updated 19.12.2024
Ireland offers endless possibilities, whether you're here for a week or plan to spend more time soaking up the charm of its rugged landscapes and vibrant culture. So what is the best Ireland itinerary to choose? Honestly, it's up to you. Do you enjoy epic road trips, historic castles, or live music nights in cozy pubs? Traveling alone, with friends, or with kids? Your itinerary will depend on your interests, budget, and timing.
To get you started, here are some itineraries around Ireland that will inspire adventure. Found one that caught your eye? Use it as a starting point to plan your perfect Irish trip.
A well-planned itinerary can transform your trip to Ireland from good to unforgettable. To help you get started, here’s a look at two classic options for exploring the Emerald Isle:
If you’ve got just a week in Ireland, here’s a practical and unforgettable 7-day Ireland itinerary to make the most of your time:
Kick off your trip in Dublin. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Temple Bar, explore the history-packed Trinity College Library, and sip your first Guinness at the Gravity Bar in the Guinness Storehouse with sweeping city views. In the evening, dive into Dublin’s legendary pub scene for live traditional music and hearty Irish stew.
Head south to Kilkenny, known for its medieval charm. Wander through Kilkenny Castle and the quaint streets of this compact city. En route, stop at the Rock of Cashel, an iconic hilltop site with ancient ruins and panoramic views of the countryside.
Make your way west to Killarney, a gateway to some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes. Spend the afternoon exploring Killarney National Park — rent a bike, take a jaunting car ride, or hike to Torc Waterfall. If time allows, start your drive along the famed Ring of Kerry, a circular route of jaw-dropping coastal views, charming villages, and rugged mountains.
Dublin, Ireland @ Shutterstock
Trade the Ring of Kerry for the equally breathtaking Dingle Peninsula. Drive the Slea Head Loop for dramatic coastal views, stop at Inch Beach, and sample fresh seafood in Dingle Town. If you’re lucky, you might spot Fungie, the town’s beloved dolphin.
Travel north to see one of Ireland’s most iconic sights, the Cliffs of Moher. Take a stroll along the cliffs’ edge (but not too close!) and snap plenty of photos of the Atlantic crashing below. Nearby, explore the eerie, otherworldly limestone landscape of the Burren.
Soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Galway, known for its colorful streets, lively music scene, and great food. Wander through the Latin Quarter, shop for locally made crafts, and enjoy fish and chips by the harbor.
Make your way back to Dublin, with a stop at Trim Castle on the way — a spectacular Anglo-Norman fortress featured in Braveheart. If time allows, grab a last pint in a cozy Dublin pub or squeeze in a visit to the Chester Beatty Library before heading home.
Rock Cashel, Ireland @ Shutterstock
If you’ve got 10 days in Ireland, you can dive deeper into the country’s lesser-visited gems while still hitting some highlights. Here’s a 10-day Ireland itinerary that takes you off the usual path while offering a mix of history, nature, and vibrant culture.
Start in the capital with a walk through St. Stephen’s Green, a visit to Dublin Castle, and a pint at the Guinness Storehouse or the Jameson Distillery. In the evening, explore the Temple Bar district or head to a cozy, less touristy pub like The Cobblestone for live music.
Take a day trip to the picturesque fishing village of Howth, just 30 minutes from Dublin. Hike the Howth Cliff Walk for stunning coastal views, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the harbor restaurants. On the way back, stop at Malahide Castle, a medieval gem surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Cross the border into Northern Ireland and spend the day exploring Belfast. Visit the Titanic Quarter, where the famous ship was built, and explore the excellent Titanic Belfast museum. Stroll through the Cathedral Quarter for street art, pubs, and great food.
Drive along the breathtaking Antrim Coast to visit the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its iconic hexagonal basalt columns. Along the way, stop at Dunluce Castle, dramatically perched on a cliff, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge for a heart-pounding walk over the ocean.
Spend the morning exploring Derry, a city steeped in history. Walk the 17th-century city walls and learn about the Troubles at the Museum of Free Derry. In the afternoon, take the scenic drive into County Donegal, a rugged and wild region perfect for adventure seekers.
Connemara, Ireland @ Shutterstock
Explore Donegal’s untamed beauty. Visit the Slieve League Cliffs, which are among the highest in Europe and arguably more spectacular (and less crowded) than the Cliffs of Moher. Take a boat trip to get an ocean view of the cliffs, or hike along the trails for incredible panoramas.
Head south to Sligo, a region beloved for its literary and natural beauty. Visit Glencar Waterfall, which inspired W.B. Yeats, and take a walk at Benbulben, a flat-topped mountain that dominates the landscape. If you have time, hit the beaches at Strandhill for surfing or seaweed baths.
Travel to the charming town of Westport, a perfect base to explore County Mayo. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain, for sweeping views over Clew Bay. For a more relaxed option, take a scenic drive around Achill Island, known for its stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs.
Drive through the wild, rugged landscapes of Connemara, where mountains meet bogs and sparkling lakes. Spend the morning hiking in Connemara National Park and the afternoon visiting the postcard-perfect Kylemore Abbey, a neo-Gothic castle set beside a lake.
Wrap up your trip in Galway, soaking up the lively atmosphere of this artsy city. Wander the Latin Quarter, shop for local crafts, and enjoy one last bowl of seafood chowder at a waterfront restaurant. If time allows, take a short drive to visit the Burren or Dunguaire Castle before heading back to Dublin for your departure.
Monument of Daniel O'Connell in Dublin © AdobeStock
Planning your Ireland itinerary depends on how much time you’ve got — and what you want to see. Most travelers spend about a week, which is just enough to cover highlights like Dublin, the Cliffs of Moher, and the iconic Ring of Kerry.
If you’ve got ten days, you can dive deeper into Ireland’s charm. Add stops in Northern Ireland, the rugged landscapes of Donegal, or the tranquil beauty of Connemara — without feeling like you’re constantly on the move.
Got more time? Lucky you. A 3-week Ireland itinerary means you can explore the country at a relaxed pace. Seek out hidden gems like Achill Island or the Beara Peninsula, or immerse yourself in the culture of Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) regions. Whether you’re staying a week or a month, Ireland’s small size and rich variety make it easy to craft an itinerary that’s as fast-paced or leisurely as you want.
Ireland doesn’t have extreme seasons, but the best time to visit generally depends on what you’re looking for. The ‘high season,’ from May to September, offers warmer weather from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C), longer daylight hours, and lively festivals like the Galway Arts Festival and the Dublin Horse Show. This is the prime time for outdoor activities like hiking in the Wicklow Mountains or road-tripping along the Wild Atlantic Way. However, with peak season comes larger crowds and higher prices for flights and accommodations — booking ahead is essential.
The ‘low season,’ from October to April, sees cooler, wetter weather from 50°F to 59°F (10°C to 15°C) but far fewer tourists. Winter is perfect for cozying up by a pub fire with a pint of Guinness or exploring cultural spots like Kilmainham Gaol or Trinity College Library without the crowds. And while rain is frequent, it rarely lasts all day. Prices for accommodation and flights drop significantly, making this a great option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind bundling up.
Ultimately, Ireland’s charm shines year-round — it’s just a matter of deciding if you prefer a bustling summer vibe or a quieter, mistier atmosphere.
Great Blasket Island landscape, Ireland © HedvikaMichnova.jpg/Shutterstock
Getting around Ireland is easy, but the best option depends on how much flexibility you want. From car rentals to public transport, here’s how to navigate the Emerald Isle.
Renting a car is the best way to explore Ireland, especially if you want to go beyond the cities and into the countryside. It gives you the freedom to take scenic detours, visit tiny villages, or stop at breathtaking viewpoints along the Wild Atlantic Way. Driving in Ireland means staying on the left-hand side of the road, which can take a little adjustment. Most rental cars are manual, so if you need an automatic, book well in advance.
Be sure to check if your credit card or travel insurance covers rental car insurance to avoid costly add-ons. In rural areas, expect narrow, winding roads, so a smaller car is usually the better option.
Yes, but it depends on how you’re traveling. Public transport in Ireland is reliable for connecting major cities and popular tourist destinations, but it doesn’t serve remote areas well. Trains and buses are comfortable but limited in scope. Alternatively, organized tours can take you to big-ticket attractions, though these can feel rushed.
For the best experience, especially if you want to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, renting a car is the way to go. It offers the flexibility to travel at your own pace and uncover Ireland’s hidden gems.
For most travelers, visiting Ireland is straightforward, but the requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your stay.
If you’re a US or Canadian citizen, you can visit Ireland visa-free for up to 90 days. Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay, and you’re good to go. If you plan to stay longer or engage in activities like work or study, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa in advance.
Good news for UK citizens: thanks to the Common Travel Area (CTA), you don’t need a visa to visit Ireland. You can travel freely between the UK and Ireland, whether it’s for a quick trip or an extended stay. Just bring a valid form of photo ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, and you’re all set.
For citizens of other countries, visa requirements vary. Many travelers from the EU, EEA, and certain other nations can visit Ireland without a visa. However, if you’re unsure, it’s best to check with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) or your local Irish Embassy to confirm whether you need a visa.
Enniskillen castle in Northern Ireland © Helioscribe/Shutterstock
Ireland isn’t the cheapest destination, but with some planning, it can suit a variety of budgets. For budget travelers, you can manage around $55–75 a day by staying in hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels, and opting for self-catering or affordable pub meals. Mid-range travelers should expect to spend $110–160 daily, while luxury travelers can enjoy boutique hotels, fine dining, and private tours for $250 or more per day.
Eating out doesn’t have to break the bank. A filling pub meal — think fish and chips or Irish stew — will cost about $12–18, while a pint of Guinness will run you $6–8, depending on where you are. More upscale dining might cost $50 or more per person. Costs can climb if you’re renting a car or booking guided tours, but Ireland’s stunning landscapes and warm hospitality make every dollar well spent.
Reaching Ireland is straightforward, with options by air or sea depending on where you’re coming from and how much time you have.
Flying is the fastest and easiest way to get to Ireland. Dublin Airport is the main international hub, welcoming flights from Europe, North America, and beyond. Shannon and Cork airports also handle some international routes, particularly from the UK and mainland Europe. If you’re flying from the US or Canada, you’ll be happy to know that Dublin and Shannon airports have pre-clearance for US customs, saving you time when you land back home.
Budget airlines like Ryanair and Aer Lingus make flying to Ireland from Europe affordable, while transatlantic routes are well-served by major carriers like Delta, United, and American Airlines. For the best deals, book flights well in advance, especially during the summer and around St. Patrick’s Day in March.
For those already in the UK or Europe, ferries offer a scenic alternative to flying. You can sail from Wales (Holyhead to Dublin or Pembroke to Rosslare) or Scotland (Cairnryan to Belfast) in as little as two hours. Longer crossings are available from France, with ferries linking Cherbourg or Roscoff to Irish ports like Rosslare and Cork. While ferries take more time, they’re ideal if you’re bringing your car for a self-drive Ireland itinerary.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Ireland
written by
Olga Sitnitsa
updated 19.12.2024
