in addition to its general tours, the company offers private family and small group tours . These can be a good option for anyone who might be nervous driving in Ireland. 

Why Visit Ireland With Kids

Ireland is a family-friendly country to visit. It offers a wide range of attractions for all ages and interests, including natural wonders, museums, historical sites, and theme parks . Many attractions are free , and children are discounted at fee-paying attractions. 

Larger families will also find that discounted family tickets are available for families of 5 and 6 rather than just the usual family of 4 discount . There are children’s menus in restaurants and cafes, and there are accessible playgrounds and parks throughout the country .  

Furthermore, Irish people are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality . You will find that people are welcoming and helpful and interested in who you are and where you come from. However, as in any other location, the usual safety precautions apply. 

Ireland is an easy country in which to travel: the infrastructure and money are familiar , and the majority of signs and notices are bi-lingual.

The most challenging aspect of your Ireland road trip itinerary will be the notoriously unpredictable Irish weather. 

Planning a road trip to Europe? Read our 12 Best European Road Trips For Families here!

Ireland Itinerary 7 Days

📝 Please note that all the drive times below are approximate. 

Day 1- Dublin 

🚗 Start your Ireland itinerary in the capital city, Dublin (Baile Átha Cliath). 

See the illuminated Book of Kells, wander the cobbled streets of Temple Bar , or learn about the history of the city at Dublinia .

Enjoy the fantastic playgrounds in Phoenix Park or discover how an iconic pint of Guinness is produced at the Guinness Storehouse .

Rest weary feet with a boat trip on the River Liffey , or exhaust the kids at Imaginosity , a three-story interactive children’s museum . 

🏨 Stay at the Hilton Garden Inn on the banks of the River Liffey, a 15-minute walk from Dublin City Center. The hotel has excellent local transport links, and its spacious family rooms offer two large double beds. 

Day 2- Dublin to Galway 

🚗 Drive west for 2 hours to reach Galway.

Spend the rest of the day exploring Ireland’s fourth-largest city , Galway (Gaillimh) . It is a colorful, vibrant city with a large student population . 

Visit Galway Cathedral , Galway City Museum , or the fun National Aquarium of Ireland . Take a stroll along the Salthill promenade and have a good run around on the sandy beach .

If you like buskers and street entertainers , wander along Quay Street in the heart of the city, which is known for its talented street musicians . 

🏨 Stay 10 kilometers outside Galway City at the Claregalway Hotel in Oranmore . Family rooms include beds for all the family, and the hotel has an onsite restaurant and a large, heated indoor pool. 

Day 3- Galway to Killarney

This is an activity-packed day, so you will want to be up and out early.

From Oranmore , head south towards the Cliffs of Moher but make a quick stop at Kinvara (15 minutes away).  Visit the small town’s picture-perfect Dunguaire Castle on the shores of Galway Bay. 

Continue to the Cliffs of Moher, a 1-hour drive away.

The impressive and popular cliffs are 120 meters high and run for 14 kilometers along the County Clare coastline . 

In addition to the Cliffs themselves, the stunning views here stretch to the Aran Islands and the mountains of Connemara National Park .

Families can walk 800-meter-long paths to view the Cliffs (which are best visited early to avoid the crowds) and enter the Visitors Center to learn how the cliffs were formed. Allow at least one hour here. 

🚗 Drive from the Cliffs of Moher to Bunratty (Bun Rataigh) , a 1-hour drive away. If you have time, make a quick stop in The Burren National Park to see its otherworldly karst landscape . 

At Bunratty , spend a couple of hours exploring Bunratty Castle and Folk Park . 

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park are great fun for families . It is an outdoor living history museum with over 30 furnished buildings from Ireland’s history.

Families can enter and explore the buildings where actors dressed in period costumes ‘live’ here and tell you about their lives and jobs.

The park includes a fully recreated 19th-century street with a pub, school, and post office. There is also a small woodland fairy trail, a farm, and an outdoor adventure playground. 

Bunratty Castle , one of Ireland’s best-preserved castles , is also found here, and entrance is included in your Folk Park ticket. Kids will love exploring the castle’s narrow spiral staircases and eerie nooks.

🚗 Drive 1 ½ hours to Killarney for a well-earned rest! 

🏨 Stay for the next two nights at The Gleneagle Hotel & Apartments , a highly rated and award-winning hotel that is perfect for families . The hotel has a 25-meter indoor pool, a pitch and putt course, and two tennis courts. It also offers a regular entertainment program in its on-site ballroom.

🤔 Are you wondering how to find cheap places to stay when traveling? Read our tips on How to Find Cheap Places to Stay When Traveling with Families!

Day 4- Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park on the edge of Killarney town (Cill Airne) is a 26,000-acre park with jaw-dropping rural scenery. It forms part of the Ring of Kerry scenic driving route, but Killarney National Park deserves more than a passing visit.  

Killarney National Park has everything; lakeside walks , imposing mountains , dramatic waterfalls , and shaded woodland walks. There are incredible views at Ladies View and The Gap of Dunloe.

Other highlights include the 20-meter-high Torc Waterfall and Muckross House and Gardens , a 19th-century Victorian mansion with beautiful, landscaped grounds. 

Return to Gleneagles Hotel and Apartments.

Day 5- The Ring of Kerry

Set off early to enjoy one of Ireland’s most scenic driving routes , The Ring of Kerry . As the name suggests, this is a 179-kilometer circular route around the most beautiful locations in County Kerry. 

With no stops and light traffic, the Ring of Kerry is a 3-hour drive . But there is so much to see and do along the way that the route will easily take one full day. 

Must-see stops along the way include sandy Derrynane Beach , the 7th-century Cahergal Stone Fort , Moll’s Gap viewpoint , and the attractive and colorful town of Sneem .

County Kerry is one of Ireland’s Gaeltacht areas . This means that the native Irish language is the primary language spoken in this region.

Road signs, shop fronts, and signposts will be in Irish. Enter any shop or restaurant, and you will hear the lilting tones of this ancient language. 

Do not complete the whole Ring of Kerry loop, as you will be retracing your steps through Killarney National Park . Instead, head east before entering the park and drive to the coast and the lively town of Kenmare .

🏨 Stay at The Lodge , which is a homely, family-run guest house on 2 acres of land. It has free parking, free WiFi, and beds for each family member in its family rooms. 

The seaside town of Kenmare (An Neidín ) is a great location to hear traditional Irish music . Many of the pubs in the town offer seisiúns – turn up and play Irish music sessions.

Several pubs have family-friendly afternoon or early evening start times. Seisiúns are free to attend as long as you buy food or drink from the bar.

Day 6- Kenmare to Cork

🚗 Drive for 1 ½ hours to Blarney , home of the famous Blarney Castle . 

Visitors flock to Blarney Castle from all over the world to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone . The legend states that if you kiss the Famous Blarney Stone, you will get the ‘gift of the gab’; you will never be lost for words again.

Visitors must climb to the castle parapets and bend into contortionist shapes in order to kiss the outdoor stone. Don’t worry, there are guides on hand to help you, and it is lots of fun to do and watch.

Make sure you allocate enough time to explore the beautiful 60-acre castle gardens , which include a poisonous plants section and a Himalayan and Jungle section. 

🚗 Drive the short 8 kilometers from Blarney to the city of Cork (Corcaigh) . 

Take a tour of Blackrock Castle Observatory or browse the stalls of the English Market. Younger children will love the Glenview Fairy Trail , whereas older children will find the history and stories at Cork City Gaol interesting. 

🏨 Stay at the affordable Jurys Inn Cork which is a short ten-minute walk from principal Cork attractions. 

Day 7- Cork to Dublin

After a hearty Irish breakfast (a must-try on any Ireland 7-day itinerary).

🚗 Drive 1 hour 40 minutes to Kilkenny (Giolla Chainnigh) on the banks of the River Nore. 

Spend a couple of hours exploring charming Kilkenny , which is Ireland’s best-preserved medieval city.

Wander the city’s Medieval Mile visiting Kilkenny Castle or the 13th-century St. Canice Cathedral . St. Canice Cathedral has a 100-foot Rapunzel-esque round tower which is one of only two climbable round towers in Ireland. 

Leave Kilkenny and drive 1 hour and 20 minutes north to Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains .

You will want to make several stops as you approach Glendalough to enjoy the scenery. Take detours to view Glenmacanasse Waterfall, the Sally Gap viewpoint , and Lough Tay . Lough Tay is affectionately known as ‘The Guinness Lake’ due to its shape and color. 

Glendalough , in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains , is one of the most visited locations in Ireland.

The site features the monastic remains of the 6th-century monastery founded by St Kevin . In addition to semi-ruined churches and priests’ houses, Glendalough is known for its ornate Celtic crosses and St Kevins Tower , a non-climbing round tower .

Accessible woodland paths will bring you to the lough itself and to a choice of tranquil woodland paths.

🚗 Drive 1 ¼ hours to return to your starting point at the Hilton Garden Inn .

Need Help Planning Your Itinerary? 👉 Let me help you  plan your custom itinerary .

FAQ: Ireland Itinerary 7 Days for the Entire Family

Where should i visit in ireland for a few days.

There are plenty of spots to consider

• Dublin is the capital city, with plenty to do in terms of sightseeing and nightlife experience.
• Cork is another popular destination, boasting spectacular coastal scenery and exciting food culture.
• Galway also offers great entertainment, shopping, and dining options amid the beautiful countryside.
• For something more remote, visit Counties Mayo and Donegal , which provide rugged landscapes with plenty of outdoor activities.

What can a tourist do in Ireland in 3 days?

If you’re a tourist in Ireland, you can spend 3 days exploring the country’s stunning landscapes by visiting first the medieval castles , touring iconic monuments such as the Cliffs of Moher and Dublin’s Christ Church Cathedral , sampling some of Ireland’s fine craft beer , and Irish whiskey , listening to traditional Irish music , trying out some of the country’s famous seafood dishes , taking a carriage ride around Killarney National Park and more.

How can I see most of Ireland in 7 days?

To see most of Ireland with family in 7 days, it is best to plan an itinerary for:

📍 Day 1 -Start by exploring Dublin and visiting places like Phoenix Park, the Iconic Pint of Guinness, the Children’s Museum with Kids, and more!

📍 Day 2 – From Dublin , move to Galway and explore top places for families like the Galway Museum, the National Aquarium of Ireland, and Sandy Beach .

📍 Day 3 –  Galway to Killarney National and visit the Cliffs of Moher and Dunguaire Castle in Kinvara

📍 Day 4 – Killarney National Park and explore the wonders of Killarney National Park from the Gap of Dunloe to the Ladies’ view .

📍 Day 5-The Ring of Kerry – Enjoy the panoramic view of Derrynane Beach and the colorful town of Sneem .

📍 Day 6-Kenmare to Cork and take your kids and loved ones to the Blarney Castle and spend the afternoon in the Glenview Fairy Trail.

📍 Day 7-Cork to Dublin , but before going back to Dublin, you can spend some time visiting Kilkenny and Glendalough and go back to Dublin.

How many days do you need to see all of Ireland?

It would take around 3 weeks to see all of Ireland , though the more time you have, the better. Three weeks will give you enough time to explore Dublin, Belfast, Galway, Cork, Killarney, Limerick, Sligo, and Donegal or branch out into small towns and villages for the more traditional Irish experience. If you have more time, there are more exciting destinations, such as Kerry’s Ring of Kerry, Giant’s Causeway, the Cliffs of Moher, and Achill Island.

How much money do you need to visit Ireland for a week?

If you want to visit Ireland for a week with your family, you’ll need around $3,000 for a family size of 4 (2 adults+2 kids). This estimate includes accommodations , food, car, and other expenses . Depending on what activities you plan to do while in Ireland, your costs could be higher or lower.

What is the cheapest month to go to Ireland?

November to February . This is when airfare and hotel rates tend to be the lowest. Prices also drop during the shoulder season in March, April, and October, so this could be another good option if you’re looking for a cheaper holiday.

What is the best time to see Ireland?

Between March and May and September to November because these months offer the best combination of pleasant temperatures, long daylight hours, and low amounts of rain. During this period, visitors will enjoy the comfortable weather and mild temperatures to explore all Ireland offers. The days are also long enough for sightseeing, while the evenings remain mild and comfortable. The rain is usually light during these months, so visitors can make the most of their trip without worrying about being rained out too often.

Final Thoughts: Ireland Itinerary 7 Days for the Entire Family

This Ireland Itinerary for 7 Days is a fantastic way to see what the country offers.

From the historic destinations of Dublin and Galway to the adventurous landscapes of the Giant’s Causeway and Cliffs of Moher – there is something for everyone.

With many activities and attractions available, it’s no wonder this 7-day itinerary is so popular.

This Ireland road trip is an excellent way for families to experience all that Ireland offers in one trip!

So pack your bags now and book an unforgettable family vacation in Ireland with this Emerald Isle itinerary!

Happy Travels! 🙂

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Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

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

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The perfect Ireland road trip itinerary for families

05/26/2023 By Traveling Canucks 36 Comments Categories: Family Travel Tips Ireland Popular Top Lists Travel Stories Travel Tips Trip Ideas

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

Let’s fix that today, shall we!

Skip ahead using the Table of Contents below.

Ireland Road Trip Itinerary for Families

Table of Contents

This post was originally published in 2017. We reviewed and updated this post in May 2023.

Road trips are always a good idea, especially with young kids.

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

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

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

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

We spent the next few weeks experimenting with different itineraries. Our flights arrived and departed from Dublin, so that was an easy start and finish point. But after spending a few days in Dublin , should we go north, south or west?

This post shares our recommended 2 week Ireland road trip.

Dublin – Nights 1, 2 & 3

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

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

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

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

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

Related:  25 Photos from our trip to Dublin

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Dublin?

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

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

Search for more Ireland vacation rentals here .

Blarney & Cobh – Night’s 4 & 5

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

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

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

The drive from Dublin to Blarney

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

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

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

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

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

Related:  Top 10 Ireland Attractions you must visit

Cobh, County Cork

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

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

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

After Cobh, we visited the iconic Blarney Castle.

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

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

Where to stay in Blarney?

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

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

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

Related:  The Blarney Castle – is it worth visiting?

Ennis or Limerick – Night 6

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

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

You could dedicate an entire week to this region.

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

Drive from Blarney to Limerick

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

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

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

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

The drive from Blarney to Limerick

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

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

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

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

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

Cliffs of Moher

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

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

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

We spent about 2 hours at the Cliffs of Moher.

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

The drive from Limerick to Galway City

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

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

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

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

Galway – Night’s 7 & 8

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

Unfortunately, our sightseeing plans were dampened by the rain.

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

Where to stay in Galway?

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

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

Sligo – Night’s 9 & 10

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

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

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

Where to stay in Sligo?

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

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

The drive from Galway to Sligo

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

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

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

Portrush, Northen Ireland – Night’s 11 & 12

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

Portrush is a perfect family destination in Ireland.

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

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

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

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Where to stay in Portrush?

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

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

We would recommend staying at this hotel.

The drive from Sligo to Portrush

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

Related –  20 Photos that from the Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

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

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

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

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

Belfast – Night 13

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

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

We were pleasantly surprised by Belfast.

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

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

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

Where to stay in Belfast?

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

We scored big time at this hotel!

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

Belfast to Dublin – Night 14

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

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

We stayed at the Crowne Plaza  near the Dublin Airport.

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

We had a blast on this Ireland road trip.

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

Read more posts from our trip to Ireland:

• Traveling to Ireland for the first time? Here’s what you need to know
• You can’t go to Ireland and not see these top 10 Ireland attractions
• 20 Photos that will make you want to visit the Giant’s Causeway
• The Blarney Castle in Ireland – is it worth visiting?
• 25 Photos that will make you want to visit Dublin, Ireland

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

What did we miss? What would you do differently?

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

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06/04/2017 at 1:09 pm

Loved the article! Following you on each leg really gave me a good idea of what Ireland is like. We had just gone on a cruise to the British Isles and visited some of the places you went to. On our next visit I’d like to see more of the country side via a road trip like you did. More of a land tour. And what you said about Belfast, we too were pleasantly surprised by how clean, modern, and friendly the city is. We really didn’t spend any time there and regret it! your article was clear and easy to follow. The format was great! (With the pictures and descriptions) I was reading it on flipboard. Send me a link on other trips you’ve taken in Europe, I’d love to read about them. Aloha!

06/04/2017 at 1:20 pm

Love your article, there were a lot of great ideas on places to visit and where to stay.in Ireland. I would love to use the Budget gift card to rent a car and do a road trip through Iceland. I have been wanting to do this for years so hopefully I will get there in the near future.

06/04/2017 at 1:46 pm

Awesome article. I’ve been dreaming of a trip to Ireland and the highlands of Scotland.

06/04/2017 at 6:46 pm

I will go to Colorado.

06/04/2017 at 7:00 pm

I would use it this summer when we go out west for my cousins wedding.

06/04/2017 at 10:29 pm

I will travel to UK and Scotland.

06/04/2017 at 10:56 pm

I would go to San Diego, CA!

06/05/2017 at 12:40 am

Great info. Any info on central Europe?

06/05/2017 at 1:43 pm

I would travel to Las Vegas!

06/06/2017 at 7:29 am

I would travel to Orlando, FL with it.

06/06/2017 at 8:39 pm

I would take my 6 year old son to Disneyland.

06/07/2017 at 5:12 am

Love this! We just got back from a road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland with our 2 year old. We loved it so much, people were so wonderful with the baby and we LOVED the pubs. Our favourite stop was Bunratty Castle. I had taken it off our trip itinerary because we thought it was too much driving, but a friend from Ennis, Ireland insisted that we put it back on lol. We were glad we did, it was probably our favourite stop! We also loved Killarney National Park, we spent an entire day wandering around the park, farm and taking a horse and carriage ride. Love Ireland so much!

06/07/2017 at 5:15 am

Totally agree with the commenter who said they would go to Iceland. It’s high on my list, and after renting a car in Ireland, I don’t think I could go back to taking buses!

06/07/2017 at 10:22 am

I would like to take a road trip across Canada!

06/08/2017 at 4:15 pm

Great post!!

06/10/2017 at 11:24 am

This is the most thorough post on Ireland I’ve ever read!

I’m dreaming of road trips around Scotland and Utah/Arizona right now!

06/10/2017 at 10:51 pm

We would take a road trip with our kids down the Oregon coast!

06/13/2017 at 5:56 am

Well, Not so much heard about Ireland before. Looks like more than descent place. Specially Cliffs of Moher is something I am looking for. Nice pictures too!

06/16/2017 at 9:55 am

I would use it to go to Banff! We are flying to see my family in Cranbrook and I would love to rent a car to go check out Banff – it looks beautiful!

06/16/2017 at 9:57 am

Gorgeous pics! Ireland is one of my dream destinations! I would use the gift certificate during our fall trip home to Nova Scotia

06/16/2017 at 12:20 pm

We hope to either do a road trip in Iceland or Spain!!!

06/16/2017 at 4:14 pm

I would do a road trip on Prince Edward Island!

06/17/2017 at 8:39 am

Would love to take a road trip to visit my Dad, been quite some time since our last visit.

06/18/2017 at 3:29 am

I would drive out to Alberta!

06/18/2017 at 10:25 am

I would take a road trip to Eerie, PA.

06/18/2017 at 12:57 pm

I loved reading all about your Ireland adventure! It has been a dream for our family to visit my late husband’s heritage land and hopefully one day we will get there.

I would take a trip to visit my grandchildren on the East Coast – would be fun to take a road trip from CA to VA!

06/18/2017 at 6:43 pm

I would take a road trip up to Kirkland Lake, ON, to visit my family that I rarely get to see.

07/21/2017 at 5:40 pm

This is a wonderful post. As I commented on another post were in Ireland a couple weeks after you. We were traveling with 13 and 16 year old boys though. We went north from Dublin and stayed in Belfast first. If you go back, I would highly recommend a “black cab tour” of Belfast. I think it was my favorite part of the trip. The cab driver takes you around Belfast and tells you the history and points out historical places and areas that are still divided. We even got to sign our name on the peace wall. We stayed at the Europa Hotel in Belfast. No pool, but it known as the most bombed hotel in Europe. Then we traveled west along the coast (amazing drive and views). We visited the Carrick-A-Rede bridge. This was fun and offered outstanding views (I might have been nervous if my boys were little though). We had someone take our picture with Scotland in the background. We drove on to the Giant’s Causeway. It was pouring rain at that time, so we cut it short. But did visit the shop and see some of the Basalt columns. Then we drove to Donegal, via the ferry (which was cool, as we had not been one before). The next day we drove back to Portrush and Barry’s Amusement park. The next day we left Donegal and drove to Derry/Londonderry (depending who you ask). This is the only walled city in Europe that skill has its walls completely standing. We climbed to the top of the wall and were able to walk completely around the city. There was a lot of historical displays to see and read. This was my 2nd favorite stop. Then we drove into the midlands. We stayed at Dunnboyne Castle Hotel (I was not impressed with the service) but the grounds were nice and there was part of the original castle there to explore where the hotel was built. From there we visited The Hill of Tara, which was honestly less impressive than I expected. As historical stuff goes it was cool, but it was about a 4 foot tall rock. The Church turned visitor center and the cemetery were neat. The next day we went to Bru Na Boine and Newgrange, which is a 4000 year old tomb. This was my husband’s favorite part of the trip. The tomb was built to let light in during the winter solstice and light up the tomb. They imitated what it would look like and it was awesome that people so long ago had the skills to design this.

As you see our trip was more geared to older children and adults. We didn’t make it to southern or western Ireland at all. We are already planning our next trip. We fell in love with Ireland. See your posts makes me want to blog our trip 🙂

07/26/2017 at 11:29 am

Thanks for sharing Sheri! It sounds like you had a great trip.

08/06/2017 at 1:43 am

Those sea cliffs are breathtaking!

12/13/2017 at 5:37 am

Thanks a lot Cam and Nicole Wears for sharing your lovely article.

I can’t even think to plan and travel to all these places as you both did. I donno about what places you have missed out but really am pleased and fell in love with Ireland. Among all the places I loved Cliffs of Moher. Love to visit again and again… And moreover you have provided lot of informative stuff of visiting places and where to stay. I really wish, if I could make a road trip along with my family to Ireland.

01/14/2018 at 10:04 am

Great article! Just curious if you know what you approximately spent on hotels/rental car?

01/15/2018 at 9:08 am

I don’t recall the exact number, but the car rental was quite reasonable. It was around $600-$700 for 10 days. The hotels varied but were in the $150-$250 range. We chose hotels that had pools, so that increased the cost.

01/16/2018 at 9:13 pm

Thanks for the info 🙂

06/30/2019 at 1:51 pm

If you were to do this for 6 nights, what would you recommend?

07/01/2019 at 2:07 pm

I’m not sure I understand the question – are you asking if you could do this 12 day itinerary in 6 days? If so, then I would not recommend this itinerary. You would feel way too rushed.

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WCU Stories

Catamount crew crisscrosses ireland for wcu travel series maiden voyage.

 WCU Stories      March 25, 2024

Catamount Adventurers display the WCU flag in front of Kylemore Abbey.

By Bill Studenc

From a chance for a proposal “do-over” on the Cliffs of Moher to a mother-daughter first visit to ancestral homelands, Western Carolina University’s inaugural Catamount Adventures trip offered an array of experiences both shared and personal in Ireland.

Two dozen Catamount Adventurers recently traversed the Emerald Island from Ennis on the nation’s west coast to the capital of Dublin in the east during an 11-day journey that culminated in cheering from special grandstand seats as WCU’s Pride of the Mountains Marching Band closed the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade.

Highlights of the March 7-18 trip included visits to iconic Irish landmarks the Cliffs of Moher, the rocky landscape of the Burren, the Aran Islands of Inishmore, the Wild Atlantic Way’s Achill Island with its Bronze Age forts, the Connemara region, the National Famine Memorial, Kylemore Abbey, the 1600s-era Castle Leslie and the Newgrange tomb dating to the Stone Age.

The group also enjoyed a sheepdog demonstration; private performances by traditional Irish musicians, artists, dancers and story-tellers; tastings of goat cheese, fudge, gelato, Irish whiskey and gin; and strolls through the municipalities of Ennis, Galway, Westport, Carrick-on-Shannon and Dublin.

Brent Kinser, WCU professor of English, recites a work by Irish poet William Butler Yeats.

At various spots along the way, Brent Kinser, WCU English professor specializing in 19th-century British literature, provided insight on the inextricable links between Irish history, literature and music – sometimes while hoisting a pint of Guiness.

For Melinda Ward, a 1993 graduate of WCU’s environmental health program and utilities manager for the city of Eden, the excursion provided an opportunity to tick an often-postponed item off of her “bucket list” – accompanying the Pride of the Mountains to a high-profile performance. She had become a fan of the band after graduating, following its exploits on social media over the years.

“I had thought about trying to make the band’s earlier performances in the Tournament of Roses Parade and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, but I couldn’t make it work,” she said. “But when I saw news of the trip for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, I realized it would be the perfect opportunity for my first overseas trip and to finally get to see the band in a major parade.”

Husband Mike was eager to go along, but he had ulterior motives – he wanted to give Melinda a proper proposal, one better than when they married 28 years ago at the age of 26.

“When I first proposed, we were still young. It was not very romantic, and I often thought that if I had a chance to do it over again, I would do it differently,” he said. “We didn’t have a real honeymoon. I had been married previously and had custody of my 3-year-old son, and she just got tossed into the middle of being a parent. I always had it in my mind to find a way to do it over and do it right.”

Mike Ward surprises alumna Melinda Ward with second proposal at the Cliffs of Moher.

So, after the trip was booked, he learned how to say “I love you” and “will you marry me” in Gaelic. On the trip’s second day against the breathtaking backdrop of the Cliffs of Moher, he dropped to one knee, spoke those specially selected words of Gaelic and presented Melinda with a traditional Claddagh ring representing love, loyalty and friendship.

“I had no idea. He floored me. I knew he was trying to learn a little bit of Gaelic for our trip, but I had no idea why,” Melinda said. “It was a 100 percent better proposal this time.”

When Anna Haggy, a 2020 graduate with degrees in environmental health and political science, received an email from WCU announcing the Ireland trip, she was determined to pounce on the chance for quality time with her mother, June Haggy, a public school teacher who is working toward her doctorate.

“My mom talks about going to Ireland all the time,” said Anna Haggy, a safety specialist at N.C. State University. “It’s become a running family joke – ‘oh, we’re going to buy a castle and open up a bed-and-breakfast there.’ I knew she always wanted to go. I wasn’t sure she was ever going to take the time for herself to go, so I figured this would be a good way to make this happen.”

June Haggy, who has long wanted to research her family’s Irish roots as O’Hagans, said being able to travel with her daughter has solidified their relationship.

“When you have an experience like this together with your kid, it makes a strong bond stronger,” she said. “I’ve come to appreciate Anna even more. It’s been amazing to me just watching her mature and seeing all of the things she is learning and taking in. I appreciate her more now as a friend and companion. That we can have that relationship and friendship too is really important.”

Anna said the feeling is mutual. “It’s been cool seeing my mom really enjoy herself and see her talk with and engage with a lot of other people,” she said. “You don’t really get to see your parent being social and enjoying times with their friends very often until you get a bit older. I have really enjoyed seeing that.”

Many of the travelers ranked a “free day” at Castle Leslie – which included activities ranging from spa treatments and high tea to falconry and archery – among their favorite experiences.

Alumnus Bob Thomas, a retired international business executive, was among those who took advantage of the opportunity for an up-close-and-personal encounter with birds of prey while his wife, alumna Suzanne, enjoyed high tea in the castle.

Alumnus Bob Thomas participates in a falconry activity at the Castle Leslie in Ireland.

“I had never done anything like that, nor had I been so close to a bird of prey,” said Thomas, a 1970 graduate. “Our guide was excellent, as we got to meet his eagle, owls, hawks, falcons and peregrine. Over two hours, we learned about each species of bird and their unique skills and personality, plus we had a chance to work with a hawk and use our arms as his launching pad. It was one of my most unique experiences in my life, and I’m glad I had a chance to do it.”

Donna Winbon, a 1980 graduate and financial adviser from Raleigh, said she especially enjoyed a demonstration of border collies herding sheep and a visit to a goat farm and cheese-making facility. But her top experience was interacting with fellow Catamounts.

Alumna Donna Winbon pauses during a sheepdog demonstration in Ireland.

“The most fun was the laughter and deepening of friendships, going from acquaintances to friends. Getting involved with WCU through philanthropy has been life-enhancing. Connecting again with classmates and meeting so many people with that purple common thread has been so much fun,” said Winbon, who visited Ireland as a single traveler. “These kinds of trips are perfect for singles. Having the common connection makes it easy to converse and feel totally at ease.”

Traveler Susan Belcher characterized the trip as a way to honor her promise to her late husband, former WCU Chancellor David Belcher, to continue traveling in keeping with their financial support of student travel-abroad opportunities through the Brinson Honors College.

“I hadn’t been on an overseas trip since before COVID, so when I got the opportunity to not only travel but to join fellow Catamounts in doing so, I jumped at the chance,” she said. “As a former first lady of WCU, my Catamount connections, while close, were, by necessity, a step removed. On this trip, I was just ‘Susan’ – and pretty much for the first time I was free to experience that ‘Catamount Connection’ that binds us so closely. It’s real and it’s special.” 

For several alumni, the Ireland trip has strengthened their bond with their alma mater.

“I have kind of felt disconnected from WCU over the years. I didn’t know that many people, and my friends don’t really go back for events, so I haven’t felt comfortable going to reunions. It has been great getting to know a lot of new people at the different stops along the way,” Melinda Ward said.

“I would like to become more involved with Western. For me, my parents couldn’t afford to send me to college, so I had to pay for it myself. I have given a little bit over the years, because I’ve always wanted to support other kids who were struggling with the cost of education like I did.”

At age 26, Anna Haggy was the youngest person on the trip, but after a brief period of awkwardness at the journey’s beginning, she said she felt right at home among fellow Catamounts.

“What I appreciate more than I did before is the people that are surrounding and make up Western,” she said. “I mean, I never had a conversation with the chancellor before this, so I got to see the leadership of the university in a great and different way. This just makes me appreciate it more and have time to reflect on it.”

And she plans to become more engaged with WCU. Longtime WCU supporters Frank and Becky Brown, who host new student send-offs in the Raleigh area, were on the trip and asked if she would come and talk to new students about what it’s like to go to Western at this summer’s send-off. “I would love to do that. I actually went to that when I was a freshman, so it would be a full-circle moment,” she said.

From mother June’s perspective, the Ireland journey has reinforced her daughter’s decision on where to go to college.

“I’m just so glad Anna found Western,” she said. “This trip and getting to know the people on it helped me to know that she made the right choice and was in the right place. She says it over and over again – the focus is on the students. The university wants to see their success, and that had a really positive impact on her life, so I’m very thankful for that.”

After the Pride of the Mountains’ crowd-pleasing performance at the St. Patrick’s Day parade through Dublin and individual side excursions ranging from Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral to the Guiness brewery, the adventurers came together for a final farewell dinner. The event featured the reciting of limericks and the singing of songs, including a rousing rendition of “The Birthday Song” dedicated to traveler Margaret A. Studenc, a two-time WCU alumna born on St. Paddy’s Day.

“I was expecting Ireland to be beautiful. What I wasn’t expecting was meeting so many new people from WCU who I now consider to be dear friends,” said Studenc, a retired educator.

Bob Thomas agreed. “Our final dinner was memorable and reflected how we had bonded together as a group,” he said. “Being with fellow Catamounts was one of the high points for me. Beginning the trip, we knew a handful of fellow sojourners. By the end, we were all best friends.”

The Catamount Adventurers agreed that a grand time was had by all. Perhaps the best quote of the trip was uttered by one guide after the group broke into a spontaneous version of  “The WCU Fight Song” on a tour bus: “They are a mad bunch, these ones.”

Winbon said she is looking forward to future excursions as part of the travel series. “What a great idea to start Catamount Adventures,” she said. “I personally look forward to options to travel with the group in the future. I love to travel and will have more opportunities with people I enjoy, and it adds options to my smorgasbord of adventures.”

Registration is now underway for this year’s second excursion – a cross-continental journey to the Big Sky Country of Montana, scheduled for Sept. 17-22 in conjunction with the Catamount football team’s intercollegiate game at the University of Montana.

For more information about the WCU Catamount Adventures travel series, contact Janice Feichter, advancement events manager, at [email protected] or 828-227-2051, or visit the website give.wcu.edu/adventure .

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Western Carolina University is located in the beautiful Southern Appalachian mountains of Cullowhee, North Carolina. Our 600-acre mountain campus is surrounded by one of the most biodiverse regions in the state that provides students unparalleled learning and adventure opportunities. If you're looking for a university ready to fight as hard for your success as you are, choose WCU. Learn more about our campus...

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