one week trip to ireland cost

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

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

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

The Cheapest Times to Visit Ireland

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

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

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

Average Ireland Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

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

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

Flights : $309 to $1,390 for economy

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

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

Average Couple’s Trip

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

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

Flights : $617 to $2,780 for economy

Average Family Vacation

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

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

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

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

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

Traveling Cheap to Ireland

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

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

Budget Solo Traveler

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

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

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

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

Budget Couple’s Trip

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

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

Budget Family Vacation

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

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

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

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

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

The Cost of a Luxury Ireland Trip

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

Luxury Solo Traveler

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Couple’s Trip

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

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

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

Luxury Family Vacation

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

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

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

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

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

Ireland Hotel Prices

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

Ireland Lodging Cost by Star Status

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

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

Vacation Rental Prices

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

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

Flight Costs to Ireland

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

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

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

Daily Expenses Budget

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

Other Ireland Guides

Travel costs nearby.

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

Travel Costs in Popular Places

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

The Cost of Travel in Ireland (2024): A Detailed Budget Breakdown

Ireland was one of the first countries I ever added to my travel bucket list.

Perhaps it was the hopeless romantic in me thinking I’d meet a handsome man, like in P.S. I Love You , or maybe it was the sheer number of beautiful photos that left me captivated. 

Either way, I was deeply drawn to Ireland’s culture and natural landscapes from a young age. So much so that I was determined to get there as soon as I possibly could, so when the opportunity arose for me to study abroad in Ireland, I was filling in my application form within minutes.

Yes, I achieved my lifelong goal of visiting Ireland and before I knew it, I was taking my first steps in this beautiful country, pinching myself that I was actually living there now.

I didn’t want to squander that opportunity, which is why I spent almost every weekend exploring the Emerald Isle from top to bottom. It wasn’t a surprise to discover that travelling across Ireland didn’t come cheap, but I wouldn’t say it was overly expensive either. I averaged around €156/$ 170 per day while I was travelling across the country, with most of that money being spent on accommodation and food.

One of the best ways to see Ireland and save money is to rent a car and drive around at your own pace, but I joined plenty of bus tours, too. Taking tours cost more, but it meant I didn’t have to worry about driving or navigation either. In the end, these were some of my favorite weekends — and definitely worth the money. 

Whether it was driving along the winding, postcard-worthy clifftop roads that had me feeling like I was on the edge of the world or drinking with locals in a teeny-tiny pub in Dublin, Ireland was all that I dreamed it to be and more.

After my most recent trip last year, I decided to finally sit down and share exactly how much you can expect to spend while travelling in Ireland, so let’s get started.

What’s Included in this Post 

This budget breakdown covers how much I spent on accommodation, transportation, activities, and food while I travelled around the country.

I’ve not included my flights into and out of Ireland as this is going to vary significantly based on where you’ll be arriving from.

The amounts in this guide are listed in Euros and U.S. dollars, simply because the vast majority of readers of this site are from the U.S. and close to a million Americans visit Ireland each year.

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Ireland

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Couchsurfing  exists in Ireland and allows you to stay with a local for free , usually sleeping on their sofa and enjoying a local’s insight into life in their country. It’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget’s tight, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can browse through the 80,000+ Irish hosts on  the Couchsurfing site .

Housesitting  is a great option for  free  accommodation. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees: you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you  do  have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. I have friends who have housesat in castles before! For free!  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

I will make a quick note, however, that post-pandemic, the cost of hostels in Dublin is obnoxiously high. As in, while looking for a hostel in the city for July 2023, the cheapest price I could find was €100 for a dorm bed or €200 for a private room .

Yes, really. It’s something I’ve encountered in numerous countries since the pandemic, but it did seem to be particularly bad in Dublin.

Away from the capital and outside the peak summer travel season, though, hostels in Ireland  are more sensibly priced. You can expect to spend around  €40 a night for a dorm bed  for a well-reviewed hostel in Ireland, with the price increasing to slightly about  €60 a night  for the absolute best of the best.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you can expect to spend around  €120 a night  for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with a friend or partner, there’s not always a lot in it compared to two dorm beds. €150-190 a night  will get you an exceptionally well-reviewed private room in a hostel or hotel.

I use  HostelWorld  to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And, of course, there are always hotels, which are usually priced about the same as a private room in a hostel, but typically have a few more comforts. You’ll pay  €120-200 a night  for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location, depending on where you are and when you’re traveling. I always use  Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices.

The Cost of Accommodation in Ireland 

There’s lots of wonderful places to stay in Ireland — from B&Bs to castles to hotels and hostels. 

If you’re even toying with the idea of staying in a castle (I know: the ultimate fairy-tale dream) then you’re looking at around $200-$600 a night for the higher-end, luxury versions. Honestly, I think Ireland is a fantastic place to splurge on accommodation if you can afford to. 

I always like to share the accommodation I stayed in on my travels, as well as recommend alternatives when mine weren’t so wonderful. Everywhere I recommend below has excellent reviews and offers great value for money.

Here’s my list of my favourite accommodation options in Ireland:

Dublin: Staycity Aparthotels Mark Street ( €180 a night )

Dublin is unbelievably expensive right now, so I really felt like I lucked out when I discovered this modern hotel. Not only is it in the best location in town — within walking distance of Temple Bar and all the main tourist attractions — but the staff are wonderful and the rooms comfortable. The heating and air conditioning worked well, the rooms were silent, and it felt as though we were staying in a brand new hotel. It’s one of the cheapest accommodation options in Dublin while also being one of the best reviewed. I wouldn’t consider staying anywhere else!

Galway: The Stop B&B ( €219 a night )

As far as I’m concerned, Galway is a must-visit destination on any trip to Ireland. Its lively atmosphere, vibrant street busking, and brightly colored buildings make it one of my favorite cities: it’s one of the places I always revisit whenever I’m in the country. I stay at the Stop B&B when I do: it’s easily one of the best-rated options in town that’s still in a great location a few minute’s walk from the city centre. The rooms are absolutely spotless, stylish and modern without feeling generic, and Russell (the host) couldn’t have been more welcoming. Shoutout to the delicious included breakfast as well: it was better than what I had in most restaurants!

Cork : Hotel Isaacs Cork City ( €169 a night )

I really enjoyed my stay at Hotel Isaacs for the couple of nights I spent in Cork. It’s one of the more affordable hotels in the city, but is still in an ideal location, just a five minute walk from the centre and ten minutes from the bus and train stations. It’s nice and quiet despite being right in the heart of things, and my room was bigger than many I’ve stayed in in Ireland. There’s a good onsite bar but in the end I didn’t spend much time there: the staff’s recommendations for traditional pubs nearby were so good that I spent my evenings there instead!

Dingle : Murphy’s Pub and Bed & Breakfast ( €135 a night )

The stunning Dingle Peninsula is one of the most beautiful parts of the country; I don’t think I’ve ever seen such vibrant shades of green anywhere else on the planet! You’ll need at least a couple of days to fully explore the area, and I’d recommend staying at the delightful Murphy’s Pub in Dingle overnight while you do. Right in the middle of town and on the waterfront, you couldn’t ask for a better location to explore the town from. Not that you even have to leave the building if you don’t want to: one of the big benefits of staying in a pub is only having to walk a few steps to dinner, and that’s equally true here! My room was large, spotless, and very quiet considering it’s above the bar, and the included breakfast was super-tasty and set me up for the rest of the day. I really enjoyed my stay at this cozy family-run pub: I just wish I’d had another night there!

Belfast (Northern Ireland) : Citi North Guesthouse ( €94 a night )

Belfast is one of the most interesting cities I have been to. It’s deeply cultured, rooted in history and close to some of the most stunning natural landscapes I’ve ever seen. And if you’re planning a stint in Belfast, you need to stay at Citi North. Not only is it one of the most inexpensive guesthouses in town, but it also offers up one of the best breakfasts in the city — included in the price, of course. And it’s the small touches that really make the difference here, whether it’s having your bed made up and linens replaced while you’re busy hitting the streets of Belfast, receiving local recommendations on how to make the most of your vacation, or sleeping on a bed so comfortable that it feels like lounging on a cloud. It’s also in particularly handy location for boarding the  hop on hop off tour  or meeting up with one of the  black taxi tours .

The Cost of Transportation in Ireland 

Transportation around Ireland isn’t just a way of getting around, it’s an attraction in and of itself. For the most part, I used buses to get around the country when I hadn’t rented a car.

Bus and Train — The bus will probably be your main way of getting around if you don’t have a driver’s license. I found the bus system in Ireland to be very reliable and easy. and it covers pretty much anywhere you’re likely to want to go. The buses are quite comfortable and modern, they almost always leave on time, and most even have free Wi-Fi on board! And because Ireland is a pretty small island, the costs are actually quite reasonable. 

The main bus companies are Bus Éireann, Citylink, Aircoach, and Go Bus. Bus Éireann is the biggest and best of them, with reasonable prices and routes that cover the entire country. Plus, WiFi, power sockets, and comfy seats!

If trains are more your thing, they can also be a good way of getting around, especially on routes that go mostly along the coast: there are some epic views to be had! Tickets do tend to cost a bit more than the equivalent bus trip, though, and the trains don’t run as often as the buses or to as many places.

That said, shorter trips are still quite cheap: I paid €8.35 for a walk-up ticket from Enniscorthy to Rosslare, which wasn’t a lot more than the bus.

You can buy tickets on the day from self-service machines and ticket counters, or in discounted advance tickets from the Irish Rail website . You just collect your ticket from the machine when you get to the station.

Here are some of the typical bus and train route cost breakdowns, booked a few days in advance: 

• Bus from Dublin to Galway: €15/$17
• Bus from Dublin to Cork:  €15/$17
• Bus from Dublin to Belfast: €11.50/$14
• Train from Cork to Killarney: €12/$13
• Train from Killarney to Galway: €17.33/$19

City Travel — This mostly pertains to getting around Dublin. I found the city centre to be compact enough that you could easily walk places (if you’re wearing comfortable shoes of course!). Unlike most European cities, Dublin doesn’t have an underground system, so your best bet is to use the extensive public bus network. 

If you’ll be using public transport a lot, pick up a LEAP card: you can buy and top up at ticket offices and most convenience stores. You’ll save up to 30% on the regular single ticket cash price, although note that the card has a €5 deposit and €5 minimum topup.

With your card, you’ll pay a €2 for most bus trips in Dublin, with a daily cap of €5.60 . You can also use your LEAP card towards the train, tram, or Dublin bike rental. It’s worthwhile if you’re traveling beyond Dublin as well: you can use it in other cities like Limerick, Galway, and Cork. 

Car Rental — Like I said earlier, if you have a driver’s license and you’re comfortable driving on the left side of the road, then this is by far one of the most cost-effective and flexible options. Renting a car and driving around Ireland is one of the best ways to explore the vast countryside on your own timetable. Prices start at €26 ($28) per day for a simple, economy car. This is a great option if you’re traveling with friends or a partner because you can split both the costs of the rental and gas. 

Keep in mind that car rental prices do change depending on the time of year and how high the demand is. Typically the further you book out, the better prices there will be. I always use RentalCars.com to find the best deals for car rentals, as they always seem to find cheaper options than I can score by going direct.

The Cost of Food in Ireland 

Irish food feels like coming home. It just invites a feeling of sitting by the fireplace in a cozy cottage on the water, surrounded by friends and family. Whether it’s seafood chowder, cottage pie, or classic fish and chips, hearty, feel-good food is everywhere in this country. If you’re eating out for all your meals, though, you’re definitely going to notice a dent in your budget. 

If you want to start your day off with a lot of food, look no further than the traditional Irish Breakfast. Similar to the Full English from across the channel, you’ll end up with some combination of bacon, sausages, baked beans, eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes, black and white pudding, and toast. You’ll pay around €15 ($16.50) for it, although it’s not uncommon to see half-sized versions on the menu for those who’d like to save a bit of money (and their arteries).

You don’t have to go the traditional route, though, at least not when you’re in a major city. Especially in Dublin, but elsewhere as well, there are plenty of brunch-style cafes with a wide range of healthier options. I’ve had everything from shakshuka and granola bowls to salmon and eggs and the ubiquitous avocado on toast, paying €12-15 ($13-16.50) each time.

Pub meals typically offer the best value, especially outside the tourist areas of major cities. There, it’s not hard to find a delicious, filling meal of rich Irish stew and soda bread, fresh fish and chips, or tasty burgers for around €15-20 ($16.50-22) per person. A similar meal at a more upscale restaurant will be more like €20-25 ($22-27) . 

It’s worth looking out for restaurants that offer lunchtime or early bird specials. Often during the middle of the week, at certain times before the dinner rush, restaurants will offer full meals at a discounted rate. 

If you’re staying at accommodation with shared kitchens, this is a fantastic way to save money on food. When I spent money on groceries, I usually paid around €60 ($65) per week, or €8.50 ($9.50) per day for basic things like pasta and vegetables. 

If the place you’re staying at includes a free breakfast, I’d definitely suggest taking advantage of it. Especially if it’s a cooked breakfast, but even if it’s a lighter continental option, it often means you can get by with something small like a sandwich or wrap for lunch while you’re out exploring, and then opt to cook dinner in the evenings. Then you’ll average around €20 ($24) per day. 

Fancy a pint of Guinness or my personal favorite, Smithwick’s Irish Red? You’re looking at around €6 for every additional bevvy that you tack on, which you’ll be tempted to do at many points! I’d suggest going easy on the drinks in Temple Bar and other major tourist spots, though: prices there can be a lot higher than elsewhere! 

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in Ireland 

The activities in Ireland are so much fun! The rich history, incredible landscapes and quirky attractions will make memories to last a lifetime. I found most activities and entrance fees to be reasonably priced, at least compared to some other places in Europe. 

Without a doubt, my favorite experiences were taking a tour of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula Tour. These are spectacular drives, with incredibly lush mountains and ocean views that I couldn’t tear my eyes away from. I went with Paddywagon for my tours, and felt very taken care of. All I needed to do was sit back and enjoy the drive: it was nice to be able to just gaze out the window and let someone else do the driving! They made sure to stop frequently so we could get out, take pictures, and see everything up close. 

I also enjoyed seeing the Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway, experiencing the Guinness Storehouse and kissing the Blarney Stone. When I think about my time in Ireland, these are always the first activities that come to mind. 

Unless you’re a huge history buff, I personally thought that seeing The Book of Kells in Dublin was overrated and overpriced. But everything else is worth it!

Here’s a breakdown of some of the costs you might expect for the top attractions in Ireland: 

• Blarney Castle and Stone: €22/$24 (online discount)
• Guinness storehouse in Dublin: €20/$22 (online only)
• Cliffs of Moher: free
• The Book of Kells and Trinity College Dublin: €25/$27
• Giant’s Causeway: free
• Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge: €15.50/$17
• Connemara National Park: free
• 3-day tour of southern Ireland (Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, Cliffs of Moher, and Galway): €389/$422 (including accommodations, entrance fees, and breakfasts)  

If you’re like me, and love to make the most of time, then tours are really a great way to experience a country. I recommend hoping over to Get Your Guide for a range of activities and tours, like the Wild Wicklow Day Tour from Dublin ( €30/$33 ), Tour of Connemara National Park ( €35/$38 ), Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher Cruise ( €70/$76 ), or a Game of Thrones studio tour ( €34.50/$38) . 

The Cost of Travel Insurance in Ireland

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Ireland. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re way cheaper than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Ireland? 

It’s time to tally up all of my expenses to see my total travel costs!

• Accommodation: €159/$172 per day between two (€79.50/$86 each)
• Transportation: € 20/$22 per day
• Food: € 34/$37 per day
• Activities/Entrance Fees: € 23/$25 per day

Average amount spent in Ireland: € 156.50/ $170 a day!

What do you think? Are the costs to travel in Ireland about what you expected, or is it more or less expensive? Let me know!

Author bio: Born and raised in Toronto, Lydia has found “home” throughout her travels around the world. She’s a passionate storyteller and writer and you can usually find her dreaming about new adventures or having a deep conversation with a friend.

Related Articles on Ireland 💰 The Cost of Travel in Dublin: A 2024 Budget Breakdown ☘️ The Absolute Best Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Hi Lauren- thanks for this info. You want to check your math on these $ to pound conversions above; many are reversed (or leftover from when this was originally written perhaps and the pound was higher than the dollar?)

Hi LeeAnn! There aren’t any pound amounts in this article — do you mean Euros? I’ve double checked all the numbers and the exchange rate is still accurate as of today. The only thing I can think of is that you’re interpreting my Euro (€) prices as pounds (£)!

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What a Trip to Ireland Costs in 2024 | Average Prices

Written by: Author Andrew Helling  |  Reviewed by: Sandy Mitchell

Andrew Helling is a licensed pilot, travel enthusiast, and the founder of Travellers Worldwide whose travel expertise has been quoted in countless publications across the web. Armed with a laptop and a Wi-Fi connection, he loves exploring the world with his wife and son and is always on the hunt for cheap flights and new adventures... Learn More

Sandy Mitchell is a travel expert and the content reviewer/fact checker at Travellers Worldwide. Using the experience she gained working in the travel industry for more than 20 years, as a travel agent, travel marketing executive, and cruise school administrator, Sandy fact-checks and reviews each of our guides to ensure they're as accurate and helpful as possible... Learn More

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What's an average trip to Ireland cost?

A trip to Ireland for one person typically will cost around  $1,600. This estimate includes expenses for accommodation, round-trip flights, daily spending on food, drinks, and activities, as well as transportation.

On average, you can expect to spend about $80 per day on accommodation, with round-trip flights costing around $700. Daily expenses for food, drinks, and activities may average at $30 per person, while transportation costs can be approximately $25 per day.

If you were to take a random survey of people on the street, you’d be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t have Ireland occupying one of the top spots on their travel destination bucket list.

Who hasn’t dreamed of a trip to the Emerald Isle, land of shamrocks and leprechauns, rye whiskey and bannock cakes, ancient ruins, lush green landscapes, and maybe best of all, no snakes!

Luckily, a fun and educational Irish vacation is within the means of most people with a little planning and preparation. And the first place you should start is calculating a budget by determining how much your trip to Ireland is going to cost.

Obviously, your itinerary is a very personal thing and the cost of your trip to Ireland will depend on the things you want to see and do while you’re there.

And, of course, prices can go up or down somewhat between the time you plan your trip and the time you depart.

But by a careful consideration of all the variables involved in your travel and accommodations, you can arrive at a pretty good rough estimation of the total expense of your own trip.

And that’s just what our travel experts have done for you. We’ll show you the average prices for the basic trip necessities and offer you valuable pro-tips on how to save money, avoid hassles, stay safe, and have fun on your travels to this picturesque country.

Consider us your personal travel advisor for your upcoming trip to Ireland!

Average Trip to Ireland Cost in 2024

These are the current average cost estimates per person by category on a trip to Ireland:

• Average Accommodation Cost: $80 per day
• Average Flight Cost: $700 (round trip)
• Food, Drink, & Activities: $30 per day
• Transportation: $25 per day
• Total Cost: $1,645

Being such an attractive travel destination means that tourism is a big contributor to Ireland’s economy and they do all they can to make touring and sightseeing in the country as tourist-friendly as possible.

You’ll find a wide range of services and amenities, something to suit any budget and taste. No matter if you’re vacationing on a shoestring budget or splurging on your dream honeymoon, you’ll be able to plan the perfect itinerary for your trip to Ireland.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these expense categories below along with some helpful insights and tips.

Ireland Trip Cost: Average by Item

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Accommodation Costs

Ireland boasts a wide variety of options for the weary traveler to rest their head after a long day of exploration and adventure. You’ll find all the usual hotels, B&Bs, Airbnb rentals, inns, and guesthouses, as well as a plethora of more exotic and unusual accommodations.

You’ll have no trouble finding a place to stay regardless if your destinations are rural or urban. Standards of cleanliness and safety in public accommodations are high all around the country.

For the really budget-conscious tourist, it’s possible to find youth hostels and church or charity traveler shelters for cheap or free. Hotels tend to run between $15 and $20 per night.

To really experience the history, heritage, and natural beauty of the island, consider renting a room in one of the many ancient castles or in a quaint thatched-roof cottage.

You can spend some time in a centuries-old house on a working farm or on the ocean in a small fishing village.

Hotels in Ireland are rated with the familiar 5-star system, and the more luxurious, and expensive, establishments are located in the larger cities such as Dublin, Galway, and Cork.

As with any travel destination, prices are lower in the off-season and higher in the peak season from spring to late fall.

Flight Costs

Commercial flights to Ireland will vary widely according to your departure point, but the worldwide average runs from as low as $350 to $1,600 per person for economy class and from $1,700 to $5,000 for a first-class seat.

Pretty much every major airline offers flights to Eire though, as always, you should shop around for the best deals and easiest routes. Ireland boasts five busy international airports, with the largest being Dublin Airport, followed by the airports in Shannon, Knock, Belfast, and Cork.

The cheapest flights to Ireland will be found in the off-season from around September to April, except for the holiday season from mid-December to mid-January, and, of course, around St. Patrick’s Day in March.

It’s generally good practice to book your travel well in advance and to be flexible in your travel dates to find the best deals.

You don’t want to have any nasty surprises pop up on your trip to Ireland, so always check with the official Irish government website  for any travel restrictions or advisories before you leave.

Food, Drink, & Activity Costs

An indispensable part of the fun of traveling to a new place is sampling the local culinary fare and entertainment venues.

It simply wouldn’t be a proper trip to Ireland if you didn’t try the traditional foods, quaff the locally brewed stouts and liquors while enjoying the unique Irish pub culture, and see and do all the cool stuff you’ll discover on your route.

But remember food, drink, and entertainment costs  can quickly add up and bust your budget. The reported average is about $30 per day per person, but with so much temptation around, you should probably pad that figure by at least another $20.

You’ll find all the familiar fast-food restaurants in Ireland in the cities and smaller towns, as well as smaller family-style restaurants catering to the locals with reasonable prices.

You should be able to save enough on most days to afford a more lavish dinner or two in the city or on the coast. Don’t ignore the many pubs you’ll encounter for excellent food at prices that won’t strain your wallet.

Tipping isn’t as big of a thing in Ireland as it is in the U.S. and you’ll often find a small service fee added to your bill in lieu of leaving a tip. If you do want to leave a tip, the usual 10-15 percent is fine or even just rounding up the tab will suffice.

You’ll come across lots of farmer’s markets in the Irish countryside with low-priced locally grown and raised products and it’s quick and easy to stop and gather the ingredients for a lovely and economical picnic in a roadside park or historical site.

Fish markets abound on the coasts too. If you plan your itinerary so you can stay at inns and hotels that offer a kitchenette, you can even cook your own cheap meals on the road.

Transportation Costs

Ireland is blessed with a great public transportation system and it’s entirely doable to go anywhere you want by train and bus and in taxis and ride shares in the cities.

The fares are quite reasonable , their infrastructure is modern and well-maintained, and the carriages are clean. Depending on your mode of transport, $25-$50 per day per person is a good estimate for transportation costs.

You can also book tours that will shuttle you around to all the main tourist destinations and, although that might be more expensive, it may be worth it to save time and trouble.

But to really experience the Irish countryside, you can’t beat driving yourself in a rental car. If you’re only going to be in the country for a short time, your regular driver’s license will suffice.

Yes, they drive on the wrong side of the road in Ireland, but you’ll find that with a little bit of careful practice on the side roads you’ll have it mastered in no time.

Rental rates are about the same as in the U.S. but insurance fees can be higher because of damage routinely caused by tourists driving down narrow roads.

Also, most rental cars will sport a manual transmission, so if you need an automatic, you should let the rental car company know in advance and be ready to pay a higher fee.

Things to Consider

SAKhanPhotography/Shutterstock

Here are a few other things besides costs to keep in mind to ensure that your trip to Ireland is fun and hassle-free:

• Your phone’s maps app won’t always be accurate on the back roads of rural Ireland, so make sure you have an old school paper map with you as a backup. Many of the roads you’ll encounter off the beaten path will be narrow and curvy and your travel will be slow, so make the necessary time adjustments to get to your destination.
• You’ll need to bring a plug adaptor, as Ireland uses 230v/50hz, requiring a three-prong adapter. In some places, you may need a voltage converter unless your device is rated for dual voltage. Check it out before plugging things in.
• There’s a difference between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The much smaller region in the north of the island is still a part of the UK, so if you want to go there you’ll be crossing a border into a different country.
• The Euro is used in the Republic of Ireland, while in the north they use the British Pound. If you’re going to carry cash and are going over the border or near it you might want to have some of both on hand. However, ATM machines and currency exchanges are plentiful and credit cards are widely accepted pretty much everywhere, so you shouldn’t have any trouble paying for things.
• English and Gaelic are both official languages in Ireland and the road signs are usually written in both. But don’t worry, although you might encounter people speaking Gaelic in the smaller villages, you’ll get by just fine in English, although you might have some difficulty understanding the heavy brogue accent.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Will I need a visa to visit Ireland?

It depends on which country you’re coming from. If you’re a citizen of the EU or the EAA member states (Norway, Iceland, and Lichtenstein), the U.S., Canada, Great Britain, Australia, or New Zealand, then you don’t need a visa to enter Ireland.

What is the best time of year to take a trip to Ireland?

The summer months from June to August offer wonderful weather and longer days, although spring and fall can also be mild and pleasant and have the advantage of attracting fewer tourists and thus having fewer crowds and better travel deals.

What kind of clothes should I pack for the Irish weather?

The Irish weather is famous for being unpredictable and capable of changing very quickly. One day it can be sunny and warm and the next it might be chilly and raining. Even in the summer, the evenings can be chilly. Be sure to bring along some warm clothing and a waterproof jacket along with some comfortable shoes for walking.

What are some must-see attractions in Ireland?

The most visited attractions include the famous Cliffs of Moher, the Giant’s Causeway, the Ring of Kerry, Trinity College, and the Guinness Storehouse, just to name a few. The city of Dublin is considered a must-visit by many tourists. You’ll never get bored in Ireland.

Is it safe to travel in Ireland?

Ireland is considered by most to be a very safe tourist destination. You’ll need to exercise the same common sense you would use back home. Take precautions against pickpockets and petty thieves in the cities and in crowds.

So, What Does an Average Trip to Ireland Cost?

Our estimate of an average cost of $135 per person per day for a trip to Ireland, based on recent tourist surveys and reports, is pretty accurate for someone trying to stay within a budget yet splurging occasionally on experiences.

But in the end, the cost of your trip to Ireland is completely up to you and what you want to do and see in this beautiful, ancient, and magical country.

So, with so much to see and do and the ability to visit this amazing country on a budget, what are you waiting for — book your trip today and experience for yourself all that Ireland has to offer. Happy travels!

When to Go: Is Ireland Safe to Visit in 2024? | Safety Concerns The Best & Worst Times to Visit Ireland in 2024 Where to Stay: Where to Stay in Ireland in 2024 | Best Areas & Hotels What to Do: The 15 Best Hikes in Ireland (Our Favorites in 2024) 15 Best Golf Courses in Ireland in 2024 | Our Top Picks

Accommodations

Accommodations in Ireland can range drastically, depending not only on what type of accommodation you are staying in, but also what city. Dublin is significantly more expensive than any other town or city in the Republic of Ireland. Your best bet is to spend maybe two nights here (maximum three if you are interested in a day trip to Northern Ireland) then leave and spend the rest of your time elsewhere, such as in Galway or Killarney (two of my favourite Irish cities).

*Insider tip: If possible, try to arrange your Dublin stay to be during the week rather than on a weekend. Prices, which are already high, tend to skyrocket in Dublin from Friday-Sunday.

For the purpose of this article, I have based the accommodation estimate on mid-range hotel prices. This estimate can be dropped if you stay in B&Bs, hostels, or more budget-friendly accommodations. Of course, it can also be increased if you stay in a luxury hotel or an Irish castle. Don’t forget to apply for a  credit card with no foreign exchange fees  before you depart.

Here are some accommodation ideas and recommendations for three popular destinations in Ireland.

Hostels  

If you are a solo traveller, backpacker, or on a tight budget then choose to stay in a hostel. You can get a bed in a dorm (cheapest option) or a private room. Not only is it the most affordable option for accommodations, but many hostels also offer discounts on day tours. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other travellers.

Recommendations: Jacobs Inn Hostel (Dublin), The Nest Boutique Hostel (Galway), The Black Sheep Hostel (Killarney)

Irish B&Bs  

The Irish are known for their hospitality, and this is very apparent in the homey B&Bs. Cozy rooms, friendly owners, and delicious breakfasts make Irish B&Bs one of the most popular choices when it comes to accommodation. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that B&Bs aren’t always as central as other accommodation options. So if you aren’t renting a car, look into the location before booking.

Recommendations: Number 31 (Dublin), Ash Grove House (Galway), Foley’s Townhouse Killarney (Killarney)

Mid-Range Hotels  

Ireland has hotels for all budgets, but mid-range options promise good locations, clean rooms, and decent amenities at a fair price. Plus, mid-range hotels are easy to find everywhere you go. Again, remember that a mid-range budget hotel in Dublin will be more expensive than elsewhere.

Recommendations: Stauntons on the Green (Dublin), Flannery’s Hotel (Galway), Castle Lodge (Killarney).

Luxury Hotels  

Ireland has its fair share of beautiful luxury hotels, but the real draw is the Irish castle hotels which offer a truly unique experience. However, you will need to rent a car for this experience as most castles are in the countryside without public transit options.

Recommendations for luxury hotels: Clontarf Castle (Dublin), The Hardiman (Galway), The Fairview (Killarney).

Airbnb  

Renting an apartment via Airbnb has become a popular choice for many travellers, including myself. Most offer clean and safe places to stay at reasonable prices. Just make sure to read the reviews ahead of time. As with hotels and hostels, make sure to choose a central area.

If you have the right credit card, you can save a fair amount of money on hotels. Americans should strongly consider the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card since you can earn up to 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy points and $300 back at U.S. restaurants as a welcome bonus . Canadians should consider the Marriott Bonvoy American Express , which gives you up to 75,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. That’s enough points for a few free nights at some hotels, which could easily have a value of over $500.

Local Transportation

There are two main ways to get around Ireland. The first is by renting a car, and the second is by using public transit, including buses and trains. This article and Ireland itinerary assume that travellers will rely on public transit and day trips for their one-week vacation. If you are considering renting a car, please see the next section.

All Irish cities have their own local busses, but when travelling across the country, you will often have two choices; train or bus. Most tourists choose the train assuming that it’s the better choice. However, while it may be a little more comfortable, it’s often slower and more expensive.

Bus travel in Ireland is both easy and affordable. Tickets can be purchased either ahead of time or directly on the bus, and many buses offer free Wifi. The most common bus company is Bus Eireann which connects the whole country. As a result, it does take a little longer because it stops in the smaller towns. You can also use Citylink if you travel between Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Citylink is a bit more expensive. However, it’s worth it to save travel time. Schedules and routes can be found online on the respective websites.

Renting a car in Ireland

Renting a car in Ireland is often considered the best way to see the country. However, for North Americans, it can be very daunting.

To start with, Ireland drives on the left side of the road, which can be incredibly confusing for those of us used to driving on the right. Secondly, most Irish cars are standard rather than automatic. It is possible to rent an automatic car. However, they are significantly more expensive and do need to be arranged ahead of time, as some car rentals only have a couple of automatic options on hand.

The third thing to consider is the roads. The big cities like Dublin and Galway can be pretty hectic, but for most travellers, the main concern is the country roads. They are very narrow and winding. It’s also not uncommon for them to be covered in sheep in some areas or sheer drops beside you as you drive the coastline, which can be intimidating. 

If you have experience driving on the left side of the road, and plan on getting more off the beaten path, then renting a car is a great choice. However, if you aren’t sure and this is your first visit to Ireland, you can easily get around the main cities and see the big attractions using public transit and group tours. It’s much more relaxing and allows you to enjoy the scenery.

It’s also worth mentioning that not all credit card car rental insurance covers vehicles in Ireland, so you should check your policy details before you depart.

Attractions

Ireland has  so much to see , from adorable villages to pre-historic sites, beautiful nature and UNESCO World Heritage sites. While sightseeing is not expensive on its own, some things can add up quickly.

If you plan on doing many sites and attractions in Dublin, your best bet is to get the  Dublin Pass . It’s the ‘best bang for your buck’ as it includes not only skip-the-line entry to over thirty attractions, but also includes hop-on, hop-off bus access and a number of discounts. As the most expensive city in the Republic of Ireland, saving some money on the attractions in Dublin will absolutely help your budget.

In terms of seeing Ireland’s attractions outside of city centres, for example, the  Cliffs of Moher ,  Giant’s Causeway ,  Blarney Castle , or the Aran Islands, there are several tour companies based in the major cities of Dublin, Killarney, and  Galway  that offer these day trips in combination with other nearby attractions and sites. There’s no need to book an Ireland vacation package or do an official tour of Ireland. With guided day trips, you can easily plan everything on your own. 

Personally, I love Ireland’s day trips as they not only take away the hassle of driving on your own, but the guides are full of historical facts and Irish folklore that adds extra interest. Plus, they are usually smaller groups and are generally quite affordable. Most day tours are around or under $60 per person, though the longer ones (such as a 14-hour day trip to Northern Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Belfast from Dublin) will be closer to $80 per person.

Even if you don’t drink, the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin is a must. Trinity College is also worth doing since it’s one of the free things to do in the Dublin city center. That said, if you want to see the Book of Kells, there’s an extra cost.

Food and drink

Food isn’t exactly cheap in Ireland, but it’s reasonably priced. What can bring up the costs is alcohol consumption, so use the following numbers as a rough budget for your daily meals.

• Breakfast: $10
• Dinner: $30

This comes to an average price of $55 a day for food and drink (assuming you have a hearty Irish breakfast that is not included in the price of your accommodation). While this seems expensive, travellers should be aware that food and drink in Ireland can break your budget, so this is one area where you need to be careful.

Typical pub fare can cost about $10 – $20 for a meal, depending on your location. However, Ireland also has an incredible food scene with some top-notch restaurants, which while delicious, can be quite dangerous for your wallet.

Also, you can’t forget about the drinks. Let’s be honest; part of why you are coming to Ireland is for the pub culture. Unless you don’t drink at all, it’s probably safe to say you’ll have at least one pint a day. If you think you will be drinking more, be safe and tack on an extra $20 per day to this part of the budget for drinks.

When it comes to your food and drink budget in Ireland, I recommend allocating extra just in case. It’s better to have leftover money than to exceed your budget.

Random spending

Ireland has lots of neat souvenirs to buy, from Guinness paraphernalia to the famous Waterford Crystal or Aran wool sweaters and blankets. Not to mention tons of knick-knacks and souvenirs featuring cheeky leprechauns or cuddly sheep. If you love to shop or are looking for nice souvenirs to bring back as gifts for friends and family, Ireland is the perfect spot to shop.

However, even if you aren’t a shopper, budget some extra spending money. You might end up in a pub before dinner for a drink, or if the weather turns, grab a cab somewhere to get out of the rain.

To be safe, I recommend tacking on an extra $200 in spending money for your Ireland trip costs. If you aren’t a shopper, you can get away with $100, but if you want some of the famous Irish wool products or Waterford Crystal, know you may have to add a hundred or even two hundred more.

Cost to go to Ireland

So how much does it cost to go to Ireland? My research estimates your Ireland vacation will cost approximately $2,785 per person for one week, including flights, accommodation, food, transportation, attractions, and some extra spending money. That said, there could be some extra costs involved, such as travel insurance, and exchange rates when converting your money.

For more  European inspiration , check out my guides to  Scotland ,  Cyprus ,  Croatia ,  Austria ,  Malta  and  Greece .

Frequently asked questions

What should you not miss in ireland.

Ireland has so many beautiful places to see and great things to do. A few of my favourite suggestions include visiting the Cliffs of Moher, trying a pint of Guinness, listening to a trad music session in a traditional pub (Galway has some great ones!), and kissing the Blarney Stone. I also love recommending Dingle Peninsula and Connemara National Park (especially Kylemore Abbey). 

Where should I go in Ireland for the first time?

My biggest tip for first-time visitors is to make sure you get out of Dublin! Dublin is great, but there is so much more to see and do. I suggest heading to the west coast for a few days. Galway is a great base to see the cliffs of Moher and explore some of the Wild Atlantic Way. Southern Ireland is great too. Killarney is perfect for exploring the famous Ring of Kerry route, and Killarney National Park is also beautiful. 

How many days should I spend in Ireland?

You could easily spend a month in Ireland and still not see it all. Despite being a small country, there is much to see and do. Of course, not everyone has that time, so I suggest at least a week, ideally two.

What is the best time to visit Ireland?

I love visiting in spring and fall. The weather is decent but not too crowded with the high-season visitors of summer. Note that the weather in Ireland can be all over the place, so don’t stress out about any potential rain.

How do I prepare for a trip to Ireland?

Make sure to pack appropriately (warmer gear and waterproof gear!). If you are renting a car, make sure to book it in advance. If not, plan your day trips and book those early as well, especially if you visit in the summer as they can sell out. Also, don’t forget travel insurance.

Is Ireland expensive to visit?

Ireland is by no means a place that I would consider a cheap travel destination. But that doesn’t mean it has to be very expensive. If you are concerned about Ireland trip costs, look at my  Ireland on a budget  guide for some tips and ideas on how to save.

What is the cheapest month to fly to Ireland?

This is tricky because Ireland is a seasonal destination in some areas. The summer months and March for St. Patrick’s Day are traditionally the busiest. Wintertime is the cheapest time, but this also means fewer flights. Typically, I’ve had good luck booking early spring (April) and fall (October). I suggest watching for seat sales rather than relying on a specific month for cheap flights.

What is the cheapest place to visit in Ireland?

Dublin is one of the most expensive cities in all of Europe, so you will notice costs decrease as soon as you leave the capital. Hotel prices can drop dramatically once you get out of the city. Other than that, the smaller villages will be cheaper than cities for things like restaurants and hotels. 

Do I need a rental car in Ireland?

Renting a car is by far the easiest option for Ireland travel and offers much more freedom. Public transit in Ireland is decent by bus but can be quite slow and harder to get to some more remote places that may be on your must-see list. That said, driving in Ireland is very intimidating, so only do it if you are comfortable. If not, day trips are a good option.

About Hannah Logan

Hannah Logan is a freelance writer based in Ottawa, Canada. She specializes in finance and travel writing and has bylines at Fodor's Travel, O Magazine, and more. She also runs two travel blogs, Eat Sleep Breathe Travel and Ireland Stole My Heart . You can find her on Instagram and Twitter @hannahlogan21.

17 Comments

How far in advance can you buy your ticket? Does this help with the cost to buy early ?

Which tickets are you talking about? With airfare, it’s definitely worth booking earlier as opposed to later. As for attraction tickets, order them online where you sometimes get a discount

Hello am resident in Dubai and I’m a Cameroonian. I wanna spend my annual leave in Iteland, how do I proceed?

This was most helpful! We appreciate all your information. You did not mention traveling by motor home type or by boat. Please advise!

Again, thank you for your info

Charlotte and Bill

I’ve never travelled Ireland by boat or motorhome so I really can’t comment on that.

What is the tipping rules for Ireland?

I think I read that it’s 10 percent but Ireland isn’t a tipping country meaning they don’t expect it. I don’t know for sure I just read the article. This was very informative article I need 2800 for each week. Now I just have to figure out how long in what if any a group to go with.

im going to Ireland with a group called EF go ahead tours they have a great 14 day trip Im going in November finally .

We don’t expect a tip nor do we as for one 🙂

We don’t expect a tip nor do we as for one 🙂 _ your irish firend leeann

i’m from Bangladesh live in south africa, can i qualifies for that tour? will you people organize visa for me go to visit ierland.

Hi Devapriya,

My site is a personal blog, I do not offer any tour services.

I WANT TO VISIT IRELAND TO SEE IF I MIGHT WANT TO LIVE THERE. I WILL BE TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN. WHAT IS THE COST OF TRAVELING WITH KIDS.

Thank you for this article..it is my starting point to plan my vacation in Ireland. You gave many tips that will help! Again, thank you!

Great information to give people some idea what it will cost…Thank You

How much will it cost me and my husband to travel to Dublin from Nigeria.

About what I listed+ the price difference in flights from my estimate.

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Is Ireland Expensive? Trip to Ireland Cost Guide in 2024

Last Updated on December 12, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Is Ireland expensive? How much will a trip to Ireland cost? As one of the most popular places to visit on this side of the Atlantic and, for many, their first sojourn into Europe, Ireland isn’t always considered to be the best destination for budget travellers.

Especially considering that its capital city of Dublin is an expensive city and one of the priciest urban areas in Europe.

But that doesn’t mean that a trip to the Emerald Isle isn’t attainable for those travelling on a shoestring budget. So if you’re wondering how much an Ireland trip will cost and want to be able to adequately budget your trip, read on to get a breakdown of the prices in this beautiful country.

Table of Contents

Ireland Trip Cost Guide

So how expensive is Ireland? Not including the cost of flights, you’ll need to budget for the cost of food, cost of transport in Ireland and other things like accommodation, activities and entertainment.

Travellers to Ireland may find it to be more expensive than other places in Western Europe, with an average trip cost being approximately €90 to €175 per person per day (around $96-188 USD) assuming you are splitting costs between two people.

You can expect to spend at the lower end if travelling on a tight budget or at the higher end if you have an upper mid-range budget.

Accommodation Prices

The first, and often biggest, aspect of an Ireland trip cost that you need to consider is the price of accommodation. The cost of accommodation in Ireland is probably going to take the biggest chunk out of your overall daily budget.

On average, you should expect to spend around €30-40 per person per night if you are a solo traveller staying in hostels or a couple splitting a private room on Airbnb. This will increase to around €50-75 per person per night if you plan to stay in mid-range B&Bs or hotels during your Ireland trip. Assume a double room to cost you around €100-150 on average, depending on where you’re staying.

What you will find is that prices can vary drastically depending on where you are in the country. Dublin is by far the most expensive when it comes to accommodation costs, especially if you want to be centrally located.

Other urban areas like Cork and Galway also, not surprisingly, tend to cost more than in the Irish countryside. In general, accommodation costs also tend to be higher in Northern Ireland vs the Republic of Ireland.

If you’re going the typical budget backpacker route when you’re travelling in Ireland, you are in luck as the Emerald Isle has quite a well-established hostel scene. There are myriad hostel options in Irish cities and you can normally find one or two in smaller towns.

If you’re planning on staying in hostels while travelling, don’t expect to pay any less than around €35-40 per night for the cheapest dorm bed in cities and around €30 per night in more rural locations.

If you have a little more to spend than that of a typical budget backpacker, then consider staying in a B&B or guesthouse. These are ubiquitous throughout Ireland and can be a great option if you’re travelling on a mid-range budget. These can average around €100-150 per night, depending on the season and the location.

We booked a couple of good-value rooms through Booking.com including The Stop B&B in Galway and Errisbeg House in Roundstone . 

Transport Prices

Another major factor in your total trip to Ireland cost is going to be the price of transportation. While there are a few different ways to get around Ireland, outside of the big cities, Ireland is a country that is really best seen by car.

Public transport exists, but it’s pricey and it can be infrequent, especially if you want to spend some time in more rural areas and want to get a bit off the beaten path, for instance, if you’re keen to wander around Donegal, where there are absolutely no train routes.

So, if you want to travel independently or want to experience the delights of popular routes like the Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula drive , your best option for transport in Ireland will be to hire a car.

You can expect your average price for renting a car in Ireland to be around €30-40 per day, so around €15-20 per person per day if splitting costs between two.

You’ll also need to add some buffer to this to fact in the cost of fuel prices. Ireland is expensive when it comes to petrol prices, averaging about €1.80 per litre of unleaded in December of 2023. Luckily, most newer cars these days are quite fuel-efficient so you may not need to fill up all that often.

There are a few other costs you need to consider when renting a car in Ireland . First off, as with many places in the world, it can be significantly cheaper if hire a manual transmission than an automatic. So, if you can drive stick, it will definitely save you a few euros along the way.

Another way to save money when renting a car is to forgo the excess insurance that the car hire company will push and opt for an independent policy. We suggest using iCarHireInsurance whose prices can be less than major rental companies.

In cities, public transport is always an option and generally preferable to driving when you’re sightseeing. However, most urban centres in Ireland — including Dublin, Galway, and Cork — are very compact and all of the main sites are accessible on foot.

If you’re looking to save on any transport costs, I would recommend walking everywhere that you can. In Dublin, you can also rely on the bus to get around if distances are too far.

You can save money on your overall trip cost by only renting a car when visiting rural areas and not as soon as you arrive if you’re planning on spending some nights in major cities like Dublin.

Food Prices

The third thing that needs to be considered in the cost of a trip to Ireland is the cost of food.

Over the past decade or so, Ireland has seen something of a food revolution where innovative chefs have reimagined the local cuisine and the results are something spectacular.

Everywhere from fine-dining establishments to local, neighbourhood pubs serve up fantastic Irish cuisine that you could never have imagined. But how much does a typical meal cost?

Well, if you’re travelling on a super tight budget and staying in a hostel or Airbnb with self-catering facilities, one of the easiest ways to cut back on your Ireland vacation cost is to cook for yourself.

Irish grocery prices are affordable and on par with those that you might find elsewhere in Western Europe, the UK, etc. In this case, you can probably get by on around €15-20 per person per day on food.

If you’re not looking to cook for yourself, there are obviously numerous options for food in Ireland. Street and fast food are widely available throughout the country and can be the cheapest, if not always the healthiest, option for those who are trying to keep their Ireland trip cost to a minimum.

For those looking for a sit-down meal at a mid-range restaurant or pub, you can expect to pay somewhere around €15-20 for a main meal. If your tastes are a little more high-end or you feel like a splurge, expect a nicer, three-course dinner meal to cost about €30-40 per person.

If you do want to take advantage of one of Ireland’s fine dining establishments but don’t have the kind of money to blow on a ten-course tasting menu, many of the best Irish restaurants offer fixed lunch, early dinner, or weeknight menus where you can experience the phenomenal Irish food revolution at a more affordable price.

On average, I would suggest allocating around €25-40 per person per day if you want to have a mix of cooking for yourself and some mid-range meals.

Activity Prices

Now that we’ve covered the most basic aspects of your trip to Ireland , it’s time to focus on how much it costs to actually do things on the Emerald Isle. Well, depending on your preferences and general travel style, it is entirely possible to spend a day visiting museums and sightseeing in Ireland without spending anything.

Most public museums in Ireland are free of charge to enter. The only time you’re likely to have to pay entry at a museum is if it is privately owned or there is a special, limited-time exhibit. Even attractions like the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland can actually be visited completely free of charge, provided you don’t park at the visitor’s centre!

It is also completely free to experience Ireland’s spectacular natural scenery. Hiking and hill walking are two of the best things to do in Ireland and it costs nothing to do.

If you’re interested in visiting historical sites, castles, or ruins in Ireland , oftentimes these places do charge an admission fee. Generally speaking, a full-price adult ticket to one of these sites costs around €10-20 depending on the site, but there are almost always discounts available for seniors and students with a valid ID.

Entertainment Prices

What is a trip to Ireland without the occasional pint or dram of Irish whiskey? Well, it’s important to factor the cost of this into your budget.

Well, unfortunately, liquor prices in Ireland aren’t exactly cheap and if you’re planning on sticking to a tight budget on your holiday, I would recommend keeping pub drinking to a minimum.

The average price for a pint at a pub or restaurant in Ireland is around €4-6, and a basic cocktail such as a gin and tonic averages about €10-12 depending on where you are.

As usual, most liquor prices are going to be more expensive in the bigger cities and in places that are more frequented by tourists. Even in Dublin, you can see a massive difference in prices between bars and pubs in heavily touristed areas compared to those that are more frequented by locals.

A good tip if you’re trying to visit Dublin on a budget is to avoid drinking in the Temple Bar neighbourhood altogether, as prices here are incredibly inflated.

As always, however, it is infinitely less expensive to buy your booze at the supermarket or liquor store or not to drink at all.

In general, if you want to have a few beers at the pub in the evenings during your trip to Ireland but don’t plan on binge drinking or ordering anything top shelf, then plan to budget about €5-15 per person per day on entertainment while in Ireland.

Average Trip to Ireland Cost

So how much does it cost to go to Ireland in 2024? While it is possible to travel and an incredibly tight budget while in Ireland for the purposes of this section, I’ve averaged all of the costs so you can have an idea of how much you might spend per day while travelling in Ireland. This is assuming costs such as accommodation and car hire are split between two people.

Accommodation:  €30 – 75/night

Transport:  €25 – 30/day

Food:  €25 – 40/day

Activities:  €5 – 15/day

Entertainment:  €5 – 15/day

This means that you can expect an average trip to cost roughly €90 to €175 per person per day with obviously the lower end being appropriate if travelling on a tight budget and the higher end if you’re on an upper mid-range budget.

Obviously, it is possible to cut costs more and spend less per day and it is certainly possible to spend more. This doesn’t factor in any pre-trip expenses such as airfares or ensuring you have the right gear for your Ireland trip such as comfortable shoes and a waterproof jacket.

Another thing to consider when determining your overall Ireland trip budget is travel insurance. World Nomads   offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

If you’re travelling on a tight budget then SafetyWing is an alternative option that offers travel medical insurance policies. Click here to get a quote from SafetyWing.

Travelling in Ireland doesn’t have to be an incredibly expensive experience and it’s entirely possible to stick to a tight budget. If you’re smart about where and how you spend your money, your Ireland trip cost shouldn’t be exorbitant. 

Are you planning a trip to Ireland? Have questions about the prices? Let us know in the comments!

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Dublin or Edinburgh: Which City to Visit?

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

My wife and I are planning a 2 week trip to Ireland. The hope is to fly into Dublin for a few days. Then rent a car and just wonder around for the balance of the time. It is a small island compared to where we live in California. I am expecting a fun laid back time. Am I wrong?

You will definitely be able to cover a lot of ground in 2 weeks, but don’t expect to be able to travel distances as quickly as you can in California – especially in rural areas 🙂 For a truly laid-back trip, don’t pack too much into your itinerary and really just concentrate on a few areas. Hope you have a lovely trip!

HI I am enjoyinging reading your blog we are looking to go to london scotland and ireland in july. We are attending a wedding in ireland and I am feeling like I dont know where to start in planning the trip. Thank you

Hi Donna! Sounds like you’re starting to plan a great adventure – I understand that it can get a bit overwhelming! Our London-Scotland-Ireland itinerary is a great place to start and to get some inspiration 🙂

I’m planning a trip to Ireland next year. I would like to know more about the planning of this trip. I would like to travel to see the country side of my ancestors. Thank you for your time.

I am a widow and would love to go to Ireland. Want home base to take day trips without having to change hotels often. What would you recommend?

Hi Brenda – depending on what you want to see and do in Ireland, a base in either Dublin or Galway could be good choices 🙂

Thanks for the info. My wife and I are going back for our 2nd trip. The first having been cut short due to the COVID outbreak. I must agree that the best way to see Ireland is a self driving tour. Just be prepared for some narrow roads. A lot of the cross country roads can be 1 Lane and you need to keep an eye out for oncoming traffic and a place to get out of the way. A beautiful country to see no matter what budget you have.

Thanks for your comment, Nathon! Hope you have a great 2nd trip to Ireland 🙂

Thanks Maggie! You took the initial confusion out of where to start with organizing plans and budget. Off and running….Cheers!

Happy I could help, Sean! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

Your article, How Much Will A Trip to Ireland, was very helpful. I am delighted to have found it. It has provided my husband and I with information that is valuable.

Happy you found this helpful!

Good day Maggie, The information was very helpful, and I’m planning my trip, and the cliffs of Moher is a must see. Thank you

Happy I could help, Gwendoline!

Thank you for your article, it was very informative to my husband & I. We will soon be celebrating our 25 anniversary in July & are planning a trip there in the same month. We are looking forward to visiting Ireland & experiencing the beauty of the green isle. We are searching for more tips for our trip, any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Again, thank you so much,

Hi Maggie! Thanks for your comment and I’m glad you found this article helpful! I hope you both have a fantastic trip to Ireland…if you have any more questions at all, feel free to send me an email! I would be happy to answer them 🙂

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What Does a Trip to Ireland Cost? A Full Rundown

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Have you always wanted to visit Ireland, but are wondering what a trip to this gorgeous country would cost? Recently, my husband, Aaron, and I did our own 10-day road trip around the Emerald Isle. Since we are nerds (accountant and engineer), we tracked all of our expenses in a beautiful spreadsheet, which I am sharing below today.

This trip of ours was supposed to happen in 2020, but, well…. you know the rest. Originally, it was planned as one week in October, covering only the Republic of Ireland. One and a half years later, we rescheduled our Ireland trip for March of 2022, now enhanced with three more days and time in Northern Ireland . You can imagine how excited we were to finally go!

Inevitably, some of your expenses will not be the same as ours. For example, if you don’t need to board any pets, then you are already $600 under our budget. There are plenty more nuances to discuss, so let’s not waste any time, and jump right into it!

Here is our actual Ireland Trip Cost (in USD):

The above shows actual expenses paid over ten days in Ireland for two people. Our budget was not on a shoestring, but was not luxurious either.

With this being a 10-day itinerary with lots of moving around, my spreadsheet is pretty lengthy. To make it fit nicely for you above, I had to condense some of the line items. No worries though – I am going to break everything into more detail below.

While there are many factors that will make our actual expenses higher or lower than yours will be, for each category I will suggest ways to cut costs and where to splurge. After all, when doing such an epic Ireland road trip, one must occasionally treat thyself.

Travel Savvy Tip

Don’t look at this budget as a lump sum! That’s the quickest way to get intimidated and assume Ireland is unattainable. The truth is, you won’t pay the full amount at once. You’ll buy your flight, lodging, and rental car right away, and then likely pay nothing for a few months.

Once it gets closer to your trip, you’ll start looking at tours you may want to do, as well as make restaurant reservations. When you get back home from your trip, you’ll pay off any remaining vacay expenses you’ve incurred.

Breaking it into chunks like this is a much more approachable way to afford the cost of a trip to Ireland!

Ireland Trip Cost Breakdown:

Although traveling to Europe from the US can be pricey, Dublin is often one of the cheaper airports to fly into. Additionally, if you plan to travel elsewhere within Europe after Ireland, you can often find many budget flights on carriers like Ryanair.

We paid $753.57 for my flight and used credit card rewards points to cover the full amount of Aaron’s flight. This isn’t necessarily the cheapest price possible, but we weren’t able to be too flexible with Aaron’s limited vacation days . To find the best flight deals, I recommend comparing prices on Google Flights or Skyscanner , and avoid traveling during the summer months.

When flying United, we also pay extra for an Economy ticket, rather than the bare bones Basic Economy fares. This allows us to have flexibility with changing our travel plans when needed, as well as better overall customer service.

Solo travelers should budget around $700 on average for airfare. However, you can find even cheaper prices by following the below tips to avoid overpaying for flights :

• Be flexible with your travel days, as weekend flights can be crazy expensive. Play around with searching different departure and arrival days, and you’ll be amazed what a difference that can make.
• Travel during the low season (November through March), when there is an overall drop in prices.
• Last but not least, the tip that has helped me the most:  Sign up for a credit card with travel rewards points. We’ve gotten countless free flights thanks to our cards, simply due to points earned on every day purchases. We’ve had great experiences using both the  Capital One Venture  and the  Chase Sapphire Reserve .

Transportation

To road trip around Ireland, a rental car is a necessity. Rates will vary by the time of year and type of car. Generally, the smaller the car the better for navigating Ireland’s tight, winding roads. As you can see, we paid $210.05 for gas, as rates were very expensive during our trip.

You can also expect to pay for parking in cities like Kilkenny and Kinsale, as well as tolls when taking highways. Surprisingly, our route between Dingle and the Cliffs of Moher included a car ferry to cross a waterway, which was a hair shorter than circumventing it instead. The route on Google Map said “tolls”, which apparently meant the ferry toll, so watch out for that!

Be aware of your speed when driving around Ireland! A camera caught us driving nine kilometers over the speed limit, which we realized after receiving an 80 euro speeding ticket in the mail.

Public Transportation

In Dublin, a rental car will be more of a pain than anything else. Therefore, we ditched ours in favor of the city’s good walkability and bus connectivity. We didn’t use the taxi much, except for getting to and from the airport and one other time to go to Teeling Distillery.

Otherwise, in Dublin we paid $13.22 for one roundtrip bus ride, before realizing we’d be better off spending $33.23 on a Leap Visitor Card for the rest of our stay. At 16 euros a piece, these cards allowed us unlimited bus rides for 72 hours. We picked ours up at a Spar convenience store in Dublin.

Even if you are bus illiterate like me, rest assured that you can easily figure out the routes using Google Maps. Buses leave frequently and can take you just about anywhere in the city, so the card is totally worth it.

Doing a road trip around Ireland can make booking lodging trickier and a bit more expensive, since you have to move around so much. Over eleven days, we spent $1,801.51. While we tried to stay budget conscious, sometimes we splurged a little.

I couldn’t get out of my head the idea of staying in a cozy little cottage during March in Ireland, when the weather is still chilly at night. So when I stumbled upon the cutest stays on Airbnb, I couldn’t say no. We ended up booking three cottages at different spots around Ireland, which were a little on the pricey side.

That said, it is generally easy to find inexpensive bed and breakfasts, inns, and guesthouses all over Ireland. If hostels are more your thing, they are harder to come by in rural areas, but are more common in cities like Dublin and Galway. For reference, below is a list of everywhere we stayed during our Ireland road trip, along with what we paid.

• Kilmore Guesthouse – Kilkenny: 1 night at $112.93
• Seaside Cottage – Kilbrittain: 1 night at $216.29
• Rockcrest House – Kenmare: 1 night at $109.05
• Dingle Cottage – Dingle: 2 nights at $286.26
• Sli Na Mara – Galway: 1 night at $132.19
• Portrush Cottage – Portrush: 2 nights at $337.17
• Number 31 – Dublin: 3 nights at $607.62

Solo travelers booking the above stays and traveling in March will spend a similar total to us. However, many individuals won’t opt for cottage rentals, preferring hostels or simple rooms instead. Therefore, the total lodging cost for a solo Ireland trip may be much lower.

Eating in during your trip is a good way of keeping food costs down. However, as you can see from what we spent on groceries, we didn’t take advantage of this much.

The little bit we did spend on groceries was primarily on Irish brown bread, butter, and jam. In fact, this simple breakfast was kind of an obsession for us during much of the trip. Otherwise, we tried to stay in hotels or inns with breakfast included.

Solo travelers who are as averse to buying groceries as my husband and I will spend a little less than the above total.

Food & Drink

Aaron and I ate rather well during our Ireland trip, which is evident from what we spent at restaurants and pubs. We also love going to cafes while traveling, and stopped in for cappuccinos once or twice a day.

The food in Ireland really surprised me, as I expected it to be heavy and bland, but it really wasn’t! Throughout our road trip, Aaron and I were able to find everything from Thai, seafood, vegan, to French cuisine – you name it.

I did not find Ireland to be an especially pricey destination for dining, especially when sticking to cafes and pub food. The problem is, Aaron and I aren’t very disciplined with this, and food is always a splurge area for us. I suppose we could have cut down on the cappuccinos though.

If I had to choose a favorite meal from the entire trip, it was the Indian food we ate at Pickle in Dublin. Between their “duck two ways” and flavorful curries, everything we consumed was heavenly.

Solo travelers will likely spend less than half of our above total. As an occasional solo traveler myself, I hardly drink when I’m alone and typically opt for simple dinners like sandwiches and salads.

On our Ireland trip, the cost of doing activities was very reasonable. You can see the full list of everything we spent over ten days below, which for two people added up to $312.15. Outside of Dublin, most sights we visited were either free or had just a small fee.

Dublin activities tended to be more expensive; the Book of Kells and Teeling Distillery Tour were by far the most expensive experiences. If you can only do one, I recommend seeing the Book of Kells: it’s essentially a treasure that dates back to the 9th century. Of course, if tasting whiskey in Dublin is high on your list, you should know that we left with three bottles from Teeling.

You could also add a little color to your Dublin adventures with this Literary Pub Tour . It was one of the pricier things we did, but I personally love using literature as a reason to explore new pubs.

As for everything else on this list, there is nothing I recommend skipping. However, if you can’t fit it all, then prioritize the following: the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, and Cliffs of Moher.

Ireland Trip Cost: Miscellaneous Expenses

• Shopping: $203.04 Chances are you’ll want to leave Ireland with a memento from your trip. Just be careful that you don’t blow your budget! Our purchase consisted of Teeling whiskey, a souvenir Starbucks mug, and a book about Kinsale by the guide from our walking tour.
• Cell Phone: $110 You may need an international plan to make sure your phone works during your trip. Under Verizon, I pay $10 for every day I use cellular data abroad. It’s a bit pricey, but worth it for how often I rely on my phone for Google Maps and last minute restaurant searches. Aaron keeps his phone on airplane mode so that we only pay for my phone.
• Pet Boarding: $660.36 While it’s ideal to have a friend or family member watch your pet for free, that isn’t always possible. When Aaron and I travel together, we always pay to board our dog in a cozy little “suite” at his vet office.
• Tips: $11.02 Tipping isn’t a huge practice Ireland. When receiving table service at a restaurant, 10-15% is the norm, but not if you’re simply ordering drinks from the bar. If a hotel porter carries your bags, 1-2 euros will suffice. With taxi drivers, it’s common to simply round up to the nearest euro.

There you have it – a comprehensive guide to the actual cost of our trip to Ireland. You should now have a good idea of what you can expect to spend on a ten day Ireland road trip. All that’s left is to start booking your trip, while dreaming of dramatic coastlines, fairy tale castles, and pubs galore.

Are you planning a trip to Ireland?

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Appetites Abroad

A travel blog for those who enjoy eating while exploring the world!

Europe , Ireland , Travel Guides · Last Updated: April 9, 2024

One-Week Ireland Itinerary for First-Timers (Based in Dublin with Day Trips)

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Wanting to visit Ireland but have limited time? This one-week Ireland itinerary is a great introduction to Ireland. Base yourself in Dublin, exploring the city’s history and food scene while taking day trips to see the island’s scenic side!

Green pastures dotted with sheep and cows for miles. Stunning coastlines and castle ruins. Hearty stews, fresh seafood, full pints of Guinness, and cozy pubs. This is Ireland in a nutshell and I loved every bit of it!

Ireland is rich in culture and history with scenic beauty at every turn. Its folklore that tells tales of giants and fairies make it all the more magical! And did you know Ireland actually has some pretty great food too? People like to downplay the cuisine in the British Isles, but I knew we’d find the most delicious things.

For our first trip to Ireland, I wanted to keep things relatively simple. Sure, we could have rented a car and braved driving on the left for that quintessential Irish road trip. But we only had one week and I wanted to maximize as much of that time as I could with sightseeing (and eating all the foods of course).

Here, you’ll find a very detailed breakdown of my one-week Ireland itinerary for our first visit to the Emerald Isle. In this post, I list out everything we did, how to book the same activities, and also note if there’s anything I might do differently.

Who This Itinerary is Best For

• First-time visitors to Ireland
• Those visiting Ireland with limited time
• Active travelers (there’s no downtime this week!)
• Travelers without a car (who don’t mind walking & bus tours)

Since we only had one week to explore Ireland for our first trip, I based us in Dublin so we wouldn’t have to worry about moving to different hotels. That meant we could just focus on exploring rather than spending extra time traveling in between places to stay!

Each and every day of our itinerary was packed full. This was by no means a relaxing trip . There’s just too much to see (and eat) in Ireland! My nature is to do everything I possibly can because I never know if I’ll get to visit a destination again. If you follow any part of this itinerary, comfortable walking shoes are a must . Your feet are gonna see some action!

Why no car?

Just being in Ireland for a week and not wanting to worry about transit time too much, we decided against an Irish road trip. Of course, seeing Ireland’s countryside and all the different little towns is one of the best parts about Ireland. Someday, we’ll return and explore more (maybe by car or maybe just by train or bus?).

Also, in Ireland, cars drive on the left . It may be easy for some to pick up straight away, but we didn’t want to have that added stress this trip. We were still able to see some really neat places by taking day tours from Dublin.

Our Travel Details

• Month Traveled:  Last week of October (including Halloween!)
• Airline & Flights:  SFO to DFW to DUB via American Airlines; Home – DUB to LHR to SFO via British Airways
• Transportation : We used taxis and Uber for our entire trip in Ireland (in addition to day tours on a bus). Even if you use Uber in Ireland, they are only allowed to be certified taxi drivers (which I actually like). The Uber app just makes scheduling your ride easier. Some drivers even prefer it to Free Now, which is another widely-used app for taxi service.

Where to Stay in Dublin

When it came time to choosing our hotel for our one-week stay in Dublin, there was only one real option for us – the Hyatt Centric Liberties ! The main reason we chose this particular hotel was that we had Hyatt points to spend and it’s currently the only available Hyatt property in Dublin.

The Liberties is actually a great neighborhood in my opinion – it’s quiet and close to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, as well as the whiskey distilleries (priorities!).

We stayed in a standard king room which was fine for a week. I do wish we could have splurged for a slightly bigger room but hey, sometimes you need to take what’s available.

Staying at the Hyatt put us within walking distance of 20 minutes or less to most things we wanted to see, and there were pubs and restaurants close by too. For convenience, there’s a Spar store just a block away for snacks and bottled water (we visited often) and Molloy’s for beer and liquor . Each room comes with a mini fridge to keep your provisions cool as well.

Book the Hyatt Centric Liberties on Hotels.com , Booking.com or direct .

One-Week Ireland Itinerary Summary

For our first trip to Ireland, I felt my one-week Ireland itinerary was a good balance of being able to see as much of Dublin as we could, along with exploration of must-see sights outside of the cities!

• Day 1: Arrival to Dublin plus a tour of the Jameson Bow St. Distillery
• Day 2: A full day exploring Irish food and drink (including the Guinness Storehouse tour)
• Day 3: Cliffs of Moher, Wild Atlantic Way, and Galway City all-day tour
• Day 4: Book of Kells, Trinity College, Dublinia Viking Museum, and more of the Dublin food scene
• Day 5: Half-day trip to Howth for seafood & afternoon tea back in Dublin
• Day 6: Northern Ireland day tour (including Belfast, Dunluce Castle & Giant’s Causeway)
• Day 7: Irish breakfast, doors of Dublin, St. Stephen’s Green, BrewDog & Dark Dublin Tour

Day 1 – Arrival to Ireland

On our first day in Ireland, we arrived in Dublin in the late morning and breezed right through customs and immigration. I was shocked at how fast we got out of the airport (but also super pleased)! That meant we had more time to explore the city on our first day.

We grabbed a taxi to our hotel where we got an early check-in , took a quick power nap , and then went out for lunch at The Brazen Head before our tour at Jameson . We ended the night at The Landmark Pub eating fish and chips and beef stew and sipping our first pints of Guinness while watching rugby. Is there anything more Irish?

Day 1 Highlights

• Arrival at hotel (with early check-in)

Lunch at The Brazen Head

Jameson distillery tour, dinner at the landmark pub, check into hotel.

After arriving to our hotel for the week, The Hyatt Centric Liberties , we were lucky enough to find our room was ready for us! If you’re a World of Hyatt Member and you book direct , you can request an early check-in (which I did). It’s not guaranteed, but why not try? We were glad to be able to get right into our room, shower, and take a power nap so we could feel refreshed for the rest of the afternoon.

Our first adventure in Dublin was to visit The Brazen Head – Ireland’s oldest pub !

We actually had a little mishap on the way where I almost got my husband hit by a car (you can read all about that in my Biggest Travel Fails of 2023 ). Because of this, we were a little flustered by the time we arrived to the pub. In our traumatic daze, we ended up ordering chicken goujons. Sounds cool and exotic right? Goujons are, in fact, chicken strips and thus, not very exiting. They were good, but not exactly the first meal you want to order in Ireland!

I did at least get to have my first bowl of seafood chowder – one of the Irish foods I knew I’d be trying a lot of in Ireland.

If I’m being completely honest, I wasn’t blown away by the food and vibe here but it was super cool to be able to say that we visited Ireland’s oldest pub ! I’d recommend a stop here for a pint but skip the food.

As fans of Irish whiskey (and regular drinkers of Jameson back home in The States), the Jameson Distillery Tour was a must for our visit to Ireland . We arrived a little early before our tour start time and were happy to find a full-service bar where we could order a drink to sip on while we waited.

The tour itself was great and I found it very informative on the history of Jameson and their distillation process. As part of the tour, we also got to sample a few whiskeys, some of which are only available in Ireland!

We also had the cask draw add on , which I highly recommend. You get to pop into the maturation room and sample whiskey straight from one of the casks.

When the tour was over, we went back to the bar (surprise, surprise) and grabbed our “free” drink which was included with our tour ticket. We also ordered a pour of the Black Barrel Cask (which you can only get at the Jameson Distillery in Dublin) and an Irish coffee (because – when in Ireland, right?).

Book the Jameson Tour here .

For dinner, we took a walk down to The Landmark Pub , which was less than 10 minutes from our hotel . It was bustling! We ordered up some fish and chips and beef and Guinness stew in a bread bowl and it was fantastic first dinner in Ireland. It was also the perfect spot to sip on our first pints of Guinness, which we had while kicking up our feet to watch a bit of rugby.

I absolutely love pub culture . Visiting all the pubs was one of my favorite things about our first visit to London , and we tried to get in as many pub visits in Dublin too!

Day 2 – The Dublin Food Scene

Day two in Dublin was all about exploring food and drink and boy did we pack in a lot! Ireland has it’s own food culture and there are a ton of Irish dishes (and drinks) that you should try when visiting. I made sure to try a variety of not only distinctly Irish foods, but also some international options to showcase the diverse food landscape of Dublin.

And of course no visit to Dublin is complete without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, which was the main event for this day!

Day 2 Highlights

• Quick breakfast of Argentine empanadas & an alfajor at Bakeology
• Guinness Storehouse self-guided tour
• Whiskey tasting at Roe & Coe
• Temple Bar & lunch at Gallagher’s Boxty House
• A visit to the Molly Malone statue
• Ice cream from Murphy’s
• The Whiskey Reserve for more whiskey tasting
• Dinner at The Fourth Corner Pub

Breakfast at Bakeology

On our way to our tour at the Guinness Storehouse, I wanted to make a quick stop at Bakeology – a highly-rated Argentine bakery. Who says you can’t have empanadas and cookies for breakfast ?

We grabbed a couple of jamon & cheese empanadas and they were honestly the best empanadas I’ve ever had. I regretted not grabbing a few more, but we were in a bit of a hurry. I also snagged a chocolate-covered alfajor (Dubliners call them alfies) with passion fruit filling and yep, it was also delicious.

Breakfast of champs folks!

Guinness Storehouse Tour

Our big activity for the day was the Guinness Storehouse Tour . Even if you aren’t a big beer drinker, you’ve just got to visit the Storehouse! It’s important to learn about Ireland’s history and that includes its national drink.

A visit to the Storehouse is a self-guided experience, making your way through seven floors of interactive exhibits . At the Storehouse, we spent approximately two hours learning about the history of Guinness, the brewing process, and sampling the famous brew along the way.

There are also several add-on options to the tour, including a Stoutie (which we did) where you get your photo printed on the head of a pint of Guinness. Or, you can take a lesson on how to pour Guinness yourself . I think the Stoutie was a fun little addition and nice to get a pint before making our way to the top.

We ended our tour at the Gravity Bar on the top floor of the Storehouse where we got our “complimentary” pint of the black stuff. It was packed by the time we made it up there and unfortunately, there were no seats available. All good though – we just walked around with our pints and were still able to take in the 360° views of Dublin City.

Book a standard Guinness Storehouse tour with Viator or direct if you’re interested in the Stoutie or Guinness Academy add-ons.

Whiskey Flights at Roe & Coe

After the Guinness Storehouse, we headed around the block to get some whiskey tasting flights at Roe & Coe . We weren’t up for another tour at this point, so we were thankful we could just go to the bar and order flights to taste through.

Roe & Coe is officially my new favorite whiskey brand! We had some really unique whiskeys and man are they strong. My favorite was the Cask & Keg Citra IPA with notes of citrus sherbet, white peach, apricot jam and grapefruit peel. I wish I could find that specific one in the U.S.!

Flight prices vary from $18 to $27, depending on how fancy you want to get and I felt the tasting samples were generously poured for the price.

Temple Bar & Gallagher’s Boxty House

As any good tourist does when visiting Dublin, we made our way to the Temple Bar area to get a peek at the famous bar before heading to Gallagher’s Boxty House for lunch.

Boxty was on my list of must-try Irish foods for our trip to Ireland. Boxty is an Irish potato pancake made with a combination of shredded raw potato and mashed potatoes and can come in thick patty form or in the case of Gallagher’s, almost crepe-like with heaps of unique toppings. My favorite was the Gaelic boxty, topped with tender Irish beef fillet , roasted cherry tomatoes, fried onions and a creamy pepper mushroom gravy.

We also got the Spice Boxty , which had a punch of flavor! This boxty is a take on the Irish Spice Bag and came topped with crispy fried chicken, peppers, and onions packed with flavor from the curry sauce.

And I couldn’t resist trying their sticky toffee pudding (one of my favorite desserts) and a flight of the beer brewed just for them (Jack Smith). I wasn’t a huge fan of their beer, but the sticky toffee pudding was delicious!

Molly Malone, Ice Cream & Whiskey

After our hearty lunch, we wandered over to see the statue of sweet Molly Malone , the folksong of which is the anthem of Dublin City. In Irish folklore, Molly Malone was a fishmonger who sold cockles and mussels by day and was also a part-time lady of the night – earning her the classy nickname “The Tart with the Cart.”

Somewhere in time, it was decided to be good luck to put your hands on the breasts of the statue. The bronze has been clearly worn from all the boob grabs. Okay then.

Murphy’s Ice Cream

From Molly Malone, we headed over to Murphy’s to get some tasty Irish ice cream! Murphy’s was founded in Dingle but they have several shops on the island, including in Dublin. We had to try their Irish brown bread flavor which is filled with little bits of caramelized brown bread. Such a fun and tasty way to incorporate another Irish food! While the brown bread was good, the butterscotch was my absolute favorite.

Murphy’s ice cream is made with milk exclusively from the rare and indigenous breed of Kerry cow. Their ice cream is really creamy and top quality. It is a little pricey, but you can just grab a small one and be satisfied.

whiskey break

Before heading back to our hotel for a break before dinner, we walked back through the Temple Bar area and popped into The Whiskey Reserve – a beautiful, cozy bar where you can sample all sorts of different whiskeys. We sipped on some Jameson Black Barrel and 18-Year Tripled Distilled whiskey and had a nice conversation with some fellow travelers who were winding down their trip to Ireland in Dublin.

Dinner at The Fourth Corner

For dinner, we headed over to The Fourth Corner pub near our hotel and shared an nduja ketchup smash burger and some wings. While this meal wasn’t exactly Irish, the burger was absolutely delicious!

Since we visited, they’ve implemented a new menu where they source their food from the nearby Dublin Pizza Company. The burgers are gone! Sad, but the Dublin Pizza Company is also a highly-rated alternative.

Day 3 – Cliffs of Moher Day Trip

The Cliffs of Moher had been on my bucket list for a long time and there was no way we were going to Ireland without seeing them! We booked a tour with Wild Rover for a full day out to the Cliffs of Moher, the Wild Atlantic Way, and Galway City . It was a long day but it was filled with beautiful scenery and some delicious eats!

Book this tour direct with Wild Rover and get 10% off if you book two tours. Or, you can book with Viator .

Day 3 Highlights

Cliffs of moher.

• Wild Atlantic Way and The Burren scenic drive
• Galway City
• Late lunch at Quay Street Kitchen in Galway
• Takeaway pizza for dinner from Coke Lane

Pro-Tip: Bring snacks or a handheld breakfast for the bus ride (no hot foods, though). Food is available at the cliffs, either in the café or one of the shops – but don’t fill up too much. Galway City has tons of restaurants to choose from for a late lunch!

Because we were based in Dublin for the week without a car, group day tours were the best option for us to get out of the city to see more of Ireland. Despite being a foggy day (more on that below), we really enjoyed our Cliffs of Moher tour with Wild Rover ! Our guide, Sean, was well-versed in Irish folklore and he regaled us with so many fun stories to help time pass while we were on the bus.

Getting to see the countryside on the way out to the cliffs was everything you’d think of when it comes to Irish scenery. Green pastures went on for miles with fluffy sheep and little castles and ruins popping up everywhere. We were lucky to have the front-row seat, which I think offered the best views of the drive!

Upon arriving at the Cliffs of Moher, we decided to skip the visitor’s center and head straight for the cliffs. Sadly, the cliffs were shrouded in fog that morning . My heart sank! Fog was the thing I feared most – even more than a rainy day. However, I remained positive while we walked along the paths at the top of the cliffs, saying hello to the cows and waiting for the perfect moment for things to emerge from the fog.

Finally, towards the end of our nearly two hours there, the sun tried its darnedest to break through and the fog started to lift. It was not quite enough to see the cliffs in all their glory, but enough to get a glimpse of their natural beauty . It was definitely worth the wait!

Wild Atlantic Way Drive

From the Cliffs of Moher, we drove along the Wild Atlantic Way through the Burren National Park and around Galway Bay. I absolutely loved the scenery of this part of Ireland. The views were breathtaking! Little white cottages dotted the green and sometimes rocky landscape overlooking the sea. It made me long to spend more time on Ireland’s west coast.

Should we move here, I thought to myself? As someone who never really feels settled, I’m always in search of “my place” in the world. This could be a contender.

Galway City & Late Lunch

We arrived in Galway City shortly after 3:00 p.m. and we were famished! This Wild Rover tour does include a Galway City walking tour that lasts about 30 minutes, but we really needed food so we decided to head straight to lunch.

We made our way over to the Quay Street Kitchen where we ordered some delicious Irish comfort food, including seafood chowder, mussels, and a giant lamb shank with mashed potatoes and veggies .

The seafood chowder was packed with chunks of seafood and was so tasty. It’s worth coming here just for a bowl of it! The mussels were simple but aromatic and flavorful, steamed with onion, garlic, cream and white wine. And after digging into that hearty lamb shank, I felt like having a proper nap! It was lovely having a hot meal after the a visit to the windy and chilly cliffs and long bus ride.

After lunch, we wandered around quirky Galway City for a bit, checking out a few little shops before heading back to the bus for our journey to Dublin.

A Pizza Dinner

Arriving back in Dublin, pizza sounded so good after a long day so we found a spot just up the road from our hotel.

Located in the back of a funky bar called Lucky’s in The Liberties neighborhood is Coke Lane Pizza . While the bar scene was absolutely not my vibe (I don’t recommend hanging out here on a Friday night unless you want to go deaf), the pizza amazed us! We ordered our pizzas to go and happily ate them back in our quiet hotel room.

Pizzas from Coke Lane are Neapolitan style (my favorite kind!) and are 10 inches in size. We demolished every last bit of each (the answer is “yes, you can eat one whole pizza per person”).

Day 4 – Dublin on Foot

The theme of day four in Dublin: history in the morning, beer and whiskey in the afternoon! Even though I’m more of a foodie traveler, I do like to learn a bit of history about the destination we’re visiting. In the morning, we visited Trinity College to learn about the Book of Kells and see the Old Library, before heading over to Dublinia to learn about Viking history.

We spent the rest of the afternoon exploring more of the food, whiskey and beer scene of Dublin. Things we do best!

Day 4 Highlights

• Book of Kells & The Old Library Long Room at Trinity College

Dublinia Viking Museum

• Beer break at Fidelity Bar

Lunch at The Fish Shop

Guinness open gate brewery.

• Whiskey tasting at Teeling Whiskey Distillery

Dinner at Big Fan

Book of kells & old library.

One of the most popular attractions in Dublin is the Book of Kells, which is an old manuscript filled with artistic renderings of the Four Gospels. It’s a wonder how this old thing survived the Vikings’ raids on Ireland!

As someone who isn’t religious, there wasn’t a huge connection for me to see it. However, I will say the detailed artwork is pretty impressive . Seeing the actual book is a little underwhelming as they just have it turned to one page for viewing, so the preceding exhibit is actually the best part.

After the Book of Kells, we made our way to The Long Room at the Old Library , which is was what I really I wanted to see most at Trinity College. This library is such an incredible work of architecture!

On our visit, they had most of the books off the shelves for a years-long restoration project. Thankfully, there were at least a few sections with books on them so we could get a glimpse at how cool a filled shelf looks.

I recommend booking this experience ahead of arriving in Dublin, especially during peak season. This will sell out! Book your tickets here .

Fun fact: a lot of people tend to reference this as the “Harry Potter library” due to its similar look, but the real library used for filming is actually at Oxford University in England.

From here, I gave my husband a choice to either do the Irish Whiskey Museum or Dublinia . We thought it was a bit too early in the day for whiskey (the museum tour comes with tastings), so we headed to Dublinia to learn a bit about Vikings and medieval history in Dublin.

Dublin (and Ireland for that matter) has deep Viking roots. There was actually a lot to learn about and see in Dublinia!

I think this museum is also well-suited for travelers with children as they have quite a few interactive exhibits to keep things interesting . For example, you can write your own name in runes or try on Viking gear and take photos. They even have people dressed up in the marketplace replica that speak in first person about their goods and services.

You can also purchase tickets that include entry to Christ Church Cathedral , which is adjoined to Dublinia. It was time for us to move on to the foodie part of our day so we skipped the cathedral. It is a really beautiful church though, at least from the outside!

Beer Break at Fidelity Bar

After Dublinia, we still had a bit of time to kill before our lunch reservation. Having a museum and walking-heavy morning was tough on the feet and we needed somewhere to sit for a bit. I found Fidelity Bar on a whim, seeing it was close to our lunch spot, and it ended up being a really cool find!

Fidelity Bar is part of a collab from the owners of The Big Romance and Whiplash Beer , the latter of which supplies its craft beer to have on tap. After drinking Guinness primarily thus far, it was nice to have a good craft beer break.

The Fish Shop in Dublin popped up on a lot of “must eat” lists for restaurants in Dublin, so I, of course, made a reservation to check it out for myself. This restaurant is a tiny, very cozy spot with maybe 10 to 15 seats total. Reservations are a must even for lunch .

At The Fish Shop, they focus on a limited menu of fresh seafood dishes and have a lovely curated wine menu. For starters, we each ordered a Gilda pintxo and shared the squid and capers on toast . I’m typically weary about squid dishes (it’s a texture thing for me) but this was actually my favorite bite of food here!

Next up were cockles in sherry and chorizo . It was our very first time trying cockles and I’m definitely a fan! And we couldn’t resist splitting an order of the haddock fish and chips . The batter on the fish and chips was light and well-seasoned and I appreciated their nice thick-cut chips.

At the end of our meal, we saw some fresh oysters come out for another guest and we just couldn’t pass them up. Ireland is known for having great oysters and I can confirm, these are a must-try.

A+ to The Fish Shop for a delicious meal!

Originally, a visit to Pearse Lyons Distillery was next on the itinerary. However, you can’t get in there to taste the whiskey without a tour (bummer) and we had just missed the next one. So we crossed the street and stopped in at the Guinness Open Gate Brewery , where they serve experimental beers and a pub-style menu. We paired our beer order with their Guinness caramel panna cotta and it was the perfect after-lunch dessert!

Whiskey Tasting at Teeling

Still needing to get our whiskey fix for the day, we headed down to Teeling Whiskey Distillery because I knew we could get in there without having to do a tour.

At their Bang Bang Bar , we ordered a flight of whiskeys to try, along with a couple of their signature cocktails. We sat by the window sipping our whiskeys and drinks while watching the rain patter against the glass. Maximum coziness!

When traveling to a bigger city, there’s usually going to be a diverse food scene to check out and Dublin is no exception. As much as I love pubs, I didn’t want to eat pub grub every single day. So, I scoured the Dublin restaurant landscape for some unique eats and found Big Fan – a Michelin-recommended modern Chinese restaurant . If you like bao buns and dumplings, this needs to go on your must-eat list!

Everything we ordered at Big Fan were little plates of happiness and comfort. The absolute standouts for me were the crispy duck wings, wagyu cheeseburger jaozi, and the pork snowflake dumplings .

Have you ever had duck wings? Forget chicken wings. These were unlike anything I’ve had before – super crispy with zesty flavors of Chinese-five spice and rich-flavored duck meat. I almost had to get a second order. And don’t even get me started on wagyu cheese burger dumplings – just say yes. If you are a cheeseburger fan, these are a must!

Dinner at Big Fan was the perfect ending to our day – even though back at home, our water heater busted and we got the call during our dinner here. Such is life.

Day 5 – Howth & Afternoon Tea

Day five in Ireland got off to a bit of a rocky start as there were issues with public transportation that affected our travel plans! However, we figured out a (very expensive) workaround and ventured out to the little seaside fishing village of Howth . Our mission here? To eat all the delicious seafood we could find! We ended the day back in Dublin at The Morrison Hotel with a cheeky his and hers afternoon tea.

Day 5 Highlights

• Half day trip out to Howth

Lunch at Baily Bites at Kish

• Explore Howth
• Crab claws at King Sitric

Afternoon Tea at The Morrison

Trip to Howth

Let me just say that sometimes things don’t always go your way with travel (this was another one of my big travel fails of the year ). I had planned for us to take the DART train out to Howth but after walking 30 minutes to the train station from our hotel, we found the trains were not running that weekend! Cool.

What’s Plan B? Take the bus. After asking for directions several times, we finally located the correct bus stop. Unfortunately, the bus was running late and when it finally came, it sat forever while they changed out drivers. By that time, there was a swarm of other people ready to pounce once the doors opened. Lovely.

Since it was also raining pretty heavy at this point, we said “screw it” and just grabbed a taxi just around the corner. We ended up having a very pleasant (and private ride) out to Howth! While it was pricey, I don’t have any regrets.

Howth Transportation

If you’re looking to get to Howth, here’s a recap on the transportation options if you don’t have your own car:

• DART Train – travel time: approximately 30 minutes from Tara Street or Connolly Station; cost: €5.00 for roundtrip ticket
• Bus – travel time: approximately 40 minutes; cost €2.00 to €4.00, depending on departure point
• Taxi – travel time: approximately 40 minutes, depending on traffic; cost: approximately €40 plus tip, depending on departure point
• Day Tour – take the worry out of the equation and book a guided tour which includes tour bus transportation from Dublin, plus a guided cliff walk!

And here is the reason we have no regrets paying close to €100 for a roundtrip taxi ride to and from Howth: lunch at Baily Bites at Kish was our favorite meal in Ireland!

Upon arriving in Howth, we walked down the West Pier to Baily Bites at Kish – a little airstream trailer tucked away next to Kish Fish. We ordered fresh oysters and cold beers, a bread bowl filled with seafood chowder , and the fish and chips combo with both haddock and smoked hake. Everything was as magical as you’d want a seafood lunch to be.

The seafood chowder was incredible – packed with flavor, super creamy, and loaded with chunks of delicious seafood! That steaming hot chowder was perfect for this cold, windy and rainy day.

Their fish and chips (particularly the smoked hake) was one of the best meals of fish and chips we’ve ever had. The smoked fish introduced us to a whole new flavor profile for fish and chips and the batter was perfectly crisp (not to mention they had the best chips of the trip too).

We topped it all off with a round of fresh oysters washed down with our beers before heading off to explore Howth. Seafood mission accomplished.

Wandering Howth

After lunch, we walked to the end of the pier for some scenic views and to locate the footprints of King George IV . The king’s footprints were cast by a stonemason commemorating his first visit to Ireland in 1821 (allegedly after staggering off the boat quite inebriated). What tiny feet he had! The footprints can be hard to find, so just look for the blue plaque pointing you in the right direction.

harbor seals

Heading back down the West Pier towards Howth Market, we spotted some seals in the water gathered close to the dock in the harbor. Tourists used to feed them years ago, which is now banned because c’mon…wildlife should not rely on humans for food. Apparently, some seals were even into the habit of waving after getting a fish. Clever fellas using tricks to draw the crowds! I’m guessing by the fact that they still congregate where there’s a group of humans suggests people are still slipping them some fish…

howth market & escaping the rain

At this point, the sky decided to dump buckets of rain and I was glad for my water resistant leggings and umbrella (husband did not fare so well with his jeans)! We quickly walked through Howth Market, which showcases local crafts and goods. I longed to snag some pretty cookies and cupcakes but we were stuffed from lunch and the heavy rain made wandering through the stalls less than ideal.

We ended up ducking into a pub that had a couple open seats on a covered, heated patio to enjoy some drinks while we dried off a bit and waited out the rain.

Crab Claws at King Sitric

While we sat at the pub enjoying our drinks, I started searching for other things to do in Howth. Please tell me why I decided to Google more restaurants after eating an enormous lunch? Foodie life, I guess?

I came across a photo of some gorgeous crab claws swimming in garlic butter at King Sitric , just around the corner from where we were. Once I showed the picture to my husband, there was no turning back.

The crab claws were indeed worthy of expanding the waistline for – delicate and rich, complemented well by the plate full of melted garlic butter and a glass of crisp white wine.

Fun Fact : If you’re following in the footsteps Anthony Bourdain, he ate here during his travels to Ireland!.

Our last activity for the day was afternoon tea at The Morrison Hotel back in Dublin. I had reserved the Fancy Pants Tea for myself (their traditional tea offering) and the Gentlemen’s Tea for my husband.

I chose The Morrison specifically for their unique Gentlemen’s Tea, which has a rugged menu of things like sausages and sliders paired with a beer. It’s not just for men of course, but I figured it would entice my husband to go to afternoon tea a bit more than dainty tiers of tea sandwiches and sweets.

The Morrison’s ambiance has a modern hotel lobby feel versus cozy or high end. But I was okay with that because I didn’t really pack a proper afternoon tea outfit for this trip.

In terms of the food, my scones and clotted cream were delicious (scones are usually my favorite afternoon tea snack), but I think the sandwiches and some of the sweets could be improved upon. My husband enjoyed his Gentlemen’s Tea offerings, which I would rate slightly higher. The savory components on his plate were definite winners! Overall, I’d give the afternoon tea experience here about a 7/10.

After our afternoon tea, we were pretty stuffed and called it an early night so we could be well-rested for our next day tour up to Northern Ireland.

Afternoon Tea Alternatives

Some other unique and highly rated afternoon tea alternatives in Dublin include:

• The Vintage Tea Bus Tour – a fun ride around Dublin in a vintage double-decker bus serving afternoon tea
• Upscale afternoon tea at The Shelbourne
• The Merrion’s lavish afternoon tea with sweets crafted to look like actual works of art!

And many, many others!

Day 6 – Northern Ireland

Day six in Ireland was all about exploring the north on another tour with Wild Rover – this time, to Northern Ireland. Did you know that Northern Ireland is its own country under the United Kingdom? Kind of neat to be able to say you visited two countries on one island!

Our day tour included a Black Cab Tour in Belfast to learn about the history of The Troubles , a visit to Dunluce Castle (which doubled as the House Greyjoy in Game of Thrones), and Giant’s Causeway . It was another long day but we got to see some unreal scenery!

I booked this tour direct with Wild Rover to get a discount on two or more bundled tours . This tour is also available to book via Viator .

Day 6 Highlights

• Black Cab Tour in Belfast

Dunluce Castle

Lunch at the nook, giant’s causeway.

• Burrito takeaway from Boojum for dinner

Currency Note: Since Northern Ireland is a part of the U.K., they use GBP (pound sterling – £) as their currency . Coming just for the day with Wild Rover, you can get away without bringing cash in pounds if you have credit cards.

Belfast Black Cab Tour

First up on our tour after the drive up from Dublin was a Black Cab Tour in Belfast to learn about the tumultuous times of The Troubles.

On this tour with Wild Rover, you actually get to choose between two options for your time in Belfast – the Black Cab Tour or a visit to the Titantic Museum . It was a tough choice because the Titanic Museum is pretty state of the art! In the end, we wanted to learn a bit more history of Northern Ireland.

Quick breakfast & rest stop

Thankfully, the Black Cab Tour pickup spot was at a small mall. We were able to use the restroom and grab something hot to eat, which was much needed! One of the cafes is well-prepared for the tour bus crowd and has a few menu items set for churning out quickly.

We got a simple ham and cheese toastie to scarf down before getting in the cab. It was the perfect amount of food to hold us over until lunch and a much better option than the Tayto Crisps breakfast we had on our tour to the Cliffs of Moher…

Learning about The Troubles is important when visiting Northern Ireland as it is a big part of their modern history. The Troubles were a decades-long political conflict wherein more than 3,000 people lost their lives.

The conflict essentially existed between loyalists who wanted to remain under the United Kingdom (largely Ulster Protestants) and nationalists/republicans who wanted one united Ireland (many who were Irish Catholic). The Troubles technically ended in 1998, though evidence of tensions still exist.

For the tour, we piled into black cabs in groups of four to five, and our guides drove us around to different spots in Belfast to acquaint us with history and show visual memorials relating to The Troubles. We visited many mural sites, stopped at a Sinn Fein political office, wandered through an old church, and ended at a large peace wall.

Word of warning – the Northern Irish accent can be tough to understand and is completely different than the rest of Ireland! A lot of the stops on our tour were by busy roads and noise from passing cars made it even more difficult to understand our guide. There was a lot of awkward smiling and nodding. Liam Neeson – you did not prepare us well for this.

Overall, I found learning about The Troubles to be a fascinating but somber experience, but I’m glad we did it.

Onto more upbeat things! Next up on the tour was a visit to Dunluce Castle, also known as House Greyjoy from Game of Thrones . The scenery around Dunluce Castle included some of my favorite views of the Irish coast! Just look at those beautiful limestone arches stretching along the coast. Stunning.

We had about 30 minutes to explore the castle ruins and take in the beauty of the location before heading onto our next stop on the tour. This was plenty of time to explore and admire the scenery.

It was quite cold and very windy here so I definitely recommend bringing a hat and wind breaker-style jacket to keep warm.

After our black cab tour and stop at Dunluce Castle, lunch was much needed. We were given two options to choose from that are right near the Giant’s Causeway entrance – The Nook or the restaurant at The Causeway Hotel. We chose The Nook since we were dropped off right at the pub’s entrance.

Eating first before exploring the Causeway was a brilliant idea. We were honestly just really hungry at this point and were lucky to get in and out before the pub filled up with people!

Our food came out fast and it was surprisingly delicious for being a pub so close to a major tourist attraction. We got the lamb stew with a side of brown bread and I immediately understood why Irish stew is the national dish of Ireland. Warm and hearty stews pair so well with the moody Irish weather!

We also ordered the Steak & Guinness Pie, which was topped with a puff pastry and served with peas and mashed potatoes. This was so rich and flavorful! I only wished our portions were bigger to enjoy it all the more.

Finally, it came time for us to head down to the Giant’s Causeway – a UNESCO World Heritage site made up of roughly 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns .

Irish folklore tells of how this phenomenon was formed by the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (aka Finn McCool) who built the Causeway to fight the giant Benandonner over in Scotland. After seeing how large Benandonner actually was, Fionn decided to outsmart him instead. His wife disguised him as a baby and Benandonner was fooled into thinking the “baby’s” father (Fionn) must be an even greater giant by the size of the “baby!” He destroyed the Causeway while fleeing back to Scotland.

The less exciting version of how The Giant’s Causeway was formed was the basalt columns were a result of volcanic activity. I’m personally more of a fan of the Irish folklore version.

Regardless of how it was formed, the Giant’s Causeway is really a unique geological wonder and an absolute must when visiting Northern Ireland!

Pro-tip: There is some walking involved to get down to the Causeway site. If you aren’t up for the walk, you can pay one pound to take the shuttle down or up (and they do take credit card if you haven’t brought cash).

Read this post for more details on how to prepare for a Northern Ireland day trip.

Late Night Burritos at Boojum

After a long tour day, we decided to grab some burritos on our walk back to our hotel room from the tour drop off back in Dublin. We swung by Boojum , which is essentially Ireland’s version of Chipotle. Was it truly Irish cuisine? No, but I’m okay with that. I think Chipotle is a bit better but I was happy to visit a spot selling one of my favorite comfort foods.

Day 7 – The Wind Down

I had originally planned for our last full day in Ireland to be a chill day in Dublin but we ended up walking A LOT, must to my husband’s dismay (his feet were dead at this point). What can I say – so much to see, so little time!

We started our final day in Dublin with a full Irish breakfast at the Cheeky Piglet and walked off our hearty meal at St. Stephen’s Green . I drug my husband all around Merrion Square hunting for unique colored Georgian doors before heading over to The Docklands to pay a visit to the BrewDog taphouse. We ended the day with a Dark Dublin walking tour (which also happened to be on Halloween). That was truly a gruesome (but super cool) way to end our time in Ireland!

Day 7 Highlights

• Breakfast at The Cheeky Piglet
• Meandering through St. Stephen’s Green
• Hunting for pretty Georgian doors
• BrewDog for beers and late lunch
• A quick visit to the Irish Famine Memorial
• Dark Dublin walking tour

Brekkie at the Cheeky Piglet

I had intended to try an Irish breakfast nearly all week long but we are terrible about getting up and being ready for breakfast before our daily activities. We just don’t prioritize it when traveling. However, Irish breakfast is something you’ve got to try at least once when in Ireland!

Irish breakfast is similar to an English breakfast but with an Irish, you get black and white puddings along with some type of potato. It’s a hearty meal packed with lots of protein!

We visited the Cheeky Piglet in The Liberties neighborhood and they did an outstanding job with all components . I even enjoyed the black and white puddings! Black pudding is a blood sausage but it’s nothing to be afraid of. This was such a great and filling meal to get in before a day of sightseeing.

St. Stephen’s Green

St. Stephen’s Green is a beautiful park located in Central Dublin and I figured it would be the perfect place to burn the calories from breakfast . It was so peaceful to walk through the lush, green park. Even though it was an overcast day, the park was filled with people taking walks and watching all the birds in the pond.

I absolutely love experiences like these when traveling because they remind me of the need to slow down.

Georgian Doors

Next up on the itinerary for the day was something a little unique – tracking down different-colored Georgian doors around the squares. It’s hard not to miss these vibrant doors when visiting Dublin!

I’ve heard different versions of why they’re painted in such a way, one being to defy a royal decree to paint them all black to mourn the passing of Queen Victoria. Another story suggests women painted the doors to stand out to their men coming home drunk from the pubs! Either way, I love the pop these colors add to the buildings of Dublin .

I tried to snap photos of as many colors as I could but could have spent hours trying to find them all. Most of mine were seen around St. Stephen’s Green and Merrion Square , but you can also find more around Fitzwilliam Square, Pearse Square, and Mountjoy Square – just to name a few.

After my Georgian door hunt, we hoofed it all the way out to the Docklands. It was truly quite a trek and a strong beer was much-needed by the time we reached the tap house!

We love visiting breweries when traveling. BrewDog has become a favorite of ours since our first trip to London where we visited two separate BrewDog locations. We’re making it a point to visit one wherever we travel! We just enjoy their beer and it’s sort of nostalgic for us too.

We kicked back for a couple of hours here, tasting many beers and devouring some wings and pizza.

Irish Famine Memorial

After our BrewDog visit, we started making our way back towards the center of the city for our evening walking tour. We passed by the Jeannie Johnston ship and the Irish Famine Memorial , which was pretty sobering. From 1845 to 1849, 1 million people died and 1 million more ended up emigrating from Ireland. It’s a sad part of Irish history and these sculptures really captured that.

I actually intended to also visit the EPIC Irish Immigration Museum at this point but we had run out of time. If you get to breakfast earlier in the day, you can easily add this on the route.

Dark Dublin Walking Tour

Our last night in Ireland fell on Halloween so I wanted to do something spooky seeing as Halloween actually originated in Ireland. I stumbled upon the Dark Dublin tour , which is a walking tour around Dublin that dives into some of the dark details of Dublin’s past. I’m talking tales of torture, murder, proposals to eat babies, and so on. Yikes!

The tour was indeed quite dark and fitting for Halloween night! Our tour guide, Cillian, was brilliant and we enjoyed the tour very much. It was a great way to end our time in Ireland!

Tipping : One thing I observed was the lack of tipping to the guides. This tour is quite affordable and I highly recommending throwing some euros at your guide if you enjoyed your time with them.

What to Pack for Ireland

What to pack for your trip to Ireland is going to be entirely dependent upon the season. I have a separate, detailed post of everything I packed for our trip to Ireland, but here are some essentials for fall travel :

• Waterproof shoes that are comfortable for walking – I brought my Waterproof Vessi sneakers and Waterproof Boots from Timberland and both worked well.
• Fleece Jacket
• Rain Jacket
• Umbrella (for city walking)
• Moisture-wicking beanie
• Wool socks like these or these
• Water resistant fleece-lined leggings

I typically travel with a backpack instead of a purse or cross-body bag because I need something big enough to hold my camera gear. My favorite travel backpacks are somewhat stylish, “waterproof,” and anti-theft and I absolutely love both of these bags that come in black nylon and brown faux leather . My brown backpack was the perfect color for fall and kept everything in my bag dry!

Read More: What to Pack for Fall in Ireland

General Ireland Travel Tips

• Currency : Euros in The Republic of Ireland and Pound Sterling in Northern Ireland
• Driving : Driving is on the left side of the road. If you don’t want to drive in Ireland, you can easily get around by bus, train, or rideshares (like we did)!
• Street Crossing:  Because cars may drive on the opposite side of the road than your home country, be sure to look in the proper direction when crossing streets. I speak from experience that if you don’t do this, you’re playing a dangerous game (just read all about how I almost got my husband hit by a car! ).
• Tipping:  Small tips are acceptable in Ireland but not always necessary. For tours, however, I recommend a generous tip – especially to the guides and drivers on the long bus tours! It’s hard work keeping us tourists entertained for 12 hours.
• Taxis : You can use Free Now or Uber apps to hail taxis in Ireland. All drivers must be certified taxi drivers, even with Uber. This is great for safety!

I hope you enjoyed my one-week Ireland itinerary recap! The Irish people are so friendly and welcoming and I was blown away by the country’s scenery – especially along the west coast and the coastal areas of the north.

There are SO many things I’d love to see on a return visit to Ireland. It’s always hard to pack things in with limited time, but I feel like we did our first week in Ireland justice. I can’t wait to come back!

Are you ready to discover Ireland’s magic yourself?

Read Next: What to Eat in Ireland: Must-Try Irish Dishes, Drinks & Snacks

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How Much Does a Trip to Ireland Cost (On Any Budget)?

Figuring out how much a trip to Ireland costs is a bit of a perplexing question simply because of the wide variance of pricing across the country.

In Dublin, for example, accommodations are dramatically more expensive than the countryside… but to explore the countryside, a rental car is really the way to go, which drives up costs.

Food is generally reasonably priced, but order a few too many pints of Guinness, and you may find yourself spending more than expected.

Sightseeing can cost almost nothing thanks to the absolutely gorgeous countryside that is free to visit, but add in visits to some of Ireland’s most popular attractions or tours, and the costs can easily add up.

From a basic Ireland travel budget to what to expect when planning a luxury getaway, here’s how much a trip to Ireland costs.

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

Table of Contents

How to Use This Trip to Ireland Cost Guide

About flying into ireland, budget trip to ireland cost: $60-80/day, mid-range trip to ireland cost: $100-$120/day, luxury trip to ireland cost: $200/day & up.

Obviously, every traveler and the cost of every trip to Ireland is unique, but we’ve put this Ireland budget guide together to offer a rough estimate of what travelers can expect to spend at various price points on a trip to Ireland.

All of these estimates for the price of a trip to Ireland are given in USD unless otherwise stated, and are for one person.

This Ireland travel budget estimates also assume you are traveling during the summer high season or the shoulder season (late spring, early fall).

We have intentionally excluded the cost of getting to Ireland from this Ireland budget guide, simply because the price varies so dramatically based on where you are coming from.

However, the good news is that for travelers both from North America and Europe, Ireland can be one of the cheapest places to fly into, which already gives an Ireland travel budget a leg up over many other nearby destinations.

This is helped by the fact that the budget airline Ryanair is based in Dublin, and many east-coast USA airport hubs, like Boston, have a huge volume of flights to Dublin.

However, don’t only check prices for flights to Dublin: while the vast majority of international flights do land in the capital, double-check prices for flights to Cork, Shannon, and Belfast as well–you never know when you’ll find a great deal.

Ireland is a difficult country to travel in on a very small budget, but it is possible to limit expenses in some areas to limit the overall cost of your trip to Ireland.

This is a rough sketch of what a budget trip to Ireland will cost and feel like.

Keep in mind that this is a budget trip in the sense of a traveler who is visiting Ireland as a standalone destination or as part of a defined trip. Shoestring backpackers who would like to cut costs by couchsurfing, avoiding all paid attractions, etc, will, of course, be able to get by on less, but that is not how we would recommend seeing Ireland!

Accommodation

Accommodation in Ireland can be pricey by budget standards, with dorm rooms in hostels starting around $20 USD/person/night.

If you’re traveling with at least one other person, it can often be easier to split a budget private room than to deal with a dorm for similar money.

Dublin is by far the most expensive place to stay in Ireland, so if you’re looking to cut costs, limit your nights in the capital city!

Transportation

Transportation is another area that’s hard to manage on a budget for a trip to Ireland, as renting a car is absolutely the best way to see the country, and while expensive by budget standards, allows you to cut your expenses in other areas (food, sightseeing, lodging) much more easily.

Honestly, the best way to limit your transportation costs in Ireland is simply to travel with a group and split the cost of a car, rental insurance, and gas.

If you can’t or don’t want to drive and are traveling on a budget, the next-best option is to use Ireland’s bus system to travel throughout the country, and ideally limit your travels to a smaller geographic area to save costs.

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

While eating out in Ireland can get pricey–especially if you are a fan of Irish beer or whiskey–there are plenty of ways to save.

Groceries are affordable and many small hostels and private rooms in homes that you can rent include cooking facilities.

In addition, when pricing out lodging, be sure to account for the fact that a place that serves a full Irish breakfast included in the rate is absolutely worth paying a bit more for–we found they kept us full well into the afternoon.

Tours & Attractions

Major attractions like the Cliffs of Moher, the Guinness Factory, and the Giant’s Causeway do cost a bit to visit–often $10-15 USD for a ticket–there are also enough free places to visit in Ireland that there’s no real reason to pay for attractions if you’re traveling on a strict budget.

Even highlights like the Cliffs of Moher and Giant’s Causeway can technically be visited for free if you’re willing to hike a couple of miles rather than visiting from the built-up visitor’s center, so if you’re a hiker, it’s easy to keep your trip to Ireland cost down for this category.

While budget travel in Ireland can be a bit tricky, traveling on a mid-range budget can be very, very simple–and honestly, sometimes more affordable than you might think!

Especially in the countryside, there is a plethora of small inns and bed & breakfasts in Ireland that cost well under $100 USD/night, even for incredibly quaint and well-reviewed places that include a breakfast fit for royalty.

Though you won’t want to splash out every night, when calculating your trip to Ireland cost on a mid-range budget, you’ll likely find you have room to splurge on 1-2 nights in a castle, as well–and the experience is worth every penny.

Like budget travelers, mid-range travelers will want to avoid too many nights in Dublin to keep accommodation costs down, but the most charming parts of Ireland are outside the capital anyway.

On a mid-range budget, renting a small car to travel around Ireland is absolutely, 100%, the way to go–road tripping in Ireland is a complete delight and the best way to see the country.

To keep costs lower, rent the smallest car possible (honestly, you’ll want to do this regardless of your Ireland travel budget–Ireland’s roads are tiny), and split the costs with at least one other person if you can.

On a mid-range budget, food in Ireland will generally look like an included full Irish breakfast at your bed & breakfast of choice, perhaps a light meal or something prepared at home for one other meal, and one meal out per day.

Honestly, the meals in Ireland are often so heavy we were usually comfortable with one included breakfast, one large dinner, and some other small snacks and treats rather than a full third meal.

When calculating your trip to Ireland cost, be sure to include a small portion for tours and attractions like visiting the Cliffs of Moher from the visitor’s center, taking a ferry to a few islands, and taking the occasional interesting tour–we loved our tour of Belleek Castle , for example, and touring the Trinity College Long Room is practically a must.

You likely won’t need to set aside a huge portion of your budget for this, as some of the best things about visiting Ireland, on a budget or not, are free.

Like most destinations, there’s no limit to how much a trip to Ireland costs on a luxury budget–here are a few examples to get you inspired to plan your epic getaway.

Want to stay in a castle every night for your trip to Ireland? On a luxury budget, you sure can!

That being said, we do recommend staying in a luxurious countryside bed & breakfast or inn at least once to mix up your experience in Ireland.

While you can certainly rent a more luxurious and higher-end car on your trip to Ireland with a luxury budget than a smaller one, we still highly recommend sticking to the tiniest vehicle that can comfortably fit your party in–the roads can be quite narrow, and difficult driving can detract from your Ireland travel experience!

With a luxury budget, there’s no shortage to the phenomenal food you can eat in Ireland.

Here are a few food experiences to consider: a detailed food tour through a region, touring both the Guinness Factory and Jameson Distillery, dining in a Michelin Star-rated restaurant or two, and eating out for every meal.

When estimating your trip to Ireland cost on a luxury budget, you’ll want to set aside funds for at least a few unique experiences: think private horseback rides through the countryside, tours of islands, themed tours like Game of Thrones experiences, spa days housed in elaborate castles, and if it’s your hobby of choice, plenty of golf with some of the best views imaginable.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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A Perfect 7 Days In Ireland Itinerary (With Map)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: April 26, 2024

My Irish Road Trip Library has 56 different itineraries for spending 1 week in Ireland (you can pick a start point, transport type, etc.).

However, out of all of my 7 day Ireland itineraries, the route below is by far  the most popular (and it’s one I’ve followed several times).

Here’s a quick overview:

• Day 1: Arrive/start in Dublin
• Day 2: West Cork
• Day 3: Ring of Kerry
• Day 4: Dingle Peninsula
• Day 5: Clare
• Day 6: Galway City
• Day 7: Connemara or home

A tried-and-tested 7 day Ireland itinerary

Click to enlarge

Take 20 seconds to scan the map above, first, as it’ll get you up-to-speed on the lay-of-the-land,  fast !

Then take 10 seconds to scan the points below, which explain the ins-and-outs of this 1 week in Ireland itinerary.

1. Start point

This 7 day Ireland itinerary starts in Dublin City. If you’re starting your trip elsewhere, I have 7 day trips starting in  Shannon , Belfast , Cork , Wexford , Mayo and Donegal !

2. Getting around Ireland

You’ll need to either have your own car or be   renting a car in Ireland for this itinerary.

If you  don’t have a car, I have 7 day public transport road trips starting in  Dublin , Shannon , Belfast , Cork , Wexford , Mayo and Donegal .

3. This is a ‘fast-trip’

This is what I call a ‘Fast-trip’. It packs as much into your 1 week in Ireland as is  reasonably  possible.

If you want to explore at a slower pace over 7 days, I have ‘Slow-trips’ starting in Dublin , Shannon , Belfast , Cork , Wexford , Mayo and Donegal .

Day 1: Dublin

Photos via Shutterstock

The first day of this 7 day Ireland itinerary depends on your arrival time into Dublin.

Ideally , you’ll arrive early and have the day to explore the most popular things to do in Dublin .

I’ll give you a full itinerary for day 1 and you can change it if you need to. Some important points: 

Your car rental

If you’re renting a car in Ireland for this trip, the most convenient place to get it from is Dublin Airport. While you won’t need it on your initial day in the city, collecting it at the airport will save you the hassle of picking it up later on.

Where to stay in Dublin night 1

• Budget : Abigail’s Hostel (in Temple Bar) or  the Generator (outside the centre but a 25-minute walk to Trinity)
• Mid-range : Dublin Skylon (15-minute bus ride from the city), Wren Urban Nest (Temple Bar) and the Harding Hote l (very central)
• Luxury : The Merrion (St. Stephen’s Green – very central) and The Westin (just off Grafton Street)

Getting around + cash savers

• Time savers: If you want to cover a lot of ground quickly, the Hop On Hop Off Bus goes to or near all of the main sites on this itinerary
• Money saver:  If you’re visiting the ‘main’ Dublin attractions, the Dublin Pass can save you €€€

Stop 1: Trinity College

The first stop of this 1 week in Ireland itinerary is Trinity College . This is Ireland’s oldest university, having been incorporated in 1592.

One of the first things you’ll notice about the college grounds is the blend of Neoclassical and modern architecture. Keep an eye out for the Campanile, pictured on the left above.

This is a bell tower that was completed in 1853. When you’re ready, head to the starting point for the Book of Kells tour.

The Book of Kells is an illustrated manuscript dating to c. 800 AD!

This tour also gives you access to the Long Room – a beautiful library that holds 200,000 of Trinity’s oldest books.

Time-saving tip: I’d recommend booking a fast-track ticket for the Book of Kells . There’s a large queue here at peak times. This ticket also gets you into Dublin Castle!

Stop 2: The Ha’penny Bridge (via Temple Bar)

Our next stop is the Ha’penny Bridge . Take the 7-minute walk from Trinity via Temple Bar .

Now, personally, I don’t  really  see the reason for you to spend any time in Temple Bar. It is, for the most part, a tourist trap.

If, later on, you  do  want to spend time in the pubs in Temple Bar , avoid the gaudy spots and head into the victorian Palace Bar .

The Ha’penny Bridge is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. It was built in 1816 and it was the first pedestrian bridge to span the River Liffey!

Stop 3: Dublin Castle

Next up in our 1 week Ireland itinerary is Dublin Castle – a handy 10-minute saunter from the Ha’penny Bridge!

Dublin Castle boasts a rich history dating back to the 13th century when it served as the English headquarters in Dublin for over 7 centuries.

You can explore the grounds for free, but you’ll need a ticket to get inside (if you get this ticket  it’ll give you access to the Book of Kells, too!)

Stop 4: Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral is a 4-minute stroll from Dublin Castle, and it never fails to impress ( grab a ticket online here ).

Its origins date back to the early 11th century when it was established under the reign of Sigtrygg Silkbeard, a Norse King of Dublin.

The stone reconstruction of the building occurred in the late 12th century, primarily due to the efforts of the first Anglo-Norman archbishop, John Cumin.

Admire it from the outside and then take a look around its stunning interior.

Stop 5: Lunch in Dublin’s oldest pub

Photos via the Brazen Head on Facebook

The first of the  many  pubs I’ll be taking you to during this 7 day Ireland itinerary is the Brazen Head , a 7-minute walk from our last stop.

While there are plenty very old pubs in Dublin , the Brazen Head holds the crown as the city’s oldest, dating back to 1198.

They serve traditional Irish pub grub, from Guinness beef stew and hearty soups, all in an old-school setting.

Are you in the middle of planning a 7 day Ireland road trip? My guides to deciding the best time to visit Ireland and planning a trip to Ireland   should  come in handy!

Stop 6: St. Michan’s

Photos with thanks to Jennifer Boyer

If you’re looking for what to do in Ireland for a week that tourists tend to miss, make your way to St. Michan’s on Church Street, a 5-minute walk from the Brazen Head.  

St. Michan’s dates back to 1686 and, despite its size, boasts an abundance of history.

The tour here takes you through the 12th-century crypts (home to mummies!), into ancient vaults and to see the magnificent organ (one of the oldest still in use in Ireland).

Stop 7: The Jameson Distillery or the Guinness Storehouse

Courtesy Jameson Distillery Bow St, Dublin

The last stop on day 1 of your 7 days in Ireland provides you with a tough choice – the Jameson Distillery or the Guinness Storehouse .

The Jameson Distillery ( book tickets in advance here ) is a 5-minute walk from St. Michan’s while the Guinness Storehouse is a 20-minute walk  ( book tickets in advance here ).

I’ve been to both and, to be honest, they’re fairly even in terms of the experience they deliver.

The best way of deciding is to go with which drink you think you’re more likely to enjoy!

Stop 8: Dublin City for the evening

Different trad bars in Dublin. © Tourism Ireland

It’s time to round off the first day of this 1 week in Ireland itinerary.

If you’re still struggling to pick a place/area to stay in the city, see my guide on where to stay in Dublin !

Here are some recommendations for the evening:

• Food : There are some excellent restaurants in Dublin . SOLE and Gallaghers Boxty House are 2 I recommend over and over
• Live music : There are plenty of live music pubs in Dublin . Darkey Kellys, the Old Storehouse and the Celt rarely disappoint
• Historic pubs : From our guide to the best bars in Dublin – Kehoe’s and Neary’s are firm favourites

Day 2: Castles and Kinsale

The second day of our 7 day Ireland road trip takes you away from Dublin and down into County Cork.

You’ll visit Tipperary’s Rock of Cashel, first, before stopping off at Blarney Castle and then heading into Kinsale.

You’re going to spend night 2 in Kinsale – a colourful little seaside town.

Where to stay in Kinsale on night 2

• Budget : The Lemon Leaf (there aren’t really any budget options for Kinsale, but this place tends to be good value)
• Mid-range : The White Lady Hotel (down by the harbour)
• Luxury : Perryville House (fancy and central boutique accommodation)

Stop 1: The Rock of Cashel

The first stop on day 2 of your 7 days in Ireland is just under a 2-hour drive from Dublin.

The Rock of Cashel looms over the town from its position on top of a limestone outcrop. The site was originally the seat of the kings of Munster, but in 1101, it was granted to the church.

After this, the Rock of Cashel quickly became one of the most important ecclesiastical centres in Ireland.

The tour: There’s a 1-hour guided tour here that’ll immerse you in its history (I’d strongly recommend you book tickets in advance during peak season)

Stop 2: Blarney Castle

Next up is one of the more famous attractions in Ireland , and you’ll find it a 1-hour and 15-minute drive from Cashel.

Although the current Blarney Castle was built around 1446, there were many earlier castles on this site.

For most tourists, the biggest draw here is the mighty Blarney Stone , which gives all that kiss it the ‘gift of the gab’.

However, the castle is also home to magnificent gardens, the Witch’s Kitchen and a Druid Circle.

Time needed: You’ll need between 1.5 and 2 hours here, depending on how long you linger

Stop 3: Lunch in Kinsale

Click to enlarge map

The next stop in our 1 week in Ireland itinerary is Kinsale – a 50-minute drive from Blarney. Check into your accommodation when you arrive.

I’m going to give you a walk-food-fort combination in the form of the Scilly Walk .

Walk towards the Bullman (30-minute walk from the town) and enjoy wonderful views of Kinsale Town and its harbour along the way.

The Bullman’s a great spot for a feed (and a pint…), especially during summer if you can nab a seat outside!

Stop 4: Charles Fort

Leave the Bullman and walk 5 minutes to Charles Fort – Ireland’s largest military installation.

The huge star-shaped building dates back to the late 17th century and over the years, has seen some fearsome battles.

The fort survived a 13-day siege during the Williamite wars in 1690 and a battle during the Civil War in the 1920s.

Make sure to head to the ramparts for the stunning view over Kinsale Harbour. There are guided and self-guided tours and you’ll likely spend 1-hour here.

Does this itinerary not suit? Remember, we have 56 different itineraries for spending 7 days in Ireland here !

Stop 5: An evening in Kinsale

Photos via Man Friday on Instagram

From Charles Fort, you’re a 35-minute walk back into town (the views of the town will be in front of you – enjoy!).

Now, you’ll be passing very close to The Spaniard Inn on the way back. It’s one of the oldest pubs in Kinsale and it’s well worth nipping into!

• Great food: You’ve plenty of restaurants in Kinsale to choose from – my 2 go-tos are Man Friday and The Black Pig
• Great pubs: Kitty Ó Sé’s (live music) and The White House 

Day 3: West Cork

The third night of this 7 day Ireland road trip involves the most time spent driving out of any day.

However, there’s a lot of ground to cover and it’ll be worth it (is this trip too fast for you? I have prepared slower 7 day trips for you here ).

You’re going to leave Kinsale and head for Mizen Head before working your way to Killarney via the Ring of Beara.

Where to stay in Killarney on night 3 and 4

• Budget : New Street Lodge (right beside the National Park) and Castle Lodge (cosy B&B outside of the centre)
• Mid-range : Killaran House (exceptional and very central) and Killarney Avenue (next to the park)
• Luxury : Muckross Park (5-star hotel outside of the town) and The Killarney Park (old-worlde hotel by the train station)

Stop 1: Mizen Head

Stop 1 on the third night of this 1 week in Ireland itinerary is Mizen Head and it’s around a 2 hour drive from Kinsale.

Before you reach Mizen, you’ll see the beautiful Barleycove Beach , one of Cork’s finest.

Flick off your shoes and socks and head for a stroll. When you’re ready, drive up to Mizen – one of the most popular places to visit in West Cork for good reason!

Take a stroll through the visitor centre, first, where you’ll find the Maritime Museum and learn about Mizen’s history.

You’ll then follow a coastal path towards the bridge. You can cross the bridge and soak up glorious cliff and coast views.

Stop 2: Glengarriff

Our next stop is the town of Glengarriff , a 1-hour drive away. Park up and head to the Sugarloaf Cafe and grab a bit of breakfast/lunch.

When you’re ready, walk 3 minutes to the Blue Pool – a natural harbour that’s hidden away behind trees and bushes.

You could  also visit Garnish Island from the town. The ferry takes around 15 minutes and you’ll need 1 hour on the island.

Want to see some other 1 week in Ireland itineraries? We have 56 different itineraries for spending 7 days in Ireland here !

Stop 3: The Healy Pass

From Glengarriff, drive 18 minutes to Adrigole, where you can take the Healy Pass – arguably one of the most unique roads in Ireland.

This bendy road was built in 1847 as part of a Famine relief scheme.

It’s a steep drive to the top, but you’ll find several places to pull in (like this one ). Continue to the top of the hill and pull in here .

There’s a hill to the right. If you carefully climb it (takes 5 minutes), you’ll be treated to a might view over Glanmire Lake.

Stop 4: The coastal drive to Allihies

When you finish up at the Healy Pass, you need to double up on yourself a bit, as we’re going to follow the Ring of Beara route along the coast.

Now, anyone that’s spent time on Beara will tell you that this corner of Ireland’s X Factor is the scenery and almost oil-painting-like landscapes that you seem to encounter around every bend.

The drive from the Healy Pass to Allihies will take 50 minutes without stops, so factor in at least 1.5 hours.

One of the best views on this 7 day Ireland road trip can be had from this pull-in area before driving down into the village.

Stop 5: Glenbeg Lough

It’s time to head for Killarney. En route (around 30 minutes from Allihies), stop at Glenbeg Lough.

This is a bit of a hidden gem. You’ll find a serene lake hidden away amongst towering mountains.

There’s a small car park and viewing point here, so you can just rock up and take in the scenery.

Stop 6: Killarney

Photos via The Laurels on FB

You’re a 1-hour and 20-minute drive from Killarney where you’ll spend the next 2 nights, you’ll be happy to hear!

While there are plenty of things to do in Killarney , it’s time to chill! Here’s some food and pub recommendations:

• Restaurants in Killarney : Cronins, Porterhouse and the Mad Monk never disappoint
• Pubs in Killarney : O’Connors and Jimmy Brien’s are two great spots for a pint

Day 4: The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry Drive will be the highlight for many that follow this 7 days in Ireland itinerary.

I have a tried-and-tested itinerary for you to follow that takes in the best of the Ring along with a very rewarding detour.

Remember, you’re staying in the town again tonight (see our Killarney hotels guide), so you don’t need to worry about packing!

An overview of the route

I have a tried-and-tested (I’ve done it  many  times) 1-day Ring of Kerry itinerary that you can follow.

I won’t go through all of the stops in detail, as I do that here , but I’ll give you an overview.

It takes in the best of Killarney National Park , first, before moving out and along the N70 road.

• Stop 1: Ross Castle : It has sat at the edge of Lough Leane for over 500 years
• Stop 2: Muckross Abbey : Beautiful old ruins that date back to 1448
• Stop 3: Torc Waterfall : A 66 ft high and 360 ft long waterfall that’s 5 minutes from the car park
• Stop 4: Ladies View : One of the most impressive viewpoints in this 7 day Ireland itinerary
• Stop 5: Moll’s Gap : A bendy pass that offers spectacular views of the Macgillycuddy’s
• Stop 6: Kenmare : A lovely little town that’s a lot quieter than Killarney
• Stop 7: Staigue Stone Fort: An ancient fort built between 300 and 400 AD
• Stop 8: Caherdaniel for lunch: You’ll get a good feed in the Blind Piper
• Stop 9: Derrynane Beach : One of the finest beaches in Ireland
• Stop 10: Coomakista viewpoint: A famous viewpoint with views out to Deenish and Scariff island
• Stop 11: Coomanaspig: One of the highest places in Ireland reachable by car
• Stop 12: Kerry Cliffs : 1,000 foot-high cliffs that’ll blow you away
• Stop 13: Valentia Island : Drive up to the Geokaun viewpoint for one of Ireland’s best views
• Stop 14: Dinner in Portmagee: Grab a bite-to-eat in the Moorings
• Stop 15: Head back to Killarney for the night

Day 5: The Dingle Peninsula

The fifth of your 7 days in Ireland will see you leave Killarney and head to the Dingle Peninsula .

You’ll do the Slea Head Drive before continuing on to the charming town of Adare in Limerick where you’ll spend the night.

Where to stay in Adare on night 5

• Budget ish : Abbey Villa Guesthouse (short stroll from town centre)
• Mid-range : Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel (you can’t walk to the town but this is one of my favourite hotels in Ireland)
• Luxury : Adare Manor (Ireland’s leading 5-star)

Stop 1: Inch Beach

Stop 1 on day 5 of this 7 day Ireland road trip is a 40-minute drive from Killarney.

Inch Beach , while on the Dingle Peninsula, is its own little peninsula and it measures 5.5km.

You can park up, grab a coffee from Sammy’s restaurant and head for a saunter.

This is a popular surf spot and it’s hard to beat sipping away while watching the surfers tame the Wild Atlantic Waves.

Stop 2: Conor Pass

Take the 30-minute drive from Inch up to Conor Pass which, at 410m above sea level, is one of Ireland’s highest mountain passes!

Please read this part carefully! If you want to drive it, you should approach it from the longer route here , as you’ll avoid having to double back on yourself.

If you’re driving in Ireland for the first time and feeling nervous, approach it from the Dingle Town side.

You can pull in in a car park next to it and admire the valley views!

Does this itinerary not tick all of your boxes? Don’t worry – we have 56 different itineraries for spending 7 days in Ireland here !

Stop 3: Dingle Town

Dingle Town is a 10-minute drive from Conor Pass. Park up ( here’s the car park ) and explore the town on foot.

Stroll along the harbour, check out the statue of Fungie the Dolphin and wander through the colourful streets.

If you fancy some a great coffee and a pastry, head to Bean in Dingle . For breakfast, My Boy Blue is hard to bate.

If you’re in need to a hearty lunch, one of the best restaurants in Dingle is the Fish Box!

Stop 4: The Slea Head Drive

The Slea Head Drive takes in many of the best things to do in Dingle over the course of a 38km/24 mile route.

I go into the route in detail in this guide , but I’ll give you an overview of each stop below:

• Ventry Beach (12-minutes from Dingle): 4.5km Blue Flag Beach that’s perfect for a ramble
• Ceann Sleibhe and the White Cross (15-minute drive from Ventry): 2 mighty viewpoints
• Radharc na mBlascaoidí viewpoint (2-minutes from the Cross): Outstanding views of Dunmore Head
• Coumeenoole Beach (4 minutes from last stop): Magnificent beach with very strong rip tides
• Dun Chaoin Pier (5-minute drive): The departure point for the Blasket Island Ferry
• Ceann Sraithe (5-minute drive): The famous Star Wars filming location
• Clogher Strand (5-minute drive): One of Kerry’s finest beaches

Stop 5: Adare for the evening

When you finish up the Slea Head drive, you’re just under a 2-hour drive from the gorgeous village of Adare , where you’ll spend the night.

When you arrive, check in and head for a saunter around the town.

As you ramble, you’ll stumble upon a handful of traditional thatch cottages. Here are some food and pub recommendations:

• Adare restaurants : You won’t go wrong in 1826 Adare or the Blue Door Restaurant
• Pubs: Sean Collins & Sons and Aunty Lena’s never fail to disappoint 

Day 6: Clare and on to Galway

Photos courtesy of Chaosheng Zhang

Hopefully, now that we’re nearly 90% of the way through this itinerary, you’ll have a good sense of what to do in Ireland for a week.

However, we’re not done yet! Day 6 takes you from Adare into Clare, taking in the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren before finishing in Galway.

A lot of people spending 1 week in Ireland only have 6 days, as they spend the last day travelling back to airports etc. If you do  have the 7th day to explore, spend night 6 and 7 in Galway!

Where to stay in Galway on night 6 and 7

• Budget : Feeney’s Audubon Lodge (by the sea outside the city) and Corrib Guesthouse (45-minute walk from Eyre Square)
• Mid-range : Balcony House B&B (very central) and Ash Grove House (right by Galway Cathedral) 
• Luxury : The G  (luxury hotel in the city) and Glenlo Abbey (15-minute drive from the city)

Stop 1: Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park sits on 26 acres of lovely countryside a 25-minute drive from Adare.

Visiting the Folk Park feels like stepping back in time as the 19th-century buildings and streets have been recreated to resemble what they would have originally looked like.

The park has over 30 buildings, including village shops, rural farmhouses, and Bunratty House, a beautiful Georgian home.

You can also take a tour of 15th-century Bunratty Castle, the last of four castles built on the site.

Stop 2: The Cliffs of Moher

Your next stop, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Clare’s (if not Ireland’s) most popular attractions.

The cliffs are a 1-hour drive from Bunratty and they stand at 214m (702 feet) above the water below.

There’s a large car park (they charge…) and then it’s around a 5-minute walk into the main viewing area.

On a clear day, you’ll see out as far as the Aran Islands .

Stop 3: Lunch in Doolin

Doolin is a handy 10-minute drive from the cliffs and it’s here that you’ll fuel up for the afternoon ahead.

There are several new restaurants in Doolin that have opened in recent years, mainly due to the towns increased popularity.

However, in my opinion, it’s the pubs in Doolin that dish up the best food.

My two go-tos are the cosy Gus O’Connor’s (on Fisher St.) and the lesser-known McDermott’s (the soup here tends to be very good!).

Stop 4: Aillwee Cave

Photos via Aillwee Caves on FB

Your next stop, the Aillwee Cave , is a 30-minute drive from Doolin.

This is a very impressive underground system that boasts caverns, rock formations, and even the bones of an ancient bear!

The Aillwee Cave tour lasts 45 minutes, passing by an underground waterfall and over bridged ravines.

Stop 5: Dunguaire Castle

Dunguaire Castle is a 30-minute drive from the caves and it’s worth a pit-stop. It was built in 1520 and belonged to the O’Hynes clan.

In 1912, the castle was bought by writer Oliver St. John Gogarty.

During his ownership, he restored the castle and hosted several famous writers, including W.B. Yeats and George Bernard Shaw.

Dunguaire is one of the more impressive castles in Ireland , mainly thanks to its position on the shores of Galway Bay!

Stop 6: Galway City

You’re a 35-minute drive from Galway City.

When you arrive, check-in (here’s where to stay in Galway ) and chill for a bit.

If you fancy food and a drink, here are some recommendations:

• Restaurants in Galway : Dela, Ard Bia and Kai are all excellent
• Pubs in Galway : As you can see from my map above, I have 5 go-tos

Day 7: Connemara/it depends on your schedule

Now, if you’re not due to go home on the last of your 7 days in Ireland, I’ll give you a 1-day itinerary for Connemara and Cong.

If you are going home  you’ll need to use the final day of your 1 week in Ireland heading back to the airport!

For those staying on, there’s a far bit to see today, so grab breakfast either in your accommodation or from Galway’s Jungle Cafe .

Stop 1: The drive from Galway City to Clifden

It’s around a 1-hour and 20-minute drive from the city to  Clifden through Galway’s Connemara region.

Enjoy mountain views as you head for the village of Oughterard and on to the famous Maam Cross.

When you arrive into Clifden, park up, grab a coffee from the Upstairs Downstairs Cafe and head for a saunter around the town.

Stop 2: The Sky Road

The Sky Road will likely be 1 of the highlights from your 7 days in Ireland!

This is a scenic spin that’s minutes from Clifden. The entire loop is 16km and it follows an elevated route around Galway’s Kingston Peninsula.

Before you reach the beginning of the loop you’ll pass Clifden Castle . It takes 20-or-so minutes to walk to the ruins.

You want to make sure you take the Upper Road  for this drive as it’ll treat you to better views.

Stop 3: Lunch in Letterfrack

Photos via Veldons on FB

When you reach to the end of the Sky Road, instead of turning right onto the N59 back towards Clifden, turn left towards Letterfrack.

It’s a 15-minute drive and, when you arrive, it’s time to fuel up for the afternoon ahead.

Veldons Seafarer Bar & Restaurant , with its lovely, old-world-style interior and top-notch food rarely disappoints.

Stop 4: Kylemore Abbey

From Letterfrack, you’re a handy 5-minute drive to Kylemore Abbey , arguably one of the most popular places to visit in Galway .

Kylemore Abbey is a stunning Benedictine monastery that dates back to the 1920s. It’s very picturesque, sitting on the shores of Pollacapall Lough.

The lower floors of the abbey have been restored and are open to the public, as well as the beautiful Victorian Walled Garden.

The estate includes a Neo-Gothic church and several woodland and lake-side walks.

This is likely to be another of the highlights on your 7 day Ireland road trip.

Stop 5: Killary Harbour and Leenane

The next stop is this viewpoint on Google Maps (it’s a 15-minute drive away).

From here you’ll be treated to glorious views of Killary  – Ireland’s only fjord.

If you look hard enough, you should be able to spot the potato mounds across the fjord, which date back to the Famine.

On your way to Cong, you’ll pass through the tiny village of Leenane . If you fancy, stop at the Sheep and Wool Centre to watch a demonstration.

Stop 6: Loch Na Fooey Lookout

Photos via Google Maps

There’s a scenic-and-often-missed drive to Cong from Leenane. Just head for ‘Loch Na Fooey Lookout’ ( here on Maps).

Follow the R336, then make a left turn onto the L1301 (around 8 minutes into driving).

This route will take you along the shores of Loch Na Fooey and Lough Mask, with some mighty views along the way.

Make sure to stop at the Loch Na Fooey Lookout (around 6 minutes from the turn) to take in the lake and the surrounding Maumturk and Patry mountains. 

Stop 7: Cong

It’ll take you between 40 minutes and 1 hour to get to Cong .

This is one of the most beautiful towns in Ireland and it’s arguably one of the most famous as it’s home to many of the Quiet Man filming locations in Ireland .

There’s plenty to do in the village, from Quiet Man tours, grabbing a drink in Pat Cohan’s Gastro Pub (a must for Quiet Man fans), or checking out the 13th-century abbey ruins.

The towns park is home to the ruins of a monk’s fishing hut (see above) along with some beautiful forest trails.

Stop 8: Back to Galway City

Photos courtesy Failte Ireland

When you leave Cong, you’re around a 50-minute drive back to Galway where you’ll spend the night.

If you fancy a feed, Ard Bia, The Quay Street Kitchen and Dela are all worth a shout.

As mentioned earlier, there are some great pubs in Galway , with Tigh Neachtain, the Crane Bar and Tigh Chóilí the pick of the bunch.

And that’s it! You’ve seen a fair whack of Ireland in a week. Remember, I’ve  many  different 7 day Ireland road trip itineraries here if this one doesn’t suit!

Wrapping up what to do in Ireland for a week

You’ll hopefully have a better sense of what to do in Ireland for a week after reading the guide above.

Remember, I have 56 different 7 days in Ireland itineraries in my Road Trip Library . You can pick:

• Your starting point
• Your mode of transport
• Your fitness level
• How fast you like to travel

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

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Daisy Biggers

Monday 25th of October 2021

Hello and thanks for all the fabulous information. I just arrived in Dublin so I’m interested in the itinerary that’s 2 days in Dublin, then 2 days in Wicklow. I’m wondering, will we need a car while in Dublin? Thanks so much!

Keith O'Hara

Hey Daisy. We've actually just published an itinerary for

. There's an itinerary for if you're exploring on foot and another for if you have a car. If you're visiting for the first time, I'd avoid the rental car and explore the city on foot. It's very walkable!

Monday 13th of April 2020

Hello! We are doing a 2 month Europe Trip. Quickest way to see the most in 7 days (if we could see more by flying within Ireland, that would be an option as well.) We are nature lovers and are not big on castle, pubs and caves (love caves just get claustrophobic). We are older so long strenuous hikes are not an option. From the searching I have done The cliffs, waterfalls, and quint villages are interesting to us. We like to stretch are funds but are not against paying for something we really enjoy.

Wednesday 29th of January 2020

Love your blog - outstanding - we are trying to do an Ireland - London trip With our 2 teens and 77 year old nana. Planning 6-7 days Ireland and 3 in London. Should we just fly into Dublin and do day trips ? We don’t want to be moving every 2 days . Any suggestions would be appreciated

Thursday 9th of January 2020

Hi there, I'm arriving to Dublin on the evening of the 9th April 2020 and leave on the evening of the 18th April. During this time I want to spend a day in Dublin (we have some friends there) and two nights in Belfast (we have family there). In between I would love to see Cork, Ring of Kerry, Dingle, Doolin/Cliffs of Mohar, Galway (before making our way to Belfast). I do know this is a lot, but what I want to know is, is this feasible/realistic in the time we have!!!? And if not, what should I cut...? Or anything I should add...! Many thanks! Emma

Friday 10th of January 2020

That is a lot... the issue with your itinerary is that you want to get to Belfast (in the north) and then Cork and Kerry, both of which are at the opposite end of the island. And you also want to get out to the west of Ireland to visit Galway.

You're going to have to cut some of these places out. Otherwise, you'll spend all of your time in the car. Here's what I'd do:

Day 1: Dublin Day 2 and 3: Cork Day 4 and 5: Kerry (make Kenmare your base) Day 6: Clare (Doolin, Cliffs of Moher, etc.) Day 7 and 8: Belfast (use the half-day to drive back to Dublin)

By cutting out Galway you can spend 2 nights in most places and not overstretch yourself. If you wanted to, you could only do a day in Cork and then spend a day in Galway.

I hope this helps.

Sheree Haynes

Sunday 29th of December 2019

Keith: My husband and I are planning at trip in May 2020 to Ireland for our 25th wedding anniversary. We are planning on 1 week. We want to visit Dublin, Waterford, Cork, Kilkenny, and possibly Galway. Is that possible? We want to stay in a castle 1 night along the way. Any suggestions/guidance?

Saturday 4th of January 2020

If you're looking to take it slow and spend a couple of nights in places, I'd look to cut one of the destinations from the itinerary. If you're happy to move about, you should be fine.

If you're looking for a very unique experience, you can rent an entire castle in Kilkenny to yourself. Check it out here .

How to Plan the Perfect 1 Week Trip in Ireland

Ireland was always one of those European vacations that I thought “I’ll get to it eventually.” It didn’t feel like a big priority, because it is a destination that is easily accessible and navigable at any age or lifestyle. But when the opportunity to visit Ireland presented itself this spring, I jumped on it! And wow am I happy I did, because Ireland turned out to be one of those rare places that truly surprised me. I really loved my week in Ireland!

Since my first visit to Ireland in 2022, I have returned 5 more times as a trip leader and tour guide. I am here to share all my insider tips with you in this 7 day itinerary for Ireland.

There is so much to love about the Emerald Isle! In the Irish language, there is a common greeting which says Cead Mile Failte . It translates as ‘a hundred thousand welcomes,’ which I find to be a rather fitting phrase for Ireland. You will feel welcome and invited from the second you arrive because Irish people are incredibly friendly and hospitable! Rolling green hills, lively young cities, a loveable pub culture, and jaw-dropping scenery are just a few of things you’ll love about Ireland. I

reland is really a place that has a hundred thousand reasons to visit. 

What You'll Find In This Post

How to See The Best of Ireland in One Week

Overview of this One Week Ireland Itinerary

I understand that planning your one week Ireland itinerary can be a bit daunting when there are so many beautiful places to visit. Thankfully as a relatively small island, Ireland can easily be explored in one week. With that said, I don’t like to overfill my trips because it makes the vacation feel rushed and frantic.

Although you could see all four corners of the island in one week, this 7-day Ireland itinerary is designed to explore the north and west of the island. This structure will give you a taste of Ireland in the hopes that you’ll be inspired to return. This is the actual itinerary I used for my own visit, and I plan to return for another week when I can visit the south and more rural areas.

Day 1 & 2​: Dublin

Nearly any visit to Ireland will start in the country’s capital city of Dublin. It has the largest airport in the country, serving as a hub for Aer Lingus and RyanAir. Cheap flights to DUB are actually one of the reasons why I met friends here this spring -- they were able to find roundtrip flights from the US for under $500!

To avoid making this post too long, I have written separate posts to help you organize your 2 day stay in Dublin:

• How to Spend 2 Perfect Days in Dublin, Ireland 
• The Complete Dublin Food & Restaurant Guide
• 12 Historical Attractions to See in Dublin

Dublin has an excitement and energy about it that is difficult to describe but easy to feel. From interesting modern and classic architecture to delicious cuisine, there is so much to see and do in Dublin. For a city of its size, I was so impressed by the friendly locals and easy to navigate infrastructure. And let us not forget all of the classic pubs. I would recommend dedicating 2 full days to exploring the city, although you could probably rush and hit the major highlights in one day if you wanted to.

Day 3: Central Ireland & County Clare

After a few days enjoying Dublin, it is time to start your way out the west of Ireland where you can really appreciate the natural wonder of this country. There is a direct train connecting Dublin and Galway, but I would recommend renting a car. It will give you a lot more flexibility to explore the more remote and rural areas of the country where the real charm and beauty are located. 

On your drive west, stop in the cute town of Athlone for lunch and a pint! At the heart of Athlone lies Athlone Castle, a magnificent 12th-century fortress that stands as a testament to the town's medieval past. Go for a walk along the scenic riverbank promenade. Pop into Sean’s Pub which is the oldest operating pub in all of Ireland, dating back to the 900s! You can practically smell the history here.

The main attraction for today is the Burren. This isn’t on every “highlights of Ireland” list out there, but I really think it should be. The Burren is mesmerizing and unique geologic region that covers approximately 100 square miles. This karst landscape is renowned for its vast stretches of limestone pavement, intricate rock formations, and a remarkable variety of flora and fauna.

The Burren's geologic history dates back millions of years, when this area was a shallow sea. Over time, the layers were uplifted, eroded, and shaped by glaciation, resulting in the unique and captivating landscape seen today. Humans settlement began during the Stone Age, and you can even visit archaeological sites, including dolmens, ring forts, and ancient tombs.

Hiking in the Burren offers a chance to immerse oneself in its enchanting beauty. I can strongly recommend a guided tour with Tony Kirby . He is a fascinating local character who leads private walks through the Burren, complete with fun facts, geologic tidbits and poetry. It is a lovely experience! End your day in the Burren with a sheep dog demonstration at Caher Connell . You can see how the dogs listen to whistle and voice commands as they herd actual sheep. Check my experience at this kennel on my Instagram Reel about it!

Day 4: Galway

Continuing your journey west, the next stop on this one week Ireland itinerary is the charming city of Galway. Easily accessible by train or bus from Dublin or Belfast, Galway is one of those places where there isn’t necessarily ‘must-see attractions’ or ‘things to do’. It is a simple destination where you can disconnect through the experience and simply enjoy. Whenever I told people we were visiting Galway, the response always seemed to be “oh, you’ll love it. It’s so nice there.” No other information was provided, and I simply trusted the process. 

There is a nice vibe to the city that you'll feel right away. As you chat with the extremely friendly locals, you’ll start to feel the dynamics that characterize the Galway spirit– and maybe you'll come to understand why Ed Sheeran dedicated songs to the people here.

I don’t have a whole lot of specific travel advice about what to do or see in Galway. My advice is simply to go and wander around. Like everyone told me, you’ll enjoy it! The historic old town is lined with colorful building facades, each holding a cute shop, lively pub or delightful restaurant.

I found the restaurant scene in Galway to be especially impressive, given its small size.

There is a dedication to local ingredients and seasonal food, prepared with care and intention. I enjoyed it so much that I wrote a separate restaurant and food guide to Galway ! The ocean fresh air is abundant in Galway, so after eating a delicious meal, I definitely recommend getting some time outside. Meandering along the canals and Corrib River is peaceful, especially as you make your way out towards the harbor and coastline. Watching the tide roll in and out on Nimmos Pier or taking in a sunset along the shores of Salthill are both lovely. There is a subtleness and peacefulness to Galway that makes it enjoyable.

Day 5: Day Trip to Aran Islands

My favorite day from our one week vacation in Ireland was the day we spent on the Aran Islands. Characterized by craggy gray limestone, low profile stone houses, happy sheep, and windswept hills, there is an understated beauty to the Aran Islands.

The Aran Islands are hard to describe, but it is well worth the surprise you will feel when you visit. I am kind of obsessed with these little islands. You can get a sense why I loved it  on my Instagram Reel highlighting our day trip to the Aran Islands.

Departing from the Galway City Docks twice per day, there are multiple ferry routes with stops on the Aran islands . There are three islands in the chain–  Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, and Inis Oírr . You can book ferry tickets ahead of time online, which will show you the various routes the ferry company offers. We visited the largest island, Inis Mór, along with a stop at the Cliffs of Moher in the late afternoon. The tickets costs 45 euros per person, and it went from 9:30 to 18:00 (basically a full day trip).

When we arrived on Inis Mor, we rented electric bikes near the docks. This was the BEST idea we had all day. The e-bikes make it easy to cover a lot of ground in a short time. The terrain is little hilly, so the e-bikes help manage the hills with the pedal assist. In about 4 hours, we were able to bike around a good portion of the island. We didn’t have much of an agenda besides enjoying the lovely scenery and snapping pretty photos along the way! 

The Aran islands are sparsely inhabited with only about 1,500 residents across the three islands. This population obviously balloons in the summer with tourism, so it is important to spend your money at locally owned businesses to support the community . The Aran islands are famous for their wool sweaters and blankets, many of which you can buy at cute boutiques in the heart of town.

On the ride back to Galway from Inis Mór, our ferry stopped for about 30 minutes at the Cliffs of Moher. This is a great preview for tomorrow's activity on this itinerary. I actually liked getting to see this natural wonder from the water. It was a totally different and more unique perspective to appreciate their size and drama. These famous cliffs drop over 700 feet abruptly into the ocean, making for a breathtaking view.

Day 6: Cliffs of Moher

On this one week journey around Ireland, of course you need to make a stop at one of the country’s most famous natural wonders – The Cliffs of Moher . These cliffs have captured the imagination of many renowned writers, poets, and artists throughout history, among with tourists and travelers such as myself. Their striking beauty has inspired numerous works of literature and art, and have been featured in movies such as "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince", which I learned at the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London .

From a geological perspective, the Cliffs of Moher are composed primarily of layers of sandstone and shale, displaying stunning natural striations and hues. Stretching along the Atlantic Ocean for about 5 miles (8 kilometers) and reaching heights up to 700 feet (214 meters) (702 feet), the Cliffs of Moher offer breathtaking panoramic views. The cliffs were shaped by the relentless forces of nature, sculpted over millions of years by the ceaseless pounding of the ocean waves and the powerful currents.

The cliffs are easily accessible by road, located approximately 40 miles (70 kilometers) southwest of Galway. There are ample parking facilities available, although you will need to pay for a ticket at the parking lot entrance. Toilets and amenities are conveniently located within the visitor center complex, but nowhere else along the trail. There is also a restaurant and gift shop there.

The average visit to the cliffs is about 1 hour, but you could make an entire day of it but hiking the 5 mile stretch. It is totally worth it! The views change as you go along the path, and it will take about half a day. Hiking along the cliff edges is a popular activity, and there are designated pathways and trails that provide safe access to different vantage points.

It's important to follow the marked paths and adhere to safety guidelines, as the cliffs can be steep and unstable in certain areas. Peopl have died from taking selfies and slipping, so please exhibit caution.I recommend wearing sturdy shoes or hiking boots even. 

A visit to the Cliffs of Moher is an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the raw beauty and historical significance of Ireland's coastline. Whether you're marveling at the breathtaking views, exploring the visitor center, or walking along the well-maintained trails, the Cliffs of Moher offer a profound connection with nature and a glimpse into the ancient forces that have shaped our world.

Day 7: Departure

As your vacation in Ireland comes to an end, it is time to head back to Dublin. If you are going directly to the airport (as we did), there are buses from the Galway Bus Terminal directly to DUB Airport. Check out AirCoach for tickets and timetable. The buses run every two hours, and the journey takes about three hours. If you are spending one more day in Dublin, the train is probably a better option because it is a little bit faster. 

Alternatively, if you are looking to extend your time in Ireland, head north or south!

From Galway you can access the wild terrains of Killarney National Park which sits about 3 hours south. We didn’t get a chance to make it there on our trip, but I heard absolutely wonderful things about the scenery in this area. Limerick is a good jumping off point for accessing it, and you can get buses there from Galway.

Bonus Day: Northern Ireland

Now look, I understand that Northern Ireland (also called the north of Ireland) is a separate country than the republic of Ireland. That’s exactly why I recommend visiting it as a bonus stop on this 1 week itinerary. It provides a fascinating and important contrast that is intricately connected to the modern  cultural and political landscape of Ireland .

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a movie buff, Northern Ireland has something special in store for you. From the legendary Giant's Causeway to the vibrant streets of Belfast, immerse yourself in the unique blend of ancient tales and modern charm.

How to Get Around in Ireland

There are many visitors who prefer to rent a car for a one week trip to Ireland. I can totally respect and understand that decision – it gives you a ton of freedom and you can really immerse yourself in the beautiful Irish countryside. However, rental cars in 2022 are super expensive and this option isn’t feasible for everyone (such as myself). Plus for North American travelers, I can understand if you’re a little nervous about driving on a different side of the road. 

Thankfully, Ireland has a great intercity transit network. There are buses and trains that connect most of the major cities with frequent service 7 days a week. For buses to and from the airport, including from outside of Dublin, check out AirCoach which conveniently drops off directly at DUB. Typically the local buses make a lot of stops and there aren’t necessarily toilets on board, so it can be a little bit slower and less comfortable. The national train company is called Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) and you can book tickets for major routes in advance. We rode the train from Dublin to Galway and it worked very well.

Where to Eat in Ireland

I have to admit, my expectations for the cuisine and food in Ireland weren't super high. I figured it would be a lot of pub food, like fish & chips or shepard's pie. Of course, there is a lot of that. But I was really surprised by how much other food there was too! Ireland has a strong committment to local product and farm-to-table cuisine, so there are some really great options actually. I wrote up restaurant guides for Dublin and Galway including a full range of high-quality suggestions.

Where to Stay in Ireland

For your time in Dublin, my first recommendation would be the stylishly designed Alex Hotel . This boutique hotel offers upscale dining at the Carriage Restaurant, and thoughtful in-room touches. The central location is perfect, just north of Merrion Square Park on a quiet street. My second recommendation would be Wren Urban Nest . It offers a more affordable price point near Trinity College. I really like that this hotel takes a sustainable approach to hospitality with carbon free energy and a low waste ethos. The best little place to stay in Galway is The Stop . Run by a pair of Millennials, this B&B is a cozy, minimalist place full of charm and personality. The breakfast is delightful! 

Do you have any questions? Comment below and I can help!

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Hi! Planning a trip to Ireland for our honeymoon in July, and we would love to talk more!! ALl of your trips above have been extremely helpful. Hoping to get a better idea of using public transportation to get to the cities you mentioned.

Thank you for your comment and it sounds like you’re going to have a great honeymoon in Ireland! Happy to help. Feel free to reach out via email and we can chat more. Find me at [email protected] .

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Good to know

Faqs - booking ireland flights, which additional cities can travelers visit after flying into dub airport from the us.

From the US, you can swiftly fly to Ireland and then explore a number of additional cities near DUB Airport. From DUB, it is simple to go to surrounding cities including Rathcoole, Blanchardstown, Dunboyne, and Leixlip. To reach these cities from DUB Airport, you can take a taxi, a public bus, or even use a rented car.

Which airport should I use if I wish to participate in sports in Ireland?

Sports lovers from the US should consider flying into Shannon Airport (SNN) when visiting Ireland. This airport is close to a lot of athletic grounds, notably the Tallaght Stadium. More so on weekends, visitors from SNN Airport get the chance to cheer for their favorite neighborhood teams in this stadium. These stadiums also host significant European matches and championships, making them a popular arena among soccer fans.

Are there amenities for pet owners on the USO-IE0 flight route?

Yes. When flying to Ireland, passengers using the USO-IE0 flight route shouldn't be concerned about the security of their pets. The majority of US airports that provide international flights to Ireland, including SLC and SWF Airports, have a pet-friendly policy that permits visitors to enter the airport with their four-legged companions. The basic regulation in most US airports serving flights to Ireland is that all pets must be leashed at all times, with the exception of when they are using the pet relief areas.

How can travelers who plan to fly to Ireland on the earliest flight get to SWF Airport?

Staying at a nearby hotel is the most effective strategy to catch the earliest flight from SWF Airport to Ireland. The Homewood Suites by Hilton Newburgh-Stewart Airport is one of the accommodations that should be taken into account in this situation. Travelers can easily reach SWF Airport on foot as it is only 980 meters away.

Do I need a visa to travel to Ireland?

Citizens of the US and of the Eurozone do not require visas in order to fly to Ireland. Permanent residents of the United States and all other residents plus foreign nationals who desire to visit the country should check with their local embassy or consulate to see if they need to apply for one before they travel.

Should I purchase euros before or after I arrive in Ireland?

All three of the major international airports in Ireland are well equipped to handle currency exchange transactions and there are also plenty of ATMs if needed, so it is really an individual decision. However, many passengers tend to purchase foreign currency after they arrive at their destination.

If I wish to visit Donegal, which airport should I use?

Donegal is the northernmost county in the Republic of Ireland and if you wish to visit, you can use Dublin Airport as the destination for your flight from the US to Ireland since it is the closest of the major airports in the country.

Can I get a nonstop flight from the US to Ireland?

Yes, you can get a direct flight from the US to Ireland, however, the only nonstop flights from the US to Ireland depart from cities along the US East Coast including New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia (PHL). Among the airlines providing nonstop service are Aer Lingus, the Irish national airline, and Finnair.

How long is the flight to Ireland?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Ireland takes 9h 58m, covering a distance of 3990 miles. The most popular route is New York - Dublin with an average flight time of 6h 30m.

What is the cheapest flight to Ireland?

The cheapest ticket to Ireland from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $375 one-way, and $280 round-trip. The most popular route is New York John F Kennedy Intl to Dublin and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $431.

Which airlines fly to Ireland?

British Airways, Aer Lingus & American Airlines fly the most frequently from the United States to Ireland.

What are the most popular destinations in Ireland?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Dublin (90% of total searches to Ireland). The next most popular destinations are Shannon (8%) and Cork (1%). Searches for flights to Knock (0.1%), to Milltown (Kerry) (0.1%) and to Donegal (0.1%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Ireland

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Ireland flight deals.
• Travelers with limited mobility can take advantage of a variety of specialized services at the New York Stewart Airport (SWF) when flying to Ireland. Parking facilities at this airport feature areas designated specifically for vehicles with disabled occupants.
• As travelers wait for their flights from the United States to Ireland, airport lounges are generally regarded as one of the best locations to unwind. Most economy passengers using Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to fly from the US to Ireland opt to relax in the Delta Sky Club before they take off.
• Travelers who plan to go on vacation in Ireland from the US with their kids should consider flying aboard Norwegian Air International from New York Stewart Airport (SWF). This airline serves direct flights from SWF Airport to Dublin Airport (DUB). Use of direct airlines will ensure that you take the shortest time possible from the US to Ireland, which reduces the likelihood of your kids getting weary before reaching their destination.
• Consider the idea of staying close to DUB Airport if your aircraft from the US is slated to land in Ireland at night. When travelers arrive at DUB late at night, one of the nicest and closest locations to stay is The Maldron Hotel Dublin Airport. Being one of the nearest hotels to DUB, this hotel is just 1.1 kilometers away and is easily accessible by foot for travelers.
• The majority of travelers who want to take the shortest time possible from the USA to Ireland should consider departing from either New York Stewart Airport (SWF) or Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). These are the major airports in the US that serve as hubs for airlines offering direct flights to Ireland.
• If you are planning a flight from the US to Ireland, you will most likely arrive at one of the three major international airports in the Republic of Ireland: Dublin Airport (DUB), which services the eastern counties, Cork Airport (ORK), servicing the southern counties, and Shannon Airport (SNN), serving the western counties.
• Although Dublin Airport and Cork Airport rank ahead in terms of passenger traffic, Shannon Airport is the most centrally located of the three and, therefore, it allows for greater access to the interior and western counties. It is also an excellent staging point for exploring the Aran Islands off the coast of County Galway.
• Flying into Dublin Airport puts you in the nation’s capital and allows for exploration of County Wicklow, County Kildare and County Meath, whereas Cork Airport provides excellent access to County Cork, County Kerry and County Limerick.
• The Heartland of Ireland, which includes the counties of Roscommon, Tullamore, Mullingar and Offaly, lies midway between Dublin Airport to the east and Shannon Airport to the west, so a flight into either one should provide ready access. However, you are more likely to get better public transportation out of the capital city of Dublin.
• If you’re looking for inexpensive, nonstop flights to Dublin, Ireland, why not consider flying aboard Norwegian Air International from New York Stewart Airport (SWF)? Located about an hour outside of Manhattan in Orange County, it’s a good alternative to the hustle and bustle of Newark Liberty Airport (EWF) and JFK Airport in addition to being only a short train ride away.

Top 5 airlines flying to Ireland

Delta is one of the best airlines I have flown

Made the Atlanta to Pittsburgh trip many times, with Delta no issues

I always fly with Delta. My friends tell me their horror stories of flying with other airlines. I just smile and say, “You should fly Delta”

I'm a larger, athletic guy (6'2", 260lbs powerlifter) and I found the seats incredibly uncomfortable with minimal leg room, especially in a window seat. Now, I full understand that being smaller may change my view but even if I was 80lbs less, my legs would be the same size and I was sandwiched between my seat and the seat in front of me.

Horrible. This was not first class. This was a connecting flight whi h was late. My original flight never came. I hated the fact that delta gave me a connecting flight from New York to Orlando Florida. No meals and the television screens were not working. There wasn't even any power to charge your phones. This is NOT FIRST CLASS DELTA!!! Do better next time!

This flight was ridiculous. I had to have a connecting flight from New York to orlando Florida??? The flight left late and because it was a short flight there was no first class amenities. I had one alcohol drink. The flight crew was fine, but it sure did not feel like first class. Delta to me dropped the ball by giving me a connecting flight. By the time we got to Raleigh we would have missed the next flight. Lucky for me the flight never came so now I was stuck waiting for a later flight that came in late also.

Our flight was delayed in Atlanta. The staff could have gave us an explanation for the delay and how long it would be.

I liked the ease of checking in, luggage check in, wheel chair assistance, boarding and flight.

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive. I also upgraded to comfort + , I didn’t feel it was worth it. There was no benefit

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive.

Nothing beats ANA customer service on my opinion. Maybe because of their Japanese culture (and food). Arigatō

So so. Terrible aircraft choice for that leg of the flight.

Due to one crew member not showing up to work, our flight was significantly delayed causing us to miss our connecting flight in Houston to Mississippi causing us to be delayed by more than 6 hours and missing our event all together. Very disappointing. All because ONE crew member called in sick. United did grant us a $15 meal voucher, which was a small but appreciated concession that I wasn’t able to use because I ordered my lunch and paid for it before applying the concession, and the staff said it was too late to use it. Ugh! We also had a TWO delay coming back from Mississippi, but that was on American Airlines and it was due to weather, so not their fault. Anyway, not at all impressed with United’s handling of our flight and the HUGE disappointment of missing our important family event for our 90 year old mother. All that money and all that stress and emotions for nothing. Having to wait the hour to bring an employee from LAX seemed like something that should not have happened. Why don’t you have a local back-up? Santa Ana is not a little airport in a rural area.

Flight delayed from Cape Town to Washington then got diverted to miami and in miami we had to fend for ourselves , im still trying to get to Shreveport now

delay several times and wait extra long to board. no entertainment service because there are problem for some rows. always encounter some delays for the last flight of the day.

I just wrote a text which was supposed to be for the flight from Denver to spokane not Frankfurt to Denver.

On time every leg of the journey and exceptional staff at counter, gate, and on board. I haven’t travelled in US for a long time and was genuinely surprised how pleasant this was.

Hated every minute of it. This flight should have only taken 1.5hrs but was delayed over 10hours. Now I am being told I cannot be compensated or refunded my ticket price or extra leg room, which I purchased but did not receive, because the airline is throwing the blame on the 3rd party I purchased tickets through and 3rd party putting the blame on airline. No one wants to help. They received their money and that's all they care about. Im going on 3 days of still trying to get to my final destination, had to cancel car rental, car insurance and hotel. Currently staying in airport until hotels open up. Thank you Lufthansa, Kayak, Underpricer and United for making this trip the worst ever.

The delays (5 hrs) were a comedy of errors, and the multiple safety issues encountered were very concerning.

flight delays, staff only communicating when pushed, food service lasting a grand total of 7 minutes, stuck in seat from 45mins into flight until landing

Just get Economy Plus for international flights, so worth it the extra room, bigger seats…

This flight is frequently delayed. The connections seemingly are more frequently delayed. I’ve missed connections as a result twice on the same route to charlotte then Charleston. Final destination arrival has been the next day, twice in a row. No pilots, no crew. Too many excuses. Unfortunately, my days with American are over.

Entertainment was okay not because anything was wrong but it is a short flight so having no wifi is annoying but understandable. Crew was outstanding as usual

It was spectacular. I had basic Economy and was given so much space and their seats lean back so far. Staff was superb, food was superb, everything was superb, Finnair is Fantastic.

Those seats were way too narrow. I had the middle seat, one person was a very skinny person and we still couldn’t avoid touching each other anytime one of us moved. The other person was larger and we were basically sitting in each others lap the entire flight. There was zero entertainment. The flight was long enough to justify tvs, but no. Gotta sit there in your infant seat and twiddle your thumbs.

The Flight attendant had an attitude and didn't allow anyone any time to prepare for landing despite being absent throughout the entire trip

Flight boarded without pilots. Sat on plane for 3 hrs. after over an hour late boarding. Plane never took off. Had to deplane near midnight. Line for rebooking was 3 hours + long. I had to leave.

The flight was great but board was a nightmare. The gate was changed 4 times during the layover period

The experience was great and much better than the flight going out. of course I was in first class but the service was excellent

Cold air blew constantly on my legs almost making me numb.

I loved how they arrange boarding (starting with people seated in back and moving to the front). Flight crew was very polite and welcoming. Seating was ok, I felt like there was enough leg space however it is noticeable when the passenger in front of you sets their seat back.

Flight staff very friendly and helpful where possible. Late flight and travelling with young child, cabin lights remained on for the duration of the flight which was a little disappointing considering the time of the flight. Overall very happy to travel with Aer Lingus.

Nice to be on a flight that wasn't fully booked so there were only two of us in the three seat row.

The only problem was there are games on the entertaiment system. The guy behind me played poker the entire time and poking the back of my seat. I hope they remove these.

Delayed due to weather... fine. But then the board us. Rows 15 and back had to go down the stairs and back up the back stair entrance to the plane. No assistance offered. Then they inform us that we are delayed for paperwork for an hour. So why did we board? Then, about 45min later they inform us that it'll be another 60-90mins. Really? No wifi, no seat entertainment, no drink or snacks offered. And we were not allowed to deboard.

Great travel. Wonderful experience. Hope to do it again in the near future. God willing

Aer Lingus doesn't have plug ins for devices at each seat. They also did not give me a dairy free meal as requested and confirmed by staff. It was as if I had not requested anything. Otherwise, they were great!

There were a lot of empty rows. As a single passenger I should not have been seated with 2 others. The WiFi didn’t work. The Kosher meal was awful.

Both flights were delayed due to maintenance issues. Because they where late boarding all four of our bags where left behind on our last connecting flight.

Aer Lingus interior is not the cleanest. I've seen crumbs on the seat and wrappers on the floor when I boarded

Excellent! Great flight attendants, good food (in business class, at least), very comfortable. Touchscreen and remote wasn’t great.

In economy and food was ok, but with limited leg space (and I was in a 2 seat configuration) it was difficult to eat with a tiny seat tray. I spilt wine on my trousers. First time on British Air (I usually fly Turkish Air) and in a 777. Heathrow was pleasant but changing terminals awkward.

Starting with the flight Cairo to London the plain was so poor no entertainment at all uncomfortable seats although it’s 5 hours long,then an American airline plain took me from London to Miami it was a bad experience the crew most of flight time not available and they asked us to help our selves for any snacks if we need. From Miami to London actually was perfect flight with a huge plain and perfect crew but from London to Cairo was horrible plain with stiff fixed seats not movable no entertainment or wi fi very poor Menu which is unacceptable for a business class

I've done hundreds of flights in my life, and this flight was one of the best I've ever taken, From beginning to end, everything went smoothly, professionally, and with a smile and friendly attitude from all employees I interacted with. The food was delicious (and free), as were the drinks. There was just a genial and effective way in the way that British Airways organized the flight -that reminded of days in the 70's, 80's, and 90's, when flying was a fun, and exciting adventure. I enjoyed and had confidence in the abilities of the flight crew, I'll be flying British Airways several more times this summer. Thank you so much for the great experience! Cheryl Olso

My baggage did not arrived with me. Took 3 days to get it after so may calls and follow up

Terrible! I missed my flight to my final destination and British airlines and American Airlines keep pointing fingers on each other’s. Nobody wants to take responsibility

Terrible. Flight was 3 hours delayed and I missed my other flight to my final destination

Overall, terrific service, accommodations, and experience. Only reason comfort was rated lower was because it was difficult to keep a comfortable sleeping position for the overnight flight, but I also had an economy seat.

Not sure if the crew were experiencing something unknown to me,but the service of passing water was non-existent.In addition,please take consideration when providing yogurt as alternative for breakfast as some of us, could be lactose intolerant.. thanks

Very cramped seats in economy, difficult to get comfortable with your legs and feet and back. The seat width is ok but I’m average size. Food is HORRIBLE. Crew is friendly. Delays and very tight connections made it tough for navigating. We would have missed our connecting flight if it wasn’t delayed too. The terminal transit was slow and normally every 10 minutes before 8pm, after 8 pm is every 30 minutes!!!!! No free wine or drinks!! Below average attitude.

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The ultimate Ireland itinerary for one week of exploring the Emerald Isle

The common Irish greeting Cead Mile Failte means ‘a hundred thousand welcomes,’ which is a rather fitting phrase for a place that has a hundred thousand reasons to visit.

Rolling green hills, bustling cities, a lively pub culture, incredible music and jaw-dropping scenery are just the beginning; Ireland also has grand castles, sweeping beaches, and the other-worldly Skellig and Aran Islands.

WATCH: A Taste of Ireland

Despite being a compact country that you can literally drive all the way across in half a day, there’s so much to see that travellers should budget at least one week in Ireland to properly explore. Most visitors who only have seven days typically focus on either the north or south portions, basing themselves in Belfast to explore Northern Ireland.

The south is usually the most popular for first-timers, as it’s home to famous spots like the Blarney Stone , colourful Cork, and stunning drives such as the rugged Ring of Kerry and aptly-named Wild Atlantic Way which hugs the coastline. 

From gallivanting in Galway to discovering Dingle, here’s the perfect one week Ireland itinerary for exploring the Emerald Isle.

QUICK FIND:

• Wild Atlantic Way
• Burren Rocks, Cliffs of Moher, Banratty Castle
• Dingle Peninsula
• Ring of Kerry and Limerick

Day 1 + 2: Dublin

Most flights land in Dublin , which makes the capital a natural place to kick off an Ireland trip.

Forget any misconceptions you might have heard about it being a sprawling, working class city: instead, you’ll discover grand, centuries-old buildings like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle, cute streetscapes lined with quirky cafes, great shopping along Grafton Street, and fantastic museums.

Some of the top Dublin attractions are:

• Trinity College – A visit to this beautiful campus is a must for bookworms, as its massive library home to the illuminated Book of Kells which holds all four gospels of the New Testament and dates back more than 1000 years.
• Ha’Penny Bridge- Stretching over the river Liffey in the heart of the city centre, this pearly-white bridge is named after the half-penny pedestrians were charged to cross when it was first built in the 1800s.
• Kilmainham Gaol – This former prison holds an important place in Irish history, as the spot where leaders of rebellions between 1798-1916 were held and in some cases executed. Guided tours of the restored jail quarters provide some fascinating insights into this dark chapter, and there are also exhibits detailing its penal history and restoration.
• Christ Church Cathedral- This architectural wonder is a stunner. Also called the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, the medieval structure takes up the better part of two blocks, and includes a beautiful raised walkway that’s a favourite stop for photographers.
• Temple Bar- This happening district is the heart of Dublin’s party scene, where revellers spill out of bustling bars and eateries and into the raucous pedestrian-only area. The most famous spot is the actual Temple Bar , which is impossible to miss thanks to its fire-engine red exterior.

READ MORE: How to spend one day in Dublin, Ireland

Even those who don’t usually consider themselves history buffs will want to drop by the EPIC Museum in the Docklands area.

Billed as the world’s first digital-only museum, this spot provides fascinating insight into what’s led to the country’s storied past of emmigration, and the imprint the exodus of 10 million people has left around the world.

A series of video galleries, motion-sensored quizzes and bright displays detail the contributions of the country’s most famous musicians and artists, highlight prized pastimes like dancing and pubs, and even allow visitors to trace their own ancestry.

One of the most popular places to visit in Dublin needs no introduction: The Guinness Storehouse , where the dark, beloved brew is made. Tours through the factory start in a giant glass atrium in the centre of the building which is designed as a pint glass, making it the largest beer glass in the world which can hold an astounding 14 million pints.

Guests are lead through seven floors’-worth of exhibits, tasting rooms and demonstrations on how to pour the perfect pint, before heading up to the Gravity Bar to enjoy a drink overlooking the Dublin skyline. Click here to book

More of a whiskey lover? There’s no shortage of spots in Dublin to whet your whistle, with crowd-favourites being the Old Jameson Distillery , the Irish Whiskey Museum , the Teeling Whiskey Distillery and Dublin Liberties Distillery .

Cap off your trip to Dublin with a jaunt up Killiney Hill timed for the golden hour. Here, you’ll find unbeatable views of the city hugging the rugged coastline of the Irish Sea, which makes for a mesmerizing scene at sunset.

Where to stay in Dublin:

• Clontarf Castle Hotel : From the grand turrets to the suits of armour in the lobby, this luxurious hotel wows from the moment visitors start driving up the long, tree-lined entrance and catch their first glance of this castle right in the city. Dating back to the 1100s, the Clontarf has been beautifully preserved and updated over the centuries, and the spacious suites feature canopy beds, vaulted ceilings, plush bedding and modern touches like smart TVs. Click here to book
• Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel : This posh property boasts more than 100 elegant rooms, which are all individually-designed with plenty of space to spread out. Some have balconies overlooking Dublin Bay, and guests love tucking into afternoon tea down in the charming Library Cocktail Bar, or unwinding in the hotel’s sauna and steam room. Click here to book

There are also lots of reasonably priced hotels and B&Bs, as well as these hostels in Dublin .

READ MORE: Royal retreats: Amazing Irish castle hotels near Dublin

Book one of these top rated Dublin tours with Viator:

Book with GetYourGuide

Day 3 + 4: Wild Atlantic Way- Connemara + Galway

Driving in Ireland is an easy way to get around (that is, if you don’t mind navigating the left side of the road), so hop in the rental car and head out to the west coast to explore part of the Wild Atlantic Way .

The Connemara district is framed by the craggy Atlantic coast which makes for some spectacular scenery, where windswept hills and mountain ranges are dotted with tranquil lakes and bogs. Far away from the crowds, this area is the perfect spot for those seeking solace or looking for a nature fix.

Some prestigious properties call Connemara home, starting with the striking Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Gardens . The estate was originally owned by a wealthy businessman who built the property to showcase what innovations could be achieved in the wilds of Connemara, and today it’s run by the Benedictine community who at one point operated an international boarding school.

Visitors are welcome to tour the on-site Gothic church, marvel at the gorgeous reflection cast into the lake in front of the Abbey, and wander through the peaceful grounds and gardens.

Not too far down the road is Ballynahinch Castle , a favoured weekend retreat for Coonemara residents that’s frequently rated as one of Ireland’s top luxury hotels.

Framed by the 12 Bens mountain range and near a popular salmon fishing spot, the castle is surrounded by 700 acres of woodlands and offers plenty of activities for guests and day-trippers alike, including 10 miles of hiking trails, clay shooting, boat rides and cycling paths.

Dating back to 1813, the elegant property has hosted Irish actors and even American president Gerald Ford (there’s still a presidential seal hanging on the wall). Those who are lucky enough to overnight at the castle will enjoy spacious, well-appointed suites with sweeping views of the river or woodlands, five-star, attentive service and incredible meals, which makes Ballynahinch the perfect place to get away from it all. Click here to book

If cities are more your speed, head to Galway which is known as a college town thanks to the influx of students that flood the city when classes start up at university every autumn. Beloved for its festivals, quirky shops and colourful cafes that line the winding laneways, this is the kind of place that always feels alive.

Wander down Shop, Quay and High streets to do some shopping, relax in Eyre Square which marks the town centre, marvel at the magnificent Galway Cathedral which has an equally impressive interior, and enjoy a performance from one of the many talented buskers stationed downtown.

Where to stay in Galway:

• Galmont Hotel: This property is so modern it can come as a bit of a surprise, given its location in the heart of a medieval town. Featuring a gorgeous lobby, large rooms, a spa, state of the art gym and pool, the Galmont ticks all the boxes when it comes to amenities and also serves up a fabulous breakfast. Click here to book

Day 5: Burren Rocks, Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle

There’s a good chance today will be your favourite part of your one week in Ireland, thanks to an epic stop at the Cliffs of Moher.

Designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark, the staggering views of the sheer rock faces that dramatically rise more than 200 metres out of the pounding ocean waves are sure to leave you speechless. That, and the fact that it can be hard to catch your breath around here–the wind is relentless!

The best way to explore them is by doing the Doolin Cliff Walk , which was founded in 2009 by Pat Sweeney whose family has farmed in the area for generations.

Longing to share the beauty of this special place and welcome more visitors to the otherwise quiet area, he convinced 46 farmers to donate part of their land to create a trail, which winds along the cliffs looking down on the churning Atlantic Ocean on one side, and a blanket of soft green grass where sheep like to graze on the other.

The entire route takes about three hours and affords views of O’Brien’s Tower perched on the coastline, the counties of Cork and Kerry, and even out to the Aran Islands.

Those short on time have another, much easier option: pay five euros to park at Guerin’s Path , which is located on a farm owned by Martin Guerin just a two-minute walk from the most spectacular lookout point. The trail is wheelchair accessible, and guided walks led by Guerin himself are also available.

Once you manage to tear yourself away from the awe-inspiring cliffs, drive over to Burren Rocks to see the desolate landscape of limestone, shale and fossils, before making your final stop of the day at Bunratty Castle .

Built in 1425, this medieval castle once served as a former stronghold of the storied O’Brien family, and today the interior reflects the style of the 15th and 16th centuries. Narrow, twisting staircases lead to over a dozen rooms for visitors to explore, and the surrounding grounds are a folk park that’s a living reconstruction of what towns in Ireland looked like more than a century ago.

The gardens, historic homes and mills provide a glimpse into the past, there’s an opportunity to try a medieval feast , and kids love getting up close with its current four-legged residents which include cows, pigs, donkeys, sheep and Irish wolfhounds.

Where to stay in County Clare:

• Parknasilla Resort Hotel : This luxurious hotel and spa overlooks Kenmare Bay and the Kerry Mountains, and has room offerings to suit every group size with suites, two-bedroom lodges and their three-bedroom woodland villas. The sea views are breathtaking, and there are plenty of on-site activities including kayaking, golf and exploring the walking trails. Click here to book
• Ballygarry House Hotel : Located in the cute town of Tralee, this old-world property exudes charm from the tastefully-elegant lobby areas to the individually-designed suites–some of which have classic touches like clawfoot bathtubs. The well-kept grounds looking out to the Ballyseedy Woods are a great place to enjoy the sunshine, and the service at Ballygarry is second-to-none. Click here to book

Book a tour with Viator:

Book with GetYourGuide:

Day 6: Dingle Peninsula

The next stop on your Ireland road trip is a doozie: the Dingle Peninsula , which is arguably one of the most beautiful areas in the entire country. This region has it all, from deserted blonde beaches and craggy coastlines (some of the Star Wars filming locations are here) to rolling hills dotted with tiny villages and farmhouses.

The best way to explore is by tackling the stunningly-scenic Slea Head Drive, an unforgettable experience due to its tight twists and turns. In fact, the road is so narrow that traffic only goes in a clockwise direction!

Tip: It’s best to do the Slea Head Drive in the morning, because afternoons are typically more cloudy which means less visibility.

Finish off in Dingle, which just might be the most adorable town you’ve ever seen. The streets are a photographer’s dream, where the facades of the boutiques, restaurants and pubs are painted every colour of the rainbow.

There’s also a lovely walk along the waterfront to admire the boats docked in the harbour, and if you’re lucky you might even spot Fungie the Dolphin, who was first spotted in the bay more than three decades ago. Over the years, the 13-foot long, wild bottlenose dolphin has achieved legend status in the town, and there’s even a statue erected in his honour as well as regular boat tours in hopes of catching a glimpse of the charismatic creature.

READ MORE: Quirky and cool things to do in Dingle, Ireland

Some stops worth making in Dingle include:

• Murphy’s Ice Cream : The sweet treats served up here are a labour of love, with staff so committed to their all-natural treats that they scrape vanilla beans by hand, use free range eggs, farm milk, and even make their own sea salt sourced from Dingle sea water. Murphy’s is so popular they had to open a second location in town!
• Foxy John’s: A bar that’s also a hardware store…so basically every guy’s dream.
• The Dingle Distillery : It’s well-worth signing up for a tour of this artisan distillery, which opened in 2012 and has made quite the name for itself despite being such a small operation. They’ve already won heaps of awards including World’s Best Gin for their Dingle Original Gin, which visitors are able to sample along with their vodka and whiskey creations.

Where to stay in Dingle:

• Dingle Benners Hotel : Guests love the location of the Benners Hotel, which is right in the heart of town making it a great base for exploring. The property has a historic feel with thick carpeting and cozy couches to curl up on while sipping afternoon tea, and rooms are quite large. Click here to book

Day 7: Ring of Kerry, Killarney National Park and Limerick

The last stop on your Ireland road trip itinerary before heading back to Dublin is the scenic Ring of Kerry , which has a dizzying amount of diversity.

Winding around the Iveragh Peninsula, the curved roadway is lined with purple heather and sunshine Yellow Gorse bushes, and has pullouts at picturesque points like Ladies View which overlooks a pristine lake nestled into an untouched valley.

The lush, rainforest-like Killarney National Park is a stunner, with standout spots like the Torc Waterfall which is found only a few minute’s walk from the highway along a mossy, green wooded pathway.

It’s worth budgeting half a day to explore the park’s trails, go horseback riding, check out Muckross House which was once owned by the Guinness family, or drop into Killarney or the adorable town of Sneem to tuck into lunch at a pub.

End the day in Limerick , an extremely walkable city which has a few sites worth exploring including St. John’s Cathedral known for its towering spire, the Treaty Stone which marks the end of the Siege of Limerick, Saint Mary’s Cathedral, and the imposing King John’s Castle which looks over the waterfront.

Cap off the evening by enjoying a pint and live music at a nearby pub, which is the quintessential Irish experience and perfect way to end your driving tour of Ireland.

READ MORE: Fun activities in Limerick, Ireland

Where to stay in Limerick:

• Limerick Strand Hotel : The Strand has a fantastic location in the heart of the city, just a few minute’s walk from the main landmarks. Some of the spacious rooms have views of the River Shannon, and there’s a state-of-the-art fitness facility on-site with a steam room, sauna, plunge pool and hydrotherapy pool. Click here to book

Globe Guide explored Ireland as a guest of Tourism Ireland and Air Canada Vacations. As always, hosts have no editorial influence on articles.

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About The Author

Tamara Elliott

5 thoughts on “the ultimate ireland itinerary for one week of exploring the emerald isle”.

Wow nice post and so helpful info. Really enjoyed your blog as I learned so much about spending one week in Ireland. Thanks for sharing!

Great blog! We’re planning a trip for this Sept (2022) and this was very helpful.

Yay so glad it helps, have a wonderful time!

Thanks Tamara! This is all great advice! I always check out your blog before we go anywhere! It’s the best!!! We are headed to Ireland in October and this got us very excited for our trip!

Awww thanks Amanda, so pumped for you! I’m actually in Ireland again as we speak!

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How much does a 1-week road trip around Ireland cost a traveler?

I have already shared my 1-week itinerary for a road trip around Ireland , but now the big question:

How much did the trip actually cost?

I recently got a message from a reader asking if I could start doing more budget breakdowns for the destinations I visit so that people can have a better idea of what it’ll cost them to go there. (Thanks for the prompt!)

So today I thought I would share what it cost me to spend a full week driving the Emerald Isle .

Spoiler alert: it was a lot more affordable than you might think!

I would also recommend reading this guide with tips for anyone planning a trip to Ireland . Lots of useful information regarding costs for accommodation, transport, food and leisure, so it’s a good place to start.

Car rental and insurance

$ 657 USD / € 577 for 5 people

For this trip, we rented a car that would be comfortable enough for 5 people, so we chose a vehicle that was in the VW Jetta / Renault Fluence / or a similar category . Each passenger was allowed to bring a carry-on suitcase and a backpack to ensure there would be enough room (thought I’ll admit I managed to fit my giant 80L backpack because that’s what I’ve been travelling with all along).

After accommodations, our car was the biggest expense, but there are ways to keep the price lower than what we paid. The first thing you can do to save costs on the rental is to rent a car with standard/manual transmission rather than automatic…if you know how to drive one. This cuts down the price of a rental car by as much as half!

The reason we went with the pricier automatic for our trip is that only one person in our group regularly drives a standard car back home and we didn’t feel like putting everyone else’s rusty skills to the test. Trust me, narrow winding lanes that weave up and down hills are not the best place for a refresher lesson.

You can also cut down costs by having less drivers on the rental agreement. Even though there were 5 of us, we chose to have 2 people driving on this trip and that was enough for the distances we were covering. Keep in mind that for every additional driver you have, the price of the rental car goes up.

After browsing through several car rental websites, we chose Sixt because it had some of the best rates out there.

$ 114 USD / € 100 for 5 people

I was pretty pleased with how little we spent on fuel, and this is because we went with a Diesel car instead of petrol. We only had to fuel up twice the whole week we were there – not bad considering we roughly drove the whole circumference of Ireland and Northern Ireland in one week’s time.

Accommodations

When it comes to accommodations we were looking for comfort at a reasonable price. We knew that we would have long days of driving and sightseeing, so at the end of the day, we wanted a place where we could unwind and have our own space. Hostel dorms were out of the question; instead, we opted for a mix of AirBnB apartment rentals, Bed and Breakfasts, and cottage stays.

Here’s how much we paid in each destination:

Dublin – $ 148 USD / € 130

What we got: A luxurious AirBnB apartment in the heart of Dublin, just a few steps away from Temple Bar. The apartment had 2 bedrooms and a huge living area where you could roll out 2 additional foldable beds.

Glen of Aherlow – $ 178 USD / € 156

What we got: A wooden A-frame cottage with beautiful views of the rolling hills below. The cottage had 3 bedrooms, a spacious kitchen where we could prepare our own meals, and it was very cozy.

Killarney – $ 171 USD / € 150

What we got: A family-sized room for 5 in a Bed and Breakfast which was just a short walk from Killarney’s city centre. The room wasn’t outstanding, but it was good enough for 1 night plus breakfast was included in the price.

Scarriff – $ 166 USD / € 146

What we got: We stayed at a Bed and Breakfast run in a woman’s home. We got 2 private rooms with our own private bathrooms. Our host prepared us a snack when we arrived and she also prepared us an outstanding full breakfast the following morning.

Donegal – $ 97 USD / € 85

What we got: A cute cottage at the foot of an ever imposing manor home. The cottage had 4 bedrooms, a cozy living area, and a nice kitchen where we could cook.

Bushmills – $ 158 USD/ € 139

What we got:  A 4-bedroom cottage, a spacious kitchen, and a living area that came stocked with puzzles and board games. However, what won me over was that this place was just a 10 minute walk from Giant’s Causeway. Not a bad price considering the location.

Outside Belfast – $ 107 USD/  € 94

What we got:  I wasn’t around to see this place since I stayed back in Belfast while the girls drove back to catch their flight out of Dublin, but I know that they booked another cottage that was just outside of Belfast (much cheaper than staying in the city).

Our total for 1 week’s worth of accommodations came to $1025 USD / € 900 for 5 people .

$ 170 USD / € 150 for 5 people

When it came to meals, we only ate one meal out per day – usually lunch or dinner depending on where we were. The rest of the time we prepared our own meals.

I know this sounds like a pretty low sum to feed 5 people, so what were we eating?

Breakfast: eggs for omelettes, granola, yogourt, and fresh fruits

Lunch: Baguette sandwiches with cheese and deli meats, and raw veggies like carrots, peppers and sweet snaps

Dinner: Pasta with tomato sauce and veggies, or pesto pasta, or a meat and veggie stir-fry with noodles

We also purposely chose to stay in some Bed and Breakfasts where the cost of breakfast was already included in our accommodations .

Eating in restaurants

$120 USD / € 105 per person

The cost of eating out in restaurants is going to depend on what you order and whether or not you drink alcohol , but I’m going to put the price at an average of 15 Euros /$ 17 USD per meal. This will usually get you some good pub food like Fish and Chips, Irish Stew, Bangers and Mash, Shepherd’s Pie, or something of the sort as well as a beverage.

Sightseeing and miscellaneous

$114 USD/ € 100 per person

I didn’t keep my receipts for sightseeing and miscellaneous attractions, but I know I didn’t spend very much in this regard.

A lot of places that we visited were free of charge, so we really only paid admission for a handful of castles and to visit the Cliffs of Moher. We found that most attractions ranged between €5 to €20 at most, and we probably only paid admission at 3 or 4 places the whole week we were there.

The rest of the money in the miscellaneous category I’m using to account for things like picking up postcards , and buying the odd snack at the gas station.

Total cost for a 1 week road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland?

$ 627 USD / € 550 per person!

I didn’t include any flight costs because that will obviously depend on where you are flying from, and you may also need to factor in visa costs depending on the passport you hold. (I was fine as a Canadian.)

So just to refresh, here are a few ways to save money on a road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland, or really any road trip:

• Travel with a group of friends so you can split costs evenly. This is key!
• Rent a standard/manual car instead of an automatic (if you know how to drive one).
• Keep the number of drivers to a minimum.
• Choose a car that takes diesel instead of petrol.
• Rent cottages or family rooms.
• Stay in the outskirts of town rather than in the heart of the city.
• Do groceries and cook some of your own meals.
• Choose accommodations that offer breakfast.

Do you have any other tips for doing a road trip around Ireland and Northern Ireland on a budget? Feel free to share them below. 

23 Comments

Wow! That was a lot less than I expected – Now I have put Ireland and roadtripping on my list of places to go, thanks!

I know, I too was surprised by how little it cost us! That’s one of the many added benefits of travelling with a group – you just have to make sure you choose that group wisely! 😉

Along with choosing accommodations that offer breakfast, take an extra apple, banana, roll, etc. as a snack to tide you over until lunch time, you’ll end up spending less if you’re not crazy hungry by lunchtime.

Good tip! I’m a constant snacker, so I always have to remind myself to bring something for the road, otherwise I’ll be feeling hungry within the hour.

One thing my wife and I did for the car rental was call our credit card company so that we could get coverage with that. We spent 2 weeks driving around Ireland and our rental only costed us around 300 USD!

Thanks for the tip! I ended up taking the extra coverage because I forgot to check if my Canadian coverage applied to rentals overseas, and that definitely added to the cost. You guys got an excellent rate for your 2 weeks – I’m assuming the car was also standard instead of automatic?

This is a great budget breakdown. The time I spent traveling alone in Ireland was difficult at times when it came to accommodation because it’s expensive to stay alone. These are great tips and ideas.

This is really helpful thank you! I live in Ireland anyway, but I will be doing a similar trip soon! 🙂

Someone just suggested that I go to Ireland on my next trip, and after they suggested it, I really started thinking about it. So this post was brilliant and I actually never knew it was that affordable!

This is a super useful post, because I don’t see that many posts actually analyzing how much money you would need to do a trip. Ireland is one of my long-term dreams and I’m happy to read that it’s possible to do it in a rather affordable way 🙂

Impressive! Ireland and the UK, NOT CHEAP, but you did really well. So hard to give up on the great food on the road, but it sounds like you got a few restaurant meals in there. I’m doing a similar trip in Scotland this April, renting cars, staying in cottages. Hopefully we can keep our budget as reasonable as yours!

Thanks for sharing this with us it really help us for better organization

That is super affordable, def cheaper than I would have imagined! Think a road trip in Ireland is on my bucket list now.

Thank you so much for this information. We are visiting in June and this will be so helpful in our planning. I do have one question, in your price for car rental, how much was the insurance? Do you need to have any extra paperwork other than your license for the rental? I appreciate your help. Thanks again.

Hi Suzanne, Regarding the paperwork, they only asked for my driver’s license and a credit card. And regarding the insurance, if I remember correctly that was close to 200 Euros. If you already have car insurance back at home, I recommend calling them to make sure you’re covered abroad.

How do you find your accommodations? Is there a particular web site that you use? Did you have them all booked before you began your trip?

For this particular trip, we booked a mix of apartments, cottages and BnB’s. We mainly booked through AirBnB and Booking.com, and we did have the majority of the properties booked before we began the trip.

Great breakdown. Did a 12 day road trip in Sept 2014, going north from Dublin, across to NW and down the west to Co Clare, then back to Dublin. My daughter and I had a smaller vehicle but it was still expensive. I would vote for automatic and the added insurance for ease of mind. If you have time and enjoy hiking, Glenariff Forest Park is lush and beautiful and the Mourne Mountains are also highly recommended. AirBnB and B&B’s provided a full breakfast, we went to a grocery store bought water, fruit, cheese, crackers and nuts, snacked during the day with the occasional coffee or tea stop and basically paid for only one supper meal a day. Derry/Londonderry provides great historical walks.

I’m especially interested in hearing authentic Irish pub music live. Any suggestions as to location and particular days of the week.? I’ll be traveling with the “coach” set. Lol

Wow. Thanks for your efforts gathering all that info along with the little tips and tweaks. Much appreciated.

Thanks for a FABULOUS post. Bless.

Thank you so much on the information on the trip to Ireland. I have been waiting to go for years and life just gets in the way. So now I am going to start putting back money for me. Thank you again.

I’ve recently spent a couple of days in Dublin and I must say, this was an expensive trip! But I just traveled with my husband so we couldn’t really split the costs like you did. That’s a great advice for traveling to expensive countries. We plan to go to Iceland this winter to try and hunt for Nothern lights. I’m definitely looking for at least two other travel companions 🙂 Thanks for sharing!

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7 days in Ireland: one week Ireland itinerary

By: Author Monica

Categories Blog

Today’s epic post is a one week Ireland itinerary and it’s by Sian from Ireland Before you Die. Ireland is such an amazing place for a road trip so I’m really excited to share this action packed itinerary! I actually did a similar solo road trip a couple of years ago so I’ve left some links below if you’d like to read more!

From enjoying a pint of Guinness in Dublin to taking in the sights of the Wild Atlantic Way, you can see a lot with just seven days in Ireland. Here is our one week Ireland itinerary.

At only 32,599 square miles (for reference, the state of Indiana is 35,910 square miles), Ireland’s compact size makes it entirely possible to explore the highlights of the Emerald Isle in just one week, as long as you are up for a jam-packed week of activities and a lot of driving.

While extending your stay will allow you to explore at a much slower pace and afford you the opportunity to explore Ireland’s hidden gems, there is still plenty you can do if you’re restricted to just seven days.

So, if you’re wondering how to make the most of your seven days in Ireland, here is our suggestion for a one week Ireland itinerary.

Day 1 – Start in Dublin

Fly into Dublin Airport, which is right outside the city. If possible, try to book a flight that arrives in the morning, so you can get the most out of your first day.

Once you’ve checked in and dropped your bags off at your hotel, get out and explore the sights and sounds of Ireland’s capital city.

Travel Hack Tip : If you’re travelling with a lot of luggage, you could store your bags for a couple of hours or days using Nannybag. A road trip is so much easier with one, small bag so this is a useful service if you’re travelling for an extended period of time and have a lot of stuff with you!

Recommended hotel: Jurys Inn Parnell Street

I stayed here and it was perfect. Great location, nice spacious room, delicious breakfast and a good price too (considering you won’t be spending much time inside your hotel room!)

With only one day to explore the city, we recommend exploring Grafton and O’Connell Street in the morning, where you will find Trinity College Dublin, St Stephen’s Green, and the GPO – a walking tour is a great way to explore this area and find out more about the city’s history.

If you like having the knowledge of a guide but prefer a more flexible and budget-friendly way to explore the city then check out Around walking tours in Dublin . Around make self-guided audio tours created by expert guides. You stream/play them on your phone so you get the perks of a travel guide with the flexibility and ease of exploring solo.

If you want to see a lot and save your legs then an open top bus tour around Dublin is a great way to see the sights.

In the afternoon, head to Kilmainham Gaol or the Guinness Storehouse , both of which are popular tourist attractions and two of the best things to do in Dublin . In the evening, indulge in Irish pub life with a pint from the iconic Temple Bar.

If you want to explore more of Dublin’s pub culture then take a look at this fun activity to explore the Old Town’s Famous Pubs! It’s a game you play on your phone where you’ll learn more about the pubs (and get to sample a pint or two along the way!)

Day 2 – Head South to Cork

Wake up early on day two to make your way to Ireland’s second-biggest city: Cork.

Non-stop, the drive from Dublin to Cork will take around three hours, but we recommend making a few pitstops along the way to check out some of Ireland’s best sights, including Kilkenny Castle and the Rock of Cashel.

You should arrive in Cork by early afternoon, leaving you plenty of time to explore the highlights of the city.

Once again, I highly recommend the Jurys Inn in Cork . You can head straight to the hotel and drop your bags off before heading back out to explore.

City centre highlights include the English Market, the Shandon Bells, and St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral.

However, a 15-minute drive out of the city will bring you to the iconic Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the Blarney Stone.

Day 3 – Explore the Ring of Kerry

An hour from Cork is the town of Killarney, which is where you’ll begin exploring the scenic Ring of Kerry.

One of Ireland’s highlights for sure, the Ring of Kerry is the epitome of Irish scenery from rugged wild Atlantic coastlines to green mountainous countryside dotted with historical monuments.

Without stopping, driving the Ring of Kerry will take three hours. However, we consider leaving the whole day so you can truly enjoy the experience.

Highlights on this road trip include Killarney National Park, Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range, Skellig Islands, and the Gap of Dunloe.

End your day in Dingle, home to stunning scenery and plenty of traditional Irish pubs.

If you don’t have a car or you’d like the help of a guide then this looks like an incredible Ring of Kerry day trip you can do from Cork.

Day 4 – Dingle to Galway

Day four will see you head north along Ireland’s famous Wild Atlantic Way as you head to Galway, the country’s capital of culture.

Break up this three-and-a-half-hour drive by stopping off at one of Ireland’s most famous attractions, the Cliffs of Moher, for a truly breathtaking experience.

Soak up the sights and sounds of Galway city from its quaint Salthill Promenade to its historic Latin Quarter, which make it a must-visit on any trip to Ireland.

Galway is a bustling city so I highly recommend a walking tour to help you see all the highlights!

Where to stay in Galway: There are some lovely hotels in Galway and they’re a bit cheaper than other areas on this road trip so if you’re going to splash out anyway, Galway is the place to do it! I was at the Jurys Inn Galway which is next to the river and was gorgeous!

Day 5 – Galway to Donegal

Continue north along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic on your fifth day in Ireland to reach Donegal, home to some of the best beaches in Ireland.

While in Donegal, we recommend checking out the breathtaking Slieve League Cliffs, the beautiful scenery of Glenveagh National Park, and the golden sands of Murder Hole Beach.

Star Wars fans should make sure to pay a visit to the most northern point in Ireland, Malin Head, where many scenes from Star Wars: The Last Jedi were filmed.

Day 6 – make your way into Northern Ireland

Day six of your one week Ireland itinerary will see you cross the border from the Republic of Ireland into Northern Ireland.

Head east from Donegal to Derry, where you will begin your journey along the iconic Causeway Coast, home to a number of attractions, including the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and the Dark Hedges.

Game of Thrones fans may recognise much of the scenery here from the HBO television series, much of which was filmed in Northern Ireland.

Day 7 – Explore Belfast

You will end your seven days in Ireland in the capital city of Northern Ireland, Belfast.

Here, you can explore the historic Crumlin Road Gaol , learn about the famous Titanic at the Titanic Museum , and have a pint while cycling around the city on the Belfast Beer Bikes. Line of Duty fans won’t want to miss the Line of Duty tour!

I highly recommend the Belfast Political Taxi Tour too. This is where a traditional black cab (or a white cab in my case!) takes you on a tour around Belfast and explains the history of the troubles in Northern Ireland. The cab drivers are all locals who give first-hand accounts of what happened. This is a huge part of Belfast’s history and an important thing for tourists to understand.

As a relatively small city, it is possible to see much of Belfast in just one day – but no doubt your whistlestop tour will just leave you wanting more.

To save you the hassle of making your way back to Dublin, book your return flight from either Belfast International or Belfast City Airport.

If you’ve got more time in Northern Ireland then check out my weekend guide to Northern Ireland for a couple of extra days in this gorgeous part of the world.

Game of Thrones fans might also want to check out the Game of Thrones film locations in Northern Ireland!

Check out more of our blog posts about Ireland here.

Useful links and info

Hotels for your ireland itinerary.

I would highly recommend booking your hotels in advance. I mostly stayed in Jurys Inn hotels during my trip. I found them to be conveniently located, well priced, had a great breakfast, lovely staff and they were spacious, clean and modern. They were everything I needed considering I wasn’t spending much time in my hotel. They can also be booked for just one night which is handy as many hotels require a 2 night minimum stay.

Here are the hotels at stayed at:

• Jurys Inn Dublin Parnell Street
• Jurys Inn Cork
• Hillgrove Guest House in Dingle
• Jurys Inn Galway
• Abbey Hotel Donegal

Dublin activities

• Open top bus tour around Dublin
• Guinness Storehouse
•   Activity to explore the Old Town’s Famous Pubs

Ring of Kerry

• Ring of Kerry day trip you can do from Cork

Activities from Galway

• Galway: Medieval remains and hidden gems bike tour
• Galway walking tour
• Galway scenic cruise

Activities in Belfast

• Crumlin Road Gaol
• Titanic at the Titanic Museum
• Line of Duty tour
• Belfast Political Taxi Tour

Wednesday 19th of May 2021

i remember visiting Galway to Donegal i loved it. That whole road has so much to do and see on it. It is probably one of the best locations to visit in all of ireland

Jude Boudreaux

Thursday 13th of May 2021

I've been researching travel with our kids to Ireland, possibly late this summer but more likely next year. Thanks for this great outline! It's going to be so much help for us.

Monday 3rd of May 2021

Thanks for your useful tricks. I also would like to go to Ireland after the pandemic. Greetings from turkey!!

The Ultimate One Week Road Trip Itinerary for Ireland

T he island of Ireland is split into two with the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. Even with Brexit there is no passport control or immigration when traveling between the two regions of the island.

In this 7 or 8 days itinerary we drove a total of 1,100 miles (1,800km) and gas cost a total of 160 euros. With only one week in Ireland it is impossible to see everything, but gives you enough time to see the main attractions and highlights across the island. Several of the days were more driving focused than others to squeeze all of Ireland in one week.

While it took us 8 days in Ireland to drive around the island and enjoy the entire itinerary below it is possible to do it as a 7 day itinerary to Ireland, you just have to wake up and get ready first thing each morning, as there is no time to sleep in.

Renting a car in Dublin

How much does it cost to rent a car in ireland, do i need extra car insurance in ireland, what type of car should i rent in ireland, day 1: streets of dublin, day 2: cobh – cork – killarney, day 3: killarney – the dingle peninsula – limerick, day 4: limerick & cliffs of moher – galway, day 5: erris head – downpatrick head – sligo, day 6: castle classiebawn – sliabh liag – glenveagh castle, day 7: northern ireland: dunluce castle, giant’s causeway & belfast, day 8: last day dublin.

Before renting a car in Ireland it is important to know that in Ireland and Northern Ireland you drive on the left side of the road. Our rental car even had a reminder sticker right above the windshield, but it was not our first time driving on the left, so we had no issues. It does take an extra second to remember especially when making turns and driving on an empty road.

We recommend renting a car only for your time outside of Dublin, as within Dublin parking is limited and expensive. Honestly walking between attractions is often quicker. Overnight parking costs upwards of 15 euro near the city center and that is with a discounted rate through the hotel. It is simply not worth the hassle of having a rental car in Dublin, only rent it for when you are leaving the city.

Because we spent the first two nights in Dublin we rented a car from Europcar picking up and dropping off at the Dublin City Centre, Spencer Dock location.

Rental cars in Ireland are relatively cheap compared to other countries that we have rented cars. For a 6 day rental it cost about 180 euro for a Hybrid Toyota Corolla. Had we opted for a smaller vehicle it would have only cost 100 for the 6 day car rental.

The one note of caution for renting a car in Ireland is the required special insurance coverage information to use our credit card rental car insurance that specifically states there is coverage in the Republic of Ireland. It is a simple phone call to the credit card but you might need to explain specifically what you need to the customer support as it goes beyond the normal coverage documentation.

To drive to Northern Ireland is well there is an additional 30 euro fee as it is part of the United Kingdom, with no real explication for the fee other than the rental company would like more money. We only added the Northern Ireland fee in the middle of our road trip via because we did know if the weather would be good enough to warrant the additional driving.

Additional car insurance is required in Ireland and is expensive. We read that If booking through a third party online, the additional insurance they offer is not actually accepted in Ireland and you will need to get insurance coverage directly with the rental car company, which can cost 20-30 euros per day.

Even with full CDW coverage through our credit card we were required to put a 5,000 euro hold on the card in case of any damage. Make sure you have enough credit available on your credit card for the duration of the car rental until the hold is released after retiring the car.

There are several questions to think about when renting a car in Ireland. The first is what size car should you need to rent in Ireland. With narrow roads, tight historic city centers, and limited parking spots, it is best to opt for the smallest car that your group comfortably fits in.

With three people, one checked bag and two carry on bags we chose a Toyota Corolla and the trunk was absolutely full. If you are traveling with two people and less luggage an even smaller car, like the Volkswagen Polo is enough.

7 or 8 Day (one week) road trip itinerary to Ireland and Northern Ireland

Since we have two full days in Dublin split between the start and end of our Ireland road trip, our first day in Dublin was spent mostly strolling along the streets of Dublin along the River Liffey. After dropping our luggage of at our hotel we began exploring Dublin on foot.

We started out walking through the relaxing Saint Stephen’s green park to enjoy some of the bright orange and yellow autumn foliage that was at its peak during our visit. There is also a small memorial in the park dedicated to the peaceful defenders of human rights around the world which is interesting to experience and read.

Heading towards the center of town we passed The Umbrellas Dublin which are colorful umbrellas hanging across the road, effectively in an ally between a few bars and casinos. While it does make for a cute photo spot, it is not really worth visiting if you have to go too far out of the way.

We then made our way to the campus of Ireland’s oldest university, Trinity College Dublin . While it is probably most famous for the Trinity College Library and see the Book of Kells, we opted to just walk through the grounds as it was several hours before the next available tour.

After that we walked into the Temple Bar neighborhood which is probably most famous for The Temple Bar Pub . We had stop inside to experience the bustling atmosphere, live Irish music, and of course get our first, and maybe most expensive, pint of Guinness in Ireland.

Tired from our overnight flight to Ireland we wandered back to our hotel trying to pass through as many beautiful and peaceful neighborhood streets as we could. We stayed at the historic Harcourt Hotel , which is situated an approximately 20 minute walk south of most of the top attractions in Dublin. We read complaints online of the adjacent nightclub being loud, but staying in the middle of the week we encountered no issues ourselves.

Waking up early in the morning I picked up our rental car from the Europcar Dublin City Centre, Spencer Dock location as soon as it opened at 7:30AM to get as much out our day as possible.

After packing up our luggage we began the 4 hour, 170 mile (270km) drive to Cobh . Traffic was relatively light during this drive, but being the first day driving in a new country, the drive did take a little longer as I was getting a feel for the flow of traffic.

Arriving in Cobh, we parked along Spy Hill road for the iconic view of the colorful “Deck of Cards” Houses with St. Colman’s Cathedral in the background. From this viewpoint it is mostly holding your camera above a stone wall to get a beautiful photograph. We then walked around the block to the small West View Park where you can get a similar view, but we do recommend both viewpoints as the park is at the same level as the Deck of Cards houses, so you can’t see the full cathedral.

We then made our way over to St. Colman’s Cathedral where we took a look inside this iconic church and enjoyed panoramic views across downtown Cobh and the entire port. On our way out of Cobh we drove down the main street and stopped for a few minutes to explore some shops before driving on to Cork.

On the way to Cork we stopped at the Blackrock Castle Observatory , which was unfortunately closed when we visited, but it still makes for a beautiful photo, from the edge of the parking lot and right along the water.

We spent the rest of the afternoon exploring Downtown Cork on foot walking along Paul St, Drawbridge St, and along both sides of the River Lee on Merchant’s Quay and St Patrick’s Quay. We stopped for an early dinner at Gallagher’s Cork on MacCurtain Street where you will find a wide range of restaurant options.

Since it was already dark by this point and we still have much of Ireland to explore, we continued driving the 90 minutes west to Killarney, where we checked into The Heights Hotel Killarney to get some rest after a long day of driving.

We started off with an early morning hike in Killarney National Park to the Torc Waterfall . It is only a 200 meter walk along a paved path to the waterfall which makes it perfect for every type of visitor. There are additional walking paths through the wooded areas and along Muckross Lake, but did not look as interesting to us.

We made a quick stop at the Ross Castle to enjoy the grounds of this 15th-century. The interior is closed during the winter, when we visited, so could only enjoy the amazing exterior of the Ross Castle.

We then drove 40 miles (60km) out along the scenic Dingle Peninsula stopping at several viewpoints with breathtaking views of the water and Inch Beach. We stopped in the city of Dingle to walk through the colorful fishing village. Make sure to stop by the famous Murphy’s Ice Cream shop and try our favorite homemade ice cream flavor, Dingle Sea Salt flavor.

Making our way out to the end of the peninsula our next stop was Coumeenoole Beach , with its pristine golden sand surrounded by jagged cliffs. It makes for beautiful photos from every angle. Just be careful if you walk around on the beach as it is narrow and relatively flat, which means the turbulent waves can come in quickly, trapping you out there.

From here you can also hike up to Dunmore Head , which is described as the most westerly point In Europe, nearest point to the Blasket Islands. It is also now famously known for being featured in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Based on our limited time and reviews from other visitors, Dunmore Head should be visited if you have the time, but is only really worth it if you are a big Star Wars fan, as there are more beautiful spots to focus on in the region.

Our last stop on Dingle is the iconic Dunquin Pier with its two picturesque pyramid shaped rocks jutting out of the water right beyond the pier. While our favorite photos were actually from atop the cliffs, it is definitely worth walking down to the pier, which serves as which serves as the departure point for the Blasket Island ferry during the summer season.

We then had a 3 hour drive back into the mainland of Ireland, heading north to Limerick. We made a last minute decision to drive the same road out of the Dingle Peninsula to avoid driving through the mountainous Conor Pass to the other side of the peninsula, as we could see heavy rain storms forming.

Checking into the luxurious George Hotel Limerick City , we called it a night as it continued to rain all evening.

We spent the morning walking through Downtown Limerick, primarily walking along the calm River Shannon. The two main highlights you must visit in Limerick are King John’s Castle and Saint Mary’s Cathedral . We spent most of our time just strolling down the streets enjoying our only relaxed morning during the whole Ireland road trip itinerary.

A two hour drive northwest of Limerick is one of Ireland’s most famous attractions, the Cliffs of Moher . When you arrive make sure to head to the main car park on the opposite side of the road from the cliffs. Entrance tickets are €12 per adult, paid for when you park. From there make your way across the street and walk your way up to the top of the cliffs on the right hand side. After enjoying the panoramic views from this angle walk back down, sticking to the cliff edge to the southern end to get multiple perspectives of this breathtaking scenery.

Since the entrance tickets is technically for the parking, you can park a bit south of the Cliffs of Moher Experience at the Cliffs of Moher Liscannor Walk parking lot near Hag’s Head for only €5. The walking path along the cliffs connects between the two, and is open for anyone to walk through. However, this does make you walk a 7km more round trip along the cliffs as the best views are from the northern side.

After 3 hours exploring the Cliffs of Moher, we drove to the nearby village of Doolin which is home to the now Instagram famous pink cottage. Inside is a sweater shop with a great range of high quality merino wool products at the lowest prices we saw around Ireland.

With some new merino wool items in hand, it was a 90 minute drive north to Downtown Galway . After checking in to the chic Western Hotel in Galway we spent the evening walking around Galway and into many of the cute shops lining the streets.

We started in Eyre Square where the Christmas Markets were in full swing by mid-November. We walked down the pedestrian roads through the heart of the Latin Quarter . The route is relatively straight but the road changes names four times during the 10 minute walk from William St, Shop St, High St, to Quay St.

The next morning started off with a 3 hour drive north to County Mayo until we reached Erris Head Loop Walk . It is a 5km walking loop that starts off walking through sheep pasture and then takes you along the rugged west Irish coastline. The route passes near the small ragged Llandavuck Island, which is the perfect place for a photoshoot.

We encountered many wet and muddy patches along the route, so highly recommend wearing waterproof boots. It is also important to remember that the trail starts off cutting through private pasture, respect the owners land and sheep. The walk took us 2 hours in total including stopping for photos.

Back at the car we drove an hour east to Downpatrick Head where you can see the picturesque Dún Briste Sea Stack . We recommend visiting close to sunset as the golden hour glow is out of this world. Standing on the top of the cliffs can be windy, so a jacket is a must. There are no fences, but don’t go too close to the edge, as you cannot see the erosion happening under your feet.

Unsure of how far we would be able to drive at the end of the day, we made a last minute reservation at Castle Dargan Hotel in Sligo, which was still an hour and a half drive from Downpatrick Head. This luxury hotel is nestled on 170 acres estate in a modern renovation of a 18th century Castle. Honestly we wish we had heard about this hotel in advance so we could spend more time at this luxurious countryside oasis.

Remember, with only 8 days in Ireland driving between destinations in the evening can be a good way to maximize the time. Just be careful as roadways in some areas of Ireland are narrow and winding with limited visibility if it starts raining.

Day six is a driving heavy day with over 6 hours in total driving time throughout the day, as we had to make it halfway across Northern Ireland, to make sure we had enough time to see the top attractions in Northern Ireland in just one day.

A one hour drive north of Siglo is the fairytale looking Castle Classiebawn. Although you can’t visit the castle, we stopped at the Castle Classiebawn Viewpoint located across the cliffs, where it is safe to pull off and snap some photos. If you have a telephoto lens or zoom on your phone, now is the time to bring it out.

We then continued driving 2 hours north along the rugged coastline to Sliabh Liag , the second highest sea cliffs in Ireland and some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Parking costs €5 for 2hrs and you can drive all the way to the main viewpoint during the off season. Otherwise you have to pay for the shuttle or walk several kilometers.

The cliffs are significantly higher than the Cliffs of Moher, but each offer its own set of beauty. From the viewpoint parking lot at Sliabh Liag are some of the best views. While you can hike up well into the mountains from here, we recommend only about 20-30 minutes uphill to get a nice range of angles to enjoy the view.

After about an hour at Sliabh Liag we continued driving east for two hours until we reached Glenveagh Castle , a late-19th century castle built along the idyllic Lough Beagh, now within the Glenveagh National Park. From the Visitor Center you can take a shuttle bus to the castle for €3 round trip per adult. We arrived just in time for the last shuttle heading out.

Arriving to the castle with only about 20 minutes we quickly paid the €7 entrance fee per person to start our self guided tour. Since the staff had to wait for the last shuttle as well, they let us stay and take our time walking through the castle as they were closing up. We spent about 45 minutes in total walking through the castle, but could have easily spent twice the time if we had it. Just as we finished up the last return shuttle was arriving and it was back to the car to keep driving.

We drove for another 2 hours east in the dark, entering into Northern Ireland until we reached our hotel for the night, ibis Coleraine Riverside . The hotel was comfortable, but only recommended for a short stay as it was showing signs of its age.

Now entering into Northern Ireland from Ireland means we had entered the United Kingdom and while there is no border or passport control, it does mean prices are in British Pounds, not Euros like Ireland uses.

Just a 20 minute drive north of Coleraine is Magheracross View Point with panoramic views of the Causeway Coast’s stunning landscape. If you walk back along the road a little bit you can see Elephant Rock which looks like an elephant jutting out of the cliffs and into the water.

Right next door is the medieval Dunluce Castle which now sits in partial ruin. Tickets are £6 per adult. Walking through this romantic Irish Castle offered many unique photoshoot spots both of the castle itself and the surrounding cliffs. Try to arrive early as when tour buses start to arrive, the complex quickly fills with people.

Then it was on to the most popular attraction in Northern Ireland and one of the most iconic spots in the entire island, Giant’s Causeway , just a 20 minute drive further east. The unique landscape of Giant’s Causeway consists of tens of thousands basalt columns in hexagonal shapes, as tall as 40ft.

Using the main parking lot at the visitor center requires purchasing the visitor center experience in advance, which is not required to visit the Giant’s Causeway. This experience costs £15.50 per adult and includes closer parking, a guided tour, and access to the exhibits.

Otherwise add the Causeway Coast Way Car Park to your GPS at 60 Causeway Road where it costs £10 to park. It is just an extra 5 minute walk to the start of the Giant’s Causeway trail. From here it is 1km walk, about 20 minutes down a paved road to the Giant’s Causeway. There is an option of a shuttle bus which costs £1 per person each direction.

The main spots to visit are the Grand Causeway , Wishing Chair , and Giant’s Boot . There is also a small rock mound that juts out into the water as the most instagrammable spot, just be polite with your time as everyone wants to get a photo here. There are plenty of other spots if you just want to sit and enjoy the view.

You can walk around on the basalt columns, but be careful as they can be slippery, especially when wet or near the water. There are also staff there for your safety so please respect them if they ever make any requests.

We then continued on to Downtown Belfast which is a two hour drive from Giant’s Causeway, making it the perfect day trip from Belfast if you are staying there. We just spent an hour walking around the streets of Belfast, making sure to visit the beautiful Belfast City Hall and many of the surrounding buildings with its impressive facades. After exploring for a bit it was a two hour drive back south from Belfast to Dublin.

Arriving back to Dublin in the early evening we wanted to experience a bit Irish culture and music before the end of our road trip. We attended the Celtic Nights Dinner & Show , which included a three-course meal off a set menu, for €49 per adult. It was a good way to squeeze the experience traditional Irish dance, Irish music, and Irish food into one evening, but felt like we could have experienced a better version of each one outside of this tourist attraction.

For our last night in Dublin we decided to stay on the other side of the historic center at Staycity Aparthotels, Dublin, City Centre located a few blocks north of the River Liffey. Since we arrived to late in the evening to return the car, we had to park it at a garage several blocks from the hotel, at a discounted rate.

For our last day in Ireland we still had to check off some of the best attractions in Dublin off our list. But first, I dropped of the rental car back at the Europcar Dublin City Centre, Spencer Dock location. Two important notes about this rental location are that there is no after hours drop off offered, and they have limited weekend hours, only opening Saturday from 8 AM–1 PM and Sunday 10 AM–1 PM.

We started off at the Dublin Castle , which from 1204 until 1922 it served as the seat of British rule in Ireland. Since Ireland’s independence it has still been used for state ceremonies, with Ireland’s presidents inaugurated in St Patrick’s Hall. Our favorite rooms in the castle are The throne room, The Battleaxe Staircase, the State Drawing Room, The Chapel Royal, and of course St. Patrick’s Hall. Self guided tickets are €8 per adult.

Our next stop is the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral , Ireland’s largest Cathedral dating back over 800 years. This massive ornate church is well worth the visit and €10 entrance fee per adult.

Dublin once had a vibrant distilling industry district called the Golden Triangle, with business declining dramatically in the early 20th century. Teeling Whiskey Distillery was the first new distillery in Dublin for over 125 years, with an old family distilling knowledge dating back to 1782. Here you can take a guided tasting tour, learning the history, distilling process, and of course how to taste whiskey starting at €20 per person. You can also upgrade your experience with additional small batch and single malt tastings.

No visit to Dublin or Ireland in general would be complete without the Guinness Storehouse Experience . With tickets starting from €20 per adult, experience the multi-story self guided tour to learn about the brewing process and history of Guinness, entry to Guinness Tasting Rooms, ending at the crowded Gravity Bar overlooking Dublin, with an included pint of Guinness.

In my personal opinion, as someone who has been on brewery tours before and has brewed my own beer, most of the experience was built around an amusement park vibe. It is definitely something worth doing once, but will probably not be going back when I am in Ireland again.

That brings us to the end of the ultimate one week road trip itinerary to Ireland, while we stayed one more night in Dublin and left first thing the next morning, you can also get a flight out the same afternoon or evening.

With just 8 days in Ireland it is impossible to see all the attractions, but we were able to visit many of the top things to do in Ireland. We look forward to visiting again soon to visit some more out of the way natural landscapes, and of course taste some more Guinness.

If you have any suggestions of things to do in Ireland or your favorite hidden gems that are missing from this road trip itinerary, please let us know in the comments below so we can check them out ourselves on our next visit to Ireland.

Taking the train in Ireland – what you need to know

Apr 19, 2024 • 11 min read

A train travels along the Rosslare, Wexford to Dublin line in Ireland © Irish Rail

Traveling by train is one of Ireland ’s great, if under-appreciated, pleasures.

It’s a small island and the rail network is limited, so no journey is especially long – but riding the rails across the country is one of the loveliest ways to enjoy the rolling countryside.

Compared to its European counterparts, Irish trains aren’t especially spectacular, but this is a country that doesn’t need high-speed or sleeper trains: you roll along at a maximum of 160km/h (99mph) and before you know it you’re on the other side of the island.

The particular nature of Irish demographics has shaped train travel in Ireland: with around a quarter of the population clustered in the greater Dublin region, it makes sense that most train journeys begin or end in the capital. In Northern Ireland the same is true of Belfast .

Irish trains might not be especially quick or super luxurious, but they’re an efficient and eco-friendly way of exploring the island – so long as your explorations are focused on the major cities and towns. Here is our essential guide to train travel in Ireland.

The lowdown on rail travel in Ireland

Irish trains are efficient, relatively frequent and usually on time.  Irish Rail/Iarnród Éireann operates the entire network of trains in the Republic, from intercity trains linking the major urban centers to the busy commuter network that services the greater Dublin region.

There are two main lines into the west and three into the south and southwest; spurs off the main lines connect to a host of smaller towns throughout the country. There’s also a line to Belfast, from where  Translink services connect the city with the Antrim Coast and Derry (Londonderry) .

Within the greater Dublin region, a network of commuter services connects the capital with a host of suburbs and dormitory towns in the surrounding counties. Dublin’s coastline between the northside suburbs of Howth and Malahide, and Greystones in County Wicklow is served by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport) trains.

There are some notable gaps in the country’s rail network, with no services in counties Donegal , Monaghan and Cavan , and no trains into West Cork . Some towns – like Buttevant in Cork or Annacotty in Limerick – are on the rail line but they’re bypassed as they have no functioning station.

Ireland’s bigger train stations – including Cork , Limerick , Galway , Sligo, Belfast and the two in Dublin – are all pretty well stocked when it comes to picking up supplies and other assorted sundries for your journey. Most other stations will have a small shop.

Train tickets are relatively good value

The good news about traveling by train in Ireland is that it is relatively inexpensive compared to train travel in some places, such as the UK, for example. If you buy it online, a standard one-way fare between Dublin Heuston and Kent Station in Cork costs €30–35, and around €55 in first class.

Online is the best place to buy your tickets for train travel in the Irish Republic. Not only do you get the best fares (with savings of up to 50% compared to buying the ticket at the station), but you can purchase your ticket up to 90 days in advance and reserve a seat when you do.

You have the option of collecting your bought ticket from a machine at the station as you’re boarding, or downloading a QR code at the point of purchase. If you wait to buy your ticket at the station, you’ll pay significantly more and have to get there early to queue up at the ticket kiosk.

For travel in Northern Ireland, you’re better off buying the ticket at the station as only a limited number of tickets are available online. Show up a short time before your intended departure time and just buy your ticket there.

Only a handful of services offer first class, but upgrading is relatively inexpensive. On average, expect to pay around €20–25 more to sit in first. There are three kinds of first class service on Irish trains. CityGold is on direct Dublin to Cork services, and includes an onboard host and a complimentary newspaper on selected early morning services. The Enterprise service between Dublin and Belfast offers the same, plus a fine breakfast. Premier Class is similar, but is only available on direct services between Dublin and Tralee and some Dublin to Cork trains.

Some discounts and offers apply

There are discounted fares for children and young adults aged between 19 and 25, as long as they have a valid discount card. Under fives and those aged 66 and over travel for free.

The commuter network in the Greater Dublin area has a fare cap of €6 for travel between the capital and a host of towns in the surrounding counties.

There are two rail passes aimed at visitors. The Trekker Four Day (€88) offers unlimited travel for adults on all Irish Rail services on four consecutive days from the date of issue. The Explorer (adult/child €128/64) provides five days of travel on all services in a 15-day window.

However, before investing in either, be sure that you plan on making the most out of it. The limited rail network means that connections are limited and traveling between some destinations involves backtracking: Cork and Waterford are both on the south coast, but to get from one to the other means travelling to Limerick, while Sligo and Westport are only 140km (87 miles) apart along the west coast, but to go between them by train you’ll have to travel through Dublin – which is on the other side of the country.

In Northern Ireland, the Sunday Fun Day Tracker ticket gives passengers unlimited train travel on a Sunday for £9 (£4.50 for children). Tickets are available from all ticket offices, the mLink ticketing app and from the conductor on the train.

These are the busiest times to travel by train

Unsurprisingly, peak times for train travel coincide with busy rush hour periods. Early morning services to Dublin from cities including Cork, Galway and Limerick can be busy, especially if the train is due to arrive in Dublin around the start of the working day. Friday evening trains departing Dublin can also be quite busy. However, as online bookings also include the option of booking a seat, you’ll never have to stand.

The commuter network is busiest on weekdays from 7am to 9am and from 4:30pm to 6:30pm as thousands of people travel in and out of work. You can’t prebook seats on these services, so plenty of people do end up standing. Keep an eye out on changing schedules, especially for weekend and holiday travel, as frequencies diminish.

The train network is limited, but it has some benefits over road travel

There are no rail links to any Irish airport, which means you’re relying on taxis, private cars or buses once you arrive in the country. Irish ferry ports are better connected to rail lines, however, and you can catch trains in Rosslare, Dublin and Larne; there is no rail link to Belfast Port.

If you want to reach the more remote corners of the island, then the Irish rail network is quite limited, and a car will give you the flexibility you need. However, rental fees can be very expensive and fuel is another considerable cost, with the price of unleaded and diesel hovering between €1.75 and €2 a liter. Parking is also pricey in all urban centers, especially Dublin.

Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get around, but it can be a slow business, as most make lots of stops along the way. There are some direct express services, but they are at the mercy of traffic, which can also add considerable time to a journey compared to traveling by train. Plus, buses don’t have bathrooms, with those traveling longer distances relying entirely on rest stops.

On board facilities vary depending on the type of train

There are two kinds of Irish trains: InterCity and commuter. InterCity trains are all the same – relatively modern with comfortable seats in standard class and fancier recliners in first – and they travel at speeds of up to 160km/h (99mph). There’s no journey in Ireland that is longer than 2½ to 3 hours. Commuter trains are slightly older, with less comfortable seats; older trains are used on some small-distance spur lines in rural areas and are very basic (facilities include seats and a toilet).

While Ireland’s flagship service is the one between Dublin and Cork, the fanciest train is the Enterprise service between Dublin Connolly and Belfast Lanyon Place, which is a joint venture between Irish Rail and Translink. This train is on a par with most services you’ll find in mainland Europe and first class is the most luxurious of any in the country.

All InterCity trains have three-pin sockets at every row where you can plug in a charger or a laptop. Most commuter trains in the greater Dublin area also have sockets. All trains have toilets and there is a cross-network wi-fi service operated by Irish Rail, but it is patchy and inconsistent. Translink has its own wi-fi network, which is accessible on all bus and rail services in the north, but, like in the Republic, you’re at the mercy of signal strength and contention levels.

Food options are pretty limited. There is a trolley service on the Dublin to Cork service, while the Enterprise between Dublin and Belfast operates a full service menu in a dedicated dining car; first class passengers also get a pretty good breakfast as part of their ticket.

Some trains on the Dublin to Cork route have a “quiet carriage” (usually Carriage G, marked in purple when booking) where the use of phones is prohibited and passengers are encouraged to keep noise levels down.

You can bring a bike on any Irish Rail train for free, although there are some restrictions during busy periods (such as sporting fixtures and concerts). The Dublin to Cork line is the only one to have a dedicated bike storage area; all other InterCity trains have (very) limited bicycle spaces within the passenger compartment – it’s not unusual for only two bikes to be allowed into the compartment, so be sure to book in advance. Bikes are not allowed on commuter and DART services during peak hours – before 10am and from 3:30pm to 7pm Monday to Friday.

There are many scenic train routes: here are the best

No matter where you are in Ireland you’re going to find a beautiful landscape or two, but some journeys are worth keeping your eyes wide open for.

Dublin to Sligo

Once you’ve gone past the huge suburban sprawl of the greater Dublin area, the landscapes get quite gentle; beyond Mullingar the train skirts alongside the edge of beautiful Lough Owel. For the best views, sit on the left-hand side of the train.

Dublin to Belfast

The Enterprise service is the best in the country, with the most comfortable seats and the best food options – especially in first class. The train skirts alongside the Irish Sea between Malahide and Balbriggan, so be sure to sit on that side as you travel (on the right-hand side if you’re traveling to Belfast).

Derry (Londonderry) to Coleraine

The Translink service between Northern Ireland’s second city and Coleraine is a stunner, a 40-minute journey along the Causeway Coast that comes with beautiful beaches, huge cliffs and unimpeded views out over the North Sea.

Downpatrick to Inch Abbey

It’s only a 10-minute journey, but the trip from Downpatrick in County Down to the monastic ruins of Inch Abbey takes place in a vintage steam train (or a 1960s diesel train) that chugs its way along the line, over the River Quoile and past the drumlin-specked landscape.

Cork to Cobh

One of Ireland’s most scenic trips is the 25-minute trip from Cork City to the seaside town of Cobh , which takes you along the river (sit on the right for the best views), past marshy Harper’s Island and over the bridges on Lough Mahon and the Slatty Water. You can always stop off at Fota and visit the  wildlife park  there.

Book in advance for wheelchair access to trains

All InterCity services are nominally accessible, but if you do need assistance you will need to book it in advance so that suitable arrangements can be made. This usually means that a conductor will have a ramp ready for wheelchair access, but we have also heard plenty of anecdotal evidence of staff simply lifting a wheelchair onto a train, which depending on the individual can either be a help or an annoying hindrance. Whatever you do, make sure to communicate your requirements before you travel as assistance is not guaranteed otherwise.

For passengers with learning difficulties or any issue where there may be a challenge with communication (such as autism) Irish Rail staff are trained to recognize visual cue cards such as the  JAM card , which inform the interlocutor of the holder’s condition. JAM cards are available online or at mainline train stations in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Sligo.

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• Travel Planning Guide

The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland

Searching for the ultimate 7-day getaway to Ireland ? Look no further! We've meticulously analyzed an array of week-long guided tours, taking into account factors such as price, service, comfort, guest ratings, and activities so that we could find the absolute best. These handpicked 7-day tours to Ireland offer the ideal balance of relaxation and adventure, allowing you to make the most of your holiday. From exciting excursions that immerse you in the local culture to moments of pure tranquility, these week long tours are designed to provide the perfect timeframe for an unforgettable experience. Great for museums & attractions, family-friendly activities, and budget-friendly accommodations, Ireland is a terrific destination. Get ready to embark on a 7-day journey to Ireland that will leave you refreshed, invigorated, and with a newfound love for exploration.

Known for dramatic coastlines, quaint small towns, historic castles, and rolling green hills, visitors to this famously green country will find beauty around every corner. The Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula are two of the most famous places. Visitors to these areas will see rugged coastal views with cliffs and rocks, along with stretches of farms, small towns, beaches, and more. The Wild Atlantic Way includes even more of such views as you take this epic route up the west coast. The Burren is another natural area with plenty of beauty, as are the national parks with their rolling mountains and small town views. And don't miss the castles and manor houses, such as Birr Castle or Powerscourt Gardens, as well as the iconic sights in Dublin and Cork such as the historic cathedrals.

• Irish Escape 7 Days, $1199.00
• North of Ireland Escape (22 destinations) 7 Days, $1199.00
• 7 Day Atlantic Way Experience - Small Group Tour 7 Days, $1907.49

Which 7-day tour options are available in Ireland?

Here are the important factors:

• 26 trip options analyzed
• $299 average price per day (USD)
• 4.85 of 5 average rating
• 30 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of tours lasting 7 days in Ireland, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.85 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 30 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. For physical activity , you'll find tours classified as easy and moderate, with most of them being easy. With our thorough analysis of 26 tours lasting 7 days, we've found the best. So rest assured that Ireland has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best 7-Day Tours in Ireland

Irish escape.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 7 days.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional voyage that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 7 days, this jouney will have 46 participants, and it warmly welcomes guests age 5 to 80. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities. Expertly organized by Globus , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $171 per day.

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• In-depth Cultural

North of Ireland Escape (22 destinations)

This memorable voyage, visiting Ireland and Northern Ireland, is offered by Globus which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $171 per day. Discover a journey that spans 10 destinations, with notable stops in Galway, Westport, Donegal, and Letterkenny. Your adventure starts and ends in Dublin. You'll love the emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, too. The maximum group size is 46 people, welcoming guests age 5 to 80.

7 Day Atlantic Way Experience - Small Group Tour

Set off on an extraordinary journey that has been awarded a 4.8 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With an emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. With a duration of 7 days, this trip offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 16 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to guests age 5 and older. This trip takes you on an adventure to 21 destinations, including Oughterard, Cashel, Cahir, and Kinsale. Dublin will be the beginning and end of your trip. Brought to you by Irish Experience Tours , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $273 per day.

7-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour

With this option you can experience an unparalleled trip for 7 unforgettable days. It ensures an intimate group setting with 15 participants at most. With 12 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Kinsale, Clonmacnoise, Galway, and Cliffs of Moher, and more. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Dublin. Overland Ireland - Small Group Tours , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests guests age 10 to 106. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $293 per day.

Best of Ireland South (Tour B) - 7 Days/6 Nights

This fantastic voyage has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Along the way, this journey encompasses 8 destinations, including Adare, Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, and Galway. Your journey will begin in Dublin and end in Shannon. Rest assured, this trip is all about local culture and family-friendly activities, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. Lasting 7 days, the maximum group size is 44 people, and it's good for guests age 8 and older. Organized by CIE Tours , this is a great deal because it's only $278 per day.

Best of Ireland South (Tour C) - 7 Days/6 Nights

With a stellar 4.5 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary journey is the perfect choice. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around local culture and family-friendly activities. This itinerary covers 7 captivating destinations, with stops in Dingle, Adare, Limerick, and Cliffs of Moher, among others. Dublin kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. Spanning across 7 days, the journey accommodates 44 individuals, and is suitable for guests age 8 and older. Offered by CIE Tours , this remarkable journey is priced at just $285 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Irish Heritage - 7 Days/6 Nights

This exceptional trip offering by CIE Tours has received a 4.6 out of 5 rating. On this 7-day voyage you can unwind while also making new memories. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 9 destinations, featuring Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Blarney, and Cobh. Your journey starts off in Limerick and finishes in Dublin. With a group size of 26 people, it's suitable for guests age 8 to 90. This terrific trip also highights local culture and family-friendly activities. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $342 per day.

Corners of Southern Ireland

Check out this voyage that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 5 out of 5 rating. Uncover the beauty of 10 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Cork, Kildare, Ennis, and Cliffs of Moher. Dublin will be both the start and end of your journey. Spanning across 7 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 18 participants, and it's great for guests age 18 to 80. Brought to you by the renowned Blue-Roads Touring , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $316 per day - an unbeatable value.

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

• On Sale: 15% Off See Prices

This 7-day journey is ideal for guests age 5 and older. And priced at only $270 per day, it's a great value, too. You'll love the emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, too. Traverse through 9 enchanting destinations, with Cliffs of Moher, Killarney, Blarney, and Waterford among the must-see stops along the route. Your adventure starts and ends in Dublin. It's offered by Trafalgar , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides. It's also on sale right now!

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

Priced at just $273 per day, this terrific 7-day journey is ideal for guests age 5 and older. This trip visits 17 destinations, including Valentia Island, Sneem, Lahinch, and Cliffs of Moher along the way. Dublin will be the beginning and end of your trip. Organized by the reputable Wild N' Happy , this is one of the best tours on this list.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland , The Best Historical Tours in Ireland , The Best 10-Day Tours in Ireland , The Best 3-Day Tours in Ireland , The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Ireland , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Ireland , The Best Adventure Tours to Ireland , The Best Eco Tours in Ireland , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Ireland , The Best Cultural Tours in Ireland , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Ireland , The Best Self Drive Tours in Ireland , The Best Walking Tours in Ireland , The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland , The Best Budget Tours to Ireland , or The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dublin , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Killarney , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Galway , The Best 10-Day Tours from Dublin , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin for more package tour options.

How much do 7-day tours to Ireland cost?

After analyzing 26 tours lasting 7 days in Ireland, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $299 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for tours lasting 7 days with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Ireland .

And for more information on Ireland, see Ireland Travel Costs and Ireland Hotel Costs .

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Politics latest: Sunak facing questions from Trevor Phillips - as he refuses to rule out July election

Rishi Sunak will be answering questions on Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips, as he refuses to rule out a July general election. Meanwhile, a summit headed by Alex Salmond will meet later to discuss a key vote that could bring down Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf.

Sunday 28 April 2024 08:58, UK

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• Watch the prime minister answer questions on Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips from 8.30am
• Sunak refuses to rule out July general election
• Lone MSP with likely deciding vote in no-confidence motion to discuss demands
• Yousaf tells Sky News he is optimistic of winning
• Connor Gillies:  First minister must reset relations with very people he's burned bridges with
• Explained: How did we get here - and what happens next?
• Tap here to follow Electoral Dysfunction
• Sam Coates explains why the local elections matter
• Live reporting by Brad Young

The prime minister is asked whether - if he loses the next general election - he will have any regrets.

"You’re again focused on all this personality stuff. I'm focused on delivering for the country.

"What I'm doing is getting up every single day and working my hardest to deliver for people on the things that matter to them and matter to me. 

"That's what we're doing: significant reforms to our welfare system to support people into work, because that's good for them, because there's dignity and purpose and hope in work, and the current system is simply financially unsustainable.

"Massive investment in our defence, because the world we're living in is more uncertain. 

"A landmark piece of legislation to get our Rwanda scheme up and running to stop the boats, a tax cut worth £900 next week."

The prime minister is pressed several times on whether there will be an election in July, but he refuses to rule out a vote.

"You're going to try and say you're ruling this out, you're ruling that in," says Mr Sunak.

"I just need to know when to book my holidays. July is possible?" responds Phillips.

"Actually, Trevor, it's more important than your holiday or anyone's holiday."

Philips says: "Just answer my question about July and we can move on. So, it could be July?"

The prime minister won't budge: "I'm not, I'm not going to do that."

Trevor Phillips turns the prime minister's attention to the Rwanda scheme, and the fact the number of small boats has increased this quarter compared to the same period last year.

"Almost the entirety of that increase comes from one country: Vietnam, because last year we dealt with the problem that was illegal migrants from Albania," responds Rishi Sunak.

"We returned thousands. We saw the numbers drop. That shows you that deterrence works."

Mr Sunak is asked about comments from Ireland's deputy prime that people coming across in small boats are now finding their way into Ireland. 

"Are we simply exporting the problem now? Is that the deterrent?" asks Phillips.

Mr Sunak says it shows that the Rwanda scheme is"already having an impact" as a deterrent.

Rishi Sunak defends his decision to increase defence spending.

"Like it or not, the world that we're living in is more dangerous," he says.

Sky News' Trevor Phillips points to some experts who have said the investment will only amount to approximately £20bn over six years.

Mr Sunak says: "It's the biggest strengthening of our national defense in a generation."

"This is the country's security. We have made a choice. I think it's the important and right choice for our country."

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is answering questions on Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips in an exclusive interview.

Trevor opens with a question looking ahead to the general election: "What makes you a winner?"

Mr Sunak replies: " Delivering for the British people".

The prime minister continues: "I'm determined to make sure that people feel when the election comes that the future is better, that we have turned the corner."

Inflation has fallen from 11% to a little over 3% and energy bills are also being reduced, he says.

Turning to the local elections on Thursday, he admits: "Local elections are always difficult for incumbent parties".

Our flagship Sunday morning show, hosted by Trevor Phillips, is live on Sky News now until 10am, and we have a packed line-up for you this morning.

Here's who Trevor will be chatting to:

• Prime Minister Rishi Sunak ;
• Labour's shadow health secretary Wes Streeting ;
• Former Tory immigration minister Robert Jenrick ;
• Pollster Peter Kellner .

On Trevor's expert panel this morning are:

• Former Number 10 communications director (David Cameron)  Sir   Craig Oliver ;
• Former Number 10 communications director (Tony Blair)  Alastair Campbell ;
• Chief international anchor at CNN Christiane Amanpour .

Watch live on Sky News and in the stream at the top of this page - and follow updates here in the Politics Hub.

Watch  Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips  from 8.30am on Sky channel 501, Virgin channel 602, Freeview channel 233, on the  Sky News website  and  app  or on  YouTube .

Rishi Sunak has said migrants travelling to Ireland after arriving in the UK is a sign the Rwanda scheme is already working. 

Ireland's deputy prime minister Micheal Martin said on Friday that the threat of being deported to Rwanda had caused an influx of migrants to cross the border from Northern Ireland into the Republic. 

He said asylum seekers were seeking to "get sanctuary" within the European Union.

Mr Sunak told Sky News' Trevor Phillips that this clearly illustrates that "the deterrent is... already having an impact". 

"If people come to our country illegally, but know that they won't be able to stay, they’re much less likely to come, and that's why the Rwanda scheme is so important," the prime minister said. 

Read more on this here...

Our flagship Sunday morning show, hosted by Trevor Phillips, will be live on Sky News from 8.30am, and we have a busy lineup for you this morning.

Here's who Phillips will be chatting to:

You can also hear our full interview with former prime minister Liz Truss . 

On Phillips's expert panel this morning are:

• Former Number 10 communications director (David Cameron) Sir Craig Oliver ;
• Former Number 10 communications director (Tony Blair) Alistair Campbell ;

Watch the interviews and all the analysis live on Sky News from 8.30am.

By Connor Gillies , Scotland correspondent

Humza Yousaf will refuse to enter an electoral pact with Alex Salmond’s party that could have seen the SNP step aside in some Scottish seats, Sky News understands.

The Alba party, headed by Mr Salmond, are likely to have the deciding vote in a key vote of no confidence in the SNP first minister at Holyrood this week. It is on a knife-edge.

Its only MSP, Ash Regan, is to make a set of demands to Mr Yousaf and one of those demands included her rivals step aside in some seats to allow Alba to be elected.

Ms Regan defected from the SNP in the wake of her defeat in the race to replace Nicola Sturgeon last year.

But a senior source close to Scotland's first minister has said that will not happen. It is an idea that will be point-blank refused.

Alba members are to meet online on Sunday to thrash out their plans.

It comes after the Greens were sacked from their SNP powersharing government arrangement on Thursday.

They have reacted with fury saying they will not back Yousaf in the looming vote that could bring down the current Scottish government.

In an exclusive interview with Sky News on Saturday, the first minister said a Scottish election "can't be ruled out" amid the chaos.

He has written to the leaders of all Scottish political parties to seek talks on making a minority government work.

The Conservatives have rejected any suggestion they will support the FM.

The leader of Scottish Labour, Anas Sarwar, said it was "now a case of when, not if" the first minister stands down.

A tight vote is expected at Holyrood this week, where 64 out of 128 MSPs are poised to oppose Mr Yousaf continuing as first minister.

The SNP have 63 MSPs at Holyrood.

Alba has told Sky News it could be demanding a pact which would see Yousaf having to agree to only one pro-independence candidate standing in each constituency.

Asked if that would happen, a source close to the first minister said: "No."

A summit headed by Alex Salmond will meet later to discuss a key vote that could bring down Scotland's first minister Humza Yousaf.  

Mr Salmond's Alba Party, which has Ash Regan as its only MSP, is likely to have the deciding vote in a motion of no confidence against the SNP leader at Holyrood this week.

Ms Regan is expected to discuss her demands of Mr Yousaf when party members gather today.

Sky News understands discussions will take place online ahead of a possible meeting between the former SNP leadership rivals as early as Monday.

Mr Salmond said a "top line" of any discussion with Mr Yousaf would be the idea of partially reviving the Scotland United strategy – which would see a single pro-independence candidate stand in each Scottish constituency.

But Mr Yousaf's spokesperson has dismissed the idea of an electoral pact with the Alba Party to gain its support in the no-confidence vote as "fantasy."

Meanwhile, the Alba Party's Westminster leader, Neale Hanvey, said the party is "not saying we are going to save" Mr Yousaf.

He told Times Radio that the party has "come to absolutely no firm conclusion" about whether to support him.

Mr Yousaf faces a no confidence vote, tabled by the Scottish Conservatives, after he terminated the powersharing deal between the SNP and Scottish Greens on Thursday.

Scottish Labour has tabled a vote of no confidence in the Scottish Government as a whole.

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