🇮🇪 IRELAND 11 Days
This trip covers the vibrant city of Dublin, the charming medieval town of Kilkenny,and the scenic
Wild Atlantic Way route along the western coast of Ireland.
Ireland (the Emerald Isle), is famous for its green fields, tall cliffs like the Cliffs of Moher, and the
Wild Atlantic coast—great for road trips. It has a long history with ancient sites like the 5,200-year-old Newgrange tomb, old castles, and monastery ruins. The Irish are known for being friendly, and enjoying good talks, often in lively pubs with music and Guinness beer. Today, Ireland is also a modern center for technology and medicine, especially in Dublin, mixing new energy with its traditional charm.
It is about the same size as Austria or the U.S. state of Maine.
Tips:
Travel Guides: Fodor’s Ireland and Frommer’s Ireland
Helpful town Maps
Travel Adaptors: Type G
Ireland uses the euro (€). ATM’s are everywhere.
Freenow is Ireland's #1 taxi app
Visitors from the US, Canada and the EU do not need a Visa.
⚠️ Before searching for a hotel in each town, list your top 2-3 spots to visit. This helps you find hotels close to your main spots.
⚠️ Renting a Car: Driving in Ireland is hard for visitors because the country’s old, narrow rural roads are tricky. It’s not just about driving on the left. Many roads have no sides to pull over on and are bordered by stone walls or tall bushes. It’s worth paying more for an automatic car to avoid worrying about changing gears. Also, the gear stick is on the left side.
⚠️ Beware about bringing a car rental into Belfast, Northern Ireland:
1. You MUST Tell the Rental Desk.
If you drive into Northern Ireland without telling the agency,
your insurance is often void immediately.They will charge a "Cross-Border Fee" (usually €50–€60 fee).
They might give you a paper or note with your contract to prove
you can stay in the UK.
Experience the best of the Wild Atlantic Way
The Wild Atlantic Way is special because it is the longest defined coastal touring route in the world,
spanning 2,500 km (1,553 miles) along Ireland’s west coast. The route is famous for heavy hitters
like the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry, but its special value is guiding you to equally
spectacular but less crowded alternatives.Read more about the WILD ATLANTIC WAY.
Hidden Gems along the route.
Below are the main peninsulas from North to South, and what makes them special:
Northern Peninsulas:
Inishowen Peninsula (Donegal), Ireland’s northernmost point, known as the "End of the Road"
Must See: Malin Head (filming location for Star Wars), Beautiful "Inishowen 100" scenic drive.Slieve League Peninsula (Donegal), known for the Slieve Cliffs,(video) highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe.
Mullaghmore Peninsula, visit Mullaghmore Head, located between Cliffoney and Grange in beautiful County Sligo.
Walk along the stunning white sandy beach.Mullet Peninsula (Mayo), quiet, wild, less crowded.
Must See: Erris Head, Irish-speaking Gaeltacht area.Connemara (Galway): Romantic, wild. A coastal maze of bays and islands.
Must See: Sky Road near Clifden for amazing sea views.
Southern Peninsulas (Kerry & Cork)-known for green landscapes, mild weather:
Dingle Peninsula (Kerry): cultural and artistic, famous for music, food, and Dingle town.
Must See: Slea Head Drive—cliff road with great views of the Blasket Islands.Iveragh Peninsula (Kerry): known for the Ring of Kerry.
Must See: Skellig Ring—a side route with cliffs and views of Skellig Michael.
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This ranking lists destinations from "Best" to "OK" based on hiking excitement, photo opportunities, and trail quality. Though all are amazing, the top spots have dramatic mountains and seas, while the lower ones are still beautiful but have easier, shorter walks.
1. Dingle Peninsula (Kerry)
The Ultimate Hiking Destination. This peninsula offers the perfect marriage of sharp mountain ridges and dramatic coastline. It feels like all of Ireland's best scenery compressed into one finger of land.
Best Trail:Mount Brandon.
The Hike: A strenuous but rewarding climb up Ireland’s second-highest mountain. The "Saint’s Route" from the west is scenic and historic.
Why it's #1: On a clear day, the views from the summit are arguably the best in Ireland, stretching from the Blasket Islands to the MacGillycuddy Reeks. The ridge looks like the spine of a dragon dropping into the sea.
Photographic Highlight: The view looking down the ridge toward the jagged coast and the Blasket Islands.
2. Slieve League Peninsula (Donegal)
Most Dramatic Scenery. While Dingle has variety, Slieve League has pure, terrifying scale. These are the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe, nearly three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher.
Best Trail: The Pilgrim’s Path (to One Man's Pass).
The Hike: A hike from Teelin up the back of the cliffs. It leads to the terrifyingly narrow "One Man's Pass" (only for experienced hikers), but you can stop before the pass for safe, incredible views.
Why it's #2: The sheer scale of the 600m drop into the Atlantic is unmatched. It feels wilder and less commercialized than other major sites.
Photographic Highlight: The "Giant’s Desk and Chair" rock formations and the sheer drop of the cliffs against the dark blue Atlantic.
3. Iveragh Peninsula (Ring of Kerry)
Most Epic Scale. Home to Ireland's highest mountains (the MacGillycuddy Reeks), this peninsula offers "big mountain" energy that the others lack.
Best Trail:Carrauntoohil (via Devil’s Ladder) OR Bolus Barracks Loop.
The Hike: Carrauntoohil is a serious mountain climb for experienced hikers. For a pure coastal scenic hike, choose the Bolus Barracks Loop near the Skellig Ring—it offers direct views of Skellig Michael.
Why it's #3: The landscape is vast and powerful. The combination of black mountain lakes and green valleys is stunning.
Photographic Highlight: The view of Skellig Michael (the "Star Wars island") rising like a pyramid from the ocean.
4. Connemara (Galway)
Most Unique Landscape. Connemara looks different from the rest of Ireland—a russet-colored wilderness of bogs, quartzite mountains, and shimmering lakes.
Best Trail:Diamond Hill (Upper Loop).
The Hike: Located in Connemara National Park, this is a very accessible, well-maintained trail with stone steps leading to a sharp peak.
Why it's #4: The payoff-to-effort ratio is incredible. You get 360-degree views of the Twelve Bens mountains and the jagged coastline for a moderate 2-3 hour hike.
Photographic Highlight: The view from the summit looking down at Kylemore Abbey and the intricate maze of bays and islands.
5. Mullet Peninsula (Mayo)
Best "Hidden Gem" & Wildest Coast. Far off the tourist trail, this area feels deserted and raw. If you want solitude and crashing waves, this is the place.
Best Trail:Erris Head Loop.
The Hike: A 5km loop along grassy cliff tops. It is relatively easy but spectacular.
Why it's #5: It lacks the towering mountains of Kerry or Donegal, but the coastal scenery is pristine. You are walking on the very edge of Europe.
Photographic Highlight: The dramatic sea arches and the look-out post from WWII. It is also a great place to spot dolphins.
6. Inishowen Peninsula (Donegal)
Best Rugged Northern Beauty. This peninsula is huge and feels like a separate country. It is rugged, windy, and historic.
Best Trail:Inishowen Head Loop.
The Hike: An 8km trail starting near the lighthouse at Stroove. It takes you into the boggy hills with views across to Scotland on a clear day.
Why it's #6: While Malin Head (Star Wars location) is a "must see," it is more of a viewpoint than a long hike. The Inishowen Head Loop is excellent, but the scenery is slightly less dramatic than the vertical walls of Slieve League.
Photographic Highlight: "Hell’s Hole" at Malin Head—a deep cavern where the tide roars in.
7. Mullaghmore Peninsula (Sligo)
Best "Single Photo" Spot. Placed last only because it is the smallest of the "peninsulas" and the walking is physically the easiest/least "hiking-focused."
Best Trail:Mullaghmore Head Loop.
The Hike: This is mostly a walk along the coastal road rather than a wild trail, though there are grassy paths near the cliffs. It is an easy 5km stroll.
Why it's #7: As a hike, it is less adventurous than the others. However, visually, it is world-class.
Photographic Highlight: This is the site of Ireland’s most famous photo: the fairy-tale Classibawn Castle in the foreground with the flat-topped Benbulben mountain rising ominously behind it.
Summary of the "Best" Order
Dingle: Best mix of Mountains & Ocean.
Slieve League: Best dramatic Cliffs.
Iveragh: Best big Mountains.
Connemara: Best unique Colors & Landscapes.
Mullet: Best Wild/Remote Coast.
Inishowen: Best Rugged/Northern feel.
Mullaghmore: Best singular Photo Op (Castle/Mountain), but simplest walk.
DAY 1
Arrive at Dublin airport (flights usually arrive in the morning). Transfer to your Dublin hotel or if time allows, drive to Kilkenny.
After a two-hour(2) drive from Dublin, you’ll reach Kilkenny by afternoon. You can rest and then enjoy an easy walk around the town
to get to know it. End your day with a good dinner and a night’s sleep to feel ready for the next day.Overnight: Dublin (late arrivals) or Kilkenny (2 nights)
Driving time: Dublin —> Kilkenny
DAY 2
If you got to Kilkenny yesterday, begin your full-day trip there today! Learn why Kilkenny is famous:
Kilkenny was once Ireland’s medieval capital, known for its rich history. Today, it’s famous for lively pubs, music, big festivals
(comedy, arts, food), and Irish crafts. Must-see highlights include Kilkenny Castle.Also Ireland’s 1st recorded witch trial site, an important part of the country’s dark history with witchcraft accusations.
Explore the Medieval Mile. It’s a walking path between Kilkenny Castle in the south and St. Canice’s Cathedral in the north.
Though called a mile, it’s less than one mile (<1.5 km) long but full of history.Miracle Mile <MAP>
Kilkenny city guide and map. Download, print.
or pick a copy up at: Kilkenny Tourist Information Centre located at 79 High Street Kilkenny.Kilkenny Castle & Parklands Discover this 12th-century Norman castle. It is the centerpiece of the city.
You can take a self-guided tour of the restored period rooms, including the Long Gallery. Scan the QR codes in each room to learn about them anytime. Guided tours, however, give a deeper look at the castle’s history and let you see some decorations up close.Tip: Before or after the tour, take a walk through the extensive parklands and rose garden which are free to access.
Afterward, visit the Medieval Mile Museum. Walk north from the castle along The Parade to St. Mary’s Church, now the museum. This museum links the city's past with hands-on displays and a special look at its medieval origins.
It features some of Ireland's best medieval sculptures and one of the largest collections
of Renaissance tombs in the country.The Butter Slip: With its arched entry and stone steps, the ‘Butter Slip’, is a narrow and
dark walkway connecting High Street and St. Kieran’s Street (previously called Low Lane).
It is the most picturesque of Kilkenny’s many narrow medieval corridors. Built in 1616,
it once served as a market for butter vendors.
Live Music:
Music and Kilkenny fit together, so you'll always find live music in its pubs.
No matter what day of the week it is, Lanigan’s Bar will always offer live music every day.
Whether you like a DJ or traditional Irish music, you’ll find both at Matt the Millers and Rafter’s Gastropub
regularly hosts local musicians so that you can pair your pub grub with the sounds of Kilkenny.Craft Beer:
Kilkenny's craft beer scene is great for discovering new favorite flavors, along with tasty food. Brewery Corner and
Sullivan’s Taproom are known for its wide selection of craft beers with a particular focus on Irish brewers.Ballykeefe distillery
Ballykeefe Distillery is an artisan family-farm Irish Whiskey distillery located in picturesque countryside, just 15 minutes outside the Medieval city of Kilkenny. A tour of Ballykeefe Distillery is a must for anyone with an interest in Kilkenny’s historical association with Irish Whiskey
Overnight: Kilkenny.
Driving time: Dublin —> Kilkenny, 2 hr.
DAY 3
Explore the Killarney region:
<Things to do> Most visitors visit Ross Castle and the Muckross House
and wander through the beautiful gardens and woodland paths.Best pubs in Killarney: Start at J.M. Reidy’s, a cozy pub with stone
floors and good gin. Then go to Tatler Jack for live music and sports.
If possible, have lunch and enjoy the view at O’Connor’s Bar in
Cloghane, reached by Conor Pass.
Overnight: Killarney (3 nights) <Where to stay>
Driving time: Kilkenny —> Killarney, 3.5 hrs.
DAY 4 and 5
Killarney serves as an excellent central base for tackling two(2) of Ireland's most spectacular coastal drives, the Ring of Kerry
and the Dingle Peninsula. Be prepared for two separate, long, full-day excursions, as each requires about a
2-hour drive each way just to reach the main points of interest.The Ring of Kerry is a longer, more comprehensive loop (the N70 road), encompassing diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to picturesque towns. Start early in the morning for a 8-10 hour day full of fun and adventure. The route is 179 km long (111 miles).
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Kerry Cliffs - which are the #1 attraction on the peninsula.
Take the small detour off the main Ring road to the (The Skellig Ring).The Skellig Ring is a spectacular side route
off the main Ring of Kerry, taking you to the Kerry Cliffs for amazing views. (less crowded than Cliffs of Moher).Other highlights around the peninsula include a visit to Sneem, a charming town with colorful houses,
the seaside village of Waterville and Derrynane Beach, known for its white sand.
Don’t miss Portmagee, a fishing village famous for seafood. Kenmare is also a colorful and beautiful town worth seeing.The Ring of Kerry is usually driven counter-clockwise starting from Killarney.
The main stops in sequence are Kerry Cliffs —> Portmagee —> Waterville —> Derrynane Beach —> Sneem —> Kenmare — Killkarney.
The Dingle Peninsula is a rugged stretch of land onthe southwest coast in County Kerry. It’s a key part of the Wild Atlantic Way, known for its stunning coastal views and rich history. The main attractions are the charming town of Dingle and the scenic Slea Head Drive.
Dingle Town It is a lively fishing town with colorful buildings, handmade shops,
great seafood, and busy pubs where you can hear traditional Irish music.Unique Pubs: Visit famous "hardware pubs" like Dick Mack's and Foxy John's.
Dingle Distillery: An artisanal distillery known for its whiskey, gin, and vodka.
Slea Head Drive: This is a beautiful, short loop drive (best done clockwise) around the
western tip of the peninsula, with some of Ireland's best coastal views. Key stops include:Fahan Beehive Huts: cone-shaped stone homes used by monks from the 8th to 12th centuries.
Dunmore Head: one of Europe's westernmost spots with amazing coastal views..
Coastal Views & Beaches:
Coumeenoole Beach: a stretch of sand with haunting views of the Blasket Islands. <location>
Dunquin Pier: famous for its winding path to the water, where boats leave for the Blasket Islands.
Inch Beach: a wide, expansive beach (or "strand") perfect for walking, surfing, or kite-surfing. <location>
DAY 6
Your adventure begins at sunrise as you leave Killarney. First, you'll take a drive to the stunning Cliffs of Moher.
Visit the Cliffs of Moher and spend 1-2 hours exploring. Walk the paved paths (3.5 km or 2.17 miles) and enjoy views from the main platforms. Then drive north to County Galway. <Walking information>
Afternoon: Connemara's Rugged Beauty. The last and most beautiful part of your drive goes from Galway Bay to the wild Connemara. You'll see mountains, bogs, and lakes along the way to the touristy town of Clifden.
🚧 DIVERSION: Hazel Mountain Chocolate! It is a popular bean-to-bar chocolate factory, shop, and cafe in the Burren area.
Overnight: Cliften (2 nights)
Driving time:
DAY 7
Explore the Connemara Peninsula. Here are activities you can consider: <MAP>
Take a breathtaking scenic drive on Sky Road. This short, winding 11 km loop offers
spectacular views of Clifden Bay. The drive starts and ends in Clifden.Visit Kylemore Abbey and the Victorian Walled Garden—the area's best-known landmark—a beautiful, fairytale-like abbey by a lake with mountains behind it.. Why it's popular: It has a rich history as a castle and girls' school, plus beautiful buildings.
Hike Diamond Hill (Connemara National Park) - The trail is easy to walk with wooden paths and stone steps.
Entrance to the National Park is free. From the top, you get amazing views all around, including Connemara National Park,
the Atlantic Ocean and Kylemore Abbey,. The whole walk can be done in a a few hours.
Best Irish Pubs for Traditional Music, these pubs are known for live Irish music and an authentic Irish vibe.
Lowry's Traditional Irish Music & Whiskey Bar, an iconic Irish pub famed as the "home of Irish music," winning multiple
"Best Traditional Bar in Ireland" awards for its warm atmosphere, live music, and extensive whiskey selection.EJ Kings Bar & Restaurant, in Clifden's square, offers great food and a lively atmosphere with excellent live music
and a "mighty craic."MC McGrath's Bar, one of Clifden's oldest family-run pubs, known for cozy fireplaces and a lively music atmosphere.
Guy's Bar & Snug, one of the oldest bars in Clifden, this charming gastropub has cozy snugs and open fireplaces.
Overnight: Clifden
Driving time:
DAY 8
Depart for Galway.
Galway, is a vibrant city known for its lively atmosphere (video), traditional music. <MAP>
Must see: The Latin Quarter & Quay Street: This is the cultural heart of Galway, with colorful shopfronts, cobblestone streets, and a huge concentration of traditional pubs, boutiques, and restaurants. It's the best place to find live traditional Irish music at pubs like The Crane Bar or Tigh Cóilí.
Overnight: Galway
Staying near the Latin Quarter is the Best Strategy. You will have the ultimate convenience.
Driving time: Clifden —> Galway, 90 minutes
DAY 9 and 10
☘️ Depart for Dublin, a city full of culture, history, and lots of fun.
Begin at Trinity College, reserving a timed ticket in advance to see the magnificent Long Room Library & the Book of Kells.
Stroll down the bustling shopping street of Grafton Street, catching the street performers.
Explore Dublin Castle, once the main seat of British power, then visit one of two big old churches: Christ Church Cathedral with its medieval crypt, or St. Patrick's Cathedral, Ireland's National Cathedral.
Enjoy Dublin's famous pub scene. Temple Bar is great for photos and vibes, but for cheaper, more traditional pubs, try
The Brazen Head (Ireland's oldest), O'Donoghues Bar, Stag’s Head or The Cobblestone, known for live Irish music.History of Struggle: Visit Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison that played a major role in Irish independence.
(Note: This is a powerful, emotional visit and often requires booking well in advance.)
🍺 Visit the Guinness Storehouse for a self-guided tour ending with a free pint at the Gravity Bar, with 360-degree city views.
If you like whiskey, choose the tour and tasting at Jameson Distillery Bow St.
Overnight: Dublin ( 2 nights)
Driving time: Galway —> Dublin, 3 hours.
DIVERSION: ADD EXTRA DAY: Malahide Castle and Town centre:
The Malahide castle is a grand medieval fortress with 800 years of history. It was the
Talbot family home for almost eight centuries. You can join a guided tour to see the
beautiful rooms, like the Oak Room and the Great Hall. The castle sits on 250 acres of
beautiful parkland with the stunning Botanic Gardens and a peaceful Walled Garden.
Families can enjoy a special Butterfly House and a fun Fairy Trail.Malahide is a charming seaside town with a lively vibe. After visiting the castle,
you can enjoy the busy town center with shops, cafes, and Irish pubs. The town also has
a nice marina and a sandy beach, great for a walk by Dublin Bay.Accessibility: It's very easy to get to from Dublin city centre—just a 25-minute train ride (DART/Irish Rail)
or a quick drive from the airport.
DAY 11
Depart for your journey home.
Average cost:
(EXCLUDING AIRFARE)
$$$ USD for two (2) people
Budget: $3,500
Moderate: $4,000
Luxury: $4,800 +
🌤️ Climate
Ireland’s best weather is from late May to early September with temperatures around 18 to 20°C. The weather is mild, with both sunny and rainy days, and rainfall between 78 mm and 81 mm.
Western Ireland - receives much higher annual rainfall. More directly exposed to the prevailing Atlantic winds, leading to more frequent and stronger gales. Fewer Sunshine Hours - due to the increased cloud cover and rainfall.
Dublin receives the least rainfall and the most sun relative to rest of the country.
Ireland Gallery
🎬 Video
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