ireland travel adventures

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• (EU) 00 353 21 237 9006

Find Your Tour:

• England, Ireland and Scotland Tours
• Ireland Castle Tours
• Tour for max. 8 guests
• Tours for Solos
• Adults Only Tours
• Wild Atlantic Way
• Ireland's Ancient East
• Ireland Tours from Dublin
• Wild Atlantic Way Tours
• Ireland's Ancient East Tours

Arrange a Tour:

• Private Tours
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• Example Itineraries
• Genealogy Tours & Family Tree
• Golf Vacations
• Garden Tours

2024 Tour Packages:

• All Ireland Tours & Vacations
• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4390 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Britain Tour 10 Days | From €2490 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2890 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1590 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €990 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Historic Irish Castle Tour 7 Days | From €1790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €995 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.

2025 Tour Packages:

• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4590 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour 9 Days | €2490 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1690 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2890 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5690 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3290 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Tour Guides / Drivers
• Reviews of our Tours

Further Information

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Travelguide

About tour packages

• Choosing a Tour
• The Tour Hotels
• The Tour Buses

About private tours

• Arranging a Tour
• Private Tour Accommodation
• Private Tour Vehicles

Ireland Tours 2024 & 2025

Looking to customize a bespoke vacation? Check out our Private Tours

We are still Ireland's best-reviewed tour operator, with 97.3% five-star reviews.

Our UK & Ireland Tour Packages

Scroll through our Britain and Ireland tour packages for 2024 & 2025. Alternatively, you can also see what's available on your preferred dates .

Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• 34 attractions
• Max. 26 ppl

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.

Iconic Britain Tour

• 14 attractions

Embark on a unique and unforgettable 10-day journey as you explore the most renowned and captivating attractions that England and Scotland have to offer.

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 13 attractions

Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable hub-and-spoke tour.

Deluxe Castle Tour

• 22 attractions

Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.

Historic Irish Castle Tour

• 15 attractions

A truly unique tour of Ireland. Visit the must-see attractions whilst discovering unique experiences beyond the tourist trail. All woven together by Ireland's historic castles.

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 25 attractions

Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.

Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 17 attractions

Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

• 8 attractions

Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

Ancient Ireland Tour

• 19 attractions

An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

• 24 attractions

Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.

Hello from everyone here at My Ireland Tour

Welcome! We are thrilled that you are interested in visiting our country. We're proud to say that we're still an independent family-run business, based right here in Cork. We offer a range of Britain and Ireland vacation packages , as well as our bespoke private customised tours . We're looking forward to chatting with you and showing you what makes Ireland such a magical place.

Eric O'Gorman, Founder & Director

What are you looking for?

We offer various types of tour to suit all ages, interests and group sizes. What kind of vacation suits you best?

All our Ireland Tours

Ireland's best-loved destinations and its best-kept secrets, all on one magical tour.

Private Custom Tours

Custom private tours, crafted uniquely for you. All group sizes from two people to 100.

Castle Tours

Live like royalty, staying in real Irish castles steeped in history and tradition.

UK & Ireland

Tour Ireland and Britain at the same time with a tour that shows you the best of England, Ireland and Scotland.

Scotland & Ireland

Two great celtic nations, one unforgettable experience. Visit Scotland and Ireland in one trip.

Three unique tour collections

It's now even easier to find your perfect vacation. We have grouped most of our tour packages into three unique collections. Whatever your interests, whatever your budget, we have the perfect range of Irish tours for you and your group. We also offer our popular Discover Northern Ireland Tour (6 days). Alternatively, you can even customize your own bespoke private tour , just for you and your group.

Iconic Scenes Tours

Discover Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets. All with unbeatable value, while staying in some of Ireland's best four-star hotels.

• Compare all Iconic Scenes Tours
• 18-Day Tour (Ireland, England & Scotland)
• 14-Day Tour (Scotland & Ireland version)
• 14-Day Tour (Ireland-only version)
• 10-Day Tour (England & Scotland)
• 10-Day Tour
• 9-Day Tour (Scotland & Ireland version)

Ancient Luxury Tours

Get closer to the action on a tour which is limited to max. eight guests. On these luxury tours, you will be staying in four- and five-star hotels and castles.

• Compare our Ancient Luxury Tours
• 13-Day Tour (Ireland & Scotland)

Luxury Castle Tours

Live like royalty on a tour that is steeped in the rich history and traditions of the Emerald Isle. Stay in Ireland's best four- and five-star hotels and castles.

• Compare our Castles Tours
• 7-Day Historic Irish Castle Tour
• 10-Day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour

Made in Ireland, by us

We are not a reseller or an agent. We only sell our own tours, designed with care in our family office here in Cork, Ireland.

No Middleman

You will not find our tours on any other website. And with no middleman, we can provide unrivalled value with a much more personal experience.

We're here for you

On the phone, you can chat to Eric, Kristel, Shannon, Shauni, Keith or Catriona. We will be delighted to help with any questions you may have.

Britain & Ireland Tours

Why not add England and Scotland to your Irish tour experience? A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compare and contrast these unique but interconnected cultures. Experience a rich and overlapping history, told from three singular perspectives. Three distinct outlooks, three separate national identities — one friendly welcome. Compare the royalty and pageantry of London with the very different majesty you will find in the rolling glens, lochs and highlands of Scotland. Of course, we think that Ireland holds the crown, with a landscape, a culture and a heritage that puts the Emerald Isle among the jewels of all European travel.

Customize your own tour

Looking for something truly unique? Why not arrange a bespoke private tour exclusively for you and your group? Our private tours can be customized to suit any group size, from two guests to a party of 100 or more. We will work with you to create the perfect tour itinerary for your group, taking away all the stress and leaving you with an unforgettable vacation experience that works for everyone. Certain destinations you want to visit? We can make it happen. Want to stay in a castle or on a working farm? Just say the word.

Stay in real castles

Experience the rich history of Ireland first-hand when you stay in some of the Emerald Isle's most enchanting castles and stately manors. That's right — with our Irish castle tours, you not only visit real Irish castles, you get to stay overnight in them, too. Choose from four castle tour vacation packages , crafted for you by our Irish-born team of tour experts. Whichever tour you choose, you can expect to live like nobility for the duration of your time with us here in Ireland.

Our small groups guarantee Never more than 26 guests per tour

We always keep our tour group sizes small. That's because we want every guest to get the comfort, space and service they deserve. Although many other companies squeeze in groups of up to 50, even the largest of our tour packages are strictly limited to just 26 guests. That leaves empty seats on the coaches. So why do we limit our tours to such small group sizes? Here are six reasons.

Superior Service

Guests consistently list our small group sizes as a top reason why they would book with us again. See our reviews...

More focus on you

With a smaller group, our tour guides have more time to get to know you and your interests.

We deliberately leave empty seats on our coaches, so you can relax and spread out.

Experience each attraction up-close and personal, with more time to ask questions and see what interests you.

Speedier Check-Ins

Compared with many of our rivals, our smaller group sizes make checking in and out of the hotels a breeze.

More Relaxed Pace

Experience Ireland at your own pace. No rushing to keep up and no waiting around for large groups to assemble.

You might also be interested in...

• Sample Itineraries
• Transport Options
• Genealogy Tours

2024 Tour Packages

• Iconic Britain and Ireland (18 Days)
• Iconic Britain Tour (10 Days)
• Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (14 Days)
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (10 Days)
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (8 Days)
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (6 Days)
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour (10 Days)
• Historic Irish Castle Tour (7 Days)
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour (13 Days)
• Ancient Ireland Tour (8 Days)
• Discover Northern Ireland (6 Days)

2025 Tour Packages

• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• Highlights of Ireland and Scotland Tour (9 Days)

Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

• Blarney Woollen Mills

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

Visit their website...

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

Glenveagh Castle

About Glenveagh Castle

Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

18-Day Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• Free time in London
• Shakespeare's Birthplace
• Manchester River Cruise
• Tour of York City
• York Minster
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Tour of Edinburgh City
• Holyrood Palace
• Tour of Glasgow City
• Tour of Belfast City
• Titanic Belfast
• Giant's Causeway
• Kylemore Abbey
• Cliffs of Moher
• Ring Of Kerry
• Blarney Castle
• Irish Emigration Museum
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Guinness Storehouse
• Departure flight home

10-Day Iconic Britain Tour

• Roman Baths
• Broadway to Cheltenham Railway
• Afternoon Tea at Broadway Hotel
• Chatsworth House
• Edinburgh Castle
• Stirling Castle
• Loch Lomond Cruise
• Glasgow City

14-Day Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Arrival at Edinburgh Airport
• St. Andrews Golf Club
• Kingsbarns Distillery Tour
• Loch Ness cruise
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Belleek Pottery
• Sheepdog Demo
• Blind Piper Pub
• Rock of Cashel

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Trim Castle
• Belfast City
• Belfast Murals
• Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
• Bushmills Distillery
• Derry City Walls
• Lough Erne Cruise
• Devenish Island
• Jameson Distillery Midleton

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Dublin Airport
• Clonmacnoise
• Free time in Galway City
• Killary Fjord
• Free time in Cork City
• Charles Fort
• Irish National Stud
• Traditional Farm Lunch

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Mikey Ryan's Bar
• Killarney National Park
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Galway City
• Free time in Dublin City
• St Patrick's Cathedral

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Glendalough Monastic Site
• Ring of Kerry

• Dublin Airport arrival
• Waterford Crystal
• Kilkenny Castle

• Arrival in Edinburgh Airport
• Edinburgh City tour
• Dalwhinnie Distillery
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Isle of Skye
• Glasgow City tour
• Belfast City tour
• Derry City tour
• Dublin City tour

• Lough Eske Castle
• Derry City Tour
• Free time in Derry City

• Pearse Lyons Distillery
• Traditional Music Night

• Derry City walking tour
• Ulster American Folk Park

9-Day Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Cruise Loch Lomond
• Clydeside Distillery Tour
• Glasgow City Tour
• Ferry to Belfast
• Belfast City Tour
• Glenshane Country Farm
• Giants Causeway
• Hillsborough Castle
• Carlingford Lough Ferry
• Farewell dinner and show

My Ireland Tour:

My Ireland Tour is a family business based right here in County Cork. Thanks for visiting our website: we're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the country we call home. As an independent Irish business, we're proud that we can give each guest the kind of service that has made us Ireland's top-rated tour operator. We hope to offer you a real Irish welcome soon. Our family business (My Ireland Tour Limited) is registered in Ireland, Company Number 547775.

Contact Us:

• 5 Church Hill  Carrigaline  Co. Cork  P43 X376  Ireland

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19 best ireland tours: dublin, giant's causeway & more.

Make the most of the stunning scenery in Ireland and Northern Ireland with the help of knowledgeable locals.

19 Best Ireland Tours

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Whatever attracts you to Ireland – the verdant landscape, the ancient castles and cathedrals or some of its famous manufactured goods – these tours will help you make the most of your time here. With the help of expert and traveler input, U.S. News determined that these tours in Ireland (and a few in Northern Ireland) are the best on offer. While the tours take differing approaches, ranging from boats and buses to horse-drawn carriages, they all have guides well-versed in local history and lore. Indeed, the guides' storytelling skills are often cited as highlights of these outings, which may last as little as an hour or as long as an entire day.

Lally Tours – Galway to Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Full Day Tour

Price: Adults from 50 euros (about $54); kids from 40 euros (about $43) Duration: 7.5 hours

Explore the west coast of Ireland, where the Irish language (Irish Gaelic) remains prevalent, on this daylong bus trip. In addition to learning about the various sights, you may acquire a few words of the local lingo from the onboard guides, whom tour-takers find enthusiastic, knowledgeable and entertaining. The route on this excursion winds through the photogenic Twelve Bens mountain range. Among the stops are a scenic mountainside village and the extravagant Kylemore Abbey, a 19th-century abbey featuring a Victorian walled garden and a neo-Gothic church.

The fee includes admission to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, but does not include lunch. Outings depart Galway daily at 10 a.m. Hotel pickup is available for no additional charge. Lally Tours also offers full-day excursions to the Cliffs of Moher, among other destinations.

Check prices & availability on:

Irish Day Tours – Blarney Castle Day Tour From Dublin

Price: Adults from 85 euros (about $92); kids from 42.50 euros (about $46) Duration: 12 hours

Blarney Castle, which dates back to the 1400s, ranks as one of the most popular attractions in Ireland. The medieval stronghold, which stands approximately 5 miles west of Cork, houses the legendary Blarney Stone – purported to bestow the gift of eloquence on those who kiss it. In addition to visiting the famed castle, this tour stops at another highly popular destination, the Rock of Cashel and its cluster of medieval buildings, including Cormac's Chapel (which contains Romanesque frescoes) and the Hall of Vicars. The trip also includes a visit to Cahir Castle, a 13th-century defensive structure constructed on an island on the River Suir. Those who've taken the tour report enjoying the impressive castles, as well as the guides' amusing commentary. Many reviewers said this was a long day, but worth it to see and hear more about Irish history.

Tours depart daily from Dublin at 6:50 a.m. and return to central Dublin around 7:30 p.m. Irish Day Tours offers a variety of day trips, including excursions to Wicklow, Connemara and more.

Deros Tours – Ring of Kerry Coach Tour

Price: Adults from 38 euros (around $41); kids from 23 euros (about $25) Duration: 6 hours

Observe the unique landscape of the Iveragh Peninsula, including Ireland's highest mountain, on this half-day bus tour. Stops include the villages of Glenbeigh, Waterville and Sneem. From March to October, coaches also stop for a demonstration of how dogs are trained to herd sheep. A high point – literally – is a visit to Moll's Gap, which affords views of MacGillycuddy's Reeks, including its tallest peak, Carrantuohill, which stands more than 3,400 feet high. Another highlight is the Ladies View (named in honor of Queen Victoria and her retinue) at the Killarney Lakes. Tour-takers sing the praises of the witty, attentive guides and the many photo stops. Others were pleased they opted for tour instead of trying to drive the Ring of Kerry themselves.

Buses leave from Killarney at 10:30 a.m. daily and return around 4:30 p.m. Deros Tours also operates tours of the Gap of Dunloe as well as the Dingle Peninsula, among others.

Midleton Distillery Experience

Price: From 26 euros (about $28) Duration: 75 minutes

See how world-renowned Jameson Irish Whiskey is produced on this tour of the original Midleton distillery, which is located about 15 miles east of Cork. Along the tour, your guide will show you several of the distillery's buildings, where you'll have the opportunity to observe the distilling process. The tour ends with a tasting flight of three whiskeys. Travelers offer high marks for the engaging, well-informed guides. Reviewers also appreciate the whiskey samples and say this is a fun activity even if you're not a whiskey fan thanks to the incredible history and architecture on display.

There are also guided tours of the Jameson Bow St. Distillery in Dublin.

Game of Thrones Tours – Iron Islands & Giant's Causeway from Belfast

Price: From 49 euros (about $53) Duration: 10 hours

"Games of Thrones" fans can visit some of the spots where pivotal scenes of the series were filmed on this full-day excursion to the Glens of Antrim. Highlights include the Giant's Causeway, the Cushendun Caves (where Melisandre births a dark spirit), a beach that served as Dragonstone and the Dark Hedges, an avenue of beech trees where Arya Stark made her escape. Guides, who served as extras on the show, share information about the various sights as well as some behind-the-scenes scoop from the set. Reviewers report finding the passionate guides' commentary insightful and appreciate the small group size. Others took advantage of the costumes and props to snap some memorable photos.

Tours depart from Belfast, Northern Ireland, on Wednesday and Saturday at 7:30 a.m. year-round; additional Sunday departures are available in select months. Be aware that this tour involves some walking on uneven ground and that children younger than 12 are not permitted due to the adult content featured in the tour. The company also offers tours that depart from Dublin, among other locales.

Yellow Umbrella Tours – Traditional Pub Tour

Price: From 42 euros (about $45) Duration: 3 hours

If you've come to Ireland hoping to experience its lively pub culture, then this Dublin tour is for you. With a local leading the way, you'll visit three pubs on the north side of the river, away from the tourist crowds. Samples of Irish beer, whiskey and gin are included, and you'll have the option to purchase traditional Irish dishes, if you're feeling peckish. After visiting the pubs, you'll end the tour listening to live music. Reviewers say guides are friendly, entertaining and share lots of history about the drinks and Dublin. Participants also said the pubs featured on the tour are interesting and fun.

Tours are generally offered daily at 6 p.m.; they meet at The Spire on O'Connell Street. If you're traveling with kids and looking for a more family-friendly experience, consider the company's two-hour Dublin history walking tour.

Irish Day Tours – Cliffs of Moher

Price: Adults from 80 euros (about $87); kids from 40 euros (about $44) Duration: 13 hours

Travel west from Dublin to marvel at the Cliffs of Moher and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean on this full-day bus trip. In addition to the nearly 400-foot cliffs, this tour visits the village of Doolin for lunch and the flower-filled Burren National Park, as well as the city of Galway before returning to Dublin. Tour-takers typically appreciate both the remarkable scenery and the astute and entertaining guides. Many reviewers said this is the best thing you can do while visiting Dublin.

Trips depart from the statue of Molly Malone on Suffolk Street daily at 6:50 a.m. and return to the city center around 7:30 p.m. Note: Fees do not include the cost of lunch. Be sure to bring headphones if you want to listen to the commentary on Irish Day Tours' multilingual mobile app. The company also offers tours to the Giant's Causeway, Blarney Castle and more.

Belfastology Walking Tours – Eclectic Belfast Walking Tour

Price: Adults from 20 pounds (about $25); kids from 12 pounds (about $15) Duration: 2.5 hours

Admire Belfast's architecture and hear about the city's history on this jaunt around town. Highlights include City Hall, the Cathedral Quarter, Waterfront Hall and the Albert Memorial Clock – one of Belfast's top landmarks. Reviewers applaud the enthusiastic guides' well-informed commentary; they also appreciate that the tour can be tailored to suit groups' particular interests.

Tours are typically offered multiple times a day starting at 10:30 a.m. Belfastology Walking Tours also offers themed tours, such as political murals and street art and music.

Galway Tour Company – The Aran Islands & the Cliffs Cruise

Price: Adults from 70 euros (about $76); kids from 65 euros (about $71) Duration: 10.5 hours

Experience both the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher on this daylong outing. Buses leave Galway at 9 a.m. and travel along the Wild Atlantic Way south to the fishing village of Doolin. From there, tour-takers ride an express ferry to the smallest of the three Aran Islands, Inisheer, where – for at least two hours – they can explore cafes, castles, churches, lighthouses, shipwrecks, pubs and other attractions. After lunch, the journey continues by coach to the incredible cliffs. Travelers praise the guides' amusing and educational commentary and call the views phenomenal.

Buses typically return to Galway around 7:30 p.m. Tickets include admission to the Cliffs of Moher, but not lunch or any optional activities on Inisheer. Note: This tour is available daily from the beginning of March to the end of October. Galway Tour Company also take visitors to Connemara and the Kylemore Abbey, among other popular destinations.

Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours – Connemara and Connemara National Park Day Tour from Galway

Price: Adults from 45 euros (about $49); kids from $43 Duration: 9 hours

Take in the sights of Connemara on this day trip from Galway. Traveling both the Wild Atlantic Way and the Sky Road, this bus ride passes through the picturesque villages like Barna, Furbo and Spiddal, and makes stops at locales like Pines Island and the town of Clifden. The excursion also includes a three-hour visit to Connemara National Park or Kylemore Abbey (you get to choose). The views along the drive are often deemed a high point, and guides win kudos for their knowledgeable narration and skilled driving of the narrow roads. The route winds through the Maumturks and Twelve Bens mountains on the way back to Galway, where the trip usually ends around 6:30 or 7 p.m.

Tours depart from the Kinlay Hostel on Merchants Road at 9:30 a.m.; they are offered daily year-round. Fees do not include lunch, but do include the entry fee for Connemara National Park. The company also offers tours that depart from Limerick and Ennis.

Wild Rover Tours – Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough Day Tour from Dublin

Price: From 43 euros (about $47) Duration: 10 hours

Spend a day learning about the history and folklore of eastern Ireland on this combination walking and coach tour. Take a guided stroll through the cobblestone streets of Kilkenny and then explore the city on your own, possibly opting to visit Kilkenny Castle, which dates to the 12th century. Then, traverse the photogenic Wicklow Mountains, where scenes from movies – including "Braveheart" – were filmed. The outing's visit to Glendalough, known for its glacial valleys and lakes, includes a guided tour of its monastic city, which was built circa A.D. 600. The trip also features a stop at a working sheep farm. Both the scenery and the guides' expert commentary and recomendations consistently win praise from travelers.

Tours are available daily all year, but the order in which you visit attractions varies seasonally. Pickups from a trio of Dublin locales occur between 8:10 and 8:30 a.m.; tours conclude back in the city around 6:20 p.m. Note: Prices do not include lunch or any attractions in Kilkenny. Wild Rover Tours also offer "Game of Thrones"-themed outings, as well as day trips to the Cliffs of Moher.

LetzGo City Tours – Skip the Line: Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience Tour

Price: From 112 euros (about $122) Duration: 4 hours

If you're hoping to visit the Jameson Distillery and the Guinness Storehouse on your trip to Dublin, consider this half-day tour, which includes skip-the-line access to both attractions, as well as expert commentary from a local guide. You'll start at the Jameson Distillery Bow St. to learn about and, of course, sample some celebrated whiskey. Then head over to the Guinness Storehouse, a seven-story monument to Ireland's renowned stout, and ascend to its Gravity Bar, a rooftop bar boasting unrivaled views of Phoenix Park, the Wellington Monument, the Wicklow Mountains and more. Along the way, hear about the city's brewing and distilling history from guides. Reviewers typically find the guides' stories entertaining, as well as educational. They also enjoyed the photo stop outside the oldest pub in Ireland, which dates back to the 11th century.

Skip-the-line tours are generally offered several times daily starting at 10:45 a.m. The company also hosts pub and city tours, as well as skip-the-line access to the Book of Kells and Dublin Castle.

McComb's Coach Travel – Giant's Causeway Tour

Price: From 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 10 hours

Take a scenic drive to Northern Ireland's famed Giant's Causeway, the sole UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, on this daylong tour. Along with its World Heritage Site status, Giant's Causeway is also a site of geological significance comprising approximately 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns. Other stops along the Causeway Coastal Route include Carrickfergus Castle, the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle, as well as a pub for lunch. Tour-takers generally appreciate the good humor and insights of the drivers/guides.

Coaches depart Belfast daily at 8:30 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. Note: This outing involves some walking on uneven surfaces. McComb's Coach Travel offers a variety of other tours, including a "Game of Thrones" tour.

House of Waterford Crystal – Factory Tour

Price: Adults from 17.50 euros (around $19); kids from 9.50 euros (about $10) Duration: 1 hour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at how world-famous Waterford Crystal is made on this tour, which visits the factory's blowing, mold-making, cutting, sculpting, engraving and inspection rooms. Visitors consistently find the crystal-making process fascinating and the guides informative and friendly. If you're in the Waterford area, many reviewers called this the No. 1 thing to do.

Tours are available year-round multiple times on most days, though there are none on Saturday and Sunday from November through February. Start times are determined upon your arrival at the plant in its namesake city, so be sure to check hours of operation, which vary by season. If you like what you see being crafted and want some crystal to take home, you can stop at the factory's retail store after the tour.

DC Tours – A History of Terror

Price: From 22 pounds (about $28) Duration: 2.5 hours

Learn about some of the most contentious moments in Northern Ireland's decades-long ethno-nationalist conflict (known as the Troubles) on this walking tour of Belfast. Tours start outside Belfast City Hall daily (barring some holidays) at 10:30 a.m. and conclude on the banks of the River Lagan. Stops along the way include Donegall Place, site of a 1972 bombing; Cathedral Quarter, the city's cultural district; and the Spirit of Belfast, a sculpture often called "The Onion Rings." History buffs generally find the passionate and engaging guides' commentary both informative and entertaining. Reviewers also say you don't need to know much about the Troubles to enjoy this tour.

This tour entails walking for about a mile and a half and is not recommended for children younger than 12. If you're looking for more of an overview of the city, DC Tours also conducts a three-hour "Best of Belfast" tour, among other experiences.

Taste & Tour – Belfast Food Tour

Price: From 67 pounds (about $85) Duration: 4 hours

Sample the Belfast dining scene on this four-hour stroll in the center of the city. After starting in St George's Market, the tour proceeds to various area bars and shops, as well as a restaurant in the Cathedral Quarter. Food and drinks sampled along the way should be sufficient for both breakfast and lunch, according to Taste & Tour. Foodies enjoy the ample food and beverage offerings as well as the friendly guides' culinary wisdom.

Tours typically depart from St. George's Market at 10:15 a.m. on Fridays and 10 and 10:45 a.m. on Saturdays. The company also offers tours that explore the city's cocktail and craft beer scene.

DoDublin – Hop-On Hop-Off

Price: Adults from 30 euros (about $33); kids from 10 euros (about $11) Duration: 2 hours

Explore multiple Dublin attractions at your own pace on this hop-on, hop-off bus tour – or stay on board and see the sights. The tour's route includes EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, the Guinness Storehouse, the Little Museum of Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral and much more. Drivers provide running commentary about the city's sights (and recorded narration in nine languages is available). Tourgoers applaud the drivers' witty remarks and recommend taking this tour at the start of your Dublin visit to familiarize yourself with the city.

Bus tours operate daily and depart every 20 to 30 minutes (depending on the day), with the first departing 59 Upper O'Connell St. at 9 a.m. and the last at 5 p.m. DoDublin offers both single- and two-day tickets for its hop-on, hop-off tours. For each adult ticket purchased – regardless of duration – a child younger than 15 can ride for free. Moreover, the fees include admission to the Little Museum. In addition to its hop-on, hop-off tours, DoDublin also operates a nightly ghost bus tour.

Killarney Jaunting Cars – From Park to Castle Tour

Price: Adults from 65 euros (about $70); kids from 10 euros (around $11) Duration: 1 hour

On this hourlong horse-and-carriage ride, you'll travel to both Killarney National Park and Ross Castle, passing sights like St. Mary's Cathedral and MacGillycuddy's Reeks along the way. Why a carriage ride? This mode of transportation allows visitors to see parts of the park where motor vehicles are not allowed. Travelers consistently describe the guides as humorous and well-versed in area culture and history. Reviewers also say the ride is relaxing; many called the tour the highlight of their trip.

Carriages depart from the Great Southern Killarney hotel several times daily, with the first usually heading out at 9:30 a.m. and the last at 5:15 p.m. Killarney Jaunting Cars also offers a variety of combo tours, in addition to a five-hour tour to the Gap of Dunloe.

Killarney Lake Tours – Killarney Water Bus Tour

Price: Adults from 15 euros (about $16); kids from 8 euros (about $9) Duration: 1 hour

See the sights of Killarney from Lough Leane, the area's largest lake, on this hourlong boat ride. Water buses launch from and return to Ross Castle and pass attractions, such as Innisfallen Island's monastic ruins and O'Sullivan's Cascade; cruisers also get an eyeful of the nearby mountains. Tour-takers say this activity is reasonably priced and enjoy the guides' anecdotes and historical observations. They also rave about the views.

Trips are available multiple times daily with standard departure times of 11 a.m. and 12:30, 2:30 and 4 p.m.; additional times may be added in the summer. Water bus tours can also be combined with a horse-drawn carriage (aka jaunting car) ride around Killarney.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Dublin Tours
• The Best Places to Visit in Ireland
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

Tags: Tours , Travel , Ireland , Vacations , United Kingdom , Europe , Europe Vacations , United Kingdom Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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17 Adventurous Things to do in Ireland: Your Ultimate Outdoor Bucket List

Published by grace austin on august 25, 2022 august 25, 2022.

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The most adventurous things to do in Ireland, according to travel bloggers.

This post will take you scaling the tallest peaks in the land, wakeboarding in our capital city, kayaking amongst hundreds of tiny islands, coasteering on the country’s most northerly limits, dangling above a ginormous crevice on a spindly rope bridge, and getting up close and personal with some very unusual wildlife.

Oh yeah, we tapped the hive for this one.

With the help of the travel blogging community, we’ve  created a veritable smorgasbord of outdoor adventures in Ireland for your reading pleasure; from kiteboarding and surfing the country’s freezing waters to hiking and biking the most mind-bending trails.

Phew, this is about to get kinda wild.

In order to give you a super comprehensive Ireland adventure bucket list, we’ve included entries for both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. So like, let’s just keep our fingers crossed that Brexit doesn’t faff everything up TOO much, ‘kay thanks guys.

Without further ado, here’s the travel communities selection of the coolest, most adventurous, outdoorsy things to do in Ireland:

The most epic outdoorsy things to do in Ireland, according to travel experts

Kitesurfing on achill island, co. mayo.

Recommended by Grace & Jim of Extreme Nomads  

Though Ireland’s frigid waters might seem daunting to some, the country is a kitesurfing paradise for those willing to brave the cold. The windswept shores of Achill Island offer some of the best kiteboarding conditions in the whole country, making it by FAR one of the most epic things to do in Ireland.

Visitors can choose between the flat waters of Keel Lake or the wave-battered beach just opposite. Pure Magic Watersports runs a kitesurfing centre up here, where they facilitate beginner and advanced lessons as well as gear rental (they also have a super cosy lodge bar, and restaurant to base yourself at whilst there).

If you’ve never tried kitesurfing before but you’re keen to experience some of Ireland’s outdoor adventure offerings, this has your name all over it (and if you’re an experienced kiter, trust us when we say this is one spot you’ll definitely want to ride at). ‘Scenic’ doesn’t even begin to cover the beauty of the place. 

Find out where else you can kitesurf on the Emerald Isle in our complete guide to kitesurfing in Ireland .

Mountain biking on the Ballyhoura MTB trails, Co. Cork

For lovers of two-wheeled adventures, Ballyhoura is Ireland’s holy grail. The place is home to the biggest network of dedicated mountain biking trails in the entire country, with a solid mix of single tracks, hills, boardwalks, and tricky technical rock gardens.

No need to go lugging your own gear over, either; you can rent your bikes from the local crew at Ballyhoura Trail Riders. Once you’re all geared up, take your pick between the beginner-friendly Greenwood Loop which is just 6km, or the ultra tough 50km Castlepook Loop.

Psst: if you’re going to be in the area, check out our complete local’s guide to the best things to do in Cork City + county !

Surfing at Inchydoney Beach, Co. Cork

If you’ve been following along with Extreme Nomads for a while, you’ll know that we have a MAJOR crush on the Irish surfing scene. Like yeah, the water may be baltic — but the waves are incredible. 

Inchydoney is one of West Cork ’s most beautiful, sprawling strands; and when the swell kicks in, it’s home to glorious, peeling waves. According to TripAdvisor, it’s also Ireland’s top-rated beach!

Inchydoney Surf School are the guys to know here; they’ve been running their centre for more than 15 years and are super experienced in coaching all levels of surfers. Hit them up for beginner lessons, advanced training, and board rentals. They’re also conveniently located just 200 metres from the stunning Inchydoney Lodge & Spa (which is the ultimate place to stay — or get a massage — when you’re keen to splurge on a treat!).

Hiking to Murder Hole Beach, Co. Donegal

Recommended by Elaine & David of Your Ireland Vacation

Officially known as Boyeeghter Bay, Murder Hole Beach is one of the most rugged and beautiful beaches located on the Wild Atlantic Way in Co. Donegal. 

The challenge of accessing the beach makes a visit even more special. You’ll need to hike across local farmland (avoiding the friendly cows and occasional bull) to access Murder Hole. The farmer that owns the land kindly lets the public hike across the fields to the beach. It’s a short hike from the main road to the dunes by the sea that hides this incredible beach.

Due to its secluded location, it’s likely you’ll have the beach to yourself when you visit. If you visit Murder Hole early in the morning, you could be treated to a truly epic sunrise.

While it’s not exactly known where the name Murder Hole comes from, it’s likely due to the treacherous seas that pound the coastline. Despite its beauty, swimming is definitely not advised here as the rip tides and currents are incredibly strong.

Coasteering on the North Coast

Recommended by Luke of The Coastal Campaign

When you think of things to do in Ireland, swimming around in the Atlantic Ocean may not be what springs to mind. But I must say that coasteering on the North Coast of Ireland is one of the most exciting adventure activities in the whole country. Climbing, cliff jumping and swimming your way along the rugged green coastline of Northern Ireland is an incredible experience.

You’ll need to struggle into a thick wetsuit and wetsuit boots to keep you warm, but once the adrenaline starts flowing you won’t even feel the cold. It’s so much fun jumping and flipping off the rocks into the water and finding hidden gems along the coast. Make a point of exploring Ballintoy Harbour, which has lots of small islands just off the shore. 

To get the most out of your experience, go for a tour with Matt at Causeway Coasteering. He’s a local boy with insane knowledge of the coastline, who will show you some amazing off-the-beaten path places while ensuring you have a great days’ craic. Next time you are in Ireland, make sure you explore from the water.

Cable wakeboarding in Dublin

Recommended by Kylie of Between England and Iowa

View this post on Instagram A post shared by wakedock (@wakedock) on Sep 25, 2019 at 3:53am PDT

An adventurous thing to do right in the heart of Dublin is to go wakeboarding . Wakedock Cable Park is located at Grand Canal Dock. Visitors only need to take a swimsuit and a towel; wetsuits, helmets, life jackets and boards can be rented as part of the package price.  

Cable wakeboarding is great, even for beginners ; it’s a little like snowboarding but on water!  The cable system makes it easier to stand up on the board, compared to how it would be if you were being towed behind a boat.

Time slots last around an hour, with up to 4 people in the slot. Individuals get around 15 minutes each in the water, which may not sound like much time but it can be pretty tiring — especially for first timers! 

If wakeboarding is a little too extreme, Surfdock operates in the same area offering kayak and stand up paddle board rentals, as well as SUP yoga sessions.

Climbing Carrauntoohil — Ireland’s highest peak, Co. Kerry

Recommended by Kathi of Watch Me See

It can’t get any more adventurous than climbing the roof of Ireland and hiking to the top of the country’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil . From the summit, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the hills and lakes around you. It’s an invigorating hike that includes crossing rivers, walking along mountain lakes, and lots of sheep

This hike takes around five to six hours and is a challenging day out for experienced mountaineers. You won’t require any specific equipment apart from good hiking boots, a map and good waterproofs; and the trail is fairly easy to follow. However, weather conditions can change rapidly and the route includes a slippery scramble up a steep gully called Devil’s Ladder.  

Killarney is the perfect home base for this hike. The local Black Sheep Hostel is a welcoming, eco-friendly hostel with small dorms and lots of communal space, including a lovely garden — a perfect to retreat to after a day in the mountains.

Scuba diving the Skellig Islands, Co. Kerry

View this post on Instagram Wow what a days diving, the conditions are fantastic, unreal visibility and flat calm seas. We are having so much fun. Who’d think you could come to work and have so much craic! #waterworldcastlegregory #Maharees #Castlegregory #Traleebay #Brandonbay #diveireland #wildatlanticway #dinglepeninsula #padifamily #padi #PADIpro #padidiveireland #Scubadiving #scuba #dive A post shared by Waterworld (@waterworldcastlegregory) on Jul 4, 2019 at 12:32pm PDT

The south west of Ireland is wild and exposed with a large number of small offshore rocks, islands and coves — which lends itself to diving. Granted, this couldn’t be further from the warm resort diving in tropical regions of the world; you’ll need a dry suit and be used to diving in less than favourable conditions. 

However, once you reach the dive site (which can be an adventure in itself!) the underwater conditions are perfect. The water is crystal clear and the life below the surface is spectacular. From corals living on every surface to large anglerfish and dog sharks, every dive is completely different.

There are a number of places you can dive in Cork and Kerry with the most popular being around Kenmare and the Dingle Peninsula. Boats operate from these two areas and will take you out to the Magharee Islands, Blasket Islands and the UNESCO world heritage site of Skellig Michael.  One of the best dive centres is Waterworld, who operate out of Castlegregory on the north coast of the Dingle Peninsula.

Bray to Greystones cliff walk, Co. Wicklow

Recommended by Katie of Just Chasing Sunsets

Ireland is filled with stunning landscapes just a short train ride away from Dublin. If you need a bit of fresh air and dramatic scenery, then simply ride the DART train 45 minutes South to Bray for the Bray to Greystones cliff walk . If anything, it’s perhaps slightly overshadowed by the Howth cliff walk (more on that next!), which means it’s less trafficked by tourists and has a lovely local vibe. 

When you hop off the DART in Bray, it’s a great idea to grab lunch at Platform Pizza Bar, where you can enjoy delicious and unique pies with a coastal view. Once you’re full, walk along the promenade towards the start of the cliff walk.

The walk, which is 7km in one direction, is fairly easy and should take approximately two to three hours to complete – depending on the number of photo opportunities and snack breaks you take.

You’ll have two options for this walk. You can make the hike up to Bray Head to get a birds-eye view of the Wicklow Mountains, Bray, and the sea, or you can walk along the coastal path. Plus there’s always that sneakily fun third option – do both!

Howth Coastal Walk

Recommended by Lerato of Life from a Bag

For magnificent views of Ireland’s Eye and Dublin Bay, go on a hike in the fishing village of Howth!

Located just 13km from Dublin city centre, Howth Head is one of the best coastal walks in Ireland. It’s reachable by ferry from Dún Laoghaire, Dublin Bus (31 A) and DART train. 

With four paths suitable for all ages, the Cliff Path Loop (6km) is the most popular and takes about 2 hours – you’ll enjoy stunning scenery,  beautiful wild flowers, caves and hidden beaches.

After you hike, have fish and chips at one of the famous waterfront restaurants and grab a Guinness before heading back to the city centre.

Hawk walk at Ashford Castle, Co. Mayo

Recommended by Carole of Berkeley and Beyond

View this post on Instagram A post shared by CDenton (@cardicd) on Oct 18, 2018 at 12:55pm PDT

One of the most exciting things to do in Ireland is to head for the impressive Ashford Castle in Cong — located about 30 miles north of Galway — and sign up for a Hawk Walk.

Begin the adventure in the morning at Ireland’s School of Falconry, where you’ll meet with a caretaker and learned a bit about hawks in general. You’ll then begin a short walk through a dense and lovely wooded forest on the property, put on a heavy leather glove, and experience a hawk flying to your arm and landing. What a thrill!

One of the resident hawks, Inca, was the first Peruvian Harris hawk ever to be in Ireland.  At the centre, you may also encounter amber-eyed Dingle, a female Eurasian eagle owl — the largest species of owl in the world. This experience is exceptional and belongs on every bucket list. 

Hiking to Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry

Recommended by Gina of One Day in a City

When you’re on the west coast, visiting Killarney National Park is one of the ultimate things to do in Ireland. While there, don’t miss hiking from the historic Muckross House to Torc Waterfall. 

Enjoy the expansive grassy grounds of the estate and then make your way by peaceful lake views as you journey onto the trail that will take you through a scenic valley and into the woods. Within those woods is Torc Waterfall, a powerful rush of water that cascades through the green brush of the forest in a series of picture-worthy waterfalls. 

The hike from Muckross House to Torc Waterfall and back will take you roughly two hours. Treat any sore muscles with a relaxing dip in the spa thermal pool at Muckross Park Hotel and Spa , an unforgettable place to stay in Killarney that is right down the street from Muckross House. 

Hiking in the Wicklow Mountains, Co. Wicklow

Recommended by Lora of Explore with Lora 

Wicklow Mountain National Park is one of the most beautiful places to go hiking in Ireland . It’s a great day trip from Dublin , as the park is less than an hour away from the capital city. Of course, you can spend more than a day and camp there for a few nights. This will allow you to access more of the hiking trails within the park. 

Dotted with rolling hills, dense woodland, and green forests, Wicklow National Park is full of beauty. One of the most stunning hikes is the Spinc & Wicklow Way. Spanning 11km in a circular path, this challenging hike takes you through some of Wicklow’s best landscapes, including a visit to a waterfall. There are also many nature walks in the park, which are perfect for families or those short on time.

Climb the Stairway to Heaven, Co. Fermanagh

Recommended by Laura of Live Adventure Travel

Cuilcagh Mountain, otherwise known as Ireland’s Stairway to Heaven , is possibly one of the most beautiful trails in Ireland. It’s the ideal hiking location for adventure lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

The hiking trail is located in County Fermanagh and is home to a rare blanket bog. The trail became famous back in 2017 when a boardwalk was built to protect the bog from walkers. The boardwalk consists of 450 steps that gear up towards the sky. Ultimately giving the trail it’s famous nickname, ‘the stairway to heaven’. The summit of Cuilcagh Mountain presents walkers with an outstanding view of Fermanagh, the boardwalk, and Lake Atana. 

It takes a total of 4 hours to complete the walk, which is suitable for those with a moderate to advanced hiking ability. Once the walk is complete, visitors can continue their adventure by taking a tour of the nearby Marble Arch Caves.

Kayaking in Westport, Co. Mayo

Recommended by Alexa of 52 Perfect Days

Westport is a perfect town to explore the outdoor beauty of Ireland. Sea kayaking and paddling among the 365 islands of Clew Bay is one of the most popular outdoor activities. With the breathtaking backdrop of Croagh Patrick, there isn’t a more peaceful way to spend a few hours in Westport. 

If you want to get a bit closer to Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holiest mountain, consider hiking up. It’s renowned for its Patrician Pilgrimage in honor of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint (it was at the summit of the mountain that Saint Patrick fasted for forty days in 441 AD). The summit of this hike also offers tremendous panoramic views of the County Mayo landscape. The hike is just under half a mile and on average takes about 2 hours to climb up and one and a half hours to descend.

This is just a few of the great outdoor adventures you can have in Westport. Finish your day with a bit of craic and a pint at Matt Molloy’s. 

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Co. Antrim

Recommended by Danielle of Live in 10 Countries

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is the ultimate way to test your head for heights — and is the perfect addition to a 3 day trip around Northern Ireland . Run by the National Trust, it sits on the north east coastline, not too far from Derry. 

You park around a mile from the spot and walk across lush green hills until the bridge inches into view — and that’s when the adrenaline kicks in.

It was built by fishermen and stretches a surprisingly long distance — plus it looks a bit flimsy, at least to the untrained eye. It joins the mainland with a remote island and as you walk across it shakes and sways in strong ocean winds. 

The views are breathtaking; pounding waves beneath you, fronted with velvety grass and bright flowers. It’s a total head rush, and a must for your Ireland adventure bucket list.

Support the National Trust with your entrance fee and also, if driving from Belfast, be sure to get a delicious breakfast at the Coffee House on Stewartstown Road which is locally run and excellent. 

Scaling the Mourne Mountains, Co. Down

Recommended by Allan of It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

The Mourne Mountains are a sprawling granite mountain range in the south-east of Northern Ireland (Co. Down) and are home to many of Northern Ireland’s highest peaks. Though the region is lesser-explored by international tourists, it’s well worth the visit.

The most obvious route to the mountains would be from the seaside town of Newcastle (where you can stay at the highly recommended hotel, The Donard ) which is a bit like the Gateway to the Mournes. There you’ll find a trekking path connecting straight from the town centre to the tallest peak in all of Northern Ireland, Slieve Donard.

But for those driving, or those who are savvy with public transport, there are always alternative entries to the Mournes — including a trek from neighbouring Tollymore Forest park (Trassey Road) to the Hare’s Gap. 

Then there’s the most scenic hike from the Silent Valley to the reservoir at Ben Crom (pictured). Although, no matter which trek you choose, you’re guaranteed some fantastic mountain scenery sights, and sounds along the way.

Final words on the most adventurous things to do in Ireland

As this list has hopefully demonstrated, Ireland is an outdoor adventurer’s DREAM in so many ways. Though this list of adventurous things to do in Ireland is far from exhaustive (because let’s face it, some of the best things to do are the ones nobody in the online world knows about — local’s secrets, and all that!) we hope it serves to inspire your own Irish adventures.

Grace Austin

Hi! I'm Grace -- freelance writer & content creator for the outdoor travel industry. I spent the past few years living in China, Vietnam, and Thailand working as a blogger, TV presenter, and documentarist. These days you can find me Europe side scouting out the best outdoor adventures Ireland has to offer -- and drinking ALL the wine. Obviously.

Kathi · October 9, 2019 at 2:19 AM

So many things that sound right up my street – love it! Thanks for collating such a comprehensive bucket list to tick off!

Grace Austin · October 18, 2019 at 6:23 PM

Stoked you like how it turned out! Thanks for contributing your fab recommendations 🙂

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Ireland Tours & Vacations

The Emerald Isle: where the rhythm is slower, the people are warmer, the spirit is fuller, and the earth is richer.

Irish hospitality may be a cliché – right up there with leprechauns and kissing the Blarney Stone – but when you take a  tour in Ireland  (whether that's in Galway or down   South ) you realize that this enchanting republic revels in its old-school approach to life. Connemara really is as brooding and lonely as we’ve been led to believe. The Dublin of James Joyce still lingers on in odd pockets of the city. The Guinness really is that good. If you want to enjoy your holiday, it’s best to leave your cynicism at the door and grab Ireland with both hands: learn the folklore of Roscommon and Donegal,   road trip your way along the south's coastline , go searching for faeries in Knocknerea Mountain, moan about the inclement weather and (above all) embrace the craic.

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Ireland at a glance

Capital city.

Dublin (population 500,000)

4.7 million

English, Gaelic

(GMT) Greenwich Mean Time : Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin) Type M (see D)

Learn more about Ireland

Best time to visit ireland.

Don’t forget your umbrella! Although the wettest time of year is from October to April, rain is pretty much a guarantee year round. Summer, June to August, promises better weather, and the long days are welcome even if the sun isn’t shining. May, June and September are great months to holiday in Ireland, as there are fewer tourists, more daylight and it’s usually relatively warm for Irish standards). July and August are the country’s busier months, but the festivals, events and good craic that take over the country more than make up for the increase in tourists.

Read more about the best time to visit Ireland

History and government

Early history.

Tumultuous is a good word to describe Ireland’s often troubled and sorrowful history, which is filled with invasion, repression, deadly conflict, religious discrimination and emigration. Ireland’s history dates back to 8000 BC, and progressed from a hunter-gatherer society to an agricultural one. Christianity came to the island in the 5th century, replacing the old tribal and Druid societies, though many of the Celtic traditions were preserved. In the 800s, the Vikings started invading and regularly raided and plundered the island for upwards of two centuries. They set up settlements (most notably Dublin), but were eventually pushed out of Ireland by the Irish king Muirecán. (Ireland was then made up of many small kingdoms, who fought each other for dominance of other counties and the entire island.) Then came the Normans. When an exiled Irish king sought help from (English) King Henry II, he sent Norman forces to (successfully) recapture the Irish King’s counties. This event established Norman lords in Ireland, who soon ruled big tracts of Iand. This worried Henry II so much he invaded in person in 1172. Now it was not only Irish lords that were battling for control of the country, but Norman and English ones as well. 

Fast forward to 1536 and Henry VIII, who tried to conquer Ireland and extend English law over the country. This was met with fierce resistance, especially when he tried to convert the Irish Catholics to Protestants. This opened up a brutal few centuries, where the endeavor for Protestant rule over Ireland led to many atrocities and battles. In the 1600s, land was confiscated from Catholics and given to Protestant settlers (known as the Plantations), triggering the first wave of mass Irish emigration. Remaining Catholics were subject to persecution, with their rights becoming less and less as time went on.

The Irish Rebellion of 1798, led by the republican United Irishmen (who wanted to overthrow British rule and have a non-sectarian republic) was brutally quelled and Irish self-government was abolished. From 1845 - 49, Ireland suffered the Great Famine, which saw over a million people die from starvation and disease, and a million or more emigrate. Understandably, relations between the Irish people and the British got worse, as the government had many means to stop the severity of the famine. Another tragedy was that this period (along with other factors) contributed to English largely replacing the Irish language. From this time until 1912, there were many attempts at reinstating home rule (Irish self-government) and a number of rebellions were instigated but failed. It was also when two distinct groups emerged: the Irish nationalists (who wanted Ireland to be independent and governed by the Irish) and Irish unionists (who considered themselves British and wanted to remain in the union).

Recent history

In 1922, after the Irish War of Independence and many years of fighting, the Anglo-Irish Treaty was signed and Ireland was divided into Northern Ireland (six counties) and Southern Ireland (26 counties), known as the Irish Free State. This lead to the Irish Civil War, fought between those who wanted a unified Ireland and those who wanted to keep Northern Ireland under British rule. The Irish Republican Army (IRA) lost, and Northern Ireland remained ruled by Britain.

The Irish Free State was a predominantly Catholic state and the Roman Catholic church had a massive impact on the formation of the country, as it had over much of Irish history. In 1949, the Republic of Ireland was established and left the British Commonwealth. Up until the late 1990s, the economy of Ireland struggled and emigration was an ongoing problem. Unfortunately the economic boom of the 90s and 2000s has faltered, and economic troubles have once again returned. That said, the conservatism of the Catholic church has lost its grip over society, with many social reforms that would have once been unthinkable being implemented in the 90s.

After the division of the counties in 1922, Northern Ireland became a predominantly Protestant state. Years of violence between pro-British Unionists and pro-Irish Republicans have marked its history, which is a complicated and bloody beast woven with political, ethnic and religious differences. It is as fascinating as it is heartbreaking, and worth reading about in a sphere that can do it justice. See our list of recommended books for books detailing this period.

Top 5 Irish mythical creatures

1. leprechauns.

They are Ireland’s most well known mythical characters. They are male faeries who take the form of an old shoemaker and are depicted with mischief in their eyes. Leprechauns are the source of practical jokes, have the ability to grant wishes and have untold riches buried away.

A banshee is a female faerie who is said to emit an other-worldly wail when someone is about to die. While usually heard rather than seen, reports of sightings range from the sight of a beautiful woman who utters a low, pleasant singing to a crone who emits a soul-chilling shriek.

They are creatures that are seals in the water but are human once they shed their skin on land. They are often linked with tales of ill-fated romance, where either a human has stolen the selkie’s skin so they can’t return to the water (and must marry the human) or a human is taken to the depths of the ocean to be their spouse.

4. Dullahan

A dullahan carries its head under its arm and rides a black stallion – and sometimes drives a wagon made out of skeletons! Its mission is to claim souls, stopping only to call out the name of the person who will die. Those who try to watch him will endure a bucket of blood thrown at them or a whip made out of a spinal cord. Only gold can scare it.

A merrow is the Gaelic version of a mermaid/merman – a half-human, half-fish creature with an amiable and benevolent nature. They are known to lure handsome men to live under the sea, but are also capable of living with humans and marrying them. They have a special hat called a cohuleen druith, and can’t return to the water if they lose it.

Top places to visit in Ireland

1. cliffs of moher.

Take your Irish holiday to a level that’s as high as the Cliffs of Moher themselves as you peer over the brink of these monolithic edges. Both vertical and abrupt in stature, these cliff faces provide monumental views over Galway Bay and out to the Aran Islands. Listen to the powerful waves crash against the sandstone far, far below and let the salty smell of the sea breeze calm your mind and lift your soul.

Trip: Northern & Southern Ireland

2. Aran Islands

Just when you thought Ireland couldn’t get any more spellbinding, the Aran Islands with their staggering cliffs, Celtic churches, and World Heritage Listed sites, peak out above the waters of Galway Bay to prove you wrong. Follow your local leader as you explore, not only the rugged coastline but also the ruins and remains of both the Bronze and Iron Ages for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

3. Ring of Kerry

From the tranquil sound of Torc Waterfall to the imposing monument that is Staigue Fort, the Ring of Kerry only adds to Ireland’s collection of unspoiled natural wonders. Stop in at bucolic villages such as Killarney, Beaufort, and Kenmare on the 179km circular journey and continue to adventure through ‘the Ring’ by private vehicle to see some shepherds in action on a local farm visit.

 To be sure you get the full Irish experience you can’t go past ordering a pint of Guinness at a local pub in the republic’s capital of Dublin. Wandering through the cobbled streets of this electric city is thirsty work and you only need to stop in at one of the many refreshment-ready establishments to get your liquid fill. With a bitter, roasted taste and a texture that goes down (a little too) smooth, you’ll be ordering another round in no time.

5. The Wicklow Way

Known as the oldest, long-distance trail in Ireland, the Wicklow Way offers a whole heap of scenic experiences from passing through open moorland and forested heaths to walking beside fast-flowing mountain streams. If those views aren’t enough to convince you of Ireland’s beauty, then exploring Glendalough Valley’s monastic settlements and peering into deep, sapphire-colored lakes ought to do the trick.

Trip: Walk the Wicklow Way

6. Ballysaggartmore Towers

If you’re wondering what your next stop is on your journey to find some of Ireland’s most magical places, then let us introduce you to the Ballysaggartmore Towers. Created in a gothic style, these towers are both imposing and idyllic, situated in a fairytale-like wooded area that’s perfect for picnics. Join your tour on a walk of the grounds and imagine what it would have been like to roam the ornate stone halls.

Trip: Ireland: Kilkenny & Surrounds

7. Killarney National Park

While the small and charming town of Killarney is well worth a visit in its own right, it’s the dramatic and rugged mountain range that sits alongside it that elevates this scenic spot to the top of any ‘must-see’ list. Featuring the highest peak in Ireland in McGillycuddy’s Reeks and some of the world’s most recognizable lakes and waterfalls, this national park deserves to be explored. And admired. And loved.

Similar destinations

Figuring out which country to travel to can be hard, especially when there are countries right next to each other that seem so similar! So you don't have to roll the dice or pick your next destination out of a hat, we've put together a comparative guide on all things culture, cuisine, and cities (among things) to make your decision a bit easier.

Scotland or Ireland?

England or Ireland?

Further reading

Ireland travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

How to get to Ireland

Getting to Ireland is super easy with two popular options: flying or catching the ferry. Flying is the quickest way to get to Ireland but it can be quite expensive depending on where you're travelling from. If you're travelling from a country like Australia or the United States then flying is your only option. If you live in the UK, you have the option of driving to Liverpool and catching the ferry to Dublin so that you can easily get around once you're in Ireland.

Is tipping customary in Ireland?

Tipping of 10-15% in restaurants is common. Some restaurants add a service charge to the bill, so check for this. It’s common to round up fare in taxis or leave around 10% if they’ve been particularly helpful.

What is the internet access like in Ireland?

Internet access is good in Ireland, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots easily found in most cities and major towns.

Can I use my cell phone while in Ireland?

Cell phone coverage is generally very good in most parts of Ireland. Ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive.

What are the toilets like in Ireland?

Modern, flushable toilets are the standard in Ireland.

What will it cost for a...?

Pint of Guinness = 4.50 Euro City public transport ride = 2.5 Euro Simple cafe lunch = 15 Euro  Nice meal in a restaurant = 40 Euro

Can I drink the water in Ireland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink unless otherwise marked.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Ireland?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores and hotels in Ireland. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Ireland?

ATMs are very common in Ireland, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities.

What to pack for Ireland

As Ireland is known to be quite rainy all year round, packing wet weather clothing is important.

Items like a waterproof jacket or raincoat, quick-dry clothing such as pants and tops, beanies, scarves, thick socks, and gloves will all come in handy. 

You should also consider packing a collapsible, travel-sized umbrella to minimize the likelihood of getting wet when it's raining. 

Remember to pack a camera, a backpack, a reusable drink bottle, and a portable charger as well.

Things to eat in Ireland

Irish food is undoubtedly one of the main reasons why this breathtaking country is so popular among travelers. From hearty stews full of vegetables to salty bread you'll get addicted to, traditional Irish food has a focus on fresh produce served up farm-to-table style.

Is Ireland LGBTQIA+ friendly?

While homosexuality was only decriminalized in Ireland in 1993, it has since become a welcoming and accepting country for LGBTQIA+ travelers within Ireland, and for travelers coming from elsewhere, with a range of gay-friendly venues, bars, and events located in all major cities.

What public holidays are celebrated in Ireland?

• 1 Jan New Year's Day
• 17 Mar St Patrick's Day
• 17 Apr Easter Monday
• 1 May May Day
• 5 Jun June Bank Holiday
• 7 Aug August Bank Holiday
• 30 Oct October Bank Holiday
• 25 Dec Christmas Day
• 26 Dec Saint Stephen's Day

See a current list of public holidays in Ireland .  

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Active Tours & Trips in Ireland

Find the right active tour for you in Ireland. There are 36 trips to choose from, that range from 4 days in length, up to 14 days. The month with the most departures is July, making it the most popular time to visit Ireland.

36 Active tour packages in Ireland with 614 reviews

7 Day Ultimate Atlantic Adventure – Small Group Tour

Brilliant tour with Sean! enjoyed every bit of it- the itinerary is perfect with a great mix of activities like boating, cycling and hiking and relaxation time every day with nice dinners and a night of live music... and covers amazing parts of ireland! The advantage of a small group is that it can be as flexible as the people in the group want! the guide will try to accommodate wishes, tell you stories.. good talks, good fun! If you're looking for maximised experience in a short time, this is recommended :)

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

• Coach / Bus

Enchanting Emerald Isle (8 Days)

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

Incredible Ireland Group Tours

What a fabulous way to see Ireland! Steve selected wonderful hotels, found interesting "off the beaten path" things to see, as well as the standards (Guinnes Tour, Trinity College, etc.) Our driver, Patrick, was so accommodating. He bent over backwards to make sure we experienced his Ireland! This was a great trip and I highly recommend it!

7-Day Great Atlantic Adventure Small Group Tour

What a GREAT trip! Loved the opportunity to see so much of Ireland while still being active and engaged daily. The walking, hiking and kayaking adventures were tremendous ways to experience and see more than I could have done on my own. I really enjoyed the small group tour and felt lucky that we all got along so well. Eoin, our guide, was funny, patient and a great storyteller as he talked about the history of every area we encountered. I'd definitely recommend Overland Ireland for anyone interested in this kind of trip.

8 Day Explorer Tour on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Simply amazing! You never know what you will get when booking a tour: hotels, people, activities. Traveling with Beyond the Glass was as close to perfect as you can get. I was traveling with my wife and upper teenage kids. James is not just the guide, he owns the company. His lifelong love of Ireland came clearly through even before the tour started. Hotels were great, every one of them. James personally knew many of the proprietors, which afforded us some special access along the way. Activities. I wanted an active, adventurous holiday, and got just that. From the first bike ride, through challenging hikes in rain and shine. We got an excellent taste of many of the core Ireland tour spots and even more off the beaten track ones. Group. We were a small group, 12 in all. The van is quite comfortable, even when full. The group consisted of people from their late teens and into their 50s. We all got along quite well, which makes for an even better experience. Bottom line. I am 100% happy with my choice to join the Beyond the Glass tour rather that go it alone. I would not have chosen one of the larger, more sedate tours. My family feels the same way.

• In-depth Cultural

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

A great tour led by great people! 10/10 would do this again and recommend it for anyone looking to see Ireland and its beauty!

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

Our tour guide Lee Jones was amazing! He was very educated about everywhere we went. He always looked out for everyone on the tour. I enjoyed all his stories and all the history he educated us on! I would recommend Lee for all my friends who want to do a Irish tour!

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

Incredible trip. Very well planned. Helpful and accommodations where spectacular. Don't worry about luggage!

Iconic Ireland National Geographic Journeys

• Hiking & Trekking

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 10 Day

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 5 Day

6 Day Adventurer Tour

Five stars for James and Beyond the Glass. Truly an exceptional tour of Northern Ireland. James went beyond to ensure the trip was well paced and explored areas outside of the usual tourist trail. We enjoyed the special touch of a unique music play list for each day that related to our destination and also the local stories. Cycling and hiking mix was good amount for us, we are keen walkers. Best part, this was a mother and daughter (teenager) trip and we both really enjoyed the small group and active style of this trip.

Kerry Camino Walk

Northern & Southern Ireland

there is a difference between, a tour guide and a tour leader, this i did not know. a leader is the organizer of all events, transportation and accommodations. Zoe far exceeded my expectations in this role, and i would highly recommend her. She was not a tour guide. I was expecting more information about the people, locations and cultures of Ireland.

Shamrocks and Leprechauns (10 Days)

Absolutely amazing trip! Shane Creegan was excellent, and we enjoyed his company as much as a friend as his outstanding service and wealth of knowledge. We would never have been able to enjoy Ireland the way we did if we had tried to do it on our own, and certainly would have missed out on a great portion of the history, stories, and legends. Our experience with Brendan Vacations and Trafalgar have motivated us to return, and we can't wait to get back! We appreciate Trafalgar making good on a lodging issue (not the company's fault, but the hotel itself) and taking our tour to Bunratty Folk Park as way of apology. We would glady tour with Shane and Bernard, our driver again. Both were very professional and personable.

What people love about Active Tours in Ireland

We had a terrific time on our tour. Our guide / driver Leah was great with excellent stories and information. (Another group following a similar itinerary was equally complimentary of their guide) The company delivers what they promise and more.

What a fabulous way to see Ireland! Steve selected wonderful hotels, found interesting "off the beaten path" things to see, as well as the standards (Guinnes Tour, Trinity College, etc.) Our driver, Patrick, was so accommodating. He bent over backwards to make sure we experienced his Ireland! This was a great trip and I highly recommend it!

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

Regions in Ireland

• Ireland Wild Atlantic Way (28)
• Southern Ireland (27)
• Munster (13)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Adventure Tour and Travel Companies
• 10 Best Budget Adventure Tours 2024/2025
• Ireland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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Experience the Best of the Emerald Isle

Ireland is the land of breathtaking landscapes, friendly people, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. CIE Tours' vacations to Ireland help you experience the real Emerald Isle, whether you’re raising a pint with new Irish friends at a lively pub, following in the footsteps of your ancestors among the rolling hills and picturesque castles, or enjoying the best of Irish culture through tastings and authentic experiences. You’ll see Ireland in a whole new light.

• Ballintubber Abbey

Elaborately carved Celtic crosses dot the grounds of this ancient church founded in 1216, in Ireland's scenic County Mayo.

O'Brien's Tower

Originally built as a viewing area for 19th Century visitors, O'Brien's Tower sits near the high point of the Cliffs of Moher.

A vibrant arts and culinary scene—and colorful buildings set along medieval streets—make Galway a can't-miss stop.

• Blarney Castle

Kissing the "Stone of Eloquence" may be the reason millions of tourists flock to Blarney Castle every year, but the gardens around it—including its new Poison Garden filled with dangerous and toxic plants—are another reason to add this to your must-do list.

Trinity College & Book of Kells

Ireland's oldest college houses one of the country's most cherished treasures—a beautiful illuminated version of the New Testament Gospels, created by monks in the 9th century. It's one of the essential things to see in Dublin.

Giant's Causeway

Legend has it that the basalt stone columns were set into the sea by giants creating stepping stones—but volcanic activity set these stones in place millions of years ago.

Kylemore Abbey

This 19th century grand manor and its legendary gardens became the home to Benedictine nuns fleeing Belgium during World War I.

• Skellig Experience

Learn about the island of Skellig Michael, where early Christian monks lived in austere conditions. This beautiful and remote location was used in the film "Star Wars VII".

Dublin's Ha'penny Bridge

This cast-iron walking bridge, which spans the River Liffey, was built in the 19th century. Join the 30,000 Dubliners and visitors who walk across Dublin's iconic Ha'Penny Bridge each day.

• Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry offers one of the most scenic drives in the world, with emerald green meadows, stark cliffs and sandy shores dotted with ruins.

• Dingle Peninsula

The Irish mainland's westernmost point features wide, sandy beaches and rocky cliffs along its edges, and dramatic hills and mountains at its center.

Aran Islands Cliffs

These beautiful cliffs rise dramatically along the entire western side of Inis Mor island and yield great views of the Cliffs of Moher across Galway Bay.

Musicians and artists are an integral and vibrant part of fabric of the lively, cultured city of Galway.

Cheesemonger

Ireland's food renaissance includes many artisan producers who take full advantage of its natural bounty.

• Bunratty Castle

This splendid 15th-century tower house in County Clare includes a living reconstruction of the life of Ireland over a century ago.

Get a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's long-practiced art of falconry, the country's traditional "Sport of Kings."

Flavors of the Sea

Ireland abounds with the savors of the sea and the folk who fish it.

Fine Dining

A generation of culinary innovation and exploration has made modern Ireland a foodie's paradise.

In Ireland, fresh seafood is never more than a short swim away.

Merry Ploughboy

Dine at this iconic pub and come alive to the fancy footwork of Irish step dancers and lively traditional tunes.

• Cliffs of Moher

These shale and sandstone cliffs rise 700 feet above the Atlantic, and serve as one of the most iconic pieces of scenery in all of Ireland.

Sheep Herding

Ireland's emerald green pastures are home to countless flocks of sheep. Irish wool is used for the intricately knitted Aran sweaters and other goods.

Ireland Tours

• A La Carte B&B
• custom travel test
• Hand-Picked Accommodations
• Ireland - Custom Groups
• Self-Drive Classic Itineraries
• England & Wales - Custom Groups
• Self-Drive: Traveler’s Choice
• Scotland - Custom Groups
• Iceland - Custom Groups
• 8 - 14 Days
• 3D Battle Show
• Abbey Tavern
• Achill Island
• Alnwick Castle
• Aran Islands
• Arigna Mining Centre
• Ashford Castle
• Ballachulish
• Ballinwillin House
• Ballycotton
• Ballyfarnon
• Ballyknocken Cookery School
• Bernese Oberland
• Black Forest
• Blakes of the Hollow Pub
• Bristol Tour
• Brjansstadir
• Cambridge Punting
• Cambridge Tour
• Canterbury Cathedral
• Carlingford
• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Carrick-on-Shannon
• Causey Farm
• Celtic Whiskey Bar
• Charles Fort
• Chavenage House
• Chocolate-Making Experience
• Church Bar and Restaurant
• Cobh Heritage Centre
• Connemara Celtic Crystal
• Cooking Competition
• Croke Park Stadium
• Cross Guns Gastropub
• Crosskeys Inn
• Culzean Castle
• Dalkey Castle
• Derrynane House
• Distillery Visit
• Down Cathedral
• Dromoland Castle
• Dublin Tour
• Dun Aengus Fort
• Dun Laoghaire
• Ely Cathedral
• Farm to Table Dinner
• Farmhouse Visit
• Florence Court House
• Gallarus Oratory
• Gedächtniskirche
• Glasgow Tour
• Glasnevin Museum
• Glastonbury Tor & Abbey
• Glenlo Abbey
• Glenveagh National Park
• GPO Witness History
• Grasmere Gingerbread Shop
• Hampton Court Palace
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Highland games
• Irish National Stud
• Irish Whiskey Museum
• Isle of Capri
• Jameson Experience
• John B. Keane's Pub
• Johnstown Castle
• Kilkenny Castle
• Kilronan Castle
• King John's Castle
• Kyle of Lochalsh
• Lake Distillery
• Leeds Castle
• Letterkenny
• Long Meadow Cider
• Lough Ree Viking Cruise
• Malahide Castle
• Mary Rose Museum
• Melrose Abbey
• Montecatini Terme
• Muckross House
• Muckross Schoolhouse
• National Piping Centre
• New Chocolate Company Tasting
• Newmarket-on-Fergus
• O'Connors Famous Pub
• Páidí Ó Sé’s Pub
• Parknasilla House
• Peace Bridge
• Pollok House
• Quiet Man Walking Tour
• Rhine Gorge
• Riverside Transport Museum
• Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
• Rosscarbery
• Royal Tunbridge Wells
• Royal Yacht Britannia
• Scotney Castle
• Scottish Evening
• Seaweed Foraging
• Shepherd Neame Brewery
• Sissinghurst Castle Garden
• Sistine Chapel
• Slane Castle & Distillery
• Slea Head Loop
• Smithwick's Experience
• Spike Island
• St Michael's Mount
• St Patrick's Day in Dublin
• St. Austell
• St. Michan's Church Crypt
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• St. Peter's Basilica
• Stone of Destiny
• Strahov Stadium
• Stratford-upon-Avon
• Strokkur Geysir
• Svartifoss Waterfall
• Taigh Chearsabhagh
• Taylors Three Rock Pub
• Teeling Distillery
• Tenby Walking Tour
• Thames River Cruise
• The Armitt Museum
• The Church Bar and Restaurant
• The Glyde Inn
• Thingvellir National Park
• Three Bridges
• Timoleague Franciscan Friary
• Tintern Abbey
• Titanic Belfast
• Titanic Walking Tour
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Toompea Castle
• Tower of London
• Town Crier Tour
• Trafalgar Square
• Trevi Fountain
• Trim Castle
• Trim Living History
• Trinity College
• Triona Design
• Trotternish Peninsula
• Turf-Cutting Demonstration
• Turkish Bazaar Bas Carsija
• Uffizi Gallery
• UN Building
• Upper and Lower Old Town
• Urquhart Castle
• Veliko Jezero
• Venice Gondola Ride
• Venice Walking Tour
• Victorian Tall Ship
• Viking Splash Dublin Tour
• Villa Borghese Gardens
• Vilnius Castle
• Vilnius University
• Vintage Afternoon Tea Tour
• Walking Tour of Korcula
• Walled City Brewery
• Warner Brothers Studio “Making of Harry Potter”
• Waterford Crystal
• Waterford Tour
• Welsh Banquet
• Welsh Language Lesson
• Wenceslas Square
• West Coast Coastal Drive
• Westminster Abbey
• Westport House
• Whitby Tour
• White Cliffs
• Wild Atlantic Way Drive
• Windsor Castle
• Winter Palace
• Yansa Gora Monastery
• York Minster
• York Walking Tour
• Zwinger Palace
• Abbotsford House
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Ardmhor on Barra
• Armadale Castle
• Armory Museum
• Astronomical Clock
• Auschwitz-Birkenau
• Bamburgh Castle
• Bannockburn Visitor Center
• Baroque Town Hall
• Basilica of San Marco
• Bell Tower Clock
• Belleek Pottery
• Belvedere Palace
• Betws-y-Coed
• Black Madonna
• Blair Athol Distillery
• Blair Castle
• Blarney Castle & Killarney
• Blarney Woollen Mills
• Blasket Centre
• Bled Castle
• Blenheim Palace
• Blue Lagoon
• Bodmin Moor
• Bodnant Welsh Food Centre
• Boka Waterfall
• Book of Kells
• Bosta Beach
• Brecon Beacons National Park
• British Golf Museum
• British Museum
• British Music Experience
• Brodie Castle
• Brú na Boinne Visitor Center
• Burren Smokehouse
• Cabra Castle
• Caernarfon Castle
• Callanish Standing Stones
• Canal Cruise
• Cardiff Bay Tour
• Cardiff Castle
• Cardiff Tour
• Castle Esplanade
• Castle Hill
• Castle Howard
• Castle Square
• Cathedral of St. Dude
• Cathedral of St. Vitus
• Catherine Palace & Park
• Cavern Club
• Cawdor Castle
• Charles Bridge
• Chester Cathedral
• Chester Walking Tour
• Church of St. Donat
• Churchill Barriers
• Clan Donald Centre
• Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
• Corrib Cruise
• Crown Jewels
• Cruiser Aurora
• Crumlin Road Gaol
• Culloden Battlefield Visitor Center
• Culross (Outlander)
• Culross Abbey
• Culross Palace
• Daliborka Tower
• Dan O’Hara’s Homestead Farmhouse Visit
• Dartmoor National Park
• Derry’s Medieval Walls
• Dingle Bay Cruise
• Diocletian’s Palace
• Doge’s Palace
• Dome Cathedral
• Dominican Monastery
• Donegal Castle
• Doune Castle
• Dublin Castle
• Dubrovnik Walking Tour
• Dun Carloway Broch
• Dunbrody Famine Ship
• Dunrobin Castle
• Dunvegan Castle
• Edinburgh Castle
• Edinburgh Tour
• Eiffel Tower
• Eilean Donan Castle
• EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
• Evening Canal Cruise
• Falconry Exhibition
• Famous Blacksmiths Shop
• Field of Mars
• Firth of Forth
• Fisherman’s Bastion
• Florence Walking Tour
• Fort Augustus
• Fort William
• Forth Bridge
• Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum
• Franciscan Monastery
• Fridheimar Tomato Farm
• Gavrilo Princip Museum
• Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
• Gediminas’ Tower
• Gellert Hill Citadel
• General Post Office Museum
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• Glen Grant Distillery
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Ireland 7 Day Itinerary full of Iconic Cliffs, National Parks & Scenic Islands

Planning a trip to Ireland can be a lengthy task. One that leaves many scratching their head or pulling their hair out. But, lucky for you, I’ve come to your rescue. Hi, I’m Laura, your local guide. It’s my goal to make your trip to Ireland as carefree as possible. I love seeing visitors fall in love with my home country. Ireland is a magical place, and I understand just how much the trip means to you. It’s a once in a lifetime experience and I can’t wait to help you plan it. Now, let’s go on a road trip, an Ireland 7 day itinerary exploring the countries most iconic cliffs, beautiful national parks and we will even take a journey out to one of Ireland’s most scenic islands.

But first, we need to address the big question.

IS 7 DAYS IN IRELAND ENOUGH TIME?

To put it simply, no. 7 days is not nearly enough to see all there is to do in Ireland. In fact, a whole month would only allow you to scratch the service of what the country has to offer. However, with that being said, oftentimes one week in Ireland is all most tourists have. And, while it’s not a huge amount of time, it is enough to see some of the countries major highlights.

DO I NEED TO RENT A CAR IN IRELAND?

While renting a car in Ireland is most definitely desirable, it’s not 100% needed. It is possible to see some of the countries top attractions if you base yourself in major cities such as Dublin, Galway, Cork or Belfast. There are rather affordable Day Trips that run from each city. Check out my  Dublin Day Trips  post for further inspiration.

With that being said, I’d advise those planning a trip to Ireland to rent a car. It is the best way to see the ‘real’ Ireland and not be restricted by the time schedule of organised tours. 

For the purpose of this particular 7 day Ireland road trip, you will need a rental car.

Check out  Rental Cars Ireland  for affordable prices.

7 Days in Ireland Video Guide

DAY 1: THE ROCK OF CASHEL, BLARNEY STONE, COBH OR KINSALE

On the first day of the road trip, we will leave bright and early in the morning. It is best to catch an early flight to Dublin or stay the night previous in a nearby hotel. That way you are leaving yourself plenty of time to get out and explore.

For those arriving in Ireland from Shannon airport, it may be best for you to start this itinerary in reverse. Starting your trip from Galway.

Those arriving through Cork Airport may need to skip the first stop but don’t worry I’ll provide some alternative suggestions 😉

Dublin to Rock of Cashel Drive Duration: 2 Hours

STOP 1: THE ROCK OF CASHEL

The first stop of our 7 day Ireland itinerary is possibly one of the most iconic ruins in the Country, the Rock of Cashel.

The famous ruin is also known as the Cashel of the Kings and its structure is sure to leave you in awe.

The ruins sit on top of a hill looking out at Tipperary and the surrounding area’s.

It costs 6 euros per adult to enter.

And If time allows you could visit nearby Hore Abbey which is free to visit and is located just a 4-minute drive from the Rock of Cashel.

Rock of Cashel to Blarney Castle Drive Duration: 1 hour 15 

STOP 2: BLARNEY CASTLE AND GARDENS

The Blarney Castle and Garden is a must on any Ireland Itinerary, the castle is home to the Blarney Stone which is said to give those who kiss it the gift of gab.

Although there is a bit of a catch, the stone is located at the very top of Blarney Castle. To Kiss it, visitors must lie on their back, hold onto two metal bars and tilt their heads towards the ground. It’s a lot harder and scarier than it looks!

Entrance into the gardens cost 18 euros, it’s a little pricey but 100% worth it in my opinion.

Especially if you manage to kiss the stone and come back with the skills of flattery 😉

Related Post: Ireland Tips for First Time Visitors

STOP 3: THE CHOICE IS UP TO YOU

Designing a 7 day Ireland itinerary for others is a difficult task because frankly, I want to take you everywhere. That is why I have decided to add in some alternative routes. That way you can choose which place suits you best to visit. 

Blarney Castle to Cobh Drive Duration: 45 minutes

OPTION 1: COBH & A TRIP TO SPIKE ISLAND

The first option for stop 3 is a small coastal town named Cobh. The town is famous for being the final port call for the Titanic and back then it was known as Queenstown.

Cobh often gets compared to major US city San Francisco due to its hill like structure, Deck of Card houses which resemble the painted ladies and Spike Island.

Spike Island is said to be the Alcatraz of Ireland, it was used as a monastery and then became known as one of the largest prisons in the world.

There are a few things worth doing on your trip to Cobh like exploring St. Colemans Cathedral, going on a boat tour out to Spike Island , learn at the Titanic Experience .

Blarney Castle to Kinsale Drive Duration: 45 minutes

OPTION 2: KINSALE & THE OLD HEAD

The second option for stop 3 is one of the best things to do in West Cork and that is the beautiful town of Kinsale. This is one of my favourite towns in all of Ireland. It is decorated head to toe in bright vibrant colours, the local’s are super friendly and kind and there is so much to see and do within a short distance of the town.

After having a stroll around the town, it’s time to visit your first stop along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, the Old Head of Kinsale.

The Old Head is a 20-minute drive from the main town and it is a view that is sure to take your breath away.

There is also free parking on site.

Old Head of Kinsale to Kenmare Drive Duration: 2 hours Cobh to Kenmare Drive Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes

STOP 4: KENMARE TOWN, COUNTY KERRY

The final stop of day 1 is the beautiful town called Kenmare located in County Kerry. This is where I suggest staying for the night. The streets of Kenmare come alive a night, it is a great place to enjoy some live Irish music and have some fun with friends or relax after a long day of exploring.

Places to stay in Kenmare

Budget-Friendly Stay: Rockcrest House

Mid Range Stay: The Kenmare Bay Hotel & Leisure Resort (I have stayed here before and could not recommend it more)

High-End Stay: Park Hotel Kenmare

IRELAND ROAD TRIP 7 DAYS: DAY 1 SUMMARY AND MAP

Summary and a suggested timetable 7.30am: Leave Dublin Airport 9.30am: Explore the Rock of Cashel  12.00pm Explore Blarney Castle and Gardens 2.30pm Stop in Blarney Town for a late lunch 4.30pm Explore Kinsale or Cobh 9.00pm: Arrive in Kenmare Please note that the schedule best suits the summer months as the sunsets later in the evening.

DAY 2: KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK

On day 2 of our 7 day itinerary in Ireland, we are going to be exploring the beauty of Killarney National Park. It is important to start the day off bright and early to see as much of the park as possible in one day.

Kenmare to Moll’s Gap Drive Duration: 11-minute drive

STOP 1: MOLLS GAP

Leaving the beautiful town of Kenmare behind, start driving towards the insanely scenic driving route known as Molls Gap.

While Molls Gap isn’t necessarily a stop, it is definitely worth pausing for a moment or two to take in the beautiful views.

I’d advise stopping outside the Avoca as the road is quite wide here and there is a car park to the left. It may also be a good place to grab a takeaway brekkie for the road. They sell delicious pastries.

Molls Gap can get quite narrow in places, so, please be extra cautious while driving.

Moll’s Gap to Ladies Views Drive Duration: 8-minute drive

STOP 2: LADIES VIEW

The second stop of the day is possibly one of the most iconic views in Killarney National Park, Ladies View.

This is a popular place for people to stop before they continue on along the famous Ring of Kerry.

Due to the popularity of the stop, it can be sometimes hard to find a parking spot. Don’t worry though, by driving a further 5 minutes down the road you will see another car park that is generally far less busy.

I suggest spending 14 to 20 minutes here to take in the views and catch a few snaps with the insanely beautiful backdrop.

Ladies Views to Torc Waterfall Drive Duration: 8-minute

STOP 3: TORC WATERFALL

Next on our Ireland 7 day itinerary is the wonderful, Torc Waterfall. This is one of my favourite spots in all of Killarney.

The Waterfall is much bigger than I was expecting and it is an overall peaceful place to visit.

It takes about 15 minutes to reach the falls after leaving your car in the car park.

Please note that typing ‘Torc Waterfall’ into google maps will bring you to the upper car park, from here you will need to hike down to the Waterfall.

If you are looking to enjoy the shorter walk then consider parking  here  instead.

Torc Waterfall to Muckross Drive Duration: 8-minute drive

STOP 4: MUCKROSS ABBEY AND HOUSE

The next stop of the day is Muckross, a beautiful place to get out and stretch the legs.

On the grounds lies Muckross Abbey, a friary that was founded in 1448. The ruin is well preserved and in the middle grows an ancient tree that is said to be as old as the Abbey itself.

The grounds is also home to Muckross House, which is only accessible via guided tour.

While on the grounds it is nice to take in the views of Muckross Lake and enjoy the landscape of the surrounding mountains.

I’d recommend spending an hour to an hour and a half exploring the area.

Muckross to Killarney Town Duration: 11-minute drive

STOP 5: KILLARNEY TOWN

Following a stroll around the grounds of Muckross, it is time for a well-deserved lunch stop.

Killarney town is a lovely little village located in the heart of the National Park. 

I highly recommend the Shire Café and Bar , it is Lord of the Rings Themed and the food there is delicious.

Following the bite to eat have a stroll around the town, there are plenty of charming shops to have a browse.

Killarney Town to Ross Castle Duration: 5-minute drive

STOP 6: ROSS CASTLE & BOAT RIDE

The next stop of our 7 days in Ireland itinerary brings us to the stunning ruins of Ross Castle. Organised tours of the castle must be booked in advance.

If time allows I recommend going on a boat tour around Killarney Lakes.

This is a really beautiful yet alternative way to see the National park. The tour lasts for 1 hour and brings you around Ross Castle and its surroundings.

BOOK YOU TOUR HERE

Alternatively, head for a stroll around the grounds of Ross Castle.

Ross Castle to Gap of Dunloe Drive Duration: 20 minute drive

STOP 7: GAP OF DUNLOE

A further 20-minute drive from Ross Castle is the beautiful Gap of Dunloe. A stunning valley that is home to 5 lakes and some of the nicest landscapes in Ireland.

How to explore the Gap of Dunloe:

Trap and Pony: One of the most known ways to explore the Gap of Dunloe is by Trap and Pony . Jump on board with a local guide and learn about Killarney’s history as you take the epic views of the Valley.

Bike: Many of those visiting Killarney National Park often rent bikes to get around. The Gap of Dunloe is a popular spot to explore via bike.

Drive: While driving the Gap of Dunloe is not advised it is still possible. If you do decide to drive make sure to get there nice and early as it is a popular spot and the road is rather narrow making it difficult to get by other road users.

Walk: My favourite way to explore the beauty of the Gap of Dunloe is by walking. The trail itself is 11km there and 11km back. Therefore, it’s best to only walk to the halfway point before returning back to the car. I’d advise parking your car at Kate Kearney’s Cottage .

Organised Tour: You can also visit the Gap of Dunloe via organised tours, like the Gap of Dunloe by Boat & Foot tour . 

Stop 8: Dingle

The 3rd day on our Ireland itinerary brings us to the stunning sites of the Dingle Peninsula. Dingle is located an hour drive from the Gap of Dunloe. It’s best to arrive in Dingle on the evening of day 2 in order to see all of which the area has to offer.

Dingle is a beautiful coastal town, which is known as the gateway to many of Kerry’s breathtaking gems such as Dunquin Pier and Conor Pass. Spend the night listening to Irish tunes in a local bar before getting a good nights sleep.

Related Blog Post: 101 Songs for a road trip

Where to stay in Dingle

Budget-Friendly Stay: The Waterfront

Mid Range Stay: Dingle Bay Hotel

High End Stay: Fab View

IRELAND ITINERARY 7 DAYS: DAY 2 SUMMARY AND MAP

SUMMARY AND SUGGESTED TIMETABLE 8.00am Leave Kenmare 9.15am Arrive at Moll’s/Have Brekkie in Avoca 10.00am Ladies View 10.40am Torc Waterfall 11.30am Muckross 12.30pm Killarney for Lunch and a stroll 2.00pm Ross Castle & Boat Tour 4.00pm Gap of Dunloe 8.00pm Dingle

Day 3: The Dingle Penisula & Drive to Clare

The highlight of day 3 is the Dingle Penisula, spend the majority of the day soaking up the incredible sites of the Kerry Coastline before making your way to County Clare. I must warn you that the drive from Kerry to Clare is long, however, it is the only drive of this length throughout the itinerary.

Stop 1: Dingle Town

The first stop of Day 3 is the beautiful Dingle Town. Start the morning off with some breakfast in ‘ An Cupan Tae ‘.

Once your tummy is full it is time to take in the relaxed atmosphere of the town by going for a stroll along the harbour front.

The harbour is a beautiful place to soak in some sunray’s and admire the view of the surrounding mountains.

Dingle was also once home to Ireland’s most loved dolphin, Fungie. Unfortunely, Fungie was last seen in October 2020. There is a statue at the harbour where visitors can go to remember Fungie.

Dingle to Slea Head Drive: 20 minutes

Stop 2: Slea Head Drive

After a relaxing morning, it is time to jump in the car and drive towards Slieve Head.

This is arguably one of the most scenic drives in Ireland.

I’d advise taking your time on this route, as the road can be narrow in places.

However, the views of the Kerry Coastline make it completely worth it.

On a clear day, you may even spot the famous Skellig Michael.

Slea Head to Dunmore Head Drive: 6 minutes

Stop 3: Dunmore Head & Coumeenoole Beach

Dunmore Head is a beautiful place to go for a walk. It is famous for being the most westerly point of Ireland and the filming location for the Star Wars film The Last Jedi.

The walk is 2.6km long and takes around 30 minutes to complete depending on your fitness level.

As you stroll you will be presented with phenomenal views of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

At the end of the trail lies Coumeenoole Beach, perfect for a swim if time allows.

Dunmore Head to Dunquin Pier Drive: 6 minutes

Stop 4: Dunquin Pier

A further 6 minutes down the road is one of my favourite sites in all of Ireland, Dunquin Pier.

This is a must on any Ireland road trip. The pier jots out onto the Wild Atlantic Coast, the dramatic cliffs and crystal clear waters make it the perfect spot for a photo opportunity.

Please note that the iconic winding pier is for walking purposes only.

A few years back the pier made it into the news headlines when a tourist attempted to drive down it. Safe to say they got stuck 😂

Dunquin Pier to Conor Pass Drive: 30 minutes

Stop 5: Conor Pass

Conor Pass is the highest mountain pass in Ireland.

The drive is not for the faith hearted as it is rather narrow in places. However, if you drive slow you will be fine.

The drive begins on an open mountain road with plenty of room for two cars to pass.

I’d advise making your first stop along the pass here at the main viewing platform. From here you can hike slightly up the mountain to the left for an even better view of the pass.

There are a number of car spaces available and a clear view of the road to come. If you feel the road is too narrow for your driving ability you can always turn back around and drive back towards Dingle.

Once you have taken in all the epic views at the main viewpoint I’d advise driving towards Conor Pass Waterfall , there is a small car park here.

Stop for a moment to take in the amazing views of Peddler’s Lake and the Valley before continuing along with the remainder of the pass.

I recommend taking 1 hour and a half or more to explore Conor Pass.

Stop 6: Doolin, County Clare

The final stop of day 3 on our Ireland 7 day itinerary is the beautiful coastal town, Doolin. Doolin is located in County Clare and is a 3-hour drive from Conor Pass.

I recommend stopping in Limerick City for a quick bite to eat and a walk around before jumping back in the car.

Don’t be afraid to order an early dinner in Limerick as we will be spending 2 nights in Doolin, which will give you plenty of time to explore the town.

Day 4 is also an extremely busy day so it is probably best to avoid the pubs on night 3 😉

Places to Stay in Doolin

Budget-Friendly Stay: Oar restaurant and Rooms

Mid Range Stay: Lanelodge Doolin

High-End Stay: Doolin Inn

7 DAY ITINERARY IRELAND : DAY 3 SUMMARY AND MAP

SUMMARY AND SUGGESTED TIMETABLE 8.00am Dingle Brekkie & Walk the Harbour 9.30am Slea Head Drive 10.00am Dunmore Head 11.15am Dunquin Pier 1.00pm Lunch in Dingle 2.15pm Conor Pas s 6.00pm Dinner in Limerick City 8.15pm Doolin

Day 4: The Aran Island’s & The Cliffs of Moher Boat Ride

On day 4 of our 7 days in Ireland, we are going to dive a little bit off the beaten path with a trip to one of the 3 Aran Islands. The Aran Islands are a group of Island’s belonging to county Galway but are easily accessible from County Clare. On the way back from the island’s we are going to take a major detour and get up close and personal with the most famous Cliffs in Ireland , Cliffs of Moher.

Day 4 of our Ireland itinerary comes with a choice, Inis Mór or Inis Oirr?

I’ll highlight the top things to do on each island down below.

Option 1: Inis Mór

Inis Mór is the largest of the three Aran Island which is a given due to its name translating into ‘Big Island’ in English.

Inis Mór is also the most popular of the 3 Islands.

The easiest way to get around Inis Mór is by renting a bike. Bike rental costs around 15 euros for the day. Please be mindful that most rental shops only take cash.

Top 3 Things to do on Inis Mór

The Seal Colony: A rocky area on the island which is a famous spot for the local seals to hang out and sun bade. It is easier to spot the seals in the evening time.

Dún Aonghasa: A prehistoric fort that sits on top of a hill looking out over the entire Island. It takes about 30 minutes to walk up to Dún Aonghasa. From there you will be presented with a 360 view of the island and the Cliffs of Aran.

The Worm Hole: This is the most popular attraction on the island. A natural rectangular shaped rock pool.

Option 2: Inis Oírr

Inis Oírr is the smallest of the 3 Aran Island but surprisingly it has many wonderful things to do to keep you busy for the day.

The Easiest way to reach the island is by boat.

BOOK YOUR TICKET NOW

And much like Inis Mór, the best way to get around is by renting a bike. Most rentals will cost 13 euros for the day and they only take cash.

Top 3 Things to do on Inis Oirr

Plassey Shipwreck: Off the coast of Inis Oirr lies Plassey Shipwreck which washed up in a 1960 Wild Atlantic storm. The Ship is famous for being in the Credits of popular Irish Comedy Father Ted.

Caislean Ui Bhriain: This is quite literally a castle on top of a hill looking out over the entire island of Inis Oirr. The climb up to the castle is a little steep but nothing too difficult. Besides, the views make the hike completely worth it.

An Trá: This translates into ‘The Beach’ in English and it is quite frankly one of the nicest beaches in all of Ireland. The turquoise blue waters and white sand make it the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the island.

Stop 2: Cliffs of Moher Boat Tour

When purchasing your ticket for the Aran Island’s I’d advise getting the Cliffs of Moher Combo . This is a great way to get up close and personal with Ireland’s leading attraction. On the way back to Doolin from the Island the boat swings by the Cliffs to allow you to see them from a whole new perspective. It is truly a unique experience, one I recommend to anyone.

PS: There is indoor seating for anyone who prefers to stay dry 😉

Stop 3: Doolin

Once the ferry has dropped you off at Doolin harbour, pop into your hotel for a quick shower and then back out for a night on the town. Doolin is a great town to enjoy a real Irish atmosphere, with live music, craic (Irish for fun) and killer sunsets.

I recommend checking out Fiddle + Bow Hotel if you are looking for some world-class chipper and cocktails. The yard is set up with fairy lights, haystack seats and live music.

Or, if you fancy a pizza Stone Wall Pizzeria is a fab spot!

ITINERARY FOR IRELAND 7 DAYS: DAY 4 SUMMARY AND MAP

SUMMARY AND SUGGESTED TIMETABLE 9.15am Find Parking at Doolin Harbour 10.00am The Aran Islands 5.15pm Cliffs of Moher 6.00pm Back to Hotel 7.00pm Night on the Town Please note, parking at Doolin Harbour can be tricky. Especially in the summer months. I’d advise arriving early to avoid missing your boat

Day 5: Doolin, The Cliffs of Moher Walk & The Burren

Our 5th day in Ireland is jammed packed with beautiful scenery! We are going to go on a hike along the Cliffs of Moher, explore the surrounding area’s of Doolin and drive through the Burren National Park.

Stop 1: Doonagore Castle

Go for a walk or drive towards Doonagore Castle.

Doonagore Castle is located on top of a hill overlooking the town of Doolin. The castle is only a 20-minute walk from the main town however, the reason I am suggesting you drive is you need to keep all your energy for later on in the itinerary 😉

It is not possible to enter the grounds of the castle, however, it is worth driving around them.

The castle is an iconic symbol of County Clare. And is one of the most photographed places in Ireland.

Stop 2: The Cliffs of Moher Walk

The Cliffs of Moher Walk is a must for anyone spending the night in Doolin. The walk begins in the main town and continues for 8km until it reaches the Cliffs of Moher.

The trail is home to breathtaking scenery featuring Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

The walk is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level. It is not overly strenuous, however, it is long. Therefore, walkers must be prepared to be on their feet for a long period of time.

The walk to the Cliffs takes about 2 hours to complete. It is one of the only ways to see the cliffs for free.

Once you reach the visitor centre there is a free shuttle bus that drives back to Doolin. Make sure to check the operating times before you leave.

Doolin to the Burren Drive: 11 minutes

Stop 3: The Burren National Park

Once you arrive back in Doolin it’s time to jump in the car for a mini road trip.

The next stop on the list is the Burren National Park. The Burren is home to many beautiful hiking routes, however, I’d imagine you will be pretty tired after the cliff walk.

Luckily, the Burren is just as beautiful to drive through and don’t worry there are loads of opportunities to stop along the way.

The word Burren comes from the Irish word “Boíreann” which translates to ‘a rocky place’. This is the perfect way to describe the area.

I recommend you spend an hour admiring the National Parks beauty.

The Burren to Fanore Beach Drive: 11 minutes

Stop 4: Fanore Beach

So, the next stop on the list is Fanore Beach…but…there’s a catch.

You must go swimming! What!? Are you CRAZY? Swimming in Ireland.

I know, it may sound like the worst idea in the world but once you get in you won’t regret it.

Yes, it is cold! but…it’s an experience.

And it would be a shame to leave the Emerald Isle without going for a swim along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Beside, Fanore Beach is beautiful, golden sand surrounded by the rocky mountains of the Burren National Park.

That’s a bucket list swim right there 😉

Fanore Beach to Galway City Drive: 1 Hour 10 minutes

Stop 5: Galway City

Following a swim in Fanore beach, it’s time to dry off and head towards Galway city for the night. Galway City is the perfect place to spend the night, a lively city with a traditional Irish charm. There are plenty of spots in Galway to dance the night away.

Places to Stay in Galway

Budget-Friendly Stay: Savoy Hostel Galway City Centre

Mid Range Stay: Skeffington Arms Hotel (I stayed here on my last trip to Galway, I highly recommend)

High-End Stay: Harbour Hotel

IRELAND ROAD TRIP 7 DAYS: DAY 5 SUMMARY AND MAP

SUMMARY AND SUGGESTED TIMETABLE 9.30am Doonagore Castle 10.30am The Cliffs of Moher Walk 2.00pm Lunch in Doolin 3.30pm The Burren 5.00pm Fanore Beach 7.30pm Galway City

Day 6: Galway City, Connemara & Dublin

Now, for your 6th day in Ireland, you may want to spend the majority of your time in Galway City. And that is understandable, however, with Connemara right on your doorstep, it would be a shame not to catch a glimpse of the area’s beauty. I thought I’d spice things up a bit with a quick trip to the National Park.

Stop 1: Galway City

Start the morning off bright and early with a stroll around Galway City. If breakfast isn’t included with your hotel booking I’d highly recommend checking out Dela Restaurant for a delicious bite to eat.

Then go for a stroll around Galway City centre and Eyre Square. Here, you will come across some super talented buskers bringing the streets to life.

Another, must-see spot in the city is the Spanish Arch area, it’s a lovely place to go for a stroll along the waterfront.

I recommend staying in the city until around 10.30am.

Galway City Pine Island View Drive: 1 Hour

Stop 2: Pine Island View Point

Once you’ve filled your tummy up with delicious food it’s time to pack up your bags and hop in the car.

Start to drive towards Pine Island View in Connemara.

The drive takes 1 hour in total, however, it’s a really beautiful route. Take some time to stop the car for some photo’s and enjoy the beautiful view.

Pine Island is a plot of land located inside Derryclare Lake. And if you ask me, it doesn’t look like scenery you’d typically find in Ireland.

It is possible to walk onto the island through a concrete bridge, although it is quite narrow. So, be careful crossing it.

Pine Island View to Sky Road Drive: 20 minutes

Stop 3: Sky Road

Sky Road is a 16km long coastal route that hosts epic views of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

The drive loops around meeting in a small town named Clifden.

If time allows I recommend checking out the entire route. There are two driving options, the upper and lower road. The Upper Route is better for coastal views.

If you are stuck for time I recommend heading straight to the main viewpoint to catch a glimpse of what the driving route has to offer.

I promise this is one you do not want to miss!

Sky Road to Kylemore Abbey: 30 minutes

Stop 4: Kylemore Abbey

Our Final stop in Connemara is the wonderful, Kylemore Abbey. This is one of the most photographed places in all of Ireland and one of the Top Things to do in Connemara .

Tickets to the Abbey and grounds cost €15.00. And while I think it is a lovely experience, I’d advise only paying in if you have an extended amount of time in Connemara.

It’s a brilliant place to spend a morning or evening when it’s raining.

If you just want to catch a glimpse of the Abbey from the outside, it is possible to park in the car park for free. You can take photos of the Abbey before entering the grounds.

It is also possible to see the Abbey from the roadside.

Kylemore Abbey to Dublin City: 3 hours and 30 minutes

Stop 5: Dublin City

After an adventurous day exploring Connemara, it is time to hit the road towards Dublin. Unfortunely, this is a long driving route, however, once you hit the motorways there are plenty of service stations. Here, you can stop to use the bathroom, for a brief rest and get a bite to eat.

If you don’t want to do a lot of driving on Day 6 you can always opt into taking an organised day tour to Connemara from Galway.

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Places to Stay in Dublin

Budget-Friendly Stay: Jacobs Inn Hostel (Please Note for real budget-friendly options consider staying outside the city centre)

Mid Range Stay: Academy Plaza Hotel 

High-End Stay: Grafton Street Studios

ONE WEEK IN IRELAND: DAY 6 SUMMARY AND MAP

SUMMARY AND SUGGESTED TIMETABLE 9.00am Galway City 11.30am Pine Island View 1.00pm Sky Road 3.00pm Kylemore Abbey 5.00pm Leave for Dublin

Day 7: Dublin City

The final stop on our 7 days in Ireland post is none other than the capital city, Dublin. Now, while 24 hours in the city is not nearly enough to see all of which it has to offer it is possible to tick off some of the highlights.

Check out my detailed guide showing you the perfect way to spend just one day in Dublin . Or, if you have more time to spend in the capital I have linked some valuable recourses down below.

• 2 Days in Dublin
• Walks in Dublin
• Free Things to do in Dublin
• Best Sunset Spots in Dublin
• Hidden Gems in Dublin

Packing for Ireland

Ireland is known for it’s unpredictable weather, so much so, that it is common to see all 4 seasons in the one day. That is why it is important to come prepared with an Ireland packing list. I have highlighted down below the tops things you need to bring on your Ireland vacation. Check out my Ireland packing guide for a more detailed list.

• Waterproof Jacket
• Hiking Boots (<- my favourite brand)
• A Day Bag (<- Also my favourite)
• A torch/Headlight (for hiking)
• A Windproof Umberella
• Travel First Aid Kit
• Water Bottle (The Tap Water is Drinkable)

Best Time of Year to Visit Ireland

This is a difficult question to answer, you may want to visit at different times of the year for different reasons.

March  is a great time to visit Ireland the weather is starting to get warmer and it’s St. Partrick’s Day on the 17th but it’s busy for that reason.

June typically is the month that gets the best weather, the summer holidays havn’t started just yet so it is not peak season but it’s starting to get busy.

September is my personal favourite time to travel Ireland, the chicldrean have gone back to school but the sun is still shinning (It’s Ireland it still rains but there is a good chance you’ll get a sunny day or two in September)

Christmas can also be a great time to visit Ireland . See the cityies dressed up in sparkling lights, visit some charming Christmas markets and well… ring in the New Year Irish Style.

No matter what time of year you decide to visit Ireland. I have no doubt that you will have an amazing time.

Thanks for reading! I hope you liked this and have an amazing time on your Ireland Vacation. Feel free to send me a message on Instagram if you have anymore questions <3

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Check Out my Youtube Channel

If you are planning a trip to Ireland and are looking for some visual Ireland travel guides I would love for you to check out my youtube channel. Here are some video guide that will fit in with this road trip itinerary.

• Kerry Road Trip
• West Cork Road Trip
• Things to do on Inis Oirr

Disclaimer: Please note that some blog posts on LiveAdventureTravel contain affiliate links, meaning I may make a commission on purchases through those links. This is of course at no extra cost to you. Live Adventure Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.

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Active Tours in Ireland

• Wild coastlines and sandy beaches of the Dingle Way
• Walk the Cliffs of Moher and Ireland’s beautiful Atlantic coastline
• Scenic driving on open roads to explore the many magical locations
• Discover the Ring of Kerry’s charming coastal towns 
• Explore Dublin, including Trinity College and the Book of Kells
• Cycle the stunning coastline of Galway, Connemara & Mayo

Ireland is a destination that offers real, authentic experiences that are off the beaten track; breathtaking coastal paths, ancient pilgrim routes, and ribbon-like mountain tracks. It is difficult to capture the island's spirit as it has to be experienced by meeting the easy-going locals, listening to warming songs at traditional music sessions, and savoring hearty home-cooked meals.

Whether you are looking to complete one of Ireland's established national trails, such as the Dingle Way , the  Kerry Way , or the Wicklow Way , we take the hassle out of planning this trip for you. Enjoy the ease of having your luggage transferred for you, so you can set off each day with a light backpack. You may be interested in discovering one Ireland's best-kept secrets; the Beara Peninsula in Ireland's South West . The Beara Way goes through beautifully desolate areas where your only company along some stretches are flocks of sheep. Discover Ireland's West Coast by walking through the lunar landscape of the Burren or cycling the best sections of the Wild Atlantic Way . 

Since 2006, Macs Adventure has been helping outdoor enthusiasts to explore the wonders of Ireland on foot. With the freedom to create your own itinerary and the knowledge of our team, you can book with confidence. We have searched for the secret corners to ensure that your walking tour of the Emerald Isle is a trip that you will always remember.

Walking & Biking Tours in Ireland

Featured Tours - Ireland

The Kerry Way

The Dingle Way

The Wicklow Way

Dublin & The Wicklow Way In Style

Walking Ireland's West Coast

Best of the Dingle Way

Cycle the Best of the Wild Atlantic Way

The Best of Ireland Drive & Hike

Walking in Connemara

Saint Patrick's Way Short Break

Causeway Coast and Antrim Glens

Discover ireland.

Our first-hand knowledge of Ireland's best kept secrets has allowed countless Macs Adventure customers to confidently explore every corner of the country. We've been running our self guided hiking trips in Ireland since 2006, and have dialed in the perfect itineraries for culture, food and drink, and scenery.

Choice of Tours: Ireland is now one of our most popular destinations for US customers, with hundreds of hikers traveling with Macs Adventure to Ireland each year. Whether you're interested in impressive coastal trails with castle ruins and ancient stones such as those on the Dingle Way , or the best live-music pub in town, rest assured we've planned it right for you.

Self-guided: We provide the freedom for you to choose your route and travel companions, and to discover Ireland independently at your own pace. We've made great friends with the accommodation providers and baggage handlers and should you have the slightest issue, they'll do everything possible to help you out. Additionally, our 24/7 support team is just a phone call away.

Accommodation: Our accommodation is carefully selected to ensure you have a good level of comfort alongside friendly Irish service. We find the best B&BS and guesthouses, or more up market In Style hotels, in the villages and towns that our routes pass through. You'll find that it’s the people and the proprietors that make these tours and Ireland so special. All of your luggage is transported to the next overnight – hassle free hiking the way you want it.

We pride ourselves on our unique expertize and we showcase a fine selection of tours spanning across the entirety of Ireland. The beauty of this Emerald Isle and the Irish spirit is embedded in all our hiking in Ireland vacations.

Irish pubs are famous throughout the world, and most major cities now have an Irish pub/bar. However, an authentic Irish pub is not full of people with green hats with shamrocks dangling from them!

Who goes to the pub: In the late 17th century, the ‘Public House’ was a place for working men to drink. It's now a hub for the local community and everyone, including children are welcome. It’s common for an Irish family to take a baby baptism party for a drink at the pub after church. The Irish love getting together and having a chat over an informal pint.

The ‘Craic’: Pronounced ‘crack’, this very Irish saying translates to ‘What’s been going on with you, tell me a story about your day’. You go to the pub to hear the craic.

Buying rounds: The landlord of the pub is also normally a friend and will know all the locals. You order at the bar, and no tip is expected. If you’re with a group, you’ll take turns in buying drinks for the table. But you can’t leave before it’s your round!

Guinness: A pint of The Black Stuff. It’s unlikely that you’ll find an Irish pub which doesn’t sell Guinness. First brewed in Dublin in 1759 and is now brewed worldwide – however naturally it always tastes better in it’s homeland! 

The music: Small groups of local musicians will often play in the pub. It’s a casual affair with the musicians sitting in the corner drinking pints whilst playing. Impromptu music with a singsong and the tin whistle is less common, but this is the magic of small-town pubs when friends get together.

Food: A few pubs will serve food, but not all. However, you’ll aways be able to get a small pack of salty peanuts and a bag of ‘crisps’…don’t ask for chips as might end up with a portion of fries!

Sláinte: Cheers

Potato was the staple food of the Irish in the mid 1800’s. The plant disease ‘potato blight’ caused the crops to fail in successive years from 1845-1849. The British rule still forced wheat, cattle, diary and beans to be exported and as a result over 2 million people died of hunger or emigrated from Ireland.

The emigration to the USA was at its peak during this period, and the Irish comprised nearly half of all immigrants in the USA in the 1840s. This flow continued till about 1930. The population of Ireland pre-Famine was over 8 million, and it’s never regained these numbers, with it currently being around 5 million.

When thinking about the Dingle Way , a spectacular coast, rugged mountains, and ancient ruins come to mind. But that's not all the peninsula has to offer! The area has a rich cultural heritage; an ancient language, welcoming residents, longstanding traditions, and outstanding food. The Dingle Peninsula is more than an attraction, it is more than a visit, it is a destination. Residents and members of Dingle Peninsula Tourism Alliance have recognized their responsibility to keep the area protected, to allow future generations to enjoy it as much as we do today.

Here are some simple ways to contribute during your visit!

• Say “NO” to plastic – a great way of doing this is limiting the use of straws, plastic drinking bottles, plastic coffee cups and plastic bags.
• Leave no trace – carry your personal waste such as wrappers from snacks and other items and avoid littering along the route.
• Stay local, shop local – Support the local communities by eating and shopping locally!
• Let nature's sounds prevail – enjoy your experience, keep your noise to a minimum and respect farm animals and wildlife around you (with the added bonus of a higher chance of finding them!)
• Leave what you find – Don’t take home rocks, plants or flowers as souvenirs as some of these can be valuable for the natural habitats.

Shellfish - Being an island nation, it’s no wonder seafood especially shellfish is popular. Lobster, crab, shrimps and mussels can be found on most menus in the summer, and in September oysters come into season. Food festivals such as the Galway Oyster Festival (September) and the Dublin Bay prawn festival in Howth (May) are a joy for foodie visitors.

Soda Bread - The basic ingredients are always the same, baking soda, buttermilk and flour. However, every Irish family has a different recipe which can include adding seeds, bran or oats and making it sweet with honey or dried fruits. Always eaten sliced with butter.

Stew - A good plate of hearty Irish stew is a one-pot meal with potatoes, onions and traditionally mutton, but usually lamb these days. Carrots are sometimes added, and it’s left to simmer and reduce for a thick delicious warming meal coming in from a rainy day!

Colcannon and Champ  - Both these dishes are potato based, and it’s unlikely you’d have both on your plate at the same time. Champ is mashed potato with spring onions, butter and milk. Colcannon is the same but also includes cabbage or kale.

Boxty  - Another potato dish, Boxty covers the full range of potato dumplings, potato pancakes and potato bread. Usually, it’s grated potato mixed with mashed potato and then cooked in different ways for the various types. It’s often eaten with eggs and bacon for breakfast or with smoked salmon for lunch.

The Dingle Peninsula is one of the main "Gaeltacht" areas of the Emerald Isle, where the Irish language (Gaelic) is widely spoken at home, in schools and even the workplace. Due to its remote location, it was removed from the influences of the modern world for a long time and the local language and traditions have largely remained intact. Staying in "Gaeltacht" villages means you get to really immerse yourself in the Irish cultural heritage.

You can be sure to come across the Gaelic symbols during your Dingle Way adventure - road signs, names, descriptions and even menu items! Learning a few phrases will help you to get a deeper understanding of the people of this beautiful part of the world.

Here are a few sentences to practice:

Good morning - "Maidin Mhaith" (pronounced: mod-jin wot)

Cheers - "Slainte" (pronounced: slawn-cheh)

I speak only a little Irish - "Níl agam ach beagáinín Gaeilge" (pronounced: kneel ah-gum ock byug-aneen gayle-geh)

Thank you - "Tapadh leat" (pronounced: tapah lat)

The weather is beautiful today - "Ta an aimsir go halainn inniu" (pronounced: taw an eyeim-shur guh haul-inn inn-you)

Storytelling has been a staple of the Irish culture since the dawn of time and the folklore has famous myths and legends. Think of the many songs, limericks and tales that exist. It is safe to say that mythology and Ireland go hand in hand, have you heard of any of these stories?

• The Leprechauns  (or locally known as " Leath bhrògan"):  The name translates from 'shoemaker' and the leprechaun is the cultural symbol of Ireland. They were said to roam the Emerald Isle before humans did, wearing a unique hat and red hair. Leprechauns leave a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, so be sure to have a look if you see one!
• The Pooka (or locally known as "púca"): Pooka's are shape-changing creatures that are some of the most feared in Irish folklore. They are said to be evil and bring bad luck to those who have seen them. For this reason, they are most feared by farmers around the times of harvest!
• The Irish Harp : You may have noticed that the harp is the national symbol of Ireland, think of the company logos of famous Irish brands such as Guinness and Ryanair. The story goes that evil gods stole the first harp from Dagda (an Irish king). This caused a lack of music in Ireland and people turned very sad. The evil gods then gave back the harp and the joy returned to the entire land. This is how the harp became a national icon!
• The Shamrock : The three-leafed clover is an important Irish legend and crucial in the spread of Christianity across the Emerald Isle. St Patrick saw a clover and decided to use it to explain the three strands of the father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit as one, to the Celts. The Celts could previously not understand what St Patrick was trying to say, but with the help of the shamrock, they finally did. 

Reading a book can give you a really good taste of the culture, history and landscapes of a destination. Whether you are planning a trip to Ireland or have recently booked a trip, here are some classic books that are set in Ireland!

Dubliners by James Joyce - This famous collection includes 15 short stories about the lives of ordinary people living in Dublin in the early 1900s. The book has a variety of characters and is an easy read with varied outlooks on life. 

The Sea by John Banville - This novel is about love, loss, and the power of memory. A middle-aged Irishman called Max returns to the seaside town where he spent his summer holidays as a child to cope with the loss of his dear wife. Max comes to understand the past and this is the center of this beautifully written novel.

The Wild Irish Girl by Sydney Owensen - This book quickly reached bestseller status after it was published in 1806. In this story, a badly behaved boy is banished to his father's estate in Ireland to mend his ways. He then falls in love with the land and with a girl that he meets, but there are some complicated family affairs.

The Green Road by Anne Enright - This is the 6th novel by Anne Enright concerning the lives of the Madigan family on Ireland's Atlantic coast. This book is about family, selfishness and compassion when a family returns to the west coast of Ireland for a final family Christmas before their mother's home is about to sell. After a big conflict, the family is confronted with their ties and the road that brought them home. 

Galway Bay by Mary Pat Kelly - This story takes place in a hidden corner of Ireland where fisherman and farmers find hope and courage in their songs, faith and celebrations. This novel describes the life of a young couple starting a family and selling their crops and catch to pay rent. Potatoes have become the bread and butter of their existence and when three harvests are destroyed, the natural disaster turns into The Great Starvation.

The Yellow House by Patricia Falvey - This novel delves into the politics of Northern Ireland at the beginning of the 20th-century where main character Eileen is torn between two men, each drawing her to one extreme. As war is declared, Eileen begins working at a local mill and tries to save money to hold onto her dreams. This story describes her struggles in trying to separate politics from her personal life.

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Vagabond Tours Are..

Ireland's original small-group tours.

In 2002, Rob led his first ever small-group tour of Ireland. Twenty-two years later, we are still listening, learning and improving every season. Every Vagabond & Driftwood itinerary distils decades of experience into one amazing adventure!

Family-Owned With Local Guides

Based in Ireland, Vagabond & Driftwood has always been family-owned and operated. We recruit and train our driver guides locally. Our network of independent hotels and activity suppliers helps our tours contribute directly to the local economy.

An Award Winning Irish Tour Company

Exceptional quality runs right through Vagabond & Driftwood. Our standards have been recognised internationally. Most recently, we were the first B Corp from the Irish travel industry and the only tour operator awarded in the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2023.

Choose Your Tour Style x

Driftwood - relaxed pace.

Relax on a Driftwood small-group tour of Ireland featuring quality time to explore Ireland's scenery, history & culture.

• ✔️ Maximum 14 Other Guests
• ✔️ Comfortable Mercedes Tour Vehicles
• ✔️ Explore Castles, Gardens & Scenery
• ✔️ Guaranteed Scheduled Departures
• ✔️ Relaxed Tour Pace

Vagabond - Active Adventure

Get active on a small-group tour of Ireland featuring adventure, history, culture and wild destinations.

• ✔️ Maximum 12 Other Guests
• ✔️ Chunky 4×4 Mercedes Tour Vehicles
• ✔️ Hiking, Biking, Horseback-Riding & Kayaking
• ✔️ Upbeat Tour Pace

Vagabond - Active Small-Group Tours of Ireland

Driftwood - Easy-Paced Small-Group Tours of Ireland

Our Ireland Tours Care For Community and Planet

Like you, we want our children and grandchildren to be able to enjoy authentic travel experiences into the future.

We aim to bring long-term benefits to both community and planet as part of our responsible tourism mission.

That's why we're a certified B Corp .

Rob & Amy Rankin + the Vagabond Team

FLEXIBLE BOOKING TERMS

Reserve your seat for 7 days for free. Book your tour for €250 per person.

Learn more about the flexibility built into Vagabond & Driftwood Tours.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We've answered a few questions about Ireland since 2002...

Dive into our FAQs  to learn more.

Where We Tour In Ireland

Our expert VagaGuides know every last corner of Ireland!

We tour Northern Ireland , the Wild Atlantic Way  and Ireland's Ancient East .

Highlights include the Ring of Kerry , Dingle, Giants Causeway, the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, the Burren, Kilkenny Castle and the Blarney Stone.

The counties we visit include Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, Donegal, Galway, Waterford, Sligo, Clare, Cork and Tipperary. For convenience, all of our small-group tours depart from Dublin .

Expect Excellence On Your Ireland Tour

We were ranked #12 in the Travel + Leisure   World’s Best Awards 2023 — one of the travel industry's most prestigious international accolades.

Can more than 1,000 5-Star Reviewers on TripAdvisor be wrong? Our small-group tours of Ireland are rated 5/5 and were awarded a 2023 Travellers Choice Award .

Our amazing tours of Ireland were awarded Feefo's 2023 Gold Trusted Service Award based on verified guest reviews. Thank you for sharing the love!

Our tours of Ireland are a force for good in the community. We are immensely proud to have become Ireland's first B Corp certified travel and tourism company.

Our 8 Day Vagabond Wild Irish Rover Tour was the only tour of Ireland selected by National Geographic Traveler Magazine's 50 Tours of a Lifetime

We care about the impacts of our Ireland tours. To back this commitment up and strive for improvement, we are active members of Sustainable Travel Network

Our 6 Day Driftwood Ancient Ireland Tour took home the 2019 award for Best Ireland’s Ancient East Tourism Experience

We were delighted when our small-group tours of Ireland were awarded the Green Tourism & Entertainment Award at the Green Awards 2018

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• 📏 What Size Luggage Can I Bring?
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The Ultimate Itinerary for 7 Days in Ireland

Ireland is one of the most beloved countries in Europe, if not the world, because of its 50 shades of green, medieval castles, iconic movie/TV filming locations, scenic drives, delicious cuisine, world-renowned whiskey, and more. Though Ireland is a small country, it has so much to see and explore. Truth be told, 7 days in Ireland was not enough for us because of the number of cities and castles we wanted to explore. 

So I highly recommend spending at least 7 days in Ireland, especially if it is your first trip to the Emerald Isle. And if you are the type of traveler wanting to see it all during your first trip to a new destination, you will definitely want to read through my ultimate itinerary for 7 days in Ireland.

This itinerary is not for the faint of heart, it is for those daring to experience it all. I packed this itinerary to be as perfect as possible, including a day in Northern Ireland. From castles to Star Wars  and  Game of Thrones  filming locations , beautiful landscapes, driving on the Ring of Kerry, touring the famous Jameson Distillery, watching a traditional Irish dance show and more.

So whether you copy this itinerary day by day, or take little bits and pieces to create your own itinerary – this post of 7 days in Ireland has it all!

My itinerary for driving 7 days in Ireland is almost a complete circle of the country that starts and finishes in Dublin. It is all based on my first-hand experience and includes where to stay, places you must visit, tidbits of what you can do with additional time, and more.

At the end of this post, I hope you will walk away with a wealth of information to help plan your own trip to Ireland.

Full disclaimer –  Our post may contain affiliate links. When you click on the link you will have the option to purchase a product at no extra cost to you, but we would receive a small commission. We want to thank everyone for following and supporting us on all of “Our Sweet Adventures.” 

The Best Time to Visit Ireland

In my opinion, I think the best time to visit Ireland is in early May. The trees and flowers should be at full bloom, the weather is fantastic (give or take some rainy days per usual), and there are fewer crowds which mean lower costs as well.

Other great times to visit Ireland are during St. Patricks Day, April, early June, September, and October. After experiencing Oktoberfest in Munich , we can only imagine how much fun St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland must be. However, there are some sights that are not open yet. Some of the “touristy” destinations to visit and tours to enjoy only open after Easter weekend.

If you plan to visit Ireland between late June through August, be prepared for long waiting times to kiss the Blarney Stone or crowds of people along the Cliffs of Moher.

Best Way to Get Around Ireland

The best way to get around Ireland and truly enjoy everything the Emerald Isle has to offer is by renting a car. If you are not used to driving on the left side of the road, do not be discouraged – it is a lot easier than you would think! Furthermore, you can also find automatic cars at a reasonable price.

Here are a few helpful driving tips for an Ireland road trip :

• BUY trip insurance and make sure it covers third-party vehicles. Whether you purchase it through the rental company or through another party, you must have insurance to rent vehicles in Ireland.
• Get comfortable sharing tiny roads. Take your time and allow other cars to pass before you continue.
• Avoid tolls – it not only saves money, but you also get to enjoy Ireland’s beautiful landscape.
• The speedometer and speed signs in Ireland are in KPH, but if you drive to Northern Ireland it changes to MPH.

7 Days in Ireland Itinerary

It took us a long time to come up with the perfect 7 days in Ireland itinerary due to the fact that we wanted to see as much of the Emerald Isle, including Northern Ireland, as possible. The website that helped us plan our Ireland trip is Furkot . It allows you to place each destination you want to visit with the desired time you want to stay. Then it calculates your entire trip with the exact times of when you need to arrive and leave at each destination – it is amazing. To give you an idea of what our 7 days in Ireland itinerary looks like, here is a map.

Day 1: Dublin to Donegal

Day 2: Donegal to Galway

Day 3: Galway to Dromoland Castle – 1 hour

Day 4:  Dromoland Castle to Killarney – 3 hours 15 minutes

Day 5: Killarney to Cork – 1 hour

Day 6: Cork to Dublin – 3 hours 15 minutes

Day 7: Dublin to Flying Home

Day 1: Begin your 7 Days in Ireland Itinerary from Dublin to the Causeway Coast and Donegal

If you love Game of Thrones and beautiful landscapes, then you will LOVE this first day. Once you arrive in Dublin (in the morning), pick up your rental car and hit the left side of the road! This will be a very long, but rewarding day. You start in Dublin, then make your way to Northern Ireland and finish in Donegal.

There is so much beauty to explore and see that you will feel like your next 7 days in Ireland cannot top this first day. I know it seems daunting to drive this far on your first day in Ireland, but trust me, you do not want to miss Northern Ireland and the Causeway Coast.

Visit Your First Irish Castle at Malahide Castle

What better way to start your 7 days in Ireland than with a medieval castle? The first stop is to Malahide Castle. A very picturesque castle you cannot miss in Ireland that dates back to the 12th century. There is plenty to enjoy at Malahide Castle. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the castle, step into the beautiful butterfly house and take a stroll through the botanical garden and fairy trail.

Stroll through the Dark Hedges

Whether you are taking an epic Game of Thrones tour or just love beautiful landscapes, you cannot miss walking through the “Kings Road”. To put it simply, the Dark Hedges are absolutely stunning in person. As a  Game of Thrones fan, I truly felt like I was in Westeros. Just be sure you time this destination well because if you go between 10am to 1pm, you will most likely be fighting the crowds like you are fighting to sit on the Iron Throne.

Walk Across Carrick-a-Rede Bridge

Walking across the famous Carrick-a-Rede Bridge is one of the most popular and sought out experiences to enjoy in Northern Ireland. The 60-foot long rope bridge is about 100 feet above the water and links the mainland of Northern Ireland to the tiny island of Carrickarede. You must visit the ticket booth in-person to pay for a specific time slot to walk across the bridge. So it is recommended to get your ticket in case the next time slot is all taken and you have to wait.

Find Yourself Mesmerized at Giants Causeway

This is by the far the most beautiful landscape in Northern Ireland and should not be missed during your trip! Giants Causeway is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and the most visited site in Northern Ireland. Visitors can easily spend at least an hour exploring and walking along the amazing hexagonal stepping stones. They also have a state of the art visitor center where you can learn more about the history and formation of Giants Causeway.

Explore the Ruins of Dunluce Castle

This is one of the most dramatic landscapes and castles on the entire Emerald Isle. It is also the castle featured in Game of Thrones to create the Greyjoy Castle (or House of Greyjoy) on Pyke Island. When you visit Dunluce Castle, you can find archaeological digs that show Dunluce Town’s street grid system. Furthermore, after exploring the castles’ ruins, head down to the sea cove beneath the castle known as the Mermaid Cave – it is a true hidden gem.

Stay at a Castle Hotel Fit for Royalty

There is nothing more fitting than staying at a castle hotel on your first day in Ireland. So finish your day at Lough Eske Castle Hotel & Spa , a five-star hotel in Donegal, Ireland. In addition to feeling like royalty in a castle hotel, one of the best features of Lough Eske Castle is its award-winning spa. So relax and unwind at their Thermal Suite before you continue your 7 days in Ireland itinerary.

Total driving time:  5 hours and 35 minutes

Where to stay: Lough Eske Castle Hotel & Spa in Donegal or enjoy glamping in Ireland at Portsalon Luxury Camping.

If you have more time: Spend a day in Belfast, tour Bushmills Distillery

Places you cannot miss: Dark Hedges, Carrick-a-Rede Bridge, Giants Causeway

Day 2: Continue your 7 Days in Ireland Itinerary from Donegal to Galway

A trip to Ireland is not complete without a visit to Galway. So of course, I have included it in my 7 days in Ireland itinerary. There are so many beautiful places to visit just outside of the city including several different castles and a beautiful National Park. These remarkable places help break apart the long drive from Donegal to Galway.

Gaze Upon the Marvelous Benbulben

The first stop from Donegal to Galway is Sligo’s marvelous tabletop mountain called Benbulben. Whether you are hiking the trail to the top of Benbulben or gazing upon it from a grass field, it is a breathtaking sight not to be missed during your road trip in Ireland.

Try Handmade Chocolates by the Benedictine Nuns at Kylemore Abbey

Do you love chocolate and castles? If yes, you are going to be in heaven at Kylemore Abbey. The Kylemore Castle and Estate is one of the most iconic destinations in Ireland and the perfect place for a pit stop. The estate is 13,000 acres, so you will be able to stretch your legs and explore some beautiful places. Kylemore Abbey includes a Victorian Wall Garden, a neo-Gothic church, an Old Mausoleum and of course the castle itself. Furthermore, there is a chocolate kitchen where you can take a sneak peek inside the process of the Benedictine Nuns making Irish chocolate truffles and bars. Then head to the Craft & Design Gift Shop to take home some of the most delicious chocolates.

Enjoy a Luxurious Afternoon Tea at Ashford Castle

Check off the most luxurious item on your bucket list , afternoon tea at an Irish castle. More specifically at Ashford Castle, a five-star castle known to be one of the best hotels in the entire world. We have never experienced such luxury than at Ashford Castle and highly recommend this experience for your 7 days in Ireland itinerary. For only $50, you can enjoy unlimited tea from around the world, delicious pastries, scrumptious finger sandwiches, and fresh scones. Yes, I will say it again – everything in the afternoon tea experience is unlimited! Moreover, only guests of Ashford Castle can visit the estate. Whether they are staying at the hotel, dining for dinner, booked an activity, or having afternoon tea, only guests are able to pass through the gates. Trust me, you will want to be a guest to explore the castle grounds.

Sing and Drink the Night Away at Traditional Pubs in Galway

People visit Ireland for many reasons and a few include singing, dancing, and drinking in traditional pubs. One of the cities well known for all of those activities is the one and only, Galway, Ireland. So grab a pint of Guinness and enjoy the Irish culture and lifestyle.

Just note, that you will want to find your pub before 7pm because each one gets packed very quickly. Our friends and I had a very hard time finding our perfect pub at 9pm. A few of the best pubs in Galway are Taaffes Bar, Tig Coili, The Quays, Murphy’s, O’Connell’s, and Naughtons.

Of course, there are plenty of other things to do in Galway , so if you have more time, I recommend booking a Galway tour or exploring the city on your own.

Total driving time: 5 hours and 15 minutes

Where to stay: Eyre Square Hotel in Galway

If you have more time:  Visit Clifden Castle, spend an extra day in Galway

Places you cannot miss: Kylemore Abbey, Ashford Castle

Day 3: Dance Away from Galway to Sleep like Royalty at Dromoland Castle

This is one of the shortest drives during the 7 days in Ireland itinerary, so take your time and enjoy each destination. Furthermore, a few of these can be great day trips from Galway if you have extra time during your trip.

Visit Dunguaire Castle

Dunguaire Castle is one of the most visually stunning castles in Ireland . In addition to marveling at the castle towering over the bay, visitors can also experience a medieval banquet dinner. Though we did not have the time to enjoy the medieval banquet dinner, we have heard nothing but great reviews. So if you have more time than 7 days in Ireland, you should definitely take a step back in time and enjoy this Irish experience.

Eat Chocolate at Hazel Mountain

Leave it to Our Sweet Adventures to find the best chocolate in Ireland. As a former pastry chef, I was more than impressed with the quality, creativity, and flavor of the chocolates by Hazel Mountain. It is perfectly located between Galway and the Cliffs of Moher to get your healthy dosage of chocolate.  Which is why I made sure to include Hazel Mountain in my 7 days in Ireland itinerary. Hazel Mountain is a boutique bean to bar chocolate factory and shop producing handmade chocolate truffles and bars. They only use the finest ingredients in Ireland including milk from local grass-fed cows, seaweed, honey, lavender and of course, whiskey. Be sure to make your own little truffle box featuring their special flavors of the week to enjoy at home.

Explore Ruins at Corcomroe Abbey

Corcomroe Abbey is a great little pitstop to explore more of Ireland’s beautiful ruined abbeys. It was built during the 13 th century and a lot of the structure remains intact. So you can get a real sense of the magnitude the abbey had during its time. It is truly a stunning and picturesque building inside and out. Inside Corcomoroe Abbey are high archways and some incredible carvings throughout the abbey. Just outside the building is a small graveyard with several different tombstones that have also been well preserved.   

Marvel the Cliffs of Moher

Of course, an Ireland itinerary is not complete without a visit to the Cliffs of Moher. The Cliffs of Moher is without a doubt, Ireland’s most popular attraction and beloved sight amongst locals and tourists. It is best to visit as early in the morning as possible to beat the crowds and to capture incredible photos with the morning light. However, with this itinerary, it is unlikely you will be able to visit before 9am. So as long as you visit on a weekday and outside of the months of July and August, you will be okay to visit in the afternoon. Another important tip to acknowledge is the weather and walking trail. We have never experienced such high and dangerous winds than at the Cliffs of Moher, so make sure you read the weather hazard signs. Furthermore, the trail along the Cliffs of Moher is outside the managed service area, so read their safety guidelines and walk with caution. There are NO RAILINGS between you and the ocean. Respect the beauty of mother nature and stay safe.

Learn Falconry and Go Clay Shooting at Dromoland Castle

One of the most exciting and fun activities you can enjoy in Ireland is falconry and clay shooting. Both activities are widely popular throughout the country, so a lot of hotels in the countryside offer them to their guests. One hotel that offers great falconry and clay shooting lessons is at Dromoland Castle. We had the BEST time going for a walk with our falcon. Our guide would place food on our glove and the falcon would come soaring down to grab it – truly a surreal experience. As for clay shooting, that was another thrilling adventure. We each got 30 bullets (3 rounds of 10) to practice our shot and hit the clay flying in the air. Furthermore, we also had the amazing opportunity to stay at Dromoland Castle and live like a King and Queen. I highly recommend everyone booking at least one night at Dromoland Castle to enjoy luxurious accommodations, fun activities, and delicious cuisine.

Total driving time:  2 hours and 40 minutes

Where to stay: Dromoland Castle

If you have more time:  Visit Burren National Park

Places you cannot miss:  Cliffs of Moher, Hazel Mountain Chocolate

Day 4: Drive Along the Dingle Peninsula to Killarney

On this day you will continue to drive along the Wild Atlantic Way and begin your scenic route on the Dingle Peninsula. Though this day might be a semi-long drive, it will be one of the most beautiful drives of your life. Moreover, a 7 day in Ireland itinerary is not complete without some Star Wars fandom. In addition to an amazing scenic route, this is also a great day for any Star Wars lovers because a lot of the Star Wars: The Last Jedi scenes were filmed along the Dingle Peninsula. So let the force be with you during your trip to Killarney.

Visit King John’s Castle

King John’s Castle is one of the more visitor-friendly castles in Ireland and is located in Limerick. The castle is not only fun to explore, but it also includes an engaging exhibit for all ages. The exhibit features touchscreen technology, 3D models, animated projections and an activity room for children. One of our favorite places in King John’s Castle was the top of a battlement which had an amazing 360° panorama view of the city.

Enjoy the Scenic Drive Along the Dingle Peninsula

We saw so many beautiful landscapes throughout Ireland, but none took our breath away like the Dingle Peninsula. We have even driven along the Amalfi Coast and the Dingle Peninsula is almost unmatched. For most of the route, you are driving along dramatic cliffs towering over on one side, while the other side has the endless ocean crashing into the shore. Be prepared to make frequent stops along the Dingle Peninsula for some short hikes up grassy hills to find spectacular views. Words will never be able to describe how stunning this drive is, so it is best you see it for yourself!

Take the Epic Picture at Dunquin Harbour

The best and most popular stop along the Dingle Peninsula is Dunquin Harbour. Why? It is one of the most “Instagrammable” destinations in Ireland. So get your camera ready to take one epic photo. Of course, travel is not about Instagram, so take in the precious moment enjoying one of the most beautiful spots in Ireland.

Visit the Most Western Point of Ireland

Dunmore Head is the most western point in Ireland and features two great places to visit, a beach and an awesome view at the top of the hill. We had the best time at Slea Head Beach, as did many other tourists, surfers, and dogs. Slea Head Beach is known as one of the best beaches in Ireland and we could see why. It is a very lively and safe beach to find hidden coves and watch the waves crash into the towering cliffs. At the top of Dunmore Head, you can see the Great Blasket Islands. More importantly, Dunmore Head is used as part of Ahch-To, a.k.a. the planet in Star Wars  known as the birthplace of the Jedi Order. If you look hard enough along Dunmore Head’s coastline, you might be able to find Luke Skywalker’s X-wing hidden just beneath the water.

Visit the Famous Star Wars Beehives Huts

You do not have to travel to Skellig Michael to find the famous Star Wars beehive huts. The beehive huts can be found driving along Ireland’s scenic Slea Head Drive . You do have to pay 3 euros to visit the beehive huts, but for 3 euros they are definitely worth it. The beehive huts, more formerly known as Ceann Sibéal, existed long before Star Wars . They date back to the prehistoric times, around 2,000 B.C., which is quite incredible. So either take out your lightsaber and feel the force or enjoy some remarkable architecture from the prehistoric times.

Have a Scoop of Ice Cream at Murphy’s

You cannot visit Ireland without enjoying a scoop of ice cream or sorbet from Murphy’s. Murphy’s ice cream has become a little empire in Ireland that started it Dingle and has grown to 5 more locations throughout the country. What makes Murphy’s special is its quality of ingredients. They receive their milk from the Kerry cows, (some of the best cows in the world), use free-range eggs, organic sugar, sea salt from the Dingle sea water and distill Dingle rain to make their sorbets. Murphy’s ice cream is the true definition of sourcing from local resources and farmers. Their dedication truly shows in every lick and bite of ice cream and/or sorbet you enjoy. Furthermore, everyone welcomes you with warm hospitality and their flavor combinations are genius!

Total driving time:  4 hours and 57 minutes

Where to stay:  Cahernane House Hotel

If you have more time:  Visit Inch beach, Skellig Michael and spend an extra day in Dingle

Places you cannot miss:  Dunquin Harbour, driving along the Dingle Peninsula, ice cream at Murphy’s

Day 5: Drive Along the Ring of Kerry to Cork

As you continue your 7 days in Ireland itinerary, you will be driving along another amazing and scenic route, the Ring of Kerry . This drive is more about the beautiful Irish countryside than the Dingle Peninsula. You will also explore several different destinations within Killarney National Park and finish your day with a glass of Jameson.

Visit Ross Castle

Ross Castle is known as one of the strongest and more fortified castles in Ireland because of its defensive wall on the edge of Lake Lough Leane. It was built during the 15th century and still stands tall today. Visitors can explore the castle grounds within the fortified wall on their own or take a guided tour inside the castle.

Hike in Killarney National Park to Torc Waterfall

One of the best places to go hiking in Ireland is in Killarney National Park. Moreover, whether you are an avid hiker or do not hike at all, “hiking” to Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park is a must. I recommend you do this first thing in the morning as it is the most popular destination in Killarney National Park and can get very crowded. In addition, parking is very limited – we had to drive in circles for 30 minutes to find a parking spot just to “hike” five minutes to Torc Waterfall. With that said, everything is worth it when you walk through the beautiful green, mossy forest and come across the water cascading down some of Ireland’s most beautiful landscape.

Visit Muckross House and Gardens

Another fantastic place to visit within Killarney National Park is Muckross House and Gardens. Even if you do not take the guided tour inside Muckross House, just walking around the grounds of the estate to see architectural beauty is enough to make this a destination on your 7 days in Ireland itinerary. Furthermore, walking along Muckross Lake has some breathtaking views and is a great way to spend a nice day in Ireland.

Getting Lost at Muckross Abbey

Visiting Muckross Abbey was one of our favorite experiences in Ireland because it was exactly what we imagined Ireland to be – exploring ruins on our own and getting lost along the way. Muckross Abbey looks just like all of the other ruins in Ireland from the outside, but in the inside, it escapes you into another world. I remember following Adam into a corridor of Muckross Abbey and one minute later not being able to find him for another twenty minutes.

There are several grand opening areas that connect with little nooks that you can travel through until you find another huge room to explore. Then you come across the most beautiful tree in the middle of a courtyard surrounded by stone walls. Needless to say, Muckross Abbey will surprise you with its hidden beauty and you will feel like you have been transported back in time.

Scenic Drive on the Ring of Kerry

Every road trip in Ireland needs to include the Ring of Kerry. This driving route is famous for a very good reason – it is truly breathtaking and one of the most beautiful roads in the world that you will ever encounter in your life.

Two of the most photographic landscapes along the Ring of Kerry are Moll’s Gap and Gap of Dunloe. Both are very close to Killarney National Park which makes day-5 the perfect time to visit for your 7 days in Ireland itinerary. Just make sure you drive slow to not only take in every moment but to also find little parking spots to jump out and take photos.

Kiss the famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle

If you plan to visit any castle in Ireland, you must include Blarney Castle during your 7 days in Ireland. It is one of the most famous castles in the world due to the legendary Blarney Stone. Visitors travel near and far to wait in line just to place their lips upon the cold, wet Blarney Stone and receive the gift of eloquence.

Is it worth it? Absolutely! In addition to the Blarney Stone, this was our favorite castle because it was so much fun to explore. Like Muckross Abbey, there are so many levels with little nooks and crannies that you can easily get lost and feel transported back in time.

Drink Liquid Gold at the Jameson Distillery

Regardless if you drink whiskey, visiting the Jameson Distillery is a must for any trip to Ireland. I do not like any whiskey and even I had a great time. Of course, Jameson is Adam’s favorite whiskey, so he had the BEST time! The guided tour takes visitors throughout the distillery to learn about Jameson’s history, the entire process of making Irish whiskey and what makes Jameson special. The tour lasts around 75 minutes and finishes with a complimentary glass of Jameson.

Total driving time:  3 hours

Where to stay:  Hotel Isaacs Cork in Cork or if you prefer a country house outside of the city, try Ballymaloe Country House Hotel

If you have more time: Visit a cheese factory in West Cork , the English Market, Blackrock Castle Observatory, and the city of Cobh.

Places you cannot miss:  Torc Waterfall, Muckross Abbey, driving the Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle, and Jameson Distillery

Day 6: Finish your 7 days in Ireland Itinerary in Dublin

After 6 days of driving, it is time to relax, drink, eat and explore in the capital of Ireland – Dublin. I cannot think of a better city to finish an epic trip throughout the country than Dublin. The city is vibrant in culture, tradition, and charm.

Explore Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel is the most stunning fortress you will ever see. It sits on top of a hill towering over the city of Cashel. The fortress has several different elements to it that were all built during different periods of time. It has a complete 11th century round tower, a 12th-century Romanesque chapel, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral, a 15th century Hall of the Vicars Chora and a dramatic Gothic graveyard with beautiful Celtic high crosses.

You will find yourself mesmerized by the sheer magnitude of the fortress when you are exploring within the ruins. Furthermore, you can also drive down to Hore Abbey to wander through more ruins that are similar to the ones found at Rock of Cashel.

Visit Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle is one of the very few castles in Ireland that truly let visitors see countless rooms. One of the more well-known rooms is the picture gallery wing with several beautiful portraits hanging on a vibrant red wall.

Another great feature of Kilkenny Castle is the ability to take a guided tour of the castle or a self-guided tour using an informational pamphlet. Overall, it is an amazing castle inside and out that should not be missed.

Explore the Heart of Ireland in Dublin

Exploring the streets of Dublin is the perfect way to finish your 7 days in Ireland itinerary. Simply because it is extremely difficult to drive within the city. Better yet, enjoy one of the best walking tours in Dublin . This is a great way to explore the city.

If you venture out on your own – a few Dublin attractions you should not miss are the Guinness Storehouse, The Brazen Head and The Temple Bar. Some other  things to do in Dublin  that do not involve alcohol are Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ha’penny Bridge, St. Stephen’s Green, Kilmainham Goal, and Trinity College Library, the  most Instagrammable place in Dublin .

Traditional Irish Dance and Craic

There is no better way to spend your last night in Ireland than with traditional Irish food , dancing, music, and craic. So, visit Johnnie Fox’s Pub to experience one of the best nights of your life. Johnnie Fox’s Pub is not only the highest pub in Dublin but also one of the best pubs in Ireland .  

With that said, it is not easy to get to, so I highly recommend booking their shuttle bus. Furthermore, the pub has a wide variety of traditional Irish cuisine and nightly live music, but the real treat is their Hooley Show. Our night at Johnnie Fox’s Pub was one of our favorite experiences of our entire 7 days in Ireland.

The entire show was outstanding! The band played Irish music we had never heard before and then some favorites like Galway Girl and Whiskey in a Jar. In between songs they would tell stories and crack jokes (craic) and then towards the end of the show the Irish dancers came on stage. I honestly cannot put words onto paper (online) to give this show justice so you will have to trust me when I say, go to Johnnie Fox’s Pub Hooley Night!

Total driving time:  3 hours and 33 minutes

Where to stay:  Cliff Townhouse

If you have more time:  Spend an extra day in Dublin and take a day trip to Bray and the Wicklow Mountains

Places you cannot miss:  Rock of Cashel, Trinity College Library, Temple Bar and the Hooley Show at Johnnie Fox’s Pub

Day 7: Fly Home

Unfortunately, all great things must come to an end. On your last day in Ireland, enjoy more of Dublin. Visit any destinations you might have missed the day before or just take a leisurely walk with a cup of coffee and reminisce all the great memories you created over the last 6 days.

Before you know it, you will be back on a plane going home wishing you had one more pint of Guinness or glass of Jameson at a local pub in the land of the Irish.

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Nicci Strickland

Saturday 30th of March 2024

This post has been so helpful planning our trip! We’re doing a 31 day trip to London, Scotland, and Ireland. With 8/9 days in Ireland!

I love all the things you have set to do but am curious if you felt like it was slightly too rushed? Did you get time to still enjoy everything?

Trying to finalize our trip for September.

oursweetadventures

Monday 1st of April 2024

Hi Nicci, I’m so happy to hear that! Sounds like an epic trip! It was definitely slightly rushed but with 8/9 days you should be fine. I think if we don’t have one night at Dromoland Castle, then we could have spent one extra day in Galway or Dublin. That said, if we had an extra day and bigger budget, we would have actually done two nights at Dromoland Castle to relax and enjoy the activities on site. Hope that helps :)

Thursday 29th of February 2024

WOW!! what a list - we have it all plotted on our google maps. Heading to Ireland March 4th 2024

Monday 4th of March 2024

That's awesome! I hope y'all have a wonderful trip!

Monday 5th of February 2024

Hi! we are planning our trip from your itinerary! We will have one extra day- where would you recommend adding this day?

Wednesday 7th of February 2024

Hi Hailey, I love hearing that! I would definitely spend an extra day around the Dingle Peninsula. Or if you are staying at a castle hotel, I would spend time relaxing and enjoying activities. I hope you have a great trip! Let me know if you have any further questions.

Julie Gilbert

Wednesday 20th of December 2023

I am interested in this exact 7 days in Ireland. Do you tours for small groups?

Tony Terrell

Sunday 31st of December 2023

@oursweetadventures,

Great itinerary. We are using it as a template to create our own. A couple of questions I had was…we are going at the beginning of Oct 2024 do you know of anything in your itinerary that is closed during this time? Also how far in advance did you get tickets for the different things you visited? Again thank you for a very well thought out vacation.

On a side note have you visited France? We are looking to either move to Ireland or France.

Monday 25th of December 2023

Hi, thats awesome to hear! Unfortunately, I do not organize tours. We did this by renting a car.

Sunday 18th of June 2023

Very helpful information, certainly we will use it for our 7 days trip. One questions, have you visit Slieve League? Is that too far for 2nd day schedule? thank you.

Saturday 24th of June 2023

Hi, I’m so happy to hear my guide has been helpful for your trip. I do think it’s too far away. We wanted to explore more of Northwest Ireland but didn’t have time for it.

Hrmm. Looks like you're using an older browser, which means some site features may not work they way they should. For the full gadventures.com experience, we recommend upgrading to the most recent version of your browser . It's worth it! Honest!

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Highlights of Ireland

9 days, dublin to belfast.

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We’re all a little bit Irish come March 17, but if you’re in the market for something more meaningful than a pint of green beer, hop aboard this delightful nine-day adventure to the Emerald Isle. Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, traditional music in a local pub... seriously, it doesn’t get much more quintessentially Irish than this. We mix the essential sites and time in the villages to really round out the experience. Even if Ireland isn’t the Old Country for you, this trip will make you feel as though you’re back home.

Dublin to Belfast

Special offers, is this tour for me, travel style: classic.

All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 2 - Light

Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

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Please note that due to space restrictions aboard our transportation, there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. We recommend bringing an additional daypack for essentials and everyday items. Please visit the "What to take" section on the Trip details tab for more information.

Day 1 Dublin

Arrive at any time.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Day 2 dublin.

Take a free day to roam the cobblestone streets of this historic city.

Meals included:

Day 3 dublin/killarney.

Continue on to Killarney with free time to enjoy the town or explore the nearby national park.

Day 4 Killarney

Enjoy a day trip to experience some sights along the famous Ring of Kerry. Return to Killarney for another night in town.

Day 5 Killarney/Galway City

Travel to Ireland's west coast to Galway. Set off on a guided walking tour before enjoying a free afternoon to explore the city's colourful streets and bohemian atmosphere.

Day 6 Galway City

Travel to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. Hike the picturesque countryside along the cliffs. Gaze out at the splendour before returning to Galway for the evening. Opt for a night out at the local pub.

Day 7 Galway City/Belfast

Travel along the coast towards Northern Ireland. Stop for lunch in the historic city of Derry, then visit the mysterious Dark Hedges. End the day in Belfast.

Day 8 Belfast

Stop at the Giant's Causeway and marvel at the natural phenomenon of its volcanic columns. Continue on to Bushmills Distillery for a guided tour of the oldest working distillery in Ireland. Return to Belfast.

Day 9 Belfast

Depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
• Your Discover Moment: Dublin
• Cliffs of Moher visit
• Walk along the Wild Atlantic Way
• Ring of Kerry excursion
• Giant's Causeway visit
• Old Bushmills Distillery tour
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

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Hotels/guesthouses (8 nts).

8 breakfasts, 1 lunch Allow USD305-400 for meals not included.

Transportation

Private vehicle, walking.

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CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

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There are ways to not only have an amazing time while travelling around the island of Ireland, whilst also making eco-friendly, responsible travel choices that reduce your carbon footprint and gets you in touch with local communities.

Slow travel is all about ditching the checklist, sinking into your destination, soaking up the local culture, and really making a meaningful connection with the people and the place you visit.

Here are seven ways to have a slow travel adventure in Ireland and enjoy the journey and the people you meet along the way, as well as the destination…

Boating around the Fermanagh Lakelands

Glassy waters, mysterious islands with ancient statues, and a pace of life that forces you to go slow all combine to make the Fermanagh Lakelands  in Northern Ireland irresistible for a sustainable travel experience. The best way to explore? Make some waves and take a barge, canoe or cruiser. It's a whole way of life when you go by water, complete with lazy lunches at waterfront cafés and pauses to cycle the countryside.

Lough Erne, County Fermanagh

Enjoy a slower pace of life on the water

Mourne Mountains, County Down

Take a hike with a local guide

Making strides in the Mournes

The Mourne Mountains  are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in County Down, and these mist-shrouded peaks will simply make you slow down. Base yourself in a hideaway like Birch Cottage , and you can spend days picnicking beside lakes and ambling up heather-covered slopes. Or you can join local adventurer Peter with Walk The Mournes and hike along the Mourne Wall.

Retreat to the serenity of Delphi Resort, Connemara

Escape: that's what Delphi Resort is all about. Nestled in the foothills of the Mweelrea Mountains, amidst the dry stone walls and wild orchids that dot the Connemara  landscape, this resort is all about going slow and taking things at a gentler pace. Take your time on bike rides along country roads or go kayaking in the tranquil waters of Killary Fjord . Pure bliss.

Connemara, County Galway

Relax and unwind at the Delphi Resort

Mulranny, County Mayo

A hidden treasure on the Wild Atlantic Way

Escape to Mulranny, County Mayo

Mulranny, a hidden treasure on the Wild Atlantic Way , has been voted as Ireland's Best Destination for Responsible Tourism at the Irish Responsible Tourism Awards – and for good reason. Here, you can go horse riding along pristine beaches, wander through the wild, mountainous scenery of west Mayo, or try your hand at seaweed harvesting and tasting. Why not pop into a pub or restaurant and find out where the local community love to explore around the area?

Stretch your legs on Sheep’s Head

The southwest coast of Ireland is home to County Cork  and the Sheep's Head peninsula, one of the wildest and most beautiful stretches of land on the entire island. Less than 1,000 people are lucky enough to live here – but anyone can visit. Make your base in the charming village of Durrus and walk the Sheep's Head Way along gorse-covered trails, where an utmost feeling of peace prevails. Keep watch for whales or dolphins, and stop off for lunch and a chat at The Tin Pub in Ahakista.

Sheep's Head, County Cork

A wild and beautiful peninsula

The Burren National Park, County Clare

A cornucopia of wild delights

Marvel at Mother Nature in the Burren

There's no denying it: the layered limestone landscape of the Burren National Park  in County Clare  is like simply nowhere else on this earth. Even driving through it is an experience – but you should definitely stop and smell the roses! This EU-dedicated Special Area of Conservation is a cornucopia of wild delights, with 70% of Ireland's native plant species flourishing here. Make sure to take time to peruse The Burren Perfumery , where the Chowen family has been busy bottling Ireland's scents and sharing its horticultural secrets since 1972.

Breathe deep in the Boyne Valley

Newgrange , the Hill of Tara , Trim Castle : the Boyne Valley  is at the heart of so much of Ireland's history, myth and legend that rushing through it all would be a waste. Get your pulse racing at Boyne Valley Activities , or settle in for a stay at Decoy Country Cottages and take your time getting lost in 5,000 years of history, one tale at a time. Between the stories about St Patrick and heroes, and the sights outside your window, you might never want to leave.

The Boyne Valley, County Meath

Travel back in time

Everything we do is nature-centric… nothing is added in if it doesn’t belong there Bronagh O’Rourke, Burren Farm Experience

Where do you want to go?

Do you feel like tasting wild Atlantic sea spray on your lips? Strolling through vibrant city streets? Exploring ancient ruins? Right this way…

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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2024 FinTan Wild Atlantic Way

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About this trip

Join the band on this idyllic trip to the Emerald Isle and travel the Wild Atlantic Way. Featuring visits to Dublin, Killarney, Galway and points in between. Sing along with FinTan in local Irish pubs and share a pint with your new Irish friends. Scenery, castles, cathedrals, cities, countryside, and a visit to the Guinness Storehouse make this a trip you will always remember!  

What's Included

8 nights in Ireland including Westport (2), Galway (2), Killarney (2) and Dublin (1&1)

11 meals (3 dinners and 8 full Irish breakfasts)                         

Private luxury motor coach and professional Driver/Guide

Admission to the attractions listed in the itinerary including Guinness Storehouse

Free time to explore and make your own discoveries of shops, fun-filled pubs and historic places.

FinTan Concerts! Make new Irish friends as they see our band with us.

What's Not Included

The following things are not included in the tour fare:

• Airfare - Join our group air or book your own and meet us in Dublin.
• Meals not specified in the itinerary, personal equipment, extras in hotels.
• Costs associated with changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control.
• Extra gratuities at your discretion.
• Travel Insurance.

Final Pricing*

*Pricing is currently an estimate to be finalized in winter of 2023. The final price will be subject to possible fuel surcharges for land and air.

Available Packages

2 people in a room - you will choose twin beds or 1 bed for 2 people

Note: Pricing is per person. If registering 2 people enter QTY 2 when registering for this package. If your roommate is registering separately, enter QTY 1 when registering for this package. 

This option is for guests who are booking a room for solo occupancy. 

Available options

Click the Google Doc link here for the most up-to-date itinerary

Your Organizer

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You can skip the planning for these 7 affordable bucket list family travel adventures

A s enriching as family vacations can be, there's no question they're stressful to plan. And if you want to show your kids the world, planning family travel adventures to bucket-list destinations like Ireland, Alaska, or America's national parks can also be a bit daunting. The good news is there may be a better alternative to consider—letting someone else do all the planning on a guided tour.

I've participated in numerous guided group tours with my family, and they've been among the most hassle-tree times together we've ever had. Letting trip planners and seasoned guides take care of tedious details and time-consuming logistics removes many of the difficulties that come with traveling, especially with kids. 

While a trip to the destination of your dreams is never going to be a cheap family vacation , group travel tours can save you time, money, and a lot of stress. The end result? Family travel adventures that run smoothly and don't come with any costly surprises. Here are 15 value-packed guided tours for your family’s 2024 adventures. 

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HASSLE-FREE VACATIONS: 11 best guided tour companies for family tours

1. Iceland with National Geographic Family Journeys

G Adventures

Renowned small group travel tour company G Adventures has teamed up with National Geographic to create escorted family travel itineraries that take full advantage of NatGeo’s expertise in wildlife, storytelling, and photography. The company’s eight-day Iceland Family Journey delves into the subarctic island nation’s unique geological features in an experiential way, including hiking on the edge of a volcanic crater and riding Icelandic horses near a waterfall. 

CLOSER TO HOME: 25 best family vacation spots in the USA

The tour company's trip leaders are trained to engage young guests ages seven to 17, and the participant limit is capped at 20. These guided family travel adventures start at $4,999 per adult (there’s a $200 discount for kids ages seven to 12) for 2024 and they include transportation within Iceland, accommodations, daily breakfast, three lunches, and one dinner. 

2. Highlights of Ireland

Brendan Vacations

The wild Atlantic Ocean, misty cliffs, and impossibly green countryside are a few of the reasons why the Emerald Island's mystical beauty has inspired poets for centuries. From Dublin's cosmopolitan charm to hanging by your heels to kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, Brendan Vacations are experts when it comes to Celtic travel, and its Shamrocks and Leprechauns tour is a favorite with families.

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Highlights include going behind the scenes where Game of Thrones was filmed and marveling at the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. Interactive experiences, such as tea with a family on their sheep farm and dressing up like medieval archers as you learn to aim a bow and arrow, make a lasting impression. 

There’s a maximum of 45 participants aged five and older on this 10-day trip in 2024. Prices start at $3,083 and children ages five to 17 receive a 10 percent discount. Transportation within Ireland, accommodations, and 15 meals are included. A travel director accompanies you throughout, with local specialists enriching the journey. 

3. Canadian Rockies from Banff to Jasper 

Backroads’ guided family travel adventures are a hit with active travelers who crave communion with nature. On Backroads’ Banff to Jasper Multi-Adventure Family Tour , you’ll join a small group of families as you bike, hike, and paddle your way across the magnificent Canadian Rockies. Float down the Athabasca River, soak in sweeping vistas at Icefields Parkway, and walk on a glacier. 

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This trip has a maximum of 26 guests and is recommended for ages nine and older. Trip leaders receive specialized training to ensure that they’re well-equipped to engage youngsters. The six-day trip costs $3,999 per person in 2024. Kids 17 and under receive a 10 percent discount when staying in a single or double occupancy room; the child discount is increased to 20 percent if there are three or more people staying in the same room. Lodging, activities, daily breakfast, six lunches, four dinners, and snacks are included. 

4. Grand Alaskan Adventure

If your family loves the Great Outdoors, Alaska is the vacation of a lifetime. Cosmos offers guided group tours to "America’s Last Frontier" that present value without skimping on quality. The Grand Alaskan Adventure is an appealing choice with a balanced blend of group activities and free time.

SEE THE WORLD: 11 guided tour companies that offer trips around the world  

Starting and finishing in Anchorage, you'll cross Prince William Sound and glimpse otters, seals, and whales. A ride on the Alaska Railroad will delight fans of train travel, while two days spent in Denali National Park’s wilderness is an immersion in majestic beauty. Keep your eyes open for bears, moose, and caribou as you travel the Denali Highway across Alaska’s lightly treaded interior.

In 2024, this seven-day guided family travel adventure starts at $2,139 and includes some meals, accommodations, and activities. Children as young as five are welcome, and those ages five to 17 receive a 10 percent discount. The average number of participants is 36.

5. Taste of Portugal

Globus 

With alluring beaches, ancient villages, and sophisticated cities, it’s no wonder Portugal is trending in 2024. The Taste of Portugal with Madeira guided group itinerary from Globus visits cosmopolitan Lisbon, Porto’s cobbled streets, and the semi-tropical island of Madeira, with its natural rock-pools and unique wicker basket toboggan ride. 

FAMILY TRAVEL ADVENTURES: 28 best places to go with kids this year

This 11-day escorted trip starts at $3,309 including hotels, nine breakfast, and three dinners. Kids as young as five may participate and those between ages five and 17 receive a 10 percent discount. The average group size is 36 guests. 

6. New Zealand Family Travel Adventure

Austin Adventures

Headquartered in New Zealand, guided tour company Austin Adventures is an expert when it comes to showcasing this country’s natural assets. Energetic families who want an intimate group experience will be pleased with the New Zealand Family Vacation itinerary. Starting and finishing in Christchurch, you'll visit a wildlife preserve with resident koalas, wallabies, kiwi, and ancient tuatara (a rare reptile); hike to glacial lakes; and kayak and float down a rose-lined gorge. 

FAR-FLUNG ADVENTURES: Bora Bora with kids? These French Polynesia family resorts belong on your vacation bucket list  

Children six and older are welcome on this 13-day trip, which costs $5,499 per adult and $4,999 per child 12 years and under. Lodging, activities, and almost all meals are part of the deal. The maximum group size is 14 people plus two guides. 

7. The Greek Islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete

EF Go Ahead Tours 

Get acquainted with a trifecta of Greek islands on The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete from EF Go Ahead Tours . Absorb ancient Hellenic heritage in Athens before arriving in lively Mykonos for a dip in its crystal-clear water. Cruise to Santorini, where volcanic black sand beaches are juxtaposed with bright white and sea blue houses. Then it's on to Crete with its trail of historic treasures, from palaces to archaeological ruins. 

TROPICAL BLISS: 7 best tropical vacation spots for families  

This 14-day family travel adventure has a maximum of 30 participants and starts at $4,019 in 2024. It includes hotels, daily breakfast, five dinners, a dedicated tour director, and local guides along the way. Children age six and older are welcome, though they don't receive a discount.

Affordable bucket list family travel adventures where someone else does all the planning originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 6 best Hawaii all-inclusive resorts for families
• 8 best Bahamas all-inclusive resorts for families
• 6 best-value all-inclusive resorts for families

FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations . The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: You can skip the planning for these 7 affordable bucket list family travel adventures

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I Bought This $26 Amazon Crossbody Bag for a Week-long Ireland Trip — and I Can’t Stop Wearing It

It's three bags in one and fits way more than you'd think.

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Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

As a frequent flier and travel writer who travels at least a dozen times a year, I’ve come to learn that a crossbody bag should be part of everyone’s travel uniform. Simple but effective, they can help make the chaos of traveling just a little more organized by holding all of your essentials in one easy-to-reach place. I’m constantly on the lookout for a bag that can withstand the wear and tear of traveling long distances while also being chic enough to wear out when I finally reach my destination — and I've struggled to balance fashion and function over the years — until I came across the Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag at Amazon.

I recently tested it out on a week-long road trip through southern Ireland and was seriously impressed with its versatile and roomy features, and not to mention its sleek silhouette. During my search, I was looking for a bag that was spacious enough to fit all of my essentials while flying and on the road; durable to endure the capricious Irish weather; and stylish to be worn around the cities and harbor towns. The Uto crossbody bag , thankfully, satisfied all three of these important criteria. I wore it all day, every day, and was so pleasantly surprised with its performance that I’ve officially crowned it my go-to travel purse. Finally, the search is over.

Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag

Made with supple synthetic-washed leather, the bag is scratch- and water-resistant, and was rugged enough to endure the unpredictable bursts of violent Irish weather. I wore it on wind- and rain-torn cliffs, and it not only withstood the battering, but protected all of my valuables from the elements as well. It comes with a detachable and adjustable nylon strap that’s thick and wide enough to sit comfortably on the body without digging into your shoulder or slipping off (or in my case, being whipped off my person by the wind).

Asia Palomba

Best of all, its hybrid, crossbody design has a removable main purse with two separated, zippered compartments containing three credit card slots and one inner zip pocket, as well as a removable mini purse and a removable coin pouch on the bag’s strap — a compartment lover’s dream. This unique versatility means that the bag can be worn as a crossbody, a clutch, a shoulder purse, or even a belt bag , so you can easily find what works best for you when traveling.

But its spaciousness is where it really shines. Despite the bag’s compact size, which never felt too bulky on my person, it's stocked with ample storage features. I found that I was easily able to fit all of my travel essentials between the bag’s four compartments — no squishing necessary. Within one of the main purses, I packed a portable charger and a phone cable, and in the other, I stored my three passports and my wallet, containing both American and European currency, as well as my cell phone. 

In the mini, removable purse I stored multiple lip balms, hand sanitizers, and portable creams to keep my skin hydrated while traveling. During my flights, I used the removable mini coin purse, which can be attached chest-high on the bag’s strap, to hold loose change and my Apple AirPods. When in Ireland and on the road, I, instead, used it to store several of my camera batteries so that they were always within easy reach. 

What’s more, I was able to pack all of these essentials with room to spare , which came in handy when I began collecting smaller souvenirs and entrance tickets to museums and monuments throughout my trip.

For extra style points, the entire ensemble is accented with a delicate, removable gold or silver chain, depending on the color bag that you choose. I have the Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag in black with gold accents, but it comes in 14 other colors that range from playful pink and sage green to neutral light gray and maple brown. Shoppers also have their choice of three additional variations: two-toned , a patterned strap , and a quilted body , which are sure to satisfy any preference and compliment any outfit. 

Since returning from my trip, I’ve already worn the crossbody bag while on walks or running errands, especially on windy and rainy days. Its ample storage space is a serious boon for a serial overpacker such as myself, and is sure to help me focus on traveling light, especially on carry-on only trips. I’ve already slotted the crossbody as my go-to purse for my upcoming trips home to Rome, the Azores Islands, and Morocco, and I look forward to seeing how it’ll hold up over the years. Plus, it comes with its own dust bag with the brand’s name stamped across it, so you can keep it safely stored when not in use.

Chic, durable, spacious, and versatile, the Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag is the ideal purse for frequent travelers. It’ll hold all of your essentials comfortably and effortlessly, whether you’re flying, road tripping, or walking around town running errands. And the best part is that it’s only $26 — a price that will hardly make you dip too far into your travel budget.   

The bag is in good company at Amazon, which is bursting with travel-ready crossbody purses ahead of the warm-weather months (some of which are on sale). Keep scrolling to see which other styles are out there. 

More Crossbody Bags at Amazon: 

Alyssa triple zip pocket large crossbody bag, myfriday crossbody cell phone bag, fashionpuzzle triple-zip crossbody, k.carroll accessories kelsey crossbody.

At the time of publishing, the price started at $26. 

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